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outside15052011Location: South Reward, minutes away (walking) from, St. Dominic, MPC and Vocational School. Ideal for teachers.
Description: Two bedrooms both with air condition, 2 bathrooms, ceiling fans in bedroom and living room, kitchen has: 3 door Fridge, Microwave, Stove and Oven. Granite Counter Top. Washroom with Washer and Dryer. Solar Water Heater.
Contact: 5549950 or 5484413

 
 

So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. - Galatians 6:9

It is with sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of

Edna Nadean Mathews Reiph
b. k. a Miss Popo
December 10th, 1924 ~ December 18th, 2013

Left to Mourn:

Daughters: Rosa Trinidad-Augusta
                     Glenda Augusta
                     Yvette Hill-Augusta (U.S.A.)
                     Marvis  Reiph (U.S.A.)
Sons:             Ruben Augusta (U.S.A)
                     Errol Augusta (Santo Domingo)
                     Winselso Augusta (U.S.A.)
Step-Daughters: Patricia Reiph-Lake
                               Marie-Therese Reiph
Step-Sons: Frank Visser (Curacao)
                     Serge Reiph (U.S.A)
Daughter in Law: Cruz Marie Augusta & Cietta Augusta
Sister: Constance Cooks and Family
Sister-in-Law: Martha  Reiph-Baly & Family
                          Melaine Reiph-Cooks and Family
Brother-in-Law: Joseph Reiph &  Family Curacao

Grandchildren: Janine, Efraim, Elizabeth Augusta,  Frankie, Niva, La-Teen, (SXM), Melissa (Santo Domingo), Edna, Mercedes, Ricardo, Ruben , Francis, Gabriel, Rosacarmen, Jo-Anne, Morgan, Sandia, Crystal, Christine, Chelsea, Calwyn, Carlisle (U.S.A.), Sylvia, Gilbert, Elizabeth, Cedric (SXM), Timothy, Nicolas, Sergie, Zaire (U.S.A.)

Great Grand children 33
Great-Great Grand children 4

Many Nieces and nephews here and abroad, too numerous to mention.

Many Close friends, too numerous to mention.

She was related to the Mathews, Reiph, Augusta, Cooks, Illidge, Carty, Leonard, Lake, Thomas, Hellburg, Gibson, Arrindell, Richardson, & Visser families.               

During our time of grief if we have left anyone out please accept our apologies it was not done intentionally.

             A wake will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2014 at Belair Community Center from 7:00 pm-10:00 pm

Funeral service will be held on Saturday December 4, 2014 at the Good News Baptist Church
In Concordia,  F.W.I. Viewing From 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M. Service will commence at 2:00 p.m.
With interment at the Sandy Ground cemetery.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

 
 

GOD IS GOOD, ALL THE TIME

With so much sadness, we announce the sudden death of

Ines Christina Richardson

a.k.a. Mammy Ines, Nezzo, Miss Ines from South Reward, Wela, Roadrunner, Hot-Foot

01 December 1932 - 19 December 2013

Left to mourn are her:

Son:                                        Curtis Richardson (a.k.a The Man of the Land, Driver taxi 227)
Daughters                             Eldica Richardson and Teresa Richardson

Brothers:                                Shefton Farley (USA)
                                                Bill Richardson (Aruba), Romeo Richardson (Ned),Romero
Richardson (Ned), Philip Richardson(Ned)
Sisters:                                   Agatha Gordon a.k.a., Chichi (Aruba), Alice Hyman (Spain),
Cynthia Kruythoff, Anet Richardson (Ned), Cherry Richardson (Aruba), Sindy Richardson (Ned), Elaine Richardson (Aruba)

Grandchildren:                     Jacqueline Lake, Sandra Brunett-Lake, Sigfried Lake
Carlos Richardson, Jelani Richardson, Christopher Richardson, Esmeralda Daniel, Ashanti Richardson, Rudy Richardson, Reiny Illidge, Reshelle Illidge.

Great grandchildren:           Maruska Lake, Geralda James, Chrylysha Rampersad,
Rashida Illidge

Great great granddaughter: Makaila Lake

Nephew& Godson:              Vance Brown
Goddaughter:                       Lula Lijfrock

Nephews                               George Brown, Delano Brown, Julian Brown, John Brown,
Jean Hodge, Justin Hodge, Dudley Kruythoff and many
others toonumerous to mention

Nieces:                                   Anita James (Curacao), Zinesche Antoine-Kruythoff, Jacky Gordon and manyothers too numerous to mention

Daughter-in-law:                  Michelle Richardson Artsen
Son-in-law:                           Julio Rooi

Stepdaughters:                     Linda Richardson, Lourdes Brooks-Lake, Ursula Richardson,
Malaika Richardson, Nesha Richardson

Stepson:                                Shonary Richardson, Rolando Gumbs, Steve Gumbs

Uncles:                                  Josier Richardson, Philip Richardson, JuniorLake

Aunts:                                    Lea Lake, Corinthia Lake, Merline Lake, Irma Lake,
Rosemarie Lake

Special Cousins:                 Glenda Richardson, Albie Boasman, Betty Chittick, Mabel
Woods,
                                                Dr. Loyd Richardson, Gloria Naar, Richard Courtney,
Janet Wathey, Edwin Richardson, Cinthia Richardson, Bernadett Richardson, Rosenda van Putten, Helena Richardson, Bienvenido Richardson, Beatrice Richardson, Jeffrey Richardson,Daphne Richardson, James Richardson, John Richardson, Owen Richardson and many others too numerous tomention

Special friends:                    Carmell, Patsy, Earthe, Marianna & Albert, Patsy & Maurice, Brigitte, Claudina, Victoria & Nelly, Josette, Romeo Carty, Esther &Larryand many others too numerous to mention

She was related to the following families: Richardson, Farley, Brown, Lake, James, Kruythoff, Naar, Hyman, Wathey, Boasman, Rogers, Hodge, Daniel
 
A wake will be held on Sunday Dec 29th 2013 at the senior citizen recreational center from 7:00pm -10:00pm.
Funeral will be on Monday December 30th 2013
At The Phillipsburg Methodist Church Viewing will be from 1:00pm-2:00pm
Service commence at 2:00pm with interment at the Methodist Cemetery.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

 
 

It is with deep sadness in our hearts to announce the passing of

Mary Toussaint
11 Oct 1960 ~ 24 Dec 2013

The funeral arrangements for the late Mary Toussaint will be announced at a later date.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:7-8

It is with deep sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of

Gabriel Webster b.k.a Pops
Born: 12 Oct 1931 ~ Died: 22 July 1931

He leaves to mourn:
Ex wife: Ula Webster (Aruba)
Daughters: Lavern Webster (Aruba)
Sons: Lloyd Webster & Claudius Webster
Grandchildren: Desiree Webster & Fam, Julien Webster & Fam
Daughter in law: Sonia Webster & Fam
Special friend: Beverly Arrindell & Fam., Shareen Arrindell & Fam.
Brother: Joseph Rogers & Fam (AXA)
Sisters: Shirley Rogers & Fam. (Netherlands), Judith Rogers & Fam., Rose Gibbs & Fam. (CUR)
Nephew: Dwayne Meyers & Fam.
Many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces & Nephews too numerous to mention.
Special thanks to Dr. Arrindell, Nurse Rolda Drommond-Mathew , Nurse Astrid Leachman-Mathew and the management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home.
He was related to the Rogers, Webster, Mathew, Arrindell families.

The funeral service for the late Gabriel Webster will be held on Wednesday July 31st, 2013 at the Emerald Funeral Home chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm.
 Interment: Cul de sac cemetery.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

"I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live." - John 11:25

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Ms. Eunice Dolores Williams, a long time resident at the St. Martin's Home, who passed away on Sunday July 28th, 2013 at the age of eighty eight years.

She leaves to mourn her nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, and great-great nephews and nieces and their families too numerous to mention.

Also included are her close friends and extended family amongst the workers, medical staff and residents at the St. Martin's Home.

Eunice was related to the Williams, Peterson, Halley, Vlaun, Voges, Fleming, Tromp, Geerman, and Fraser-Blijden families here in St. Maarten and in Aruba

Funeral service for the late Eunice Dolores Williams
 will be held on Thursday, August 1st, 2013 at the Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Simpson Bay.
Viewing of the body will be from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The service will commence at 3:00pm
Interment will be at the Catholic Cemetery in Simpson Bay.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

Job 1:21- “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord.”

We regret to announce the passing of

Carl E. Benders
Born 23 June  1933 ~ Died 1 July 2013

Left to mourn his:
Children:
Marilijn Benders and family in Curacao
Althea Benders and family and family in Holland
Theresita Illidge Benders and family in Curacao
His brothers:
Hubert Benders and family in St. Maarten
Ralph Benders and family in St. Maarten
Cyril Benders deceased
Hu Benders deceased

Sisters:
Olivia Benders and family in St. Maarten
Osefita Benders and family in St. Maarten
Sylvia Janja Benders and family in Curacao
Beaulah Benders and family in Curacao
His grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins to numerous to mention
Close friends: Fina Sprott, Albertha Lake (mamie)
Related family: Benders, Bell, Janga, Illidge, Cannegieter, Mardenborough, Hazel, Richardson
If we have forgotten and any family members in our time of grieve we sincerely apologize as it was not intentionally done

The funeral service  will be held on Tuesday July 9th, 2013 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

We announce the tragic passing of our beloved brother, son, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend

Richard Alexander Henry a.k.a Teeth
Sunrise 18th February 1963 on Aruba  ~  Sunset 28th June 2013 on St. Maarten

He leaves behind:
Father:  Armando Arrindell
Sisters: Rosabel Blake in Statia, Tamara and Hadashah Arrindell in St.Maarten and Rosalind Euson in the Netherlands.
Brothers: Roland Henry in the Netherlands, Louis Hughes in St. Maarten, Romento Richardson in Statia, Alex Gumbs and Steve in the USA.
Aunts: Beverly Brunnings and Jacqueline Arrindell in St. Maarten, Carmen Arrindell in the Netherlands, Minerva Harrigan in St. Thomas and Lydia Gordon in Statia.
Uncles: Eugene a.k.a Ruby, Chester of taxi 105, Roland, Meguel  and Gregory Arrindell, Bernard Henry all in St. Maarten and Mikel  Arrindell  in Curacao.
Brother in-laws: Godfried Blake and Bernard Schmidt in Statia
Great  Uncle: Nel and Cynthie Lake
Great Aunt: Diana Morgon in Miami
Nieces, nephews and cousins in St. Maarten, Statia ,Aruba, the USA and the Netherlands to  numerous to mention.
His Godmother: Elaine Richardson
Special friends: Millicent Romney- Lijfrock in Statia, Mervin Beauperthuy, Francis, June Peters and Michelle all in St. Maarten and many more too numerous to mention.
Richard Alexander Henry a.k.a Teeth was related to the Henry’s Arrindell’s and Blake families.

The funeral service for the late Richard Alexander Henry a.k.a   Teeth will be held on Monday July 8th, 2013 at the Emerald Funeral Home chapel in Cay hill.  Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment: Cul de Sac.
Please disregard any prior funeral arrangements that was announced. On the behalf of the family we thank you  for your understanding.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we regret to announce the passing of
our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, friend: 

Mrs. Agnes Ines Daniel-Christina, born April 20th, 1941
Affectionately known as “Annie”, “Tanchi Annie” or “Mama”
Widow of the late Timothy “Slim” Daniel
Who was called to our Lord on June 18th, 2013

Left to mourn:
Daughters                          Xiomara Daniel and family
                                          Joyseline Daniel and family
Grand-children                   Micaela Daniel
                                          Michael Montero and family (USA)
                                          Dariel Montero (USA)
                                          Denzel Remilia
Great-grand child               Xairo Ibarra (AUA)
Brothers                             Ronald Christina and family (CUR)
                                          Edwin Christina and family (CUR)
                                          Henry and Elly Christina-Meyer and family (CUR)
                                          Siegfried and Rose-marie Christina-Allee and family (CUR)
Sisters                               Flora and Theodulo Koeiman and family (CUR)
                                          Lourdes and Jim Van Hecke
                                          Swinda Christina and family (CUR)
                                          Beatrix and Edmundo Emanuel and family (CUR)
                                          Jacintha and Richel Ricardo and family
                                          Astrid and Jacintho Cicilia and family (BON)
                                          Maritsa and Reginald James and family
Close nieces and nephew     Jessica Christina, Seynthia and Suzy Monte, Marisol Emanuel, Marlon Ricardo, Ryan and Nicole James and Hensley Koeiman and more nephews and nieces abroad too numerous to mention
Step-children                     Jessica Van Heyningen and family (HOL)
                                          Bernard Louis “Allain” Daniel (Boyrard) and family
                                          Ines Gumbs and family (USA)
                                          Abigail Meyers and family (CUR)
                                          Joseph Timothy Daniel and family
                                          Rufino Arrindell and family
Godchild                            Delta Peters and family
Families on CUR                  Teresita Martin Leito and family, Glenda Martina Weert and family, Juny Maria and family, Erwin Leito and family, Lito Rozal, Papi Maria and family, Wanchi Leito and family and others too numerous to mention
Special friends                   Bob and June Harjes and family (USA), Randolph Ricardo and family (CUR), Geraldine Williams, Hyacinth Nicholson-Lake, Mildred Rochester and family, William Marlin and family, Fordy Jacobs, Ana Striebeek and family, Ohndae Marlin and family, Ivy Serfilia and family (HOL), Kenny van Heyningen, Sammy Azille, Rogerrel Mauricia, Jerry Gerardus, Miguel Blijden, Rudolf Nicholson, Cylred Richardson and family, Jason Thomas, Louis Illidge, Flavina Willems (SABA), Arnel Daniel and family, Arcel Daniel and family, Geraldine Hughes and family, Ina Maduro and family, Wilfred Manning and family, Sylveria Jacobs and family, Francisco Meran Montero, Harold “Bala” Doran and family, Egbert “Ebbi” Doran and family, Charisse Selassa and family(HOL), Jackie Richardson and family, Beatrix Gumbs and family, Ivy Thielman and family, Fernando Clark, Monique Gibson, Amalika Bute, Michael “Bobby” Spence and family, Diane Wilson and family, Jerome Joseph, Richard Geröt, Zetroy Allwood and others too numerous to mention.

Special thanks to               Dr. Augustus Zamora Perez and staff, Orange Grove Pharmacy and staff, Dr. Jacque Laurent, Dr. Winter, Dr. Holiday and Staff, Staff of the St. Maarten Medical Center, Staff of SZV, Staff of White and Yellow Cross, Mr. Cox, Staff of Emerald Funeral Home.

Related to: Daniel, Christina, Leito, Romou, Cannegieter, van Heyningen, Boyrard, Koeiman, Monte, Emanuel, van Hecke, James, Remilia, Baptist, Montero, Davoren, Williams, Peters, Yoyo, Dumas, Rombley, Piper, Laveist, Maria, Rozal, Martin

The wake will be held at the Belair Community Center in Cayhill on Sunday, June 23rd, 2013 from 6.00PM – 09.00PM.

Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, June 25th, 2013 at theRoman Catholic  Parish of Tours Church , Frontstreet, St. Maarten.
Viewing: 1.00PM – 2.00PM.  service commence at 2:00pm  with Internment: Cape Bay Cementary.

For final grieving purposes the family request NO visitors at home after funeral services.

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

May Her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace

 

 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of

JEREMIAH EMMANUEL LASHLEY
AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS JERRY………… TAXI 22
SUNRISE 25 JANUARY 1935SUNSET 13 JUNE 2013

LEAVE TO MOURN:
BROTHER: LINDY DE LASHLEY IN NEVIS
SISTER IN LAW:  ESSIE DE LASHLEY IN NEVIS
CARE TAKERS:  BEATRICE LAKE   & LYNDIS DELASHLEY AND JASMIN MAYNARD IN ST. MAARTEN 
CHILDREN:FELTON GRIFFIN IN NEVIS, ALDITH JEFFERSON IN USA, SYLVESTER BROWNE IN ST. CROIX, SHARON HOBSON &  JESSICA GUMBS IN NEVIS, JANICE BROWNE- JAMES IN USA AND JUDY BROWNE-CLAXTON IN NEVIS.
SONS IN LAWS: JEROME CLAXTON IN NEVIS , CLEVELAND JAMES IN USA,
GRAND CHILDREN: JONATHAN AND JENEEN JEFFERSON IN USA, KERRIANNE, TEANNA, STEVEN AND JAMAL BROWNE IN ST. CROIX, MIKEY JOHNSON, JAMARI  WEBBE, LERY WEBBE, COPELAND WEBBE JR., RANDY BROWNE, DIQUONE CLAXTON ,DEVONTE CLAXTON, DESITNY CLAXTON, MIKHALA & KYRA JAMES IN USA.
NEICES: LYNDIS DELASHLEY IN ST. MAARTEN, ELSA DELASHLEY, ELVIRA CLARKE, CLARISTINE DORAS IN NEVIS, ENA DORAS IN USA AND GERALDINE LEONARD IN ST. THOMAS AND PATRICIA DORAS IN TORTOLA, ANSIL SMITHEN IN USA AND DOREEN SMITHEN IN CANADA.
NIECE IN LAW: BEATRICE LAKE AND FAMILY IN ST. MAARTEN
NEPHEWS: SHAWN DELASHLEY, SHAMARI DELASHLEY IN NEVIS, CECIL SKEETE, STEADROY DE LASHLEY, KENNY& GARY ROWLAND IN THE UK, MACKIE FRANCE IN NEVIS
CLOSE FAMILIES: NETTA HUGGINS OF NETTA’ S TAXI 201 IN ST. MAARTEN, SYLVINE HUGGINS IN UK, GERTRUDE GUMBS IN ST. KITTS, JEROME PINNEY IN ST. KITTS, SUN SMITHEN IN ST. KITTS, PASTOR DAVID JONES & FAMILY,DAVID’S FAMILY OF ST. JAMES’ PARISH, NEVIS, JEFFERS OF FOUNTAIN, NEVIS VERNA CARBON IN ST. MAARTEN, LYDIA LAKE & FAMILY IN ST. MAARTEN
CLOSE FRIENDS: NORMAN WILLIAMS, SUZANNE COCKRANE & FAMILY IN ST. MAARTEN, DENNIS CARTY AND TAXI ASSOCIATION OF ST. MAARTEN, DIANNE HOBSON , LAWYER GEOFFREY NISBETT,NORMAN PEMBERTON, JOSEPH GAJOR IN NEVIS AND ANDREA HOBSON-HENRY IN USA.
OTHER RELATIVES & FRIENDS TO NUMEROURS TO MENTION
SPECIAL THANKS TO: THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT BAPTIST CHURCH, DR. MERCUR, DR. JOLLIS, DR. WYNTER, AMBULANCE DEPARTMENT AND THE NURSES OF ICU OF THE ST, MAARTEN MEDICAL CENTRE.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE WAKE WILL BE HELD AT HIS RESIDENCE IN SOUTH REWARD, BEET ROAD #6 ON THURSDAY 20TH, JUNE, 2013 @ 6:30 PM.
THE FUNERAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON FRIDAY 21ST, JUNE 2013 AT THE NEW TESTAMENT BAPTIST CHURCH IN PHILLIPSBURG.  VIEWING: 1:00 – 2:00 PM .SERVICE: 2:00 – 3:00 PM.
  INTERMENT: CUL-DE-SAC CEMETERY.

May his Soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

 

Joshua 1:9    I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous: do not
                        Be frightened or dismayed for The LORD your God is with
                        You  wherever you go”

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our
Beloved Father, Brother, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Uncle and Friend

HARRISON  FELIX  OLIVACCE
a.k.a. The Dentist or Doc
Sunrise: 24th January 1922 --  Sunset  11th June 2013

 

He leaves to mourn his loss:

Daughters: Martha Olivacce (New York),  Vera Olivacce, Shirley Coffi-Olivacce
                      Member of Parliament: Silvia Meyers-Olivacce

Sons: Joseph Olivacce, Tony Olivacce
Adopted Sons: Lemuel Junior Gumbs (Philadelphia), Jean I Vanterpool.

Sisters: Mary Francis Nisbett-Olivacce & Family (St.Thomas)
               Adelaide E. Lake-Olivacce & Family (New York)
               Alice Molanus-Olivacce & Family (St.Maarten)
Brother: Revany Olivacce & Family (Dominica)
Sisters In Law: Eileen Virginia Olivacce  (Dominica), Ursula Connor (Anguilla),
                            Evelyn Thomas (Anguilla)

Daughters In Law: Sharmaine Olivacce-Hutchinson,  Anne-Marie Olivacce-Weinum.
Sons In Law: Clyde Coffi & Etienne Tochi Meyers

Grandchildren:  Michael Olivacce & Fam.(Holland) Kevin Olivacce & Family,
                              Abdul Meyers & Fam. Giovanni Olivacce & Fam.Angelo Olivacce
                              & Fam. Alex Olivacce (Aruba) Ki-mani Olivacce, Indira
                              Meyers & Fam. Stefania Kong, Chistelle Olivacce
                              & Fam. Angelique Peterson & Fam. Tashira Peterson

Great-Grand Children: Mahogany, Princess, Jaylen, Denim and Deja Mc.Cloud
                                          (New York),  Christiano,Ronan and Luca Olivacce
                                          (Holland), Imani Groeneveld and Kimora Clark, Jaheim
                                          Meyers, Abdul K. Meyers Jr. Xavier Kwame Browne,
                                          Krystal and Leah Philbert, Giomara Olivacce and
                                          Giovanni Olivacce Jr. Norchrisio Anatole Olivacce and
                                          Bertannie Maduro Olivacce, Akeim Olivacce.

 

Nephews on Sint Maarten:  Francis Olivacce & Fam, Dickie Molanus & fam, Jan Molanus  & Fam.
Nieces on Sint Maarten: Patricia Richardson & Fam, Maria Buncamper-Molanus
& Fam.
Extended Family: Miriam Hodge (Anguilla),Winston Hodge & Fam.(Atlanta)
                                 Oliver Hodge & Fam.(Anguilla) Evans Hodge & Fam(Anguilla)
                                 Miriam Harrigan & fam(Antigua), Dorothy Hodge(Canada)
                                  Joycelyn Rogers & Fam (Virginia), Arthur Lugisse & Fam.
                                  Germaine Verma Vanterpool, Rosy Richardson & Fam.
                                  Dean  Mitchell & Ruby Embus & Fam.
Cousins: Claudia Seymour & Fam (Guadeloupe), Cuthbert Seigndret & Fam.(Dominica),Wendy Elie.
Special Caretaker: Yvonne L. Morris
Physical Therapist: Pearline Williams
   
Special Family Friends:               
 Artsen, Piper , Brookson, Manning, Fowler, Gibbs, Hyman ,            Rogers, Choisy, Petit, Hodge, DePolo, Beauperthuy, Questel, Hanley Charville, Gumbs, Brison, Frank Hinds & Fam., Javois, Van Heyningen, Aunty Marie(Marie Kellman Romu) and George Romu, Mr.Val Frates & Fam (Curacao), Eugene and Roselyn Thomas (Grenada), Pettele Elcock, Miss Rosalia Baa & Fam.(St.Thomas), Ketta Demezier and Syrette Demezier, Claudia Hermance & Family.

Church Family: The members of the Saint Philip & Saint James Anglican Church
 (Marigot),the Members of the Saint Simon & Saint Jude Anglican Church (Philipsburg).
          
He was related to:  Olivacces, Meyers, Coffis, Petersons, Kongs, Molanus, Levons, Lakes, Weinums, Monsantos, Flemings, Van Gurps, Connors,         Nisbetts, Thomas, JohnBaptistes, & Lauwances.

Special Thanks to Dr. Jacque Laurent,  Dr. Pierre Yves-Merlet, Geraldine Beaud & Valerie Pompilius.

The wake will be held at the Belair Community Center on Tuesday June 18, 2013 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm.

He will lay in state at the Saint Philip & Saint James Anglican Church (Marigot), where he was a faithful and dedicated member for many years on Thursday June 20, 2013 from 10:00am to 12:00pm.

The Funeral service will be held on Thursday June 20, 2013 at the Roman Catholic Church in Marigot. Viewing and Tribute: 1:00pm ton 2:30pm. Service: 2:30pm. Interment: Marigot Cemetery.

 May his Soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
From now on there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness,
 which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day”- 2 Timothy 4: 6-8

 It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, cousin, friend and neighbor Gweneth Eugenie van Gurp, b.k.a. Ms. Eugie or Nana, born on November 24, 1944 and died on Monday, June 03 2013, in
Santo Domingo, at the age of 69 years.

She leaves to mourn:

Children
Franklin b.k.a. Sonny or Chiba Van Gurp & Family - USA
Herman Van Gurp & family
Glenda Van Gurp & Family

Adopted Children
Joan George
Jossy Rombley

Grandchildren
Maritza & Geraldo Scott
Franklin & Franchesca Van Gurp
Jairo Van Gurp, N’Kenzi Williams & Ikenro Christopher
Geonary Fidanique  & Jean-Yves Maduro – Curacao
Faradit Augusta – Holland
Meladie – Santo Domingo

Great-Grandchildren
Tion Scott
Xeleah Augusta - Holland
Gydion Fidanique - Curacao

Sisters
Nina Greene & Family – USA
Recilla Van Gurp b.ka.Silla or Mom & Family

Special Sisters
Maisie Richardson & Family
Cynthie Fleming & Family

Brothers
David Van Gurp & Family – St. Croix
Ambrose Van Gurp & Family

Sisters-in-Law
Leocadie Lake
Sybil Van Gurp

Aunts
Jane Butler & Family – U.S.A.
Ochlin Kentish & Family – Anguilla

Uncle
Dr. Cutwin Lake & Family – Anguilla

Nieces & Nephews, Great-nieces & Great-nephews
Too numerous to mention

Close friends
The Vlaun Family
Beatrice b.k.a. Loonie DeWeever & family
Elmie Thompson
Ann Geerlings & family
Rose Arrindell & family
Josephita Benders & family
Joycelyn Griffen & family
Iris Hodge & family
Reggie & Jackie Coram & family
Doris & Denise
Ashton Brooks
Kenol Caston & family
Downstreet Neighbors
And many others too numerous to mention

She was related to the following families:

Van Gurp, Scott, Van Heyningen, Richardson, Lake, Illidge, Tjen-a-Kwoei, DeWeever, Baptiste, Proctors, Froston, James, Brazou, Sprott, Mathew, Leonard, Kentish, Vlaun, Butlers, Bailey, Voges, Hubbard, Rivers, Peterson, Bells , Laurence, Henry, Olivacci,  Hughes, Huggins, Allen, Green, Cocks, Fidanique, Augusta, Christopher, Fridays, Bannermans, Richardson, Coram, Lejuez, Pantophlet, Mussen, Wilson, Hazel, Williams, Gumbs, Horsfords, Henrys, her Methodist Church family and the Members of Class No. 2 of the Philipsburg Methodist Church, Close neighbors and Down Street family.

Special thanks to: The Staff of the St. Maarten Medical Center, Dr. Wynter, Dr. Datema, Dr. Friday, Dr. Laurent, Staff of the Ambulance Department, Staff of the Emerald Funeral Home.

In our time of grief, if we have failed to mention anyone, please forgive us it is not intentional.

A Wake will be held on Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at her home on Backstreetfrom 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

The service of thanksgiving will be held on Thursday, June 13, 2013 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church. Viewing from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Service of thanksgiving will begin at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Mt. Pleasant Methodist Cemetery. After the funeral the family requests no visitors at the home. Thanking you in advance for your understanding.

 May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

And as her favourite saying goes: “IT IS………..WHAT IT IS”

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

Psalm 121:1-2  I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD who made heaven and earth.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved

Lucina Melsadie Hughes better known as Lou

Sunrise: 08 of June, 1946
Sunset: 30 of April, 2013

 

Left to mourn her home going:

Children: Norma Williams- Hughes in the U.S.A.
                 Anderson Hughes and family
                Jacqueline Hughes and family in Holland
                Marvis Hughes
                Ryan Hughes

Daughter in-laws: Judy Hughes, Fay Austin

Son in-law: Gregory Williams in the U.S.A.
                     Eric Verhagen in Holland

Grandchildren: Nahaila, Rusjeika, Jolita, Sergio, Serfinio, Ryanna, Dilan, Delano, Jude, Axson, Neovaun,and         Judisha

Grandson in law: William Mitchel in the U.S.A.

Sisters: Everette Richardson
              Veronica Hughes & Family
              Raphaela Hughes & Family (in Curacao)
              Amelie Gumbs & Family
             Rita Hughes & family
             Patricia Schmidt-Hughes & Family (in Aruba)
             Bernadette Carty & Family

Brothers: Daniel Hughes & Family (a.k.a.) Danny
                  Russell Hughes & Family
                  Franklin Richardson & Family
                  Leonard Hughes & Family 
                  George Hughes & Family (in Holland)
                  James Hughes
                 Wendell Hughes & Family

Sister in laws: Paulette Hughes, Rosie Hughes

Ex-sister in law: Imelda Carty & family,Delphine Lake & Family (in Holland)

Uncle: Claudius Richardson
Aunt : Francis Boddie in St. Kitts

Children of the late: Elwaldo Richardson, Aurora Arrindell, Justin Hughes, Helena Maria and Atlie Illis-Brown. The Hughes, Hodge, Webster families in Anguilla.

Godchild: Angelo Duinkerk

Special nieces and nephews: Dientje Muller and Jacintha Hughes, Lugene and Earlison Hughes.

Nieces & Nephews to numerous to mention.
         
Close friends: Edith Geraud in Curaçao

Many other families and friends to numerous to mention.

She was related to: Hughes, Richardson, Brown, Arrondell, Webster, Muller, Hamlets, Fleming, Carty, James, Gumbs, Duinkerk, Rogers, Hodge, Roumou, Cannegieter, Ellis, Frank, Clarks, Boddie, Pantophlet, Maria, Casseres, Kemper, Richies, Williams family.

A wake will be held on Thursday 09th of May 2013 at: Grapefruit rd.# 28 in St. Peters from: 8:00pm until 11:00pm.

The family wishes to retire quietly after the funeral service and kindly request no calls of condolences or visitors at home.

In lieu of flowers a donation to the church will be highly appreciated.

The Service of thanksgiving for the late Lucina Melsadie Hughes better known as Lou will be held on Friday May 10th, 2013 at the Cole Bay Methodist Church, Union rd Cole Bay. Viewing: 1:30pm -2:30pm. Service: 2:30pm. Interment: Cay Bay cemetery.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of

William Romney-Warno a.k.a Willy
6 October 1957 ~ 23 Apr 2013

Left to mourn is:
Children: Erwin Lake
                 Julaika Lake (Holland)
                Sharjentelly Martina (Curacao)
               Crystal Groeneveldt (Holland)
               Xannae Gumbs
7 Grandchildren
Brothers: Charles Brown, Romel Romney, Fernando Romney-Warno
Sister: Leotine Romney
           Patricia Illis-Romney
           Elanita Romney
           Juliana Romney – Warno
           Marina Warno
Nieces, nephews & Cousins too numerous to mention.
Aunt: Ephrem Romney, Julia Romney, Olive Fleming, Drew Warno
Uncle: John Warno, Alfonso Richardson
Close Friend: Torchie Meyers, dan Webster, Leo Maynard, Donald Cannegieter, Sylvine Flanders, Detective Rombley, Manfred Cannegieter, Robelto Flanders, Kadet Gumbs, Tony Cheff, Ermin & Austin Richardson, Russell Cocks, Charlie Arrindell, Boys from G.E.B.E, the cockfight crew.
Special Thanks to Mangement and staff of Emerald Funeral home, the Doctors & Nurses at the S.M.M.C, Illse Carter, Dionne Trusull, Janice Flanders, Annette Martin
He was related to the Romney Warno, Fleming, Therwil, Illidge, Vanterpool, Cocks, Lake, Jermin, Richardson, Flanders, Groeneveldt, Mathew, Illis, York, Martin, Brooks, Reed, Arrindell, Gumbs & Martina Families.
In our time of grief if we have forgotten to mention anyone we do apologize as it was not intentional.

A wake will be held on Monday May 6th, 2013 at the Cockpit in Oyster Pond from 6:30pm to 10:00pm.
The funeral service for the late William Romney-Warno a.k.a Willy will be held on Wednesday May 8, 2013 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church on Front Street. Viewing: 1:30pm to 2:30pm. Service 2:30pm. Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery.

The family kindly requests no visitors after the funeral service.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of

Fucila Cheremond
3 Dec 1953 ~ 22 Apr 2013

She leaves to mourn:

Son: Tony Cheremond.

Grandchild: Cydonnie Cheremond.

Daughter in law: Cindy Toussaint.

Brothers: Gesner Cheremond, Lerison Georges, Melinor Cheremond.

Sisters: Dieulamene Cheremond, Lucia Nathurin, Denise Cheremond.
 
Nephew and Niece: Jean Wilson Sanon, Sherline Sanon.

Many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

The funeral service for the late Fucila Cheremond will be held on Friday April 26th, 2013 at the Church of God of Grace in Cay Hill. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment: Cul de sac cemetery. 

The family kindly requests no visitors at the home after the funeral service.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Ecclesiastics 9:11 The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of

Jean Robert Peters b.k.a John, Juancho, JP
12 Dec 1960 ~23 April 2013

Left To Mourn:
Wife: Nathalie Peters Letang
Mother: Winifred Barzey-Gumbs
Father: John Peters aka Hank Peters
Children: Darryl Peters, Aisha Peters, Akeyla Peters, John Alleyn Peters
Step Daughter: Melissa Richardson
Sisters: Delta Peters & family, Bianca Barzey & Family, Vernice Maccou & Family, Cherryann Barzey & family, Linda Piper-Peters & Family, Andrea Peters & Family.
Brothers: Henry Peters, Leonard Maccou, Leo Peters, Greg Barzey, Milton Peters, Lon Peters, Anthony Peters, Stephen Haloman, Leslie Illidge.
Nieces & Nephews (just to mention a few):  Kandace Barzey, Hector & CJ Royal, Christopher Gumbs, Chelsea & Cameron Patrick, Jeraldo Halman, Zhou Lao ( David Maccou) Randy & Charise Piper and many other too numerous to mention

Aunts: Rose Gumbs, Amy Gumbs& family, Albina Arrundell (Luz) (Deceased) & Family, Violet Gumbs & Family (Deceased), Eulalie Peters.
Uncles: Dr.Vincent Gumbs & family, Samuel Gumbs & Family.
Mother in Law: Madgalene Letang
Sisters and Brothers in law in Dominica
Godmother: Rita Bryan
Special Friend: Janine Richardson, Alberto Fuentez, Kendris Fuentez, Helen Edwards
Specials Cousins: Stanley Holaman, Rico Carty, Lisa Arrundell, Hilton Maccow, Gertude Holaman.
Many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
His was related to the: Peters, Baly, Piper, Barzey, Maccows, James, Holaman, Cartys, Reiphs, Arrundels, Gumbs, Fleming, Lao, Illidge, Richardson, Letang families

The funeral service for the late Jean Robert Peters will be held on Tuesday May 7th, 2013 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Cole Bay. Viewing: 1:30pm to 2:30pm. Service: 2:30pm. Interment: Cay Bay cemetery.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of

Maurice Joseph
8 Dec 1941 ~ 17 Apr 2013


He leaves to mourn:

Wife: Dasity Joseph
Son: Stephan Joseph
Many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

The funeral service for the late Maurice Joseph will be held on Thursday April 25, 2013 at the Good News Baptist Church in St. Peters. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery.


 May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of

Marie M. Charles
 1 June, 1948 ~ 18 April, 2013

The funeral arrangements for  Marie M. Charles will be announced at a later date.


May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

11 December 1925 ~ 15 April 2013

Padre y Madre: Francisco Lopez (Fallecido)
                        Betsabe Sanchez de lopez (Fallecida)
Esposa: Allison Escarlet Sandoval deLopez
Hijos: Francisco Mexuyan Lopez, Martha Elena lopez, Jairo Lopez, Jasmin Lopez
Nietos: Ana Mara Borrero Lopez, Esposo e hija
           Maria Victoria Borrero Lopez
           Francisco Jose Borrero Lopez
           Kelly Velasquez Lopez e hijos
          Alexandra Lopez e hijos
Hermanos (as) y sobrinos: Fabio Lopez, esposa e hijos
                                            German lopez e hijos
                                             Judith Lopez
                                             Fanny  Lopez e hijos
                                             Zulma Lopez, esposo e hijos
                                             Alba Lopez
                                             Lilia lopez e hijos
                                             Horacio Lopez e hijos
Suego y Suegra: Jose Dolores Sandoval (fallecido)
                            Carmen Nirvan
Amigos cercanos: Franklyn Brison, esposa e hijos
                             Argentina Martinez, esposo e hijos
Tambien sera recordado por muchos familiares y amigos que lo amabon y compartieron con el gran parte de su vida
el servicio funeral para el difunto Antonio Jose Lopez se llevará a cabo el viernes 19 de Abril 2013 en la capilla Emerald Funeral Home en Cay Hill. Viendo: 1:00 pm a 2:00 pm. Servicio: 2:00 pm. El cortejo fúnebre: Cul de Sac cementerio.

 

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

It is with profound sadness we announce the tragic passing of our beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend:

Kimberly Samantha Illidge

Born: August 16th 1992
Died: March 23rd 2013

Left to mourn:
Mother: Cassandra Illidge aka Cindy
Father: Donald Connor aka Buckeye
Grandmother: Juliana Illidge aka Julie
Brothers: Kendell Illidge, Quran Thewet, Antonio Samuel & family
Aunts: Sandrine Parris & family, Florencia Illidge aka Jackie & family, Esmarita Illidge & family Darlidia Williams Illidge & Family, Modella Illidge aka Chris & family, Janette Fleming & Family in Anguilla, Virginia Connor & Family in Anguilla
Special aunts: Sharisa Duzant aka Patsy, Patricia Hyman Isebia
Uncles: Antonio Milton aka Tony & family, Lionel Richardson aka Kenneth, Roy Richardson aka Sjon, Romel Illidge aka Ricky & family, Claudius Hyman & family, Leonard Hyman, Carol Fleming & Family in Anguilla, Bernard Fleming & Family in Anguilla
Great aunts: Euniece Illidge, Camilita Connor in Anguilla
Adopted daughters: Shedwina & Jerrisa Illidge
God sister: Benecia Inecia
Aunt in law: Sheila Illidge Brown & Dawne Davis Milton
Sister in law: Glenda Samuel
Uncle in law: Gerald Williams aka Bigga
Cousins too numerous to mention
Close cousins including Ginaldo Milton, Ilegio Illidge, Judella Illidge,Reshella & Reiny Illdge, Angelica & Shadira Illidge, Benecia Inecia
Also left to mourn the students & staff of The Kids Light House Playschool
She related to the following families: Illidge, Connor, Hyman, Woods, Flanders, Lakes, Illis, Duzant, Richardson, Gumbs, Hazel, Milton, Williams, Hodge, Cocks, Brooks, Parris, Leonard and many more too numerous to mention.
 A wake will be held on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 from7:00pm to 10:00pm at the family residence at Gumbs drive, Middle Region.
The funeral arrangements for the late Kimberly Samantha Illidge Will be announced at a later date.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and Staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Lyliane Georges
7 Novembre 1956 ~ 27 Février 2013


Husand:                     Daniel Cornet
Ses   Enfants:             Anne-Marie, Jesulene
ses petits enfants :    Donadony, Christmath, Roodens, Jessica
 Ses freres et Sœurs: Sylvain, Jean Robert, Therese, Jacqueline, Francine, Marie Anne
Ses amis:  Mouline et famille, Bobby, Felicia, Avrius et Famille  

Les freres et soeurs de l’eglise batiste par la foi
Paix a son ame

The funeral service for the late Lyliane Georges will be held on Tuesday March 12th, 2013 at de l’eglise Batiste par la Foi, Union Rd Cole Bay. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Psalm 40:1-2 I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps.

Ursula Leon
Sunrise: 26 Sep 1947 ~ Sunset: 1 March 2013

She is survived by:
Companion: Dennis Romney
Son: Androus Leon in St. Maarten    
Brothers: Kimber Leon in St. Maarten
                  Joseph Toussaint and family in St. Lucia
Favorite nephew: Simon Leon and family in St. Lucia
Favorite niece: Lorraina Leon in St. Lucia
Adopted-sons: Leonce Leon “b.k.a bones” and family in St. Maarten
                             Timothy Baptiste “b.k.a Tim” in St. Lucia
Adopted-daughters: Judith Gordon in St. Maarten
                              Claudia Hermance in St. Maarten
                              Laureen Popo in St. Maarten
Grand-Children: Annashea Leon, Tyra Bianca Thompson, Androus Junior Leon,                      Janelle Hermance and Mervin Richardson.
Daughter-in-law: Stephaney Leon
Sister-in-law: Marjorie Brown
Former Employer: Melissa Strepps and family
Close friends: Altagracia Gaston aka Tuta and family,Molly Valerie and family,        Psycho and family, Bertie Charles, Gloria Hermance  & Sweden Samuel.
Neighbors: Jessy and family, Jane and family
She was loved by many and leaves to mourn many nieces, nephews and cousins in the U.S.A, St. Lucia, U.S.V.I and Holland too numerous to mention, Coworkers in Pelican, The St. Lucian Association, The St. Lucian Community.
She was related to the families of Leon, Philomena, Lacorbiniere, Toussaint, Baptiste, Gordon, Brown and Hermance families.
A wake will be held on Thursday March 14, 2013 at Clo’s Hot Spot on Bush Road from 7:00pm to 10:00pm.

The funeral service for the late Ursula Leon will be held on Friday March 15th, 2013. Place: Praise Tabernacle Church in Cole bay. Viewing: 1:00pm -2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment:  Cape Bay cemetery.
 
If we have forgotten to mention anyone, we do apologize as it was not intentional.


May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

“For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth; and though after my skin worms destroy this body yet in my flesh shall I see God” - Job 19:25,26

It is with great sadness we regret to announce the passing of our beloved daughter, mother, sister, niece and friend, Debra Marijka Hodge.

Sunrise: Feb. 23, 1979 --- Sunset: Feb. 18, 2013

Leaves to mourn:
Mother: Elfrida Chandler
Son: Jamali Hodge
Brothers:  Robelto Hodge and family (Statia)
                  Edwin Hodge and family
                  Alexis Arrindell and family
Sisters: Patricia Jones – Hodge and family (USA)
            Barbara Holt –Hodge and family (USA)
            Brenda Mardenborough – Chandler
Aunts: Suzette Jermin
             Maria Felix
             Lucina Richards
Uncles: Ezekiel Jermin and family
             Roosevelt Rombley and family
            Remigio Chandler and family
            Erik Chandler and family
            Simon Chandler and family
            Cuthburt (Pincho) Chandler and family
            Jeff Chandler and family (USA)

Nieces and Nephews: Appelonia, Lanisa, Shermine, Shanee, Shanettie, Bianca, Marijka, Edesha, Edeshanna, Chantal, Daniel, Michael, Oseaan, Jaylen, McNiel, Aquany, Isiah.
Cousins: too numerous to mention
Close friends: Natasha, Abigail, Beatrix, Beatrice, Teddy, Elisabeth, Marge, Classmates of Sundial…..too numerous to mention.
Related to: Hodge, Chandler, Rombley, Jermin, Jones, Holt, Mardenboroug, Richards, Schaap, Salomon, Arrindell, Pascuetin, Flanders, Violenus,  Woods, Richardson, Lambert, Glascow, Lynch and many others too numerous to mention.
Thanks to: Dr. Ruth Dougles, Dr. Jolles and Dr. Wynter and all the nurses of St. Maarten Medical Center.

Please note that a wake will be held in honor of Debra will be held on Monday February 25th, 2013 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm at the St. Peters Community Center.
The funeral service for the late Debra Marijka Hodge will be held on Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 at the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Zagersgut. Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm. Interment: Cul de sac cemetery.

After the Home going service, we the family kindly request, no visitation at home. We thank you for your understanding.

May Her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:7-8

We regret to announce the passing of our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend.

The home going is announced of: Beulah Urala van Putten born Cangieter
Sunrise: October 4, 1939
Sunset: February 13, 2013

Wife of the late David van Putten (deceased)

Left to cherish her memories are:
Daughters:       Sandra Mingo (USA)
                         Marlene Celestine – van Putten (Aruba)
                        Kathren Mae Weeks- van Putten
Sons in Law:    Sylvester Celestine; Antonio Weeks
Step Children: Eutrice Best and family (Canada)
                        David van Putten Jr. and family (USA.)
                        Gregory van Putten and family (USA)
                        Velma Lane and family (Holland)
Grandchildren: Orianda Rojer
                        Moneta Mingo - Daley (USA)
                        Jeffrey Pompier

Sisters:             Dorothy Boasman- Cangieter
                        Carol Gane- Cangieter
Margriet Richardson and family
                        Joyce Richardson and family
                        Louisa Cangieter and family (Aruba)
Brothers:         James Cangieter and family (USA)
                        Hubie Richardson and family

Brothers in law: Roland Boasman
                        Allan Gane
                        Albert Webb (USA)
Aunts:              Leonine (Nanie) Cangieter and family (Curacao)
                        Eugenie (Jenny) Suarez-Cangieter and family (Aruba)
God sister:       Florence (Flo) Milton
God son: Ricardo Boasman
Close family friend: Sebastiaan Hoendervangers
Her therapist and friend: Steff Rumeser

Special mention and thanks: Sharon and Ashley Cangieter, Roy Boasman; William “Billy” Cangieter, Nieces and Nephews of her late sister Elena (Tina) Webb-Cangieter ,Vincenta “Cynthie” & Firmin Boasman, Kathleen Payne – Cangieter, Cola Cangieter, Shirley Illidge, Marlene Herbert, Jasseth Jones, Dr. Jolles, Dr. Dennaoui & district nurses of the White & Yellow Cross.
       
She was a faithful member of the Cole Bay Church of Christ and was related to the following families:
van Putten, Cangieter, Bryson, Boasman, Mingo, Celestine, Weeks, Richardson, Gane, Rojer, Pompier, Lane, Best, Webb, Thomas, Daniel, Jacobs, Suarez, Johnson, Kruythoff, Salomon, Peterson, Halman, Arrindell,  Joe, Clarke, James, Brown, Laveist, Williams, Hughes, Webb, Thomas, and many other families & friends too numerous to mention.

We the family sincerely apologize if we may have forgotten any relatives/friends as it was not intentionally done.

In her honor a wake will be held at her home in Cole Bay on Wednesday February 20, from 7PM - 9PM. Funeral service will be held at the Cole Bay Seventh Day Adventist Church on Thursday February 21, 2013. Viewing and tributes from 1 -2PM. Service begins at 2PM followed by interment at the Cay Bay Cemetery.

After the Home going service/burial, we the family kindly request, no visitation at home. We thank you for your understanding.

May Her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Psalm 91:1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

WE REGRET TO ANNOUNCE THE DEATH OF OUR BELOVED FATHER, GRANDFATHER, GREAT GRAND FATHER, GREAT GREAT GRAND FATHER, BROTHER, UNCLE AND FRIEND

ETIENNE HUBERT MEYERS, better known as  Goong - Goong
SUNRISE NOVEMBER 17TH, 1923
SUNSET FEBRUARY 14TH, 2013
He was the husband of the late Eulalie Meyers-Hazel.
He was a former member of the Police Force of St. Maarten – KPNA Mr. Meyers was also Captain of the Boys Brigade of St. Maarten and the Zion Men with a Vision.

 

Children:                              Charles A. Meyers and Ann S. Meyers & Fam.
                                                Gwendolyn E. Williams-Meyers and Rene Williams & Fam.
                                                Etienne (Tochi) Meyers and MP Silvia Meyers-Olivaccee & Fam.
                                                Joycelyn Cannegieter-Meyers & Harrison Cannegieter & Fam. (ATL)
                                                Merlyn F. Ottley-Meyers and Milton (Bobby) Ottley & Fam.
                                                Jacqueline Petty-Meyers and Estario Petty & Fam.
                                                Franklin A. Meyers and Brenda K. Wathey.
                                                Harold Scott

Sister:                                   Yvonne Schmedes & Fam. (NY)

Grandchildren:                  Sherriff Tochi Baraka (ATL),Dwayne, Tasha (Orlando), Tyrone, Helen, Abdul, Indira, Hakim, Dekembe, Minister Jamal (Alabama),Terry (Holland), Junella (ATL), Omar, Dante (ATL), Mhalik (ATL), Akkoye (ATL), Azzarra, Quianna (Aruba), Shanakka, Tyhrese.

Great Grands:                   Genesis, Naia, Cierra, Kiara, Adam, Etienne, Aaron, Miracle, Khai (Holland)-Mark, Shon, Jamayah (Alabama), Kwame, Jaheim, Abdul Jr.

Great-Great Grand:    Cheyenne
Brother In-Laws:              Sydney Schmedes (NY)
                                                Melford & Joan Hazel & Fam.
                                                Cyril & Irma) Hazel & Fam.
                                                Sam & Bernadine Hazel & Fam
                                                Newton & Clara Hazel & Fam. (FL)
                                                Freddy & Diane Hazel & Fam.
                                                Edward & Rita Arrindell & Fam.

Sister In-Laws:                   Helen Lake & Fam. (NC)
                                                Margaret  Betty  Goffe & Fam (NY)
                                                Melda McMullen  & Fam. (ATL)
                                                Attress &Marius  Froston & Fam.             
                                                Irene Hodge & Fam.
                                                Barbara & Michelle Charville & Fam. (VA)
                                                Sophia Iles
                                                Ghysline Iles
                                                Elderine Iles
                                                Moyenva & Leonardo  Bromet & Fam.
                                                Claudette Hazel (Anguilla) & Fam.

Nieces:                                 Yvette Gilliard & Fam. -USA
                                                Jennifer Johnson & Fam. USA

Nephews:                    David & Darryl Schmedes- USA
Uncle In-Law:              Freddie York and Fam- SXM
Cousins:                               Lionel Hazel
                                                Marge Gumbs
                                                Jules, Maximilen & Edward Richardson & fam.
                                                Whitfield Austin & Fam
                                                Gervaille Brooks & Fam
                                                Carmen Rollan & Fam
                                                Monica Mingau & Fam
                                                Milton Priest & Fam
                                                Robert & Justin Priest & Fam
                                                Children  of the late Henry Priest
                                                Children of the late Maxime Hughes
                                                Amely, Alberic & Felix Miller
                                                Juliette Roland & Fam
                                                Lisette Connor & Fam
                                                Eliene Fargeau & Fam
                                                Carmen Hodge & Fam
                                                Gibbs family in Cay-Hill
                                                Kary Brooks
                                                Arlene Gibbs
                                                Rosita Durio-Brooks & Fam
                                                Christina Brooks & Fam
                                                Alfredo Rollan
                                                Cynthia Lake & Fam

God Children:              Jimmy Lake & Melvin Jacobs and many others too numerous to mention.
Close Friends:                    Charles Williams – French side
Phillip and Jas Bryan.
                                                Rosie Labega
                                                Muriel Lake & fam.
                                                Rev. Myrna Lake
                                                Rosie Richardson
                                                Ursula Lake & fam.
                                                Shirley Trottman
                                                Oretha Duzanson
                                                Mam Charville - French St. Martin
                                                Emma Petty
                                                Children of the late Popo Questel
                                                Children of the late Saundy Illidge
                                                Cannegieter family in Curacao
                                                Gladys Williams & Fam   -CUR
                                                Nel  Lake & Fam
                                                Louis Lake & fam
                                                Bonnie Hanson & fam.
                                                Miguel Alexander (Cur)
                                                Therese Van Heyningen

He leaves to mourn - Zion Methodist Congregation & Management & Staff of Jump Up Casino.

Caretaker:                        Clarice Connor
                                        Idita

Special thanks to:             The White and Yellow Cross
                                        Dr. Pedro Arrindell
                                        Dr. Danaway
                                        Dr. Tibaud
 Bertie Charles, Claudia Hermance, The Olivaccee’s

He was related to the following families:
Meyers-Hazel-York-Williams-Cannegieter-Ottley-Petty-Blijden-Bryson-Arrindell-Arrundell-Scott-Roumou-Lake-Priest-Holiday-VanHeyningen-Hughes-Miller-Gibbs-Brown-Richardson-Manuel-Roland-Melyn-Rollan-Withfield-Durio-Crecque-Flanders-Hodge-Phillips.

In the event anyone’s name has not been mentioned it is not intentional.

 A wake will be held on Thursday February 21st, 2013 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at The Royal Funeral Home and Crematorium in Sucker Garden.

         On Saturday, February 23, 2013 the home going service for the late ETIENNE HUBERT MEYERS, better known as Goong – Goong will be held at the Royal Funeral Home and Crematorium in Sucker Garden. Viewing: 10:00am to 11:00a.m. Service: 11:00a.m. Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery.

The family would like to retire quietly after the burial service and kindly request no visitors at the home. Thanks for your understanding.


May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home & Royal Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

PSALM 128 vs 1: “Blessed  is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways”.

It is with sincere sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of

Mrs. Ingrid Margareth Lindo-McClean affectionately known as “Dita”
Sunrise: November 26th, 1949
Sunset: January 30th, 2013.

Left to mourn are her:
Children:         Caroline Elizabeth Jones (Tiyene)
                      Wilhelm Alexander Jones (Cat)
                      Carnelia Jones (Lit-Lit)
                      Caroll Jones (Cha-Cha)
Ex-Husband:  Carol Jones
Son-in-law:    Oral Johnson
Daughter-in-law:         Laverne Philips
Brothers:         Kenneth Lindo (Miami)
                                Rubert Lindo
                                Victor Lindo
                                Melvin Lindo
                                Silvio Lindo (Cur)
                                                 
Sisters:            Rubia Philips-Lindo
                        Norma Leer
                        Ruth Leer

Grandchildren:            Jermaine Jeremiah Charles
                        Jahva Bokeem Joseph
                        Tarshani Nicola Jones, Shalee Jones
                        Crystal Zephania Alexandri Jones, Akeim Kiyoshi Alexander Jones, Soliele Jones
Special Sons:          D’niscio Brooks, Edwin Maduro (Pimp-tone), Rene Wilson (Koto),Miguel (Rasvally),
                                David Pascaud(Daddy-P), Roseindo(Cindo), Clive Alood (Rambo)
Special friend:             Joyce Jones (Auntie Joyce)

Close friends:  Luvina & Tara Charles, Melvina Gumbs, Lula Castilo (NL), Carla James, Maureena Serrant, Jasseth Jones, Theresa LeBlanc, Lilian, Glenda, Marisa, Murielle (Mimi) & many others too numerous to mention

She was related to the: Lindo, Leer, Philips, Spanner, Simmons, Daniel, Jones and Lynch & Hodge families.

The funeral service for the late Mrs. Ingrid Margareth Lindo-McClean will be held on Friday February 15th, 2013 at the St.Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church on Front Street.
Viewing: 2:00pm to 3:00pm. Service: 3:00pm.
Interment: Cul de Sac cemetry 

 

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of

Leroy  Alphius Richardson b.k.a “Louse or Deffy”
 Sunrise: 28th April, 1941 ~ Sunset: 5th February, 2013


He leaves to mourn:
 Son: Levi Richardson b.k.a Jeffrey (Netherlands)
 Daughters: Margret Richardson
                    Katrinka Richardson & Family b.k.a  Katty (USA)
 Nieces: Esmeralda Reed, Andrea Reed & Ursula Illis & Family
 Nephews: Calix Illis & Family, Enacio Illis & Family & Equino Illis
 Close Friends: Robert Chittick, the Boys Down Town, Frontstreet & the Domino Crew
He was related to the Richardson, Brooks, Rogers, Warrington, Gumbs, Hodge, Vanterpool, Ellis, Illis, Illidge families and Bishop Errol Brooks & Kemson Richardson (Anguilla).
The wake will be held at his home in Tintamare Drive, Middle Region from 7:00pm to 9:00pm on Wednesday 13th February, 2013.

The Celebration of life service for late Leroy Alphius Richardson will be held on Thursday 14th February, 2013 at the Emerald Funeral Home Chapel in Cay Hill. Viewing:  1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm
Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery.

After the Home going celebration service/burial, we the family kindly request, no visitation at home. We thank you for your understanding.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

We regret to announce the passing of

Joyce Beryl Thompson Paige
Affectionately known as “Miss T”/”Sister P”
Born: May 18, 1946
Died: January 12, 2013

Survived by her:
Mother:  Maudlin McDonald (Jamaica)
Sons: Carl Paige (SXM),Leighton Paige (Trinidad),Leon Paige (SXM)
Daughters: Annette Paige Allison (Jamaica),Nicola Paige “Sandy” (SXM),                Coratha Paige “Charmane” (SXM)
Grandchildren: Renae Allison (Jamaica),Tevin Allison (Jamaica),Oshane Paige     (Jamaica),Shuwane Paige (Jamaica),David Paige (Jamaica)
Brothers: Hubert Thompson & Family (Jamaica),Charles Thompson & Family (Jamaica),Delroy Thompson & Family (U.S.A)
Sister:Imogene Thompson & Family (Jamaica)
Nephews:Maurice Thompson & Family (Jamaica),Kevin Thompson & Family (U.S.A), Ricardo Thompson & Family (Jamaica),Shane Thompson & Family (Jamaica)
Nieces:Nickisha Thompson & Family, Natalee Thompson & Family, Nadine Thompson & Family, Dathlyn Thompson & Family
She also leaves to mourn many other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.

Acknowledgements
The Community of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Jamaica/ St. Maarten, and Columbia
Dr. Perez & the staff of St. Maarten Medical Center/Management and staff of SZV/Maayke & Edsel Martina/Management and staff of Divico

Burial Date: Wednesday 23rd January, 2013
Service: 3:00PM
Place: Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses – Cay Hill
Interment – Cul de sac Cemetery

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7

It is with great sadness that we; the wife and children announce the passing of our beloved huband and Dad;

Pastor Cecil Nurse Hodge, (The Voice of Deliverance) also known as Mohojack.

Sunrise April 4th, 1936 ~ Sunset January 6th, 2013

Survived by:
Wife: Marion Hodge

Children:
Valerie Osbourne-Parris (Miami)
 Vernice Hodge (Atlanta)
 Cecil Parris (Canada)
 Asshurin Hodge (St.Maarten)
 Arnold Parris (Canada)
 Antoinette Hodge (St.Christopher)
 Adamanturo Hodge (St.Eustatius)
 Cyralene Hodge (St.Maarten)
 Gail Cocly-Hodge (St.Maarten)
 Cecil Hodge (St.Eustatius)
 Sherming Trinidad-Hodge (The Netherlands)
 Nebresca Hassell-Hodge (The Netherlands)

Grandchildren:
Diane Hodge, Tyrone Hodge, Katina Furguson, Michana Bertrand, Shavern Hodge, Gregory Parris, Eric Parris, Connor Parris, Aneka Hodge, Terence Hodge, Jemedari Mcmahon, Yulishka Hodge, Cecilia Hodge, Hakeem Hodge, Shadina Richardson, Rebecca Parris, Nikitha Hose, Nukisha Hose, Sherelyn Hodge, Kiwandi Hose, Kareemh Richardson, Adalie Hodge, Ryan Hook, Tishelia Hodge, Na-chollia Coutar, Psyc'celeo Hodge, Shawn Trinidad, Alina Gumbs, A’xeenia Hodge, Jane Trinidad, Kay'xyrah Warren,

17, Great grandchildren

Brothers:
Eric Maynard (Fort Lauderdale)
Saint Clair Hodge (St.Maarten)

Sisters-in law:
Manzel Maynard
Ruthin Pascal-Maynard
Evadnie Hodge

Sons-in-law:
Edmond Osbourne
Rene Cocly
Stevens Trinidad
Jesse Hassell
Daughters-in-law
Jackie Warner-Parris
Kim Parris
Doreen Hodge

Close friends
Mr& Mrs .Efrich Lourens
Mr& Mrs .Carl Cooner
Mr. Lionel Ferrier
Mr & Mrs. Charlie Davis
Mr. Franklin Brison
Ms. Sylvia Edwards
Members of the International Baptist Church

Nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, are too numerous to mention.

Related to:
Hodge, Maynard, Scott, Hughes, Trinidad, Hassell, Cocly, Parris, Osbourne, Jeffers, Bryson, Davis, Henson, Richardson.

Wake
Date:        Tuesday 15th January 2013
Location: Belair Community Center
Time:        7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Home going celebration service
Date:        Thursday 17th January 2013
Location: Good news Baptist Church St. Peters
Viewing:  12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Service:    1:00 p.m.
Final resting place will be at the Cul-de-Sac Cemetery.

After the Home going celebration service/burial, we the family kindly request, no visitation at home. We thank you for your understanding.

May his soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

We regret to announce the passing of

Keziah Georgiette Duggins
Better known as Lilly
She was a member of the Methodist Woman’s League
Sunset:  December 25th, 2012, St Maarten

Leaves to mourn:
Her sisters:  Amanda Duggins and family in Holland
                                Ivonne Pemberton and family in St Maarten
Her brothers:     Alberto Duggins and family
                                George Duggins
                                James Duggins
Her cousins:       Charley Carty and family in            Miami
                                Neen  Roumou and family in        St Maarten
                                Cassilda O’Loughlin and family in Anguilla
                                Grace Carty and family
                                Joan Gumbs and family
                                Eltima Richardson and family
                                Augusta Gumbs and family in      Curacao
                                Miriam Hodge and family
Close friends:  Elvis Bryson and family (U.S.),  Esmee and Carlos  Richardson (Holland),  Beulah Benders and family in Curacao, Prudence Hodge and family, Delma Stuward and family and others too numerous to mention  in St Maarten, Anguilla, Curacao, Holland and the U.S.
She was related to the Duggins, Carty, Gumbs, Hodge, O’Loughlon , Paula, Pemberton, Richardson  and Roumou families.
The funeral service for the late Keziah Georgiette Duggins will be held on Friday January 4th, 2013 at the Philipsburg Methodist Church. Viewing &tributes: 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Service: 2:00pm.
Interment: Mt. Plaisance  (Philipsburg Methodist cemetry)

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

With deep regret the Peters, Groeneveldt and Stamper families hereby announce the death of their beloved mother, sister and cousin.

OLGA REGINA PETERS
Sunrise: 6 September 1951 ~ Sunset: 3 January 2013

The Late Olga Peters leaves to mourn:
1 daugter:  Angela Fleming – Groeneveldt
Her Life Partner: Reynold Groeneveldt
1 Son-in-law: Orlando Fleming
1 Sister: Hilda Artsen-Peters
1 Brother: Hubert Peters  
1Brother in Law: Gabriel Artsen
5 Aunts: Ramonita Peters, Beatrice Hemstrack, Marion Clark and Casilda Stamper
3 Uncles: Geraldo, Dunchie and Ricardo Stamper
2 Nieces: Fabiola Brown and Taisa Peters                                           
6 Nephews: Franklin Brown, Sean, Dionne & Philip Artsen, Jeffrey  and Kashif Peters
Great nieces: Tashana Brown
Great nephews: Teriq de Weever, Inaki Brown and Nathaniel Judd.

Cousins: James Bell, Franklin Peters, Yvonne Peters, Louise Arrindell, Sixto,
                Hector, Lourdes, Rolando and Alretta Peters, Dave Hemstrack,
                Cheryl Arrondell-Larmonie, Grace Larmonie-Richardson,
                Stephen Larmonie, Dennis Clark, Desiree Behr, Shanda Peroti,
                Oralie, Ralph and Ricky Boirard.

God children: Shanda Boasman, Cedrick York, Joyce Daniel, Stanelia David,
                          Fabiola Brown & Rudmilla Stamper   

Her care taker: Fannillia Richardson

Close friends: Too numerous to mention, amongst which; Velma Windefelde, Helen Lejuez, Astrid, Vanessa and Denicio Richardson.

The Late Olga Regina Peters is survived by the following families on St. Maarten and abroad: Groeneveldt, Peters, Stamper, Semeleer, Ras, Ricao, Sebastian, Vorst, Vos, Fleming, Artsen, Brown, Larmonie, Arrondell, Clark, Hemstrack, Bell, Peroti, Boirard, Charville, Duzant, Holaman, James, Neblett, and Kruythoff.

Special thanks to: The nurses of the White & Yellow Cross, Dr. van Osch,
                                 Dr. Dennaoui, The workers at the Friendly Island – and Orange
                                 Grove Drug stores, Miss Rose, Miss Denise, Miss Hollis,
                                 Miss Esther and all the friends who visited her at her home
                                 during the time of her prolonged illness.

The wake will be held Wednesday 9th January 2013 at the Belair Community Center from 
7:00pm to 10:00am. 

The funeral service for the late Olga Regina Peters will be held on Friday January 11th, 2013 at the Risen Christ Roman Catholic Church in South Reward. Viewing: 9:00am -10:00am. Mass: 10:00am.  Interment: Cul de sac cemetery.

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

"THE LORD IS MY LIGHT AND MY SALVATION.”

 

Mary Elizabeth LAKE-ROBINET
Born 31st August 1922  ~ Died 27th December 2012

She leaves to mourn:

Daughter:       Eulene RICHARDSON         (UK)

Son:                Ausberry RICHARDSON & family  (UK)

Grand children:        Janice & Rodney         (UK)

God daughters:         Florence & Aremel BROOKS            (Curacao)

Nieces:            Edith SIMON & Family         (SKB)
                        Mildred (aka Sadie) HANSON & Family      (SXM)
                        Sylvanita CARTER    (SXM)
                        Iona RICHARDSON & Family         (Holland)
                        Violet LAKE & daughter       (UK)
                        Grace MUSSINGTON           (Anguilla)

Nephews:       James (aka Sony) ROGERS & Family           (SXM)
                        Homer & Elliott RICHARDSON      (USA)
                        Pastor Cecil RICHARDSON & Family         (Anguilla)
                        David LAKE & Family          (UK)
                        John RICHARDSON & Family         (Anguilla)
                        Allan BROOKS & Family      (UK)
                        George RICHARDSON        (USA)
                        Lionel RICHARDSON & Family      (SXM)
Other Nieces & Nephews:
                        Children of:  Lecretia LAKE (Anguilla)
                                           Johnson RICHARSON (SXM)
                        Children of the late Charles (Conce)

                        GUMBS (SXM)
Many more nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, great-great nieces & nephews too numerous to mention.

Close friends:             Marjorie RICHARDSON & associated relatives       (SXM)
                                    Shirly BROWN & Family      (SXM)
                                    Ena BRYSON & Family        (SXM)
                                    Mr. & Mrs. KALUF            (Curacao)
                                    Sadie CARTY                                 (Curacao)
                                    Tony & Margaret HODGE     (SKB)
                                    Ingrid SPARREN               (Curacao)
                                    Lelia GUMBS-BELL             (SXM)
                                    Betty RICHARDSON                       (SXM)
                                    Juliet GIBSON                   (SXM)

Special thanks to the members of the Helping Hands Foundation  mainly Edwin CALLENDER, the Integrated Health and Rehab Physical Therapy Clinic and Dr. Pedro ARRINDELL.

She was related to: Lake, Richardson, Gumbs, Webster, Simon, Harrigan, Rogers, Brooks families.

We regret if any relatives and friends here and abroad have been accidently omitted.

The funeral service for the late Mary Elizabeth LAKE-ROBINET will be held on Thursday January 10th, 2013 at the Saint Simon and Jude Anglican Church on Back Street.
Viewing: 1:00pm to 2:00pm.  Service: 200pm. Interment: Cul de Sac cemetery 


May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Thou (Lord) will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee Isaiah 26:3

We regret to announce the passing away of

Juanita Remou (Roumou)
She was a member of: (Patsy Flanders) Golden Age senior Citizen Club
(Violet Lake) SXM Senoir Citizen Recreation Center
(Jullie Sandiford) P.G. Day Care of the White and Yellow Cross
The Seventh Day Adventist Church family

Sunrise: 27 March 1928
Sunset: 2 January 2013

Left to mourn are:
Her Sons:                            Joseph C. Gumbs and family
                                                James Robelto Gumbs and family
                                                Errol F. Gumbs and family
                                               Steve Chemont and family
Daughters-in-law:           Gwendoline Theodocia Gumbs-Richardson
                                                Josephine Gumbs-Lecointe
                                                Louise Gumbs-Duggins (EUX)
Grand Children:               Irma Kinght-Gumbs and family,
Ruben Robelto Gumbs and family, Orlando H.Gumbs and family,
Tamara Pauletta-Gumbs and family, Thalia Gumbs and family,
Rolando Gumbs, Shanette Samuel (AXA), Venetia Gumbs and family,
Rafeal Gumbs, Michail Gumbs (USA), Nkili Gumbs (USA)
Kareem Gumbs (USA), Jahran S.Chemont (Rep.D)
Special Angels: Janny Jermin and family, Jessica Chittick and family,
Isorilla Secunda.(EUX)
She also leaves to mourn: 9 Great Grand Children
Her Brother:                      Romolo A Remou and family
(Her Sisters):                     Marie Peterson and family and Veronica Peterson and family.
Sister in Law: Candida Remou-Florentino
Nieces and Nephews:   Miguel A. Remou and his 8 siblings  (Rep. D). Carmen  & Ignacio Peterson (AUA) , Robby & Wicho Peterson (AUA), Simonie Peterson and her 2 sisters , Jenny & Joan Peterson , Sarie & Lilian Peterson , Therese Peterson and her 3 sibblings, and Therese  & Serge Peterson.

Her Special Care-takers:  Jessica Chittick, Josephine Gumbs and Joseph Gumbs.
Her very special Friends: Sentair Kingsale(AUA), Felicita Lewis, her cousin Arlene(SFG),and her cousin Monique Emmanuel(SFG), Pamela Lebron, Maria Chemont and Teajay
She was related to the: Roumou, Pantoplet, Peterson, White, Emmanuel, Gumbs, York,
Peters, Heyligar, Cannegieter, Timber, Samuel, Hodge, Priest, Marlin, Mingo, Chemont, Bryson, Rombley, Duggins , Arrindell, Ratchel, Baly, Connor, Duzanson, Richardson, Hanna, Vlaun and others to numerous to mention.

Funeral Services for the late Juanita Remou will be held on Friday, January 11th, 2013 at the Philipsburg Seventh day Adventist Church on Zagers Gut Road. Viewing of the body will be from 12:00pm through 1:00pm. Service begins at: 1:00pm. Burial will be at the Cul de sac Cemetery

The Wake will be held at her former home at Pear Road #5, Reward Thursday 10th, January 2013, from 7:00pm through 10:00pm.

We the family thank you for all your good wishes and support

May her soul rest in Eternal Peace

The Management and staff of Emerald Funeral Home would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved families.

 

Dear Editor,

As the representative of the Private Sector workers, it is with a bitter taste that the Minister of Economic Affairs Mr. Ted Richardson and I assume his loyal and famous Advisor/Advisors have finally shown the people and working class of St. Maarten that money and power is above all morals. It also shows that there is definitely no respect whatsoever for family values one would say double pay, which spending quality time with family is also very important.

I am humbly appealing to the Minister of Labor and Social Affairs if his person and Cabinet were part of this decision to please seriously have a second thought and if the Labour and Social Affairs Minister is not aware then it says something is not right (this shows no respect towards the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs).

A few weeks ago a decision was made to grant certain businesses extended opening hours, my question is; Who is responsible for the security of the employees? The answer: Police Officers in the end.

It is no secret that Government is singing a ugly tune "NO MONEY, NO MONEY".

So my beautiful chorus will be: "WHO WILL FOOT THAT BILL".

In Unity,

Ms. Derie V. Leonard
President WICSU/PSU

Dear Editor,

It has been great to see so many people involved with the well-being of others in the last two weeks. Money has been donated to lots of different non-profit organizations, non-profit organizations shared out meals and supported the less fortunate at home and overseas and turkey and ham have been shared out by those who could afford it. Lots of volunteers put in their free time to bring light to their fellow man and woman.
We, Soualiga Social Movement, believe that one of the issues that we are facing today in our society is the focus on "self" instead of "us". You can have all the money in the world, but if you need to barricade your house, can't walk on the street when it's dark and your environment is severely polluted and damaged then the quality of your life isn't that great.
Once again we would like to put the emphasis on the importance of the individual contributing and participating in his or her community. Even when an individual is "struggling" with his or her own issues, a small contribution to the community is adding up to make a huge difference. We should all participate in clean-ups in our neighborhood and beaches, we should all be careful that we don't throw garbage all over the place (because that little bit of garbage also adds up), we should take time for each other and communicate with each other, we should listen to the stories about our island back in the days and spread those stories among the youth, we should help each other with repairs and maintenance to our houses and yards, we should grow our own food (even when it is just one or two pots, because of lack of space), etc.
We were once named "The Friendly Island" for a reason. Times change and we can't bring back that what once was, but we believe that participating in our community is a small thing to do to enhance the quality of life. If we can do it two weeks in a year, we can also do it fifty-two weeks in a year. Awareness, inclusion and participation! Don't leave no man, woman or child behind! Regardless of race, religion, small or tall: Let's work together in the best interest of us all as one community on Sint Maarten!
Dear editor, we thank you for publicizing our opinion letters over the past year and we are looking forward to have many more opinion letters published in the future. We wish you and your staff a wonderful year ending! And to all the people on this beautiful rock that once was called Oualichi and Soualiga and now Sint Maarten/Saint Martin: We wish you all the best in the upcoming year and we hope that we all can keep "the holiday spirit" alive! Happy New Year! #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

I am very concerned with what is coming from the positions of power and decision making over the last few weeks. I am talking about the dollarization issue. It seems that some members of Parliament and Ministers think that dollarization is as simply as changing the price tags on items. The greatest misunderstanding that I hear these leaders say is that St. Maarten is already dollarized, this is absolutely not true.
The thing is that there are advantages and disadvantages to a country assuming the currency of another country. Even though after my research, I am convinced that dollarization is not a good idea for St. Maarten, I will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages and you can make up your own mind. I apologize now for the length of this article but I hope many of you read it as it is very important issue that we must face in the near future.
The first thing we have to establish is the reason a country would consider dollarization. No country dollarizes for convenience! That is what I hear from our leaders, they are considering dollarization for convenience of the businesses. The affect on the population is not being considered.
A while back I wrote an article about this subject because an editorial of a local paper wrote in support of dollarization and I felt someone should discuss the other side. The thing is that most people that support dollarization have not done the correct amount of research in order to make an informed decision.
Now those that pay attention to the media may say that President of the Central Bank, Mr. E Tromp came out in favor of dollarization. My argument to this is firstly he came out against it and after his job was being threatened in Curacao he was all of a sudden for it. Secondly, in his explanation he proposes some kind of fee to replace the 30 Million guilder loss on seigniorage. Why change your currency to then put some form of a fee in place? Doesn't make sense to me.
As I said above, the main reason for countries adopting the currency of another country is to either contain hyperinflation or to induce currency stabilization. Another reason is to obtain lower interest loans on the foreign market. According to Andrew Berg, whose article I got most of this information from, even with the loss of seigniorage the long term effect of dollarization may offer gains that at first cannot be measured. With the limited possibility of devaluing of a currency some economic crises may be averted.
In the even longer term dollarization makes it easier for a country to trade internationally as it can easily integrate into the global market.
Now let's look at these advantages one by one when it concerns St. Maarten.
Currency Stability: Our Guilder has been stable for the past 50 years, there has been no major shift for as long as anyone can remember. The reason for this is that our currency, the guilder, is pegged to the United States Dollar. If it moves, we move and since the majority of our 'trade' is done with the US, there is actually no benefit here.
Hyperinflation: Some very good friends of mine would argue that inflation is very high in St. Maarten but it cannot be classified as hyperinflation. An example of hyperinflation is what happened in Ghana some years ago, when goods tripled in price overnight. Even though I agree that things here are too expensive, we are not experiencing this phenomenon.
Trade integration: Seeing that we have an abundance of US currency due to North American tourism being our main source of income, this too is not an issue. Many people reading this article trade with the US every week.
Now the disadvantages, the main disadvantage is, as I mentioned above, the loss of 30 Million Guilders a year in seigniorage fees. Additionally, when you dollarize and lose the function of a Central Bank, the Central Bank cannot provide any assistance to the bank and the population in the form of exchange rates or even liquidity support if the banks fail as they did in the US 3 years ago. Lastly, the loss of your own currency or I should say having your own currency is a form of pride and nationalism. It is strange to me that so many nation building and grass roots organizations have said little or nothing about this issue.
Again let's look at the disadvantages one by one.
Seigniorage: Presently in St. Maarten we accept dollars and give back dollars for change. With that method we and by allowing seigniorage free off-shore accounts for local businesses, we still collect 30 Million Guilders. Can you imagine if we only give back guilders as change and set up change points at the harbor and airport to change back the currency for a fee. Not only would this create some employment, but I am pretty sure that with those steps we can double our seigniorage without changing the law.
Loss of the Central Bank: The banks in St. Maarten as far as I can tell are rather conservative, they don't take high risk. The Central bank bailing them out of a crisis, I honestly don't see happening. The only role of the Central Bank other than collecting the seiniorage fee and stocking up on foreign exchange in our economy is interest control.
In conclusion, as you can see since the major benefit of dollarization has little or no effect on St. Maarten and the seigniorage fees are considerable, it is clear to me at least that dollarization is NOT a good idea for St. Maarten. If we take into consideration what happened in Saba, Statia and Bonaire with the high inflation due to dollarizing, we must really question our representatives that are floating this idea.
We have a similar economy to that of Aruba and they are doing well with their own currency. If our representatives are concerned about a joint Central Bank, then establish your own. We don't even need to go to Curacao for assistance, the ECC Central Bank has also been very successful in keeping their currency stable. We can look there for help or to our brothers in Aruba.

Kendall Dupersoy

Dear Editor,

I am convinced that the people of this country no longer should allow this coalition government to handle the affairs of the Ministry of Finance. The breaking point for me to come to this conclusion was what I saw and heard during the parliament meeting on December 12th, 2013, said meeting was attended by the Minister of Finance. When, parliamentarians, who are supporting this coalition, can come up with a feckless motion that will be detrimental to the financial survivability of this country.

Good corporate citizens of this country, must speak out and speak out firmly against such irresponsible actions. In this motion these parliamentarians, who signed off on it, are instructing the Minister of Finance to prepare legislation to write off taxes owed to government by businesses and individuals from 2006 to 2010. We are talking here about taxes that are recently owed to government. These are not taxes that should fall in category of "non collectable". This part of their motion is all about assisting unscrupulous persons who have not lived up to their civil duty and pay the taxes that they are to pay and should be able to pay. This is about rewarding bad and punishing good. This, same group of persons have already been rewarded by the former minister of finance, when he wrote off back taxes up until 2006. But this coalition is not satisfied with that, they find that that reward was not good enough, they are telling these tax evaders, we are not going to have you pay any taxes notwithstanding the precarious financial situation of this country. Most probably when you look around and check, the majority of these persons who will benefit from this tax write off are persons who live in big homes, drive the most expensive vehicles, vacation twice a year, have their children attend private schools and have hefty bank accounts abroad. But that does not bother these parliamentarians, as long as they too can benefit from it indirectly.

Since they are playing Santa Clause, I have a few questions for those parliamentarians who signed off on the motion. What about the residents of this country who year in year out lived up to their civil duty and paid their taxes? How are you going to reward these persons for being good co-operate citizens? Will they be allowed to receive a 50% reduction of their taxes over the year 2014? Don't you all believe in doing the right thing? To get back to the Ministry of Finance, this ministry is not doing a good job. It can't be so that the economy of this country is growing and revenues of government are not increasing. We have here a situation where the country is rich and the government is poor, and for me this has all to do with the quality of the Ministry of Finance and of course those unscrupulous tax evaders. If we have a good functioning Ministry of Finance, we will have a good functioning inspectorate of taxes and an effective collection of taxes. And those tax evaders should become something of the past. To avoid this country from falling into a financial debacle, that can have devastating consequences for the residents of this country, the quality of the Ministry of Finance has to be upgraded immediately. A plan of approach will not be the answer to this problem. That will take too long. What is needed here is immediate assistance from the Netherlands in the form of human resources which should book immediate positive results. If, this can only be done through a process of an instruction to the Ministry of Finance, as difficult as it may be to accept, it should be done in the interest of the people of this country. Both the Government of St. Maarten and the Netherlands should not diddle around with this issue.

And by the way it is mentioned through the grape-vine that this tax write off is all about assisting a family member of one of the parliamentarians who signed off on the motion and who owes a large sum in taxes. And we still don't want the Dutch to carry out their integrity investigation.

Todd PETERSON

Dear Editor,

Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) is a non-political foundation aiming to promote awareness while encouraging participation and inclusion of the people of Sint Maarten, for the progressive and sustainable development of its society in the areas of social, environmental, health, and economic matters. The supporters from SSM are from all walks of life and professions, properly representing our multicultural and diverse nation.
We want to point out that we touch on all kinds of issues that affect our society. We cannot neglect the fact that our government's actions do affect our daily lives and therefore we followed the budget debate closely and sent letters to Parliament with multiple comments and questions on the budget. We also wrote a letter to Parliament asking for an update on the status on actions taken pertaining the UNICEF report on the situation of children in Sint Maarten and the recommendations given in that report. It is our and your constitutional right to address Parliament. There is a Petition Committee that has to provide an answer to petitions/letters within six weeks.
Government is representing The People's choice. SSM respects the democracy of this country and is not and will not be in support of an individual politician or a political party, neither will it oppose an individual politician or political party. However, we are and will continue to follow the functioning of the government apparatus closely. When we feel that we have to address an issue that pertains to our government that affects our society, we will do so.
Having the above stated, for a change, we would like to recommend our Parliamentarians for passing a motion that has the right intend to move the country forward and alleviate the financial burdens of many. Some of the points in this motion: write off of taxes prior 2006, tax incentives for businesses that decrease the unemployment under the youth, to introduce a simplified and more customer friendly tax collection system, to look at possibilities to move away from direct taxes to indirect taxes, to stop issuing labor permits for the next two years, to look at measures taken by the former Netherlands Antilles to decrease youth unemployment and to top it off: introduced tax incentives shall NOT apply to Parliamentarians and the current members of the Council of Ministers!
We don't highlight the performances of individual citizens, so we will not mention the names of the Parliamentarians that voted for or against the motion either. The Parliamentarians that voted in favor of the motion know who they are and we recommend them for finally passing a motion that has an actual intent to move the country forward. To our members of Parliament: Please continue on this course and work for The People. And don't forget: we, as a non-political organization, will be watching you closely! #sxmmovement

SOUALIGA SOCIAL MOVEMENT

Cayman Islands multimillion dollar medical tourism venture is nearing completion with an official opening of the $80 million hospital scheduled for February 25, 2014 and the first patients already booked and to arrive a week later.

Tremendous progress has been made with respect to Cayman Islands medical tourism niche market development, having been described as the "third pillar" of the island's economy.

Health City Cayman Islands is a 140-bed medical tourism hospital. The aforementioned is a partnership between Dr. Devi Shetty's India-based Narayana Hrudalaya and Ascension Health Alliance, the latter, the largest private non-profit health network in the United States of America.

The Cayman Islands Health City is to grow up to a 2000 bed facility over 15-years, an investment of sum two billion US Dollars. It would be the third-largest hospital in the U.S. attracting more than one million stay-over medical tourists per year. Work on the next phase is set to begin in March 2014.

The 140-bed medical tourism hospital is forecasted to attract annually over 85,000 stay-over medical tourists per year according Government officials back in 2010. Imagine Sint Maarten attracting an additional 100,000 stay-over medical tourists per year, what a spin-off this would have for our national economy.

Health City Cayman Islands is now in the process of hiring staff for the facility. There are 140 job opportunities available and more than 3,000 job applications have been received.

A Sint Maarten Health City would also create many temporary jobs during the construction phase; and for the staffing and running of the facility, dozens of jobs will also be created.

The country's move into the medical tourism field would lead to an economic impetus and opportunities.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

What would Sint Maarten be without foreign laborers and foreign investors? What would Sint Maarten be without a structured judicial system in which law making, law enforcement and sentencing are separated? What would Sint Maarten be without a democratic political system and having elected officials representing the people? These questions are relevant when it comes to the key elements of the existence of Sint Maarten. Rightfully, there are many public debates about the importance to Sint Maarten of foreign laborers, foreign investors, our prosecutor's office, our police force, politicians that represent us, etc. One part of our society is, unfortunately, hardly ever talked about: the volunteers.
While many of us are trying to cope with our day-to-day personal issues and are trying to reach a long term personal goal, there are many amongst us that go out every day and assist others in making their lives more pleasant or even alleviate the burdens of others. Think about those volunteers who help our children in after school programs or otherwise, the volunteers that look after our elderly, the volunteers that clean up and protect our environment, the volunteers that help the less able or the volunteers that are involved in sports activities, just to name a few. Now ask yourself: What would Sint Maarten be without volunteers?
December 5th was International Volunteer Day and we, Soualiga Social Movement, hereby wish to thank and congratulate the many volunteers that go out there and do their best to try to make Sint Maarten a better place. We want you, the volunteers, to know that it is well appreciated and that the importance of your efforts are recognized. Soualiga Social Movement stands for awareness, inclusion and participation. This is what volunteerism is all about: seeing something or somebody that needs help, get your neighbor by his/her every hand and be a part of solving/addressing the issue.
We would also like to encourage each and every citizen on Sint Maarten to take some of your free time to help others. Be involved! You are a part of your community and your input, how small or big, will make a difference. To the business community: unfortunately, sometimes projects that are beneficial to the community will cost money. We ask you to recognize the importance of your role to support non-profit organizations on Sint Maarten. After all, volunteers are the real backbone of our society. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

At the end of November, Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson gave a state of affairs report to the House of Parliament in connection with crime and the challenges faced by our law enforcement agencies. Due to budget constraints, the Minister stated that there will be a serious push for the improvement of quality in detection and prevention as well as the introduction of supporting technology to minimize and compensate the need for quantity.

Based on this we need to look at what the future of crime fighting for country Sint Maarten's Police Force and other law enforcement agencies could entail. The Minister is looking at what I consider as the SMART-Policing approach. As a Caribbean nation with limited resources, thinking outside the box is the only viable way to maintain our long-term country's sustainable socio-economic development, and security.

In the past we had a Police Helicopter under the former Netherlands Antilles Police Force. Today, our law enforcement agencies are aided by a Coast Guard Helicopter which will be on-island for a limited period of time on a rotational basis. Tomorrow, the future of policing could be an unmanned/unarmed aerial surveillance aircraft vehicle (UAV), an advanced technological tool, popularly referred to as a "drone."

Drone technology would have several applications for our law enforcement agencies: land surveillance (locating drug fields; police surveillance; traffic surveillance); coastal border/waters surveillance in connection with drug trafficking, human smuggling and illegal fishing; and fire service (bush fires).

This is an opportunity for local job creation for young people who have an avid interest in aviation or law enforcement.

In continuing to look outside of the box, a Sint Maarten (SX) UAV Unit could offer services to our neighbouring islands such as Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Martin/St. Barths, Anguilla and possibly St. Kitts & Nevis; Sint Maarten could become a hub for UAV crime fighting surveillance in the North Eastern Caribbean; this would help to cover operational costs of the SX-UAV-Unit. Discussions could be held with the French authorities and the Collectivite of St. Martin to use the airport on the North side of the island for a North Eastern Caribbean UAV Crime Fighting Base since there is less aircraft traffic operating from the airport.

Another SMART-Policing intervention would be social media. There's evidence from around the world that social networking is the medium in which the community of today – and future generations – want to be engaged.

It has been said, successful law enforcement agencies will be those that adapt and change rapidly, by embracing technology and analyze emerging trends in their communities based on today's trends and tomorrow's challenges.

The future and sustainability of public policing is a conversation that police forces around the world are having. And the question is not whether change is coming, but what it will look like, and who will be involved and who will drive the process.

Roddy Heyliger

I (almost) totally subscribe to the Herald's Editorial on Saturday, November 30, 2013 regarding business closures. Being a preferred cruise destination, I agree that Government should post haste limit the "must close" days for businesses on St. Maarten to Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Christmas Day. However, in your last sentence you say that if the Dutch side is not open for business, the visitors will "simply head across the open border to the French Side and spend their money there". From the context of the rest of the editorial, I deduct that you imply that this is a bad thing for (Dutch) St. Maarten. If that is the case, I beg to differ. We all need to accept and embrace the fact that this is a 37 square mile destination, that for "donkey years" we have promoted as being unique with the real concept of two countries in one (a little bit of French, a little bit of Dutch, and a lot of Caribbean). If tourists can for one reason or the other, not spend their vacation dollars on the Dutch side, but can do so on the French side, more power to us all! At least the money is spent ON island, THIS island, OUR island. All those of you who want to constantly treat St. Martin (French) as a threat to St. Maarten (Dutch) need to rethink and embrace. Just like "the hurricanes do not stop at the border", neither do any of the other negative phenomena. If because of a lack of visitor and/or local spending on French St. Martin, that half of our 37 square mile rock continues to slide into economic and financial ruin, sooner or later it will drag down the Dutch side, as crime (for instance) will also "not stop at the border". Treating St. Martin as a competitor of St. Maarten, is unwise to say it mildly. Opposing visitor/local spending on the French side by some that think it is at the expense of the Dutch side, is tantamount to "cutting our St. Maarten nose and spoiling our face". In this same vein I suggest to politicians on both sides of the island that they consider a singular currency for both sides of the island. While I can not boast to have book sense on the topic, I apply common sense from a personal angle when I recommend that we should dollarize (US$) both sides of the island (and with that I do not mean that we make the same mistake that was made on the BES islands whereby everything that now costs a guilder should then cost US $1, nor that if some one earns Fls. 2,000 now, that he/she should earn US $2,000 then. Consumer item prices, Employee wages, service charges and everything else we now pay or have to charge for, should be converted at the last guilder/dollar exchange rate. And a very important item is: FRANCE needs to be reminded and convinced that St. Martin IS "vraiment unique" in the French Republic. As long as people on French St. Martin get paid in stronger-than-the-dollar Euro's (both earned wages, as well as social benefits), they will bypass their own French stores and shop across the same open border on St. Maarten, where they get more "bang" for their Euro, and thereby exacerbating their own downward economic spiral. We cannot expect the Southern (Dutch)16 square miles to continuously produce enough economic and financial activity to carry the entire 37 square miles. Can anyone foresee the calamity that will hit ALL of us if ever the Social Benefit Euro's from the French Republic stop flowing into Marigot? We, the joint population together with our two local governments must stop the whining and the begging and do what it takes to economically prop up St. Martin, the Siamese Twin of St. Maarten. It will in my opinion ultimately benefit us all, Dutch, French, North, South and even East, West.

Michael J. Ferrier

Last week the United Nations commemorated the International Day of the Rights of the Child and so did St. Maarten with more than a week of events. At the opening there were as usual nice opening speeches by dignitaries from both sides of the island, who all pointed out the strides made for the youth in St. Maarten/St. Martin and the work still needed to be done.

The most interesting part came when the children from various schools exhibited different plays, songs and presentations on the rights of the child that they deemed important. There were presentations on sexual harassment, the child's Right to know their parents and various songs sending great words of encouragement to the youth in attendance.

But the best part of the event was looking at the program of the week and seeing how many other organizations hosted events therefore making the celebration much more effective and including more of society. This is what SSM has always been about inclusion, participation and awareness.

If the 6 days of events for our youth were not enough, the SSM movement was invited to an annual neighborhood cookout at the home of web reporter Bibi Shaw, where in celebration of the birthday of her eldest son her family, neighbors and friends have a little party and feed over 40 kids in the neighborhood. What a great initiative as many people from different parts of society came out to celebrate and support the annual celebration.

Amidst all the celebration however, we were alerted of a terrible situation on the same street where our foundation witnessed first hand a group of children, presumably hungry, naked residing in an unfinished dilapidated dwelling with no windows. This is a harsh reality that still too much children on this island have to go through. They neighbors have tried all they can to get help for the children but an aggressive parent who may be under the influence does not allow anyone to help.
The children and parents are supposed to be Dutch citizens living on the French side, still the authorities have a responsibility and this is where cross border cooperation is necessary, hopefully something can be done about this grave situations so these children can be given the proper care needed.

In closing, the Soualiga Social Movement would like to congratulate the participating schools, St. Maarten Promoting Young Ambassadors Foundation, the St. Maarten Youth Council, the St. Maarten Youth Parliament, the St. Maarten Early Childhood Development Association, the Voice of Our Children Foundation, Ms. Bibi Shaw, neighbors and family on a job well done through cooperation on spreading the awareness of the Rights of the Child.

Participating together, including everyone and spreading awareness.

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines integrity as follows: 1. Firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values - INCORRUPTABILITY. 2. An unimpaired condition - SOUNDNESS. 3. The quality or state of being complete or undivided - COMPLETENESS.
Forget about definition 1 for now, let's focus on definitions 2 and 3. An unimpaired condition/a state of being complete or undivided. There were some bombastic statements made in parliament where it pertains to the budget, a lot about the people that are suffering or some form thereof. Little content as it pertains to earlier concerns, lack of policy, no annual accounts etc., while these points are fixed in laws. If those laws are not adhered to then we have an IMPAIRED condition. Hence, NO BUDGETARY INTEGRITY (as proven by the audit chamber in the meantime on the accounts of 2011). But we had bombastic speeches about people suffering and an emotional outpouring of empathy from those that rule for those that suffer and a cry that more must be done for those that suffer. So at least we are undivided here correct? Complete, here we at least have some integrity.

Now the budget is approved by those with empathy and by law it needs to be published. We finally get a glimpse under the skirt of bombast and rhetoric. Here as presented on the website of the government http://www.sintmaartengov.org/Laws/Pages/2013.aspx we find the budget that was approved. So, now in the 4th quarter of 2013 we have a budget 2013, whipped up by the National Alliance led government and hastily adjusted by the current government just to be able to say that we have an approved budget and avoid an instruction (same parliamentarians). In this approved budget we can see that every minister costs "the poor suffering people of Sint Maarten" (as so many times empathetic referred to by our parliamentarians) more in 2013 than in 2012. All ministers received a raise AND a Cost of Living Adjustment.

Why does someone with compensation of over Ang 300,000.00 need a raise AND a Cost Of Living Adjustment in times when "people are suffering, youths are unemployed and pensioners can't meet their basic needs"? Are higher prices in the supermarket affecting him or her, like they affect someone with Ang 24,000.00 per year or even less? Don't ask the ministers, ask your parliamentarians. For all the bombastic speeches, this is where they allocate taxpayer's money. Not where it's needed, those budgets got cut, some heavily. Innovation in Education: cut. Youth Affairs: cut. Minister's salaries: up.

There go number 1 and 3 of the integrity definitions. For all the bombastic empathy expressed, there is no unity, because parliament will not allocate resources to priority areas first. They find they have more claim on that tax dollar than those that worked hard and were forced to pay it in. A wise man once asked: "What is your fair share of something you haven't worked for?" As for the incorruptibility? Actions speak louder than words. The proof is in the budget. The moral obligation for doing what is right was not followed. Voter, beware! Next year is an election year, there will be an opportunity to right some wrongs and to "budget some integrity". #sxmmovement

SOUALIGA SOCIAL MOVEMENT

If it is up to Sint Maarten Government, the Corporate Governance Council will die a slow and silent death. Within soon (November 16, 2013 to be exactly) the term for which the five members of the Corporate Governance Council were appointed will expire. Sint Maarten Government evidently does not intend to re-appoint the current five members, neither does Sint Maarten Government – as far as I know - intend to appoint new member for this important advisory council. It is a public secret that the Corporate Governance Council is supposed to disappear from the political playing field. Since its inception the Corporate Governance Council has been treated by the tree different Governments as an undesired stepchild. Not only Government, but also Parliament (our highest legislative body, our elected representatives and the body that is supposed to check upon and control Government) will not cry a tear if the Corporate Governance Council will disappear.
The Corporate Governance Council has never been properly funded or accommodated (in terms of decent office spaces and office supplies). Not surprisingly the Corporate Governance Council was not on the 2012 budget and will most likely not on the 2013 and 2014 (final) budget either.
Why is it important that the Corporate Governance Council will continue to exist, that the Council will be properly funded and will (continue to) play an active) role in the political and constitutional playing field.
Sint Maarten has a Corporate Governance Code (or which the legal standing is also questioned by some). It is scientifically proven that Countries that have a Corporate Governance Code and take these rules seriously are doing economically much better than countries that do not apply these rules. In other words: to apply the Corporate Governance Code is in the interest of fostering sustainable economic development and creating healthy and attractive investment climate for (potential) investors.
Corporate Governance rules are about applying the rule of law, about transparency, accountability and about putting in place proper checks and balances. It concerns rules about proper corporate governance that are internationally accepted by most developed countries.
The Corporate Governance Council plays a crucial role by advising Government about the application of the Corporate Governance Code in cases where a government owned company or foundation is involved. The Corporate Governance Council advises Government amongst other about:

  1. Appointment and dismissal of competent directors and supervisory directors;
  2. Policy and paying out of dividends;
  3. Acquisition and selling of shares;

Why would Sint Maarten be against fostering sustainable economic development and why would Sint Maarten be against creating a healthy and attractive climate for (potential) investors? The only reason one can think of why Sint Maarten wants to get rid of the Corporate Governance Council is that Sint Maarten is not in favor of the Good Corporate Governance rules and its high standards and that Sint Maarten Government considers these rules and the Council a stand-in-the way for political "wheeling's and dealings," that do not satisfy the Corporate Governance Rules. It is not a public secret that some politicians like to see government owned companies as 'their' political toys, which is not in the interest of the real owners of government owned companies, namely the electorate / the people of Sint Maarten.
In addition, different from what (some) politicians often claim, the Corporate Governance Council is not an adversary of the Government, but – if used properly – is supposed to play a 'supportive role' for Government. The Corporate Governance Council does not dictate what Government should do, but the Corporate Governance Council only advises Government. Based on Corporate Governance legislation the Government is obliged to either comply with the advice or she should explain why she does not follow the advice in a particular case. The so called "comply or explain" mechanism is embedded in this legislation.
In Curacao, great improvements have been made as a result of the functioning of the Corporate Governance Council ("De Stichting Bureau Toezicht en Normering Overheidsentiteiten"). In particular these improvements have been made in the field of appointing and dismissing (supervisory) directors of government Companies. These directors should not be appointed or dismissed because of their political colors, but they should be appointed because they satisfy a certain profile, which include required standards of education, background and competency and they should be dismissed if they are not performing satisfactory (and not because there is a change of political colors). The quality of the (supervisory) directors has been greatly improved since 2010 because of the active role of the Corporate Governance Council and the so called "naming and shaming" in press reports. In Curacao the advises of the Corporate Governance Council ("De Stichting Bureau Toezicht en Normering Overheidsentiteiten") are made public and as a result of this, incompetent directors no longer postulate for certain positions out of fear of the "naming and shaming" mechanism.
In my view Sint Maarten should go in this same direction and Sint Maarten Government should lead by example and embrace the Corporate Governance Code and the Corporate Governance Council. Killing the Corporate Governance Council definitely gives the wrong impression and the three Integrity Probes should pay proper attention to this subject.
Let's not allow Government to silently kill the Corporate Governance Council.

Roeland Zwanikken
Partner of BZSE Attorneys at Law/Tax Lawyers

Dear Editor,

November 11th is almost here again and our elected and appointed Government leaders are about to make their annual speeches, promising cooperation and working together to improve the lives of our combined citizens. So how about this idea as a topic: Dollarize the entire island. I am not an economist, so this may be too simplistic, but in my opinion as long as the Euro earning residents of the French side (including French welfare recipients) have the option to enjoy more buying power on the Dutch side, they will do most, if not all of their shopping on the South side of the open border notwithstanding the fact that this causes more and more of their own businesses to bite the dust, subsequently causing more people to become jobless and to rely on their cash strapped government to survive. Of course chances of getting France to acknowledge that St. Martin is unique and the only territory in its entire Republic that consists of only ½ an island with an open border to another country, are remote, slim and probably almost impossible. But I venture to bet that as long as on the Dutch side we have the guilder that is pegged to the US Dollar and on the French side they have the (consistently stronger) Euro, French St. Martin will continue to deteriorate. Marigot is slowly becoming a ghost town. Mind you, I fully realize that establishments on the Dutch side (including the NAPA stores) stand to lose business should this happen (so in the eyes of my fellow Dutch side business colleagues this is probably a bad idea), but if we don't "pay now", will we not "pay later"? I wonder if this is food for thought?

Michael J. Ferrier

Dear Editor,

We have only one Sint Maarten/Saint Martin. Often we take things for granted in life. One of those things is our island Sint Maarten/Saint Martin. The two parts of the island share a unique history and we have archeological sites, monuments and culture to show for it. Besides the unique history that Sint Maarten/Saint Martin has, we can say that we have beautiful coastal waters and beaches and a beautiful flora and fauna in general. However, archeological sites and monuments are being destroyed, our culture seems to be no longer predominant in our society and in the name of development we are destroying wildlife on Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.
Of course, we expect government to come up with policies to promote and protect Sint Maarten/Saint Martin's history and culture and we expect government to protect certain wildlife areas. But should we as people leave it all in the hands of government? Don't we have responsibilities? What do we do to keep the Sint Maarten/Saint Martin culture alive? What do we do to teach our children about the history of the Land of Salt? What do we do to protect our environment?
There are roughly seventy-five thousand people registered to be living on both sides of the island (exact numbers of illegal residents is unknown) and we have over two million people per year visiting our island. Every resident and visitor produces waste in the form of garbage. Government's intention to establish a waste-management facility is without a doubt a great and much needed initiative, but it is not enough.
We need to make sure that littering is limited or better yet: littering should not be accepted at all. We need to be conscious about the products we use and dispose of. The damage that has been and continues to be done by aluminum (cans) and plastic (wrapping materials and bags) to our environment is tremendous, not to mention the oil waste and many car wrecks on the island. It's high time that we stand up and take responsibility for our island. We need to be more involved in preserving our history and culture and we simply have to take care of our environment! We can no longer take Sint Maarten/Saint Martin for granted. After all, we have only one Soualiga. What will be gone will not come back. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

Lifeguards supervises the safety and rescue of swimmers, surfers, and other water sports participants such as in a swimming pool, water park, or beach. Lifeguards are strong swimmers and trained in first aid, certified in water rescue using a variety of aids and equipment depending on requirements of their particular venue, and therefore overall enhance water safety.

Community and Government officials in various countries face decisions about whether to begin, retain, or discontinue lifeguarding services and wanting to know whether lifeguards are truly effective in preventing drowning and other aquatic mishaps, and whether the value of providing lifeguard protection outweighs the costs.

Most drowning's are preventable through a variety of strategies, one of which is to provide lifeguards in public areas where people are known to swim. Some estimates indicate that the chance of drowning at a beach protected by lifeguards can be less than one in 18 million.

Many people assume that drowning persons are easy to identify because they exhibit obvious signs of distress. Instead, people tend to drown quietly and quickly. Children and adults are rarely able to call out or wave their arms when they are in distress in water, and can submerge in 20-60 seconds.

A tourist died of a heart attack while swimming in the waters of Mullet Bay on October 27, and over the years we can go back and compile several other cases. The individual who was a cruise ship passenger from Canada was brought ashore by bystanders who initiated cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but when emergency services arrived, the man in his late 50s to 60s and in good shape was pronounced dead.

Would things have turned out differently if there was a lifeguard at Mullet Bay, nobody will know for sure.

Sint Maarten as a tourism destination catering to over two million visitors a year needs to consider our own stance on having lifeguards at some of our most popular beaches that are frequented by residents and visitors such as Mullet Bay and Great Bay Beach.

As a tourist destination, having lifeguards would save lives and send a positive image to safety conscious tourists. In Bermuda lifeguards are mandatory and the Cayman Islands are studying this as well to also make it mandatory.

In the Cayman's lifeguards were introduced at the Turtle Farm's swimming area followed by recommendations from the cruise industry.

Evidence suggests according to a report, "Lifeguard Effectiveness: A Report of the Working Group," a publication of the National Center for Injury Prevention and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, that lifeguard services benefit safety by saving lives, lowering drowning rates, and preventing injuries in aquatic recreational environments. Lifeguards also indirectly provide economic and social benefits. They add to the savings in emergency medical care and long-term hospital treatment involving cases of near-drowning and alleviate emotional trauma and social costs to family and friends.

Our two ports of entry, the Harbour and the Airport, the main gateways to our destination, should consider setting up a joint lifeguard program for the country. They both have the financial resources to do so and it will also add to the positive image that both ports of entry have with visitors to the destination.

At the same time, it creates employment opportunities for our nation's youth, a win-win for all.

Roddy Heyliger

The Committee of Financial Supervision CFT will be meeting with parliament's permanent financial committee in a closed door session of the House. The main topic of discussion will be the country's financial situation.

The establishment of the CFT dates back to the latter four years pre-2010 when we attained country status (2006 – 2009). During that period, the globe saw the crash of the financial markets in mid-2008. This would signal the development of the global recession which is still felt even today, five years later. The financial crash brought forward the worse recession that was comparable to the Great Depression 60-years ago.

Country Sint Maarten during the past three-four years has had to present a deficit free national budget while countries around the world – many – used public funds to make investments in their economy resulting in job creation or maintaining the level of employment in order not to be confronted with a social crisis. Sint Maarten on the other hand has been grappling with presenting balanced budgets. The agreements made in the period 2006-2009 with the Dutch Government, and saw the formation of the CFT which critiques the country's budget to see if it conforms to the Kingdom Laws for budget discipline needs to be reviewed.

This review is not only a Sint Maarten reality, but a global one as well. Reviews and recommendations have been brought forward by the financial and economic experts in Europe as well as for the rest of the world on what needs to be done to get the global economy moving forward again creating employment and business opportunities for people.

European Union (EU) finance experts have reached a preliminary agreement on changing the way the 28-nation bloc determines some deficit figures which will lessen the pressure for austerity measures in some crisis-hit European economies. Spain has record unemployment of about 26 per cent. The new change in budget policy will allow Spain's government to invest thereby fostering growth.

The EU's change in budget policy according to financial experts will go a long way in easing the economic problems. The closing or narrowing of budget deficits in the 28-bloc of countries in the midst of a recession and record European unemployment was seen as counter-productive and has been seen as an acknowledgement that the deficit-cutting programs of the past three years have failed to address growth.

A 2013 report by the United Nations (UN) Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), says that governments must address the fundamental causes of the global economic crisis, in particular rising income inequality, the diminishing role of the State (Government), and the predominant role of the poorly regulated financial sector.

The Trade and Development Report 2013 notes that developed countries have so far addressed the crisis by implementing stimulus measures that rely on expansionary monetary policies, but these have been unsuccessful in fostering growth, as they have been combined with fiscal austerity and subdued private demands.

In contrast, developing countries have been able to mitigate the adverse impact of the crisis in the developed world by implementing countercyclical policies, which stimulate the economy when it is facing a downturn. However, the effects of these policies are fading away and the economic environment shows few signs of improving, making it increasingly difficult to avoid slowdowns.

The report contends that developing and transition economies that heavily depend on exports must reconsider their development strategies and rely more on domestic and regional demand. Country Sint Maarten in my opinion falls within this category. We export sand, sun and sea, and we need to diversify our product to also include medical tourism and sports tourism besides cruise and stay-over tourism. With respect to stay-over tourists, we need to focus on the Latin American market as well as China/Asian markets.

The report also says that developed countries are not addressing the root causes of the financial crises, and this, compounded with mishandling the crisis itself, has contributed to the current disarray of the - global economy. This statement alone is a strong argument why the role of the CFT and the Kingdom Laws that gives it the authority needs to be reviewed and adapted to the current economic realities of the world, of which Country Sint Maarten is also a micro part thereof.

The UNCTAD says that since 2008, the world output growth has slowed down and does not show signs of recovering. It fell from 4.1 per cent in 2010 to 2.8 per cent in 2011 and then to 2.2 per cent in 2012. The report predicts that it will further decelerate to 2.1 per cent this year-2013. These are most definitely wake-up calls for all nations including country Sint Maarten to start thinking and doing rather than only looking and procrastinating. Hon. Prime Minster Sarah Wescot-Williams a few months ago called for the establishing of an Economic Task Force and the Minister of Finance Hon. Martin Hassink a few weeks ago mentioned the same for a Financial Task Force. These are indeed necessary and should be put in place as soon as possible.

The report looks at three economic areas and says that the increased tendency towards fiscal austerity in the EU makes it highly unlikely to return to a higher growth trajectory. In the US, private domestic demand has begun to recover but cuts in public spending are having a "contractionary" effect. In contrast, the Japanese Government is providing both strong fiscal stimulus and monetary expansion aimed at reviving economic growth and curbing deflationary trends.

Members of Parliament of the honourable House should put pertinent questions to the CFT on Wednesday with respect to whether current economic realities do not dictate a change in the way the committee reviews the budgetary information and whether a budgetary deficit should be allowed for a certain period of years.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

Please allow us to address our Parliamentarians through the opinion section of your newspaper. Dear Members of Parliament, Soualiga Social Movement took notice of the UNICEF report on "Children in the Dutch Caribbean" and more specifically "The Situation of Children and Adolescents in Sint Maarten: key findings and recommendations" that was published in April this year. The latter begins with the following: "A situation analysis of Sint Maarten's children and adolescents was undertaken in 2012. Commissioned by the United Nations Children's Fund-The Americas and Caribbean Regional Office, it was conducted by the Observatorio Social del Ecuador (OSE), a non-governmental organization based in Quito. The research had two main dimensions: 1. A review of sources and statistical data to understand the reality of the country; and 2. Dialogue with 48 key informants (25 state and 23 civil society actors) as well as 3 focus groups to collectively determine the advances and challenges in the situation of children and adolescents."

The introduction is followed up by a brief explanation about the geography and demography of Sint Maarten. Then the areas like Health, Education, Protection and Participation are being reviewed and the progress made in those areas as well as challenges remaining are mentioned. The section after that is the section in which twenty-four (24) recommendations are made and it ends with the following conclusion: "Sint Maarten is a new country under construction and is in the process of developing new laws, policies, programs and activities for institutional strengthening, consolidating an organized society and training local cadres in public administration. The budget reflects a country with high investment in social areas, and major progress has been made in fulfilling the rights of children and adolescents. Important successes include universal health-care coverage for children and adolescents, the low child mortality rate and the introduction of compulsory education. Undoubtedly one future priority should be collecting and collating adequate information in order to understand and tackle the main challenges of childhood and adolescence through a continued emphasis on the formulation of evidence-based laws, policies and programs aligned to the CRC and CRC Committee's recommendations."

We would like to be informed by parliament, as our elected representatives, what actions have been undertaken by you and the respective ministries on the following recommendations: 1. Strengthen the Department of Statistics to produce accurate and timely information derived from not only the census but also new surveys on household living conditions in order to prepare specific indicators for monitoring compliance with the rights of children and adolescents. 2. Create a social observatory to monitor state actions concerning children and adolescents with special emphasis on the situation of those who are immigrants. 3. Design and implement a youth employment policy and create more opportunities for adolescents aged between 15 and 19 through integrated academic and technical training to meet the country's development needs. 4. Design and implement a unified model of secondary education aimed at all schools using similar methods and the same language of instruction. 5. Increase the supply of high quality, subsidized childcare centers to relieve the burden on working parents, especially mothers. 6. Introduce, expand and, when feasible, fund after-school programs for children and adolescents to promote the best use of free time and develop artistic and cultural expression as well as encouraging participation in sports. 7. Enhance coordination between government and civil society actors engaged in providing child protection services. 8. Reinforce and implement legislation against domestic violence and develop mass education programs on prevention, treatment and resolution of problems of violence to encourage people to report incidents. 9. Create social mechanisms to prevent the normalization of violence against and among children and adolescents. 10. Set up a telephone hotline or other means of communication about the problem to provide counseling services and referrals to child protection services for victims of abuse, violence and neglect. 11. Design an early warning system for violations of the rights of children and adolescents that involves the judicial, health and education systems and civil society watchdogs. 12. Design and implement an integration policy for immigrant children that includes a process to normalize their immigration status, school insertion and access to health services as well as neighborhood programs encouraging cultural integration. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Minister of Finance Mr. Martin Hassink,

Some time ago I published my opinion in the local media, requesting government to set aside the amount of US $. 2,000,000.00 to assist landowners with expenditures ranging from the huge Cadastre, land measuring, notary, legal and lawyer fees etc. to be able to make use of their properties, sitting there for years, only to create more complications in finding the rightful owners of these sometimes extensive properties.

As you know, there is no more government land to be gotten while many of those who hold titles to government long lease land, simply can't do anything with it or just hold it for the sole purpose of "speculation".

Since I have become known as an active "activist" in defense of illegitimate children and other unfortunate persons, I have come to know that many can obtain their rights to succession land if only they could afford expensive litigation, and more and more of them as well as legitimate owners are coming to me for assistance but because of the lack of financing for their purposes, they unfortunately pass on leaving their property to an uncertain future and the suffering goes on and on.

In view of the above, I, on behalf of these unfortunately people request you to seriously look into the possibility of setting something aside in the next budget to assist these persons, even if they have to pay it back.

I trust that you will understand by putting yourself in these people's positions and actually do something to assist.

A confirmation of receipt of this message will be highly appreciated.

Thank you for you time and understanding.

Yours truly,

Norman C. Wathey

Once again we have a massive fish kill. This time it was so many that people are calling it a river of fish.
Do you realize how long this has been going on? When do you, our government, think you might be able to solve this problem and prevent it from happening again?
How many more years and how many more dead fish will it take?
We have spent years polluting our salt pond. We have a huge dump in the middle of the salt pond which I am sure is causing toxic run off into the pond.
I am no scientist but I know there are many issues causing these fish kills that keep happening.
It's much more complicated than low oxygen levels which is all we the public are ever told.
I also know there probably is no easy solution. A solution MUST be found though, and it MUST be made a priority of government.
I don't care who is in power, or who has been in power. Not one government we have ever had has dealt properly with this issue.
I don't know if you read Facebook but the comments and pictures there tell a tragic story.
People are horrified and sick of this still happening.
What a great picture this presents when we try to advertise ourselves as a tropical paradise!
Tropical paradise? With thousands of dead fish lying in our waterways?
I guess dead fish can't vote because if they could, this problem would have been solved years ago.

Regards,

Barbara Cannegieter

Dear Editor,

The Parliament of Sint Maarten will be embarking upon an open house within the next two weeks. During the weekly open house, members of civil society will learn about the separation of powers between the Executive (Council of Minsters) and the Legislature (Parliament) branches of Government and the roles they play in law-making.

The House is also in its fourth year since the birth of country Sint Maarten on 10-10-10 and before the next constitutionally due elections. Various pieces of legislation have been tabled in the House during the past three years that came from the former Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles and still had to be formalized.

There have been some new initiative law efforts and this is still an on-going process. In the remaining months of the 4th sitting of the House of Parliament, parliamentarians can still research and draft initiative laws that could be handled by the 5th sitting of the House for the parliamentary year 2014-2015.

The country's existing laws forms the foundation that guide the governing and functioning of society in our democratic constitutional system. However, some laws date back to the 1900s and much has changed since then. These laws need to be brought in line with today's societal trends. Therefore, parliamentarians have to be up to speed on current and emerging issues that impact public policy and society overall.

One current issue that impacts all countries around the world including Sint Maarten is lead paint. Countries have been called upon to strengthen national actions to eliminate lead paint, a major source of potential poisoning for young children which causes some 600,000 new cases of intellectual disabilities each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Lead poisoning remains one of the most important environmental health concerns for children globally, and lead paint is a major flash point for children's potential lead poisoning. According to the WHO, exposure to lead paint can be entirely stopped through a range of measures to restrict the production and use of lead paint.

This week is International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week of Action under the theme: "Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future." Lead paint can be found in the home, on toys, furniture and on other objects. Decaying lead paint on walls, furniture and other interior surfaces creates lead-contaminated dust in the home that young children easily ingest.

Mouthing lead-painted toys and other objects also exposes young children to lead. The sweet taste of lead paint means that some children even pick off and swallow small chips of paint. WHO estimates that 143,000 deaths per year result from lead poisoning, with lead paint a major contributor.

Exposure to lead creates health problems for many years into the future. Even in countries that have banned leaded paint decades previously, such paint continues to be a source of exposure until it is finally stripped and replaced. Alternatives to lead paint are readily available. Worldwide, 30 countries have already phased out the use of lead paint. The aforementioned Global Alliance has set a target of 70 countries by 2015.

The Parliament of Sint Maarten could add the country to the list – lead-free paint Sint Maarten – but first parliament would have to do some research to see to what extent the product of lead paint is available via retailers and wholesalers.

At high levels of exposure, lead affects brain development in children, resulting in reduced IQ, behavioral changes such as shortening of attention span and increased antisocial behavior, and reduced educational attainment. These effects according to the WHO are believed to be irreversible. Adults are at increased risk of kidney disease and raised blood pressure.

It is in our own interests that of the children of the nation to do something about lead paint.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

Please allow us to express our concerns on the illegal status of so many immigrants on Sint Maarten. We're not saying that illegal residents are the sole reason for the problems on Sint Maarten and neither are we saying that people without blood ties to Sint Maarten are second class citizens. As a matter of fact, every legal resident of Sint Maarten has the right and duty to participate to the fullest in Sint Maarten's society and make the best of his/her life. What we are saying is that the amount of illegal residents on Sint Maarten needs to be reduced drastically for more than one reason. The growing amount of illegal residents on St. Maarten is weighing the proverbial seesaw down, forcing the legal residents and government to be 'up in the air' with their feet swinging for stability, instead of grounded to our society and how we can move forward.
Many ministries and parts of our society are feeling the pressure when it comes to illegal immigrants. Think about the compulsory education law that makes our public schools have to enroll illegal children to their schools, (some who do not speak English and with their parents contributing little to nothing financially) causing classes to increase in size and the costs of education to rise. Children's right to education should be respected, but this also counts for those who are residing here legally. There are many unpaid bills for medical treatments of uninsured illegal residents left at the Sint Maarten Medical Centre. Every person has the right to have access to medical care, but government (and thus tax paying residents) pays for these bills.
For years we have been talking about increasing the compliance of paying taxes, but it is known that many employers are hiring illegal residents that don't pay wage tax. It is known that there are illegal residents that conduct business without paying any income or profit tax. Government needs to create a safe environment, but we often read about criminal activities conducted by illegal residents, some ending up in our jails for years. At the end of the day, the tax payer is paying all of these bills.
Too often also, illegal residents become victim of abuse by their employer, are living in deplorable circumstances and are dealing with social ills like poverty and domestic abuse. Because illegal residents live 'below the radar' they are usually afraid to seek justice or any help from the authorities. These standards should not be allowed on Sint Maarten. Not for legal residents and not for illegal residents. Some heavy fines need to be issued for illegal constructions and hazardous living situations. Look at the disaster last weekend with the fire in Cole Bay that left over a hundred homeless. Does a similar tragedy need to happen in Cay Hill, Cay Bay, Middle Region and/or Dutch Quarter for us to do something about this? We did not even touch on the negative influence of illegal residency on youth unemployment.
There are many other reasons why the amount of illegal residents should be reduced drastically. With all the current and past budget woes it might be time to allocate more funds and or efforts to not only protect our borders, but to also evacuate those who are residing on Sint Maarten illegally. All the policies are in place, but the (financial) tools are lacking. Hopefully this does not end up encouraging (political) favoritism by singling out individuals or businesses to go after them or the opposite. One way to increase funds to evacuate illegal residents is fining employers that employ illegal residents heavy. Not just Ang 5,000.00, but rather Ang 50,000.00 or more per employee. Same for those who "sign for" or "invite" people that overstay their visa. It can work as a deterrent as well. It's time for both the executive and legislative branches of our government to wake up, before Sint Maarten burns down to the ground. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

'suck your own blows...'

Dear 'Honorables' of Country St. Maarten,

Now that your own 'chickens are coming home to roost', you seem to have discovered the St. Maarten people - wattating nuh.
Mind you, these are the very same people whose very existence, each and every one of you - without exception - betrayed by refusing to even recognize in the constitution - let alone refused to protect and to preserve.
Talking about shamelessness.....
Therefore, be advised to 'swallow your own spittle' .
We, the grassroots St. Martin movement will have none of it.
As the good old saying goes; 'What goes around, comes around' or, 'what goes up, must come down' - sooner or later - that's for sure.
Enjoy the feeling now you are accustomed dishing out with pleasure and with arrogance for decades to others, especially to native, indigenous St. Martin people.
Know now, what it is not have control over your own situation and destiny, because it is in the hands of others.
As the Dutch say ; 'U zit nu in het beklaagden-bankje' - you are now just another 'suspect sitting in the dock'.
And by the way, if you did nothing wrong, you will be exonerated at the end of the investigation anyhow.
Then, in that case, you will be really able to carry the title 'honorable' with a sense of pride and dignity, knowing you deserved it - not 'bought' it.
For now, that honorable title, is very 'tainted' to say the least.
Oops, by the way, the fact we have declined to participate in the NDP's so-called 'democratic dialogue', was always based on our total lack of trust in Government and in any institutions associated with Government.
In that regards it is interesting to say the least, that our distrust in Government could not have been stronger proven justified, than the present investigation of the Dutch Government, signed by Royal decree.
So, much for the credibility of the NDP.
In ending dear 'Honorables', please do not throw anymore 'tantrums' and do not make any more silly remarks about 'not cooperating' and about going politically 'independent' in the name of the people - certainly not in the name of the native, indigenous St. Martin people - it will not work.
Just like when you were doing all your dealing and wheeling and kept the people out - this time, keep us out as well and 'suck your blows'.

Yeah, me again,

Leopold James
President of the St. Martin nation building and unification movement and
Proud native, indigenous St. Martiner - without apologies.

Sarah dangerously incompetent.

By now, the gravity of the situation facing St. Maarten should have sunk in. St. Maarten has been publicly humiliated before the entire world! Never in the annals of relations between two peoples has one people so publicly repudiated another. One can try to hide behind the false argument, that it is really and only about the politicians. But fact of the matter is that the Dutch have expressed a deep distrust of us as a country and as a people collectively, period. None of us are exempt. It is delusional to think otherwise. We produced those politicians! You say how? We voted for, and elected them, time after time, even when we knew they were up to no good. We sold our votes to them. Some, for raw cash, others for building materials or furniture, and still others for favors. We did it over and over, repeatedly, for forty long years. Being corrupt had become a political sport on St. Maarten. We all participated in one way or the other. We all wanted a piece of the action.
This new crisis calls, for some serious reflection, because we must respond. There must be a confrontation, because we simply cannot submit to this investigation. It is out of the question! Things can never return to what they were before between us and Holland. If at times the Dutch political class was diplomatic in its approach, this time all pretense of diplomacy has been dropped. The mask has been removed, and their true feelings expressed. There is no way back. We have been shown the door. The message is clear: "You want to stay in the Kingdom? "Then this is what to expect". We have, in Mafia parlance, been made an "offer we cannot refuse!" This has serious implications for us as a people. We no longer really have a choice. It is no longer, if, but when. It means among other things, that we will have to seriously think about whether or not this is the right time, for the King to visit. It will be extremely awkward for him to meet with a bunch of people, who in his name, by his government and under his seal and authority, have just been repudiated. This includes the governor also. He is a product of St. Maarten politics. This is the political milieu in which he operates, the pond in which he swims. He is a skillful political player. His appointment as Governor is a direct result of his knowing how to play the political game on St. Maarten. The Dutch cannot trust him either! He is one of us!
There are two pieces of business which we must urgently attend to even while dealing with this new crisis. The first one, is holding accountable the so-called leaders who have lead us into this mess. The National Alliance and MP Frans Richardson should be counting their blessings that they were kicked out of government. This shows how timely two old adages are: "everything happens for the better" and, the second, "you might just get what you wished for". Sarah fought tooth and nail during the collapse of the last government to remain in office. She maneuvered, she schemed, she plotted. She kicked and screamed. She raved and ranted. She wanted to remain Prime Minister and Leader of Government at all cost. She got what she wanted. Now that it has blown up in her face, she must accept full and total responsibility for this fiasco. Sarah and the UPP must face the music alone. They have been totally and completely discredited and humiliated. Sarah's heated response, and faux indignation is too little too late. She has utterly failed as a leader. Her epitaph will forever be one of abject defeat and humiliation. Her feeble attempt to call on civil servants not to cooperate with the Dutch investigation is pathetic. It rings hollow. She does not have the moral authority to lead a pack of kindergarten children across the street.
Theo so far, has wisely chosen to remain silent, as well he should. He is the intellectual and spiritual author of all that is corrupt on St. Maarten. In that regard, he has truly followed in his grandfather's footsteps. His influence on the body politic is toxic. He can be no Moses. His old school vision of money politics has met its final defeat.
The people of St. Maarten therefore need to urgently undertake action. Step one, must be the immediate resignation of the entire cabinet with step two being the calling of new elections.
The UPP/DP government simply does not have the credibility to deal with the Dutch government. They do not have the credibility to face us, their own people. They certainly cannot pretend to represent us, for every day they remain in office, represents an affront to our dignity as a people. The UPP and DP parties should be disbanded and banned forever from politics. They are dangerously incompetent. They have grievously injured the people they were elected to lead, and yes, protect. They certainly do not have the credibility to do any talking to the Dutch, especially on behalf of the people of St. Maarten. They do not have the slightest semblance of the prestige needed to constitute a government. It has been ripped to shreds. We cannot allow this present group, and yes, that includes governor Holiday, to represent us any longer. In a sense, this disappointment is a blessing in disguise. It allows for the creation of totally new political parties and for a new class political class to emerge. This is the time for new faces and new political parties. We simply cannot allow the same, bad old actors, back on stage. Even coming from their parties is too much. We need a totally new political class. We saw what happened last election when we brought in new faces. Laville and Jules James, two of the freshest and most promising new faces soon found themselves embroiled in controversy and, in the case of Laville, scandal. They came from a corrupt party, led by a corrupt leader who had spent his entire political career in the corrupt, but politically successful Democratic Party. His political style, resembled more than anything, that of a mafia don, right down to the dark eye glasses. His actions while Minister spawned much suspicion and distrust. The new political class must in no way, shape or form be associated with him, or any of the existing parties for that matter. The task at hand is simply too serious to be left in the hands of bad faith actors, offering their same old influence peddling, self- enrichment schemes.
The real mission of the new political class should be independence. Not ten years from now, not five years from now, but now! That should be the one and only agenda point. Remaining in the Kingdom after we just been so rudely shown the door is pointless. Trying to pretend that what was expressed was not directed at all of us is self-deception. We are no longer welcome in the Kingdom.
We need a fresh set of faces untainted by scandal to clean up the mess created by the present corrupt and inept bunch, who have lead their people to shame and embarrassment.
We need a new Moses, to undertake the urgent and glorious task of taking us into the promised land of an independent St. Maarten.

Name Withheld Upon Author's Request

The integrity investigation
Are Theo and Duncan secret targets?

The cool, detached bureaucratic tone. The legalistic jargon. A chilling, sinister, implied threat. One has to hand it to the Dutch. They are good learners. One can easily imagine that one is reading a Nazi directive posted in square of some dorp in Holland circa 1942. The similarities are eerie, scary even. This approach is what made the Dutch the most effective killing machine for the Nazi's. Jews were invited via mail, delivered to their homes, to report to their deportation stations. Date, time and place were meticulously noted. Coats were to be dropped off here, shoes there, jewelry over here. All along the Dutch claimed they did not know the Jews were being deported to extermination death camps. The Germans appreciated their efficiency. After a while they did not even have to supervise them anymore. The Germans considered the Dutch fellow Aryans, and junior partners in crime. Many Dutch it must be mentioned did refuse to collaborate. Many were shot for refusing to collaborate. Today they are remembered as heroes while the former, are remembered, rightfully, with scorn and loathing.
Such is the effect reading their latest exploit, the so-called "instruction" to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation. He is being recruited, somewhat in the manner of war time collaborators, to round up the "usual" suspects for extermination. One has to pity his situation. Called upon to do the dirty work for the prestige of being governor. One doubts whether they will even pay him, since his more than generous salary is wholly paid for by the tax payers, yep, you and I, of St. Maarten. Will he chose to be remembered as a hero, or does he want to be remembered, rightfully, with scorn and loathing?
The document itself, is mercifully short. It is also a mass of contradictions, perhaps owing to the haste in which it was drafted. After going to great lengths to accuse the government of St. Maarten of basically being a bunch of thieving, corrupt, dishonest bastards, it turns around and calls for an investigation to find out if it is really true that they are in fact thieving, corrupt, dishonest bastards. Then, the use of the word "integer", or honest. This word occurs over and over in the document, leading one to surmise a Freudian slip. The drafters must have serious doubt about their own honesty. Why else are they constantly talking about honesty? It reminds one of the homophobe, who tries to cover his fears about his own sexuality by being hyper-aggressive towards gays.

History repeats itself?
As was pointed out elsewhere in SMN News, it is exactly twenty years ago, to be exact, February 25, 1993, that St. Maarten was placed under Higher Supervision for, yep, you guessed right! For being thieving, corrupt bastards. Even the approach was the same. First a report was commissioned, the now infamous Pourier report. The committee submitted its report in May, 1992, and guess what, it found that indeed, St. Maarten politicos were a bad lot. "By using political patronage, the same group maintained its grip on power" the report stated, "Government leaders eventually found themselves in the position where government decisions, and thereby the use of public funds, was too often directed towards maintaining their own position, and too little for the general interest." This crossed an "imaginary line" the Pourier committee reported, which justified jumping in to stop the abuse. Even the actors were the same. Then as now, the Democratic Party was in power. The UPP and the DP are of the same provenance so in fact we do have a DP government. The party one hopes, can be proud of its long lineage of corruption and bad governance. This is the second time in twenty years that it has managed to drag the country, which it so badly wants to govern, into the mud.

Theo and Duncan in the cross hairs.
St. Maarten politicos are now facing a real manhood crisis. This "instruction" is plenty mean. It shows just who is boss. It is much more intrusive that the 1993 version, which only required the island to submit decisions for review before passing them into law, and then only if it involved sums greater than Naf. 25,000. This time, the Dutch are going for blood or serious jail time. The Ministers and their staff, are ordered to lend their "cooperation" to the investigators. They are supposed to meekly submit and, just as the Jews during the Second World War, blindly follow instructions to their own demise. These investigators are not supposed to be from St. Maarten, so expect plane loads of Dutch technical assistants. This should warm the heart of the Minister of Justice. During the first Higher Supervision he was Lt. Governor. He practically burst with pride as he basked in the company of his "friends" who were his closest allies and confidants. He will soon have the opportunity to welcome a new contingent again. One can see him beaming with joy as he welcomes them to "his island". The "instruction" is intentionally vague. The investigators are given a free hand to ram sack any Ministry. They can demand to see emails, files, anything, order civil servants to stay home, while they search offices, and God knows how far they can go depending on what they find. It can lead to criminal prosecution, because you can be sure that if they find anything suspicious they will be happy to run to the prosecutor. Remember these folks have come to find proof of guilt. If they do not produce such proof, their paymasters in The Hague will be very unhappy. When one reads, that they want to investigate the granting of permits for infrastructural works, it does not take a genius to understand that they want to investigate just how Theo managed to navigate through all the laws and rules to build his Causeway. Ditto for Duncan when they state that they want to investigate prostitution and permits, meaning residence permits, which Duncan issued. One local paper was on a one man campaign to smear Duncan as a whore house manager, and the Dutch now want to find proof of guilt.
The politicians have only themselves to blame for the mess they now find themselves in. Instead of leading the people out of the Kingdom, and into independence, the chose to "love the lie". The lie being that there is a happy home for us in the Kingdom of Holland.

Name Withheld Upon Author's Request

In September, King Willem Alexander gave his first budget speech in which he used the term welfare state. He claimed that Dutch society would be moving away from a 'welfare state' to a 'participation state'. His definition of a participation state is one where people must take responsibility for their own future and create their own social and financial safety nets, with less help from the national government.
Many people took this to mean that people of less means would have to find some way to survive on their own. This is true but there is another aspect of a 'participation society' that most people tend to forget. That is the role of the participation society of those with more means.
The idea here is if the government is to stimulate a society where everyone can participate, then those with more means have arguably a larger role to play then those with less means. This type of society is only possible if all members of the society buy into the process. The main reason for this 'all involved' process is that those of lesser means can never 'create their own social and financial safety nets' if the basis of the economy is based on 'exploitation of the masses'. Unfortunately, most so-called democratic free market societies are actually exploitative societies where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
You see like any other commodity, money has limited availability. Now I am aware that money is a complicated financial model that seems endless but when you look at the basic aspect of money, if someone gets more, someone is getting less. Even though governments can just print more money, this money has to be backed up by something else, oil, gold, silver or in our situation foreign exchange.
The goal of this article is to have you think about the coming change in our society because just like in Holland, we live in a 'welfare state', even though many people fall through the cracks. The change to a participation society will have serious consequences on us and if something is not done to change the exploitative nature of our economy, we will all suffer.

Kendall Dupersoy

Dear Editor,

The last couple of months the ongoing developments surrounding the National Development Plan frequently appeared in the news, the latest related topic being the completion of the Democratic Dialogue Course by over forty participants (we are proud to say that two of our board members signed up for this course and completed it successfully). Some news items were press releases other being observations by news reporters or even TV and radio appearances of the NDP team. However, there were also several open letters sent to the local media as to where "Sint Maarteners" stand, who a "Sint Maartener" is and who contributed what to Sint Maarten.
Soualiga Social Movement is firmly supporting the idea of a National Development Plan with a bottom-up approach. The key words of what Soualiga Social Movement stands for are Awareness, Inclusion and Participation. Inclusion and Participation fall within the philosophy of a bottom-up approach of the National Development Plan. This means that all stakeholders (public, private, civil) need to be included and are expected to participate in the process of defining and determining the future of Sint Maarten.
Having stated the aforementioned, it sounds like a walk in the park: get everybody together on specific topics like education, environment, safety, health, economy, youth etc and let the majority determine the course for our future in a democratic way. Nothing can be further from the truth. Besides the lack of information provided to the entire population, the lack of awareness on specific issues in the community, the lack of experience and the lack of expertise there is another very important topic that needs to be addressed: What is Sint Maarten?
There has been much discussion within our community about who is a Sint Maartener. We are not saying that that debate should not continue, but we are of the opinion that we first of all should get to understand and acknowledge the culture and heritage of Sint Maarten, that should be the basis for any future discussion. What can be considered our music, food, twang, dance, art-forms etc? What entails our history and what are the physical remains of that history? The answer to those questions will give you the heart and soul of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, Soualiga, Land of Salt. THAT is the core of our being. THAT is who we are. Each and every positive contribution from the "born-here" and "born-to-be-here" is a welcome added value, but it is exactly that: added.
So, in closing we can say that in order to move forward you need to know where you come from and where you are at the moment. Let's all (born-here and born-to-be-here) participate in the National Development Plan and create a future for our beautiful country without losing the identity of Sint Maarten, because that should be our point of departure. #sxmmovement

SOUALIGA SOCIAL MOVEMENT

I totally agree with S. M. Richardson's opinion on page 29 of Saturday, September 21st Herald.
I remember in the early 90's when Holland so desperately wanted to bring down the sledge hammer on Dr. A. C. (Claude) Wathey. They threw everything at him and the then Leader of the Democratic Party was being crucified by all those who in the past had been too chicken to open their mouth to say anything, but now that Claude seemed to be "down and almost out", especially supporters of his opposition had a FIELD DAY. They ranted and raved about corruption, dictatorship, nepotism,and you name it, all to the glee of the Dutch who promptly pointed out to their own constituents across the pond, that even St. Maarteners complained about the all mighty Claude. They promptly organized a "Claude round-up" and orchestrated his well publicized arrest. And then I experienced what I forever remember as "my greatest political teachable moment": José Lake Jr., the local newspaper publisher, the political analyst, the leader and mouth piece of the "Independistas" on St. Maarten, who had, as far as I was concerned, always been one of THE biggest and loudest critics and opponents of Dr. Wathey, made the following public statement (and I paraphrase here): "Holland, keep your hands off Claude Wathey; he may be whatever you claim he is, but he is OUR Claude Wathey. We will deal with him, not you!".
No one ever expected that one of Claude Wathey's defenders against the Dutch would be one of his biggest local opponents. S. M. Richardson is saying the same thing to all the political pundits and pseudo pundits: become big enough in your thinking to NOT relish in the thought that the Dutch, or anyone else for that matter, need to come and do our "dirty" work. We need to have enough integrity and sense of what is right from wrong to deal with those amongst us who feel that "because I from here, I can damn well do as I please". Thumbs up to S. M. Richardson, who I know is a proud young St. Maartener, wanting to make a positive contribution to his new country.

Michael J. Ferrier
President of the Democratic Party

It is with great annoyance I listened to the different Parliament meetings and read several comments in the newspapers and on the blogs. One would think that there are complete new ministers and parliamentarians and they just came out of the woodworks and know absolutely NOTHING that is going on in the Government. Let me refresh their memories, because they seem to be having amnesia.
Who were in government 2010 - 2012? Now please Prime Minister, stop playing Pontius Pilate. They are sitting there and acting as if all the bad situations have been caused by the Opposition. Some of those sitting there were even part of the coalition with the same ones in Opposition now. So please explain to me how you Parliamentarians of UP/DP/IND can stand on the floor of Parliament and criticize the present opposition. Worst of all the same Prime Minister has been there with all the 3 coalition governments. So Prime Minister, no disrespect, but this seems to me to be hypocritical, for the Prime Minister is acting as though this situation started one year ago and she is now correcting it.
All the Members of Parliament are to blame. Where are the proposals and legislations that were
Shops and that was passed. But where were the other proposals that would benefit all the people of St. Maarten. To mention a few: New Tax Structure (TAXAND), relief from GEBE, Increasing the Minimum Wage, Increasing of the Old Age Pension, new structure of the Education system (which is Not working) Too many dropouts and too many failures, Pension Plan for the Private Sector, structuring the Labour Office to protect the Workers (Pelican workers!!!!) Those are some of the issues you should be addressing.
I cannot resist mentioning some of the remarks made by the Minister of VROMI, that his leader started with awarding the cleaning of the trenches, I'll borrow Christopher's phrase "you misspoke" and even after MP Louis Laveist corrected you, you still insisted that nothing was done., before you came into government, "going back to basics, hitting the ground running"????, which is just misinformation. Please be honest to the people of St. Maarten. Don't you know that there are persons out there, who know better and are questioning your honesty? There are other projects that were proposed by the former minister of VROMI and was never carried out and now are being done. Do you think, coming in the Newspapers every day, you can fool the people. I had predicted that before you were appointed minister, that you were promised a lucrative position and it happened, now I guess you will be on a list, but people are not as dumb and foolish as they were before, you must come clean to the people, because you have forever been the advisor of the Leader of the UP Party and those projects were there to be carried out, why did you not advise your esteemed Leader of those projects?
This piece is for MP Romain Laville. You have been in every Coalition and now you are complaining that no legislation was passed, you claim to have knocked at doors, that is NOT how you make proposals, proposals should come to the floor of Parliament, you were supposed to come with motions to be voted on and let them vote against it, did you do that? These motions are not supposed to have been passed in closed doors sessions, they should be open and for the public to hear and see. So that, come Elections, you can be scrutinized and evaluated and judged by your performance. You never explained to the Workers at Pelican how come they did not get treated fairly and are still suffering? The workers were left up to the mercy of the Investors. You claim you made several proposals, where were the proposals for the Pelican Workers? Your honor and honesty also comes into question. Like Minister VROMI, you misspoke about the cleaning of the trenches. This project was and will always be the initiative of William Marlin, not you. The same goes for the free school fee, school lunches and more which you stole from the Manifesto of the National Alliance. You don't have one original idea. Like Minister VROMI, you think the people are dumb and stupid but we know exactly what you are.
MP Jules James loves to grandstand, using ugly expressions such "cleaning up poop after the former Finance Minister". That sounds so dumb. I heard you are "Preacher" and I wonder what are your followers thinking? You need to clean up your vocabulary. I would be embarrassed if you were my Preacher. You once mentioned that MP William Marlin is trying to create a legacy and you criticized the proposal for the tunnel. When one is criticizing another person, always think about yourself first. What will be YOUR legacy be? You know what will be your legacy? The Frustrated Pelican Workers. Not a good one?? You are always criticizing the former Finance Minister, but if you were half as productive or knowledgeable as him, you would be recognized.
Lastly, this is a message for MP Roy Marlin. I heard the MP say that the tax monies from DeVry/Medical School is none of the MP's business and he compared this to getting a discount from a jewelry store on front street. Well Mr. MP, this is not the same thing at all and you have disrespected the people of St. Maarten with that comment. I myself was harassed by the tax department for a few thousand guilders. Placing a lean on my house in an effort to get the monies owed. MP Roy Marlin set up himself good and he must be getting a tax break as well for his many businesses. Well MP Roy, where is the tax break for the St. Maarten people? The same people you ask to vote for you so many times in the past.

Theresa Illis

I am a little sexual active with one and the same partner for the last 8 years. But I still always use a condom. I did my vasectomy some 20 years ago so I shoot blanks. My partners mother instinct She was 26 at the time, made her look for a man to give her a baby 2 years ago and, of course without telling me, she got pregnant from this man who dropped her right after her belly started swelling. She came crying and needed comfort and of course I took her back, baby and all. She is healthy for sure, goes to the baby clinic French Side, where the baby was born, father unknown, as is the case with half the kids born in the French hospital.
Now because I want to be sure that I am healthy, in case I find a better lover, lol, ha ha, one never knows, I do an HIV/AIDS test once a year at the French free anonymous test center near the Catholic church, where the old hospital is in Marigot.
Just the other day I heard or read something on the Dutch side about AIDS prevention and that everybody should do a test. So I went to the Vineyard building where there is the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team c/o Sector Health Care Affairs. I stepped inside the empty hall and called out. After several calls a lady came behind the desk and I asked if I could have myself tested for HIV/IDS. Not so, was the answer, she told me to go see my doctor, or, no, she pointed to the building nearer the parking, I should go there to ask. I did walk over and went into the building where two young ladies were doing nothing, just came up to me from other rooms to ask what I wanted. After explaining that I wanted a test they both had no idea where that should be. And the lady who would be able to tell me was not at her desk. When she should be back they had no idea. I took a small flyer that states not to have sex if you want to be safe and if you have questions to call 542-2078, fax 542-9716 or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Another same small flyer with the exact same text had phone number 542-2059, fax 542-2936 and email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
WTF is going on here on the Dutch side?
I am going to dig this out to the bottom because it looked like all the three ladies I talked to were completely incompetent and had no idea what they were talking about. First I will send emails to the two addresses, one to suzieq of all names!
I'll keep you posted.

Emails sent to both addresses

Dear,
I write you to ask where I can let myself and others be tested for HIV/AIDS.
I would like to do this anonymous as I was told is done on the French Side.
I speak little French and have problem going to Marigot to find out where that is and I am sure we have such facility on the Dutch side. I am A dutch Sint Maartener after all.
I know several people who would like to get tested, some have no doctors card and some are so shy that they won't want to say their name.
I thank you in advance for a swift reply to this important topic
as it is of the utmost importance for the general health of the public.
With kind regards,
I remain

Captain Zen

Things that is going on in our country that is completely not right how the contractors is making some of us believe and make you trust them by doing construction work on your houses. This is a story of being a victim of one. Before I even start doing repairs on our house this contractor, he will pass by the house and check all that needs to be done, is more like inspect all over. He is very good in make you believe and trust in him by making our house, and our dream house that we always want. This particular contractor by the name Delbut Wigley, he goes by the name Danny. The company is DBA Lamai construction. In the beginning he seems a very understand and know exactly the work he was about to start plus know the conditions of our house. He promise me from day one what all he was doing to do and make my simple house to my dream house. I know everyone that bought a house will always want to have their own dream house from inside and out, with no question asks. Maybe I can be wrong but it happens.
The time when we found out by the bank that our loan was approving, we were so happy that we can start now with the repairs. I personally call Danny that we can start now with the construction work.
The first payment we start making with Danny, we sign an agreement between us so every payment he will present we the receipts. That will be done every time he receives the cash for the materials and labor. Everything was going as plan; he told us that the house is going to finish in 2 months. But now when ask for receipts that he bought materials and labor, he beginning to say he will put them together for me and it will be easy when we do our taxes. Another day ask him where the receipts, again no receipts. Now another day he give us another answer over the receipts, his accountant will put them together for him so he can give it to us because some companies make the receipts in his name. He will correct and still nothing. So this was going on over and over in the months. When we finally receive it, we still miss receipts to come to the total he receives from us. Till this day he still have some receipts with his name and don't want to go by the companies and get it change to the owner of the house ( us ). And till now is a big balance of the amount that he receives with the agreement form he sign between us.

All repairs that need to be done inside and out the house, plus by clean the yard, paint the house from inside and out. The first few days in the month, things was looking good on our point of feud.
Every day we make contact with Danny to know how things are going with our house, his words are we on track and the house will be done in time. Now we are going in our second month, which means we getting close to be going back in our house. During the days it's going and don't forget while our house is under construction work, we had to rent an apartment for those 2 months. So is more money that is going out instead of only invested on repairing our house. When the days were getting closer to move back home. We told Danny the days are coming closer to move back and is the house going to be finish now. He turn around and say no because is now we going to pour the concrete, imagine in the same week that we were preparing to move back home plus we had an agreement with the landlord for the 2 months stay. During those months the landlord had told us there is another family that is interested in the same apartment when we leaving. Now we were hoping that the other family is not moving in just after when we had to move out.
When ask the landlord for an extra month because our house is not ready to move in. There answers were no problem because the family would move in over 4 months. We thank god so much for seeing the situation that we would have been without a roof over our head because Danny just waist our days and months for nothing. For our surprise in the 3 months the public work show up at the house and notice things that Danny did with the house was not right, they said if he don't re-enforce the wall and made the roof more saver then we can't move back or the concrete roof needs to come off. And they say the contractors know exactly what needs to be done, because that's their income of work and he knows better. We couldn't believe how he (Danny) can mess up our house that maybe we can never do more in the future because of what he did. The 3 months is up and we move back home for our surprise the house is not finish. A lot of things need to be finish before move in; just like he promises us a dream house and it turn out to be a nightmare. Another thing that hit us hard he had 3 or 4 guys helping him for the months, then come down to 2 or 1 guy working with him. It turns out now him own them for their labor work when he told me more of the cash gone for labor then materials. Still I can't understand how he can say more have been pay to the guys (labor) and till this day 2 of the guys is looking for him for the rest of their money. A day the 2 guys decide they want to put down because they not were getting paid and we couldn't believe they would have done that to us. The house is not finish, yard is not clean up plus the house is not paint, as the agreement was with the bank and Danny. We had to find away to pay another person to help us clean up the yard and the rest of things that needs to be done around, when Danny already receive the amount for materials/labor/clean up/paint. This is a nightmare.

When everything was agree and sign between us, the bank and Danny. It comes down that the bank will collect whatever amount you receive from them, with no question ask. That's their policy when you sign for a loan. But the problem that the contractors do to our house is between us and the contractor, that's always the answer from the bank, they will leave you go and deal with those kind a problem. This is the a big problem for us, this Danny still own us the big different of the amount he receive for the work plus no extra help from the other guys that he had with him from beginning, he also own them for that same amount he receive from us.
This is our story and we don't want this to happen to anyone else that make him or any other contractor begin any construction work. It's not fair how these contractors make us believe in their kind of work and with a terrible result. Most important don't take any make up stories. I am sending this message to look out for these kind that call them self contractors and it turn out to be fraud.

Victims of a contractor

Interim Director of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau Edward Dest recently returned from attending the Brazilian Travel Agencies Association ABAV, Travel Trade Fair and Tourism Fair of the Americas, and revealed that other destinations in the Caribbean are outspending Sint Maarten, St. Martin and Anguilla in trying to generate business, and they are committing considerable resources to get the business such as Barbados.

Sint Maarten's promotional budgets apparently remain minimal or funding for marketing support is not there.

Jamaica after establishing its embassy in Brazil last year has indicated that they are moving post-haste to ensure that the country is able to capitalize on tourism and investment opportunities. Brazil is a country of 200 million; has the sixth largest economy in the world and seventh largest by purchasing power parity.

The Cayman Islands is considering utilizing its national flag carrier Cayman Airways to opening additional routes to a growing, and potentially lucrative market in Latin America. Argentina and Brazil are seen as the next frontier for marketing efforts targeting an emerging class of affluent South American travelers in an effort to boost stay-over visitor numbers.

The World Travel and Tourism Council pointed out in a report earlier this year on global tourism trends that Latin America is the fastest growing origin market for the tourism industry.

Of the Latin American markets, Brazil provides the largest volume of holiday arrivals ranking 24th out of all markets. This is followed by Argentina 30th, Chile 36th and Mexico 37th.

Country Sint Maarten needs to find a way to increase its promotional budget especially for the Latin American market in order to bring more business to the island which in turn creates more business turnover, more income for government and the creation of private sector jobs.

Roddy Heyliger

The audacity of RBC to in September 12, 2013's Herald acknowledge THEIR incorrect application of the 1% license fee since June 1 of 2013 and now in their first public statement after apparently wrongfully deducting thousands of dollars from their entire client base, RBC's Market Head for the Dutch Caribbean, Patricia Borger wants us to report "any suspicions we may have" so that RBC could reimburse any "wrongful" application. In other words, instead of reversing all the 1% license fee charges to their clients' accounts since implementing their messed up new software on June 1, 2013 and then going back and correctly charging the fee MANUALLY where it is legally and correctly applicable, the new RBC Head Office geniuses (all the locally based RBC bank officials are "pleading the 5th" and directing the SXM clients' queries to their Area Vice President Russell KOPKE) want us to do their research work and then report back to them. I totally agree with another writer of a Letter to the Editor on this subject in the Herald of September 12, 2013, Ms. Barbara Dobson Platteel in that it is bad enough that RBC is (and I paraphrase here) is ripping us off, let alone instructing us to go check our accounts and then come claim by them. Who is going to pay for our expertise and time spent trying to figure out how and to what extent RBC's screw-up is affecting each of our businesses' and/or personal accounts? Our businesses have used what is now the RBC bank since it started as the St. Maarten Commercial Bank many years ago; until the RBC take-over, we were quite satisfied with their service. Unfortunately this is no longer the case, for more reasons than one.....

Michael J. Ferrier

Hard Rock International (HRI), owner of one of the world's most recognized brands will be opening its first hotel in Europe in May 2014 – Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza. HRI has signed a license agreement with Palladium Hotel Group that will transform two former Fiesta Hotels, Club Don Toni and Hotel Don Toni.

The two buildings will be remodeled which will include various dining, shopping and entertainment outlets.

HRI has had a European presence for more than 40-years with 32 Hard Rock Cafes. HRI is looking for quality developers and remain dedicated to introducing the Hard Rock brand to new guests and existing Hard Rock fans.

The Hard Rock Ibiza Hotel will offer 480 rooms that will be a blend of Mediterranean island inspiration with the world-renowned Hard Rock energy throughout its 235 suites and vast amenities, such as the Rock Spa, Body Rock workout facility, 8,600 square feet of meeting space and much more.

HRI has also been acknowledged for top performance by Market Metrix Hospitality Index as the 2012 No.1 overall leader in hotel/casino customer satisfaction in the "Upper Upscale Hotels" category. The award also places Hard Rock within the top five brands for Customer Satisfaction among all hotel brands and segments in the Americas for the year.

Additionally, Hard Rock's individual properties were recently recognized for outstanding service, with Hard Rock Hotels in Biloxi and Orlando awarded as "Best Hotels" by US News & World Report in the two aforementioned categories.

HRI is recognized as a world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand. HRI current hotel and casino portfolio are located in the world's most desirable resort destination, as well as urban gateway cities spanning across 177 venues in 58 countries, including 141 cafes, 18 hotels and eight casinos. Destinations include the companies' two most successful hotel and casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Florida, both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida.

The Seminole Tribe of Florida is a federally recognized Indian tribe, and the only tribe in America who never signed a peace treaty. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. was created to oversee the business matters of the Tribe. The Tribe employs more than 7,000 and purchase more than US$130 million in goods and services annually.

There has been much talk but no confirmation to date whether the Pelican/Simpson Bay Resort will be branded as a Hard Rock property. Information published in the past also state that plans include an additional 150-200 room expansion to be built on the property, an investment of approximately US$100 million.

Such a development would breathe a new impetus into our tourism sector from different angles. We have a spin off for construction, suppliers, job opportunities and once the property is completed, employment for our people. In addition, the marketing value for the destination would also increase as well and the benefits would continue to spill over into other hospitality businesses on the island.

The Hard Rock International brand will be a triple plus for Sint Maarten. This will be the fourth hotel brand to establish itself on the island next to (Westin, Sonesta and Radisson).

Roddy Heyliger

Interests in the development of medical tourism in the Caribbean are abound. Business stands at different stages depending on which island. Some have signed letters of interests are still busy with the process while others have broken ground.

Health City Cayman Islands is well underway and the 140-bed medical tourism hospital is scheduled to open in February 2014. The aforementioned is a partnership between Dr. Devi Shetty's India-based Narayana Hrudalaya and Ascension Health Alliance, the latter, the largest private non-profit health network in the United States of America.

The Cayman Islands Health City is to grow up to a 2000 bed facility over 15-years, an investment of sum two billion US Dollars. It would be the third-largest hospital in the U.S. attracting more than one million stay-over medical tourists per year.

The 140-bed medical tourism hospital is forecasted to attract annually over 85,000 stay-over medical tourists per year according Government officials back in 2010. Imagine Sint Maarten attracting an additional 100,000 stay-over medical tourists per year, what a spin-off this would have for our national economy.

Jamaica signed a Memorandum of Understanding in February 2013 with a U.S. North Carolina-based group of medical professionals who envision a US$170 million facility, 50-75 bed hospital expanding to 200 beds specializing in plastic and cosmetic surgery, bariatric services and dental procedures.

Barbados in June 2011 signed a lease with American World Clinics entailing an investment of US$100 million that includes revamping a former private hospital. The facility would have a 50-bed capacity. This facility is expected to open in summer of 2015. This same group in April 2013 visited The Bahamas to share ideas of a US$200-US$250 million medical tourism facility for that country.

Smaller medical tourism facilities have been sprouting up in other parts of the Caribbean such as the Turks and Caicos and in St. Kitts & Nevis where ground was broken in July 2012 for a US$15 million 22-bed facility offering elective surgeries.

Grenada is also tapping into the medical tourism market with a project valued at US$446 million. Interests have also been shown in developing a facility in Trinidad & Tobago.

There are great interests throughout the region for the development of medical tourism, and Caribbean countries are opening their doors and signing up more today than before because of the opportunities that exist.

Country Sint Maarten's move into the medical tourism field would lead to an economic impetus and the creation of job opportunities during the construction phase as well as once the facility becomes operational. The time is now.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

I wonder if I have ever read an article so full of untruths and incorrect information as the one in your edition of yesterday, 11 July, with the headline "Trinidad tops obesity list in the Caribbean." This headline itself is already false since everyone who takes the effort to read the report of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization for him/herself will find that with a percentage of 42.0, it is St. Kitts & Nevis that tops this list and not Trinidad & Tobago with 30 per cent. In fact, Trinidad is also preceded by the Bahamas (35 per cent) and Barbados (33.4 per cent). I am not sure if the 'CMC' quoted as the source at the end of the article stands for the Caribbean Medical Center (or Clinic) in Port-of-Spain? If so, they seem to have a very peculiar view of what constitutes the Caribbean.

Not only is the first sentence (same message as the headline) therefore incorrect, so is the second. Trinidad & Tobago is not ranked sixth among all countries worldwide, but 27th. And then the third sentence: also not true since Mexico is far from at the top of the list because with its 32.8 percent it "only" ranks 20th. Because of what I stated in my first paragraph, the fifth sentence is also wrong as Antigua & Barbuda is not the second Caribbean island on the chart, but the fifth (and if you consider Belize a Caribbean country, then the sixth). Also, it is not number 18 worldwide but shares the 39th/40th/41st places with Surinam and Panama. It follows from the above that the information in that sentence about St. Vincent & the Grenadines and Dominica is also incorrect.
Obviously, the last sentence of the article is therefore also false (I have kind of exhausted synonyms for untrue.

Readers can find the report here: http://www.fao.org/docrep/018/i3300e/i3300e.pdf. It is amazing that when you check things for yourself you find that of an article of seven sentences, five are demonstrably incorrect. It makes you wonder what else you read in the Daily Herald (and other newspapers as well of course) is not reflecting the truth. I would advise the editors of the Daily Herald to be more cautious when taking over information from second sources. And I would advise the general public that when possible, it is always best to check information for yourself or at least to refer to information that is in the newspaper as exactly that: as "what you read in the newspaper" rather than as "the truth."

Hoping to have done both the editors of the Daily Herald and its readers a service.

Yours truly,

R. Guss

Sloppy bookkeeping at SONA has quite rightly reflected upon the role of current Kingdom Representative, Wilbert Stolte. Between 2008 and 2011, whilst Stolte was its treasurer, the accounts by all accounts were "messy."
But it was not until after Stolte was promoted to Dutch representative in the BES public entities that alarm bells started to ring. He is a member of the Dutch CDA party and it was his CDA chum who as Minister of Internal Affairs appointed him.
Fast forward now to 17 September 2012 and to the creation by Stolte's RCN of a company called Saba Statia Cable Systems. The aim of this firm was to exploit the undersea cable that would bring more efficient communication services to these islands. A worthy enough aim but for the fact that the Dutch State audit service determined that some EUR one million working capital was not legitimate.
Plasterk who is currently Minister for Internal Affairs and therefore Stolte's boss seems to be OK with this. But I am not. A company that is registered with the Bonaire Chamber of Commerce from a hotel address does not seem legitimate. Furthermore, its entry is supported by a legal entity with no fixed address.
The impression of further hanky-panky is created by the fact that the SSCS website was registered and hosted by GoDaddy. And "Go Daddy" is exactly what Stolte should do if he cannot explain the questionable background behind this company and the eventual use and destination of its funds.
The RCN is a strange layer of administration between those who govern in the Netherlands and those who are governed in the Caribbean Netherlands. The geographical location of Bonaire where the RCN is effectively based is remote. Its purpose is to lubricate the administration processes of these islands, not clog up the wheels by setting up seemingly fly-by-night companies.
We are still waiting for the physical link to the subsea cable and to learn about the human connections that were meant to achieve it. We do not need more chums from within the Chronic Dysfunctional Appeal party. We need political responsibility and financial accountability. A full investigation to connect all the dots is now ongoing...

James Russell

Dear Editor,

Minister of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Robert Pickersgill, says a climate change policy will be taken to Cabinet by next week for consideration. The Minister also stated that the Jamaica Government is in the process of putting in place the core staff for the Climate Change Department within his Ministry.

Jamaica is working closely with China. Dr. HuiKang from China noted that Jamaica has been playing a very important role in international climate change negotiations and that the Chinese Government is willing to assist the country in its efforts.

As a Small Island Developing State (SID), whose economy is heavily dependent on foreign exchange earnings from tourism, Jamaica is among those countries deemed most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Sint Maarten, our country also falls within this area as well with similar vulnerabilities.

Minister Pickersgill noted that the Jamaica ecosystem is important and the receding shorelines present stark evidence that climate change is "with us and not about to go away".

Recently the Jamaica Prime Minister met with Chinese officials on a working visit to the Far East and among the topics discussed was the development challenges of climate change and global warming and, in particular, those challenges faced by SIDS in implementing necessary climate adaptation mechanisms and recovering from the significant damage caused by natural disasters.

This same discussion needs to take place within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The four Kingdom partners should address the issue of climate change and plan ahead. I am sure Holland can share their views and adaptation measures they are undertaking to protect the Dutch homeland from climate change.

The climate change issue is an area that the Caribbean partners of the Kingdom can bring to the table with Holland for extensive deliberation, and also keep the level of discussion open at this level since there has been a lot taking place at the international stage which will be of particular interests to country Sint Maarten.

65 participants recently received certificates at a graduation ceremony at the concluded Climate Change Action Training (CCAT) Programme. The training was organized by Jamaica Rural Economy and Ecosystems Adapting to Climate Change (Ja REEACH) project, for young people ages 14 to 28.

The CCAT is designed to assist in developing a cadre of informed, skilled and dedicated climate change action agents at the community level, to provide immediate and on-going climate change leadership.

Minister Pickersgill says public education on the effects of climate change remains a priority for his Ministry, stressing the importance of public education in enlightening persons on the dangers climate change poses for Small Island developing states, like Jamaica.

He cited projections for Caribbean countries to experience more frequent and intense hurricanes, extreme rainfall, and longer periods of drought, resulting from climatic variations. One must not forget diseases and dengue is one of them. Climate change issues are much closer to Sint Maarten than we think. Extreme rainfall events can cause disease outbreaks and epidemics.

The Jamaica Minister states that climate change is the "most pressing" long-term challenge facing many nations, adding that the focus in Jamaica is being placed on adaptation with mitigation strategies as a "supporting mechanism."

"Climate proofing (in) all sectors, through policy development, budgetary allocations, and development planning, is therefore no longer an option for us. Jamaica will not be spared the impacts of climate change, and so adaptation is not a choice, it is imperative, given our past experience as well as empirical evidence," the Jamaica Minister emphasized.

Jamaica Minister Pickersgill says: "but we have to act now. In other words, while we are adapting, we also should be mitigating against climate change and its impacts."

Where are we when it comes to the climate change discussion?

Roddy Heyliger

Some 250 delegates have been attending the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Inter-Regional Meeting for the Third International Conference on Sustainable Development of SIDS Global that started on Monday in Bridgetown, Barbados and concludes on Wednesday.

The meeting includes Ministers and Senior Technical experts from 43 SIDS, Observer Members States of the United Nations Community led by Under Secretary General for the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Wu Hongbo, and several members of major groups of international, regional and local non-governmental organizations.

The high-level meeting is being staged in preparation for the third International Conference on the Sustainable Development of SIDS to be held in Samoa, in September 2014.

Last week His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday held his 'Governor's Symposium 2013' with the emphasis on "Sustainable Development: Challenges for St. Maarten as a Small Caribbean Island Nation."

The purpose of the symposium was to generate greater interest and fertilize the minds of the people towards more discussion, decisions, policies and actions which lead to development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

While every island nation should have their own internal sustainable development agenda further outlined and developed with what His Excellency the Governor has described, the external aspects that impact SIDS and their sustainable development also play a key role in national progression as a people and as a country.

Attendees to the Barbados meeting are discussing these very key topics that include areas for the renewed political commitment for the sustainable development of SIDS; new and emerging challenges and opportunities impacting development in SIDS, and ways and means to address them; Strengthening Cooperation and Partnerships-Framework for the Supporting Partnerships for SIDS Intra-Regionally, Inter-Regionally and through Triangular Cooperation; and celebrating the first UN International Year of SIDS.

The meeting is very important as it will be SIDS countries last opportunity to come together to discuss the agenda that will be presented to the international community next year during the third International Conference on Sustainable Development of SIDS.

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly Resolution provides the basis for the Conference next year, and the four issues are: progress made from 1994 to the present, with respect to implementing the Barbados Programme of Action for the sustainable development of SIDS; proposing concrete and pragmatic actions to close gaps identified in the implementation; identifying new and emerging challenges and issues that came onto the table since 2005; and identifying priorities for the upcoming post 2015 agenda.

Country Sint Maarten needs to do an assessment to see where we are at in our national development with respect to SIDS. The issues and challenges of SIDS within the Region and the world over are similar in nature to what we have been experiencing as well.

Some of the areas that Barbados has identified that they would like to see as part of the 2014 Conference agenda are non-communicable diseases; the graduation issue for some SIDS and access to official development assistance (SIDS classified as middle or high income countries do not benefit from concessional financing and development funds); and the overall concept of financing for sustainable development in terms of access to new and sustainable resources to propel sustainability.

The aforementioned are also very relevant issues for Country Sint Maarten today.

SIDS will also be taking issues relating to the oceans to the table. The Prime Minister of Barbados in 2012 at Rio identified this as a key area for Barbados. Pacific SIDS continue to work to promote their oceans issues. The African and Indian SIDS have also articulated a proposal for the blue economy.

The blue ocean is also a factor for our country since we are surrounded by the sea and our income comes from this very natural resource which our tourism is based upon.

Other relevant issues for SIDS/Sint Maarten are food volatility pricing where commodities traded were becoming very expensive to import as SIDS were net importers of food; volatility of fuel, energy, oil and petrol where some SIDS are having to spend 40 to 70 per cent of their Gross Domestic Product in keeping the engines of their economies well oiled.

For Country Sint Maarten, we need to follow the SIDS agenda very closely because it will influence our own future participation when it comes to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and American Caribbean States (ACS) organization, with respect to our role in the Kingdom of the Netherlands – Holland being a voting member of the United Nations, and also on many other key institutions and bodies that influence the global development agenda and access to resources.

What role will we and the other Caribbean parts of the Kingdom (Curacao and Aruba) play in championing the interests of SIDS within our Kingdom and in the international arena since these are also our issues?

Roddy Heyliger

ministryofsillywalks25082013John Clease with long legs, London city suit and bowler hat cuts a comic figure in his Monty Python sketch of a civil servant at the Ministry of Silly Walks. Less comical and infinitely more critical is the issue of safety in the wake of NuStar's latest oil spills on Statia - within the waters of this island of natural beauty and significant heritage. Once again the failures of local government and the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment are put into the spotlight.
What does it take to convince a wealthy oil corporation and the political system that accommodates it so readily to realize that public health, safety and environment come first?
A few months ago, I was told by a senior civil servant in the region that safety was a matter for compromise. The argument went that with so many big government rules and regulations, business could not operate without a certain amount of give and take.
My ignorance and short sightedness were apparently alarming.
But more alarming are the right steps that have not been taken and the wrong steps that were followed to create this latest disaster of a spill.
The first rule of crisis communication in the event of an emergency of this kind is that "you tell it all and tell it fast." NuStar has yet to inform the members of the Island Council and the local community that this incident ever happened. First signs of the spill were spotted by fishermen once the smelly oil clogged the bows of their boats and the furrows of their faces.
And yet on NuStar's website, safety performance is almost trumpeted: 'Curt Anastasio, President and CEO, fully supports health, safety and environmental excellence and has led the way providing "The safety of our employees, contract employees, customers, neighbors and the environment is a core business value and an important priority."
So how do they lead the way? By making grandiose PR statements for their banks and acting deaf, blind and dumb when it comes to their tanks. However, this lack of substance for dangerous substances is not entirely the fault of NuStar.

Too little to late
Step forward the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Environment – with or without silly walks! The report by their Department of Shipping & Waterways into the spill that happened nine months ago was very damning. NuStar's response was deemed "Too little and too late!" Such a spill required "containment and clean-up operations to start within 15 minutes." Not wait four hours and 15 minutes after the spillage was reported.
In this instance, the Ministry said certain unspecified measures will be taken if the permit's stipulations are violated again before February 1, 2014. Now forgive me if I am wrong but they seem to have been violated yet again. And if the Ministry is responsible for keeping NuStar on a safety path, why does it use Ministerial speak for: if you do it again, I shall do something but I am not going to tell you what! What kind of regulating authority is that?
It is a toothless authority which is overloaded with too many carrots for an industry that provides only a few jobs proportionately and contributes not enough to the island's coffers. And when it comes to sticks, its disregard for health, safety and environment is evident.
As we have seen, there can be no compromise when it comes to health, safety and environment. There can be no give and take! There can be no risk assessment in the absence of a total commitment to continuous improvement in safety.
Mandarins at the Ministry accused NuStar for acting too little and too late but the Ministry took as long as six months to produce its report. If the spill had occurred at the oil facilities at Pernis in the Netherlands, such a report would have been produced within six weeks. When islanders reported the latest incident, their emails remained unanswered. No confirmation received; no explanation given; no gratitude for information offered.
Such hypocrisy of scope and scale beggars belief.
Like NuStar's website, the gap between the Ministry's creed and its deed could never be wider. Who are we to believe? What are we meant to believe?

Silence
And I have other questions: why was it only recently that NuStar advertised for a new Health, Safety and Environment specialist on the island? Why has the company waited until only a few weeks ago to consult at great expense with Royal Haskoning about their fire precautions? Why do they report Lost Time Accidents and not major incidents? Why their knee jerk reaction to blame contractors for their spills on the island of Statia and contractors for fire accidents on the mainland of the USA?
Contractor or no contractor, NuStar is responsible for the safety of everybody on its sites and even the hubris on its websites.
The company has been told by the Dutch Ministry and local government to spend many millions of dollars on better safety over the next fifteen years. When are they going to start spending it through improved equipment, safety practices, audits and programs? Where is their crisis communication plan? In San Antonio or on Golden Rock? Do they have one?
Why all the silence from STENAPA, the island's environmental foundation that relies on NuStar funding? Where is the excellence to which their CEO refers in all of that? Why has the Island Governor who is responsible for communication still not communicated with the community? Why has he waited until today to report about the latest oil spill?
Over the last three years, successive (but not successful) commissioners have bent over backwards to massage the profit of NuStar to the detriment of the interest of Statians. NuStar's proposed construction of a 30 meter tall oil terminal at the end of an airport runway and close to a school would have been unsafe by any technical or administrative definition. Yet local politicians complied and lied. Islanders are still paying for this aborted project through enormous legal and administrative costs.
Over the next few weeks, the political thrills over oil spills will not abate. Carlyle Tearr is responsible for the environment and his silence has also been monumental. In the world of politics, silence is also communication and his leadership talents and skills should now be seriously questioned. He was hand-picked not elected. He sits in the middle of NuStar's Pandora's Box without authority of the Ballot Box. He is in office but out of power.
But as for the Dutch Ministry of Silly Walks and Waterways, I expect extreme regulatory pokes not jokes. Will we see any? Not whilst their mincing civil servants are golfing their way to the nineteenth hole in San Antonio!

James Russell

The noose is slowly tightening...

While many are wondering why persistent reports of the fall of government keep surfacing, one person knows exactly why government will be brought down. This person is none other than Romaine Laville.

What is fueling his paranoia is the growing conviction that the UPP faction would love to get him out of the way "by any means necessary". One of the most effective ways of doing so is by having him arrested. Our constitution states that once an MP is arrested, he is automatically suspended from Parliament. And guess who gets to occupy his seat is he is suspended? His original party the UPP!

This is why Laville has all reason to be nervous about the burst of interest the prosecution is showing in the charges Jules James filed against him for threatening to shoot him. Threatening someone with bodily harm is exactly one of the crimes for which one can be arrested. And Laville threatened Jules James repeatedly, loudly and in front of many witnesses. This past week the Landsrecherche paid several visits to the Parliament building where Laville so foolishly threatened Jules James. They were not courtesy calls, and Laville is right to suspect that mischief is brewing. He is also right to suspect that his UPP coalition partners are kicking themselves with joy at this turn of events. Look at the numbers: With Laville in jail, they will have six seats. Their coalition partner the Democratic Party of Sint Maarten has two. Together they have eight seats, a slim majority, but a majority none the less. Best of all, they would not need the loathsome Patrick Illidge as a spare tire. For the first time they will be able to operate freely without a pesky, single seat coalition partner, trying to punch above their weight. The constant threat of political blackmail by a one seat faction would have been eliminated. They would have a free hand, plus his ministry to boot.

The possibilities are just too delicious for the UPP and the DP not to be salivating at the thought of Laville's arrest. Even if he were to spend one day under arrest before his trial, and a judge subsequently sentences him to time served in pre-trial detention, he would have met the definition of "prison time" thus triggering his automatic suspension from Parliament. If he were to appeal his sentence, he would remain suspended until a final decision on his appeal. This could drag on for a year, and guess what? By that time new elections would have been held, which are due in about July of 2014 any way. Even if he were exonerated on appeal it would be too little too late.

Laville therefore has to move and move quickly. If he waits too long, he runs the risk of being arrested and then it would be too late for him to do what he has to do, which is bring the government down before he his brought down. A fall in government now will mean new elections. The electorate has just about had it with patch work government and even the most power hungry politician recognizes that. And new elections mean that heads will roll. Many who now are in Parliament will find themselves in the unemployment line, right next to some unemployed voter.

Author's Name Withheld Upon Request

The Ministry of VROMI is finally realizing that they illegally published false accusations against Express Heavy Equipment & Trucking Services N.V and its managing director Mr. Leroy La Paix, accusing the company of theft. Nevertheless, since the law prohibits anyone from constructing "false accusations", the ministry of VROMI has to be held responsible for their illegal actions. Meanwhile, Express Heavy Equipment is in possession of a letter that authorized "La Sorta" the company that contracted Express Trucking Services, the rights to take sand. This letter along with the public broadcast from the former minister where he clarified that he authorized Mr. Leroy La Paix to transport asphalt to local citizens (tax payers) upon request not only cleared Express Trucking, but has put Express Trucking in a position to take legal actions against the ministry of VROMI for damages to the company's reputation. Ever since these widespread accusations, respected businessman Mr. La Paix has been constantly questioned negatively in the community. Mr. La Paix is extremely overwhelmed with the enormous attention that these false accusations have amounted to. Mr. La Paix went on to elaborate further on the "dirty politics" being played by the minister of VROMI and VROMI department heads who are using the term "Back to Basics" as a "smoke screen" to victimize local and prominent contractors. Since the formation of the new government, they'd illegally stopped several projects that were already bid upon and awarded to local contractors, signed off by the former minister. FOGA project just to name one and the accused theft of milled asphalt and Sand is just a few false allegations derived from VROMI. Express management has forwarded petitions to the Secretary General of VROMI Mr. Brown demanding a public apology directly from his department and to the Ombudsman, to commence with an investigation based on "negligence and false accusations."
I would like to make mention that this article was refused by the daily herald, despite several articles published by the daily in reference to the above accusations.

Mr. Leroy La Paix

Dear Editor,

Sports on St. Maarten is in a dire state. It has become a major issue within our society; the elephant in the room that has everything disheveled, and has been neglected for far too long. Long gone are the days when our young athletes could look forward to regular, properly organized competitions here at home and the opportunities to compete against peers within the region and internationally are few and far between.
The technological age is in full effect and we now have a generation of youths that are more inclined to stay indoors behind computer screens and laptops surfing the internet and/or playing video games. No longer is it that the vast majority of the younger members of our society plays outside, climb trees and scratch their knees. However, with the amounts that opt to stay inside, there are still large numbers that continue to frequent the basketball courts, soccer pitches and baseball fields - among others.
It would be simple to blame government for its blatant oversight in this matter - with it being public knowledge that the Sports Sector of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport has long been under-manned. It would be easy to throw up our collective arms and simply shrug our shoulders until government takes action, but how much longer is sport to be considered an unnecessary luxury, rather than a necessary part of our children's physical development; how many more generations are to be lost to athletic oblivion?
Thanks to numerous initiatives such as the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation, Dynamic Sports Club, United Volleyball Club, and Island Hoops Basketball Academy, solutions to the athletic void are being filled and opportunities for our youths are being provided. Not only are structured trainings and competitions being organized, but they also give the youths that participate in the programs the opportunity to travel abroad to compete and compare their level of the sport with others. More importantly, our young athletes are exposed to different worlds, cultures and peoples – all things that help to develop the overall person.
Sport is very powerful and offers a constructive and positive outlet, as well as an environment that teaches youngsters fundamentals - not only for the sport that they participate in - but also teaches them the fundamentals of life: how to be disciplined; how to work within a team-setting; how to communicate with others; as well as selflessness.
St. Maarten has produced world-class athletes in a variety of sports over the years and more success stories are necessary – as they help to form the new story of country St. Maarten. It is imperative that the aforementioned initiatives – and others alike – continue to be supported so that we can have future generations of regional powerhouses, Olympic-caliber athletes, as well as Olympians. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

On January 1st, 2012 I returned to St. Maarten from the Netherlands after completing my studies which took me 10 years to complete. I now have a degree in Architecture, Administration, Computer and Heavy Equipment. Being a proud mother, upon returning from my studies I was very excited to start searching for employment so that I can begin my career which every student is always excited about. Just like when you receive your driving license and purchase your first vehicle. Unfortunately, after knocking on so many business doors for over one and a half years and working under contracts at a number of businesses, I got very disappointed in the Labor system. I was told at various interviews with different businesses that I was overqualified, which is a response that most students returning from studying receive from management of businesses. Hearing those discouraging words for a period of time I asked myself the question if I should go back to the Netherlands and seek employment there or stay on St. Maarten and find a way to survive in my own native country. I chose the latter and decided to use my God given creative mind and started my own company which is named "Your Home Design and Consulting". I said to myself that I will not allow any negative circumstances to define my destiny. I immediately started to promote my business and approach the general public with the concept of designing 3D homes for persons that cannot afford to pay for a luxurious design for their home or building they wish to construct. I have also started building my clientele, which is a task that every business has to undertake after starting your own business. A successful business depends on the strength of your customers. My desire is to be an example to students returning, or have returned, to St. Maarten to start with building their career by informing them that they can live the St. Maarten dream if they choose not to let any negative circumstances or experiences define their destiny.
Students returning to St. Maarten should not allow no one or nothing to discourage them from living their St. Maarten dream, which I believe that Government should facilitate in achieving. They should not sit back, but get up, stand up and don't give up the fight.

Ms. Ameera Groeneveldt

Dear Editor,

In the last couple of weeks our economy has once again made some headlines in the media. The Central Bank presented a report, the Prime Minister discussed her time handling economic affairs and we have another new minister of economic affairs. Economists use all types of terms and figures in describing the current situation. Some of these tend to be way more complicated than they need to be. This tends to keep society at large in the dark and uninterested about what amount to decisions each member makes on a daily basis.

Let's start at the beginning, Encyclopedia Britannica defines economics as: A social science that analyzes and describes the consequences of choices made concerning scarce productive resources. Without complicating it any more than it needs to be, let's focus on four key words in this definition: Social, Choice, Scarce and Resources. Social: affecting all of society. Choice: as in having to choose what is best. Scarce: as in not enough. Resources: as in what is available for use.

At the root of it, you do not need a minister or banker to tell you whether you are better off economically. Even if they say you are, you know whether you are or not. So let's cut through all the complicated stuff and keep the economic decisions basic. If the right decisions are made at a basic level, the right results will follow. When making choices about societies scarce resources (money, land, environment), please keep in mind that these choices affect society (me, you, our kids, our parents) these choices affect our scarce resources (our money, our island, our environment, our future).

Every time you make a choice, take a moment to think about what you are doing. What are you choosing? Is it good for you? Is it good for society? Is it sustainable? Who are you interacting with? Are they good? Are they good for society? Are they sustainable? This is the economic reality that is at the root of every choice we make. This is not limited to spending money; it's about every choice we make. It's when we choose to litter. It's when we choose to be rude or lazy. It's when we choose to ignore what we know is wrong, It is when we choose that it is not our responsibility but someone else's. It's when we choose not to change.

So, you see if you think about it: EVERY choice you make has economic consequences, and if we make the right choices our economics improve. Our society becomes safe, healthy, productive, sustainable and happy.

This is not about money, on the contrary. When you choose, for instance, not to litter, you save (tax) money, you save the environment, you improve your living situation, you improve someone's vacation experience. You improved the economy! None of this will ever be reflected in a GDP or a Central Bank report or a government budget, but all of us could see, feel and enjoy the results on a daily basis. It comes back to those clips we used to see on LBCTV, "Know Better, Do Better" words to live by. It's called personal responsibility. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

On July 30 Anguilla kicked-off a two-day workshop as part of a programme to mainstream climate change into disaster planning. This is the way to go, and even though there is no set time frame for when a nation should address such an issue, the time is now. Many countries around the globe are busy addressing this issue.

A recent United Nations (UN) report released early July entitled, "The Global Climate 2001-2010, A Decade of Extremes," reported that our planet experienced "unprecedented high-impact climate extremes" between 2001 and 2010 and more national temperature records were broken during that period than in any other decade.

The first decade of the 21st century was the warmest for both land and ocean temperatures since measurements began in 1850. Extreme floods, droughts and tropical weather systems (e.g. Hurricanes, cyclones) were all experienced across the world throughout the decade, and more than 370,000 people died as a result of these, representing a 20 per cent increase in causalities from the previous decade.

Floods were the most frequently experienced extreme events over the course of the decade. 20 million people were affected by floods in 2010. Tropical cyclones were also prominent throughout the decade, with more than 500 cyclone-related disaster events killing nearly 170,000 people, affecting over 250 million, and caused estimated damages of US$380 billion.

A UN senior official stressed that this year will be a "turning point" in how governments view and respond to extreme weather events, and floods in particular, which have been already affecting several countries around the world.

We've all seen the news reports of floods in India, Nepal, and Canada and in many European countries. Major contributing factors include poor urban planning which increases flood hazard due to unsuitable land use change, increases in paving and other impermeable surfaces, poorly maintained drainage, sanitation and solid waste infrastructure.

According to the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, flood management systems need to be designed so that even if they are overwhelmed by floodwaters, the failure is not catastrophic. A number of investments have been made in country Sint Maarten's water management and infrastructure, and some projects are still currently on-going.

Climate change is a given fact and it is induced by humans. A global framework has been established to help countries and communities cope with long-term climate change and associated extreme weather events.

Michel Jarraud, Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organization which produced the report said: "We are already seeing the effects of climate change and so we need to take action through the use of scientifically-based climate services to cushion the impact on our environment, our economies and our societies.

"Decisions on flood defenses and dams, for instance, are often based on past experience and not on the likely future. But the past climate is no longer a sufficient guide to the future. We need to anticipate the climate we shall have in the next 50 to 100-years. It's a huge challenge but it's not a hopeless challenge if we all work together."

Where is country Sint Maarten when it comes to climate change? The main aim of the Anguilla workshop is to develop an awareness of climate change and impacts at the national level including existing development challenges, vulnerabilities and future risks. The Executive Council of Anguilla in 2012 gave its approval to a Climate Change Policy. Anguilla also has developed a Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment for the Tourism Sector to Climate Change.

The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) just concluded a Hurricane Preparedness Seminar on Tuesday where more than 100 businesses were represented. The SHTA seminar was organized to inform the business community about the current state of affairs regarding country readiness in the event of a storm/hurricane strike. Those in attendance had the opportunity to ask questions as well.

The organization of the seminar at this current stage of the hurricane season was a good initiative by the SHTA since it has been forecasted that the season would be a very active one. The country is approaching the beginning of the peak period of the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season which is from mid-August to mid-October, so the timing of the seminar was perfect.

Another very important issue is "Climate Change," and this would make for a very good lively discussion, and the SHTA would be a great organization to take the initiative in organizing such.

Roddy Heyliger

The Netherlands is a source, destination, and transit country for men, women, and children subjected to trafficking in persons, specifically for forced prostitution and forced labour. A significant number of underage Dutch residents continued to be subjected to sex trafficking in Holland.

The top seven countries in 2012 where persons have been identified as victims of forced prostitution who come to The Netherlands are, Hungary Nigeria, Romania, Bulgaria, Sierra Leone, Poland including Holland. Victims also come from other African countries besides those mentioned already, China, and other parts of Asia.

Men and boys are subjected to forced prostitution and various forms of forced labour, in many areas of the Dutch economy, including in the maritime sector, agriculture, horticulture, catering, food processing, cleaning, construction, and illegal narcotics trafficking. Domestic workers employed in the Netherlands remain vulnerable to forced labour including by foreign diplomats posted in the Netherlands.

The aforementioned is noted in the United States 2012 Trafficking in Persons Report issued by the U.S. Department of State.

The U.S. does recognize that the Government of the Netherlands fully complies with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. The report continues to say that the Dutch Government continued to employ a multidisciplinary, whole of government approach to its anti-trafficking efforts and maintained an effective and independent national anti-trafficking rapporteur.

The new Sint Maarten Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson mid-July stated that the authorities will be taking measures to strengthen control at the country's borders. Minister Richardson met on July 10 with reps from the Police Force, Coast Guard, Customs, Immigration and Border Protection Service and the Attorney General.

Sint Maarten's Immigration and Border Control Service and the Coast Guard have been asked to draw up plans of action for the airport, seaport and beaches. This includes a risk analysis of the ports and beaches, as well as an inventory study on the implementation of a radar system or other similar modern technologies for monitoring of ship movements.

The purpose of the meeting is to prevent human smuggling, human trafficking and the infiltration of the community by persons with less than good intentions. The aforementioned Sint Maarten institutions of law enforcement were given a one-month period to draft the plan of action and submit it to the Minister.

Sint Maarten law enforcement is making an effort to combat human trafficking and protect its borders. The country of course faces challenges just like any other country including the Netherlands. Therefore, Holland should have more understanding for the challenges that the country faces and be realistic when it comes to certain areas.

Nearly 21 million people are victims of forced labour and human trafficking, including almost a million in the European Union member States, according to the United Nations International Labour Organization (ILO).

Country Sint Maarten with its lack of resources at this point in time will have some choices to make once the plan of action has been drafted and the risk analysis completed.

Holland's unproductive attitude and comments of late does not bode well for developing good relations and working more efficiently and effectively together. As can be seen from this U.S. State Department report, Holland has its share of challenges just like Sint Maarten, a small island developing state.

More emphasis and efforts should be brought to bear on working together rather than making unsubstantiated statements and being judge and jury at the same time. Holland has been recognized by the U.S. with respect to continuing to pursue innovative approaches to prevent trafficking and address demand for commercial sex acts and forced labour.

Holland's multi-agency human trafficking taskforce coordinates the country's anti-trafficking response and this organ could work with local authorities in this area in this global fight which is not a fight of one country alone but of the international community of nations which includes the Kingdom comprising of the country's Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curacao and the Netherlands.

Roddy Heyliger

There has been much discussion about integrity during the past months and two efforts underway to have the matter assessed in order to see where we are at as a country where this matter is concerned. Hon. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams has been in contact with Transparency International (TI). Dutch Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte has requested His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday to conduct an independent inquiry on the issue of integrity.

The most likely body to carry out an assessment would be TI. TI is a global movement sharing one vision: a world in which government, business, civil society and the daily lives of people are free of corruption. In 1993, a few individuals decided to take a stance against corruption and created TI. It is an organization with presence in more than 100 countries.

Curacao is the last Caribbean country where TI carried out its National Integrity System (NIS) assessment, a concept that was developed in 2001. A NIS assessment evaluates the anti-corruption effectiveness of all principal institutions and actors that form a nation-state.

These principle institutions include all branches of government, the media, the public and private sector, and civil society. A TI NIS of Sint Maarten would cover the aforementioned.

NIS studies have been completed in more than 100 countries around the world according to TI. TI conducted its first NIS study in the Caribbean region in Jamaica in 2003, followed by a Caribbean composite report in 2004. From 2009-2011, TI carried out an NIS assessment in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The NIS provides a local framework which local organizations and citizens can use to analyze both the vulnerabilities of a given country to corruption, as well as the effectiveness of national anti-corruption efforts.

The purpose of a Sint Maarten NIS study would be to assess systematic corruption risks faced by the country and to produce a set of recommendations that can be used by actors in civil society, government and the private sector for promoting integrity in the country.

A NIS study of Sint Maarten could take about a year for the research and when the presentation is made to authorities; anywhere around the latter part of 2014 such a study could be presented.

The funding of the NIS study of Curacao came in the form of a grant agreement signed back in April 2012. The grant agreement ensured TI's complete independence in all phases of the process, from initial research to final outcome and recommendations. Research for the Curacao NIS study was started back in summer 2012 and the report was presented in June 2013.

The Curacao NIS study found that there is a general lack of trust in Curacao's key institutions and that this according to TI is a major obstacle for strengthening the foundations of the new country and will limit the success of any programme addressing corruption and promoting good governance.

Curacao's NIS study found that the public sector, political parties and the media were the weakest links in the country's ability to combat corruption.

The Curacao NIS also reveals that political parties in Curacao do not function well in all aspects, and that there is a potential risk of dominance of party discipline over governance both among members of Parliament as well with the Executive. This according to TI can hinder the independence of both institutions and, worryingly, blurs the separation of power as laid out in the Constitution.

The Judiciary, Ombudsman, supreme audit, and supervisory institutions scored relatively well in the Curacao NIS assessment.

Some recommendations from TI based on the findings of the Curacao NIS are that the country must ratify the United Nations Conventions against Corruption as a matter of urgency and develop a plan of action to ensure its implementation and enforcement also transparency of political party financing requires particular attention.

TI perhaps will recommend to the Sint Maarten Government at the end of a NIS assessment study to draft "whistle blower protection" legislation. This form of legislation would offer legal protections for workers who report concerns of wrongdoing in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

Another most likely recommendation would be Sint Maarten's Parliament ratifying United Nations Conventions against Corruption. Our parliament could take the lead in doing that now and also looking into the whistle blower protection legislation, and have these in place by summer 2014 well ahead of the completion of any TI assessment.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

Too often we read in the local newspapers about robberies, rape, kidnapping, car theft, burglaries and so forth. It is often said that a worrisome financial situation of an individual is the main reason to commit a crime for monetary gain. Unfortunately, we do have poverty on our beautiful island, but not everybody who lives in poverty goes out to steal, rob or even murder. There are many families who are having trouble making ends meet, but are holding on fast to being responsible citizens.

We often see pictures displayed in the media of these robbers, many of them wearing jewelry and expensive brand clothing and shoes. Didn't they have money to pay their rent or food? If not, why spend their money on material things instead of necessities? Another excuse is that the reason for not having money is not having a job. This makes one wonder: how desperate can someone really be that someone rather steals and robs somebody who worked for their money than that someone is willing to work for minimum wage in a job that someone doesn't like? Newsflash! Thousands of people have come to Sint Maarten over the last couple of years to look for employment and found employment and people are still coming to Sint Maarten for the same reason. Granted, among the thousands who came to Sint Maarten there are many misfits who should not be allowed on our shores. Point is, our youth who are without a job could have taken these positions.

We believe that the reason for the current crime situations goes further than the links with poverty. Let there be no mistake: we need to fight poverty. We also need to get our educational system compatible with our labor market. Trade schools and co-operation with the private sector are of the utmost importance. We do need to get our youth to work. But what is even more important is how we go about being an example for our children and that we actually care for them. They see enough violence on TV, computer games and listening to violent music and now they are witnessing it "life" as well. When growing up on Sint Maarten in the year 2013 it is normal to see young adults hanging around doing nothing, hearing about criminal activities from government officials, high ranked civil servants and break-ins in the neighbourhood. Not to mention those young adults who are involved in criminal activities and have children themselves. Besides the chance of getting locked up or being killed, they are setting the worse example for their children thinkable.

What about the victims of crime? Their life can change drastically from living care-free into living in a dark and dangerous world, continuously on the look-out for lurking dangers. Every action has a reaction, some visible and mostly invisible when it comes to criminal acts. The trend set for our next generation and the destruction of lives of victims are immeasurable. The impact of crime in our small community is tremendous. Crime is more than statistics. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

It is with great disappointment that the Democratic Party of St. Maarten, read that Member of Parliament Frans Richardson has moved himself to the lowest level of political polemic insinuating that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams should resign as a result of the ongoing investigations at the National Security Service.

Firstly: it is the Prime Minister who, upon being brought up to date by staff of the Service regarding certain financial discrepancies in the accounts of the National Security who decided that there should be a full-fledged investigation conducted. It is the Prime Minister who asked the SOAB to look into the discrepancies she was made aware of and it is the Prime Minister who is ensuring that due process is followed and who is reviewing the findings in order to make the necessary decisions.

Secondly MP Richardson is alleging that there was a so-called 'security breach'. Why is this? The Prime Minister on numerous occasions has assured the population that the security of the organization is intact and that at no point in time was there any reference of a security breach. The malversations at the VDSM are strictly centered on the finances of the organizations and not on the security of the VDSM. Moreover, it was during the budget debate that Parliamentarians, including MP Frans Richardson, approved the Budget of the VDSM so he is fully aware of how the organization is structured. What the MP is involved in here, is simply political fear mongering and again lying to the public for political gain.

Let us try to explain the current situation by using the analogy of a bank. Suppose an employee of a bank commits fraud. The management of the bank discovers the fraud and decides to initiate a wide scale investigation which verifies that, indeed, there was fraud committed at the bank. The employee is placed under investigation and suspended and eventually has to appear before the court of law. Is it then up to the Manager of the Bank to resign? Is he responsible for the actions of an irresponsible employee? Does he have to set aside the important task of managing the bank to pay for a crooked employee? The same goes in this case; the Prime Minister initiates the investigation at the VDSM and based on what has been found by the SOAB, the PM will make certain decisions on how to improve whatever went wrong.. Calling for the PM to resign is just as ludicrous as it would be in our analogy to have the bank director resign.

Indeed malversations were discovered at the VDSM and if it were not for the Prime Minister the investigations into the matter would not have occurred as expeditiously and thoroughly as they have. Our PM has also, in the name of integrity and through various media outlets, ensured that the population was and continues to be brought up to speed regarding the on-going investigations. Unfortunately the same cannot be said about the "Sand-Gate" affair of the Independent Member of Parliament Frans Richardson.

The Democratic Party of St. Maarten.

Michael J. Ferrier
President

Dear Editor,

As we all know, our island has gone through some major changes over the past years. We have had multiple changes in political power, a major change in our governing structure with the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles, the upgrading of our harbour, the building of an important international airport, new road links, a Causeway Bridge that is about to be finished and many other changes. Without a doubt we can state that our country has been moving forward.
With these many changes we feel that certain districts were left behind economically and socially. Our immigration issues are bigger than ever, youth unemployment is higher than ever and the crime wave that our island is suffering from is far from over. Many families are having difficulties to make ends meet, resulting in a decrease of the quality of life for many. Broken homes, drug and alcohol abuse and domestic violence are affecting a large group of our youths growing up. So, even though we have moved forward as an island and now country, all the progress has not benefited all of us.
Besides the fact that Soualiga Social Movement emphasized on the individual responsibility each of us has to our community we have also emphasized on the need to diversify our economy by increasing focus on the marine industry and re-installing agriculture, not limiting this diversification by these two sectors. We are of the opinion that the economic diversification also should take place geographically. One's economic independence leads to one's empowerment.
Control of Human Affairs is achieved primarily through the control of economic factors. Economics drives politics, and economic and political realities shape the structure of our society. Along with our increasing dependence on remote and impersonal political and economic entities has come the disintegration of traditional social structures: the family, the neighbourhood, the island community. All of these have paled into economic insignificance, and lacking economic power. They have become politically and socially powerless as well. If we are to reverse the trend of ever increasing alienation, we must begin to organize ourselves into small functional social groupings that empower their members and provide a meaningful level of mutual support. Democracy needs to be economic as well as political.
Instead of centralizing all economic activity in mainly Philipsburg, Simpson Bay and the Maho/Mullet Bay area we should now focus on bringing economic activities to other parts of the island. Agri-tourism, theaters, shops and the likes should now be brought to "the hoods" accompanied with the same beautification as was done in the aforementioned areas. This will enhance the chance for starting entrepreneurs to be successful, it will create employment and it will elevate the quality of life of those living in the newly targeted areas. Then we truly can say that we are moving forward. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

With great concern we took notice of the exam results from the PKL/PBL students of the Sundial School and the PBL/PKL/TKL students of Milton Peters College. Less than 50% of the students from Sundial School passed their exams and less than 50% of the students who sat their exams in Milton Peters College's PBL department passed. This is more than worrisome!

We need to take a look at the reasons why these results are so poor. Is it our educational system? Is it a mentality issue that our children have? Is it the poor social structure in which our children are growing up? We need to ask ourselves what we can expect from the teachers at these schools and what we can expect from our government, but not less important: we need to ask ourselves what can we expect from us as a community raising these children?

It is of the utmost importance that we recognize our role as individuals in our community. We cannot let it up to the schools, teachers and government to raise our children. We all have a role to play. The children who are failing in school today are the laborers and professionals of tomorrow. We can talk about nation building and making plans for the future of Sint Maarten, but there is no future without our children of today.

Soualiga Social Movement is not claiming to know the answers to this tremendous problem, but we are sure recognizing the many problems and social ills surrounding our children. All the alarm bells are ringing. All hands on deck are needed: private sector, public sector, civil sector and each and every individual. The UNICEF report that pictures a grim situation in certain area's pertaining our children needs to be discussed in every level of our society, starting in parliament. Private sector and civil sector need to join hands and come up with programs that are of a nature that lead to structural improvement. As individuals we need to make time for our children again and guide them from the cradle to their adulthood. Our children are the future. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

Just imagine this: Sint Maarten producing vegetables, fruits and herbs! Instead of buying everything abroad, we have fresh products available locally in an organic shop and our hard earned money will circulate on our island instead of leaving our economy right away. The freshness of the vegetables, fruits and herbs also adds positively to our health.

Just imagine this: while using aquaponics (using water from fish tanks to feed plants and use that water again for the fish tanks) we are able to provide huge amounts of fish to our population for a more than reasonable price. In addition to what our local fishermen bring to our shores, we again prevent monies leaving our island and thus our economy by purchasing fish and other seafood locally.

Just imagine this: an organic restaurant in which every product is grown locally. While families are dining here, they not only eat healthy, but directly contribute to our economy.

Just imagine this: adding to our tourist product the concept of eco-lodging. We have four lodges, all made of eco-friendly materials, in an eco-friendly/agricultural environment. People from abroad will have another reason why they would choose Sint Maarten as their place of choice to spend their vacation. This, of course, affects both the brand name Sint Maarten and our economy positively.

Just imagine this: combine the organic shop, growing fish, an organic restaurant, eco-lodging and several forms of agriculture (aquaponics, hydroponics, aeroponics, greenhouses etc.). Heck, throw in a small petting zoo! Give tours to tourists, employ our youngsters, educate the school children (and whoever is interested) about growing vegetables, fruits and herbs. Educate same about the medicinal usage of herbs and how to use them in (local) dishes. And, of course, the whole energy supply for this park will be powered by solar panels.

Just imagine this: if this only could be a reality. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

wmarlinmeetingwithlocalcontractors23062013As I have complained over and over during the past few years, the media on St. Maarten needs to be much more critical of the way stories are written in the daily papers. Now we that know the workers are aware that they have outspoken preferences to certain politicians and political parties but I don't blame them. It is the job of the editors to make sure that stories are balanced and objective. This is definitely not the case in St. Maarten.

Last week, newly sworn in Minister Maurice Lake signed off on two projects, Senior Citizen homes and the cleaning of trenches. Nothing wrong with that but everyone knows that there is no way that Minister Lake could have finalized these projects in such a short time. Minister Lake is simply carrying out the finalization of projects that Minister Marlin initiated.

Now the media is not there to defend or praise Minister Marlin but there should have been mention that this is not the first time that the trenches in St. Peters were cleaned and that a housing project could not be finalized in such a short time, which was the impression the media gave. It is almost commonplace for politicians to take credit for work they had little to do with and that is why the media should be there to remind us, the public, who really should take the credit or at the very least let us make up our own minds who to credit.

Upon assuming office Minister Marlin had requested for an advice to be prepared to grant a contract in St. Peters to clean the trenches, the advice coming from VROMI was for a contractor outside of St. Peters to get the job. Minister Marlin insisted that the young men of St. Peters should get the opportunity to contribute to their environment and Topxic N.V. was granted the job against the advice from Infrastructure Maintenance. In the end the local contractor was commended by the people of St. Peters for his excellent work. Additionally, the Minister also insisted that the young men in Sucker Garden, St. Peters, Dutch Quarter and Cole Bay/Cay Bay be awarded the same opportunity. All done by Minister Marlin.

Minister Marlin was the first Minister / Commissioner to fight for the young men of the districts in this manner. May I remind you, that Minister Lake was the former Adviser to Minister Heyliger, and before that he also worked with Commissioner Heyliger for over 10 years, where were the local contracts then? In those days only the large contractors got jobs and the local contractors were sitting on the side watching.

The head of Infrastructure Maintenance was requested several months ago to prepare another advice to grant a contract for structural trench cleaning to take place in four major districts, Cole Bay, St. Peters/South Reward, Sucker Garden/Philipsburg/Point Blanche and Dutch Quarter/Oyster Pond/Middle Region, each to be granted a two year maintenance contract to keep the trenches clean throughout the entire year. There were also other pending district improvement initiatives being planned by Minister Marlin.

It is good to see that the new Minister is stepping right into the shoes of the former Minister and has decided to award a contract to Topxic N.V. as well. It is now hoped that the same will be done for the other areas where the former Minister had signed contracts for trench cleaning. It will also be interesting to see if this current Minister will continue to put the progress of the people ahead of personal interest of the party as we have become used to with the DP/UP coalition. So far he has started off in the right direction.

Kendall Dupersoy

Reigns of coalition government firmly in his hands; in eight seat coalition one man is king!
Spectre of return of Patrick Illidge lurks in background

Political pundits have remarked on the irony of Laville's preeminent position in the political landscape. In this coalition government, with a razor thin majority of one seat in Parliament, all roads run through Laville. He can single handedly dictate policy is he so wishes. Everyone's position in the current council of ministers depends on Laville's good graces. One deft move can bring the whole house of cards crashing down. It is now left to be seen how Laville will play the hand he has been dealt. We know that he is mercurial and volatile. He will now have to demonstrate shrewdness as well. Observers believe that the UPP leader, who has a well- earned reputation of being a Mr. Moneybags, will allegedly do anything and pay any price to be a player. This plays nicely into the hands of Laville, who will find a ready buyer for his allegiance. He will have to make hay while the sun shines, as this might be his last go round. His shilly shallying has angered the electorate. He has become practically a persona non grata among voters. He is widely despised because of his unsteady behavior in office. He therefore has every incentive to make the most of what many believe are his final days holding political office. Many believe he has committed political hari-kiri. His two coalition partners must therefore prepare themselves to pay some hefty prices for his support. He is well placed to retire a wealthy man, if only he plays he cards right. Parliament has to meet and make some important appointments. The president of Parliament is one such post, and one can sense a certain nervous hesitancy on the part of the coalition MP's. The question on everyone's mind is this: Will Laville go along with their choice, or will he propose his own alternative candidate to be the chairperson of Parliament?

Patrick Illidge: The spare tire

All of this has made Patrick Illidge an attractive security blanket. Though he might be toxic right now, the one seat he dangles is not. There are already reports of contacts between him and the UPP leader. Bringing him on board can be excellent insurance in case Laville again jumps ship. The danger however exists that he and Laville, who are both political pariahs, might team up and blackmail their coalition partners. No one doubts that Patrick is shrewd and will drive a hard bargain. He too has every incentive to go for broke. The Bada Bing scandal might have spelled the end of his political career. That leaves only money as his main motive for the remainder of this electoral cycle. Demanding a minister's seat for his support is not unthinkable. The return of Duncan as Minister of Justice is well within the realm of possibilities in this scenario. Duncan has already stated that he is for hire if the price is right, and a minister's salary and emollients seemed to have fit the bill perfectly for the past seven years. In the meantime the UPP and the DP will just have to bide their time and do Laville's bidding or else pay the piper.

Name Withheld Upon Author's Request

Dear Editor,

It has become crystal clear that our young country Sint Maarten is facing social, political and economic challenges much similar to many other countries around the globe. On an individual level we all make choices daily, hoping that our choices can help improve our livelihood (education, employment, relationships etc). But, what about the choices that we make as a country?

Do we just simply go to the polls every four years and trust government to take care of our progress and general well being? What about our personal social responsibility? What about the private sector's corporate social responsibility?

In the past there has been several initiatives by government, which facilitated open dialogue from the community. From these open meetings, further plans were supposed to be finalized but many of these plans never came to fruition. Is government solely to blame for this or can we say that the private and civil sectors did not get involved enough to help push these great ideas and initiatives through?

At the moment a National Development Plan is being worked on. The idea is to have as many stakeholders as possible, engaged in dialogue to put in place a serious "guideline" to steer the direction of development for our future governments. No matter what party is in power, we the people, the private sector and the government must develop this country along these guidelines.

Soualiga Social Movement thrives on the keywords "Awareness, Inclusion and Participation". As such, we believe that our entire society needs to come together to work together in the best interest of our country that will include but not be limited to combating poverty, increasing the level of awareness of our issues, protecting our environment, dealing with youth unemployment, taking care of our elderly, defining our culture etc...

With that said, we would once again like to encourage all sectors of our society to get up and get involved in activities, projects and initiatives concerning the improvement of the livelihood of this country. Whether it is public meetings, open dialogues, surveys, or even supporting and joining an NGO (Non Governmental Organization), be somewhere and voice your opinion!

There is strength in numbers and real power is people. Make sure your voice is heard loud and clear. Again, the SSM supports the National Development Plan, which is planned to get input from all areas of our community. Don't shy away, get involved and stay involved, this country cannot afford to have its people lay back, do nothing and then later expect miracles. Let's continue to get together to work together! #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

For years I have been complaining about the media in St. Maarten, the fact that they simply sit back and wait for news to drop into their laps instead of going out and finding it. Years ago, I had a weekly paper that tried to change this aspect of the media by doing some investigative reporting. For those that don't know, the DP Government at the time refused to sign off the working permit of the editor and even went as far as intimidating advertisers. All this in order to silence the voice of that paper and it worked.
In those days, there wasn't any blogs and online media but now we can get alternative views from this form of communication. Now I don't know if I like the fact that people can hide behind a screen name and launch personal attacks and accusations against others but we have to take the positive with the negative.
That entire lead up was to mention the following, why is it that none of the printed media has gotten in contact with the leaders of the DP, UP and Romain Laville to ask them why they have chosen to place totally new members in the Government instead of reappointing the previous Ministers?
There are several reasons to reappoint the previous cabinet, for one they could hit the ground running instead of having to learn the ropes. The only exception would be Maurice Lake who was already working in the VROMI cabinet, so he should be able to start right away. My mother will be keeping a keen eye on Minister Lake seeing the issues he had with the current Government and their performance. She expects great things from this Government for the elderly since Minister Lake was so concerned about the elderly when he was just a normal citizen.
The media should be asking why former Minister Rhoda Arrindell was not reappointed as Minister of Education, Culture and Sports. Did she do a bad job? The country has been paying her a salary for the past year or more, this would have been an opportunity for her to contribute back to the country.
The same can be said about former Minister Frankie Meyers. Wasn't Frankie doing a good job? He was a commissioner for 8 years and brought a lot of experience to the Minister's post. Why is a new inexperienced candidate now being proposed?
We can almost understand the fact that former Minister Theo Heyliger is not interested in the position anymore; with so many accusations against him it could be a temporary position if any of the accusations prove true. In any case, he has his right hand man in the position so I suspect that Mr. Heyliger's agenda will be fulfilled by the new Minister.
The above are all pertinent questions, questions that should be asked by the media. The media plays an important role in society and until they take their role more seriously we will never develop into the kind of country that St. Martin can be.

Kendall Dupersoy

Constitutional legal minds are shaking their heads at Sarah's revelation that she sought advice on whether she should table the motion to dissolve Parliament. They find this lack of understanding of our constitution by our Prime Minister both shocking and frightening. If she is so ignorant of basic constitutional principles, it is thought, what is she doing leading a country?

First of all they point out, the constitution is the highest law in the land. Parliament can make no laws that conflict with the constitution. So highly is our constitution held in esteem that St. Maarten is the only country in the Kingdom with a constitutional court to ensure that laws that are in conflict with it can be legally challenged.

By way of example they point to Parliament's right to dismiss government by a vote of no confidence. This right is guaranteed to Parliament by the constitution. No legal advise can tell them when or when not to use it. That would be putting legal advisers above our Constitution. Similarly government cannot be bound by any legal advise about how and when to use the right to dissolve Parliament. The constitutional thinkers point out that only the voters have the right to decide whether government was right to dissolve to Parliament. This they can do this by either voting the party that dissolved government out of power or keeping them in office.

Furthermore they point out, the right to dissolve Parliament after a vote of no confidence is such a well established doctrine in constitutional law, that they fail to understand what the fuss is about or why advise is even needed., It is nothing new or unusual. The argument therefore that the Prime Minister advances for not tabling the motion to dissolve Parliament do not hold water. The right to dissolved Parliament is granted by the constitution, the very same constitution that gives Parliament to right to dismiss government. Constitutional rights are therefore "holy" and should not be tampered it.

Name withheld upon author's request.

In this entire saga that has transpired in the last few weeks it is revealing to see how some people can read the same document and come up with completely different conclusions. I felt it is necessary to try to explain some issues here for the clarification purposes.
On a radio program Mr. Michael Ferrier indicated that the Council of Ministers (COM) can only dissolve Parliament if there is no majority willing to form a new Government. He was not the only one with this opinion; MP Roy Marlin and others also shared this opinion. Mr. Ferrier said that this was clear in the 'Memorie van Toelichting' (Explanation of the Articles) but I have the document and I wasn't able to find this. If anyone out there can find it, I will gladly admit to being wrong.
There was also an article from Mr. Jeffery Richardson, who is the leader of a political party. He said that the letter submitted by the 3 MP's and the letter submitted that same Sunday was an official notice. AS a politician that wants to represent us in Government and Parliament, he should have more knowledge of our Constitution. In article 33 sub 1 it clearly states 'The Prime Minister and other Ministers shall be appointed and dismissed by national ordinance.' A letter written to the Prime Minister is NOT a National Ordinance. Again, I challenge anyone to prove me wrong.
Even worse than the above, the Prime Minister on a radio program insinuated that article 33 to dismiss the Ministers held more weight than article 59 because it came first. Now the PM is a gifted orator and she was careful not to say this but only insinuate it. However the message was clear. All articles carry the same weight, there is no article more important, less important and there is no such thing as a technical article.
The fact is that the correspondence from the Governor was clear and to the point. The actions by the PM were equal to the subversion of democracy. No matter how we try to sugarcoat this, it is an embarrassing and uncomfortable situation we find ourselves in as a country. It now leaves to be seen what steps the Governor, Dutch Minister and Kingdom Government and the population of St. Maarten will do. If nothing is done, this will not only have an impact on St. Maarten but on the entire Kingdom.
This has nothing to do with a personal attack on anyone, but the overall view of the country to the outside world. One person cannot make a decision for an entire country, especially seeing that the decision is not theirs to make. Will the people, the Governor and the Kingdom stand by and watch this travesty occur? Remember the Kingdom is responsible for good governance, if this is not corrected, God helps us all!!!

Kendall Dupersoy

Sarah's letter of May 27th in which she bluntly refused to put on the agenda the majority in the council of ministers request to dissolve Parliament places the Governor in an awkward position. Her refusal is an open rebellion against his explicit advice on this matter. We will recall that the governor in his letter of May 16th, gave three pieces of advice to the Prime Minister.
The first was that the right to dissolve Parliament was a constitutional and autonomous right of government. The second piece of advice was that she should give space to the demand of five ministers in the council of ministers that government be dissolved. But the most crucial was the third. Not allowing the vote on dissolving Parliament would not do justice to our constitutional process.
In a breath taking display of hubris and overreach, The Prime Minister issued her letter to the Council of Ministers informing them that she had decided that there would be no meeting to discuss the dissolving of Parliament. This has placed the governor before an enormous decision. He cannot ignore the PM's intransigence and uphold the constitution at the same time. He must choose and we know how desperately he has tried to avoid being backed into a corner. But the PM 's decision, a fool hardy one for sure, has placed him and the young country before a momentous choice. At the same time it is an easy choice. No one, especially not the Prime Minister can violate our constitution. Government's right to dissolve Parliament is one such right guaranteed by our Constitution. The governor must now choose between article 59 of the constitution and Sarah.
The governor must decide quickly to restore constitutional order and discipline. Rarely does a governor get the opportunity to actively determine the direction of major issues. After all, his role is largely ceremonial, as Van Rijn described it, the right to heard, to advise and to encourage. But in this case he wields some important powers. For example he appoints the formateur. One of the first things he can therefore do is recall his appointment of the PM as formateur until article 59 is complied with. The majority in the council of ministers have made it abundantly clear that they wish to exercise this right. Until this right has been exercised the governor is fully within his right, to refuse to appoint a formateur or proceed with any steps towards the formation of a new government. He is aided in his decision by article 20 of the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers which state that decisions are made by the majority.
The governor must choose between anarchy and the rule of law. He cannot proceed with the formation of a government in violation of the constitution. Such a government would be unconstitutional. Any laws it passes would be therefore unconstitutional as well as invalid. Citizens may then ignore such laws because the government that passed them does not have the moral nor constitutional authority to do so. This is the quickest way to chaos and higher supervision. And all because the PM desperately wants to cling to her position, even when the constitution tells her she must go.
The PM has drawn a line in the sand and challenged the governor to cross it.

Name withheld upon author's request.

An important issue for country Sint Maarten is climate change. It is an issue that needs to be addressed at the Executive and Legislative levels of Government, and plans of actions developed. The United Nations (UN) climate change body is warning that a stepped-up coordinated response is needed to fend off the impacts of climate change after the world's carbon-dioxide concentrations recently surpassed their highest level in four million years.

According to the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Christiana Figueres, "The world must wake up and take note of what this means for human security, human welfare and economic development."

Sint Maarten must also wake up. C. Figures also adds, "In the face of clear and present danger, we need a policy response which truly rises to the challenge," she continued urging a "greatly stepped-up response across all three central pillars of action: action by the international community, by government at all levels, and by business and finance."

The latest info says that global concentrations of heat-trapped carbon dioxide in the atmosphere recently passed the 400 parts per million mark, which impacts efforts to limit global warming to two (2) degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) from pre- industrial levels.

The new measurement came from Mauna Loa, a volcano on the big island of Hawaii that has been monitoring the worldwide trend on carbon dioxide.

Governments will meet for two-weeks starting on 3 June in Bonn, Germany, for the next round of climate change talks under the umbrella of the UNFCCC. A central focus of the talks will be negotiations to build a new global climate agreement and to drive greater immediate climate action.

A report entitled, "The Caribbean and Climate Change – The Costs of Inaction," from May 2008 by Stockholm Environment Institute – US Center Global Development and Environment Institute, Tufts University, points out that two dozen island nations of the Caribbean, and 40 million people who live here in the region, are in the front lines of vulnerability to climate change.

Facing Caribbean nations including country Sint Maarten are hotter temperatures, sea-level rise and increased hurricane intensity, which would threaten lives, property and livelihoods. The report continues, as ocean levels rise, the smallest, low-lying islands may disappear under the waves. As temperatures rise and storms become more severe, tourism-the life-blood of many Caribbean economies- will shrink and with it both private incomes and the public tax revenues that support education, social services, and infrastructure.

And these devastating impacts will occur regardless of the fact that Caribbean nations including Sint Maarten have contributed little to the release of the greenhouse gases that drive climate change.

The report offers a preliminary examination of the potential costs to island nations of the Caribbean if greenhouse gas emissions continued unchecked. The report offers two scenario's, an optimistic (entails rapid action to stabilize the impact of climate change or low-impact) and pessimistic scenario (entails business-as-usual or high-impact where greenhouse gasses continue to rise unabated).

The cost of inaction, or the difference between these two scenarios's, may be seen as the potential savings from acting in time to prevent the worst economic consequences of climate change.

The projections presented in the report are by no means a comprehensive picture of all climate change damages. They are based on three categories of effects: hurricane damages, tourism losses, and infrastructure damages.

The Caribbean's annual cost of inaction is projected to total US$ 22 billion annually by 2050 and US$ 46 billion by 2100. As each year goes by, the costs continues to increase, hence why it is so important to prepare from now by developing a plan of action for the next 30 to 50 years – because it is a long-term investment – to mitigate and adapt as a country.

The investment is made for the long-term, and for the sustainability of future generations of Sint Maarteners. It is an investment into our children and their children's children, by maintaining a secure sustainable living environment.

The costs of inaction mentioned in the report for the former Netherlands Antilles back in 2008 which Sint Maarten formed a part of, for 2025 up to 2100 would be US$ 2.7 billion of Gross Domestic Product based on (low/high impact).

What is country Sint Maarten's policy response in rising to the challenge of climate change?

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

I am responding to the opinion article in The Daily Herald on Tuesday May 28, 2013 entitled "Burning money or garbage" written by an unnamed concerned citizen.

Toward the end of July 2011 I contacted a company here in the US to inquire if they would have an interest in doing a wind energy project on St. Maarten. During the course of the conversation I was told, yes, they could do wind, but they also had a company that could provide a waste to energy plant. I asked for and received additional information about their system. After some study of their system I had some questions and once I received answers to them I put together an email to then Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger outlining how I felt this company could be of benefit to St. Maarten.

Since what was being outlined would require No capital investment on the part of St. Maarten Minister Heyliger was initially somewhat skeptical stating what was being proposed as sounding like "The Holy Grail". He did however say he was willing to and eventually did meet with representatives of the company.

It seems anything in St. Maarten no matter how beneficial to the island can be and usually is, turned into a political football by the various parties. This was something I wanted to avoid because of the huge upside potential this project could have for St. Maarten. So around the same time I contacted Minister Heyliger, I also shared with William Marlin who was then the leader of the opposition as well as Kendall Dupersoy, the information being proposed to Minister Heyliger for his consideration.

When the first government fell last year William Marlin replaced Theo Heyliger as the Minister of VROMI, in effect becoming the new point man on the WTE plant. Based on the announcement of last week it seems things have moved forward to the point where the solution to a long standing problem is in sight. The company I initially contacted is one of the finalists along with three other companies. Who has the best proposal? That remains to be seen and decided upon by whoever ends up in charge of VROMI once the current political situation is finally settled.

However I must take exception to the spin this "concerned citizen" wrote, throwing out figures of $120 million being spent for a $40 million dollar plant and asking where the other $80 million was going. Why would he ask this? I'm guessing in order to create some sort of melee in the court of public opinion. I'm also at a loss as to where he is getting his figures. I would however urge him to re-read the article paying attention to where it was stated the WTE plant will have no financial impact on the people of St. Maarten. The people are not being asked to foot the bill! The initial costs for the plant are the responsibility of whatever company is selected. They in turn will recover their investment through the sale of the power produced by the plant to GEBE.

Far from being "the straw that broke the camel's back" this project is a "gift horse" that no one needs to look in the mouth. Solving the landfill problem and reducing the cost of electricity to the people of St. Maarten is a win, win in anyone's book.

Andy Croxall

I usually do not read blogs as I feel that anonymous journalist are not due my time. However, my Mom is an avid reader of the blog and upon her request I read a few and noticed a certain trend. The trend being that persons out there (probably 3 or 4 making multiple post under different names) are claiming that William Marlin and the other 3 Ministers are power hungry for not resigning right away. Hearing this I thought back and wondered if these people really know what power hungry means.
Let's start with Mr. Heyliger, you almost never hear how power hungry this gentleman is. In a recent article Theo claimed that William was holding on to power even though he lost his majority. This made me laugh because I can remember Theo openly campaigning against Sarah even though they were in the very same party as she and him publicly attacked each other fighting for the leadership of the party.
Theo even went as far as breaking with the DP on not one but two occasions in order to maintain his seat as a Commissioner only to run back home or in the second case to form the UP. Both these occasions were not about the people but to maintain his power. As in the second case, he left office to campaign for the 2010 elections months before the election.
Theo is also accused of trying to buy support on several occasions in the past, though none have ever been proven. Recently, MP Laville accused him trying to bribe him with first $250,000 and then he raised the price to $350,000. The Bada Bing tape was also allegedly created in order to blackmail Patrick Illidge into breaking the Government. I wonder why the bloggers ignore these facts and are blind to his hunger of power.
The Prime Minister also has a similar history, first she publicly fought with her candidate on her list and she has continuously made decisions with the sole purpose of maintaining her power. She even sacrificed Maria Buncamper in order to stay in power.
First the PM refused to execute a legal vote to dissolve parliament and call new elections. The PM also refused to allow the Constitutional Court to mediate a broad based solution with all three parties. Even the church got involved calling all 3 leaders together but not even that worked. So even the most biased observer must admit that this is about power and not about the people as they so want to us to believe.
Recently, a letter from the Governor was published clearly indicating that the actions taken by the Council of Ministers were correct and within their right, yet she totally ignored the letter in an attempt to remain Prime Minister. Now if this isn't power hungry I don't know what is.
In the last election, her party got just over 2000 votes most of them her personal votes. A party that used to claim as much as 6000 votes a few elections ago, yet for some strange reason she was appointed Prime Minister. That Government lost its majority in Parliament and she maintained her request to remain Prime Minister which was granted. Now again her Government has fallen and yet again it is said she will remain Prime Minister, again no doubt a request from the DP.
In all the years I have followed politics I have never heard of William Marlin as much as asking a DP or UP member to cross the aisle, no mention of offering them money, bribing them or sacrificing his party member to remain or gain power. Yet on the blogs, you see many comments about his lust for power.
Again this week, William tendered his resignation in the best interest of St. Maarten but not one media house carried the story as positive. The NA leader in the past has also lost the majority and has always walked away, even sometimes being criticized for not fighting harder. Now as he has decided to dissolve a Parliament which anyone who is paying attention can see is not functioning, he and the others are accused of holding on to power.
Seeing the above facts (check them if you think I lie), you must admit that if anyone is power hungry it is most definitely not William Marlin but more likely Theo Heyliger and Sarah Wescot William. I challenge anyone to come to a different conclusion.

Kendall Dupersoy

There are many similarities with respect to what transpired in Curacao in the latter part of 2012 and what transpired here within the past three weeks with the National Alliance led Government seeing its parliamentary support withdrawn. Of particular importance is what transpired at the parliamentary level of Government.

Back in July 2012 the Schotte-led coalition government lost its parliamentary support. This prompted former Prime Minister Schotte to dissolve parliament and call for snap elections (October 19, 2012) and for a new parliament to be installed by November 2, 2012. Governor Frits Goedgedrag had no choice but to sign the decree to dissolve the legislature after the Schotte cabinet resigned.

The New Curacao Majority in the Parliament of Curacao had 12 seats of the 21-seat legislature. With respect to Curacao, the New Curacao 12-seat Majority was not able to pass a motion of no confidence prior to the Schotte Cabinet resigning, and hence why the process headed towards snap elections in October 2012.

Even though the Schotte led Government tendered its resignation, the 12-seat New Parliamentary Majority was able to pass its motions of no confidence and also appoint an interim Cabinet. It all started back in September 2012, where a meeting of the Central Committee of Curacao's Parliament was cancelled because the opposition members did not show up. The 12-seat majority opposition members were of the opinion that the Chairman of Parliament of Curacao should convene a public meeting where they could adopt motions of no-confidence against the individual ministers of the Schotte Cabinet caretaker government. The President of Parliament refused to call any public meetings.

In the case of Sint Maarten, public meetings of Parliament were convened, but the Members of Parliament were not given the word and the President adjourned the meeting until another date.

One Curacao opposition Member of Parliament (MP) stated public meetings were requested on very important issues, but these were not convened, and that parliament is currently being held hostage. He added, we are being prevented from performing our duty to control government and making laws.

The MP further added, the President of the Curacao Parliament determined that the Parliament can only meet to discuss current matters and urgent issues, but he's the only one who determines what is urgent or not, and it is obvious that the rules of the legislature are being contravened. "We aren't even allowed to take the floor during meetings. The chairman determines when this is possible by sticking to his interpretation of the Rules of Order."

Curacao Governor Frits Goedgedrag asked advice from legal experts Carl Gruning and Roque Koeyers on the request by the majority of 12 of the 21 members of Parliament to install a "business cabinet" of professionals that will replace the already caretaker Schotte-led Government. The Governor received his legal advice, which concluded that it usually makes little sense to send home a government that already has caretaker status, it can be done in extraordinary cases if a majority sees the need.

The urgent need put forward by the 12-seat parliamentary majority for installing an interim cabinet is to prevent Higher Supervision by the Netherlands because it appears the Schotte-led caretaker Government has not complied with the budgetary instruction from the Kingdom Council of Ministers and that would be the next step.

On May 13, 2013, the eight seat majority of the Parliament of Sint Maarten met under the chairmanship of 1st Vice Chairman of Parliament Hon. MP Romain Laville, and a motion of no confidence was passed against five Ministers of the National Alliance-led Government Cabinet. There was some confusion as to whether the meeting was legal as well as the legitimacy of the motion. The Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot Williams provided a legal advice document prepared by the Department of Legal Affairs to the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel at that time, stating that the May 13, 2013 meeting was legal.

We can recall that the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel at that time stated that the May 13 meeting was not an official meeting of parliament and was only a gathering.

In the case of Curacao, the parliamentary majority of 12 held a meeting of their own and replace the Curacao President of Parliament and Acting Chairman with representatives from among their own. The Secretariat of Parliament was not involved in this public meeting and it was held in the conference room of the Parliament faction offices at the former Central Bank Building in Punda, rather than the House of Parliament in the legislative hall.

During the meeting an attempt was made to get the General Secretary to attend, but he refused because he considered the situation unclear. Instead, the meeting was recorded by the Notary and an unidentified employee of the secretariat.

During the parliamentary meeting, the MPs pointed out to article 120 of the Rules of Order which states that in all cases where these rules or other lawful regulations don't suffice, the majority decides.

Members of the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament in The Hague were pleased that a majority of the Parliament of Curacao took matters into its own hands and convened a meeting, because the President of Parliament was refusing to do so.

The Governor received 10 motions that were passed by the 12-seat parliamentary majority calling for the immediate dismissal of ministers of the Schotte caretaker Cabinet. One of those motions adopted by the new majority specifically asked Governor Frits Goedgedrag to appoint a person charged with forming an interim cabinet to stay on until a new government is installed after the elections.

In mid-September 2012, Curacao's Governor Goedgedrag started a round of orientation talks on forming an interim cabinet to run the country until a new Parliament to be elected October 19 takes over, based on the aforementioned motion. The Governor asked Eduardo "Dito" Mendes de Gouveia to explore the short-term formation of an interim cabinet with a small team of ministers and supported by a majority of Parliament members.

Just before the end of September 2012, after the new 12-seat parliamentary majority confirm they supported an interim cabinet in conformity with the formation order from the Governor, the Governor ordered De Gouveia to form a cabinet who can count on the support of the majority.

Dutch caretaker Minister of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations Hon. Liesbeth Spies, stated that the Governor of Curacao acted within his authority as national representative when he appointed Eduardo Mendes de Gouveia to form an interim cabinet in Curacao.

On October 1, 2012, the embattled former Curacao Prime Minister G. Schotte occupied the Council of Ministers office in Fort Amsterdam refusing to relinquish power to the new interim cabinet. Schotte remained at the offices of the Council of Ministers for a 24-hour period before vacating the premises.

Dutch Minister of Kingdom Relations Spies at that time supported the appointment of an interim cabinet in Curacao, adding that the new temporary cabinet is in compliance with the country's Constitution and the rules in a democratic state of law. Spies pointed out that the dismissal of the Schotte cabinet and the appointment of an interim cabinet was in accordance with the wish of the majority in Curacao's Parliament.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

I am completely baffled by the press release from the political leader of the United People's Party Theodore HEYLIGER. How can the leader of the United People's Party have the audacity to issue such a press release? A politician, who's, name, over the last two and a half year has surfaced in different scandals. There are many words in the press release of the leader of the United People's Party that in my opinion should not be part of his vocabulary. In his press release the leader of the United People's Party made mention of the following expressions: -do the right thing-let democracy prevail-tyrannical behavior-no respect for the rule of law-lost credibility to function-look at the message he is sending to young people-what example is being set-sabotaging democratic process-do the honorable thing. Now people let us be realistic and ask ourselves the simple question. Do you believe that a politician, who is involved/embroiled in three different investigations/scandals since the election for parliament in 2010, should use the above mentioned expressions in a press release to cry down another politician? This is a clear example of "the pot calling the kettle black". His boldness is beyond my comprehension. Let us take a look at the incidents/scandals in which it has been alleged that the leader of the United People's Party is involved. It has been alleged that the United People's Party was involved in the buying of votes during the election for parliament in 2010. The act of buying votes for an election of parliament is punishable by article 132 of the Penal Code. The Bada Bing Affair: Most of the world has seen this incident through the internet. The involvement of the leader of the United People's Party in this affair was made known by the suspect Jaap van de HEUVEL in a statement given by him to a local daily newspaper. And last but not least the alleged bribing of parliamentarian Romain LAVILLE, who filed a complaint by the authorities. Bribing a parliamentarian is a breach of article 183 of the Penal Code. As long as the prosecutor's office has not stated the contrary, these investigations in my opinion are still ongoing. Buying votes, bribing a parliamentarian and destroying your political opponent in a sleazy manner are considered to be very serious breaches of the law and are considered to go against the core principles of a democracy. Any politician, who uses these methods to achieve power in politics, is according to my opinion a person without credibility and is not worthy of taking part in the electoral process. Before closing this article I want to make mention of a despicable remark made by parliamentarian Jules JAMES in which in my opinion he questioned the neutrality of the Governor of Country St. Maarten. Parliamentarian James remarked in a very aggressive manner during the political upheaval in the parliament building that the Governor was appointed by the National Alliance. Any person with some common sense, based on the moment and occasion of the remark, will conclude that Jules JAMES was trying to insinuate that the Governor will side with the National Alliance in the ongoing political standoff. There was no other reason for him to make that remark. Because of the function of the Governor I know that the Governor will not react to Jules JAMES, but I as a citizen of this country can. Jules JAMES should be ashamed of himself. The Governor of Country St. Maarten is a man of integrity and Jules JAMES is not. Jules JAMES performance in parliament portrays someone, who is full of hate and vengeance. It is said that he is a preacher, but that quality surely does not show up in his actions in parliament.

Todd PETERSON

Dear Maurice,

After reading your article in the Daily Herald, I could not resist replying to it.
All of a sudden you are claiming that the President of Parliament shows arrogance and abuse of power, really? Also that he is influenced by WM. You only saw arrogance in the President? What about the members of Parliament of the UP/DP/Ind Laville what were they showing?. They were rude, disrespectful and shouting and pounding their fists on the desks, what behavior is that? The President was calm and collective, not once did he shout or pounded on the desk as if he was irritated. Your own Parliamentarians had to be restrained by Janchi, who indicated to them that detectives and plain clothes police officers were in the building. I think all of the Parliamentarians of UP/DP/Ind Laville should step down immediately and allow NEW ELECTIONS. There are those of you, who are convinced that the NA cannot win any election, as no one would vote for them. What is the problem then, let's have EARLY ELECTIONS. You claim that the President made a Fish Market and a mockery out of our system. What exactly did he do? Was he the one shouting? I was there and I did not see that. Jules James was shouting the name of our Deputy Prime Minister, and treating him with disrespect. They indicated that they wanted WM to be the Prime Minister, not Sarah Wescot-Williams, with her 2 seats, her party was rejected by the voters last election. If you are saying that William is making a "Papi show" out of the President, and that William wants to stay in power, really? What does Theo want, not to get back into power at ALL COSTS, do you recall the Bada Bing Saga??? Whose names were called???You criticized the persons marching and counted 60 persons, do not let that fool you. What about the signature drive with thousands of persons signing in, even UP/DP supporters? I guess that is irrelevant? Those signatures represent the voice of the public.
You are claiming that Theo has a vision, because all the projects that are being worked on now, were his idea. Please explain to the people which ones. The Causeway? If that is the case, then the NA has the right idea, continuation of Government, not stagnation.
Let me jog your memory about vision and projects: Which administration negotiated the Harbour? Who built the Emergency Homes, also Belvedere after Luis? Who repaired and prepared the Jose Lake/ John Cooper Lake Ball Park, so that the Kingdom Games could be held here? And do you remember who got the credit? Who built the Public Schools on the Island beside the Oranje School? The PM implemented Compulsory Education and did not see to it that the Infrastructure was in place, and who made sure that it was carried out? Every time the NA is in Government they are never given a full term. The N.A. always has to clean up the mess left behind. But for the past 50 years DP has been in Govt. by themselves many times and what do they have to show for the average person on St. Maarten? Be honest with yourself and the people of St. Maarten.
I can understand your frustration. You were promised a lucrative position and seemingly that is in jeopardy now. Now I understand your motivation to keep writing nonsensical articles, trying to mislead the people, who know better. If you are a good Advisor to Theo and he listens to you, let him settle for "Early Elections". Why is the Prime Minister afraid to resign? Do you know why? She does not trust your leader, remember she put HIM out of Govt. by joining the NA and Vengeance is the name of the game. He also put HER out of Govt. So you see there is a battle going on, everyone is protecting their own interest and to hell with the people. It is about ME not WE.
You are being used and one of these days you will be dumped, after those using you have achieved their ultimate goals. This is a motherly advice to you.

Theresa Illis

Dear editor,

When a Prime Minister speaks that Prime Minister should speak with authority. A prime Minister should speak about big things/plans for a country and have a long term vision. There is also a certain cachet that should be part of a Prime Ministers functioning. Unfortunately the Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten does not always portray the above in her speeches and actions. The Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten often times comes across as week and spends too much time on little things. Even though the Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten is the political Leader of the Democratic Party it appears that the Prime Minister has very little to say in the decision making of the party and that the two parliamentarians of the Democratic Party Leroy de Weever and Roy Marlin are calling the shots and is dictating to the Prime Minister their course of action, which makes the Prime Minister look extremely week.

The Prime Minister should realize that MP De Weever and MP Marlin are big business boys in this community and that there is where their allegiance lies. The action of these two parliamentarians in the budget meeting of Parliament speaks for itself.

For the Prime Minister to maintain credibility, the Prime Minister has to stand up to the DP parliamentarians in this ongoing political showdown and tell them enough is enough with their irresponsible behavior. The Prime Minister should have never accepted her DP MPS's course of action which is detrimental to country St. Maarten and its people. If the Prime Minister does not stand up to her DP MPS in this political showdown, history will not treat her kindly. Both of her cabinets will go down in history as failures and the Prime Minister would have no others to blame but her two DP parliamentarians.

This whole ongoing political showdown is solely to be blame by the actions of the two DP parliamentarians and independent parliamentarian Romain Laville. Power and greed are the cause of this whole affair.

Todd Peterson

First I want to thank you for taking the time to answer my article, a discussion with different opinions is always a healthy one. Now for my opinions on your comments.
In the first case, there is no need to change the words 'national ordinance' to 'Majority of the Council of Ministers'. Article 40 indicates 'National Ordinances and National Decrees shall be signed by the Governor and by one or more ministers'. Please note that the Article does not indicate 'Prime Minister' but 'one or more ministers'. So your conclusion is not correct.
Article 59 allows Council of Ministers to dissolve Parliament, even though you may not like it, that is part of the Constitution as well. We know that a vote in COM was taken to dissolve Parliament on the 7th of May. A vote that the Prime Minister is refusing to execute. She is refusing to do her job, which is also against the constitution.
A man is ultimately judged by his actions. My honor is very important to me. Since you are a Johnny Come Lately, you can ask around. I have publicly disagreed with positions of the National Alliance. The leadership of the party allows us to voice our opinion to full extent. I never quite understood why he was called a dictator as this label is truly underserved.
A few years ago, I had an exchange in the media with a good friend of mine when he had just returned from Holland. I used the term Johnny Come Lately with him as well, in the meantime he has been on the island for years now and has acclimatized to the island. You need some time to do the same. Now don't get me wrong, your heritage is not in question here.
As an experienced man in the area of Parliamentary procedures you should have been aware that the meeting held was not official and yet you let yourself be used as a pawn. Why would a man with your experience allow that. As I mentioned before, your actions seemed built on self-interest and not the needs of the people. Now I don't know you very well so I might be wrong.
The fact is, that the confusion caused right now is not William's fault, yet some people blaming him. He is called power hungry but has never offered money or blackmailed anyone to get in to Government, nor has he refused to do his job to stay as well. The real culprits are the 3 members of parliament and those in the background that for personal reasons broke the Government. Had there been a valid reason to show no confidence in the Ministers, I am sure it would be revealed by now. Not enough cohesion, and knocking on doors does not a valid reason make. De Weever even mentioned that he had no problem with the Government but yet he strangely supports sending them home.
In conclusion, if 3 members of parliament that represent less than 600 votes can throw down a government for absolutely no reason. I think it is good and valid for government to dissolve parliament. William on his own represents twice as much support than the 3. If you ask me, if the signature drive gets 1000 signatures, that's enough to call new elections since 600 can throw down government, 1000 can call early elections.

Kendall Dupersoy

It is clear to everyone that a majority of the population wants new elections, and this majority is not supportive of only one political party but of several. I personally has seen UP supporters sign the petition with the claim that if new elections are called they will be voting UP again. This is not a party politics issue. This begs to question why some members of Parliament and the Prime Minister are against new elections.
The facts are, just like Parliament has a right to vote Ministers out with non-confidence, the Council of Ministers have the right to dissolve Parliament. Both options are available in our Constitution, neither is more technical than the other. If the writers of the Constitution wanted members of Parliament to sit for 4 years no matter what, they would have written it that way. The fact that there is no such article means that Parliament can legally be sent home before such a 4 year period. Our system is based on the trias politica, with each branch having the same authority and power. So claims that the Parliament has more power than Government is actually not true.
The Prime Minister claims that the act of dissolving Parliament should only be taken when the Members of Parliament cannot form a government. She also mentioned in her press briefing that this is normal in the law but I have to respectfully disagree with her. There have been 7 times that Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles had been dissolved in the past, as recently as last year Curacao did the exact same thing that is being proposed now. Even in surrounding Caribbean islands there are currently calls for early elections. In St. Kitts and Trinidad they are currently discussing suspending parliament and in the past several Caribbean islands have done so.
In her comments, the PM says that only she is allowed to send letters to the Governor but according to the constitution this is not completely true. The PM is indeed the one to send letters to the Governor but she does this on the request of a majority of the Council of Ministers, not on her own. Article 40 is clear in this aspect. If the PM is instructed to send a letter to the Governor by the Council of Ministers, she has no choice but to comply.
If it is indeed true that the PM has the right of refusal to submit decisions of the COM, how is it then possible for 8 MP's to have a meeting that was not convened in the correct manner and yet that meeting is being honored. There are some opinions out there that once the letter was sent to the Prime Minister by the 3 MP's that the Ministers should have resigned immediately but again this is not supported in the constitution. Article 33 says that the Prime Ministers and other Ministers are appointed and dismissed by National Ordinance. A letter to the PM does not constitute a National Ordinance. This is why we need new elections, there are a few MP's that feel they can do whatever they like and not suffer any consequences. It is time to take the decision back to the people.
MP Gracita Arrindell is all of a sudden concerned about our credit rating. However, she was not concerned in the 2010 and 2011 when the island was tainted with comments of Mr. 10% and mass corruption, mafia den and not to mention the suffering of the masses with high unemployment among the youth and much more. That was the word on the street.
Mr. Theo Heyliger, who hardly ever makes public statements made a long public statement on the issue, which indicates the importance of this issue to him. He mentions that after a year of lack of progress in making our lives better, the new coalition was formed. Well I for one will be paying keen attention to the actions of the new Ministers cause with only a year to go before scheduled elections, there isn't any time to reverse course and start over. This cabinet will be better served in continuing the progress started by this current Government and improving on it if they can.
In the end, I support new elections because I feel that Parliament has failed the people. We now have three guys with less than 700 votes deciding that Government was not cohesive, government was not answering his knocks on their doors, government was withholding information and government was not working in the interest of the people. However, unlike in April 2012, there is currently no uproar in the public. We must all remember, in 2012 the public was calling for the resignation of the Government, the movement started with the common man and woman on the street. The 3 MP's at that time were heeding the call of the people. Now I am not ignorant to think that the move then was 100% about the people but I must say that if we look at the signature drive it seems like this move now is about 100% self-interest.
If you asked me, the UP should join the call for new elections after all how will this Government function looking at the instability of a 8 member coalition. It seems to me that this coalition will be at the beck and call of the 8 member Parliament. Don't expect to get anything done for the next year for the people as this new Government will only be concerned with serving the personal interest of Parliament. In a situation like this, anyone and everyone that really has St. Maarten best interest at heart would want new elections to weed out the bad eggs.
Well Mr. Heyliger, what do you say.

Kendall Dupersoy

Since the political crisis hit a week ago, Mr.Edwin Gumbs has been doing everything he can to convince us that calling for new elections is the wrong thing to do. He went as far as saying that article 59 sub 2 is not a real article but a technical one that should only be used to dissolve parliament every four years when elections are due.
The question is, why is article 59 technical but article 33 is not. Now don't get me wrong, everyone has a right to their opinion but your opinion should not be stated as fact. On a news website there is an opinion from Dr. A. B. Rijn a Professor of Administration and Constitutional law contradictory to Mr. Gumbs. Dr. Rijn feels that if Parliament decides to give Ministers a vote of no confidence that the Ministers are in their right to dissolve Parliament.
So here we have two different opinions on the same issue one from a local gentlemen with experience in the field and one from a doctor of constitutional law. There are arguments on both sides. The most important thing from my side is what the will of the people is right now. All arguments for not dissolving Parliament don't seem to take the will of the people into consideration.
Why is it okay for 8 citizens to make a decision for the rest of us but when the Ministers decide to send the decision back to 19000 citizens it is seen as not democracy or wrong. This has nothing to do with politics, in a fresh election anything can happen. Isn't taking the decision back to the people the ultimate form of democracy?
What is also important is the way we seem to be tossing laws aside, having illegal meetings and making decisions that are not in accordance with the law. It has been discussed for several years that our system needs to be adjusted to better represent the will of the people and not the will of individual politicians and in some cases politicians that did not get many votes. If we look at the political crisis right now, we have three members of Parliament that among them don't even represent 700 votes.
In the end, no matter which party you support, we must admit that what is going on now is not good for country. How do you think investors are looking at this fiasco internationally? How about tourist planning a vacation, with all this negative press about failing governments we have to be careful that we don't lose a percentage of our visitors.
All this from 3 gentlemen that among them do not constitute even 700 votes in a 19000 vote constituent. So when you take a closer look at it, they represent a meager 3.7% of the possible electorate and if you include the entire population of an estimated 70000 this percentage drops to 1%. How is it possible that these gentlemen can even mention the word democracy when discussing their actions. It is clear to see even for a blind man this has nothing to do with the sitting government but it has to do with certain individuals that will do anything and I mean anything to be in government.
Leaving this government in office for the next 18 months was very scary for them. How would they win the next election if the people notice a move to indirect taxation and a broadening of the tax base, or the implementation of free schooling for high school students, the multiple road network improvements, better price control and I can go on. Now bear in mind every single thing I mentioned above could have been done years ago but wasn't done by the same people that now want you to believe that they have our best interest at heart.
Yes we need to take a look at our political system and fix it but for now, find a petition and sign it. It doesn't matter whether you support DP, UP, NA or whomever. We need to call new elections and let the people decide the way forward. For those of you who claim it will all remain the same so you won't vote, that's your good right. However, bear in mind that by not voting you are allowing the same people to make a decision that you do not agree with. Maybe if you voted, the decision may be different.

Kendall Dupersoy

Listening to the politicians in office and reading about the latest political chaos I often wonder if they are aware how much confusion that they have caused in the minds of the electorate. Elections are called every four years to choose representatives to govern our country and those persons that are elected are expected to lead the country in a way that the people of this country understand where the elected representatives are taking them.
In this case on St. Maarten I ask myself the question if our representatives are truly serious about handling the people's business or are they more caught up in concentrating on their own personal interest which the people who elected them are not responsible for. They should first spend tax payers monies properly and in a responsible manner and above all they should ensure that the people's interest are given priority and the politicians personal agenda is not placed before the people's business.
I am not so concerned about the fact that Government fell more than I'm concerned about what the impact of the falling does to our country which in my opinion by law and morals are the following.

  • It confuses the people when they are not aware why Government fell and politicians keep telling them it's for their benefit which the people can't see.
  • It takes the focus off of important issues that concerns the people.
  • The budget expenses increases because of the law that is in place to continue allowing Ministers who must resign to collect the exorbitant salary they set for themselves until the next elections.
  • It creates an unstable Government which in turn does not attract investors to come to our country to make investments in our economy because of fear in not being able to make a decent return on their investment.
  • The electorate begins losing confidence in the elected representatives which makes it more difficult for new politicians that are sincere in providing proper representation to the people who are in need of assistance from Government. This leads to many people not wanting to cast their votes for the next elections.
  • It also result in many students not wanting to return home after they complete their studies because of them not being able to trust politicians in creating jobs for them. This leads to a brain drain in our country.

As the leader of the Concordia Political Alliance aka CPA we want to make it abundantly clear to the electorate of our great country St. Maarten not to become discouraged or despondent but to let you know that if you put your confidence in a group of people we have selected that cares about your well being we will restore confidence in our people with the vision we will present to the people of St. Maarten.
With God's help and His divine guidance we are prepared to serve you, listen to you and ensure that not just a few but that all will benefit from this vision we are creating.
We have started to put a list of competent, innovative, intelligent and dedicated people in place who are prepared to do whatever it takes to put this country back on its feet where people will come first as opposed to personal agendas of politicians. I have been hearing that there are a lot of political parties that are mushrooming for the next election which I welcome wholeheartedly but I want to sound a word of caution to all of them including the old parties that the time has come to take care of the people of this country. When I listened to the last Budget meeting and hearing that 29% of our youth are unemployed it makes me wonder who is this Government working for. Is it for our children or for others because we were always taught that charity begins at home. When our children return from studying abroad and hear that there are no jobs for them because they are over-qualified then I ask myself the question why the Government entitled their Governing Program "working for the people" when in principle they are working for themselves. This is very clear to see when we look at the wasteful spending of tax payer's money in having a new Government building not occupied since 2008 but yet having to pay US$ 214,000.00 per quarter to RGM who are the actual owners of the Building for the 16 years of the BOOT Agreement before it's transferred back to Government. Yet Government still has to pay friends and family to the tune of Naf. 3 million annually to rent Government office space for the various Ministries which results in Government paying double rent. Then I ask myself which people they are referring to that they are working for. I am therefore appealing to the citizens to demand that the next Government inform the public which people they are referring to when they say that they have the best interest of the people at heart.
As politicians and that includes myself we should not promise anything that we can't deliver especially to our young people because it sends the wrong message and gives us as politicians a bad image. Let us be serious about the running of this country and whoever is elected should at all times make sure that the laws are made not for the politicians but to empower and protect all the people of this country. CPA will ensure that this will be the order of the day. With the CPA there is light at the end of the tunnel so we are encouraging our people to have no fear but on Election Day make a change and vote us in Government, which I'm sure that you will not regret. Government is a serious business so let's treat it as such. Let's turn this chaos into order but it can only be done when you the people see it fit to restore order back into our government by electing people that cares about your affairs.

C. Jeffrey Richardson
Leader
Concordia Political Alliance aka CPA

Sint Maarten is about to get its 3rd government, based on the election results of less than three years ago. This does not feel right or "democratic." Core of the problem is that, on the one hand, none of the three political parties on the island can be blamed for having developed a political ideology that their members can relate to (opportunistic motives seem to be more predominant than anything else...), and that on the other hand, and even more important, in practice too much power lies with political "swingers".
Political swingers are parliamentarians who decide from one day to the next that they no longer support the party that gained them their seat, call themselves "independent", and suddenly decide to support other political parties or coalitions. Political ideology does not form an obstacle in doing so, as it is lacking, while it seems quite obvious that the urge to jump ship is primarily based on opportunistic motives of these political swingers. Again, this does not feel very democratic, righteous, or proper.
To enhance the possibility that parties will develop a well thought through ideology, laws should be put in place to bring a halt to these political swingers. It would be good, if the laws would be changed and forbid political swinging. If a parliamentarian decides to no longer support his "own" party, he should be obligated to give up his seat and make place for the person of that party who, based on the election results, is next in line.
In other words: if a parliamentarian of the NA, DP, or UP elects to no longer support "his" party, he should not have the right to call himself an independent parliamentarian and support another party or coalition. As said, such a parliamentarian should instead make place for the next in line of respectively the NA, DP, or UP party. The only exception that could be considered is for those persons who got sufficient personal votes to gain a seat by themselves.
Changing the law in this direction would definitely feel more democratic and just. After all, no one in his right mind can honestly state and defend that what is and has been transpiring in our political arena still represents the outcome of the elections that were held in September 2010, and thus is mandated by the electorate that voted back then. To that respect, it is incomprehensible that the present discussion about whether or not the Council of Ministers can dissolve Parliament is even being held, as any self-respecting parliamentarian and minister should at this point want to hear the opinion of the electorate in new elections.

Roeland Zwanikken and Joeri Essed
Partners at BZSE Attorneys at Law/Tax Lawyers

Dear Editor,

There is no way that MP Romain Laville can pass the screening to be appointed as minister of Country St. Maarten.

MP Laville is a suspect in a criminal investigation of which the verdict has not yet been given.

MP Laville allegedly threatened to shoot and kill his fellow MP Jules James, who according to his own statement filed an official complaint to that extent with the local authorities.

Seemingly this investigation is still ongoing. I dare the Prime Minister to send on a positive screening result for MP Laville knowing that the above mentioned investigation is hanging over his head.

I am positive that the Governor of Country St. Maarten, a man of integrity, will not go along with a positive screening result for MP Laville and as such will not allow the appointment of MP Laville as a Minister of Country St. Maarten.

I also believe that it is necessary for the Attorney General of Country Curacao and St. Maarten to have the local investigative agencies take a hard look at the circumstances surrounding the fall of the government. No stone should be left un turned to safeguard the name of country St. Maarten.

This country needs people who are upright, sincere and honest to govern. The days of the dynasty must come to an end. No longer shall the priorities of government be self enrichment, nepotism and cronyism.

How in the world is it possible that persons, who were known to be normal middle class citizens in a comunity, join politics, earning salaries as commissioners and council members, which appearantly were nothing to talk about, became millionaires and multi millionaires in a relatively short period of time.

St. Maarten we can do better.

Todd PETERSON

Behind you is Infinite power, before you is endless Possibilities
and around you are Boundless Opportunities

I do not know who to direct this letter to or to which supervisory body, but I am hopeful that someone will listen and that this does not continue to happen to others.
On Monday, May 06, 2013, I took my son to Dr. Angelica Arrindell's office to get his monthly asthma medication and to complete a medical recommendation form to clear him for camp this summer. There were no patients and the doctor was sitting in the waiting area, so she saw us immediately. I gave the doctor my son's medical file and she began to write the prescription for his medication. While she was writing, I also explained to her that I needed the camp medical form to be completed as well. Before I could retrieve the document from my bag, Dr. A. Arrindell stopped writing the prescription, sat back in her chair and began her tirade. She raised her voice and said she is not filling out any forms because they take too much time. I was immediately taken aback, but my reply was simple: "The same amount of time it would take you to listen to my son's lungs and take his blood pressure, which you don't do, you could fill out the form."
She attempted to concede by saying that all she is going to do is write on a sheet of paper that my son is in good health. Granted my son's asthma is under control, but I immediately thought, he is going to show up to camp in the woods of Minnesota with a bag of three different asthma medications and two allergy medications and the Health Office is going to accept a paper without any supporting documentation that my son is in good health? Dr. Arrindell then went on to say how people will not pay her $5.00 for the paper that she has to write the prescriptions on and that she has a business. Several months ago when I went to her office and commented about the different prescription pad she had, she seethed about this $5.00 fee she wanted to charge and that she received a hit to her mouth from a patient when she asked him or her to pay. Granted a doctor's practice is a business which she so clearly shouted, but if the doctor cannot meet the needs of her patients and starts ranting and raving about money, then Dr. Arrindell will have no patients; thus, no business. Dr. Arrindell never indicated that there is an additional fee to complete medical forms for camp and there is no sign in her waiting room either. The only thing she made clear was that it takes too much time for her to fill out.
I attempted to show her the form and said that I at least need her signature on it. She replied by saying how is she going to sign it if she does not know what is on it and she should charge a fee to fill out forms. If Dr. A. Arrindell had taken the opportunity to look at the form she would have seen that it was only one page that required the following information:

  1. Her name, address, telephone number and the date it was completed
  2. The reason the child is under the physicians care
  3. The treatment(s) the child must continue at camp
  4. The list of medication(s) the child should take to camp and a medical order for administration (a prescription)
  5. List any allergies and method of treatment
  6. List any limitations that may impact the child's participation in the program.

If I were asking for a service that was beyond the expected fee for a consultation, then Dr. Arrindell should have indicated that to me right away and I would have gladly paid. I stood up, took the prescription for my son's asthma medication, told her that since it is too much trouble for her to complete the form then forget it. As I was walking out the office, she had the temerity to yell out the following: "Go to the states and have a doctor there fill it out and see if they don't charge you." At which point, I stopped in the middle of the waiting room where another patient was sitting, turned around and threw back these words: "No, I'll just go to the French side and pay for it."
So Dr. Arrindell is concerned about time. Well I hope she considers this - she will have more time to sit in her own waiting room looking for two more patients to replace the ones she just lost today. Somehow this doctor has lost her way and forgotten her mission. I do not know what oath she took upon graduation from medical school but she has surely forgotten a part of the Physician's Oath : "I will practice my profession with conscience and dignity". Neither was present in her office that afternoon.

Sincerely,

Marie Richardson

Climate change has been described as one of the crisis of our day. Latin American and the Caribbean are predicted to be one of the regions most affected by a temperature spike that has been forecasts to take place during this century. Adapting to changes today will increase the Caribbean's resilience to future disasters.

For Latin America and the Caribbean, if global temperatures were to rise four (4) degrees Celsius by 2100, according to the study, "Turning down the Heat," the possible consequences would be increased high-intensity storms, reduced arable land and the loss of low-lying regions.

Today, the global climate is changing, and regions around the globe must adapt to in order to maximize their resilience to the changes. This resilience means ensuring Caribbean infrastructure can withstand the new climatic extremes that have been forecasted; growing a wider variety of crops, which perform well in droughts, floods and heat, as well as guaranteeing future crops through seed-banks.

Prioritizing land use to preserve and manage multiple threats; implementing emergency response plans and early-warning alert systems; developing social safety nets and insurance to protect the region's most vulnerable groups; sharing best practices and information systems between countries; monitoring the region's weather and climate.

In April the National Meteorological Services of North, Central American and the Caribbean met in Curacao to discuss matters of common interest, including preparations for the upcoming hurricane season.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands has changed since 10-10-10 where Sint Maarten has its own Meteorological Department. A significant development happened in April when the four directors of the Met services in the Kingdom seized the opportunity to have their first joint meeting, to explore opportunities for mutual support and capacity building. These include common training of staff, regional modelling for weather forecasting and joint research on climate change.

I hope the St. Maarten Meteorological Department will develop a paper to present to the Council of Ministers and the Parliament of Sint Maarten in order to bring forth the climate change issue to the top of the country's national agenda as one of the "crisis of our day." No attention or very little has been given to this topic. It is a national issue for more than 130 countries around the globe.

Dealing with climate change will have consequences for the National Development Plan (NDP) that is currently being developed as well as for future national budgets. Planning for climate change needs to be started today, and not tomorrow.

The 2007 Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change identified this global phenomenon as the most serious threat to the long-term socio-economic development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and Country Sint Maarten is one of those islands.

Barbados as a Caribbean country is placing emphasis on further developing its early warning systems to address climate extremes, as concerns surrounding climate change continue to grow. Barbados is doing so as it relates to atmospheric and ocean climate, to support economic and social considerations for the island.

Among the measures being sought are practical solutions for farmers in watersheds who are experiencing negative impacts related to drought, and those affected by floods. Barbados has to find practical solutions for farmers in watersheds by understanding drainage and precipitation issues, retain excess rainwater where feasible, and augment supply consistently during drought conditions.

Barbados Coastal Risk Assessment and Management Unit were designed to develop credible models for coastal erosion, storm surges, inundation and cliff stability for extreme events.

The Caribbean island of Jamaica has been examining the idea of concepts for Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Action (NAMA) projects in Jamaica's energy sector that have climate change mitigation potential.

Various Caribbean island nations are in different stages in addressing climate change that is expected to impact future generations. Country Sint Maarten's current generation has a moral responsibility to also address this issue described by others as the "crisis of our day." We should move post haste in addressing this issue at the executive and legislative branches of government. Starting the adaptation process today will increase our country's resilience.

Roddy Heyliger

"Money is like an iron ring we've put through our noses. We've forgotten that we designed it, and it's now leading us around. I think it's time to figure out where we want to go -- in my opinion toward sustainability and community -- and then design a money system that gets us there." - Bernard Lietaer –

In part one the three financial laws were given. To recap, the first law of money is multiplication. The second law of money is retention. The third law is diligence. In the parable of the talents (see Matthew 25:14-30) the two of three servants were faithful because they multiplied their seeds while retaining the original seed and then simultaneously multiplying the seeds again. This third stage is the stage of investment. Only by actively managing your personnel financial affairs successfully (active budgeting and expense tracking) can you be in a position to accomplish all three laws. However, because money no longer serves the purpose for which it was created, following financial laws alone would not be sufficient to survive the inevitable pending collapse of the money system. To explain, let us say two investors see the warning signs of the future collapse of the money system and decided to act upon these signs to preserve their so called wealth. The fact that both recognise the same warning signs is a good start. However how they prepare will differ greatly. Investor A decided to invest in capital assets that enable him to produce 80% of his basic needs such as food, water, and energy. Investor B decided to invest in real estate rental apartments and in paper assets such as stocks and bonds. When the money system collapses or there is hyperinflation, which investor do you think will weather the storm better?
Henry Kissinger once said: "Who controls the food supply controls the people; who controls the energy can control whole continents; who controls money can control the world." Theodore Roosevelt once said: "Control of money was outsourced by almost all governments to private elite bankers. Issue of currency should be lodged with the government and be protected from domination by Wall Street. We are opposed to...provisions [which] would place our currency and credit system in private hands." But I think Napoleon Bonaparte said it best: "When a government is dependent upon bankers for money, they [the bankers] and not the leaders of the government control the situation, since the hand that gives is above the hand that takes... Money has no motherland; financiers are without patriotism and without decency; their sole object is gain." – Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of France, 1815 -
Money is being created out of thin air, being misallocated, being kept artificially scarce for many, and its creation [and redemption] bares no relationship with the amount of finite natural resources of the planet, the same resources that are needed to create material wealth in the first place. Interest in turn, which does not exist in the economy outright, is owed back to bankers who gave up nothing of their own to deserve it. This interest, because it does not exist in the economy outright as only the principle is created during the loan creation process, forces cancerous growth as new money must in turn be created out of thin air again to cover all the interest that is owed which again in turn repeats the cycle of money creation out of thin air. And if you have more money chasing the same amount of material wealth, the only result is higher prices.
"The existing private banking system imposes artificial scarcity on the public. Private banks do this by withholding loans to small businesses, moving money out of the communities that do business with the banks, and being beholden to shareholders rather than local customers. Monopolies of any resources create artificial scarcity. In the case of money, that scarcity results in inequality that hinders common folks' purchasing and investment power. Simply put, money is limited by bankers as if it were a precious metal, when it's more like a simple metric, like inches — something we can never run out of." - Artificial Scarcity and Public Banking, PBI Newsletter, April 2013 -
Right now people need to protect their wealth. Sadly if your wealth is money then you are in trouble. The value of money changes every day. Furthermore, money wealth can be wiped out depending on what so called legal institutions do and the unregulated Forex Market as mentioned in part 2. True wealth however cannot be wiped out so easily like money/financial wealth can. But what is wealth really? Wealth provides a type of safety net of protection against an unforeseen decline in one's living standard in the event of job loss. So in theory one can determine how wealthy they are by asking the following question: How long, in months, can I live on what I have put aside without having a job for income? A good rule of thumb is to take your assets value and divide by your average monthly expenses for maintaining your living standards. A huge caveat however is that depending on what your assets are their values can fluctuate upwards and downwards and also the cost of living. This in turn can affect the outcome of the formula and thus drastically change your wealth in months. This is why I like Adam Smith's concept of wealth.
Adam Smith, in his seminal work The Wealth of Nations, described wealth as "the annual produce of the land and labour of the society". This "produce" is, at its simplest, that which satisfies human needs and wants of utility. Wealth is the fundamental thing. Wealth is stuff we want: food, clothes, houses, cars, gadgets, travel to interesting places, and so on. You can have wealth without having money. If you had a magic machine that could on command make you a car or cook you dinner or do your laundry, or do anything else you wanted, you wouldn't need money. Whereas if you were in the middle of Antarctica, where there is nothing to buy, it wouldn't matter how much money you had. Wealth is what you want, not money. Adapted from: http://www.paulgraham.com/wealth.html
In closing, Money, in its current form as the medium of exchange, has not lived up to its potential as a liberator. Barter trade was alleviated by the use of an agreed upon medium – money-. But now money is getting in the way and it is now also considered cumbersome. "When the division of labor has been once thoroughly established, it is but a very small part of a man's wants which the produce of his own labor can supply.– Adam Smith, Wealth Of Nations, p. 29. "A person can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in their own toil. This too, I see, is from the hand of God - Ecclesiastes 2:24.

Emilio Kalmera

Dear Editor,

With great dissatisfaction we have been following the so-called "budget debate". During this farce we've seen and heard it all. We've seen valid points mixed with the efforts of being against things JUST for being against's sake, then seeing the same people who were against vote against their own point and in favor of what they were against!

We've seen the lack of testicular fortitude, the lack of any dualism and the so familiar dance of following party lines. All of a sudden motions were brought forward in this budget debate, which should have been brought forward to Parliament long time ago, so the people could have been able to give those newly added motions and topics the necessary attention separate from the dark cloud of the budget above their heads.

The social ills that our young country is facing are increasing and worsening rapidly. The people of young beautiful St. Maarten are dealing with the isolation of our elderly, youth unemployment, the destruction of our environment, crime, domestic violence, health issues and much more. Besides some welcomed initiatives from the Ministry of Labor, Health and Social affairs we didn't hear anything about parliament attacking these issues.

Witnessing the incompetence of our parliament makes one wonder if this country is really destined to be doomed? But look and behold! There is some light at the end of the tunnel! Lately, we have been seeing more and more social initiatives. Foundations and other NGO's, both local and abroad, are more and more presenting initiatives to tackle these social issues. Behind these foundations and other NGO's are people like you and us, common folk. Every day hundreds of volunteers get up with one mission on their mind: help the people of St. Maarten, the newly born, the youth, the elderly, the handicapped, the mentally ill and protecting the environment we all live in. After all this is Sint Maarten, this is Soualiga!

This young nation is blessed that we have so many people with compassion amongst ourselves! It is high time that our parliamentarians take a look at these volunteers, then take a look at their paychecks and benefits and then finally, a very long look in the mirror. They say 'there is strength in numbers, but parliamentarians need to realize the phrase is not talking about the numbers on their paycheck. We are more than numbers! #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

"If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks...will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.... The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs." – Thomas Jefferson in the debate over the Re-charter of the Bank Bill (1809).
Money, a temporary placeholder of value, sole purpose was to alleviate barter trading. This temporary placeholder can be anything based upon an agreement among the community. This agreed upon medium should enable the community to measure its value much like one can measure and convert between inches and feet, kilograms and pounds, etc. For example we know that 12 inches is equivalent to 1 foot. Before 1971 a similar yard stick of measuring was in place for the dollar. Thirty Five dollars ($35) was the equivalent to one (1) ounce of gold. Said in a different way the dollar was defined at 1/35 of a gold ounce. After 1971 this measurement was abandon and money became unmeasurable. Why unmeasurable? Because its value now fluctuates at the whim of speculators and the banking system. Take for example the foreign exchange market. There is an extremely good article titled "Why It's Important To Regulate Foreign Exchange" that you should read which can be found here: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-important-regulate-foreign-exchange-204500318.html
In this article it states: 'The foreign exchange (forex) market is the world's biggest financial market by far. According to the Bank for International Settlements (BIS)'s triennial survey, global Forex turnover in April 2010 averaged a staggering $4.0 trillion daily, an increase of 20 percent from $3.3 trillion three years earlier. In an increasingly globalized economy, the significance of the foreign exchange marketplace to the average consumer cannot be underestimated. The rate at which our domestic currency can be exchanged in the global forex market determines the price we pay for an increasing number of products, the price-tag for our vacations, the rate of return on our investments (ROI), and even the interest rate on our loans and deposits. And yet, despite the importance of this market, where currency gyrations can dictate the fortunes of everyone from the largest nation to the smallest consumer, foreign exchange remains a largely unregulated business. Although foreign exchange has traditionally been regarded as the exclusive domain of the biggest banks and corporations - recent trends have dispelled this notion, making it increasingly important for foreign exchange to come under the ambit of regulation.' The article goes on to mention the rampant speculation on this Forex market. It states: 'Transactions in the foreign exchange market can be broadly classified into two types – commercial and speculative. A commercial transaction is one that is backed by an underlying economic activity such as payment for an import or a loan to an overseas entity. A speculative transaction, on the other hand, is one that is undertaken purely to make a profit from currency moves. Speculative transactions greatly exceed commercial transactions in the realm of foreign exchange, and have been accounting for a greater share of forex trading volumes over the years. Also, currency trading volume in the 1970s was only about six times the value of global trade in goods and services, but by 1995, daily forex trading volume of $1.2 trillion was approximately 50 times this value.'
What is clear, if you have not already caught on, is that non-democratic institutions (not chosen or elected by the people) and speculators have in their power the ability to control, impoverish, etc the masses.
Workers around the world have vastly increased their productivity, yet their standard of living has fallen drastically. How many people work two jobs to pay back money created 'out of thin air' using their own personal credit? How many millions in countries die premature deaths because 'there's no money' for food and doctor's bills? How many people in the 'Third World' starve to death because their countries are burdened with enormous debts to international bankers? (In mid-2001, foreign debt owed to Western bankers was $3,000,000,000,000 - three trillion dollars!). Adapted from: http://www.federal-reserve.net/healthemoneysystem.htm. For people who can visualize one million dollars, the comparison made on CNN should give you an idea about a trillion – "if you start spending a million dollars every single day since Jesus was born, you still wouldn't have spend a trillion dollars". Another mathematician puts it like this: "1 million seconds is about 11.5 days, 1 billion seconds is about 32 years while a trillion seconds is equal to 32,000 years". This brings me to the debt situation which globally stands at over 50 trillion dollars and climbing exponentially. And mind you, this debt is supposed to be repaid by wages and salaries. Sadly however, wages and salaries are showing a decline so it will be very interesting to see mathematically how such exponential growing debt will ever be repaid by non-exponential growing wages and salaries that have to service the same debt. "Money is a new form of slavery, and distinguishable from the old simply by the fact that it is impersonal – that there is no human relation between master and slave." Leo Tolstoy, Russian writer.
In part 3, the final part I will wrap up and give my conclusion.

Emilio Kalmera

There are a number of things that our destination needs to carry out in order for tourism to continue to grow. Just to name a few: upgrading our current tourism infrastructure; sustainable tourism development; and the introduction of new tours in the area of cultural and heritage tourism. Country Sint Maarten must remain innovative and think outside the box.

2012 was a good year for Caribbean tourism as there was a 5.4 per cent increase in stay-over visitors. This rate of growth outpaced the rest of the world, which saw arrivals increase by four per cent. Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Beverly Nicholson-Doty, said 2012 was the best year for the region in five years. Visitor traffic to the region is expected to increase by another four to five per cent in 2013.

The region has as a whole regained ground lost from the global economic depression of 2008/2009. Last year the Caribbean welcomed nearly 25 million tourists.

Our national economic interest has been mainly focused on the North American and European markets with some attention to the Latin American market where it concerns attracting visitors to our destination from those areas. We now need to draft a strategy that will grow and diversify our tourism by looking to the East. China has a population of over 1.6 billion.

The 10 most ranked destinations for Chinese tourists according to the China National Tourism Administration are Hong Kong, Macao, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Russia, Singapore, Australia, the USA and Malaysia.

The groundwork is being laid to boost Chinese tourist arrivals to the region. Tourism cooperation is a top priority in China-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) dialogue. Caribbean countries that have established diplomatic relations with China have been listed as 'Approved Tourism Destinations' for Chinese citizens. This means that Caribbean tour companies can promote and market regional destinations to Chinese tour operators, who in turn can organize and advertise tours to islands in the region.

Even though China is far away, there are direct connections through major cities in the USA which makes it accessible for affluent Chinese travelers. For example, Sint Maarten could be promoted as an additional stop, inviting Chinese tourists to visit the destination for a few days as part of their vacation to the West (USA).

China's flag carrier "Air China," is increasing its flights to North American hubs, and developing partnerships with carriers that fly to the Caribbean. It is the best route according to the Vice President and General Manager of North America for Air China Dr. Zhihang Chi. Gateway cities such as Miami, Atlanta and New York City would work well for the Caribbean.

A Boston Consulting Group study forecast that 100 million Chinese will be traveling internationally by 2015, compared to 57 million in 2010, 65 million in 2011 and 83 million in 2012. Chinese tend to travel in groups and like to sight-see and visit multiple destinations. A typical Chinese tourist will spend up to US$6000 per trip.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (WTO), Chinese tourists are outspending the Germans and US visitors. China's spending on outbound travel swelled to US$102 billion last year, a 40 per cent jump from 2011.

According to the WTO, the rise of the Chinese travel market has big implications for businesses, with everyone from airlines and hoteliers to luxury brands beginning to change their strategies to attract China's tourists.

Many Chinese tourists plan their travel specifically with shopping in mind, as taxes on luxury goods boost price tags by 30 to 50 per cent in China. A KPMG consulting firm survey of 1,200 Chinese shoppers said they bought watches in Hong Kong, Taiwan or Macau during the 12-month prior to August 2012, while only 31 per cent said they bought one within China's borders during that time.

The internet is the mode of communication for 457 million Chinese. There are more internet users in China than the U.S. has in total population – 311 million. Jamaica has courted Chinese tourism, and developed a website in Chinese that received more than two billion hits following a visit from Jamaica's Minister of Tourism.

Continue to grow our tourism oriented economy involves thinking outside the box. In order to maintain a vibrant sector, investments will have to continue to be made by public and private sectors. The traditional markets that we have grown accustomed too will continue to garner our attention and support, however we need now to think outside of the box and consider looking East when we take into consideration growth and opportunity for the people of our country in the 21st century.

Roddy Heyliger

I have to start by saying that I am by no means a financial expert but so many people can comment on the budget I thought I would put in my two cents. In the first place, the reason that this current government was having so much trouble with the budget is because the CFT demanded that 25 Million be cut from the budget. Understand that with a budget of just over 400 Million, this is a reduction of 6.25% which is no small amount.
The reason for the request from the CFT is due to past budgets being unrealistic and never balanced, yet people are actually trying to place the blame on this current government. I actually feel that this government and especially the Ministry of Finance is doing a good job with the budget all things considered. We must remember that SOAB once said that Government finances were in such a mess that they were unable to audit them. Who may I ask was in government then?
The SHTA and other had some criticism of the budget, which I think is a good thing. Posting the entire budget online for all to see was something courageous and a good example of good governance and transparency. Having said that though, I would need the SHTA to enlighten me on a few things. It is said that many of the major hotel properties on the island have tax exempt status (some for many years now) and yet with a reduction of the marketing budget for tourism, the SHTA complains. This confuses me because if I remember correctly, this tax exempt status is based on the hotels themselves using the money for promotion. Please correct me if I am wrong.
The SHTA and its members cannot have it both ways, you can't ask for tax exemptions and then expect government to foot the bill for everything. This also goes for other sectors of the economy. There was a report that indicated that we have a tax compliance of 30%, can you imagine if we bring that tax compliance up to 70 or 80%. We can lower taxes considerably and everyone can be happy. The business sector cannot expect government to rely on wage tax, which is paid by employees, to be the only thing government collects.
What the SHTA and other business entities should also concern themselves with is employee satisfaction. What I mean is, as a little boy I would see our local people in the stores on Front Street and the restaurants happy to do their jobs but they were mostly working on commission or for tips. Now the employers are actually keeping the tips and commission for sales is something of the past. It may be a god project for SHTA to advise their members to allow individuals to keep their tips and re-institute commission on sales, this may increase our level of service and in turn grow the economy. A happy worker is a good worker.
In addition, I personally favor a lowering of the wage and profit taxes, a simplification of the tax system and the implementation of a sales tax. The argument that this would hurt our economy does not hold water since several islands in the region have a sales or value added tax plus most of the countries that our visitors come from also have this. I can't see a tourist saying: " I not going to St. Maarten, because they have a sales tax'. It just won't happen. This tax should also help to increase compliance and lower tax burden on everyone.
There is some noise being made about dollarization again something that I am totally against and remain so. I have yet to hear a valid economic argument for dollarization. I hear things like, we are used to the dollar, it will increase investment, more tourist will come and we need to get away from Curacao. That last one was discussed by the SER and although they didn't back dollarization 100% they seemed to be leaning towards it. However in there review the argument was that Curacao being part of the Central Bank could harm St. Maarten economy. This may be true but we have been part of the central bank for 50 years now and to date the bank has done nothing to harm our economy.
If we as a country want to establish our own bank, let's just say so but to consider dollarization for this reason indicates to me that those supporting this option for this reason have no confidence in our ability to run a Central Bank. Lastly, the foreign exchange tax adds between 26 to 29 Million to the budget and nobody has convinced me that we can get these funds from somewhere else. That is 7.2% of the total budget. We have to be careful not to make decisions based on emotions and not fiscal sense.
So as not to disappoint calypsonian Fish De Mega Boss, let me take a few lines to answer Mr. Maurice Lake. On Friday I read your article, in fact I read it twice and it still didn't make any sense. Who are these elderly people that are complaining about the government? Did these elderly people also get the increase in the pension that was implemented by this government? I also would like to know, in the 10 to 12 years you were in this seat I now occupy, what exactly did you or the Government you support do for your elderly friends?
I am only asking you these questions because I find your last couple of articles repetitive and boring, so maybe if you answer these questions in some detail your article may be more interesting. In your articles you come with not one idea, suggestion or positive comment, yet you accuse the members of Parliament of doing the same.
I do agree with you that the level of discussion in Parliament needs to improve but this improvement has to start with your UP members. We can all expect politicians to be political but somewhere in there needs to be at the very least a question. Like you, I listened to the meetings and sometimes members of the UP would talk for an hour and ask not one question.
Your article on Monday was pretty much of the same, just more complaints. What I don't understand Mr. Lake is that you were in Government position for a long time, where were all these ideas then. You really think that St. Maarten people are fools. The majority of the mess we find ourselves in right now is because of the Government you support. Now you expect us to believe that you REALLY have our best interest at heart? I don't think so.
Your role here is to try to confuse the population into thinking that the UP could do a better job but you need to remember that you had your chance and just about a year ago, pressure from the population kicked the UP out of government. That decision was not only made by the Independent-3, it was due to pressure from the very population you are now trying to fool.
The public has to realize that when reading articles many have an agenda. I must admit that even my articles have an agenda but I do try to squeeze in an idea or suggestion here and there. It leads to better reading.

Kendall Dupersoy

It is as ridiculous for a nation to say to its citizens, "You must consume less because we are short of money," as it would be for an airline to say, "Our planes are flying, but we cannot take you because we are short of tickets." -- Sheldon Emry, Billions for The Bankers, Debts for the People –
In one of the 2012 editions of Occupy Money, Professor Margrit Kennedy writes that a stunning 35% to 40% of everything we buy goes to interest. This interest goes to bankers, financiers, and bondholders, who take a 35% to 40% cut of our GDP. That helps explain how wealth is systematically transferred from Main Street to Wall Street. The rich get progressively richer at the expense of the poor, not just because of "Wall Street greed" but because of the inexorable mathematics of our private banking system.
This hidden tribute to the banks will come as a surprise to most people, who think that if they pay their credit card bills on time and don't take out loans, they aren't paying interest. This, says Dr. Kennedy, is not true. Tradesmen, suppliers, wholesalers and retailers all along the chain of production rely on credit to pay their bills. They must pay for labor and materials before they have a product to sell and before the end buyer pays for the product 90 days later. Each supplier in the chain adds interest to its production costs, which are passed on to the ultimate consumer. Dr. Kennedy cites interest charges ranging from 12% for garbage collection, to 38% for drinking water to, 77% for rent in public housing in her native Germany. Source: http://www.globalresearch.ca/its-the-interest-stupid-why-bankers-rule-the-world/5311030
Money is a human creation that has evolved over centuries. Much of the present misery in the world derives from a general failure to understand the nature of money, banking, and credit. Compound interest causes debt to grow exponentially. That debt will grow at an accelerating rate over time. If one of your ancestors had borrowed $100 one hundred years ago at 10% interest, his estate would owe $1,378,065 today. Therefore the first law of money is multiplication.
The first law of money is described in detailed in the parable of the talent in scripture (see Matthew 25:14-30). The first law can also be seen in nature where one seed is able to grow a tree which in turn bares many fruits which also has seeds that is able to repeat or multiply the process many times. So it is not wrong to like nice things such as BMW for example. It is the way one goes about getting the BMW that can be the issue. As oppose to taking a loan to buy a BMW, I would first make an investment and leave the returns or profits from the investment pay for the BMW. The beauty of this approach is that once you spend the profits from the investment you will still have the money that you had initially used to make the investment so you can start the process again to buy other nice things. The only drawback to this approach is time.
In order to multiply seed or money you need to have it in the first place. This is where the second law of money comes in. The second law of money is retention. You cannot multiply seed or money if you cannot save some to multiply in the first place. So the more you can save the more one is able to multiply seed. The key to retention is not necessarily how much money you make but how much you keep (retain).
The third law of money is diligence. In order to multiply seed using the surplus/savings you have stored up, you would need to invest it wisely. One of the first rules I got in my investment class during my studies was that you should never put all your eggs in one basket. So diversification is the big word to describe just that. But I think scripture says it even better. Here is what Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 (New Living Translation) has to say: "The Uncertainties of Life – 11 Send your grain across the seas, and in time, profits will flow back to you. 2 But divide your investments among many places, for you do not know what risks might lie ahead. 3 When clouds are heavy, the rains come down. Whether a tree falls north or south, it stays where it falls. 4 Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. 5 Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind or the mystery of a tiny baby growing in its mother's womb, so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things. 6 Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don't know if profit will come from one activity or another—or maybe both."
Now why are these financial laws so important for one to abide by even more so today? Stay tuned for part two to find out.

Emilio Kalmera

Dear Editor,

Like many concerned citizens in our community, I too have been paying keen attention to the recent developments with Divi hotel erecting a closed gate and thereby blocking access to Fort Amsterdam.
No one, including me believes their excuse for the closed gate and a sign that reads: No Unauthorized Admittance, All visitors must request written permission from Little Bay Beach Hotel as a way to safeguard people's safety.
High winds and cliffs have been part of Fort Amsterdam for centuries. Fort Luis in Marigot has the same type of cliffs and visitors experience high winds at times, yet Fort Luis is open to the public every day for everyone to experience our history and the beautiful views.
With this most recent action from the Divi Hotel it proves that they are playing hard ball in trying to get what they want, and they are dead set on holding Fort Amsterdam hostage. Divi hotel is insulting and disrespecting St.Maarteners with their latest move.
If they were truly a hotel that cared about the people's heritage, their sign would read: " Welcome to Fort Amsterdam" "Tour this historical fort, all are welcome" a security guard could be placed at the entrance to stop motorized vehicles from entering, and the guard could welcome and guide visitors at the starting point. They could even charge a $2 fee per person, with monies going to keep the fort clean and maintained. Guided tours organized by their activities desk for $5. a person. This is how a friendly resort would promote one of our prime heritage sites on the island.
Fort Amsterdam is the sole zoned heritage site on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, and it appears that Divi Hotel is keen on making us all suffer because they would never be able to build hotel rooms and other facilities on this historically valuable location.
Yes, poor decisions were made in the past when Claude Wathey and others in government sold the fort back in the 1960's, the people mass rallied and held protests in the 1980's that forced government to seek ways and means to reverse a bad decision into trying to protect this fort.
Today we have a generation of people more informed and caring about their heritage. While Fort Amsterdam is known as a 17th. century fort, built by Europeans and slave labor, The fort played an important role in the 20th century as well. Miss Lori de Weever, lived on the fort with her 5 children, she hoisted the flags when the ships would enter the bay. During the 1970's the fort was also the location of what is now known as the radio station PJD2.
Instead of the Daily Herald editorial advocating an appeasement in allowing Divi Hotel a compromise to build, the media should really be looking into the public access road that once was there. What has happened to this access road? Did Divi include it in their property rights? Was this public access road part of the original deed of transfer? If so, who allowed this and who should be held responsible for this?
We have already lost so much history and nature in the past 45 years, that it becomes urgent to protect and respect the few and little we have remaining. Divi Hotel has to stop holding the fort hostage and penalizing Sint Maarteners for recognizing and appreciating our history.

Jadira Veen
President
St. Maarten Pride Foundation

WINAIR was stopped from flying critically ill patients from Saba and Statia to St. Maarten after 50 years of doing so successfully, professionally and with zero loss of life; young people under 18 years are not allowed to operate boats with even a 2HP out-board engine because the Coast Guard is going to "apply the law"; local fishermen can't go out at night to fish or early mornings to pull their pots, because they run the risk of being taken for drug dealers by the same Coast Guard; now DIVI LITTLE BAY decided that it is too dangerous to visit Fort Amsterdam and its surroundings, a favorite place of my childhood friends and I to roam in the fifties and sixties when I lived "Downstreet" at the "foot of town" in Philipsburg. I fully understand the fear of lawsuits that are so frivolously brought by especially US citizens against companies that do business in the USA and have either deep pockets and/or good insurance coverage, but the DIVI move to put up a fence and require all of us to get their permission to visit "our" fort again highlights how ulterior motives and the application of sometimes ridiculous, badly thought-out, good-for-big-country laws are quickly changing the "way of life" on little Sweet St. Maarten/St. Martin Land, the same "way of life" that probably drew DIVI and many others (who now profess to know so much more than us) to our shores. Here is what I suggest: When the government finds the millions of dollars to buy the Emilio Wilson Estate, hopefully they will find a few more so the most historic fort on Dutch St. Maarten can be bought back and opened with no restrictions to all of us again. In the mean time a request to Divi: TEAR DOWN THAT FENCE! (Ronald Reagan) and suffice with lots of signs, warning not-so-smart people that they roam the fort at their own responsibility!

MJF
Michael J. Ferrier

Indian Cardiologist Dr. Devi Shetty, the main partner behind the planned Health City Cayman Islands, last November offered 100 free heart surgeries to patients in the Cayman Islands, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Anyone who wants additional information about the heart surgery offer should call (345) 769-2273 (Cayman Islands) or check Health City Cayman Islands website at www.healthcitycaymanislands.com.

Dr. Shetty says one out of 140 children worldwide is born with heart defects. It is believed that 23,000 people in the Caribbean need to undergo heart surgery every year, but less than 1,000 actually undergo the operation.

The Health City Cayman Islands is approximately 10-months away from the first heart surgery. The first phase of the medical complex includes a 140-bed hospital which is scheduled to begin operation in early 2014.

Dr. Devi Shetty's offer of the free operations, to be carried out at his hospital in Bangalore, India, was open to mainly children, but also mothers of young children and the breadwinners in families.

The donation of the surgeries includes the operation, meals and accommodation for a patient and one relative. The offer does not include the cost of the flight to India. The patient and family member would be met at the India airport and assisted through the process leading up to the surgery, during and after the surgery.

Dr. Shetty announced the donations at a press conference on 30, November 2012 in the Cayman Islands, where he gave an update about the medical tourism project.

Some significant inroads are being made throughout the Caribbean. Besides the aforementioned free offer of heart surgeries and the potential for medical tourism which is becoming a reality throughout the Caribbean Basin, Trinidad and Tobago is currently the only Caribbean country that has the appropriate legislation that allows transplants to be performed and the only Caribbean country performing the same in a structured manner.

Trinidad & Tobago's National Organ Transplant Unit was established in January 2006 with a mandate to facilitate the safe and equitable transplantation of organs and tissue to patients living with organ failure in accordance with internationally acceptable standards.

Last month Cayman Islands legislators passed legislation legalizing kidney and other organ donations and transplants. The new law will, for the first time, allow the removal and implantation of organs and tissue from living or dead people to a patient in need of an organ or tissue.

In the Cayman Islands all patients waiting for a heart or kidney or liver transplant have to travel off island to have a transplant, even if the donor is a family member living on the island, and even if there is a surgeon willing to carry out the surgery, but the new law changes that.

The Trinidad & Tobago organ transplant unit/legislation and Cayman Island's recent passage of organ transplant legislation points out that parliaments within the region need to be pro-active with respect to legislation that will be needed to facilitate the quality of life in the interests of the people and the country that they serve.

Roddy Heyliger

Our country is at the moment at the cross roads of a dynamic process. The development of a National Development Plan (NDP) is as important as the Constitution of our Country. The goal of a Sint Maarten NDP is to guide the strategic development of the country within the medium to long term.

The next phase of our NDP process was a lecture by community activist and historian Daniella Jeffrey at USM on Monday. Jeffrey was to be joined by a rep from the United Nations Development Programme who discussed that agency's experience of engaging community in nation building.

The lecture will be followed up by an Open Forum for stakeholders (representatives from grass roots groups, private sector, academia and media) at Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort on Tuesday, April 9 at 6:30pm.

The forum will give attendees an opportunity to share their vision for the country and the way forward with the drafting of the NDP.

The NDP is about long term planning. It should be a plan that anticipates future challenges that country Sint Maarten will face and how these can be addressed early in our on-going national development.

An NDP should address the quality of life of a country's citizens. Sint Maarten has known more than 30-years of tourism economic development that has contributed positively in many areas, but has also left certain challenges on a number of fronts.

In the next phase of our country's national development, more emphasis needs to be placed in those areas that have been partly forgotten or still needs to be dealt with. We should strive for quality throughout all areas of national development. A quality living environment; quality society; quality work-life; quality education; quality health care; and quality security just to mention a few.

An NDP will be addressing anticipated challenges 10 (2023) to 20-years (2033) from now. The younger generations should not be burdened by lack of foresight. Solutions to problems must take into consideration the amount of time that would be needed to address the challenges. Infrastructure must be built a head of demand, therefore based on planning assumptions.

Two of the key factors are population growth and economic growth. Infrastructure needs of the nation must be based on those two key points, this way we will not be caught under-providing, as we are experiencing currently.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are currently being addressed by a United Nations (UN) workgroup to address environmental degradation that is threatening present and future generations. SDGs must go the extra mile to integrate environmental sustainability.

SDGs came out of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) conference of June 2012 where the conference document "The Future We Want," was the bed rock document for the process to establish SDGs. A proposed list is to be presented at the UN 68th General Assembly Session in September.

It has been said more than once by many around the world, that to safeguard the world we know today from climate change, nations around the globe will need to think about economic growth that won't be dependent on carbon-based energy systems.

The time tested survival mantra says, prepare for the worst, but hope for the best, should guide our process of national development. Forward thinking and planning will address the needs of our country for the 21st century. Achieving a sustainable future for country Sint Maarten, requires the input not just of Government but of business leaders, the grass roots, civil society organizations as well non-governmental organizations.

It is therefore very important to hear all voices within society in order to build a sound NDP from the ground-up that would advance economic, social, and environmental objectives in a balanced and integrated manner.

The NDP without a doubt is a process preparing the nation for 'The Future We Want' as Sint Maarteners.

Roddy Heyliger

Honorable Members of Parliament,

Today you will debate the budget as presented. In previous letters we have outlined our thoughts and concerns on the process and procedures followed to come to the draft budget 2013. Today a little bit about the economy, the taxpayers and why the only choice you have is to reject the budget.
We, the citizens and taxpayers, work either in the public or private sector, the private sector being the one that funds the public sector. If the private sector is not doing well/contracting, eventually the public sector will contract one way or another.

The GDP figures you use in your budget show at best a public sector growing at a considerably faster pace than the private sector. If we get away from your rosy predictions and base it on averages, last available figures and adjust for inflation, all off a sudden you have a rapidly expanding public sector needing increased funding from a rapidly diminishing private sector. How long do you think you can keep this up?

You are extrapolating on old data and making assumptions when it comes to GDP, Inflation, etc. You use figures that suit your cause. You say inflation will be 2% when the last three years have averaged over 4%, You say GDP will grow 1% per year when business sentiment is down and the last actual figures available are from 2009, 4 years old at this point. We had a census two years ago and yet you are using old figures.

You have a fiscal policy that BENEFITS companies not registered here and not paying taxes here, to the detriment of those that do! This damages our economy and any hope of investments, both foreign and local.

From our one and only pillar, tourism, you cut the promotional budget. You tax the liquor and cigarette business out of existence. What is next? Electronics? Jewelry? If people shop elsewhere you will get 40% tax on nothing. Hotels, restaurants, wholesalers and retailers will do less business. So will taxis, banks, accountants, lawyers, cleaners, GEBE, Telem, the harbor. So will your parents, your kids, cousins and friends and eventually, you, government will receive less also.

This strain on the private sector will affect your budget. If business is bad then tax revenue will be down. People will be laid off and unemployment will increase. This will wreak havoc on a social level, leading to less investment, less employment, higher crime etc. The logical end of this is that you will have a public sector and no private sector. You can raise taxes to 100% of everything, but 100% of zero is still 0. You have created and continue to promote a vicious cycle of economic contraction with an ever higher tax burden.

It is your duty to make sure that the taxpayer thrives. That is what we pay tax for! That is what you are elected to do and that is what you swore to uphold. Our Constitution has solidarity principles (Articles 18-22) they basically state that the following shall be of constant concern: (Article 18) Protection of children and the elderly, (Article 19) Certainty of existence, (Article 20), Promotion of employment, (Article 21) Promotion of public health, (Article 22) Protection of the environment and animal welfare.

It is impossible to do this if you have a contracting private sector that needs to fund this. Continuing this course will also lead to ever increasing taxation and loss of business. The next step will be an attack on our basic freedoms: (Article 2) Right to life, (Article 3) Prohibition of torture, (Article 4) Prohibition of slavery and forced labor, (Article 5) Respect for private life, (Article 06) Inviolability of the person, (Article 7) Right to a home, (Article 8) Confidentiality of post and telephone, (Article 9) Freedom of religion and personal convictions, (Article 10), Freedom of expression of opinions, (Article 11) Freedom of education, (Article 12) Freedom of association, (Article 13) Freedom of meeting and demonstration, (Article 14) Freedom of movement, (Article 15) Protection of property.

You will start taxing us out of our most basic rights and freedoms in your ever-increasing need for funding from a dwindling base. With the strong arm of the law you take from us what we have worked for and saved up through frugal spending. You will take from us what our parents have worked for. You take from our children that same bright future you promised us.

There are rules in the constitution when it comes to preparing the budget, there are 5 mentioned in Article 100: 1. The budget of the Country's income and expenditure shall be adopted under national ordinance. 2. The annual budget and the long-term budget shall be balanced. The provisions in the first sentence may be departed from if this is necessary in connection with the restoration of the damage caused by extraordinary events, including natural disaster, in accordance with rules issued under or by virtue of Kingdom law or national ordinance. 3. The government shall submit the budget to the Parliament in one or more drafts not later than on 1 September. 4. Reports on the Country's income and expenditure shall be submitted to the Parliament in accordance with the national ordinance. The accounts as investigated by the General Audit Chamber shall be submitted to the Parliament each year. 5. Rules in relation to the management of the Country's finances shall be specified by national ordinance.

Two were broken 2 already, that is barely a passing grade..

In the end it all boils down to biting the bullet in tough times and spending in a responsible and frugal way. Unfortunately right now there is no excess. This is a worldwide problem, but we need to deal with ours on a local level. That means stimulating the economy, stimulating the private sector and the effect of that will be increased government revenue with a LOWER tax burden and improvements in the standard of living for everyone in the private and public sector.

Our last point is the oath you swore upon entering office:

"I swear (declare) that I have neither given nor promised anything, nor shall I give or promise anything, howsoever described and under any pretext, to anyone whomsoever, either directly or indirectly, in connection with my election as a member of the Parliament. I swear (promise) that I shall not accept any promise or gift, from anyone at all, either directly or indirectly, in order to do or refrain from doing anything in the course of this appointment. I swear (promise) allegiance to the King and the Constitution of the Kingdom, that I shall always help to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and that I shall champion the interests of Sint Maarten to the best of my ability.

You are now faced with a budget that was hastily prepared, late and not based on sound figures. A budget that was NOT developed according to the principles of good governance, is INCOMPATIBLE with the constitution, contains no clear policy outlines, and does not follow through on years of promises made to us, the population.

You are now being asked to quickly decide on it, because it is late. The ONLY choice open to you is to REJECT it and instruct the minister of finance to: 1. Get the books in order first and right now 2. Go back to the drawing board and come up with a budget that is economically viable, does not jeopardize the spirit of the constitution, follows proper procedures in decision-making, is well motivated and benefits the entire island in the long run.

Now please do your job, so we can do and keep on doing ours. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

shta2013budgetdiagram07042013The SHTA appreciates and applauds the first ever disclosure of the draft Budget prior to initiation of Parliamentary debate. As we presume this initiative is meant to increase transparency of government and inform the public about the process and the state of the country's financial affairs, we therefore on behalf of SHTA, including member associations and their members, request your attention to the following points.
The total proposed expenditures are stated to increase by over NAf. 25 million; total budget for the year 2012 was NAf. 432.6 million, while 2013 is set at NAf. 457.9 million; representing an increase of 5.85% . By contrast, the St. Maarten Gross Domestic Product (GDP), considered an indicator for the size of our economy, has been decreasing steadily over the last 5 years, without any thought to stimulus or cost controls to reverse the trend. General principles of sound financial management, regardless of whether private sector, government or household, require that operational expenditures remain in line with income. In other words, government should be set at a size that the economy and population can afford; one should not try to burden the backs of the people with an extensive, perhaps idealistic government that it cannot realistically afford. Therefore, NAf. 457.9 million in spending translates to roughly NAf. 7,650 per legal resident (regardless of age) per year, using a base of 60,000 residents. Furthermore, the income over the 2012 period fell short of the budget expenditures, by some NAf. 30 million.
The steady and significant increase in government expenditures over the recent years have been funded with increased taxes (most notably turnover tax) and other fees as well as the use of reserve funds government had available—creating an operational deficit. As a result of the higher taxes and fees, the cost of government expressed in a percentage of GDP has increased substantially. At the same time, doing business and the cost of living in St. Maarten have become more difficult, more cumbersome and more expensive. One of the big advantages promoted as an incentive for breaking up the Netherlands Antilles was to lower the cost of government and to increase government efficiency--thus far country St. Maarten has experienced neither. The lack of a cohesive and unified approach to stabilizing the economy and securing the overall well-being of the population directly contributes to the poor economic conditions.
Again, it proposed to fund the 2013 increase in spending by a TOT hike of 400% on the retail sales of tobacco and liquor, as well as an increase in the Property Transfer Tax and further attempts to improve tax compliance, which is currently estimated to be only between 40 -50 %, among other measures. While we certainly applaud any effort to level the playing field with regard to increasing compliance, we do question the achievability of the speculated income from this activity, especially given the planned reduction in personnel expense at the Inspectorate of Taxes and the decreased allotment for BAB assistance. Achievability is also in question with regard to additional revenue from the TOT increase, especially given the fact that the required legislation has not yet been presented to the Advisory Council and the first quarter is already closed. Increasing the transfer tax may likely result in a further tightening of the real estate market, resulting in even less property sales and further hindering of the construction sector, thereby limiting employment opportunities as well.
A TOT increase on certain alcohol and tobacco at the Retail level, eliminates St. Maarten's competitiveness on these products; effectively imposing a duty on products which are widely enjoyed by our tourism visitors in all three pillars: Stay over, Cruise and Yachting. The liquor sales category is also already highly competitive. If we can learn anything from prior mistakes we should not even consider this increase. Take a look back to the 1997 increase on fuel tax, which essentially caused a 50% decrease of the income of both private and public sector on fuel due to the opening of the market on the French side. With regard to liquor sales, there is already stiff competition from onboard the cruise ships, from offshore suppliers and of course, from the French side. A 400% increasing in taxation will, without a doubt, reduce local sales as well as impose a far more significant effect in reducing public revenues, increasing cost of living and eliminating jobs. In addition, we believe that it will hamper our reputation as a duty free port, when goods that are typically duty free are suddenly much more expensive.
With regard to employment and the upward spiraling of government expenditures, seemingly without consideration for the dire financial circumstances we are facing, the 2013 budget also contains increases in the number of employees for which the average expenses per employee have now risen to a staggering NAf. 100,543 per year. This is more than twice the average cost of a private sector employee, and includes such antiquated measures as the cost of living adjustment (COLA).
The budget also clearly indicates that there will be no efforts to stimulate the economy in order to grow the overall size of the proverbial pie of Country St. Maarten as cuts are planned in areas where it would seem most prudent to expand. Such as the proposed cuts to the Tourism Bureau and the Bureau of Statistics budgets which are projected to be NAf. 2.8 million in total. In our view, the faltering economy of St. Maarten is as much a result of the global financial crisis as it is a result of the lack of consistent destination marketing abroad. Further, the basis for successful marketing is sound statistical information. To say that we are dismayed with respect to these restrictive and demotivating measures would be an understatement. To emphasize this point we would like to mention Aruba which expects continued economic growth for 2013 of approximately 5%. Aruba has a functioning public/private partnership where it concerns destination marketing, social security and economic policy, just to name a few . Aruba's tourism statistics in the low season rival that of St. Maarten's in the high season. Continuing to allow our one economic export to stagnate is shortsighted and detrimental to all households of the island.
Instead of increasing the budget, the government should be focused on economic stimulus as well as austerity measures and reduce rather than increase its expenses and focus on improving the overall investment climate of St. Maarten. SHTA is of the opinion that, at the very least, Government should consider the following:

  1. Place a cap on total salary and benefit expenditures;
  2. Address the lack of productivity in the public sector as evidenced by the continued widening of the current-account deficit. The continued financing (in a roundabout way) of the public deficit through the Central Bank cannot continue indefinitely; especially if the causes are not being addressed structurally. Imports continue to exceed exports, most exports in our case being tourism, in other words our productivity is lagging behind. In the private sector – as much as our fairly rigid labor system allows – this is dealt with relatively quickly, although quicker reactions would be possible with more flexibilization;
  3. Increase employees' share of medical insurance for civil servants, including FZOG premium;
  4. Explore a true public/private sector partnership with respect to: (i) the development of a new tax system, (ii) the introduction of an affordable and socially responsible healthcare plan, (iii) the design of a manageable and affordable immigration/work permit system, (iv) Tourism Bureau, (v) development of fair and efficient labor laws
  5. Occupy the new government building and reduce rent expenses;
  6. Restore the Tourism Marketing budget to its original level;
  7. Reduce taxes (for instance reduce wage-and income tax; immediately dial back the TOT % to no more than 3% in anticipation of a simplified tax system (please see the SHTA letter to Parliament of 04/04/2013 regarding the proposed TOT increases for a more comprehensive insight of the destructive nature of this particular tax );
  8. Postpone NV GEBE concession fees and use the available funds for a reduction in electricity and water rates;
  9. Implement a comprehensive multi-ministerial economic growth strategy, as soon as possible.

SHTA and its member associations insist that Government and Parliament take note of the above recommendations and seriously review the budget presented to Parliament and make the necessary adjustments to decrease the budget to a more affordable level. Failing to do so will result in a further slowdown of the economy, failing businesses, higher unemployment, more poverty and increased crime. Failing to act responsibly now will make the present Government and Parliament responsible for the resulting additional hardships put upon the people of Country St. Maarten.
As always, SHTA remains available for constructive efforts to improve the quality of living in St. Maarten but would like to stress that the realities of our situation must be taken into account starting immediately with this proposed budget.
At some point we should address the consequence of living beyond your means. In terms the average person can understand

Sincerely,

E. Lee on behalf of the SHTA Board

 

Dear Honorable Members of Parliament,

Again we are writing to you to point out some of our concerns related to the draft budget 2013. We are using our right to petition as stipulated in Article 24.1 of our Constitution and expect that the letters will be dealt with according Article 68 of our Constitution, the Explanatory Memorandum is very clear on these articles when it comes to dealing with petitions and we expect nothing else than that the right procedures will be followed.

It might have come to your attention that there is an increasing dissatisfaction among the people of Sint Maarten with the manner in which you and other parts of our government are dealing with The People's affairs. As stipulated in Article 44 of our Constitution; you are representing the entire population of Sint Maarten and your past and current actions do not show this. The will of The People is the foundation of your authority.

In prior elections all sorts of things were promised and manifestos appeared all over the place. While in opposition the greatest support is being shown when there is social unrest. During tenure "in power" promises are not being kept and the same support for issues plaguing The People is nowhere to be found. The same can be said for (lack of) measures when "in power" with bogus explanations.

To give you a short list of examples of promises made and misleading situations by our representatives:

The turnover tax was said to be temporary and later even got a "temporary" increase. In the 2013 draft budget there is another increase on alcohol and tobacco. We were led to believe that once we became country that we would have an abundance of money, because we didn't have to give up our generated turnover tax to the federal government of the Netherlands Antilles.

During the Pelican saga many of you showed support for the workers, but what has been done so far to prevent situations like these? It is not only about abolishing six months contracts, but also preventing workers from become victims of schemes by employers and loopholes in our laws when it comes to the sale of a company, bankruptcy of a company or continuation of business in another form.

When the Civil Servants and Teachers went on strike to demand their COLA pay out, many of you were standing in the midst of them and supporting them and now all of a sudden the COLA is a significant problem and solutions need to be found for it. We are not giving an opinion on the COLA itself, but are merely pointing out the grandstanding of many you.

The revamping of the tax system has been a topic of discussion for many years. The fact that this is hardly being dealt with even after obtaining country status shows great incompetence by itself, but what have you proposed on fiscal legislation? No answer needed, because we know.

There are many more examples to be given, but we hope that you get our point: You are not doing much to decrease the lack of trust that The People have in you, nor are you showing any competence in handling The People's affairs. The debate on the draft budget 2013 can be a start for making up on lost ground.

How is it possible that the Council of Advise and the Audit Chamber show a decrease in the budget for 2013? Not to mention that the costs for the Corporate Governance Council aren't even budgeted. These councils are of the utmost importance for the functioning and transparency of government. You should fight tooth and nail to protect The People's rights to good governance.

A budget is made for the period of a year and a governing accord for the entire period a coalition is in power. Where are the policies that outline and justify government spending for the year 2013? If there aren't any, why is this? Is it maybe because you didn't do your job as parliament to instruct your ministers to come up with solid policies that are in the best interest of The People and that can be logically explained?

We also agree with the Council of Advice that, according to the Computability Laws Articles 11 through 15, there is no solid base for the expenditures and that there aren't sufficient breakdowns of categorized expenditures. What is our tax money being spent on? Do you know? You don't because there are no audited accounts! Please explain the draft budget 2013 to us with sufficient breakdowns and policies justifying that spending.

If the proposed increases in taxes (taxes for casino's and lotteries, 5 cents increase on gasoline, 4 cents increase on diesel, 1% increase on fuel for GEBE, increase of transfer tax from 4% to 5% and the increase in turnover tax on alcohol and tobacco) are ratified by you then we hope that you understand that they won't become law as of January 01, 2013. This in turn will mean that the objective of generated income out of taxes for the year 2013 will not be met. At the same time we hope that you realize that certain taxes directly influence the cost of living. We also hope that you can guarantee that GEBE will not calculate their increase in costs through the fuel clause. This is indirect taxing of The People.

We sure hope that you will reject the 2013 draft budget as presented to you and that you will finally represent The People and their interests. Demand policies or propose them on your floor and demand breakdowns of expenditures. Regain the trust of The People. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

There have been some new trends of late where tourism is concerned. 'AirCruise' is the latest travel buzz to take off in the Caribbean. Mauiva AirCruise, an American travel company is promoting an island-hopping air tour.

The company organized for 20 tourists an 'AirCruise' out of the US a week-long holiday package with stops in the Bahamas, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. The concept is about making multi-destination travel simple.

Mauiva AirCruise hopes to establish a regular route in the Caribbean region. The aforementioned travel company says there is potential for flights to leave every other day from Florida for a Caribbean trip.

AirCruise is seen as a market with growth potential in the Caribbean, and the Cayman Islands due to its proximity to the US is seen as a strong destination for this type of tourism.

Perhaps this is something for local travel/tour operators to look into and consider. The potential should be fully explored; perhaps AirCruises out of Puerto Rico or Panama could be looked into by the local travel sector.

This could also be a new business venture for country Sint Maarten young graduates and budding entrepreneurs.

On another note, the 14th Annual Sustainable Tourism Conference will kick-off in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago from 15 to 18 April. It will bring together tourism experts and representatives from the sector to look at the issue of creating and managing sustainable tourism destinations.

The development and achievement of sustainable destinations is the key word. There is a growing segment of the market known as 'responsible' or 'sustainable travellers.'

These types of tourists often spend a lot more in the destination and they get to a level where they get involved in the community, and really want to experience a destination. Last month Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs launched the Decade of Revitalization of our Cultural Heritage. The cultural awakening of the St. Maarten Culture is very important to the nation building process and sustainable development, especially from the perspective of tourism and making our visitors aware of the unique and powerful history of our country.

The sustainable traveller wants to experience local cuisine, culture and heritage. According to experts, these tourists don't want to remain at their hotel properties, but would like to engage with locals and meet people and learn more about the destination, what makes Sint Maarten 'Sint Maarten.'

They travel on their own and some in groups, and are at the higher end (financially) of the market. They are adventurous, and also want to contribute to the communities that they visit.

Another area that is a trend is sourcing sustainable food for restaurants. A Caribbean Basin strategy is being developed with respect to the region as a food tourism destination; also the development of health and wellness; and special interest tourism.

The aforementioned areas are food for thought and worth exploring by our local tourism industry. Sustainable development is the future and as a young country we need to make sure we are on-board.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Honorable Members of Parliament,

Once again we thank you for allowing the public the opportunity to download the draft budget, which in turn has given the people the opportunity to criticize certain elements in the budget before it is approved. This is a step in a good direction in terms of transparency, we hope similar consideration is given to the people's comments on the draft.

A couple major concerns that are evident in the way Parliament would like to move forward is the lack of new effective constructive policies to justify the amounts of monies expected to be collected and the manner in which this budget has come to be.

We are 4 months into 2013 and the budget is still not approved! The budget of any year had to be approved since September of the previous year, that was 6 months ago. How can the ministries and other organizations that all depend on this budget for their progressive development possibly function properly while waiting 6 or 7 months to know what they can and cannot spend?

It seems to have become the norm in St. Maarten, to not follow due process when creating these budgets. In following the due process to create a new budget the audited accounts of the previous budget must be brought into consideration to make sound decisions. It has been years since the people have heard of an audit on government spending! The Honorable Minister of Finance knows this, he would not have allowed his stellar accounting firm to act in this way with their clients, so why with us? Why with our young nation?

Then it seems like much of the numbers have just been pulled out of the air. Any blind man can see that the amount of money expected to be collected from the road tax, is just not going to be attained. Again, where is the policy to justify that that amount of money will be collected? There is no way to easily identify a vehicle for which road tax has been paid for or not. The police are not excited about controlling so many vehicles this way, and a huge amount of people will just not comply. Come on, not even a sticker, a mini plate, not even a bright colored air freshener to hang from the rear view mirror to help the police enforce this tax! Or was parliament just going to trust the 'honesty' of the people to pay their road tax? Well honesty should start in Parliament.

It was mentioned that the amount of money for staffing in the tax department will be cut but at the same time, Parliament expects the Tax department to collect more money through higher compliance. WOW! So it is expected that less staff in the tax department will be able to do more work than they did last year. What is the secret to that? Truth is this is the type of policy that breeds later budget amendments, where again man power will then have to be flown in from Curacao to help out and we all know they are paid way higher than our civil servants.

And the Tourism promotional budget will also be cut. How do we expect to promote our tourism product better with these cuts? I guess that means we will be relying on Tempo Turns 8 'The Budget still late' for all our tourism promotional efforts this year. How will we even know if these efforts have worked when you also cut the budget of the department of Statistics? How can the ministry of health get a budget increase while the subsidy of SMMC is cut? Where do we go when we are sick, to the ministry or the hospital? Finally, how is it that with all the cuts, the budget still almost 10% higher.

In closing, why can't we get this budget right? This budget is the reason our economy is going south and our civil service hands are tied. How can we expect improvements in education, justice and the way we live in St. Maarten when you do not take the development of this budget seriously? You members of Parliament are the ones who get up and make promises to the people, so how could you possibly deliver when your budget is 6 months late with make believe numbers, no audited previous reports and no policies to see plans for improvement through? Or is there another budget coming after the CFT approves this one just because it balances... #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor,

In your publication I read that President of Parliament, Mr. Rudolph Samuel, will be traveling to Holland for the King's inauguration later this month.

My question is, how in his rightful mind can the President of Parliament decide to attend such a prestigious occasion when the Parliament he resides over has done NOTHING to date in relation to the Bada Bing scandal? Not one Parliamentarian (not even the opposition!) has asked for a parliamentary inquiry or formally requested MP Illidge to vacate his seat while the investigation is ongoing.

Mr. Rudolphe presides over a Parliament that has one convicted member (MP Laveist) for bribery, while another (MP Illidge) is the center of an investigation for similar alleged charges. For a new country barely 2.5 years old, this is not something to be very proud of.

A strong message would have been from the President of Parliament to decline the invitation on the grounds that St. Maarten needs to get her own house in order first before she can celebrate another being officially inaugurated. That would have earned him respect locally and abroad.

After Curacao, now it is St. Maarten that has become the black sheep in the Kingdom as our Parliament is not carrying out their duties (or simply inept) and thus is co-responsible for trampling on good governance.

To our leaders: the people of St. Maarten demand swift action, which is certainly not asking some foreign organization to carry out a 12-15 month study on integrity (= buying time to the next election).

We want and deserve swift and decisive action now to repair our tainted image as accessories in and facilitators of corruption.

Thank you.

Clyde Angust
Dutch Quarter

Dear Honorable Members of Parliament,

Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to view the budget before debating it. Via these means we would like to draw your attention to the following. We (Citizens, taxpayers, those that provide your salary here on the friendly island of St Maarten) hope that you will take the information and concerns provided by us to heart and use them to make the right decisions when it comes to the budgetary debate that starts on Monday April 8th 2013. You are our elected representatives, and we have some concerns. We turn to you to have these issues addressed in a diligent fashion.

The Dutch law mentions several principles of good governance. These originated from jurisprudence, to set forth a code of conduct for government when dealing with the citizens it serves. In 1994 these principles were codified in the "Algemene wet bestuursrecht and they can be divided into two groups, formal principles and material principles.

Formal principles refer to government's authority to make decisions; this includes the ministries and their departments. A few of these principles that we can mention are 'Legaliteitsbeginsel'. There is no authority without a foundation in the constitution. Parliament you are our guardians of the constitution, it is your duty to see to it that the constitution is upheld!

Another principle is Zorgvuldigheidsbeginsel (art. 3:2 Awb). It basically states that government needs to prepare decisions in a diligent manner. They must take into consideration the proper treatment of the citizens, meticulous research in the facts and interests, it must also follow proper procedure and make sound decisions. While reviewing the draft budget we do not feel that this principle has been met when it comes to the preparation of the budget, our main motivation for stating the above (but not the only one) is that NO accounts have been presented for the last couple of years!

There is Motiveringsbeginsel (art. 3:46 Awb), that states government must motivate her decisions well, facts must be clearly outlined and the motivation needs to be logical and understandable. We also do not feel that this principle has been met, throughout this budget it is clear that policy is lacking and we do not see that money is being wisely allocated. Please note that the Council of Advice shares some of our concerns when it comes to this point.

Rechtszekerheidsbeginsel states that government must formulate her decisions in such a way that citizens know exactly what to expect or what government desires from them. They also need to apply laws and rules in a proper and consistent way. Again we find the budget quite unclear on some of these points. We would like to see concrete plans with proper cost benefit analysis, so that we can plan for your and our children's future.

Also very important is Gelijkheidsbeginsel (art. 1 Grondwet) which clearly commands that Government needs to treat identical cases in an identical way. We feel that the current tax structure and this budget in particular places undue hardship on some segments of the taxpaying community more than others. We feel that there are instances in which this principle is not adhered to. Take for instance the current and future TOT legislation.

Verbod van détournement de pouvoir. (art. 3:3 Awb). A governing body may only use their authority for the purpose it was given for. You (Parliament) represent the people, that is the job you were elected to do. We have concerns, it is your duty to address them! Furthermore the budget and your spending is a tool for upholding the constitution, nothing less, nothing more. So do your job!

Fair-play-beginsel. (art. 2:4 Awb). Government needs to take a neutral position when making decisions and the required transparency and honesty needs to considered. Again we feel that certain segments of the taxpayers (certain businesses) are treated unfairly by our tax code and this budget in particular.

Verbod op détournement de procédure. It is not allowed to take an easier procedure ( a short cut) to a decision if there a procedure that provides more safeguards. We feel that this is the norm and standard in a lot of things done in Parliament and it is clear that this principle was ignored in preparing the draft budget, we expect that you not ignore it when judging the budget. One clear example is the license plate fiasco that will leave a significant dent on the monies expected to be collected.

Vertrouwensbeginsel. Those who have by their authority made a clear promise, that government will take a certain decision, have a right to that decision. We have been promised a lot by successive governments, it is time to make good on these promises, increased compliance, restructured tax system, spending that stimulates the economy. If you all can stand on a stage and make promises then you must be able to stand on that same stage and tell us why those promises never came through.

The material principles relate to the contents of the government. Specialiteitsbeginsel. (art. 3:4 lid 1 Awb) shows that a governing body may only look after those interests that find their respective basis in the law. You are the ones that swore to uphold the constitution, we suggest you do so!

Evenredigheidsbeginsel. (art. 3:4 lid 2 Awb) explains that government needs to make sure that the repercussions of their decisions do not do more harm to a citizens than the perceived benefit to the common good. This principle is plain out being neglected by your current fiscal policies. The policies in place are detrimental to taxpayers, the same taxpayers that provide gainful employment and pay for government including your salaries and benefits!

Vertrouwensbeginsel (materiele rechtszekerheid) shows that a citizen may, in certain circumstances, have faith in proclamations made by governing bodies where concessions are made, but that later cannot be not adhered to by the governing body. Again promises made, promises broken. We as taxpayers want to see results. Made a promise, then keep it, no more excuses, or you should be held liable.

We are sure that these principles are well known to you and that we are preaching to the proverbial choir. There are some serious socio-economic issues that face our young nation and these need to be dealt with post haste. We would like to see that big bright future we were promised on the eve of becoming country. Ahead of you is a difficult task, hopefully you will make the right decision to uphold our constitution for the betterment of all of us that share this island.
We feel that harm has been and is being done to our economy, our society, our credibility and the future for us and our children.
We will refrain right now from making allegations which would accuse you of laziness, grandstanding, lack of transparency, nepotism, conflict of interest, self-enrichment, corruption and general incompetence and are prepared, for now, to give you the benefit of the doubt and attribute all the failures of the last 30 months to growing pains.
From now on please do the right thing when taking action or making decisions, read the constitution as that is what you should be busy upholding and please represent us, that's what you were elected to do. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

For the past few months the Soualiga Social Movement has encouraged its many participants and the general public to attend info sessions hosted by various government departments. These sessions are to inform the public about what is about to happen on their island and for the most part allows the public to participate at various stages of this development by asking questions and putting forth ideas and suggestions.

There have been several very important sessions held during the first quarter of this year already! The Ministry of VROMI held open sessions on the Hill Conservation Act (HCA) which showed building limitations along the hillsides, a new road network to zip us around this 16 square miles, the development of Emilio Wilson Park and to much dismay the proposed tunnels through our beautiful hills. VROMI also held several sessions showing the planned development of several districts, how they plan to build village centers at the heart of the community so that people and organizations can congregate more, kids can have somewhere to play, and local community based businesses can thrive. Some bad ideas or should we say not well thought out ideas were also presented and commented on but WHERE WERE YOU?

It is no secret that the people committed to living in Soualiga have been complaining that they are living under the stress of past bad decisions, that they had no say and no part to play in the development of their issues and its all governments fault. But when these sessions are put on for the people to 'have a say', to be informed, to pick up on possible bottlenecks that will help the development to go smoother nobody shows up!

These sessions are advertised in the newspaper and on the internet and though they are not displayed as colorful as the upcoming Damian Marley concert they are very important. How ironic it is that these meetings presenting FACTS are so poorly attended but every 4 years thousands of people gather at election rallies to hear (for the most part) FICTION?

We need to realize that playing a part in the way our community develops is the key to sustainability and the betterment of our lives in Soualiga. The Soualiga Social Movement's key words are awareness, inclusion and participation, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to do so. To do nothing and say nothing when given the opportunity to do so, totally forfeits your right to complain.

See you at the next session. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

With great interest we have been watching and listening to the many comments being made to the "Bada Bing Tape" and the ORCA investigation. Without judging the players (willingly or unwillingly) in this scandal, we can come to a simple conclusion: there is no faith in our government.

How is it that so many reactions from residents of Sint Maarten are displaying anger, frustration, helplessness and shame, but so few reactions display any kind of surprise? Besides the alleged wrong-doings, these reactions tell us a lot about the state our country finds itself in and thus lead to the conclusion that there is a total lack of trust and faith by the majority of the people of Sint Maarten in their government.

Of course, whatever scenario thinkable in this scandal is the true one, none of them is pretty. This does not take away that if this scandal didn't come to light or this scandal turns out to be the less severe one that there isn't a bigger problem. A cesspool of issues has been opened and can only be closed by dealing with these same issues. Vague public statements, not taking firm stands on issues, hardly addressing legislation or amendments thereon, not doing firm research, photo-ops for popularity, not going to the people etc should from now on be things from the past.

If we demand the above mentioned no longer to continue then it is our role as WE, THE PEOPLE to make it happen. Soualiga Social Movement stands for awareness, inclusion and participation. We encourage everybody to be involved within their community, be it island wide or just in the road you are living in. We can no longer demand anything from our government if we don't interact with one and another and know of the things that we need done that cannot be done by ourselves or with the help of or our neighbors.

So, in closing we would like to say that WE, THE PEOPLE should unite as one and let ourselves be heard and not only around election time, but that we actively play a role in our society all year around. WE, THE PEOPLE can then demand from government to come with solutions, provide assistance, introduce/amend legislation on issues that WE, THE PEOPLE find important and have our priority. If this scandal is causing this change of how we deal with government then this scandal might be the best thing that happened to us in a long time. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) will be meeting with the Central Committee of Parliament on Wednesday. Efforts are underway by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to create liaisons with representative marine community organization in Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Barths and Sint Maarten.

Efforts are also underway by Caribbean countries to collaborate in exploring ways of unlocking the economic benefits of yachting to the region and to jointly market the sector while remaining aware of the environment which is the major source of income to most OECS countries.

The discussions that will take place on Wednesday between SMMTA and Members of Parliament (MPs) one can say is perfect timing.

Representatives from the Caribbean Marine Association (CMA) last month met with the Yachting Committee of the OECS. The meeting took place in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

High among the objectives of the countries and territories that were represented at the meeting was easing of movements between the various Caribbean islands. The Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council in cooperation with the OECS and with the support of CMA is working toward the introduction of an almost seamless online process which will come on stream some time in 2013.

The law enforcement council and the OECS will be releasing more information in the future and has been tasked to get the word out to yachting community at the right time. The CMA was also tasked with investigating reasons behind the penal rates of yacht insurance prevalent in the Caribbean which seems to be unrelated to risk when compared with the East Coast of the United States. The opinion was that these rates are having a deleterious effect on the summer season in the Caribbean.

In attendance were private sector and government representatives from Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the BVI.

Another essential point that came out of the CMA meeting was that all OECS member countries establish a marine association and become members of the CMA. CMA was further tasked to assist Anguilla, Montserrat and St. Kitts & Nevis with setting up their own marine associations and to encourage the new association of Dominica to be a part of the CMA.

Our country already has an established marine association, so we are basically ahead in this respect; however aforementioned competitors are on our doorstep. Our marine sector is also well established and MPs as well as the community who tune in on Wednesday to the parliamentary session will learn more about the current status of our marine industry.

Sint Maarten's marine sector is responsible for 12.5 per cent of the national economy according to a 2008 study that was commissioned by SMMTA and carried out by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of the former Netherlands Antilles.

Back in 2008, there were over 80 companies providing services to the marine sector and over the year 2007, the country's marine sector produced over US$200 million (Naf.399 million), and representing 16.3 per cent of the overall production of the businesses on Sint Maarten. In terms of wages and the number of employees, 2,794 employees, 17.2 per cent of the total work force earned Naf.106.5 million.

The figures alone at that time spoke for themselves the importance of the industry to the economy. Sint Maarten now has to look at the many islands in the Caribbean Basin who are collaborating to further build their marine sectors. The approach of the region via the CMA is to reach out to the other islands that are not connected where this specific area is concerned from that level, and this should be welcomed and embraced.

Roddy Heyliger

Hereby the Petitioners inform Your Honorable members of the Dutch Judiciary, Government and Non- Government organizations, institutions and the press, guardians of the Rule of Law and fundamental human rights as follows:

Statement of the Facts

Facts

The First Petitioner (Evmolpia Private Foundation) is registered and functioning in Sint Maarten (Annex 1). Before 10.10.2010 Sint Maarten was part of the Netherlands Antilles. With effect from 10 October 2010, the Netherlands Antilles ceased to exist as a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. From that date onwards, the Kingdom consists of four parts: The Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.

The Second Petitioner (Yordan S. Busarov) is a Bulgarian citizen, living and working in Sint Maarten (since the year 2000) (Annex 2). Both Petitioners are referred below as The Petitioners.

Since April 27,2012 the Petitioners are under illegal house-arrest, which is aiming to cover up criminal activities within the jurisdiction of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Annex 3)! I quote:

DECISION

The examining judge in bankruptcy:

Suspends the order of remand in custody ordered against Yordan Stoilov Busarov pursuant to article 85 Fb effective Friday April 27th 2012, 12:00 hours.

Thereby sets the following conditions:

that the suspect complies with the provisions in article 86 Fb, namely that he may not leave his residence without permission of the examining judge;

On Nov 25,2011 The Applicants filed Complaint to the Office of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix (Kabinet der Koningin) against the President of the Supervisory board Mrs. L.Hoefdraad and Vice President of the Joint Court of Justice Judge Mr. R.W.J. van Veen, and requested investigation. On December 13, 2011 (on behalf of The Director of The Queen's Office) Mw.mr.M.Beuker forwarded the Complaint to the Govenor of Sint Maarten. On Feb 13,2012.the Director of the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten Mr. Rob(J.H.) Bats forwarded the Complaint (Annex 11) to the President of the Board the Joint Court of Justice, as required by Rijksbesluit rechtspositie Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Artikel 53(1).

Since Feb 13,2012 (for over one year) Het bestuur van het Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie van Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten en van Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba (Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie) refuse to investigate the Complaints (Kenmerk: NO 12 – 13/SvdO/lg en Kenmerk: REK 11.002323) against the improper behavior of De President van het Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Mrs. Lisbeth Hoefdraad en the Vice-President Mr. R.W.J.Van Veen in breach of Rijksbesluit rechtspositie Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Artikel 53 (2,3 en 4), Artikel 54, Artikel 55, Artikel 56, Artickel57, Artikel 58, Artikel 59, Artikel 60, Artikel 61, Artikel 62, Artikel 63 en Artikel 64!

Since March.30.2011 the Petitioners informed numerous times (on March.30.2011, April.18.2011, October. 07. 2011, on Feb.06.2012 March.05.2012 and June.04.2012...etc) the Attorney-General's Office of the Supreme Court of the Netherlands of the improper behavior of the President of the Court Judge Mrs. L.Hoefdraad and the Vice-President Judge Mr.R.W.J. van Veen, and requested investigation, as required by Wet op de rechterlijke organisatie (Wet RO) Artikel 13 a! Since March.30.2012 - up to date – March.18.2013. the Complaints are disregarded/not handled in breach of Wet op de rechterlijke organisatie Artikel 13 b, Artikel 13 c, Artikel 13 d, Artikel 13 e, Artikel 13 f, Artikel g, and Artikel 13 h Wet RO)!

According to the knowledge of the Petitioners, effective August.2013 (this year) the Vice-President of Judge Mr.R.W.J. van Veen will be no-longer part of Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie!

On Martch.15.2013 the Minister of Justice Mr. Nelson Navarro (Curacao) informed the publicity that, effective August.2013 (this year) the President of Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Judge Mrs. L.Hoefdraad will retire (Annex 4 or Please go to http://www.kkcuracao.com/?p=23743

It is a fact that the Dutch Judges are appointed for life, until they retire at their own request or at the age of 70! Rijksbesluit rechtspositie Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Artikel 19 lid 5 clear state:

5. Een lid van het Hof kan vanaf het bereiken van de leeftijd van achtenzestig jaar aanspraak maken op wekelijks een halve vrijdag verlof en vanaf het bereiken van de leeftijd van negenenzestig jaar op een hele vrijdag verlof met behoud van salaris. Dit verlof kan niet worden opgespaard en vervalt bij ziekte en onbezoldigd verlof.

In fact the Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau (Annex 5 or please go to http://www.aboutwomenconference.com/engels/lisbethoefdraad.htm ) and President of the Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Judge Mrs. L.Hoefdraad (1951) will retire at age 61 (or 62-unknown) and will not/refuse to have the privilege of (after reaching the age of sixty-eight years) a weekly half Friday and (after reaching the age of sixty-nine years) on a leave on whole Friday leave with salary.

The opinion of the Petitioners is that the following questions should be asked:

Is it the ill treatment, illegal punishments, acts of arbitrariness, acts of direct coercion, flagrant acts of intimidation and severe destruction of the fundamental human rights against/of the Petitioners the only way to protect the image and the trust in the Dutch Judiciary?
Why the Member of the Constitutional Court of Sint Maarten, Vice-President of the Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie and Member of the bestuur van het Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie (Rijkswet Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Artikel 40 lid 1) Honorable Justice Judge Mr. Jan de Boer is "blind and deaf" for the severe destruction of the Rule of Law?
Why the Honorable Governor of Sint Maarten Mr. Eugene Bernard Holiday refuse to assure (for over a year- since Feb.13.2012) the implementation of the Kingdom Laws (Rijksbesluit rechtspositie Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie Artikel 53 (2,3 en 4), Artikel 54, Artikel 55, Artikel 56, Artickel57, Artikel 58, Artikel 59, Artikel 60, Artikel 61, Artikel 62, Artikel 63 en Artikel 64 )?
What will be the next illegal punishment against the Petitioners (for requesting Proper Administration of Justice, speaking the truth and ask questions)-Death Penalty?
How all and above can be possible within the Jurisdiction of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (one of the founding members of the Council of Europe)?
...etc?

Should be also noted the fact that, in the past fifty years, the Supreme Court of the Netherlands has rarely suspended a judge and has dismissed a judge only twice...etc (Please go to http://www.rechtspraak.nl/Organisatie/Hoge-Raad/Supreme-court/The-Procurator-General-of-the-Supreme-Court/Pages/Disciplinary-measures-and-complaints-against-judges.aspx

The Petitioners will continue to inform the publicity (if alive) of the further communications (and/or illegal punishments) with/from the Gemeenschappelijk Hof van Justitie!

Respectfully,

Y. Busarov(Second Petitioner).
On his behalf and on behalf of Evmolia PF (First Petitioner),
Place: Sint Maarten.
Date: March 18,2013.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility informed Parliament back in February that the country could not afford to take its cruise product for granted and that we need to be innovative and redevelop the product.

Members of Parliament (MPs) were told that there were competition and threats facing the country's cruise infrastructure and we needed to be on the ball where this is concerned. MPs were informed that the extension of Pier Two had to do in large part with cruise developments on neighbouring islands. The extension of the aforementioned pier would create flexibility and less stress when it came to itinerary bookings. The extension of Pier Two is approximately US$30 million to be financed through strategic agreements with the cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean who both financed Pier Two have preferential berths whereby they guarantee passenger numbers.

The same concept that the Port of Sint Maarten has used to finance the construction of Pier Two will be used by the Cayman Islands.

The Cayman Islands have been working to construct cruise piers since 2003, but to date without success. Today, cruise passengers are transported to shore on board tender boats. The Cayman Islands receive 1.5 million cruise passengers per year.

Carnival brings approximately 900,000 tourists a year to Grand Cayman and Royal Caribbean 250,000, accounting for almost three quarters of cruise passengers. Both cruise lines are expected to be vying to build the two cruise piers that would be able to berth a total of four ships at one time. According to media reports, four cruise lines have expressed interests in building the piers.

Priority berthing rights and a waiver on docking surcharges may be part of the mix for cruise lines to provide the funding to construct the piers. A bidding process is expected to take place in the coming months and would be open not only to cruise lines but to other interested parties as well, however cruise lines are seen to have the advantage since they can guarantee cruise passengers annually.

One media report says that the Port Authority of the Cayman Islands would be in control of the piers. Cruise lines with preferential berthing rights would get the first chance to reserve space at the pier as long as they book 18-months in advance. If the 18-month deadline passes, other cruise lines would have the option to book the space.

Sint Maarten's efforts to continue to secure and maintain its position in the cruise industry must remain a top priority and the CEO and his team are well aware of this and are planning ahead. This alone is very re-assuring to the business community.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editor,

Many things come to mind when having watched our Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister address the Bada Bing scandal in this week's press briefing. Weak, evasive, bureaucratic even slightly arrogant.

With the international media spot lights on us since the scandal broke, the Prime Minister squandered a golden opportunity to emphatically state that in our new Country St. Maarten, corruption is not tolerated and that she will ask embattled, but innocent until proven guilty, MP Illidge to step down (vacate his seat). This in order for the investigation to continue unhindered and to give the signal that the St. Maarten Government is serious in dealing with integrity issues. If MP Illidge is proven innocent, he will be immediately be reinstated.

What all have witnessed from said joint press briefing is that the Prime Minister and her Deputy are protecting MP Illidge, instead of condemning the appearance of bribery and pressing for the MP to vacate his seat and have the investigation run its due course. For all the electorate knows: MP Illidge (and the 2 other Independent MP's) are in fact still "running this government" as he has boastfully claimed on the infamous Bada Bing videotape.

Our Prime Minister needs to step up and take a bolder approach in order not give more ammunition to her Dutch counterparts and the international community as a whole.

That would show leadership, which our new country is in dire need of.

God Speed.

James Spanner
Cole Bay

The greatest investment that one can make for their future to be prosperous is to invest in your community, environment, and each other. This however requires seeing your community and your environment anew. So a renewing of the mind and attitude of our people and leadership in general is a must.

One of the greatest gifts given to us is our planet earth along with the sun. Without the sun we die. At present, we don't have to burn fossil fuels. We don't have to use anything that would contaminate the environment. There are many sources of energy available; some are known to many (e.g. Solar, wind, etc) and some are not (e.g. electrostatic power, thermionics, fusion power, etc). Fossil fuels such as oil and coal allowed our civilization to progress to its present state of development. However, these energy sources are limited and non-renewable, and one of many environmental dangers.

Renewable energy is energy that comes from resources which are continually replenished such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves and geothermal heat. Solar and wind energy are well known to the public, but the true potential of these mediums remains unexpressed. Solar energy, derived from the sun, has such abundance, that one hour of light at high noon, contains more energy than what the entire world consumes in a year. If we could capture .01 of a percent of this energy, the world would never have to use oil, gas or anything else. The question then is not availability, but the technology to harness it, and there are many advanced mediums today, which could accomplish just that, if they were not hindered by the need to compete for market share with the established energy power structures.

To understand why it is so critical for our people to think of renewable energy investments is not only to understand environmental degradation, climate change, etc but also Peak Oil. How easily could we replace the role of oil in our style of consumer-led, growth based economy? Not very. But Peak Oil is simply a fact. Peak Oil is NOT synonymous with "running out of oil." But the most urgent issue before us does not lie with identifying the precise moment of Peak Oil. What we need to be most concerned with is the day that world petroleum demand outstrips available supply. It is at that moment that the oil markets will change forever - and probably quite suddenly. And when that happens it really would not matter how much money one or even a country is making as so much their ability to use renewable forms as energy as well as their ability to produce the basic life necessities (Food, water, etc) at home. In order to understand what "Peak Oil" means, we need to share a common understanding about how oil fields work and how oil is extracted. For this I will use the work of Chris Martenson in his Crash Course series. A common misperception is that an oil rig is plunked down over an oil field, a pipe is inserted, and then oil gushes from a big, underground lake or cavern that eventually gets sucked dry. It turns out that it is pretty much just solid rock down there, and oil is only found in porous rocks, like sandstone, that permit the oil to flow through the rocks crevices and pores. No vast caverns or lakes of oil exist down there. Oil has to be carefully extracted from what turns out to be a very solid rock matrix. It's better to think of an oil field like a margarita, where the oil is the tequila mix and the rock is the crushed ice. When an oil field is tapped, we find that the amount of oil that comes out if it follows a very prescribed pattern over time that ends up resembling a bell curve. At first, shortly after the drink is discovered, there's just one straw in our margarita, but then with excitement more and more straws are stuck in and more and more drink flows out of the glass. But then that dreaded slurping sound begins, and now, no matter how many new straws we insert, the amount of margarita coming out of the glass declines, until it is all gone and we are only left with ice. That's pretty much exactly how an oil field works.
Every oil field exploited to date has exhibited this same basic extraction profile. And what is true for one is equally true when we measure across many oil fields and then sum the result. Because individual fields peak, so to do collections of fields. Peak Oil, then, is not an abstract theory so much as it is a physical description of an extremely well characterized physical phenomenon. How much remains to be discovered is a theory, but the process by which oil fields become depleted is rather well-understood. Peak Oil is NOT synonymous with "running out of oil." At the moment of peak, somewhere around half the oil still remains. But something interesting happens at the halfway mark. Where oil gushed out under pressure at first, the back half usually has to get laboriously pumped out of the ground at higher cost, obviously. Where every barrel of oil was cheaper to extract on the way up, the reverse is true on the way down. Each barrel becomes more costly in terms of time, money, and energy to extract. Eventually, it costs more to extract a barrel of oil than it is worth, and that's when an oil field is abandoned.

The benefits of investments in renewable energy are many. For us in Sint Maarten the more critical benefits are: reduction of money outflows for oil which helps our balance of payments and currency risk, reduction of the cost of living in the long term, job creation, and a better return on investment than pensions and savings in general.

Soualiga Social Movement

Dear Editor of SMN Network,

In the last couple of days the Local and International Media "exploded" in connection with MP Patrick Illidge allegedly taking a bribe from Bada Bing owner Jaap van den Heuvel. The Socialist Party parliamentarian Ronald van Raak called St. Maarten "nest of crooks and a corrupted mess". I am reading all this and wondering, is it the real problem in the MP of St. Maarten! What about the fact that the Vice-President of the Joint Court of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten and of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Judge Mr. Rene van Veen have access to/share Bank Accounts with the Attorneys Mr. Rik Bergman Bert Mr.Hofman, Mr.Roeland Zwanikken and Mr.Remco Stomp in the stichting Beroepsopleiding Advocatuur of St. Maarten (SBA SXM) Please go to http://www.notarysps.com/Lawtrai%20.htm? What about the fact that the Vice-President of the Joint Court Judge Mr. Rene van Veen abuse the power invested in him and on April.26.2012 detained me Y.Busarov (and my Company Evmolpia PFF) under house-arrest for indefinite period of time(lifetime home-detention)! I quote:

DECISION

The examining judge in bankruptcy:

Suspends the order of remand in custody ordered against Yordan Stoilov Busarov pursuant to article 85 Fb effective Friday April 27th 2012, 12.00 hours.

Thereby sets the following conditions:

that the suspect complies with the provisions in article 86 Fb, namely that he may not leave his residence without permission of the examining judge;

I will not comment the fact that the Great power of the Police, the Prosecutors Office of Sint Maarten was redirected from Judge Mr. Rene van Veen and I/Yordan S.Busarov (and Evmolpia PF) were arrested in the Court House Sint Maarten and (after ten minutes) send illegally to Pointe Blanche Prison Sint Maarten! What about the fact that Pointe Blanche Prison Sint Maarten was used from Judge Mr. Rene van Veen as instrument for ill treatment, illegal punishment, act of arbitrariness, acts of direct coercion, flagrant acts of intimidation? What about the fact that Mr. Rik Bergman as Chairman has more power from -Judge Mr. Rene van Veen the Vice-Chairman in SBA SXM! Should be noted the fact that Judge Mr.R.W.J.van Veen is considered as one of the most powerful persons in Country Sint Maarten! He is the Vice-President of the JOINT COURT OF JUSTICE of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten and of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Senior Judge of the Court of First Instance Sint Maarten and President of the Supervisory Board of Pointe Blanche Prison Sint Maarten! How can be possible in 21th Century a Judge from the Dutch Judiciary to order lifetime home-detention? I/Yordan S.Busarov informed every possible institution within the Jurisdiction of the Kingdom of the Netherlands(H.M. Queen Beatrix, the Supreme Court, The Minister of Security and Justice Mr. Ivo Opstelten..etc). Up to date-"voice in the desert". Therefore I am asking what is "MP Patrick Illidge allegedly taking a bribe" in comparison with ill treatment, illegal punishments, acts of arbitrariness, acts of direct coercion, flagrant acts of intimidation and severe destruction of the fundamental human rights against/of me/Y.Busarov (and my Company) in the Court Rooms of the JOINT COURT OF JUSTICE of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten and of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, aiming to "cover up" illegal activities within the jurisdiction of the Kingdom of the Netherlands? Anyone?

More to follow!

Rgds,

Yordan Stoilov Busarov
On Behalf of Evmolpia PF.
Sint Maarten

or "Don Quichotte Busarov" according to Mr. Hilbert Haar/the Editor of the local newspaper Today. Please go to http://www.todaysxm.com/2013/03/05/don-quichotte-busarov-rides-on-bankrupt-bulgarian-takes-his-quest-to-queen-beatrix/

P.S.

Be aware that I/Y.Busarov (and my Company) approached Mr.Hilbert Haar in the beginning of year 2012, aiming to inform publicity about the violations of the applicable Laws! Before fully understand the attention of the Petitioners, Mr.Hilbert Haar informed the Petitioners that his wife have a part-time job in the Court House of Sint Maarten as translator and he is very happy with the Judges from the Court of First Instance and especially Judge Mr.R.W.J.van Veen. I truly hope the wife of Mr H.Haar to be called more often for translations in the Court House Sint Maarten (and bring more money home) after his article about me/my Company! This is just the "tip of the iceberg', more to follow!

 

Minister Tuitt has to be ashamed of himself to, on Lloyd's Sunday March 10th program, bring the issue of the level of the salaries of the Ministers and Parliamentarians into the arena of the color of one's skin. Instead of raising the level of the real issue (performance of the Parliamentarians/Ministers vis-a-vis their level of pay), he cheaply throws it into the "poor me, the downtrodden,trampled upon black man who's time has finally come to make some REAL money" pot.

I for one had until recently given Minister Tuitt credit for more sense and class.

Michael J. Ferrier
(My personal opinion and not (necessarily) that of my party, so PLEASE!)

Being a country surrounded by water and with limited space and means to set up large production lines, we are heavily relying on our ports of entry and departure. Everything and everybody is entering Sint Maarten/Saint Martin via air or sea.

From any angle that you look at it, it is needed that our ports (air and sea) meet the economic demands and that they create possibilities for economic growth. The ports will be the first thing visitors to our island see, the ports are needed to transport our own people, the ports are needed to import (and hopefully someday export) goods, the ports are being used as a hub for people, the ports are being used for distribution to other islands within the region etcetera.

The marine industry and its spin-offs account for roughly 12.5% of our economy. The many visitors reaching our shores via boat or yacht need food, transportation, will frequent our restaurants/bars/casino's, need to have (small and large) repairs done to their boats and yachts etcetera. Tourists want to enjoy the beauty of our waters by going out on sailing trips, fishing trips, (scuba) dive trips, visit our marine park etcetera. Looking at the mentioned examples, the marine industry impacts not only our tourism sector, but basically impacts any sector imaginable on this island.

It is of high importance that Sint Maarten remains a favorable tourist destination and that our sea ports remain favorable destinations or that we can even manage to increase our marine industry to a next level. Legislation, pricing, taxing, marketing and so forth need to be in place. The Heineken Regatta is a great example that positively impacts our marine industry and its spin-offs. However, to make full use of the potential of the marine industry we need to empower residents to become owner of a (small) business in the marine sector and that residents of Sint Maarten are being trained and equipped to function on the labour market in that specific segment of our economy.

The main reasons why we need to make use of our own human resources in the marine industry are quite simple: job creation and preventing money leaving our island. Less unemployment, money circulating in our country longer before it leaves the island and propelling other segments of our economy: marine industry, the glue in our economy. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

Media reports within the past two weeks have surfaced once again pointing to on-going discussions with the end result of finalizing an agreement for the purchase of Simpson Bay Resort and brand it as a Hard Rock property. These unconfirmed reports attributed to sources say that Hard Rock International (HRI) will also construct additional 150-200 rooms on the property, an investment of approximately US$100 million.

HRI continues its global expansion, and according to its corporate website, Sint Maarten is not listed as one of its official destinations that it will be setting up shop, but that is of course until an agreement can be confirmed and signed off, and an official announcement is made.

HRI will be opening Hard Rock Cafes in Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, India, Qatar, French Polynesia, Malaysia, Bolivia, Vietnam, South Korea, Thailand, Russia, Turkey and Spain.

With respect to Hotels and Casinos of the HRI brand, those listed as coming soon are Hungary, Abu Dhabi, Riviera Maya, Aruba, Northfield Park, Shenzhen, Haikou and Palm Springs.

Hard Rock continues to spread the message of rock from city to city, and now, the world-famous brand is taking Malaysia by storm! HRI announced at the end of January opening of its newest cafe location in the heart of Malaysia's charming city of Melaka. The new Hard Rock Cafe Melaka, located at the entrance of Jonker Walk within the UNESCO World Heritage Site, will undoubtedly be a must-see for both visitors and locals. The opening of Hard Rock Cafe Melaka marks the third Hard Rock Cafe in Malaysia, joining the popular locations in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

The 1,372-square-metre cafe includes seating for 200, an upscale vibrant bar, a spacious outdoor dining area, a live entertainment space that will feature Melaka's unique local music scene, and a Rock Shop.

HRI back in January submitted a non-refundable US$400.000 application fee to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for the development of HRI & Casino New England to be located in West Springfield, Mass., on the campus of Eastern States Exposition (ESE). The single-phased property would be created on a dedicated 38 acre section of ESE. The new resort it has been said will positively impact the State's economy and redefine the entertainment experience in Massachusetts.

Hard Rock International has 173 venues in 53 countries, including 138 Cafes and 15 Hotels/Casinos. Hard Rock's two flagship Hotels and Casinos are in Tampa and Hollywood, Florida.

The Hard Rock International brand is owned by the Seminole Indian Tribe of Florida, a federally recognized Indian tribe, and the only tribe in America who never signed a peace treaty. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, Inc. was created to oversee the business matters of the Tribe. The Tribe employs more than 7,000 and purchase more than US$130 million in goods and services annually.

The Hard Rock International brand will be a plus for Sint Maarten if all goes well with the acquisition of the Simpson Bay Resort property in Pelican. This will be the fourth hotel brand to establish itself on the island next to (Westin, Sonesta, and Radisson).

Roddy Heyliger

Last week some of the board members of Soualiga Social Movement attended the town hall meeting with the subject "Hillside Conservation Act". The presentation was very informative and the civil servants present were able to answer most of the questions. However, we learned that no specific policies were in place regarding agriculture, besides the one for the ecological/agricultural section in Emilio Wilson Estate. Agriculture would fall under "Residential - To Be Determined". On the other hand, feasibility studies are being carried out to have the tunnels become a reality and negotiations with land owners already took place to purchase land to make provisions for these same tunnels.

Agriculture creates an environment which lends itself to carry out social programs. To name just a few: teach youngsters to "care", get people out of a stressful situation and guide them back onto the labour market and educational programs.

Without a doubt we can say that fresh local produce have preference over products from abroad, simply because the timeframe between the harvesting of produce to the consumer is much shorter than when the produce come from abroad.

Add to that the economic benefits like preventing money going abroad but circulating on the island, because produce being purchased locally instead of abroad. Or we can argue that shipping costs are eliminated and one layer of "sellers" will be eliminated. Shops, restaurants, hotels or even consumers can buy straight from the locations where the products are grown. This reducing of costs can be an incentive for our people to buy more fresh produce (increasing health) and it will contribute to reduce the cost of living. Cost efficiency can only be obtained when there is agriculture on a large scale. We can also argue that a healthier population has lower health care costs and we can even argue that increased health increases performances in learning and increases in performance on the job (higher production). It has been proven that a healthy educated society suffers from a low crime rate.

Based on the aforementioned we can easily conclude that agriculture has a significant influence on the improvement of a society. Without judging projects like the Justice Park, Airport expansion/upgrade and the envisioned tunnels we seriously wonder if the right priority is given to agriculture and agricultural programs. Calling a small piece of land allocated for agriculture in Emilio Wilson Estate giving priority to agriculture is like calling a bucket of water in the back yard a pool. We hope to see the same effort being taken in feasibility studies for agriculture and purchasing land for agriculture as for other projects by any government. We need a project that is beneficial socially, health wise and economically. We need agriculture. #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

'Just the beginning of rising global demands of natives for their human rights of self-preservation'.

It went down, without a 'splash' in the local media.

Apparently, the TODAY-newspaper, of Thursday, February 21 tried to 'down-play' it's profound significance, by posting it 'inconspicuously' on page 6, which read; Asscher; All foreigners to sign 'participation contract'.

No editorial, no commentary – yeah - no nothing – just bring it like the proverbial 'thief in the night' and hope that nobody reads it, and certainly pays any due attention to its implication for our own island.

But, my dear friend 'Bert' Haar – 'nice try' – but, you gotta come again.

Too bad for you, but many people did read it and some even understood its many implications.

For one, the concept as proposed by Lodewijk Asscher, fundamentally is no different than what has been championed under challenging conditions, by me, your good friend, Leopold James, for my own country of heritage – St. Martin.

But alas, what a difference day makes for Mr. Haar, depending on who writes what.

As soon as, a letter to the editor by Leopold James, is received on the computer or Blackberry of Mr. HAAR, it immediately gets 'under his skin', unleashing the proverbial 'kneejerk reactions' and then 'all hell broke lose'.

Haar then unleashes, vicious, editorials, commentaries and personal attacks on 'messenger' Leopold James – depicting him every conceivable 'xenophobic wacko'.

Not this time though with the proposal by Mr. Lodewijk Ascher – All foreigners to sign 'participation contract'.

For the record.

Lodewijk Asscher is no Dutch 'John Doe'

Just 'google' Lodewijk Asscher for yourselves.

In summary, Lodewijk Frans Asscher is a powerful Dutch politician of the Labour Party. He has been the Deputy Prime Minister of the Netherlands and Minister of Social Affairs and Employment in the Cabinet Rutte II since November 5, 2012.

Now let is compare, Deputy Prime Minister Lodewijk Asscher's proposed 'participation contract' with our St. Martin grassroots pledge of allegiance, to be signed by all its board-members and associates.

Without going into any detail, what becomes more than evident, reading both documents is that they are de facto based on similar underlying motives.

The main one being that they in fact are intended to make sure that immigrants -'outsiders' if you will - will never be able to commit '(cultural-) genocide by substitution' on their respective native people !

In other words.

All those 'new-comers' to the respective countries of heritage, might be most welcome if they are of an 'added value' AND if they de facto commit themselves to preserving the cultural-heritage of the host-country and by doing, so commit themselves to the native people's rights to remain the host at all times !

That is 'key-element' both documents have in common and which of course makes all the sense in the world.

This 'universal principle' that 'Charity should start at home' , that connects the Dutch proposed 'Participation contract' and the Grassroots St. Martin Pledge of allegiance, is the true reason, why my great 'nemesis' Hilbert Haar, did his utmost best to avoid commenting on the issue.

He full well realizes that it only can boost the image and credibility of our own local, native St. Martin grassroots movement.

Alas, for 'Bert'.

Not knowing what it is to have a real home and to be rooted somewhere, he is the one increasingly becoming out of touch.

Cases in point.

Even our formerly 'sleepy' sister islands Saba, Statia and Bonaire, people are starting to awaken to the importance of 'self-preservation', now that they are seeing and starting to feel the implications of the neo-colonial relationship with 'Mother-land' Holland.

Although, I cautioned them for years , it is finally starting to sink their minds, that when one does not define oneself culturally and does not protect one's own cultural heritage- and identity, one puts one's self totally at risk of imported 'alien cultures' .

This process is called cultural imperialism and it is a very stealthily and effective method to wipe out an entire people – bloodlessly.

In this regard, we commend in Saba, Will Johnson, for starting to re-recognize the importance of his Saba indigenous people and for re-start his own newspaper - online - it is a very good and necessary initiative.

Also, my former student and psychologist in Statia, drs. Xiomara Balentina, for stepping up to the plate and organizing an I-petition drive for a new referendum on that island.

One thing all these initiatives, that on face value look un-connected, have in common is the natural and even divine incline of every living creature to preserve self – and a people's effort towards self preservation is a most powerful expression of such energy.

What is now lacking and is a veritable 'nightmare' to its opponents – is the networking between all of these global initiatives and sharing their potentials.

So, politicians and media –collaborators, just start get used to that scenario- it is inevitable !

Thanks for your attention.

Leopold JAMES
President of the St. Martin grassroots people movement and still...
A proud, conscious, native, indigenous St. Martiner – without apologies.

Globalization has many benefits but as with everything in life the purpose for which a concept started later on becomes distorted and corrupted and then no longer serves its original purpose. One of the negatives of globalization is that it has managed to break interdependencies among communities. So let us say in a village context some persons immigrated to a village to do primarily business and they had access to goods via their networks globally outside of the village. It meant then that as these persons come in and start to do business they dilute the way of life of the villagers. Interdependency that was once strong among the people starts to erode. So villagers might develop the habit of saying I am not going to contribute to local production because I can get products from overseas. Therefore I don't need to depend on my fellow villager anymore. When a villager depended on their fellow villager for their contribution (skill set, knowledge, etc) a level of respect towards one another was evident. For example someone with healing skills (e.g. herbalist or bush doctor) would not be easily harmed because if done and that skill set was limited, villagers getting ill would have an issue getting healed.

Bernard Lietaer said: "While economic textbooks claim that people and corporations are competing for markets and resources, I claim that in reality they are competing for money - using markets and resources to do so." So today the focus is not really on serving human needs via trade but the focus is on getting money. One of the only legal ways of doing so, unless you are a central or commercial bank, is via trade. Within trade there are also many practices that do not allow human labor to get its fair share. This is to increase profit. Taxes on human labor (wage tax) compound this issue as well. Full employment can never thus occur in a profit centric environment.

My research has revealed that the more money and profit industries pursue the higher the unemployment rate goes. Today, many companies and banks are sitting on piles of cash sitting idly while the unemployment rates are at record highs. In addition, the two main contributors of wholesale unemployment are: Technological unemployment and the outsourcing of work overseas where labor is "perceived" to be cheaper. Through machines (mechanization) and automation many jobs once performed by humans are no longer needed. And jobs that have not yet been automated are shipped overseas to places like China, India, Vietnam, etc. Researched has also shown that the globe has stabilized as it pertains to production. To keep the present rat race money system going, things are deliberately made to break down within a short period of time. This as a consequence is leading to resource depletion. So the wasting of copper, aluminum, oil, etc is resulting that the same level of production growth and thus economic growth seen in the past cannot be achieved and is also unsustainable on a planet with finite resources. Of course resource depletion will benefit some corporations once the supply gets less. Prices are affected by supply and demand and the more demand there is in relation to supply, prices go up. In such an environment, mergers and (hostile) takeovers of companies will likely take place making the number of suppliers less and thus further price increases will occur.

Through extensive research done by the North American Technate TNAT Technocracy design group, they came up with a potential new system with some of the following benefits: one would be able to work from the age of 25 and retire at 45, work for a 165 days per year, have 78 vacation days, and work in a shift system where 4 hours working shift a day can be the norm. The use of energy certificates rather than the use of money would be part of this system. Could you imagine your purchasing power increasing from year to year rather than decreasing as it is now through inflation? That is just one of the benefits of replacing money with energy certificates. From my review and understanding of such a system the benefits for mankind and the earth in general would be immense. However, I don't see such a system ever occurring in this lifetime or at least not in mines even though we already have all that is needed to make such a system a reality in the next few years. The majority of the world's population is holding on to an outdated social, economic, and financial system therefore the status quo will remain and thus will limit us from achieving such a new paradigm shift.

It will be interesting to see how this wholesale unemployment phenomenon with its new, never before experienced, context will affect the entire world who still gravitates to the concept of go to college to get a good/high degree, accumulating high amounts of debt in the process, to get a good paying job will pan out for many in years to come. Many higher education degrees actually have a negative return on investment. The evidence can be seen with the many graduates in America who sit on the unemployment line or they are underemployed while their debt accumulates exponentially from interest payments due that accrues and thus grows faster than the rate of inflation.

Emilio Kalmera

Is there a relationship between profit and unemployment? There is enough evidence that would suggest yes.

In the past when trade was done via bartering, the village concept was such that persons in a village produced in so far possible what they needed first for themselves and any excess above this production would be traded with another village or villages. Most persons fail to see the importance and benefits of this village concept. One of the core benefits among many who lived in a village concept is that the interdependency was and had to be strong among the people for them to survive. Interdependency creates bonding and the essence of the word community (together among each other) is maintained. As persons continue working from day to day they become more knowledgeable and they learn more creative and efficient ways to production. These efficiencies help create an excess to what the village can consume and thus trading with other villages would increase. Trading with other villages also created markets and also interdependencies among the various villagers. The key in all of this however is that productive trading based on real human needs was central. Employment was also never an issue because the production, storing, and distribution of the basic needs are a constant ongoing affair. And since most basic items in the past perished easily, hoarding made very little sense.

All consumable goods have their original source in the earth. From the earth matter is moved by mining, by agriculture, or by some other process into some form of manufacture. From the factory the finished product moves to the wholesaler, thence to the retailer, and finally to the consumer. Goods move in one direction, from the earth to the consumer and back to the earth again; money moves from the consumer to the retailer, the wholesaler, the manufacturer, and finally the landowner. But this monetary stream is being tapped at each section of its length, and being fed back as wages, rent, interest, profits, etc., and becomes the income of various individuals, who are themselves consumers. By the time this monetary stream reaches the ultimate landowner, who is the last person in the physical flow line, every cent that was originally paid to the retailer has been in this manner accounted for. Thus, if a million dollars passes from the consumer to the retailer, a million dollars worth of goods will be produced and consumed, and this same million dollars in the form of wages and salaries, rent, interest, profits, royalties, etc., will be paid out to individuals who are consumers, and will accordingly increase their incomes by the amount of one million dollars. Thus the sale of one million dollars worth of goods in this manner ultimately should provide consumers with one million dollars with which to buy another million dollars worth of goods. That is, provided that none of the million dollars originally spent is retained (savings, profit retaining or unbalanced redistribution) in any manner. Let us suppose, however, that somewhere along the route a part of this money passes into the hands of corporations, and that these corporations are making a profit, only part of which they payout as dividends, the remainder being held as corporation surplus. If, in this manner, out of each million dollars paid in by the consumer, 100,000 dollars was held out by the corporation as surplus, then only 900,000 dollars would be returned to the consumer. Consequently, the second time around, the consumer would be able to buy only nine-tenths as much goods as he bought the first time (assuming no credit are bank loans are taking). Industrial operations would, accordingly, only be nine-tenths as great. This process would continue with industry shutting down one-tenth of its previous production for each time the money made its complete circuit until ultimately complete industrial paralysis would result. This, of course, assumes that the money which was saved by corporations was locked up in a vault or hoarded. The same result would occur if individuals, thinking that they might need some money for illness or old age, instead of spending all they received, should decide to lock a part of it up and keep it. To the extent that this was done, goods would not be bought, and industry would not operate. Thus we come to the conclusion that if prices remain the same, and if either corporations or individuals save by withholding from circulation a part of the money which they receive, the ultimate result will be industrial paralysis. This of course assumes no buying on credit or consumer loans. - This paragraph was adapted from the Technocracy Study Course free download booklet, pages 138 to 141, technatedesign-tnat.blogspot.com -

Emilio Kalmera

The new Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Dominica national Dr. Carissa Etienne, said recently that she will be working closely with PAHO member countries to extend the benefits of health progress to all people in the Americas which also includes the Caribbean, with priority of accelerating progress toward universal access to quality health care.

Dr. Etienne points out that no other single achievement would contribute more to ensuring a long, dignified and productive life when the people of a nation have universal access to quality health care.

The Americas have made impressive health progress, with major gains in life expectancy, declining infant mortality, high rates of immunization, improved nutrition, expanded access to health care and health education, and newly available medicines and health technologies.

Country Sint Maarten is looking at a number of areas where health care is concerned.

The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever recently informed Parliament that there would be an increased partnership with regional health care providers; Social Health Insurance (SZV) provider is also currently finalizing its care contract plan, referral system, cost efficiency and quality assurance; the SZV and Minister also visited the Dominican Republic and Colombia to establish a working relationship with health care entities in those countries.

The Governing Program (GP) of the coalition calls and also supports the expansion of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC), therefore meeting the needs of a growing and changing population as well as expanding its services to accommodate more medical specialties and support services.

Government also intends to phase in a new health insurance system, "The National Health Insurance" based on the philosophy of equal access to essential health services. The GP also states in its 2.6 Improved Wellness & Health Care Chapter that Government intends to pursue the development of medical tourism on St. Maarten.

The new PAHO Director Dr. Etienne also stated that health can be a driving force for change, where improved health and access to health care will translate into stronger economies, more cohesive societies, and in nations better able to integrate and compete in the global world.

What Dr. Etienne has said in the aforementioned paragraph holds very true. We must as a nation make health the driving force for change. A healthy nation leads to an even more productive nation which translates into besides the wealth of being healthy, but economic wealth as well.

Our aim as a country must be to continue to advance as a society, capable of sustaining our own development and providing for a high standard of living for all our people and for generations to come.

Roddy Heyliger

Dear Editors,

Please allow me some space to offer a few words. It is with great pleasure that I learned of the initiative by the Department of Tourism, EPIC, St. Maarten Pride and the Ministry VROMI/ Public Works to place garbage bins along the beaches of Mullet Bay and Kim Sha beach. For years these beaches, which belong to some of our most beautiful and most visited, have had to contend with large amounts of garbage and refuse due to there not being adequate cleanup of or opportunities for the disposal of waste at the beaches.

The Nature Foundation and her sister organizations have continuously lamented the fact that the garbage, other than being an eyesore for visitors and residents alike, also has significant impacts for not only the environment but also for public health and safety, particularly along the beaches. These include infestation of pests along the beaches, more particularly ants and rats, the control of which the Nature Foundation is now researching. This also includes skin and ear infections and gastro-intestinal diseases. So with that in mind I would like to express my sincerest congratulations and deepest gratitude, on behalf of myself personally and on behalf of the Nature Foundation, for this much needed and long-overdue initiative.

As a conservation organization we urge all to use the bins which have been placed there for your benefit. Hopefully this is a new chapter on St. Maarten with regards to holistic ecosystem and waste management where waste, and in particular plastic waste, is kept from our beaches and from entering the ecosystem. Not only for the benefit of the turtles, fish, birds and other animals that call our beaches and our waters home, but for us St. Maarteners and those fortunate enough to visit our wonderful island.

So once again on behalf of the Board and Staff of the St. Maarten Nature Foundation we would like to say thank you for this great initiative and we urge all citizens to make use of the bins to keep St. Maarten the clean and beautiful island it is.

Tadzio Bervoets
St. Maarten Nature Foundation

Before 10/10/10 WINAIR was owned for 100% by the government of the former Netherlands Antilles. Airfares to and from Saba and St. Eustatius were dictated by the shareholder and promised subsidies were few and far between. Effective October 10th, 2010, St. Maarten and the Netherlands became co-owners of WINAIR and within months persons representing the new Shareholders' Representatives, as well as new Supervisory Board members were installed. At the same time a new Management team was installed with marching orders: "make the airline operationally profitable on the strength of its commercial viability and do not expect any subsidies from either one of the new Shareholders". That is exactly what has been done and where the airline is headed. The Netherlands' government has very much been involved in this exercise to date and we respectfully suggest that Minister Plasterk might contact his government's very able and active Shareholder Representative's office and/or their (also extremely active and knowledgeable) representative on the WINAIR Supervisory Board of Directors to be properly updated. As an aside re Medical Emergency Evacuations (Medivacs) out of the two BESS islands: WINAIR has for 50 years successfully flown Medivac flights out of Saba and St.Eustatius on an as-need basis with no loss of life. Since the Netherlands took over the responsibilities of the former Netherlands Antilles Government as they relate to Saba and St. Eustatius, WINAIR has been instructed that it can no longer execute MEDIVAC flights out of the two islands, as it is not registered as, nor equipped to be an official Air Ambulance company. WINAIR continues to be willing and able to resume the above mentioned MEDIVAC flight services on a flight charter basis whenever requested to do so.

Respectfully,

Michael J. Ferrier
WINAIR Advisor

Not all the time many words are needed to get a point across. So, this time a short article from our side. Actions speak sometimes louder than words.

We all know the example of the twig that can easily be snapped once alone, but which is hard to break within a bundle of twigs. The more twigs in the bundle, the harder it becomes to break the twig. It is no different when it comes to us human beings. A goal might seem impossible to achieve once a person stands alone, but once joined with others the goal becomes more and more realistic as the number of persons involved increase.

Last weekend's initiative taken by "The Cay Hill Boys" to address issues in their community is a great example of what is possible when people come together. The ironic part is that it is these same boys, who we often talk about in a negative way (too lazy to work, always hanging around smoking weed, bunch of criminals etc), who took it upon themselves to take a stand and unite. And they don't unite just "The Cay Hill Boys", but everybody within their community.

It is because of "The Cay Hill Boys" that many issues will be addressed and dealt with. It is because of them that awareness was elevated. It is because of them that the feeling of a "community" has been and is being increased. It is because of them that other organizations got involved. It is because of them that more residents got involved.

Our point is: Other groups before and now "The Cay Hill Boys" have shown that when you come together and deal with issues together, goals can be achieved. It is about awareness, inclusion and participation. It is about strength through numbers...#sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

A U.S. report entitled, "Preventing a Security Crisis in the Caribbean," issued by the U.S. Congress last year says that despite impressive gains, drug trafficking, local drug consumption and the U.S. demand for illegal drugs remain major causes of crime and violence.

Cocaine trafficking through the Caribbean en route to Europe has increased 800 per cent in the past two years due, among other reasons, the lack of technological resources in ports, according to conclusion of a seminar "Police Investigation of Maritime Cocaine Trafficking, with Special Reference to Container Traffic," that was held Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

A senior official of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) has described as disturbing the illicit trafficking of small arms and the growth of gangs in the region. The Caribbean region continues to be among the top three, globally, for high incidence of homicides.

The IMPACS says what is more disturbing, are recent trends indicating significant growth in gang formation.

Barbados Prime Minister (PM) Freundel Stuart says security issues are real for us here in the Caribbean..."If we did not want to be mature up to then (the Grenada coup)...We were forced into maturity by those events and we came face to face with a reality that we needed to have in place the kind of mechanisms, military and otherwise that would allow us to handle such challenges."

The mechanism that PM Stuart was referring to in a speech is the Regional Security System (RSS) comprising of seven independent English-speaking Caribbean countries. The RSS is prepared for a number of contingencies such as national emergencies, search and rescue, immigration, fishery, customs, and maritime controls as well as threats to national security.

PM Stuart sounded a note of caution for persons to realize that the Caribbean – which country Sint Maarten is part and parcel of – was not divorced from the problems of the world. "Located where we are, we cannot continue to believe that we are insulated or isolated from the threats that bedevil other parts of the world."

Small Island Nation States like ours can be caught off guard if not up to speed on intelligence developments within the region and around the world. Hence, why inter-country agency cooperation is so essential and necessary in the 21st century as noted from the perspective by PM Stuart. For example, according to the United Kingdom Intelligence Services Committee Report, the so-called 'Arab Spring' caught many by surprise and it presented a real challenge to the intelligence community who had to re-prioritize quickly and redirect their resources toward the Mediterranean region.

One of the primary focuses of intelligence services are on the growing threat from Al-Qaeda affiliates on the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and Somalia. AQAP according to the UK report has shown itself to be resilient and it remains capable of mounting terrorist attacks against the West. Most recent terrorist activities have been the Algerian gas field attack last month and the French intervention in the African country of Mali on January 11 to stem the advance of AQAP.

Sint Maarten's Security Service could lead the way in bringing the Caribbean together to confront potential future threats to the well-being of the Caribbean people via disruptions in economic activities. Planning is the key and cooperation within the region is essential along with working with other partners within the Western Hemisphere.

Roddy Heyliger

The word "integrity" has been used quite a lot lately when it comes to our local politics and politicians. There are several politicians under police investigation as well as high ranked civil servants with one politician in parliament recently being convicted and banned from public office. Furthermore, the spending of tax payers money for private gain or political mileage and the lack of following the correct procedures to "push through" projects are every day topics. Of course we cannot fail to mention the ongoing incidents surrounding our prosecutor's office.

It is in the best interest of the people that all actions are being scrutinized and investigated if necessary, be it by our police or an independent entity and have the outcome made public. This also means that those who are accused of wrongdoings have their name cleared publicly. Unfortunately, there is a great lack of investigations and communication towards the public about the investigations that do take place or have taken place. So, how can we demand "integrity" from those who have been involved in wrongdoings? What do we do when someone is convicted and still act as our representative?

The heart of the problem lies within the aforementioned. How can we demand something from our representatives if we are not displaying it ourselves? How many of us did except a "bribe" for our vote? How many of us called in a "favor" with one of our civil servants to get something done? What do we do when we know about a person's criminal activities? The list with questions about our "integrity" as a people goes on and on.

An on-line quote: "In ethics, integrity is regarded as the honesty and truthfulness or accuracy of one's actions. Integrity can be regarded as the opposite of hypocrisy, in that integrity regards internal consistency as a virtue, and suggests that parties holding apparently conflicting values should account for the discrepancy or alter their beliefs."

So, we should stop being hypocrites and start with installing some "integrity" within ourselves. This is so much needed for us to move forward as a community and as a country into a prosperous future. Transparency, accountability and integrity are the key words for our system to function. But this cannot work without the people for whom this system is supposed to work. We demand integrity and we demand it from all of us. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

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

Name Withheld Upon Author's Request

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soualiga Social Movement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roddy Heyliger

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roddy Heyliger

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

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

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

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

Soualiga Social Movement

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


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

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

Emilio Kalmera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roddy Heyliger

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soualiga Social Movement

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Roddy Heyliger

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

Fleming Family

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soualiga Social Movement

george21082009Member of Parliament George Pantophlet sees 2013 as a year where we can make positive strides. The headlines appearing on the front page of the daily herald "Government to save over Naf. 300, 000 on insurance of Government vehicles" is one such stride. It is one of the concerted efforts being made to minimize government expenditures. He is also an ardent supporter of the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt efforts in trying to secure the much needed Naf. 40,000,000 that was supposed to be paid to St. Maarten by the Netherlands in connection with debts to creditors of the former Netherlands Antilles. He believes that these funds are still available. What will also be an important factor is the matter of tax compliance. It will be prudent for the businesses or individuals who don't comply to take the initiative by contacting the receiver's office and see what arrangements can be made with regards to outstanding taxes. In the same vein he encourages the receiver's to be realistic and balanced in their approach. He understands that the ordinance on the collection of taxes prescribes the manner in which taxes are to be collected. But the approach by the receiver should not be detrimental to the organization or individual. Another important and key stride that must be made is increasing the spending or buying power of the people of St. Maarten. He places the emphasis for achieving this on the cooperation of all. He would also like to see the establishing of the Consumer Protection Agency. It will play a vital role in protecting our consumers on St. Maarten and also our good name when it comes to visitors to our country. The Member of Parliament says that as difficult as 2012 was we must have a positive mindset for 2013. What we think affects what we do. As a man thinks in his heart so is he. The Member of Parliament said he is a proponent of establishing closer business relations with the region and the Latin American countries who have fared well during the global crisis. The issues mentioned are some of those that he will be pursuing this year. Let us face 2013 head on and make positive strides.

Member of Parliament, George Pantophlet.

Conformément aux directives nationales relayées par le commandement de la gendarmerie de Guadeloupe et par M. le Préfet délégué de St Barthélemy et de St Martin, un important dispositif de gendarmerie sera mis en place à l'occasion du réveillon de la St Sylvestre, afin de prévenir et réprimer les comportements dangereux susceptibles d'être relevés à l'occasion des festivités. Plusieurs postes de contrôles seront notamment mis en place sur les axes routiers de façon évolutive, en divers points du
territoire, afin de rechercher la présence d'alcool et de stupéfiants sur les conducteurs. La gendarmerie rappelle que la consommation excessive d'alcool est la cause des deux accidents mortels constatés cette année sur le territoire de Saint-Martin, et que la présence de stupéfiants a été détectée sur un de ces deux accidents.

Le mardi 24 décembre 2013 vers 03h00, l'opérateur du système de vidéo-protection de la police territoriale signale à l gendarmerie qu'un individu est en train de forcer la portière d'une voiture stationnée au centre ville de Marigot. Une patrouille de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 41/7 de DIJON se rend immédiatement sur les lieux et procède à l'interpellation de l'individu, qui venait de démonter la batterie du véhicule. L'individu est placé en garde à vue par les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de St Martin, qui lui notifient à l'issue de cette mesure, une convocation devant le tribunal de St Martin pour le 09 janvier 2013.

Le 27 décembre à 02h44, une tentative de vol avec effraction sur une habitation du lotissement Mont Vernon 3 est signalée à la gendarmerie. L'auteur des faits, mis en fuite par les occupants, est recherché sans résultat par une patrouille du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de la gendarmerie de St Martin qui a été dépêchée sur les lieux. Après quelques instants, une autre personne résidant dans ce quartier signale qu'un individu tente de briser son volet et menace de mettre le feu à sa maison. La patrouille du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention se dirige immédiatement vers cette habitation et procède à l'interpellation. Le malfaiteur, sous l'emprise de l'alcool, est placé en garde à vue par les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de St Martin qui connaissent bien celui-ci puisqu'il avait déjà fait l'objet d'une mesure de garde à vue le 21 décembre 2013, suite à son intrusion dans une propriété privée.

Le 19 novembre 2013, un restaurant du front de mer de Marigot faisait l'objet d'un cambriolage. Les constatations effectués par les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigade de Marigot ont permis de relever des traces permettant d'identifier l'auteur des faits. Celui-ci a été interpellé et placé en garde à vue le 24 décembre 2013. A l'issue de cette mesure, une convocation au tribunal de St Martin lui a été notifiée le 09 janvier 2013.

Le 19 décembre 2013 vers 00h00, dans le cadre d'un différent conjugal, un individu tirait plusieurs coups de feu sur la voie publique, atteignant notamment le pare-brise de la voiture d'une personne avec laquelle il avait un différent. L'individu est rapidement identifié par les enquêteurs, il se présente à la brigade de gendarmerie de Quartier d'Orléans le 20 décembre 2013. Placé en garde à vue, il reconnaît les faits. La perquisition réalisée à son domicile permet de découvrir un fusil de calibre 22LR à crosse et canon sciés. A l'issue de sa garde à vue, il est convoqué devant le tribunal de St Martin le 09 janvier 2013 pour violences avec arme sans ITT et dégradation de bien.

Le 21 décembre 2013 vers 20 heures 50, la société assurant la télésurveillance d'une bijouterie de l'agglomération de Marigot informe la gendarmerie de l'intrusion d'un individu. Une patrouille de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Dijon, immédiatement dépêchée sur les lieux, réalise l'interpellation de celui-ci. L'individu est placé en garde à vue à la brigade de gendarmerie de Marigot, au cours de son audition, il reconnaît sa participation à divers délits, notamment l'incendie le 28 juillet 2013 de l'immeuble dit « la plantation » situé dans le secteur d'Hope Estate. A l'issue de la mesure de garde à vue, il fait l'objet d'une convocation au tribunal de St Martin pour le 14 février 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Congratulations to GEBE and the people of St. Maarten on the full ownership of the shares of the company.
Now that we are the sole owners of our utility company GEBE NV we need to eliminate a very dark page in the history of the company. For many years GEBE has made use of the services of a group of people, who are in the service of one or more so called temporary employment agencies.
I am sure that everyone understands that any labor relation (agreement) that has endured for decades can NOT be called a temporary situation any longer.
The time is now most appropriate for GEBE to do the right thing for these workers, who have physically worked in the trenches under the worst of conditions and in the administration, in some cases more than thirty years. These persons have been robbed over the years as they cannot obtain a loan from a bank to buy a piece of land, build a house or let alone planned properly for their future.
Registering them retroactively with the pension fund and putting them on the company's payroll in the correct scales would be a good place to start.
After working so long and hard for our utility company, why shouldn't these brothers and sisters be able to enjoy a decent salary and pension, as those who enjoy the protection of a union within the company?
When I decided to join the political arena, I did so with the conviction that I will join a political party that will want to do right for all those persons that are being treated unfairly in our society. We want to assure all those persons who are presently working under employment agencies that we will be forwarding a proposal to the Parliament of St. Maarten within short to curb the abuse that exist now within the functioning of these agencies in collaboration with various companies.

Click here to view the letter OSPP sent to GEBE.

Le Tribunal de Commerce de Lyon a désigné ce jour Alain de Krassny, accompagné par le fonds OpenGate Capital, comme repreneur de l'entreprise française de pétrochimie Kem One SAS, spécialiste de la transformation de l'éthylène et de la production de polychlorure de vinyle (PVC).

Cette reprise est le résultat d'un intense travail, conduit depuis la mise en redressement judiciaire en avril dernier, par l'Etat avec l'ensemble des partenaires de l'entreprise et les candidats repreneurs, en informant régulièrement les représentants du personnel. Un nouvel avenir s'offre ainsi à Kem One SAS et à ses 1300 salariés, mais également aux autres sites industriels situés dans la région lyonnaise et autour de l'Etang de Berre, dont l'activité est directement liée à celle de l'entreprise.

En liaison permanente avec le Premier ministre, qui a suivi de très près les discussions pour identifier une solution crédible pour l'entreprise, la mobilisation du Ministre du Redressement productif, Arnaud Montebourg, et de ses équipes, ainsi que celle du Préfet de la Région Rhône-Alpes et des principaux partenaires industriels de l'entreprise (Total, Arkéma, EDF), ont été déterminantes pour le succès de cette opération.

Kem One a traversé par le passé des épisodes douloureux. Le projet porté par Alain de Krassny et OpenGate Capital doit traduire un renouveau pour l'entreprise et l'ensemble de la filière. Il nécessitera un engagement de tous. Dans ce contexte, l'Etat, partenaire de ce projet, veillera étroitement à l'action responsable et durable des nouveaux actionnaires.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a déclaré : « Cette reprise est une nouvelle très importante pour l'ensemble de la filière pétrochimique française. Au total, elle concerne plus de 3000 salariés chez Kem One et ses principaux fournisseurs ou clients, dont l'emploi est directement lié à l'activité des sites de Kem One, et sans doute trois fois plus si l'on tient compte de tous les emplois indirects. Elle démontre, encore une fois, ce qu'il est possible de réussir par la mobilisation collective. »

Dans le cadre de lutte contre les cambriolages, la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy, renouvelle, pendant la durée des vacances de Noël la campagne « opération tranquillité vacances ».
Durant votre absence, les gendarmes peuvent, sur votre demande, surveiller votre domicile ou votre commerce au cours de leurs patrouilles et rondes quotidiennes.
Pour bénéficier de ce service, inscrivez-vous au plus tard 3 jours avant votre départ auprès d'une des brigades de gendarmerie de Marigot-Concordia ou Quartier d'Orléans.
Des conseils sur la sécurisation des lieux vous seront aussi prodigués.
En cas de retour inopiné ou de modification de la date et/ou de la durée de vos congés, n'oubliez pas de prévenir. Renseignements au 0 590 52 21 90 (Brigade de Marigot-Concordia) ou au 0 590 52 36 07 (Brigade de Quartier d'Orléans).

En raison des fêtes de Noël, la Préfecture de Saint-Martin sera fermée au public les MERCREDI 25 et JEUDI 26 DECEMBRE 2013.

L'accueil des usagers reprendra normalement le VENDREDI 27 DECEMBRE 2013, sur le site de la Préfecture, sis route du Fort Louis à partir de 8h00.

Le Comité de pilotage de la remise à plat de la fiscalité s'est réuni aujourd'hui à l'Hôtel de Matignon.
Le Comité de pilotage rassemble, autour du Premier ministre, le Ministre de l'Economie et des Finances, le Ministre délégué au Budget, le Ministre du Travail, de l'Emploi, de la Formation professionnelle et du Dialogue social, la Ministre des Affaires sociales et de la Santé, la Ministre de la Réforme de l'Etat, de la Décentralisation et de la Fonction publique, le Ministre délégué chargé des relations avec le Parlement et les Rapporteurs généraux des Commissions des Finances de l'Assemblée nationale et du Sénat.
La remise à plat de la fiscalité s'inscrit dans la stratégie en faveur de la croissance, de l'emploi et de la justice menée par le gouvernement depuis 18 mois. A cet égard, les mesures prises depuis le début du quinquennat, ainsi que les dispositifs stabilisés dans le cadre du Pacte national pour la croissance, la compétitivité et l'emploi ne seront pas remis en cause. Ils constituent un socle sur lequel la réforme sera construite.
La remise à plat de la fiscalité est indissociable des efforts d'économies : le sentiment d'un impôt juste, lisible et stable doit aller de pair avec la conviction qu'un euro dépensé est un euro utile.
La remise à plat de la fiscalité poursuit dans ce contexte trois objectifs principaux :

  • Un système de prélèvements plus favorables à la croissance, l'emploi et la compétitivité de notre économie ;
  • La simplification du système, pour une meilleure lisibilité au bénéfice des ménages et des entreprises, et la stabilité dans la durée ;
  • La justice sociale.

Elle ne signifiera en aucun cas plus d'impôts. La remise à plat se fera dans la transparence, à la fois sur la réalité du système actuel et sur les implications des pistes envisagées.
Elle se fera progressivement. D'ici la fin du quinquennat, les efforts d'économies permettront une baisse des prélèvements obligatoires, qui dégagera les marges nécessaires à la montée en puissance de la réforme.
Hôtel de Matignon - 57, rue de Varenne - 75007 PARIS
Le Comité de pilotage a décidé de la mise en place de groupes de travail pour la fiscalité des ménages et celle des entreprises. Ces groupes de travail associent élus de la majorité comme de l'opposition, experts et partenaires sociaux. Ils commenceront leur travail dès le début 2014. Le mois de janvier sera consacré au partage transparent d'un diagnostic sur les imperfections et les complexités de notre système de prélèvements. Les éléments de diagnostic seront mis en ligne.
Par ailleurs, le Haut Conseil du Financement de la Protection Sociale a été saisi aujourd'hui pour travailler aux modalités de clarification, diversification et consolidation du financement de la protection sociale. Ses travaux devront être achevés à la fin du mois de mai 2014.
La fiscalité locale sera abordée dans le cadre des travaux sur la fiscalité des entreprises et des ménages, en associant le comité des finances locales (CFL). Les travaux engagés par le comité de la fiscalité écologique (CFE) se poursuivront.
L'objectif de cette remise à plat est de déboucher sur des décisions à l'horizon de juin 2014, pour permettre une mise en oeuvre de premières mesures dès la loi de finances et la loi de financement de la sécurité sociale pour 2015.

Au cours de la nuit du 19 au 20 septembre 2013, plusieurs individus s'introduisent dans l'enceinte de la gendarmerie de La Savane après avoir découpé le grillage et s'emparent dans une zone de la caserne de plusieurs cyclomoteurs immobilisés et saisis dans le cadre d'enquêtes administrative ou judiciaires. L'enquête est alors confiée à la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin. Après plusieurs semaines d'investigations, les enquêteurs parviennent à identifier plusieurs individus ayant participé aux faits.
Quelques semaines plus tard, dans la nuit du 1er au 02 novembre 2013, au cours d'une opération de lutte contre la délinquance menée sur le secteur de Grand Case, les militaires du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de la gendarmerie de Saint-Martin et de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 41/7 de Dijon, repèrent un véhicule suspect, signalé volé lors d'un cambriolage perpétré quelques temps auparavant. Immédiatement, un dispositif de contrôle est mis en place. À la vue des gendarmes, le conducteur n'obtempère pas aux injonctions et tente de passer en force en percutant le véhicule des militaires avant de prendre la fuite par les toits des habitations. Dans le véhicule volé, les militaires de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin saisissent un pistolet semi-automatique de calibre 45 (11,43 mm) et un téléphone portable dérobé en août 2013. Les opérations de police technique et scientifique menées à l'intérieur par les techniciens en identification criminelle permettent en outre de confondre l'auteur des faits grâce à des relevés d'empreintes digitales.
Une perquisition est alors effectuée à son domicile en son absence et permet la découverte incidemment d'une des motos volées dans l'enceinte de la gendarmerie de la Savane en septembre dernier.
Acculé et se sentant fortement recherché, l'auteur de ces multiples faits se livre à la brigade de gendarmerie de Marigot-Concordia le 09 décembre 2013 et est alors immédiatement placé en garde à vue.
Le mercredi 11 décembre, l'individu est déferré devant le magistrat du Parquet de Basse-Terre pour être jugé en comparution immédiate le vendredi 13 décembre 2013.
Lors de l'audience correctionnelle du vendredi 13 décembre 2013, le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre décide finalement de renvoyer l'audience à une date ultérieure d'une part, et de la remise en liberté du mis en cause d'autre part avec placement sous contrôle judiciaire de ce dernier.

Le Premier ministre salue avec une grande satisfaction la conclusion du projet d'accord des partenaires sociaux sur la formation professionnelle.
Après l'accord du 11 janvier dernier sur la sécurisation de l'emploi, c'est une nouvelle étape prouvant que la démocratie sociale peut fonctionner dans notre pays.
Ce texte répond aux objectifs fixés par le gouvernement à cette négociation, en particulier celui de permettre davantage de formation pour ceux qui en ont le plus besoin - demandeurs d'emploi, salariés les moins qualifiés, salariés des petites entreprises- et celui visant à faire de la formation un véritable investissement pour les entreprises. Il donne vie au compte personnel de formation que toute personne conservera tout au long de sa vie.
Le Premier ministre salue l'ensemble des partenaires sociaux qui se sont impliqués dans cette négociation difficile.
Le projet d'accord sera soumis à la signature de chaque organisation et sera ensuite le fondement du projet de loi que le gouvernement présentera au Parlement en début d'année 2014.
Ce texte est une nouvelle preuve de ce que peut produire le dialogue social dans notre pays, en faveur des salariés, des demandeurs d'emploi et des entreprises, et au service de notre modèle social.
C'est un atout supplémentaire pour favoriser la compétitivité des entreprises, la croissance et l'emploi et permettre aux salariés de notre pays d'avoir les moyens d'une réelle promotion professionnelle et sociale.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec peine le décès, à l'âge de 83 ans, du romancier Michel Chaillou. Né à Nantes, il est toujours resté attaché à sa ville natale, alternant une riche production littéraire et une implication féconde dans l'enseignement et la transmission aux jeunes de l'histoire de la littérature. Membre de l'Académie de Bretagne, il avait eu la grande élégance de faire don, en avril dernier, des manuscrits de deux de ses livres - La croyance des voleurs et La fuite en Egypte - à la ville de Nantes.

L'écriture de Michel Chaillou invitait à un voyage, celui que proposait Montaigne, pour qui « il faut voyager pour frotter et limer sa cervelle contre celle d'autrui ».

Ecrivain pratiquant dans un même souffle l'art du souvenir et la ciselure des mots, Michel Chaillou incarnait, dans ses romans, l'aventure du romanesque. Il manquera beaucoup à la littérature française.

A sa famille, à ses proches, et à tous ses lecteurs, Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse ses plus sincères condoléances.

Le Premier ministre a reçu aujourd'hui le rapport relatif à la fiscalité du secteur non lucratif, établi par les députés Yves Blein, Laurent Grandguillaume, Jérôme Guedj et Régis Juanico, avec l'appui de l'inspection générale des finances (IGF) et de l'Inspection générale des affaires sociales (IGAS).

Au terme d'une analyse approfondie et d'une large consultation des acteurs du secteur non lucratif, dans différents secteurs d'activité, le rapport dresse un panorama nuancé des enjeux relatifs à la fiscalité des associations et des autres organismes sans but lucratif.

Le rapport formule vingt propositions, dont un grand nombre ne nécessitent pas d'évolution législative qui éclaireront les débats en cours ou à venir : examen en cours du projet de loi relatif à l'économie sociale et solidaire , actualisation de la charte des engagements réciproques entre l'Etat, les collectivités et le monde associatif, travaux en cours visant à sécuriser le cadre de contractualisation entre collectivités et associations, mise à jour de la doctrine fiscale et, pour ce qui concerne plus particulièrement le secteur médico-social, concertation dans le cadre des travaux en cours sur le projet de loi pour l'adaptation de la société au vieillissement.

Le rapport irriguera également les réflexions du Gouvernement dans sa démarche de remise à plat de la fiscalité engagée par le Premier ministre.

Dans le cadre de leurs attributions, le haut conseil de la vie associative et le conseil supérieur de l'économie sociale et solidaire seront saisis des propositions de réforme retenues par le Gouvernement.

L'île de Saint-Martin est touchée par une épidémie du virus chikungunya. Dans ce cadre, seule une action citoyenne de tous les habitants de l'île peut aider à enrayer ce phénomène.
Des mesures simples et de bon sens peuvent participer activement et efficacement à la non prolifération de cette épidémie et à terme à la destruction de ce fléau.

  • Chacun doit rechercher dans son environnement les lieux humides ou les concentrations d'eaux stagnantes vecteurs de propagation des larves de moustiques et les détruire.
  • L'utilisation de répulsifs appliqués sur la peau est efficace et recommandée particulièrement pour les enfants, de même que la pulvérisation d'insecticides autour des portes et fenêtres.
  • Porter dans la mesure du possible des vêtements couvrant le corps au maximum et notamment les bras et les jambes.
  • Equiper les fenêtres et les couchages de moustiquaires ci-possible imprégnées.

Toutes les mesures de bon sens visant à participer à lutte contre le vecteur de cette épidémie sont utiles et n'hésitez pas à encourager et motiver votre famille et votre entourage à participer à cette lutte contre le moustique.
Des actions de pulvérisation d'insecticides sont en cours se poursuivent et s'intensifient sur la totalité de l'île.
Lutter contre le moustique Aedes Aegypti c'est lutter contre la dengue et contre le chikungunya.

N'OUBLIEZ PAS QUE SEULE L'ACTION ET LA MOTIVATION DE CHACUN D'ENTRE
VOUS PERMETTRA DE VENIR A BOUT DE CETTE EPIDEMIE QUI CONCERNE TOUS LES
CITOYENS DE NOTRE ILE.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec une grande tristesse le décès de Jean-Louis Foulquier, à l'âge de 70 ans. Son parcours professionnel est indissociablement lié à Radio France et à France Inter. Pendant plus de 40 ans de collaboration avec la radio publique, Jean-Louis Foulquier fut un découvreur et un passeur incontournable et indispensable. Découvreur de talents, pour plusieurs générations d'auteurs, de compositeurs, d'interprètes. Passeur de passions, pour la variété française, pour les talents des jeunes artistes, pour la diversité de la création.

Jean-Louis Foulquier s'identifie aussi aux Francofolies de La Rochelle, festival qu'il a ancré dans sa ville natale et qui constitue aujourd'hui un des piliers de l'identité culturelle de cette grande ville historique et de sa région.

Jean-Louis Foulquier, c'est enfin une voix, chaude et chaleureuse, douce et entrainante, qui manque désormais à l'oreille d'une multitude d'auditeurs de France Inter. Elle manquera aussi à un très grand nombre d'artistes qui doivent beaucoup aux talents de Jean-Louis Foulquier.

La variété française est aujourd'hui orpheline. Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse à la famille et aux proches de Jean-Louis Foulquier ses condoléances attristées.

Le Pr Jean-François Girard, conseiller d'Etat, et M. Philippe Tourtelier, ancien député, ont remis le 10 décembre 2013 leur rapport de mission sur « Le développement des usages mobiles et le principe de sobriété » qu'ils ont réalisé avec l'appui de M. Stéphane Le Bouler, professeur agrégé.

Le gouvernement les remercie pour ce travail que leur a confié le Premier ministre le 2 mai 2013 aux fins d'élaborer des propositions sur les modalités d'une éventuelle inscription dans la loi d'un principe de sobriété en matière d'exposition aux ondes électromagnétiques.

Ce rapport est le fruit d'une concertation avec les parties prenantes (collectivités et associations de collectivités, associations de protection des consommateurs et de l'environnement, industriels de la filière, services de l'Etat, etc.) et d'un travail régulier avec un groupe de contact parlementaire.

La mission recommande d'inscrire dans la loi l'objectif de modération des expositions et les principes de l'information et de la concertation locale.

Dans la continuité des résultats des expérimentations du comité opérationnel sur les ondes de téléphonie mobile (COPIC), rendus public en août 2013, le rapport recommande d'améliorer la procédure d'installation des antennes relais de téléphonie mobile en renforçant l'information et la concertation au niveau local.

Le rapport invite par ailleurs les pouvoirs publics à anticiper le déploiement de nouvelles technologies tant en matière de recherche qu'en matière d'impact sur l'exposition.

Il préconise enfin une vigilance sanitaire renforcée en ce qui concerne l'exposition aux terminaux mobiles, en s'appuyant sur le rapport de l'ANSES d'octobre 2013.

Ces propositions contribueront à alimenter les travaux en cours, notamment l'examen par le Parlement de la proposition de loi relative à la sobriété, à la transparence et à la concertation en matière d'exposition aux ondes électromagnétiques déposée à l'Assemblée nationale le 7 décembre 2013.

Lundi 9 décembre 2013, le Préfet délégué auprès de la Représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, la 1ère vice-présidente du conseil territorial de Saint-Barthélemy et le délégué territorial de l'ARS ont présidé le comité de gestion contre la dengue à Saint-Barthélemy.
A cette occasion, et malgré un nombre de cas hospitalisés supérieur aux mois précédents, il a été constaté une amélioration de la situation générale avec une diminution des cas cliniquement évocateurs de dengue et des cas probables et confirmés.
Pour autant, et au regard des épidémies de dengue et de chikungunya qui touchent l'île de Saint-Martin, il convient de redoubler la vigilance. Il est donc impérieux de poursuivre les actions de surveillance épidémiologique et entomologique et de lutte contre le moustique aedes aegypti, seul vecteur de ces virus.
En effet, seule une action volontariste permettra d'endiguer les phénomènes. Pour ce faire, la collectivité de Saint-Barthélemy et l'ARS mèneront des opérations de sensibilisation et de communication à destination des particuliers, des élèves et des socio-professionnels. Des actions de pulvérisation seront poursuivies.
La Délégation Territoriale de l'ARS se tient à disposition des entreprises, hôtels, gestionnaires d'immeubles, etc. pour les informer des mesures à prendre pour lutter contre le développement de moustiques.
Contact : Service de Lutte antivectorielle 0590 27 96 94 ou 0590 27 16 18

Le 02 décembre dernier, un homme âgé de 43 ans, résidant à Concordia, est interpellé à son domicile en raison d'un cambriolage commis au cours de la nuit dans une résidence de son quartier. Les investigations réalisées par les gendarmes de la communauté de brigades de St Martin permettent également de le soupçonner pour d'autres cambriolages commis le 23 octobre, le 06 novembre. A l'issue de sa garde à vue, l'individu fait l'objet d'une convocation au tribunal correctionnel pour le 09 janvier 2014.
Le 05 décembre dernier deux jeunes hommes âgés de 16 et de 17 ans, résidant à Quartier d'Orléans, sont placés en garde à vue par les gendarmes de la communauté de brigades de St Martin. Ils sont soupçonnés d'avoir commis plusieurs cambriolages et des dégradations dans leur propre quartier au cours des semaines précédentes. A l'issue de leur garde à vue, les individus font l'objet d'une convocation le 21 janvier 2014 devant le tribunal pour enfant. Lors de cette audience, le jeune homme âgé de 17 ans sera également jugé pour des menaces de mort qu'il a proféré à l'encontre d'un des militaires de la gendarmerie qui assurait son escorte.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec peine le décès d' Édouard Molinaro, survenu dans sa 86ème année. Réalisateur fécond, Édouard Molinaro a traversé la seconde partie du XXème siècle avec légèreté, constance, et gravité. Il sut varier les styles, de la comédie populaire au film historique, au cinéma mais aussi à la télévision.

Nombreux sont les acteurs qui lui doivent, comme Louis de Funès, une partie de leur notoriété.

C'est une page glorieuse du cinéma français qui se tourne aujourd'hui.

A sa famille, à ses proches, Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse ses condoléances attristées.

Face à la recrudescence, des homicides et tentatives d'homicides par arme à feu, le Préfet délégué auprès de la Représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin et le Vice-Procureur de la République détaché auprès du tribunal d'instance de Saint-Martin, avait pris l'initiative de lancer une campagne de lutte contre la détention illégale et la circulation des armes.
Ainsi, entre le 7 octobre et le 17 novembre 2013, toute personne en possession d'une arme pouvait venir la remettre, sans risque de poursuites judiciaires, à la brigade de gendarmerie de Marigot ou de Quartier d'Orléans.
Dans ce cadre, 6 armes ont été volontairement déposées.
Si le bilan de cette campagne inédite à Saint-Martin, paraît insuffisant au regard des faits de délinquance commis avec le recours d'une arme, pour autant, elle a permis, grâce notamment à l'action des acteurs locaux (collectivité, comités de quartiers, associations) que l'ensemble de la population de Saint-Martin prenne conscience du phénomène et agisse pour remédier à cette situation.
Enfin, et comme l'avait indiqué le vice-procureur de la République, à l'issue de cette période de prévention, une phase de répression va être engagée par le renforcement de contrôles dédiés à lutter contre la détention illégale et la circulation des armes et toute détention illégale donnera lieu à une comparution immédiate devant le tribunal correctionnel.

C'est avec émotion que le Premier ministre a appris le décès, à l'âge de 106 ans, de Pierre Aliker, personnalité marquante de la vie politique martiniquaise, et à laquelle les Martiniquais étaient très attachés.

Compagnon de route d'Aimé Césaire depuis 1945, avec lequel il avait fondé le parti progressiste martiniquais en 1958, Pierre Aliker a occupé la fonction de premier adjoint au maire de Fort-de-France de 1957 à 2001.

Il a également été conseiller général du canton 3 de Fort-de-France de 1958 à 1970.

Pour son action politique quotidienne ainsi que sa vision progressiste de l'avenir de la Martinique, Pierre Aliker restera une figure politique de référence pour ses concitoyens.

Le Premier ministre adresse ses condoléances attristées à la famille de Pierre Aliker, à ses proches ainsi qu'à tous les Martiniquais.

C'est avec une immense émotion que j'ai appris la disparition de Nelson Mandela.

Tout au long de sa vie, il s'est battu avec courage pour la justice et contre l'abjection de l'apartheid. A force de ténacité, il a guidé son peuple vers la liberté et la dignité.

Premier président noir de l'Afrique du Sud, Nelson Mandela a gouverné avec sagesse et probité au rassemblement et à la réconciliation. Son combat contre le racisme et pour la liberté a dépassé les frontières de son pays pour acquérir une portée universelle.

C'est donc avec respect et humilité que je m'incline devant la mémoire de cet homme hors du commun, qui constituera longtemps une source d'inspiration pour l'humanité tout entière.

Monsieur le président,
Mesdames et Messieurs les députés,
Monsieur le député Thierry Benoit,

D'abord je voudrais vous remercier puisque que, comme vous vous y étiez engagé, vous avez avec tous ceux qui ont été très nombreux participé aux différents groupes de travail préparatoires à ce pacte.
Vous l'avez rappelé, pas moins de trente réunions ont eu lieu et qui ont mobilisé les responsables politiques régionaux, les parlementaires, les élus des départements et des agglomérations ainsi que tous les représentants professionnels, les partenaires sociaux, toutes les bonnes volontés qui ont bien voulu contribuer à définir ce projet.
Je n'en donnerai pas le détail. Vous le comprenez, ce sont les élus du territoire, de la région Bretagne qui vont en donner communication dans les prochaines heures mais je peux déjà évoquer cinq axes stratégiques : positionner la Bretagne comme grande région productive, conforter sa vocation de grande région maritime européenne, approfondir l'investissement de la Bretagne dans l'intelligence, la recherche et l'excellence. La 4ème priorité est d'affirmer son identité culturelle, et enfin, améliorer son accessibilité et soutenir les dynamiques de territoires.
Quant au volet agricole et agroalimentaire, il fait l'objet d'un plan d'action particulier qui a déjà été présenté à plusieurs reprises, mais qui doit s'inscrire dans une politique de mutation, d'anticipation, de transition, et qui fasse que, ce qui a déjà réussi en Bretagne, parce que il y a beaucoup de choses qui ont réussi en Bretagne, notamment dans l'agroalimentaire, si vous écoutez la radio, regardez la télévision vous avez vu que, il y a des filières qui sont parfaitement performantes, même à l'échelle mondiale dans l'agroalimentaire, qui ont joué la montée en gamme, la qualité, et qui sont l'avenir de ce secteur.
Il y a évidemment des secteurs qui souffrent et qui n'ont pas anticipé suffisamment. Je le regrette. Cela aurait pu être la responsabilité du Gouvernement précédent. C'est peut-être la responsabilité de certains professionnels, et c'est pour cela que nous avons décidé d'aider particulièrement ces entreprises, ce secteur à la mutation. Mais je vois que grâce à la mobilisation du ministre de l'Agriculture, du ministre de l'Agroalimentaire, nous arrivons à trouver des solutions.
Je prendrai un exemple concret : le groupe Doux. Si nous ne nous y étions pas depuis un an mobilisés avec force, il aurait disparu. Aujourd'hui, il est en train de repartir avec de nouveaux actionnaires, de nouvelles ambitions et beaucoup de qualités.
Enfin, je voudrais terminer pour vous dire que ce pacte n'est pas une fin, c'est un début. Il y aura le contrat de plan Etat-régions et puis vous avez mentionné quatre priorités, la simplification, je partage, c'est un chantier, ne dîtes pas que vous l'attendez puisque vous n'avez rien fait pendant 10 ans. Arrêtez de nous faire la leçon, l'incompétence et l'impuissance, ça suffit. Ce Gouvernement prend les problèmes à bras le corps et en a assez de l'invective et de l'insulte. Voilà, mesdames et messieurs les députés, simplification oui, compétitivité oui, mutualisation oui, mutation industrielle oui, expérimentation oui et je le dis puisque j'aurai avec madame Lebranchu l'occasion de présenter une nouvelle étape de la décentralisation, de nouvelles expérimentations, de nouvelles responsabilités, non seulement pour la région Bretagne mais pour toutes les régions de France. Alors, ce qui le veulent, les bonnes volontés, et elles sont majoritaires, très majoritaires, quelles qu'elles soient, quelles qu'aient été leurs expressions sont les bienvenues. C'est avec elle que la Bretagne rebondira avec toutes les autres régions de France.

Le mercredi 27 novembre 2013, les militaires de la brigade de recherche de la compagnie de Saint-Martin appuyés par le peloton d'intervention de l'EGM 41/7 de DIJON procèdent à l'interpellation et au placement en garde à vue de deux individus impliqués dans la commission de nombreux vols à main armée commis à Quartier d'Orléans entre le mois d'août et le mois de novembre 2013. Les investigations réalisées par les enquêteurs permettent de confondre ces deux individus quant à leur participation aux vols sous la menace d'une arme de poing, d'un scooter et de fonds de caisses provenant d'une épicerie et d'un snack.
Le vendredi 29 novembre 2013 à l'issue de leur garde à vue, les deux mis en cause sont déférés en Guadeloupe devant un magistrat du parquet de Basse-Terre puis placés sous contrôle judiciaire dans l'attente de leur jugement prévu en janvier 2013 devant le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a lancé ce vendredi 29 novembre la concertation devant contribuer à l'élaboration du projet de loi d'orientation et de programmation pour l'adaptation de la société au vieillissement. Anticipation, Adaptation, Accompagnement de la perte d'autonomie : l'ambition de ce projet de loi est triple. Il concerne toutes les familles françaises. Le gouvernement entend donc mobiliser la société tout entière autour de ce projet.

Au cours d'une séance plénière rassemblant plus de 300 acteurs au ministère des Affaires sociales et de la santé, le Premier ministre a annoncé plusieurs des propositions qui seront soumises à cette concertation :

  • Aider les personnes âgées à adapter leur logement et leur environnement, grâce à un accès plus large aux aides techniques (barres d'appui, téléassistance, domotique, ...).
  • Développer l'offre de logements intermédiaires, entre domicile et établissement, notamment l'offre de foyers-logements ;
  • Engager un « acte II » de l'APA (Allocation Personnalisée d'Autonomie). Il s'agit d'une part de proposer d'avantage d'heures d'aide à domicile et des prestations plus diversifiées à ceux dont le plan d'aide est aujourd'hui insuffisant au regard de leurs besoins, et d'autre part de réduire la contribution financière des bénéficiaires (allégement du reste à charge) ;
  • Intégrer dans l'APA un « droit au répit » pour les aidants, en leur accordant une aide financière en cas de recours pour leur proche âgé à un accueil de jour, accueil de nuit et à un hébergement temporaire ;
  • Mettre en place sur tout le territoire -avec les départements et les communes- des dispositifs garantissant une information, une orientation et un accompagnement des personnes âgées et de leurs aidants, grâce notamment à la création d'un portail internet regroupant les informations sur les établissements et tous services utiles à la prise en charge de la perte d'autonomie.

Le Premier ministre a confié à Michèle Delaunay, ministre déléguée aux Personnes âgées et à l'Autonomie, la responsabilité de cette concertation, en lien avec la ministre des Affaires sociales et de la santé, Marisol Touraine. Celle-ci se mettra concrètement en place dans les prochains jours pour une durée de deux mois, sur la base d'un document d'orientation et réunira les acteurs du médico-social, les départements et collectivités territoriales, les partenaires sociaux, et les représentants des usagers. Mais aussi -et la démarche est inédite- les acteurs du logement, des transports, de l'urbanisme, de la citoyenneté et de la silver économie.

Ces partenaires seront saisis de toutes les propositions améliorant les conditions de maintien à domicile et les droits des personnes âgées. Les questions de prise en charge en établissement feront l'objet d'un groupe de travail avec les départements et représentants des gestionnaires d'établissements qui sera installé au premier trimestre 2014, pour une remise de conclusions avant la fin de l'année.

L'objectif est de permettre une saisine du Conseil économique, social et environnemental (CESE) au premier trimestre 2014 et une présentation du projet de loi en Conseil des Ministres au printemps. Ainsi, la loi d'adaptation de la société au vieillissement, ou « loi autonomie », pourra être votée avant la fin 2014, pour une entrée en vigueur des premières mesures dès janvier 2015.

Un appel à candidature est lancé pour l'attribution, au titre de l'année 2014, du label « Grande cause nationale ».

Ce label, attribué par le Premier ministre, permet à des organismes à but non lucratif, qui souhaitent organiser des campagnes de communication faisant appel à la générosité publique, d'obtenir des diffusions gratuites auprès des sociétés publiques de radio et de télévision.

Les dossiers de demande d'attribution du label doivent parvenir par voie postale, sur support numérique en deux exemplaires, au plus tard le 8 janvier 2014, à l'adresse suivante :

Philippe GUIBERT

Directeur du Service d'Information du Gouvernement (SIG)

19 rue de Constantine

75340 PARIS CEDEX 07

Les dossiers devront nécessairement comporter les documents suivants pour être éligibles :

  • une présentation des enjeux autour du thème proposé ;
  • un descriptif de la campagne envisagée (thème, axe créatif, nature des actions,...) ;
  • la présentation d'un budget prévisionnel de la campagne publicitaire (coût et mode de financement de la production des spots de publicité envisagés et autres modes de communication prévus dans le cadre de la campagne) ;
  • les documents présentant les activités et statuts de l'association ou des différentes associations regroupées dans un collectif, ainsi que le dernier arrêté des comptes.

Toute l'information est en ligne sur : www.gouvernement.fr.

Dans l'édition du Pélican du 28 novembre, il était indiqué que le projet des deux nouveaux réservoirs d'eau potable de Concordia était financé par « par les fonds européens, l'Etat et la Collectivité de Saint-Martin, les deux réservoirs ont représenté un coût de 5 920 000 €.».
Le Préfet Philippe CHOPIN, bien que n'ayant pas été invité à cette « visite officielle de chantier », tient à préciser que sur les 5.920.000 € de projet, 4.738.000 € ont été apportés par le concours des services de l'Etat (Fonds nationaux et européens), soit 80 % du montant total de l'opération. Les 20% restant l'ont été par l'Etablissement des Eaux, établissement public de Saint-Martin.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec une grande peine la disparition, survenue à l'âge de 87 ans de Georges Lautner. Son cinéma fut le modèle du cinéma populaire, que des générations de Français connaissent en le redécouvrant toujours avec bonheur car il est profondément ancré dans notre patrimoine cinématographique. Des répliques cultes des Tontons flingueurs, aux acrobaties du Guignolo, du Pacha aux Barbouzes, le cinéma de Lautner a toujours rassemblé des grands acteurs, traversant les styles mais rassemblant toujours le public le plus large. Une page de la riche histoire du cinéma français s'est tournée : à sa famille, à ses proches, et à ses très nombreux fans, Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse ses condoléances attristées.

Une opération de lutte contre la délinquance routière, ciblant en particulier les personnes conduisant sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique, était menée le samedi 16 septembre 2013 de 20h00 à 23h00 par la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.

Réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin, l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 47/1 de Dijon ainsi que la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin, l'opération mobilisait au total dix militaires de la gendarmerie, engagés sur le carrefour giratoire d'Agrément.

30 conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever les infractions suivantes:

  • 04 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux délictuel, > 0,4 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,80 - 0,48 - 0,45 - 0,40) ;
  • 03 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux contraventionnel, compris entre 0,25 et 0,39 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,37 - 0,33 - 0,32).

L'opération s'est déroulée en présence de M. Philippe CHOPIN, préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'État dans les Collectivités d'Outre-Mer de Saint-Barthélémy et de Saint-Martin, accompagné du chef d'escadron BETAILLE, commandant la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy et du chef d'escadron LE GUEN, commandant l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 47/1 de Dijon.

Dans le cadre du cycle d'échanges « les nouveaux entrepreneurs ont rendez-vous à Matignon », inauguré le 17 juillet 2013, le Premier ministre a reçu ce jour des acteurs de l'entrepreneuriat dans les quartiers, en présence de M. François Lamy, Ministre délégué chargé de la Ville et de Mme Fleur Pellerin, Ministre déléguée chargée des PME, de l'Innovation et de l'Economie Numérique.

Les entrepreneurs issus de quartiers prioritaires de la politique de la ville ont exposé leurs parcours individuels, leurs succès et leurs attentes. Tous ont pointé de manière prioritaire le besoin d'accompagnement des entrepreneurs ainsi que des outils renforcés de soutien financier.

Ces échanges ont confirmé les conclusions d'une étude récente qui soulignait que 50% des jeunes de 18 à 24 ans des zones urbaines sensibles (ZUS) interrogés ont envie de créer une entreprise, alors qu'ils ne sont qu'une infime minorité à franchir le pas.

Le Premier ministre a rappelé l'engagement du Gouvernement pour promouvoir et soutenir l'entrepreneuriat sous toutes ses formes dans notre pays, particulièrement auprès des citoyens les plus fragiles. L'accent a notamment été mis sur la valorisation des expériences réussies, afin d'inspirer celles et ceux qui souhaiteraient à leur tour créer leur entreprise, quel que soit leur milieu d'origine. Il a plus particulièrement évoqué la nécessité d'une mobilisation forte de tous les acteurs pour soutenir l'entrepreneuriat comme levier d'ascension sociale dans les quartiers prioritaires de la politique de la ville.

Le Premier ministre a indiqué la création en cours de plusieurs outils spécifiques de Bpifrance au bénéfice de l'entrepreneuriat dans les quartiers, que ce soit en matière de prêts à la création d'entreprise, de garanties des prêts bancaires ou de soutien à des fonds d'investissements ciblant le développement d'entreprises dans les quartiers prioritaires. Ces initiatives mettent œuvre les décisions annoncées par le Président de la République lors de la clôture des Assises de l'entrepreneuriat le 29 avril 2013.

Dans le cadre de la préparation des Assises de l'entrepreneuriat 2014 consacrées aux jeunes et aux PME, le Premier ministre a souhaité mettre en place un groupe de travail pour élargir l'accès des jeunes de tous milieux et de toutes origines à la création d'entreprises. Par ailleurs, il a exprimé sa volonté de poursuivre de manière régulière ces échanges avec des entrepreneurs aux profils différents.

Enfin, Jean-Marc Ayrault a demandé à M. François Lamy et à Mme Fleur Pellerin de présenter dans les semaines à venir un plan pour l'entrepreneuriat dans les quartiers, sur la base des propositions qui seront prochainement formulées par le rapport de MM. Thierry Bert et Bruno Laforestrie.

Refondation de la politique d'intégration

Annoncée par Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, en février dernier, la refondation de la politique d'intégration a été lancée début juillet, avec la constitution de cinq groupes de travail thématiques, auxquels ont participé des représentants des services de l'Etat, des collectivités territoriales, des associations, des partenaires sociaux ainsi que des chercheurs et experts du sujet.

Les personnalités qualifiées qui ont présidé ces groupes de travail ont remis leurs relevés de conclusion au Premier ministre, qui salue la grande qualité de ces travaux et remercie l'ensemble des personnes qui y ont contribué. Leurs préconisations serviront de base au travail que le gouvernement engage désormais, pour définir les grands axes de la nouvelle politique d'intégration de notre pays, qui sera annoncée d'ici la fin de l'année.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a réuni l'ensemble du Gouvernement afin de poursuivre le travail engagé pour la réduction de la dette et du déficit publics, conformément aux engagements pris pendant la campagne présidentielle et réitérés depuis. Ce redressement des comptes publics est indispensable pour retrouver des marges de manœuvre et conserver à l'économie française d'excellentes conditions de financement – lorsque l'Etat emprunte à moins de 2,3% sur 10 ans, ce sont aussi les ménages et les entreprises qui en bénéficient.

Le projet de loi de finances rectificative examiné ce matin par le Conseil des ministres confirme l'engagement du Gouvernement pour redresser les comptes publics.

La dépense de l'Etat est en effet maîtrisée. Elle est strictement conforme au budget initial voté par le Parlement pour 2013 ; toutes les dépenses nouvelles ont été financées par des économies de même montant.

Cette gestion responsable du budget de l'Etat contribuera au respect de notre cible de déficit public de 4,1 % pour 2013, après 4,8% en 2012 – alors que le déficit aurait dépassé 5% du PIB en 2012 si le nouveau gouvernement n'avait pas pris d'emblée des mesures correctrices.

Le budget 2014, qui est actuellement en débat au Parlement, amplifie cet effort d'économies, avec un effort de maîtrise de la dépense publique de 15 Md€ et une baisse de la dépense de l'Etat de 1,5 Md€ l'an prochain.

Le prochain budget triennal, qui couvrira les années 2015 à 2017, prolongera cette action. Comme le gouvernement s'y est engagé, l'ensemble de l'effort de réduction du déficit sera réalisé par des économies sur les dépenses, sans hausse des prélèvements obligatoires. L'ensemble du Gouvernement est mobilisé vers cet objectif et engage ainsi la préparation du budget 2015-2017, qui aboutira à l'été 2014. L'objectif est de créer les conditions durables du redressement du pays et de retrouver la croissance, l'emploi et la compétitivité de notre économie, tout en finançant nos priorités : l'éducation, la transition énergétique, l'investissement d'avenir, la sécurité et la préservation de notre modèle social.

La préfecture de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin vous informe que les démineurs de la direction de la défense et de la sécurité civile procéderont à la destruction des fusées et autres moyens pyrotechniques périmés de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin les 19, 20 et 21 novembre 2013.
Afin de procéder à une reprise aussi exhaustive que possible de ces engins, je vous prie de bien vouloir faire connaître au responsable du service des affaires maritimes, M. LOSSEC – Station maritime de Saint-Martin – 5 Rue de la République – 1er étage – Marigot à Saint-Martin (97150) – Téléphone : 05 90 87 96 09 - Télécopie : 05 90 87 91 61, dans les plus brefs délais, les quantités de stock détenues.
Merci de bien vouloir faire la plus grande diffusion auprès des professionnels de la mer et des plaisanciers.

Le tourisme est un enjeu très important pour notre pays. Avec 83 millions de visiteurs par an, la France est la première destination touristique du monde. Le tourisme représente plus de 7% du PIB de notre pays (plus de 9 % si l'on inclue les retombées indirectes), et plus de 2 millions d'emplois directs et indirects. Il contribue au rayonnement international de la France, génère des emplois dans tous nos territoires, et participe de l'amélioration du cadre de vie quotidien des Français grâce aux investissements qu'il suscite. Il apporte par ailleurs une contribution positive de plus de 12 milliards d'euros à notre balance des paiements.

Mais le tourisme nécessite aujourd'hui en France une nouvelle mobilisation. Notre pays est à la première place en nombre de touristes, mais seulement à la troisième en termes de recettes. Notre potentiel touristique est immense, mais pas encore totalement exploité. Notre offre et nos équipements sont souvent de grande qualité, mais certains sont parfois dépassés.

Par ailleurs, le tourisme est l'affaire de tous. Les acteurs sont nombreux, s'agissant des entreprises privées (hôtellerie, restauration, transports, lieux privés touristiques de tous ordres, etc.) comme des collectivités publiques, sans oublier la population elle-même, tant le tourisme repose fondamentalement sur l'accueil.

C'est afin de concrétiser cette nécessaire mobilisation de tous, qu'une réunion sur le tourisme s'est tenue le 5 novembre 2013, à Matignon.

La réunion a permis de faire un état des lieux des forces et faiblesses du tourisme en France, et d'identifier les pistes qui permettront d'atteindre l'objectif fixé par le président de la République selon lequel « la France est déjà la première destination touristique du monde, elle a pour objectif de dégager le premier solde touristique de tous les pays européens ».

A l'issue des échanges, Jean-Marc AYRAULT a décidé de convoquer des Assises du Tourisme et d'en confier l'organisation à Sylvia PINEL, ministre de l'artisanat, du commerce et du tourisme.

Ces Assises permettront de mobiliser l'ensemble des acteurs concernés par le secteur du tourisme, publics comme privés, au travers de groupes de travail et d'échanges sur tout le territoire. Les collectivités locales seront étroitement associées. La réflexion portera notamment sur les voies et moyens d'une diversification plus forte de l'offre touristique française, son adaptation aux demandes des nouvelles clientèles, ainsi que l'amélioration de la compétitivité de notre offre que pourraient apporter un travail sur l'investissement, l'organisation de l'accueil, la formation professionnelle.

Les Assises du Tourisme seront lancées courant novembre et s'achèveront au printemps 2014. Elles permettront d'arrêter un programme d'actions précis et ambitieux pour dynamiser le tourisme et renforcer l'attractivité de la France.

Dans le cadre de sa politique en faveur de l'ouverture et du partage des données publiques, le Premier ministre avait demandé en mars dernier à M. Mohammed Adnène Trojette, magistrat à la cour des Comptes, « d'évaluer les modèles économiques de chaque redevance existante portant sur l'utilisation des données publiques, notamment en auditant les coûts et les recettes associés ». Il a reçu, et publié, ce jour, les conclusions de cette étude.

Le Premier ministre a rappelé à plusieurs reprises le principe selon lequel les données produites par le service public, quand elles ne sont pas personnelles et ne touchent pas à la sécurité nationale, doivent être mises à la disposition du plus grand nombre, gratuitement, dans des formats réutilisables. C'est une ambition qui sert à la fois la transparence démocratique, la modernisation de l'action publique et l'innovation économique et sociale et ce principe de gratuité progresse, appuyé par de régulières évolutions de notre droit.

Le rapport remis par M. Trojette recense 27 catégories de données soumises à redevances. Il constate que celles-ci produisent des revenus décroissants (35 millions d'euros en 2012, -33% par rapport à 2010) et que 90% de ces revenus se concentrent sur dix jeux de données, généralement vendus par des opérateurs dédiés à la production de données.

Le rapport apporte également des éclaircissements sur le cadre juridique applicable aux différentes formes de redevances. Il analyse également les raisons qui devraient conduire, à moyen terme, à l'extinction des modèles économiques fondés sur la vente de données brutes.

Sur la base de ce rapport, le Premier ministre présentera au prochain CIMAP de décembre la doctrine d'ensemble du Gouvernement en matière d'exception à la gratuité et les premières décisions de suppressions de redevances pour 2014.

Le lien :

www.gouvernement.fr/premier-ministre/remise-du-rapport-ouverture-des-donnees-publiques

En savoir plus sur l'ouverture des données publiques : www.modernisation.gouv.fr

Consulter l'ensemble des données ayant servi à l'élaboration du rapport www.data.gouv.fr

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, sur proposition de la ministre de la réforme de l'Etat, de la décentralisation et de la fonction publique, a confié à Monsieur Bernard Pêcheur, Président de la section de l'administration du Conseil d'Etat, une mission de réflexion sur l'évolution de la fonction publique.

Il lui a été demandé d'identifier les enjeux majeurs auxquels sera confrontée la fonction publique dans les années à venir, et de proposer des évolutions des modes de recrutement, de rémunération, de gestion et d'organisation des carrières ainsi que des parcours professionnels, dans l'optique d'une gestion plus qualitative des personnels.

Bernard Pêcheur a remis son rapport sur l'avenir de la fonction publique au Premier ministre, le 4 novembre 2013, en présence de Marylise Lebranchu, ministre de la réforme de l'Etat, de la décentralisation et de la fonction publique.

Le Premier ministre a salué le travail considérable accompli et souligné l'ampleur des propositions.

Ce rapport sera prochainement présenté aux organisations syndicales et aux employeurs publics par la ministre de la réforme de l'Etat, de la décentralisation et de la fonction publique, dans le cadre de l'agenda social du gouvernement pour la fonction publique.

Sur cette base, le Premier ministre a demandé à la ministre de la réforme de l'Etat, de la décentralisation et de la fonction publique de lui proposer de premières orientations avant la fin de l'année 2013, et d'engager à cet effet un dialogue social nourri avec, d'une part, les employeurs publics, et d'autre part, les organisations syndicales.

Le 16 octobre à 18 h 30 au collège de Quartier d'Orléans, le vice-procureur de la République, M. Flavien NOAILLES, le 1er Vice-président Guillaume ARNELL et le Préfet délégué Philippe CHOPIN ont réuni les comités de quartier et les associations de prévention de la délinquance pour leur demander d'assurer le relais de la campagne de retrait des armes organisée du 7 octobre au 17 novembre.
Cette réunion très constructive a fait l'objet d'échanges très intéressants entre les élus, les institutions et les associations et de nombreux jeunes présents.
Des questions concrètes ont été posées, le Procureur de la République et le Préfet ont apporté les réponses suivantes:

  • pour rassurer les jeunes qui ne souhaitent pas décliner leur identité il est proposé que les armes soient collectées par une tierce personne ou une association à la condition expresse que celles-ci soient très rapidement déposées à la gendarmerie,
  • l'exemption de poursuites pénales en cas de dépôt d'armes durant la campagne sera indiquée sur l'imprimé remis au dépositaire par la gendarmerie nationale,
  • lors d'une éventuelle nouvelle campagne les affiches seront rédigées en plusieurs langues (espagnol, créole....),
  • une coopération et une opération communes seront proposées aux partenaires de Sint Maarten,
  • enfin et sur sujétion d'un élu territorial une telle opération pourra être relayée dans la presse (réalisation de spots.....) par des associations de jeunes qui pourraient être aidés dans le cadre du fond interministériel de prévention de la délinquance.

Vous êtes une association et vous avez des projets dans le cadre de la prévention de la délinquance et pour la cohésion sociale dans les quartiers, le Contrat Urbain de Cohésion Sociale (CUCS) s'adresse à vous.
Le CUCS est un contrat signé entre l'Etat, l'Agence nationale pour la Cohésion Sociale et l'Egalité des chances (l'ACSE) et la Collectivité d'Outre Mer de Saint-Martin.
Ce contrat s'inscrit dans le cadre de la politique de la ville. Il vise à soutenir des projets associatifs de développement social urbain en faveur des habitants des quartiers et à accompagner leurs actions de prévention des actes de délinquance.
En 2013, le CUCS de Saint-Martin a financé 34 projets d'un montant de 285 600, 00 euros autour des thèmes de la prévention de la délinquance, de la Santé, de l'Education, de la cohésion sociale et des vacances scolaires.
Vous avez jusqu'au 20 décembre 2013, midi, dernier délai, pour déposer vos projets à la préfecture de Saint-Martin.
Pour plus d'information, contacter le 0590 29 69 74 ou rendez vous sur le site de la préfecture (rubrique association) http://www.saint-barth-saint-martin.pref.gouv.fr/ pour télécharger le dossier.

En présence de Fleur Pellerin, ministre déléguée chargée des PME, de l'innovation et de l'économie numérique, et de Laurent Grandguillaume, député de la Côte d'Or, le Premier ministre a reçu ce jour dix entrepreneurs pour évoquer le bilan des Assises de l'entrepreneuriat tenues début 2013, et les questions qui doivent être approfondies.

Les Assises de l'entrepreneuriat avaient réuni durant quatre mois plus de 300 acteurs du monde économique et social autour de 9 groupes de travail. Elles avaient débouché sur une quinzaine de mesures en faveur de l'entrepreneuriat annoncées par le Président de la République le 29 avril dernier.

Six mois après la clôture des Assises de l'entrepreneuriat, le Premier Ministre a souhaité souligner le très bon niveau de mise en œuvre des mesures. L'indicateur « 040 » a été supprimé. La réforme de la fiscalité des plus-values de cession et la mise en place du PEA PME sont en cours d'adoption. Le cadre du financement participatif sera finalisé prochainement.

Fort de ce bilan, le Premier ministre a marqué sa volonté de poursuivre la dynamique engagée. Un nouveau rendez-vous de l'entrepreneuriat sera organisé au printemps 2014. Il sera cette fois consacré à une thématique spécifique : « les jeunes et les PME ».

Jean-Marc Ayrault a dessiné, avec les entrepreneurs, trois axes de réflexion prioritaires : comment favoriser un accès plus large des jeunes, dans leur diversité, à la création d'entreprise ? Comment développer l'attractivité des PME auprès des jeunes ? Enfin, comment mieux s'appuyer sur les nouvelles générations pour développer l'esprit de conquête des petites et moyennes entreprises ?

Fleur Pellerin sera chargée de préparer ce nouveau rendez-vous en lien avec les autres ministres concernés.

Par ailleurs, le Gouvernement mettra en place très prochainement une conférence des financeurs publics de l'aide à la création d'entreprise, afin d'optimiser l'emploi des quelque 2,7 Mds € affectés chaque année au soutien à l'entrepreneuriat dans notre pays.

Enfin, le Premier ministre a souligné l'attention qu'il portera aux conclusions de la mission confiée récemment à Dominique Restino, chargé de proposer des pistes concrètes pour moderniser les modes d'intervention et le financement de l'Agence Pour la Création d'Entreprises (APCE) d'ici la fin de l'année.

Entre le 7 août et le 24 septembre 2013, plusieurs agressions et vols de chaînes en or sont perpétrés sur la voie publique au préjudice de passants dans les quartiers de Concordia, Marigot et Sandy Ground.
Après un travail minutieux d'investigations, les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin, saisis de l'ensemble des faits, parviennent à identifier l'auteur de ces agressions et vols violents
La perquisition menée au domicile de l'individu le 3 octobre 2013 lors d'une première tentative d'interpellation de l'intéressé amène à la découverte de biens provenant de vols de deux roues, matérialisant ainsi les infractions de recel.
Le 23 octobre 2013, une nouvelle opération d'interpellation est menée conjointement par les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin, appuyés de deux éléments de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Melun et conduit cette fois-ci à l'arrestation de l'individu recherché et à son placement en garde à vue. Celui-ci, passablement agité et énervé, se rendra par ailleurs coupable à cette occasion d'outrage, de rébellion et de destruction de bien public.
Poursuivi des chefs de vols avec violences sans I.T.T, de tentative de vol aggravé, de recel de bien provenant de vol, de rébellion, outrage et destruction de bien public, il est présenté à l'issue de sa garde à vue le jeudi 24 octobre 2013, devant le Procureur de la République de Basse-Terre puis placé en détention provisoire dans l'attente de son jugement en comparution immédiate.
Le 25 octobre 2013, le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre le condamne à une peine de 2 ans d'emprisonnement, ainsi qu'à la révocation d'un sursis de 6 mois d'emprisonnement.

Le Premier ministre a reçu, à l'hôtel de Matignon, le 25 octobre 2013, le Président du Conseil italien, Enrico Letta.

Leur entretien a été l'occasion d'un échange de vues chaleureux et approfondi sur les réformes en cours en France et en Italie, la situation en Europe et les relations bilatérales dans la perspective du prochain sommet franco-italien, qui aura lieu à Rome, en novembre. Jean-Marc Ayrault et Enrico Letta ont constaté l'excellence des relations franco-italiennes dans tous les domaines et ont souhaité que le prochain sommet permette de nourrir cette dynamique par de nouveaux projets concrets.

Les échanges ont également porté sur les principaux enjeux européens, qu'il s'agisse de la mise en place de l'union bancaire, des suites données au drame de Lampedusa ou de la protection des données à caractère personnel. Les deux chefs de Gouvernement ont constaté une large convergence de vues entre la France et l'Italie et confirmé leur volonté de poursuivre leur concertation étroite sur tous ces sujets.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec beaucoup d'émotion le décès de Jean-Marie Barbier, Président de l'association des paralysés de France jusqu'à ces derniers mois.

Il souhaite saluer le militant qui a mis son engagement au service des personnes en situation de handicap, de leurs familles, de leurs proches, et de leurs droits.

Son ambition, portée par sa très grande détermination et sa force de conviction, était de rendre la société plus ouverte à tous, plus inclusive, pour que les personnes en situation de handicap puissent exercer pleinement leur citoyenneté.

Le Premier ministre souhaite présenter à son épouse et ses enfants, ainsi qu'à ses proches, ses sincères condoléances et leur exprimer toute sa sympathie face à la disparition d'un homme dont la vie a été un engagement.

Le Premier ministre, Jean-Marc Ayrault, a réuni, mercredi 23 octobre, Mme Christiane Taubira, ministre de la justice, M. Manuel Valls, ministre de l'intérieur, Mme Nicole Bricq, ministre du commerce extérieur, M. Arnaud Montebourg, ministre du redressement productif, M. Philippe Martin, ministre de l'écologie, du développement durable et de l'énergie, Mme Geneviève Fioraso, ministre de l'enseignement supérieur et de la recherche, M. Jacques Pélissard, Président de l'Association des maires de France, M. Jean-Paul Bacquet, député, M. Jean-René Lecerf, sénateur, M. Bruno Sido, sénateur, M. Yves Rome, sénateur et Président du Conseil général de l'Oise, Mme Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, Présidente de la commission informatique et liberté, plusieurs dirigeants de sociétés développeuses ou utilisatrices de solutions de sécurité, des présidents de groupements industriels, et plusieurs personnalités qualifiées, dans le cadre du lancement du comité de la filière industrielle de sécurité (CoFIS).

Il a signé à cette occasion, avec des représentants de la filière, de pôles de compétitivité, des utilisateurs de solutions de sécurité, et de la Banque publique d'investissement, la charte installant la filière industrielle de sécurité.

Il s'agit d'instituer un dialogue public/privé rénové, au service de la sécurité du citoyen et de la compétitivité de l'industrie française.

L'ambition de ce comité de la filière industrielle de sécurité (CoFIS) mis en place aujourd'hui par le Premier ministre est de développer des solutions technologiques efficaces et mondialement compétitives, pour répondre à des missions aussi diverses que la protection des grandes infrastructures publiques ou privées, la sécurité du transport, le secours aux personnes, la lutte contre le terrorisme et la grande criminalité, la gestion de crise, ou encore la cybersécurité.

Tous les secteurs technologiques et toutes les compétences publiques et privées doivent être mobilisés pour :

- renforcer une industrie qui, avec ses grands groupes, PME et centres de recherche, représente plus de 10 Mds€ de chiffre d'affaire annuel et 50 000 emplois hautement qualifiés. Plusieurs leaders mondiaux sont des sociétés françaises, sur un marché en forte croissance (7% de croissance mondiale annuelle), mais très concurrentiel;

- garantir aux grands opérateurs, à la protection civile et aux forces de sécurité, le libre accès à des solutions de sécurité fiables, tant du point de vue de leurs performances que de leur origine, compétitives, adaptées à leur besoin, et respectueuses des libertés et des droits fondamentaux.

Afin de répondre à ce double défi, les membres du comité ont présenté collectivement au Premier ministre une feuille de route qui reprend les principaux objectifs du Livre blanc sur la défense et la sécurité nationale. Cette feuille de route s'articule autour de sept axes :

- identifier les forces et faiblesses du marché français de la sécurité;

- identifier les technologies critiques et stratégiques à préserver ou développer;

- élaborer un premier recensement des besoins prioritaires de l'Etat et des opérateurs;

- soutenir le lancement de projets de démonstrateurs structurants pour la filière;

- soutenir les entreprises française à l'export, en favorisant l'émergence d'un « Club France »;

- utiliser le levier européen, en proposant une stratégie nationale publique-privée vis-à-vis des instruments européens;

- mettre en réseau les acteurs.

Les acteurs de la filière se sont engagés à déployer ces objectifs dans la concertation. Un premier rapport d'étape est attendu d'ici à l'été 2014.

Le 13 octobre 2013 une dispute éclate à proximité du car-wash de Quartier d'Orléans en bordure de la RN7 entre trois individus au cours de laquelle plusieurs coups de feu sont tirés. Atteint à deux reprises, un jeune homme de 23 ans décédera de ses blessures tandis que la seconde personne visée sera blessée grièvement aux membres inférieurs. À l'issue des faits, le tireur et principal suspect prendra la fuite en véhicule en direction de la partie hollandaise de l'île de Saint-Martin. Immédiatement dépêchés sur les lieux, les militaires de la compagnie de gendarmerie, appuyés par ceux de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Melun, procèdent à un gel des lieux et aux premières constatations en présence d'une centaine de badauds. Un dispositif de sécurisation est également mise en place au centre hospitalier de Marigot, lieu d'admission de la seconde victime afin d'éviter tout trouble à l'ordre public.
Après plusieurs jours d'enquête et de contacts avec des membres de son entourage, l'auteur présumé formellement identifié finit par accepter sa reddition. Le samedi 19 octobre 2013, H.C.A se présente de lui-même à la gendarmerie où il est immédiatement placé en garde à vue dans les locaux de la brigade de recherches de Saint-Martin. Le lundi 21 octobre, à l'issue de sa garde à vue, il est présenté devant le Procureur de la République de Pointe-à-Pitre puis mis en examen et placé en détention provisoire à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre dans l'attente de son jugement.

Le 30 mars 2013, entre 12h et 13h, deux vols à main armée sont commis successivement dans un supermarché de la Baie Nettlé et dans une station service de la Baie Orientale par deux individus qui, sous la menace d'une arme de poing, se font remettre le fond de caisse et la recette de la matinée.
L'enquête est alors confiée à la brigade de recherches de Saint-Martin. Après de longues et minutieuses investigations, les militaires parviennent à identifier les deux malfaiteurs. Une opération judiciaire est alors lancée le lundi 23 septembre 2013 avec l'appui du peloton d'intervention de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Melun et débouche sur l'interpellation des deux suspects qui sont immédiatement placés en garde à vue.
À l'issue de leur garde à vue, K.J et J.W sont présentés devant le Procureur de la République puis placés sous mandat de dépôt à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre dans l'attente de leur jugement.
Jugés le 18 octobre 2013 par le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre, K.J est condamné à 1 an d'emprisonnement. À l'issue de l'audience, se trouvant en situation irrégulière sur le territoire français, il est confié aux fonctionnaires de la police aux frontière, chargés de la procédure de reconduite à la frontière. J.W est quant à lui condamné à 3 ans d'emprisonnement ferme et incarcéré à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre.

Au cours du mois de mai 2012, un survol de l'île de Saint-Martin effectué par l'hélicoptère de la direction générale des gardes-côtes (douanes) et les agents des opérations douanières de Saint-Martin permet de repérer plusieurs sites de culture de plants de cannabis sur Concordia et Agrément. Saisie de l'enquête par soit-transmis de Monsieur le Procureur de la République, la brigade de recherches de Saint-Martin procède à un nouveau survol de la zone avec l'appui aérien de la section aérienne de la gendarmerie de Pointe-à-Pitre, et parvient à localiser trois sites de production situés sur les hauts de Concordia et d'Agrément au milieu d'une végétation dense et difficile d'accès. Après reconnaissance, il ressort que la plupart de ces sites sont équipés d'un groupe électrogène permettant le fonctionnement d'une pompe à eau et d'un système de récupération d'eau de pluie qui, après traitement chimique, permet l'irrigation des plans. Au total, ce sont plus de 2000 pieds de cannabis qui sont découverts.
Après de longs mois d'investigations et de surveillances discrètes mises en place par les militaires de la brigade des recherches et du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de la gendarmerie de Saint-Martin, les enquêteurs parviennent à identifier plusieurs individus dont le principal cultivateur chargé de l'entretien et de la culture du plus grand site et les principaux participants au réseau de vente d'herbe de cannabis. Selon les estimations, le site le plus important rassemblait à lui seul environ 1700 pieds de cannabis et représentait une production de 50 kilogrammes depuis décembre 2012.
Le mardi 15 octobre 2013, une opération judiciaire réalisée conjointement par la brigade de recherches, le peloton d'intervention de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Melun et le peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de la gendarmerie, aboutit à l'interpellation et au placement en garde à vue de cinq individus identifiés et à la destruction des sites de production.
Les perquisitions réalisées aux domiciles des mis en cause, permettent la saisie de 305 pieds de cannabis et de matériels dédiés à la culture des plants (armoire de séchage avec lampes à ultraviolet et ventilation intégrées), des graines de cannabis et du fertilisant, ainsi que des cahiers de compte et une carabine de calibre 22 long-rifle.
À l'issue des gardes à vue, le principal mis en cause est transféré devant le Procureur de la République puis placé en détention provisoire à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre dans l'attente de son jugement. Trois autres personnes sont remises en liberté et font l'objet d'une convocation en justice pour le 6 décembre 2013. Le dernier individu est quant à lui placé sous contrôle judiciaire.

semainebleue18102013Dans le cadre de la Semaine Bleue, semaine consacrée aux personnes âgées qui se tiendra du 21 au 27 octobre 2013, les enfants du club de l'Avenir Sportif de Saint-Martin participeront à des épreuves sportives avec les aînés de la maison de retraite Bethany Home, le samedi 26 octobre 2013, au stade Albéric Richards de 9h à midi.
Au programme, des activités durant lesquelles ces deux tranches d'âge opposé s'allieront pour être le meilleur : un 400 mètres en fauteuil roulant assisté d'un jeune athlète du club, une épreuve de course durant laquelle un jeune athlète devra représenter une personne âgée. Les aînés devront aussi en découdre, puisqu'ils s'affronteront sur un 100 mètres marche, et divers ateliers d'athlétisme leur seront consacrés.
Gageons que tout comme l'an dernier, cette rencontre intergénérationnelle permettra des discussions entre jeunes et anciens, et que l'ambiance sera chaleureuse.

lisacoquillasandsareenacarti16102013Les vacances de la Toussaint seront athlétiques pour les championnes de l'Avenir Sportif Club de Saint-Martin. En effet, Sareena Carti, championne de France 2013 du 400 mètres catégorie cadets, et récemment médaillée d'or sur la même distance au Festival Olympique de la Jeunesse Européenne, a été invitée par la Fédération Française d'Athlétisme à participer à deux stages.
Le premier se tiendra dans le Sud-Est de la France, du 19 au 24 octobre prochain, au CREPS Saint-Raphaël Boulouris, un établissement qui se positionne clairement comme un centre de ressources pour l'entraînement des sportifs de Haut Niveau. Elle sera accompagnée lors de ce déplacement par son entraîneur Patrick Trival.
Le deuxième stage auquel Sareena participera, se tiendra en Italie, du 24 octobre au 1er novembre 2013, à l'invitation de l'Equipe technique nationale sprint/haies de la Fédération Française. Ce stage a pour objectif de regrouper des athlètes présentant le potentiel pour participer aux échéances internationales estivales jeunes des deux prochaines années.
Au même moment, Lisa Coquillas licenciée elle aussi au club Avenir Sportif de Saint Martin, championne de la Guadeloupe du 2000 m marche catégorie benjamine, participera à un stage de marche athlétique du 24 au 29 octobre 2013, organisé par la commission de marche et le club de l'Etoile d'Athlétisme en Guadeloupe.

Autant dire qu'à travers ses athlètes, Saint Martin sera brillamment représenté durant les vacances de la Toussaint.
Le club tient à remercier la Collectivité de Saint Martin, et plus particulièrement la Présidente de la Collectivité, Madame Aline Hanson, sans qui ces projets n'auraient pas vu le jour.

Oui, monsieur le président, mesdames, messieurs les députés, monsieur le président JACOB, vous m'épaterez toujours parce que vous êtes toujours dans l'emphase et dans la grandiloquence. Et à chaque fois il y a toujours quelque chose qui ne marche pas. Vous avez voulu faire la leçon sur tout, et vous avez même évoqué l'organisation de primaires... Et en matière de primaires, monsieur le président JACOB, je vous félicite : vous avez été brillant pour l'élection du président de l'UMP...
Mais voilà, monsieur le président JACOB, pour revenir à des choses sérieuses...
Vous avez interpellé, vous m'avez interpellé sur la situation d'une famille kosovar, qui a fait l'objet d'un arrêté de reconduite à la frontière après les différentes procédures, le 9 octobre dernier. Il se trouve qu'hier et aujourd'hui, une émotion particulière s'est exprimée concernant une jeune fille membre de cette famille qui a été interpellée alors qu'elle était dans un bus scolaire, à l'occasion d'une sortie scolaire. Je tiens à vous dire, monsieur le président JACOB que je suis très attaché aux principes du droit.
Vous avez parlé de la République. La République n'appartient pas à la gauche, elle n'appartient pas non plus à l'UMP. Elle appartient aux Françaises et aux Français. Et la base de l'Etat républicain, c'est le droit. Mais la base de l'Etat républicain, c'est aussi l'humanité et la fraternité.
S'agissant du cas de cette jeune fille, jeudi, une émotion particulière s'est exprimée, je l'ai entendue, je la comprends. C'est la raison pour laquelle après m'en être entretenu ce matin avec le ministre de l'Intérieur, Manuel VALLS, qui est aujourd'hui en mission en Guadeloupe à ma demande, et qui va arriver dans quelques heures à Pointe-à-Pitre, une enquête a été diligentée. Une enquête dont nous aurons les résultats dans 48h.
Et je voudrais rappeler que s'agissant des recours, et une fois qu'ils ont été expulsés en application de notre droit et du droit d'asile, si ils donnent lieu à des arrêtés de conduite à la frontière, ils ne permettent pas, n'autorisent pas que des enfants scolarisés puissent être interpellés au sein de l'enceinte scolaire, et l'enceinte scolaire, ce sont aussi les activités qui sont associées à l'école, et notamment les déplacements dans le cadre des activités scolaires, et c'était le cas dans cette situation.
En fonction des résultats de l'enquête et après le rappel du droit et de nos principes, et de nos valeurs, et concernant le respect des droits de l'enfant, je voudrais vous dire qu'en fonction des résultats de cette enquête, monsieur le président JACOB, je prendrai toutes les responsabilités qui s'imposeront le moment venu. Et s'il y a eu faute, l'arrêté de reconduite à la frontière sera annulé. Cette famille reviendra pour que sa situation soit examinée, réexaminée en fonction de notre droit, de nos principes et de nos valeurs.

Le Premier Ministre a réuni le 16 octobre, à Matignon, les principaux ministres engagés dans l'action économique et sociale de l'Etat en faveur de la Bretagne. Etaient présents M. Pierre Moscovici, Mme Nicole Bricq, M. Arnaud Montebourg, M. Philippe Martin, M. Michel Sapin, M. Jean-Yves Le Drian, Mme Geneviève Fioraso, M. Stéphane Le Foll, Mme Marylise Lebranchu, Mme Sylvia Pinel, M. Bernard Cazeneuve, M. Frédéric Cuvillier, M. Guillaume Garot, M. Benoit Hamon, ainsi que le préfet de la région Bretagne, M. Patrick Strzoda.
Le Premier Ministre a réaffirmé la mobilisation du Gouvernement pour répondre aux situations d'urgence sociale et territoriale. Il s'est engagé à ce que l'Etat, aux côtés de la Région, des collectivités locales et des acteurs économiques, aide la Bretagne à surmonter ses difficultés actuelles et à préparer son avenir économique et social.
Un Pacte d'avenir Bretagne sera finalisé d'ici la fin de l'année. Ce Pacte reposera sur trois piliers : les premières actions annoncées aujourd'hui, le Plan Bretagne pour l'agro-alimentaire que le Préfet et le Président du Conseil Régional ont déjà commencé à préparer et l'accélération du Contrat de Plan entre l'Etat et la Région. Ce contrat de Plan portera sur 5 axes essentiels : l'enseignement supérieur, la recherche, et l'innovation ; les filières d'avenir et l'usine du futur ; les infrastructures et usages du numérique ; les mobilités multimodales ; et la transition écologique et énergétique.
L'élaboration de ce Pacte fera l'objet d'une large concertation avec les forces vives économiques, sociales et politiques et d'une négociation entre l'Etat et la Région, associant les collectivités locales.
En outre, une mission d'appui auprès du Préfet de Région sera mise en place dans les prochains jours. Elle sera composée de fonctionnaires de haut niveau spécialisés dans le développement agricole et agroalimentaire, dans le reclassement des salariés et la redynamisation des territoires et en matière d'accompagnement économique et financier des entreprises.
L'ensemble des actions entreprises pour la Bretagne seront suivies par un comité de pilotage placé sous l'autorité du Premier ministre et associant les ministères concernés et le Préfet de Région. Gilles Ricono rejoindra le cabinet du Premier ministre pour suivre les questions d'aménagement du territoire et en particulier le Pacte d'avenir pour la Bretagne.
La situation à laquelle sont aujourd'hui confrontés les salariés de Gad, après ceux de Doux, est insupportable. Le Premier ministre tient, avant toute chose, à exprimer sa solidarité envers les salariés et leurs familles, et les assure que l'Etat remplira son rôle, et mettra tout en oeuvre, avec les collectivités locales et les partenaires sociaux, pour les accompagner et favoriser leur reconversion.
Le Gouvernement prend un engagement : chaque salarié sera accompagné personnellement et de façon globale pour répondre à toutes les difficultés auxquels il aurait à faire face et trouver une solution suite à la perte de son emploi. Les salariés se verront proposer un contrat de sécurisation professionnelle renforcé avec 3 volets : un quasi-maintien du salaire net pendant 12 mois (97% en moyenne), un accompagnement renforcé avec 1 expert pour 20 salariés (contre 1 pour 50 habituellement) et un volet formation opérationnel. Une équipe spécialisée conventionnée par l'Etat apportera en outre un soutien personnel aux salariés qui le souhaiteraient. Cet accompagnement global se fera dans un lieu unique, au plus près des salariés.
L'Etat prévoit en outre un appui des territoires fragilisés, notamment dans le Finistère, pour dynamiser les reclassements : lancement immédiat d'une mission pour recenser les possibilités de reconversion pour les salariés ; mise en place d'une  plateforme territoriale d'accompagnement des mutations économiques ; bourse d'emplois des Industries Agro-Alimentaires ; action de reconversion des sites.
Par ailleurs, le Gouvernement augmente les moyens consacrés à la politique de prévention des difficultés des entreprises. L'examen de chaque situation sera fait au cas par cas. L'équipe du Commissaire au Redressement Productif sera renforcée à cet effet. Le gouvernement s'attachera à aider les entreprises en difficulté, notamment dans le secteur agroalimentaire, à redresser leur situation. Dans ce secteur, 15 millions d'euros sont mobilisés pour les entreprises fragilisées pour des mesures d'urgence et pour les aider à financer leurs investissements.
Pour soutenir durablement l'activité et l'emploi dans la Région, l'Etat a décidé, directement et via ses opérateurs, un certain nombre d'actions.
S'agissant des éleveurs et des entreprises agro-alimentaires, le Premier Ministre a déjà annoncé l'élaboration d'un Plan Bretagne pour l'agro-alimentaire, qui s'appuiera sur des mesures pour les filières porcine et avicole, sur le développement de la méthanisation et sur la déclinaison régionale du contrat stratégique de filière signé le 19 juin dernier, ainsi que sur une simplification réglementaire des installations classées pour la protection de l'environnement (ICPE porcines) et des programmes d'action contre la pollution par les nitrates. Les partenaires de l'export réunis au sein de BPI France export élaboreront des plans de développement à l'exportation personnalisés. L'objectif est de donner les moyens à l'ensemble des entreprises agricoles et des industries agroalimentaires de se moderniser et de retrouver de la compétitivité, tant sur le plan économique qu'environnemental, pour recréer de la valeur ajoutée et des emplois.
Le Gouvernement entend en outre accroître l'effort financier entrepris depuis plus d'un an pour développer de nouveaux projets ou de nouvelles filières d'activité en Bretagne. La Banque Publique d'Investissement a augmenté ses concours de 20% sur un an au premier semestre 2013: plus de 3300 financements d'entreprises ont été accordés sur cette période pour un montant d'environ 450M€. Cet accompagnement sera intensifié et les équipes de Bpifrance s'organiseront pour aller à la rencontre individuelle des entreprises bretonnes porteuses de projets, et leur proposer leurs services. Le Programme d'investissements d'avenir, qui a déjà sélectionné plus de 350 projets impliquant des acteurs bretons et représentant plus de 550M€ de financements et d'investissement, continuera par ailleurs à accompagner les meilleurs projets de ces nouvelles filières. C'est par exemple le cas dans les énergies marines ou dans le développement des usages du numérique et le très haut débit que soutient le programme d'investissements d'avenir. Les concours de la Banque européenne d'investissement seront également recherchés.
Le Premier ministre et les ministres ont également examiné les problèmes soulevés par la prochaine mise en oeuvre de l'écotaxe en Bretagne.
Le produit de l'écotaxe est affecté à l'Agence de financement des infrastructures de transport de France (AFITF), dont elle constitue un outil de financement essentiel.
Prenant en compte le caractère périphérique spécifique de la région Bretagne, l'Etat a déjà accordé une réduction de 50 % du montant de l'écotaxe et exclu du réseau taxé la route nationale 164, arc vital de la Région pour le secteur agroalimentaire, ainsi que l'intégralité du réseau local. Les véhicules affectés à la collecte de lait et les véhicules agricoles sont exonérés de l'écotaxe poids lourds.
Conscient des inquiétudes exprimées, le Premier ministre a demandé que l'observatoire des transports de Bretagne étudie tous les impacts de la mise en oeuvre de l'écotaxe sur la situation des entreprises et l'activité économique. Afin de soutenir les entreprises qui connaîtraient des difficultés de trésorerie, Bpifrance renforcera par ailleurs son action en la matière dans les semaines à venir.
L'engagement financier de l'Etat en faveur des infrastructures de transport routier et ferroviaire ira bien au-delà des recettes de l'écotaxe. Avec ce produit, complété par d'autres dotations, l'Etat se met ainsi en capacité de consacrer dans le cadre du Contrat de Plan Etat Région 2014-2020 près de 100 M€ pour faire progresser la mise à 2X2 voies de la RN164, en accompagnement d'un effort similaire des collectivités locales et notamment de la Région. Cela permettra de mettre en deux fois deux voies les tronçons situés dans le Finistère, dans les Côtes d'Armor et en Ille-et-Vilaine.
La Bretagne traverse un moment difficile mais elle a toute la force pour relever les défis qui sont devant elle et devant nous. Le Gouvernement met en oeuvre tous les moyens permettant de passer ce cap et de dessiner un nouvel avenir. La Bretagne est riche de son histoire, de son identité, de son dynamisme : elle peut s'appuyer sur de formidables atouts, qui sont sa fierté et la nôtre, et développer ses nombreux potentiels. La France à besoin de la Bretagne et le Gouvernement sera à ses côtés.

L'annonce, par le tribunal de Commerce de Rennes, de la fermeture de trois sites et de la suppression de près d'un millier d'emplois chez GAD est « un nouveau choc pour la Bretagne », estime le Premier ministre.

« L'urgence pour le Gouvernement est de tout faire pour aider les personnes touchées à la fois en termes d'indemnisation et de reconversion professionnelle. Le Gouvernement utilisera tous les moyens à sa disposition pour permettre le retour à l'emploi des femmes et des hommes touchés par la fermeture des sites », affirme le Premier ministre.

« L'emploi dans le secteur agro-alimentaire doit être l'objectif central du plan « Bretagne » que j'ai annoncé lors de ma participation au Space le 12 septembre. J'ai demandé pour la fin de l'année au Préfet et au Président de la Région sa mise en œuvre le plus rapidement possible d'ici la fin de l'année. Tous les acteurs doivent se mobiliser pour que la Bretagne consolide sa première place au niveau européen », conclut le Premier Ministre.

Le vendredi 11 octobre 2013, vers 01h30, à Marigot, les gendarmes du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention, épaulés par ceux de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Melun, procédaient à l'interpellation en flagrant délit de 9 individus auteurs présumés
d'infractions relatives à l'entrée irrégulière sur le territoire national et aide au séjour irrégulier.
Vers 01h15, les policiers territoriaux de quart au centre de supervision urbaine de la Collectivité détectaient sur l'écran de visionnage d'une caméra de vidéo-protection couvrant l'agglomération de Marigot, un débarquement inhabituel de plusieurs personnes sur le front de mer, à proximité de la gare maritime. Aussitôt, le centre opérationnel de la gendarmerie était prévenu et deux patrouilles étaient immédiatement dépêchées sur les lieux.
À leur arrivée sur place, les gendarmes découvraient 9 personnes (7 cubains, un Ste-Lucien et un martiniquais) venant de débarquer d'une embarcation légère. En outre, les gendarmes découvraient que les 7 individus de nationalité cubaine étaient porteurs d'un sac contenant leurs effets personnels, leur pièce d'identité ainsi que d'importantes sommes d'argent en dollars et en euros soigneusement emballées dans du papier en plastique les rendant ainsi étanches.
Les gendarmes ayant de suite déterminé qu'il s'agissait du débarquement de personnes en situation irrégulière, il a été procédé à leur remise au service de la Police aux Frontières de Saint-Martin qui s'est vu confier la direction de l'enquête judiciaire relative à ces faits.
Cette opération illustre de toute évidence la qualité de la collaboration entre les services de l'État et de la Collectivité, chargés ensemble de lutter contre la délinquance sous toutes ses formes.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec une infinie tristesse le décès de Patrice Chereau. Homme de théâtre, homme de cinéma, homme d'opéra, il laisse une œuvre immense consacrée au bonheur des auteurs, des acteurs et des publics qui l'ont cotoyé.

Organisateur d'une tension créatrice féconde, il fut tour à tour metteur en scène, cinéaste, acteur, et directeur de théâtre.

Du Ring du centenaire, vision révolutionnaire de l'oeuvre de Wagner, de la Reine Margot, récit esthétique d'une fracture historique fondatrice, à l'Homme Blessé, image douloureuse de la différence, il laisse une oeuvre profondément humaniste, reflet des combats pour l'homme et pour la justice qui l'ont animé.

Sa dernière mise en scène d'Elektra, à Aix-en-Provence cet été, témoigne de sa passion du texte, du jeu, du dialogue et de l'écoute.

A sa famille, à ses amis, à son public, Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse ses condoléances les plus vives.

Le 1er octobre 2013, 7 jeunes majeurs tous originaires du quartier de Sandy-Ground étaient jugés devant le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre après avoir été extraits pour cinq d'entre eux des centres pénitentiaires de Guadeloupe, où ils étaient déjà incarcérés soit dans le cadre de mesures de détention provisoire accompagnant leurs mises en examen, soit dans le cadre d'autres affaires pénales pour lesquelles ils avaient déjà été condamnés. Un d'entre eux, incarcéré à la prison de Pointe-Blanche à Sint-Maarten, a été jugé par défaut ; tandis qu'un autre est en liberté à St. Martin après avoir déjà purgé 8 mois d'emprisonnement dans le cadre d'une mesure de détention provisoire.
Tous ont été reconnus coupables pour leur participation à une importante série de vols à main armée commis entre la fin de l'année 2011 et le début de l'année 2012, principalement dans l'agglomération de Marigot et à Sandy-Ground. L'essentiel de ces vols avaient été commis à l'encontre d'épiceries de proximité.
Les condamnations prononcées sont les suivantes :
- I.J.: 40 mois d'emprisonnement
- G.K. : 40 mois d'emprisonnement dont 12 mois de sursis avec mise à l'épreuve
- P.P.: 40 mois d'emprisonnement dont 15 mois de sursis avec mise à l'épreuve
- M.M.D. : 18 mois d'emprisonnement
- E.B. : 30 mois d'emprisonnement dont 6 mois de sursis avec mise à l'épreuve
- J.D.H. : 1 an d'emprisonnement dont 6 mois de sursis avec mise à l'épreuve.
- J. M. : 1 an d'emprisonnement dont 6 mois de sursis avec mise à l'épreuve.

Le 04 octobre 2013, un individu recherché pour un vol avec violences commis le 25 septembre 2013 à Concordia devant le lycée des îles du nord est interpellé sur la voie publique à Quartier d'Orléans, par une équipe du peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de la gendarmerie. Celui-ci est placé en garde à vue par les gendarmes de la communauté de brigades et fait l'objet d'une convocation devant le tribunal correctionnel de St Martin pour le 28 novembre 2013.

Le 26 septembre dernier, une jeune homme âgé de 14 ans résidant à Quartier d'Orléans est interpellé et placé en garde à vue par les gendarmes de la communauté de brigades de St Martin après qu'il ait tenté de mettre le feu à sa résidence, suite à une dispute au sein de sa famille. Les investigations réalisées à son sujet permettent également de le mettre en cause pour environ une dizaine de cambriolages commis sur les secteurs Quartier d'Orléans, de la Baie orientale, de la Savane, et de Mont-Vernon au cours des dernières semaines. A la fin de la mesure de garde à vue, le jeune homme a été présenté devant les autorités judiciaires à Basse-Terre. Il fait l'objet d'un placement provisoire au centre éducatif fermé de la Guadeloupe, avant de rejoindre le centre éducatif renforcé du Jura.

Le 29 septembre dernier, un vol est commis sur la plage de Grande Caye, les investigations réalisées permettent rapidement d'identifier les auteurs du vol, résidant à Grand Case et à Cul-de-Sac. Ceux-ci sont interpellés le jour même et une perquisition est réalisée à leurs domiciles. A l'issue de leur placement en garde à vue par les gendarmes, ils ont été convoqués devant le tribunal correctionnel de St. Martin pour le 07 novembre 2013.

Madame/ Monsieur le Président,
Monsieur le Ministre,
Monsieur le Président de la Commission des Affaires économiques,
Monsieur le Rapporteur,
Mes chers collègues,

Notre Assemblée est appelée aujourd'hui à examiner la proposition de loi du Sénateur Serge Larcher, adoptée par le Sénat le 21 mai dernier, visant à prolonger la durée de vie des Agences pour la mise en valeur des espaces urbains de la zone dite des cinquante pas géométriques et à faciliter la reconstitution des titres de propriété en Guadeloupe, en Guyane, en Martinique, à La Réunion, à Mayotte et à Saint-Martin.
Les Agences des cinquante pas géométriques ont été créées pour quinze ans par la loi du 30 décembre 1996, pour la mise en valeur des espaces urbains de la zone dite des cinquante pas géométriques. Ces Agences devaient notamment conduire le processus de régularisation des occupants sans titre des terrains du domaine public littoral. Or, face notamment à ce constat de l'augmentation de l'activité des Agences, la loi du 12 juillet 2010 portant engagement national pour l'environnement a décidé la mise en place d'Etablissements Publics Fonciers d'Etat, pour assurer la mission de régularisation foncière sur la zone des cinquante pas. En attendant la mise en place de ces EPF, les Agences ont été prolongées de deux ans par décret, soit jusqu'au 1er janvier 2014. Ces EPF n'étant toujours pas mis en place en raison d'une problématique résultant d'une « confusion juridique », cette proposition de loi sénatoriale vise notamment à prolonger à nouveau l'existence des Agences des cinquante pas géométriques.
Ce court texte comporte donc trois dispositions :
L'article premier permet ainsi au gouvernement de prolonger la durée de vie des Agences des cinquante pas géométriques ;
L'article 2 qui en découle, reporte au 1er janvier 2015 la date limite de dépôt des demandes de régularisation.
Enfin, l'article 3 de cette proposition de loi, issu d'un amendement du gouvernement en commission au Sénat, modifie les modalités de mise en œuvre de la procédure de reconstitution des titres de propriété outre-mer prévue par l'article 35 de la LODEOM.
Le texte, qui a fait l'objet d'un vote unanime en première lecture au Sénat, a été adopté sans aucune modification en commission des Affaires économiques.
Comme le groupe UMP l'a d'ores et déjà fait savoir, je tiens à souligner de nouveau que nous voterons pour cette proposition de loi.
Une proposition de loi concise, dont les enjeux pourraient échapper à certains, mais qui sont pourtant d'une importance cruciale pour nos territoires ultramarins. Cruciale, ne serait-ce que parce que la question du foncier, et plus spécifiquement encore celle de l'habitat urbain dans nos territoires outre-mer, sont des sujets particulièrement sensibles, dans lesquels se mêlent des considérations et des problématiques, qui sont à la fois sociales, environnementales et économiques.
A ces problématiques plurielles, qui rendent complexe l'adoption et l'application de mesures définitives ou simplement pérennes sur ce sujet central, s'ajoute une grande instabilité juridique perdurant depuis les années cinquante. En effet, la zone des cinquante pas géométriques, dont la création remonte au XVIIème siècle, a été domaine privé de l'Etat en 1955, avant que la loi « Littoral » de 1986 ne la fasse basculer dans le domaine public maritime, puis que la loi de 1996 ouvre enfin la possibilité de céder des parcelles à leurs occupants.
Si les soubresauts de la législation apparaissent comme autant de freins qui ont pu régulièrement entraver la gestion de la zone dite des cinquante pas géométriques et si le statut même de ces établissements publics que sont les Agences des cinquante pas géométriques doit bien évidement évoluer, il ne faudrait pas que le travail engagé depuis 1996 et la loi relative à l'aménagement, la protection et la mise en valeur de ces zones, retombe comme un soufflet. La disparition pure et simple des Agences, en l'absence de dispositifs palliatifs, entraîneraient l'annulation de milliers de procédures de régularisation en cours : il est donc impératif de combler ce vide juridique, ce que permet l'article premier de cette proposition de loi.
Je rejoins néanmoins les inquiétudes du Rapporteur du texte sur l'article 2 relatif au délai de dépôt des dossiers. Prolonger l'existence des Agences des cinquante pas géométriques de deux ans jusqu'au 1er janvier 2016 me semble en effet insuffisant, puisque dans les faits, ce délai n'équivaut qu'à une année supplémentaire de délai pour le dépôt de dossiers, quand – encore une fois - plusieurs milliers de procédures sont toujours en cours dans nos territoires. Je ne doute pas que cette problématique retiendra toute l'attention de M. le Ministre des Outre-mer, qui, je le sais, est particulièrement sensible à cette question de la gestion de nos zones littorales.
Enfin l'article 3 de cette proposition de loi permet la reconstitution des titres de propriétés dans les outre-mer. Cette procédure de titrement revêt une importance capitale, particulièrement pour le Saint-Martinois que je suis. Car si la prolongation de l'existence des Agences des cinquante pas géométriques est sans effet à Saint-Martin compte-tenu du transfert du domaine public appartenant à l'Etat à la Collectivité d'outre-mer depuis juillet 2007 et l'accession à son nouveau statut, la question du titrement en revanche est fondamentale pour ce territoire...
Si la gestion des zones littorales outre-mer doit être pensée globalement et que cette proposition de loi peut paraître insuffisante, le texte, qui met en lumière la question de l'habitat urbain ultramarin, répond néanmoins à une véritable urgence. Une urgence que le groupe UMP a bien compris, qui donnera un vote positif à ce texte.

M. Daniel GIBBS

Une opération de lutte contre la délinquance routière, ciblant en particulier les personnes conduisant sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique, était menée dans la nuit du dimanche 29 au lundi 30 septembre 2013 par la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.
Réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin, l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 22/1 de Melun, le peloton de surveillance et d'intervention ainsi que la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin, l'opération mobilisait au total une dizaine de militaires de la gendarmerie, engagés en différents points de passage obligé sur le territoire de Saint-Martin.
Une trentaine de conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever les infractions suivantes :
- 05 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux délictuel, > 0,4 mg/litre d'air expiré (1,02 - 0,83 - 0,65 - 0,56 - 0,53) ;
- 05 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux contraventionnel, compris entre 0,25 et 0,39 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,34 - 0,32 - 0,31 - 0,31 - 0,27) ;
- 03 défauts de permis de conduire ;
- 01 défaut de port de casque ;
- 01 infraction pour pneumatiques lisses.
À noter que deux des conducteurs en état d'alcoolémie étaient en outre non détenteurs du permis de conduire ; par ailleurs, celui présentant le taux le plus élevé (1,02 mg/litre d'air expiré) était en état de récidive.

Le Premier ministre a réuni ce jour les ministres concernés par la question des exceptions au repos dominical dans les commerces.

Le gouvernement rappelle que le repos dominical est un principe essentiel en termes à la fois de protection des salariés et de cohésion sociale.

Pour autant, l'existence du travail dominical est une réalité. La législation et la réglementation applicables comportent des dérogations pour permettre certaines activités le dimanche. Elles sont nécessairement de natures diverses car répondant à des besoins différents (temporaires ou permanents, généraux ou territoriaux...). Une part de complexité est donc inévitable. Mais ces dérogations ont été rendues confuses par les interventions réglementaires et législatives de la majorité précédente.

L'ouverture dominicale soulève des questions à la croisée d'enjeux économiques, sociaux et sociétaux : aspirations des consommateurs, respect des droits des salariés notamment du droit au repos, adaptations aux nouveaux modes de vie sur les territoires dans leur diversité, conciliation vie personnelle et vie professionnelle, attractivité des territoires.

Le gouvernement souhaite que la question des exceptions à ce principe général soit examinée pour clarifier le cadre juridique.

C'est pourquoi le Premier ministre a décidé de confier une mission sur cette question à M. Jean-Paul Bailly. Il devra examiner les faiblesses du dispositif actuel, éclairer les enjeux de l'ouverture de certains commerces le dimanche et faire des propositions au gouvernement.

Le Premier ministre souhaite que cette mission repose sur un dialogue approfondi avec l'ensemble des parties prenantes : partenaires sociaux, élus, représentants de la société civile, associations de consommateurs et de professionnels...

Son rapport et ses propositions sont attendus pour la fin du mois de novembre.

Enfin, le gouvernement rappelle que les décisions de justice doivent être respectées.

Le Premier ministre, Jean-Marc Ayrault, a présidé aujourd'hui le Comité Interministériel Handicap (CIH). Créé en 2009 pour renforcer le pilotage interministériel de la politique du handicap, il n'avait jamais été réuni, au-delà de sa réunion d'installation. Le Premier ministre a également, à cette occasion, rencontré les associations membres de la commission permanente du conseil national consultatif des personnes handicapées (CNCPH).

Autour du Premier ministre, c'est l'ensemble du gouvernement qui marque son engagement pour l'inclusion des personnes handicapées et de leurs familles.

Sous l'impulsion et la coordination de Marisol Touraine, ministre des affaires sociales et de la santé, et de Marie-Arlette Carlotti, ministre déléguée en charge des personnes handicapées et de la lutte contre l'exclusion, une feuille de route gouvernementale a été dessinée autour de cinq grands axes : la jeunesse, l'emploi, l'accessibilité, l'accompagnement et la gouvernance de la politique du handicap, avec un objectif : relever le défi de l'égalité.

Après la décision de proposer un CDI aux 28.000 auxiliaires de vie scolaire et de créer un diplôme d'Etat d'accompagnant, le gouvernement poursuivra sa politique au service des jeunes handicapés et de leurs parents. Une consultation des partenaires sociaux et organisations syndicales de la fonction publique sera conduite pour ouvrir un droit à la formation aux parents découvrant le handicap de leur enfant.

L'accès et le maintien dans l'emploi des travailleurs handicapés seront facilités à travers la négociation sur la formation professionnelle, le renforcement de l'obligation de reclassement professionnel des salariés devenus inaptes ou encore la reconnaissance des travailleurs handicapés indépendants.

Dans la suite du plan autisme présenté au mois de mai dernier, l'accompagnement des enfants handicapés sera facilité grâce à la prise en charge intégrale des frais de transport vers les centres d'action médico-sociale précoce (CAMPS) et les centres médico-psycho-pédagogiques (CMPP).

Le développement de l'accessibilité universelle est affirmé comme une priorité gouvernementale. L'accessibilité du cadre bâti, de la voirie et des transports souffre d'un important retard qui compromet l'échéance de 2015. L'accessibilité reste pourtant la condition sine qua non d'une société plus égalitaire. Le Gouvernement a donc pris des décisions à la mesure de l'enjeu : mise en place d'agendas d'accessibilité programmée par voie d'ordonnance, mobilisation des fonds de la caisse des dépôts et des consignations (CDC) et de BPI France, recrutement de 1000 ambassadeurs de l'accessibilité. Une concertation entre tous les acteurs concernés va être engagée dès le mois d'octobre pour mobiliser de façon volontariste et pragmatique autour de l'objectif de mise en accessibilité, en s'appuyant sur les préconisations du rapport de la sénatrice Claire-Lise Campion.

Un premier bilan de cette feuille de route gouvernementale sera présenté à l'occasion de la Conférence Nationale du Handicap qui se réunira en 2014.

Quelques jours après avoir reçu les Présidents de Conseils régionaux, le Premier ministre a réuni les préfets de région, avec Mme Cécile Duflot, ministre de l'égalité des territoires et du logement, M. Manuel Valls ministre de l'intérieur, M. Philippe Martin, ministre de l'écologie, du développement durable et de l'énergie, Mme Genevieve Fioraso, ministre de l'enseignement supérieur et de la recherche, Mme Marylise Lebranchu, ministre de la réforme de l'Etat, de la décentralisation et de la fonction publique, M. François Lamy, ministre délégué, chargé de la ville, M. Frédéric Cuvillier, ministre délégué, chargé des transports, de la mer et de la pêche, Mme Fleur Pellerin, ministre délégué chargée des PME, de l'innovation et de l'économie numérique, pour lancer la préparation opérationnelle des nouvelles générations de contrats de plan Etat-région et de fonds européens.

Le Premier ministre a rappelé aux préfets l'exigence de l'action publique : « il est nécessaire aujourd'hui de mobiliser dans un même élan les énergies, les compétences, et les ressources financières de l'Etat et des collectivités territoriales, pour remettre la France sur le chemin de la croissance, assurer le développement durable de nos territoires, et préparer l'avenir de notre Pays et gagner la bataille de l'emploi ».

Les ministres ont décliné les cinq priorités des nouveaux contrats de plan, qui rejoignent celles des Investissements d'avenir et des futurs programmes européens :

  1. enseignement supérieur, recherche, innovation ;
  2. filières d'avenir et usine du futur ;
  3. infrastructures et usages du numérique ;
  4. mobilités multimodales ;
  5. transition écologique et énergétique.

En fixant la feuille de route, le Premier ministre a demandé aux Préfets d'engager dès maintenant les discussions, et déclaré : « l'autorité que vous exercez sur les services de l'Etat, la qualité des relations que vous entretenez avec l'exécutif régional, sont autant d'éléments décisifs pour créer le climat de confiance et assurer l'efficacité de ces politiques partenariales ».

Quant aux fonds européens, dont la gestion sera décentralisée aux Régions à compter du 1er janvier prochain, l'enveloppe obtenue par la France pour la génération 2014/2020 est équivalente à celle obtenue pour la génération précédente 2006/2013. Le Premier ministre a insisté sur la responsabilité particulière qui incombe à l'Etat et aux Régions : « il nous faut impérativement réussir à mobiliser ces ressources européennes qui viennent conforter notre effort d'investissement pour l'avenir ».

Le Premier ministre a également fait un point sur la mise en œuvre des décisions relatives à l'administration territoriale de l'Etat prises lors du CIMAP du 17 juillet dernier. Il a rappelé aux Préfets que « l'Etat doit réaffirmer sa capacité à agir et à tenir sa place dans la recherche de nouvelles voies d'un développement durable, plus solidaire et plus respectueux de l'environnement. Je veux une administration, plus fluide, plus simple, plus accessible, et toute entière consacrée à l'accompagnement des acteurs économiques et des Français, qui se sentent parfois exclus par des procédures trop complexes ».

MARIGOT:--- Apres avoir construit en 2011 une grande station service Delta au rond-point de Belvédère en partie hollandaise, le groupe Delta a racheté les 3 anciennes stations GESS qui étaient en liquidation depuis 2011.
Les travaux de rénovation et les futurs aménagements ont déjà commencé et l'ouverture des stations de Quartier d'Orléans, La Savane et Sandy ground est prévue dans les prochaines semaines.
Delta est basé depuis 2008 au port de Galisbay et ses activités en tant que distributeur représentent déjà une part de marché pour la partie française supérieur à 70%.
En effet, le groupe Delta installé et très présent dans la caraïbes depuis prés de 30 ans est déjà bien connu pour la qualité et la fiabilité de ses produits que ce soit pour la partie maritime ou terrestre.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a appris avec tristesse le décès du professeur Maurice Tubiana à l'âge de 93 ans.

Pionner mondial de la nouvelle radiothérapie, cet ancien résistant s'était illustré tout au long de sa vie par son combat contre le cancer et la désinformation dans les grands débats de santé publique.

Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse à sa famille ses plus sincères condoléances.

Après le départ récent de 3 agents à la préfecture de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, la préfecture accueille dans son équipe un nouvel adjoint au chef de cabinet, M. Jean Luc ESQUERRE, en remplacement de M. Francis GOUTENOIR.
M. ESQUERRE est un fonctionnaire de l'Etat depuis maintenant 20 ans, qui, avant son affection à Saint Martin, était chef du bureau de la prévention au sein de la préfecture de Guyane.
Il a pris ses fonctions depuis le lundi 2 septembre 2013 et sera notamment en charge de la sécurité civile.

Jean-Marc AYRAULT, Premier ministre, a présidé aujourd'hui le comité interministériel de lutte contre la drogue et la toxicomanie et de la prévention des dépendances, en présence de l'ensemble des ministres concernés par la politique de prévention et de lutte contre la drogue et les conduites addictives.

Ce comité a validé le premier plan gouvernemental de lutte contre les drogues et les conduites addictives. Il prend la suite des précédents plans de lutte contre la drogue et la toxicomanie. Ce changement d'intitulé traduit la volonté du gouvernement d'élargir cette politique à l'ensemble des conduites susceptibles de mener à des addictions.

Ce plan, qui définit les priorités stratégiques de la France pour les quatre prochaines années, et s'inscrit, pour la première fois, dans le cadre d'une approche intégrée permettant de dépasser les clivages habituels entre tenants de la réponse sanitaire et tenants de la réponse pénale.

Elaboré sur la base de données scientifiquement validées, issues de la recherche, de l'observation et de l'évaluation, ce plan a été précédé par une concertation avec les acteurs de la politique publique de lutte contre la drogue et les conduites addictives. Il repose sur trois priorités consensuelles :

· fonder davantage l'action publique sur l'observation, la recherche et l'évaluation pour en renforcer la pertinence et l'efficacité ;

· prendre en compte les populations les plus exposées : les jeunes que leurs consommations d'alcool, de tabac et de cannabis exposent à un risque sanitaire et social accru ; les femmes, notamment les femmes enceintes, dont les consommations peuvent affecter tant leur santé que celle de l'enfant à naître ; les personnes en situation de précarité ; celles présentant des troubles psychiatriques ;

· renforcer la sécurité, la tranquillité et la santé publiques en luttant contre les trafics et contre toutes les formes de délinquance liées aux consommations de substances psychoactives.

Ce plan s'étend sur une durée plus longue que les précédents (quatre années contre trois) car il est indispensable aujourd'hui d'avoir une vision à moyen terme, qui seule permettra de répondre aux problèmes persistants de santé et de sécurité publiques. Au fur et à mesure de sa mise en œuvre, il sera évalué dans le souci constant d'adapter la réponse publique au plus près des évolutions tant des conduites addictives, que de la délinquance et du trafic.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre a reçu ce matin à l'Hôtel de Matignon des élus et parlementaires de la Région Lorraine et le Préfet de Région pour la signature du Pacte Lorraine 2014-2016 entre l'Etat et le Conseil Régional.

Capitalisant sur les nombreux atouts du territoire lorrain, parfois insuffisamment exploités, ce contrat particulier a pour objectif de faire émerger les projets partenariaux et mobilisateurs portés par des acteurs locaux (entreprises, collectivités locales, chambres consulaires, organisations syndicales, etc.), destinés à accroître la capacité d'innovation des PME régionales, à les positionner sur des secteurs nouveaux à fort potentiel, et à renforcer la compétitivité et l'attractivité économique du territoire lorrain.

Fondé sur une démarche innovante et coordonnée avec le futur contrat de plan Etat – Région, ce Pacte Lorraine portera sur trois axes principaux : la création d'une technopôle lorraine, centre d'excellence scientifique spécialisé dans l'énergie, les matériaux et les procédés ; le soutien à des projets ambitieux dans des filières industrielles prometteuses pour la Région (bois, agroalimentaire, e-santé, silver economy) ; le renforcement de l'attractivité du territoire par des aménagements exemplaires, par exemple en matière de gestion durable des ressources.

L'aide à la structuration et la sélection des projets seront réalisées localement sous l'égide du Préfet de Région et du Président du Conseil Régional. L'Etat et le Conseil Régional soutiendront à parité les meilleurs projets retenus en mobilisant chacun jusqu'à 150M€. Le Préfet de Région assurera, pour le compte de l'Etat, le suivi de la mise en œuvre de ce Pacte.

Ce partenariat offre aux Lorrains une possibilité nouvelle d'engager pleinement leur Région dans le XXIème siècle, en se mobilisant collectivement autour de projets d'avenir et en s'appuyant sur les atouts de leur territoire et sur l'accompagnement résolu de l'Etat et du Conseil Régional.

Le vendredi 05 octobre 2012, une jeune femme signalait à la gendarmerie l'enlèvement et la séquestration de son compagnon, expliquant aux enquêteurs que ce dernier avait été contraint, par quatre individus, de monter à bord d'un véhicule puis conduit par ses ravisseurs dans le quartier de Sandy-Ground où il était séquestré. Ses geôliers l'avaient alors ligoté et lui avaient fait subir des violences dans le seul but de le forcer à leur remettre la télévision de son beau-frère.
Profitant du départ de ses ravisseurs, la victime avait appelé à l'aide ; une jeune fille entendant ses appels était rentrée dans l'appartement et l'avait aidé à se libérer de ses liens.
Prenant la fuite, la victime était alors récupéré par son beau-frère qui était à sa recherche ; ce dernier l'avait alors immédiatement conduit au service des urgences de l'hôpital de Marigot.
Bien que son pronostic vital ne fut pas engagé, la victime avait néanmoins le visage tuméfié et présentait de nombreuses coupures ainsi que des traces provenant de ses liens.
Les investigations réalisées par la brigade de recherches de la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin avaient permis l'identification et l'interpellation de trois des quatre auteurs le mardi 12 décembre 2012. Ces derniers, entendus sous le régime de la garde à vue, avaient reconnu les faits.
Dernier des quatre mis en cause à comparaître dans cette affaire, F.F, en fuite depuis le 05 octobre et interpellé le 30 juillet dernier par le P.S.I.G de Saint-Martin, faisait depuis l'objet d'une détention provisoire à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre dans l'attente de son procès . Il a été reconnu coupable et condamné le vendredi 13 septembre 2013 par le tribunal correctionnel de Basse-Terre à une peine d'emprisonnement ferme de sept années.
Pour mémoire, les autres protagonistes, jugés en comparution immédiate le 14 décembre 2012 à Saint-Martin, avaient alors été condamnés respectivement à six et trois ans d'emprisonnement ferme et immédiatement incarcérés à la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre. Quant au dernier des quatre mis en cause, mineur de 13 ans et collégien au moment des faits, il avait fait l'objet d'un éloignement immédiat en centre éducatif fermé en Guadeloupe.

Une opération de lutte contre la délinquance routière, ciblant en particulier les personnes conduisant sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique, était menée le samedi 14 septembre 2013 de 20h00 à 23h00 par la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.

Réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin, l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 22/1 de Melun et la Police Territoriale de la Collectivité de St-Martin, l'opération mobilisait au total 06 militaires de la gendarmerie et 02 policiers territoriaux, engagés au niveau du carrefour giratoire de l'office de tourisme de Marigot.

50 conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever les 07 infractions suivantes :
- 04 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux délictuel, > 0,4 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,87 - 0,78 - 0,71 - 0,65) ;
- 03 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux contraventionnel, compris entre 0,25 et 0,39 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,37 - 0,36 - 0,34).

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, s'est rendu ce samedi à la grande synagogue de la Victoire, à l'occasion des cérémonies du Yom Kippour, jour du Grand Pardon, pour saluer les représentants du culte israélite.

Dans cette synagogue qui, depuis sa construction en 1875, a constitué le lieu traditionnel de rencontre de la République française et du judaïsme, le Premier ministre a adressé ses vœux chaleureux pour cette nouvelle année juive qui s'ouvre avec ces célébrations.

Quant à la place des religions en France, le Premier ministre a déclaré : « j'attache une importance particulière à ce que toutes les croyances religieuses puissent s'exprimer dans notre Pays, dans le respect de la laïcité et des convictions de chaque citoyen. Toute atteinte au libre exercice du culte est intolérable dans la République ».

Il a également insisté sur la détermination absolue du Gouvernement à tout mettre en œuvre pour lutter contre l'antisémitisme en indiquant que : « cette conviction se traduit en actes. La République continuera de punir avec la plus grande fermeté tous les faits antisémites, racistes et xénophobes. Cette réponse pénale est indispensable face à des discours qui s'affranchissent de toute limite, notamment dans le débat public. Il est essentiel de lutter sans relâche contre la tendance à la banalisation de ces comportements, contraires à nos principes républicains et aux fondements du « vivre ensemble » en France ».

Depuis sa prise de fonction, le Premier ministre a tenu à instaurer un dialogue serein avec les responsables religieux, y compris sur des sujets de société pour lesquels des positions divergentes peuvent s'exprimer : « je suis convaincu que ce dialogue est un élément essentiel de l'équilibre républicain, dessiné par la loi de 1905 qui protège la liberté de conscience et garantit le libre exercice des cultes ».

Dans un article du pélican du vendredi 13 septembre relatif à l'arrêt du chantier de Spring, il est indiqué que la directrice générale de la SEMSAMAR aurait déclaré que ce chantier avait été ''bloqué durant toute l'année 2012 par les services de l'Etat''. Ces allégations sont infondées ; l'Etat a, dans le cadre de ce dossier, demandé à la SEMSAMAR une application stricte de la loi au travers du dépôt d'un dossier ''loi sur l'eau'' en bonne et due forme, dans le but d'assurer la sécurité des personnes et des biens. Dans ce même souci, l'Etat avait été amené à imposer à l'entreprise une sécurisation des plates-formes du terrain par des ouvrages de soutènement, travaux qui étaient en cours depuis plusieurs mois. Outre le respect de la loi, l'action de l'Etat n'avait pour seul objet que la sécurité des populations du bassin de Concordia affectées par le problème d'inondation en cas de fortes pluies. L'arrêt du chantier n'est en aucun cas le fruit d'une démarche des services de l'Etat, les véritables raisons sont à rechercher ailleurs.

Le Premier ministre, Jean-Marc Ayrault, a souhaité que la lanterne de 1784 installée dans l'escalier d'honneur de l'Hôtel de Matignon depuis 1935 rejoigne le château de Versailles afin qu'elle puisse être appréciée du plus grand nombre. Réalisée par Rémond et Daguerre pour le cabinet intérieur de Louis XVI à Compiègne, pièce aujourd'hui disparue, cette lanterne de provenance royale sera accrochée dans le grand cabinet de Madame Victoire, dans les appartements de Mesdames, filles de Louis XV, situés au rez-de-chaussée du château. En échange, une lanterne d'époque Empire du Château de Versailles éclaire désormais l'escalier d'honneur de l'Hôtel de Matignon. Cette opération s'inscrit dans le cadre de la politique d'échanges conduite par le Mobilier National et l'établissement public du château de Versailles.

L'Hôtel de Matignon ouvrira ses portes pour les journées du patrimoine, les 14 et 15 septembre 2013.

Cette 30e édition mettra en lumière la commémoration du centenaire de la loi du 31 décembre 1913, texte fondateur pour la protection des monuments historiques en France.

A la demande de Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, plusieurs épisodes décisifs de notre histoire contemporaine seront également présentés au cours de la visite, comme les 25 ans des accords de Matignon qui ont été signés dans le salon jaune.

La cour d'honneur de l'Hôtel de Matignon sera ouverte au public les samedi 14 et dimanche 15 septembre 2013 de 10h00 à 18h00. L'entrée se fera par le 57, rue de Varenne (Paris 7ème).

L'Union des Parents d'Elèves de Saint Martin (UPESM) souhaite une bonne rentrée scolaire aux élèves, aux chefs d'établissement, aux enseignants, personnels administratifs, agents des établissements ainsi qu'aux parents.
Que cette année 2013/2014 soit une réussite sur tous les points (scolaire, relationnelle, professionnelle ...).

Chers parents, la réussite de la scolarité de votre enfant dépend largement de votre implication dans son parcours scolaire et du dialogue que vous établirez avec l'équipe pédagogique.

Les principales missions de l'UPESM : Vous informer, vous écouter, vous accompagner, vous représenter.

Nous comptons sur vous pour renforcer nos équipes, les étendre à l'ensemble des établissements scolaires de l'île. Votre adhésion à l'UPESM en plus grand nombre est importante, pour une meilleure représentation des parents.

Pour tout contact : envoyez nous un mail (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), connectez-vous sur notre compte : https://www.facebook.com/parents.sxm ou tout simplement, un simple appel téléphonique Tél : 06 90 88 25 14.

Rejoignez nous également le samedi 14 septembre 2013 sur le parking de l'Omnisport à Galisbay de 10h à 17h.

Bonne Rentrée 2013-2014

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre envisage de proposer au président de la République de nommer M. Philippe Wahl, en qualité de président du conseil d'administration de La Poste.

Le Président de l'Assemblée nationale et le Président du Sénat sont saisis de ce projet de nomination, afin que la commission intéressée de chacune des assemblées se prononce dans les conditions prévues par le cinquième alinéa de l'article 13 de la Constitution.

Nous avons appris avec stupeur que l'école maternelle de Grand-Case a été vandalisée dans la nuit de mercredi à jeudi dernier. Je déplore cet acte d'incivisme caractérisé, dont on ignore à ce jour les objectifs puisque rien ne semble avoir été dérobé. J'apporte un soutien sans faille aux personnels scolaires, à l'équipe pédagogique ainsi qu'à la directrice de l'école dans cette épreuve, et j'ai une pensée toute particulière pour les parents d'élèves avec lesquels je suis solidaire. Il faut rappeler que cette école à été rénovée et que ce geste de vandalisme engendrera un coût supplémentaire pour la Collectivité. Cet épisode désolant est pris avec toute la gravité qu'il mérite, et une vigilance accrue s'impose. La gendarmerie a investigué sur zone afin de découvrir des indices permettant d'orienter leur enquête, gageons qu'elle aboutisse et que les auteurs soient punis.
Je souhaite enfin dire aux parents que, malgré les faits, l'école sera fonctionnelle dès aujourd'hui (vendredi 06 septembre 2013), dans la mesure où aucun dégât portant atteinte à la sécurité des enfants n'a été relevé.

Aline Hanson
Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin

semsamarrencontreaveclapresidentedelaresidencelesflamboyants04092013Le nouveau président de la SEMSAMAR, M. Wendel Cocks, accompagné du service de gestion locative, a visité l'ensemble des résidences locatives sociales de la Société les 28 et 29 août 2013. Il a rencontré à cette occasion les présidents des associations de locataires avec lesquels il a fait le point sur les importants travaux de rénovation engagés par la SEMSAMAR depuis 2011 dans son parc locatif, et sur les attentes des associations. Les associations de locataires lui ont fait part de leurs inquiétudes face à la montée de la délinquance et des incivilités dans leurs résidences. Bien que la lutte contre la délinquance et les incivilités ne fassent pas partie des prérogatives de la SEMSAMAR, M. Wendel Cocks, a promis de renforcer le travail de proximité, d'information et de sensibilisation des locataires, déjà mis en place par le pôle de médiation sociale de la SEMSAMAR. Il a annoncé par ailleurs que les travaux de grosses réparations se poursuivraient en 2013 dans les résidences les plus anciennes. La Société y consacrera plus d'un million d'euros cette année. Plusieurs résidences seront dotées par ailleurs de parc de jeux pour enfants qui seront réalisés dans le cadre d'un partenariat avec la Caisse d'Allocations Familiales. Le président de la SEMSAMAR a fait le point également sur le programme de vente de logements au profit de leurs locataires. Le processus d'accession à la propriété pour les locataires de la Société a déjà été mis en oeuvre pour trois résidences : Ravine Colombe, la Colombe et les 16 logements locatifs sociaux de Quartier d'Orléans.
Cette visite du président Wendel Cocks dans les résidences locatives sociales illustre la volonté de la SEMSAMAR de renforcer son partenariat avec ses associations de locataires dans le cadre d'une proximité renforcée. M. Wendel Cocks a d'ailleurs annoncé qu'il organiserait une réunion avec les associations de locataires dans les prochains mois pour faire un nouveau point sur leurs attentes et sur les actions à mettre en œuvre pour renforcer la citoyenneté et l'encadrement des jeunes dans l'ensemble du parc de résidences locatives sociales de la société.

LES TRAVAUX DANS LES RÉSIDENCES LOCATIVES SOCIALES
DE LA SEMSAMAR A SAINT-MARTIN

L'ensemble du parc social de la SEMSAMAR à Saint-Martin compte 949 logements répartis dans 17 résidences construites entre 1994 pour les plus anciennes (16 LLS de Quartier d'Orléans et La Colombe de Concordia), et 2010 pour la plus récente ("Arc en Ciel" de Concordia).
En 2012, la SEMSAMAR a engagé et réalisé sur le patrimoine de Saint-Martin 1 128 945 € de travaux au titre du gros entretien et de l'investissement dans les résidences.

Ces travaux ont été réalisés sur les résidences les plus anciennes :
• Résidence Les Surettes (113 logements) : ...............................................215 430 €
• Résidence La Ravine (24 logements) : .....................................................243 192 €
• Résidences les Hirondelles (60 logements) : ............................................173 360 €
• Résidence Scott (65 logements) : .............................................................237 188 €
• Résidence La Sucrerie (104 logements) : ................................................. 259 775 €

Pour 2013, outre certains travaux qui reste à réaliser sur le programme 2012, il est prévu un programme toujours très ambitieux qui s'élève à 1 169 860 €. Les travaux engagés portent sur le remplacement de la plomberie cuivre par la plomberie réticulée, la mise en conformité de l'électricité et des tableaux électriques, ainsi qu'une grosse opération de remplacement de couverture sur la résidence Scott.

Ces travaux seront réalisés sur les opérations suivantes :
• Résidence La Ravine
• Résidence Les Hirondelles
• Résidence Scott
• Résidence La Sucrerie
• Résidence Les Salines
• Résidence La Colline
• Résidence Belle Plaine
• Résidence Les Frères

Le Premier Ministre, Jean-Marc Ayrault, vient de désigner Jean-Yves Le Gall, Président du Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), coordonnateur interministériel pour les programmes européens de navigation par satellite.

A ce titre, Jean-Yves Le Gall aura la responsabilité:

  • De coordonner la stratégie de la France pour les programmes de navigation par satellite GALILEO (système autonome de positionnement et de datation par satellites) et EGNOS (système de renforcement satellitaire régional pour l'Europe), qui forment ensemble le système Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) européen ;
  • D'assurer, en liaison avec la Représentation Permanente de la France auprès de l'Union Européenne, un lien avec les interlocuteurs européens de ces programmes ;
  • De diriger la représentation française dans les instances européennes de pilotage, en l'agence du GNSS européen (GSA).

alinehansonvisitsschools30082013Le mardi 27 août dernier, la Présidente du Conseil territorial, Aline Hanson, a effectué une visite des collèges et du lycée, accompagnée d'une équipe technique composée du Directeur général des services, Pascal Averne, le Directeur général adjoint du Pôle de développement humain, Thierry Gombs, et de Fodil Mesbah, prestataire de la SEMSAMAR. Il s'agissait, pour la Présidente Hanson, de faire le point avec les principaux des collèges et le proviseur du lycée, sur l'état de chacun de ces établissements avant la rentrée scolaire. L'équipe technique a ainsi enregistré la liste des travaux achevés, des réalisations en cours et des requêtes sur le long terme, afin que la rentrée scolaire 2013/2014 se déroule dans les meilleures conditions pour les élèves, les professeurs, les agents de la Collectivité qui travaillent dans ces établissements.

Au moment où les avis d'imposition concernant l'impôt sur les revenus de l'année 2012 sont en cours de distribution par les services de La Poste, Madame Aline Hanson, Présidente du conseil territorial, souhaite rappeler les points suivants.

Dans un contexte budgétaire très contraint, le conseil territorial a décidé, lors de sa séance du 6 décembre 2012, d'instaurer une contribution au titre des frais d'assiette, de recouvrement et de contrôle.

Cette contribution prend la forme:

  • pour les foyers imposables (3 500 foyers au titre des revenus 2011), d'une majoration forfaitaire de 100 € qui s'ajoute au montant de l'impôt sur le revenu dû ;
  • pour les foyers non imposables (13 500 foyers au titre des revenus 2011), d'un droit de timbre de 100 € dont le paiement conditionne la remise de l'avis de non-imposition.

Il s'agit de permettre à la collectivité de faire face au coût facturé par les services de l'État au titre de la prestation de services qu'ils rendent en matière de fiscalité.

En revanche, malgré une situation financière très difficile:

  • les taux du barème progressif n'ont pas été augmentés ;
  • le taux de la réduction d'impôt dont bénéficient l'ensemble des foyers imposables (40 %) n'a pas été réduit.

Sur le plan pratique, les avis d'imposition comportent donc une ligne supplémentaire intitulée « Frais d'assiette, de recouvrement et de contrôle » pour un montant de 100 €.

Enfin, selon les informations communiquées par les services de l'État, les foyers non imposables recevront un courrier personnalisé les informant que leur avis de non-imposition est disponible à la trésorerie de Saint Martin à Concordia, contre le paiement d'un droit de timbre de 100 €.
Ce courrier devra être présenté pour se faire remettre l'avis de non-imposition.
La délivrance de ces avis de non-imposition interviendra à compter du 16 septembre prochain.

jouhannesillidge28082013La Présidente et les membres du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin ont appris avec une profonde tristesse le décès de Monsieur Jouhannes Illidge, survenu dans la journée du 26 août dernier.
Nous tenons à saluer le parcours d'un homme qui a passé une grande partie de sa vie aux Etats-Unis comme couturier, et qui a décidé de revenir à Saint-Martin pour vivre une retraite paisible, entouré des siens.
En janvier dernier, alors qu'il célébrait ses 103 ans, des élus de la Collectivité s'étaient rendus à son domicile, à Quartier d'Orléans pour le féliciter. Aujourd'hui, le doyen de Saint-Martin s'en est allé, et c'est avec émotion que je présente en mon nom personnel, au nom du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin, l'expression de mes très sincères condoléances à sa famille, ses proches et amis.

Aline Hanson
Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin

Dans le cadre de l'aménagement de la rue de Hollande, la circulation dans Marigot subira des modifications exposées sur le plan ci-contre. Il s'agit de la phase 1 de la 3e tranche des travaux réalisés rue de Hollande, qui s'étend du lundi 02 au lundi 16 septembre 2013.
Une communication ultérieure sera diffusée lors du début de la phase 2, qui commencera le 16 septembre, avec un nouveau plan de circulation. Rappelons que les travaux de cette 3e phase seront achevés avant la fin du mois de novembre, marquant le prélude de la saison touristique.

Au dire des habitants, un grand nombre de jeunes de notre quartier ne sont pas inscrits à Pôle emploi et ne peuvent prétendre aux aides de l'Etat.
Le Conseil de quartier N°2, Grand-Case Cul de Sac, en prévision des actions à effectuer pour la rentrée, prie toutes les associations du quartier de se faire connaître en téléphonant au 06 90 29 47 26.
Il est aussi demandé aux jeunes de 18/26 ans, qui veulent prétendre à une formation "Emplois d'avenir", de s'inscrire à Pôle emploi.
Pour plus d'informations, ils peuvent appeler la représentante du Quartier N°2 au 0690722126.

Madame la Représentante - RICHARDSON Ermine

A l'occasion de leur journée de travail précédant la rentrée scolaire, le Premier ministre a reçu à l'Hôtel de Matignon en présence du ministre, de la ministre déléguée et d'autres ministres les 250 hauts cadres de l'Education nationale (recteurs, directeurs académiques, secrétaires généraux d'académie, responsables de l'administration centrale).

Cette rencontre, inédite, marque l'importance que le gouvernement attache à la réussite de la refondation de l'Ecole et à l'agenda qui y est attaché depuis la promulgation de la loi le 8 juillet 2013.

Le Premier ministre a ainsi pu adresser à ces hauts cadres un message de confiance mais aussi souligner devant eux les défis qu'ils doivent désormais relever:

  • L'avènement de l'école de la réussite pour tous
  • Une école plus inclusive, accompagnant mieux tous les élèves
  • L'innovation pédagogique au cœur de l'action éducative
  • Le levier essentiel d'une formation des enseignants profondément renouvelée.

Parmi les mesures annoncées par le Premier ministre, celles concernant l'accompagnement des élèves handicapés paraissent particulièrement emblématiques de cette quadruple ambition.

Ces mesures s'inspirent des réflexions issues d'un groupe de travail, initié par Vincent Peillon, ministre de l'éducation nationale, Marie-Arlette Carlotti, ministre déléguée en charge des personnes handicapées et de la lutte contre l'exclusion et George Pau-Langevin, ministre déléguée chargée de la réussite éducative et présidé par Pénélope Komitès, en concertation avec les associations représentant les familles d'enfants en situation de handicap, les auxiliaires de vie scolaire, ainsi que les organisations syndicales.

A la suite de ces travaux, conformément aux engagements pris par le Président de la République, le Premier ministre a décidé de reconnaître et de valoriser le métier qu'accomplissent les auxiliaires de vie scolaire et de leur offrir une véritable perspective professionnelle.

Ainsi, les 28 057 assistants d'éducation qui exercent ces missions d'accompagnement des élèves en situation de handicap se verront proposer un contrat à durée indéterminée au terme leurs six ans d'exercice en contrat à durée déterminée.

Cette mesure constitue une avancée considérable pour ces personnels en leur permettant d'accéder à un statut de salarié pérenne, dans l'intérêt même des enfants qu'ils accompagnent. Ces personnels, qui se seront formés au cours de leurs années d'exercice, pourront désormais poursuivre leur activité au-delà des six ans qui étaient jusque-là la durée limite des contrats. Il est ainsi mis fin à une situation absurde et inacceptable.

Cette professionnalisation de l'accompagnement des élèves en situation de handicap passe, pour l'ensemble des personnels accompagnants, par la reconnaissance d'un vrai métier. Celui-ci fera ainsi l'objet d'une nouvelle formation et d'un nouveau diplôme d'État. L'expérience acquise par les AVS y sera valorisée.

Ces mesures marquent un progrès très important en matière de scolarisation des enfants en situation de handicap, en améliorant la qualité de l'accompagnement des élèves. Elles apportent des réponses aux attentes fortes des familles.

Cette décision vient compléter l'ensemble des efforts qui ont été engagés par le Gouvernement en faveur de la scolarisation des enfants en situation de handicap :

  • Le recrutement de 8 000 accompagnants supplémentaires à la rentrée 2014;
  • La formation des jeunes enseignants aux sujets du handicap à l'école, assurée par les nouvelles Ecoles supérieures du professorat et de l'éducation (ESPE) ;
  • La mise en place de modules de formation continue consacrés à la prise en charge du handicap pour tous les personnels de l'éducation ;
  • Le déploiement d'outils numériques pour répondre aux besoins spécifiques des élèves ;
  • L'ouverture de 30 unités d'enseignement spécialement dédiées à l'autisme dans le cadre du 3e « plan autisme ».

Ces mesures traduisant la reconnaissance des accompagnants des élèves handicapés comme exerçant un vrai métier illustrent parfaitement la volonté gouvernementale d'une école plus inclusive, attachée à la réussite de tous, portée par l'innovation pédagogique et le renouvellement de la formation des personnels exerçant auprès des élèves.

~ La directrice générale de la planification et de la programmation du réseau international pour la Caraïbe et l'Amérique Latine expliquera comment les gouvernements caribéens peuvent avoir une influence sur le service aérien à destination de leur pays ~

BRIDGETOWN, Barbade:--- Lors du plus grand rassemblement touristique de la région qui se tiendra en octobre, en Martinique, un cadre supérieur d'un des plus grands transporteurs révèlera les secrets du succès aux destinations caribéennes qui cherchent à attirer plus de services aériens.

Lorsqu'elle s'adressera aux délégués le jour de l'ouverture de la State of the Industry Conference, Mme Christine Kennedy, directrice générale de la planification et de la programmation du réseau international pour la Caraïbe et l'Amérique Latine à Delta Airlines, expliquera le processus de planification des itinéraires et les facteurs qui influencent les décisions des compagnies aériennes quand elles envisagent de desservir de nouvelles destinations.

Mme Kennedy se joindra à un panel «Fasten your Seatbelts!» où des experts des compagnies aériennes partageront des réflexions stimulantes et perspicaces sur les enjeux instables et souvent controversés du transport aérien.

«En tant que représentante de l'équipe de planification du réseau à Delta, je suis ravie de participer au panel en octobre et d'offrir un aperçu du processus de planification des itinéraires», a dit Mme Kennedy. «Mon exposé présentera les facteurs qui influencent les décisions de Delta lorsque la société envisage de mettre en place de nouveaux services et ce qu'une destination peut faire pour influencer favorablement la décision».

Delta exploite un vaste réseau aux États-Unis et dans le monde, desservant tous les continents, à l'exception de l'Antarctique. La compagnie aérienne et ses filiales exploitent quotidiennement au-dessus de 5 000 vols et transportent annuellement plus de 160 millions passagers.

La State of the Industry conference, qui réunit des décideurs des secteurs public et privé, des universitaires, des professionnels et des journalistes du voyage dans la région et à travers le monde, se tiendra du 15 au 18 octobre, en Martinique.

L'évènement dont le thème est «Parfaire l'expérience. Promettre l'authenticité», est une initiative de l'Organisation du tourisme de la Caraïbe (OTC), avec la collaboration du Comité martiniquais du tourisme. Pour obtenir de plus amples information sur la conférence et sur les modalités d'inscription, veuillez visiter le site Web de l'OTC à www.onecaribbean.org.

Depuis plusieurs mois, l'action des services de l'Etat a été orientée vers un renforcement en matière de sécurité et de qualité alimentaire dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin. Ainsi, de nombreux contrôles ont été menés par les services vétérinaires et ceux de la concurrence, consommation et de la répression des fraudes pour veiller à l'application des normes en vigueur.
Si la situation particulière de Saint-Martin qui est soumis aux règles communautaires, contrairement à ses voisins, exige que soit examinée la situation avec un prisme différent, pour autant, la professionnalisation de la filière agro-alimentaire, l'organisation des filières pêche et élevage, la création d'un abattoir, sont autant de garanties offertes aux consommateurs.
Dans ce cadre, le projet d'extension du port de Galisbay, présenté au ministre des outre-mer lors de sa visite officielle, le 3 juin dernier, intégrant des services annexes comme ceux offerts aujourd'hui par la société dont la plateforme assure la conservation, la transformation et la livraison de produits à température contrôlée, vont également dans ce sens. En effet, comme c'est le cas en Guadeloupe, en Martinique ou en Guyane, l'existence d'une telle cellule de stockage revêt un caractère très structurant pour l'économie locale, constitue un gage pour le dynamisme de l'île et permet de renforcer la protection des consommateurs.
Même s'il est indéniable que des efforts doivent encore être entrepris et notamment en matière de traçabilité, tous les acteurs sont impliqués et les services de l'Etat poursuivront leurs actions de sensibilisation, d'information et de contrôle.

Le Premier ministre a appris avec une grande tristesse la disparition de M. Jean Kahn, figure du judaïsme français et européen. Président du Conseil représentatif des institutions juives de France (CRIF) de 1989 à 1995, il fut également président du Congrès juif européen et vice-président du Congrès juif mondial. De 1995 à 2008, il dirigea le Consistoire central de France.

Le Premier ministre présente ses condoléances émues à la famille de Jean Kahn, à ses proches, à ses amis et à toutes celles et ceux qui ont apprécié cet homme et partagé ses engagements en faveur du dialogue interreligieux, pour les Droits de l'Homme, et contre le racisme, l'antisémitisme, et l'intolérance.

Lundi 12 août à 22h50, une patrouille de l'escadron 22/1 de gendarmerie mobile de Melun découvre une personne sérieusement blessée au visage, déambulant sur la voie publique à Marigot. Les militaires apportent les premiers soins à cette personne et réalisent des recherches qui leur permettent de déterminer que ces blessures sont consécutives à une bagarre entre personnes sans domicile fixe intervenue sur un parking de la rue Low-Town. Un suspect est immédiatement interpellé et remis aux
militaires de la communauté de brigades de St Martin. Celui-ci est placé en garde à vue et reconnaît avoir frappé la victime avec une barre métallique et un tesson de verre suite à une dispute ayant pour objet le « crack » consommé par ces deux personnes. L'auteur présumé des violences est déferré le 14 août en Guadeloupe, où il sera jugé en comparution immédiate.

- Lundi 12 août à 23h00, une patrouille de l'escadron 22/1 de gendarmerie mobile de Melun intervient suite au signalement d'un scooter volé circulant sur la voie publique dans le secteur d'Oyster Pond. Au contact de la patrouille, le conducteur du scooter volé abandonne celui-ci et prend la fuite sur un engin conduit par un autre individu en direction de Quartier d'Orléans. Le scooter a été remis à son légitime propriétaire
- Lundi 12 août à 23h30 dans le secteur d'Oyster Pond, deux personnes sont contrôlées sur la voie publique alors qu'elle paraissaient rôder autour d'un commerce. Une de ces personnes, trouvée porteuse d'un pistolet d'alarme a été conduite dans les locaux de la communauté de brigades de St Martin pour être entendue. L'arme a été saisie, et son porteur fait l'objet d'une procédure pour port d'arme illégal.
- Mardi 12 août à 10h55, un scooter volé est découvert à l'occasion d'une patrouille de surveillance générale réalisée par l'escadron 22/1 de gendarmerie mobile de Melun dans le quartier de Sandy-Ground. Le scooter a été immédiatement enlevé, et restitué dans la journée à son légitime propriétaire.

Le Premier ministre, Jean Marc Ayrault vient d'apprendre avec une grande tristesse le décès du footballeur et entraîneur Jean Vincent.

Ancien joueur de Lille puis de Reims, il avait remporté quatre titres de champion de France, trois coupes de France et s'était hissé avec le Stade de Reims en finale de coupe d'Europe des clubs champions.

Sélectionné comme ailier gauche en équipe de France au début des années 50, Jean Vincent participe notamment à l'épopée des Bleus lors de la Coupe du Monde 1958.

En qualité d'entraîneur du FC Nantes de 1976 à 1982, Jean Vincent avait offert à son club une des belles pages de son histoire, en gagnant deux championnats de France et une coupe de France.

C'est un grand nom du football nantais et français qui nous quitte. Le Premier ministre présente ses condoléances à sa famille, et partage la tristesse de l'ensemble des supporters du FC Nantes.

Le Plan pluriannuel contre la pauvreté et pour l'inclusion sociale adopté au début de l'année par le Gouvernement comporte une mesure importante pour les jeunes : la création d'une "garantie jeunes" proposant aux moins de 25 ans en situation d'isolement et de grande précarité un accompagnement renforcé vers l'emploi et l'autonomie, avec une allocation d'un montant équivalent au revenu de solidarité active (RSA) pendant les périodes sans emploi ni formation.

Inscrite dans un contrat d'engagements réciproques entre le jeune et la mission locale, la "garantie jeunes" veut apporter une réponse à la situation particulièrement difficile des jeunes isolés et sans ressources, non couverts par le RSA, qui ont besoin d'être aidés et accompagnés pour s'insérer dans la vie professionnelle.

Une démarche de phase pilote dans des territoires va précéder la généralisation de cette mesure nouvelle. Un groupe de travail piloté par Emmanuelle Wargon (Délégué générale à l'emploi et à la formation professionnelle) et Marc Gurgand (CNRS) et réunissant des jeunes, des chercheurs, des représentants de l'Etat, des collectivités, des missions locales, de Pôle Emploi, des entreprises, des organismes de formation et des associations, a remis des propositions en mai dernier.

Sur cette base un "appel à projet" a permis aux territoires souhaitant participer à cette phase pilote de présenter leur proposition au mois de juillet.

35 projets ont été reçus.

Après examen par les ministères concernés, 10 territoires ont été retenus pour une première vague de test, qui débutera cet automne, et pourra concerner jusqu'à 10 000 jeunes. Elle concernera des territoires urbains mais aussi des territoires ruraux. Les Conseils Généraux et villes impliqués dans ces expérimentations appartiennent à toutes les sensibilités politiques.

Dix autres territoires ont été retenus pour une deuxième vague de déploiement en 2014, qui pourrait concerner alors au total jusqu'à 30 000 jeunes.

Une évaluation sera réalisée en vue de sa généralisation progressive sur tout le territoire, qui concernera 100 000 jeunes par an en rythme de croisière.

Le Premier ministre se félicite du succès rencontré par cet appel à projet, preuve que la "garantie jeunes" répond à un besoin urgent. Cette démarche partenariale et territoriale est la meilleure pour apporter les réponses les plus pertinentes et efficaces à ces jeunes qui ont besoin de nous. Les services de l'Etat s'impliqueront pleinement pour le succès de ce nouveau dispositif.

Projets retenus pour la première vague (automne 2013):

  • les Bouches du Rhône (Marseille)
  • la Réunion
  • la Seine St Denis (Est ensemble)
  • le Vaucluse
  • le Lot-et-Garonne
  • l'Allier associé au Puy-de-Dôme
  • le Finistère
  • l'Eure
  • l'Aude
  • les Vosges

Projets retenus pour la deuxième vague (2014):

  • l'Essonne
  • la Seine-Maritime
  • le Pas-de-Calais
  • la Dordogne
  • l'Ille-et-Vilaine
  • la Savoie
  • l'Oise
  • l'Aisne
  • l'Isère
  • la Creuse

Le 11 août dernier entre 01h00 et 05h00, un dispositif de contrôle de l'imprégantion alcoolique des uasagers a été mis en place conjointement par la brigade motorisée, la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin, le pelotion de surveillance et d'intervention, l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 22/1 de Melun et la police territoriale. Cette opération s'est déroulée simultanément dans les secteurs de Galisbay de la Baie Orientale.
Les infractions suivantes ont été relevées:

  • 1 conduite sous l'empire de produits stupéfiants
  • 8 conduites en état d'alcoolémie de nature délictuelle
  • 3 conduites en état d'alcoolémie de nature contraventionnelle
  • 1 défaut de permis de conduire
  • 1 défaut de ceinture pour un conducteur

Afin de pourvoir des postes d'adjoints de sécurité (ADS) au Service de la Police Aux Frontières de Saint-Martin, il est actuellement procédé à un nouveau recrutement.
Les personnes recrutées seront appelées à exercer leurs missions à Saint-Martin (sécurité de l'aéroport et des ports, contrôle des frontières, lutte contre l'immigration irrégulière, etc.), sous contrat de 3 ans, renouvelable une fois pour la même période.
Ces postes sont offerts aux hommes et aux femmes remplissant les conditions suivantes:

  •  être de nationalité française et être de bonne moralité
  •  être âgé de 18 ans à moins de 30 ans au moment du dépôt du dossier
  •  être recensé et avoir accompli la journée d'appel de préparation à la défense
  •  disposer d'une bonne condition physique et avoir une bonne acuité visuelle
  •  être en situation de demandeur d'emploi
  •  aucune condition de diplôme n'est exigée

Les dossiers de candidature sont à retirer au SPAF de Saint-Martin, sis à Galisbay (Mme Isabelle BARON  : 05.90.87.57.13).
La date limite de dépôt des dossiers est fixée au 2 septembre 2013 à 12h00, dernier délai.

Le jeudi 1er août 2013, à 08h25, les agents de la police territoriale de Saint-Martin (978) alertent la gendarmerie de la présence d'un homme inanimé et blessé grièvement à la tête, gisant à proximité de la gare maritime de Marigot. Les investigations réalisées permettent de déterminer rapidement, l'identité de la victime, une personne en état de précarité ; ainsi que le lieu de l'agression, un « squatt » situé dans le centre de Marigot. Après sa prise en charge par l'hôpital de Marigot, la victime, souffrant de fractures et de plaies multiples, est évacuée vers l'hôpial de Fort-de-France. L'enquête confiée aux enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de St Martin, avec l'appui du pelton d'intervention de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile 22/1 de Melun, aboutit à l'interpellation le 06 août d'un homme connu déjà connu et incarcéré pour des faits de violences aggravées et d'une femme connue pour sa consommation de produits stupéfiants. Les violences auraient été commises en raison d'une rivalité des deux hommes au sujet de cette femme. L'homme et la femme interpellés ont été deferrés le 08 août à Basse-Terre, où ils seront jugés en comparution immédiate.

Plusieurs vols à l'arraché de bijoux ou tentatives de vols ont été observées à la fin du mois de juillet à Marigot. Les investigations réalisées par les enquêteurs de la communauté de brigades de St Martin ont permis d'identifier un jeune homme de 16 ans, qui a été placé en garde à vue pour ces faits le 1er août dernier. Reconnaissant son implication, le jeune homme est convoqué devant le juge des enfants de St Martin aux fins de mise en examen.

Ces dernières semaines, une augmentation des cambriolages de résidences et de commerces est observée sur l'ensemble du territoire de St Martin. Une partie de ces cambriolages a été facilitée par des imprudences facilement évitables : l'absence de vérouillage des baies vitrées est ainsi fréquemment observée sur ce type de faits. Par ailleurs, la gendarmerie rappelle que « l'opération tranquilité vacances » demeure en cours pendant toute la durée des vacances scolaires:
Durant votre absence, les gendarmes et policiers territoriaux peuvent, sur demande, surveiller votre domicile ou votre commerce au cours de leurs patrouilles et rondes quotidiennes.
Pour bénéficier de ce service, inscrivez-vous au plus tard 3 jours avant votre départ auprès d'une des deux brigades de gendarmerie de Marigot-Concordia ou Quartier d'Orléans.
Des conseils sur la sécurisation des lieux vous seront aussi prodigués.En cas de retour inopiné ou de modification de la date et/ou de la durée de vos congés, n'oubliez pas de prévenir.
Renseignements au 05 90 52 21 90 (Brigade de Marigot-Concordia) ou au 05 90 52 36 07 (Brigade de Quartier d'Orléans).

departdefrancisgoutenoir02082013M. Francis GOUTENOIR, Adjoint au chef de cabinet du préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, quittera ses fonctions à la préfecture ce jour, dans le cadre d'une mutation. A l'issue, il intègrera la police nationale au sein de la direction départementale de la sécurité publique des Bouches-du- Rhône. Après quatre années de service au sein du cabinet, M. Le Préfet a salué la qualité de son travail et de sa grande disponibilité.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a appris avec émotion le décès de Jean‑Michel Lemétayer, président de la SOPEXA, d'AGROCAMPUS OUEST et membre du CESE.

Le Premier ministre tient à saluer la mémoire de cet agriculteur, éleveur laitier en Ile‑et‑Vilaine, qui, engagé très jeune dans le syndicalisme agricole a été président de la FNSEA de 2001 à 2010.

Avec sa personnalité dynamique, convaincante et chaleureuse, il a contribué au rayonnement international de l'agriculture française et participé au développement de ce secteur, conscient de son importance économique et de son rôle dans la vitalité des territoires ruraux.

A sa famille, à ses amis, à ses proches, Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, adresse ses condoléances les plus attristées.

Piliers de l'économie sociale et solidaire, les structures de l'insertion par l'activité économique (SIAE) constituent un outil essentiel de la lutte contre le chômage, en particulier de longue durée. Chantiers d'insertion, entreprises d'insertion, associations intermédiaires et entreprises de travail temporaire d'insertion, toutes ces structures permettent à des personnes éloignées de l'emploi de retrouver progressivement le chemin de l'insertion professionnelle durable, à travers des parcours associant activité salariée et accompagnement personnalisé.

Plus de 5000 SIAE multiplient en France les initiatives économiques, sociales et citoyennes et développent de nombreuses activités non délocalisables (recyclage, entretien d'espaces verts, restauration sociale...), associant le développement territorial à leur mission d'insertion socioprofessionnelle. Ce secteur reste pourtant relativement méconnu du grand public et souffre d'une grande complexité dans l'organisation et le financement des structures qui le composent.

Missionnée par le Premier ministre pour mener une concertation avec les grands réseaux de l'IAE, Christiane Demontès, Sénatrice du Rhône et Présidente du Conseil national de l'insertion par l'activité économique, a présenté aujourd'hui ses pistes de réforme au Premier ministre, accompagné de Michel Sapin et Benoît Hamon. Le Premier ministre a salué la qualité remarquable du travail accompli et de la concertation menée par la Présidente du CNIAE, qui a réussi à faire émerger un projet commun avec les acteurs concernés. Il s'est également félicité de l'implication de ceux-ci dans le travail conduit.

Le Premier ministre a approuvé les recommandations de Christiane Demontès dans un objectif de simplification des modes de financement, de consolidation de ces structures et de meilleure efficacité en direction des publics en insertion, faisant ainsi le choix de donner un avenir nouveau à ce secteur, acteur majeur de la lutte contre le chômage et de l'insertion des personnes qui en le plus besoin. Il a demandé à Michel Sapin et Benoît Hamon de préparer rapidement les textes permettant que cette réforme s'applique dès le début de l'année 2014. Elle sera précédée, comme l'ont souhaité les parlementaires, d'un premier effort budgétaire en direction du secteur dès l'automne 2013.

La feuille de route du Gouvernement sur le numérique adoptée le 28 février 2013 prévoit l'identification de quartiers numériques pour accroître la visibilité de l'économie numérique française et faire émerger des entreprises de rang mondial dans ce secteur.

Jean-Pierre JOUYET, Directeur général de la Caisse des dépôts et consignations (CDC), a remis au Premier ministre le rapport de la mission de préfiguration des quartiers numériques qui lui avait été confiée sur la proposition de Mme Fleur PELLERIN, Ministre déléguée en charge des Petites et Moyennes Entreprises, de l'Innovation et de l'Economie numérique.

Aux termes des recommandations du rapport, le Gouvernement a décidé de :

  • mettre en place un dispositif de « quartiers numériques » qui s'appuie sur les territoires pour engager une démarche collective, coordonnée au niveau national, qui favorise l'animation, la mise en réseau et le développement des différents écosystèmes numériques locaux ;
  • proposer aux territoires de promouvoir, ensemble, à l'international, les entreprises du secteur, dans la perspective de renforcer l'attractivité économique de la France ;
  • mobiliser le Programme des investissements d'avenir, comme annoncé le 9 juillet dernier, avec un financement dédié à ce dispositif.

Le Premier ministre a confié à Fleur PELLERIN le soin d'organiser, en lien avec Louis GALLOIS, Commissaire général à l'investissement, et Jean-Pierre JOUYET, Directeur général de la CDC, une concertation sur les conclusions du rapport. Il lui a demandé d'œuvrer pour initier d'ici fin octobre les appels à projet ou à manifestation d'intérêt requis pour le lancement opérationnel du dispositif de « quartiers numériques ».

Le 20 juillet 2013 vers 07h30, une dispute éclate entre deux hommes rue Sand Divers à Sandy-Ground, à hauteur de l'établissement le « Bambou vert ». Les deux hommes se portent ensuite à hauteur du magasin « Yamaha », puis dans le canal de Sandy-Ground, où l'un des deux succombe en raison de coups de couteau qui lui sont portés.
Toute personne susceptible d'apporter un témoignage utile aux investigations, soit qu'elle se soit trouvée sur la voie publique, soit qu'elle se soit trouvée au « Bambou vert » est priée de prendre contact avec la brigade de recherches de la gendarmerie de St Martin, chargée de l'enquête:

  • en téléphonant au « 17 » ou au «05 90 52 30 10».
  • ou en se présentant à la caserne de gendarmerie de la Savane.

L'identité des témoins souhaitant conserver l'anonymat sera préservée.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, exprime sa profonde émotion à la suite de la terrible catastrophe ferroviaire qui a frappé l'Espagne. Il a adressé ce matin un message à Mariano Rajoy, président du gouvernement espagnol, pour lui faire part de la solidarité et du soutien du gouvernement français dans cette épreuve. Il s'associe à la peine des familles et des proches des victimes.

Sur recommandation du Commissaire général à l'investissement, Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a décidé d'apporter le soutien du Programme d'investissements d'avenir (PIA) à trois projets destinés à réduire les impacts sur l'environnement de productions industrielles. Le PIA investira à hauteur du tiers, en moyenne, du montant de ces projets de recherche et développement, qui représentent un total de près de 100M€

Le premier projet, porté par l'IFP Energies nouvelles en lien avec la filière industrielle automobile vise à optimiser le fonctionnement du moteur thermique, notamment en réduisant la consommation des moteurs diesel et des moteurs à allumage commandé.

Le second projet, porté par STX France, vise en particulier à réduire la consommation de carburant et les émissions d'oxyde de soufre dans la propulsion navale.

Le troisième projet, porté par la société française Aubert&Duval, filiale du Groupe Eramet, et UKTMP, permettra de construire en Auvergne une installation de recyclage de chutes générées lors des opérations de transformation et d'usinage du titane, en réduisant de près de 70% les émissions de gaz à effet de serre par rapport à la filière de production traditionnelle. Ce sera la seule installation de ce type en Europe et près de 80 personnes seront embauchés à cette occasion.

Le Premier ministre a également apporté le soutien du PIA au projet de modernisation du centre de formation en alternance Georges Lanfry à Rouen, qui permettra de créer de nouvelles formations d'apprentissage spécialisées dans les matériaux et la construction et de créer 120 places d'hébergement supplémentaires pour les futurs apprentis.

Le ministre des Outre-mer, M. Victorin LUREL, s'engage encore d'avantage en faveur de l'égalité entre les hommes et les femmes. A cet effet, il organise un concours photo dans l'hexagone et dans les Outre-mer qui s'inscrit dans la série de manifestations « le 8 mars, c'est toute l'année » mis en place par la Ministre des Droits des femmes, Madame Najat VALLAUD-BELKACEM.
Le thème retenu est « femmes des Outre-mer » et un concours, ouvert aux photographes amateurs et professionnels, démarrera le 22 juillet 2013, permettant de sélectionner une photo par région/collectivité d'Outre-mer et une photo pour l'hexagone.
Les photos sélectionnées seront affichées sur les murs extérieurs du ministère des Outre-mer à Paris à partir du mois de novembre 2013.

  • Un premier jury local sélectionnera trois photos par collectivité d'Outre-mer. Les 3 lauréats gagneront des lots tels que des appareils photos numériques, des sacs pour appareil photo, ou des trépieds.
  • Un jury national sélectionnera une photo lauréate par territoire et établira un classement général. Les trois premiers lauréats du classement général seront invités à participer au vernissage de l'exposition de leurs oeuvres à Paris.

Nous invitons toutes les personnes souhaitant participer à ce concours, à bien vouloir envoyer leurs photos en version numérique (CD ou clé USB), accompagnées du dossier de candidature complété et signé, au Ministère des Outre-mer - 27 rue Oudinot - 75007 Paris, jusqu'au 17 septembre 2013, date limite de participation, le cachet de la poste faisant foi.
Le règlement, l'affiche du concours et les dossiers de participation sont téléchargeables sur le site du ministère des Outre-mer http://www.outre-mer.gouv.fr/?participez-au-concours-photo-femmesdes-outre-mer-du-22-juillet-au-17.html

En octobre 2012, deux cambriolages sont commis dans des habitations individuelles à Friar's Bay et Concordia. L'enquête confiée à la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin permet après de minutieuses investigations d'identifier l'auteur des faits. Convoqué à la brigade de Concordia le mercredi 17 juillet dans le cadre d'une procédure distincte, celui-ci est alors immédiatement interpellé et placé en garde à vue. Au cours de son audition, les enquêteurs parviennent à lui imputer 10 autres faits de cambriolages et tentatives de cambriolages commis en divers endroits de l'île à savoir les Terres Basses, Mont Choisy, Concordia, Friar's bay, et la Savana. L'ensemble du matériel dérobé n'a pu être retrouvé car a été aussitôt revendu à des personnes peu scrupuleuses en partie hollandaise. A l'issue de sa garde à vue, l'individu est convoqué devant le tribunal correctionnel de Saint-Martin le 08 août 2013 pour répondre des faits de cambriolages et tentative de cambriolage.

jackyrazafindrable-nicoliphilippechopinmorganesimon22072013Le vendredi 19 juillet 2013, M. Philippe CHOPIN, Préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, a rendu un hommage appuyé à M. Jacky RAZAFINDRABLE-NICOLI et à Mme Morgane SIMON, à l'occasion de leur départ de la Préfecture de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin.
Ces deux piliers du bureau des étrangers et de la nationalité, qui tour à tour ont piloté le service, partent pour d'autres destinations. M. RAZAFINDRABLE-NICOLI pour la retraite, Mme Simon, lauréate d'un concours. Ils auront par leur compétence et leur  personnalité, laissé une empreinte remarquée au sein des services de l'Etat. Le Préfet Philippe Chopin a tenu à leur porter un témoignage de reconnaissance pour le travail accompli avant leur départ.

Lors de son déplacement en Isère, à Grenoble et à Crolles, le Premier ministre a annoncé la participation de l'Etat à hauteur de 600M€ au projet Nano2017. Il s'agit d'un vaste programme de recherche et de développement industriel de 3,5Md€ porté par la société franco-italienne STMicroelectronics, par le laboratoire LETI du CEA à Grenoble et par leurs partenaires locaux, visant à réaliser d'ici 2017 un nouveau saut technologique dans la maîtrise et la diffusion des nanotechnologies et demeurer ainsi une référence mondiale de ce secteur très compétitif.

La nanoélectronique fait partie des technologies génériques clés qui sont intégrées aujourd'hui dans un très large panel d'applications industrielles et grand public, au cœur de grands défis sociétaux, notamment dans l'automobile (sécurité avancée et maitrise de la consommation), dans les technologies de l'information (objets connectés et accroissement des possibilités de stockage), dans la santé (diagnostic médical, traitement ciblé de cellules malades), dans les écotechnologies (détection et neutralisation de micro-organismes par exemple), ou dans les économies d'énergie.

Ce projet se traduira par la réalisation d'importants investissements industriels de haute technologie par STMicroelectronics en France, notamment dans son usine avancée de Crolles (en 300 mm) pour y doubler à terme la capacité de production.

Le projet Nano2017 permettra au pôle Grenoble – Crolles d'être l'un des trois piliers du programme européen de recherche Horizon 2020 annoncé par la Commission européenne, qui vise à organiser une véritable filière européenne de la micro-nano-électronique. Le soutien public à Nano2017 fera l'objet d'une notification à la Commission européenne et ne sera effectif qu'après l'autorisation de celle-ci.

A l'issue de la visite, Jean-Marc Ayrault a déclaré : « Ce projet de haute technologie traduit un partenariat local absolument exemplaire entre l'Etat, les collectivités locales, le groupe STMicroelectronics, les laboratoires de recherche du CEA et de l'Université de Grenoble, et les nombreuses PME associées. Ce sont plus de 24 000 emplois qui dépendent ainsi localement de cet écosystème grenoblois d'excellence mondiale en matière de nanoélectronique. »

Le Premier ministre a appris avec une grande peine le décès, à l'âge de 92 ans, de Denys de la Patellière.

Né en mars 1921 à Nantes, Denys de la Patellière avait réalisé son premier film en 1955, et s'était rapidement imposé comme le réalisateur populaire de l'après-guerre. Devant sa caméra, ont tourné Jean Gabin, Pierre Fresnay, Jeanne Moreau, Danielle Darrieux, Michèle Morgan. Il avait lancé la carrière de Lino Ventura avec « Un Taxi pour Tobrouk ».

Toujours attentif à rassembler le public le plus large, Denys de la Patellière a traversé la seconde moitié du XXème siècle avec élégance et classicisme, mobilisant de grands dialoguistes, comme Michel Audiard et Alphonse Boudard. On se souvient également de son œuvre pour la télévision, notamment l'adaptation de référence du « Comte de Monte Cristo », avec Jacques Weber.

A sa famille, à ses enfants, à tous ses admirateurs, Jean-Marc Ayrault adresse ses condoléances attristées.

Cher(e)s ami(e)s,

Une émotion particulière plane toujours sur Grand-Case le 21 juillet.
Cette émotion, partagée par tous les Saint-Martinois, je suis heureux de la vivre avec vous cette année encore.
Emotion, parce que ce 21 juillet est l'occasion, chaque année, de redonner du sens aux notions de solidarité, d'union, de vivre-ensemble, notions d'autant plus primordiales quand la crise économique voudrait faire, parfois, vaciller notre cohésion sociale.
Moment de liesse populaire, jour de mise à l'honneur de l'un de nos villages le plus pittoresque, le 21 juillet est également, pour tous les Saint-Martinois, l'occasion de célébrer l'œuvre et de raviver la mémoire du rédacteur du Décret d'abolition de l'esclavage du 27 avril 1848.
Il n'y a selon moi pas de définition plus juste de l'œuvre de Victor Schœlcher, que celle avancée par Aimé Césaire dans son hommage du 21 juillet 1945 : « L'œuvre de Schœlcher » disait alors le chantre de la négritude, « ce sont des milliers d'hommes noirs se précipitant aux écoles, se précipitant aux urnes, se précipitant aux champs de bataille, ce sont des milliers d'hommes noirs accourant partout où la bataille est de l'homme ou de la pensée et montrant, afin que nul n'en ignore, que ni l'intelligence ni le courage ni l'honneur ne sont le monopole d'une race élue »...
En ravivant l'esprit de Schœlcher, c'est l'impératif de liberté pleine, d'égalité entière, qui doit raisonner.
C'est la conscience que nous devons, chaque jour, lutter, chacun à notre niveau, pour rompre des chaines, fussent-elles symboliques...
Car ce n'est pas que le passé que nous célébrons ce jour : la pensée et l'œuvre d'un Victor Schœlcher, d'un François-Auguste Perrinon, d'un Toussaint Louverture, d'un Cyrille Bissette... sont d'une modernité qui doit infuser notre présent pour nourrir nos lendemains, lorsqu'il s'en trouve encore pour justifier que certains sont à leur place au ban de la société.
Pour paraphraser Césaire, il ne doit y avoir de « place vide aux assises de l'humanité » et le combat de Schœlcher est un combat vivant, puissamment intemporel car « Aucune des qualités que requiert la gravité du moment ne manque à Victor Schœlcher. Contre la timidité dans les projets, il y a un antidote : l'esprit de Victor Schœlcher. Contre la propension à la tyrannie, il y a un antidote : l'esprit de Victor Schœlcher. Contre le préjugé et l'injustice, il y a un antidote : l'esprit de Victor Schœlcher ».

Je vous remercie

Le décès de Madame Simone Seitre m'a particulièrement touchée, et je tiens à saluer son implication passionnée pour l'art haïtien et son engagement citoyen volontaire.
C'est avec beaucoup de tristesse que j'ai appris la disparition de cette amoureuse de Saint-Martin, qui avait à cœur de transmettre son amour de l'art, et dont la collection extraordinaire des plus grandes signatures haïtiennes, était unique dans les Caraïbes.
Son expertise et sa maîtrise de la peinture naïve, qu'elle a affectionné pendant plus de 40 ans, n'a eu d'égal que l'excellente réputation internationale de sa galerie « Gingerbread », appréciée par de nombreux connaisseurs et collectionneurs.
Je présente à la famille et aux proches de Madame Simone Seitre, au nom du Conseil territorial, nos sincères condoléances.

Aline Hanson
Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin

Après un travail de concertation d'une année, la convention entre l'Etat et l'Université de Toulouse pour la mise en œuvre de l'Initiative d'excellence (IDEX) a été signée par le Premier ministre, la ministre de l'enseignement supérieur et de la recherche, Mme Geneviève Fioraso, la présidente du Pôle de recherche et d'enseignement supérieur (PRES Université de Toulouse), Mme Marie-France Barthet, et la directrice générale de l'Agence nationale de la recherche (ANR), Mme Pascale Briand.

Dotée de 750 M€ de dotation non consommable produisant un financement annuel de 25,6M€, cette Initiative d'excellence vise à construire à Toulouse une Université à visibilité mondiale à la hauteur de la puissance scientifique et technologique du site et des établissements qui se sont rassemblés pour porter l'IDEX : l'université de Toulouse 1 Capitole, l'université de Toulouse 2 Le Mirail, l'université de Toulouse 3 Paul Sabatier, l'Institut national polytechnique de Toulouse, l'Institut supérieur de l'aéronautique et de l'espace, l'Institut national des sciences appliquées de Toulouse, avec l'appui des organismes de recherche, le CNRS, l'INSERM, l'INRA et l'IRD notamment.

L'IDEX « Université de Toulouse » financera plusieurs projets de recherche et de formation, dont ceux qui ont été sélectionnés par le programme Investissements d'avenir : 7 laboratoires d'excellence (IAST, NEXT, TULIP, CIMI, IAM TSE, SMS/SSW et TOUCAN), 3 initiatives d'excellence en formation innovante (FREDD, DEFI-UNIVERSITES, FORMADIME). Elle développera son action en relation avec l'IRT « AESE » et la SATT « Toulouse Tech Transfer ».

La convention fixe des objectifs en matière d'actions novatrices de recherche et de formation destinées à renforcer les points forts du site comme à favoriser l'émergence de nouvelles excellences. À cette fin, un comité composé de personnalités scientifiques externes au site (comité d'arbitrage) sera chargé de sélectionner les actions à financer.

S'agissant de la structuration et de la gouvernance du dispositif, les acteurs ont proposé un modèle « fédéral » dont les résultats seront appréciés dans deux ans. Au-delà, l'Initiative d'excellence sera évaluée par le jury international en même temps que les autres IDEX, à l'issue de la période probatoire fixée pour l'IDEX TOULOUSE à 3 ans

Le Premier ministre se félicite de cet aboutissement après une démarche de concertation approfondie marquée par la double volonté de voir le projet approprié par tous les acteurs du site et l'ambition d'excellence préservée au plus haut niveau.

Le Préfet Philippe CHOPIN informe de la mise en ligne sur le site internet de la préfecture d'une consultation des citoyens sur les enjeux de Saint Martin pour la prochaine programmation européenne des fonds FEDER/FSE 2014/2020, et dont l'enveloppe financière est encore inconnue à ce jour.
Cette consultation publique se déroulera du 18 juillet au 15 août 2013. Elle est destinée à recueillir les recommandations de l'ensemble de la population sur le projet consultable en ligne. Les avis et observations seront étudiés lors de l'élaboration de la seconde version de ce programme, construit selon un processus itératif.
Cette consultation intervient dans le prolongement de la concertation initiée par le Préfet, le 5 juillet dernier, avec les élus et forces vives de Saint Martin. Elle se poursuit aujourd'hui avec l'ensemble des personnes intéressées par le développement de l'île sur les sept prochaines années.

A partir du lundi 22 juillet 2013, des modifications seront apportées à la circulation entre le rond-point de Bellevue, jusqu'à la rue Felix Eboué, via la rue de Hollande:

• La rue de Hollande sera rouverte aux véhicules légers à partir du rond–point de Bellevue, jusqu'au carrefour avec la rue Doigt de gant ;

• La portion – rue St-James (à partir de l'intersection avec la rue Doigt de gant) – rue de Hollande, devient à double sens ;

• La circulation est inversée, entre la portion rue de Hollande (à partir de l'intersection avec la rue St-James), jusqu'au croisement avec la rue Felix Eboué.

Le 17 juin 2013 vers 00h30, à Grand Case, dans un bar, une altercation entre deux hommes, sur fond de règlement de compte, avait abouti à un homicide volontaire par arme à feu. Le meurtrier présumé, identifié, après avoir tiré à plusieurs reprises sur sa victime, était parvenu à prendre la fuite et était depuis activement recherché par les gendarmes de la compagnie de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.
Le 13 juillet 2013, à 13h30, alors que le meurtrier présumé s'apprêtait à quitter Saint-Martin à partir du port de Galisbay, il a été aperçu par un vigile qui a immédiatement prévenu le centre opérationnel de la gendarmerie. À 13h40, une patrouille de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Pithiviers, dépêchée sur les lieux en urgence, interpellait le fugitif, sans heurt.
Immédiatement, l'intéressé était placé en garde à vue et entendu par le militaires de la brigade de recherches de Saint-Martin saisis de l'enquête dans le cadre d'une information judiciaire du chef d'homicide volontaire avec préméditation (assassinat).
Présenté devant le juge d'instruction du tribunal de grande instance de Pointe-à-Pitre en charge du dossier, le meurtrier présumé, à l'issue de la notification de sa mise en examen par le magistrat, a été placé en détention provisoire à la maison d'arrêt de Baie Mahault.

Une opération de lutte contre la délinquance routière était menée le lundi 15 juillet 2013 de 16h00 à 20h00 par la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.
Réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin et la brigade territoriale autonome de Saint-Barthélémy, l'opération mobilisait au total 11 militaires de la gendarmerie, engagés en différents points de contrôle répartis sur le territoire de la Collectivité d'Outre-Mer de Saint-Barthélémy.
120 conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever les 32 infractions suivantes:
- 01 conduite sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique, présentant un taux délictuel, > 0,4 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,55) ;
- 01 délit pour conduite sous l'empire de produits stupéfiants ;
- 03 infractions pour vitesse excessive ;
- 09 infractions pour défaut de port de la ceinture de sécurité (conducteur et/ou passager) ;
- 02 infractions pour utilisation du téléphone en conduisant ;
- 07 infractions pour pneumatiques lisses ;
- 06 infractions pour défaut de rétroviseur ;
- 02 infractions pour casque non attaché ;
- 01 infraction pour plaque d'immatriculation illisible.

Monsieur le représentant du préfet délégué,
Mesdames Messieurs les conseillers territoriaux,
Mesdames et Messieurs,

Nous voici réunis une nouvelle fois devant notre monument aux morts et au pied du drapeau français, afin de réaffirmer notre fidélité à la République française et à ses principes fondateurs que sont la Liberté, l'égalité et la Fraternité, mais aussi pour rendre hommage aux martyrs tombés au champ d'honneur pour défendre nos libertés. Derrière le rituel de chaque manifestation républicaine, il existe toujours un sens profond dont il convient d'en extraire le contenu et de le partager.
I want to thank you all for coming here today on the 14th of July 2013 some 224 years after the 14th of July 1789. This is a symbolic date for the French Republic and its people who through a Revolution proved that it aspired to something better than the norm. Since 1789, France speaks to the world and has based itself on universal norms.
It is interesting to note, that in most countries the national Holiday commemorates their independence, the day when they were liberated from the yoke of the foreign domination.
Or, nous commémorons en France le 14 juillet, c'est bien le renversement d'une puissance intérieure et non étrangère, via le passage de la monarchie à la République. C'est ainsi que la Fête nationale revêt un universel, et pas seulement national, d'ailleurs de nombreux autres pays célèbrent le 14 juillet.
The passage to a concept – that, men are created equal and have certain inalienable rights such as Liberty as was proclaimed by the United States in 1776 during its passage into independence. A message coming from the New World that was repeated with enthusiasm by France 13 years later, on the occasion of the French Revolution.
La France, qui par la voix de son peuple, ajouta à la Liberté deux ingrédients complémentaires, l'Egalité et la Fraternité. Ces trois termes désormais inséparables, symbolisent la Fête nationale, et résonnent toujours dans nos sociétés modernes, avec comme écho de nombreuses réflexions philosophiques et sociétales.
La Liberté est une ambition humaine dans laquelle la culture ne joue qu'un rôle de forme : tout humain, par essence, aspire à la Liberté. Et si la fraternité nous rappelle que la Liberté n'est pas l'absence de toutes contraintes, l'Egalité nous enseigne que le respect de cette dernière conditionne l'existence de la Fraternité. L'Egalité et la fraternité ne sont pas des actes, mais les expressions de la Liberté, lui faisant porter une lourde responsabilité. Une Liberté atrophiée conduit à un manque de fraternité au mépris de la l'Egalité. L'équilibre entre cette fragile trilogie républicaine résulte d'une équation dont l'Homme ne cesse d'en rechercher le secret.
When we commemorate the 14th of July we demonstrate our belief in these three notions of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity that are forever written in marble and in the Declaration of Human Rights and Citizenship. To commemorate the 14th of July also means to impose on ourselves a responsibility of remembrance for those who have fought, and those who have died to defend these ideals that continue to personify hope.
« La Patrie se compose de morts qui l'ont fondée aussi bien que des vivants qui la continuent », écrivait Victor Hugo. Les révolutionnaires morts pour trois mots, dont nous avons le devoir de transmettre aux générations futures, le sens et l'importance, dans le cadre de la construction d'une société harmonieuse. Attention aujourd'hui de ne pas confondre Egalité et égalitarisme, Fraternité et solidarité, Liberté et individualisme. Cette paupérisation entraîne non seulement une incompréhension des valeurs véhiculées par notre trilogie républicaine, mais elle bémolise son sens intrinsèque. Alors chers amis, méditons l'enseignement de notre Histoire et que la puissance de notre devise Liberté Egalité Fraternité, soit pour nous tous, un formidable message d'espérance.
This responsibility of remembrance can be placed within a different context that is nonetheless still coherent with the ideals that I have spoken about. This context, is the passing on of knowledge and experience that makes up a peoples memory and leads us to the theme of this July 14, 2013.
We have decided to honor the local artisans, especially those Saint-Martin women who are confectioners of local sweets and candies. Our local artisans are not highlighted enough. The diversity of our artisanship constitutes, along with the hope of seeing it develop on a broader basis, a response to the crisis of unemployment.
The bridge that needs to be established between the generations is exemplified in this context very clearly. On one hand we have our youth that is unemployed and full of hope and enthusiasm and on the other hand is an experienced senior population with a unique know-how. They both have a common objective: the transmission of know-how and a passion, to better perpetuate a tradition.
J'encourage notre jeunesse à s'intéresser de près à cette diversité artisanale saint-martinoise, qui est un garant de la perpétuation de nos traditions, et offre une large gamme d'emplois dont la nature doit être mieux connue. J'incite également les jeunes à spéculer sur les valeurs du 14 juillet, en termes d'émancipation, d'espérance, mais aussi de devoir de mémoire. Ce devoir de mémoire, c'est également ne pas laisser s'effacer les empreintes laisser par celles et ceux qui ont contribué à bâtir notre culture et notre société.
Je vous souhaite à tous une excellente fête du 14 juillet, et que la devise républicaine soit porteuse d'un véritable message d'espérance.

Vive la République,
Vive la France,
Vive Saint-Martin.

wendelcocks12072013Réuni au siège social de la société à Saint-Martin le vendredi 12 juillet 2013, le Conseil d'administration de la SEMSAMAR a procédé à l'élection de son nouveau président.

M. Wendel COCKS a été élu à l'unanimité Président du Conseil d'Administration de la SEMSAMAR. Il succède à Mme Aline HANSON.

Agé de 45 ans, M. Wendel COCKS possède une formation en gestion qui l'a conduit à travailler dans un cabinet d'expert-comptable et plusieurs concessions automobiles.

Il a participé activement au sein d'un groupe de jeunes aux débats politiques qui ont précédé la création de la Collectivité Territoriale de Saint-Martin avant de conduire la liste "Alliance Démocratique pour Saint-Martin" aux élections territoriales de 2007.

En 2012, il rejoint la liste Rassemblement Responsabilité Réussite (RRR) conduite par Alain RICHARDSON, qui remporte les élections territoriale. M. Wendel COCKS est actuellement 3ème vice-président de la Collectivité Territoriale de Saint-Martin, en charge du pôle développement économique et finances.

Dans le discours qu'il a prononcé à l'issue de son élection à la présidence de la SEMSAMAR, M. Wendel COCKS a déclaré notamment : « En tant qu'administrateurs à la SEMSAMAR, nous avons le devoir de veiller à ce que les intérêts des collectivités que nous représentons soient garantis, et que les travaux qui sont ou seront menés, résultent de choix stratégiques mis en œuvre pour un développement économique durable des territoires ».

A la suite de plusieurs procédures juridictionnelles pour construction illicite, occupation illégale du domaine public et d'un arrêté de fermeture administrative pour manquement à l'hygiène et à la salubrité, le Restaurant the Key, de Pinel a été démonté par une entreprise sous la conduite du conservatoire du littoral et avec le concours des gendarmes.
L'établissement du Restaurant The Key été condamné une première fois à la démolition pour infraction au code de l'urbanisme décision confirmée en appel. Parallèlement à ces procédures, une contravention de grande voirie à l'encontre de la société gérante a donc été engagée par le Conservatoire du littoral en juillet 2010, pour occupation illégale du domaine public.
Suite à cela, le Tribunal administratif de Saint-Martin a condamné, le 22 mars 2012, la SARL LCM The Key à démolir le bâtiment qu'elle occupe illégalement sur l'îlet Pinel. Cette condamnation a été confirmée en appel le 29 novembre 2012. La société LCM The Key n'ayant pas procédé à la démolition des installations dans le délai qui lui était imparti, le Conservatoire du littoral est autorisé par les quatre décisions de justice à démolir le restaurant.
La démolition du restaurant sera suivie de plantations de résiniers et d'arbres caractéristiques du littoral, afin de reconstituer un milieu paysager favorable. Le Conservatoire du littoral et la Réserve Naturelle ont prévu l'aménagement d'une aire destinée au pique-nique, pour permettre un accès libre et ouvert à tous.

Le Centre de Formation des Apprentis de Saint-Martin en partenariat avec la Collectivité de Saint-Martin poursuivent le lancement des enquêtes d'opportunité concernant les ouvertures des formations en Apprentissage pour la rentrée 2013.

Les formations concernées sont ;
- C.A.P BOULANGER
- C.A.P PREPARATION ET REALISATION D'OUVRAGES ELECTRIQUES
- MENTION COMPLEMENTAIRE ENERGIE RENOUVELABLE
- C.A.P PEINTRE APPLICATEUR DE REVETEMENT
- C.A.P CUISINE
- C.A.P RESTAURATION
- C.A.P FROID ET CLIMATISATION

Ouvert depuis Septembre 2008 au Lycée Polyvalent des Iles du Nord, le CFA DE SAINT-MARTIN s'efforce de développer des formations répondant aux besoins des entreprises et pouvant offrir une réelle voie d'insertion aux jeunes.
L'Apprentissage est une formation en alternance qui propose un temps de formation professionnel en entreprise et un temps de formation théorique au CFA. Il est le moyen le plus sur pour vous, chefs d'entreprises, de former vos futurs employés à l'image de votre entreprise.
Le rythme d'alternance est généralement de 1 semaine en CFA et 3 semaines en entreprise, mais peut varier selon le CFA.

Afin d'encourager les entreprises, LA COLLECTIVITÉ DE SAINT-MARTIN verse une indemnité compensatrice forfaitaire décomposée en 3 aides :

 1000 euros d'aide à l'embauchẹ.
 La Prime de soutien à l'effort de formation pour chaque année du cycle de formation :
-1500 euros pour un apprenti de – de 18 ans
- 2000 euros pour un apprenti de 18 ans et plus
 L'Aide à l'insertion en fin de contrat d'apprentissage de 500 euros par année pour une embauche en CDI.
 Des avantages fiscaux

Avec son statut d'apprenti, votre collaborateur n'est pas pris en compte dans le calcul de seuils sociaux et fiscaux qui s'applique à votre entreprise.
Des charges sociales réduites : votre entreprise bénéficiera de nombreuses exonérations de charges patronales et salariales, modulées en fonction du nombre de salariés et du statut de votre entreprise

Pour avoir plus de renseignements sur ces primes veuillez contacter le service Apprentissage de la Collectivité au 0590 29 59 41.

Toutes les entreprises souhaitant recruter un apprenti pour ces nouvelles sessions sont priées de contacter le CFA au 0590 29 12 36 ou au 0690 31 79 98 afin de retirer les dossiers.

L'Avenir Sportif Club de Saint Martin organise « Les Foulées du 14 Juillet » le dimanche 14 Juillet 2013. Cette course hors stade de 6 km, débutera sur le Front de mer de Marigot à 17 heures. Une participation de 5€ ou 7$ sera demandée et les inscriptions auront lieu la veille, le samedi 13 juillet 2013 au stade Albéric Richards de Sandy Ground de 9h à midi. La course sera ouverte aux licenciés et aux non licenciés, dans plusieurs catégories : benjamins, minimes, cadets, juniors, espoirs, séniors, vétérans 1, vétérans 2.
Le parcours sera le suivant :
Départ front de mer boulevard de France - Giratoire de l'office de tourisme demi- tour - Boulevard de France - Front de mer - Marina fort Louis – Galisbay - Giratoire d'Agrément - direction le port de Galisbay demi- tour - Giratoire d'Agrément - Rue de Hollande - Rue de La République - Front de mer.

Contacts :
Claudine Désert 06 90 20 61 65
Magali Jasaron 06 90 31 59 03

Vendredi 5 juillet 2013, le Préfet Philippe CHOPIN recueillera en préfecture, en présence de Madame Aline HANSON, Présidente du conseil territorial de Saint-Martin, les recommandations et les projets des forces vives dans le cadre des travaux relevant des Programmes Opérationnels européens pour la période 2014/2020 (FEDER/FSE, FEADER, FEAMP et CTE.)
Le préfet souhaite associer ainsi les acteurs économiques et sociaux concernés par le développement de l'île, à l'élaboration de cette stratégie.

lendahand01072013Depuis 2009, la Collectivité a initié l'opération « Lend a hand » à Saint-Martin, qui permet à des jeunes de 18 à 25 ans, de bénéficier d'une première expérience professionnelle au sein d'entreprises locales et partenaires du dispositif. Ainsi, plus de 110 jeunes, répondant aux critères déterminant leur admission à l'opération, sont placés dans ces entreprises de la partie française, pour le mois de juillet, afin d'appréhender le monde du travail. « Lend a hand » se déroule durant les mois de juillet et d'août, chaque jeune effectuant un mi-temps rétribué pendant un de ces deux mois, parmi la cinquantaine d'entreprises partenaires.

Parallèlement à l'opération « Lend a hand », la Collectivité, via son service Jeunesse, a reconduit le dispositif intitulé « Emploi-vacances », qui consiste à offrir à des jeunes scolarisés âgés de 17 à 25 ans, une expérience professionnelle. Cette dernière est effectuée au sein de la Collectivité pour le plus grand nombre, et à l'Hôpital pour certains d'entre eux. L'opération « Emploi-vacances » comprend deux sessions : l'une a débuté cette semaine, pour se terminer à la fin du mois de juillet, et la seconde aura lieu au mois d'août.

Ce jour, une embarcation avec une vingtaine de passagers s'est abimée en mer, au large des îles de Saint-Martin et d'Anguilla. Les secours, composés de la SNSM, des garde-côtes hollandais, des Sea Rescue et de la brigade nautique de la gendarmerie nationale, coordonnés par le Centre Régional Opérationnel de Surveillance et de Sauvetage (CROSS) Antilles Guyane, et en liaison avec les Préfectures de Guadeloupe et de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, procèdent actuellement aux recherches des victimes. L'hélicoptère de la sécurité civile concourt également à la recherche des disparus. Des plongeurs sont sur place pour identifier le navire et examiner les lieux du drame.
Pour l'heure, 3 victimes sont à déplorer et 12 survivants ont pu être retrouvés. Ils se trouvent dans un état stable à l'hôpital.

Chavirement embarcation canal d'Anguilla
Le CROSS Antilles-Guyane a été alerté le dimanche 30 juin 2013 vers 23h30 locales, par un navire type remorqueur transitant dans le canal d'Anguilla, du chavirement d'une embarcation de 7 à 8 mètres de long avec des personnes à la mer. Le remorqueur a procédé à la récupération immédiate de 9 rescapés.
Sous la coordination du CROSS, d'importants moyens nautiques ont été engagés dès la réception de l'alerte et toute la journée du lundi pour opérer les recherches sur zone: vedette SNSM 129 de St Martin, patrouilleur hollandais POEMA accompagné de 2 vedettes rapides des gardes côtes de St Maarten, ainsi qu'une vedette de la Sea Rescue Foundation. l'hélicoptère de la Sécurité civile et un patrouilleur d'Anguilla. La vedette de la brigade nautique de la gendarmerie de St-Martin a également pris part aux recherches.
3 personnes ont été sauvées par ce biais et prises en charge avec l'ensemble des rescapés à l'hôpital l'hôpital Louis-Constant Fleming (Saint-Martin).
Au total, le bilan s'établit à 3 décédés, 3 disparus et 12 rescapés.
L'enquête se poursuit, sous l'autorité du Parquet, pour déterminer les circonstances de ce drame et l'identité des victimes.
Toutes les mesures sont prises pour que les rescapés soient accueillis avec toute l'humanité que requiert leur situation.

Un cas de dengue sévère ayant entraîné le décès du malade a été signalé à l'Agence Régionale de Santé de Guadeloupe. Le patient résidant à Saint-Martin s'est présenté à l'hôpital de Marigot au début du mois de juin. Il a été pris en charge avec un tableau clinique typique de dengue qui s'est rapidement dégradé jusqu'à entraîner son décès 5 jours plus tard, malgré son transfert dans un service spécialisé. Les analyses et l'expertise effectuée depuis confirment que le décès est
directement imputable à la dengue.
L'Agence Régionale de Santé rappelle à nouveau, les recommandations de protection contre les piqûres de moustiques, ainsi que les mesures d'élimination des gîtes larvaires:

  • éliminer les eaux stagnantes et autres gîtes de moustiques à l'intérieur et autour de la maison;
  • vérifier les gouttières, chenaux, regards et avaloirs d'eau pluviale;
  • utiliser une moustiquaire même durant la journée en cas d'exposition, en particulier pour les très jeunes enfants, ou les personnes présentant un ou plusieurs facteurs de risque;
  • utiliser les répulsifs agréés en respectant les recommandations du fabricant pour éviter les piqûres, y compris pour l'individu malade;
  • porter dans la mesure du possible, des vêtements longs en cas d'exposition à l'extérieur;
  • utiliser à bon escient les insecticides et les raquettes dans les maisons en respectant les recommandations du fabricant;
  • consulter votre médecin traitant en cas d'apparition de fièvre brutale, de maux de tête, nausées, vomissements, douleurs articulaires ou musculaires, d'éruption cutanée;
  • éviter en cas de fièvre la prise d'aspirine ou d'anti-inflammatoires non stéroïdiens, respecter les doses maximales de paracétamol.

Dans le cadre de lutte contre les cambriolages, la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy, associée et la police territoriale de la Collectivité d'Outre-Mer de Saint-Martin, renouvellent, pendant toutes les vacances scolaires estivales, la campagne « opération tranquillité vacances ».
Durant votre absence, les gendarmes et policiers territoriaux peuvent, sur demande, surveiller votre domicile ou votre commerce au cours de leurs patrouilles et rondes quotidiennes.
Pour bénéficier de ce service, inscrivez-vous au plus tard 3 jours avant votre départ auprès d'une des deux brigades de gendarmerie de Marigot-Concordia ou Quartier d'Orléans.
Des conseils sur la sécurisation des lieux vous seront aussi prodigués.
En cas de retour inopiné ou de modification de la date et/ou de la durée de vos congés, n'oubliez pas de prévenir.
Renseignements au 0 590 52 21 90 (Brigade de Marigot-Concordia) ou au 0 590 52 36 07 (Brigade de Quartier d'Orléans).

LA DIRECTION DE L'ÉDUCATION DE LA COLLECTIVITÉ DE SAINT MARTIN INFORME LES PARENTS D'ÉLÈVES QUE LES FICHES D'INSCRIPTIONS POUR LE TRANSPORT SCOLAIRE POUR L'ANNÉE 2013/2014 SONT DISPONIBLES ET À RETIRER AU SERVICE TRANSPORT SCOLAIRE ANNEXE BORD DE MER 22, RUE DE LA LIBERTE, MARIGOT DU LUNDI AU VENDREDI 08H30 – 13H00.

POUR PLUS D'INFORMATIONS VEUILLEZ NOUS CONTACTER AU : 0590-29-59-30

Dans le cadre de la présentation à la population du Projet d'aménagement et de développement durables (PADD), des réunions publiques sont organisées dans les différents quartiers, selon le calendrier suivant:

  • Mardi 18 juin à 18h, à Quartier d'Orléans (Maison de Quartier)
  • Mardi 18 juin à 20h, à Grand-Case (Ancienne école de Grand-Case)
  • Mercredi 19 juin à 18h, à Rambeau (Ancien bureau de vote de Friars bay)
  • Mercredi 19 juin à 20h, à Sandy-Ground (ancienne école de Sandy-Ground, route de Sandy-Ground)
  • Jeudi 20 juin à 18h30, à Concordia (Maison des Entreprises)

jonathanhodgeanddanielgibbs11062013La 18ème édition du « Parlement des enfants » se déroulait ce week-end à l'Assemblée Nationale. Jonathan Hodge, élève en classe de CM2 à Quartier d'Orléans, a pris place dans l'hémicycle dans le fauteuil du Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin.

Cette leçon d'instruction civique grandeur nature se déroule chaque année depuis 1994 : la 18ème édition du Parlement des Enfants se déroulait samedi au Palais Bourbon.
Elu par ses camarades de l'école de Quartier d'Orléans, Jonathan Hodge, accompagné de sa maman, a fait ses premiers pas de jeune élu, accueilli à l'Assemblée nationale par Daniel Gibbs. Le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a exposé au Député Junior la fonction de législateur, la mission des élus du peuple et la place du Parlement au sein des institutions de la République.
Réunis en commission le matin, les jeunes délégués ont examiné des quatre propositions de loi rédigées en amont dans les écoles, avant d'être mises au vote l'après-midi, au cours de la séance officielle. A « Rompre l'isolement des aînés dans chaque commune en créant un passeport civique du jeune citoyen, consacrant trois actions annuelles de solidarité », « assurer la représentation des enfants au sein de l'école, en instituant les conseils de délégués et la représentation des élèves aux conseils d'école », « sensibiliser les élèves sur les principes de l'égalité des filles et des garçons », les délégués juniors ont préféré adopter la proposition de loi sur « la prévention des faits de violence et de discrimination au sein des écoles ». Cette proposition de loi, rédigée par des élèves de Tubuai dans les Iles australes (Polynésie française), a recueilli 269 voix pour.
Pour rappel, quatre lois proposées par le Parlement des enfants sont devenues des lois de la République. Elles ont institué, par exemple, le maintien des liens entre frères et sœurs adoptés, la participation de l'enfant orphelin au conseil de famille, le renforcement du rôle de l'école dans la détection des mauvais traitements à enfants et l'obligation de distribuer des sacs plastiques biodégradables aux caisses des supermarchés.

Dans le cadre de la célébration de la Fête de la musique, qui aura lieu le 21 juin prochain, le service Art et Culture de la Collectivité lance un appel aux musiciens, groupes, et interprètes, qui souhaiteraient effectuer des prestations à titre gracieux.

Les personnes intéressées sont invitées à se rapprocher du service Art et Culture, en les appelant aux numéros de téléphone suivants:

0590-29-59-18 / 0590-29-59-24
0690-88-90-97 / 0690-34-47-67

Au cours de la période du 06 et 07 juin 2013, plusieurs opérations de lutte contre la délinquance routière ont été menées sur le territoire de la Collectivité d'Outre-Mer de Saint-Barthélémy.
Ces opérations ont été réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin, déplacée pour l'occasion, et la brigade territoriale autonome de Saint-Barthélémy, mobilisant au total huit militaires de la gendarmerie.
103 conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever 58 infractions:

  • 01 conduite sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux un taux contraventionnel, compris entre 0,25 et 0,39 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,30) ;
  • 01 conduite sous l'empire de produits stupéfiants ;
  • 01 défaut de permis de conduire ;
  • 01 défaut d'assurance ;
  • 08 défauts de contrôle technique ;
  • 32 non ports de ceinture de sécurité (conducteur ou passager) ;
  • 11 pneumatiques lisses ;
  • 02 conduites en faisant usage d'un téléphone au volant ;
  • 01 non apposition de certificat d'assurance.

Une homme âgé de 26 ans a été tué par plusieurs coups de feu le 08 juin 2013 vers 01h10 du matin. Les faits ont été commis sur la voie publique, rue de Coralita à Quartier d'Orléans. La brigade de recherches de la gendarmerie de Saint-Martin, chargée de l'enquête lance un appel à témoin. Toute personne susceptible d'apporter des renseignements utiles aux investigations est priée de prendre contact avec les enquêteurs:

  • en téléphonant au "17"ou au "05 90 52 30 13".
  • ou en se présentant à la caserne de gendarmerie de la Savane.

danielgibbsandmrsfleming07062013Le 1er juin dernier, le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a remis une médaille honorifique à Mme Fleming Hodge, qui recevait M. Gibbs en présence de ses proches.

« C'est avec une émotion sincère que je me tiens devant vous ce matin. Car pour le jeune Député que je suis, une remise de médailles constitue toujours un moment particulier - solennel certes - mais dans lequel affleure aussi beaucoup d'émotions, notamment à l'heure de rappeler le parcours de l'intéressé. Et votre parcours, Madame, invite à la plus grande humilité et au plus grand respect » a ainsi déclaré Daniel Gibbs à Mme Fleming Hodge. Le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin était accompagné des élues de l'Union pour la Démocratie Mme Annette Philips et Maud Ascent-Gibbs. Mme Fleming Hodge a reçu ces élus – dont elle tenu à rappeler qu'elle suivait à la lettre leur parcours – en compagnie de son fils, le Sénateur de Saint-Martin, Louis-Constant Fleming et de ses petits-enfants, Anne Karine Fleming, Louis Alexandre Fleming et Marlene Fleming Boureau. « Le savoir-vivre veut que l'on taise l'âge des dames : quand celui-ci fait de vous aujourd'hui le témoin et l'actrice privilégié de près d'un siècle d'histoire saint-martinoise, je tenais néanmoins à le saluer. Il me faudrait beaucoup de temps pour retracer votre vie dans toute sa richesse. J'en rappellerai brièvement quelques-uns des temps forts, tels que, sur le plan professionnel, votre énergie quant au développement de la représentation, sur notre territoire, de grandes entreprises comme Air France bien sûr, mais aussi la Ford Motor Compagny ou encore Texaco Caribbean LTD. Sur le plan humain également, je tiens à souligner votre investissement au service de notre communauté, qui vous a amené à fonder le SKAL Club ou encore la Croix-Rouge Française de Saint-Martin, ou encore les nombreux dons fonciers que vous avez consentis à notre Collectivité ». M. Gibbs a ensuite remis sa médaille à Mme Fleming Hodge. « Ordre du Mérite Agricole, Ordre National du mérite, Saint-Martin Business Wall of Fame... j'arrête-là la longue liste des décorations et des honneurs qui vont ont été rendue, Madame, pour rendre hommage à vos succès de chef d'entreprise visionnaire ou d'humaniste au grand cœur. Permettez-moi d'ajouter ma décoration à tous ces honneurs aujourd'hui, pour vous remercier très officiellement, au nom de Saint-Martin et des Saint-Martinois, pour l'exemple que vous donnez à chacun d'entre nous, merci pour votre humilité, merci pour ce que vous apportez » a conclu le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin. Une cérémonie qui s'est achevée par une collation amicale entre invités.

alinehansonvisitetribunal07062013La Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin, Aline Hanson, a effectué une visite technique du Tribunal d'Instance de Marigot, accompagnée de la vice-présidente Ramona Connor et des techniciens compétents de la Collectivité.
La délégation de la Collectivité s'est entretenue avec le magistrat du Tribunal, Florent Szewczyk, afin de développer le thème du renforcement judiciaire à Saint-Martin. Il a notamment été abordé l'ouverture prochaine d'une Chambre détachée, dont l'intérêt réside dans une autonomie plus accrue du système judiciaire à Saint-Martin. Un sujet qui sera par ailleurs largement appréhendé lors de la visite du 1er Président de la Cour d'appel de Basse-Terre, M. Henry Robert, le 14 juin prochain. La création de cette Chambre détachée marque en effet la volonté des élus de la Collectivité, d'apporter une réponse adaptée au contexte judiciaire de Saint-Martin.

Conformément à la feuille de route de la première conférence sociale, le Premier ministre a saisi le Haut conseil du financement de la protection sociale d'une réflexion globale sur le financement de la protection sociale.

Mireille Elbaum, présidente du Haut conseil du financement de la protection sociale, a remis au Premier ministre le 7 juin 2013 une note d'étape sur la clarification du financement des diverses branches et la diversification de leurs ressources.

Le Premier ministre a souligné la grande qualité de ce travail qui présente, pour la première fois, une analyse globale des logiques de financement de l'ensemble des régimes de protection sociale. Il permet de disposer d'un cadre cohérent de réflexion, et démontre que l'on peut progresser par la concertation vers des diagnostics partagés.

Cette note d'étape ne propose pas de réforme « clé en main » et il apparaît que les contributions et les positions exprimées par les membres du Haut conseil sur les évolutions souhaitables, présentées en fin du rapport, sont très diverses.

Ce travail sera complété par une note sur les conditions de l'équilibre des comptes de la protection sociale, que le Haut conseil va discuter pour la fin de l'année 2013.

Le mercredi 08 mai 2013 à 20h50, un vol avec arme était commis par deux individus dans une épicerie chinoise située rue Nana Clark dans le quartier d'Agrément. Le gérant de cette épicerie a été grièvement blessé à l'occasion de ce vol, après avoir reçu un violent coup à la tête. Les constatations réalisées et le recueil de témoignages ont permis à la brigade de recherches de la gendarmerie de Saint Matin d'identifier les auteurs présumés de ces faits. Ceux-ci ont été interpellés le 04 juin 2013 par le peloton d'intervention de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Pithiviers, et ont placés en garde à vue par la brigade de recherches. Le 06 juin 2013, les deux mis en cause ont été présentés à l'autorité judiciaire en Guadeloupe, et placés en détention provisoire dans le cadre de la commission rogatoire qui a été ouverte.

L'Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR) rappelle que les téléphones sans fil de type DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) ne sont pas conformes aux normes européennes et ne doivent donc pas être utilisés sur les collectivités de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélemy.
Quels sont les téléphones en cause? Importés de pays comme les États-Unis et le Canada, la plupart des téléphones non conformes portent la mention « DECT 6.0 ». Ils fonctionnent sur des fréquences pour lesquelles ils ne sont pas autorisés dans l'Union européenne.
Pourquoi? Ces téléphones sans fil non conformes perturbent les fréquences utilisées par les réseaux de téléphonie mobile et par voie de conséquence leur fonctionnement.
Que risque-t-on en utilisant un téléphone non conforme? Les personnes qui possèdent déjà un appareil non conforme ne peuvent en aucun cas continuer à l'utiliser. Toute constatation de l'utilisation d'un tel appareil par un agent de l'ANFR fera l'objet de l'application d'une taxe forfaitaire de 450 €. En outre, le fait de perturber une fréquence régulièrement attribuée constitue une infraction pénale passible d'une peine pouvant aller jusqu'à six mois d'emprisonnement et 30 000 € d'amende en application des dispositions de l'article L. 39-1 du Code des postes et des communications électroniques.
Comment choisir son téléphone? L'ANFR conseille aux consommateurs qui souhaitent acquérir un téléphone sans fil DECT, de vérifier la présence du marquage CE sur l'emballage ainsi que sur l'appareil.

Pour tout renseignement complémentaire s'adresser à:
Agence nationale des fréquences : www.anfr.fr
Antenne Antilles Guyane : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tél. 05 96 60 86 86

Dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre du plan contre la pauvreté, le Premier ministre s'est vu remettre cet après-midi, par Emmanuelle Wargon et Marc Gurgand, le rapport du groupe de travail sur la « Garantie jeunes ». La rencontre s'est déroulée en présence d'une des jeunes ayant participé aux travaux du groupe et de François Chérèque, chargé d'une mission de suivi du plan pauvreté.

Mesure phare de l'action du gouvernement en direction de la jeunesse en difficulté d'insertion, la Garantie jeunes démarrera comme prévu en septembre prochain. Pendant un an, elle visera 10 000 jeunes, sur 10 territoires pilotes, avant une montée en charge progressive sur l'ensemble du territoire national, d'ici 2016, pour 100 000 jeunes par an en rythme de croisière.

Le groupe de travail, qui réunissait des jeunes, des chercheurs, des représentants de l'Etat, des collectivités, des missions locales, de Pôle Emploi, des entreprises, des organismes de formation et des associations, a proposé un mode d'emploi de la mesure, construit autour de 3 principes structurants :

  • Le premier : un public cible centré sur les jeunes qui ne sont ni à l'école, ni en formation, ni en emploi (les fameux « NEET »), en situation de grande précarité, pour la plupart en rupture familiale, et ayant trop souvent perdu l'espoir de s'en sortir.
  • Le deuxième : un contrat d'engagements réciproques, annuel et renouvelable, entre le jeune et la mission locale qui le suit. Le jeune s'engage à suivre pas à pas les étapes du parcours qu'il construit avec les personnes qui l'accompagnent ; la mission locale lui octroie une allocation équivalente au RSA et s'engage à lui proposer un accompagnement intensif, donnant lieu à des propositions régulières de formation ou d'emploi.
  • Le troisième : la mise en place de commissions partenariales pour décider des entrées et sorties du dispositif, en fonction du respect des engagements de chacun et de la réussite des parcours des jeunes.

Les 10 territoires pilotes seront choisis prochainement, sur la base d'un appel à manifestation d'intérêt. A ce jour, de nombreux acteurs territoriaux se portés spontanément candidats. Selon le Premier ministre, il s'agit d'un signal fort, car « un tel dispositif ne peut réussir sans l'implication de toutes les parties prenantes de la seconde chance ».

ahansonmeetswithswescotwilliams04062013La Présidente du Conseil territorial, Aline Hanson, et Madame le Premier ministre de Sint-Maarten, Sarah Wescot-Williams, se sont rencontrées mercredi dernier, afin de réaffirmer leur volonté commune de s'engager dans le processus de coopération entre les deux parties de l'île, et de débattre de leurs priorités respectives.

La Présidente Hanson, qui était accompagnée par le vice-président en charge du développement économique, Wendel Cocks, a rappelé que son objectif est de faire avancer le processus de coopération, notamment sur les questions ayant fait l'objet de longs débats et qui n'avaient pas abouti, eu égard aux derniers changements politiques et administratifs.
Parmi ses préoccupations, la Présidente Hanson a retenu les problèmes liés à l'eau, la gestion des déchets, les énergies renouvelables, la culture, l'éducation, et les affaires économiques, pour lesquelles un accord avait été conclu sur le plan technique, mais qui est resté en stand by au niveau politique, contraignant ainsi sa mise en œuvre.
Six points à l'ordre du jour ont été développés, dont l'éventualité d'un programme opérationnel de 6 ans, dans le cadre de la coopération transfrontalière. Ce programme permettrait le financement des projets communs entre les deux parties.
Les infrastructures, l'économie, la culture, le développement des ressources humaines, le tourisme, l'environnement, et les projets de développement innovants des énergies renouvelables, constituent les secteurs qui relèvent de ce programme de financement.
Cette discussion permettra très prochainement la mise en place des groupes de travail, afin qu'ils soumettent au Conseil exécutif et au Conseil des ministres, leurs recommandations. Les deux Conseils valideront ces recommandations, permettant ainsi de finaliser un projet de document qui définira les priorités qui pourraient être retenues, dans le cadre du programme de financement. La Présidente Hanson et Madame le Premier ministre Sarah Wescott-Williams, ont demandé à leurs services respectifs de tout mettre en œuvre le plus rapidement possible, en vue des prochaines échéances imposées par la Communauté européenne.
La Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin, Aline Hanson a déclaré à l'issue de cette rencontre : « Nous sommes d'accord sur de nombreux points dont les avancées ont stagné ; il est temps maintenant d'aller de l'avant et de trouver les solutions adéquates aux difficultés rencontrées, dans l'intérêt de nos populations ». Elle a précisé que cet entretien a été utile dans le rétablissement des relations de travail entre les deux parties de l'île, afin d'établir les priorités des groupes de travail techniques.
Madame Hanson a également rappelé que la volonté politique conditionne la réussite de la mise en œuvre des projets et programmes concernés, puisqu'au final, seuls les élus politiques ont le pouvoir d'appliquer les programmes communs sur les questions transfrontalières. La Présidente Aline Hanson a indiqué que le calendrier des séances de travail entre le Conseil exécutif et le Conseil des ministres sera mis en place, afin de traiter d'autres thèmes d'intérêt commun.

eholidayandpchopin29052013Mardi 28 mai 2013, M. Philippe CHOPIN, Préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, s'est entretenu au cours d'une réunion de travail avec le Gouverneur Eugene B. HOLIDAY.
Durant cette réunion, le Gouverneur et le Préfet délégué ont évoqué plusieurs sujets d'intérêt commun pour Sint-Maarten et Saint-Martin, et notamment, la coopération, le contrôle de l'immigration, la mise en oeuvre de la réglementation relative aux documents et visas exigés.
Cette réunion, cordiale et productive a été l'occasion de rappeler l'importance de la coopération entre Sint-Maarten et Saint-Martin.

fishingconference30052013Le Comité régional des pêches maritimes et des élevages marins (CRPMEM) de Guadeloupe, a tenu une conférence le 15 mai dernier à la Maison des entreprises, dans le cadre d'une visite technique à Saint-Martin.

Lors de cette conférence, à laquelle étaient présents le vice-président du Conseil territorial, Wendel Cocks, le président du CRPMEM Jean-Claude Yoyotte et ses collaborateurs, mais également une dizaine de pêcheurs saint-martinois et les représentants de la Réserve naturelle, il a été abordé les thèmes de la menace du poisson-lion, ainsi que la représentativité de Saint-Martin au sein du CRPMEM. La représentativité des pêcheurs de Saint-Martin est effective notamment au niveau de la FEDMER, et le vice-président Cocks souhaite que tous les pêcheurs saint-martinois s'entendent pour que cette entité soit officiellement leur référence, et les encourage à la rejoindre. Il est essentiel que les pêcheurs se dotent d'un seul interlocuteur qui puisse être leur porte-parole d'une part, et les épauler pour l'ensemble des démarches administratives inhérentes à leur profession.
Pour ce qui est du poisson-lion, il conviendra l'adoptée une stratégie coordonnée de prévention et de lutte par la pêche professionnelle, contre l'espèce invasive Pterois volitans (poisson-lion), en Guadeloupe et dans les collectivités de Saint-Martin et de Saint-Barthélemy. Ce véritable fléau, originaire de l'océan indo-pacifique, a envahi les Caraïbes et représente une menace réelle pour la pêche et la biodiversité.
Les scientifiques du CRPMEM ont remis aux pêcheurs présents à la conférence, un kit de sécurité comprenant des gants armés, des ciseaux à poissonnerie, une foëne, et une notice expliquant la conduite à tenir en cas de piqûre. Le poisson-lion possède en effet de longues épines venimeuses, et la femelle peut pondre jusqu'à 30 000 œufs tous les quatre jours. Sa prolifération doit non seulement être surveillée mais surtout contrée, puisque cette espèce peut être responsable de 80% de la disparition des poissons dans les zones qu'elle envahi. En outre, sa piqûre, douloureuse mais mortelle, pourrait faire fuir les touristes dans un scénario certes catastrophique, mais qui ne doit pas être écarté.
Cette première prise de contact entre la Collectivité et le CRPMEM a été fructueuse en termes d'échanges d'information pour les deux parties, qui ont pu entamer une coopération régionale durable.
Le vice-président Wendel Cocks envisage de rencontrer les pêcheurs le mois prochain, en se rendant dans les différents Conseils de quartier, afin de les sensibiliser sur l'importance et l'intérêt de l'enrôlement.

Mme la Présidente,
Mesdames et Messieurs les Conseillers territoriaux,
Mesdames, Messieurs,

C'est un ordre du jour particulièrement « dense » qui attend ce matin les conseillers territoriaux que nous sommes. Nous, les membres de l'opposition UD/TDG, réserverons nos commentaires et nos analyses pendant les débats qui nous occuperont aujourd'hui, mais je m'autorise d'ores et déjà, au nom du groupe que j'ai l'honneur de représenter, quelques remarques préliminaires...
Un ordre du jour dense donc, pour une séance qui s'ouvre par les observations définitives de la Chambre Territoriale des Comptes sur la gestion de la Collectivité depuis le 15 juillet 2007.
Encore une fois, nous formulerons nos commentaires pendant les débats, mais ce rapport appelle toutefois quelques réflexions préalables.
Ces observations définitives - peu étoffées par rapport aux synthèses d'étapes - ne nous apprennent rien de plus que nous ne sachions déjà : recouvrement, charges de transfert de compétence, octroi de mer, fiscalité hasardeuse autant que bancale, impréparation de la COM à son nouveau statut, absences de fichiers clé... La CTC dresse un listing douloureux mais connu des « causes » qui expliquent notre situation actuelle.
Je regrette cependant que le poids des responsabilités entre la COM et l'Etat ne semble pas peser de manière identique pour la Chambre, qui se contente pieusement de faire remarquer que Saint-Martin doit pouvoir bénéficier –je cite- d'un « nécessaire accompagnement de l'Etat ». Alors je vais me répéter, mais il me semble que les torts sont largement partagés dans ce qui fait notre situation actuelle :
Bercy était visiblement aussi mal préparé que la COM à ce changement de statut !
Bercy a traîné des pieds jusqu'en 2010 pour accorder à la COM la compétence fiscale de source !
Plus globalement, je pose la question : l'Etat donne-t-il pleinement les moyens à une Collectivité qui a fait le choix de son autonomie, quand il la contraint à continuer à dépendre de la Guadeloupe en matière de justice, de sécurité, d'éducation, d'administration... ?
En matière de préconisations ensuite, si je partage un grand nombre des propositions avancées par la Chambre Territoriale des Comptes, je regrette toutefois « l'angélisme » de certaines. Oui, il faut, par exemple, une coopération fiscale digne de ce nom avec la partie hollandaise. C'est d'ailleurs une proposition que j'ai faite devant ce Conseil territorial il y a quelques mois de cela.

Mais nous devons - Saint-Martin/Sint Maarten - être les seuls acteurs de cette coopération : nous n'avons pas besoin d'un « ménage à trois » avec l'Etat (d'ailleurs la partie hollandaise a toujours été exaspérée de ce chaperonnage perpétuel) en la matière. De plus, tant que nous ne nous donnerons pas les moyens de notre propre redressement économique et social, il sera difficile d'amener la partie hollandaise à coopérer sur un autre plan que celui relevant du protocole pur ! Je le redis : Sint Maarten n'a aujourd'hui aucun intérêt ni aucune envie de coopérer avec nous : si nous pratiquons le même sport, nous ne jouons pas dans la même catégorie...
Je m'arrête à ce seul exemple, nous reviendrons sur ces différents aspects au fil des débats...

Je fais court, Madame la Présidente, mes chers collègues, pour conclure mon intervention préliminaire sur un point qui me préoccupe tout particulièrement.

Il s'agit du deuxième point inscrit à notre ordre du jour, relatif aux délégations d'attributions du Conseil territorial au Conseil exécutif.
Ce projet de délibération numéro 2 propose en effet de déléguer au Conseil exécutif, de très nombreuses attributions, sur le plan de l'exécution du budget, de la gestion comme des procédures administratives, jusqu'ici dévolues à notre seul Conseil territorial.
Alors, peut-être que sur le plan administratif, vous aurez des arguments tels que celui d'une « gestion plus appropriée du quotidien » ou que sais-je, mais notre groupe voit d'un très mauvais œil ces « tours de passe-passe » qui risquent de dénaturer l'essence même de notre Assemblée.
Oui, notre gouvernance comme notre administration sont imparfaites et doivent être revues. Je pensais que nous étions d'accord sur le fait qu'il va nécessairement falloir décloisonner le législatif de l'exécutif. Il me semble d'ailleurs que c'est ce que le leader de votre groupe préconisait dès 2003 – cette séparation des deux Assemblées...
Pour rappel, nous, les élus de l'UD, nous proposions symboliquement au président Richardson de faire adopter comme première délibération du premier conseil territorial de cette nouvelle mandature une période de « stand-by » d'un semestre, justement pour revoir la copie de notre gouvernance et pour travailler à la séparation des pouvoirs.
Une main tendue à un auditeur acquis à notre cause, croyions-nous naïvement encore ce 1er avril 2012. En passant du siège de chef de l'opposition au fauteuil de Président du Conseil territorial, Alain Richardson avait invité votre majorité à décliner ce projet de délibération, qui aurait pourtant été le signe d'une volonté de changement et le reflet d'une cohérence dans son « combat » pour une mandature assainie. Echaudés par une année de renoncements tous azimuts de la part de votre majorité, les élus de l'UD ne soutiendront donc pas ce nouveau tour de passe-passe dont ils n'osent comprendre la finalité.

Apprenez que sur le plan juridique, cette délibération devra faire l'objet d'un contrôle de légalité, nous nous en assurerons : nous vous déconseillons formellement de jouer aux apprentis sorciers avec ces transferts de pouvoir et de compétences.
L'équipe sortante a bien tenté de le faire en jonglant avec ces compétences pour me priver, en novembre 2010, de mes portefeuilles de premier vice-président en charge du Pôle économique. Le revers de bâton est sévère, puisque le recours que j'ai déposé immédiatement auprès du tribunal administratif de Basse-Terre a rendu un délibéré en ma faveur, le 7 mai dernier, condamnant la Collectivité pour les libertés prises alors par l'exécutif avec la législation.
Chat échaudé craint l'eau froide : l'opposition sera plus que jamais vigilante et intransigeante sur ce point que vous soumettez à l'ordre du jour et sur lequel nous attendons un exposé précis.
Je vous remercie.

ahansonandstephaneartano22052013Le 17 mai dernier, la Présidente du Conseil territorial, Aline Hanson, a reçu Stéphane Artano, Président du Conseil territorial de Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, dans le cadre d'une visite protocolaire que ce dernier a effectué dans les Iles du Nord.

La Présidente Hanson et le vice-président Arnell ont accueilli ce jeune Président de 40 ans, élu en 2006 à la tête du Conseil territorial de Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, et réélu en mars 2012. Cette rencontre fut l'occasion d'échanger sur les thèmes récurrents des territoires d'outre-mer français, notamment la fiscalité, l'Etat, les infrastructures, et le statut européen. Même si les situations géopolitiques semblent différentes à première vue, les difficultés rencontrées et les solutions envisageables sont souvent similaires. Il faut rappeler que Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon est un archipel français d'Amérique du Nord, situé dans l'Atlantique nord, à 25 kilomètres au sud de l'île canadienne de Terre-Neuve. Collectivité d'outre-mer régie par l'article 74 de la Constitution, Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon est un Pays et territoires d'outre-mer (PTOM) qui compte 6.000 habitants pour une superficie de 242 km2.
Cette entrevue aura permis aux deux parties de mieux saisir les enjeux de ces deux Collectivités d'Outre-mer, et d'échanger de manière fructueuse et chaleureuse, des informations utiles liées à leur situation respective.

La Présidente et les membres du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin ont appris avec une profonde tristesse le décès de Monsieur William Ostend Arnell, père du vice-président Guillaume Arnell, survenu dans la journée du 21 mai dernier.

La Présidente et les membres du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin garderont le souvenir d'un homme dévoué à sa famille et son pays, attaché aux principes culturels saint-martinois pour lesquels ses enfants continuent d'en perpétrer la tradition.
Nous tenons à saluer le parcours d'un homme qui durant toute sa vie, a choisi de se tourner vers les autres, notamment à travers ses engagements politiques, traduisant ainsi sa volonté de servir son pays et incarnant les valeurs humaines qu'il a su transmettre à celles et ceux qui ont eu la chance de le côtoyer.

Je présente en mon nom personnel, au nom du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin et des employés territoriaux, l'expression de mes très sincères condoléances à son épouse, à ses enfants, à ses petits enfants, à sa famille ainsi qu'à ses proches et amis.

Aline Hanson
Présidente du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin

ejrodriguez19052013ST. MARTIN:--- House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP, www.houseofnehesipublish.com) vient de publier la traduction en français du livre Haití y la transcaribeñidad literaria, de Emilio Jorge Rodríguez.

Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne est disponible en version papier et sous forme d'e-book sur Amazon.com, Arnia's, Le Salon du Livre de San Martin (30 mai – 1 juin 2013), et dans d'autres librairies.

D'après Maximilien Laroche, renommé auteur haïtien de l'université Laval au Canada, la nouvelle traduction est « un remarquable essai de littérature comparée ».

« La collection d'essais de Rodríguez est d'une importance capitale, dévoilant des échanges clés entre écrivains..., échanges dialogiques traversant des différences linguistiques et historiques pour tisser un lien essentiel de compréhension », a déclaré l'écrivain lauréat Myriam J.A. Chancy, Ph.D.

L'essayiste dominicain et professeur de la Syracuse University, Silvio Torres-Saillant, a exprimé : « Cette œuvre du collègue cubain Emilio Jorge Rodríguez devrait absolument faire partie des rares livres qui favorisent la compréhension du sujet abordé. »

Parmi les sujets traités, citons le roman haïtien du XXe siècle et la recherche de la genèse amérindienne et africaine dans l'œuvre de Alejo Carpentier.

Le sujet de la « transgression du créole » en Haïti et en République dominicaine, analysé en profondeur, fera certainement ouvrir grands les yeux, voire causer de l'inquiétude chez certains. Or, cette œuvre révèle de nouvelles adresses, a remarqué Lasana M. Sekou, directeur des projets à HNP.

D'autre part, le livre évoque une polémique absolument inconnue et fascinante, engagée lors de la visite à Haïti du grand poète cubain Nicolás Guillén, à propos du débat concernant la race et la culture au sein de l'élite haïtienne.

« Les sujets essentiels de Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne apportent une interprétation particulière. J'oserais affirmer que ce texte est, pour la plupart d'entre nous, un chaînon manquant dans nos connaissances et expériences sur la littérature et la culture caribéennes, sur notre manière de penser et de vivre dans cette région », a affirmé Sekou.

Faisant référence à l'auteur, le professeur Douglas Uzcátegui a avancé que Rodríguez était « l'une des voix les plus autorisées dans les Caraïbes et sur les Caraïbes. En tant que chercheur, son œuvre, riche et régulière, reflète un examen soigné de l'oralité et de l'écriture de la féconde et complexe culture des Caraïbes ».

Rodríguez, dont l'œuvre a fait l'objet de nombreuses publications, a donné des cours et conférences dans des universités de l'Amérique latine, des Caraïbes et des États‑Unis d'Amérique.

La traduction en français de Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne a été prise en charge par Aurelio Fernández et Mayla Reyes. La couverture est illustrée par la magnifique aquarelle « Soul's Flight », du célèbre artiste états-unien Keith Mallet.

Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne est aussi disponible en version papier bilingue (espagnol-anglais) et sous forme d'e-book sur Amazon.com, spdbooks.org, Van Dorp, Arnia's, et dans d'autres librairies.

Le 14 mai 2013 à 10 heures 30, une patrouille de la brigade motorisée de la gendarmerie de Saint-Martin procédait au contrôle d'une camionnette transportant une citerne rectangulaire dont émanait une très forte odeur d'essence.
700 litres de carburant étaient ainsi transportés, sans que le chauffeur soit détenteur de la licence nécessaire et sans qu'aucune signalisation soit apposée. Une fuite a par ailleurs été constatée sur la citerne, construite de façon artisanale.
Pas moins de 9 infractions ont au total été relevées à l'encontre du transporteur, qui a été entendu sur les faits et a été convoqué devant le tribunal de Saint-Martin.

Suite au tragique événement qui s'est déroulé, dimanche 5 mai 2013 en marge du "Fish-Day", et pour faire face à la recrudescence des violences avec armes, le Préfet délégué auprès de la Représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin et le Vice-Procureur de la République, ont souhaité prendre une initiative forte afin de lutter contre la détention illégale et la circulation des armes.
Ainsi, et à l'instar de la campagne médiatique menée récemment en Guadeloupe, qui a permis de récupérer 63 armes illégalement détenues, une campagne de sensibilisation de la population va être conduite dans les prochaines semaines.
Une conférence de presse sera organisée très prochainement afin de lancer officiellement la campagne médiatique et de présenter les conditions de la procédure d'abandon d'armes et de munitions auprès de la gendarmerie nationale en vue de leur destruction.

Pour faire suite aux évènements du « Fish Day », des services destinés à accroître la sécurisation du lycée des îles du Nord et de ses abords sont actuellement mis en oeuvre par la gendarmerie nationale, conjointement avec la police territoriale de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin.
Ainsi, le 13 mai 2013, une opération de contrôle des identités accompagnée de la recherche d'objets dangereux a été réalisée aux entrées de cet établissement et de son annexe. Cette opération qui s'est tenue de 06h30 à 07h30 a mobilisé 35 gendarmes et 4 policiers territoriaux. Le dispositif mis en place a abouti à la découverte 13 peignes afro, de 3 ciseaux pointus, de 2 canifs et d'un rayon de vélo rigide. 5 grammes d'herbe de cannabis ont également été découverts.
Une surveillance spécifique et accrue et d'autres opérations de contrôle aux abords des établissements scolaires sont d'ores et déjà programmées par la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin.

Le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a interpellé le Premier ministre ce mardi dans l'hémicycle sur la situation de Saint-Martin en matière d'insécurité, après le drame survenu lors de la dernière édition du « Fish Day » qui a fait un mort et sept blessés. Le Ministre de l'Intérieur a tenu à répondre à M. Gibbs, l'assurant que « Saint-Martin a été trop longtemps abandonnée » et pouvait « compter sur la détermination du gouvernement ».

« J'étais présent au moment de ce nouveau drame qui a bouleversé tous les Saint-Martinois » a ainsi rappelé Daniel GIBBS, soulignant que Saint-Martin « a atteint un niveau de violence et de délinquance sans précédent ». Lors de cette séance de questions d'actualités dans l'hémicycle de l'Assemblée nationale, le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a déploré que « dix jours après cette tragédie, le Gouvernement n'ait envoyé aucun signe à Saint-Martin, n'ait fait aucune déclaration qui condamne cet acte ». « Quand vous vous montrez prompts à condamner les meurtres de Marseille ou de Corse, les tragédies des lointaines outre-mer, elles, semblent avoir bien moins de résonnances...Nos drames, qui trouvent leur source dans un malaise social endémique, dans des économies en désespérance, ne sont pas moins tragiques parce qu'à 8000 kilomètres de Paris » a notamment déclaré M. GIBBS. « L'égalité, ce n'est pas QUE le mariage pour tous, Monsieur le Premier ministre! C'est aussi et avant tout, l'éducation pour tous, quand nos écoles croulent sous le poids de la surpopulation scolaire... Et c'est aussi la justice pour tous, quand nous réclamons depuis des années la création d'un TGI ou d'une chambre de justice détachée... Justice pour tous également, quand les détenus de Saint-Martin représentent plus de la moitié des détenus de la prison de Basse-Terre mais que l'on enterre le dossier de la construction d'une prison sur l'île, qui permettrait pourtant, sans nul doute, de mettre un frein au sentiment d'impunité qui y règne et jouerait un rôle précieux en matière de réinsertion... Et c'est aussi la sécurité pour tous, quand un dispositif de sécurité rural ne parvient plus à répondre à une délinquance urbaine... » a insisté le parlementaire de Saint-Martin, qui a conclu : « Ma question est la suivante, Monsieur le Premier Ministre : Saint-Martin doit-elle attendre le prochain carnage pour que votre Gouvernement s'intéresse enfin à elle ? ».
C'est le Ministre de l'Intérieur qui a tenu à répondre à M. Gibbs, et qui a eu « une pensée pour la victime de cette fusillade » et les blessés. M. Valls qui entend « la vive émotion qu'a provoqué cet événement » localement, a rappelé qu'une information judiciaire a été ouverte à Saint-Martin sur « cet acte odieux », qui « s'inscrit dans une montée générale des violences entre des bandes issues de différents quartiers ». « L'économie illégale et le trafic d'armes qui découlent de cette violence, contre laquelle les forces de l'ordre sont mobilisées, sont des fléaux sur tous les territoires de la République et sur celui-ci en particulier » a reconnu M. VALLS, qui comprend « le sentiment d'abandon qu'ont pu éprouver depuis longtemps les habitants de l'île ». Le Ministre de l'Intérieur a assuré au Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin que l'île pouvait « compter sur la détermination du gouvernement et notamment de Victorin Lurel pour répondre à cette situation. Saint-Martin a été trop longtemps abandonnée, le gouvernement veut répondre à ce défi ».

Le mercredi 08 mai 2013 à 20h50, un vol avec arme est commis par plusieurs individus dans une épicerie chinoise située rue Nana Clark dans le quartier d'Agrément. Les auteurs du vol ont pris la fuite à pieds à l'issue des faits. Toute personne susceptible d'apporter un témoignage utile aux investigations est priée de prendre contact avec la brigade de recherches de la gendarmerie de St. Martin, chargée de l'enquête:

  • en téléphonant au "17"ou au "05 90 52 30 13"
  • ou en se présentant à la caserne de gendarmerie de la Savane.

Nous avons tous appris avec une profonde et réelle émotion mais aussi avec une certaine consternation la terrible tragédie qui a eu lieu dimanche soir 5 mai à Cul- de-Sac, à l'occasion de la célébration de la onzième édition du Fish-Day.
Pour ma part, j'ai été profondément bouleversé et choqué par ce nouvel acte de violence désormais récurrent mais absolument intolérable, qui a encore une fois, enlevé la vie à l'un de nos jeunes et blessé gravement quelques 7 autres personnes. Je veux en cette occasion, assurer aux familles et aux proches des victimes, mon indéfectible soutien mais aussi, toute ma solidarité envers eux dans cette douloureuse épreuve. À la famille du jeune Jonathan Fredon (à peine âgé de 20 ans !), j'adresse mes plus sincères condoléances.
Nonobstant ma tristesse, je suis surtout indigné devant cette violence caractérisée. Je suis révolté par ce nouveau drame qui touche dans sa chair et qui inquiète de plus en plus, toute la société saint-martinoise. Je souhaite que toute la lumière soit faite, afin d'établir la responsabilité de chacun dans le cadre de cette affaire et dans les plus brefs délais possibles. Je propose que notre collectivité prenne l'initiative de la convocation des Assises de la Jeunesse avant la fin de l'année courante . Cela permettrait de réunir tous les acteurs publics( Etat, collectivités, forces de sécurité, acteurs sociaux et éducatifs ) afin de prendre ensemble toute la mesure de ce phénomène , pour mieux le combattre et tenter de l'enrayer chacun au niveau de responsabilité qui est le sien.
Il faut sortir de la déploration et commencer à agir, parce que là réside notre propre responsabilité .

Jules Charville
Conseiller Territorial

Le Député et Conseiller territorial Daniel Gibbs, Président du mouvement Union pour la Démocratie, tient à faire part de son émotion face au drame que nous avons vécu dimanche soir à Cul de Sac.
Étant lui-même présent sur les lieux au moment des faits, il a pu mesurer l'ampleur de l'onde de choc qui a secoué les familles qui fêtaient le Fish Day.

Il présente ses plus sincères condoléances à la famille et aux proches de la jeune victime, et il apporte tout son soutien aux blessés et à leur entourage.
L'Union pour la Démocratie et les élus TDG2012 partagent la douleur des familles frappées par cette tragédie.

Le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et Saint-Martin et les membres de l'Union pour la Démocratie dénoncent la progression d'une grande violence que nous subissons tous et qui dégrade considérablement notre image.

C'est la raison pour laquelle Daniel Gibbs demande aux pouvoirs publics mais aussi aux parents des jeunes qui basculent dans la violence de prendre pleinement la mesure du désarroi dans lequel se trouve la jeunesse de Saint-Martin.

Notre groupe souhaite que tout soit mis en oeuvre afin d'analyser les failles de l'organisation qui ont pu permettre qu'un tel drame se produise. Une réflexion générale devra également être menée pour corriger à l'avenir tous les dysfonctionnements ayant pu ralentir l'intervention des secours.

Il est plus qu'urgent de réagir et de déployer enfin les dispositions concrètes qui feront renaître l'espoir tant attendu dans notre société et qui éviteront d'autres catastrophes.

Suite au tragique événement qui s'est déroulé, dimanche 5 mai 2013 en marge du "Fish-Day", et afin de répondre à l'urgence du traumatisme psychologique subi par certaines victimes, familles ou témoins des faits, la direction de l'hôpital Louis-Constant Fleming en lien avec la Préfecture, a mis en place, avec l'appui des médecins, une cellule d'accompagnement psychologique, immédiatement après les faits.
Pour autant, et au regard de la situation et de l'événement traumatique, l'Etat, soucieux de répondre aux attentes légitimes de l'ensemble des victimes, vient d'activer une cellule d'urgence médico-psychologique dont le but est d'accompagner et de prodiguer des soins à tous les blessés psychiques qui ont été confrontés à cette situation d'urgence collective et qui en expriment le besoin.
Dans ce cadre, toute personne désireuse d'être prise en charge par cette structure devra contacter le standard de l'hôpital au 05.90.52.25.25 qui réorientera les demandes vers les praticiens désignés.
La Préfète de la région Guadeloupe, le Préfet délégué auprès de la Représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin et la Directrice Générale de l'Agence de Santé assurent les victimes de leur soutien.
D'autres initiatives suivront pour répondre à cet événement tragique.

C'est avec beaucoup de tristesse, d'inquiétude et de colère que j'ai pris connaissance des faits qui se sont déroulés hier soir à Cul-de-Sac.
Il est fortement regrettable que des initiatives positives et réussies, organisées au profit du territoire soient ainsi entachées par l'incivisme de quelques-uns.
Il est intolérable que la liberté de mouvement et la sécurité de familles et de travailleurs soit mises en péril par des individus sans foi ni loi.
Il est inenvisageable que Saint-Martin devienne un territoire où règne la terreur, où les armes sont en libre circulation de fait.
Il est insupportable que Saint-Martin fasse encore la une des journaux pour des motifs criminels, plutôt que pour sa créativité et sa volonté de porter haut son statut d'autonomie.
Nous devons bien entendu attendre les conclusions de l'enquête qui identifieront les responsabilités, mais il est évident que des mesures globales devront être mises en oeuvre dans les plus courts délais.
Pour l'heure, je m'associe à la douleur et au traumatisme des familles impactées par ce drame, de part et d'autre. C'est aussi vers elles que vont mes pensées aujourd'hui et plus largement encore à toute la population de Saint-Martin qui, je le sais, malgré sa capacité de résilience, est profondément touchée par cette tragédie.

Senateur Louis Constant Fleming

L'édition 2013 du Fish Day est désormais ternie par un grave incident ayant fait un mort et plusieurs blessés. Je souhaite, au nom des élus du Conseil territorial, m'incliner devant la douleur des familles touchées par cette tragédie. Il est extrêmement regrettable que de ce type de comportement puisse se produire sur notre territoire, et nous condamnons fermement la violence inqualifiable de ce drame.

Je lance un appel aux parents, dont le rôle dans l'Education de leurs enfants est déterminant.

La Collectivité prend pleinement conscience de la gravité de la situation, et prendra les mesures de sécurité qui s'imposent, en collaboration avec l'Etat, afin que ce drame ne puisse se réitérer. Le Fish Day qui aura lieu l'an prochain devra donc se dérouler dans l'esprit familial de cette manifestation, et qu'ainsi, cette journée retrouve la convivialité et la chaleur qui la caractérise.

Je souhaite également témoigner, aux nombreuses personnes se trouvant sur place le jour du drame, et qui ont été choquées, voire traumatisées par la violence des scènes qui se sont imposées à eux, toute notre sympathie en ces moments délicats.

Je voudrais enfin renouveler mon soutien aux familles et aux proches des victimes dans cette épreuve douloureuse, et leur faire part, au nom du Conseil territorial, de notre compassion et de notre solidarité.

Dimanche 05 mai 2013, vers 19h45, plusieurs coups de feu ont été tirés simultanément au cours de la manifestation festive "Fish-Day" organisée à Cul-de-Sac. Un homme de vingt ans a été tué et 7 autres personnes ont été blessées par balles dont deux grièvement mais dont le pronostic vital n'est pas engagé.
L'une d'elles a fait l'objet d'une évacuation sanitaire, ce matin, vers l'hôpital de la Guadeloupe et trois personnes sont encore hospitalisées à l'hôpital Louis-Constant Fleming de Marigot.
Quatre autres personnes, présentes sur les lieux au moment des faits, ont été blessées plus légèrement.
La Préfète de la région Guadeloupe et le Préfet délégué auprès de la Représentante de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin expriment leur profonde émotion suite à cet événement tragique et assurent les familles des victimes de leur soutien.
Enfin, il convient de saluer le professionnalisme et la réactivité de l'ensemble des services de secours et de sécurité qui ont su répondre à cette situation d'urgence exceptionnelle.

Le 5 mai 2013 à 19h45, plusieurs coups de feu sont tirés sur le site du « fish day » à Cul de Sac. Un homme de vingt ans a été tué. 7 personnes ont été blessées par balle à des degrés divers. Le pronostic vital n'est pas engagé pour ces 7 personnes. Les motivations de ces coups de feu demeurent à déterminer dans le cadre de l'enquête ouverte par la gendarmerie. Toute personne susceptible d'apporter un témoignage utile aux investigations est priée de prendre contact avec la brigade de recherches de la gendarmerie de St Martin, chargée de l'enquête:

  • en téléphonant au « 17 » ou au « 05 90 52 30 10 »
  • ou en se présentant à la caserne de gendarmerie de la Savane.

L'identité des témoins souhaitant conserver l'anonymat sera préservée.

Le service des sports de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin informe le public que les inscriptions au ticket sport 2013 se feront du lundi 03 au vendredi 28 juin 2013 de 8h30-12h30 13h30-15h00.
Les activités sportives proposées aux enfants de 7 à 14 ans se dérouleront du lundi 08 au vendredi 26 juillet 2013.
Les frais d'inscription aux sorties est de l'ordre de cinquante euros (50€) pour les enfants de 7 à 10 ans (40€ pour l'inscription de 2 ou plusieurs enfants) et de soixante euros (60 €) pour les enfants de 11 à 14 ans (50€ pour l'inscription de 2 ou plusieurs enfants).

Pièces à fournir:
1 Photocopie de la pièce d'identité
1 Certificat médical de moins 3 mois
1 Photo d'identité
1 Attestation d'assurance responsabilité civile pour couvrir les risques pouvant survenir durant les activités extra scolaires durant le mois de juillet 2013.

La pré-plainte en ligne est un dispositif destiné à améliorer l'accueil des victimes d'infractions.
Il permet un signalement immédiat des faits commis, tout en réduisant, par la prise de rendez-vous, le délai d'attente lors du dépôt de plainte dans les locaux de la gendarmerie.
Pour des raisons d'efficacité et des impératifs d'enquête, ce dispositif est réservé aux atteintes contre les biens dont la victime ne connaît pas le ou les auteurs des faits (vols, dégradations, escroqueries...).
La pré-plainte en ligne, une démarche simple et innovante:

  • Se connecter au site Internet : www.pre-plainte-en-ligne.gouv.fr ;
  • Choisir sur une carte la brigade de gendarmerie où la plainte sera déposée ;
  • Renseigner un formulaire guidé comportant des rubriques obligatoires ;

La victime sera rapidement contactée par les services de gendarmerie pour convenir d'un rendez-vous et être informée des pièces à fournir.
La pré-plainte en ligne ne dispense pas de venir dans une brigade de gendarmerie. Le dépôt de plainte devient juridiquement valable après contact avec un officier ou un agent de police judiciaire et signature du procès-verbal.
En toutes circonstances, les victimes doivent veiller à la préservation des traces et indices afin qu'ils demeurent exploitables par les enquêteurs, en évitant tout contact ou déplacement.
Permettant de réduire les délais d'attente lors du dépôt de plainte par un système de rendez-vous, la pré-plainte en ligne représente une avancée dans la simplification des démarches administratives, aussi bien pour les usagers que pour les personnels de la gendarmerie.
Si l'auteur de la pré-plainte ne vient pas au rendez-vous qu'il a choisi ou qui lui est proposé, les données nominatives sont automatiquement effacées 30 jours après la réception de la déclaration.
Les situations d'urgence qui nécessitent une intervention immédiate des services de police ou de gendarmerie ne doivent pas passer par la pré-plainte en ligne. Sont également exclues de ce dispositif les plaintes contre personnes connues ou dénommées, car elles peuvent justifier un traitement immédiat et une interpellation rapide de l'auteur.
Il convient dans ces cas de téléphoner au « 17 » ou de se présenter directement dans un des 3 points d'accueil de la gendarmerie à Saint-Martin ou à la brigade de gendarmerie de Saint-Barthélemy.
Une brochure explicative est disponible en première page du site Internet de la préfecture: http://www.saint-barth-saint-martin.pref.gouv.fr/Dossiers/Actualites/Pre-plainte-en-ligne

La Maternité Active organise la 1ère Journée de Sexologie Clinique de St-Martin au Beach Plaza le 10 mai 2013, dans le cadre du Women Health Symposium II.

Cette rencontre, une première dans les Antilles Françaises, sera l'occasion de sensibiliser les professionnels de santé et le grand public à la plainte en sexologie afin d'améliorer la prise en charge des dysfonctions sexuelles masculines ou féminines souvent inexprimées.

Nous bénéficierons de l'expertise de Sexologues de St-Martin, de la Guadeloupe et de la France en la personne du Professeur Gérard RIBES, sexologue de renom, Directeur de l'enseignement de sexologie à la faculté de Lyon.

Tout le public est convié, avec un programme dédié aux professionnels de santé de 8h à 17h et une conférence Grand Public le soir à 19h sur le thème « le couple, quelle aventure ! » animée par le Professeur RIBES.

Le Dr Louis JEFFRY et le Dr Charles VANGEENDERHUYSEN, organisateurs de cette journée, souhaitent vivement remercier la MIAG, BAYER, la C. G. R. R., l'Hôtel le Beach Plaza et le Centre Hospitalier « Louis Constant Fleming » sans qui cette manifestation n'aurait pu voir le jour.

Pour toute inscription, prière de contacter notre secrétariat au 0590 52 26 21.

La Présidente de la Collectivité, Aline Hanson, vous avise qu'à partir du 02 mai 2013, les travaux VRD relatifs à la Rue de Hollande et Doigt de Gant inclus, vont continuer jusqu'à la hauteur de City Snack Restaurant.
Délai des travaux: 6 mois.
Nous vous remercions pour votre compréhension.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a appris avec une très grande émotion la mort au combat de l'un de nos soldats, lundi 29 avril 2013, au Mali.

Lors d'une opération dans le Nord-Est du Mali, un véhicule de la force Serval a été touché par une violente explosion. Le caporal-chef Stéphane Duval du 1er régiment de parachutistes d'infanterie de marine de Bayonne a été tué sur le coup ; deux autres soldats ont été blessés.

Le Premier ministre présente ses plus sincères condoléances à la famille du militaire tué et à ses proches. Il s'associe à leur peine ainsi qu'à celle de ses frères d'armes. Ses pensées vont aussi à ses deux compagnons blessés ; il leur exprime tout son soutien et leur adresse ses vœux de prompt rétablissement.

Dans ces circonstances particulièrement tragiques, le Premier ministre tient à rendre hommage au professionnalisme, à la détermination et à l'exceptionnel courage de nos militaires engagés au Mali.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, se réjouit de la libération de la famille Moulin-Fournier, qui avait été enlevée le 19 février dernier au Cameroun. Elle est en bonne santé et devrait être de retour en France très rapidement.

Le Premier ministre réaffirme à cette occasion la détermination du Gouvernement pour œuvrer à la libération des huit autres otages français encore détenus au Sahel.

La Brigade de Prévention de la Délinquance Juvénile (BPDJ), organise une semaine d'information sur les différentes carrières en gendarmerie nationale.
Les candidats intéressés pourront se présenter dans les locaux de Pôle-Emploi, rue de Spring à Concordia, du lundi 29 avril au vendredi 03 mai 2013 (à l'exception du 1er mai) de 08 heures à 13 heures.

Conditions de recrutement:

  • • être de nationalité française
  • • être âgé de 17 ans à 35 ans
  • • avoir effectué sa journée de défense et de citoyenneté
  • • être apte physiquement
  • • ne pas avoir d'antécédent judiciaire

Le Premier ministre a réuni jeudi 18 avril 2013 un séminaire gouvernemental consacré au suivi de la mise en œuvre du Pacte national pour la croissance, la compétitivité et l'emploi, qui a été présenté aux Français le 6 novembre 2012.

Le Pacte et ses 35 mesures visent à restaurer la compétitivité de l'économie française, qui s'est sensiblement dégradée au cours des dix dernières années, par une action sur l'ensemble des leviers de la compétitivité des entreprises. La mise en œuvre du Pacte s'inscrit dans une stratégie économique globale en faveur de la croissance et de l'emploi, incluant une exigence de redressement des comptes publiques. Cette stratégie a été rappelée mercredi 17 avril avec la présentation en Conseil des ministres du programme de stabilité et du programme national de réformes.

En amont de ce séminaire, le Premier ministre a échangé mercredi 17 avril avec les représentants des partenaires sociaux dans le cadre du Conseil national de l'Industrie à propos de la mise en œuvre du Pacte. Il a rappelé qu'elle nécessitait une mobilisation de l'ensemble des acteurs, y compris des entreprises et des salariés, et que la qualité du dialogue social constituait un facteur de compétitivité clef pour l'économie. C'est dans cet esprit que la loi sur la sécurisation de l'emploi, adoptée par l'Assemblée nationale et en cours de discussion au Sénat, prévoit la participation des salariés aux conseils d'administration avec voix délibératives.

Lors du séminaire, Louis Gallois, à qui le Premier ministre a confié la mission de suivre la mise en œuvre du Pacte, a présenté l'état d'avancement des 35 mesures. Son rapport souligne qu'elle se déroule de manière satisfaisante, avec deux tiers des décisions déjà engagées, grâce à une forte mobilisation de l'ensemble des ministères et des acteurs concernés. Il souligne également que l'effort de mobilisation et d'explication doit être renforcé afin d'accélérer la montée en puissance de l'impact des mesures sur le terrain.

Les membres du Gouvernement ont fait le point sur les premiers résultats concrets du Pacte. A titre d'exemple, les entreprises ont bénéficié de l'effet trésorerie apporté par le Crédit d'impôt compétitivité emploi à hauteur de 430 millions d'euros, grâce à la Banque publique d'investissement créée depuis le 1er janvier 2013. Cette dernière a également apporté, grâce à un nouveau produit de garantie de trésorerie, plus de 120 millions de trésorerie aux très petites entreprises et aux petites et moyennes entreprises. En matière d'innovation, le « Plan France Très Haut Débit » a été adopté et est en cours de déploiement dans plusieurs régions. S'agissant des filières, les 13 comités stratégiques de filières permettent de faire travailler ensemble, dans chaque domaine, grands groupes et petites entreprises. Enfin, en matière simplification, grâce au programme « dites-le nous une fois », déjà 250 000 entreprises bénéficient depuis mars 2013 du pré-remplissage de la contribution sociale de solidarité des sociétés.

Le Premier ministre, qui s'est félicité de ces premiers résultats, a souligné que le rétablissement de la compétitivité française constitue une œuvre de longue haleine, qui demande persévérance et constance dans l'application des mesures du Pacte. Pour autant, le Premier ministre a demandé aux membres du Gouvernement d'accélérer la mise en œuvre opérationnelle des 35 mesures, afin d'en intensifier l'impact.

De nouvelles décisions ont été prises, notamment :

  • Pour répondre à une forte attente des petites entreprises, il est décidé d'alléger les obligations comptables des plus petites entreprises, alors que jusqu'à présent la France avait fait le choix d'imposer des obligations supérieures aux exigences du droit européen. Les très petites entreprises seront exonérées de l'obligation d'établir une annexe comptable et de publier leurs comptes. Les petites entreprises auront désormais la possibilité d'établir un bilan simplifié. Ces mesures concerneront près de 1,5 million d'entreprises. Au-delà, les consultations actuellement menées auprès des entreprises et des organisations professionnelles comme les propositions du rapport du député Thierry Mandon vont permettre de nourrir un programme ambitieux de simplification de l'environnement réglementaire, des démarches et des procédures des entreprises, qui sera présenté d'ici à l'été 2013. Le Premier ministre a annoncé que, pour aller plus vite, le volet législatif de ce programme sera mis en œuvre par ordonnances.
  • L'augmentation des plafonds des livrets d'épargne réglementée mise en œuvre par le Gouvernement doit s'accompagner d'un investissement plus marqué de l'épargne populaire dans le financement des entreprises. La Banque publique d'investissement dispose d'ores et déjà d'une enveloppe de refinancement de 10 milliards d'euros sur le fonds d'épargne géré par la Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations. Afin de mobiliser encore davantage l'épargne populaire pour le financement des entreprises, le fonds d'épargne augmentera ses investissements en fonds propres dans les PME de près d'1,5 milliard d'euros en 5 ans : 1,25 milliards d'euros seront investis dans des PME non cotées et 200M€ seront investis dès 2013 dans les PME cotées.

Le Premier ministre a souligné la nécessité que les entreprises se saisissent pleinement de ces nouvelles opportunités. C'est en ce sens qu'il a écrit, le 12 février dernier, à l'ensemble des entreprises françaises. Le Premier Ministre a demandé aux ministres, comme il l'a entrepris lui-même ces dernières semaines, de se mobiliser en région pour mieux faire connaître aux entreprises, sur le terrain, l'ensemble des mesures du Pacte et les moyens de les utiliser. Il a annoncé qu'un prochain séminaire pour faire le bilan de la mise en œuvre du Pacte interviendrait avant la fin de l'année.

Dans un article paru, le 15 avril 2013, sur le site Internet du Daily Herald, le président de l'association haïtienne de Sint-Maarten déclare avoir été, à l'occasion d'un contrôle, « choqué et insulté par le traitement qu'il a reçu de la part des fonctionnaires de police du SPAF de Saint-Martin » et indique que ces derniers auraient tenu des propos outrageants à l'égard du gouvernement de Sint-Maarten.
S'il est incontestable que M. Jeston Guerrier, étranger en situation irrégulière, a fait l'objet d'un contrôle, le lundi 15 avril 2013, vers 13h45, sur le secteur de Bellevue, alors qu'il circulait à bord d'un bus immatriculé à Sint-Maarten, il ressort des différents rapports que les policiers du SPAF de Saint-Martin n'ont fait que leur travail en adoptant un comportement courtois et respectueux à l'égard de l'intéressé.
En outre, il convient d'apporter un démenti catégorique quant aux propos qui sont prêtés aux fonctionnaires à l'égard du gouvernement de Sint-Maarten, avec qui, en matière de coopération et dans le domaine de la lutte contre l'immigration irrégulière, le travail se fait en étroite collaboration et dans le cadre d'un partenariat efficace et respectueux.
Face à de telles allégations mensongères et pouvant porter atteinte aux bonnes relations entre la France et Sint-Maarten, le Préfet se réserve le droit de porter plainte pour diffamation.
C'est du fait qu'il était titulaire d'un passeport haïtien en cours de validité et d'un document valant autorisation de séjour à Sint-Maarten, que M. Guerrier s'est vu refuser, à juste titre, l'entrée sur le territoire français de Saint-Martin. Pour autant, aucune procédure n'a été engagée, à l'encontre de M. Guerrier, par les fonctionnaires de police, qui auraient pu le placer en rétention administrative en attendant que le Préfet prenne un arrêté portant obligation de quitter le territoire français (OQTF) ; procédure qui a été engagée, le même jour, pour trois autres personnes qui disposaient de documents analogues mais en cours de renouvellement et qui ont fait l'objet d'une OQTF, sur la base de l'article L511-I 1°) du code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile.
Ainsi, il convient de rappeler que, pour être admis à entrer sur le territoire des collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, tout étranger non bénéficiaire de la libre circulation en application des dispositions du code de l'entrée et du séjour des étrangers et du droit d'asile, doit être muni d'un document ou de documents de voyage en cours de validité et reconnus par la France, revêtus, le cas échéant et sauf exceptions prévues par les textes, d'un visa en cours de validité délivré par une autorité française (cf. arrêté du 18 avril 2012 relatif aux documents et visas exigés pour l'entrée des étrangers sur le territoire des collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin).
C'est donc à bon droit que les policiers du SPAF ont refusé l'entrée sur le territoire français de Saint-Martin et c'est dans ce cadre, conformément aux instructions du gouvernement, que des actions quotidiennes seront poursuivies contre les ressortissants étrangers en situation irrégulière, tels que cette personne.

destructionofstreetsquat17042013Le mardi 16 avril 2013, à 15h00, une opération d'envergure de la gendarmerie associant des éléments de l'EGM 24/3 d'Aunay-sur-Odon, du peloton de surveillance et intervention de la gendarmerie, de la brigade des recherches et de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin a été menée dans le quartier St James au niveau du squat insalubre situé rue de hollande. Cet endroit réputé pour être un haut lieu du trafic de stupéfiants générait depuis longtemps un fort sentiment d'insécurité dans la population locale et constituait donc une problématique majeure d'ordre public au sein de l'agglomération de Marigot. Cette opération qui a bénéficié de l'appui de la police territoriale pour la régulation de la circulation et de l'autorisation des propriétaires des lieux s'est déroulé en deux temps : premièrement , il a été procédé à une action en force sur le squat visant à la recherche de produits stupéfiants et au retrait de tous les deux roues non identifiables. Secondement, et avec le renfort d 'engins de chantiers mis à disposition par la collectivité, le squat a été totalement détruit en présence des propriétaires satisfaits.
Cette opération avait pour but de réaffirmer l'autorité de l'Etat et de mettre fin aux agissements délictueux empoisonnant la vie de nombreux riverains. Au final, cette action qui a permis de saisir à l'intérieur et aux abords du squat deux scooters, une moto et un quad ainsi que de l'herbe de cannabis et de la cocaine a été accueillie avec soulagement par de nombreux riverains et devrait enfin permettre aux légitimes propriétaires de recouvrer la jouissance de leur terrain.

L'Agence Nationale des Fréquences (ANFR) met en garde le public contre l'utilisation de téléphones sans fil de type DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) qui ne sont pas conformes aux normes européennes et ne doivent donc pas être utilisés sur les collectivités de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélemy.
Quels sont les téléphones en cause? Importés de pays comme les États-Unis et le Canada, la plupart des téléphones non conformes portent la mention « DECT 6.0 ». Ils fonctionnent sur des fréquences pour lesquelles ils ne sont pas autorisés dans l'Union européenne.
Pourquoi? Ces téléphones sans fil non conformes perturbent les fréquences utilisées par les réseaux de téléphonie mobile et par voie de conséquence leur fonctionnement.
Que risque-t-on en utilisant un téléphone non conforme? Les personnes qui possèdent déjà un appareil non conforme ne peuvent en aucun cas continuer à l'utiliser. Toute constatation de l'utilisation d'un tel appareil par un agent de l'ANFR fera l'objet de l'application d'une taxe forfaitaire de 450 €. En outre, le fait de perturber une fréquence régulièrement attribuée constitue une infraction pénale passible d'une peine pouvant aller jusqu'à six mois d'emprisonnement et 30 000 € d'amende en application des dispositions de l'article L. 39-1 du Code des postes et des communications électroniques.
Comment choisir son téléphone? L'ANFR conseille aux consommateurs qui souhaitent acquérir un téléphone sans fil DECT, de vérifier la présence du marquage CE sur l'emballage ainsi que sur l'appareil.

Pour tout renseignement complémentaire s'adresser à:
Agence nationale des fréquences : www.anfr.fr
Antenne Antilles Guyane : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tél. 05 96 60 86 86

eeasmtravelstofrance11042013Dans le cadre de la coopération l'Etablissement de l'Eau et de l'Assainissement de Saint Martin encadre une démarche d'échange de moyens s'agissant du traitement des eaux usées avec les services techniques de Sint-Maarten.
Une délégation composée du directeur des infrastructures et d'une technicienne spécialiste du traitement de l'eau de la partie hollandaise, du Président et du directeur de l'EEASM, et du nouveau directeur de la CGEG se sont rendu en métropole pour visiter des systèmes de station d'épuration susceptible d'être implanté des deux côtés de l'île.

Deux systèmes ont particulièrement attiré l'attention :

  • Organica (Tours) : un système innovant et performant de traitement des eaux usées associe les derniers développements en matière d'ingénierie écologique et les technologies de traitement conventionnelles. Organica FBRTM s'appuie ainsi sur des traitements par boues activées dans différents bassins placés en dessous de la serre. Une vingtaine de projets de ce type sont actuellement en cours de réalisation en Métropole.
  • Ecodisk (visite de l'usine de production à Aix-les-Bains), concept qui a été utilisé pour la réalisation de la station d'Oyster Pond, adapté pour les petites et moyennes collectivités, rurales et semi-urbaines, entre 100 et 10 000 équivalent-habitants (EH). Simple de fonctionnement, très fiable, et d'une implantation naturelle dans des sites protégés, Ecodisk répond aux exigences européennes de traitement - possibilité de traitement de l'azote et du phosphore - et correspond parfaitement aux demandes actuelles de nombreux organismes ou collectivités.

Délégation de Sint Maarten:

- Kurt Ruan directeur des infrastructures
- Olivia Lake charge de mission à l'eau et à l'assainissement.
Délégation de Saint Martin
- Louis Fleming Président de l'EEASM
- Patrick LENTZ directeur de l'EEASM
- Harry Placide directeur de la compagnie générale des eaux

Il est porté autorisation d'organiser une braderie commerciale le samedi 14 avril 2013, par l'Association des commerçants de Marigot, représentée par le son Président, Monsieur René Mathon, de 08h à 18h30.
Cette manifestation portera essentiellement sur la vente de vêtements, de chaussures, des accessoires d'habillements, etc, rue du Général de Gaulle.

Arrêté du Président portant autorisation de fermeture temporaire de la rue du Général de Gaulle, à Marigot

A titre exceptionnel, le stationnement sera INTERDIT rue du Général d Gaulle, le vendredi 13 avril 2013 à partir de 19h, afin de permettre aux organisateurs d'installer leurs équipements. Dès 23h50, cette rue sera fermée à la circulation automobile, et ce, jusqu'à la fin de la manifestation. Toute cette zone sera transformée en rue piétonne.
L'organisateur devra, en sa qualité de responsable-organisateur, veiller à ce que :

  • Des panneaux de signalisation soient installés de part et d'autres dans cette portion de rue. Ces panneaux sont destinés aux riverains et au public en général sur l'interdiction de stationnement et de circulation dans cette voie ;
  • Des moyens de communication directs et rapides en cas de besoin d'appel des services de secours, soient à disposition ;
  • Des extincteurs soient tenus à disposition
  • Des barrières de sécurité soient posées aux deux extrémités de la rue du Général de Gaulle ainsi que de la rue de l'Anguille. Cette rue devra être maintenue libre de tout encombrement et réservée aux services d'urgence.
  • Un service de gardiennage en nombre suffisant soit mis en place sur les lieux à l'intérieur de la zone interdite à la circulation et au stationnement automobile, et aux abords ;
  • La sécurité et la protection des personnes et des biens sur le site soient assurées ;
  • Une permanence médicale soit à disposition sur place durant toute la manifestation. Le poste de secours doit être accessible aux services de secours ;
  • Les lieux soient laissés propres et en l'état, à l'issue de la manifestation. A défaut, le nettoyage devra être effectué par l'organisateur.

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a demandé à Frédéric Cuvillier, ministre délégué en charge des Transports, de recevoir aujourd'hui M. Claude Chéreau, Mme Claude Brévan et M. Rouchdy Kbaier, membres de la Commission du dialogue sur le futur Aéroport du Grand Ouest, pour la remise de leur rapport.

Plus tôt dans la journée, M. Stéphane Le Foll, ministre de l'agriculture et M. Christian Galliard de Lavernée, Préfet de la région Pays-de-la-Loire, Préfet de Loire-Atlantique, ont reçu respectivement le rapport de la mission agricole chargée d'évaluer les moyens de limiter l'impact du projet sur la consommation des terres agricoles et le rapport du comité d'expertise scientifique chargé d'évaluer la méthode de compensation environnementale mise en œuvre.

Les trois rapports sont disponibles sur le site: http://www.developpement-durable.gouv.fr/C-comme-Concertation.html

Bertrand Fragonard, président du Haut conseil de la famille, a été saisi le 23 janvier 2013 par le Premier ministre d'une mission globale sur l'architecture, la pertinence du ciblage et l'efficience des dispositifs d'aides aux familles.

Bertrand Fragonard a remis au Premier ministre, son rapport définitif ainsi que l'avis adopté le 8 avril par les membres du Haut conseil de la famille. Le Premier ministre s'est félicité de la qualité remarquable de ce travail. Les propositions sont exhaustives s'agissant des différentes mesures envisageables, à la fois pour un meilleur ciblage de certaines prestations et le renforcement des aides au bénéfice des familles fragiles. Elles ne constituent pas un plan global et univoque, et ouvrent à ce titre une grande latitude de choix. Sur certains sujets, le rapport renvoie à des travaux complémentaires.

Le Premier ministre a demandé en conséquence à Mme Marisol Touraine, ministre des affaires sociales et de la santé, et Mme Dominique Bertinotti, ministre déléguée chargée de la famille, d'étudier de façon approfondie les propositions du rapport, en prenant en compte l'avis exprimé par le Haut conseil de la famille.

Le Premier ministre réunira le Haut conseil de la famille dans les semaines qui viennent, pour présenter les options de travail qui auront été retenues par le Gouvernement.

Les élus de la majorité RRR apprennent avec stupéfaction les conclusions très sévères du rapporteur au Conseil d'Etat, à l'encontre du Président Alain Richardson, qui avait été élu à cette fonction, à l'unanimité du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin, le 1er avril 2012. Le Conseil d'Etat qui a été saisi suite au rejet de nos comptes de campagne par la Commission Nationale des Comptes de Campagne, s'est réuni le 27 mars 2013, et a mis sa décision en délibéré dans un délai d'un mois.

Ce n'est pas la sincérité des comptes, ni l'exhaustivité ni la traçabilité des recettes et dépenses de campagne, ni le respect du plafond, ni un défaut ou retard dans le dépôt du compte de campagne qui sont mis en cause, mais seulement le fait que le mandataire financier a ouvert, en même temps et dans la même banque, deux comptes dédiés et fongibles, l'un en Euros et l'autre en Dollars. La Commission a considéré cela contraire aux textes en vigueur, sans prendre en compte la réalité monétaire, financière, bancaire et économique de St-Martin, d'une part, et la jurisprudence constante du Conseil d'Etat et du Conseil Constitutionnel, d'autre part.
Le sous-compte en Dollars n'a fonctionné qu'alternativement au compte en Euros, et ce pour le seul règlement de 2 factures dont le net à payer était libellé en Dollars, le fournisseur principal ayant souhaité être payé dans cette devise.
Ni la Commission des Comptes de Campagne ni même le Rapporteur au Conseil d'Etat ne relève ni ne reproche une intention frauduleuse
au Président Alain Richardson.
Il convient de rappeler que Saint-Martin est la seule Collectivité de France à être située à la fois dans la zone Euro et dans la zone Dollar et que la plupart des établissements bancaires et financiers de la place proposent systématiquement à leurs clients des comptes en Euros et en Dollars, pour tenir compte de l'interdépendance économique de l'île franco-hollandaise de Saint-Martin, dont les spécificités sont totalement méconnues par une grande majorité des services centraux de l'Etat.

Les élus de la majorité du Conseil territorial ont confiance en la Justice et apportent tout leur soutien à leur Président Alain Richardson dans cette nouvelle épreuve. Ils attendent avec sérénité et impatience les conclusions du Conseil d'Etat dans cette affaire, en espérant qu'elles aillent dans le sens favorable de la jurisprudence, pour le bon fonctionnement de nos institutions et l'intérêt général du développement de notre Collectivité.

René-Jean Duret
Président du groupe des élus RRR
du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin

Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, a décidé d'une réorganisation de son cabinet regroupant dans un même pôle l'ensemble des conseillers chargés de la stratégie, de la communication, de la presse, des médias sociaux, et des discours et études.

Ce nouveau pôle sera placé sous la responsabilité de M. Jérôme Batout, qui est nommé Conseiller spécial auprès du Premier ministre, chef du pôle stratégie, médias et communication, et prendra ses fonctions le mercredi 3 avril prochain.

Le Premier ministre tient à remercier chaleureusement Mme Dominique Bouissou, Conseillère auprès du Premier ministre, chargée de la communication et de la presse, responsable du service de presse, pour l'importance du travail qu'elle a accompli depuis l'installation du gouvernement, et qui exercera les fonctions de Conseiller auprès du Premier ministre jusqu'à son prochain départ, ainsi que M. Bernard Candiard, Conseiller spécial, pour les missions qu'il a remplies depuis sa nomination.

L'Assemblée a adopté lundi soir une proposition de loi réformant la biologie médicale, destinée à garantir une plus grande sécurité des soins et visant à mettre sur pied un maillage territorial des laboratoires digne de ce nom.

A l'exception des parlementaires Front de Gauche, le texte a été voté à l'unanimité en début de soirée lundi. Il s'agit du cinquième texte sur biologie médicale qui n'a pas été réformée depuis 1975, malgré les très fortes évolutions en cours. Le texte, inscrit en procédure accélérée (une seule lecture par chambre) et adopté au Sénat le 5 février dernier, ratifie une ordonnance de 2010 qui renforce la "médicalisation" de la biologie et met un terme à la situation actuelle d'insécurité juridique, ainsi qu'à la pratique des "ristournes" hors accord de coopération entre établissements publics de santé. Les laboratoires devront désormais être accrédités par le Comité français d'accréditation, avec l'objectif de parvenir à 100% d'accréditation en 2020. Une réforme particulièrement lourde et coûteuse pour les Collectivités d'outre-mer, qui risquaient de voir disparaitre leurs laboratoires de biologie médicale : lors de son examen au Sénat début février et grâce notamment à l'implication du Sénateur de Saint-Barthélemy Michel Magras, le Gouvernement avait donc amendé le texte, et ajouté un article stipulant qu'un « décret en Conseil d'Etat prévoit pour Saint-Barthélemy, Saint-Martin et Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, des modalités spécifiques d'aménagement de la procédure d'accréditation, prévue à l'article L. 6221-1 des laboratoires de biologie médicale, dans le respect de l'exigence de qualité ». « Cet article vise à prendre en considération les particularités en matière d'organisation de l'offre de biologie médicale dans ces trois territoires. En effet, l'insularité -voire la double insularité- l'éloignement, de ces Collectivités d'outre-mer rendent l'accréditation bien plus complexe que dans l'Hexagone ou que dans d'autres territoires des outre-mer » a ainsi resitué Daniel GIBBS lors des débats dans l'hémicycle lundi soir. « Le rythme mais aussi le coût de la procédure d'accréditation proposés par la présente réforme, représentent pour les laboratoires de biologie médicale de Saint-Barthélemy, de Saint-Martin et de Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, une charge insurmontable, qui entraverait fortement leur fonctionnement, voire signerait purement et simplement leur disparition. Le régime dérogatoire proposé par cet article 11 ne relève donc aucunement d'une quelconque volonté pour ces trois Collectivités d'outre-mer « d'échapper » à l'obligation d'accréditation. Mais il reste la seule garantie pour ces territoires particuliers, du maintien de la qualité et de la sécurité des soins qui sont prodigués dans ces territoires » a insisté le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin.

L'intervention de M. GIBBS est disponible sur le portail vidéo de l'Assemblée nationale à l'adresse suivante : http://www.assemblee-nationale.tv/chaines.html.

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

Inscription en classe maternelle (TPS) : secteur de Quartier d'Orléans.
Du 2 Avril au 19 Avril 2013:

  • Enfants nés entre le 1er Janvier 2011 et 30 Juin 2011 ;
  • Les parents ayant des enfants nés entre le 1er janvier 2011 et le 30 juin 2011 et habitant le secteur de Marigot sont priés de se rapprochés du bureau des affaires scolaires pour se faire recenser.

Une opération de lutte contre la délinquance routière, ciblant en particulier les personnes conduisant sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique, était menée le dimanche 24 mars 2013 de 02h00 à 06h00 par la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy.
Réalisée conjointement par la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin et l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile d'Aunay-sur-Audon, l'opération mobilisait au total 05 militaires de la gendarmerie, engagés sur le carrefour giratoire de Bellevue. 40 conducteurs ainsi que leurs véhicules ont été contrôlés, permettant de relever les infractions suivantes:

  • 07 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux délictuel, > 0,4 mg/litre d'air expiré (0,80 - 0,74 -0,74 - 0,71 - 0,60 - 0,58 - 0,53) ;
  • 03 conduites sous l'empire d'un état alcoolique présentant un taux contraventionnel, compris entre 0,25 et 0,39mg/litre d'air expiré (0,36 - 0,36 - 0,34) ;
  • 02 défauts de permis de conduire.

Elles consistent à prodiguer le plus en amont possible des conseils et informations aux particuliers dans le cadre de la promotion d'une architecture de qualité intégrée à son environnement soucieuse du développement durable.

Le conseil aux particuliers :
Les architectes conseillers du CAUE sont compétents pour intervenir dans différents domaines tels que :

  • L'aide à la conception
  • orientation, implantation, intégration par rapport au site
  • La prise en compte des risques naturels (cyclones, tremblement de terre, inondations...) en matière de conception
  • Information sur la réglementation en vigueur
  • obligations, coûts des constructions, réhabilitation
  • économie d'énergie
  • taxes d'urbanisme

etc...

Aussi le conseil dispensé est souvent l'occasion pour les particuliers d'obtenir des informations, suggestions complémentaires sur des aspects non perçus au départ ce quelque soit le stade du projet. Il s'arrête là où débute la maîtrise d'œuvre.
Rencontrer un architecte
Tout particulier peut faire appel à un architecte conseiller du CAUE. Le particulier doit se rendre à un des points conseils présents dans l'une des 23 mairies ou au siège du CAUE les Vendredi entre 9h et 12h. Les dépliants du CAUE présents à l'accueil des mairies, indiquent le planning détaillé de ces permanences pour 2013 . Les consultations se font sans rendez Vous mais il est souhaité de contacter préalablement le CAUE.
A Saint Martin, le CAUE assure des permanences mensuelles le 4e Vendredi du mois entre 9h et 12 h au Service Urbanisme -Pole Développement Durable 6 rue du Fort Louis à Marigot

Bien se préparer

Pour un conseil personnalisé, le particulier doit se munir de tous les documents utiles lors des consultances

  • Photographie du terrain, des bâtiments et des abords,
  • Plan de situation, extrait cadastral, plan des bâtiments,
  • Tout autre document permettant d'apprécier le projet

Il lui sera loisible de s'entretenir librement avec l'architecte conseiller par un entretien personnalisé.

Ce que le conseil n'est pas

L'architecte du CAUE n'intervient qu'en tant que conseiller et ce à titre gratuit. Il ne peut en aucun cas réaliser une opération de maîtrise d'œuvre, ni déposer un permis de construire, ni réaliser des missions d'expertise, réalisation de plans pour les particuliers.
Le conseiller du CAUE intervient par ailleurs sur un secteur géographique sur lequel il ne peut exercer aucune activité libérale.
Enfin, l'architecte conseiller n'est pas habiliter à se rendre sur le terrain.
Le conseil CAUE facilite grandement la réalisation du projet à tous les niveaux .Il importe donc au plus grand nombre de profiter de ce service, d'avoir le réflexe CAUE, ce d'autant que la réglementation ne cesse d'évoluer.

Dates des prochaines permanences du CAUE à Saint Martin:

  • Vendredi 25 Janvier 2013
  • Vendredi 22 Février 2013
  • Vendredi 22 Mars 2013
  • Vendredi 26 Avril 2013
  • Vendredi 24 Mai 2013
  • Vendredi 28 Juin 2013
  • Vendredi 26 Juillet 2013
  • Vendredi 27 Septembre 2013
  • Vendredi 25 Octobre 2013
  • Vendredi 29 Novembre 2013

Le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a interpellé le Ministre des Outre-mer, ce jeudi dans l'hémicycle, sur les effets de l'inapplicabilité du crédit d'impôt pour la compétitivité et l'emploi (CICE) pour la Collectivité de Saint-Martin. L'occasion pour Daniel GIBBS de tirer une nouvelle fois la sonnette d'alarme quant à la situation économique particulièrement dégradée de Saint-Martin.

Le Parlement a récemment voté le CICE, un avantage fiscal destiné à réduire le coût du travail, et qui équivaut à une baisse des cotisations sociales pour les entreprises. Un avantage dont ne peuvent bénéficier les entreprises saint-martinoises, la COM de Saint-Martin disposant d'une compétence fiscale qui « la prive donc inéluctablement du bénéfice des politiques publiques financées au moyen de dépenses fiscales plutôt qu'au moyen de dépenses budgétaires » resitue Daniel GIBBS. « A l'inverse, des entreprises guadeloupéennes ou martiniquaises venant par exemple réaliser un chantier de courte durée à Saint-Martin bénéficieront, elles, automatiquement d'un avantage concurrentiel significatif grâce au CICE » souligne le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, qui « pense particulièrement au secteur du BTP qui est un des secteurs d'activités les plus marqués par la crise économique, et qui, à ce jour, ne peut malheureusement pas profiter de cet avantage fiscal du CICE sur le territoire de Saint-Martin ».
« Monsieur le Ministre, au-delà de ce secteur d'activités, je n'ai pas besoin de vous rappeler combien la situation économique générale de l'île est catastrophique » insiste le Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, qui demande à l'Etat de « s'engager à tenir compte de la situation particulière de Saint-Martin dont les entreprises sont confrontées non seulement à la concurrence des entreprises de Guadeloupe mais aussi à celle des entreprises de la partie néerlandaise de l'île ».
M. GIBBS a donc suggérer au Ministre des Outre-mer « une solution simple, facile à mettre en place, mais susceptible de donner un véritable élan à l'activité économique de la Collectivité de Saint Martin, en perte de vitesse alarmante » : « Cette solution consisterait, pour l'État, à octroyer directement aux entreprises saint-martinoises une aide forfaitaire à l'emploi fonction de leur masse salariale et d'effet équivalent au CICE. Par analogie, le Gouvernement pourrait reprendre le dispositif qui avait été mis en place pour les employeurs de personnel du secteur des hôtels, des cafés et des restaurants, selon l'article 10, modifié, de la loi n°2004-804 du 9 août 2004 ».
Dans sa réponse au Député de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, le Ministre des Outre-mer, reconnaît que « la question peut se poser d'introduire un dispositif comparable au crédit d'impôt pour la compétitivité et l'emploi dans le code général des impôts de la Collectivité de SXM ». « D'un point de vue technique, rien ne s'y oppose » déclare M. Victorin LUREL, qui redoute cependant que cela compromette « la réalisation des engagements prévus par le protocole d'accompagnement financier signé le 12 décembre dernier avec l'Etat et dont l'objectif est de conduire au redressement financier de la Collectivité dont les finances sont très dégradées ». « « Mais j'ai entendu ce que vous disiez sur une aide en pourcentage des entreprises. Il y a un texte qui va porter sur le financement des économies d'outremer. Ce que vous évoquez, c'est le CICE « Exploitation » portant sur les salaires ; il y a un CICE « Investissement », la BPI sera là, aura une déclinaison, et l'on verra en quoi elle peut être appliquée à Saint-Martin » a conclu le Ministre.

La jeune Cécilia HENRY a été poignardée à mort, le 3 octobre 2011, par Madame Karelle MARCELIN et sa mère Madame Imelda RELUS sur la voie publique à QUARTIER D'ORLEANS ;

La jeune Cécilia Henry est décédée après avoir reçu quelques 40 coups de couteau, et apres être tombée dans un véritable guet-apens. Elle n'a eu aucune chance de s'en sortir.

Ce procès devra donc déterminer ce qui a conduit deux femmes, une fille et sa mère, à commettre un acte aussi horrible, à la limite de la sauvagerie.

Les parties civiles seront assistées par le ténor du Barreau, Maître Jan-Marc FERLY, Avocat au Barreau de la Guadeloupe, qui défend régulièrement des victimes de meurtres et d'agressions et dont les plaidoiries sont souvent remarquées par l'empathie qu'elles dégagent.

La semaine dernière, il a plaidé devant cette même Cour d'assises pour une victime de viol. Le violeur a été condamné à 15 ans de prison.

Dans le cadre des travaux d'élagage à effectuer par la Collectivité de Saint-Martin, il porté autorisation de fermeture temporaire d'une portion du boulevard de France le lundi 18 mars 2013 au jeudi 21 mars 2013, de 17h à 22h.
A cette occasion, le boulevard de France à hauteur du restaurant « La Vie en rose », jusqu'au rond-point du cimetière sera fermé à la circulation du lundi 18 mars 2013 au jeudi 21 mars 2013, de 17h à 22h.

A ce titre,

  • La circulation des véhicules sera déviée par la rue de l'Embarcadère (longeant la gare maritime) qui sera transformée en voie à double sens. Le stationnement dans cette voie est interdit.
  • Le parking du stand de taxi sera fermé
  • La circulation des véhicules dans la petite rue comprise entre le stand de taxi et les « lolos » sera fermée

Toutes les interdictions et fermetures précitées seront matérialisées par des barrières et tout matériel prévu à cet effet.
Pour des raisons de sécurité, le stationnement à proximité des arbres de tout véhicule terrestre (il est fait allusion à la nature du véhicule donc cela reste invariable) à moteur est STRICTEMENT INTERDIT sur les tranches de rues précitées de 17h à 22h.

En raison du déménagement de la station des affaires maritimes, les bureaux seront fermés à compter du lundi 18 mars au vendredi 22 mars 2013 inclus.
Ils rouvriront le lundi 25 mars 2013, au 20 rue de Galisbay, (derrière le Grand Saint-Martin), près de l'ex DDE.
Pour tout renseignement, veuillez contacter M. MUNIER au 05 90 87 96 09 ou Mme CARON au 05 90 51 09 10.

« Mercredi dernier, un nouveau pape a été élu au sein de l'église catholique, François 1er, succédant à Benoît XVI. Je souhaite à ce premier pape non européen et jésuite, un pontificat riche et long qui saura correspondre aux aspirations et aux orientations nouvelles du catholicisme. Je salue à ce titre la communauté catholique de Saint-Martin, que j'encourage dans la poursuite de ses efforts à promouvoir les valeurs chrétiennes fondamentales de paix, de solidarité et d'amour de son prochain.
Je formule enfin le vœu que l'élection d'un pape issu des Amériques favorise les échanges spirituels entre les continents, dans le respect de la tradition universaliste catholique. Les défis que devra relever Jorge Mario Bergoglio, archevêque de Buenos Aires devenu François 1er, sont immenses, mais ces qualités humaines devraient constituer un atout dans l'accomplissement de sa mission. »

Dans le cadre de ses actions de prévention et d'action dans la sauvegarde des vies humaines, et notamment dans la lutte contre les accidents cardio-respiratoires responsables d'environ 50 000 décès par an en France, M. le Préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'État dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin a souhaité renforcer son action en dotant la préfecture d'un défibrillateur automatisé externe (DAE).
Ce dispositif mobile, dont l'utilisation est définie par décret n° 207-705 du 4 mai 2007 du ministre de la Santé et des Solidarités, est d'ores et déjà accessible au sein du bâtiment de la préfecture et est susceptible d'être mis en oeuvre par les agents détenteurs de la formation « prévention et secours civiques de niveau 1 (PSC1) ».
En effet, les statistiques indiquent que 45% des personnes en arrêt cardiaque sont victimes de fibrillation ventriculaire. Grâce à une intervention précoce, 21% reprendront leur rythme cardiaque normal et pourront obtenir des soins médicaux plus approfondis à l'hôpital.

Afin de sensibiliser l'ensemble de la population à la problématique des déchets sur notre territoire, la Collectivité de Saint-Martin, en collaboration avec la société VERDE-SXM, organisent une journée portes ouvertes le SAMEDI 16 MARS 2013 de 9h00 à 15h00, sur les sites de l'éco-site et de l'Installation de Stockage des Déchets Non Dangereux (décharge) de Grandes Cayes.
Un barbecue payant sera proposé par la société VERDE-SXM. Les bénéfices seront reversés au Lions Club Marina Fort Louis.
En comptant sur votre présence.

La journée internationale de la femme est pour la Collectivité l'occasion de rappeler notre profond engagement pour le respect de la parité, notre attachement à la valorisation de la femme, et notre soutien contre les inégalités et les violences subies par les femmes. Si ces combats légitimes trouvent leur résonnance dans la vie publique contemporaine, et permettent des améliorations de l'existence des femmes, n'oublions qu'ils sont très récents : la mère ne devient l'égal du père en matière d'autorité parentale que depuis 1970, l'égalité des salaires entre hommes et femmes pour un même travail n'a été rendue obligatoire qu'en 1971, même si de nombreux progrès restent à réaliser dans ce domaine ; la loi réprimandant les violences conjugales et la loi sanctionnant le harcèlement sexuel au travail n'existe que depuis 21 ans. Enfin, et une des plus symboliques, la loi en faveur de la parité hommes/femmes en politiques date de 2000.
Les étapes juridiques qui marquent les avancées des droits des femmes, dont je n'ai cité que certaines, s'inscrivent donc processus nouveaux mais désormais bien enracinés dans les mentalités. Parallèlement, cette commémoration doit augurer de nouvelles perspectives favorisant l'évolution des mentalités au service du progrès de l'égalité. Cette exigence devrait gagner l'exercice de l'ensemble des responsabilités dans les domaines politiques, économiques, sociales, culturelles, sportives, artistiques, etc.
Dans les Caraïbes en général et à Saint-Martin en particulier, les femmes ont un rôle majeur dans l'organisation de la famille dont elles sont le personnage central, et peuvent être qualifiées de « suractives » : indépendantes, elles occupent un travail, assurent, trop souvent seules, l'éducation des enfants et les tâches ménagères. Forçant le respect, les femmes caribéennes sont toutefois encore trop souvent des victimes : victimes d'abus sexuels, de violences physiques, de sexisme, d'irrespect. Ce qui contraste avec la position de pilier qu'occupe la femme dans la famille. Alors pour éviter que ce pilier ne se fissure, chacun prenne ses responsabilités : les hommes doivent se familiariser avec les droits nouveaux des femmes et le respect de ces derniers. Ils doivent également saisir les enjeux de leurs engagements dans une relation amoureuse, laquelle se construit à deux dans l'amour, l'harmonie, le respect mutuel, et la volonté d'avancer dans la même direction. Et ce, sans heurt, sans violence ni mépris, mais dans la concertation et la discussion. Pour l'homme, certaines situations sont délicates et conduisent à des actes regrettables et inexcusables, car lui aussi, a pu subir des « agressions » dans sa jeunesse : celles d'un père absent, d'une mère en souffrance, le tout dans un contexte familial déstructuré dans lequel il a tenté de survivre ; et aujourd'hui, la société moderne lui demande d'être le père exemplaire qu'il n'a pas forcément connu et d'établir les fondations familiales dont il ignore le sens. L'homme doit pourtant apprendre à surmonter ses propres dysfonctionnements, car de son côté, la femme caribéenne change, se modernise, avance. Au final, l'homme et la femme doivent évoluer en binôme pour le bien être de l'humanité, puisque la cellule familiale est basée sur l'alliance naturelle d'un homme et d'une femme. La journée internationale de la femme est, à ce titre, une formidable opportunité d'exposer ces réalités, dans un esprit constructif, et j'encourage la population à célébrer cette journée en lui donnant toute la tonalité qu'elle mérite. Enfin, je souhaite à toutes les femmes une excellente célébration de cette journée qui vous est dédiée.

A titre exceptionnel, le service des étrangers de la préfecture de Saint-Martin sera fermé du jeudi 7 mars 2013 au vendredi 8 mars 2013 inclus.
L'accueil des usagers rouvrira le lundi 11 mars 2013, sur le site de la Préfecture, sis route du Fort Louis à partir de 8h00.

Le 27 février 2013, s'est tenue une réunion de coopération en présence du Préfet délégué auprès de la représentante de l'État dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, de M. Fred Constant (Ambassadeur délégué à la coopération régionale pour la zone Antilles-Guyane), de M. Alain Richardson (Président du conseil territorial de Saint-Martin) et de Mme Sarah Wescot-Williams (Premier ministre de Sint-Maarten), avec pour objectif de préciser les conditions d'une coopération simple et efficace, en respectant la répartition des compétences pour chacun des niveaux d'administration, des parties française et hollandaise.
Il ressort de cette réunion, l'officialisation d'un comité de liaison tripartite Etat/COM/Pays Sint-Maarten qui aura pour mission de se réunir plus régulièrement, en réactivant les groupes de travail précédemment constitués, et en soumettant aux responsables politiques et administratifs, des propositions d'axes de coopération priorisées (traitement des déchets, santé, éducation, etc.).
La prochaine réunion de ce comité se tiendra le 3 avril 2013, en vue de définir le schéma d'organisation des institutions hollandaises et françaises, aux niveaux local et central, préalable indispensable à la prise en compte des compétences de chacun, lors des futures réunions de coopération.

Conformément à la feuille de route de la grande conférence sociale de juillet 2012, une commission pour l'avenir des retraites sera installée par Jean-Marc Ayrault, Premier ministre, le 27 février 2013, en présence de Marisol Touraine, ministre des Affaires sociales et de la Santé.

La commission sera présidée par Yannick Moreau, Conseiller d'Etat, présidente de section honoraire.

Ainsi que l'a acté la feuille de route, la commission sera chargée, sur la base des rapports du Conseil d'orientation des retraites et d'un cahier des charges qui lui sera remis le jour de son installation, de formuler différentes pistes de réforme des retraites à plus ou moins long terme. Elle préparera ainsi la concertation prévue avec les partenaires sociaux sur ce sujet.

Le 19 février 2013 à l'occasion d'un service de police de la route, la brigade motorisée de St. Martin contrôlait un bus, circulant entre Agrément et Grand Case, qui transportait 7 enfants. La
conductrice ne détenait aucun document relatif au transport de personnes. Les infractions suivantes sont relevées à son encontre : transport public routier de personnes sans convention avec
l'autorité compétente ; exécution d'un travail dissimule ; exercice de l'activité de transporteur public routier de personnes sans inscription au registre des transporteurs ; défaut de permis de
conduire. Sur instruction du parquet, la conductrice était invitée à régulariser son permis dans un délai restreint. Le résultat de ses démarches, déterminera ainsi la nature des poursuites qui seront mises en oeuvre à son encontre.
Cette procédure constitue la sixième réalisée depuis le début de l'année 2013 par la brigade motorisée de St Martin en matière de coordination des transports. Ces procédures ayant
essentiellement été diligentées à l'encontre de taxis et bus ne disposant pas d'autorisations de la Collectivité.
Depuis le début de cette année, la brigade motorisée a par ailleurs relevé 50 infractions pour conduite en état d 'alcoolémie, et 9 infractions pour conduite sous l'empire de produits stupéfiants.

Le 13 janvier 2013, alors qu'il se dirigeait à pied vers son domicile en compagnie de deux de ses amis, un mineur de 14 ans était abordé sur les terrains de tennis de Cul-de-Sac, par un véhicule
avec à son bord une femme et trois hommes. Deux individus étaient sortis de ce véhicule, avaient frappé le jeune homme, puis lui avaient dérobé une paire de chaussures, deux chaînes, un
téléphone et un lecteur Mp3. Les recherches de renseignements réalisées par les enquêteurs de la brigade de recherches de St Martin ont rapidement permis d'identifier l'ensemble des
protagonistes. Les auteurs des coups et du vol, un majeur et un mineur, sont respectivement convoqués devant le tribunal de St Martin le 06 juin prochain, et devant le juge des enfants de St
Martin.

Le 23 février 2009, un vol à main armée avait eu lieu au restaurant Villa Pizza de Marigot. Deux individus, armés respectivement d'une arme à feu réelle et d'une arme à feu à gaz, avaient fait
irruption dans le commerce et avaient cherché à s'emparer du fond de caisse et des objets personnels des clients. Plusieurs coups de feu avaient été tirés, blessant deux personnes.
Les investigations réalisées par la brigade de recherches avaient permis d'identifier un des malfaiteurs. Celui-ci avait toutefois pris la fuite et n'avait pu être interpellé, un mandat de recherche avait cependant été émis à son encontre.
Le 05 février 2013, cet individu a été contrôlé et interpellé par des policiers du commissariat de Pointe-à-Pitre qu'ils ont placé en garde à vue. Celui-ci a été convoqué devant le tribunal de Basse-
Terre devant lequel il devra répondre de ces faits commis il y a quatre ans.
Le 16 août 2010 à 00h45, trois individus dont un était armé d'un sabre d'abatis s'étaient introduits par effraction dans une résidence de la baie orientale. Surpris par un des occupants de la résidence, ils avaient pris la fuite avant de se diriger vers la plage. Ils avaient alors menacé deux personnes se trouvant sur la plage et leur avaient dérobés, un sac, de l'argent et des bijoux. Les investigations réalisées par la brigade de recherches de St Martin ont permis au cours de l'année 2011 d'identifier un des protagonistes. Celui-ci a été interpellé sur la voie publique le 20 janvier dernier lors d'un contrôle réalisé par le peloton de surveillance et d'intervention de St Martin. A l'issue de son placement en garde à vue, il a été convoqué devant le tribunal de St Martin pour le 13 juin prochain.
Le 20 janvier 2013 à 20h45, une jeune femme se faisait dérober son sac à main par deux individus armés, alors qu'elle marchait sur la plage de la Baie Orientale. Les investigations réalisées par la brigade de recherches de St Martin permettent après quelques jours d'identifier les malfaiteurs, qui ont été interpellés à leurs domiciles dès le 29 janvier. Les deux individus, mineurs, sont convoqués devant le juge des enfants de St Martin en vue de leur mise en examen.

L'opération « Les vendredis du Front de mer – Sip N chat fridayz », organisée par l'Office du tourisme en collaboration avec l'Association des commerçants de Marigot, débutera le vendredi 08 février prochain, et s'achèvera le vendredi 26 avril 2013. Cette manifestation, qui durera de 17h à 22h, portera essentiellement sur des animations ludiques et culturelles, ventes artisanales, etc. En cas d'intempérie, elle sera reportée sur les deux prochains vendredis du mois de mai.
A cette occasion, le Boulevard de France, au niveau du restaurant « La Vie en Rose » et jusqu'au rond-point du restaurant « Mini Club », sera fermé à la circulation de 18h à 22h30, du vendredi 15 février 2013 au vendredi 26 avril 2013. L'ensemble de cette zone sera transformée en rue piétonne.
A ce titre,

  • l'ensemble des aires de parkings mentionnées ci-dessus sont exclusivement réservé aux organisateurs au fur et à mesure qu'ils se libèrent ;
  • la rue de l'embarcadère sera à double sens dès 18h. Le stationnement sur cette voie n'est pas autorisé ;
  • la portion de rue donnant dos au Marché alimentaire (côté mer), sera maintenue ouverte à la circulation durant la manifestation ;
  • la petite rue située entre la station de taxis et les restaurants locaux sera fermée à la circulation automobile ;
  • la portion de la rue Felix Eboué sise entre les restaurant « Le Bar de la mer » et « L'Arhawak » sera fermée à la circulation automobile, jusqu'à l'intersection de la rue de la Liberté ;
  • tout véhicule stationné dans les zones interdites mentionnées ci-dessus sera enlevé par la fourrière au frais du contrevenant.

Sareena Carti, la jeune athlète du club Avenir Sportif, s'est qualifiée dès le premier tour pour les Carifta Games 2013, sur sa distance fétiche le 400 mètres en 56''. Les qualifications se sont déroulées ce samedi 16 février à Vieux Habitants.
Son compagnon d'entraînement, Robinson Mena de la Rosa qui s'est lui aussi lancé sur 400m, améliore son record personnel en réalisant 52''39. Malheureusement, il n'atteint pas les minimas, et devra prendre à nouveau le départ du 400 mètres lors du deuxième tour des qualifications qui se tiendra le 2 mars 2013 à Baie-Mahault.
Lors de l'édition 2012 des Carifta Games, Sareena Carti avait déjà réalisé une belle performance et décroché le bronze sur 400 mètres. Cette année encore, elle vise la plus haute marche du podium!

Le jeudi 7 février 2013, vers 12h00, une jeune femme se rend à Grand-Case où elle compte profiter d'un moment de détente sur la plage. Quelques instants plus tard, elle constate la disparition de son sac de plage contenant ses effets personnels, qu'elle venait de poser sur le sable.
Elle alerte alors des gendarmes de l'EGM 24/3 de AUNAY sur AUDON qui se trouvaient à proximité, par ses appels à l'aide. Rapidement, les militaires recueillent les éléments d'identification de l'auteur et la description du sac, avant de se lancer à sa recherche.
L'obstination des gendarmes va porter ses fruits, puisque dans les minutes qui suivent, ils constatent qu'un individu correspond au signalement décrit par la victime. Ils se lancent immédiatement à sa poursuite et l'interpellent sur la voie publique, en possession du sac dérobé.
L'homme, âgé de 19 ans, est remis à un officier de police judiciaire de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin et placé en garde à vue. Le sac est quant à lui restitué à sa légitime propriétaire.
A l'issue de sa garde à vue, l'auteur présumé fait l'objet d'une convocation devant le tribunal correctionnel de Saint-Martin pour le 6 juin 2013.

Il est porté à l'attention de la population qu'en raison des fêtes de Carnaval, la déchèterie de Galisbay-Bienvenue sera fermée au public le lundi 11, le mardi 12 et le mercredi 13 février 2013.
La réouverture est prévue le jeudi 14 février 2013 aux horaires habituels.

C'est avec tristesse que nous avons appris le décès de Charles Rosmond Charbonnier, le 7 février dernier.
Au nom du Conseil territorial de Saint-Martin et en mon nom propre, je souhaite adresser mes condoléances les plus sincères à toute sa famille ainsi qu'à ses proches, et je tiens particulièrement à leur exprimer toute ma sympathie et mon amitié dans cette douloureuse circonstance.
Coïncidence du calendrier de la vie ou hasard des circonstances, la maman de Monsieur Charbonnier, Madame Andréa Charbonnier, a fêté ses 90 ans la veille des funérailles de son fils. Une épreuve qui s'avère d'autant plus pénible lorsqu'un enfant part avant un parent, et qui demandera aux membres de la famille et aux proches, un appui sans faille à la maman du défunt. Par ce modeste mot, je m'associe humblement à votre chagrin, et je tiens à vous manifester notre profond soutien, en vous transmettant nos plus sincères condoléances et le témoignage de notre affection.

Alain Richardson

L'opération « Les vendredis du Front de mer – Sip N chat fridayz », organisée par l'Office du tourisme en collaboration avec l'Association des commerçants de Marigot, débutera le vendredi 08 février prochain, et s'achèvera le vendredi 26 avril 2013. Cette manifestation, qui durera de 17h à 22h, portera essentiellement sur des animations ludiques et culturelles, ventes artisanales, etc. En cas d'intempérie, elle sera reportée sur les deux prochains vendredis du mois de mai.
A cette occasion, le Boulevard de France, au niveau du restaurant « La Vie en Rose » et jusqu'au rond-point du restaurant « Mini Club », sera fermé à la circulation de 18h à 22h30, du vendredi 15 février 2013 au vendredi 26 avril 2013. L'ensemble de cette zone sera transformée en rue piétonne.
A ce titre,

  • l'ensemble des aires de parkings mentionnées ci-dessus sont exclusivement réservé aux organisateurs au fur et à mesure qu'ils se libèrent ;
  • la rue de l'embarcadère sera à double sens dès 18h. Le stationnement sur cette voie n'est pas autorisé ;
  • la portion de rue donnant dos au Marché alimentaire (côté mer), sera maintenue ouverte à la circulation durant la manifestation ;
  • la petite rue située entre la station de taxis et les restaurants locaux sera fermée à la circulation automobile ;
  • la portion de la rue Felix Eboué sise entre les restaurant « Le Bar de la mer » et « L'Arhawak » sera fermée à la circulation automobile, jusqu'à l'intersection de la rue de la Liberté ;
  • tout véhicule stationné dans les zones interdites mentionnées ci-dessus sera enlevé par la fourrière au frais du contrevenant.

deadwomanring05022013Dans le cadre d'une enquête de découverte de cadavre diligentée par la brigade de recherches de Saint Martin, la gendarmerie lance un appel à témoin afin d'identifier la victime probablement de sexe féminin.
Les photographies de la bague portée sur un doigt de la main gauche de la victime au moment de sa découverte, sont le seul élément d'identification dont disposent les enquêteurs.
Toute personne susceptible d'apporter des éléments permettant d'identifier la victime, est invitée à prendre contact avec les enquêteurs de la brigade de recherches de Saint Martin au 0590 52 30 16.

Le 21 janvier 2013, la gendarmerie est informée d'une série de vols commis dans un entrepôt de la société « Chronopost » à Hope-Estate. Le préjudice subit par la société est estimé à plus de 12000 euros de marchandises, principalement composée d'appareils numériques.
Une plainte est déposée par le gérant de la société et l'enquête est confiée à la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin. Les investigations menées par les enquêteurs, permettent d'orienter rapidement les soupçons sur deux des employés, qui agissent depuis plusieurs semaines. Ces derniers, particulièrement attirés par les tablettes multimédias et les téléphones mobiles, remplaçaient la marchandise volée par des objets sans valeur avant de remettre les colis dans le circuit.
Le 31 janvier, les deux hommes, âgés de 20 et 39 ans, sont interpellés sur leur lieu de travail et placés en garde à vue à la brigade de gendarmerie de Marigot.
A l'issue, ils sont convoqués le 18 avril 2013 devant le tribunal correctionnel de Saint-Martin pour répondre de vols en réunion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Je vous remercie.
Jules Charville,
Conseiller Territorial

alainrichardsonmeetswithdgibbsandlconstantfleming21012013Le Parlement a décidé d'injecter 20 milliards d'euros dans l'économie, en réduisant de manière significative le coût du travail pour les entreprises. Toutefois, compte tenu de la compétence fiscale dont est dotée la Collectivité de Saint-Martin, les entreprises saint-martinoises sont exclues de ce dispositif. Le Président Richardson a donc décidé de saisir le ministre des Outre-mer, Victorin Lurel sur cette exclusion injustifiée des entreprises saint-martinoises du bénéfice de ce dispositif.

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

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

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

alainrichardsonandramonaconnorvisitjoaniceleopoldillidge21012013La semaine dernière, le Président de la Collectivité, Alain Richardson, et la vice-présidente chargée du pôle solidarité et famille, se sont rendus à Quartier d'Orléans afin d'assister au 103e anniversaire de Joanice Leopold « Joanas » Illidge. Né le 18 janvier 1910 à Saint-Martin, ce senior n'est portant pas le doyen de Quartier d'Orléans, puisque Delphine Aliette Hyman soufflera ses 104 bougies en septembre prochain.
Monsieur ILLIDGE est pris en charge par l'Allocation Personnalisée de l'Autonomie APA, dans le cadre de la politique du maintien à domicile des personnes âgée de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Le pôle Solidarité et Famille accompagne les personnes âgées, notamment via le maintien à domicile, une des réponses les plus adaptées aux besoins des seniors. Ce dispositif permet en effet à ces derniers de rester dans leur environnement familial, ce qui maintient leur équilibre physique et psychologique.
Le Président Richardson et la vice-présidente Connor ont ensuite remis à Monsieur Illidge des cadeaux, dans une ambiance chaleureuse et conviviale forte en émotions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Le 05 janvier 2013, à 22h00, un automobiliste, refusant d'obtempérer, fait demi-tour à la vued'un poste de contrôle mis en place par la compagnie de gendarmerie de St-Martin à hauteur ducarrefour giratoire de l'office de tourisme à Marigot.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

alainrichardson14062012Je souhaite en cette nouvelle année adresser à l'ensemble de la population de Saint-Martin, mes meilleurs vœux de santé, de paix, de courage et de prospérité pour 2013. La santé, la paix et le courage nous seront nécessaires pour que tous ensemble, nous nous montrions responsables et combatifs afin que la prospérité soit de retour sur notre territoire et dans notre vie.
2012 a été marquée par de nombreuses élections dont les résultats ont modifié l'échiquier politique aux niveaux local et national. Pour rappel, notre équipe est en place depuis avril 2012, et je tiens une nouvelle fois à remercier celles et ceux qui nous ont accordés leur confiance, mais aussi à rassurer encore les autres de notre détermination à servir l'intérêt général pour le mieux-être de tous les habitants de Saint-Martin.
La crise internationale n'est pas terminée et ses conséquences néfastes sur notre quotidien continuent de s'imposer ; nous avons donc dû nous adapter et mobiliser les énergies pour faire face à ce contexte que désormais nous refusons de subir. En outre, en 2012 compte tenu de la situation financière et budgétaire catastrophique dont notre équipe a hérité, il était indispensable pour que la confiance dans notre collectivité soit regagnée que nous focalisions tous nos efforts et toute notre énergie au rétablissement des comptes de la COM (équilibre budgétaire, paiement des dettes, rééchelonnement de certains emprunts, emprunts nouveaux de restructuration, ...). Il me plait d'affirmer que ces premiers mois de gestion rigoureuse, de lobbying, mais aussi d'une méthode fondée sur un langage de vérité et une volonté de traiter les causes structurelles des difficultés de notre collectivité, même si les solutions peuvent être des fois impopulaires, ont commencé à porter des premiers résultats positifs et tangibles : aujourd'hui l'Etat ainsi que des prêteurs privés nous font confiance.
• Dans le cadre de l'accompagnement de l'Etat, un protocole d'accompagnement financier a été signé en décembre entre le Préfet représentant l'Etat et moi-même Président de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Il a ouvert la voie au versement à la COM d'une avance de trésorerie de 18 M€ ainsi que l'octroi par l'AFD (Agence Française de Développement) d'un prêt de restructuration de 25 M€ versé en trois fois (15 M€ fin d'année 2012 ; 5 M€ en 2013 et 5 M€ en 2014).
• Avec la Caisse d'Epargne nous avons pu renégocier et restructurer nos emprunts et obtenir 3,5 M€ de prêt supplémentaire et une ligne de trésorerie de 5 M€.
Maintenant que le rétablissement de la situation financière et budgétaire de notre collectivité est sur de bons rails, que la crédibilité et la confiance sont de retour, l'heure a sonné en 2013 pour la bataille du développement économique et des actions en faveur de notre jeunesse.
C'est ainsi qu'en décembre dernier, le Conseil territorial a débattu des orientations budgétaires pour 2013, et nous avons fixé les priorités et les grands chantiers publics.
Les politiques et projets issus de ces orientations budgétaires sont tributaires de la poursuite d'une gestion rigueur de la dépense publique, d'une optimisation des recettes fiscales ainsi que de celles issues de la gestion du patrimoine de la COM, de l'indispensable lutte contre les abus et la fraude fiscale et sociale, mais aussi d' un accompagnement fort de l'Etat et d'une prise de conscience citoyenne de tous face aux obligations administratives et fiscales.
• Les grands axes du programme d'investissement et des politiques pour 2013 :
- L'achèvement et la mise en service de la médiathèque et des archives territoriales aux environs du mois de mars 2013. Il s'agit d'un projet d'envergure dont la réalisation est capitale dans le cadre de la valorisation de la Culture et de l'Education. La médiathèque a vocation à devenir le lieu incontournable de la connaissance à Saint-Martin, le rendez-vous du savoir et de la curiosité.
- Le lancement de la construction de la Cité Scolaire sous la forme d'un Bail Emphytéotique Administratif (BEA).
- La poursuite des travaux routiers, dont les phases 2 et 3 de la rue de Hollande et le prolongement de la route du Galion ; L'aménagement autour du Lagon de Grand Case par la création d'une voie d'accès à l'Aéroport ;
- L'aménagement du territoire est un thème central dans le cadre de l'amélioration de la circulation sur la partie française, et nous envisageons pour 2013 notamment :
+ Le lancement de la 3ème phase de l'aménagement de l'entrée de Marigot / vue de Saint James ;
+ Sur Grand-Case : l'aménagement et création de places de parkings et d'une place publique devant l'agence postale ; l'embellissement et l'aménagement du site « étang du cimetière de Grand Case » ;
+ Aménagement de la Baie de Cul-de-Sac.
- La poursuite de l'acquisition des terrains nécessaires au développement de l'aéroport, et l'aménagement de la nouvelle voie de contournement de la piste.
- La poursuite des opérations de Résorption de l'Habitat Insalubre (RHI) à Quartier d'Orléans.
- La poursuite des travaux de rénovation du lycée et des collèges avec un notamment le traitement des inondations au collège de Quartier d'Orléans et l'augmentation du nombre de classes au lycée pour la rentrée 2013.
- La poursuite de la rénovation des équipements sportifs.
- Le réaménagement du réseau d'eaux pluviales depuis la ravine de Spring jusqu'à l'étang de Galisbay en commençant par une première phase qui traitera la partie basse du réseau.
- La préparation de l'appel d'offres pour une assistance à maîtrise d'ouvrage (AMO) pour le lancement d'une délégation de service public (DSP) en 2014 pour le projet « Front de Mer ».
- La relance des études sur les projets routiers dans le cadre du Programme Opérationnel 2014-2020 : nouvelle liaison routière Grand-Case / Agrément, contournement de Marigot dont l'aménagement d'une voirie entre la médiathèque et la route de Spring ; etc... ).
- Le lancement des études pour la nouvelle Cité Administrative.
- Le lancement des études pour le déploiement du schéma directeur de l'aménagement numérique du territoire et le développement des nouvelles technologies de l'information et de la communication (NTIC), dont la modernisation de l'administration territoriale.
- Le lancement des études pour la construction de nouveaux équipements sociaux : nouvel EHPAD (maison de retraite) pour remplacer l'actuel bâtiment de Bethany Home, nouvelle structure polyvalente pour handicapés de moins de 25 ans (institut médico-éducatif, institut médico-professionnel), création d'une Maison Territoriale de l'Autonomie et d'une Maison Territoriale de l'Enfance.
- L'aménagement (qui passe par des acquisitions foncières) de la future zone de développement commercial et industriel de Galisbay-Bienvenue, avec notamment des réserves foncières pour la « e-zone » et la « free-zone » et pour le développement du port.
- Lancement de travaux et de politiques d'aménagement et de redynamisation de Marigot (gestion du stationnement et mise en place de parkings payants, mesures incitatives afin d'encourager les propriétaires à entretenir leurs façades et à rénover les locaux ; amélioration de la signalétique ; rénovation et réaménagement du marché touristique ; soutien aux animations et activités pour accroitre la fréquentation, etc..)
- Refonte du régime d'aides aux entreprises ; développement et soutien de dispositifs de financement de l'activité économiques (microcrédits et fonds de développement économiques, poursuite du financement du fonds de garantie des entreprises en partenariat avec l'Agence Française de Développement notamment),
- Soutien aux embauches des jeunes dans le cadre des emplois d'avenir notamment pour les secteurs non marchands (le monde associatif ainsi que les entreprises et associations d'insertion).
- En matière de tourisme : Poursuite de la modernisation des hébergements touristiques et de leur mise aux normes ; Mise en place des bases d'un observatoire du tourisme ; incitations pour l'augmentation de l'offre d'hébergement ;
L'année 2013 sera par ailleurs celle de la préparation avec l'appui de l'Etat d'un nouveau Programme Opérationnel pour 2014-2020 de fonds européens et des subventions complémentaires attendues de l'Etat.
Le budget total, fonctionnement et investissement confondus, devrait frôler pour 2013 les 115 M€ en crédits réels. Comme vous pouvez vous en rendre compte, la Collectivité prend ses responsabilités par les efforts qu'elle fait en matière de recettes et d'économies budgétaires. Pour 2013 les objectifs que la Collectivité s'est fixée sont nombreux, mais répondent aux demandes et besoins de l'ensemble de la population de notre territoire. Après une année 2012 mouvementée et exigeante, 2013 devrait nous permettre de travailler sereinement et à être beaucoup plus souvent sur le terrain à votre écoute.
• Rôle clé du secteur.
Soyons clairs, seule, la Collectivité ne pourra jamais répondre à l'exigence de création de richesse et de création d'activité et d'emplois. Le rôle et le partenariat avec le secteur privé sont incontournables et indispensables afin de fortifier notre tissu économique et social par la diversification de notre économie. Comme nous n'avons eu de cesse de l'affirmer lors de la campagne en 2012, la compétitivité et l'attractivité de notre territoire sont les moyens indispensables pour inciter, encourager et attirer l'investissement privé.
Dans les semaines à venir, le chantier menant à l'adoption du schéma de développement économique du territoire sera ouvert afin que soient identifiés et mis en place au plus tôt, tous les outils et leviers nécessaires et utiles notamment en matière de fiscalité attractive, de financement, de formation de la ressource humaine et de logistique pour rendre enfin le territoire de Saint-Martin attractif et compétitif. Je veux dire et redire à tous les porteurs de projets et à tous les investisseurs locaux et étrangers que Saint-Martin au-delà d'être la « friendly island » a l'ambition en 2013 de devenir « investor friendly » et que notre territoire est « open for business ».
Pour cela et dans la bataille pour l'attractivité et la compétitivité de notre territoire nous aurons besoin de trouver en l'Etat un partenaire capable de comprendre le contexte particulier et difficile dans lequel gravite notre collectivité et qui nous accompagne dans les domaines qui sont les siens (réglementation du travail ; niveau des charges sociales ; normes, réglementations et procédures administratives ; accès au financement ; sécurité ; etc...).
Mes chers compatriotes 2013 est une opportunité formidable pour que notre collectivité de Saint-Martin rebondisse plus forte, plus dynamique mais aussi plus solidaire et plus responsable. La tache est lourde mais exaltante, je vous invite donc avec les membres du Conseil Territorial à relever les défis de 2013 mais aussi à saisir toutes ses opportunités nouvelles.
Soyons tous Responsables, combatifs et généreux afin que 2013 soit conforme à nos espérances, à nos désirs mais surtout à tout ce pour quoi et vers quoi tous ensemble nous allons œuvrer. Que la confiance soit une valeur première qui unisse la Collectivité et ses citoyens.
Pour conclure, je vous réitère à titre personnel ainsi qu'au nom du Conseil territorial, tous nos vœux de santé, de paix, de courage et de prospérité. Bonne et heureuse à vous et à ceux qui vous sont chers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

sxmlionsclubdonatesfoodtolessfortunateonchristmasday30122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Lions Club recently served the community by their "Relieving Hunger project" when on Christmas Day itself the club went out and delivered warm meals, drinks, tarts, and gifts to many families all over the island. This volunteer activity occurred at St. Peters, South Reward, L.B. Scott road, Middle Region, Dutch Quarter, and French Quarter. Completion of the Lions club service project is a benefit to the community because it brought needed relieve on Christmas Day itself when many families on the island didn't have a meal to enjoy with their loved ones. The spirit of giving to mankind was especially uplifted when on Christmas Day itself we visited the families of those less fortunate in our midst.

According to Lion Claudio Buncamper, Club President of the St. Maarten Lions Club, "Money raised at our Christmas Bingo will allow Lions to meet pressing needs in our community including serving the needs of the many persons in need of vision care, educational needs, health needs and the development of young person's just to mention a few. Lion's members thank everyone who contributed to this important work. You are truly helping Lions make a difference in our community."

The St. Maarten Lions Club has 52 members and meets on every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month at the Lions Civic Center in Sucker Garden. Lions clubs are a group of men and women who identify needs within the community and work together to fulfill those needs.

Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service club organization with more than 1.3 million members in approximately 45,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the world. Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired and made a strong commitment to community service and serving youth throughout the world. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit the website at www.lionsclubs.org.

mirandarichardsonandwallyhavertong30122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The general public of St. Maarten came out in large numbers to play and win prizes for the Christmas Season. "It seems that postponing this year's Lions Annual Christmas Bingo Spectacular from December 7th to 21st due to inclement weather was for the better," said Lion Past District Governor Lion Wally Havertong.

If one would go by the total number of 2000 chairs put out by the Lions which were all occupied and with some persons sitting on the various concrete benches it can easily be said that a record number of over 2000 persons played Bingo with the Lions this year.

Changing the venue using the Festival Village for the first time also proved to be a necessity and quite an improvement. And most of all the skies were blue and the rain stayed away for practically the entire night with only a brief rain which did not disturb the bingo players.

This year the Lions increased the number of overloaded baskets from 35 to 50 baskets with 40 consolation baskets containing a ham each. Airline tickets were donated by Winair to St. Kitts, Tortola, The Dominican Republic, and anywhere Winair flies. Tickets were also donated by Insel Air to the The Dominican Republic and a return ticket on Air France to anywhere in Europe also added to the excitement among the Bingo players. The main prize of Santa's Bag which was $1000 cash was won by local school teacher Miranda Richardson who of course was overwhelmed with her win.

The persons attending this year's bingo were satisfied with the new venue and the way the bingo games went. One obstacle which was an oversight by the Lions was insufficient lighting underneath the tents. This definitely will be looked at next year and the Lions apologize for that oversight and will look at ways of improving the bingo for next year.

The Lions would like to express their thanks to the various businesses, companies, airlines and individuals who made donations to make this year's Lions Bingo once again the success it turned out to be. The club would also like to thank the 2000 plus bingo players who played bingo and also contributed to this great success.

Lion President Claudio Buncamper said, "The St, Maarten Lions Club will now be able to finance several projects which they have in store to be carried out starting at the beginning of 2014. The club would also like to wish the community of Sint Maarten a Blessed, Prosperous and Healthy 2014," concluded Lion President Claudio Buncamper.

ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius:--- Thieves broke into the FirstCaribbean Bank in St. Eustatius over the weekend but left empty handed when their attempts to break open the safe with the monies failed.

Communications Officer of the Police Department of the BES Islands Carol-Ann Soliano confirmed to SMN News that police is busy investigating the break in. Soliano said police were called to the scene Monday morning when personnel of the bank went to work and noticed that the bank was broken into sometime between Friday afternoon and Monday morning.

Soliano said the Forensic Department has gathered some information that may lead them to the culprits. She further confirmed that while the FirstCaribbean Bank was broken into, the thieves did not succeed in opening the safe. The investigation is ongoing.

Burglary bank

Over the weekend the FirstCaribbean Bank situated at the Adam de Veerweg has been burglarized. Unknowns broke into the bank through the roof. They did not manage to get into the vault of the bank. The bank was closed at the normal time on Friday and there was no security present during the weekend. Forensic investigation came up with some leads but the case is still under investigation.

Contact with the Dutch Caribbean Police Force

Useful telephone numbers, when do you call which number?
When every second counts emergency number 911 (free)
If you want to give a tip (anonymous): tipline (+ 599) 717 7251

The police station on your island, if there is no emergency:
Bonaire (+599) 715 8000 of 717 8000
Saba (+599) 416 3737
St. Eustatius (+599) 318 2333

KPCN Press Release

mjohnsonjmillsandjwoolford08052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Court of Appeals overturned the verdicts the Court of First Instance pronounced on May 8th, 2013 in the Ocean murder trial and gave a new decision on December 30th, 2013. The proceeding was delayed for over one hour because the court translator did not show up for the session. Relatives of the victims who traveled from the USA and the relatives of the suspects seemed impatient as they waited on the translator who told the court when she was called to duty that she needed at least one hour to get dressed.

The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson was found guilty on all six charges ranging from the robbery committed at Happy Star Restaurant on the night of September 19th, 2013 to the robbery and brutal murder of Michael and Thelma King and the laundering of the monies and goods stolen from the two places. The panel comprised of three judges also found that Johnson who is a former security guard guilty of the premeditated murder of both Michael and Thelma King. The court found the statements given by Johnson when he was questioned by police to be credible even though he claimed both in the Court of First Instance and during the appeal hearing that he cannot remember the events of that fatal night. They also found that even though Johnson might have some mental or other problems, he is fully responsible for the crimes he committed.

The Court of Appeals threw out the life sentence imposed on Johnson by the lower court and sentenced him to 30 years imprisonment for the gruesome crimes he committed considering that he is a first time offender and that he is just 30 years old. The time spent in pre-trial detention will also be deducted from the 30 year sentence imposed. When the verdict was given, the brother of the late Michael King's jaw dropped as he was surely disappointed with the decision of the court.

Meyshane Kemar Johnson has two weeks in which to file an appeal with the Supreme Court in the Netherlands if he is not in favor of the decision rendered on Monday. Relatives of Johnson who was present at the hearing indicated to SMN News that they will file an appeal as soon as possible because the prosecution made too many mistakes when handling the case.

The arguments presented by Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks during the appeal hearing were thrown out. Brooks had asked the court to deem the third summons delivered to her client null and void and to deem the prosecution's case inadmissible. The prosecution issued three summons to Meyshane Kemar Johnson for him to appear in court on January 10th and 17th 2013. The Court of Appeals already threw out the first summons when the first appeal was filed. Johnson was seen leaving the courtroom with a huge smile on his face as he seemed more than content with the court's decision to overturn the life sentence that was imposed by the lower courts.

Woolford Acquitted on Both Murders --- 18 years behind bars.

The Court of Appeals also threw out the decision handed down by the Court of First Instance for Jamal Jefferson Woolford. Woolford was sentenced to 22 years behind bars for robbing the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant on September 19th and robbing the Kings while they were asleep in their Cupecoy villa. He was also found guilty by the lower court as an accomplice in the murder of the Kings.

The Court of Appeals found that the prosecution did not prove their case when they charged Woolford as an accomplice or collaborator in the murder of the Kings, therefore they acquitted him on both murder charges. Woolford was found guilty of robbing the Happy Star Restaurant under the threat of a gun (BB gun), robbing the Kings, holding Thelma King under duress and kidnapping her when he assisted in blindfolding and tying her to a chair, and the laundering of the monies and goods stolen.

They court also considered Woolford responsible for leaving Johnson in the apartment with the two victims even though he saw Johnson had a weapon and had cut Michael King's throat. Woolford was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for the crimes he committed. The time Woolford spent in pretrial detention will be deducted from his sentence. He also have a period of two weeks to submit an appeal to the Supreme Court if he does not agree with the decision rendered on Monday. The court found that Woolford is anti-social and is dependent (addicted) to drugs and alcohol.

Jeremiah Chevon Mills shows arrogance while leaving the Court Room.

Jeremiah Chevon Mills, a troubled teenager who has had problems with the law prior to being convicted for the Kings murder, seems not to care and showed no respect to the court or to the family of the Kings who were in the court room on Monday. Mills who was on probation at the time of the Kings' murder slammed the door of the courtroom with his fist as he was led out of court. When the judge was reading the decision rendered by the Court of Appeals, twice he made remarks such as you mixed things up. At one point, the judge who was reading out the decision had to tell Mills she is reading what is written in the decision taken by the Court of Appeals.

The Court of Appeals acquitted Mills for the murder of Thelma King since both Johnson and Woolford told investigators while in pre-trial detention that Mills and Woolford had left the building when they finished tying Thelma King to a chair. The court found Mills guilty as an accomplice of the murder of Michael King since he was in close proximity of Johnson when he cut Michael's throat and he also gave Johnson the second knife that was used to stab Michael King multiple times.

They both told the court they tied and blindfolded Thelma King because wanted to escape from the scene easily. However, the Court of Appeals found Jeremiah Chevon Mills guilty of five of the six charges. He was found guilty as an accomplice to the murder of Michael King because he is the one that placed a fire extinguisher on chair to hit Michael King if it was necessary. Mills also assisted Johnson by giving him a second knife from the kitchen when the first knife broke in Michael's body. He was also found guilty of robbing the Kings, robbing Happy Star Restaurant under threat, holding Thelma King under duress and kidnapping her when he assisted in blindfolding her and tying her to a chair, and the laundering of the monies and goods stolen from both places.
He was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment, time spent in pre-trial detention will be deducted from his sentence. Mills has two weeks to submit an appeal to the Supreme Court if he is not in favor of the decision rendered on Monday. The Court of Appeals also took into consideration that Mills was convicted for theft and extortion prior to this crime, he is dependent (addicted) to drugs, ecstasy, and alcohol, and he also has an anti-social behavior based on the psychologist's report.

His mother already indicated that she will follow through and file an appeal with the Supreme Court because her son was a minor when he committed the crimes on September 19th, 2013.

While it appears as though these three suspects were given harsh punishment, both Johnson and Woolford could benefit from the one third deduction granted to foreigners that are convicted while they could also get reduced time from their sentences for good behavior and if they work while in prison.

tacostein11032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Court of Appeals granted the prosecution their request to arrest Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge to question and if necessary prosecute him in the ORCA (Bada Bing) investigation. Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein presented his arguments to the Court of Appeals on December 17th, 2013 in a closed door session.

Stein confirmed to SMN News on Monday that he received the decision from the Court of Appeals on Monday and that it was in favor of the prosecution. Stein did not divulge any more information on how the prosecution intends to proceed with the case. When asked if they intend to invite the Member of Parliament to their office and then place him under arrest as they did with Jaap van den Heuvel or if detectives will show up at Illidge's Pointe Blanche home and arrest him sometime soon. Stein said the media will know in due time but those details will be discussed with the team on December 31st, 2013.

SMN News learnt that some of the charges against MP Illidge are possession of an illegal firearm, money laundering, bribery, and being part of a criminal organization. This could not be confirmed by the Attorney General or the Prosecutor's Office.

It should be noted that when the investigators searched the home of MP Illidge they found an illegal firearm inside his house while another illegal firearm was found in an apartment he is renting out. It is further understood that while MP Illidge has the right as a former Minister of the Netherlands Antilles to be in possession of a firearm for up to four years after leaving office. The firearm found inside of Illidge's home was bought from someone that was bringing in firearms through the A.C. Wathey Harbour and not in Curacao as is laid down in the law.

SMN News learnt that MP Patrick Illidge is currently off island on holidays and is expected to be back on St. Maarten by mid January.

dpgeneralmembershipmeeting29122013To Hold Educational and Informative Sessions For Young Guard of the Party, Emphasizing Selfless Service to the People of St. Maarten

GREAT BAY:--- The Democratic Party of St. Maarten held various activities over the past months, rallying its support for a renewed and reinvigorated DP, which culminated in a General Membership Meeting held on Sunday, December 15th.

Close to two hundred members of the party, ranging from sixteen to eighty years old, held a boisterous and upbeat meeting at Sonesta Great Bay, where the vision for the DP moving into the 2014 Elections, was laid out. Various brainstorming sessions and exchanges were held, outlining the direction of the party and what its leadership, headed by Party leader, Sarah Wescot-Williams, will be championing as part of its vision for the people of St. Maarten.

During the workshop, brainstorming sessions were held on how to move the Party forward into a new era and how to effectively address the needs of our diverse nation.

External experts and those of the Party in areas of Party Philosophy, Economic and Social Agendas, Campaigning and Candidate Nomination, Party Organization and Membership, and Sustainable Development, held in-depth discussions, the results of which will form a central part of the DP's 2014 Party Program.

The leader of the Democratic Party, Prime Minister, Sarah Wescot-Williams during her remarks stated that the Party, which will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2014, needs to refocus and move away from the usual political rhetoric of campaign promises that cannot be fulfilled.

What do we mean with redefining and refining the Democratic Party of St. Maarten? Redefining means to look at certain things in a new and different way and refining means refining the stronger points that we traditionally have had and make them actual for today," stated the DP Leader.

She continued by stating the importance of where the Democratic Party currently stands. "Where we stand today as a political party and a country is extremely important because of the fact that 2014 is a pivotal year for the country and the party. 2014 will mark 60 years of the existence of the Democratic Party of St. Maarten, twenty of which I have been at its helm. 2014 will also see the elections for the second Parliament of the country of St. Maarten. The DP is poised to be the first one to move out of the "starting gates" going into 2014 with a clear vision.

The DP Leader commented that it is her wish to see the DP being the first political party to move out of the gate with new ideas and new approaches, "not only with regard to the election but also with regard to how we govern the country which we love so much. I want the Democratic Party to be the year-round party in tune with the people; one, which people will ask to be affiliated with. And for this to become a reality, a lot of serious work needs to be done," continued Sarah Wescot-Williams.

The DP Leader also mentioned that the Party went into the 2010 election with its share of challenges; "We had our challenges in the 2010 elections, but as far as I am concerned we have lamented enough. It is time to move on and to truly mean something for all of the people of St. Maarten.

For the next election we are not going for quantity but we are going for quality as we chart the way forward. Stability, knowledge, and a realistic hopefulness will be key themes." The general membership meeting has given the Party the mandate to amend the articles of incorporation to reflect these views of the party membership.

"We have also heard passionate presentations from the Party's young people to address the issues which they find important. Therefore I believe that we have to pick up the proposals of the young people and move forward to re-establish the Party's Political Youth Forum, to educate young people about politics and the political system, and also to encourage young people to vote in order to combat the global phenomenon of voters' apathy," concluded the DP Leader .

The Democratic Party will be holding various seminars on political topics including electoral reform, governance, as well as sustainable development and other topics geared towards especially the young guard of the party;

"Saying that you have young people on your list but not educating and informing them of the way forward in the interest of St. Maarten and its people will only result in seeing the same irresponsible actions that we have seen within and outside of political parties."

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that we should look towards the future with the highest of expectations. The recent past which is the year 2013 has been an extremely challenging one in all aspects and to go into details will turn this article into a book. What the Member of Parliament is encouraging us all to do in 2014 is to be consistent, committed, and dedicated to building this beautiful country of ours called St. Maarten in a constructive and united way. To earnestly work towards ensuring true equality and justice for all, he is calling on those who have come here and made this country their home not to see or treat St. Maarten as a transition place where you just come to make money and then leave but treat this beautiful country as your home. This will have a tremendous and positive impact on this country and its people. The pendulum has swung where you have outnumbered the indigenous people of this country and are impacting our culture in real and notable way. He is calling on the indigenous St. Maarten people to maintain the culture that has made us great, friendly, accommodating, hardworking, and ambitious. He is calling on the Netherlands the European part to let us in the Caribbean part truly experience what is mentioned in Article 1 of the Kingdom Charter which says the Kingdom of the Netherlands consists of the Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten. In other words the Kingdom is not just the Netherlands the European part but all the other three countries mentioned in the Charter namely, Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten. The future of this country St. Maarten, its development socially and economically should be determined by its people without outside interference unless it is cooperation that is requested and needed to make it a stronger country. 2014 should be a year of progress where we must ensure that there is proper planning. I take this quote from someone who says that proper planning prevents poor performance. If you fail to plan properly you are planning to fail. We are not allowed to fail in 2014 because too many of us depend on each one of us to take care of all of us. We should all benefit from this country called St. Maarten. This is a quote from the late great freedom fighter Nelson Mandela and I quote; "It was not lack of ability that limited my people but lack of opportunity" end of quote. In closing my wife Augustine and I want to wish the people of St. Maarten a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year filled with God's Blessings. And remember the future is as bright as the promises of God. Happy New Year!

kpsmcelebrateschristmaswithfosterkids29122013SIMPSON BAY:--- On Thursday December 26th, 2013 (Boxing Day), a Christmas fun day and lunch was organized by the Stand By Me Foundation (Police Force of Sint Maarten), Reclassering (Aftercare Services) represented by Merdith Concincion, and representatives of the four foster homes on the island, namely Debby Gibbs of the "I Can Foundation", Ava Williams of the "Crystal Home", Antonia Hodge of the "Hope Outreach", and Sally Benjamin of the "New Start for Children". The fun day was held at the Simpson Bay Community Center from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
This initiative was taken by the organizers to give these less fortunate children the opportunity to come together, to play games, to dance, to receive gifts, to have lunch and to celebrate Christmas to the fullest just like every child living in this society should. This day was surely very successful and full of enjoyment.
The Police Department was represented by: Officers Veta Euson, Fabiola Brown, Jacoline Dittewig, Celisha Arrundell, Bert Kremer, Sherwin Maccow, Felix Richards (C.P.O.), Rensley Henson (CPO), Alfred Leito, Janine Rijna Muller, and Inspector Ricardo Henson and assisted by Marquita Euson, Jiana Arthur, Sylvina Mathurin, Kamila Gumbs, Ashani Richardson, and Sophonie Emogene.
The organizing committee is sending sincere words of gratitude to the following sponsors:
Thelston Thomas (Front Line Barber Shop), Music Man, Radio Shack, Klass Electronics, Classic Electronics, Le Grande Marche, Pineapple Pete's, Prime Distributors, Danny's Electronics & Home Appliances, Super Plaza, Keep on Rolling Restaurant, Penny's Department Store, Halley's Aviation, Recherché Samenwerkings Team (RST), Public Prosecutor's Office, Royal Marechausse, Immigration and Princess Juliana International Airport employees, the management of the Simpson Bay Community Center, and the colleagues of the Korps Politie Sint Maarten.
The event would not have been possible without the sponsorship of the businesses and organizations.

KPSM Press Release

CUPECOY:--- On Friday December 27th, 2013 at approximately 11:50pm, a Simpson Bay police patrol was sent to an address in Porto Cupecoy to investigate a case where an infant had become seriously ill. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the Canadian parents of the victim who were busy with mouth to mouth reanimation of the infant. They stated that their five month old baby girl was suffering from a lung infection and had been prescribed medication. The infant was well throughout the day and evening. She was fed before she was put to bed earlier in the evening and everything was fine. A little later when the mother went to check on the child, she was not showing any signs of life. The police was immediately informed of the situation. The paramedics arrived shortly after and continued with the reanimation of the infant and transported her to the Sint Maarten Medical Center in an attempt to save her life. At the medical center the infant was attended to by three doctors but they were unsuccessful in saving the infant's life. The infant died as a result of her illness.
Deepest sympathy goes out on behalf of the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) to the family of the victim.

KPSM Police Report

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Saturday December 28th, 2013 at approximately 7:35am, a report come into the Simpson Bay Police Station stating that a woman had committed suicide by hanging at an address on the Old Simpson Bay road. A police patrol was immediately sent to the scene where they located the lifeless body of a 33 year old Canadian lady hanging by her neck from a tree at the back of the yard at the address in question. According to two witnesses, the victim was having some emotional problems with her boyfriend. They suspected she had been drinking and had been using other drugs. The victim was last seen by the witnesses the evening before. They also suspected she had gone to work and had stayed out late. However, in the morning she was found in that condition. Personnel from the Detective Department and Forensic Department were on the scene collecting evidence. The investigation up to this point has shown that foul play is not a factor.

KPSM Police Report

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says he is looking forward to the start in January 2014 of a new cruise development for the Down Street community in the vicinity of the Walter Plantz Tender Pier.

The new cruise development entails the construction of approximately six booths that will provide various types of products and services to cruise passengers who disembark the tenders at the Walter Plantz Pier. The center of the development will have a water fountain. There will be toilet facilities and the development will be accessible to seniors and the disabled.

Construction is scheduled to start in January and should take approximately two to three months.

The country's newly formed Down Street Business/Community Association met with Minister Lake and St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies early December where the plans were presented to the community organization.

The organization area of focus within their community is from L'Escargot to the old Paper Garden.

The community council's spokesperson at the meeting was June Peters, Vice President. Peters was also supported by Wilfred Evertz (board member of Christmas activities), Greg Arrindell (PR), and Miguel de Weever (liaison government matters).

During the early December meeting, Peters spoke about the challenges being faced by businesses and homeowners in the area; settlement of water from different buildings/businesses; boulders in the alleys; cleaning of the alleys; tree stomps that pose challenges for pedestrians; palm tree grills/mats; safety and security challenges.

In the meeting also included representatives of the Minister's Cabinet and Ministry VROMI, Mark Mingo, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies, Hector Peters, a representative from the Harbour Group.

"The new cruise development for Down Street will enhance the area and bring life to Down Street. We need to get back to basics and start showcasing the cultural heritage of our country, the food, drinks, arts and crafts and folkloric dance for residents and visitors to enjoy. This is also one of the reasons why tourists come to our island to learn about the heritage.

"The development by the harbor group of companies is part of the process to rehabilitate the area and bring life back into this part of Philipsburg where families can come out and enjoy our heritage. By putting a plan in place with the help of all stakeholders, the harbor group and the Down Street Business and Community Council, this will be a win-win for Down Street. This is a perfect way to start the New Year 2014," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Port of St. Maarten CEO Mark Mingo during the meeting stated that Philipsburg and surrounding environs are all part of the harbor community, and that it is in the interests of the port and the destination as a premier cruise mecca to help the Down Street community become the cultural heartbeat of the nation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- It is never easy to identify people and acknowledge them for the work they have done over the years in any society. This year (2013) it was even more difficult because it was a challenging year for St. Maarten, when the people of this great nation had to accept three cabinets in one governing period.

It was also the year when the Dutch decided to order the Governor to conduct an investigation on integrity within government. It's the year when a politician was seen taking monies from a strip club owner and that placed St. Maarten on the frontline in every part of the world. While all the topics above were in the news almost every day both on St. Maarten and the Netherlands, we at SMN News chose to recognize the people who have taken their time to provide assistance and awareness to the people of St. Maarten. This is what nation building is about. It's about the people that chose to come together and work for the good of their country.

While we have not changed the criteria for selecting people, we chose to focus on some positive things that have been happening on St. Maarten while the persons that are working behind the scenes are not usually recognized by anyone for their hard work. For 2013, two outstanding women of this country were selected and while it is coming as a surprise for the number one candidate, she deserves to be recognized because what she has been doing since 1996 is providing a home for less fortunate children.

Persons of the Year 2013.

cassandragibbs28122013The first candidate that was selected by SMN News for the persons of the year recognition is none other than Cassandra "Debby" Gibbs. We are sure that some politicians and children know Debby by name and nature and some know that she is the founder of the I CAN FOUNDATION situated in Dutch Quarter, yet they choose to give her a hard time even though she is providing shelter and care for the future generation of this country. When speaking to Debby on how she started I CAN Foundation and what motivated her, some would get chills or what we call "goose bumps". According to Debby, she decided to establish I CAN Foundation in 1996 "post Luis Hurricane" when she was informed by neighbors that a woman and a baby were living under a tree behind her house.

Debby said at the time she was a school bus driver and already her heart was aching in the mornings when she picked up children to take them to school. "The parents of many children did not realize how much their children were suffering after the passing of Hurricane Luis. These parents were focusing on their material loss and trying to rebuild their lives while they forgot that the children were also victims of the category five monster that swept through St. Maarten on September 5th, 1995. When I looked at the children I was taking to school I saw the disarray and I also saw they too were suffering."

However, when she saw the woman whom she said was addicted to drugs with a baby boy living under a tree because the wooden shack she was living in got destroyed by Hurricane Luis that is when it struck her and she felt that something needed to be done. Debby said she went to the woman and she told her that she could not live under a tree with a baby and the woman moved into a bathroom. "Can you imagine the woman went to live in a bathroom? So I took it on my own and went to the Court of Guardianship and informed them of the situation because the woman was not only living in a bathroom but she was addicted to crack. At that time there were no children's home on St. Maarten and children that are placed in protective custody were sent to Curacao. The people at the Court of Guardianship took my complaint and they listened to my concerns, they even visited the bathroom where the woman and her baby were staying and when I asked them what they were going to do for the woman, they told me it was bathroom but the place was kept clean. I insisted that something be done because, however you look at it the woman was living a bathroom with a baby. Instead of helping this family, the woman and her child were picked up by immigration and they deported her to her country."

Debby said that was too much for her so she established the I CAN FOUNDATION and informed the Court of Guardianship that St. Maarten now has a home. "The Court of Guardianship was happy that I created this home because it was costly for them to send children that were removed from their homes to Curacao. The Court of Guardianship then placed the first two children at the I CAN Home, which was her home that she turned to a home for displaced children. The first two children she said were a brother and sister and they were already teenagers. Over the years, Debby who is managing the I CAN FOUNDATION with the help of nine workers helped and sheltered many children on St. Maarten from both sides of the island. Debby further explained that while she cares for so many children through the "safe haven" she created she still has serious problems getting proper funding. She even explained that Queen Beatrix visited the I CAN Foundation shortly after the home burnt down and she rebuilt the home. "The Queen assured me that the Netherlands would assist and they did by providing Naf. 400,000.00 to furnish the home, but a former employee stole that money. Debby said to date she did not get back all the money from USONA or the company that got the monies for the furniture but she still has hope because the judicial system is involved in the case. Besides that, the Court of Guardianship provides subsidy for each child that is placed at the I CAN FOUNDATION.

Another painful aspect for Debby is when the children are removed from I CAN FOUNDATION and placed in other homes that were created after I CAN FOUNDATION. "Teenagers are being removed even though the Articles of Incorporation for I CAN FOUNDATION clearly states that the home can accommodate children from 0-18 years old. She said several children that left the I CAN end up in criminal activities, some get pregnant way before they are 18 and some just get lost. She said a few years ago a particular social worker was the decision maker when it came to moving children but a lot has improved in recent months. The SJIB and the Court of Guardianship have structured things much better, there are more social workers and the owners of the other homes are now working together in order to provide better care for under age children that are displaced on St. Maarten.

SMN News wants to commend Debby for her determination and the effort she has placed in children; the love and care she provides for them while they are in her care and we are also encouraging her to stay focused and not be discouraged by those that do not see the need to bond with the children they care for.

keomahamer28122013The second candidate that has been selected is a young woman who is doing the best she can to bring awareness to women on cervical cancer. When most people hear the word "cancer" they immediately start thinking about death instead of seeking the right type of treatment and to fight cancer stress free. However, Keoma Latoya Hamer who lost her mother to cervical cancer on October 2nd, 2011 decided to bring about a change in the way women think by creating the KeLaHa Projects Foundation. As you can see, the name of the foundation comes from her name in memory of her late mother. Her favorite quote is "You have the Power to create Change. Why wait for it?" Keoma is an employee of the FirstCaribbean International Bank "CIBC" where she works as a customer care officer, she was born in Guyana but has been living in St. Maarten since she was 9 years old.
Keoma Hamer, a former student of the Methodist Agogic Center (MAC) and St. Maarten Academy, decided that nothing will stop her from bringing about change and creating awareness on one of the most deadly diseases to women. In getting to know Keoma, one would realize that she has a lot to give thanks for as she herself got very sick at age 19 and had to undergo two major surgeries to save her own life. During that period of illness her right lung collapsed and she was placed on life support. Therefore she gives thanks to her relatives for who supported her through recovery and the experience has changed her views on life itself.

"Though for as long as I can remember I've had an extra interest in wanting to help people, my personal experience of being ill confirmed even more my need of wanting to assist in improving others lifestyle and creating positive change. Over the years I've noted various ideas and even initiated a few projects but unfortunately neither of them reached to the point of actual materialization. My mother was diagnosed with stage 3B Cervical Cancer on September 13th, 2010 at 47 years old. Six months after mommy's diagnosis, her cancer metastasized, another six months after she passed away at home on October 2, 2011 surrounded by her children, granddaughter, niece, and daughter-in-law. She was only 48 years old," Keoma said in an interview with SMN News.

Keoma said a few weeks after the passing of her mother she began researching cervical cancer; what causes it and the symptoms of this deadly disease. After gathering enough information, Keoma made a vow to share the information she got from her research in order to save other people from what she and her family went through after her mother was diagnosed and eventually died.

"Bearing in mind all that I wanted to do years before in terms of community work and now my current goal to bring about cervical cancer & HPV awareness, I drafted the objectives of the organization, recruited members for the board, and incorporated The KeLaHa Projects Foundation on March 28th, 2012.
The first and on-going project is the "Together We Fight-Together We Win" Cervical Cancer & HPV Awareness Program. One of the first things she wanted to do was to give insight into the lives of those who were affected by the disease. She wanted to highlight their and their families' initial reaction after being diagnosed along with the changes and challenges they faced and the way she thought this could have been best portrayed would have been through video. Through personal contacts. "I managed to gather a video production team in Guyana, Antigua, St. Maarten, and New York. In Antigua we found Camela Duncan who had survived Cervical Cancer, Rema Marks from St. Maarten who is currently in New York on treatment, and my mom who had passed. These women, their families and friends agreed to sit in front of our camera and shared their stories of hope, courage, and their battle with cervical cancer on our documentary "IN THEIR OWN WORDS". "IN THEIR OWN WORDS" was produced and directed by myself, the production team included Sunshade Media Productions of Antigua, Cani Films of St. Maarten, and Cally Speed and friends of New York; among many others Cally has worked as the Production Manager of Shed Media Group's Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City" and currently Production Manager at 51 Minds Entertainment Bravo's "Below Deck" Season Two (2)."

The goal Keoma and her team is aiming for is to end cervical cancer, which is a disease that affects women worldwide and is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths among women. Many of you may not know this but half a million women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, of that; more than quarter of a million die worldwide. Every year approximately 31,700 women in Latin America and the Caribbean die from cervical cancer; this region also has the highest burden of HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) in the Americas. So it's a cancer that can strike women everywhere and it strikes women during their most productive working years. This is the reason why people should be concerned about this type of cancer.

Keoma said from the moment they started the awareness program to the present, they have remained very fluid in the community with continued efforts to raise cervical cancer & HPV education and awareness. Though the organization has been funded by Keoma, several small community fundraising events have been held to assist in maintaining the programs as well as contributions from community members and corporate bodies. "We continue to host workshops throughout the year at various venues, such as youth groups, businesses, churches, as we believe awareness should be an ongoing process." They also supplement these events by conducting home and hospital visits to those who have reached out to them by making monetary or time donations, as well as other contributions in various areas of need.
KeLaHa has partnered with the Government of St. Maarten and The Healthy Caribbean Coalition a regional organization that focuses on chronic illness, as a participating NGO at the "Cancer and Aging, Collectively Improving Our Local Cancer Care and Responsibility" conference held in October, 2012 and the "Cervical Cancer Advocacy" workshop held in March 2013. Through these workshops they established relationships with various Caribbean Cancer organizations and have also become members of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition in Barbados, which is a civil society alliance to combat chronic diseases.

They have formed partnerships with various companies such as Sunshade Multi Media in Antigua, Cani Film, Gitridge Marketing, and Zamar Musical Productions all of St. Maarten. These companies have been working with us from inception and have fully dedicated their services to us thus far at absolutely no cost.

KeLaHa Projects is one of the supporting organizations of the first regional Cervical Cancer e-petition which aims to send a message to Caribbean Heads of Government to make Cervical Cancer screening more affordable for Caribbean women. They encourage readers to support them by signing the e-petition; connect to www.endcervicalcancernow.org and help make cervical cancer screening more affordable for Caribbean women.

Through unrelenting efforts to bring awareness of Cervical Cancer & HPV to the community, KeLaHa has positively Influenced legislation as the local government launched the HPV Vaccine for nine (9) and ten (10) year old girls in September 2013. This is a major accomplishment as leaders are beginning to see and understand why they do what they are doing. The efforts and awareness created by KeLaHa has exposed the seriousness of cervical cancer and the burden it continues to place on families as women are dying at alarming rates from a disease that is preventable.

In August 2013, they launched KeLaHa YOUTHS with a total of six members with intentions to expand its membership. This platform allows youths to engage other youths not only in the awareness of HPV and cervical cancer but to also in other community and self-enrichment programs.

The most immediate goal for the organization is the establishment of an office space where they will be able to operate full time and be even more available to community members. This will allow them to freely expand more programs locally and to other territories throughout the region and also facilitate work with various regional and international organizations and individuals. They also intend to start a program where they would be able to raise funds to assist uninsured women in paying for PAP Smears and HPV tests as well as initiate a counseling and support group program for cancer patients and their families.

While Keoma has been recognized for the work she initiated on the awareness of cervical cancer and HPV by other organizations overseas and here on St. Maarten, SMN News thought it fitting to also recognize Keoma for her bravery, her dedication and the way she chose to keep the memories of her mother alive.

To the two women selected this year by SMN News, Cassandra Debby Gibbs and Keoma Hamer, we want to congratulate you on your achievements and mostly for catching our attention as a news organization on St. Martin/St. Maarten.

tzuchifundraiserforphilippinestyphoonvictims27122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation gave Christmas shoppers an opportunity to donate some of their spending money to assist victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which wreaked havoc in the Philippines in November.

A total of US $1,504 was raised in two collection efforts held days before Christmas. In addition to what was raised, Wing, the husband of Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung, donated the US $348 he received as his birthday gift on December 20 to the Philippines relief bringing the total amount to go to the Yolanda victims to US $1,852.

On December 22, eight volunteers went on Front and Back Streets to solicit donations from shoppers and stores. The two and a half hour action (from 2:30pm to 5:00pm) netted US $1,062.

Shoppers, shop owners and staffers donated to the drive. Some shop owners said they had been waiting for Tzu Chi to visit them so that they can donate. Tzu Chi usually holds street collection drives to raise funds for disaster victims.

Some persons said they were happy to see Tzu Chi still trying to help one month after the devastating disaster. Tzu Chi also used the opportunity to hand out updated information about the disaster.

A similar drive was held outside Le Grand Marche supermarket on Bush Road on December 21. Nine volunteers participated in this fundraiser where US $442 was raised.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung thanked volunteers and all who supported the effort with their compassionate donations.

eendrachtinmarigot27122013MARIGOT:--- The first Sail Training Vessels of the season have arrived and several are sailing already again in the Caribbean.
The "Corwith Cramer" came through the Islands and is already in Puerto Rico, the "Frederick Chopin" is in Antigua and will come to St. Martin soon, and the "Eendracht" was a few days in Marigot and is actually sailing to Paramaribo, the Cayman Islands and later to the Dominican Republic before coming back to St.Martin in February.
The Roald Amundsen is sailing across the Atlantic from the Canary Islands to Marigot and will arrive in the next weeks.
The Dutch sail training vessel Wylde Swan (the largest two mast topsail schooner in the world) has arrived in Dominica and will be in St.Martin on January 15th.
The Norwegian Tall Ship Christian Radich which was in Great Bay last season is coming back also and will this time come to Galisbay in Marigot as from December 28th.
The Caribbean Sail Training Association who coordinates the visits of many of the Sail Training Vessels in the Caribbean has several other ships on the scheduled list for this season.
The CSTA will again organize "Open Ship" days as in the past years with the continuing cooperation of the Maritime School of the West Indies and some other sponsors, to offer the opportunity for the general public to visit some of the vessels while they are here.
They will also invite youngsters again to sail on some of the vessels for a day and for a week or two on some others during the ship's visits in the Caribbean Islands.
More information will be posted in www.CaribbeanSailTrainingAssociation.org in the beginning of the New Year and exact dates and other useful info will also be published in the press.

rotaractsxmsunrisepresentingaboxoffoodgoodstostartfoundationfosterhome27122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise provided over 200 plates of food to the less fortunate citizens of St. Maarten on December 26th 2013. The members went around delivering meals to citizens in the Sucker Garden, A.T. Illidge Road, Pond Island, Dutch Quarter, Philipsburg, St. Peters, Cay Hill, Cay Bay, Marigot and Agreement Districts. Other than food and drinks, the members distributed cupcakes and toys to the young children as well. The members of Rotaract Sunrise also presented three foster homes with big boxes filled with food goods sponsored by Telem Group of Companies. The members of the Rotaract Club have been doing this event for years as they believe that around Christmas time we should not only receive but give with a kind heart to those that are in need. The club would like to thank Mr. Russell Bell of "Elle si Belle" bus services for providing us with transportation to carry out this initiative and Telem Group of Companies.

swescotwilliamspresentstokensofappreciationtoelderly27122013PM: "Thank you for all that you have done contributing to our country"

BELVEDERE:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, supported by contributions from the Princess Juliana International Airport, presented gift vouchers to tenants at the Senior Citizen's Home in Belvedere on Christmas Eve. During her presentations the Prime Minister stated that it was her hope that the gifts, as tokens of appreciation for all the elderly have done for the country, will make the holiday season all the more special. "I try to make it especially to visit the elderly during the Christmas token. Although this is a small token of our appreciation I hope that it will contribute to making the Holiday Season a little more festive. Formally we would get together and celebrate but the feeling of gratitude to all of you, for the many years that you have put in for helping build St. Maarten, we are very grateful and we wish you God's blessing and all of the best for the upcoming year 2014," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

CUPE COY:--- The shopping experience in St. Maarten went up a few notches, with the recent official opening of the ultra-modern Blue Mall: touted as the largest shopping mall in St. Maarten and in the North-eastern Caribbean.

The exquisite Blue Mall features five spacious levels of commercial and business spaces and four levels containing 37 luxury one, two, and three-bedroom residential suites, most of which have already been sold.

Most of the stores in the first phase the project are already open and have been catering to shoppers for some months prior to the Mall's official gala opening on Saturday, December 14 witnessed by a cross section of the community including dignitaries from both sides of the island.

St. Maarten is renowned for its Duty free status and for being a shopping haven attracting consumers from neighbouring islands and all over the Caribbean. Blue Mall's expansive retail options with an eclectic mix of stores fit perfectly in the island's shopping status.

The wide selection of brands at the Mall, cater to every taste and suits just about any pocket. High end shoppers, for example, have a wide mix of options to choose from the list of world class brand on offer; while the economical bargain shopper would be able to select from the array of suitable treats in the facility. With a number of stores selling women, men's and children's apparel as well as items for the home – there is something for every member of the family at Blue Mall.

"The Mall caters to everyone and has something for everyone," says Luis Emilio Velutini, President of Fondo de Valores Immobiliarios (FVI), which runs Blue Mall. FVI was founded in 1992 in Caracas, Venezuela and specialises in the real estate and financial business – dedicated to invest, promote, and manage the rental of high-end commercial centers and office spaces.

Attractive brands at Blue Mall include Kiton, La Perla, Cortefiel, Bimba & Lola, Planeta Sports, Balu Accessories, Crocs, Swatch, Pylones, Villa Pizza, Yogen Fruz, Atypique, Nature's Best, Brioni, Opera (Salvatore Ferragamo, Dolce & Gabana, Borsalino, Hackett, Tumi, Cerruti, Coach, Fray, Lanvin, Adolfo Dominguez), Swarovski, Adidas, Zippy, Enjoy SXM, Bexclusive, Parrot's Deli Café, Wetzel's Pretzel's, Battlefield Sports, Bacchus, Paul and Shark, Dunhill, SuiteBlanco, Guess, Women's Secret, Desigual, Quiksilver, Everlast, Fashion & Chic, Avecolor, Shake n' Twist, Nature's Juice and the soon to be opened 7D Cinema.

The mix of brands, many of which are new to St. Maarten, also means that the scores of residents, who previously traveled off island to places such as Puerto Rico, Miami and New York to shop, can now do so a drive away, in the comfort of their homeland.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and President of the Collectivité of French St. Martin Aline Hanson acknowledged and lauded this benefit in remarks at the gala opening ceremony. The Prime Minister said Blue Mall has shown a lot of confidence and hope in the country.

An added treat for shoppers this holiday season, are the many specials on offer at many of the stores throughout the mall just in time of the Christmas season. Shoppers can take advantage of attractive discounts on gifts and personal items for themselves or for family and friends.

In addition to the shopping attractions; Blue Mall is shaping up as a place to see and be seen - a trendy meeting place where the entire family, friends or groups can come and relax in the afternoons and on weekends. There are plenty of seating facilities around eateries for families to enjoy an afternoon treat and laughs together.

Velutini's hope is that Blue Mall, with its wide mix and array of brands, options and amenities, breathes new life to the island.

Walking around the facility is a treat in itself. The panoramic view of the therapeutic sea and surrounding areas from inside the Mall is breathtaking. From the inside you get a bird's eye view of the facility from upper floors.

It is always an interesting treat to see what eye-catching vehicle(s) is on display on the lower level. Displays are done in collaboration with Motorworld and Caribbean Auto.

With 18 commercial escalators between floors (plus two residential escalators) and elevators to move from floor to floor, manouvering around the mall is easy and trouble free for customers including the physically challenged. The three main entrances to the Mall also include access for wheelchair bound shoppers.

Safety and security is a top priority for the Mall, which has ample security measures including Closed Circuit Television CCTV system which records around the clock and a security room where activities in the complex are monitored. Security personnel are also on the premises around the clock.

Blue Mall is located at 162 Rhine Road, Cupe Coy and is easily accessible from French St. Martin via Terres Basses. In Dutch St. Maarten, it is a few minutes' drive from SXM Airport (Princess Juliana International Airport). Telephone: +721 545-1824.

Get the 411 on what's happening at Blue Mall and on special offers by logging on to their social media: Twitter account @sxmbluemall and on Facebook page: Blue Mall SXM, website: www.bluemallsxm.com or their You Tube channel and Instagram.

mauricelakemeetswithcayhillcommunitycouncilboard27122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake prior to the holidays met with representatives of the Cay Hill Community Council.

Minister Lake said the meeting went well and that it was a follow-up meeting after the district walk-through that was done in November.

"I shared my vision and plan of action at a board meeting that I was invited to attend. The plans entail the upgrading and beautification of Cay Hill once the 2014 national budget is approved.

"The funds that have been allocated in the national budget include the repair of sidewalks and the drainage system. The plans include the upgrading of the basketball court for the young people in the district and to assist with the development of a community center in the district," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Community council board members pointed to the necessity of bus stops on the main road in Cay Hill especially for seniors in the district.

Minister Lake whose back to basics includes the improvement in the quality of life for senior citizens says that the aforementioned matter he would discuss with his colleague Minister of Transportation Hon. Ted Richardson about the matter.

Lake and the reps also discussed brighter street lights and abandoned car wrecks in the district; and residents parking on the side of the road instead of in their yards. The latter the council plans on addressing with residents.

"I am looking forward for the New Year to start upgrading and beautifying Cay Hill for the residents and young people. I also challenge the Community Council to continue to do their part and to organize educational and social events for the youths and residents of Cay Hill.

"The districts are the cornerstones of country Sint Maarten. If you don't have strong and healthy districts, this then reflects upon your economy with all the negatives such as crime, neglect and no pride.

"My back to basics approach is all about community and district improvement and the quality of life of all our people. We have to start at the bottom and move up.

"I would like to take this opportunity to commend Community Police Officer Henson for doing a great job in his district where law and order is concerned and working closely with his community in order to accomplish positive things," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Urges Community to Keep Those Affected in Prayers

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams expressed her support and condolences to the residents of St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Dominica who may have been affected by the deadly floods which struck those countries during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. To the residents of our Caribbean Neighbors and the victims, their friends and families I would like to extend my condolences and the support of the people of St. Maarten on the tragedy that you have faced over the last two days. In my Christmas address I urged for people to consider the less fortunate and I again would like to reiterate that we should all keep those affected and those who have lost during the storms in our thoughts and our prayers," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication Hon. Ted Richardson has approved by decree of 20, December 2013, stores in the center of Philipsburg who cater to the tourism sector will be allowed to open on January 1st, 2014.

The temporary dispensation is given based on the National Ordinance related to store closure hours.

The stores in the center of Philipsburg will allowed to be open from January 1st at 6:00am to 7:30pm.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), an agency of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour confirms that the country has one confirmed case of Chikungunya, a 38-year old male residing in the district of Saunders. The case was confirmed on December 19, 2013 by the Center National de Reference des Arbovirus, Marsellie.

Residents are therefore urged to take extra efforts to eliminate mosquito breeding sites in and around their homes and businesses on a daily basis and to stop mosquitoes from feeding.

Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is an emerging, mosquito-borne disease caused by an alphavirus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). This disease is transmitted predominantly by Aedes aeqypti and Ae. Albopictus mosquitoes, the same species involved in the transmission of dengue.

Country Sint Maarten's Ministry of Public Health has been actively appealing to the public to reduce breeding sites and clean-up around their properties. Numerous press releases with the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked' campaign, and adverts in the Government Information Page (GIP) have been published along with public service announcements in the broadcast media over a period of months in relation to dengue fever/mosquito prevention measures.

Ministry of Public Health Vector Control Team have been visiting homes and other properties on a monthly basis appealing to residents to clean-up and also providing information about the two vector borne diseases.

You can call CPS if you desire more information on how to eliminate your mosquito breeding sites at 542-2078 or 542-3003.

Other interventions that have taken place are: fogging; training of vector control staff; placing physicians on alert and increasing public health surveillance for chikungunya; national, regional and international public health organizations appraised as part of reporting protocols; yard to yard inspections planned for Belvedere and Oyster Pond area; and alerting ports of entry and providing information flyers to visitors.

As Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever has said before, "One can only combat these vector borne diseases by everyone doing their share individually and collectively."

Health authorities from both sides of the island are currently working closely together to deal with the challenges of dengue and chikungunya.

rotarysxmsunrisereceivesvisitfromsabrinacharles25122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, December 17, 2013, Sabrina Denise Charles, a former GSE team member (Group Study Exchange) visited the Rotary club of St. Martin Sunrise and briefed the members about her experience as a GSE team member whilst in Devon, England, in 2011.
Miss Charles told members of the St. Martin Sunrise Rotary Club that the trip left a significant impact on her professional career, which led to her starting up her own Event Management business, which entails organizing weddings at the Grand Case Beach Hotel. She highly commended Devon Event Management for the experience, and the acquired knowledge achieved during her stay in England.
Group Study Exchange (GSE) provides opportunities for young professionals (non-Rotarians) between the ages of 25-40 to participate in a 4-week exchange visit to other Rotary District in different countries.
The Group Study Exchange (GSE) programme is a unique cultural and vocational exchange for young business and professional men and women in the initial years of their professional life. Rotary Districts in differ¬ent countries are committed to spending and receiving professional study groups of four to six non-Rotarian team members and one Rotarian team leader to travel for up to about four to six weeks. During such visits, they will stay in the homes of Rotarians when possible.
December is designated as Rotary family month, and as a result, Rotarians are encouraged to fellowship with among others, family members, Rotaractors, Interactors, GSE team members, Ambassadorial Scholars and Alumni, which allows them to build lifelong friendships, improves Rotary's public image, Strengthens clubs, while they continue in their quest to better serve the community. .
The Rotary Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at www.sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that the people of St. Maarten need a real New Year's gift where GEBE is concerned. The good news that the long awaited transfer to St. Maarten of all the shares of the Electricity Company is one thing but in how much this will be reflected in the pockets of the consumers is another. The Member of Parliament is just sending a reminder of the statements he had made on this fact that GEBE although subsidizing the two islands Saba and St Eustatius was reportedly making huge profits. Not to forget those who are probably stealing electricity but in spite of this GEBE still makes huge profits. What the Member of Parliament is reiterating is that the millions that are being disbursed to subsidize Saba and St. Eustatius should be used to reduce the tariffs or the fuel costs. Whichever is legal, logical and beneficial to the people of St. Maarten. The Member said that many arrears on St. Maarten looks like a country recovering from a devastating hurricane. There are barely any lights much less Christmas lights and decorations. And we all know some of the causes. People don't have the money to spend on these things. Another reason is the COLA is and in addition to that the fact that government did not pay their usual Christmas Bonus. Of course they will say no money. Well the Member of Parliament says he knows 100 million reasons why. Before continuing he must remind employers to as much as possible pay their employees before the Christmas Holidays. It should not be as the Member has often heard that some employers say that the employee might spend all his/her monies and then by New Year is broke. This is the responsibility of the employee not the employer. As a matter of fact the reality is that these monies will be spent in their business. Back to the GEBE issue, this process has been a lengthy discussion, I understood since 2005. But now that it has been finalized the Member of Parliament is looking forward to the people of St. Maarten benefiting from this transaction. What he hopes to see established if this has not already happened is the value of the assets on the two islands. According to reports, after a five year transition period the two islands will have to buy these back from GEBE Company which by then will be solely owned by St. Maarten. Finally the actual buyout cost for St. Maarten should be made known. So he hopes that the people of St. Maarten will receive a real New Year's gift for 2014. Happy Holidays.

swescotwilliamsatofficialpresentationoforderofmerittodaniellajeffry25122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined various dignitaries including Governor Eugene Holiday in the ceremony in which local historian, activist, writer and educator Daniela Jeffry was awarded the National Order of Merit of the French Republic. The Prime Minister congratulated Mrs. Jeffry and lauded her constant dedication to the development of St. Martin and its people.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemdonateschristmasgoodiestofamilies25122013Clients of Sister Basilia Center Surprised with Holiday Gifts

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, as shareholder representative of the Telem Group of Companies, joined with staff of Telem and her Cabinet in presenting gifts to the clients of the Sister Basilia Center that live in Hope Estate. The Prime Minister commented that for four years gifts have been distributed to families throughout the island to ensure that their Holiday experience will be all the more special.

"I just want to take this opportunity to thank Telem for joining us in this gesture that we have been doing for the last four years. During the Christmas Season we have gotten together with various businesses on the island and have provided families in our community with some goodies that would help them celebrate their Holiday Season even better. And so, as we are here to present to the clients of the Sister Basilia Center who live here in Hope Estate, we are making the presentation to the families you see here. We have been making these gestures to families throughout the island but it is particularly good to be here to present these goodies. I do hope that this allows you to celebrate a nice Christmas with your fiends and family. Also many thanks to Telem and I am sure you have made a difference in the Holiday celebration in all those who are here this evening. Have a very blessed Christmas, Happy Holidays and may you enjoy this season," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsreceivespensionplanadvisefromserreps25122013PM to Pay Close Attention to Recommendations

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Social Economic Council (SER) submitted an unsolicited advice entitled "A mandatory pension for 
Sint Maarten - an attainable and robust pension for all employees in Sint Maarten" to Prime Minister 
Wescot-Williams last week. Currently more than half of all employees do not have a 
pension additional to AOV. The advice proposes a mandatory pension for all employees currently 
without a pension with existing pension arrangements not being affected.

The advice entails that both employees and employers are obligated to contribute to the pension plan 
during the careers of workers. The minimum contribution of both parties together is 6 of the wage 
sum but both are free to contribute more, provided that employers contribute at least half in all cases. 
Employees and employers can deduct their premiums from wage- and profit tax. These contributions 
are recorded in a pension agreement with an insurer or pension fund. Employees have a say in the 
choice of the insurer and the pension agreement. Essential to the SER advice is that the new pension 
plan travels with the employee from job to job, eliminating most pension transfer problems.

The SER further advises that all the costs insurers can charge to execute new pension agreements are 
regulated by decree. This is to protect employer and employee from high overhead costs due to 
insufficient competition in the insurance market. Insurance companies can compete with the rate of 
return they offer in pension agreements.

Moreover, the SER advises to increase the existing tax deductibility for contributions to private pensions 
(annuities not related to employment) from 1,000 to 12,000 ANG yearly. Therefore, employees, but also 
independent contractors, can deduct private pension premiums in their tax return. This provides 
another incentive for Sint Maarteners to start planning for their financial future and not depend only on 
AOV. The SER stipulates that workers will need to save for their pensions; it is not given to them. After 
the publication in the National Gazette the advice of the SER will be available for downloading at 
www.sersxm.org.

The Prime Minister ha stated that the advice was well received and that close attention will be paid to it in the coming months.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelakestjohnsestateconnectedtosewageline25122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is pleased to inform the residents of St. John's Estate that the stench of sewage that use to emanate in the area of the housing development is a thing of the past since the estate was hooked up to the L.B. Scott Road sewage system.

In a public private partnership between the Government of Sint Maarten (Ministry VROMI) and the St. John's Estate Homeowners Association, the necessary infrastructure aspects were jointly taken care of resulting in the connection.

Minister Lake says that the advice for the installation of safety guardrails along the trench has been signed and installation should begin in January. The guardrail will enhance safety for pedestrians (students, teachers and residents) who use the sidewalk on a daily basis.

"Residents can now sit outside in their yards and open their backdoors. The smell of sewage will no longer chase them indoors. The children in the nearby MAC Browlia Maillard Campus can also breathe a sigh of relief.

"Again, in going back to basics, this was a problem that could have been resolved more than a year ago under the previous administration, but it was not. My back to basics approach is all about finding solutions to the problems that impact the quality of life of our people.

"This is what makes a big difference, it's the little things that account and that the people look at. The public private partnership is an initiative that makes a big difference as well where government and the people come together to solve problems jointly. It's all about going back to basics, and it's all about the people of Sint Maarten," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake concluded.

adambrownstudyingbirds25122013PIC PARADIS:--- This Thursday, 26 December, EPIC will begin its 13th year of research studying the songbird populations of St. Maarten. Since 2001, researchers with EPIC have been monitoring bird populations on the island using bird bands to track individual birds. The team is following individual bird health, population trends of resident and migratory birds, as well as the relationship between birds and the habitats they live in.

EPIC staff will be studying the birds in the dry forests on the northern flanks of Pic Paradis. This same site has been used by the team during the entire 13-year period and is one of the longest studied sites in the insular Caribbean. Says Adam Brown, a Senior Biologist with EPIC, "Long-term studies such as these are critical to understanding how environmental and man-made factors affect bird populations."

The public is welcome to come watch the team work and learn more about the birds of the island. Says Brown, "We will have a number of birds in the hand as we are weighing and measuring them, and this is an excellent opportunity for folks to get a close up and personal view of the wonderful birds on the island." After data is collected on the birds, they are released unharmed. EPIC urges persons interested in visiting the site to contact the research team ahead of time either through Facebook https://www.facebook.com/epicislands or it's webpage at www.epicislands.org.

EPIC Press Release

smmcendofyearstaffparty25122013OYSTER POND:--- On December 21st, 2013, the St. Maarten Medical Center had their end of year staff party at the Westin Resort. The director, Mr. Kees Klarenbeek addressed the employees with the end of year speech.
In his speech Kees reflected on the challenges and changes that took place during the year 2013. The employees were informed about the lifting of the supervision by the inspectorate of health and were informed as to the plans for the upcoming year. This end of year speech is copied below.

Kees Klarenbeek End of year speech 2013:
Firstly, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to everyone here tonight. It is wonderful to have the opportunity to share reflections of the past year and look to the future of our hospital together with you.
2013 has been a rough year with many challenges, changes and developments for us. There were several changes in the board of directors, there was a permanent tension between the hospital and the government, the inspectorate and the SZV.
In the beginning of the year, the hospital was still under intensified supervision by the inspectorate of health.
Although there was a formal collaboration set up between the healthcare foundations of Bonaire, Saba, Statia and Sint Maarten no formal steps for a follow up were taken.
Furthermore, we were aware about the fact that there is another hospital on the island at the French side who is delivering healthcare services. It was taken for granted that no formal collaboration between our hospital and the Louis-Constant Fleming Hospital was possible.
My term as chairman of the board of directors just started 4 and a half month ago. From the moment I started till this very moment, I feel very welcome in the Sint Maarten Medical Center and I want to thank you for that. But it is not about me. And it may sound strange but it is not about the hospital either. It is all about serving the healthcare needs of the population of Sint Maarten and surrounding islands. We as a hospital together with the government, the inspectorate, the SZV and all other health care providers have the responsibility to make this a reality.
For a hospital you need of course a building and medical equipment but first of all you need a dedicated staff. Our slogan "We care" is very suitable for expressing this position.
Walt Disney once said 'you can dream, create, design and build the most wonderful idea in the world, but it requires people to make the dream reality'. This is certainly the case for the Sint Maarten Medical Center. The reality is that without a great deal of commitment and support from all of us, we will not succeed in achieving our goals.
One of the most critical factors of any successful organization, in our case the hospital, the Sint Maarten Medical Center, is the people, the staff. The employees of the Sint Maarten Medical Center, supporting staff, nursing staff and medical, work together to best meet the needs of our patients. I am grateful for the time and energy you put into your work.
But, I also have a deep wish! There are still remaining areas where trust needs to be rebuilt. Yes I know, trust goes fast and comes slow. I ask every one, to lay aside long existing disputes and walk on together to a bright future for us as a hospital but most and for all for the best benefit of the people of Sint Maarten and surrounding islands.
I am convinced that a bright future lies ahead for the Sint Maarten Medical Center. Relationships with the government, parliament, inspectorate, SZV and the union have been improved already. We will continue doing so by accepting each role and respect each and every opinion. We as a hospital however will stand firm in our beliefs but also we will be aware of our position in the healthcare system of Sint Maarten and the East Caribbean.
We will also keep on working to take away the mentioned shortcomings in the inspectorate-report from 2012, doing so in collaboration with the inspectorate of health.
The elaboration of the existing agreement with the BES islands has been made for Saba and Statia and will be in effect in January 2014. A re-signing for extension of the collaboration is planned for mid next year of which the healthcare foundation of Bonaire will be then part of the collaboration as well.
Also in January a first step will be made in setting up a formal collaboration between the Louis-Constant Fleming hospital on the French side and the Sint Maarten Medical Center.
Together with the union we will set up a new Collective Labor Agreement whereby we understand each other's position and respect those positions.
We are on track for getting the expansion for the hospital realized which is very much needed for serving the medical needs of the population. I thank everyone who supports those efforts to get this job done. There will be also an extension of medical specialties and an increase of the number of medical specialist to give the needed healthcare on the island instead of giving this care abroad.
As you see, there are a lot of challenges and changes ahead. And change is already in progress. This truly can be a night of celebration! I am very proud to announce tonight that based on a team effort by all the employees of the Sint Maarten Medical Center the inspectorate of health has come to the conclusion that necessary improvements are made or are planned in a sufficient way to give quality care in the Sint Maarten Medical Center. The inspectorate informed the hospital yesterday that they lifted the intensified supervision per direct. Thank you all for your efforts to make this major result possible.
We care, we care as an individual, and we care as a team for the hospital as part of the healthcare system for the population of Sint Maarten. Therefore we have to change our slogan to make it even fit better in: "We care together".
I am proud to be part of the team of employees of the Sint Maarten Medical Center and wish you and your relatives and your friends the best Christmas ever and a happy and healthy new year!
May God bless you and may God bless the Sint Maarten Medical Center.

SMMC Press Release

SIMPSON BAY:--- The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies announces that the Clearance Offices at the Great Bay Port and at the Simpson Bay Lagoon has adjusted its opening hours in connection with the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

Great Bay - Clearance/Billing Offices of St. Maarten Ports Authority

Tuesday, Dec 24, 2012 Open from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon

Wednesday, Dec 25, 2012 Closed

Thursday, Dec 26, 2012 Closed

Tuesday, Dec 31, 2012 Open from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon

Wednesday, Jan 1, 2013 Closed

Normal operating hours will resume from December 27 through 30, 2013 as well as of January 2, 2013.

All vessels requiring the assistance of these offices to depart St. Maarten are requested to contact our Clearance/ Billing offices before the closure dates and times.

In case of emergency please contact the following personnel:

Edmond Johnson (520-1867) Great Bay for Maritime Services

Roger Lawrence (520-5163) Great Bay for Cargo Handling Services

Sam Peterson (520-2059) SLAC for Bridge Assistance/liaison with SLAC Clearance/Billing staff

eugeneholiday24122013My Fellow Sint Maarteners,

I extend warm Christmas greetings to you and yours at home and abroad.

I do so in the spirit of the words of the apostle Paul which call for us to continue to honor our "...... Obligation To Love One Another" (Romans 13:8). Words that breathe the enduring gift of Christmas.

In our relationships with each other let us in the spirit of the season embrace these words. For while we can pay our debts as they come due, there is one debt you and I can never finish paying; it is the debt of love that we owe our neighbor and thus to our country.

As we celebrate Christmas and close off this year let us take time out to reflect on the favorable, not so favorable and unfavorable developments in our lives and society in 2013. And as we do so it is important to recognize that individually and as a nation we have been tested and at times fell short in fulfilling our obligation one to another and our nation. Grateful for the favorable developments and mindful that we will continue to be challenged it is essential that we renew our commitment towards our duty to fulfill our responsibility to our country. For every act of kindness to one another – be it to a foe, stranger, visitor, colleague, friend, brother or sister – is a response to our calling, as the friendly people of the friendly island, to comply with our obligations towards a more just Sint Maarten.

In celebrating Christmas amongst family and friends, we celebrate the presence of the highest form of love. I therefore encourage you to embrace the enduring love of the season now and into the new year and to project it to our country. For love is the enduring spring out of which all good, kind and lasting deeds flow. It is the spring that you and I must always keep open and flowing with the purpose of the perfecting of our society for the betterment of all.

It is in the spirit of our obligation to love one another that Marie-Louise and I, wish you and your family, joyous and safe holidays filled with the sustaining love and peace of Christmas!

God bless you and God bless Sint Maarten.

The Governor of Sint Maarten
Eugene B. Holiday

swescotwilliams24122013Dear Fellow Citizens of St. Maarten,

I again have the privilege to wish each and every one of you a blessed and joyous Christmas. I hope that you will be able to spend this holiday with your friends, families and loved ones and that you may be able to share in the joy which this season brings with it. At Christmas we remember firstly the birth of Christ that heralded the salvation of mankind. This is why we celebrate.

I hope that you will also take a moment to reflect during this festive season on those amongst us who are not as fortunate in being surrounded by friends and family; who due to whatever circumstances may not be able to spend this Christmas the way they would like to spend it. Those who are ill, lonely or destitute. I urge you in any way you can to exhibit a sense of compassion and community, not only this Christmas, but throughout the year.

Christmas is a season for merriment and cheer and I hope this is celebrated and enjoyed by all. We have a rich holiday culture here on St. Maarten and I encourage all to celebrate what makes Christmas special for us.

I would like to wish all a very Merry Christmas; may you spend it joyfully and safely, and let us join together in the spirit of Brotherhood, Peace and the Unity which exemplifies this most joyful of Holidays.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

ROME, Italy:--- Francesco Corallo was Ambassador of the Republic of Dominica at the FAO. This was determined by the magistrate of the court of Rome, who fully acquitted Corallo Francesco, because he did not make false statements on his "personal qualities" during the raid ordered by Milan prosecutors as part of investigation of the loans granted by the BPM at B Plus of Francesco Corallo.

At the time of the search, Corallo Francesco had exhibited a diplomatic passport issued by the Government of Dominica as a result of his appointment as ambassador to the FAO, but also had waived the benefit of the immunity order not to hinder the investigation. But the Milan prosecutor's office, following the request for information made ​​by the GdF to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to verify the veracity of accreditation as ambassador, accused Corallo Francesco of making false statements to the judicial police.

In the expedited case solicited by Corallo Francesco, the Rome magistrates has now determined that it was an unfounded accusation, as the diplomatic accreditation process was actually started even if not yet concluded, which means that the appointment of ambassador had already occurred.

sxmandaxasignmouonferryterminal24122013THE VALLEY, Anguilla (DCOMM):--- On Friday morning December 20th 2013, Minister of Justice, The Honorable Dennis Richardson and Minister of Tourism The Honorable Thadeus Richardson traveled to neighbouring Anguilla to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regulating the operations of the Ferry Terminal located in Simpson Bay near the SXM Airport (PJIAE).

At the Signing Ceremony Chief Minister of Anguilla Hubert Hughes and Minister of Home Affairs & Education Jerome Roberts signed the MOU on behalf of Anguilla. The MOU forms the basis of the Immigration operations of both islands and helps to facilitate the smooth flow of passengers that are transiting to Anguilla via the SXM Airport. Once the Ferry Terminal becomes operational, it is expected that the travel experience of guests to both islands will be greatly enhanced.

cdeweever19082012St. Maarten/St. Martin Remains Safe for Travelers

PHILIPSBURG:--- Precautionary measures have been initiated by the Dutch country of St. Maarten to mitigate the mosquito population on island as a result of several cases of the Chikungunya virus being reported in St. Martin.
The Health and Tourism Ministries are working closely with the French Side authorities of the island to eliminate the risk. Preventative measures have included emergency mosquito fogging both near the Dutch/French border and throughout the entire island. The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever is also encouraging residents on island to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots around their premises on a daily basis.
Additional interventions include training of the Ministry of Public Health Vector Control Team, placing physicians on alert, increasing public health surveillance for Chikungunya, yard-to-yard inspections, daily public announcements are being made, cautionary banners and posters are being placed in public locations to notify the residents and visitors at large on the preventative measures to be taken.
The Government authorities are adhering to the guidelines and regulations of the WHO, PAHO, RIVM & CDC to prevent the spreading of this disease and protect the residents and visitors of this island.
Hon. Minister of Tourism and Transportation (with responsible for the airport and port) Mr. Ted Richardson has also join in the Chikungunya prevention campaign, by requesting the Tourism sector partners, especially both ports of entry to be vigilant and alert in protecting their employees and guests/visitors to the island.

tedrichardson24122013"We are asking all taxi/bus drivers, restaurants, properties, car rentals agencies, stores and attractions to have mosquito repellent readily available in their establishments for their guests, particularly during dawn & dusk" periods.

"It is safe to travel to St. Maarten/St. Martin and we do encourage our visitors to come to the island. While on the island, visitors can help protect themselves by using mosquito repellent on hands, face, feet (parts of the body that are exposed), wear long sleeves shirts and pants/skirts especially during the high risks times (dawn & dust). Preventative posters will be placed at both ports of entry and providing information to our visitors.
St. Maarten's Ministry of Public Health has been actively engaging with the public since 2012 to reduce the risk of these outbreaks with Hon. Cornelius de Weever's "Get Checked" campaign, which encourages residents and businesses to check in and around their establishments to reduce breeding sites.

Special pre-cautionary measures are undertaken in collaboration with French St. Martin, given the fact that they have been placed on a Level:1 Watch by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the lowest notice level by the agency, which advises travelers to the destination to follow usual insect precautions.
Chikungunya is an illness caused by a virus that spreads through mosquito bites. The most common symptoms of Chikungunya are fever and joint pain. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash.

governorscupwinnerandrewgordonreceivesprizefromeholiday24122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On December 7, 2013 the third round of the second Annual Governor's Cup Tournament ended with an unforeseen victory by Andrew Gordon, with second place going to Shemar Arindell, and third to Juvanni Bruney.
The tournament was opened by His Excellency Governor Holiday with words of encouragement. Before the tournament was kicked off with the Governor hitting the first ball, Choach Radjouki held a speech. During the speech, members of the Federation and audience were astonished by him mentioning that he will be retiring, and would like to hand over his professional racket "Suzie" to the Governor. Coach Radjouki said that "Suzie" is one of a kind and it would be an honor to have her stored at the Office of the Governor.
On December 20th all the table tennis player were invited to the Cabinet of the Governor, were His Excellency presented the winner of the Governor's Cup 2012, Rory Pantophlet, and the winner of the Governor's Cup 2013, Andrew Gordon, with a Monetary Award in support of their education, the Sint Maarten Table Tennis Federation and a charity foundation of their choice.

Recognizing the Governor's Cup Participants
Building character and strengthening important values through Sports

Message delivered
by
Eugene B. Holiday
The Governor of Sint Maarten

December 20, 2013


Members of the Board of the Sint Maarten Table Tennis Federation and
Participants in the 2012 and 2013 Governor's Table Tennis Cup
A pleasant good morning to all of you.
And welcome to the Office of the Governor, Falcon Drive 3.
It is my pleasure to have you here to congratulate the Board of the Table Tennis Federation on organizing the Governor's Cup and to recognize the players for their performances during the competitions as well as the parents present for supporting and encouraging the players. For me playing sports in general and table tennis in particular gives a great sense of enjoyment. But as I increase in years I have to reluctantly admit that it is easier to watch the game than to play. Just for the record, that does not mean that I have any doubt that I can hold my own against you guys.
This morning is we are here to highlight the accomplishments of the table tennis federation and the players through the Governor's Cup. I will like to do so

  • By first reemphasizing what I believe should be the objectives of the Tournament; and
  • Second, by recognizing the federation and the players who competed in the tournament

The tournament was organized for the first time in 2012 on initiative of the past President Ms. Rita Panthoplet and Coach Radjouki and I am pleased to support the initiative of the board of the federation. An initiative which the Current boar,d led by an ex-student and player under coach Radjouki namely the current president Mr. Alexander Gumbs, is carrying forward. As a lover of sports I am pleased to support the program but more so because of the positive impact of which sport have on the overall development of youngsters. I therefore see the objectives of the Governor's Cup as being the promotion of the overall development of our youth through table tennis. As a result I will like to use this moment to remind the players here this morning of the objectives of this Governor's Cup. I advise you to continue participating in this table tennis tournament because; sports as a result of its physical nature and tactical and strategic requirements contribute to a strong and sound body as well as to a strong and sound mind. As a person who have been very active in sports both competitively and recreationally I know that sports help to build character and strengthen important values for your further lives. In this regard I wish to stress the following six values:

  1. First, disciplined, sports reinforces self-control
  2. Second, reliability, sports foster greater promptness and team work
  3. Third, perseverance, sports builds determination
  4. Fourth, self-confidence, sports strengthens confidence
  5. Fifth, dedication, sports teaches the importance of hard work and preparation; and
  6. Sixth, ambition helps to strive to achieve greater things for our society

All values which are essential to succeed in life and to creating better citizens and a better society. In seeking to foster these values among you our youth I am pleased to be associated with and to support this tournament. As a result I wish to congratulate you the Board on this initiative and on keeping this program going. And to the players who competed in the tournament in 2012 and this year I please to say that ever since I had my first practice session with you I have seen the quality of your table tennis game and skills improve. In that regards I am happy to say that while only one person can win the tournament I see a increasing winners attitude among all of you. Thus to all of you I extend my congratulations for making the tournament interesting and of a high quality. Having said that I wish all of you success in the strengthening of the six values I outlines and continued success with your table tennis activities.
With that I will like to recognize all of you this morning in the following ways:

  1. First, I will like to ask all present to put your hands together for the board and all the participants in the Governor's Cup and for their sportsmanship throughout the 2012 and 2013 tournament.
  2. Second, I will like to invite the third place winner, Juvanni Bruney, and the second place winner, Shemar Arindell of the 2013 Governor's Cup to come forward so that I can award them with a Governors' pin.
  3. Third, I will like to call the Winner of the 2012 Governor's Cup, Rory Pantophlet, forward to recognize him with a Governors' pin as the winner of the first tournament.
  4. And Fourth, I herewith call on the Winner of the 2013 Governor's Cup Andrew Gordon to come forward to present him with a Governors' pin as the winner of the second tournament
  5. And finally I will like to invite Mr. Alexander Gumbs, as the president of the SMTTF, to come forward to join me as I present a special award to the two winners for their achievements.

The special award has a monetary value of NAf.450. I am pleased to award each of you a monetary prize worth NAf.450 for your accomplishments as winners of the 2012 and 2013 Governor's Cup, respectively. And in keeping with the objectives of the tournament the prize will go towards the following causes:

  1. Naf. 125 as a contribution to you school fees towards your further development and education
  2. NAf. 125 as a contribution to the SMTTF towards the further development of your sport
  3. NAf. 200 as a contribution to the Crystal Home Foundation reflecting your choice to contribute to a good cause in our community

Once again congratulations to the Board and the players.
Thank you.

gracitaarrindellholidayseasonoutingwithicanfoundation24122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Recently President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell took 24 children in the age range of two (2) to 16-years old and staff on a holiday season outing to the Butterfly Farm.

The kids enjoyed their time and sang Christmas carols and church songs while on the bus. Upon their return home, they were treated with baskets of toys.

President Arrindell would like to thank the management and staff of the Butterfly Farm for donating the tour which the children enjoyed immensely.

"I would also like to thank the I Can Foundation Manager Cassandra Gibbs and her volunteer staff who provide loving care to the kids at I Can, some of them who have known no other home, for the great job that they do on a daily basis," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.

The President is making an appeal to the business community to donate several Christmas trees to the foundation so the children can enjoy the holiday season.

President Arrindell was accompanied by Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Janchie Leonard, and Arrindell added that he did a wonderful job with the kids.

mauricelakemeetswithsmhdfboard24122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with the board of the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF) on Wednesday regarding his vision for public housing for the country.

Minister Lake stated that his vision for public housing for the people is based on the recent Sint Maarten Housing Vision 2012-2020 Building Book that was presented by KAW Architects and Consultants recently to the minister.

The project commissioned by the Government of Sint Maarten and financed by USONA entailed a review of legislation relating to housing, and a review of the housing policy. The project objective is to increase the quality of life and living conditions of residents with low and middle incomes through policies and legislation relating to adequate and social housing.

"We need to get back to basics by building public housing for all the people, and this is well defined in the housing vision. We need housing for all. I want to see the SMDHF putting in place in a transparent manner the vision, and I want to see homes built for our seniors, disabled, low and middle income inhabitants, and beginners, homes that our local people can afford, and then I will give credit where credit is due, and not just to look in the newspaper.

"How can I congratulate when the real people who need houses are not getting the houses. I find SMDHF has left the values and principles behind when it was established. The board has to be more pro-active than reactive with the housing vision and make sure that management takes care and provides good service to the tenants.

"Perform for the people of this country by implementing the vision for housing for all instead of a selected few and we good to go where this is concerned," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

A number of other points were also discussed such as: filling supervisory board vacancies; SMHDF operational audit; financial audit; changing articles of incorporation of the St. Maarten Housing Financial Foundation and membership of its board; code of ethics with respect to the functioning of the foundation and its relationship with other entities; the board's plans to hold a Summit in January 2014 in connection with how SMHDF can enhance its services and operations taking into consideration of the housing vision; and a listing of project priorities of the Minister responsible for Public Housing.

The listing of priorities will be presented at the Summit 2014 and will include some of the following: construction of senior citizen homes; Upper Princess Quarter housing project; the sale of duplex homes in Belvedere; the building of low and middle income homes; the purchasing of private land to build more affordable homes for the people of Sint Maarten. Minister Lake added the focus needs to be placed on one housing vision instead of all kinds of personal vision by SMHDF.

"As Minister of Housing, I can promise the people one thing, in the middle of January 2014, we would start building affordable homes for the people of this country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

sxmacademyprojecthope24122013~Brings Christmas Cheer to 30 Families through Project HOPE~

CUL DE SAC:--- The students and staff of St. Maarten Academy came together and donated grocery baskets with turkeys and ham to thirty families of the school through the annual charity drive, Project HOPE. The theme for this year was "Love in Action".
This is the twelfth year of this well-supported venture, the brainchild of Vice Principal Tallulah Baly-Vanterpool, who is also head of the Department of Student Care. For six weeks, the students, staff, parents, management and School Board were encouraged to bring in non-perishable food items and cash. Even the school's Student Government Association chipped in and raised $465 during its St. Maarten Day celebration, as well as another $200 during "Freaky" Tuesday with a Christmas Twist on December 10. These funds were used to purchase additional items for the baskets.
Donations also came from the school's principal, Mr. Shareed Hussain and the School Board, the latter of whom gave 20 turkeys and 10 hams. "We are ever so grateful to our School Board, who over the years has always ensured that with each basket donated there was either a large turkey or ham, which means a lot to the families," said Mrs. Baly-Vanterpool. The school's Interact Club, under the guidance of Science teacher Mrs. Peggy Illis-Bell; as well as Lisandra Havertong, coordinator of the Leo Club of St. Martin also gave generously.
"Project HOPE has become a true community effort. I am pleased to see that it has gone beyond the school," said Baly-Vanterpool.
Many students volunteered to sort the items and pack the baskets with much love and care. The distribution list, however, remains confidential. Many teachers gave their time in making deliveries to the homes of these families in several communities across the island – from St. Peters to Cole Bay/Cay Bay, Philipsburg, Dutch Quarter, French Quarter, and many places in between.
Special thanks are being extended to the drivers and delivery assistants, namely Mrs. Souad Meskini-Azbouni, Ms. Sharon Richards, Mr. Armand Teunis, Mrs. Iris Derrick, Mrs. Vandana Kotai, Ms. Keturah Thompson, Mrs. Kim Lucas-Felix, Mrs. Suja Pereppedan, Mr. Julian Mason, and Ms. Yvonne Johns, all of whom brought smiles and warm hugs to many grateful faces throughout the day on Wednesday.
According to Mrs. Lucas-Felix, Form 1 mentor and coordinator of the Student Government Association, "Here at the Academy, we don't only focus on the academics, but the development of the whole child. As such, we inculcate values such as compassion, kindness, generosity, and service, which were demonstrated through our students' donations and volunteerism during Project HOPE."
All St. Maarten is encouraged to show "Love in Action" in this and every season of the year.

Reminds that Giving of Gifts, Bribing or Coercing for Votes Already Established as Illegal Under the Penal Code

PHILIPSBURG:--- During her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave clarity on her push for electoral reform. The Prime Minister commented on the program aired weekly on 98.1 Pearl FM that since the constitutional change of the tenth of October 2010 many issues had to be ironed out: "We had to have elections in 101010 for a new political system; a system that we never knew before; from an island council to a parliamentary system. We put everything in place to have that new constitutional system and what we have noticed is that, because of the frequent changes in the political landscape there is a need for reform in the system in order to put more emphasis on political stability. What we have seen is that in our young democracy there is a tension of two parts; persons are elected and get into Parliament depending on how many seats the party gets and not necessarily with regards to the amount of seats that person gets. Because of that you have had frequent changes in Government and in the minute you have a shift in the coalition position in parliament following the composition in 101010 you had a shift in the allegiance of Parliament thus effecting Government.

The Prime Minister emphasized that her focus with regards to electoral change is to ensure that there is stability in the system and clarity for the people who have elected their representatives, doing so on the basis of a clear program and vision of a particular political party, with the party then being able to execute their respective programs.

"Based on the frequent changes because of the shifting of alliances and allegiances in Parliament that is one of the matters in electoral reform that I have received advice on and there are various options to look at. I am now preparing a paper to submit to Parliament in order to have a discussion, a discussion devoid of politicking but in the interest of the people. There are various options with regards to electoral reform. For example within a Political Party itself or ultimately, which I believe should be the ultimate option, with changes to the constitution.

"It is also important to make the public aware of the dynamics of our politics and how important it is to elect persons who voters understand have a clear vision and clear objective. Tied into this is the issue of campaign reform, the change in the way we conduct politics. During the budget handling Parliament passed a motion on electoral reform. The content of the motion was to not bribe, pay or accept cash, give objects or give preferential treatment to influence the vote for or against a candidate. Also not to coerce persons to nominate or not to nominate a candidate. I indicated that much of these matters are already outlined in our laws, but it does require educating and informing Parliament and the people of St. Maarten. I therefore gave an overview where this is already mentioned in our law. Matters like bribing someone to vote are outlined in the penal code, specifically in article 2.14 that states that the person who bribes someone to vote in a particular through the giving of money or gifts or in any other way will be punished with incarceration for two years or fines as categorized by the law. The voter or a representative of a voter who allows his or herself to be bought will be punished in the same manner," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM stressed that, with regards to elections it is the duty of all responsible parties to adhere to the law, which clearly outlines what is and what is not allowed during National Elections. "Eventually, as our society becomes more complex and larger, you may have a situation where elections might be contested because things have not happened according to the law. The initiator of the Parliamentary Motion, MP Frans Richardson, may not have been aware of the law so I will be pointing this out in my reply to Parliament so that the necessary discussions will take place," concluded Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarysxmsunrisechristmasbreakfastwithrubylabegaschool24122013RETREAT ESTATE:--- On Monday, December 16, 2013, the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and community partner Sheriff Security shared Christmas breakfast with the students and teachers of Ruby Labega School.
In recognition for the services rendered by both entities, the students make and signed Christmas Cards with their photos and presented to both entities for their support over the years.
Seeing that December is Rotary family month, for Rotary Sunrise, welcomed the opportunity of fellowship with the students and teachers of the institution.
The Rotary Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at www.sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM

smmcshfshcfreps24122013CAY HILL:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is collaborating with Saba Healthcare Foundation and the St. Eustatius Health Care Foundation for continued and improved healthcare for the islands of Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten. Representatives of the foundations met on Monday, December 16, 2013.

Over the last two months, the collaborating parties have agreed on key initiatives to better serve the populations of the islands. One of these initiatives is setting strategies for the hiring of medical professionals.

It is necessary, for the growing population, to increase the number of medical specialists working at the SMMC. As our resources grow in this area, the islands of Saba and St. Eustatius can too benefit from the medical services the specialists will provide.

Already, a gynecologist/obstetrician from the SMMC goes to Saba and Statia regularly to provide medical care to the women there. In January of the upcoming year, this overseas medical service will continue with an oncologist from the SMMC who will treat patients in Saba.

Sharing of personnel from either organization in this collaboration are not limited to medical specialists but also in other areas such as hygiene, quality care and maintenance of facilities and medical equipment.

Education resources are another element of this collaboration that will continue within the islands. The SMMC education department is currently doing a good job with accelerated courses for nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses and registered nurses on the three islands. Educational training for non-nursing staff will also be done together with Saba and Statia.

This collaboration between the foundations was already in place but was not implemented in some action areas. It is now named "We Care Together", stemming from the slogan of the SMMC, "We Care!" The SMMC recognizes its role as the primary center for support care for the residents of Saba and Statia. While the SMMC, Saba and Statia health care foundations are seeking to meet the basic health needs of their population, the agreement will open avenues and strengthen efforts to further develop plans for sustainable health care for the Dutch islands.

SMMC Press Release

COLE BAY:--- On Friday December 20th, 2013 at approximately 9:00pm, a police patrol during a routine control stopped a vehicle with license plate P-4003 and very dark tinted windows on the Welfare road in the vicinity of Bottle Tree Drive, where its known to police that drugs are regularly sold in that area. The driver and passenger jumped out of the car and when the driver was asked his name he took off running. He was chased by the officers but was not caught. The passenger who stayed on the spot was searched and a black bag containing an amount of marijuana and several small plastic packs of cocaine were found in his possession. These drugs were confiscated for further investigation. The 26 year old suspect was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where he was handed over the Narcotic Department for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday December 22nd, 2013 at approximately 5:00am, several police patrols were directed to Star Ocean Supermarket to investigate a break-in. On the scene, the investigating officers saw several unknown men jump out a window located on the side of the building and take off in the darkness running through the bushes. During the investigation the officers discovered a grey colored caravan with the license plate M-3275 hidden in the bushes. The driver of that vehicle had also fled the scene on foot. The vehicle in question was parked with cases of Heineken beer and several other boxes filled with different types of alcoholic drinks. This vehicle was immediately confiscated for further investigation and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station. As the investigation continued on the inside of the building the officers noticed that the culprits had already prepared several boxes with merchandise to take from the store. Personnel from the Detective and Forensic Department arrived on the scene to search for evidence. A welding and burning torch, acetylene, oxygen bottles and other items that can be used to commit these type of acts were found and also confiscated for further investigation. No arrests were made.

KPSM Police Report

armedrobberyfillin13082012COLE BAY:--- On Friday December 20th, 2013 at approximately 6:50am, a Simpson Bay Police patrol was sent to the Texaco Gas Station of the Welfare road regarding an armed robbery. On the scene the investigating officers learnt that three masked and armed men came to the gas station in a grey colored car without any license plate. The driver stayed in the car while the other two entered the supermarket. One of the robbers pushed a client to the side and jumped over the counter and threatened the cashier with his gun. She was told to cooperate and struck in the head by the robber. A female client that was in the establishment during the robbery was robbed of her shoulder bag containing personal items and some cash. After committing this act the two robbers jumped back into the car and drove off. Detectives are investigating.

KPSM Police Report

telemdonatestobasiliacenterforholidayseason22122013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group's mobile provider, TelCell, played Santa to the residents of the Basilia Center Friday, delivering nine boxes of goodies, including non-perishable food and festive games.

The deliveries were made to the Basilia Center residents who are living in their own homes in Hope Estate. They were presented to the residents by TelEm Group Shareholder Representative, Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams.

The Prime Minister thanked TelEm Group for its kind gesture in joining other companies on St. Maarten who donate each year to the Basilia Center and its residents.

"We have been visiting at this time for the past four years and I always look forward to visiting. Today we have come with some wonderful gifts from TelEm, for which I am very grateful," said the Prime Minister.

Basilia Center Department Head, Mr. Carlson Richardson, also thanked TelEm Group on behalf of the residents and also thanked the company for some additional games for the center itself, which he said would be well utilized to keep the residents entertained and active.

According to TelEm Group Marketing Officer Marelva Felix-Jones and Sales and Marketing Officer, Cheryl Rismay, the gifts are the company's end of year gesture to a deserving group in keeping with the Christmas season.

"The boxes were well received and in turn we want to thank the Prime Minister and her staff for assisting us with the deliveries," said Mrs. Felix-Jones.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Those who are planning for the upcoming holiday season has already been looking at their holiday meal shopping requirements. Cooking up a storm for this holiday season is one of the Christmas traditions.

Part of the excitement of the holidays is the traditional foods of the season. However, some of these foods can pose hazards that can ruin more than just a holiday meal – they can cause serious illness and even death.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever as part of his 'Get Checked' campaign, is calling on the community to check their food items carefully to make sure everything is in order for a safe holiday meal.

As part of Collective Prevention Services (CPS), Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Safe Holiday Season calendar of observances, in collaboration with the Department of Communications (DCOMM), residents are advised to keep the season safe by following some tips on how to enjoy holiday meals safely.

To Make Sure Bacteria are not allowed to Grow:

  1. Use a thermometer. Be sure stuffing, turkey and any poultry dishes are cooked thoroughly to 165 degrees F; ground beef and ham must be cooked thoroughly to 155 degrees F. All other foods, including eggs should be cooked to 145 degrees F.
  2. Do not leave foods containing meat, milk, eggs, fish or poultry at room temperature for more than four hours. This includes pudding and custard-type pies that are popular during the holidays.
  3. Cool all leftovers to 41 degrees F within four hours after cooking.
  4. Do not thaw foods at room temperature. Plan ahead and thaw them in the refrigerator. If the food needs to be thawed quickly, use the microwave or cold running water and then cook promptly after it has thawed.
  5. If you are traveling with food, be sure to keep it cold 41. F. or hot 140 F or above while transporting.
  6. After the big meal, be sure to refrigerate any leftovers within 1 hour. Bacteria love room temperatures and grow quickly in amounts enough to make people ill.

To Prevent Food from Becoming Contaminated

  1. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and warm water before food preparation and after coughing, sneezing, using the toilet, changing diapers, eating, drinking or smoking.
  2. Do not prepare or handle foods if you are ill; a cook's gastrointestinal illness could be spread to others sharing the meal.
  3. Thoroughly clean and sanitize knives, cutting boards and other utensils before and after preparing raw foods and foods that do not require further cooking. Sanitize with a solution of one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water.
  4. Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables.

Contrary to popular belief, if you do become ill from contaminated food, it is not always the last meal you ate that's the culprit. Food-borne illness can occur anywhere from one hour to 72 hours and even longer after eating contaminated food.

Please help make this holiday season safer by paying attention to proper food preparation and handling techniques.

patricialourensreceivespresentationfromhaughtonmifflinharcourt22122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip recently received a presentation from education company Haughton Mifflin Harcourt about the integration of technology into the school system and curriculum. The Department of Public Education Services and school managers of public schools also attended the information session. Haughton Mifflin Harcourt came on their own account to make the presentation.

mangrovesinlittlebay22122013Improvement in Fresh Pond, Great Salt Pond Faced with Challenges Regarding Salinity and Oxygen Levels

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Nature Foundation carried out its bi-annual water quality tests on the 11th, 12th and 13th of December at seven sites surrounding St. Maarten. These tests are carried out in order to determine the levels of pollutants and other factors affecting wetlands and beaches on St. Maarten. Tests were carried out in order to determine Nitrates (which shows that the water is polluted), Phosphates (which shows the presence of Sewage), Nitrogen, Dissolved Oxygen, and the acidity of the water. Tests were carried out on seven sites; Cole Bay Lagoon, Simpson Bay Lagoon, Mullet Pond, Kim Sha Beach, Great Bay Beach, Belair Pond, Fresh Pond, and the Great Salt Pond. The sites of Great Bay Beach and Kim Sha Beach were particularly chosen to test the swimming quality of the beaches.

It was determined that the sites Cole Bay Lagoon, Kim-Sha Beach, Mullet Pond, and
Great Bay had low levels of both phosphates and nitrates in samples tested. Elevated levels of nitrates and phosphates show that there is a presence of various types of pollutants and sewage in wetlands and coastal areas. The highest level was recorded in the Great Salt Pond and indicates lower water quality. Taking this into consideration levels will continuously be monitored by the Nature Foundation.

It was further established that the sites Cole Bay Lagoon, Kim-Sha Beach, Mullet Pond, and Great Bay had low levels of Nitrogen in samples tested. Elevated levels of Nitrogen, caused by pollutants, can cause fish die-offs in wetlands and coastal areas. The highest level was recorded in the Great Salt Pond at .6 ppm, which is a relatively high number and indicates the presence of elevated nitrogen levels. The Nature Foundation will continuously monitor Nitrogen Levels at this site.

Almost all levels of oxygen recorded were at sufficient levels; however the lowest level was recorded in the Great Salt Pond. This site should be closely monitored for a further drop in oxygen levels which may result in fish kills and breeding of airborne insects (i.e. Midges). It must be noted that the water sampled at the Fresh Pond showed increased water quality after the repairing and placement of the Fountains by ROB/VROMI

Despite the fact that many sites showed Low to Medium readings, the Nature Foundation will follow up on a monthly basis during the upcoming months in order to carefully monitor for changes in the respective levels.

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesycallfromchineseconsulgeneralchenqiman22122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy call from the Consul General of China to the Dutch Caribbean Chen Qiman at her Cabinet on Monday. Madam Chen, who took office in Willemstad in October, is the focal point of consular and diplomatic services for Chinese nationals living in the Dutch Caribbean. Madam Chen is the first Consul General of the People's Republic of China and has 24 years of international experience as a diplomat. Before her appointment in the Dutch Caribbean she was active as Consul General in Zanzibar. "During the introductory meeting madam Chen presented the PM with her credentials and exchanged information on the services she would provide to Chinese nationals living on St. Maarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius de Weever has increased the financial assistance in an effort to enhance the purchasing power of the social aid recipients. The last increase was in 1996 when the ordinance was drafted; in 17 years there has never been an indexation.
"By categorizing the various groups of individuals that can qualify for financial assistance and streamlining the decision making process and ensuring that those who qualified receive it, my Ministry started reviewing the legislation to find a solution to increase the payments," said Minister De Weever.
The increase in financial assistance has been categorized in various groups, one such group being those between the ages of 58-60 years old who due to their specific circumstances can no longer be considered part of the labor market. Minister De Weever stated that this category has been created, because it is very difficult for these individuals to enter the job market at that age which is a global trend as well.
Minister de Weever managed to create a transparent system which reduces human error and is therefore conducive to the integrity of the system. Other groups, which have been recognized by the minister, are the AOV recipients and the disabled. The AOV recipients, have been sub-categorized into the single AOV entitled individuals 60 years and above and a family member 60 years and older AOV entitled.
Minister de Weever further stated that his aim is to empower these groups and create a sense of independence for them.
"We tried our best to ensure that the physically and mentally challenged will also have financial independence and be able to help themselves," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever. "So it was important to develop this category."
Whereas De Weever is in favor of empowering the physically challenged by creating a viable working environment for them, he recognizes that there where the disabled person cannot participate in the labor market they must be able to function as independent individuals within our society. Therefore a special category has been created for them as well.
The increase in the financial assistance is scheduled to go into effect the early part of 2014.

fransrichardsonwithuspboard22122013CUL DE SAC:--- Member of Parliament Frans Richardson and his supporters created a new atmosphere in the St. Peters area on Sunday afternoon when MP Richardson launched his political party that will be contesting the 2014 elections. The gathering which amounted to just over 350 people with lots of children began gathering just after 2pm on the De Weever's property where tents were set up for the Sunday afternoon event. MP Richardson wrote a new chapter in his political career on December 22nd, 2013 when he official branched off from the National Alliance where he began his political life and launched his own political party.

The US crew hired several bands for the launching of the new political party, some of which included Rohie Rhythm Band, Impact Band, Percy Rankin, Red Eye Crew, and Tripple Kay. Each of the bands played for 45 minutes prior to the official launching.

As the people gathered there were young men and women taking surveys from those that attended the launching, questions such as how they heard of the launching and what they believe should happen in the next governing term were some of the questions on the questionnaire. Besides the music and lots of beverages for the attendees, the UP crew came out with something more for their supporters. They distributed tickets to everyone that attended the event which allowed them to win food baskets for the Christmas holidays and kids tablets especially for the youths that won a prize.

MP Frans Richardson along with his family and friends arrived at the location around 3pm decked in a white t-shirt. Even his children and wife wore the white to show they came from the "white" party and are now moving to another level. Just after sunset MP Frans Richardson went on stage dressed in an aqua blue t-shirt with the words "Stand with US-P, United St. Maarten Party" where he introduced the members of the USP board.

Board members of the USP are: Cecil Rodolfo Dimitrio Nicolas (President), Rochelle Darlene Hodge (Vice President), Melissa Doncher (Treasurer), Althea Richardson (Secretary), Fernando Clark (Assistant Treasurer and Assistant Public Relations Officer,) Lloyd Paul (Assistant Treasurer and Assistant Public Relations Officer), Delphine Agnes Brooks-Mardenborough, and Patrick Delisle Braathwaite.

MP Richardson said in his opening remarks that there comes a time in one's life when they must react one way or the other especially towards development, issues concerns and questions which keep their minds busy especially when someone chose to serve their country and people by taking up public office.

He further stated that him being such a person for quite some time now , "this is the time that I along with others were forced to take a long and hard look at where we are as a people and where we want to go from here. It's the time we all had to look in the mirror and decide to correct the mistakes of the past by pooling our resources and committing ourselves to a new way of doing things."

The leader of the US party said that the founders of his party believed that the time is right and the time is now for them to take this initiative considering how much more needs to be achieved as a young country.

"With those things in mind the founders chose to name the new political party "United St. Maarten Party" (USP), which is in keeping with their core beliefs of building from the bottom to the top recognizing the resilience as a people and the many characteristics and shared history that binds "US" as a people."

The USP leader called on the people to stand with them and to join the US because the members of the board have a proven track record and they want to serve and not to be served.

"The USP recognizes the disappointments and disinterest among so many of you, after all, many promises were made and have not been lived up to while some situations only worsened."

The President of the USP also called on the people to join hands with them as they move towards a change for St. Maarten.

Click here to view more photos of USP launching on Sunday afternoon.

smmcimprovedimagingradiology20122013CAY HILL:--- The Radiology Department at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) has been recently engaged in an educational training and upgrading course from radiologist Dr. Herman Schuttevaer and radiology technicians from the Rijnland Ziekenhuis (Rijnland) in the Netherlands. Dr. Schuttevaer has 25 years of work experience at Rijnland. He specialises in intervention radiology and mammography.

In February of this year, Dr. Schuttevaer came to the SMMC as a rotating specialist, maintaining the continuity of care while SMMC was still in search of a permanent specialist. He noticed that the CT scan machine used in SMMC was the same machine used in the Netherlands. The technology of this medical equipment is very good for any hospital but even more beneficial, is the knowledge and skills of the radiology technicians who use the machine.

Together, Rijnland and the SMMC arranged a bilateral education program with the objective to improve the knowledge and skills of SMMC radiology technicians to achieve the maximum level of quality service that can be provided with the technology at SMMC.

For a period of two weeks in October, two radiology technicians, Hans Pieterson and Kristen Hofkes, gave on the job training to our radiology technicians. Hans who specializes in CT scan and Kristen in mammography and bucky, both has over 13 years of experience as radiology technicians. The training continued in November with another two radiology technicians, Emily Limpens, CT specialist and Marianne Hoeven, mammography and bucky specialist.

Radiology technicians, especially in larger hospitals, specialize in one or two modalities; CT scan, mammography and bucky imaging to name a few. This makes them more experts in what they do. In a smaller hospital, where there is naturally a small staff, the technician does all three modalities. This is one of the challenges for this department at a small hospital as SMMC. Rather than looking at this limitation, the training focused on achieving the maximum level that is possible within the SMMC.

By the end of the trainings, Dr. Schuttevaer evaluated the progress and has summed up the improvements with three points. Firstly, all CT examinations will be standardized. This is a goal that is currently being worked on. Dr. Schuttevaer compares the radiology protocols to a cooking recipe. "There are several ways to cook one meal. We have chosen to use only a few, but they are more than sufficient to choose from." This is a big advantage because the radiologist can compare the information of one exam to another. The new protocols used for the CT exams are the same ones used in the Rijnland Ziekenhuis.

Secondly, patients already are having less exposure to radiation. During the training, the visiting technicians emphasised the importance of having the right positioning to minimise exposure to radiation. The technicians now use a questionnaire to ask the patient about their health to find more specific information of what they should examine.

Third, and most importantly, the radiology technicians have better knowledge of their work, to give improved imaging. They were very enthusiastic about learning and are already seeing positive changes.

The SMMC is seeking the optimal radiology imaging at our radiology department. Future plans may lead to more training for the technicians in Rijnland, where CT scans made a day is twice to three times more as made in the SMMC. This will facilitate faster learning with more hands on experience. Educational growth will remain a focal point within the radiology department and other departments of the SMMC. As new health technology and information is introduced our staff will be trained to provide quality service to our patients.

SMMC Press Release

sxmacademygraduation20122013CUL DE SAC:--- It was a night of pomp and ceremony, speeches and cultural performances, as St. Maarten Academy hosted its graduation ceremony Wednesday for all 55 students who successfully completed this year's Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations. The theme for the evening was "Dream, Believe, Plan, Act".
Graduating valedictorian was science major Devesh Laungani, while Aldair Petronilia copped the awards for first runner-up valedictorian and Most Outstanding Science Student, as well as the Parent Teachers Foundation award for being the only graduate who made the Honour Roll from first to fifth forms. Karen E. Feliz Urbaez received the award for second runner-up valedictorian. All three students received a special monetary gift from the School Board.
Some of the highlights of the evening included an awe-inspiring saxophone presentation by D'Arcy Duffis Duke, who graduated cum laude; and a surprise black light hand mime by some members of the Class of 2013.
The Principal's Prize for outstanding contribution to the school went to Charisse Gumbs, who served as president of the school's Student Government Association, as well as a member of the Interact Club. The Principal's Prize for outstanding academic performance was shared by cum laude graduates Vishnu Harnarine, Caroline Macdonna Nolasco, and Lilawatee Arjune, the latter of whom graduated in absentia.
Khailo Chance was awarded Most Outstanding Business student, while Shemar Bute and Keiren Franklyn, were given the awards for Most Athletic Male and Female students, respectively.
Former student Doran Joseph, who recently graduated from St. Thomas University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, implored the graduates to take risks and face their fears of failure to become the type of citizens St. Maarten needs.
"Our young nation is being thrust into a new year of uncertainty. The wars and struggles of the world at large continue as usual but are drowned out by the more immediate cries of our own people for opportunities. Many of our leaders have lost the confidence of their people, our national treasury has been severely reduced, congestion and unemployment still plague our society and the eyes of our youth no longer seem to shine with hope as they once did generations ago," said Joseph who delivered the feature address.
"The time for your success story to begin is now. Do not wait until you are older or more educated to start thinking up the solutions to the problems that we face. The time for creativity and innovation is now," said Joseph. The same sentiments were echoed by Minister of Education Patricia Lourens-Philip who stressed that education is a marathon that must be run by all and as such, they should stay adaptable, flexible and be innovative.
Wednesday night was an especially proud moment for the school's principal, Mr. Shareed Hussain, who announced the imminent start of the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) at the school next academic year. School Board member, Mr. Roland Duncan noted that the school is always progressive.
"Throughout its history, the St. Maarten Academy has had a great reputation of dreaming and achieving excellence. The class of 2013 shared this belief [and] they maintained the tradition of excellence. This year we have excellent results as usual. Every student of the class of 2013 passed all subjects at one sitting in May-June examinations of 2013. This represents a passing rate of 100%. We salute the graduating class for this fantastic performance," Mr. Hussain said.
Fifteen students passed 11 subjects, 11 students passed 10 subjects, 12 were successful in nine subjects, nine copped passes in eight subjects, and three students passed seven subjects. Two students scored passes in five and six subjects. Most colleges and universities accept students who pass at least five subjects with Grades I, II and III at the CXC examinations.
Mr. Hussain encouraged the Class of 2013 to continue to dream for excellence, believe in themselves, plan carefully, act responsibly, and unleash their potential.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The SMMC has been under intensified supervision by the Inspectorate since September 8th 2012 after it was established in an audit and a final report in August 2012 that the quality of care and patient safety were not sufficiently ensured.
Since the establishment of the intensified supervision the Inspectorate has been working closely together with the Board of Directors (BoD) and management team to achieve improvements based on a plan of action that was agreed upon.
On December 17th the Inspectorate VSA had an end year evaluation meeting with the BoD and management of the SMMC. During this evaluation the status of the implementation of the action plan, of ongoing renovations, of planned new construction, collaboration with the Luis Constant Fleming Hospital and Saba and Statia were discussed amongst others.
The Inspectorate concluded that the governing structure has improved and has become stable, that matters are dealt with in a serious manner and many other improvements have been achieved. Many other actions to complete desired and necessary improvements are in the pipeline. To name a few, the organization of the ER has been re-structured and improved, the relationship with the medical staff is much better, new permanent specialists have been hired, a quality assurance manager will be hired on short term, the surgery theaters will be renovated in the first quarter of 2014.
At the same time the Inspectorate realizes that the time span in which some matters can be addressed can't be a short one all the time and a lot also depends on the available financial means. There are still some areas that raise concerns such as the hiring of a medical director, the financial position of the hospital due to stagnation of cash flow and failure in the materialization of new tariffs, hiring of more different specialists and the much needed new construction. All these matters may hamper the quality of care provided.
Based on a thorough evaluation it was decided to terminate the intensified supervision on the SMMC as of today.
The Inspectorate in closing, will continue to work closely together with the SMMC in completing all areas of the action plan to ensure that an adequate level of medical care is maintained and necessary improvements are achieved.

Press Release from Inspectorate of the Ministry of VSA

swescotwilliamsmeetswithandrethapedi20122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a meeting with Illinois 32nd District State Representative Andre Thapedi at her Cabinet on Monday to discuss, amongst various items, the possibilities of having more visitors from the Central Area of the United States visit the island. Mr. Thapedi is the State Representative for the South Side of Chicago.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nagicosponsorsregionalsuper5020122013ST. JOHN'S, Antigua:--- The West Indies Cricket Board today announced a three-year sponsorship deal with NAGICO Insurances as the new title sponsor for the Regional Super50 One-Day cricket tournament.
The event is the WICB's marquee limited-overs event and will be known as the NAGICO Super50. The winning team will take home the Clive Lloyd Trophy – named in honour of the legendary former West Indies captain.
The 2014 event will feature eight teams and will be televised live throughout the Caribbean on ESPN. Matches will be played from January 30 to February 16 in Trinidad and Tobago and there will be day/night fixtures.
Michael Muirhead, CEO of the WICB, expressed great delight with the new partnership.
"The WICB is pleased to welcome NAGICO on board as a partner in West Indies cricket. Sponsorship is vital part of any sport and we applaud NAGICO for their commitment to the game of cricket," Muirhead said.
"We look forward to a long and fruitful association which will enhance the game in the Caribbean. This new commitment by NAGICO, we believe, will be a great benefit to West Indies cricket and the development of the game in the region."
Muirhead added: "NAGICO is a strong and respected brand and they have demonstrated their passion and love of the game by sponsoring this important event in the WICB calendar. The 2014 NAGICO Super50 will be crucial for the players as we look ahead to the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup – a tournament we believe our team can win."
"We are very excited to partner with WICB in the NAGICO Super50 format and thus support West Indies cricket as we have been doing for many years on a smaller scale" said NAGICO Group CEO, Imran McSood Amjad. "Personally, I eat, drink and sleep cricket so to reach a sponsorship deal is even more satisfying. I look forward to an amazing tournament and will definitely be in Trinidad to hand out the Clive Lloyd Trophy to the winning team".
"Partnering with WICB was the next most logical step for us to take", explains Paul Dijkhoffz, NAGICO's Executive Marketing Manager. "As one of the fastest growing and the largest privately held insurance company in the Caribbean serving 19 territories regionally, NAGICO was looking for a suitable partner who could provide us with a platform to elevate our brand presence and market our first-rate products to a vast cricket loving audience throughout the Caribbean".
The tournament's host venue was allocated following a commitment from the government of Trinidad and Tobago through the Ministry of Tourism to play a major role in the execution of the tournament during the three-year period – 2014 to 2016.
The full list of schedule and fixtures for the NAGICO Super50 will be announced at a later date.

NAGICO Press Release

tedrichardsonreceivesmoussignedaticaoconferencefromlouishalley20122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication Hon. Ted Richardson on Thursday received five Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) that were signed by Sint Maarten at the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Sixth International Air Services Negotiation Conference held in early December in Durban, South Africa.

Once the MOUs are finally concluded, airlines from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Brazil, Finland, Switzerland, and the Dominican Republic will be able to have direct scheduled air service to country Sint Maarten. Another MOU with Jamaica is pending and discussions still have to take place with Paraguay, Sweden and Trinidad & Tobago who have shown an interest in Sint Maarten.

Trinidad & Tobago has presently a very limited air service agreement that they would like to extend. One of the most interesting air service agreements is with the UAE which recently ordered – November - approximately US$100 billion in passenger aircraft during the Dubai Air Show.

Minister Ted Richardson at the handover on Thursday morning said a mandate was provided to Section Civil Aviation to start discussions with countries interested in having air links with country Sint Maarten.

At the Durban conference, approximately 400 delegates attended representing 73 countries. During the conference 500 meetings were held and 506 air service agreements were signed. The Kingdom of the Netherlands signed the most agreements.

Currently 30 million flights are flown annually and this will grow to 60 million over the next 16 years, while the total number of passengers served will rise to six (6) billion from today's three (3) billion.

Minister Richardson added that it was a great pleasure for him to be working professionals from the Civil Aviation Department and within his Cabinet which allows country Sint Maarten to move to the next step.

"The countries chosen to sign agreements with are part of the synergy with the Airport where it concerns the airlift development plan for the enhancement and the further promotion of tourism for the country.

"We have been working behind the scenes diligently and have carefully planned our steps in order to reap results. Airlift agreements with other countries are necessary in order to attract more visitors to our country which results in more business for everybody including the airport," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson said on Thursday.

The Sint Maarten delegation to the conference comprised of Louis Halley, Arsenio Rombley, Cheryl Shewpersad and Danae Daal, from the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) is a United Nations (UN) body that takes care of the standards to be maintained in the civil aviation industry. ICAO was formed in the year 1944.

ICAO takes care of the standards and safety measures to be followed for civil aviation industry in the world. ICAO services as the global forum for its 191 Member States.

eholiday14122012HARBOUR VIEW:--- On December 18, 2013, the Steering Committee Integrity Inquiry which was installed by Governor Holiday on December 4, 2013 held its first meeting. During the meeting, which took place via video conference, the Governor and the Committee members – Dr. Marten Oosting (chairman), Mr. Jaime Saleh and Mr. Miguel Alexander accompanied by the members of the secretariat – discussed various issues related to the content of the inquiry, the plans to invite an international accounting firm to conduct the inquiry and the planning. Today, December 20, 2013, Governor Holiday following extensive preparation sent invitations to tender to four New York based accounting firms, inviting them to participate in the tender which is to result in the engagement of one of international accounting firms to conduct the forensic inquiry investigation.
The purpose of the inquiry is threefold: to collect data and information for assessment based on integrity requirements in accordance with the rule of law in a democratic society, to report the findings from the assessment and finally to make recommendations that add value to the functioning of the public administration of Sint Maarten.
The accounting firm that will be selected to execute the inquiry will issue an interim progress report within three months and the final inquiry report of its findings and recommendations within six months of its engagement to the Governor. The process of the integrity inquiry will conclude with the presentation of the final report to the Kingdom Council of Ministers by Governor Holiday.
Further information and developments regarding the inquiry will be made public by the Governor through the Cabinet of the Governor.

From the Cabinet of the Governor of St. Maarten

mauricelakeholidayseasoninfrastructurepreps20122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announced on Wednesday that, his back to basics approach for the holiday season will entail the placement of milled asphalt to level the sides of the roads leading into Philipsburg to create more parking. Motorists can also use the Ring Road for the holiday season.

Minister Lake also disclosed that milled asphalt will also be placed along sides of the road in Simpson Bay in the vicinity of Kim Sha Beach and the open lots near the Windward Islands Bank branch location in Simpson Bay.

"These little simple things make a difference in a community. Better parking improves parking overall where motorists won't have to navigate and park in a restricted area. It's all about making things easier and convenient for the people of our country and it's all about going back to basics," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

POINTE BLANCHE:--- Management of the Port of St. Maarten would like to thank all stakeholders for an incident free December 18 when eight cruise ships were in port.

The Port Authority is full of praise to the Police, Coast Guard and other Security Services for an exceptional job in providing their assistance on December 18. Police also provided escort for tour buses in certain cases of traffic congestion.

Port management is also full of praise for the Down Street Business and Community Council with respect to the street fair that was organized on Wednesday. Another street fair is planned for December 21.

Management would also like to thank port staff who did an excellent job as well to ensure that all logistics and other aspects of organization for December 18 would go smoothly.

More than 22,000 cruise passengers visited the island on Wednesday.

A number of activities were organized on Wednesday at the port that included holiday season caroling by various groups, music, dancing along with a live broadcast by Radio Station 104.3 FM.

The ships that were in port were: Carnival Dream 3652 cruise passengers; Celebrity Reflection 3030; Crystal Serenity 1096; Norwegian Gem 2466; Norwegian Sun 2250; Oasis of the Seas 5400; Ventura 3100; Westerdam 1848.

The last time that the Port of St. Maarten catered to such a large gathering of cruise passengers was back in 2005 with nine ships in port and over 18,000 cruise passengers.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is urgently appealing to garage owners and tire repair shops to take immediate measures to remove mosquito breeding sites from their establishments and to maintain on a daily basis control measures to eliminate any standing water on their premises.

Accumulation of rainwater in tires provides breeding space to mosquitoes that carry the dengue-causing virus that also spreads the chikungunya virus.

The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour has stepped up measures to prevent mosquito breeding sites and the population as well as business establishment also have a very important role to play.

The design of tires makes them ideal breeding sites for several species of mosquitoes, some of which are very important vectors of disease. Since they are easily filled by rain and collect leaf litter, they provide an ideal incubator for mosquito larvae.

It has been reported by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency that of the mosquito problems associated with waste tires, it is probably safe to say that 20 per cent of the tires are responsible for 80 per cent of the problem.

If we can eliminate scrap tire dumps, we will eliminate a prolific mosquito habitat and the associated disease risks. When discarding tires, ensure that they cannot hold water by puncturing holes in them or cutting them up into pieces before throwing them away.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your garage/tire repair shop and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their place on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or visit the Facebook Collective Prevention Services or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Inform CPS about your challenges in eliminating mosquito breeding sites in and around your homes/establishments to collectively seek a solution to the identified challenge.

mauricelakeat1stagriculturalindustrialfair19122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), Hon. Maurice Lake would like to commend the efforts of Elwaldo Richardson and Wyatt of Memorial Agricultural Foundation and the other entities that collaborated on organizing the first Annual Agricultural Industrial Fair that took place over the past weekend at the Emilio Wilson Park.

"As I stated before, agriculture development is going back to basics. It's homegrown, chemical free and healthy for you to eat. We need to focus on this area, and individuals have the option to start their own backyard garden. Make the effort and reap what you sow. You will reap the benefits of healthy food and at the same time lowering your monthly food bill.

"On behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten, we would like to congratulate the organizers in organizing the fair as it is a step in the right direction of bringing more awareness to community about agriculture. I fully support the development of sustainable agriculture on our hillsides," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Tuesday.

patricialourensreceivescourtesyvisitfromchicagowhitesoxvpkennywilliams19122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip recently met Chicago White Sox Vice President and former MLB player Kenny Williams who paid a courtesy call to the Ministers Cabinet. Williams is visiting the destination on behalf of the St. Maarten Sports Tourism Council, a private non-governmental organization. During the visit to the Minister Cabinet, Williams presented members of the Sports Department with several successful sports related projects for the nation's youth.

pjl19122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee will be closed for a few days during the Holiday Season.

The Library's schedule during the Holiday Season will be as follows:
Christmas Eve Tuesday, December 24, 2013 9:00am-12:30pm
Christmas Day Wednesday, December 25, 2013 CLOSED
Boxing Day Thursday, December 26, 2013 CLOSED
Friday, December 27, 2013 CLOSED
Saturday, December 28, 2013 10:00am -1:00pm
New Years Eve Tuesday, December 31, 2013 9:00am-12:30pm
New Years Day Wednesday, January 1, 2014 CLOSED

Regular opening hours will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2013. The Library apologizes for any inconvenience our closure causes and wishes the public of St. Maarten on behalf of the board, management, and staff a Merry Christmas and Happy and Prosperous New Year.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Social Economic Council (SER) has taken note of the media coverage its advice "Monetary union in view of recent alarming balance of payments developments" has received on Sint Maarten as well as Curacao from the time the advice was made public by way of the National Gazette on November 22.

The current advice is a follow up to the previous SER advice 2013-001 "Sint Maarten stepping out of the monetary union" which was submitted to government on February 28 of this year.

With regards to Sint Maarten leaving the monetary union, the SER would like to re-emphasize that a well-prepared and organized transition process will probably take at least a full year. Furthermore, in the advice to government negative price effects on consumer goods, purchasing power, devaluation, our economy and the role of the Central Bank of Curacao and Sint Maarten were taken into consideration. In the view of the SER, it is imperative for the debate on the future of the monetary union and the choice of our currency, to be conducted in a well-informed, factual and rational manner. In connection with this, the SER wishes to counter the ongoing local "dollarization scare" which in part has been caused by the lack of information available to the public, and is further aggravated by unsubstantiated and emotional statements.

The SER advice by no means intends to criticize the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten as an institution or its role in safeguarding our monetary union. The findings of the SER were based on information which was made available by the Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which was highlighted in their 2011 article IV consultation. The SER is aware that the mere mention of dissolution of the monetary union with Curaçao was not received well by several politicians in that country. However, the advice in no way was meant to create the impression that there is a problem between the governments of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. The fundamental problem between Sint Maarten and Curaçao is that our economies do not operate in the same manner, which in turn has created a problem with our balance of payments and our foreign exchange reserve.

The sole purpose of the advice is to advise and prepare the government of Sint Maarten of the consequences it will endure if the monetary union is kept intact. Discussions on possible solutions should be held in a responsible manner and decisions made based on facts, not emotions.

In closing the SER mentioned that it is evident that this topic needs the immediate attention of the decision makers, as we can no longer ignore the ongoing deterioration of the external situation of the monetary union.

The SER advice "Monetary union in view of recent alarming balance of payments developments" as well as the original advice "Sint Maarten stepping out of the monetary union" are available for download from www.sersxm.org.

rotarysxmsunriseprovidechristmastreetohopeoutreachchildrenshome19122013ST. PETERS:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise along with the Sundial Interactors held a Christmas caroling and Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Hope Outreach Children's Home in St. Peters on Saturday, December 14, 2013.
Members of Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise visited the Hope Outreach Children's Home in St. Peters and saw the need to assist; the business community was called upon whereby items were donated by UTS and Cake House.
In showing their appreciation, the children showcased their talents in singing and playing musical instruments, they were all filled with love and appreciation. The Sundial Interactors assisted the children with the decoration and lighting of the Christmas tree.
Rotary Sunrise would like to thank UTS and Cake House for their donation towards the children of the home.
If you are interested in donating gifts to the children of the Hope Outreach foster home, you can contact Rotary Sunrise; we meet at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast.
For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM

LYON, France – INTERPOL is calling for the public's assistance in helping to track down international fugitives linked to organized crime networks and wanted for offences including murder and drug trafficking.
Operation Infra (International Fugitive Round Up and Arrest) Americas was launched in Costa Rica on 18 November, involving 46 countries and territories and targeting 266 fugitives. Members of the public are now being asked to provide information to help locate 15 individuals, including Rafael Caro-Quintero the former leader of the Guadalajara Cartel in Mexico.
The fugitives are believed to be hiding out in Central America, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela or the Caribbean. They are all cases where no new leads were generated during the initial phase of Infra Americas or where there is no current intelligence on the potential location of these individuals.
Ervin Prenci, criminal intelligence officer with INTERPOL's Fugitive Investigative Unit, which is coordinating Operation Infra Americas, said the public could provide vital leads in helping to bring these fugitives to justice.
"Any piece of information, no matter how small or apparently insignificant could be the missing piece in the puzzle which will help locate these dangerous criminals," said Mr Prenci.
"The public have a valuable role to play in supporting law enforcement efforts but we would not encourage anyone to take action themselves, but instead to pass on any tips to their local or national police or INTERPOL," added Mr Prenci.
Information on the possible location of the targets of Operation Infra Americas or any internationally wanted persons can be sent to INTERPOL's Fugitive Investigative Support unit. Any leads will be passed on to the INTERPOL National Central Bureaus concerned for further action on the ground.
Information can also be given anonymously to any national Crime Stoppers programme.
Infra Americas builds on the success of previous similar operations including Infra-SA (South America) and Infra-SEA (Southeast Asia) and the global Infra-Red operations in 2010 and 2012. These operations have so far led to more than 500 arrests and positive locations worldwide.
Countries and territories taking part in Operation Infra Americas are: Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Bahamas, Belgium, Belize, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, France, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hungary, Italy, Jamaica, Mali, Mexico, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Poland, Romania, Sint Maarten, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos, Ukraine, United States, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Click here to view more information on INTERPOL's international wanted fugitives.

INTERPOL Press Release

gregoryhodge19122013MARIGOT:--- Two young St. Martin entrepreneurs namely Gregory Hodge and Jhony Henson are extremely upset and now seeking legal action and justice because they believe their business plan for EASTCAIR was stolen by three elected officials. Hodge and Henson contacted SMN News on Monday after we published the new routes WINAIR launched on Sunday claiming that the routes WINAIR launched came from their business plan that they gave to two parliamentarians they met in January 2013. Hodge provided SMN News with their business plan including the scheduled routes they had in the business plan. The schedule Hodge provided to SMN News has exactly the same routes (including time of day) that WINAIR released last Sunday to SMN News.

Hodge said in 2012 they needed some information to complete their project and they contacted Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) for some information and PJIAE management requested information from them prior to releasing any information to them. Both men said they met with management of PJIAE and they cooperated with them by providing the information they wanted.

The two men said that Territorial Councilor Jules Charville arranged a meeting for them with Members of Parliament Frans Richardson and MP Patrick Illidge. "When we met these two Members of Parliament we discussed our ideas and how we intended to do business even after St. Maarten was downgraded. During the meeting both MPs told us they did not know what to do to revive WINAIR and they also did not know if it was possible to do anything after the island was downgraded. They asked us for copies of our business plan and we gave it to them in good faith. While we also met someone from WINAIR we did not give them our business plan, we discussed the ideas we had and the initiatives we are taking to launch our business. We also paid for a business license in order to begin operations such as training of employees and to date we have not received that business license. We heard from other people that the Dutch side officials were planning to steal our business plan but we did not take the information serious because at the time we had no proof of what was told to us. We however, found it strange that since the meeting with the two Members of Parliament in January 2013 we were not able to meet with them again because the purpose for that meeting was for them to speed up the process for us to get the business license. We tried reaching MP Richardson and Illidge by phone and they never returned our call."

Hodge said prior to meeting with the two MPs, they held meetings with the management of Windward Islands Bank who were following them and had even committed to invest in purchasing the aircrafts they needed in order to have real collateral in case something should go wrong.
"Since that meeting with the two MPs we are not even able to open a bank account in the name of our company. Today we are seeking justice, we want the people of St. Maarten to know that the routes that WINAIR just launched are part of our business plan and most importantly the routes to Guadeloupe and partnering with Air Antilles are also part of our plan that was stolen."

Hodge, an aviation worker who was employed at the L'Esperance Airport, said he left his job in 2010 and started a three year study in order to put together a business plan to open a new airline which would have partnerships with Air Antilles and WINAIR. The idea the young St. Martiners had was to open a local airline which would focus on regional flights.

He said that a group of them invested over $350,000.00 to conduct the study and to put together the business plan that was stolen from them. "We worked with experts from Europe and USA."

Both Hodge and Henson said they will do everything legally possible to obtain justice and to ensure that they get what is due to them.

swescotwilliams19122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed that no Christmas bonuses were paid out to civil servants this year. SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing if the Government of St. Maarten paid out any Christmas bonuses to civil servants and if the cleaners that work for government would get the turkey and ham like they got last year.

Wescot Williams said no bonuses were paid due to the budget constraints and this year her office did not make the necessary arrangements to give certain civil servants the turkey and ham like they did last year.

However, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten wished the people of St. Maarten a safe and blessed holiday season.

Causeway not Sinking --- Opening Scheduled for January.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams said that she asked questions to the pertinent authorities regarding if there were any technical problems with the causeway and if it was sinking. Wescot Williams said that the persons she asked vehemently denied that the causeway was sinking but they did tell her that they too heard that rumor and they could not say who started the rumor about the bridge sinking.
When asked by SMN News when the causeway will officially open, Wescot Williams said the bridge was handed over to government during the second week of December and the opening should take place sometime in January. The Prime Minister could not say exactly why the opening was delayed but stated that she was informed that the causeway should open in January 2014.

Transparency International Searching for Researcher - PM.

When asked about Transparency International and the integrity investigation they are contracted to do for the Government of St. Maarten, the Prime Minister said that the last thing she heard was that Transparency International is looking for a researcher and that is the reason they are being held up. When asked if TI does not have such persons working for them, the Prime Minister said based on what she knows TI works with volunteers and she believes they already placed an advert looking for an expert.

Prime Minister Wescot Williams was then asked if Transparency International received a deposit since the contract was signed. Wescot Williams said she could not say for sure if that was done because she could not recall if the contract stated that they had to be paid some sort of deposit after the contract was signed. She said if that was the case she believes it was done but she could not say for sure.

Governor sent Resolution to Government.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also confirmed to SMN News that the Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday already sent his resolution on the integrity investigation ordered by Kingdom Decree to the Government of St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the resolution they received was to inform them of the three persons appointed by the governor (committee) that will advise him on how to proceed with the orders of the Kingdom.
When asked if the Governor indicated in his resolution that he will work with the Government of St. Maarten to conduct the integrity investigation he is mandated to carry out, the Prime Minister said something to that effect is in the resolution but that too she could not remember the exact words.

The Prime Minister also stated that she and the Minister of Justice met with Members of Parliament on Tuesday in a closed door meeting to further inform them on the integrity committee formed by the Government of St. Maarten. The Prime Minister further stated that she will be meeting with Parliament on Wednesday afternoon to continue the central committee meeting on integrity.

martinhassink19122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Martin Hassink tried to outline the work that is being carried out by his Ministry to ensure that there are proper checks and balances within the Ministry of Finance. The Minister said he felt it was necessary to tell the people of St. Maarten exactly how his Ministry functions because of a certain newspaper article.
The Finance Minister outlined step by step the procedures that are being followed. He said one can only imagine the amount of transactions that are done on a daily basis, such as paying salaries, rents for government offices and cars, and also the contracts to the various vendors. These transactions have to be booked in a timely manner before it enters the government ledger.
While making the presentation Minister Hassink called on those in power not to fire him because he still has good health and would like to remain in office for the rest of the term.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Firstly we want to congratulate both Ms. Nzinga Lake and Mr. Anastasio Baker for being elected to the board of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce. We have confidence that together with the other board members you will do an excellent job for the business community of St. Maarten. The OSPP, as a political party is very much interested in the development of small businesses as these businesses are the backbone of every economy. Small businesses give young people an opportunity to become entrepreneurs; they create jobs and additional revenue for the already strapped coffers of the government of St. Maarten. A special congratulation also goes out to Ms. Giovanella de Weever and Mrs. Raquel Coupland for their interest shown in becoming members of the board of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce. We do hope that the chamber organization will invite you to a meeting to share your vision on how to develop and sustain small businesses in St. Maarten. To the Minister of Telecommunication, Mr. Ted Richardson a job well done with the landing of the SSCS fiber cable landing at the Sitcoms beach manhole. We are looking forward to the reduction of the cost of voice and data as stated in your press release. You can imagine that every penny will help in these already difficult time with the cost of living and cost of doing business bursting out of it seam.

OSPP Press Release

swescotwilliamsreceivesndpupdate19122013Urges Community to Participate in National Development Plan: "This is about the Development of your country"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received an update on the status of the development of the National Development Plan (NDP) from representatives of the Directorate of Interior and Kingdom Relations BAK and of the UNDP.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has said earlier that she will be counting on the population for their input and participation in implementing the plan: "We will be putting considerable focus on the National Development Plan. In order to launch and implement the NDP we will need the involvement of all, of each and every St. Maartener whether you were born here or whether you belong here, to craft a vision for St. Maarten. We need the input from all to be able to implement the vision which we have in making this island one of the leaders of sound democratic and people oriented governance in the region. We need the input from all sectors of society to plot the course for our economic, social, cultural and environmental development. The development for a Country which we call home, one which we all should love and cherish."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemharbourgroupcrewlounge19122013POINTE BLANCHE:--- TelEm Group and the Harbour Group of companies have joined forces to create the Caribbean's first high-tech crew lounge, offering cruise ship staff a purpose-built facility to relax in and make calls to their families and friends back home while browsing on the internet.

The new crew lounge is located upstairs in the Harbour's Cruise & Cargo building.

It offers high-speed internet, voice and data services and luxury seating for up to 60 crew members at a time in a comfortable environment with ambient lighting and cool colour tones.

The crew lounge was officially opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday morning by Prime Minister, and TelEm Group Shareholder Representative, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams together with Minister responsible for Telecommunications, Harbour and Economic Affairs, Mr. Ted Richardson.

On behalf of TelEm Group, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel, said the company's history in working with the Harbour Group goes all the way back to the development of the facility into the model cruise and cargo facility it is today, when TelEm Group made major financial investments in exchange for office accommodation.

She said the company was very proud to continue with this close working relationship with the launch of the new crew lounge to once again profile the innovative and dynamic services St. Maarten has to offer to its visiting cruise ship passengers and crew.

She said TelEm Group has not only invested in its harbor store and now the new crew lounge, but also in the technology that is necessary to ensure that both services meet the demanding requirements of today's mobile voice and data users.

"We have installed a brand new state-of-the-art cell site at the Harbour facility which, in less than one month has become the 2nd busiest cell site in our entire mobile network," said Mrs. Etnel.

Mrs. Etnel said the installation will give much relief to visiting crew members and also to Harbour staff and resident business who have been complaining about poor signals and service in recent months.

"Unfortunately we were forced to change our mobile frequency because of interference to our mobile network from Anguilla earlier this year, and this caused an additional problem, by moving the interference to the Harbour area where new network interference, this time from St. Kitts, affected service here," explained Mrs. Etnel.

She said a decision was taken in collaboration with Harbour Group Managing Director, Mr. Mark Mingo, to install a new cell site at the harbor to deal with this interference and provide a permanent improvement in service to the Harbour Group and its customers.

TelEm Group Chief Commercial Officer Brian Mingo invited guests at the official opening to browse through the newly renovated TeleCom Boutique before visiting the new crew lounge and taking part in a welcoming toast.

He congratulated project coordinator and newly named TelEm Group Employee-of-the-Year Suraj Ramdas for seeing the project through and for creating a unique service in the Caribbean.

Managing Director of the Harbour Group of Companies, Mr. Mark Mingo is also delighted with the new crew lounge and with the level of cooperation that has taken place between the two government-owned companies.

He said crew members are seen as an important group that should also be catered to by the Harbour and the destination generally because this group of visitors also have a considerable spending power while in port.

Mr. Mingo wished TelEm Group much success with the facility and also thanked the company for the new cell site, which he said has greatly improved communication at the port facility.

Telem Press Release

POINTE BLANCHE:--- TelEm Group has upgraded network services in the Harbour Facility area, greatly improving the quality of service to residential and business clients, including customers at the Harbour facility.

The network upgrade includes installation of a brand new state-of-the-art cell site on the Harbour facility roof will be serve the entire harbor and surrounding areas.

The new installation is already recording a record amount of usage, making the upgraded cell site TelCell's 2nd busiest on the island since installation.

The upgrades became necessary in recent weeks due to deteriorating quality of service to residential and business customers in the Harbor Facility area due to radio frequency interference from a telecommunication operator in neighboring St. Kitts.

According to Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa, the Harbor Facility upgrade is the first in a series of operations being carried out on the company's extensive mobile network to improve quality of service in a number of areas where, as at the harbor, voice and data services are poor and require improvement.

Mr. Louisa said the upgrading operations began months ago as a result of increasing demand for voice and broadband capacity on the network as users increasingly utilize the data features on their Smartphone and other mobile devices.

He said this problem has been compounded in other areas, including network interference from neighbouring Anguilla earlier in the year and more recently from neighbouring St. Kitts.

"With the assistance of RF experts from overseas we were able to correct the interference issue from Anguilla with the assistance of the Bureau of Telecommunication and Post St. Maarten and at the same time make use of several recommendations from the experts on how we could better optimize and fine tune our mobile network," said Mr. Louisa.

He said the company technicians and engineers are continuing to implement these recommendations of optimization and fine tuning of all the network cell sites on an on-going basis with much improvement in a number of areas resulting in less dropped calls and fewer missed calls.

One of the fine-tuning operations has been the so-called "down-tilting" of mobile antennas throughout the mobile network to improve signal coverage and reduce the number of customer dropped calls in some congested areas, including the Philipsburg area. Another operation awaiting implementation is the installation of mini-cell sites in shopping malls and other densely populated areas where congestion issues also exist.

"Another part of the implementation exercise includes upgrading hardware and software on the mobile network to enable better operation of the many different smartphones that can operate on the network with all their different features and this is a process that also takes time and is ongoing," continued, the CTO.

He said as well as the upgrading of various network elements, the company is in the process of adding new cell sites in several areas throughout St. Maarten to further improve the mobile coverage area generally.

Also included in the package of network improvements is a 360 degree turnaround in the quality of service for TelEm Group customers using their mobile phones on the French Side.

He said unfortunately, due to the upgrade of TelCell's French Side partner Dauphin Telecom to a new 3G network, it has taken longer than expected to synchronize the new network with the 3G network of TelCell so that customers can easily move from one network to the next seamlessly.

"The first stage of this synchronization has been completed with the voice service to TelCell's post-paid customers now fully restored. Our Post paid customers can now make and receive voice calls on the French Side as they could before while we are working on restoring their data usage via the Dauphin Telecom 3G network ," said Mr. Louisa.

He said technicians from both companies are now synchronizing their respective 3G networks so that TelCell's pre-paid customers can also enjoy the quality of service they were used to previously when making or receiving calls from the French Side.

"We operate a very dynamic voice and data mobile network that has to be handled very carefully so that we can make very complicated adjustments while maintaining at least an acceptable level of service," said the Chief Technical Officer, Mr. Louisa.

He said the adjustments take time since they have to be made, tested and if necessary corrected, before they are tested again.

"It is a tedious but necessary process which takes time and still have to be made while the company continues to battle with the problem of interference from nearby islands over which the company has little or no control," continued Mr. Louisa.

He says TelEm Group will continue to work with the local regulator to find permanent solutions with the cooperation of the overseas operators themselves who, according to Mr. Louisa, are causing the interference.

TelEm Group's Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel says the company is addressing many of the technical issues affecting its voice and data network on several fronts at the same time and no expense is being spared when it comes to solutions that can be provided by TelEm Group itself.

"It is a different matter when the solutions are out of your hands and your control, such as the interference and frequency issues, or when your partner on the French Side needs to stabilize their own voice and data network before they can make good on the one-island network we jointly subscribe to," said Mrs. Entel.

Both TelEm Group executives have appealed to customers to be patient and allow the network improvements to kick in once they have been implemented. Both are confident all upgrades and a much more efficiently operating mobile network will be fully functional at the start of the new year.

"The Pointe Blanche/Harbour facility upgrades are a start and shows we are working in the right direction," they said.

Telem Press Release

nagicoendofyearawardsdinner19122013OYSTER POND:--- Several Staff of the NAGICO Insurances Group were awarded at the company's annual End of Year Staff Awards & Dinner held on Saturday; December 14 at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort.
The event was clearly a 'Black Tie' affair attracting nearly 300 Employees, Agents and Brokers of the company, both local and regionally; dressed in Ballroom attire and accompanied by their spouses.
Categories of Awards presented included: Chairman's Award, Manager of the Year, Executive Manager of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Shooting Star, Employee of the Year (for all territories), as well as selected Special Recognition prizes. C.E.O of the NAGICO Insurances; Imran McSood Amjad presented the awards and lauded the awardees and the entire NAGICO Group for their continued hard work throughout the year 2013.
"I just want to sum up my thoughts about my staff in one word from one of my icons; Nelson Mandela; Ubuntu - which means; I am because we are. That term, that word, explains and personifies what NAGICO has here tonight. It is the interconnectedness that we all have with each other. Where our success and failures depend on each other, and we will not succeed unless we relate to each other," Mr. Amjad said. "NAGICO is because of you and I just want to take the time and say thank you to my staff, Thank you for putting in the hard work you do; some of you staying until late in the evening and coming in on weekends, you may not know it but I see it and I appreciate it. Thank you for simply showing up."
He invited six employees to the stage and presented each of them with awards for having a perfect attendance record for the entire year. They are as follows: John Shewdat, Mikaela Bowers, Tamisha Wigley, Sidson Sorton, Peta-Gaye Harriott and Colivere Philips. "These staff that stand before you have never had an absent day for the entire year, they always 'show up' and that I believe is remarkable," he said praising their dedication.
In addition four employees received Long Service Awards; Esmeralda Maria 10 years; Annette Robin 20 years and Magalie Romeo-Hodge and Eric Ellis 25 years. Master of Ceremony for the evening was Fernando Clarke who made the program a light and comedy filled one coupled with the excitement of several coveted giveaways. Finally the evening ended with a party on the dance floor where staff, management and their guests filled the dance floor as they rocked to the tunes from DJ Madskillz.

NAGICO Press Release

rotarysunrisefamilybreakfast17122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise held a successful Rotary Family breakfast on Saturday December 14, 2013 at Air Lekkerbek.
Rotary International has designated December as Family of Rotary Month, the idea is to have family members and friends understand the role of Rotarian and enlighten them on the many projects that is and continue to be executed in the community. This month also allows Rotary Sunrise the opportunity to celebrate the wonder of our own family our Rotaract, interact, youth exchange, ambassadorial scholar, GSE team members, and our Rotary friends from around the world.
The family breakfast saw about 82 family and friends in attendance which includes the President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell, Minister of VROMI, the Hon. Maurice Lake, Rotarians from all four clubs, (Rotary Sunrise, Mid-isle, SMN Nord, and St. Maarten) Rotaractors and our newly formed Sundial Interactors came together with family and friends to enjoy a family breakfast filled with togetherness and Fellowship.
As we approach Christmas and the New Year we are conscious on the focus of family, therefore, December is certainly a time to reflect on family values and how Rotary shapes those values. In Rotary we see our life utmost priorities as family, work and then Rotary, but preferably we should not segregate Rotary from our family life.
Rotary Sunrise would like to thank all families and friends who shared our breakfast on Saturday December 14, 2013.
Rotary sunrise is a nonprofit organization that collaborates with the business partners to assist with the needs of the community as they arise; we meet at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM

policeacademyinstructorstraker19122013DUTCH QUARTER:--- A group of 13 customs officers that are currently training at the Police Academy in Dutch Quarter to become full fledged customs officers walked out of their classrooms Wednesday morning and stood at the side of the road in order to show a simple protest against the non-payment of their salaries. Instructor at the Police Academy Straker told SMN News that the Ministry of Justice is currently processing the payments for the customs officers but he is not sure if the workers would get their first salary in time for the Christmas Holidays.
Straker told SMN News in an interview that the workers started working since late October 2013. He said the custom officers worked through the month of November and they were supposed to get their first salary in December. Straker said that the workers could not be paid due to some delay in paper work that had to be taken care of by the Minister of Justice and other staff of the Ministry.
Straker further explained that he contacted the Minister of Justice on Wednesday morning when the customs officers walked out of their classrooms in order to make their concerns known and the Minister promised him that he was working on getting the necessary paperwork to the personnel and the Finance Department of government in order for them to pay the workers.
Straker said he understands the frustration of the customs officers because it's the holiday season and the workers also have bills to pay.
The academy instructor said even though he understood the workers' predicament he spoke to them and informed them that the Minister was busy working on getting their salaries paid. Straker said the workers only stood alongside the road for about 10 minutes and after he informed them that their actions could affect their training and career, they went back to their classrooms.
Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson said in an invited comment that he signed off on the workers' payment and sent it to the Ministry of Finance about midday on Wednesday. Minister Richardson said that he asked the Minister of Finance to do everything in his power to make the payments before the Christmas holidays even if it's an advance payment until their resolutions are finalized. Minister Richardson said the payments for the trainees were delayed due to some administrative hiccups.
During the weekly Council of Ministers' press briefing Minister of Finance Martin Hassink said that he was unaware of the silent protest and the non-payment of the customs trainees' salaries.

patrickillidge10032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The cries of the people of St. Maarten and the Dutch may soon come to an end if the Court of Appeals decides to grant the prosecution's request which was presented to them on Tuesday afternoon. The prosecution is seeking permission from the Court of Appeals to arrest Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge as they continue the Bada Bing Investigation.
The Court of Appeals session held at 4pm on Tuesday was a closed door session since the prosecution does not want the information they presented to the court to be made public. However, based on the constitution of St. Maarten the prosecutor has to approach the Court of Appeals for permission to arrest a Member of Parliament if he or she is suspected of any crime. SMN News learnt that some of the charges against MP Illidge are possession of an illegal firearm, money laundering, bribery, and being part of a criminal organization. This could not be confirmed by the Attorney General or the Prosecutor's Office.
Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein presented some evidence and reasons to the Court of Appeals on Tuesday while asking them for permission to arrest Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge, the main suspect in the Bada Bing Investigation which started in March 2013 when a surveillance video was released showing MP Illidge taking what appears to be bribe from the owner of Bada Bing Strip club Jaap van den Heuvel.
The way this investigation is moving it's likely that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge will be arrested just before the Christmas holidays and released on Christmas Eve like former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto who was arrested last year in the Piranha investigation which is still not completed. So far none of the suspects in the Piranha investigation have gone before the court. While this might be the way the prosecution wants to go, the decision for the MP's arrest has to be given by the Court of Appeals.
The video tape which has circulated worldwide via the internet caught the attention of the Dutch Members of Parliament while MP Illidge was in the Netherlands. The Dutch MPs even asked MP Illidge to leave the Parliamentary meetings that were being held in the Netherlands at the time.
Detectives on St. Maarten, including those from the Landsrecherche searched the home of MP Illidge and his office at the House of Parliament before he returned to St. Maarten in March 2013 when they launched an investigation against him for corruption. During that house search the investigators found a firearm in the MP's house.
Upon his return to St. Maarten, MP Illidge told SMN News in an exclusive interview that the monies he was seen taking from the strip club owner was monies the businessman owed him and was paying back in parts. MP Illidge said he loaned the businessman monies when he was going through his divorce and the businessman was paying him back in parts.
MP Illidge also provided SMN News with email correspondence between him and van den Heuvel who claimed that the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger asked him to tape Illidge in an effort to blackmail him since the leader of the UP wanted to get back into government. According to MP Illidge in that interview supported by the email correspondence between Illidge and van den Heuvel, the UP leader Theodore Heyliger asked Jaap van den Heuvel to trap and tape Patrick Illidge while giving him the monies and ask him questions as if he wanted Illidge to secure a business license for him. Illidge said he knew van den Heuvel and Heyliger were friends but he and the businessman are also friends and he never thought the businessman would ever do that to him because he helped him at a time when he was in need.
Investigators arrested Jaap van den Heuvel on September 30th, 2013 when he returned to St. Maarten on their request. He was charged with forgery, tax fraud, and money laundering. The businessman spent eight days in pre-trial detention but was released by the judge of instruction even though the prosecution added another charge on the list in order to keep him behind bars.
Shortly after the release of the video with Patrick Illidge, the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and I-3 Government fell as Member of Parliament Romaine Laville pulled his support from the government. It is questionable for many people on St. Maarten that MP Illidge who said he was "set up" by the leader of the UP is currently supporting the Wescot Williams III Cabinet to which Heyliger has the most seats in Parliament.
Attorney General Taco Stein could not be reached on Tuesday afternoon for a comment on Tuesday's hearing.

mauricelakeprovidesaccessibleventureswithlongleaseland17122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday afternoon met with Accessible Ventures of Louis Jeffers and his Team in connection with a request that was made to the Government of Sint Maarten about a piece of long lease government land.

Minister Lake signed the relevant documents on Monday providing Accessible Ventures a plot of land in the Sucker Garden area that will be utilized by the company. The final act still has to be carried out at the Notary.

Jeffers established Accessible Ventures in 2005 after a personal family experience of the lack of service for individuals who have a physical disability. Jeffers decided he should do something about it after visiting the United States, and Accessible Ventures was born.

Jeffers said providing such a service hasn't been easy, but with a great team, he has persevered and Accessible Ventures now provides services to a number of entities when required: White & Yellow Cross; Sister Basilia Center; Helping Hands; Port of St. Maarten and Princess Juliana International Airport.

In relation to the airport, the company provides wheelchair services – by picking up the person from their home and taking them to the airport; checking them in at their respective airline; assisting them through immigration and security; and taking them to the ramp and putting them on the aircraft that they would be flying with. Upon the person's return to the island, Accessible Ventures is there at the airport to help the individual disembark the aircraft and take them straight to their home.

At the port, Accessible Ventures offers scooter wheel chairs for cruise passengers.

The plot of land that Accessible Ventures will receive will be used for the construction of an office; and serve as a parking depot for the company's vehicles, and it would also allow for the vehicles to be properly maintained.

The primary focus according to Louis Jeffers is the local market by helping the physically disabled and seniors getting around to their various appointments.

On Monday, Jeffers thanked Minister Lake for assisting the company and to keep up the good work by bringing things back to basics.

Minister Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday stated that the physically disabled people of the country and seniors were one of his priority areas in providing the necessities in order to provide them with a better quality of life.

"As a country we have much to be thankful to our seniors. At the same time, individuals who suffer with a physical disability, whether young or old, must also have a better quality of life. We have to take care of our people and my going back to basics approach has this as a cornerstone of nation building.

"Accessible Ventures provides necessary services for these individuals and I applaud Louis Jeffers and his team for the wonderful work that they are doing. I am proud to be a part of the process to facilitate where they can even expand their services in the future by providing them with a plot of land where they can continue to help and assist our local people who suffer from a physical disability as well as our seniors who need assistance to get from one place to the next," Minster Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

patricialourensaddressesnia17122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip congratulated all those who attended the National Institute of Arts (NIA) activity on Sunday which was the official presentation of the organization to the community of Sint Maarten. The NIA is headed by Clara Reyes and Arlene Halley.

Minister Lourens-Philip said the NIA marked the end of a journey and commended the two ladies at the top of the foundation for the good work that they have been doing to produce and train the young people of the country.

In case there is no adopted 2014 budget on January 16th

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht - Cft) advised yesterday, December 16th, the Kingdom Council of Ministers (Rijksministerraad - RMR) to give Sint Maarten an instruction in case there is no adopted 2014 budget by January 16th, 2014.

In its advice concerning the budget for 2013 the Cft already announced that it would advise the RMR to give an instruction, in case by December 15th there would not be a budget adopted by the Parliament.

In the meanwhile, the Government of Sint Maarten has submitted a written petition for prolongation of the submittal of an adopted budget till January 16th. The Board gives the Government of Sint Maarten the chance to adopt the budget for 2014 in the coming four weeks. However, the Board advised the RMR to give an instruction in order to realize an adopted budget for 2014 on short-term, if by January 16th there is no adopted budget for 2014.

CFT Press Release

swescotwilliamsopenswinairflighttosantodomingo17122013Congratulates Winair on Expansion

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, as Shareholder Representative of Winair, cut the ribbon on the local airline's new St. Maarten to Santo Domingo at a Ceremony at the Airport on Monday.

At the ceremony the Prime Minister thanked the Supervisory Board, Management and Winair staff in making this achievement, and those of the last few days in adding the Curacao route, a possibility. "Let me take this opportunity to congratulate the Board, Management and Employees of Winair and all others who today are making it possible that we can celebrate this very special occasion. Over the past few years I know that there have been issues at Winair but I have come to realize that due to the dedication of the Board, Management and Staff there has always been a speedy resolution to those issues. I therefore know that any question on whether or not this airline will be moved forward has already been answered in the affirmative. I know a lot of hard work went in to what we have been celebrating and so, on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten I truly would like to again thank all of you, thank you for the risks you have taken and determining they are worth taking," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister concluded by expressing her hope that the airline will grow and expand in the future and that it will remain to be a truly regional St. Maarten airline. "I hope that you will continue in this fashion to represent St. Maarten, Winair and the people of this country. Congratulations to all of you and I hope to see this expansion continue and I urge all of you to work together in order to make this happen. May God continue to bless this airline, this country and everyone who is a part of this endeavor," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

winairinauguralflightfromsantodomingo17122013SIMPSON BAY:--- WINAIR Flight 104 from Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo, was welcomed with the traditional water cannon salute as it touched down at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), Monday afternoon. The welcoming party included Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, who is also Shareholder's Representative of the airline.
Speaking at the event, Managing Director of SXM Airport, Regina LaBega, said "Nothing makes us happier at the Princess Juliana International Airport than to witness an airline increase its service to our facility."

She stressed that SXM has "a special interest in WINAIR's success not only because it is considered our national flag bearer or carrier, but also, and perhaps more importantly, because what is good for WINAIR is at the same time good for Princess Juliana International Airport."

Noting that the airline brought in 11% of the total passenger movement to the airport in 2011, behind only American Airlines and US Airways, LaBega said the new direct service to Santo Domingo would allow WINAIR to substantially improve on that performance.

According to LaBega, WINAIR has operated out of SXM Airport throughout its more than 50 years' of existence. "The relationship between SXM Airport and WINAIR is by no means a shotgun marriage; it is a relationship that has stood the test of time, and will continue to do so," she said.

WINAIR's CEO, Michael Cleaver, thanked his Supervisory Board and Shareholders for their support of the airline's recent expansion, which began December 15, with new destinations Curacao, Tortola, and Anguilla in addition to Santo Domingo. Cleaver also thanked the management and staff of WINAIR for their tireless efforts and the passengers for choosing the airline. "We at WINAIR will continue to work diligently to provide outstanding service to our customers wherever your travel needs may take you," Cleaver said.

The ceremony concluded with LaBega, joined by Chairman of SXM Airport's Supervisory Board, Clarence Derby, presenting a plaque to WINAIR and tokens of appreciation to the Captain and crew of the inaugural flight, followed by a ribbon cutting.

WINAIR operates an ATR 42 aircraft on this flight with a capacity of 48 passengers. The new non-stop service to Santo Domingo will be available weekly on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), an agency of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour says Chikungunya was incorporated into its dengue response plans since the latter half of 2012 after a public health representative from CPS attended a workshop in Jamaica in May 2012.

Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is an emerging, mosquito-borne disease caused by an alphavirus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). This disease is transmitted predominantly by Aedes aeqypti and Ae. Albopictus mosquitoes, the same species involved in the transmission of dengue.

Country Sint Maarten's Ministry of Public Health has been actively appealing to the public to reduce breeding sites and clean-up around their properties. Numerous press releases with the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked' campaign, and adverts in the Government Information Page (GIP) have been published along with public service announcements in the broadcast media.

Ministry of Public Health Vector Control Team have been visiting homes and other properties on a monthly basis appealing to residents to clean-up and also providing information about the two vector borne diseases.

Other interventions that have taken place are: fogging; training of vector control staff; placing physicians on alert and increasing public health surveillance for Chikungunya; national, regional and international public health organizations appraised as part of reporting protocols; yard to yard inspections planned for Belvedere and Oyster Pond area; and alerting ports of entry and providing information flyers to visitors.

As Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever has said before, "One can only combat these vector borne diseases by everyone doing their share individually and collectively."

Health authorities from both sides of the island are currently working closely together to deal with the challenges of dengue and Chikungunya. Country Sint Maarten does not have any confirmed cases of Chikungunya while the North side of the island has confirmed 10 cases.

Caribbean health officials back in the summer of 2012 called on countries and territories to prepare for the introduction of CHIK) into the Region, and to review present dengue response plans and adjust them to incorporate the aforementioned virus, which is more active than dengue.

CHIKV epidemics have shown cyclical trends, with inter-epidemic periods ranging from four to 30 years. Since 2004, CHIKV has expanded its geographical range, causing sustained epidemics of unprecedented magnitude in Asia and Africa.

Although areas of in Asia and Africa are considered to be endemic for the disease, the virus produced outbreaks in many new territories in the Indian Ocean islands and in Italy. This recent re-emergence of CHIKV has heightened the world's public health awareness and concern about this virus.

According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO), controlling the spread of anthropod-borne viruses in the Americas has not been very successful.

In 2012 it was said, although indigenous transmission of CHIKV does not occur in the Americas now, the risk for its introduction into local vector mosquito populations is likely higher than had previously been thought, especially in tropical and subtropical areas where Ae. Aegypti, of the main vectors of CHIKV, has a broad distribution.

Between 2006 and 2010, 106 laboratory-confirmed or probable cases of CHIKV were detected among travelers returning to the United States, compared to only three cases reported between 1995 and 2005. There have also been imported CHIK cases reported in the French territories in the Americas since 2006 in Martinique, in Guadeloupe, and Guyana.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A fishing ban for the Red Hind has been implemented as of the 1st of December 2013 until 28th of February 2014, off the island of Saba, according to information received by the Inspection Department TEZVT - Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) from the Dutch Government.

A decree was issued by the Dutch State Secretary of Economic Affairs for the seasonal closure of fishing in the Red Hind Spawning Aggregation Area on the Saba Bank based on advice from the Fishery Commission of the BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba).

The ban will allow the Red Hind and Queen Triggerfish to replenish fish stocks. The ban is related to a specific area on the Saba Bank.

The ban was initiated to protect the unique and rich biodiversity of the Saba Bank and to keep the effects of fishery activities on the marine ecosystems at a sustainable level.

For further information with respect to the fish ban off the island of Saba, you can visit the Inspection Department TEZVT-LVV at Cannegieter Street (next to the Sister Borgia School) in Philipsburg or call 520-7213 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of the House of Parliament is scheduled to meet December 18 regarding integrity and the rules of order.

The public committee session is set for Wednesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is the further discussion with the Minister of General Affairs Hon. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Wiliams on the Royal Decree to instruct the Governor to perform an integrity research on the public administration of Sint Maarten.

The second agenda point is discussion on the revised Rules of Order.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

nineshipsinport16122013POINTE BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is ready to welcome eight cruise ships on Wednesday, 18th December. It will be one of the highlights of the 2013-2014 cruise ship season, and the only day that will see more than 22,000 passengers in port at one time.

The Port of St. Maarten has been working with a number of stakeholders in order to make the one-day stay of cruise passengers and crew a memorable one.

A number of activities have been organized for Wednesday at the port that includes holiday season caroling by various groups, music, dancing along with a live broadcast by Radio Station 104.3 FM.

St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo is appealing to the community to assist as they have always done in the past to provide a holiday season welcome to the country's cruise guests.

"Cruise tourism is what makes our country tick. It is a very important segment of our economy and we have to do everything to protect it and safeguard our visitors in order for them and the cruise lines to continue to visit our destination.

"It's the holiday season and it's going to be busy in Philipsburg, on our beaches, restaurants and wherever you go. Please be patient and courteous, and enjoy our guests and give them a grand St. Maarten welcome, so at the end of the day when they reflect and look back at the great time they had, they will say I will be coming back for the St. Maarten hospitality," CEO Mingo said on Monday.

Mingo would like to thank all involved in advance for their assistance and planning for this great day including the emergency and security services, adding that the safety and security of the cruise passengers and crew is a top priority for the destination in order to safeguard the livelihood of all those who are dependent on tourism.

Telecommunication provider Telem on that day will launch the cruise ship crew WIFI lounge where hi-speed internet service will be available. Crew members are seen as an important group that should also be catered too by the destination because they also have a considerable spending power while in port.

The ships that will be in port are: Carnival Dream 3652 cruise passengers; Celebrity Reflection 3030; Crystal Serenity 1096; Norwegian Gem 2466; Norwegian Sun 2250; Oasis of the Seas 5400; Ventura 3100; Westerdam 1848.

The last time that the Port of St. Maarten catered to such a large gathering of cruise passengers was back in 2005 with nine ships in port and over 18,000 cruise passengers.

swescotwilliamsatniaopening16122013BELAIR:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the official opening of the National Institute of the Arts at the Belair Community Center on Saturday. The National Institute of Arts provides arts education for both amateurs and professionals focusing on national and international recognized interdisciplinary art education inspired by the principals of nation building.

"I would like to congratulate all of those involved in realizing this official opening of the National Institute of Arts. I have said previously and will reiterate that I believe the arts and the development of the arts play a key role in the building of this nation and this country. With this institution now in place there is a center for the professional development of art in not only our youth but for the whole community and I think, again, that this is central to any development of a nation," stated the PM.

The National Institute of the Arts is a merger between the Imbali and Motiance Dance schools and features four departments: The Department of Dance under the direction of Arlene Halley, the Department of Music under the direction of La-Vaune Henry, the Department of Drama under the direction of Loes Nauta and the Department of Musical Theatre under the direction of Clara Reyes.

"Again I would like to commend and congratulate the NIA on this very important achievement," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

tzuchidonatestophilipsburginmates16122013~Shares inspirational words with detainees~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Christmas came early for prison guards and inmates housed in the detention cells a the Philipsburg Police Station on Saturday, when the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation donated 14 wall fans as well as Christmas gifts to inmates and guards.

The prison had asked the foundation to donate the fans during the sweltering summer months when the cells had been very hot and inmates had been complaining about the unbearable heat. The foundation responded positively to the request and handed over the donation during its visit.

In addition to the fans the foundation also donated gift bags containing items such as exercise books, reading material, pens, snacks, candies and polo-shirts. The prison will give the polo-shirts to the inmates when they are released. The idea of the gifts is for inmates to also feel the Christmas spirit even though they are incarcerated.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung delivered some inspirational words to inmates by sharing her own story of how Tzu Chi changed her life for the better. She spoke about a number of issues such as maintaining a healthy body, the benefits of a good posture and the importance of giving and helping the unfortunate in the community. Cheung along with volunteer Mercedes De Windt shared information about vegetarianism and veganism to inmates.
Information on how Tzu Chi started was also shared with inmates, who were encouraged to join the foundation.

Tzu Chi is a non-governmental international Buddhist compassion relief organization that focuses on charitable and post disaster relief work around the world. Tzu Chi, which means compassionate relief in English, was founded on May, 14, 1966 by Taiwanese Buddhist nun Master Cheng Yen, who was touched by the widespread poverty and wanted to do something about it. Her charity work began with a group of 30 housewives who set aside NT 0.50 cents equivalent to US $0.02 cents of their grocery money each day to help needy families. Her dedication and continued commitment over the years has transformed Tzu Chi into one of the largest non-governmental organizations in the world.

The St. Maarten chapter continues the tradition of how the foundation began and uses funds donated by its volunteers and members in the local community to fund its activities.

The information provided was so touching for some inmates that one pledged to join the foundation in an effort to play his role to help the community when he is released.

The group of volunteers who accompanied Tzu Chi Commissioner on the visit also sang Merry Christmas for the inmates before departing.

Tzu Chi volunteers will also be making their annual visit to the Pointe Blanche Prison as well as the Simpson Bay prison later this month. Gifts will also be presented to all inmates as well as to all prison guards at the two facilities. Volunteers will also have a programme during their visit to entertain and keep the inmates positively engaged during their visit.

telemendofyearpresentations16122013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group management treated personnel to popcorn and a movie following the company's end of year General Meeting Thursday.
The unusual venue for this year's meeting was the Caribbean Cinemas in Simpson Bay, which was transformed into a giant meeting room, complete with PowerPoint projector and live audio.
Management chose the venue to put a bit of fun into the last meeting of the year, and also to launch a new TelCell commercial that will be playing at the movies under an exclusive contract signed between Caribbean Cinemas and TelEm Group mobile carrier, TelCell.
During her presentation to staff, CFO Mrs. Etnel said this was just one of the many achievements the company could be proud of during the current year, which has created an important commercial and business impact on the St. Maarten community.
Mrs. Etnel highlighted many of these gains which are being fueled by a new company vision, mission and core values, also introduced during the course of the current year.
She also thanked staff for their input and personal commitment to many of the projects organized by the company during the past year to attract public and community attention, including the Breakthrough talent search event, The Family Fun Park and a facelift to the company's visual presence in the St. Maarten community.
Mrs. Etnel said there are many positive signs that TelEm Group and its personnel will reap many benefits from the restructuring process that ended this year and that these benefits will return the company to a profit for the year 2013.
"Congratulations, we have done it again," concluded the CFO at the end of her presentation.
Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa gave a brief presentation in which he outlined some of the technical difficulties his division has been experiencing this year with the company's mobile voice and data network. He attributed much of this to interference and frequency issues first from nearby Anguilla and later from St. Kitts. He explained in detail to staff what is causing the problem and how the company is structurally dealing with these problems in the interest of TelEm Group customers.
Mr. Louisa also informed staff about some of the technical plans for the coming year and assured that the technical division will be doing all it can to meet a number of challenges and projects ahead.
Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Brain Mingo, gave an outline of the company's Commercial Road map and touched on some of the products and services TelEm Group would be introducing to keep ahead of the competition locally and also to deliver products and services in other markets outside of St. Maarten.
"We are following international trends by dropping in some areas and continuing to grow in other areas and I am confident we will meet our revenue targets for the coming year," said Mr. Mingo.
The highlight of the general meeting was the introduction of a TelEm Group Anthem that was sung to staff for the first time by vocalist Rosanna Castilla and the distribution of company pins to personnel.
The meeting was then followed with a gesture by the Management team who served popcorn, drinks and candy to personnel while they waited to watch the movie feature presentation, Last Angeles together.
Personnel said they appreciated the information from management and feel the company is going in the right direction considering the competition from other local carriers and outside technologies, such as Skype and Social Media, that are taking traditional revenues away from the company.
TelEm Group has meantime started its annual Christmas promotions with a 12 Day of Christmas Countdown, followed by a Christmas Village Fair on Saturday, upcoming.
The company is also planning a number of fun events with staff to see out the year and bring in the New Year.

Telem Press Release

tedrichardsonobserveslandingoftelecomcable16122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson proudly witnessed on Friday morning the landing of the Saba, Statia Cable System (SSCS) telecommunications cable at the landing point operated by SMITCOMS (beach manhole) on the Great Bay Beach.

Minister of Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson said he was happy to experience the current developments with respect to this phase of the project after several months of negotiations.

"The benefits for Sint Maarten is that it now has a second fiber optic telecommunications cable system; it creates additional capacity and redundancy for the country along with the SMPR cable; and in term, voice and data costs will ultimately decrease for consumers," Minister of Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson said on Sunday.

From day one the Minister was insistent that all service providers on Sint Maarten would have access to the cable, and the objective of the Ministry is to increase the quality and infrastructure of telecommunications on Sint Maarten making it available and affordable for each citizen in the country, for consumers and businesses alike.

Back in mid-November the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between St. Maarten International Telecommunications Services (SMITCOMS) and the National Office for the Caribbean Netherlands (RCN) related to the Saba, Statia Cable System (SSCS) took place.

Minister Richardson and members of his Cabinet were very instrumental in facilitating the process in bringing the two signatory parties together reaching to the point of the signing of the MOA in mid-November.

An overview was carried out by the Minister and his Cabinet in August to ascertain what had been done in the past. Thereafter, all parties worked diligently leading to the successful signing of the MOA three months later, mid-November.

The SSCS will bring extra telecommunications capacity for St. Eustatius and Saba, and it will also benefit Sint Maarten.

In November the MOA was signed by SMITCOMS Managing Director E. Louisa while Sybren van Dam, signed on behalf of RCN as its Director.

swescotwilliamsatbluemallopening16122013CUPECOY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams Attended the opening of the Blue Mall in Cupecoy this past Saturday. The PM, accompanied by the Honorable Member of Parliament Theo Heyliger, cut the ribbon to one of the premier shopping venues in the Caribbean Region at a gala opening on Saturday. "It is good to see continued investment and diversification in the economy and product of St. Maarten and to see this project come to final fruition just in time for the Holiday Festive Season. Congratulations to all involved and I am sure the community of St. Maarten as well as visitors will make good use of this venue," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

kpsmmeetswithstakeholdersforholidaycruiseseason16122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday December 12th, 2013 representatives of the Police Department held a meeting with partners and stakeholders such as, Department of VROMI, Department of Economic Affairs, the Harbor and Cruise Facilities, Coast Guard, and Down Street Business Community Council and Association at the Philipsburg Police Head Quarters. This meeting was in connection with the very busy Holiday Season and for the preparation of the arrival of the 8 cruise ships that will be in port on Wednesday December 18th, 2013 from 8:00am through 6:00pm.
On that day, Sint Maarten will be visited approximately 30,000 persons arriving by cruise ship.
There will be a lot of extra traffic on the roads and rerouting of traffic and road closures in the Philipsburg area. Front and Back street will be close for motor vehicle traffic. The alleys (stegen) in Philipsburg leading from the Boardwalk/Great Bay Beach to Back street will be cleared. No vehicles will be allowed to park in those alleys until Front and Back street are opened for motor vehicle traffic. This measure is to insure that emergency vehicles (in case of any emergency) can enter and exit the Philipsburg area without any difficulties. It is advised to use the Ring road for parking during this period.
The Coast Guard will visibly be patrolling all bays and territorial waters. There will be ships that will be anchored in the Harbor and their will be a lot of tenders trafficking in Great Bay Harbor. A lot of focus will also be on the Jet Ski users and Jet Ski Rental operators.
The Walter Plantz Pier will also be used by the tenders to drop off cruise passengers in that area where the Down Street Business Community Council and Association would have organized the area for reception of the visitors.
Police presence will also be seen in the Philipsburg area and beaches on the Dutch Side of the island and in the areas where large number tourists will be present.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for Tuesday November 17th to finalize all preparations. The public is urged to pay very close attention to this information and to take all necessary precaution to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsattripartitemeetingatthecollectivite16122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the tripartite meetings between herself, the President of the Collectivite Aline Hanson and the Prefet Philippe Chopin. The Prime Minister, supported by her Cabinet and the Department of Foreign Relations, discussed various matters with regards to the continued cooperation between both sides of the island, including discussions on the planning of the EU Operational Program and greater cooperation on Chikungunya Disease that appeared on French St. Martin recently.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

beverlyatwork16122013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- The shortlist of HNP's annual Made In St. Martin Gifts® is in. Attractively designed, quality content books published in St. Martin remain at the center of this near 20-year feature announced every December, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

The 2013 publishing list from HNP makes for an ideal gift pack of books but let's unwrap that idea and present the titles one by one. According to Sample, for children, ages 4 to 9, for the young at heart, and book collectors, there's the gift of the colorful, bestselling hardcover storybook, Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman.

For the multilingual buffs—and in St. Martin that ranges from roots culture to highbrow—the classy gift is Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne (Haiti and Trans-Caribbean Literary Identity) by Emilio Jorge Rodriguez. This fine collection of "missing link" essays on Haitian/Caribbean literature with connections to Latin America also has an earlier English/Spanish edition from HNP.

The gift prize for the budding thinker or revolutionary activist in your family, among your friends and co-workers, and for "you self," is Maroon Lives – Tribute to Maurice Bishop & Grenadian Freedom Fighters by Lasana M. Sekou; Revolution As Poetic Inspiration: Grenada in 'Maroon Lives' by Fabian Adekunle Badejo. P.S., Don't underestimate the value of the Jason deCaires Taylor undersea sculptures that illustrate this book of poetry by Sekou, with an extensive critical essay by Badejo.

Okay, what's for the writer you've been telling to publish his or her own book? HNP suggests, Where I See The Sun – Contemporary Poetry in St. Martin. The new collection includes 25 mostly young poets from both parts of the island.

The books on the holiday gift list are available at Van Dorp, Arnia's, Amazon.com, spdbooks.org, and other bookstores.

Art is a recurring favorite of the Made In St. Martin Gifts® list, said Sample, who is also a curator that has collaborated with the New York State Museum. The very recent exhibit of paintings by Max Phelipa is the treasure trove to raid for high-end gifts of St. Martin art for holiday giving, art investment, and decor. Phelipa's "Art in the Garden Gallery" is on Frontstreet.

How about Made In St. Martin Gifts® as fashion accessories, especially for the hugely popular New Year's Eve? Ask for the handcrafted necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and anklets at Beverly's Fashion Jewelry. "Beverly's creations range from stylishly casual to museum-like quality fashion and costume jewelry that you might find at a Bloomingdale's store," said Sample. Beverly can be seen making her jewelry at kiosk #15-A, Philipsburg Marketplace, Backstreet, where she also has a select costume jewelry repair service.

The "Made in St. Martin Gifts" long list can be heard on Conscious Lyrics, SOS radio, 95.9 FM, Saturday, December 21, at 12 noon, said program host Shujah Reiph.

swescotwilliamsatbackinthedaydocumentary16122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the screening of the Documentary Back in the Day by local filmmaker Laura Bijnsdorp at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library on Thursday evening. The Prime Minister, accompanied by His Excellency the Governor, expressed her congratulations at the young filmmaker documenting St. Maarten's past and encouraged the population to take their time and watch the important documentary. "In order for us to fully realize our potential as a country we must of course know our history and where we have come from as a nation and keeping this in mind I would like to thank Laura for making this possible," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

wallyhavertongatlionsbingo16122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The rescheduled date for annual Lions Christmas Bingo Spectacular at the Festival Village is this Saturday December 21st. Taking into account the increase in demand by the general public to partake in this major fundraising activity – where proceeds are used to fund numerous community projects on the island, the decision was taken to move to a larger venue to accommodate the increase of participants over the past years.
Club President Lion Claudio Buncamper said: "The bingo was set for December 7th but had to be rescheduled due to inclement weather and there was a number of factors that had to be dealt with in order to announce as new date. The weather was real bad on December 7th and we could not have public come out under those conditions. We do hope that all skies will be all clear on December 21st as we wanted to conclude the bingo before Christmas with 50 games," concluded the Club President.
Lion Sunil Khatnani Committee Chairman stated: "Preparations for the Annual Lions Christmas Bingo Spectacular rescheduled date is going well and bingo tickets can be purchased from any of our fellow Lion Members or at the Lions Civic Center in Sucker Garden. The price per ticket has remained the same: $10.- or ANG 20.- and it entitles you to one bingo card. There will be numerous chances to win prizes, including: Overloaded Christmas Baskets, Hams, Airline Tickets to Europe and the Caribbean, Dinners for two at participating restaurants, and a grand door prize Santa's Bag as well. For all those who enjoy hearing Lion Wally Havertong sound-off the numbers while asking if anybody bingo, we encourage you to purchase your tickets on time and arrive early as the bingo games are slated to begin December 21st at 8pm sharp at the Festival Village".
The Dow's Musical Foundation youth section will entertain the public from 7pm-8pm with Steel Band Christmas music.

telememployeeoftheyearsurajramdas15122013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas, crowned a sparkling year by being named TelEm Group, Employee-of-the-Year during the company's annual Christmas dinner Friday.
The honors where showered on Mr. Ramdas by Commercial Department head, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Mr. Brian Mingo, and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel at the Rock House Restaurant, Port de Plaisance, where this year's festive gathering was held.
According to Mr. Mingo, Suraj has almost single-handedly transformed the look and internet business now provided by TelEm Group at the Harbour facility. He also spearheaded a hugely successful Summer promotion campaign and has demonstrated all of the attributes of a model employee who embraces the company's new vision, mission and core values.
Mr. Etnel said she was very grateful to Suraj for all the work he has done this year on behalf of TelEm Group and most of all for the wonderful attitude he has shown. "I am especially glad that the choice came from his own colleagues and not from management alone, because it demonstrates that they too have recognized the contribution he made this year," said Mrs. Etnel.
The CFO encouraged other members of staff to follow Suraj's lead and make it their own mission to be next year's winner of the company's highest award.
Mrs. Etnel was joined by her Executive Colleagues, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Mr. Brian Mingo in wishing the rest of the TelEm Group staff the best for the Christmas season, along with their spouses and partners who were also present for the occasion.
The dinner was organized by TelEm Group's Personnel Association, who said the event went without a hitch and was very well attended this year with many positive signs for the future.
A number of raffle prizes were given out on the night but the star prize was a trip for two to the Dominican Republic, won by Human Resources and Development Administrative Clerk, Carmita Brooks.

Telem Press Release

By Roland S Tuitt, MBA, CPA

Introduction
During my tenure as Minister of Finance, I noticed that the government of St. Maarten was operating without a proper functioning internal control department. Thus I made an agreement with the SOAB (internal auditors of government) to get a professional on loan for 2 years. That person had the task to document internal control procedures, help evaluate employees, implement the internal control procedures and manage the department for a period of two years.
This was done to comply with:

  1. The task of the Minister of Finance who is responsible for the design, implementation and maintenance of internal control and the fair presentation of financial statements
  2. The PEFA (Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability) 5 year improvement plan agreed with the CFT
  3. The pending evaluation of the Kingdom government that will take place in 2015.

However, the present Minister of Finance, in one of his first actions after being sworn in, broke the contract with SOAB and closed down the internal control department.
The consequences of his actions will lead to what in accountancy terms is called "an imposed scope limitation," which will cause the auditors to question the integrity of the Minister. It will also lead to an adverse opinion by the auditors which states that the obtained audit evidence is inadequate or inaccurate.


Control Mechanisms
As Internal Auditors of Government the SOAB should write a letter to Parliament informing Parliament about this matter. They can do this during their interim review of 2013, but it should be done immediately.
The Governor of St. Maarten who has a control function should have informed Parliament and The Kingdom Ministry of this deliberate imposed scope limitation by the Minister of Finance.
The CFT should have informed the Council of Ministers, Parliament, and the Kingdom Ministry of the deliberate imposed scope limitation by the current Minister of Finance. They probably will do this in their bi-annual report but that is too late.
The Audit Chamber can only act when they do the audit of 2013.
Based on the above it can be concluded that the control functions of various institutions did not function optimally.

Conclusion
Because of the scope limitation imposed by the Minister of Finance, the PEFA improvement plan cannot be carried out as agreed upon with the CFT.
The evaluation by the Kingdom Government in 2015 will be negatively influenced by the Minister's actions. This will prolong the existence of the CFT after 2015.
The internal auditors SOAB will have to issue a disclaimer of an audit opinion or withdraw from the engagement of auditing the financial statements of 2013.
Since auditors base their audit on the strength of the internal control, the auditor will have no basis to rely on, which will cause them to resort to alternative procedures and make the audit much more expensive.
If an executive did what the current Minister of Finance did in the private sector he or she would be fired immediately. If this action had taken place in any other country, the Minister of Finance would have to resign. That is based on the fact that he has imposed a hindrance on the organization that has a negative effect on the task that has been given to him as Minister to design, implement and maintain adequate internal control.
"International Standards on Auditing 705" (ISA 705) states that the auditor should disclaim an opinion on the financial statements if there is a scope limitation imposed by management and the auditor should consider withdrawing from the audit.
Since the Minister of Finance is responsible for the fair presentation of the financial statements of the Government of St. Maarten, his actions have made it impossible to present those financials in a fair and timely manner.
The actions of the Minister of Finance (coming from an audit background) will have a negative influence on the entire Council of Ministers because their integrity will also be questioned.

winairdelegationintortola15122013AIRPORT:--- The Windward Islands Airways (WINAIR) made three inaugural flights on Sunday. The new routes added on December 15th, 2013 were St. Maarten to Tortola, St. Maarten to Curacao, and St. Maarten to Anguilla. The fourth route WINAIR has added to its schedule is St. Maarten to the Dominican Republic (Santo Domingo). The Santo Domingo inaugural flight is set for Monday December 16th, 2013.

CEO and President of WINAIR Michael Cleaver along with founder of WINAIR Georges Greaux accompanied reporters from St. Maarten to Tortola for its first inaugural flight on Sunday December 15th. WINAIR pilot Michael Jeffry took off from the Princess Juliana International Airport at 11am and landed at the BVI Airport 35 minutes later. At the airport there were two fire trucks in place to spray water on the aircraft as it made its way to the parking area, this is customary for all new aircrafts that make their inaugural flight to any destination.

The delegation from St. Maarten were greeted by the Managing Director of BVI Airport Authority who is also the President of the BVI Tourist Board Denniston Fraser.

Cleaver told reporters that December 15th was a great day for WINAIR since the airline added three new destinations to its schedule the same day.

The local airline is placing strong focus on Tortola since the demand for another airline traveling from St. Maarten to Tortola is greatly needed. Cleaver said WINAIR will be making two daily flights to Tortola and in the very near future they will overnight in Tortola in order to service passengers that have early connecting flights in St. Maarten. One of the greatest advantages with the flights to Tortola is that passengers traveling from the Caribbean islands, Europe, and the United States can now have two connecting flights the same day to Tortola if that is their final destination. The flights to the BVI are also a great opportunity for BVI residents that love to shop on St. Maarten, also it gives stay over tourists on St. Maarten a good opportunity to travel to the BVI to enjoy the Baths in Virgin Gorda, the beaches and great scenery in Tortola and the other neighboring islands.

Reporters that traveled to Tortola on Sunday were treated to lunch after that a mini tour of the island. Tortola is one of the British Islands that is well kept with a crime rate of below 4%. Residents of Tortola said much of the 4% are crimes committed through domestic violence. The island maintains its rich culture and the people there are also very friendly. Passengers traveling to Tortola will be taken there with WINAIR's Twin Otter, while the flight to Santo Domingo uses the ATR 42 which was recently added to WINAIR's fleet of aircrafts. The ATR has a passenger capacity of 48 passengers.

The Management of WINAIR plans to add two other destinations in February 2014 to their schedule that is roundtrips from St. Maarten to Puerto Rico and St. Maarten to Republic of Dominica. Plans are in place to take passengers from Dominica to Guadeloupe, Curacao, and to Santo Domingo.

Cleaver said that management of WINAIR has lots of plans for WINAIR which they expect to kick off in 2014, including the possibility to fly from St. Maarten to Haiti. Passengers that are interested in WINAIR low fare flights to the each of their destinations can book their tickets online at www.fly-winair.com or at an airline of their choice since all airlines now have WINAIR flights in their systems.

Below is WINAIR's current flight schedule:

SXM-EIS Departs 11:35 AM Arrives 12:20, DHC-600

EIS-SXM Departs 12:40 PM Arrives 13:30, DHC-600

SXM-EIS Departs 16:55 PM Arrives 17:40, DHC-600

EIS-SXM Departs 18:00 PM Arrives 18:50, DHC-600

SXM-SDQ Departs 14:30 PM Arrives 16:30, ATR on Monday Thursday and Saturday

SDQ-SXM Departs 12:00 PM Arrives 14:00, ATR on Monday Thursday and Saturday

SXM-AXA Departs 12:10 PM Arrives 12:20, DHC-600

AXA-SXM Departs 12:35 PM Arrives 12:45, DHC-600

SXM-AXA Departs 16:00 PM Arrives 16:10, DHC-600

AXA-SXM Departs 16:25 PM Arrives 16:35, DHC-600

SDQ-CUR Departs 12:00 PM Arrives 14:00, ATR on Sunday and Wednesday

CUR-SDQ Departs 14:30 PM Arrives 16:30, ATR on Sunday and Wednesday


By February 15th, 2014 WINAIR will be servicing the destinations of Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Puerto Rico via Anguilla. The schedule being as follows:

New Services Effective February 15, 2014,

PTP-SXM Departs 08:00 AM Arrives 10:00, ATR

SXM-PTP Departs 15:50 PM Arrives 17:50, ATR

PTP-DOM Departs 08:00 AM Arrives 08:30, ATR

DOM-PTP Departs 17:20 PM Arrives 17:50, ATR

SXM-DOM Departs 15:50 PM Arrives 16:50, ATR

DOM-SXM Departs 09:00 AM Arrives 10:00, ATR

SXM-AXA Departs 10:50 AM Arrives 11:00, ATR

AXA-SJU Departs 11:30 AM Arrives 12:30, ATR

SJU-AXA Departs 13:30 PM Arrives 14:30, ATR

AXA-SXM Departs 15:00 PM Arrives 15:10, ATR

Click here to view more photos of WINAIR's inaugural flight to Tortola on Sunday.

garrindellandjleonardpresentbaskettosmmcstaff15122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week Friday President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell led a delegation of Members of Parliament (MPs) to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) who visited patients and staff spreading the holiday season cheer.

MPs delivered fruit baskets to the various sections of SMMC that included the children's ward, adults, emergency ward as well as the staff at the reception desks.

"The dedicated nurses and other support staff were very happy of the visit. While everyone very much appreciated the baskets, what counted the most was the presence of the people's representatives from the House Parliament.

"On behalf of the House of Parliament of country Sint Maarten, I am delighted to take this opportunity to bring you the Christmas greetings of all Members and staff of the honourable House.

"The holiday season is a time to be enjoyed with those close to us: family, friends and our loved ones. To all Sint Maarteners, wherever you are, and, whatever your plans, have a peaceful, and happy Christmas," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

Staff from the House of Parliament also accompanied the President and MPs.

niaculturalandartsparade15122013BELAIR:--- The National Institute of Art held its First Annual Festival of Arts & Culture on Saturday, December 14th, 2013 at the Belair Community Center. The Festival Officially launched the National Institute of Arts to the community to St. Maarten, starting with a cultural and arts parade at the Raoul Illidge Sport Complex, and followed by performances the Belair Community Center. The opening remarks were by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Patricia Lourens-Philip and the Master of Ceremonies was Silveria Jacobs, who has previously danced with Motiance Dance School and Imbali.

The Cultural Parade showcased students from the National Instituted of Arts (NIA), as well as students from the various in-school, after-school programs, community centers as well as the Charlotte Brookson Academy of Performance Arts. Students from the after school programs also made various one meter by one meter floats with different aspects of St. Maarten culture. The Sr. Regina Primary School students worked hard on a creating a float of fishermen, as Simpson Bay is historically known as a fishing village. Other floats were and old lady with a coal pot, a miniature old St. Maarten style house and a mannequin with traditional St. Maarten dress, as well as a St. Maarten Village from the Star After School program. The parade was accompanied with drumming from the Generation New Status Drum Group of St. Maarten under the direction of Urmain Dormoy.

After arriving at the Belair Community Center, the students changed into their NIA Dress Code for a series of performances. These included some acts that were performed for the Royal Performance for His Majesty King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima during their visit on November 13th, 2013. Other performances were called "The Artist Prepares" and showed the development of artists from as young a baby, with the Parent and Baby dance, and demonstrated the artist developing, from kids through adults. The show opened with a Hip Hop performance of the Song "Welcome to St. Maarten", which had the audience swinging and clapping. The performances showed the broadening of what NIA offers, from not only dance performances, but also physical comedy in The Art of Laughter, a Musical Theater performance of "I Enjoy Being a Girl", a Choir vocal performance by Teacher LaVaune Henry, as well as Drama performances, featuring The Best Story Telling of St. Maarten in one minute. The performances were unique, in that the NIA mixed various classes and produced performances with students ranging from all age groups in one performance.

A special thanks to the following funding agencies: the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour / INDP Project, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport Affairs, USONA and the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds.

For more Information about the National Institute of Arts as well as pictures of the event, please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NationalInstituteOfArts.

NIA Press Release

swescotwilliamsmeetswithrobwijnen15122013PM: "My vision is to make the Government apparatus on St. Maarten greener and more sustainable"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has initiated an investigation into getting the majority of the buildings that fall within her Ministry of General Affairs connected to sustainable energy.

"One of the things we have been looking at within the Ministry of General Affairs is to move the buildings of Government, which falls under the auspices of the Ministry of General Affairs, to a more sustainable energy platform, including the new Government Administration Building. Last week I met with Sustainable Energy Expert from the Netherlands Rob Wijnen and discussed the possibilities with regards to Government being less dependent on fossil fuels and moving closer to sustainable energy sources such as wind and solar energy.

"My vision is to make the Government apparatus on St. Maarten greener and more sustainable and I have therefore called for research into what it would take to get the buildings of Government more dependent on green energy. I have also been in contact with my counterparts in Aruba and have discussed with them the steps they have taken to realize the same. I hope that within short we can rely more and more on sustainable energy than on fossil fuels, making us not only better for the environment but after an initial investment save money as well with regards to our energy costs," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsopenstissotboutiqueonfrontstreet15122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten opened up the new Tissot Luxury Watch Boutique in Philipsburg on Thursday, adding to the retail value of Frontstreet. The Boutique is the only of its kind in the Latin American and Caribbean region. The Boutique, which falls under the Joe's Jewelry International Umbrella, offers the Luxury Watch brand that has been in existence for 160 years to St. Maarten. "I am very proud to have this luxurious watch brand come to St. Maarten and offering a diversification of products for the luxury jewelry landscape on St. Maarten. I thank the Tissot Brand for showing their confidence in St. Maarten and investing in the only store in the Latin American and Caribbean Region right here on St. Maarten. I thank the brand and of course Joe's Jewelry International for believing in our economy. So on behalf of the Government and People of St. Maarten I would like to express my thanks," commented the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated the Baker Family on their achievement of opening their new establishment Baker's Suites, which officially opened its doors on Sunday, December 15, in the Pelican area.

"I want to sincerely congratulate the Baker family on having the vision to invest in the country. It is good to see a local family invest in the future of St. Maarten and its economy.

"During my recent visit to meet with other members of the Overseas Countries and Territories of the European Union one of the main discussions was centered on the encouraging of Small and Medium Enterprises, and the project just completed by Mr. Baker and his family fits perfectly within this scope.

The Baker Suites, located opposite of Atrium Resort, is a locally invested all-suite accommodation venue that reflects an upwards of one million dollar investment in the island's economy. "It is good to see not only the family diversifying the St. Maarten tourism product but having the confidence in investing s significant amount funds in the economy of our country," stated Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmacademychristmasshowtheyorks15122013~ School Board Gives Free Lunch to All ~

CUL DE SAC:--- St. Maarten Academy's academic campus was a hub of Christmas spirit Friday afternoon (December 13, 2013), as students and teachers alike showcased their talent in singing, modeling, dancing and poetry.
The day kicked off with Principal Shareed Hussain announcing that as part of giving back, the school will provide all students with free lunch, which made many students happy. According to first former, Dawud Chapman, "The food was very delicious. They [Interact] also had chocolate cake, vanilla cake, cupcakes, croissants, and cookies." He said many of the students to whom he spoke described the gesture by the school as "doing something to improve the fame and fortune of our school."
Mr. Hussain told the student body that they deserved the treat for working assiduously during Term 1. This year's show was particularly special, since the school's Student Care Department decided to incorporate cultural presentations as part of the Guidance grade for first form students. Students were given the option of participating as a performer or an organizer at any one of the many shows hosted at the school during the course of the academic year.
As such, Masters of Ceremony Alipha Tatem and Philana Thomas, under the guidance of their homeroom teacher, Mr. Olatunde Dalrymple, led a well-organised programme. They were assisted by other first form Stage Managers, Jian Ling Nie and Shadira Jermin. Other first form students worked behind the scenes by assisting the school's Student Government Association with the planning.
Fifth form student, Alin Urighre, kicked off the celebrations with the poem, 'Twas a Night Before Christmas', followed by Ika St. Pierre and Jahvaughny Ayee performing Band Aid's 'Do They Know It's Christmas'. Head of the Expressive Arts Department, Dennis Tjon, too, wowed the audience with a medley of songs done on the piano with St. Dominic High student, Atul Pereppadan.
Tjon was not the only teacher to hit the stage. Two of the school's English teachers, Sharon Layne and Doreen Edwards, accompanied by Social Studies teacher Anansa Payne, harmonized beautifully with the reggae version of 'Santa Claus (do you ever come to the ghetto?)'.
More talent emerged with the York cousins, Cherrianne Dangleben-York, Jabari York, and Edwin Derweer, on the steel pan. The versatile Snatra Bauld did not disappoint with her soulful rendition of 'Oh Holy Night', and her mimed dance to 'Bleed for Love'.
Over the years, St. Maarten Academy has been known for having very talented students, and according to Vice Principal Tallulah Baly-Vanterpool, Friday's programme allowed for the opportunity to groom new talent. This was underscored with an original rap, 'Christmas', by first former, Serge Huggins, whose personality shone through as he led the student body through the chorus.
Potential was also recognized in the singing group, Santa Babies, which included Ryana Anthony, Emyka Pinthiere, Chadalina Edwards and Kishanna Hodge, performing their name-sake song. Other performances included 'Mistletoe' by Daynyeal Trim, Jamella Williams, Philana Thomas, Shanika Blagrove, and Sandira Anglin; 'Silent Night' by Jasmin Leblanc; 'This Christmas' done by Anisha Durand, and a medley by Supral Jadz (Jacinth Hunkins, Denise Andrew, Ashana Bontiff, and Suze Cobyte).
As was expected, upcoming soprano, Vincia Nelson blew the audience away with her rendition of 'All I want for Christmas is You'. One student commented that "her voice was that of an angel."
Dawud Chapman, too, stepped up to the plate with a Christmas poem; while Esther Dede and Naomi Warsop, performed individual dances to 'Jesus, Born on This Day' and 'Set it on Fire', respectively. But the two modeling segments with clothing sponsored by clothing store, House of Seduction, rocked the house with exquisite fashion. The groups – one comprising of first formers (Eight Days of Christmas) and the second, of upper school students (Santa's Helpers) – got standing ovation.
The Christmas show was the last production of the outgoing student council and its president Learie Hall.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In order to protect the country's borders from the invasion of diseases and pests that could negatively affect the animal population, the Inspection Department TEZVT - Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) informs that increased control and enforcement activities in relation to the import of animals are being taken at the ports of entry.

Airline companies and locally established veterinary practices have been notified that there are existing laws and regulations in place that govern the importation of animals or persons traveling with pets.

A permit is required for all animals entering the country for a temporary visit, animals in transit through Sint Maarten on their way to another destination, and for animals entering the country permanently. The permit documentation includes the presentation of a health certificate issued by the national veterinary authority of the exporting country.

Together with the Customs Department, TEZVT-LVV has increased controls and enforcement of the existing country laws in this area and seeks the cooperation of all concerned in order to mitigate risks associated with animal diseases that can be transmitted to humans and local animal populations.

The Department is aware that a lot of animals are imported on a weekly basis by air, and the existing laws of the land establishes requirements for all animals entering Sint Maarten including domestic pets.

According to national laws, responsibility is placed on airlines where quarantine and repatriation is concerned with all associated costs borne by the carrier.

TEZVT-LVV has also been in contact with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world's airlines in connection with the country's requirements regarding this subject.

TEZVT-LVV has received positive feedback from visitors who travel with their pets to the country with what is required by the Department in order to facilitate such a visit. Compliance from this group has been very positive.

The Inspection Department TEZVT is the Government agency responsible for supervising veterinary practices in the country. A reporting system has been put in place between the entities concerned and is working well. The Department was informed that due to lack of controls and or application of the relevant laws years ago Canine Distemper, a viral disease that affects animals was able to enter the island.

For further information and to request permits, you can visit The Inspection Department TEZVT-LVV at Cannegieter Street (next to the Sister Borgia School) in Philipsburg or call 520-7213 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Many homes on the inside and outside have been decorated with Christmas lights, stockings, banners, wreaths and the most popular of these decorations is the Christmas tree.

As part of Ministry of Public Health's Collective Prevention Services (CPS) Safe Holiday Season Observances, in collaboration with the Department of Communication, residents are advised to keep the season safe by following a few helpful tips.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever as part of his 'Get Checked' campaign, is calling on the community to check their Christmas tree lighting to make sure everything is in order in order to avoid any hazards this holiday season.

These are some life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday:

Preventing Holiday Tree Fires

* Holiday tree fire hazards

Special fire safety precautions need to be taken when keeping a live tree in the house. A burning tree can rapidly fill a room with fire and deadly gases.

* Selecting a Tree for the Holiday

Needles on fresh trees should be green and hard to pull back from the branches, and the needle should not break if the tree has been freshly cut. The trunk should be sticky to the touch. Old trees can be identified by bouncing the tree trunk on the ground. If many needles fall off, the tree has been cut too long, has probably dried out, and is a fire hazard.

* Caring for Your Tree

Do not place your tree close to a heat source. The heat will dry out the tree, causing it to be more easily ignited by heat, flame or sparks. Be careful not to drop or flick cigarette ashes near a tree. Do not put your live tree up too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times.

* Disposing of Your Tree

When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly. The best way to dispose of your tree is by having it hauled away by the waste disposal service.

Holiday Lights

* Maintain Your Holiday Lights

Inspect holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up.

* Do Not Overload Electrical Outlets

Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe. Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet. Make sure to periodically check the wires - they should not be warm to the touch.

* Do Not Leave Holiday Lights on Unattended

Holiday Decorations

* Use Only Nonflammable Decorations

All decorations should be nonflammable or flame-retardant.

* Never Put Wrapping Paper near an open flame

It can throw off dangerous sparks and produce a chemical buildup in the home that could cause an explosion.

* Artificial Holiday Trees

If you are using a metallic or artificial tree, make sure it is flame retardant.

Candle Care

* Avoid Using Lit Candles

If you do use them, make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Never leave the house with candles burning.

* Never Put Lit Candles on a Tree

Do not go near a holiday tree with an open flame - candles, lighters or matches.

By following precautionary tips, families can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Parents with girls aged nine and 10-years are invited by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Youth Health Care, to an information session about the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine on Tuesday, 17th December.

Parents with girls in the aforementioned age range attending the following primary school should attend: Leonald Connor, Charles Leopold Bell, CIA, Montessori, Sister Regina, and Seventh Day Adventists School.

The information session is being held at the Seventh Day Adventists School in Cole Bay which is located near the Orange Grove Shopping Plaza or across from Prime Distributors from 7:15pm to 8:15pm on Tuesday.

Youth Health Care falls under the Collective Prevention Services (CPS) and is responsible for the National Vaccination Program. The program is designed to prevent the country's children and population from vaccine preventable diseases.

In September the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour introduced the HPV vaccine.

HPV causes cervical cancer which is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2008, there were an estimated 529,000 new cases and 274,000 deaths due to cervical cancer. HPV viruses are common throughout the world.

The primary target group in most of the countries recommending HPV vaccination according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is young adolescent girls.

Data from clinical trials conducted in several continents show that the vaccines to be safe according to the WHO.

For additional information you can call Youth Health Care at: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee for Justice of the House of Parliament is scheduled to meet December 17 regarding integrity.

The closed door committee session is set for Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is a discussion about the Committee Integrity Public Administration.

The Minister of General Affairs Hon. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Wiliams and Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson.

patricialourenscuttingribbonatsdaschool13122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip along with Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the newly completed Gymnasium and two classrooms at the Seventh Day Adventist School in Cole Bay. The project was funded by USONA and the Government of Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Department is requesting assistance from the public in connection with a break-in, that took place on the night of December 11th and 12th, 2013 at "Money for Gold" situated on the Fr. Tjong Si Fat Road in Cole Bay. During this robbery an amount gold jewelry was stolen from the establishment. The Detective Department is asking anyone who may have information that could lead to the arrest of the possible suspect(s), to call the police tip line 9300 or the Detective Department at 54-22222 ext 222-224 and give this information.

KPSM Press Release

swescotwilliamsandpchopintourcauseway13122013PM: "This project is an example in the region in terms of planning and execution and I am sure that the whole community of both sides of our island will look forward to the official grand opening"

SIMPSON BAY:--- Upon the request of the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams, The Harbor Group of Companies organized an information session regarding the Simpson Bay Causeway project. Present for the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies was the Supervisory Board of Directors Renald Williams, Humphrey Mezas and Jason Rogers; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo along with other members of management and staff and the contractor Volker Stevin Caribbean NV.

The Prime Minister was joined by the Prefet of St. Maarten M. Philippe Chopin in receiving a tour of the Simpson Bay Causeway by Harbor CEO Mr. Mark Mingo and support staff. The informational tour started with a presentation by Mr. Mingo regarding the state of affairs of the Causeway and the management of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. During the presentation the Prime Minister specifically asked CEO of the Harbor Group of companies Mark Mingo if there were any structural issues with the bridge as has been alleged in the media or any issues that would delay the opening of the bridge. Mr. Mingo stated that any large construction project goes through a period of settling and there are no issues with regards to the bridge. The Prime Minister thanked the clarification given by Mister Mingo, who stressed that there are continuous meetings with engineers and contractors and all of the stakeholders.

A walking tour of the bridge was given and the Prime Minister had the opportunity to open the swing bridge in the bridge operating room. Presentations were also given with regards to the environmental measures taken during and after the building of the causeway and the environmental management of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The Prime Minister stated that St. Maarten, both sides of the island, should be proud to be able to have a successfully completed project of this size and thank the Harbor, SLAC and all stakeholders for bringing the project to a successful completion. "I would like to express my thanks at seeing the project being brought to a successful conclusion and the opening of the causeway to happen within very short. This project is an example in the region in terms of planning and execution and I am sure that the whole community of both sides of our island will look forward to the official grand opening," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarysxminductstwo13122013John Caputo and Vrisha Motwani join Rotary

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, December 11, 2013, the Rotary Club of St. Maarten inducted two new members. John Caputo and Vrisha Motwani were two latest members of the business community to add the title of "Rotarian" to their resumes.

John Caputo and Virsha Motwani are not strangers to the business community and to the notion of service above self. Mr. Caputo is a 20-plus year veteran of St. Maarten and the owner of Domino's Pizza. Ms. Motwani is the Manager at Vibrant Jewelers on Front Street in Philipsburg.

Maria Buncamper-Molanus, President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten inducted both Caputo and Motwani at the regular meeting of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten on Wednesday, December 11, 2013 at the Divi Little Bay Beach Resort. Mrs. Buncamper, with the assistance of fellow Rotarians, Pierre DeCelles, Jim Ferris, Robert Judd, Henna Budhrani and Jeffrey Sochrin, reminded the new inductees of their duties and responsibilities as Rotarians and welcomed them to the Global Rotary Family.

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

mediacoachtrainingparticipants13122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday 6th December, 2013, 20 persons from different departments within Government along with representatives from Government subsidized primary and secondary, members of the Library, the St. Maarten Family Guardianship Division and the Community Police Officers, received their media coach certificates and Pin as official Media Coaches.
The participants were trained by trainers Mr. Bamber Delver and Ms. Liesbeth Hop, from the National Academy for Media & Society located in The Netherlands.
The participants followed an intensive 2 weeks training that was held earlier this year in April and then again in June, 2013. During the International Media Coach training participants were able to develop different types of competences, which the training then focused on translating into measurable and effective media literacy projects aimed at improving media literacy among the youth, parents, teachers, other professionals and citizens in general.
Some of the topics addressed during the training were: Digital Citizenship and Democracy, Digital Bullying, Online Privacy, Information and Technology Literacy, trends of the future, Sexualization of the media, Journalism and Ethics, The Role of Social Media in Education, Innovation of Education.
In the meantime a second group of persons have started with the 2nd Media Coach training last week and will continue in February 2014.
The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ms. Patricia Lourens – Philip, was on hand to congratulate the group of Media Coaches and to present them with their certificates. The Minister also encouraged the new Media Coaches to share their knowledge within their work and/or organization, seeing the importance of the Social Media in the lives of children, young people and the community in general.
Also present at the certification ceremony were the USONA representative, Ms. Angela Dekker, the Acting Head of the Division of Education and Innovation, Ms. Oralie Boirard and support staff.
The Social Media Coach training is one of the Innovation in Education Projects organized by the Division for Educational Innovation and funded through USONA.

kpsmreceivesplaquefromkingfamily13122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday December 13th, 2013, the entire King family, who are on the island to attend the King Murder Trial, visited the Police Head Quarters. During their visit a plaque was presented to the Chief of Police Peter de Witte on behalf of the King family expressing their gratitude for the great job the entire Sint Maarten Police Department had done to investigate this case and to bring the culprits responsible for this terrible crime to justice. Police Chief de Witte accepted the plaque on behalf of the entire police force and thanked the family for having great confidence in the Sint Maarten Police Force. The plaque reads as follows:

In memory of Michael and Thelma King
We wish to thank the Police Department of Sint Maarten for their professionalism, dedication and perseverance in bringing justice and peace to their families and friends.
We are forever grateful.

KPSM Press Release

mauricelakepresentedwithsxmhousingvisionbook13122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday afternoon received a copy of the Sint Maarten Housing Vision 2012-2020 Building Book that was presented by KAW Architects and Consultants.

The project commissioned by the Government of Sint Maarten and financed by USONA entailed a review of legislation relating to housing, and a review of the housing policy. The project objective is to increase the quality of life and living conditions of residents with low and middle incomes through policies and legislation relating to adequate and social housing.

The Building Book outlines what needs to be built; where to build; a definition of the different types of locations and (im)possibilities for realizing social housing; how to realize social housing; legislation, process per land ownership, role of government and finances; when, planning and prioritization.

The Building Book was compiled based on a broad overview of the island. This information was compiled by interviews, excursions, project teams and workshops on different issues which were widely discussed.

"The previous housing vision under the structure of Island Territory dated back to 2003. We are now 10-years later and a new vision was called for, and the Building Book presents a vision which now has to be acted upon.

"I would like to commend the work group and thank them and the consultants for their efforts, as well as USONA, the latter which provided the funding for this project. Housing is a basic human rights need and is anchored down into international treaties. In my going back to basics approach, housing is essential for the people of this country.

"My ministry has already been exploring possibilities on how we can finance the construction of hundreds of homes per year in order to meet the demand of those wanting their own home. We will do what has to be done in order to realize the vision.

"We need to provide homes for our senior citizens/physically challenged, homes for low and middle income families, as well as homes for those who live in so-called 'shanty town' areas," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

A project work group was established to assist with the compilation of the report and this included representatives from various entities, Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Policy Department, Domain Affairs, St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation, Civil Registry Department, Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Department of Statistics, Rent Committee, and the Department of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations.

The project was one outlined in the Implementation Plan Social Economic Initiatives (SEI) 2007-2010 which was financed by USONA, was developed to ensure a proper financial and economic foundation is laid for a sustainable Sint Maarten. The program had eight policy areas.

usgfcompletesparliamentaryprocedurestraining13122013SOUTH REWARD:--- The United Student Government Front (USGF) on Wednesday (December 4, 2013) completed another round of Parliamentary Procedures training with students from several high schools on the island.

The organization presented certificates to a total of 19 students from St. Dominic High, St. Maarten Academy, and St. Maarten Vocational Training School. Thereafter, the participants, as well as the Student Government boards and mentors of the participating schools, closed off the calendar year with a sumptuous dinner. Also in attendance were Sundial's newly-formed student council and mentor.

The venue was St. Dominic High School.

Parliamentary Procedures training is conducted every year to teach high school students how to conduct meetings within their respective student councils.

There were three workshops this year, starting on August 26 at the St. Maarten Academy academic campus. The second workshop was held at St. Maarten Vocational and Training School on October 2.

This year, the workshops were conducted by veteran Toastmaster Sinatra Rouse, who is also the current Area Governor of Area 23 and mentor of the St. Dominic High student council.

According to Rouse, the main aim of the sessions was to equip students with the skills necessary to run their own meetings. They were guided on how to present, move, and vote on motions; and how to prepare agendas for their meetings. The participants also learned parliamentary terminologies to ensure the smooth execution of their conferences.

USGF, which mainly aims at building leadership skills among high school students, will also host an interscholastic board games competition in January 2014. All high schools are encouraged to participate.

robertheyliger13122013MARIGOT:--- Robert Heyliger, the father of missing French soldier Rodrique Heyliger who went missing in Gabon, South Africa is outraged at the French Government regarding the disappearance of his son who served the French Army for almost 23 years. The elderly Heyliger told SMN News that his family was notified by the Gendarmes that his son Rodrique went missing while on duty in Africa on November 1st, 2013 but since then they are not getting any information as to the investigation and possible recovery of his son's body. "The Gendarmes notified us on November 1st, 2013 but up to now we do not know when he went missing and how it happened. We believe that the French Government is hiding something because they have to know the last day he was on duty." Heyliger said he needs written documents, for example his son's schedule so he could know exactly when his son went missing, where and how. He said some news reports state that his son went missing while fishing in Gabon, other reports state he went missing while at sea in a helicopter. "I have nothing and information on the whereabouts of my son is not given to us (his relatives). My son was single when he went missing, he was married but got divorced 8 years ago, so the people that have to get information on the whereabouts of Rodrique Heyliger are his parents both of whom are alive and living in St. Maarten. My son was due to return home on December 7th to celebrate his 40th birthday on December 31st. He wanted to come back home to be with his mother for a few months and then he would have gone back and complete 25 years in the French army before retiring to return home where he had intended to start his own business.

rodriqueheyliger13122013At the time the elderly Heyliger was speaking to SMN News he was crying non-stop saying that he has 15 children, and he is very happy that his son chose to serve his country and not be on the side of the road smoking but today it's unbearable to see that the government has chosen not to respect his parents. "Some days ago two "white" soldiers were deployed to Africa and I saw the President Francois Hollande going to the army base and sharing his sympathy and condolences on the loss of the two young soldiers. When I saw this it tore my heart open, I asked myself if it's because my son is a black man his family is not given respect. My son served his country for over 22 years and yet no one cares." Heyliger said his other children did everything possible to get information from the French army but they are not getting any information. Heyliger said the only thing he wants is to get the body of his son, so he could lay him to rest and begin healing. "My wife is very sick and all of us including his brothers and sisters need closure. We want to know that Rodrique is really dead. This is not easy for us because Christmas is approaching and the only thing my children talk about is the disappearance of their brother." Heyliger said the family has not seen his son for about ten years because he travels a lot. "Even though we are not seeing him he calls home quite often." Heyliger said he never envisioned that he would have to bury his child and even that he is not able to do because there is no news on the recovery of his body."

Heyliger who is supported by his other children and extended relatives said that one moment they were told that the body of his son was recovered. This information he said was on Facebook. Later they learnt that the body that was recovered is not the remains of his son because the dental records of his son did not match that of the corpse. Heyliger said a female friend of his late son went to Africa and identified his son through the clothing he was wearing but that person had to leave Africa and go back to Italy.

manuelgonzalezriverowithsviicamerasystem13122013Nature Foundation Assists in Caribbean-wide Coral Reef Study

PHILIPSBURG:--- An international coral reef research project, sponsored by international insurer Catlin Group Limited, was just in St. Maarten to assess the state of coral reefs over larger scales and in more precise detail than ever before possible. The Catlin Seaview Survey used a unique underwater scooter-assisted SVII camera system to conduct reef surveys within the Natural Reserve of Saint Martin and the Man of War Shoal Marine Park assisted by Nature Foundation staff.

Led by Dr. Manuel Gonzalez-Rivero from the University of Queensland in Australia, the project will establish a vital scientific baseline to study the potential factors driving change in the health of global coral reefs. Working closely with the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance, the Nature Foundation of St. Maarten and Réserve Naturelle Nationale de Saint-Martin, the Catlin Seaview Survey will use the data collected to provide informed scientific advice to local reef conservation agencies and management authorities.

Caribbean reefs have, over the last fifty years, been devastated by coastal development, overfishing and pollution. 80% of corals in the Caribbean have disappeared and reefs are also threatened by invasive species, climate change and ocean acidification. Coral reefs are acutely sensitive to environmental change; they are a vital gauge for monitoring the current and future impacts of human activities. With guidance from local researchers, NGOs and government agencies, the Catlin Seaview Survey surveyed key local reef sites and captured the current condition of the reef.

This pioneering scientific project uses cameras mounted on custom-designed diver propulsion vehicles (underwater scooters) to cover large stretches of reef. Underwater scooters allow a dramatic increase in the amount of reef that can be surveyed and in the level of accuracy in detecting the health of the coral ecosystem.

The data is captured by three digital SLR cameras positioned at angles to record unique 360° panoramic images. The high-definition pictures are stitched together and tagged with accurate GPS coordinates. This will facilitate a solid and comparable baseline of information, allowing for a comparison of reef health over time.

St. Maarten completes a year-long Caribbean campaign for the Catlin Seaview Survey. Throughout this year, the project has visited more than 13 Caribbean countries (including Bonaire, Curaçao, and St. Eustatius) to create a comprehensive and standardized, region-wide survey. By studying the state of these reefs, the Catlin Seaview Survey aims to provide insights into the future prospects for coral reefs in other regions of the world.

The scientific data collected by the Catlin Seaview Survey will be available to all in a free online research tool called the Catlin Global Reef Record (www.globalreefrecord.org). The tool aims to encourage global collaboration between scientists, local and international management authorities and the general public.

"The Catlin Global Reef Record serves as an analytical tool that scientists and reef managers around the world now have at their fingertips," said Dr Gonzalez-Rivero. Images in the record are scanned for coral species and combined with regional coral bleaching data to allow for advanced analysis of worldwide reef health.

The data is important for the future conservation and management of coral reefs both in the Caribbean and worldwide.

markmingoatstatiaoilterminal12122013POINTE BLANCHE:--- The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies has retained the services of the Caribbean Branch Office TNO (based on Aruba) to develop a fuel strategy roadmap.

The objective of this study is to assess the current energy situation and prepare a roadmap that informs future investments.

Earlier in the week Harbour Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo led a team to St. Eustatius where they had discussion with officials from Nu Star Energy Oil Storage Terminal.

The oil terminal has a capacity of storage of sum 13 million barrels and is also a transhipment facility. This facility is capable of handling a range of petroleum products, including crude oil and refined products.

"The Harbour Group of Companies takes a strategic look at the country's long-term development, and at the same time being innovative in our planning and outlook. The alternative fuel study is just another area and a step ahead that must be researched.

"The global fuel market is price sensitive. Political uncertainty can push crude oil prices up which we have seen before and this influences the cost of living and the cost of doing business on our island. Apart from geopolitical events, gas markets and prices are also being driven by longer-term demand and supply dynamic.

"At the port we carefully monitor and study trends in the maritime sector. The maritime industry is responding to call to adopt environmentally-friendly solutions for fuel; Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has the potential to be a cleaner alternative to marine diesel.

"Like any professional company, the harbour group continue to keep a keen eye on market trends. We need to study what is coming ahead so we can continue to chart our future moving forward as a port and as an industry," St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies CEO Mark Mingo said.

The Port of St. Maarten is an important regional player in fuel distribution. New developments such as a shift from heavy fuel oil to LNG for shipping and power production are expected to have impacts on future needs. In addition, increased production of renewable energy such as from wind, solar and possibly geo-thermal could change fuel demands.

This study aims to establish a foundation for informed decision making concerning future fuel storage and distribution infrastructure. The first phase of the study will focus on an assessment of the current fuel situation on St. Maarten (including the French side) and regional and international developments.

Part of this effort will include identifying and involving key stakeholders. Following this initial assessment a strategy will be developed to meet future energy needs and position the Port to continue to play its regional role.

This study is carried out with the support of both the St. Maarten and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. TNO and the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies aim to develop a long-term working relationship in which TNO will bring expertise and help build capacity in a variety of technical areas.

TNO, with over 3800 scientists, is the largest applied research institute in the Netherlands and third largest in Europe. In 2011 TNO opened a branch office on the island of Aruba.

A key focus of this office is to work on integral island strategies aimed at amongst other developing more sustainable, reliable and affordable energy systems. TNO brings a wide range of expertise to this effort including renewable energy systems, LNG transport and distribution as well as business and strategic advice concerning fuel infrastructure investments.

motorworldandcaribbeanautochristmascarshow12122013Hello Christmas shoppers! Christmas has come early this year! Motorworld and Caribbean Auto will be having our annual Christmas Car Show at Motorworld in Colebay this Saturday, December 14th where we will be slashing prices and giving away free gifts! You can receive up to $3500 off selected models from Hyundai, Ford, Lincoln, Volkswagen, Honda, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge, OR take your pick from a FREE Flat Screen TV, OR Apple iPad OR Laptop OR Blackberry Z-10 OR Samsung Galaxy S3 at our Christmas Car Show this Saturday December 14th!! RBC Bank, First Caribbean International Bank and Windward Island's Bank will be providing ON THE SPOT Bank Financing ALL DAY!

Also at our car show, buy 3 of our exclusive Kumho or GT Radial Tires and get 1 FREE, WITH free installation INCLUDED! Also come to experience how to protect, clean and detail your car with our Meguiar's Car Care Clinic!

The stunning all new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee has just arrived! Come and check it out as well as all our other latest models! We'll also have free snacks, drinks and live music ALL DAY!

So come on down with your family and friends to our Christmas Car Show All Day Event at Motorworld in Colebay this Saturday December 14th, 2013!!!

ministryteattretreat12122013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication held their retreat at the Divi Little Bay Hotel conference room. According to acting Secretary General Miguel de Weever, the ministry reviewed each department's goals, performances, challenges, solutions and plans for 2014 and beyond. The retreat included department Heads, Section Heads, and Key Policy Advisors to ensure that agreements made can be filtered and communicated throughout the department and Ministry.

Present were:

  1. Makini Hickinson, Head of Statistical Department
  2. Valya Lake-Pantophlet, Head of Business License Department
  3. Justine Webster, Senior Policy Advisor at the Business License Department
  4. Lucy Richardson, Head of Economy, Transportation & Telecom Department (EVT)
  5. Erika Radjouki & Jude Houston, Senior Policy Advisors at EVT
  6. Martha Thewet, Section Head at the Inspection TEZVT Department
  7. Joseph Isaac, Head of Meteorology Department
  8. Gus Priest, Section Head, Product Development & Visitor Services, Tourist Bureau
  9. Marla Chemont, Section Marketing, Tourist Bureau,
  10. Jaap van Duinkerken (Sr. Policy Advisor), Carmen Webb (Financial Assistant) & Abegail Richardson (Executive Assistant) all from the Staff Bureau

swescotwilliamsmeetswithrussellkopke12122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Wescot-Williams met with RBC Regional Vice President of Business Banking of the Royal Bank of the Caribbean Russell Kopke at her Cabinet on Tuesday. Mr. Kopke is the Area Vice President for Sint Maarten and Saba and is responsible for all aspects of business development, human resources, team development, client acquisition and service and company services. The Prime Minister and Mr. Kopke discussed various items of importance to the country including recent issues.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

safeboard12122013PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten/St. Martin Alliance For Equality (SAFE) Foundation was officially established on Tuesday, December 10, which is recognized by the United Nations as International Human Rights Day.
The premise of the newly establish foundation is to promote the human rights of lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered people on the island. The formation of the group came out a need felt by members to organize the local lgbt community and their allies and provide persons with a safe place and space in which to discuss matters relevant to them, while also learning more about their human rights and responsibilities.
"In general, the island of St. Maarten/St. Martin, and even the other islands of the former Netherlands Antilles, has been tolerant to lgbt persons, but that does not mean that there are not still stigmas and taboos associated with people who self-identify or are even perceived of as lesbian, gay, bi-sexual or transgendered. As lgbt people and allies we think that it is time we start addressing these attitudes amongst ourselves and also with people of the wider St. Maarten/St. Martin community," the board of SAFE said in a press release.
"There are those on St. Maarten/St. Martin who have preconceived ideas about a so called gay agenda, even on the island, when in fact there is no gay agenda that we rally around. It is human rights which grounds our platform. As far as we know, LGBT people on St. Maarten/St. Martin do not want any rights that are not extended to heterosexuals or that are not in line with those enjoyed by straight people. LGBT people, therefore, do not want "special" rights or recognition, but want human rights and recognition. That is the grounding from which SAFE wishes, and plans, to grow."
The board of the foundation is comprised of representatives from across the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgendered and ally spectrum. The initial board, which was elected in early October and charged with setting up the foundation is made up of Lysanne Charles, President; Nadjesca Gumbs, Treasurer; Arman Hodge, Secretary, and board members Mylene Engel, Gerard van Osch, Nigel Lalman and Laurent Drouin-Le May.
The date of incorporation was not happenstance; all involved worked assiduously to ensure that all paperwork was completed for a Human Rights Day signing.
"We look forward to engaging in productive discussions within the lgbt community and also with the larger island community. Even in 2013 there are still a lot of misconceptions about lgbt people and we believe that the only way to overcome those misjudgements is through open dialogue grounded in respect for all as human beings."

mjohnsonjmillsandjwoolford08052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The tribune of the Court of Appeals was packed to its capacity with relatives of the late Michael and Thelma King who were murdered in their villa at Ocean Club Cupe Coy on September 19th, 2012. Also in the court room were the mothers of the two young suspects Jeremiah Chevon Mills and Jamal Jefferson Woolford. Both single parents sat way behind and they followed the entire appeal procedures held on Thursday. While most of the trial was conducted in the Dutch language, a translator was present to translate most of the proceedings so that the relatives who traveled from the United States could understand the proceedings.

The panel comprised of three judges questioned each of the suspects on their role in the crimes they committed at both Happy Star Restaurant and at the home of the Kings.

The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson maintained his position just like he did during the trial in the Court of First Instance claiming that he does not remember anything regarding the crimes he committed on September 19th, 2012 at the Happy Star Restaurant and at the home of the Kings. The President of the Court of Appeals pleaded with Johnson as they question him on what he told police while he was in pre-trial detention compared to what he was telling the Court of Appeals on Thursday. The judges asked Johnson if he remembered when he appeared in the Court of First Instance in April 2013 and was sentenced to life imprisonment. Johnson told the court that even that he does not remember and it's only when he returned to the prison he was told by the other inmates that he got a life sentence. When he was asked to tell the court why he filed the appeal, Johnson could hardly say the exact reasons for filing the appeal. He said that he did not waive his rights and he was not in agreement with the decision rendered by the Court of First Instance. The judges tried to go over the statements Johnson gave police hoping that they would refresh his memory but he told them that they want a story and he has no story to tell. Johnson was sent to Curacao for an analysis to be conducted on his mental condition. He returned to the island on Wednesday after spending two months in Curacao to undergo psychiatric and psychological testing. When the judges told Johnson that both specialists determined that nothing is wrong with him and that he could be held fully responsible for his actions and the crimes he committed, he told the court that while he went to Curacao to conduct these tests he only saw the specialists twice. "I wanted to know what is going on in my head and instead of those people doing some kind of scan to see what is wrong with me they saw me twice. The same thing you want to know I also want to know because I cannot remember anything."

Attorney at law Brenda Brooks remained sharp in her defense. She told the court that she is not contesting the charges against her client because she understands the seriousness of the crimes he committed and the impact it has on the island. Attorney Brooks told the court that the prosecution made several blunders in the case and instead of telling the lower court and the defense the truth they hid information from them and tried to cover up their mistakes. Brooks said that she appealed the decision of the first summons and the judge deemed both the first and second summons null and void, but for the third summons they said they were not in a position to rule on it. "Today I am asking this court to apply the law as it is laid down and also deem the third summons null and void. I am also asking this court to also deem the prosecution's case inadmissible. I discussed these summons in the previous hearing and I am discussing them again with you because we are at the right place to discuss these errors. At one point I closed my eyes when the prosecution made their first mistake because the law allows them to correct those mistakes but instead of correcting the mistakes they made more and more. In this case which is a serious case the prosecution committed three fatal errors, and if your court allows them to get away with this then this court will be setting the wrong precedence."

Brooks further told the court that the prosecution has rules and regulations to follow just like defense lawyers. She went as far as telling the court that if a defendant filed his appeal one day late, the appeal court would not even look at his file they would deem it inadmissible because he was late in submitting his appeal and for them late is late, therefore I am reminding this court that when the prosecution makes mistakes there are consequences for those mistakes. During the trial in the Court of First Instance Prosecutor Dounia Bennamar apologized to the King families and she admitted to them that the prosecution made mistakes.

Brooks also told the court that her client was mistreated by police when they arrested him. She said police beat her client so much that he ended up in the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for treatment. "At first my client did not tell me this because he thought it was normal for police to use excessive violence when arresting people. The prosecution said my client resisted arrest and that was the reason excessive force was used. They also said an officer was injured but nowhere in the file there is evidence of that," Brooks told the court. She further asked the court to respect the decision of the European Union Courts with regards to life sentences because the Supreme Court just recently deemed the life sentences imposed on the Regatta suspects inadmissible and they were sentenced to 30 years imprisonment. That decision will be handed down on December 17th, 2013. She further told the court that the Constitutional Court of St. Maarten nullified lifetime sentences citing that it is not in conformity with the constitution. "I am asking this court to apply the rule of law. Just in case your court decides to uphold the third summons where my client was tricked, I am asking you to reduce the sentencing as allowed by the European Courts and St. Maarten." In addressing the psychiatric and psychological evaluation Brooks told the court that it was extremely hard for her as a defense lawyer because she could not get anything out of her client. "This was so hard for me because I cannot defend him properly if I don't know what really happened on the night Michael and Thelma King was killed. I heard from someone that my client has a terrible past regarding his father and that was the reason I asked for the analysis to be conducted in Curacao. When I saw the report and it stated that Johnson's father was killed in an armed robbery I felt the specialists needed to ask more questions on this but they did not. It turned out that robbers slashed Johnson's father throat during a robbery in Jamaica when he was younger."

Attorney General Taco Stein went to court with a 45 page argument as he pleaded with the Court of Appeals to uphold the decision rendered by the Court of First Instance. The Court of First Instance sentenced Johnson to life imprisonment, Jeremiah Chevon Mills to 28 years imprisonment, and Jamal Jefferson Woolford to 22 years.

Stein took up a lot of the court's time to explain the court why the prosecution believes that the life sentence for Johnson should be upheld despite the Constitutional Court's ruling which is still not yet law on St. Maarten. St. Maarten's Attorney General also gave several reasons why he believes that the European Court's decision should not be respected.

Stein said that Johnson gave detailed statements to the police when he was in pre-trial detention and suddenly he cannot remember anything, he said even one of the judges found it strange based on their questioning.

As for the other two suspects, Jeremiah Chevon Mills who was convicted twice before and was on probation when he committed the crimes on September 19th, 2012. When the judges questioned Mills it was clear that he changed his entire story. Mills admitted to robbing the Happy Star Restaurant with Jamal Jefferson Woolford. They both told the court they used "BB" guns to commit the crimes while Johnson drove the car they used to commit the crime. At the home of the Kings the two younger suspects told the court that Mills was the first to enter the home, after that Johnson went to Michael King who was sleeping on a sofa downstairs and held him in a head lock while Mills hit Michael King with the gun on his jaw. Mills told the court when Michael woke up he was in shock to see two men with guns in his face while one had him in a headlock. He said Woolford asked him where was the money and Michael responded by asking which money. At that point Woolford dealt Micheal a strong blow in his stomach. After that Woolford and Mills went upstairs where they met Thelma King sleeping naked. They instructed her to put on clothes and she turned over their monies and jewelry to them. Mills told the court that they also found drugs in the safe of the Kings but Attorney General Taco Stein dispelled that saying that an ION scan was conducted and the results came back negative. He said the only person that claimed drugs were in the home of the Kings is Jeremiah Mills. Mills further told the court that after they got their loot they brought Thelma King downstairs but before they did that they blindfolded her. While downstairs they placed her on a chair and tied her up. Mills said he did that because he wanted to escape without the long arms of the law getting to them. "All of us in this court room knows what people would do for their loved ones. Johnson had Michael King in a headlock and we did not want Thelma King to call the police or do anything that would made us get caught."

Based on the charges, Stein said Mills and Woolford are accomplices to the murder of the Kings because Mills is the one that gave Johnson a second knife when the first one broke. He also used a fire extinguisher to hit Michael. However, Attorney at Law Shaira Bommel told the court that the reason her client filed an appeal was because he is not in agreement with the decision rendered by the lower court. Bommel said her client knows that he committed crimes and he has to be punished for them. Bommel further explained the court that her client Jeremiah Chevon Mills cooperated with the investigation, he told the investigators what he did and what he did not do. It should be noted that Mills changed his story quite a bit, for example he said he did not see Johnson with a knife, he did not give him a second knife and that he and Woolford did not plan to kill or hurt anyone. Bommel told the court that Woolford and Mills left the home together and Johnson remained in the house for seven minutes with the victims and in her opinion a lot could have taken place when Johnson was alone in the house with the victims. Bommel said her client even promised Thelma King that they would not hurt her and they only learnt of the killings when they read it in the newspapers. She said that based on the law the prosecution did not prove her client was an accomplice to the killing of Michael or Thelma King. Therefore she asked the court to acquit her client on those two charges.

Stein told the court that the prosecution believed that they had enough to request a lifetime sentence for Mills but they considered his age when he committed the crime. Stein further stated that even the three judges that presided over the case on Thursday realized that the two suspects namely Woolford and Mills changed their stories and the story they told on Thursday is not matching. The statements they gave police while in pretrial detention and the Court of First Instance made more sense and it matched what Johnson told the investigators.

In the case of Jamal Jefferson Woolford he told the court he did not see Johnson with a knife, instead he said he saw Johnson with a shiny object in his hands, Woolford said he could not remember when he saw the shiny object but he knew he saw and object. He told the court that he did not know if it was a spoon or fork but for him it could have been anything. He told the court that when he went to the home of the Kings he went to get valuables and they got that from Thelma King when they woke her up from her sleep. "I was there to get monies and valuables and as soon as we got that we tied up Thelma King on a chair and left the building." During the trial in the Court of First Instance, Woolford told the court and the investigators that he saw when Johnson slashed Michael's throat and he yelled out at him and told him not to do it. On Thursday he changed his story saying he did not see any of that and that when he left the home with the loot both Michael and Thelma were alive. His lawyer Sharafina Ibrahim also tried to convince the court that her client did not kill anyone. He admitted to the crimes he committed and he should be punished for the crimes he admitted to not the ones the prosecution believed he committed. Attorney Ibrahim also asked the court to acquit Woolford on the accomplice charges in the slaying of Michael and Thelma King. The Court will hand down its decision on December 30th, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that Chin Cherry Road in Point Blanche will be closed Friday afternoon, December 13 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

This road closure is in connection with the pouring of concrete of a house in the area.

At the juncture of the L.B. Scott Road and St. Peters Road, this section of the road will be closed to motorized traffic on Saturday, December 14 from 6:00am to 12:00pm.

The closure is related to the application of asphalt at the juncture. Asphalt will also be applied to the entrance of St. John's Estate Road on December 14 during the aforementioned hours.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health, Cornelius De Weever on Monday, December 9, 2013 attended a one-day high level Consultation Meeting on reducing adolescent pregnancy held in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago.
Minister De Weever stated that in order for us to combat adolescent pregnancy we have to collaborate our efforts and partner together. Minister De Weever further believes that we should have a structured approach to sex education with counseling services, and access to information that is culturally sensitive.
According to UNFPA it is estimated that 20 percent of adolescents in the Caribbean have had at least one child by the age of 19, with a considerable percentage of adolescent girls giving birth before the age of 15. Each day in developing countries 20,000 girls below the age of 18 give birth and each year 7.3 million girls give birth below the age of 18. Out of this number two million are under the age of 14, according to the latest report on the state of the world population compiled by UNFPA. The rates of adolescent pregnancy in the Caribbean are among the highest in the world.
Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin, Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) at the session pleaded with participants to act urgently to eliminate this social ill. The director further noted that the extent of the problem varies from country to country, and stressed what everyone needs to do, which is why they were all there to provide information.
The high level consultation organized by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and UNFPA, with support from the government of Trinidad and Tobago, sought to raise political commitment for the reduction of adolescent pregnancy in the region. Those in attendance comprised of 10 Ministers of Governments from across the region, other government officials, representatives from civil society, the private sector, youth organizations, the United Nations System and other international development partners.

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health, Cornelius De Weever thus far has granted a total of 65 permits to medical professionals based on the advice of the Department of Public Health. The permits provided were pertaining to various disciplines in the medical field, and are granted based on the policy "Health Care Services Sint Maarten."
"It is my priority to facilitate all healthcare professionals and institutions to improve the overall quality of care to our population," said Minister De Weever.
The policy "Health Care Services Sint Maarten," states that the admission of medical professionals is based on the need of care which is defined in the established manpower planning. This in turn regulates the distribution of medical practitioners on St. Maarten. The permits granted are what has been given up to November 2013.
It is important to note that the processing of establishment permits for medical professionals is a collaboration with the Inspectorate of Public Health, the Ministry of Education(Exams Division) and CIBG, which is the agency responsible for certification and registration of medical professionals in the Netherlands.
Below is a listing of the various disciplines and the amounts that were granted.
Surgeons 2; Internist 1; Pediatrician 1; Eye Specialist 1; Anesthetist 1; Radiologist 1; Emergency Room Doctor 3; General Practitioners 2; Aviation Medical Doctor 1; Insurance control doctor 1; Dentist 1; Pharmacist 1; Psychologists 3; Speech Therapists 2; Occupational Health Therapists 2; Physical Therapists 3; Dietician 2.

In addition, in accordance with the ordinance regulating the practice of medical professionals, the Minister of Public Health may issue permits due to acute shortages to guarantee the continuity of the specialized care. Based on this the following medical professionals were granted temporary admittance.
Cardiologist 3; Radiologist 16; Gynecologists 2; Surgeons 3; Internist 1; Pediatrician 8; Physical Therapists 1.
For additional information on establishment procedures, please contact the Department of Public Health on telephone numbers 721 542-2078/721 542-3003/721 542-3553.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that a section of Back Street will be closed Thursday evening, December 12 from 10:00pm to 1:00am.

The section of the road closure will take place between St. Simon and St. Jude Anglican Church and Angelo Boutique.

The closure is in connection with the pouring of concrete.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

swescotwilliams11122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams gave the media of St. Maarten an overview of the meetings she attended in Brussels last week. Those meetings were with the Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA) and the European Union Forum. Wescot Williams said that the forum consisted of three parts namely the OCT which was the meeting of all Overseas Countries and Territories within the European Union. This also included the Caribbean Region who also formed a council called the Caribbean OCT council. Wescot Williams said in the Caribbean OCT, projects and programs including EU funding for these projects are being discussed. The other session she said was between the European Union particularly the European commissions and the OCTs.

Wescot Williams said the most recent meeting held last week was very important especially for the OCTs who would form a political resolution. In this resolution, the OCTs would call on the EU to partner with the OCTs in pursuing programs and projects related to innovations and competitiveness. The OCT council asked the European Union for more simplified procedures related to the European Development Funds. OCT council also asked for closer cooperation between the EU and the OCTA in the implementation of the 11th European Development Funds (EDF) in the area of regional allocations.

In the previously mentioned resolution, the OCT council called on the EU to communicate its trade negotiations with third countries, to assist with the implementation of registered exporter schemes, recognize OCT achievements to comply with global standards of tax transparency and regulations and facilitate access to horizontal programs.

The OCT council of the Caribbean also called on the European Union to make known to the OCTs students' rights to European Union tuition fees.

Wescot Williams said other areas that were highlighted in the resolution are climate change, environment, and disaster risk reduction.
The Prime Minister of St. Maarten also explained that while in Brussels she signed off on the funding that will be provided for district development. This project she said started in the 9th OCTA/EU Forum. She said St. Maarten had until the end of December 2013 to sign off on acquiring the 4.3 million Euros for the project. Wescot Williams said this was achievable because of the letter USONA wrote regarding the management of the EU funds that is now disputed in courts.

littlebaypond11122013Development of Birding and Eco Tourism Industry Has Multi-Million Dollar Potential for St. Maarten

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation urges all stakeholders on St. Maarten to call for the protection and sustainable development of the Little Bay Pond as a conservation area, important wetland and an untapped resource in terms of eco-tourism and bird watching potential.

The Little Bay Pond area is recognized as an IBA, or Important Bird Area. An IBA is an internationally recognized designation of an area recognizing its importance to birds and an area recognized as being globally important habitat for the conservation of bird populations. Currently there are about 10,000 IBAs worldwide. The program was developed and sites are identified by BirdLife International. These sites are small enough to be entirely conserved and differ in their character, habitat or ornithological importance from the surrounding habitat. In the United States the Program is administered by the National Audubon Society. The IBA designation for the Little Bay Pond is AN001 and is an important migratory bird area as well as home to local populations of the St. Maarten National Bird the Brown Pelican and numerous other wetland and terrestrial species including the Antillean Crested Hummingbird, Lesser Antillean Bullfinch and Pearly Eyed Thrasher.

Environmental and conservation organizations on St. Maarten have been doing numerous conservation activities at Little Bay Pond including mangrove reforestation, educational tours and school visits, water quality management and bird counts. Additionally the Little Bay Pond acts as a catchment basin for runoff during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly during heavy flooding events preventing the Belair and cay Hill area from experiencing significant residential flooding.

St. Maarten has also seen an increase in the number of birding visitors, or visitors coming to St. Maarten to specifically look for and photograph rare bird species. Birding is a multi-million dollar worldwide industry and areas like Mullet Pond prove to be an immense untapped resource for St. Maarten in terms of untapped tourism revenue and tourism product diversification for the island. A recent United States Fish and Wildlife report states that birders spent an estimated 12 billion American dollars on birding and birding related expenses in the United States alone and that it is a significantly growing industry.

In the framework of sustainable development and destination diversification Little Bay Pond can be a crucial element in strengthening the 'green economy' of St. Maarten. The Nature Foundation will continue its wide scale lobby to protect the Little Bay Pond and additional wetlands on St. Maarten.

toastmasterschristmasdinner11122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Toastmasters on St. Maarten and Anguilla ended the year with a bang last Saturday night (December 7, 2013) during a celebration dinner at Sheer Restaurant on Front Street.
Emphasizing the theme, "Where Leaders are Made", members from all five Toastmasters Clubs on St. Maarten and the Anguilla Club enjoyed a fun-filled evening of toasts, storytelling, and a speech presentation.
Presidents of the Philipsburg and Achievers Clubs Georges Richardson and Arlene Chittick, respectively, welcomed the gathering before turning the evening over to Mistress of Ceremonies Joy Arnell, who led a lively show.
Among those in attendance were Area Governors of Areas 23 and 24 (District 81), Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG) and Competent Leader (CL) Sinatra Rouse, and Advanced Communicator Bronze (ACB), CL Malcolm Jacques, respectively; as well as Distinguished Toastmasters (DTM) Rolande Tobias, Valerie Brazier, John Hodge and Annette Berkel. The presidents of Evolutions, Disciples, and Soualiga Corporate Clubs, Vernicia Brooks, Ingrid Holaman, and Linette Gibs, respectively, were also present.
Toastmasters Catherine Conner and Kim Lucas-Felix led the quiz segments, which had members and guests, alike, vying for one of the many coveted prizes; while Claudine Bide captivated the audience with her storytelling skills.
But the evening was not complete without a speech presentation, which was done by TM Tavia Nelson-Connor of the Anguilla Club, as well as a special honour for DTM Tobias. AG Rouse extended warm holiday greetings to one and all as clubs on the island begin to close off their meetings for the calendar year. Meetings will resume in January 2014.
Persons are being encouraged to visit and join any of the five clubs on both sides of the island. Philipsburg Toastmasters Club meets every first and third Thursday, with the fifth Thursday as advanced night. Meetings are held at Philipsburg Jubilee Library from 7:15 pm.
Anguilla Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Saturday at La Vue Boutique Hotel from 6:45 pm, while the St. Maarten Achievers Club meets every second and fourth Thursday (also at the Library) from 7:15 pm.
The Disciples Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Sunday at St. Maarten Academy's academic campus from 4:45pm, while Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at the Government Administration Building from 5:00pm. Saint Martin Evolution Club meets every first and third Tuesday in Marigot from 7:15 pm.
The mission of a Toastmasters Club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every individual member has the opportunity to develop oral communication and leadership skills. This, in turn, fosters self-confidence and personal growth.

MAHO:--- The MACHC is a Regional Hydrographic Commission (RHC) that supports the activities of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) on a regional basis. The basic activities of the MACHC are conducted by the three primary MACHC Committees, namely:

  • MACHC Integrated Chart Committee (MICC)
  • Marine Economic Infrastructure Programme (MEIP)
  • Capacity Building Committee (CBC)

From the 9th till the 13th of December 2013, the 14th Meeting of the Meso American & Caribbean Sea Hydrographic Commission (MACHC) is taking place in St. Maarten at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino.
At the opening ceremony of the 14th MACHC meeting on the 9th of December 2013, the delegates from the Meso America and Caribbean region were welcomed by the Chair of the MACHC, Mr. M. Amafo LL.M. A special welcome was dedicated to the various regional and international organizations, the industry and stakeholders represented in the meeting. The Chair underlined the importance of Public Private Partnerships in ensuring the sustainability and reliability of surveying and charting in the region. The Chair also emphasized the commitment from the Region to provide adequate hydrographic services for ships navigating in the Caribbean region. On behalf of the IHO, Mr. Robert Ward, President International Hydrographic Bureau, (IHB) in his remarks noted the importance and the purpose of the Regional Hydrographic Commissions who are responsible for the surveying and charting of the navigable waters of the sea. He emphasized that there is a need to improve the in country capabilities across the region. He further noted the importance of capacity building and awareness raising.
In the keynote address the Governor of St. Maarten, H.E. Mr. Eugene B. Holiday, underscored the importance of Hydrography for sustainable development of the region. He also noted the importance of hydrography for the cruise ship industry and the development of the Blue Economy taking into account existing commitments for protection of the environment.
After his keynote address the Governor declared the meeting for open.

interactleadershiptrainingparticipants11122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday, December 7, 2014 more than 50 young leaders from the Interact Clubs across St. Maarten and Anguilla assembled on St. Maarten at Learning Unlimited Preparatory School for a fun-filled day of activities all geared to boost their leadership skills and knowledge.

In attendance were students from St. Maarten Academy, St. Dominic High School, Milton Peters College, the Sundial School and Learning Unlimited Preparatory School all representing St. Maarten, as well as three members of the Interact Club from Anguilla. All participated in a full day's worth activities that began at 8:30 AM and lasted until 5:00 PM.

The event was organized by the Rotary Club of St Maarten and was sponsored by CIBC First Caribbean Bank, Office 1 Superstore, Domino's Pizza, Le Grand Marche, Prime Distributors, Cost U Les, the University of St. Maarten, Sheriff Security and the Administration of the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School. Rotary Club of St. Maarten President Maria Buncamper-Molanus said, "We are thrilled and overwhelmed with the turnout, participation and enthusiasm for this Interact leadership training event. Each of the Interactors who attended participated to the fullest extent. I want to thank each participant for their energy and participation". Mrs. Buncamper went on to say, "A special thank you goes out each sponsor and Rotarian that helped make the day a reality. I also want to thank each of the speakers for the day because it was their expertise that kept everyone engaged for the entire day. Speakers included Rotary Assistant Governor Rebecca Low speaking on Rotary, SHTA Intern Naomi Zaloumis speaking on how to prepare a project, Rotarian Dr. Soc (Jeffrey Sochrin) speaking on Meeting Skills and Public Relations, Accountant Candia Joseph speaking on Budgeting, Rotarian David McGregor speaking on Presentation Skills".

Immediate Past Rotary President Robert Judd then addressed the group and invited them back on Saturday, January 11, 2014 at the University of St. Maarten. Each Interact Club will have the opportunity to use the skills they acquired during the December 7th session and to present a formal project to fellow Interactors, Potential Sponsors and the Media.

An initial evaluation of the workshop by President Maria Buncamper, Past President Pierre DeCelles, Past President Robert Judd and Dr. Soc revealed that more time could have been spent on Interact Members interacting with each other in an effort to become better acquainted with each other and increase participation in activities.

Dr. Soc, who served as the Moderator for the December 7th event jumped in and said, "After the event was over, I had the opportunity to speak to many of the participants and I asked them what we could have done differently to make the day better. Overwhelmingly, the response was 'we wished the day was longer and that we had more time together; when can we do this again?' ".

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

ndpbelairbeachcleanupvolunteers11122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- December 5th was International Volunteer Day (IVD). IVD is designated by the United Nations as a day to commemorate the facilitation, promotion, networking and recognition of volunteerism globally.

Here in St. Maarten, under the auspices of the National Development Program, Department of the Interior & Kingdom Relations, Ministry of General Affairs in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), an event was hosted on Saturday December 7th from 8:00-12:00 at the Belair public beach. The event combined a beach clean-up that was complimented with a BBQ and award of certificates.

The theme this year on ecological protection and the overall benefits of environmental protection allowed the volunteers to share experiences on the importance of keeping the beach areas clean, safe and secure.

Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake recognized the Democratic Dialogue Champions for their committed and hard work contributed towards designing the first stages of the National Development Plan (NDP) process.

Minister Lake applauded the dedication and passion of the Democratic Dialogue members stating that "This is the beginning of building Nation St. Maarten," and that he was keen on seeing BAK, the responsible Department to establish more collaborative efforts hereon with grass roots representatives and important environmental organizations such as Pride Foundation and the Nature Foundation to "strengthen the outcomes of similar events and initiatives."

The environment, being our most important natural resource in St. Maarten, every member of the community must be empowered and local efforts to preserve the environment encouraged and recognized.

Regardless of the bad weather, several NDP volunteers showed up to support the clean-up event. The NDP program has been building the capacity of several community leaders in the process to develop St. Maarten's first National Development Plan. The trained volunteers are now preparing themselves to start the dialogue consultations in January 2014. The result of the national dialogues will provide input for drafting St. Maarten's first NDP.

The International Volunteer Day commemoration brought together twenty of the NDP volunteers who participated in the clean-up and were recognized for their contribution to the community.

In her welcome remarks, Drs. Okama Ekpe Brook, the event organizer was especially proud to observe the motivation and dedication of the people who showed up on an early Saturday morning to participate in this exercise even with the raging storm.

Brook added that St. Maarten has a large section of its population that is committed to the spirit of volunteering but is often not recognized. Opportunities have to be identified to enable volunteers to be matched with needs on the ground, to network with each other and a conducive environment created to facilitate the promotion of more volunteering activities.

Brook concluded with a thank you note to the Minister of VROMI, the key note speaker and all the volunteers who turned up today and others often unseen.

Brook presented each member with a customized International Volunteers Day pen from NDP St. Maarten with the assistance of Minister Lake. Mrs Brook later honoured the presence and support of the Minister by presenting him with his own pen and encouraging further unfired efforts.

The energized group of Democratic Dialogue Members were not distorted by the inclement weather conditions, proceeding to clean up Belair Beach and serve their duty for IVD. Members collected a great amount of waste not immediately recognizable by frequenters. Various amounts of plastic and glass bottles as well as plastic bags, and contraceptives were collected and disposed of.

Similar to the Multiannual Policy Plan of previous years, the National Development Plan will provide a strategic vision for Sint Maarten, a "shared national vision" and a document outlining future national priorities that will concentrate on development areas that will improve and advance the social, economic, cultural and environmental situation.

Next steps include presentation of the NDP strategy and scheduling of community dialogues to kick off the data collection process via residents and district representatives.

For more information on the National Development Plan contact the NDP Program at the Interior and Kingdom relations office (BAK) by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- Information circulating throughout the community of St. Maarten about the causeway sinking was diffused by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams on Wednesday. SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister if she had any information that the opening of the causeway has been delayed because the bridge is sinking due to technical errors committed by the contractors. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said she was informed that the grand opening which was scheduled to take place either on the 13th or 15th of December has been delayed for a few days but she was not informed that the causeway was sinking or had any other problems.

The Prime Minister and the Prefet of French St. Martin Philippe Chopin took a tour across the causeway Wednesday afternoon. Information provided to SMN News some days ago states that the contractors made some sort of mistake when pouring concrete under the bridge causing the bridge to begin sinking because there is no play at the joints. However, the persons who said this happened did not say how and where they got the information from because so far there is no known studies done on the causeway to determine if it is fact sinking. "One contractor said that he is not a politician and accidents do happen."

SMN News tried to reach the CEO of the Harbor Group of Companies Mark Mingo since last week for clarification on this information but Mingo could not be reached by phone. An employee of the Harbor Group of Companies also diffused the rumor saying they have been hearing this too but based on what he knows the opening is still going ahead as planned.
A supporter and close ally to the United People's Party Leader Theodore Heyliger told SMN News that the bridge itself is not sinking. He said that someone placed such a comment on Facebook claiming that the bridge sank by 6 meters already. "If the bridge was sinking it would have been visible. It seems to me that people don't know how many feet is 6 meters." The UP supporter and advisor said many persons did not like the idea of opening the bridge on Friday the 13th of December because there is always something about Friday 13th of any month. He further stated that there will be soft opening on Sunday and the causeway will then be open for public use thereon.
The UP advisor said that they (the contractors and government) know that the area that was filled in to build the round-a-bout at the foot of the bridge will sink in a few years because it could not be properly filled in now because of the excessive costs, therefore the roundabout will have to be upgraded in another few years.

PM: "Everyone knows St. Maarten is the best place on earth and so, keeping this in mind, I urge the community to cast their vote"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Monday urged the community to vote for St. Maarten in the USA Today ten best readers choice travel awards. "I urge the community of St. Maarten and indeed all those here and abroad who hold St. Maarten dear to vote for the island in the USA Today reader's Choice Travel Awards. St. Maarten has been selected as one of the nominations and as everyone knows St. Maarten is the best place on earth and so, keeping this in mind, I urge the community to cast their vote," urged the Prime Minister.

According to the USA Today website St. Maarten is one of the nominees in the latest 10Best Readers' Choice travel award contest. An expert panel selected St Martin / Sint Maarten as a contender for the Best Caribbean Island category, which was recently launched. The contest, which is being promoted by USA TODAY, gives voters four weeks to vote for the candidate of their choice at http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-caribbean-island/. A person can vote once a day for the run of the contest. Voting ends Monday, January 6th, 2014 at 11:59am EST and the winners will be announced on 10Best on Wednesday, January 8th, 2014 at 11:59am EST, then later on USA TODAY.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says everything is in place and would like to remind residents and stakeholders about the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Over the Pond and Sucker Garden areas that will be held on Thursday, December 12.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, December 12 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

martinhassink11122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The 2014 budget which must be presented to the Parliament of St. Maarten by December 15th, 2013 has been delayed for a few days, announced Minister of Finance Martin Hassink at the Council of Ministers' press briefing on Wednesday.

The Minister of Finance told reporters that his Ministry cannot meet the deadline of December 15th, 2013 but said that if possible the presentation can be done on December 19th and 20th. The Finance Minister further explained that if those dates are not available then the presentation would be made on January 13th and 14th, 2014. Hassink said he already informed the CFT about the delay and according to him the CFT understands the situation.

Minister Hassink said the 2014 budget stands at 427 million guilders, seven million more than what the CFT advised government to have for the 2014 budget. When asked by SMN News reporter if the CFT is in agreement with the excess figures, Minister Hassink said the 420 million that was suggested by the CFT was just an estimate and the CFT is asking government to provide proof to show that the Government of St. Maarten has more income.

The Finance Minister said the bad news on the 2014 budget is that the various ministries would have to do more in cutting their costs, while several projects cannot be executed because they are not budgeted. One of the projects that fell through the cracks is the "Justice Park" that the former Minister of Justice was busy putting together. Minister Hassink said that there is no money budgeted for the justice park so for sure that project is shelved for now. When asked by SMN News which of the seven Ministry came up with the Naf. 300,000.00 for the integrity committee installed by the Government of St. Maarten, the Minister of Finance said that monies were taken from all seven Ministries for the integrity investigation commissioned by the Government of St. Maarten to take place. He said part of the monies came from the 2013 budget and another part from the 2014 budget. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams clarified that the Naf. 300,000.00 is just a figure that was budgeted for the project and that is not the final figure.

The Minister of Finance explained that currently the operational cost is set at 319 million guilders, there is 2 million guilder deficit. He also stated that St. Maarten is hindered because the country is not allowed to borrow monies. Personnel costs he said stands at 135 million, social expenses 33 million, subsidies 58 million while the liquidity for 2011 stands at 84 million.

Controls Done to Collect Road Tax for 2013.

The Minister of Finance confirmed that currently road controls are being conducted by the police and the controllers at CIB to fine drivers who are in default with their 2013 road tax payment. Minister Hassink said in response to a question posed by SMN News reporter that it is disappointing for government because he does not believe that the Government of St. Maarten would be able to collect the full 1.3 million in road tax fees that is still outstanding. He also confirmed the necessary legislation to impose a Naf. 350 fine for persons that did not pay their road tax on time is already in place.

BES Islands Still wants TOT Elimination in order for them to work with St. Maarten.

The Finance Minister also announced that he asked the Netherlands and the BES islands to assist St. Maarten in upgrading the Tax Office on St. Maarten. Minister Hassink said that the person he met with agreed to give St. Maarten the assistance they need but they applied conditions. The main condition is for St. Maarten to remove the Turn Over Tax (TOT) that is levied on goods and items sold on St. Maarten and taken to the BES Islands. Minister Hassink said he informed his counterparts that St. Maarten will look into that possibility and if it is possible that will be done. "We have to see how much this will hurt St. Maarten financially and if it's too much then we would have to forget the idea of assistance from the Dutch to upgrade the tax system on St. Maarten.

smiarepswithnotary11122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Insurance Association officially signed their articles of incorporation on Monday December 9th 2013 in the presence of Notary Marlene Mingo at her office.
This means all local Insurance companies (Life and Non-life) namely; NAGICO Insurances, Ennia Insurance, Guardian Life, Gulf Insurance, ICW Insurance (ICWI), NC Wathey Insurances, Sagicor and Capital Life are members of this new association.
The objective of SMIA, is to promote the general interest of the Insurance business and its members on St. Maarten. Furthermore the association will seek to advance and uphold the good reputation and conduct of the insurance industry on the island.
Chairman of the SMIA; Eric Ellis explained that, "The association has been active and fully functional for several years, we even contracted the service of C.A.R.S., the accident administration service in 2008 and most recently the Insurance Association signed the agreement with the Medical Doctor's Association on their cost of living adjustment."
Now that SMIA is officially incorporated we are confident that we will have continued growth and development of the insurance industry on St. Maarten.

patricialourenschristensmaxphelipabook10122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip visited Artist Max Phelipa who celebrated recently 25-years in the arts.

Minister Lourens-Philip stated: "As a private citizen that has had the opportunity to experience Philepa's development as an artist over the years, it gives me great pleasure to extend sincere congratulations on this milestone of achieving 25 years of excellent art. We look forward to 25 more years, improving like fine wine as the years go by.

"To you Phelipa and to your family we can only say congratulations and may God continue to keep your hand strong and your eyes keen and your colours strong and vibrant as you move into your next 25 years of art."

oysterpondanddawnbeachroadsrepaired10122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), Hon. Maurice Lake received a report on Monday afternoon that road works at Cherry Hill Estate in Oyster Pond and Melford Hazel in Dawn Beach have been repaired with milled asphalt and cement.

"It's all going back to basics. The milled asphalt is being used for what it was intended for, helping our communities by improving the standard of living. The repair of roads and streets are essential in every district. Everybody needs the basic infrastructure and we are busy with that," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday December 10th, 2013 the Police Department received several phone calls informing them of several Spanish speaking persons (possibly Latin Americans) using the old version (blue model) of the Sint Maarten Identification Card as a source identification along with false credit cards in an attempt to make very expensive purchases. The names that are on these identification cards do not correspond with the persons making the purchase. All businesses should exercise caution when making these expensive sales or transactions.

KPSM Police Report

wallyhavertongwithsantabag10122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Due to inclement weather on Saturday, the Sint Maarten Lions Club was forced to postpone their Annual Christmas Bingo Spectacular which was scheduled to be held at the Festival Village on Saturday December 7th, 2013.
This is the first time the Lions had to postpone their Bingo Drive in 40 years.

President of the Sint Maarten Lions Club Lion Claudio Buncamper said: "The Lions are presently deliberating and will within short announce the new date for the Christmas Bingo, via newspapers, radio announcements and Facebook".

Bingo fans who are in possession of bingo tickets are advised to hold on to their tickets as these will be valid for the bingo whenever it is held. For those who have not yet purchased a ticket, now there is time to do so.

kooymanshoppingnight10122013CAY HILL:--- Last Friday Kooyman organized for the first time a special Christmas Shopping Night and welcomed many customers for an evening of Christmas shopping, fun and games for the entire family. The event featured several partners (such as Fun Miles, L'Oreal, Funtopia, Kidsworld among others), who all teamed up with Kooyman to make the shopping night a success, with product giveaways free product trials and raffles and more.
Customers were encouraged to benefit from the special deals available and have fun with the family while doing so. Kids were treated with a special appearance from Sponge Bob Square Pants who brought a smile to their faces as well as a dance performance from Funtopia's dancing statues which was a crowd favorite.
The shoppers participated in a number of raffles as well as Kooyman MegaStore's own version of the popular TV- Game show "Minute to win It", where shoppers were asked to successfully flip 3 keys into glasses within a minute. Shoppers were also invited to play the Guessing Game and to take a Spin on the Fun Miles Fun Wheel for great prizes.
Kooyman was happy to bring some holiday cheer to the many customers in attendance throughout the Shopping Night. And as per the popularity of this event, it's sure that this will be an annual event for Kooyman.
Our special thanks to our partners: L'Oreal, Fun Miles, Indulgence by The Sea, Funtopia, DLG Design & Décor, Kidsworld, Manrique Capriles, Caribbean Liquors and KFC, Pizza Hut. For more information on this special evening and ongoing product promotions visit our website www.kooymanbv.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- We have been following with keen attention the 2014 budget discussions and have suggested some weeks ago that the 2014 draft budget after sending it to the Parliament of St. Maarten should be placed on the government webpage. This would allow the entire nation to have an input in the debate of one of the most important policy documents of the government of St. Maarten. It would also allow many businesses and other institutions to plan to participate in future government projects, social and infrastructural.
But just recently we have forwarded a letter to our Minister of Finance, Mr. Martin Hassink asking him to allocate some two million guilders (Naf. 2,000,000.00) in the 2014 budget to set up a loan guarantee fund. This loan guarantee fund will be used to assist many young people who are interested in going into business but lack the collateral to obtain those loans from our lending institutions. Of course we are also requesting our lending institutions to provide those young entrepreneurs who qualify for this loan guarantee program to acquire some attractive terms. One such term would be an interest rate lower than the present prime rate. We have also forwarded letters to the various business institutions such as the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Development Organizations for training, the Bankers Association, and to the Parliament of St. Maarten.
Unemployment amongst our young people is alarmingly high and this seems to be a trend throughout the world. We can combat this unemployment to some degree by offering these young people with great business ideas an opportunity to go into business and hereby create job opportunities for themselves and for others.
A couple of weeks ago we attended an event organized by the Foundation InfoBizz entitled Black & Gold Power Hour. During this event we spoke with many young people who are interested in going into business but lack the funds to start up their businesses. This loan guarantee funds will assist them to realize their St. Maarten dream to be in business and become our future business leaders.
We strongly believe that this loan guarantee fund is the right thing do in order to stimulate our economy, create jobs for our young people and to provide the government coffers with some much needed revenue. "Small businesses are the back bone of every economy and St. Maarten economy is no exception", says Lenny Priest and the government can play a very important role in making this a reality. This fund will be a win, win, win situation for the entire nation.

Click here to view the letter sent by OSPP to Minister of Finance Martin Hassink.

OSPP Press Release

swescotwilliamswithoctareps10122013Attends Various Meetings with the European Union, EU Member States and Overseas Countries and Territories of the European Union

PHILIPSBURG:--- During her working visit to Belgium and the Netherlands last week the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended a meeting hosted by members of the European Parliament centered on the sustainable development of overseas countries and territories of the European Union. "Overseas Countries and Territories have organized themselves into the OCTA, which organization has become the representative body of all the countries and territories that make up the Overseas Countries and Territories of the European Union. A governance structure of the OCTA is in place to ensure participation and communication with all OCTs and matters such as election of the Executive Committee, financial reports and budgets are handled during the annual meetings of the OCTA. Political decisions by the OCTA are formulated as resolutions that are signed by all OCTs and present the views and positions of the OCTs for the coming year.

"Since 2012, the Caribbean OCTs have also organized themselves under the umbrella of the OCTA in the Caribbean OCT Council. The latter forum is especially conducive to discussing regional programs and agreeing to regional program themes and projects.

An important feature during my visit to the European Headquarters in Brussels was centered on a meetings hosted by Members of the European Parliament focusing on both the new vision for EU-OCTs relations and the central theme of sustainable development for the countries. In the margin of these meetings, trilateral meetings were held with the European Union, Member States and the Overseas Countries and Territories as well as regional trilateral meetings," explained the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

henrylynchdeliversaddress10122013Congratulates new Homeowners

PHILIPSBURG:--- With the completion of the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation homes in Ebenezer recently the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commended the organization for working tirelessly to provide affordable housing for St. Maarten citizens.

"I would like to commend the SMHDF for doing the necessary to provide affordable housing development for the community. The SMHDF, under the management of a young professional in the person of Managing Director Mr. Henry Lynch, has provided the opportunity to numerous families to own their own homes. In that same vein I would like to congratulate the homeowners on owning their own home. The community of St. Maarten can rest assured that Government will do all that is necessary to provide the necessary housing to the citizens of St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

patricialourensatrightsofthechildevent10122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip was present for the final event for the Convention on the Rights of the Child activities for 2013 that took place at the Belair Community Center on Friday.

The panel discussion on the topic of Teenage Pregnancy was organized by Voice of Our Children Foundation (VOOC). Main speakers at the event were Minister Lourens-Philip, Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Romain Laville, MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, Sharmain Rolan, OBGYN Nurse, and Dr. Josien van Wijk.

markmingoatkingoceanserviceslaunchparty10122013POINTE BLANCHE:--- Last Friday King Ocean Services, family of companies that specializes in cargo transportation throughout the Western Hemisphere, officially launched their services in St. Maarten at a launch party held at Divi Little Bay Resort.

Jose Da Costa Gomez from King Ocean Services, was presented with a framed photo of one of the harbour's cranes lifting one of King Ocean's containers from a vessel with the engraving, "On behalf of the Supervisory Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer Mark Mingo, Management and Staff at the Harbour Group of Companies, we would like to welcome King Ocean to St. Maarten. Looking forward to a fruitful partnership for the years to come."

King Ocean Services offers an array of maritime transport services between ports in Florida, U.S.A. and more than a dozen of ports throughout South, Central America and the Caribbean.

The company has more than 30-years of experience with specialty in various types of cargo containerized and general including, but not limited to raw materials, food (dry goods), refrigerated cargo, vehicles and parts, construction machinery, building materials, jewelry, and clothing accessories.

"King Ocean Services serving the country and the Port of St. Maarten will be an asset in the area of cargo movements. We welcome this new stakeholder, and this once again demonstrates and testifies to the strategic planning of the Harbour Group of Companies in connection with attracting new business for the harbor.

"King Ocean realizes the potential of country St. Maarten and its cargo port facility and has confidence in the aforementioned as well as in our economy. King Ocean has recognized us for our efficient and effective cargo handling standards and the professionalism of our hardworking staff. Congratulations to King Ocean management for selecting St. Maarten and we look forward to working with them," CEO Mark Mingo said on Monday.

King Ocean vessels make weekly connections from the Port of Jacksonville, Miami and Port Everglades in the South of Florida, with Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire, and with the Eastern Caribbean. Costa Rica, Panama, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador in Central America, Colombia and Venezuela, are all part of the companies weekly callings.

The company has a network of 20 offices that it has opened over the 30-year period in business and is a proud participant in the CTPAT program with the United States Customs and Border Protection.

King Ocean Services was founded in 1982 by the Da Costa Gomez family.

The opening of Le Pavillon by the Sea fuels talk that Oyster Pond is again becoming a top destination on the island.

OYSTER POND:--- On Sunday, December 15th, at long last, the once-bustling pavilion on the northeastern seashore of Oyster Pond will again welcome guests from Saint Martin and beyond with the opening of a compelling new restaurant. Le Pavillon by the Sea will serve French-influenced, Pan-Caribbean cuisine crafted by the chef and owner of well regarded Provence boutique hotel and restaurant Au Velo Fleuri.

Like the community in which it sits, Le Pavillon by the Sea is a coming together of cultures, as embodied in the owners, Elaine Dammeyer and Christian Jego. An American chef and her French husband and general manager, their cultural and culinary experiences gleaned while living and working in New York, DC, Miami, France, throughout Europe and in the Caribbean will provide the inspiration for Le Pavillon's menu.

Expect the unexpected: Creative takes on familiar dishes, delightfully successful flavor combinations, refined plates at surprisingly reasonable prices, and ingredients that are locally and artisanally sourced whenever possible -- all delivered with a focus on sustainability. Much attention will be paid to pairing the food with a well-rounded list of wines chosen to speak to both the season and the menu.

"We want our dishes to be as enchanting and unique as this part of the island," says Dammeyer. "Sophisticated and surprising, but, just as importantly, down to earth.

Nestled in a tranquil location amongst the greenery of Oyster Pond's nature preserves, the 30-seat restaurant sits in an open-air pavilion welcoming in the sea breeze and enticing patrons with enchanting views of St. Barth and Tintamarre Islands that have always been the pride of the area.

As this neighborhood has grown, we've tried to maintain a human touch and a local identity," says SunCiti real estate developer Jean-Baptiste Lugger. "Oyster Pond is like a village and when I met Elaine and Christian, I could tell they understood this, they love this place and want to be a part of its history."

With these echoes of Oyster Pond's past and devotion to a promising future, Le Pavillon sets out to offer the well traveled a one-of–a-kind setting in which to feel at home for the evening.

Le Pavillon by the Sea is located at 110 Rue de L'Escale in Oyster Pond, and will be open for lunch and dinner service from Monday to Saturday and dinner service on Sunday.

Prices are as follows: appetizers from 13 euro, main courses from 27 euro, Express Lunch (including one glass of wine, beer or soft drink) at 19 euro, 3-course prix fixe at 44 euro.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament is scheduled for December 12. The Ministers of Finance and Education have been requested to attend the public session of the House.

The public plenary session is set for Thursday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is a discussion surrounding the 100 million guilder write off/tax break given or extended to the American Medical University of the Caribbean (AUC).

The second agenda point is medical scholarships for students from Sint Maarten wanting to pursue a career in the medical field.

This meeting has been requested by the National Alliance (NA) faction Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. George Pantophlet, Independent MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, and Independent MP Hon. Romain Laville in a letter dated December 03, 2013.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, hereby announces that emergency mosquito fogging throughout the country will commence on Thursday, December 12 in Dutch Quarter, A.Th. Illidge Road, Madame Estate, Zoo Area, Sucker Garden, Defiance Road, and Middle Region.

Residents are however strongly advised to continue to step up measures at homes and businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito and now the emergence of Chikungunya, a dengue-like sickness which has been confirmed on the North side of the island.

The health authorities of both sides of the island have executed a joint campaign of public awareness and vector control activities in order to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

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

Minister De Weever is also calling on residents to encourage and ensure that their neighbor (s) clean their yard too in order to be more effective in eliminating breeding sites.

Residents must bear in mind that fogging is not a total solution to eliminate mosquitoes. Fogging activity is kept to a minimum in order to prevent the mosquito population from developing immunity to the chemicals that are deployed.

Fogging is one intervention of several, and the main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis.

Residents must bear in mind that rain events can disrupt mosquito fogging activities, therefore the district schedule will be adjusted accordingly and this will be communicated to the community in a timely manner.

The vector control fogging schedule will be published in the Government Information Page (GIP) in both daily newspapers on Thursday, December 12.

The schedule shows the date, time and neighborhood where the mosquito fogging will be carried out.

Homeowners during the time of the spraying should open all doors and windows. Dishes, bowls, pots and pans, fish tanks and bird cages should be covered. Stay away from open windows and doors during the spraying.

The schedule here covers the period from December 12 to 18.

  • December 12th 5:00 a.m. – 7:00a.m. Dutch Quarter, A.Th. Illidge Road
    5:00 pm – 7:00 pm A.Th. Illidge Road, Madame Estate, Zoo Area, Sucker Garden, Defiance Road, Middle Region
  • December 13th 5:00 a.m. -7:00 a.m. The Keys Guana Bay, Hope Estate, Pond Island, Over the Bank, Point Blanche, Philipsburg,
    5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Fort Willem, Belair Divi Little Bay, Belair Cay Hill, Cay Hill, AJC Brouwers Road
  • December 14th 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. AJC Brouwers Road, LB Scott Road, Crocus Road, LB Scot Road,
    5:00p.m. - 7:00 p.m. AJC Brouwers, Road Link 2, Welfare Road, Round-about, Cole Bay Hill, Round-about, Link 1
  • December 15th 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. Welfare Road, Pelican, Simpson Yacht Club Bay, Simpson Bay Bridge
    5:00p.m. -7:00p.m. AJC Brouwers Road, Cul-de-Sac, Jose Lake Ball Field, L.B. Scot Road, Mary Fancy, Saunders
  • December 16th 5:00a.m. – 7:00a.m. South Reward, St. Peters, Retreat Estate, Emilio Wilson Park to Jose Lake Ball field, Coralita road
    5:00p.m. -7:00 p.m. Coralita Road, Zagersgut Road, Bush Road Blyden's Drive
  • December 17th 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 a.m. St. John's Estate, L.B. Scot Road, Betty's Estate, Waymonth Hill, Ebenezer
    5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Harold Jack, Welfare Road, Windsor, Road, Cole Bay, Cape Bay west of the Cemetery
  • December 18th 5:00 a.m. -7:00 a.m. Cape Bay East, Welfare Road, Windsor, Road, Cole Bay, Cape Bay west of the Cemetery
    5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Simpson Bay, Beacon Hill, Maho, Blue Mall, Sapphire, Low Lands, Welfare Road

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

A.T. ILLIDGE ROAD:--- On Friday December 6th, 2013 at approximately 12:35am, a Philipsburg Police patrol, while patrolling on the A.Th. Illidge road saw a grey colored Kia Picanto with license plate M-4492 and darkly tinted windows driving towards Dutch Quarter. The patrol decided to control this vehicle, but when the driver of the vehicle noticed that he was being followed by the police he increased his speed and headed towards the border in French Quarter via the Middle Region road and Bishop Hill. The patrol stopped their pursuit after this vehicle crossed the border. The Central Police Dispatch and other patrol were informed of the incident. Shortly after, a second police patrol informed the Central Dispatch that the vehicle in question attempted to cross back to the Dutch side at the Belvedere Border Point, but when sighting the police vehicle turned back to the French side. Shortly after and while on patrol in the vicinity of Oyster Bay a police patrol saw a man walking and crossing the border from the French side to the Dutch side. The man in question with initials M.P. (22) is a person known by police for stealing cars. This man was approached by police and could not give an acceptable explanation of what he was doing in the area. The investigating officers walked across the border and located the grey vehicle with license plate M-4492 that escaped from the police earlier. It turned out that this car was stolen. The suspect was arrested on the spot. The French authorities arrived on the scene shortly after and were informed by police of the situation. The car was confiscated by the French authorities. The suspect was taken to the Police Station and handed to the Detective Department for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- Known as the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean, it's no wonder that L'Estaminet and La Villa Restaurant in Dutch/French St. Maarten/St. Martin (www.VacationStMaarten.com) have been chosen as two of the top three fine dining restaurants in the Caribbean by TripAdvisor.com in the Travelers' Choice Awards 2013.Both restaurants are located in Grand Case, an area known for its high concentration of award-winning dining establishments.

L'Estaminet, listed as number two in TripAdvisor's Travelers' Favorite Fine Dining Restaurants - Caribbean 2013, opened in October 2006 in a traditional Creole cottage on the quiet side of Grand Case. Quickly making a name for itself, L'Estaminet received a Bronze medal at the 2007 Taste of St. Martin competition. An evening at L'Estaminet is a culinary highlight, combining warm and impeccable service with first-class French-styled cuisine and blending long-established French culinary traditions with Chef Urfalino's personal twists and innovations.

Named number three on TripAdvisor's Travelers' Favorite Fine Dining Restaurants - Caribbean 2013, La Villa Restaurant was opened by Christopher and Florence Hubler in September 2009 in the heart of Grand Case village. Despite the surrounding long-established, award-winning restaurants, visitors continually flock to La Villa Restaurant for the friendly management, varied French-Caribbean cuisine and fun location in the middle of Grand Case.

With the widest variety of dining experiences of any other island in the world, the Dutch nation of St. Maarten and the French overseas collectivity of St. Martin offer a wide range of worldwide cuisine with 365 restaurants - one for every day of the year. It is also the only Caribbean island with more than one establishment ranked on the TripAdvisor list, defining the destination as a stand-out culinary experience for visitors and reinforcing its reputation as the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean.

patricialourensandswescotwilliamsmeetswithusesomreps09122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Monday 9th December 2013, the representatives of the new management of the University of St. Eustatius School of Medicine formally requested a meeting with Prime Minister the Honorable Mrs. Sarah Wescot Williams and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Honorable Mrs. Patricia D. Lourens – Philip. Due to the fact that the main representative of the group indicated that he was scheduled to leave the island on Tuesday morning, an emergency meeting was convened by the Ministers and included members of the Prime minister's cabinet and the Secretary General of General Affairs.
The main purpose of this meeting was to review their request for a charter for USESOM (University of St. Eustatius School of Medicine) by the Legal Department of General Affairs. It was agreed that the Legal Department would review the situation and give an advice on the matters related to the request within a week's time.

flashmobdancersatpjiae09122013SIMPSON BAY:--- For the second time this year, young dancers performed the flash mob dance, this time as part of the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which had kicked off on December 3, with the Anniversary Symposium at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa.

If the first flash mob dance took arriving passengers by surprise, last Saturday's performance grabbed the attention of departing passengers and airport workers, although quite a number of visitors who had just arrived were seen dragging their luggage toward the Departure Hall where the dance took place, drawn by the music and the milling crowd.

"I'd almost forgotten I had a plane to catch; I was so enthralled by the dancers," said one passenger. "It was really very exciting; a nice cap to a wonderful vacation."

Michelle Knotteck, another departing passenger, sent the following handwritten note to SXM Airport's Managing Director, Regina LaBega: "St. Maarten is a beautiful place and the send off at the airport with the flash mob made it all a better experience even with my plane being delayed 2 hours. Everyone was amazing and it was a great experience. Thank you."

But it was not visitors alone that enjoyed the performance and received branded gift items as well as drinks and snacks; many people of St. Maarten/St. Martin – some who came to welcome or see off friends and family, and employees at various establishments at the airport – said they were pleasantly surprised and impressed.

"Although it was raining and kind of cold outside, this was a very warm and beautiful contrast," said one employee.

"Our aim was to create a festive mood and offer an entertaining atmosphere for all users of the airport," noted LaBega, obviously satisfied at the public response to the event. "It is our way of saying 'Thank You' to everyone for making SXM Airport what it is today.

PHILIPSBURG:--- There is still some work to do on Sint Maarten when it comes to 'Ensuring Environmental Sustainability', goal nr. 7 of the eight Millennium Development Goals. This Goal applies to Sint Maarten, due to the signing of the Millennium Declaration in 2000, whereby 189 countries of the United Nations (UN) have agreed upon to better the situation in the world as per 2015 on crucial issues around Poverty Alleviation, Health, Education, Gender Equality, Global partnership and Environmental Sustainability. They have established the 8 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The countries would measure every year their progress and establish rules therefor. Sint Maarten has published a Millennium Development Goals report in 2011. The conclusion is that for MDG nr. 7, which is 'Environmental Sustainability' Sint Maarten is lagging behind. Right now BAK, the department of the Interior and Kingdom Relations in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is putting a program together to make sure that Sint Maarten gets on track with this MDG.

How do we ensure a sustainable environment and where do we begin? This question has kept several Caribbean countries busy for at least the last 10 years. There are several items falling under this MDG-Goal, such as: Access to improved (drinking) water sources; more people having their own dwelling; improvement of sanitation facilities; a halt to environmental threats; reverse the loss of environmental resources/biodiversity; protection of coral reefs and the use of sustainable energy.

The latter is one of the priorities of the minister of VROMI (Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure), the Honorable Maurice Lake, who is working closely together with the established Energy Commission (wherein GEBE has seat) to come up with a sustainable Energy Plan for Sint Maarten. Departure point and basis of the Energy Policy Plan will be the Trias Energetica concept. This concept of Reduce, Re-use and Recycle is very clear. Firstly, St. Maarten needs to limit our energy demand through energy saving. Secondly, we need to use more renewable sources to meet the remaining energy demand. Only then should fossil fuels be used, and as efficiently and cleanly as possible. At the end it boils down to the principle of 'Energy savings come first on the path to environmental protection'.

The need of taking a good look at the energy use of the population and to come up with the right solutions is being taken seriously in other Caribbean countries (CARICOM) as well. Grenada, Guyana, Montserrat, St. Vincent & the Grenadines and St. Lucia have approved their energy policy plan already. Haiti, St Kitts, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Dominica, The Bahamas and Barbados have a draft policy plan. Within the Dutch Caribbean Islands Aruba is paving its way to ensure Environmental Sustainability via its Energy Policy Plan as well, with the ultimate goal to be self-supporting when it comes to energy use with wind and solar energy, and with a waste to energy facility, in order to reach their goal to be 100% Sustainable thru Renewable Energy as per 2020.

In Sint Maarten we are starting to realize more and more that every dollar spent on energy efficiency can return 3 dollars in energy savings. This can be done on several levels, from applying energy and water saving measures within the building sector to measures within the Tourism and transportation sector, the government and households.

If we take the Millennium Development targets into account, we will integrate the principles of sustainable development into our country policy plans and programs and reverse the loss of environmental resources.

Although we have already made steps to ensure the protection of our resources, namely the establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, further legislation should be put in place to protect and conserve our wetland and terrestrial ecosystems.

'We will need input from all relevant stakeholders to make our National Energy Plan, which will be focusing on practical solutions and recommendations. Let's start step by step with taking small measures likes the use of LED and energy saving light bulbs, dusk to dawn lighting with motion detectors, energy saving AC and appliances, the use of electric cars charged by solar panels, insulate our roofs and use sustainable building materials, install solar panels, install water saving devices, closing of windows and doors when using air conditioning, and turning off lights in rooms that are unoccupied (occupancy sensors in offices), etc., we can reduce our energy use for a great percentage. Using our energy resources wisely works on several levels and will benefit us all in the end. We will hold more money in our pockets, reduce our extremely high carbon footprint and protect our environment at the same time. Thus, we are keeping the island beautiful for our people as well as for the tourists. It's a win-win situation for all of us and for our environment. That is what we are striving for,' is the conclusion of the minister of VROMI.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, hereby announces that emergency mosquito fogging will be carried out on Tuesday, December 10 at the immediate border area section Belvedere, Oyster Pond and Dawn Beach. Cole Bay will be done at a later date.

The fogging exercise is a joint effort by the Governments of both sides in fighting Dengue and now Chikungunya, a dengue-like sickness, whereby there are two confirmed cases on the Northern side of the island.

French authorities will be carrying out fogging activities on the North side of the island and have included the aforementioned immediate border areas of the South side of the island. The fogging will be carried out 5.30am in the morning and 5.15pm in the afternoon.

Residents are however strongly advised to continue to step up measures at homes and businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

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

Fogging is one intervention of several, and the main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis.

Homeowners during the time of the spraying should open all doors and windows. Dishes, bowls, pots and pans, fish tanks and bird cages should be covered. Stay away from open windows and doors during the spraying.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY:--- The honourable Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labour, Mr. Cornelius de Weever is proud to announce the start of the DQ Residents Rights & Responsibilities training program on December 10, 2013.
The objective of the DQ Residents Rights & Responsibilities program is to equip residents with relevant legal and civic information, transmit values and knowledge to actively participate in the community and larger society. The training is initiated by the Department of Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs (C.D.F.H.A.) and will be offered at the Community Help Desk in Dutch Quarter from 6.30pm -8.30pm. It consists of 12 weekly workshops/lectures targeting the various ethnic groups on the island, namely, English, Creole, and Spanish and is facilitated by Bureau Educa RRR.
The modules include: "Introduction to St. Maarten's culture"; "Laws of the land"; "Human Rights and Human Trafficking"; "Citizenship and Civil Registration"; "Government Institutions"; "Tax Administration"; "Insurance; "Educational System"; "Environmental Awareness"; "Motivational session and discussion". Certificates will be awarded at the end of the program.
Participants are required to pay a $5 monthly fee.
For further information interested persons can contact the Community Help Desk in Dutch Quarter at 547457 or the department of Community Development at 5421122/5429925.

gracitaarrindell17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of Parliament will travel to the North side of the island on Tuesday afternoon to meet with the Territorial Council of French St. Martin.

The meeting is scheduled for 2:30pm at the Government Building of St. Martin Hotel de la Collectivite.

The agenda for the meeting is: European Union funding; Safety & Security of Sint Maarten/St. Martin; Promotion of Tourism; Social issues dealing with addiction; and Pension issues.

President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell stated that following the meeting back in August, it was agreed that a next meeting would be held this year.

The meeting would also deal with some issues of concern to the residents from the North and South.

"I have taken note of the content of the letter from Collectivite President Hon. Aline Hanson for the people's representatives to meet before year end. We also agreed during the national celebrations on November 11 to continue with the meeting.

"The New Year must be greeted with some firm follow-up actions in the aforementioned areas and other matters tabled during the meeting from MPs or members of the Collectivite.

"Unrelated to the agenda however, a matter that can arise is the recent ruling of the constitutional court of the Dominican Republic of 13th September regarding the citizenship status of millions of people in that country.

"Both the North as well as the Southern side of our country are home to thousands of persons with family ties to both countries Haiti and the Dominican Republic. This matter deserves the necessary attention," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

touristkilledinaccidentaruba09122013ORANJESTAD, Aruba:--- A female tourist was crushed to death on Monday by a police motorcycle. According to 24 Hours News in Aruba, the accident occurred just in front of the Customs Office on L.G. Smith Boulevard. 24 Hours News also has a large number of photos of the accident scene on their website. The officer that crushed the female tourist to death while she was crossing the street was removed from the scene by ambulance personnel. It appears as though the victim's brother was also on the scene as an older male tourist was seen sitting on the sidewalk as persons at the scene tried to comfort him while police officers were taking information from him. Other tourists that were in the immediate area seemed devastated by the deadly accident. The officer is also said to be in serious medical condition.

Translated article from 24 Hours News Aruba...
Monday afternoon reports came in of a very serious accident in front of the customs office on LG Smith Blvd. in which an officer of the motorized brigade was involved.  An ambulance was sent out urgently. It turned out that a pick-up had stopped to allow a female tourist to cross and at the same time the officer of the motorized brigade was on his way to an emergency but the woman did not notice. Her brother noticed and stopped but she continued and the officer tried to avoid her but hit a car on the side, then the victim and other cars. The impact was fatal for the woman and the officer also was hurt. The woman was a German tourist visiting the island on the cruise ship Aida Luna sailing under the German flag.  All the competent authorities were informed of the case and went to the site.

Prison Taken Over by Prisoners.

Also in Aruba the prisoners at the prison in Aruba managed to take over the prison operations in Aruba for about one hour on Monday. According to information SMN News received, the prisoners took over when the prison guards held a walk out protesting against certain working conditions. SMN News further learnt that a fight broke out inside the Aruba prison when the prisoners took over. Up to press time it was not clear how many prisoners and or other persons were hurt at the prison in Aruba.

MARIGOT:--- The owner of Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach along with the investigators and Vice Prosecutor Flavien Noailles can breathe a sigh of relief now that the Prosecutor General has submitted an appeal for the (Authorization for Temporary Occupation) AOT case which the prosecution lost on November 28th, 2013. The Criminal Court on St. Martin acquitted the three suspects first Vice President Guillaume Arnell, Jose Carti, and Norbert Luftman for the lack of evidence and prosecutorial errors. The court also gave the prosecution ten days in which they could submit an appeal of the verdict rendered on November 28th, 2013.

The three suspects first Vice President Guillaume Arnell, Jose Carti, and Norbert Luftman of Sindextour will have to appear in court again in the near future.

SMN News further learnt that the Gendarmerie will be installing a special brigade to handle cases that involve finances. It is not clear if that brigade will be in place to review the AOT investigation which has been appealed by the prosecution. SMN News made several attempts to confirm the information we received with the Prosecutor General in Guadeloupe but he could not be reached. However, sources close to the prosecution said the appeal was submitted last week.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The President of the St. Maarten Integrity Committee Judge Bob Wit dispatched a letter to the President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell asking her to report to him on what measures she has taken as Chairlady of Parliament to combat possible corrupt practices for which she is administratively responsible and also as a civil servant. Judge Wit also dispatched a similar letter to the seven Ministers, the Ombudsman, the council of advice and other bodies.

The Government of St. Maarten formed this committee which is chaired by Judge Bob Wit to counter the Kingdom Decree sent to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation on the integrity of the Government of St. Maarten.

Governor Eugene Holiday also formed a committee to start the integrity investigation as ordered by the Kingdom. Transparency International was also hired by the Government of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity assessment. The Government of St. Maarten has to pay Transparency International 200,000.00 Euros while they set aside Naf. 300,000.00 for the committee that is headed by Judge Bob Wit.

gerritschotte09122013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- A team of investigators comprising of officers from the Landsreacherche, the RST, and the local police conducted an early morning raid on Monday at the home of former Prime Minister of Curacao Gerrit Schotte. Schotte is now serving as Member of Parliament in Curacao.
According to information provided to SMN News, the raid started around 6am Monday morning, the home of the former Prime Minister was the first location that was searched where documents and computers were seized.
The investigators then searched the office of Schotte which is located at the House of Parliament in Curacao after that they moved to the main postal branch in Curacao where they searched Schotte's safe and postal box. SMN News learnt that the investigators even searched the head office of Schotte's political party where they seized documents and computers. While several places of the former Prime Minister were searched by a number of detectives the Prosecutor's office in Curacao remain tightlipped on the ongoing investigation and the motive for the searches. SMN News tried to reach the spokesman for the prosecutor and Attorney General Norman Serphos for a comment on Monday but was told that Serphos was on vacation.
The investigators also searched the home of the father of Schotte's girlfriend Mr. Van der Deijs. SMN News learnt that Schotte is suspected of being involved in some sort of fraud, while the investigators believe that he may be linked to the suspects that shot Curacao's MP Helmin Wiels to death earlier this year.
So far, the Prosecutor's Office in Curacao has not made any comments on the searches they conducted on Monday morning. When SMN News contacted Curacao's Prosecutor's Office they said they will get someone to call back SMN News with some information but up to the time this publication was made no one returned the phone call.

sarahwescotwilliams08122013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- St. Martin author Lasana M. Sekou has called on Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and President Aline Hanson, to "officially and publicly condemn the Dominican Republic Constitutional Court decision of September 13, 2013 (Sentencia TC/0168/13), which threatens to strip the citizenship status from at least a quarter of a million of its citizens, leaving them stateless based on the color of their skin—as Black men, women, and children—and their heritage origins."

In the letter of November 22 to the government leader in both capitals of St. Martin, Sekou wrote that the "Court judgment is racist and will lead to gross human rights violation in the Dominican Republic (DR) against the affected citizens: theft of their property, destruction of homes, loss of jobs, small business ownerships and bank accounts with the life savings of families, denial of educational opportunities, and the perpetuation of a range of violence, including rape, abuse of children, the elderly and the sick, police brutality, military detention, and the mass murder that historically stems from such abhorrent laws—genocide."

According to Sekou, the tribunal sentence has absolutely nothing to do with immigration and much more with ethnic cleansing. "The racist ruling will invariably affect DR citizens of St. Martin heritage that have been part of Dominican society, certainly since 1929, and thought to number at least 40,000 people," wrote Sekou. The Court ruling has a retroactive feature from 1929.

Mostly DR citizens of Haitian origin are among those affected by the ruling, which, wrote Sekou, "is not acceptable to any civilized nation that abides by established norms of the international community and the principles and practices of humanity."

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams and President Hanson "must condemn this infection of apartheid in the Caribbean," wrote Sekou, and "take a leadership role in the solidarity call for immediate, practical, and just corrective measures to be taken in the Dominican Republic."

alinehanson08122013Sekou wrote that objection to the "racist ruling" should also be made in regional and international fora "where the adjusted autonomy" of 2010 and 2007 allows both St. Martin territories to do so. The Southern and Northern parts of St. Martin are territories of the Netherlands and France respectively. Wescot-Williams is the prime minister in the Dutch territory and Hanson is the president of the French territory. Sekou is an advocate for the Independence and eventual unification of St. Martin.

Considered one of the prolific Caribbean poets of his generation, Sekou said that "the designated channels of communication" that allow the governments in Philipsburg and Marigot "to request and if necessary to demand that the Netherlands and France denounce the racist ruling ... must also be promptly employed." He noted that calls for the boycott of DR trade goods and tourism are already being sounded.

Sekou said this week that "the early, clear and strong statements to the DR president and government by the prime minister of St. Vincent and The Grenadines and protesting groups in Trinidad and Puerto Rico among other places are admirable. Their positions represent the best of a history of solidarity and victory over oppression among Caribbean peoples and support for oppressed peoples in the region and around the world."

He also said that the support for the ruling among significant sectors of DR society, including Cardinal Nicolás de Jesús López Rodríguez, has not deterred or stopped the growing concerns, findings, and mounting protests by other government leaders; regional and international bodies such as CARICOM, OCHR, UNHCR, Amnesty, OECS, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights; human rights groups such as Reconoci.do; and individuals inside and outside of the Dominican Republic. Former DR president Hipolito Mejia recently called the ruling "a shame."

Concluding his letter to Prime Minister Wescot-Williams and President Hanson, Sekou quoted Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent & The Grenadines in his letter to President Danilo Medina of the Dominican Republic -- against the September 13 decision: "The fig-leaf of sovereignty cannot be invoked when time-honoured and universal principles of citizenship and human decency are trampled upon."

mauricelakewithdownstreetbusinesscommunitycouncilandharbourgroupreps08122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake commends the Down Street Business/Community Association on their planned Street Fair for December 18 and 21.

Eight cruise vessels will be in port on Thursday, December 18, and the Down Street Business and Community Council decided one of their first projects would be a Street Fair that would highlight a traditional Sint Maarten Christmas of local goodies for sale.

Those interested in having a stall at the Street Fair should contact Joyce Williams (Cell 523-8602). All organizations and vendors outside the Down Street area are also welcome to display their goods on the two days, December 18 and 21.

Vice President of the Community Council June Peters told Minister Hon. Maurice Lake and port officials in a meeting on Wednesday that the Down Street Business and Community Council would like to bring back activities to that particular part of Philipsburg.

The Council would like to see more cruise tourist activity in the Down Street area especially with the Walter Plantz Tender Pier right next door.

For the planned street fair, the Down Street Community representatives made their wishes known to the Minister and other stakeholders present, that they would like to have Front Street blocked off from L'Escargot down towards the direction of the old Paper Garden.

The community council's spokesperson at the meeting was June Peters, Vice President who was also supported by Wilfred Evertz (board member of Christmas activities), Greg Arrindell (PR), and Miguel de Weever (liaison government matters).

Mark Mingo, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies, Hector Peters, a representative from the Harbour Group, were also present during the meeting.

Mingo told the community representatives that the Harbour Group of Companies are ready and willing to help the Down Street Community and to assist with the logistics related to December 18 and 21 Street Fair in connection with the tender pier.

"I commend the Down Street Business and Community group for taking the proactive approach of bringing Christmas and Culture back to Philipsburg. This is a start. I am a going back to basics person, and the promotion of our traditions, culture and heritage is definitely going back to basics, and the group wholeheartedly has my and my Ministry's full support.

"We need to bring back the Christmas spirit. I would like to see the Philipsburg business community coming together and putting up one or more large Christmas trees in Philipsburg. Get onboard and support a long-term sustainable cause of bringing back Christmas to our main town for the people and visitors to enjoy.

"The Philipsburg business community benefits from the thousands of cruise ship passengers that come to our shores annually. The time is here to give back to your community in a big and sustainable way. Let it not be a one-time contribution, but a sustainable annual tradition. The ball is now in your court," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

plourensdistributesgiftstostudentsfromcruiseline08122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip would like to thank the Tourist Office and Disney Cruise Lines for providing gifts for pupils of the Asha Stevens Campus, Cay Hill of the Hillside Christian Schools.

swescotwilliamssignsedfdqupgradeagreement08122013PM: "This is indeed very important news for the development of the Dutch Quarter District specifically and St. Maarten in general"

BRUSSELS, Belgium:--- During her working visit to the Netherlands and Belgium the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams signed into effect the tenth European Development Fund (EDF) project for the wide scale infrastructural upgrading of the Dutch Quarter District in Brussels on Friday. The Prime Minister, as Territorial Authorizing Officer, has been engaged in wide scale negotiations with the European Union to fund the improvement of the Dutch Quarter District, which will greatly enhance the infrastructure and social upgrading of the area. The European Union will provide 4.750.000 Euro for the project. "After lengthy negotiations and discussions we have successfully managed to sign the funding agreement with the European Union for the upgrading of the Dutch Quarter District. The focus on last Thursday and Friday's meetings where the Overseas Countries and Territories of the EU including St. Maarten, the EU member states, and the EU were represented were crucial as it was expected that the 10th European Development Fund financing agreement would be signed off in addition to the starting of discussions regarding the 11th EDF program themes and the new Overseas Association Decision (OAD) which goes into effect as per January 2014 which will govern the relationship between the EU and its OCTs for the coming years.

"With the signing of the European Development Fund agreement St. Maarten will be expected to manage its own 10th EDF execution with as mentioned the designated project being the upgrading of Dutch Quarter.

The management structure that will be put in place is a critical component to ensure that the project is executed within the parameters and guidelines of European funding," stated a much-relieved Wescot-Williams.

The Prime Minister, as Minister for General Affairs and as Territorial Authorizing Officer (TAO) responsible for the proper execution of the EDF programs and projects on St. Maarten, was the chief negotiator for the funding which will see large scale multi-million Euro infrastructural upgrades to one of the more challenged districts in the country. "There is still much work to be done before the actual work on the project for Dutch Quarter can begin, but securing the funding before the end of 2013 is a major accomplishment, especially given the difficulties which have previously existed between (U)SONA and the European Union. This is indeed very important news for the development of the Dutch Quarter District Specifically and St. Maarten in general," stated the Prime Minister.

Upon learning of the coming upgrades to their district, residents of the Dutch Quarter area reacted with great satisfaction. "We would like to thank the Prime Minister and Government for negotiating with the European Union so that our district will receive the necessary upgrades. It is good to see that our district, which is seen as one of the most challenged ones on St. Maarten, will see the necessary infrastructural upgrades we so very much need," commented a Dutch Quarter Community Representative upon learning of the signing.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be a road closure at the Melford Hazel Road, Oyster Pond on Monday, December 09.

There will be no through traffic on Monday from 7:00am to 3:00pm.

The closure is related to the laying of asphalt on the aforementioned road.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, the largest private sector representative on the island, believes that the Business License Department has made a step in the right direction whereby elected officials delegate the procedural aspects of permitting to qualified civil servants allowing politicians to focus on the establishment of policies and procedures to prevent abuse of authority.
This new direction aligns itself with the suggestions the SHTA made in its previous article in encouraging Government to look at possible solutions by establishing a clear means/needs tested policy on who should get taxi/bus permits and licenses as well as a clear policy on the control thereof. Another suggested solution was public disclosure of the licensing and application procedure to be featured on the government website and the local online and printed media.
By establishing clear and transparent guidelines, the ability to issue licenses and permits to be used as currency to purchase political support would be reduced or possibly even eliminated. If our elected officials focus on the establishment of clear and transparent policies this would eliminate the ability to issue licenses and permits to be used as currency to purchase political support. This same approach could easily be applied to all other discretionary permits such as land grants, work permits, building permits, business licenses etc.
The decision by the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication – Ted Richardson is an example of setting and sticking to policy. The mandate issued to the head of the business license department to provide faster and more efficient services by being able to sign off on several of the licenses issued at this department, is a positive move towards clear policy and regulation.
SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to remind residents and stakeholders about the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Over the Pond and Sucker Garden areas that will be held on December 12.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, December 12 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell will be representing the Parliament of Sint Maarten at official Saba Day festivities on Friday, 6 December in Saba.

The Sint Maarten parliament delegation also includes Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Theo Heyliger whose grandmother is from Saba, the late Irene Heyliger.

President Arrindell would like to congratulate the people and Government of Saba on their national day on behalf of the people and Parliament of Sint Maarten.

Saba Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of December.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there have been changes to the parking situation on the Pondfill parking lot across from the Police Station in Philipsburg.

Effective Friday, 6th December, a section of the parking lot has been reserved for the country's Police Force. Any other non-law enforcement vehicle parked in the designated area will be towed.

Motorists are also requested to use the new exit which is indicated by traffic signs.

unityflaghalfmastfornelsonmandela06122013MARIGOT/GREAT BAY:--- "As a mark of respect for Nelson 'Madiba' Rolihlahla Mandela, the Unity Flag of St. Martin (North and South) is being flown at half-mast" near the Bellevue/Cole Bay frontier monument, said Shujah Reiph, president of the Conscious Lyrics Foundation.

Mandela was born on July 18, 1918. On December 5, 2013 he died peacefully at his home in Johannesburg, surrounded by his family. He was 95.

The St. Martin tribute to the anti-apartheid champion, revolutionary, and former president of South Africa (1994-99), will continue this weekend with a Conscious Lyrics radio program on the largely eventful life and times of Mandela.

The Mandela special will include interviews recorded in South Africa with people who knew Mandela personally and were imprisoned with him on Robben Island, said Reiph. Reiph is the host of the popular long-running program, which will air on SOS Radio 95.9 FM, Saturday, December 7, at 12 noon.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be a road closure oat St. John's Estate Road on Saturday, December 07.

The road will be partially closed on Saturday from 7:00am to 4:00pm.

The closure is related to the sewage connection of St. John's Estate.

On Sunday, 8th December, there will be no through traffic on the roads in the Cherry Hill Estate, Oyster Pond from 7:00am to 12:00pm.

This road closure is in connection with milled asphalt repairs.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

ukconsularmanagerspaycourtesycalltosxmhouse06122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges received a courtesy call from on 3rd December from Ann-Marie Pietersz-Powell, United Kingdom (UK) Consular Manager for the Dutch and French West Indies based in Willemstad, Curacao, and Georgina Matheson, Consular Regional Operations Manager Western Europe.

Pietersz's main focus of work is crisis preparedness and outreach with key contacts in the area and providing support for British nationals in the region. The reps also provide consular advice to four honorary consuls in the Dutch/French Caribbean. One of the reasons for their visit is to clarify the changed nature of her role which is now regional, Dutch and French Caribbean.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday December 6th, 2013, the RST and KPSM conducted some house searches as they continue with the Bromelia Investigation. Press Prosecutor Tineke Kamps stated in a press release that five houses and three buildings on St. Maarten were searched while one house on the French side was also searched with the help of the Gendarmerie.

The house searches took place in Pointe Blanche, Cole Bay, Sucker Garden, amongst others areas.

The house searches were led by the judge of instruction in presence of the public prosecutor. The house searches had place in a criminal money laundering investigation, called "Bromelia". The press release further stated that the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST) KPSM and the Gendarmes conducted the searches.

The investigators were looking for goods, administrative documents, data carriers all of which were confiscated as the investigation continues. Police also seized five cars, and a truck. One male identified as O.D. was arrested for the possession of a firearm.

The vague press release further stated that in September 2013, six persons were arrested for the possession of firearms, narcotics, and the suspects were found with a significant amount of monies. Currently four persons are still in pretrial detention. Prosecutor Kamps said that after the arrests made in September 2013, the Bromelia investigation began. The Prosecutor's Office will not release any further information on the ongoing investigation at this time.

On September 17th, 2013, the police spokesperson for KPSM said via a press release that they arrested six persons during a routine control. The release that was published back in September states that the Police Special Task Force (Zero Tolerance) were in the Keys area when they spotted three vehicles that were suspiciously parked on the side of the street. The officers also saw several men sitting in these vehicles and they smelled a very strong scent of marijuana coming from the direction of the vehicles in question. The officers approached the vehicles in order to have them checked for illegal drugs and the occupants identified. During the investigation, a considerable amount of cocaine and cash were found. In connection with this case five young men between the ages of 23 and 33 were arrested and taken to the Philipsburg Police Head Quarters where they are being held for questioning. The drugs, cash, and vehicles in question were all confiscated for further investigation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be a partial closure of the Prins Bernhard Bridge on Sunday, December 08.

On Sunday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, the Prins Bernhard Bridge will be closed on one side of the street from Bush Road, and emergency vehicles will only be allowed to pass.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

The work is related to the re-installation of the lighting system – poles – on the bridge.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

mjohnsonjmillsandjwoolford08052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The three young men that were convicted of slaughtering Michael and Thelma King in their Cupe Coy villa will appear before the Appeals Court on Thursday December 12th, 2013 to contest the decision taken by the lower court on May 08th, 2013.

The Court of First Instance sentenced the main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson to life imprisonment, the other two suspects Jeremiah Chevon Mills (Johnson's first cousin) was sentenced to 28 years imprisonment while the third suspect Jamal Jefferson Woolford was sentenced to 24 years imprisonment.

The three suspects admitted to entering the home of the Kings on the night of September 19th, 2012 with the intention to rob them but before leaving the premises they killed Michael and his wife Thelma who were on the island to open a rum factory.

The Kings murder sent shock waves throughout St. Maarten while the police department did an exceptional job by capturing the first suspect three days after the bodies of Michael and Thelma King were found. The main suspect confessed to police while in pre-trail detention which led them to the other two suspects, Jeremiah Chevon Mills and Jamal Jefferson Woolford. Woolford was captured in St. Thomas as he tried to escape from St. Maarten when he learnt that Johnson had confessed to the killings. Prior to robbing and killing the Kings, the trio robbed the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant.

Attorney at law Brenda Brooks had asked the lower court to deem the prosecutor's case inadmissible because the prosecutor made numerous blunders when they served the main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson with the summons to appear in court. However, the judge refused the defense's argument claiming that the rights of the suspect were not violated when he was served two summons on the same day. "While the court ruled in favor of the prosecutor on May 8th, 2013, the Prosecutor's Office took immediate measures against the prosecutor that committed the errors by sending him back to the Netherlands.

In the Court of Appeals, it is expected that the Attorney General of St. Maarten would contest the disbanding of Life Imprisonment which the Constitutional Courts threw out some months ago. It is also expected that the Attorney for Johnson, Brenda Brooks will again contest the errors made by the Prosecutor who was eventually sent back to the Netherlands.

SMN News will bring you the full coverage of the Kings murder convicts appeal hearing. It is expected that the relatives of the late Michael and Thelma King would be on the island for the hearing.

"We Have Lost a Global Citizen, a True Father of Democracy"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined leaders from around the world in expressing her sadness on behalf of the Government and people of St. Maarten on the death of former South African Leader, Statesman and Civil Rights Icon Nelson Mandela, who died at his home in Johannesburg, South Africa on Thursday.

"Despite his long illness and valiant fight, it is still a sad and profound moment when we learned of the passing of an icon for all of us, the late, and indeed great, Nelson Mandela.

"It is a moment for us to stand still and reflect on the life of a man who stood up for his convictions and what he believed in, despite being imprisoned by the perpetrators of Apartheid. His brave stance was deeply rooted in his vision on reconciliation and his conviction of equality of all mankind and the good thereof for humankind in general.

"On behalf of the people and Government of St. Maarten, I would like to express my profound condolences to the Mandela Family, the People of South Africa and the international community, for it is in fact a global citizen, a true father of democracy, which we have lost. In the native tongue of the late Nelson Mandela, the Xhosa Language, I would like to say 'Enkosi Tata Madiba...Thank you Nelson Mandela," stated the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

tedrichardson26092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Ted Richardson would like to wish all those working in the civil aviation sector a happy International Civil Aviation Day, Saturday, December 07.

The theme for the internationally observed day is "Evolving to Meet the Challenges of 21st Century Air Transport."

The theme recognizes the significant re-evaluations which the entire air transport sector is undertaking. The global air transport network is presently projected to double in size by 2030.

Currently 30 million flights are flown annually and this will grow to 60 million over the next 16 years, while the total number of passengers served will rise to six (6) billion from today's three (3) billion.

"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all those working in civil aviation, control tower, airport, airlines, other aviation oriented companies, and the Department of Civil Aviation, Shipping & Maritime Affairs for their professionalism and dedication to the sector. Our country's tourism sector is dependent on civil aviation, and for each role that the stakeholders play.

"Our airport, the Princess Juliana International Airport is celebrating its 70th anniversary. That is a milestone. We can be proud that our airport serves as a hub for the North Eastern part of the Caribbean, connecting the world with five territories in this.

"We have WINAIR, more than 90 per cent owned by the country spreading its wings within the Caribbean Basin. The aviation sector of our country is well and alive.

"Each and every person working in the aviation sector, from the airport to the companies that provide services to the airport, the civil aviation department, to airlines and other aspects of civil aviation, you all have done a great job and continue to do so on a daily basis. Thank you for a job well done," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson said on Friday.

The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) is a United Nations (UN) body that takes care of the standards to be maintained in the civil aviation industry. ICAO was formed in the year 1944. The first civil aviation day was observed in the year 1994 on 7th December as a mark of 50+ years since the founding.

ICAO takes care of the standards and safety measures to be followed for civil aviation industry in the world. ICAO services as the global forum for its 191 Member States.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Holiday shoppers are busy buying Christmas trees and lights to adorn their home this holiday season. As the day gets closer, families are bustling around to have everything in place for Christmas Eve.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked,' campaign, parents and family members should keep in mind some holiday safety tips where it concerns decorations and the Christmas tree. The season is all about family togetherness and we would like everyone to have a safe holiday season incident free.

Every year the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), an agency of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour as part of its calendar of observances highlights and creates awareness where it concerns safe holidays.

Check this list of holiday season safety tips:

Trees:

  • When purchasing an artificial tree, look for the label "Fire Resistant." Although this label does not mean the tree won't catch fire, it does indicate the tree will resist burning and should extinguish quickly.
  • When purchasing a live tree, check for freshness. A fresh tree is green, needles are hard to pull from branches and do not break when bent between your fingers. The trunk butt of a fresh tree is sticky with resin, and when tapped on the ground, the tree should not lose many needles.
  • When setting up a tree at home, be sure to keep the stand filled with water. Place the tree out of the way of traffic and do not block doorways.

Lights:

  • Indoors or outside, use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, which indicates conformance with safety standards. Use only lights that have fused plugs.
  • Check each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections, and throw out damaged sets. Always replace burned-out bulbs promptly with the same wattage bulbs.
  • Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and a person touching a branch could be electrocuted.
  • Before using lights outdoors, check labels to be sure they have been certified for outdoor use.
  • Stay away from power or feeder lines leading from utility poles into older homes.
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold strings in place, not nails or tacks. Or, run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).
  • Turn off all holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house. The lights could short out and start a fire.
  • Use caution when removing outdoor holiday lights. Never pull or tug on lights - they could unravel and inadvertently wrap around power lines.
  • Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold. GFCIs can be installed permanently to household circuits by a qualified electrician.

Decorations:

  • Use only non-combustible or flame-resistant materials to trim a tree. Choose tinsel or artificial icicles of plastic or nonleaded metals. Leaded materials are hazardous if ingested by children.
  • Never use lighted candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Always use non-flammable holders, and place candles where they will not be knocked down.
  • In homes with small children, take special care to avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, keep trimmings with small removable parts out of the reach of children to avoid the child swallowing or inhaling small pieces, and avoid trimmings that resemble candy or food that may tempt a child to eat them.
  • Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating with spun glass "angel hair."
  • Follow container directions carefully to avoid lung irritation while decorating with artificial snow sprays.

rubylabegaschoolteachers06122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Teachers at the Ruby Labega School in St. John's decided to hold a 'sit out' until the Ministry of Education deals with the ongoing violence against teachers at the school. The teachers told SMN News on Friday morning that they were forced to take action because a 12 year male student of the school threatened one of the teachers on Wednesday. They said the student went as far as threatening to burn the school down and to set a bomb in the teacher's car and scooter. "This student cursed the teacher, he then said he knew how to make a particular bomb and he will place it in the gasoline tank of the teacher's vehicle so that it could explode." The teacher that was threatened was not present during the "sit out" when SMN News visited the school on Friday.

Teacher Marlin, a third grade teacher at the school said that the incident occurred on Wednesday and this is the "straw that broke the camel's back" causing them to resort to the kind of action they are taking now. Marlin said that on Wednesday the student was escorted from the school by police when he made the threats. "We called the police when this incident occurred and that student was escorted out of the school by police but we do not know what happened from there, because he is in school today."

Later that evening (Wednesday) at 6pm the principal of the school sent an email to the Head of the Department of Public Education Glenderlin Davis-Holiday and the Inspectorate informing them of the situation. "The principal sent the email the moment she had time because she had other matters to deal with, the following morning she sent the documents to support the complaint she filed with the department in order for the Department of Education to take action but instead of taking the necessary actions such as suspending the student, the department informed the principal that the student could not be suspended because the information was sent to them one day too late. The teachers said that the Inspectorate and the Department Head Davis-Holiday told them that the information "the letter and documents" had to be sent during working hours on the day of the incident. However, the teachers said they have 24 hours in which to report complaints. "We want to make clear this is only one incident, teachers at this school are being threatened every day, we are being insulted and the students know they can do what they want because they get away with it. Even when we send them to the office they know going to the office has no repercussions because only children have rights, not teachers."

The teachers further explained that the student returned to school and was in school on Friday while they conducted their "sit out" in the staff room and he made comments such as him being untouchable. When asked by SMN News if the parents of the student were convoked to the school, they said they called in the parents several times and the parents are telling them that they don't know what else to do and they do not even know how the child became the way he is. "His parents told us to spank him but that is against the law, we are not allowed to beat students, we cannot even put them out of the classroom since the compulsory education policy was implemented. The teachers who are obviously at their wits ends said that they know that children coming from the British countries cannot do what they are doing on St. Maarten in their own country. "We do not want this to become a topic of nationality because the intolerable behavior is coming from students across the board. However, we know that some countries do not allow neither accept this kind of behavior."

Marlin and the other teachers that were present said that they are being called names such as "bitch", students are even hitting the teachers, and they are using foul language at them. "This trend has been taking place months now and they did everything legally to get the department to take the necessary actions but to no avail. The principal is doing everything in her power to get those in authority to take the necessary actions.

The teachers said when they got the information that the student will not be suspended they decided to start the sit out. They said they are concerned about the safety of the school and the other students that attend the school because they have over 250 students in attendance. "We have students as young as four years old at this school and here is a situation where a student is threatening to burn down the school and authorities are telling us that the information from the school was sent to them too late."

The teachers further explained that when Davis-Holiday heard that they were in a "sit out", she visited the school and informed them that the student will be suspended for three days and they should get back to their classrooms. "Davis-Holiday came here this morning and she told us she is not answering our questions neither would she be listening to our concerns. Her only purpose for the visit was to tell us that the student will be suspended for three days and we should go back to work. We are not satisfied with the decision taken by the Department Head, therefore we are writing a letter to the Minister of Education while we continue to sit out until proper actions are taken.
The teachers said they already informed the President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot who is currently in Anguilla attending a conference. They said Elshot promised them that she would address the matter with the Minister of Education when she returns to the island. SMN News could not reach the Head of the Department of Public Education Mrs. Glenderlin Davis-Holiday on Friday for a comment.

mauricelakemeetswithdownstreetbusinesscommunityassociation05122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday met with representatives from the country's newly formed Down Street Business/Community Association.

The organization area of focus within their community is from L'Escargot to the old Paper Garden.

The community council's spokesperson at the meeting was June Peters, Vice President who summarized the issues within the Down Street community. Peters was also supported by Wilfred Evertz (board member of Christmas activities), Greg Arrindell (PR), and Miguel de Weever (liaison government matters).

Peters spoke about the challenges being faced by businesses and homeowners in the area; settlement of water from different buildings/businesses; boulders in the alleys; cleaning of the alleys; tree stomps that pose challenges for pedestrians; palm tree grills/mats; safety and security challenges.

In the meeting also included representatives of the Minister's Cabinet and Ministry VROMI, Mark Mingo, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies, Hector Peters, a representative from the Harbour Group.

"I am ready, and my Ministry is ready to address the issues and concerns of the Down Street community. Other issues that do not fall within the responsibility of my Ministry, I will bring these forward to my colleague Ministers such as Justice and Economic Affairs.

"I am very pleased to learn that the young people of Down Street have taken a serious interest in their community and have already assisted in a number of ways since the community council was started. It is great to hear that those on the bloc are onboard and ready and willing to work. I can understand their frustrations and I encourage them to always think positive, do positive and reach for the stars," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Port of St. Maarten CEO Mark Mingo during the meeting stated that Philipsburg and surrounding environs are all part of the harbor community, and that it is in the interests of the port and the destination as a premier cruise mecca to help the Down Street community become the cultural heartbeat of the nation.

The Minister is looking forward to the walkthrough on Tuesday afternoon, 10 December which would also include representatives from the Down Street council, Ministry of VROMI officials, Community Police Officer, among other stakeholders.

The Down Street community council has established six committees that will deal with fundraising, marketing, cleanup, decorations, social and transportation.

mpcandsxmacademyvisitrotarysxm05122013PHILIPSBURG:--- During the month of November and in celebration of Interact Week, officers and members of the various Interact Clubs on the island were invited to attend a meeting with the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. During the meeting Interact Leaders Rholdyn Lake and Marian Felix from St. Maarten Academy, Jo-Anne Galva and Janna Philip of Milton Peters College, and Dipti Budhrani and Breanna Barrie from Learning Unlimited each had an opportunity to chair and facilitate the Rotary Club of St. Maarten's regular weekly meeting.

Maria Buncamper-Molanus, President of the Rotary Club St. Maarten, commented, "Our young Interact Leaders did an exemplary job during their Rotary Club visits. I look forward to their continuing contributions as Interactors and future Rotarians for many years to come".

President Rholdyn Lake and Secretary Marian Felix of St. Maarten Academy, Jo-Anne Galva and Janna Philip of Milton Peters College and Secretary Breanna Barrie and Sergeant at Arms Dipti Budhrani all commented on the various activities of their respective clubs to help the community. All the leaders talked about the effort to help the victims of the recent Cole Bay fire and the food and clothing drives held at each of their schools. "St. Maarten Academy Interact Club" drive was so successful that collection boxes had to be emptied at the end of each school day to make room for future donations", according to Academy Interact President Rholdyn Lake.

The Club representatives used the opportunity to provide an overview of the activities planned for the balance of the Interact year. These projects include, for the MPC and Academy, breakfast programs in their respective schools. St. Maarten Academy started their Chess Project which includes classes and games with the possibility of expanding beyond the school grounds and hosting interscholastic Chess games. President Jo-Anne Galva of MPC Interact Club spoke of the flea market and a car wash among other activities to raise funds for their community service activities. The Learning Unlimited Interact Club was the first of the clubs to provide relief to the Cole Bay fire victims through the Red Cross and is currently preparing its community service plans.
The three Interact Clubs that are sponsored by the Rotary Club of St. Maarten operate independently guided by Rotary and faculty advisers.

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

y2x10yearanniversarygalaposter05122013PHILIPSBURG:--- In a world where emphasis is sometimes placed on the negative manifestations of youthful energy, Y2X, Youth to Xtreme, the youth wing of Victorious Living has embarked on changing this image to a positive one. Y2X, an interdenominational youth group of young people primarily between the ages of 13-35 focuses on taking their youthful passion, commitment to Christ and desire for positive change in our community to an extreme.

chancesforcaribbeanyoungsterssxmteam05122013PHILIPSBURG:--- To enhance the chances of youngsters between the ages of 12 and 25 the funding agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean decided to do more than short term funding of youth activities and projects and initiated a special program with the duration of four years. The main objective is to prevent youngsters from dropping out of schools and help those that have dropped out already. The funding agency searched for 20 projects on the six islands of the Dutch Kingdom that would aim to reach this goal, preferably in an innovative way and strengthening existing projects with the same target group.

Seven foundations on St. Maarten were among the 47 foundations that took up this challenge and sent in their project dossiers. After two selection moments, one in July and one in September, three of the St. Maarten project proposals met all criteria and were selected to participate. In total 18 projects were selected: 9 from Curacao, 3 from Aruba, 1 from St. Eustatius, 2 from Bonaire and 3 from St. Maarten. All 18 organizations went to Aruba for a kick off meeting on November the 21st, where they had a chance to explain their projects to King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima, who opened the program officially. The participating projects for St. Maarten are:

"Build your Future" of Kids at Sea Foundation
Kids at sea wants to draw more St. Maarten youngsters into an important business sector of the island: the marine sector. Although St Maarten used to be number 1 in boat building in the region in the old days, nowadays a lot of kids cannot swim and sailing –the most important skill for anyone in the maritime sector- is considered a rich man's hobby. Students of MPC and Sundial, that have been identified to need a boost in motivation, will get intensive sailing lessons and three teams per year will build their own boats. Participation in regatta's and facilitating youngsters to get jobs in the maritime sector are other important features of this plan.

"Students teaching students" of Participant Foundation
Participant Foundation wants to tap into the largest teaching resource at schools that normally is overlooked: the students themselves. The students will form a club in which high performing students will help those that are struggling but are willing to make an effort. They will do this by providing extra tutor classes, repeating the lesson material in their own way. Furthermore students will be trained in counseling fellow students, to help avoiding that small conflicts will end up in suspension or expulsion. Participating schools are Sundial, MPC and St. Maarten Academy. The organization can take pride in having a very driven youth board, consisting of students that participated in Participants' previous initiative of secondary school students teaching pupils of the primary schools.

"St. Maarten Youth Rangers" of Voice of the Youth St. Maarten
Workers in youth care on St. Maarten decided to join forces and initiate new projects for the youngsters in their care. The St. Maarten Youth Rangers is one of their projects; it aims to form a youth VKS group of vulnerable youngsters to regain self esteem, sense of responsibility and purpose in life. The group will meet twice per week and hiking, camping, kayaking, volunteering, and leadership trainings can form part of the program.

The Cooperating Foundations has been established to support social initiatives on the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. It consists of five Dutch Funding agencies, namely Stichting Kinderpostzegels, Oranje Fonds, Innovatiefonds Zorgverzekeraars, Skanfonds and Fonds Sluyterman van Loo.
On St. Maarten an advisory council meets every three weeks to discuss funding requests that foundations on St Maarten send in. The advisory council would like to congratulate the three selected NGO's and encourage other NGO's with projects for youths, elderly or vulnerable groups in our society to hand in project requests for our regular funding possibilities.

raouldusseljee05122013CAY HILL:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center is pleased to inform the general public of two new medical specialists joining the medical team at our hospital.

Dr. Raoul Dusseljee has been employed as a radiologist as of November 18, 2013 and Dr. Samay Nadery as of December 1, 2013.

Dr. Dusseljee will work together with the radiology team to provide diagnosis and treatment to our patients who require radiology imaging; x-rays, mammograms, CT Scans and ultrasounds. Dr. Dusseljee studied at the Erasmus Medical Center of Rotterdam and did his Residency in Radiology at the Medical Center Alkmaar and the VU University Amsterdam.

Internist Dr. Nadery will treat adult patients with internal ailments in our clinic. Dr. Nadery, born in Afghanistan, has lived in the Netherlands since 1999. He has worked in Pakistan, the United States and the Netherlands. He is a graduate of the University of Amsterdam, Leiden University and Yale University School of Medicine.

samaynadery05122013The Radiology department is open at the SMMC from Monday to Friday between 7:30am and 4:30pm. Patients needing X-rays do not require an appointment. For other radiology imaging, patients are required to make an appointment in person or by calling our Radiology department at 543-1111 ext 1360. For all procedures SZV patients require a request/referral letter from their general practitioner.

Referral letters are required for SZV patients who need to visit the internist. Patients must too make an appointment for consultations which can be made at ext. 1300, Mondays-Fridays between 8:00am and 4:30pm.

We trust that the services of Dr. Dusseljee and Dr. Nadery will further contribute to giving quality care to our patients. This is a step towards broadening our services by bringing up to par the number of specialists at SMMC, to meet the needs our population.

The St. Maarten Table Tennis Federation will be holding the final round of the Governor's Cup for Saturday, December 7th at the "L.B Scot Sports Auditorium" from 10-3 pm. Coach Radjouki and the board hereby invite the parents and public to come and support the young talent as they prepare for various regional tournaments next year.

Young Josiah will have to battle against the other players to remain as Champion of the cup. The board also explained that there will be a barbeque sale whereby the proceedings will go to new equipment for the team.

swescotwilliamswithsxmdelegationatoctmeeting05122013European Development Funds, Innovation, Small and Medium Enterprises Some of the Items Discussed

BRUSSELS, Belgium:--- On December 2nd 2013, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams met with Leaders of the Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories Council (COCTC) in Brussels, Belgium at their 2nd Extra Ordinary Meeting. Points addressed during the meeting were: proposal on the principles of operation of the Council, the new EU Overseas Association Decision that will go into effect January 1st, 2014, regional projects under the 11th EDF, Territorial Strategies for Innovation Project and status update on the Small and Medium Enterprise regional program under the 10th EDF.

The Council elected for the period of 2013-2014 a new executive body consisting of: Chief Minister of Montserrat, Reuben Meade serving as Chairman and Prime Minister of Curacao serving as Vice Chair.

The Caribbean Overseas Countries and Territories Council (COCTC) was established on April 27th, 2012 based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the all Caribbean OCTs during the first meeting held in Curacao. The MOU sets the basis for regional cooperation between Council members. The Executive body for the period of 2012 -2013 consisted of Curacao as Chair and Cayman Islands as Vice Chair.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindell17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Thursday afternoon during a session of the Youth Parliament of Sint Maarten in the legislative House, called for a moment of silence in connection with the passing of South Africa's first black president and anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela (95).

Mandela led South Africa's transition from white-minority rule in the 1990s, after 27 years in prison. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and was elected first black president in 1994. He stepped down in 1999 and retired from public life in 2004.

President Arrindell on Thursday afternoon expressed her heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the people of Sint Maarten and the House of Parliament on the loss of Nelson Rolihlahla 'Madiba' Mandela.

"President Mandela was a great leader of the century. His legacy will inspire generations to come. He was a prisoner of conscience and an inspiration for all mankind.

"I shared with the members of the youth parliament, while studying in the Netherlands back in the 1990s, I had the privilege to see him when he visited Holland back then after he was released from prison.

"I wanted to make that connection with our youth, because they will be the ones to live his legacy. Mandela was a great man for the world, South Africa and mankind," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Thursday on the passing of world icon Nelson Mandela.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, says the country remains in a dengue epidemic phase, and residents are advised to continually be active in taking measures to mitigate the mosquito population.

For the month of October, there were a total of 29 confirmed dengue cases while 102 lab requests were made. The number of confirmed cases for the previous two months were September 53 cases; August 68.

From January to October 2013 the cumulative number of confirmed dengue cases stands at 255. The type of dengue circulating throughout the country is DENV4 (Dengue Virus Type 4).

Vector control activities continue to be executed by the Ministry with respect to a prompt response to search indoors, yards and gardens for mosquito breeding sites.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

CPS is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secured and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

CPS is urgently calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases. Persons are urgently recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods, open lots and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or visit the Facebook Collective Prevention Services or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Inform CPS about your challenges in eliminating mosquito breeding sites in and around your homes/establishments.

seaviewhoteldonatestomhf05122013CAY HILL:--- The Mental Health Foundation is the leading secondary Mental Health care provider on the Dutch side of St. Maarten and has been operational since 2006. MHF currently has 7 care products (Clinic Care, Crisis Management, Psychiatric Home Health Care, Faraja Centre, Guided Living Facility, Admission Ward, and Information and Prevention) and a team of administrators that work diligently for the Mental Health concerns of our community.

The Foundation has been very low on inventory lately and there was an urgent need for especially pillows, pillow cases, bed linen, towels, bathmats etc. Facilities intern Ruben Post from Holland (who is doing his internship at MHF for 5 months) came with the brilliant idea to send out a letter to all of the hotels and resorts on the island, explaining the current situation and asking if the hotels were in possession of items that could no longer be used for hotel guests, but can be of great use at the Foundation.

As a result of this letter, multiple reactions from almost all of the hotels came within days, and donations were picked up from the Belair Beach Resort, the Sea View Hotel, the Turquoise Shell Inn, and L'Esperance Hotel. Reactions from hotels also included that many already donated to the Red Cross, and items that MHF was not able to use, were also brought to the Red Cross. The Foundation would like to thank these hotels in particular for their generous donations and the donations provided helped us in providing healthcare and therefore improving the life of our patients.

As a message during the Thanksgiving weekend MHF would like to express their gratitude towards the people that help and support the Foundation and everyone is encouraged to, before throwing away any items, consider the option of donating things to parties or organizations that might still be able to make use of these things for a long time!

scalybreastedthrasher04122013GRAND CASE:--- Residents and visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate the wildlife of the island this Saturday at Birds & Bugs 2013. The event will take place on December 7th from 9am to noon at Loterie Farm on Pic Paradis. Birds & Bugs is a free, public Wildlife Discovery Event, created by Les Fruits de Mer for locals and tourists alike to get to know the captivating creatures and birds that make their home in the forest.

The event will offer a full array of activities designed and lead by naturalists, ecologists, and other wildlife aficionados. "It's a great opportunity to learn about local wildlife from experts," says Les Fruits de Mer President Jennifer Yerkes. "We'd like to welcome everyone to come out and enjoy the day, and explore one of the island's most beautiful and significant habitats!"

Bird specialists will lead birding tours of the forest, where event-goers can discover how to look and listen for resident and migratory bird species, practice bird-watching skills to use on future outings, and learn about the unique broadleaf forest environment. Tours will be guided by Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) Senior Biologist Adam Brown, professional birding guide Binkie van Es, and Ronald Pieters, the SXM administrator for the bird-spotting site Observado.org. Tours will leave regularly throughout the event and will be available in French, English, and Dutch. Attendees who plan to go on a birding tour are recommended to bring sturdy shoes, a water bottle and their own pair of binoculars if they have one. There will be some binoculars available for sharing on the tours.

Guests can find out about the birds of the broadleaf forest at the Bird Education Station hosted by Natalia Collier, President of EPIC. Since EPIC biologists have partnered with Loterie Farm for over a decade to study the health and diversity of birds in this rare habitat, these experts have a lot to share about the amazing little avians that live in this forest. Visitors can learn to recognize birds by their song at the bird-call listening station. Young birders can pick up a Junior Birdwatcher journal and activity book as well as free bird stickers and tattoos, thanks to support from the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance and BirdsCaribbean. Bird identification cards and t-shirts will be available for a donation to support conservation efforts.

The Bug Discovery Station will give adults and kids an unforgettable opportunity to get up-close and personal with a variety of the island's insects, spiders and other invertebrates. Live insects will be on display and guests will learn about their life cycles and other fascinating facts about these small animals and their role in the local ecosystem. The Bug Discovery Station will be hosted by Mark Yokoyama, Les Fruits de Mer co-founder and author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin. Attendees can even get an ID on a mystery insect at the Bug Discovery Station's Bring Your Bug activity. "If you've got bugs or bug photos," says Yokoyama, "bring them along for identification at the Station!"

People of all ages can participate in the creative activities inspired by local wildlife and led by eco-artist Stephen Winkel, including coloring, sketching, and a craft. Younger kids will enjoy coloring and activity pages designed by local artists featuring island animals. Older children and adults can paint birdfeeders made from calabashes, which they can take home to attract birds throughout the year.

Birds & Bugs 2013 is made possible by the hard work and talent of over 40 volunteers, and the generous sponsorship of Calmos Café, Delta Petroleum, Island Global Yachting, Lagoon Marina and L'Esplanade Hotel.

Birds & Bugs 2013 is a co-production of the Les Fruits de Mer Association, EPIC, and Loterie Farm.

EPIC was founded in 2000 with the mission to protect the Caribbean environment through research and community-based action, and has conducted long-term studies on the birds of the island while working to raise awareness of bird conservation issues. EPIC biologists have partnered with Loterie Farm for over a decade to study the health and diversity of birds in this rare habitat.

Loterie Farm is a private nature reserve. The 54-hectare property includes broadleaf forest as well as the remains of historical buildings dating back to the 18th century. Loterie Farm safeguards the history and the environment while also sharing this unique site with the public. It is one of the most ecologically significant places on St. Martin, and has hosted a great deal of biological research, including ongoing studies of birds and other animals. Loterie Farm offers hiking and zip-lining as well as a gourmet restaurant, lounge, and spring-fed swimming pool.

Les Fruits de Mer is a non-profit association based in St. Martin whose core mission is to raise awareness about nature, culture, and sport. The organization carries out this mission through publications, an education program, and special public outreach events that entertain, inspire, and inform. The Association is currently accepting new member applications on its website, http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org.

For more information about Birds & Bugs 2013, visit http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org/events/ or https://www.facebook.com/events/1427136514175790/, and visit http://www.epicislands.org to learn more about EPIC.

cdeweeverwithaidsfoundationrepsandhivaidsprogrammemanagementteam04122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team along with Minister of Health Cornelius De Weever announced on Wednesday that they have kicked off a joint awareness campaign starting on Wednesday to motivate and encourage persons living on the island to participate in free HIV testing.

Marhjie Troost, member of the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team told reporters that St. Maarten was selected to be part of the PANCAP Improving Service Awareness Program. Troost said the project is a joint project between the French and Dutch side of the island. She said that one of the reasons St. Maarten was selected is because of the amount of people of different nationalities living on St. Maarten/St. Martin. The awareness campaign will be done in three languages which are English, Spanish, and Creole.
While the project kicked off last Friday, the organizers told reporters that there is no end date as to when the campaign will end. They said that the awareness project was sponsored by the German Corporation project funds. Troost refused to divulge how much monies St. Maarten/St. Martin obtained for the awareness which will take place throughout the island. Troost said HIV/AIDS has no borders and they felt the need to work hand in hand with the French side in order to make this campaign successful.

The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team issued a strong call to the people of St. Maarten to do the HIV test since HIV/AIDS has no borders.

Angelique Pottier representative of the French St. Martin HIV group said that are more than happy to work for the first time with the Dutch side to tackle and bring awareness to the people of St. Maarten/St. Martin on HIV/AIDS.

Banners, posters, jingles, websites and other form of advertising will be used to enhance the awareness.

cdeweeversignsmouwithsheriffsecurity04122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Labor Cornelius De Weever along with representatives of the Department of Labor and the Management of Sheriff Security signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Wednesday where Sheriff Security would train persons between the ages of 18 to 35 to become security officers.

Minister De Weever said that his Ministry noticed that security companies are the ones that are requesting a large number of work permits. He said in order to eliminate this trend his Ministry has decided to start a pilot project where they will encourage Dutch citizens to train for a period of three months before they are given a job at Sheriff Security. Minister De Weever said only Tuesday night he was asked what his Ministry is doing to create jobs because the unemployment rate among the youths is very high. He said his Ministry has other projects running and while Sheriff Security is the first company to sign such an MOU with government, the intention is to do the same with other security companies and businesses.

Persons that are qualified after screening will obtain financial assistance from the Department of Social Affairs as they participate in the training at Sheriff Security. After the training period the trainees will be employed by Sheriff Security. Their first contract will be for a period of one year. During that first year security workers will start off with the minimum wage, Marketing Manager of Sheriff Security Peter Gittens told reporters.

Nicoma Groenenveldt Hickensen, policy advisor of the labor department said that registration will take place at the department of labor for the project but she could not say exactly when the registration would begin. Groeneveldt said that one of the main reasons the department of labor chose to do this project is to see how many locals or youths on St. Maarten are interested in becoming security officers.

Vensia Mathew HR Administrator of Sheriff Security said the company could hire as much as fifty new workers now but that is not their limit because Sheriff Security is a growing company and there is always need for more workers.

When asked if the intention is to weed out immigrant workers that are working for these security companies both the Minister and management of Sheriff Security said that they do not intend to lay off workers, instead they will not be requesting working permits for other immigrant workers. Minister De Weever explained that there is a policy in place to guide the work permit processing. He said persons that obtain working permits can only have that permit for a period three years, during that period of time the companies are supposed to be able to find local workers to fill the vacancy.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Inspection Department TEZVT - Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) that falls under the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, which has to ensure that imported Christmas Trees – even though they may appear to be harmless, are free from insects and pests that could harm trees and vegetation on the island, is very pleased with the compliance by wholesalers who imports trees for the holiday season.

The Inspection Department reported on Tuesday that they have had total compliance from the business community along with their response to pre-sale inspection of the containers.

The inspection of containers has been better when compared to previous years. The department thanks the business community for their adherence and looks forward to their continued cooperation.

There are ordinances that regulate the importation of goods, and a permit is required in order to import Christmas Trees.

Wholesalers and retailers for each consignment must provide a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country showing that the trees have been treated before they leave the exporting country.

To secure the permit, companies are required to submit an application for import along with a copy of the original pro forma invoice. When the trees arrive, the wholesaler/retailer has to notify the Department; and should present the original phytosanitary certificate and proof that the trees were treated with pesticide.

These various aspects have been successfully complied with and the department is very pleased. Prior to 10-10-10 this process was a responsibility of the former Netherlands Antilles Government.

The Inspection Department of TEZVT- Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) office is located in Tamarinde Steeg nr. 16 C, Philipsburg, in the Yellow Building. The office can be reached by calling 542-4509 or 542-4511 for further information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), says the junction in the vicinity of the Cadastre and GEBE Distribution Building was to be open to the regular flow of traffic on Tuesday, according to information provided to the Minister by the contractor.

The junction between the Pondfill and the two GEBE buildings and Cannegieter Street remains closed for a few more days to allow the contractor to re-enforce that section of the road with concrete. This section should be open on Friday if the weather does not hinder the works in the meantime.

With respect to parents picking up their kids at the Oranje School, a Police Officer from the Philipsburg Bike Patrol is assisting with opening the section of the road between Oranje School and L'Escargot from 11:30am to 1:30pm to allow parents to pick up their kids at the school when the street is closed.

Front Street in the vicinity of L'Escargot is closed to vehicular traffic when there are several cruise ships in port.

migueldeweeveranddepartmentofeconomicaffairsstaff04122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs has extended the opening hours for some businesses effective immediately. Gas stations on St. Maarten can open 24/7 effective immediately while barber shops and beauty parlors have until 11pm before closing their doors for business. Secretary General for the Department of Economic Affairs Miguel De Weever along with Head of the Department of Economic Affairs Lucy Gibbs Richardson told reporters on Wednesday that the department was asked to review their policy and in doing so they have decided to allow the above mentioned businesses to open for the extended hours. Gibbs Richardson said after a period of one year an evaluation will be conducted and if feasible then other businesses would get the same opportunity. Other businesses such as stores could also open for extended hours but they would have to submit a request at the Department of Economic Affairs for an exemption from the regular policy and if they are allowed to open they will be required to pay a small fee of Naf. 150.00 per year for the extended opening hours.

However, the Department of Economic Affairs announced that during the month of December all businesses on St. Maarten will be allowed to open until 11pm. This they said is to allow shoppers and visitors to do their extra shopping for the upcoming holiday season.

Another announcement that was made by the Head of the Business License Department Valya Pantophlet Lake is that the Minister of Economic Affairs just recently signed off on a policy which allows the head of the department to sign off on certain licenses. At the press conference on Wednesday, Pantophlet Lake signed off on the permit that would allow the Lions Club to hold their annual bingo. She said permits for events, vendors, and a few other licenses can be signed off by her, applicants have to submit their request 21 days before the event in order for the department to process their request. In the near future the Department of Economic Affairs will begin accepting applications for such licenses online.

HARBOUR VIEW:--- The Governor of Sint Maarten, His Excellency drs. Eugene. B. Holiday, today December 4, 2013, based on the Kingdom Decree of September 30, 2013, installed a steering committee to advise him on and oversee the execution of an independent inquiry into the integrity and proper functioning of the Government of Sint Maarten as required in a democratic state, governed by the rule of law. The aim of the inquiry is to, based on the findings from the assessment, make recommendations that add value to the functioning of the public administration.
The steering committee integrity inquiry, supported by a professional secretariat, has been established to ensure an independent, impartial and effective process. The committee members have extensive backgrounds and careers in law, public policy and good governance assessments across the Kingdom. The steering committee integrity inquiry is comprised of three members: Dr. Marten Oosting as chairman, Mr. Jaime Saleh and Mr. Miguel Alexander. Dr. M. Oosting is among others a former member of the Council of State of the Kingdom, former National Ombudsman in the Netherlands and a former professor in administrative law and public administration at the University of Groningen. Mr. J.M. Saleh is among others a former professor in constitutional law at the University of Utrecht, former Governor of the Netherlands Antilles and former Chief Justice of the Court of Justice of the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. Finally, Mr. M. Alexander is among others a former Civil Law Notary in Curacao and a former member of the Council of Advice of the Netherlands Antilles. The secretariat is comprised of two secretaries, Mr. Peter Benschop and drs. Sidney Ricardo RA, with expertise in law, accountancy and public administration.
The steering committee integrity inquiry will advise Governor Holiday on the terms of reference for the integrity investigation, the selection of an independent organization that will execute the inquiry and on the findings and recommendations of the inquiry. Following Governor Holiday's engagement of an organization to conduct the inquiry, the steering committee integrity inquiry will be responsible for overseeing and directing the organization conducting the inquiry. In this regard it should be noted that it is the intention to engage an international accounting firm with experience and expertise in conducting integrity inquiries.
The purpose of the inquiry is threefold: to collect data and information for assessment based on integrity requirements in accordance with the rule of law in a democratic society, to report the findings from the assessment and finally to make recommendations that add value to the functioning of the public administration of Sint Maarten.
The scope of the inquiry, in keeping with the provisions of the Kingdom Decree of September 30, 2013, covers the government and includes ministers, the civil servants in the ministries and state owned companies. It focusses on vulnerable sectors such as prostitution, gambling and immigration as well as vulnerable activities such as permits for and the execution of infrastructural works and (other) large tenders. The organization executing the inquiry will handle all documents and information obtained during the inquiry prudently and confidentially, that includes taking all measures necessary to ensure the anonymity of the government officials and employees and all persons involved in the inquiry.
For completeness sake it should be noted that the inquiry is an integrity investigation and not a penal investigation. The inquiry is as such separate from any penal investigation being carried out by the Office of the Public Prosecutor.
The organization executing the inquiry will issue an interim progress report within three months and the final inquiry report of its findings and recommendations within six months of its engagement to the Governor. The process of the integrity inquiry will conclude with the presentation of the final report to the Kingdom Council of Ministers by Governor Holiday.
Further information and developments regarding the inquiry will be made public by the Governor through the Cabinet of the Governor.

Click here to view the Dutch Version of the Press Release

Press Release from the Cabinet of the Governor of St. Maarten

gracitaarrindellmeetswithabroekersknol03122013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell last Thursday met with the President of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament Hon. A. Broekers-Knol at her office in The Hague, the Netherlands.

President Arrindell and Chairlady Hon. Broekers-Knol discussed a number of issues related to developments on Sint Maarten as well as about the process that will take place on Tuesday, 3rd December in a meeting of the Dutch Parliament with respect to the appointment of Her Majesty Queen Maxima as Regent.

President Arrindell added that other issues were also discussed. It was also an introductory meeting between the two chairladies and Arrindell described the meeting as very pleasant and extended a meeting to her to visit Sint Maarten.

The First Chamber of the Dutch Parliament also referred to as the Senate has 75 members who are elected by the members of the twelve Provincial Councils. These elections are indirect where the voters elect the members of the Provincial Councils, who in turn elect the members of the Senate.

The Senate's main duties are in the legislative field, but it also plays a role in scrutinizing the actions of the Government. Formally the Senate can only reject or accept legislation.

Broekers-Knol has been Chairlady of the First Chamber since 2nd July 2013. From 2nd October 2001, the Chairlady has been a member of the First Chamber representing the Liberal Faction VVD.

Prior to that Broekers-Knol was director of the section Moot Court of the Judicial Faculty of the University of Leiden; a member of the Municipal Council of Bloemendaal; and was Chairlady of the Permanent Committee for Safety and Justice.

tzuchimeatlessfundraiser03122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Several persons pledged to reconsider consuming meat during the two Meatless Day events hosted by the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation on November 24.

A total of 60 volunteers participated in the two fundraising events, which were held in commemoration of 'International Meatless Day' observed the following day on November 25. Both activities featured palate pleasing healthy meatless delicacies and were intended to show the public that meatless is magnificent in the hope that more persons go meatless.

The first event was a fundraising Meatless Day Take Away Food Sale held at the ACE School Building early in the day; while the second event was a Meatless Day Buffet and Informative Programme held at the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation office in the evening hours. The St. Maarten Diabetes Foundation was on hand for the latter event to conduct free blood glucose and blood pressure testing prior to the start of the event.

There were some 50 guests at the informative programme, which featured a health awareness presentation, cooking demonstration, food tasting and buffet with an array vegetarian delicacies.

"Guests were very attentive and impressed with the message we wanted to bring across about going meatless," Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said about the informative programme.

Several persons pledged to go meatless on particular days while some pledged to refrain from consuming meat entirely.

"It was a pleasure to join the Tzu Chi team... It was a joy and the positive energy was everywhere," said Mercedes De Windt, a new Tzu Chi volunteer and long-time vegan, who also shared some of her special vegan treats at both events.

De Windt was particular happy to hear a young boy tell his parent that instead of turkey, he wanted vegan dishes for Christmas. "That was a nice heart warming compliment to us all," she noted.

"I believe we succeeded in getting the message across that eating meat is unhealthy and we have options," added volunteer Asha Yee-Fong. "The audience was very attentive and quiet when the information was being relayed and you could see from their reaction that they were eager to learn more."

In 1986, it was proposed that November 25, be celebrated as an International Meatless Day. The campaign has met with considerable success in that millions of individuals have pledged to go meatless on this day.

The Tzu Chi Foundation believes in the principles of eating meatless.

Tzu Chi Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The high season has started. The many large cruise ships, mega yachts, and constant scheduled flights come to Sint Maarten at a greater extent this time of year. Based on experiences in the months of November to December of each year and the months of January/February of the following year, the Police Force of Sint Maarten again faces a new challenge, to mainly provide and ensure safety for the tourists and also the community of this country. The police has put a plan of action together regarding how to deal with this situation in the best manner possible.

The image of Sint Maarten in regard to the crime situation has the fullest attention of the police force. Cases involving criminal activities such as robberies, burglaries, break-ins, theft from cars, and violent crimes against tourists and citizens may occur and we will do our utmost to prevent this type of criminal acts from happening. The police department has identified several 'hotspots' and other known locations where tourists frequently visit and more focus will be put on these locations as a source of prevention. Also our focus will also be put on the shoplifters, pickpockets, hair braiders, and so-called 'chain snatchers'.

For the police this is every reason to have constant police presence and visibility. This situation calls for special attention and in our opinion, particularly during the final weeks of each year and the first weeks of the New Year. Tourism is the main source of income for country Sint Maarten and together we have to protect that. Along and in consultation with other partners in the justice chain such as Immigration and Naturalization Department (IND), the Voluntary Corps Sint Maarten (VKS), Customs Department, Coast Guard and Public Prosecutor's Office this plan of action will be executed.

In the overall approach by the police, special attention will be given to the gypsy taxi drivers who are providing illegal transportation for tourists and citizens as well. This point has been discussed with the Public Prosecutor's Office on how to best handle this situation.
The Head of Traffic, Inspector Benjamin Gout has been in talks with the different public transportation organizations exchanging information and making agreements in how to minimize traffic congestion during the very busy holiday season.

During this period, which is usually from November 15, 2013 through the early part of 2014, additional capacity (manpower) will be necessary to carry out this plan.

  • At all activities the focus will be on monitoring situations, enforcement of the laws and conducting of investigations;
  • Efforts will be maximized when cruise ships are in port and during the evening and night hours at locations where activities are planned;

The purpose of this plan of action is to:

  • Reduce the number of (robbery) robberies against tourists and the number of robberies general;
  • Reducing the number of 'chain snatching', shoplifting, loitering, and harassment, pickpockets, especially during the shopping nights;
  • Additional monitoring at hotels, restaurants and cafés;
  • Additional monitoring at stores in and outside the Philipsburg area;
  • The visible presence of the police;
  • Collecting information on a possible offender or group of offenders;
  • Tight maintenance of public order (reinforced controls on hotspot);

During these weeks of action, each day will be monitored by the management team to evaluate the current state of affairs and whether it is necessary to adjust the schedule or the approach. When there are more than two cruise ships in port Front Street and Back Street will be closed for motor vehicle traffic. All diversions and rerouting of traffic will be announced to the public in advance.
We are asking the general public to cooperate with the police department to make this Holiday Season a very safe one and to make good use of the Holiday Safety Tips provided by the Police Public Relation Department.

KPSM SAFETY TIPS 2013

As part of the continuing efforts to provide a safe environment for holiday shoppers the Police Force of Sint Maarten has commenced their annual Holiday Task Force initiative and is without any doubt doing its utmost, to protect you, your family and your property, in combating crime and criminals. The Public Relations Office of the Sint Maarten Police Force is therefore offering the entire community, the following safety tips, to help them prepare against crime.
Remember the 3 A's of Crime Prevention:

  1. Be Aware of your surroundings at all times.
  2. Be Alert to suspicious people and vehicles.
  3. Avoid dangerous situations.

If you are out for the evening:

  • Turn on lights, radio or television so that it looks like someone is at home.
  • Lock all doors and windows well, even if you are just leaving for a few minutes.
  • Don't display items where they can be seen from the outside.
  • Don't Shop Alone. It's important to shop with a buddy; an extra pair of eyes helps.
  • Park your car in a well-lit area and make sure all windows, sunroof and doors are locked. If using an SUV Cover your gifts in your vehicle with a blanket.
  • Avoid carrying a large amount of cash. Don't flash cash around and carry it in a safe place on you.
  • If you have to use the ATM-machine, pay close attention to suspicious persons hanging around the machine. If that's the case pass up that machine and find another.
  • Carry all wallets in the front pockets and carry purses close to your body.
  • Keep your children close to you while attending any activities and don't let them get separated from you.
  • Pay attention to persons walking in front and behind you (especially in crowded places favorable for pickpockets).
  • When returning to your vehicle or your home, have your keys in your hands ready to open the door.
  • Before entering your vehicle, check front and rear and seats for any one that may be hiding there. Lock doors immediately after entering.
  •  Ask your neighbor to keep a watchful eye out for you.
  • Drinking and driving is a danger to everyone. Remember that the risks of drinking and driving are not worth it. If you choose to drink, don't drive. Make use of a designated driver or public transportation. (taxi or bus)
  • Make sure that you know where your kids are at all times and that they are safe.

Most of all on behalf of the Police force of Sint Maarten, through the Public Relations Office, "We wish the entire community of Sint Maarten and its visitors a very safe and meaningful Holiday Season."

KPSM Police Report

kidzatseamiltonpeterscollegesundialschoolsignmou03122013PHILIPSBURG:--- On November 27th, 2013, the General Director of Milton Peters College (MPC) and Sundial School, Mr. Wim de Visser and the Kidz at Sea Foundation, represented by Mr. Garth Steyn, signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding to implement Build Your Future for 2014. The agreement outlines their collaboration on the Build Your Future Program to be implemented in both schools in 2014.

The Build Your Future Project started as a joint initiative of St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) and St. Maarten Sailing School. In 2013, Build Your Future was introduced in a limited scale "As part of the Work Experience Program (WEP) at MPC. During its first year, some of the 4th formers of Milton Peters College VSBO-PKL/PBL, Division Carpentry participated in building a small Norwegian-style boat known as a Skerry. The completed vessel was then showcased to the Netherlands Royal Couple during their recent visit to MPC on November 13th. Kidz at Sea Foundation, was then formally established to oversee and grow youth sailing programs on St. Maarten and with help of a generous grant from the SAMENWERKENDE FONDSEN they will be able to do just that.

The MOU states that a minimum of 3 vessels of the Skerry design will be built on the school campuses as part of the offered extracurricular activities; numerous students from each school will be trained as certified crew; and a select group of students will participate in the Heineken Regatta every year. The students will also participate in interscholastic competitions and sailing days in the lagoon on the Skerry vessels that they have built.
These projects have many goals, such as to improve the student's self-confidence, to teach practical team work and problem solving via project based learning; and to expose them to materials and techniques used in the marine industry and the job opportunities that are available there. The projects also teach them a sport that hopefully will become a part of their enjoyment for many years to come. In all aspects, the staff of both schools and Kidz at Sea will work together intensively in order to make it a big success.
Therefore MPC and Sundial thank Mr. Garth Steyn and Mrs. Lorraine Talmi, the directors of Kids at sea, for this great educational opportunity and the schools are looking forward to make these projects integral parts in education.

szvnotice28022011PHILIPSBURG:--- Recently there has been speculation that SZV has been changing the policy on medications and forcing its clients to accept these changes.
The laws relevant to the importation and distribution of medication are the "Landsverordening op de geneesmiddelenvoorziening (AB 2013, GT no. 749)"; the "Landsbesluit HAM ter uitvoering van art. 32 van de Landsverordening op de geneesmiddelenvoorziening (AB 2013, GT no. 225)"; the "Landsbesluit verpakte geneesmiddelen (AB 2013, GT no. 98)" and the "Landsbesluit HAM vergoeding kosten geneesmiddelen (AB 2013, GT no. 536)". These laws have been in place since 1960 with various adaptations taking place over the years during the time of the Netherlands Antilles and were executed by the then SVB. Since 10-10-10 these laws were adopted by Country St. Maarten and as such SZV is executing these laws accordingly. It should be noted that SZV does not create laws, this is the jurisdiction of Government. SZV only executes the law as established by Government.
In short, the Inspectorate of Public Health of country St. Maarten has a registration committee for pharmaceuticals in place that evaluate efficacy, quality and safety of all medications. By law all medications are supposed to be registered and persons need to have licenses and registration before they are able to import any medication. This means that all approved medications are safe for use by patients.
Once a medication is registered and available on the island, SZV covers the generic version of that medication. As was stated before, this system has always been in place and has not changed. The name brand versions of the (generic) medications will then no longer be covered by SZV - unless a valid medical indication is submitted by a health care provider that the client should receive the name brand medication.
A generic medication is drug product that is comparable to brand/reference listed drug product in dosage form, strength, route of administration, quality and performance characteristics, and intended use. These medications are mostly marketed under its chemical name without advertising. Generic medications are subject to the regulations of the governments of countries where they are dispensed. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), generic medications are identical or within an acceptable bioequivalent (= a value indicating the rate at which a substance enters the bloodstream and becomes available to the body) range to the brand-name counterpart with respect to pharmacokinetic (what the body does to the medication) and pharmacodynamics (what the medication does to the body) properties. Therefore, generics are considered (by the FDA) identical in dose, strength, route of administration, safety, efficacy, and intended use.

The SZV urges clients to execute their rights and inquire with their family Physician and/ or Pharmacists when in doubt about medications or any other form of treatment. An informative pamphlet will soon be available to all SZV clients at the medical windows, explaining in detail what are generic and brand medications.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) and the Board of the Anguilla Teachers Union (ATU) have joined forces and will be hosting the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) Executive Meeting on December 5 at Maho Resort in St. Maarten and on December 6, 2013 in The Valley, Anguilla.

You are cordially invited to the opening at 9:00am on December 5, at Maho Resort.
The Caribbean Union of Teachers is over 75 years old. The CUT views teachers as an integral part of the working people who constitute the majority of Caribbean society. As such, it recognizes the need for teachers and teachers' organizations. It further recognizes teachers as professionals who must work relentlessly to improve professional standards and who must show commitment to students, community and education.
In 1999, the CUT and Education International (EI) entered into an agreement, under which the CUT became an autonomous body within the structure of EI. The CUT is thus the recognized representative body for teachers in the Caribbean. Both organizations have collaborated on a number of programmes and projects in the region which have benefited teachers and their representative organizations.
The CUT is one of the finest examples of regional integration in the Caribbean. It has managed to harness the collective wisdom from a membership that extends from Bermuda in the north to Suriname in the south and Belize in the west. The CUT has been striving to create a united voice on teachers' issues across the Caribbean.

Teachers' unions/organizations from the following countries are members of CUT:

  • Anguilla
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Bermuda
  • British Virgin Islands
  • Dominica
  • Grenada
  • Guadeloupe
  • Guyana
  • Haiti
  • Jamaica
  • Martinique
  • Montserrat
  • Nevis
  • St. Croix
  • St. Kitts
  • St. Lucia
  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Suriname
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • St. Maarten

randallfriday03122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Detective Department is working overtime to try and find the culprit that shot Dr. Randall Friday as he was walking towards his medical clinic at the Yogesh Building last Wednesday.

Dr. Friday is currently receiving medical care at a hospital in Miami where is health is improving. Father of the shooting victim Leo Friday told SMN News on Tuesday that his son is doing much better medically. He said Dr. Friday is still in the intensive care unit where he is receiving the best possible care. The elderly Friday said when the shooting occurred he was off island and his first priority was to get his son off island in order for him to get the medical attention he needs.

As for the investigation, Leo Friday said that despite the fact that several persons were at the scene of the shooting police is nowhere close to finding the culprit that shot Dr. Friday twice from behind. Leo Friday said that the police is working extremely hard to solve the case but one of the things that is hindering the investigation is that people who saw the shooting are not coming forward to assist the police with information. Leo Friday said the shooting was captured on tape, however, the police is guarding that tape close to their chest. Friday said that at some point the police would have to release the tape so that the people of St. Maarten could identify the culprit whom he said was well dressed.

Chief of Police Peter de Witte also confirmed that the police is working hard on finding the person that shot Dr. Randall Friday. De Witte said his men are interviewing people all the time and each time they get a tip they work on the information they got. The shooting of Dr. Randall Friday is given full priority and the men in blue are doing all they can to find the shooter. De Witte also issued an appeal to the public especially those persons that were at Yogesh Building last Wednesday when the shooting took place to come forward with whatever information they have so that the suspect can be captured. The top cop said he is very hopeful that this case will soon be solved because the police are working hard on finding the culprit.

mauricelakeandstakeholdersatlittlebaydiviintersection03122013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake has already discussed with stakeholders such as the Traffic Department and Ministry VROMI to come up with solutions related to the Little Bay road intersection leading to Divi Little Bay Resort, which has been the scene of two accidents within a short space of time with one leading to a death.

Minister Lake along with traffic department officers, Ministry VROMI representatives and management from Divi Little Bay Resort paid a site visit on Monday morning to the Little Bay/Divi intersection to review the draft plans that were developed such as a temporary plan of action leading to a public/private partnership to make the intersection safer for motorists.

Some of the actions to be taken are: traffic stop signs to be installed; no left turn signage along with text and road marking lines while coming out of Divi Little Bay Resort unto the main road; no right turn from direction Belair to Divi Little Bay Resort; placement of speed reduction traffic signs, are some of the immediate measures to be taken. Hotel guests will be asked to drive down to Sonesta Great Bay Resort and turn around in that area and make the track back to Divi Little Bay Resort.

The long-term public/private partnership between the Government and Divi Little Bay Resort will be of an infrastructure nature to be worked on during the off season which entails the construction of a bypass details of which have to be further worked out.

"I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the road traffic fatality that took place on November 19 at the Little Bay/Divi intersection in connection with their loss. I also wish a speedy recovery to the driver of a scooter that had an accident on November 29 at the same intersection," Minister Lake said on Monday.

The Minister is also urging all motorists to drive with caution and to adhere to traffic signs and speed limits within the borders of the country.

Worldwide, an estimated 1.2 million people are killed in road crashes each year and as many as 50 million are injured. Projections indicate that these figures will increase by about 65 per cent over the next 20-years unless there is a new commitment to prevention.

"Every day around the world, more than 3000 people die from road traffic injury. Men, women, children, walking or biking, riding to school or work, will never return home leaving behind sadness within families and communities.

"I am appealing to all motorists this holiday season to pay keen attention to traffic signs/speed limits and observe these according to the traffic rules of the country. Pay keen attention to other motorists, the time to act is now.

"Road safety is no accident, watch out for bikers, scooter riders and those jogging. Don't rush to get to your destination, take your time and you will get there in a safe manner," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake appealed to motorists on Monday.

Road traffic injuries are a growing public health issue. Road traffic crashes and injuries are preventable according to a joint World Health Organization (WHO)/World Bank report entitled "World report on road traffic injury and prevention," that was compiled with the assistance of over 100 experts, from all continents and different sectors – including transport, engineering, health, police, education and civil society.

An established set of interventions have contributed to significant reductions in the incidence and impact of road traffic injuries. These include the enforcement of legislation to control speed and alcohol consumption, mandating the use of seatbelts and crash helmets, and the safer design and use of roads and vehicles, according to the aforementioned report.

A reduction in road traffic injuries can contribute to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) that aim to halve extreme poverty and significantly reduce child mortality.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake as shareholder representative of GEBE utility company would like to congratulate the 37 employees of the company on the three islands that GEBE provides service too on completing their training.

"You must give Jack his jacket. Congratulations to the GEBE employees on behalf of the Council of Ministers who have successfully completed training for high tension and low tension.

"I am strongly behind the upgrading of the skills of our people. Human resources are the key components to any business operation. If those are not well kept the business won't succeed. One can compare a business to a car engine. If the parts (employees) are not taken care of, the car will break down.

"The same analogy can be applied to a business. I commend GEBE management for organizing the course for their staff and to continue to develop the company's human resources. This also applies to other business operations on the island as well.

"As country Sint Maarten, our most important resource is the workers, and we must continue to upgrade our employees and compensate them well in order to achieve improved productivity. As a company grows the employees should also grow as well," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The course entailed Electrical Operating Procedures and the employees received an Electrical Certification card.

Minister Lake added that he understands the importance of safety on the job and deems it necessary for technical personnel to get training in this specific area.

"We need to train and develop our own and provide them with the skills for them to execute their job in a safe and efficient manner, and the National Institute of Professional Advancement will play a key role in bringing this forth," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake concluded on Monday.

martinwilson03122013MARIGOT:--- Professor Martin Wilson was inducted simultaneously into Kappa Delta Pi and Golden Key International Honor societies for his accomplishments. Kappa Delta Pi and Golden Key International societies are ranking organizations that recognize excellence among peers in Education. Professor Wilson just recently obtained his doctorate degree in Education, officially giving Professor Wilson the title of Dr. Martin E. Wilson, a teacher at the Collège on French Saint Martin Dr. Wilson also taught French at the University of Saint Martin for a period of six years. Dr. Martin Wilson is the youngest son of Mrs. Marie Germaine Hodge of French Quarter and the late Raphael Wilson of St. Peters.

Memberships of Kappa Delta Pi and Golden Key International societies are open only to the top 15 percent of those entering the education field worldwide. Kappa Delta Pi is the most prestigious honor society in the education field and Golden Key is the world's largest collegiate honor society. Dr. Wilson studied in France and in the United States and obtained his Doctorate degree with highest distinction. His Doctoral Dissertation is entitled "Les relations entre la maîtrise du Français et la réussite scolaire des élèves de Saint Martin" or The Relationship between Proficiency in French and Academic Achievement for Students in Saint Martin. His research study employed a quantitative, correlational design with hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis.
martinwilsonbooks03122013An in-depth analysis of Education on the French side of Saint Martin was conducted. Dr. Wilson analyzed the influence of languages used in the performance of students, holistic education, language conflicts and educational policies in the French overseas territories. His study made a significant contribution to the understanding of the influence of proficiency in French on the academic achievement of students in Saint Martin, an area that is not well-represented in literature. This knowledge should enable educators to better assess and meet the language learning needs of students and help schools in assisting students to graduate. His work also helped to determine if there was a causal relationship between multilingualism and high or low student achievement. The examination of multilingualism and academic achievement was based on student records, psycholinguistics studies, neurolinguistics research, and cognitive language theory and research. Dr. Wilson is the first Saint Martiner to conduct such studies. His published dissertation will be available on Saint Martin in February 2014.

SMN News extends hearty congratulations to Doctor Martin E. Wilson on his recent achievement.

tzuchifoundationvisitsseniors02122013ST. JOHNS:--- Fifteen volunteers of the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation spread some early Christmas cheer to clients of the St. Martin's Home in St. Johns with a visit to pamper and entertain the elderly on Sunday, December 1.

Outfitted in their Tzu Chi jackets and uniforms, the volunteers, nine of whom are new to the foundation, visited the home mid-afternoon Sunday and showered the clients with a "royal treatment" of a therapeutic and relaxing massage, a fresh coat of nail polish (for the ladies) and entertaining performances.

A group of volunteers performed a special Indian dance to attentive clients. There was also a sign language performance and a simple exercise session to get clients moving and fit. The elderly seemed very happy and appreciative of the visit and the special early Christmas treat.

Sunday's event was part of the Foundation's monthly visit to the Home to pamper and spend quality time with the senior citizens, who have already toiled to pave the way for the current generation. Tzu Chi believes in giving back to the community and volunteers are always grateful for the opportunity to show love and affection to the elderly. Volunteers look forward to each visit.

The next visit will be on January 1, 2014, when an extensive programme will be delivered and New Year's gifts presented to the residents. This too is an annual exercise for the foundation to usher in the New Year by spending time with the elderly.

Tzu Chi Press Release

POINTE BLANCHE:--- At approximately 6:00am on Monday December 2nd, 2013, a Philipsburg police patrol was sent to the Tamarind Hotel in Pointe Blanche to investigate a case of an injured man lying on the ground on the premises of that hotel. On the scene the investigating officers noticed that the man in question was a security guard from Rangers Security working the night shift at that establishment. The officers also noticed that he was bleeding from several severe wounds to his head and he was not responding when the officers tried get his attention by calling out to him. Two witnesses stated that they found the security guard on the parking lot when they were leaving the hotel, however had not seen what happened. The area was immediately sealed of and treated as a crime scene. The Detective, Forensic Department and paramedics were immediately informed of the incident. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The Detectives and Forensic Department are busy questioning witnesses and collecting evidence to be able to determine what happened and who the possible suspect or suspects are. The victim has not given a statement as yet due to his medical condition. The investigation is ongoing.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- In connection with the ongoing investigation regarding the shooting of Dr. R. Friday which took place on Wednesday November 27th, 2013 around 9:00am on the premises of the Yogesh Building on the A.J.C. Brouwers road, the Detective Department is asking the general public for their assistance. The Detective Department is asking anyone who was in the vicinity of that building between the hours of 8:45am and 9:20am and who around that time may have seen a vehicle leaving the parking lot of that building or a vehicle leaving the immediate area at high speed to call the Detective Department at 54-22222 ext. 222-224 or call the tip line 9300. This information is very important to the investigation.

KPSM Police Report

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever has approved the indexation of the minimum wage as of January 1, 2014. In keeping with his Decent Work Policy, Minister De Weever believes that a balanced approach is needed when dealing with issues of the labour market.
This is the second time during his tenure that Minister De Weever has indexed the minimum wage. The minimum wages were indexed as per January this year with 4.7% to become Naf. 8.33 per hour for all workers 21 years and older based on a 40 hour workweek.
As of January 2014 the hourly minimum wage will be indexed with 2.8% and will thus become Naf. 8.56 per hour for all workers 21 years and older based on a 40 hour workweek.
The present decision of the Minister to once more index the minimum wages is based on the minimum wage legislation which call for an annual indexation of the minimum wage unless special circumstances dictate otherwise. The Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor has the authority to index the minimum wage based on article 13, paragraph 1 of the Landsverordening minimumlonen. In accordance with this provision, the minister may, if the statistics provided by the Bureau of Statistics (STAT) indicate that the consumer price index (CPI) figure for August of the current year, compared with the figure for August of the preceding year has changed, establish a new minimum hourly wage.
This is not an increase in, but an adjustment to the minimum hourly wage, based on the increase in the consumer price index (CPI). Minister De Weever points out that prior to his efforts to help maintain or at least prevent the purchasing power of the working man and woman minimum wage earner from decreasing, no indexation has taken place since 2008.
Minister De Weever consulted with the Social Partners in the Tripartite committee prior to have taken this decision.

wallyhavertongchecksabingocard02122013PHILIPSBURG:--- This year the Lions Club of St. Maarten will break from its traditional venue Celebration Palace to host the annual Christmas Bingo at the Festival Village this Saturday December 7th. Taking into account the increase in demand by the general public to partake in this major fundraising activity – where proceeds are used to fund numerous community projects on the island, the decision was taken to move to a larger venue to accommodate the increase of participants over the past years.

Lion Sunil Khatnani Committee Chairman Stated: "Preparations for the Annual Lions Christmas Bingo Spectacular are well underway and bingo tickets can be purchased from any of our fellow Lion Members or at the Lions Civic Center in Sucker Garden. The price per ticket has remained the same: $10.- or ANG 20.- and it entitles you to one bingo card. There will be numerous chances to win prizes, including: Overloaded Christmas Baskets, Airline Tickets to Europe and the Caribbean, Dinners for two at participating restaurants, and the grand door prize of Santa's Bag as well.
For all those who enjoy hearing Lion Wally Havertong sound-off the numbers while asking if anybody bingo, we encourage you to purchase your tickets on time and arrive on time as the bingo games are slated to begin at 8pm sharp at the Festival Village. The Dow's Musical Foundation youth section will entertain the public from 7pm-8pm with Steelband Christmas music," concluded Lion Sunny.

The Lions Club of St. Maarten admits that this is one of the most loved signature projects that the club holds on annual basis. The Lions Bingo is not only a fun game for the entire family and close friends, it also offers opportunities to win prizes which are in tune with what a winner would need during the Christmas Season, and even more so, it is the most dear project to the club because the proceeds are used to touch so many in our community that require assistance throughout the Lionistic year. The community at large is welcome and the club is in full gear to ensure that this event is enjoyed by all this Saturday at the Festival Village.

bobwit02122013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Mr. Justice Jacob Wit, who is President of the Constitutional Court of Sint Maarten and a Member of the Caribbean Court of Justice in Port-of-Spain, will preside over the independent Public Administration Integrity Committee, which was established by the Sint Maarten Government earlier this month. Deputy Chairperson of the Committee will be Mrs. Rieke Samson-Geerlings, a former Procurator-General of the Netherlands.

The Committee, furthermore consisting of Mr. Ronald Bandell (former Lord Mayor of Dordrecht), Mr. Jan Beaujon (member of the Council of Advice of Sint Maarten and a former banker), Mr. Richard Gibson sr. (a senior lawyer and former Minister of the Netherlands Antilles) and retired Lieutenant-General Mr. Dick van Putten (former Commander of the 'Koninklijke Marechaussee'), has already commenced preparatory work and will hold its first meetings in Sint Maarten from Monday 16 December until Friday 20 December, 2013.

riekesamsongeerlings02122013This week the President of Parliament, the Members of the Council of Ministers and a number of governmental bodies will receive a letter in which they will be asked to name a senior contact person for the Secretary of the Committee and to inform the Committee in writing of all measures taken by them since October 2010 to promote integrity in general and more specifically in their own organization or to indicate which integrity issues they have encountered so far in the course of their activities. This information will form a starting point for the December meetings.

During its first meeting on Sint Maarten the Committee will also decide on how to involve the general public. The idea of a confidential hotline where citizens can give their views and can report alleged integrity problems is one of the options being studied now.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake acknowledges Tuesday, 3rd December as International Day of Persons with Disabilities under the theme, "Break Barriers, Open Doors: for an inclusive society and development for all."

Over one billion people, or approximately 15 per cent of the world's population, live with some form of disability. Around the world, persons with disabilities face physical, social, economic and attitudinal barriers that exclude them from participating fully and effectively as equal members of society.

"On this day we should celebrate the contributions made by persons with disabilities as agents of change and development in the communities wherever they live.

"We recently hosted the Physically Challenged & Wheelchair Tennis Tournament initiated by Top Promotion Foundation and executed by Top Promotion Committee Be Able. At the same time they created awareness in order to break barriers and open doors. My Ministry is working to implement disability-sensitive policies.

"I am a proponent for removing all types of barriers, and to realize the full and equal participation of persons with disabilities in society and shape the future of development for all, both as beneficiaries and agents," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday, on the eve of the international day.

Minister Lake has instructed his Ministry VROMI to review the building code and draft regulations that would lead to future projects having facilities and access that are 'disable friendly' to persons with a disability.

"I would like to see an accessibility audit carried out with respect to the infrastructure of government facilities, semi-government companies, organizations and institutions. We need to start somewhere and government must start from within and play a leading role by making our buildings more accessible for the physically disabled and senior citizens.

"As a man of action, I have already informed my Ministry to start advising any new developer of large buildings or new infrastructure to start putting in their plan accessories for the disabled and senior citizens," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Monday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announces that the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Over the Pond and Sucker Garden areas will be held on December 12.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, December 12 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that the upcoming road closures at the Simpson Bay Causeway Round-a-bouts on the Airport side (West) and the Round-a-bout (East) along the Union Road, Cole Bay near the border, is related to the application of thermoplast road markings and installation of the concrete centre guardrail.

The main road (Airport Road) leading to the airport and Maho Reef and to Simpson Bay from the aforementioned, and from Cole Bay to Marigot and vice versa, will be CLOSED for approximately eight (8) hours to facilitate the application of road markings on the main roads that connect to the round-a-bouts.

Road Closure: Cole Bay-Marigot/Marigot-Cole Bay

There will be no through-traffic on the Union Road from the entrance to Port de Plaisance to Marigot and vice versa.

Tuesday, December 03-Wednesday, December 04, 10:00pm to 6:00am.

The road will be re-opened at 6:00am on Wednesday, December 04 for motorized traffic. Motorized traffic will be able to use part of the round-a-bout.

Road Closure: Simpson Bay-Airport/Airport-Simpson Bay

There will be no through-traffic from the juncture of Airport Road and Patientia Road to the Princess Juliana International Airport and vice versa.

Wednesday, December 04-Thursday, December 05, 10:00pm to 6:00am

The road will be re-opened at 6:00am on Thursday, December 05 for motorized traffic. Motorized traffic will be able to use part of the round-a-bout.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinic will be closed on Friday, 06th December.

The closure of the clinic is in connection with customer service training.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), says that he is working on some traffic relief measures to ease holiday season congestion in and around Philipsburg especially during the afternoon hours.

Minister Lake on Monday said that he will work with his colleague Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson with respect to having police officers assist with the traffic flow in Philipsburg.

Minister Lake will also contact GEBE and Windward Roads Infrastructure to speed up civil works at the junction by the GEBE Distribution Building and at the Cadastre Office and have it completed by Thursday, 5th December.

The Minister is also looking at opening up the ring road for traffic from the area of the former RIMA now Blue Point down to the former Van Dorp location which is now a Chinese grocery store.

Parking on the ring road is already available and the Minister is encouraging motorists to utilize this area while they go about their holiday shopping.

annualthanksgivingandlightingceremony01122013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip turned on the lights at the Government Administration Building on Sunday afternoon during the Annual Thanksgiving and Lighting Ceremony that took place at the Clem Labega Square under the theme "In Everything Give Thanks" that took place at 5:00pm. The event was organized in collaboration with St. Maarten Christian Council, the St. Maarten United Ministerial Foundation and the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Sports Tourism Council (STC) St. Maarten will welcome the Executive Vice President of the Chicago White Sox Kenny Williams to St. Maarten on 12 December to explore sports tourism opportunities for the destination. This is seen as a significant development by the STC.

A very important person's (VIP) reception is being planned for the arrival of Williams which is to include invitees from government and the private sector. Williams is representing the Chicago White Sox Major League Baseball Organization. The owner of Chicago White Sox Club also owns the Chicago Bulls franchise.

STC St. Maarten according to Board Secretary Reggie Plaisir has a detailed itinerary in place for Williams and his fiancé which includes a VIP dinner, a tour of the country's sports facilities among other venues The itinerary also includes a talent workout at the John Cooper Jose Lake Ballpark on December 14. Plaisir says only top prospects will be allowed to participate from Aruba, Dominican Republic, Florida, and St. Maarten.

Sports Tourism Consultant and Executive Board Member of STC Reggie Plaisir met Kenny Williams last August at the Annual MLB Civil Rights Game held in Chicago. At the luncheon Plaisir extended an invitation to Kenny Williams to visit the Friendly Island.

Williams will stay at Sonesta Maho Reef Hotel & Casino for five nights complimentary by the aforementioned hotel.

Kenny Williams is a former outfielder in Major League Baseball. He was selected by the White Sox in the 3rd round of the 1982 amateur draft. Williams made his debut in 1986. In November 1992, Williams rejoined the White Sox organization as a scout. He became the team's director of minor league operations in 1995. In 1997, he was named Vice President of player development, a position in which he remained until 2000.

On October 26, 2012, Kenny Williams was promoted to Executive Vice President of the Chicago White Sox.

The Sports Tourism Council (STC) Sint Maarten Foundation has been structured to attract annual sports events to the island and to stimulate economic development. STC Sint Maarten seeks to develop triathlon event, marathon, cycling tour, youth basketball tournaments, softball tournaments, indoor slot model car racing, a kickboxing event, celebrity games, cricket tournaments, baseball tournaments, soccer tournament and other sports related events.

For those requiring additional information about the Sports Tourism Council, you can call 522-2828 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Parents with girls aged nine and 10-years are invited by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Youth Health Care, to an information session about the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine.

Parents with girls in the aforementioned age range attending the following primary school should attend: Hillside Christian School, St. Dominic Primary, Prins Willem Alexander, Ruby Labega, Sister Magda, Learning Unlimited, ACE, and Victory Christian Academy.

The information session is being held at the St. Dominic's High School in South Reward from 7:15pm to 8:15pm on Tuesday, December 3.

Youth Health Care falls under the Collective Prevention Services (CPS) and is responsible for the National Vaccination Program. The program is designed to prevent the country's children and population from vaccine preventable diseases.

In September the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour introduced the HPV vaccine.

HPV causes cervical cancer which is the second most common cancer in women worldwide. In 2008, there were an estimated 529,000 new cases and 274,000 deaths due to cervical cancer. HPV viruses are common throughout the world.

Although most infections with HPV cause no symptoms, persistent genital HPV infections can cause cervical cancer in women. Two HPV vaccines are now being marketed in many countries throughout the world.

Both vaccines are highly efficacious in preventing infection and are also highly efficacious in preventing pre-cancerous cervical lesions caused by the viruses. The primary target group in most of the countries recommending HPV vaccination according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is young adolescent girls.

Data from clinical trials conducted in several continents show that the vaccines to be safe according to the WHO.

For additional information you can call Youth Health Care at: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

gracitaarrindellmeetswithanouchkavanmiltenburg01122013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell last Thursday met with the President of the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament Hon. Anouchka van Miltenburg at her office in The Hague, the Netherlands.

President Arrindell described the meeting as pleasant where a number of issues were discussed since the country achieved its status on 10-10-10. Arrindell also signed the guestbook of the Second Chamber and presented a gift on behalf of the Parliament of Sint Maarten.

"I stressed during our meeting on the importance of communication via telephone, video conferencing and in person especially in particular during times of misunderstandings which places a strain on relations. At the moment many comments are made via the media.

"We need to discuss and find solutions to the issues we are faced with as representatives of our respective constituents," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

Second Chamber of Parliament President Hon. A. van Miltenburg has never visited Sint Maarten and President Arrindell has extended an invitation to her to visit as soon as she is able to.

President Van Miltenburg became chairperson of the Dutch Second Chamber on 25 September, 2012, and has been a Member of the Dutch Parliament since 2003.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament is scheduled for December 03 regarding the minimum wage on Sint Maarten.

The public plenary session is set for Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is incoming documents; followed by the second agenda point about the minimum wage.

This meeting was requested by the National Alliance (NA) faction in parliament, namely Member of Parliament Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, MP Hon. Hyacinth Richardson, MP Hon. Louie Laveist, MP Hon. William Marlin, MP Hon. George Pantophlet, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

gracitaarrindellmeetswithpietdonnor29112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell who is currently on a working visit to the Netherlands met with Vice President of the Council of State Hon. Piet Hein Donner on Tuesday.

A number of issues were discussed including the development of Sint Maarten's constitutional government structures after three-years of country status.

President Arrindell left the island on Sunday and arrived in the Netherlands on Monday.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Disaster Coordinator Fire Commander Winston Salomon, is thankful that once again the nation has been spared from a hurricane for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.

The six-month 2013 season comes to an end on Saturday, November 30.

The season turned out not to be as active as predicted producing 13 named storms. The 2012 season had 19 and the 2011 with 18.

"We have much to be thankful for having gone through the 2013 hurricane season without being directly hit by a storm system. It can be described as a very quiet one for us.

"I would like to thank the people of our island nation for taking the necessary preparations for the season when it was advised to do so.

"I would like to thank the public as well as the island's disaster management team and emergency support functions for their role played in preparing the country," Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) on Friday.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- As part of the Minister of Public Health's Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign, every parent's number one concern this holiday season should be to make sure that whatever it is you buy for your child this year, it's safe. Therefore, make sure you check the safety information of toys before you purchase it.

Every year Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, as part of its calendar of observances, highlights and creates awareness where it concerns safe holiday experiences for the entire family.

Before purchasing or giving any gift, particularly one intended for a child, double check to make sure it does not pose a hazard by reading the safety conditions attached to the gift.

Here are some safety tips for holiday season shopping: select toys suitable for a child's age, abilities, skills and interest level; for infants, toddlers, and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts, which could pose a fatal choking hazard.

Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points, especially for children under age eight; do not purchase electric toys with heating elements for children under age eight; read the labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide in your holiday shopping.

One of the most important gifts of all to give a child is time spent with you as a parent this holiday season.

Safe holidays.

gracitaarrindellmeetswithusc29112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met with the board and members of St. Maarten Connection (USC) foundation which is located in the Netherlands.

USC is engaged in assisting young St. Maarteners studying in Holland as well as young professionals.

A number of issues were brought forward by USC for discussion including the right of Sint Maarteners studying and living abroad being given the right to vote in Sint Maarten elections.

The Holland-based organization is seen as an essential body that can provide clarification on scholastic and other issues and social and informative events that bring students and young professionals together.

The organization stands for fostering a greater sense of unity among St. Maarten students and young professionals in the Netherlands and on St. Maarten, and to parlay this dynamic into affecting change that is beneficial and related to the unique position we hold within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

"I would like to take this opportunity to commend the USC board and its members for taking the initiative and establishing this social group for Sint Maarten students and those living in the Netherlands.

"I had a good and open dialogue with students on several issues including the functioning and role of the country's institutions of government including Parliament.

"The students were engaged, knowledgeable, motivated and most importantly very involved in the Netherlands with their foundation as it serves to assist and connect students from Sint Maarten.

"They do keep a keen eye on their future endeavours as it relates to their return back to the country, and are therefore interested in how the country is governed and the challenges it faces after achieving the new status. I am very excited and motivated by their vision of their future," President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.

The website address of the organization is www.uscfoundation.com.

agebakker28112013DEN HAAG, Netherlands:--- Transparency and openness are essential if one wants to do business with each other, declared the chairman of the Board on financial supervision College financieel toezicht - Cft) Prof. A.F.P. Bakker during the conference 'Duurzaam zaken doen tussen het Caribisch Koninkrijk en Nederland' ('Doing business in a sustainable way between the Caribbean Kingdom and the Netherlands'). This conference was held in The Hague in the context of 200 years of Kingdom. "Working together and doing business in the Kingdom presumes that we immerse ourselves in each other, on the basis of equality." Distrust and misperceptions on both sides now hinder a healthy partnership. Forming of the right perception based on facts is something that can be achieved with adequate statistics and the publishing of policy proposals and advises of advisory institutions at a faster pace.

The fact of the matter is according to Age Bakker that much progress has been made with regard to public finance in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Based on international standards, Curaçao and Sint Maarten have healthy debt positions of 30 to 35% of the Gross National Product (GNP). Furthermore Curacao has a balanced regular budget - the current income covers the current expenditures - and Sint Maarten is close by. Curaçao and Sint Maarten are however allowed to have a deficit, in order to cover public investments. Cft expects that, if measured similarly, the total deficits of Curaçao, Sint Maarten and the Netherlands, will be moving towards each other in the coming years, approximating 3% of the GDP, whereby the debt of Curaçao and Sint Maarten will remain substantially lower than that of the Netherlands.

Sound
Curaçao has implemented a comprehensive package of measures with the objective to keep its public finance structurally sound. Comparatively, the cutbacks were a multiple of the reduction of 6 billion Euros the Netherlands is now executing. This step is an important prerequisite to obtain higher economic growth, whereby the investment program of the government may also be of great help.

Sint Maarten has performed well economically in recent years. It is the only country in the Kingdom that, with a growth of 20% over the past ten years, is now in a substantially better position than at the beginning of the century. But it is a young country, facing governmental challenges, while the strong growth has not translated into more budgetary space. Increasing tax revenues, which have not kept pace with the growth, is urgently needed to bring to a halt the black economy and the rising income inequality.

Positive
In the Dutch Caribbean the public entities also show balanced budgets, while 2012 will end with a positive result. But we are not there yet; there should be more investments in the economy and therefore administrative power is needed.

The Kingdom is a strong concept that covers three continents, and where the conjuncture is rarely into step. The Netherlands is in the heart of Europe, while the other three countries and public entities lie at the crossroads of North and South America. The Kingdom is a good place to do business and it offers a unique opportunity to work together to take advantage of economic opportunities.

All countries in the Kingdom, including the Netherlands, are under budgetary supervision, with the exception of Aruba. Independent supervision by an outsider is essential for confidence. "Obviously it is difficult to maintain sound public finances on your own sound," said Age Bakker. Financial supervision adds value to the Kingdom and provides a sound financial basis for accelerated growth. It is indeed important for investors to know that the Kingdom is used to a practice of budgetary discipline, with effective financial supervision.

More transparency is a must, and based on its responsibility, the Cft is trying to contribute to a better information provision and strictly steers towards orderly budgetary procedures. This allows the Parliaments – the Staten and the Island Councils – to play a stronger role in calling the government to account for its administration. With the clearing of red tape and bureaucracy much can still be gained, so that doing business would become easier. But above all the Kingdom deserves it that its people work actively on forming more accurate perceptions that are based on facts.

CFT Press Release

sxmcocrepsvisitsxmhouse28112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges and Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen both welcomed St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry Director Claret Connor and Hubert Pantophlet, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry, who visited the Sint Maarten House in The Hague, the Netherlands on Tuesday.

The working visit of the Chamber representatives was to establish a relationship with the Sint Maarten House as an intermediary for business opportunities and transactions between the countries of the Netherlands and Sint Maarten.

As a first symbolic gesture, a Memorandum of Agreement between the Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Sint Maarten and entrepreneurs of the Netherlands will be signed at the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary on Friday.

johnkasarda28112013SIMPSON BAY:--- World-renowned expert on airport and aviation development, Prof. Dr. John Kasarda, Director of the Center for Air Commerce of the University of North Carolina, will be the special guest speaker at the Anniversary Symposium of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), which is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

The Symposium will be held under the theme, "Leveraging your airport for non-aeronautical revenue and economic development" at the Westin Resort & Spa on December 3, 2013, starting from 8 AM.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescott-Williams, and SXM Airport Shareholder's Representative, Hon. Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs and Traffic and Transportation (TEATT), Ted Richardson will also address the Symposium. They will be joined by SXM Managing Director, Regina LaBega.

Dr. Kasarda is the author of more than 100 articles and 10 books on airport cities, aviation infrastructure, urban economic development, and competitiveness. He is a much sought after advisor to airports worldwide who also chairs the annual Airport Cities World Conference and Exhibition. It was at the 11th Annual Airport Cities World Conference & Exhibition held earlier this year in Johannesburg, South Africa, where a high-level SXM delegation led by LaBega met Dr. Kasarda.

"Airports are not just transportation infrastructure. They are multimodal, multifunctional enterprises generating considerable commercial development. Airports are now cities themselves," Prof. Kasarda told the Conference, adding: "airport planning must include just as much emphasis on commercial strategies as aeronautical strategies. There should be synergies between the two."

This impressed the SXM team, seeing that this was the strategic direction management had decided to embark upon at the airport.
The originator of the "aerotropolis concept," which Time magazine named among the "10 Ideas That Will Change the World," Prof. Kasarda famously said: "The U.S. and Western Europe often view airports as nuisances and environmental threats rather than as critical infrastructure to compete and prosper. This has resulted in their maligning and neglecting airports while Asia and the Middle East invest heavily to leverage them. Such malign neglect comes at the long-term economic peril of the West."
"We are excited that an expert of the caliber of Prof. Kasarda, referred to in some circles as 'The Father of the Aerotropolis,' would be the keynote speaker at our anniversary symposium," said LaBega.
The symposium is by invitation only, given space constraints, and kicks off a series of events to mark the 70th Anniversary of the airport.

slurpypumpout28112013SIMPSON BAY:--- The foundation Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) St. Maarten is encouraging the public to support the operation of its sewage Pump-out boat, Slurpy, which services the Simpson Bay Lagoon and surrounding waters. The organization is seeking an experienced boater to run Slurpy, offering a ready-to-go and unique business opportunity which also helps the environment.

EPIC's Love the Lagoon Program is working to protect and restore the Simpson Bay Lagoon, one of the largest inland lagoons in the West Indies, a crucial ecosystem, and center of the maritime industry.

With high season having begun, many boats will be in need of a way to dispose of their wastewater in a hygienic and environmentally-friendly manner. To fill this need, EPIC purchased a sewage Pump-out boat with key support from donors, including CA Technologies, Island Global Yachting, Princess Port de Plaisance, and Wired Sailor. St. Maarten Shipyard is generously providing dockage, storage, and proper waste disposal free of charge. EPIC welcomes additional donations to the Pump-out boat project to help cover start-up costs.

Several marinas have already made use of the Pump-out boat and there is an unfulfilled demand for a proper wastewater disposal method for the hundreds of vessels found on the island during high season. According to international law, boaters must be at least 12 nautical miles from land to legally discharge untreated sewage. Slurpy provides boaters in and around the Lagoon a much more convenient, hygienic, and environmentally responsible option.

To learn more about being a Pump-out boat sponsor or operator, interested persons are encouraged to contact Natalia Collier at 545-3009 or visit www.epicislands.org.

Environmental Protection In the Caribbean

joseannepetersonpjlstoryteller28112013PHILPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be hosting its monthly, Saturday, story time at 11:00am on Saturday, November 30.
Every last Saturday of the month, the library conducts story time sessions for visiting children. This Saturday's, storyteller, Joseanne Peterson, will be reading from one of the library's children's books called "Librarian on the Roof" by M.G. King. This true story will be based on librarian, RoseAleta Laurell. The story will show how this committed librarian, vows to raise money for the Dr. Eugene Clark Library's children's section by spending a week living and working on the library roof.
After story time, children will observe the library and make list of improvements they think should be made. After compiling all the lists, children will decide how they can together improve the library. For more information please contact the library at telephone number 542-2970.

alfonsoboekhoudtpayscourtesyvisittosxmhouse28112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges received a courtesy call from Aruba's newly appointed Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Alfonso Boekhoudt on Monday at the Sint Maarten House in The Hague. Minister Boekhoudt was accompanied by former Minister Plenipotentiary Edwin Abath. Minister Voges during the introductory meeting wished Boekhoudt much strength and success his appointment. Both ministers said that they will continue to work in the interests of their countries and maintain a regular meeting session to discuss matters of mutual interests.

teremoana28112013POINT BLANCHE:--- On Saturday the small cruise vessel Tere Moana will dock at the Port of St. Maarten, the first time for the season on its inaugural call where the plaque exchange will take place between the Captain and port officials.

Port management is very pleased that Paul Gauquin Cruises has included the destination in their itinerary for the cruise season. This demonstrates that the destination not only is a hive for the big cruise lines, but also attracts and caters to small niche cruise lines as well.

The Tere Moana is one of the cruise lines new luxurious ships which were christened on December 29, 2012 in Marigot. After that the vessel set sail on its inaugural seven-night Caribbean voyage to visit the islands of the French West Indies, British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts & Nevis.

The Moana offers an elegant and casual ambiance. The vessel is 330 feet long and 46 feet wide; and accommodates 90 guests with a staff of 60.

Owned by Pacific Beachcomber S.C., French Polynesia's leading luxury hotel and cruise operator, Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the 5+star m/s Paul Gauguin.

The cruise line's second ship is the m/v Tere Moana. This vessel sails Europe, the Caribbean and Latin America.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake, would like to commend his colleague Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip with the official opening of the country's National Institute of Professional Advancement (NIPA).

The NIPA opened on Tuesday and has over 80 students. The institute offers advanced vocational education during the daytime and in the evening.

NIPA offers courses from one year up to four and is for participants from 16 years and older; and offers adult classes and short courses.

NIPA curriculum is in the areas of hospitality, construction, care, technology and administration etc. The institute is tailored to the needs and interest of the labour market and the wider Sint Maarten community.

"NIPA presents various opportunities for our young people in developing the necessary skills that our labour market requires. Our young high school graduates need to get the proper skills in order to move forward and NIPA offers them this opportunity where once they complete their area of study they can move into the job market because they will have the skills and necessary tools.

"Also very important, is a management team and board that think outside of the box at the helm of NIPA. This is essential for the success of NIPA. This is a very important institution for the business community and I look forward to the various stakeholders showing interests and working with NIPA to provide in the end jobs for our young people.

"NIPA should also enable our young people to move in the direction of starting their own business. I would like to see more young people heading in this direction and excelling. Once again, congratulations to Minister Lourens who also worked on the project file over the years prior to becoming Minister," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Thursday, November 14th 2013, Customs Officers at Princess Juliana International Airport checked passengers coming from Curacao. After this was done they continued with their daily operations by checking the cargo from the same flight.

During their routine control, several boxes looked suspicious so they decided to open one of the boxes. After opening one of these boxes the Custom Officers found out that it contained cocaine with a total weight of 153 kilos.

Due to the ongoing investigations, further information cannot be released at this moment.

Due to the fact Customs got more personnel in the last year, they extended their daily operations by checking more flights and cargo. The harbour and the lagoons will also get special attention now that the high season is starting. Additionally, Custom Officers will be more visible on the streets.

MARIGOT:--- The Criminal Courts in St. Martin acquitted first Vice President Guillaume Arnell, former head of Urbanisme Jose Carti, and the Director of SINDEXTOUR Norbert Luftman of all charges in the Authorization for Temporary Occupation (AOT) trial that took place on September 19th and 20th 2013. The three men had over one year of publicity when the civil parties filed an official complaint against them with the Gendarmes when they learnt that SINDEXTOUR was granted an extension of the AOT for Orient Bay and the request they submitted to the COM to obtain an AOT was not treated.

The lawyers that represented the three men, namely Maitre Jean Yves Leborgne, Maitre Thierry Herzog, and Maitre Michel Pradines defended their clients by poking holes in the entire case based on procedural errors committed by the investigators.

President of the court Gérard EGRON-REVERSEAU pronounced the decision of the court on Thursday November 28th, 2013. The trio Arnell, Carti, and Luftman and their relatives and friends listened keenly as the president of court read out the decision taken by his court. Also present in the court were the civil parties Elisa Cohen owner of Bikini Beach and workers from Kontiki Beach owned by Phillipe Just.

The court in its decision threw out the claims for damages filed by the civil parties citing that victims were not directly harmed because they were not the owners of the AOT granted by the COM for AW-33, neither was there evidence to show that there was prejudice against the request they submitted to the COM for an AOT. The court believed that only one that suffered harm is the COM because they lost revenues. Therefore, the COM is the only direct victim and not the civil parties namely Cohen and Just. The judge felt that the only thing the civil parties did when they filed their complaints was derail the criminal proceedings and the court does not see the need to grant the civil parties any damages at this time. The court also ruled that the civil parties were not directly harmed when they were evicted from their place of business and deemed the Collectivity as victim on the charges of fraud.

After the decision was pronounced, Arnell who was surrounded by his mother and other relatives, Carti and his family members, and Norbert Luftman and his friends began celebrating as they walked out of the court room. In front of the court house quickly became a spectacle as those that went to court in support of Arnell, Carti, and Luftman began cheering as the three men were cleared of all the charges that were brought against them.

The charges brought against Arnell and Carti were "concussion", fraud, and obtaining false administrative documents while Luftman with recel de bien (deriving wealth) through a punishable act, fraud, and obtaining false administrative documents.

The court rejected the validity of the citation issued against Guillaume Arnell basically because Maitre Jean Yves Leborgne who represented first Vice President attacked the entire case on technical merits. Another huge victory for first Vice President Guillaume Arnell is the fact that the Prosecutor Flavien Noailles did not issue request to extend Arnell's garde à vue, therefore all statements that were taken during the second garde à vue from Arnell could not be admissible.

As for Carti and Luftman, the court found that there was no evidence in the dossier to show that Luftman and Carti had any contact by telephone, or mail that showed Carti worked in favor of Luftman when he chose to renew the AOT for SINDEXTOUR.

The court also ordered that the Euros 10,000.00 that Luftman had to deposit as bond must be returned to him. Based on the decision rendered by the court, the entire case was dismissed because of the technical errors, it is clear that the merits of the dossier submitted by the public prosecutor was not judged. It is not yet known if the Prosecutor would file an appeal on the decision that was rendered on Thursday November 28th, 2013.

The owner of Bikini Beach Elisa Cohen and the workers who attended the court session on Thursday were speechless as they could not believe what they heard when the president of the court pronounced the decision.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to wish the small truckers a happy thanksgiving to them and their families.

Minister Lake is very pleased that the truckers are living up to the standards set by Ministry VROMI where it concerns the transportation of materials along the public road.

"I would like to thank the main contractor DEVCON for their full cooperation in supplying all relevant information to Ministry VROMI which facilitated the small truckers in being able to carry out their assigned transportation jobs.

"My back to basics approach is about creating job opportunities for the small man. Where there is an opportunity, the small man must benefit from the work. The transportation of sand to replenish parts of the Great Bay Beach was another job opportunity for small truckers.

"In the coming months more opportunities should become available and these will go towards small businesses which are the backbone of country Sint Maarten's economy," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

gracitaarrindelldonatesgreencarpet27112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell recently donated a green carpet that Parliament had utilized during the visit of the King and Queen. Jelmar Shelstra and Azaf Levy from Diamonds International who inquired what would happen to the green carpet that was out in front of the House of Parliament, and if the carpet could be donated to them.

Shelstra and Levy know of a playschool in Beacon Hill with 12 children and thought that the aforementioned would be able to make good use of the carpet for the kids to play on while outside.

President Arrindell jumped at the request since she knows it would be very beneficial for the young kids, and thanked Shelstra and Levy for their community-mindedness, the latter two in turn thanked Parliament for donating the carpet.

Date: 7th December, 2013
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm
Location: Sucker Garden at Lion Civic Center
Menu: Chicken Roti $5.00 / NAF 9.00
           Shrimp Roti $8.00 / NAF 14.40

All proceeds will go towards scouts participation at the 15th Caribbean Jamboree in Curacao July 2014.

robinboasmanshowinglizzylizardonpjlbus27112013GREAT BAY:--- "Lizzy Lizard" is a new children's book star that is looming large as a St. Martin folklore character on the freshly illustrated book mobile of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL). The adventurous little lizard began life as the main character of Lizzy Lizard, a storybook by teacher Robin Boasman, for ages 4 to 9. House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) released the book earlier this year and recently cooperated with PJL to have Lizzy represent the nation's folklore on the library bus. Boasman (in photo) was "delighted" to see her original character on PJL's book mobile at last week's 90th anniversary celebration of the oldest of the island's two public use libraries. The PJL book mobile travels throughout the territory offering library services to school children. (RB Photo)

patricialourensphilip20082013A pleasant afternoon,

Much has been said regarding the history of this awesome institute that will shortly be handed over, but permit me to add my experience and perception of what is taking place here this afternoon and as I congratulate the new Board that will shortly take on the full responsibility of the management and direction setting of this institute, I will like to take the liberty to gently remind the new board that literally blood, sweat, and tears have been shed to realize the final completion of this project - SBO School, Cay Hill.

I will like to liken this experience as an experience similar to a child birth experience. In 2008 the idea for higher education, SBO education was conceived by the then staff of the Division for Educational Innovations (DEI) of which the present head of USONA and myself were part of a team at DEI. Like any expectant couple, much research, feasibility studies were done before we made an announcement of our intent to our parents (alias – the Executive Council at that time) in the form of an advice requesting permission to establish within the Division, an SBO Service Center, to be tasked with the realization of the introduction of SBO level education and the establishment of an SBO institute.

The parents gave their approval and then we turned to the god parents or (the funders of the cooperation program for education and youth) to extend the funding for vocational education in St. Maarten to include a project for SBO level education. So the god parents cautiously consented and we were able to put forward an SBO project and so the SBO baby was conceived. During the gestation phase there were several moments of anxiety, discussions and requests for we realized that to bring forth the type of baby we were carrying we needed to have access to more fund available for a proper delivery to take place.

However, as the baby was born and started to grow, it soon became apparent that one day soon it would need a home of its own and that a whole new investment will be needed to provide the necessary home for this growing child. This is where it really became difficult and much energy, blood sweat and tears as I mentioned before was shed in an effort to convince the god- parents that they too needed to assist in investing in that new home for the growing child. To continue with my analogy the new home is ready, life for this child has limitless possibilities.

I want to end by saying to the board, staff and students of this institute that the government, the kingdom partners, parents, businesses, and our neighboring islands are looking at you and there is great expectation. There is the expectation that you will provide within these walls solutions or partial solutions to many of the social and economic problems.

We are expecting that through well researched and needs assessment that you will contribute to raising the standards of skills of the people of this country by providing the necessary training at all levels, in the most needed fields of skills, expertise and services that this country needs.

We are expecting that this institute will produce a skilled workforce as well as professional experts in all the fields that will contribute to the economic development of this country.

We expect this institute to help to mitigate the present problems we have in importing skilled labour by providing the type of courses and training that will build the competency of our local work force so that one day soon in the future we will see a reduction in the number of persons that we are presently recruiting from abroad.

We expect that this institute will provide opportunities to training our young people to become entrepreneurs and inventors.

We expect this institute to provide a second chance for those who did not make it the first time in graduating from secondary school but who have a strong desire to become employable now that they are a bit more mature.

We expect this institute to have a dynamic relationship with the business world, working together to help raise the level of productivity, expertise in this island.

And as we take part in the physical delivery of these beautiful buildings, state of the art equipment, let us not forget the blood sweat and tears that have gone into this and the expectation and awesome responsibility that comes with it.

I once more congratulate the board of the NIPA, the staff of the Division of Educational Innovations, the department of new works of VROMI, all the contractors , engineers, the facility manager, the past and present governments that have given their full support to this endeavor, the youth of St. Maarten, USONA, Mr. Wawoe, the new staff of the NIPA and the general public of St. Maarten on the occasion of the handing over of advance vocational institute on this day November 26th 2013.

Thank you for your indulgence and god bless all those who will work here and pass through these doors in the future.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 8th annual Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala Event, held on Friday November 22nd 2013 by the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, was a grand success. The evening saw 19 persons receive awards in the categories of Accommodations, Trade, Community Service and Extra-Ordinary awards. SHTA extends congratulations to all the nominees and winners of the 8th annual Crystal Pineapple Awards.
Guests were treated to a visual oasis of turquoise, blue, white and chocolate brown decorations done by the Artemia. The Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala Organizing Committee and SHTA Board would like to extend their appreciation to Artemia for once again providing the décor for the event.
The gala event was held at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino which has been the host venue for many years to the event. In addition to providing the venue, the resort also prepared a sumptuous and elaborate culinary extravaganza which included six live food stations, expertly prepared dishes such as a giant Paella, Peking Duck wrapped in Chinese pancakes, salt crusted baked Red Snapper filet, Chateau Briand and a sumptuous dessert selection ranging from an array of cheeses to Sonesta's International and Local signature pastries.
The Master of Ceremonies for the evening Leroy Brooks, also known as King Beau Beau, expertly tied together the various segments of the award show and brought the right mix of comic relief and announcements to the event.
The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs Patricia Lourens presented the extraordinary award for 'Best Educational Innovation' to SIMARC. The Honorable Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Ted Richardson presented the 'Outstanding Tourism Industry Award" to Interval International and the 'Most innovative product/idea/service Award' to St. Maarten Recycling. The President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell presented the 'Tourism Ambassador Award' to Dino Jagtani. This years' SHTA Person of the Year Award went to Mr. Jan Beaujon who received this award for his many years of unwavering service within the banking industry and the community of St. Maarten.
Other presenters for the evening were predominantly members of the board and several selected persons within the community. The evening ended with the wonderful melodic sounds of Control Band. Guests were seen dancing the night away to a combination of zouk, bachata and soca.
SHTA would like to thank all those that were involved in organizing the event. A special Thank You goes out to the sponsors: Artemia, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, Interval International, Discovery Network, GEBE, Prime Distributors, Autobev, Guavaberry, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Pete's Photo, Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco and all the persons/companies who donated items to the raffle and the silent auction.
Highlights of the winners can be found below:

Restaurant Awards
Employee of the Year
Paul Peterson – Temptation

Manager/Supervisor of the Year
Juan Miguel Philips – Domino's Pizza

Restaurateur of the Year
Mark van Dam – Mark's Place

Trade Awards
Employee of the Year
Kimasha Williams – St. Maarten Medical Center

Supervisor of the Year
Catherine Harris – Aqua Mania Adventures

Manager of the Year
Michele Korteweg – St. Maarten Yacht Club/Heineken Regatta

Sales Person of the Year
Barbara Warren – The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa

Accommodation Awards
Employee of the Year
Annesha York – Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino

Supervisor of the Year
Sherille Gibbes – Royal Islander Club La Plage

Departmental Manager of the Year
Cindy Campbell – Oyster Bay Beach Resort

Timeshare Sales Executive of the Year
Nina Persaud – Royal Islander Club La Plage & La Terasse

Best Educational Innovation Award
St. Maarten Archeological Center SIMARC

Public Media Award
The Today Newspaper

Tourism Ambassador Award
Dino Jagtani

Outstanding Community Service Achievement Award
Sharmaine Olivacce – Voice of Our Children

Most Innovative Product/Service/Idea Award
St. Maarten Recycling

Outstanding Environmental Achievement Award
Jadira Veen

SHTA Person of the Year Award
Jan Beaujon

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on a part of Back Street on Thursday, November 28.

On Thursday night 10:00pm to 1:00am, part of Back Street between St. Simon & St. Jude Anglican Church and Angelo Boutique will be closed for the pouring of concrete.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For both instances, permission for the road closures were granted by the Ministry of Justice.

swescotwilliams27112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams told reporters on Wednesday at Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Council of State sent an advice to the Minister of Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten Mathias Voges who requested information on the legality of the Kingdom Decree sent to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on the integrity of the Government of St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the government including herself is very disappointed with the response the Council of State gave St. Maarten. While she was not very explicit on the details of the advice, the Prime Minister said that the Council of State basically informed St. Maarten that there is no law in the charter which would allow them to intervene or mediate when there is a difference of opinion between two countries. Wescot Williams said that it was decided to have this law in place based on article 12-a of the Kingdom Charter to ensure such a law is in place but that law was never worked on even though a commission was established since 2011 to formulate the law.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten said that St. Maarten will still go ahead with its planned investigation since they formed a committee to conduct an integrity investigation. She said on the Ministerial Decree St. Maarten inserted that they were willing to work with the Governor to conduct the integrity investigation but the Governor of St. Maarten did not yet indicate whether or not he will work with St. Maarten to conduct the investigation he was ordered to conduct via a Kingdom decree. Wescot Williams said that the Governor of St. Maarten did not have to wait on the information they requested from the Council of State, she said he could have moved forward with his investigation but so far she did not receive any resolution to inform her that the Integrity investigation that will be conducted by the Governor already started or when it will begin.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister made clear that the Government of St. Maarten already has a signed agreement with Transparency International (TI) who will also conduct a systemic integrity investigation. When asked when Transparency International will begin their work, the Prime Minister said that TI is busy with the preparatory work and she is expected to know when they will begin their work in the near future.

APS Still to Give Government Proposal on Financing the Completion of Government Building.

Wescot Williams also confirmed on Wednesday that the Government of St. Maarten is fully aware of the decision rendered by the court regarding the Government Administration Building and RGM. She said that the Government of St. Maarten has an agreement with APS (Pension Fund) who has agreed to finance the completion of the building so that government could occupy the building as ordered by the court.

Wescot Williams further explained that she is expecting to get a full proposal from APS by December 2013. The Prime Minister explained when asked by reporters if there is a specific amount of monies the Government of St. Maarten asked APS to invest in the completion of the building that while there is an agreement and APS is working very hard on the investment project they have not reached that far to discuss figures.

She also clarified that APS and other insurances have a right to make investments with the monies they collected to use in the future. "The APS is not taking monies they have to pay out now for this investment project. Besides that, the law states that APS could invest in their country meaning that they have all right to invest in projects on St. Maarten."

In giving more information on the "White Elephant", the Prime Minister said that RGM was supposed to deliver that building since 2008 and the Government of St. Maarten were not going to be owners of the building instead they were going to be tenants that have to pay Naf. 481,000.00 per month as rent. The Prime Minister said that some of the things that happened between 2008 to now is that RGM and government had to decide who was going to be responsible for the insurance and maintenance of building. She said that since parties could not agree a court case was initiated and the court ruled in favor of St. Maarten but RGM appeal that verdict. The appeal case has not gone through yet. Wescot Williams said these are some of the things that hindered the finalization of the new Government Administration Building.

Corporate Governance Council given Six Months Life.

In responding to a question posed by SMN News regarding the Corporate Governance Council whose mandate ended on November 16th, 2013, Prime Minister Wescot Williams said that she asked the members of the Corporate Governance Council to stay put for the next six months until the necessary paperwork is finalized. She said the members of the council agreed to stay on board and their mandate will be up in February 2014.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The French national that died in a scooter accident last week at the entrance of Divi Little Bay Hotel has been identified by public Prosecutor Tineke Kamps. The accident victim has been identified as Benjamen Jeremy Clement ROBERT who was born on August 8th, 1983.

Benjamen died of severe head injuries when he slammed into the guard railing in the vicinity of Divi Little Bay Hotel. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said on the day of the fatal accident that the victim was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident but he was riding at very high speed. Henson said the victim lost control of his scooter when he attempted to overtake a taxi (minivan) that was turning into the entrance of Divi Little Bay Hotel.

Police confiscated the body at the time of the accident to conduct their investigation.

shootingfillin11102012

CAY HILL:--- Dr. Randall Friday, a gynecologist that has an office at the Yogesh Building and also works for the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) was shot twice in the corridor leading to his office at the Yogesh Building on Wednesday morning. According to information provided to SMN News, Dr. Friday was shot as he was walking towards his office where a number of patients were waiting for him. Dr. Friday was shot sometime around 9am Wednesday morning. He was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center by someone who was at the scene of the shooting in a private vehicle. SMN News learnt that the unknown shooter fired two shots at Dr. Friday from behind, one of the bullets hit the well known gynecologist and businessman in his back while the second shot it is believed grazed him somewhere on his body. This information police could not confirm up to midday on Wednesday.
At the St. Maarten Medical Center several well known residents and politicians rushed to the institution when they heard of the shooting. Up to midday there were a number of people including family members, close friends, and even civil servants waiting outside the emergency room of the SMMC for information on Dr. Friday's medical condition. SMN News learnt that Dr. Friday was still in the operating room of the St. Maarten Medical Center after midday as Dr. Holiday, a surgeon at SMMC, performed an emergency operation to save his colleague's life. Information provided to SMN News later in the day states that the emergency operation was successful and that Dr. Friday is currently in stable condition in the intensive care unit of the St. Maarten Medical Center.
Details on the shooting are sketchy, Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said up to midday on Wednesday his colleagues were busy questioning witnesses and trying to piece together what really transpired at the Yogesh Building and what sparked the shooting. Henson said so far police has not arrested anyone and the patrols are busy patrolling the area where the shooting took place.
Chief of Police Peter de Witte and Prosecutor Tineke Kamps confirmed that they were informed of the shooting but they too had no details on the early morning shooting. SMN News will bring you more information when it becomes available.

Shooting incident at the Yogesh Building.

On Wednesday November 27th, 2013 at approximately 8:45am, several police patrols, detectives, and paramedics were sent to the Yogesh Building on the A. J. C. Brouwers Road where shortly before a shooting had taken place. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to witnesses who stated that the victim in this case was Dr. R. Friday, who is a gynecologist on the island and has his office at the building in question. Dr. Friday was taken to the Sint Maarten Medical Center by a private vehicle prior to the ambulance arriving on the scene. The scene was immediately secured by the police allowing the Forensic Department to start collecting evidence. According to information from the St. Maarten Medical Center, the doctor was in stable condition when he arrived, however, he was taken shortly after to the operating room to be operated on.
The doctor is at this time out of surgery and in the I.C.U. for recovery and observation. He is stable and doing well. At present no one has been identified or arrested as a possible suspect in this case. The investigation is in its preliminary stages and the police department is asking anyone that may have any information in connection with this investigation to come forward. Telph. 54-22222 ext 222-224 or Tip line 9300.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- A Colombian national who is also a Swedish national got a free pass from the office of the Attorney General and the Prosecutor's Office last week when the judge of instruction released the man because he was kept too long in early detention.

According to information provided to SMN News, the Colombian/Swedish national was passing through St. Maarten on his way to Paris when detectives on St. Maarten showed up at the Princess Juliana International Airport and arrested the man who is wanted by the USA.

SMN News learnt that the US Justice Department issued an international arrest warrant for the suspect whom they believe is involved in a drug related case. According to the information provided to SMN News, the man spent just over three days in early detention before he appeared before the judge of instruction, it is understood that the office of the Attorney General made some procedural errors by allowing the legal time frame to hold a suspect in early detention to elapse before they took him to the judge of instruction. When the judge learnt of the procedural error she ordered the immediate release of the suspect. However, the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein tried a different trick and issued a second arrest warrant to re- arrest the suspect as soon as he was released but the judge of instruction did not buy that tactic saying that the suspect could not be re-arrested after the Prosecutor's Office made such a blunder.
SMN News further learnt that the police even contacted IND to use their power to arrest the man whose name was not released because he has a possible criminal record and is wanted by another country but IND refused to arrest the man claiming that they do not have any grounds to arrest the man because he has an EU passport which gives him the right to spend as long as three months on St. Maarten.

SMN News learnt that the man who was an in-transit passenger is now on the island and law enforcement does not know if he left the island by other means.

Efforts made to reach Attorney General Taco Stein on Tuesday for a comment on the case proved futile as Stein could not be reached by telephone. Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson told SMN News that he was not informed of the case therefore he could not comment.

CAY HILL:--- A prison guard is now a patient at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) after he was attacked on Tuesday by a prisoner at the Pointe Blanche House of Detention. According to information reaching SMN News, the prison guard was threatened a number of times by a prisoner, but on Tuesday that prisoner acted on the threats when he attacked the prison guard and broke his jaw. Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson confirmed to SMN News on Tuesday that he was informed of the incident by Prisoner Director Edward Rohan. Up to press time it was not known if the prison guard filed official charges against the prisoner. Press Prosecutor Tineke Kamps said she was not aware of the incident when she was contacted by SMN News on Tuesday evening.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), there will be a partial road of the Union Road in Cole Bay from the entrance to Port de Plaisance to Marigot and vice versa.

The road will be closed on Wednesday night at 11:00pm to 5:00am. The project had to be executed on Monday evening however due to technical errors with the equipment this could not take place.

The closure is in connection with the Simpson Bay Causeway Round-a-bouts (West) Union Road, Cole Bay near the border.

The closure will facilitate the milling, cleaning, supply and installation and compacting of the asphalt top layer on the main roads that will connect to the round-a-bout.

Infrastructure works will also be carried out on the Cannegieter Street intersection in the vicinity of GEBE and the road will be closed from Chippie Café to Office World on Wednesday evening from 7:00pm to 6:00am.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

lightningbasketballcampassociationweekendgames26112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Lightning Basketball Camp Association held two days of fun this past weekend with 5 friendly female basketball games at the Sundial School. The participating teams were Thunderz (French Side), Star Cadets, Learning Unlimited (LU), St. Dominic High and the host Lightning girls. This was the first "real" game for new teams such as Learning Unlimited and St. Dominic. Nerves was very present but support and encouragement was evident throughout the days. All teams showed great sportsmanship and the referees chimed in by giving tips to the players throughout the game, it was a real positive atmosphere overall. It was a joy to see females active in sports, especially the sport of basketball which is greatly male dominant. The Lightning Basketball Camp considers these games to be a huge a success and one that will drive more interest in the sport of basketball for females.

Lightning Basketball Camp main goal right now is to bring back female basketball and these friendly games were evident that the sport is still alive among females. For females looking to join and rejoin the sport, they can contact the organization via Facebook "Lightning Basketball Camp" and look out for a Girls Basketball Development after school program coming to all high schools on St. Maarten. Lightning Basketball Camp Association would finally like to thank all the teams and supporters who came out and gave a helping hand, we couldn't have done it without you.

truckersreplenishgreatbaybeach26112013POINT BLANCHE:--- 25 truckers from the various districts and DEVCON worked hand in hand to transport sand to the Great Bay Beach to widen certain sections that had eroded. This was done in order to maintain the premier image that the destination in the cruise industry. On Tuesday, November 26 six vessels are scheduled to visit the destination and dock at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facility. This also includes the cruise vessel Mein Schiff 2 back for the first time for the season. Everybody plays a role in keeping the cruise product looking good including the truckers of St. Maarten with the replenishment of one of the nation's primary beaches.

mauricelakemeetswithssm25112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday afternoon met with representatives of the Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) and a representative of the Cay Hill Community Council, and was very impressed with the collaboration between the two and the plans they have developed for the community.

The purpose of the meeting was for SSM to give the Minister an update with respect to the organizations past and current community oriented activities.

At the same time the two organizations are seeking the Minister's support for their projects and finding out what may be the possibilities of working along with the Waste to Energy project.

Minister Maurice Lake told both organization reps present that he fully supports what they are trying to do and commends them for the good work that they are doing.

The Minister informed the two groups about the process regarding the Waste to Energy Plant and further explained that he wasn't able to go into too much detail since the bidding process is underway.

Minister Lake promised to meet with both groups once the bidding process had been concluded with the selection of a company that would execute the project.

SSM plans to assist in helping create employment and other social beneficial activities for the youth. The Cay Hill Community Council was approached and brought onboard based on the districts youth seeking assistance and advice from SSM.

The joint collaboration should lead to the initiation of pilot projects that would create employment and therefore fight poverty overall.

Minister Lake also informed the representatives about plans for the upgrading and beautification of Cay Hill as well as a location for a Community Center and Basketball Court.

annyfilomenagivingspeech25112013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Community Help Desk (CHD) in Dutch Quarter is now registering youngsters, after the launching of the DQ Youth Connection Program last week. The focus will be on linking community residents, focusing more on youths, with existing (social) educational programs.

These educational programs are besides the regular assistance and empowerment session that the Community Help Desk offers.

Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Cornelius de Weever, praised the efforts of the team that worked hard to put the program together and urged the community to use the CHD.

"I want to encourage in particular the youth of Dutch quarter to come out and use the program, get informed, and take advantage of what is being offered...It is up to you."

Moreover, the Minister is pleased with the concept of referring persons, willing to pursue an education, with one of the educational programs that are linked to the Youth Connection Program.

In addition, youngsters can currently enroll in the Young Ambassadors Program. The door to door transportation service is available for the Elderly and Disabled.

Community officers are out in the community providing assistance to those that are in need of such and to gather information from the community residence in order to assess their needs.

Aida Holaman, Head of Community Development, Family and Humanitarian Affairs, re-iterated that the program is a collaborative effort, using different research methodology based on the wants and needs of the community.

As such, she thanks those persons who worked in close collaboration with the department in getting this program going, and making such a reality.

She further emphasize the importance of the community of Dutch Quarter and elsewhere to make good use of the Youth Connection Program, as well as the other empowerment programs and all other services, provided at the Community Help Desk by the various stakeholders.

There are various information brochures and pamphlets on parenting, breast cancer, sexuality, breast feeding, sexually transmitted diseases, among other things—all information meant to expand the knowledge and build the capacity of the residents.

For more information, please visit a Community Help Desk in your area or call 542-1122 or 542-9925.

americanredstart25112013GRAND CASE:--- Naturalists, ecologists, birdwatchers, artists, and other volunteers all over the island are working together to make the first annual Birds & Bugs event a very special day for everyone. Birds & Bugs is a free, public Wildlife Discovery Event created by Les Fruits de Mer, where St. Martin residents and visitors of all ages are invited to see, hear, celebrate, and learn about the amazing birds and bugs living in the broadleaf forest. The event will include guided birding tours, a bird education station, a bug discovery station, and local wildlife-themed art activities for children. Birds & Bugs 2013 will take place at Loterie Farm on the western slope of Pic Paradis on Saturday, December 7th from 9am to noon.

Preparations for the event are well underway. A team of wildlife experts and event coordinators conducted a test run of the birding tour at Loterie Farm this past Saturday to plan the best route for the birdwatching tour, and noted a wide variety of migratory and resident birds along the route, including hummingbirds, thrashers, redstarts, and warblers.

Local artist and Les Fruits de Mer Secretary Stephen Winkel is designing special wildlife-inspired children's art activities for the event, which will include decorating bird feeders made from calabashes.

Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) is organizing the bird education station, where event guests will learn to recognize birds by their song. Thanks to support from the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance and BirdsCaribbean, there will also be children's activities including a Junior Birdwatcher journal and activity book as well as free bird stickers and tattoos. Bird identification cards and t-shirts will be available for a donation to support conservation efforts.

The location of the first Birds & Bugs event, Loterie Farm, is one of the most ecologically significant places on St. Martin. Pic Paradis is listed as an Important Bird Area (IBA), a designation provided to sites that support significant global or regional bird populations. The broadleaf forest on the western slope of Pic Paradis, including Loterie Farm, is a unique environment that is home to an extraordinary array of fascinating animal species. This habitat, with its large trees and full canopy, is both essential and breathtaking. EPIC Senior Biologist Adam Brown states, "Of all the habitats on St. Martin, this one has provided the most unique window into the life of migratory birds. This forest alone has been the location of at least seven first island records of bird species and played a significant role in the re-establishment of such resident forest species as Scaly-breasted Thrasher, Scaly-naped Pigeon, and Bridled Quail Dove. I can't imagine the island without this forest."

"The wildlife in this forest is an important part of St. Martin's natural heritage, and the Birds & Bugs event is the perfect opportunity to experience, celebrate, and learn about it!" said Mark Yokoyama, author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin. Yokoyama will be hosting the bug discovery station, which will showcase a variety of live insects and other invertebrates from St. Martin, including walking sticks, katydids, caterpillars and spiders.

The Les Fruits de Mer Association is currently seeking additional volunteers to help out at the event, and sponsorship for event materials including art supplies for the kids' activities, t-shirts, additional binoculars, and drinking water. People interested in being involved can contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Birds & Bugs 2013 is a co-production of the Les Fruits de Mer Association, EPIC, and Loterie Farm.

EPIC was founded in 2000 with the mission to protect the Caribbean environment through research and community-based action, and has conducted long-term studies on the birds of the island while working to raise awareness of bird conservation issues. EPIC biologists have partnered with Loterie Farm for over a decade to study the health and diversity of birds in this rare habitat.

Loterie Farm is a private nature reserve. The 54-hectare property includes broadleaf forest as well as the remains of historical buildings dating back to the 18th century. Loterie Farm safeguards the history and the environment while also sharing this unique site with the public. The Farm has hosted a great deal of biological research, including ongoing studies of birds and other animals. Loterie Farm offers hiking and zip-lining as well as a gourmet restaurant, lounge, and spring-fed swimming pool.

Les Fruits de Mer is a non-profit association based in St. Martin whose core mission is to raise awareness about nature, culture, and sport. The organization carries out this mission through publications, an education program, and special public outreach events that entertain, inspire, and inform. The Association is currently accepting new member applications on its website, http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org.

For more information about Birds & Bugs 2013, visit http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org/events/ or https://www.facebook.com/events/1427136514175790/, and visit http://www.epicislands.org to learn more about EPIC.

exploringmangrovesandwildlifeoflittlebaypondwithepic25112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) St. Maarten provides standardized Environmental and Natural Heritage Education classes, presentations and excursions for primary, secondary and tertiary schools, community groups, church groups and other organizations on Sint Maarten free of costs to the participants and has worked with thousands of school children and numerous community groups since 2007.

The Foundation's Environmental Education program covers a wide-range of topics and includes classes on and excursions related to St. Maarten's forests, ocean pollution, the environmental challenges St. Maarten faces and the wildlife and ecology of St. Maarten's wetlands.

The program was managed by one staff member from 2007 to the ending of 2008 but has since become the most sought after environmental education program on the island. Because of the substantial interest from schools and community groups to participate in this program, EPIC started taking on Environmental Educators from the U.S and the Netherlands on a voluntary basis for two periods of three months each year since 2008.

EPIC now aims to move towards ensuring the continued viability of Environmental Education on Sint Maarten by staffing the only full-time Environmental Educator for the island for an initial period of 12 months. Hiring a full-time educator will allow the Foundation to offer environmental education on a more consistent basis through-out the school year.

As coordinator of EPIC's Environmental Education program, the Environmental Educator will further develop, market and carry-out EPIC's environmental education program, be assigned with increasing awareness of environmental issues, promoting sustainability and conservation initiatives and enhancing the general public's understanding and appreciation of the natural environment through lectures, presentations, classes, excursions and related activities.

Applicants for the Environmental Educator Position must meet the following qualifications:

  • Hold a Bachelors Degree or higher in (Environmental) Education, Biology, Geography, Natural Resource Management or related field and have a minimum of two years experience in related work;
  • Have a strong command of both the English and Dutch languages, written and verbal communication skills, including persuasive and effective communication techniques that compliment the mission and purpose of Environmental Protection In the Caribbean- Sint Maarten.

Interested parties can review the Job Description for the Environmental Educator Position at www.epicislands.org, www.facebook.com/epicislands or contact Project Manager Rueben J. Thompson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for additional information. Preference will be given to candidates who are from the Dutch West Indies and meet the requirements as set forth in the Job Description.

EPIC secured initial funding for the Environmental Educator Position through a grant by the Prince Bernhard Cultural Fund Caribbean Region www.pbccaribbean.com. The Foundation has submitted requests for long-term sponsorship of the program to a number of local businesses and is currently awaiting the outcome of these proposals.

Environmental Protection In the Caribbean - Sint Maarten

comreceivespresentationfrompjiae25112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Last week Thursday the Council of Ministers convened a meeting with the management of Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) headed by Regina Labega and the complete Board of Supervisory Directors chaired by Clarence Derby. During the meeting Labega on behalf of PJIAE, presented the future plans and initiatives of the airport, as well as elucidated upon the financing that has been secured to ensure the realization of said projects. The presentation was well received by the Council of Minister. Absent was Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson due to government related business travel.

tedrichardsonshervinfrederickandvalyapantophletlake25112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week, the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication (TEATT) reappointed Shervin Frederick to his former position as Head of the Inspection Department and selected Valya Pantophlet-Lake to Head of the Business Licenses Department.

GREAT BAY:--- After many months of deliberations between the family practitioner associations and the insurance associations, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever and the Department of Public Health have been positively informed that the three organizations have come to an agreement on the matter regarding the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) to the tariffs.
The St. Maarten Insurance Association (SMIA) informed the ministry that an agreement has been made, and the family practitioners will again accept the insurance cards of the private insurances. As was stated by SMIA, the new tariffs will go into effect as of December 1, 2013.
The minister and the Department of Public Health congratulate all parties and applauds the efforts in ensuring a positive outcome of these negotiations and a relief to the clients who were inconvenienced.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations of the House of Parliament is scheduled to meet November 27 regarding six agenda points related to Kingdom affairs.

The public session is set for Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The six agenda points are related to the following: Kingdom Treaty concerning the exchange of tax information with Antigua & Barbuda; Kingdom Treaty with the United States of America with regards to technical cooperation in the civil aviation field.

Correspondence exchange between the Kingdom of the Netherlands in connection with Sint Maarten regarding the exchange of tax information with the Republic of Croatia; Kingdom Treaty with the Cape Verde Islands; Kingdom Law on Civil Air Travel; and a treaty related to economic, social and cultural rights.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The SHTA would like to recognize the courage of the taxi driver Rofino Arrindell for bringing to a public forum a discussion regarding the taxi industry. While SHTA cannot comment on the validity of his claims, at a minimum, the claims warrant an open and frank discussion about the functioning of the taxi industry. Additionally, there is the broader topic of the potential use of the license/permitting process as political leverage or currency to purchase or discourage political support.
If the principle of the taxi industry is that licenses are issued to local individuals that don't have alternate sources of income, then the policies and execution of policies should be reflected this philosophy. However, if taxi/bus permits are handed out as political currency to buy or influence political agendas. It is no longer about the needs of the community but about political objectives. Should the claims of Mr. Arrindell be substantiated that individuals with independent sources of income are holding licenses and leasing them to generate secondary income, this is taking away opportunities from needy individuals. The unfair practice of using a license for multiple vehicles creates an uneven playing field, flooding the market with too many taxis, thereby diluting income for legitimate taxis.
The mechanism by which taxi/licenses are to be revoked and decommissioned appears to be unclear, which seems to have resulted in a mismatch between supply and demand.
Possible solutions for this could be as simple as starting to establish a clear means/needs tested policy on who should get taxi/bus permits as well as a clear policy and control for the use of help chauffeurs. Another solution could be public disclosure of who has holds a bus/taxi license which could be featured on the government website and the local online and printed media. A tip line where individuals can report taxi/bus improprieties could be established.
By establishing clear and transparent guidelines, the ability to use bus and taxi licenses and permits to be used as currency to purchase political support should be reduced or possibly even eliminated. This would enable our elected officials to focus on the establishment of clear and transparent policies. This same approach could easily be applied to all other discretionary permits such as land grants, work permits, building permits, business licenses etc.
SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, the largest private sector representative, commends the initiative of Minister Lake to control and reduce his Ministry's Expenditures. SHTA has long felt that before government increases the tax burden on the community two things should happen.
One: The government should try, where possible, to reduce its expenses and improve efficiency.
Two: The base of the tax-paying population should be increased. The Ministry of Finance estimates current compliance to be a mere 40%-50%. Besides it being fairer when everyone pays their share, improvements in these areas should give Government the operating capital it requires and perhaps even allow Government to reduce the tax burden for the people who are already complying.
The SHTA supports the efforts of Minister Lake and his Ministry to reduce their expenditures. Hopefully, the successes and lessons of their efforts can be transposed to other Ministries. Ultimately, the community in general benefits greatly from a more cost effective government apparatus
SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is appealing to resident's country wide to step up measures at home and around businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito especially after several days of rainfall.

Landowners and those with small plots in and around built up areas are also requested to maintain their property by minimizing overgrown vegetation.

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

The main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis. Elimination of mosquitoes is an individual responsibility, a community responsibility.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake was moved by the activities that took place surrounding Awareness Week for the Physically Challenged & Wheelchair Tennis Tournament initiated by Top Promotion Foundation and executed by Top Promotion Committee Be Able.

The impression left on the Minister has resulted in him instructing Ministry VROMI to review the building code and draft regulations that would lead to future projects having facilities and access that are 'disable friendly' to persons with a disability.

An estimated 600 million people around the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO) live with some form of disability, and 470 million of them of working age.

"I would like to see an accessibility audit carried out with respect to the infrastructure of government facilities, semi-government companies, organizations and institutions. We need to start somewhere and government must start from within and play a leading role by making our buildings more accessible for the physically disabled and senior citizens.

"The Be Able Committee did a great job promoting this event, but more importantly, creating awareness within the community. I believe our new Government building and Parliament building should lead by example with the introduction of access and doing away with barriers to the peoples institutions.

"As a man of action, I have already informed my Ministry to start advising any new developer of large buildings or new infrastructure to start putting in their plan accessories for the disabled and senior citizens.

"We need to get more actions in place where this particular issue is concerned and this can be done by changing building codes and regulations and this is already being worked on. In the meantime the Ministry will investigate the possibility to implement this in the form of a policy for larger scale buildings before the regulations are in place since this could take some time," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Monday.

Minister Lake over the weekend had a good discussion with a General Manager of a hotel in Philipsburg who is taking the lead by making their facilities more disable and senior citizen friendly by creating ramps to the restaurants and to the beach. The Minster will continue to encourage other hotels and the motel sector to take steps to upgrade their properties in this area, and is urging the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) and the Chamber of Commerce & Industry to also start advising its stakeholders to cater to the disabled and senior citizens.

The Minister also spoke with one of the international participants in the past week Wheel-chair Tennis Tournament Lola Ochoa of Spain about their stay on the 'Friendly Island,' and areas can be improved for the disabled based on her own experiences. Ochoa passed on some ideas to the Minister who in turn has informed his ministry.

swescotwilliamsaccompaniesroyalcoupletocolombiaandvenezuela24112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams accompanied His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Maxima and the Prime Ministers of Curacao and Aruba on an official visit to Colombia and Venezuela on Friday.

His Majesty King Willem Alexander announced in October that he would visit the two largest neighboring countries, Venezuela and Colombia, of the Dutch Kingdom, after their visit to the Dutch Caribbean in November which was subsequently confirmed by the Government Information Service in The Hague. 
The Royal couple were accompanied by the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Frans Timmermans, Prime Minister of Aruba, Mike Eman, Prime Minister of Curacao, Ivar Asjes and the PM.

The King, Queen, Prime Ministers Wescot-Williams, Asjes and Eman were received in Colombia by the President of the Republic, Juan Manuel Santos and in Venezuela by President Nicolas Maduro. Highlights of the trip included the opening of he Holland House in Bogota and widespread discussions regarding the relationship between the Caribbean Part of the Dutch Kingdom and its two largest neighbors Colombia and Venezuela.

In February the Prime Minister also met with the Consul of Colombia the Hon. Alfonso De Jesus Velez Rivas in order to discuss the strengthening of ties with Colombia especially on matters concerning consular services for medical referrals from St. Maarten, the importing vegetables, meats and fruits to St. Maarten, human trafficking and what programs to campaign against these activities were also discussed.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nagicologowithtagline24112013PHILIPSBURG:--- "Fast, Fair & Always There" has been chosen to be the new advertising tagline for NAGICO Insurances and is being introduced region wide.

"We feel that our strengths are incorporated in the new tagline and also our promise to our customers about always being there when they need us most, which we have proved time and time again when disaster struck and when other insurers left", says Imran McSood Amjad, NAGICO Group CEO.

"We have listened to our customers and staff members and asked them how they would best characterize NAGICO". The new tagline is reflective of their answers", says Paul Dijkhoffz, NAGICO's Executive Marketing Manager.

"Also with NAGICO's rapid expansion over the last few years, the decision was made to introduce a new tagline that would better align itself with NAGICO's vision, which is to become the most trusted insurance company in the Caribbean", Dijkhoffz continued.

NAGICO's new tagline is being introduced through various media platforms across all 19 territories in which they operate in the coming months.

NAGICO Press Release

stcrepatteams13sportsconference24112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Sports Tourism Council St Maarten (STC) has reaped success at Teams 13 Sports Conference recently held in Salt Lake City, Utah. The four-day packed sports events executives and sports event organizers held various mutually beneficial appointments for their respective destinations.

It was the first time attendance by a representative from St Maarten. Destination St Maarten was represented by Sports Tourism Council St Maarten Executive Board Member Reggie Plaisir, Secretary.

Plaisir a sports consultant for 11 years scheduled 32 pre appointments to source sports tourism events to the destination. With 5 to 6 scheduled confirmed appointments per session Sports Consultant Reggie Plaisir met with multiple sports events organizers and suppliers.

From such meetings several projects are ready for Request For Proposal Stage. However, STC St Maarten has inked two deals in principle and several for consideration. Finalization of Agreements are pending until both parties sign officially.

Sport Tourism Events Deals in Progress:

  1. International Senior Softball Association - 10 Teams invited to St Maarten - agreed
  2. Half Marathon 13. 1 Miles - U.S. Run Marathon - 2014 & 2015 3, 000 Athletes - pending
  3. Triathlon - 5 K Run Holiday Run - The Color Run - 4, 000 Athletes - 2 Million Facebook friends
  4. AMP 1 Basketball Event - pending 20 Athletes 1 Team - Major USA Sponsor
  5. Premier Soccer Services - Youth Travel Teams 20 to 30 Teams
  6. St Maarten AAU International Youth Basketall Championships Invitional - pending
  7. Extreme Sports - USA Water Ski - Wake Board Event - 2014
  8. Other projects under development. STC Projects 11 to 12 International Sports Events Calendar for 2014. STC St Maarten is planning 2015 sports tourism events already and has plans to attend NASC Sports Events conference in March 2014 to attract more sports events the destination.

Furthermore, Team USA Water Ski Representative Site visit scheduled for December 2013 to explore and confirm feasibility of a May 2014 event on St Maarten.
The travel expenses of this trip was a combination of Corporate Partners Green House Restaurants, USA based law firm, Nagico and personal funds. No tourism government funds was issued for this very important niche market segment.

All other destinations present had development teams of tourism officials present. STC St Maarten could have been more succesful if appropriate travel budget was in place. Destination St Maarten should invest in Sports Tourism niche market to generate economic income to the destination.
STC St Maarten project an economic impact of $ 15 M USD or higher spending during the off season months for this sector within the next 3 to 4 years. Several Sports Tourism events comes with TV Rights that would further enhance and showcase our tourism product to the world. At Teams 13 several celebrities were present such as Former Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney and Emmy Award Sports Journalist Bob Costas. Sports Tourism is a multi billion dollar industry and several destinations in the region have entered the market with large development budgets.

gracitaarrindell17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell calls on the nation to reflect on 25 November, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, adding that violence against women is a human rights violation, and thereby calling on society to say loud and clear 'No to violence against women'.

Up to 70 per cent of women experience violence in their lifetime. Between 500,000 to two million people are trafficked annually into situations including prostitution, forced labour, slavery or servitude, according to estimates.

Women and girls account for about 80 per cent of the detected victims.

President Arrindell also supports the United Nation's (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-moon UNITE to End Violence Against Women campaign which has proclaimed the 25th of each month Orange Day.

The Orange Day invites everybody to wear something orange to highlight its calls for the eradication of violence against women without reservation, equivocation or delay.

This year, the UNITE Campaign is extending Orange Day to 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, starting November 25 through December 10, Human Rights Day.

"Violence against women is a consequence of discrimination against women, in law and also in practice, and of persisting inequalities between men and women.

"Violence against women impacts on, and impedes, progress in many areas, including poverty eradication, combating HIV/AIDS, and peace and security.

"Violence against women continues to be a global pandemic, and up to 70 per cent of women experience violence in their lifetime.

"I would like to take this opportunity to commend Safe Haven management, board and volunteers who assist those who have come into contact with violence, to continue to keep up the valuable work that you are doing in assisting those who have been abused.

"Violence against women and girls is not inevitable. Prevention is possible and essential. November 25 is an opportunity for all people to recommit to preventing all forms of violence against women and girls," President Arrindell said on Sunday.

On 17, December 1999, the UN General Assembly designated 25 November as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and invited governments, international organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations to organize activities designed to raise public awareness of the problem on that day.

maroonlives24112013By Jacqueline Sample

GREAT BAY, St. Martin (OES)—When is art revolutionary? Why does it appear, at critical times, that there is an irresistible attraction between the work of artists and revolutionaries? How do nature and humanity inspire and benefit from art, literature, and revolution?

Writers Lasana Sekou and Fabian Badejo may only give cause for more questions to the above with their revisit and treatment of the Grenada Revolution in the new title from House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP). However, the book includes color photos of extraordinary undersea sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor that could definitely help a good many of us get an idea of art as inspirational and revolutionary.

The book is Maroon Lives – Tribute to Maurice Bishop & Grenadian Freedom Fighters by Lasana M. Sekou; Revolution As Poetic Inspiration: Grenada in 'Maroon Lives' by Fabian Adekunle Badejo.

Maroon Lives uses a collection of Sekou's seminal poetry on revolution and a literary critique by Badejo to focus on the Grenada Crisis of 30 years ago, with implications for today. Grenada, the Caribbean region and its Diaspora, had been deeply divided when Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, leader of the Grenadian Revolution, and his closest advisers were murdered by the country's army on October 19, 1983. Six days later, the USA executed its long-planned invasion of the Spice Isle.

According to Badejo, "the scars left by the assassination of the charismatic Maurice Bishop, are yet to heal completely." The 30th anniversary year witnessed the passing of Bishop's mother at age 97, without her ever receiving his remains from US or Grenadian authorities for a proper burial.

Taylor's sculptures in Maroon Lives were photographed between two and eight years ago on the ocean floor off the coasts of Cancun/Isla Mujeres, Mexico – one of the world's largest sculpture museum underwater, and Moliniere Bay, Grenada. The latter site is part of a public underwater sculpture park, considered the world's first.

People from one Meso-American fishing village modeled for the some 500 concrete human figures in various positions and activities for the location in the Mexican waters, according to the New York Times. Grenadian youth posed for one of the exhibits that appear in Maroon Lives. The installations populating the sea floor at both locations are by now covered with some stunningly colorful coral and sea creatures.

"The sculptures form virtual vistas of living art that benefit nature and humanity by their creative, conservationist, and haunting integration with the marine habitats where they were sunk," said Sekou.

The haunting aspect was probably the attraction for Maroon Lives's "integration" of images from the uniquely permanent art exhibitions. The collection of poems "was and remains for me a dirge for a revolution gone bad; a revolution that held out the best hope for not only the Grenadian people but for the whole of the Caribbean," said Badejo.

The aspects of Maroon Lives that do celebrate life and hope are enhanced with the dramatic artwork from Taylor's Caribbean and Mexican projects: "Vicissitudes," "Tam CC project," and the oft-photographed "Silent Evolution" and "The Lost Correspondent."

Taylor, with maternal roots in the Caribbean region, is a conservationist. His undersea photography and skills as a scuba diving instructor have all come together to fashion the marine-grade concrete installations, works of art that stimulate "the habitation and growth of corals and marine life." (wikipedia.com/BBC radio)

With Taylor's art gracing the 30th anniversary edition of Maroon Lives, HNP is continuing its own 30 years of featuring established masters and fascinating new artists on the covers and pages of its books. Romare Bearden, Roland Richardson, Virgilio Mendez, Fernando Botero, Ras Mosera, Keith Mallet, Drisana Deborah Jack, Angelo Rombley, Joe Dominique, Margaret Matz, Cozbi Sanchez, are among those whose art range from iconic to utterly captivating and have been "exhibited" in HNP titles. Sometimes the authors whose books have become galleries of sorts for these artists are themselves erudite scholars, literary luminaries, and revolutionaries: George Lamming, Amiri Baraka, Kamau Brathwaite, Chiqui Vicioso, Emilio Jorge Rodriguez.

The first edition of Maroon Lives contained drawings by Sanchez and Gary Jefferson—then young artists in New York City where the slim volume was published in 1983 (a few weeks after the Grenada invasion). Maurice Bishop's classic likeness as the centerpiece of the new cover is actually a pen and ink drawing from the first edition.

So why reprint the 1983 poetry collection and Badejo's essay from a 1984 Caribbean studies conference, bundled as the new edition of Maroon Lives?

Sekou offers this in his preface to the 96-page volume: "It is done in the hope that as 'we journey still,' the book will resonate with today's protest poetry, related literary criticism, and dispatches from the culture wars and the challenges of globalization. It is certainly hoped that this tribute title would inform somehow the discourse and defiance of the enterprise of imperialism whatever shape, form, or guise this may take."

Keith Ellis, professor emeritus at University of Toronto, is certain that Maroon Lives, as a "powerful extensive elegy that privileges revolution—like others by José Martí and Nicolás Guillén—will not grow old, nor will the brilliant essay by Fabian Adekunle Badejo that accompanies it."

In the book's first chapter, Sekou's poems take aim at the Bishop assassination, the US invasion, and tensions generated by revolutionary struggles and the search for justice. Chapter two is Badejo's study of Maroon Lives and the critical relationship between literature, revolution, and the transformation of societies.

The images of the Jason deCaires Taylor sculptures invite us to dive into the sections of chapter one; at the beginning of chapter two; and introduce the appendixes that open with a list over 60 invasions and other military operations by the USA against countries and territories in the Caribbean and the Americas, between 1833 and 2004.

The placement of the images appears to speak to a universal subterranean memory. They are like anchored gates opening and linking the various parts of the literary texts by the authors, and the leafs bearing quotes from Walter Rodney, Maurice Bishop, and a Puerto Rican newspaper editorial from 1894 about the ambitions of "The American neighbour." The poetry sections of chapter one are entitled "resistance," "forwarding" and "toiled from morning."

Maroon Lives – Tribute to Maurice Bishop & Grenadian Freedom Fighters / Revolution As Poetic Inspiration: Grenada in 'Maroon Lives' is available at amazon.com, spdbooks.org, Van Dorp, Arnia's and other bookstores.

Editor's note: Jacqueline Sample is an art curator and former president of Black Dimensions in Art, Inc., New York.

As St. Maarten Participates in Global Entrepreneurship Week For the First Time

GREAT BAY:--- As a highlight of the Global Entrepreneurship Week, Foundation INFOBIZZ held a highly successful Black & Gold Power Hour Saturday, November 23, 2013 at Dan's Chocolate Factory on Front Street. Over 60 entrepreneurs and professionals, most of them young St. Martiners attended the event along with special guests, Minister of Labor, Health and Social Welfare, Cornelius de Weever and President of the Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Tamara Leonard who lent their support to the young entrepreneurs. It is the first time St. Maarten participated in this international awareness campaign that involves 138 countries worldwide.
Ms. Leonard addressed the young entrepreneurs on the importance of building on a foundation of order and structure to make their dreams reality. She spoke from the heart and encouraged them to go into business. "It is important that more people, especially our young people, remove themselves from the comfort of just a salary and create value for themselves, others and the community through starting their own businesses," she said. In a very down to-earth and direct way, she explained that it is important to appreciate the hardships that come along the way.
Dwain Carbon, founder and president of Carbon Acquisition Group gave six tips on how to effectively market and brand one's business. With over 10 years in sales, marketing and real estate the 28 year old Carbon spoke about who you are communicating to, giving back, and knowing who is in your field.
Special guest speaker, Shereen Ashman flew in from Canada to facilitate a sales pitch party. This social entrepreneur is best remembered for her start-up as Stile Divas, which was launched on St. Maarten, where she attended secondary school. Now in charge of creating and developing entrepreneurship programs for at risk youth in Toronto for Community Empowering Enterprises (CEE), she also has her own social enterprise A.S.A.P. Originally from Jamaica, she says, "St. Maarten literally saved my life and I am committed to doing what I can to contribute to it".
Founder and Managing Director of Foundation INFOBIZZ, Ms. Ife Badejo is not only the visionary behind the Black & Gold Power Hour but is the driving force behind St. Maarten being able to take part in the Global Entrepreneurship Week.
"I am truly honoured and humbled to see such a great turnout. You are making my dreams come true and I hope yours too," she said.
The next Power Hour Sessions will take place in February 2014.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that in order to link the main roads with the Simpson Bay Causeway Round-a-bouts on the Airport side (West) and the Round-a-bout (East) along the Union Road, Cole Bay near the border, the main road (Airport Road) leading to the airport and Maho Reef and to Simpson Bay from the aforementioned, and from Cole Bay to Marigot and vice versa, will be CLOSED for eight (8) hours.

The closure will facilitate the milling, cleaning, supply and installation and compacting of the asphalt top layer on the main roads that will connect to the round-a-bout.

Road Closure: Cole Bay-Marigot/Marigot-Cole Bay

There will be no through-traffic on the Union Road from the entrance to Port de Plaisance to Marigot and vice versa.

Monday, November 25-Tuesday, November 26, 10:00pm to 6:00am

The road will be re-opened at 6:00am on Tuesday, November 26 for motorized traffic.

Road Closure: Simpson Bay-Airport/Airport-Simpson Bay

There will be no through-traffic from the juncture of Airport Road and Patientia Road to the Princess Juliana International Airport and vice versa.

Tuesday, November 26-Wednesday, November 27, 10:00pm to 6:00am

The road will be re-opened at 6:00am on Wednesday, November 27 for motorized traffic.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

openingceremonyofslaveryexhibitionsteustatius22112013ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius:--- The opening of the exhibition 'Days of Slavery on St. Eustatius' by King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands in the Museum of the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation (SEHF) was marked by an incident. It was the result of a last-minute obstruction by the island governor's cabinet of the agreed and approved script and program of the King's interaction at the museum.

The slavery past of the island is obviously still a sensitive subject. From the start, the island governor (appointed by the Dutch government in The Hague) was opposed to the inclusion of the exhibition in the program of the Royal visit to the island. However, it remained included. The island governor then tried to get the opening act by the King removed from the official script of the visit. That also failed. Finally, this opening act was obstructed minutes before the arrival of the Dutch Royal couple, leaving the King and Queen in an awkward situation.

The King was going to open the exhibition by placing a branch of the flamboyant tree over the door of the reconstructed slave hut that is part of the exhibits. This refers to the traditional Statian way of celebrating Emancipation Day by decorating houses with these branches. This was also in the official program and script of the visit and the Royal couple was briefed accordingly. The children of the Historical Foundation's youth club under the leadership of museum employee Misha Spanner had rehearsed their short rendition of Statia's traditional emancipation song ("Happy July Day") that was going to end with two of the children handing the branch to the King.

However, when the Royal Couple was escorted to the hut by SEHF President Ms. Rosabel Blake it turned out that the branch had already been placed over the door opening. Minutes before the King and Queen arrived, a member of the Island Governor's Cabinet had gone to the hut and said that that part of the program had been scrapped – despite this not being the case. Miss Spanner was told not to include the branch in the routine. Since the King and Queen were all prepared for this symbolic opening act but were now left empty handed, this interfering created an awkward moment for the Royal couple and led to an embarrassing situation.

The St. Eustatius Historical Foundation does not understand the reasons for the obstruction. Every year on the 1st of July, Emancipation Day is celebrated on St. Eustatius and the oral history of the island includes many stories about slavery that were handed down from generation to generation.

The exhibition was put together on the occasion of the 150 years anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Dutch Caribbean this year. In 2002, a National Monument Dutch Slavery Past was unveiled in Amsterdam in the presence of the mother of King Willem-Alexander, then Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands.

raoulillidgesportscomplex22112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Hon. Patricia Lourens – Philip, flipped on the light switch at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Cay Hill. The complex is nearing completion after its first phase of refurbishment at an investment of US$4.3 million. The facility is expected to be officially opened in January 2014. Provisions have been made for the use of the complex on Saturday in connection with a Rights of the Child event.

masterclasseuropolgroup22112013MOUNT WILLIAM HILL:--- On Monday November 18, 2013, the EUROPOL Master Class was started, for the Departments of Immigration & Border Protection Services, Coast Guard and Customs in collaboration with the Sint Maarten Justice Academy and the Ministry of Justice, the topics discussed during this Master Class were;

  • The benefits of Cooperation with Europe and the lessons learned for Sint Maarten
  • Intelligence Analysis at Europol
  • Joint Investigations Teams in Europe
  • Data storage at Europol
  • The role of Europol in the fight against Facilitated Illegal Immigration

The sessions were conducted by Mr. Theo den Haan who comes from the Netherlands and has an extensive background as follows;
Mr. Theo den Haan started in has worked in various investigation teams that focused on the fight against serious organized crime in the field of narcotics, bomb attacks and robberies. Before resigning in 2000, he made the transition to an Information and Analysis Center Smuggling. This is a collaboration of various government departments such as the police, the Royal Military Constabulary, Immigration and Naturalization Service and the Tax Office. In 2003, he then entered the service of the European Police organization Europol, where in 2006 he was given a leadership position of the Operational project to combat illegal immigration within Europol, a function which he maintains to date.
During MC, a role-play was conducted of to organize a major crime and to simultaneously organize an investigation which would have prevented the execution of the crime. Participants got the opportunity to list solutions & potential opportunities regarding current issues in the service and presented them to the Director. These solutions incorporated the techniques, skills and strategies leaned throughout the MC.
Based on the reactions from the participants of the Master Class, it proved to be nothing short of interesting and engaging, as it was designed to positively influence the way each participant sees and responds to the different topics. One participants and law enforcement officer stated that the scenarios were very practical and could be immediately applied to the real situations at hand.
The Master class ended on a good note, as all participants left in high spirits strategically challenged and motivated to continue the dialogue in a collaborative manner about the topics; as a key to combating issues which currently plagues most countries in the world.

The Sint Maarten Justice Academy

soydeaqui22112013Dominican Republic racist law against its Black citizens affects quarter of a million people
By Myriam J.A. Chancy, Ph.D.

[OES Dispatch from St. Martin, Caribbean, November 21, 2013]:--- The implications of the ruling of September 23 by the Constitutional Tribunal of the Dominican Republic, stripping citizenship from the offspring of non-resident Haitians born in the Dominican Republic (DR), where nationality is conferred "jus soli," by place of birth, are only beginning to be understood by the international community with the OAS, Amnesty International, and the governments of Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, openly condemning the violation of human rights it represents.

Hanging in the balance are the lives of nearly a quarter of a million Dominicans of Haitian descent – of all ages – who have been rendered stateless by the ruling, in what has been deemed a human rights crisis in the making.

Upon closer examination, what becomes clear is that the ruling does not respond to an immigration crisis precipitated by the devastating earthquake in Haiti of 2010; neither is it an effort to quell the flow of migrant labor from Haiti into the Dominican bateyes or cane fields.

Today, only half of the Dominican Haitian population (numbering around three quarters of a million) work and live in the bateyes, though they remain perhaps the most vulnerable population to be affected by the ruling since 70% of batey dwellers were born in the Dominican Republic, and the vast majority exist there in working and living conditions of squalor that many human rights organizations liken to slavery.

The ruling of the Constitutional Tribunal came in response to a suit brought against the State by 29 year-old Juliana Dequis (Pierre) in 2008 when the Central Electoral Board refused to issue her state ID. A cédula is needed in the DR for everything from registration in schools, medical care, insurance, marriage licenses, to travel, and is acquired by presenting a state-certified copy of one's birth certificate. Copies of birth certificates expire after 90 days while cédulas have varying dates of expiration.

According to an October 2010 report by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights,1 the Electoral Board begun to turn away requests by Dominican Haitians for cédulas as early as in the 1980s, with escalating demands of proof of parental identity for Dominican Haitians culminating by 2000 in claims that Haitian parents were "in transit," and therefore not eligible to register their Dominican-born children.

In 2004, the constitutional definition of "in transit" was redefined to include all individuals without legal residency. In 2007, one year before Dequis applied for and was refused the renewal of her cédula, the Electoral Board passed a law annulling the citizenship of individuals born in the DR whose parents did not have legal residence. It also implemented the curious "Registration Book of Children of Non-Resident Foreign Mothers in the Dominican Republic."

The Dominican government has also routinely deported Haitians (and those who "look" like Haitians, i.e., dark-skinned Dominicans) in round-ups in the border zones, arguing that they need to be repatriated to Haiti as foreign nationals.

Both of the latter measures are based on active misreadings of Article 7 of a constitutional decree of 1984, which appears to be upheld (by silence) in the 1987 Haitian constitution, in effect in 2007, which states that a "child born in a foreign territory of a foreign father and Haitian mother will retain foreign nationality." However, the Haitian state only recognizes foreign-born children of Haitian nationals (of either sex) if the parents are registered citizens and declare their child, papers in hand, at a Haitian consulate in the foreign country in question, at birth.

yosoytuprojimo22112013In 2010, 14 days to the day after the Haiti earthquake, and while Dequis' case continued in legal limbo, a new constitution was passed in the DR denying citizenship to children born in the DR of illegal immigrants. When the Constitutional Tribunal passed down its ruling September 23, it also stated that the ruling it applied to Dequis was to be equally applied, retroactively, to all Dominicans of Haitian descent in a similar legal situation, going back to 1929, in violation of international law. This ruling effectively suspends the citizenship of nearly a quarter of a million Dominicans.

Although individuals of other ethnicities and nationalities may be affected by the ruling, it is estimated that, of those affected, 83% are of Haitian descent. The year 1929 sends a clear message, as it coincides with the rise to power of Rafael Trujillo, the general turned dictator who ruled the DR from 1930-1961; it also coincides with the first border treaty between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

That border treaty was only ratified in 1936 and, in 1937, Trujillo (himself a quarter Haitian) ordered the massacre of Haitians (and black Dominicans) in border zones still in dispute in 1935, after a land survey of 19302 favored Haiti's access to more land under the accord than had been provisionally agreed upon.

The objective of the massacre was ultimately to clear the land occupied by black Haitians and Dominicans (land that Trujillo largely re-acquired and exploited for himself), and in doing so, "rid" the DR of visibly Black, dark-skinned individuals.

The current ruling affects four generations of Haitians including those as old as 84 years of age who have known no other country than the Dominican Republic. It also makes the persecution of Dominicans of Haitian descent socially and legally permissible.

Finally, rather than regularize their legal standing in the DR, as the Electoral Board claims is its objective, it renders them not only stateless but de facto stateless, a legal definition for which there are no protections in international law.3

At the same time, Dominican Haitians refused their cédulas cannot leave the Dominican Republic (as a Dominican Haitian seeking to marry an American in Florida recently found out), ensuring that they remain in a state of perpetual servitude and third-class status.

What is the purpose of this debasement? As the late, Dominican Haitian human rights leader, Sonia Pierre once acutely declared: "My community, the community of Haitians and Dominicans of Haitian descent, is the poorest and most vulnerable, subject to the cruelest denial of their rights."4

For one, it perpetuates the myth of needing to maintain the DR's "whiteness" against foreign migration when the majority of its population is mixed. Second, it allows the DR to continue to uphold unjust and exploitative working conditions while denying citizenship to laborers. Third, for those Dominican Haitians several generations removed from an undocumented Haitian parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent, it effectively renders them incapable of making any claims or contributions to the DR's economic development. Fourth, it denies these individuals and all their progeny of their rights to education, health care, and insurance. These measures therefore not only create civic death but institutionalize its attributes: poverty, illiteracy, lack of identity, in short, non-being.

On Tuesday, October 15, a group of women of various Latin American nationalities stood up at the Hilton Hotel in Santo Domingo at the 12th Regional Conference of Women in Latin American and the Caribbean to greet President Danilo Medina with the slogan: "We are all Haiti."

Given the gross violation of human rights this ruling represents and the history it invokes, we should be willing, like these women, Haitian or not, to stand with Dominicans of Haitian descent in their on-going struggle for their human rights5 and as citizens of the country of their birth but, even more than this, to stand as Haitians in acknowledgment of what the Haitian struggle has stood for since 1791, long before there were Haitians and Dominicans, and when there were slaves: the right to liberty, personhood, and freedom6 in the Americas.

Editor's Note: Myriam J.A. Chancy, Ph.D., is a Professor of English, Caribbean Studies scholar, and an award-winning novelist based in the USA. Dr. Chancy has been an invited speaker at scholarly conferences and literary tours/festivals in the USA and the Caribbean, including the annual St. Martin Book Fair. © "Apartheid in the Americas: Are you Haitian?" article reprinted/reblogged from myriamchancy.com with permission from author.

princessheightssxm22112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Holiday shoppers can look further than retail stores on "Black Friday" this year with Princess Heights Luxury Boutique Hotel's Black Friday Special, offering reduced rates and added amenities for an unforgettable vacation in the Caribbean oasis of St. Maarten.

With this offer, travelers can book a stay in an award-winning deluxe studio, one- or two-bedroom unit for as low as $119 per night. Adding even more value to the Black Friday Special, guests will be given free use of a rental car and a beach package, which includes the use of beach chairs and an umbrella.

Princess Heights is a family-operated luxury boutique condo hotel, offering spacious studios, one and two bedroom suites with a total of 51 rooms, each featuring balconies with ocean views, fully equipped gourmet kitchens and whirlpool tubs. The hotel boasts a large fresh water swimming pool and a 24-hour gym. Princess Heights is located in the hillsides of Dawn Beach, within a short walk to the beach, casino, spa and restaurants.

Princess Heights' Black Friday Special must be booked by Dec. 4, 2013 for travel Dec. 12, 2013 - Dec. 18, 2014. Some conditions and blackout dates apply.

For more information on Princess Heights Hotel or to book, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.PrincessHeights.com, or call toll-free at 1-800-881-1744.

dennisrichardsonatoasconference22112013MEDELLIN, Colombia:--- The Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten, the Hon. Mr. Dennis Richardson, represented the Kingdom of the Netherlands as Permanent Observer at the fourth Conference of Ministers of Public Security (MISPA IV) of the Organization of American States (OAS), which was held in Medellin, Colombia, at 21 and 22 November 2013.

During this conference Minister Richardson met with Ministers and other officials of several OAS and Caribbean States, such as Barbados, St. Kitts & Nevis, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and Jamaica to discuss improvements in the ongoing law enforcement corporation.

He also met with the US Attorney General, Mr. Eric Holder to discuss the same topic. Mr. Richardson and Mr. Holder agreed to organize a next meeting early in 2014 to discuss concrete measures for the improvement Caribbean law enforcement corporation. This will be done together with other interested Caribbean partners.

Exam, pre-exam, and GED students invited to attend

PHILIPSBURG:--- The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) will be holding an information session on St. Maarten on Wednesday, November 27, 2013. This session will be held at the University of St. Martin from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and is open to all exam and pre-exam students from the secondary schools and persons holding or in process of obtaining a GED diploma.
UVI's Vice Provost for Access and Enrollment Services Dr. Nicole Gibbs will be on hand to answer any questions concerning programs offered by UVI. Persons attending the session are urged to be on time since it is scheduled to start promptly at 6:00 p.m.

telempersonnelassociationdonatestopositivefoundation21112013GREAT BAY:--- Funds raised from a Bike-A-Thon event for Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, was presented to the Positive Foundation by TelEm Group's Personnel Association Tuesday.
Positive Foundation President, Shelly Alphonso, received the funds on behalf of her group.
She thanked the TelEm Group Personnel Association and TelEm Group staff and family members who participated in the Bike-A-Thon and several events organized during the month to bring public attention to breast cancer in the St. Maarten Community.
TelEm Group Personnel Association President, Mr. Stanley Faneyete, also thanked company personnel and members of the public for their support and participation, and the police for providing escort and monitoring along the route of the Bike-a-Thon, from the TelEm Group Building, around the Great Salt Pond and back to the TelEm Group Building on Pond Island.
"We have spoken with the Positive Foundation about how we can continue to assist them in the future with their public awareness and training programs," said the Personnel Association President.

Telem Press Release

sewageconnectionneargebeandcasdastre21112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be a side street road closure starting, Friday, November 22 from 9:00pm to 6:00am at the junction by the GEBE Distribution Building and at the Cadastre Office.

No through traffic will be allowed in the two side streets at both aforementioned building locations; however there will be no disruption of traffic on the C.A. Cannegieter Street and Back Street.

The side street next to the GEBE Distribution Building in Philipsburg on the Pondfill is between the Walter J.A. Nisbeth Road (Pondfill Road) and C.A. Cannegieter Street which will be closed to traffic on the following dates: Friday, November 22; Sunday, November 24; Monday, November 25; Saturday, November 30; and Monday, December 2 at the aforementioned hourly timeframe.

The side street between the C.A. Cannegieter Street and Back Street next to the offices of the Cadastre in Philipsburg will be closed to traffic on the following dates: Friday, November 22; Sunday, November 24; Monday, November 25; Thursday, November 28; Saturday, November 30; and Monday, December 2 during the aforementioned hourly timeframe.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the road closure and traffic directional signs indicating the areas where the civil infrastructure works are being carried out.

The road closure is related to the sewage line connection.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

gracitaarrindelldonatestofilipinocommunityfoundation21112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Wednesday morning met with representatives of the Filipino Community of St. Maarten Foundation led by its President Ferdinand Odono, and presented a personal check towards the nation-wide relief effort currently underway to help the typhoon victims.

On November 8 Super Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) struck the Philippines causing catastrophic damage to part of the island-chain.

To date the death toll is more than 4,000 people. The United Nations estimates around 11 million people have been affected by the typhoon.

The foundation representatives feel overwhelmed by the support from the St. Maarten community. According to Odono, the St. Maarten Filipino community is about 100 persons.

"I would like to express my condolences on behalf of the people, my colleague Members of Parliament and the House of Parliament for the devastating loss in the Philippines.

"The people of Sint Maarten can relate to the devastation after going through the experience with Hurricane Luis in 1995. Sint Maarten also received an outpouring at that time and since then it has changed all of our lives," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell told the foundation's delegation on Wednesday.

President Arrindell added that the foundation is doing a great job with the fundraising relief effort and the country is showing overwhelmingly support, pointing out that whenever disaster strikes the people, the community comes together, and that the best of people comes out at such a time.

President Hon. Gracita Arrindell told the Filipino Community of St. Maarten Foundation to keep up the good work that they have been doing in the community over the years pointing out that they have been an asset to society.

swescotwilliamsatpjlviewingroyalvisitart21112013The Service the Library has provided is unmissable in the Community and integral to the development of the Country

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated the management and staff of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library on their 90th Birthday celebration which will be celebrated over the weekend. The Prime Minister remarked that the service the library provides is central to the development of St. Maarten as a nation: "The Library fulfills a very important function in the community as a center of learning, a national library and archive and an institution that fosters the intellectual development of our people. It is an area where learning, reading and the development of the collective mind is being fostered. And for this very reason the library is unmissable in our community," commented the Prime Minister.

The Philipsburg Jubilee Library was founded on the 23rd of November 2 1923 through and was further developed through the initiative W.R. Plantz, C.M. Darrell, C.C.G. Philipszoon, A.C. Wathey and C.A. Beaujon with the first books being purchased with donated money. The library has since then grown to have a collection of almost 63,000 items, 15 employees and approximately 6,000 members, with 126,000 books checked out annually.

"Once again a very warm congratulations going on to the management and staff of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. I urge the community to go out and support your Library and recognize its importance in our community," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) has received numerous inquiries from teachers wondering as to why there is still no information on WHEN Teachers and members of the Non-Teaching Staff employed at the Government Subsidized Schools will receive the payment of their COLA 2011.

While ALL the Teachers and Non-Teaching Staff of Public Education have already received their lump sum payment, information reaching WITU is that the subsidized boards received the calculation on how to pay the COLA from Government quite late.

WITU is still getting the impression that school boards are struggling with how to get these figures together to claim the monies from Government to be able to pay their personnel.

Information from some school boards to their staff on how the calculations have been done have gone out, but not all boards have been keeping their staff informed and updated on a possible payment date.

The WITU, again, strongly feels that this is very unfortunate and unfair to our members employed at the school boards, since this information should have been requested or shared in a timely fashion from Government to school boards and back.

It is a blatant disrespect to our members that information cannot be given to them on what is taking place. Civil servants have been paid, but still teachers working for subsidized school boards continue to wonder when they will be paid what little is to be paid. This is very unfair.

WITU is therefore calling on all school boards to inform and update their staff, and be open with what is going on. Payment must be made! WITU is also monitoring the situation and is in constant contact with the boards so we may continue to inform and update our members.

WITU Press Release

rotarysxmsunrisecharityfleamarket21112013PHILIPSBURG:--- A Charity Flea Market organized by the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise was a big success. The Charity Flea Market was held on Saturday November 16 on the premises of Air Lekkerbek in Philipsburg.
Sellers paid $20 for a stand to sell their wares, and merchandise varied from second hand clothes and home wares, to handmade crafts and plants. The money paid by stand holders was divided between the Charity End Polio Now and several projects for the youth and senior citizens.
Stand holders were entitled to keep their own profits, but some chose to donate their takings to the charities. The concept worked very well, and both sellers and buyers were very happy. Many buyers came away with real bargains.
Adding to the excitement was the Diabetes Foundation of St. Maarten, which was present with a number of volunteers who conducted health checks for free. During these health checks, weight and height were measured, and blood was tested for blood sugars and cholesterol.
A deejay added to the ambiance, and many parents purchased home-made snacks whilst their children played games or jumped on a bouncy castle.
A special thanks to the Rema, Shop for Less, Victors Cosmetic Store and the many community partners who donated items to make this event a success.
End Polio Now is a Rotary International initiative, and the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise commits itself annually to fundraise for this charity, which has an aim to eradicate polio worldwide.
The Rotary Club of St Maarten Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday morning at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on Rotary Sunrise, visit the website www.sxmsunrise.org or email:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

plourensatrightsofthechildcommemorationceremony21112013Good morning,
Protocol: (staff of the Department of Youth Affairs, representatives from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen),

On November 20, 1989, 24-years ago today, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, a landmark for human rights that came into force after the law acquired the required number of signatories for its ratification.
This treaty for the first time sought to address the particular needs of children and set minimum standards for the protection of their rights.
It is the first international treaty to guarantee civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child is the most widely accepted human rights treaty.
To mark the 24th anniversary of this significant occasion, country Sint Maarten is pleased to join the rest of the world to celebrate the day and to take stock of our achievements in fulfilling the rights of children, as enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
As country Sint Maarten, we have a lot to be thankful for. Our children are well off when compared to what some children go through on a daily basis around the world.
Millions of children have no access to education, to water, sanitation; work long hours under hazardous conditions; is forced to serve as soldiers in some countries in armed conflict; and children are often exploited and abused.
As country Sint Maarten, as a civil society, we must ensure that our children are treated as full-fledged members of society.
As Minister responsible for Youth Affairs, on this 24th anniversary of the Rights of the Child, I recommit myself, my Ministry and Government to discuss our achievements, but at the same time review what remains to be done and how, so that the children of country Sint Maarten can enjoy their rights and freedoms and government can respond to the demands and expectations of our youth.
We must as a nation continue to increase and improve where necessary on our measures and mechanisms for protecting our children.
Government is committed to allocating the necessary resources, within our budgetary constraints, so that we can further enhance the services that are related to the rights of our children.
I would like to conclude by congratulating all the children and youth of country Sint Maarten on this historic day where the world of nation's 24-years ago saw the necessity of securing the rights of children and young people.

Thank you
God Bless our children.
God Bless Sint Maarten


Patricia Lourens-Philip
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports

jeanreneduretandlawyer21112013MARIGOT:--- Territorial Councilor Jean Rene Duret who is also an employee of SEMSAMAR has some more waiting to do since his lawyer Maître Jean Yves Leborgne posed several questions about the articles of the criminal code that were used to prosecute Duret for being involved in a case of conflict of interest.

Maître Leborgne told the court that article 432-12 of the criminal code is not clear and he believes that the court needs to get clarity on this particular article of the criminal code prior to continuing with the case. Maître Leborge based his arguments on articles 5 and 8 of the déclaration des droits de l'homme as he presented his arguments to the court.

Prosecutor Flavien Noailles agreed with Maitre Leborgne and suggested that the court send the questions the defense posed on the criminal codes to the Constitutional Court for clarification. The panel of judges also agreed with the proposition made by Maître Leborgne saying this is exceptional for them, but they will grant the defense their request. The case against Jean Rene Duret will continue when the court receives those answers.

Maître Leborgne also criticized the way the Gendarmes on St. Martin are conducting their investigations, he said based the file he has before him the Gendarmes did not provide any proof to show that his client committed any crimes. He said the only thing he saw are references made to articles published by one of the French newspapers.

keomahamer21112013GARDEN CITY, NY:--- NAPW honors Keoma L. Hamer, Founder and President of The KeLaHa Projects Foundation, as 2013/2014 Professional Woman of the Year for leadership with this prestigious distinction. As the largest, most-recognized organization of women in the United States, spanning virtually every industry and profession, the National Association of Professional Women is a networking community with nearly 500,000 members and over 400 Local Chapters throughout the
country. Star Jones, acclaimed attorney, TV personality, business woman and best-selling author is NAPW's national spokesperson.
"My mom died of cervical cancer in October 2011. After watching her suffer, I didn't want other women and families to have to go through that," Ms. Hamer says. Combining her desire to do community work with her quest to bring about
cervical cancer and HPV awareness, she drafted the objectives of the organization, recruited members for the board and incorporated KeLaHa Projects Foundation on March 29th, 2012.
The nonprofit organization, based on the island of St. Maarten, strives to help those battling cervical cancer on St. Maarten and other neighboring islands, and raise awareness about healthcare, provide educational initiatives and create youth development programs. One of Ms. Hamer's first initiatives was to produce a documentary, "In their Own Words." In this riveting film, three women, including Ms. Hamer's late mother, tell their stories about their battles with cervical cancer. The film
has helped raise awareness about the disease and the need for improved access to the HPV vaccine, pap smears, etc.
KeLaHa Projects continues its efforts by hosting various workshops, conducting home visits, etc., throughout the year and hopes to raise funds to assist uninsured women and provide counseling and support groups. Ms. Hamer plans to soon establish a dedicated office where "we'll be able to operate fully and be even more available to community members."
KeLaHa Projects is a member and supporting organization of the Healthy Caribbean Coalition's first regional cervical cancer e-petition, aiming to send a message to government to make cervical cancer screening more affordable for Caribbean women.
Through its unrelenting efforts to bring awareness of cervical cancer and HPV to its community, the nonprofit has positively influenced legislation. The St. Maarten government launched the HPV Vaccine for young girls in September 2013. Working with young people is another important facet of the foundation, says Ms. Hamer, and an initiative they are continuing to expand.

Click here to view Keoma Hamer's Profile on the NAPW's website.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Immigration and Border Protection Service would like to inform all persons who exchanged their BTA Category 1 permits for regular permits, that they may pick up their new permits every Saturday at the Immigration office from today onward.
Please visit the following links - "www.sintmaartengov.org/What's New" and "www.sintmaartengov.org/Ministry of Justice" to confirm that your name is one of the lists of permits that are ready to pick-up.
The date of the list on which your name appears is the date that you must visit the office to pick up your permit. The lists are also posted at the Immigration office on the A.Th. Illidge Road.

Please have the following with you when visiting Immigration:

  1. Valid Health insurance
  2. Valid Passport
  3. Recent Dutch size passport photos

Reid and band Tanny and the Boys have "influenced the musical landscape of St. Maarten"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated St. Maarten Musical Visionary Maxime Emeal Reid, well known as a band member of the popular local band Tanny and the Boys. "I would like to especially congratulate Maxime on his ninety second birthday. I especially enjoyed Mr. Reid's performance during the St. Maarten's Day celebration where he played with Tanny and the Boys. Mr. Reid's contribution to keeping music and our traditional culture alive is so important to the community. The theme for this St. Maarten's Day Celebration was 'Back in the Day' and to see traditional music being played by one of our elders, enthralling both young and old alike is testament to his influence on the musical landscape of St. Maarten,' commented the PM.

From the age of 15 Maxime Reid discovered his love of the Guitar and of Music and could be found entertaining the neighborhood during the Holidays. In 1971 he joined Tanny and The Boys and has brought traditional St. Maarten Folk Music to the world. Tanny and the Boys have played for official functions such as the Queen's Birthday, Government Receptions and on many occasions for the visit of the Royal Family.

"Once again a very happy birthday and may God grant you the strength to continue to inspire this country with your music," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gun20112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Swat Team conducted a raid at the home of former police officer Ashwin Martina who was suspended from the Police Force for some time until he was eventually dismissed from KPSM in October 2012 by former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. The MB was signed by Governor Eugene Holiday and the former Minister of Justice. According to information provided to SMN News early on Wednesday morning, the Swat Team conducted the raid after they were tipped off that the officer was in possession of an illegal firearm. Officer Ashwin Martina was suspended from the Police Force after having a number of problems within the community. The last incident was when he hit the supervisor of MNO Vervat who along with some workers were conducting road works on Pondfill Road in the vicinity of the Philipsburg Police Station. Officer Martina's action landed the Government of St. Maarten with a bill of US $9,000.00 for the asphalt that was prepared for the road work that evening and could not be done. Even though the Police Management and the former Minister of Justice suspended Officer Ashwin Martina pending his dismissal, he was still living in a house that is paid for by government, while his salary was also being paid pending the finalization of the decree to terminate him from KPSM. SMN News further learnt that an illegal firearm and other items were indeed seized during the search on Wednesday morning.

SMN News further learnt that the Landsrecherche is conducting the investigation and they requested assistance from the police, thus the Police Swat Team assisted with the raid.

Prosecutor Tineke Kamps said that the Prosecutor's Office was not informed about any searches that was conducted on Wednesday morning. However, she said later after conducting some research that a raid was indeed conducted at the home of a former police officer who was arrested and later released. Prosecutor Kamps said the Landsrecherche is continuing the investigation.

Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed that a search was conducted at the officer's home and that the search was not conducted illegally. Stein said the police could search a home or any location without official permission from the Prosecutor's Office. St. Maarten's Attorney General further confirmed that some items were seized but declined to say what those items were.

ashwinmartinahousesearchpr21112013

GREAT BAY:--- In Observance of World Fisheries Day, Thursday, November 21, the Nature Foundation and the Work Group for the Millennium Development Goals has highlighted the fish kills and the invasive Tilapia as a central issue regarding Fisheries Management and the Millennium Development Goal MDG 7, Environmental Sustainability.

Based on the three fish die offs the Nature Foundation St. Maarten has compiled and delivered a report based on research conducted during the week of the 27th of October which outlines the causes, results and possible preventative measures for the increase of fish die off events St. Maarten has been experiencing over the last few years.

The report gives recommendations by the Nature Foundation to the Government/ VROMI Ministry of St. Maarten regarding the issues associated with the introduction and massive fish die-offs of the introduced Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) and the Blue Tilapia (Oreochromis aureus) which are the species of Tilapia most introduced into the wetlands of St. Maarten (Great Salt Pond, Fresh Pond).

Both types of Tilapia are a species of fish in the Cichlidae family. Native to Northern and Western Africa, and the Middle East, through introductions it is now also established elsewhere, including parts of the United States and the Caribbean, where it has been declared an invasive species and has caused significant environmental damage not only through fish die off events but also in harming already depleted ecosystems. The Tilapia invasion in our wetlands can be compared to the Lion Fish Invasion on our Coral Reefs.

Anecdotal reports suggests that, although there have been minor reports of Tilapia being in the Great Salt Pond since the 1970s a large introduction of Tilapia was done into the Great Salt Pond in 2004 by a pet shop owner (since moved to Great Britain)who had his business in the Madam Estate Shopping Center. The proprietor of the Pet Shop introduced the Tilapia into the Great Salt Pond after the specimens became too large to handle. This research is corroborated by the fact that since the initial introduction in 2004 and based on the research none of native St. Maarten fish were found dead during the fish die-offs.

Tilapia is fast growing, breed rapidly, and once introduced into a habitat they generally establish themselves very quickly. In doing so they compete with native fish fauna, reduce the light available for aquatic plants, and eat certain types of aquatic plants causing changes in local aquatic flora. Such problems have been observed in many different places, including Australia, Philippines, and the United States.

Although the testing results show that the Great Salt Pond is indeed faced with poor water quality, the predominant results which stand out are related to a drop in oxygen in conjunction with a rise in salinity or saltiness. This shows that yes, there is an issue with water quality in the Great Salt Pond, but that the primary reason for the fish die-off is the species itself and is not related to the Pond. The Great Salt Pond, as its name suggests, is a Saline to Hyper Saline Environment and although Tilapia can withstand salinity up to a certain point, after attaining a certain level the species dies massively.

World Fisheries Day calls for a greater management of fisheries and fisheries related activities on St. Maarten. The management of fisheries also falls within the Framework of MDG Goal number seven (7) which calls for an increased environmental sustainability.

Author: Tadzio Bervoets , manager at the Nature Foundation and member of the Millennium Development Goals Work group.

Symbols of the Millennium Development Goals this article is based on MDG nr. 7 (Ensure Environmental Sustainability).

lottedunninksworninasattorneyatvanepskunnemanvandoorne20112013KRALENDIJK, Bonaire:--- Lotte Dunnink, junior associate at VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne in Bonaire, was sworn in as an attorney on 14 November. That makes her the fourth junior associate of the firm that has been sworn in this year by the Joint Court of Justice of Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten and of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba.
Lotte joined VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne in May 2013, after graduating in International Public Law (Human Rights Law) and in Administrative and Constitutional Law at the University of Tilburg. She pursued a career outside the Netherlands, having lived in Germany and South-Africa during her studies already. She chose Bonaire as a part of her family lives here and because VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne provides the possibility to develop herself to an excellent lawyer. As Lotte loves to be outdoors, she enjoys living in Bonaire and the beautiful nature that the island has to offer.
At VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne, Lotte represents a wide variety of clients, whom she mainly advises on administrative law, tenancy law and employment. She comments on being sworn in: "The administration of the oath is the crowning glory of the work of preceding years and at the same time is a step towards the future. I feel honored that I could do this in the presence of friends, colleagues and – over 7000 kilometers of my original roots – also family."

Press Release from VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne

sdhstudentparticipatinginminigames20112013REWARD:--- The students of the St. Dominic High School have spent the last month busy with what they call "The 24-Hour Lesson Marathon" or Lesson-thon for short, which will take place on November 22nd to 23rd. The International Baccalaureate year 1 students have worked with the co-operation of a few teachers to put this event together after the success of the past Lesson-thons. We can say with confidence that this event was organized by the students for the students.
Every student has been given a sponsor card that they have been trying to fill with donations from both businesses and individual sponsors. The purpose of this event is to collect funds to assist the students of IB year 1 in raising money for their mandatory educational, international trip which they will be going on next year.
The students have implemented a house system: red, blue, green, and yellow house. Every student was given a colored sponsor card, in the hopes of raising the most money for their house. A logo competition was held and the winners' prize was a guaranteed spot to partake in this event. Five other students were selected from their respective houses to participate in 24 hours of classes and activities with absolutely no sleep. For the past two weeks, the IB Year 1 students have been conducting mini games during the recess so that each house can gain points and also for each house to get motivated for the upcoming marathon. The Lesson-thon will begin at 7:30 a.m. on Friday morning, where the students will follow normal classes and at 2:30 p.m. the line-up of very exciting activities will begin. Guest teachers and guest presenters have offered their assistance by leading interesting classes that vary from Chemistry, Salsa, Music, Cooking, and many more. The Red Cross and security will be present throughout the event.
The St. Dominic High School hopes to receive co-operation from the community by supporting the IB – Year 1 students, which will aid them in raising funds for their trip. The aim of this trip is to gain experience abroad, learn about other cultures, and conduct research for future assessments.
A special thank you goes out to all businesses and the community who have contributed to this event thus far and for continuing to support and believe in the youth and education at St. Dominic High.

swescotwilliamsatrightsofthechildcommemorationceremony20112013PM: "If we do not support our children we are going to have future generations and leaders of this community who do not understand where they belong as members of the St. Maarten society"

BELAIR:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave the opening address at the St. Maarten Observance of the International Day of the Rights of the Child held at the Belair Community Center on Wednesday. The theme for the St. Maarten observance was focused on the rights of children to have an identity and the rights of children to belong to a community. Children's Day is recognized on various days in many places around the world, to honor children globally. It was first proclaimed by the World Conference for the Well-being of Children in 1925 and then established universally in 1954 to protect an "appropriate" day. Major global variants include a Universal Children's Day on November 20, by United Nations recommendation.

The Prime Minister started her address by commending and congratulating both Governments of St. Maarten and St. Martin for jointly hosting the commemoration of the International Day of the Rights of the Child. "I want to congratulate the schools that are involved in this celebration today and in other activities which will be taking place in the coming days. As far as St. Maarten is concerned we have, in becoming a country, become party to the Convention of the Rights of the Child. In doing this, even more than before, we are accountable to the international community and we need to show how we are progressing in as far as we are upholding the rights of the child as put forward in the convention of the same name.

"While that is an important exercise and there is always the pressure to show that we are making strides in this respect I think it is even more important to focus on the things we do here locally on St. Maarten for our children. As we grow into this process, awareness of all within the community is essential in ensuring that children's rights are looked after. For this celebration this year we have singled out the articles that deal with identity and the rights of the name of our children. These two articles, seven and eight, are particularly important for St. Maarten to ensure that our children enjoy a clear and concise identity and family protection. Too often we are confronted with children being left behind by their parents given the current migration pattern, and it is also not uncommon for persons to find themselves on the island and not being really sure of their identity. So I am extremely pleased that we have chosen this aspect because we do have children who go through this on St. Maarten," emphasized the Prime Minister.

The PM also stressed that children need to be given the necessary supportive environment in order for them to grow and reach their full potential within the community. "If we do not support our children we are going to have future generations and leaders of this community who do not understand where they belong as members of the St. Maarten society. In the case of our children the old saying goes that there is no gale that stops at the frontier. God bless the children of this country," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

dignitariesatrightsofthechildcommemorationceremony20112013BELAIR:--- Several elected officials from the Dutch and French side of the island attended the launching ceremony of the 24th Anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams in her remarks said that the theme this year is "My right to my identity and my right to belong." Wescot Williams said since St. Maarten became a country they became a separate party to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, thus making St. Maarten accountable to the international community and they also need to show when and how the country made progress as far as upholding the rights of the child as is stated in the convention.

The Prime Minister said that there are number of issues regarding children especially those that ended up on St. Maarten not knowing where they come from and neither do they know their identity. Wescot Williams explained that there are children on St. Maarten who do not enjoy a clear and concise identity and family protection which is also part of the rights of children.

Wescot Williams said while parents have a huge role to play in ensuring that children's rights are protected, it does not stop there because schools and the entire community have a large role to play with guarding the rights of children. She said very often they are left with the responsibility of finding out what to do with the children that were left behind on St. Maarten. "These children were either left in the care of neighbors by parents who either brought their children to the island or even sent them to St. Maarten. In closing her remarks, the Prime Minister said that when dealing with issues regarding children the gale does not stop at the border and that is why it is essential that the governments of both sides work together in upholding the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Vice President of the Collectivity of Saint Martin who is charged with Social Affairs Ramona Conner shared some of the same sentiments as the Prime Minister. She said there are children that are left alone at home on the French side while their parents go to work in neighboring St. Barths. "Those children sometimes do not get to eat, they are left to fend for themselves, many times they don't go to school and most of them end up being delinquent." VP Conner said that there are fundamental rights of children that must be upheld, the right to be educated and to be protected, to be cared for, to learn, to freely express themselves, to have fun and have an identity and family. "Children are used for parents to get immigration papers and monies from government, children are not passports and they do have rights," the Vice President of the Collectivity said. "Furthermore, up to this day there are more that 200 million children working in the world, exerting tasks that are detrimental to proper development, but it represents cheaper labor." This she said is called slavery and some people are still naïve to its existence but statics show that this is still existing in at least five continents, therefore the rights of children must become a reality and no longer an illusion.

frenchquartersquat20112013VP Conner went on and quoted the statements made by UN General Secretary Kofi Annand who said: "Nothing is more important that building a world in which all our children will have an opportunity to reach their full potential and grow in good health, peace and dignity."

Other speakers at the event were Minister of Education Patricia Lourens, Head of the Court of Guardianship Richelda Emmanuel, Head of Youth Affairs Shermina Powell, and the President of the Youth Parliament of St. Maarten Ms. Roshana Richardson.

While authorities from both sides of the island held an auspicious ceremony involving students from various schools, gave out awards and pronounced speeches that showed how much children ought to be protected, some of those very people that spoke and outlined the need to protect children have chosen to turn a blind eye to some very severe situations that are affecting minors on both sides of the island.

One case which is known by both the French and Dutch side authorities involves a number of young children whose nationality are supposed to be Dutch but they are living in a dilapidated building in French Quarter. It is alleged that some of these children were in protective custody on the Dutch side of the island but ended up on the French side in a squat, living without basic utilities such as running water and their parents are stealing electricity from the main line belonging to EDF. They are seen by neighbors running naked almost all day, sometimes they beg for food and water because they have nothing to eat. A few months ago it was proven that a six year old girl living in this squat never had a vaccination since birth, these children never attended school even though education on the French side is compulsory. The situation regarding these children is well known to the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein, the Prosecutor's Office, the Court of Guardianship, and the French authorities namely the Department of Social Affairs. The Gendarmes on the order of the State representative conducted an investigation some months ago. The Department of Social Affairs (DASS) also conducted an investigation and they claimed to have sent the report to the Prosecutor for a decision to be taken since March 2013. Despite all of the investigations and complaints that were filed on both sides of the island, the children have not yet been helped. It would be an honor for the neighbors and mostly for the young children living in the above mentioned conditions be given some sort of priority during this week's celebration of the Rights of the Child on St. Martin/St. Maarten as Government tries to show they are upholding the UN Convention on the Rights of Children.

There are other cases that were highlighted to SMN News where minor children from the South side of the island are working as prostitutes on the French side. One concerned citizen who is fighting to get government's attention in dealing with this situation said he knew of 16 cases all of which concern minor children from the South side of the island that are on the French side of the island.

Click here to view more photos of the Opening Ceremony on the Rights of the Child.

Click here to view the Rights of the Child Convention Booklet 2013.

GREAT BAY:--- Foundation INFOBIZZ, one of the top partners of Global Entrepreneurship Week, will host a dynamic networking event for young professionals and entrepreneurs. This event promises to be a place where like-minded ambitious people get to widen their network, gain some tips on Marketing & Branding to help take their business and skills to the next level.
This Black & Gold Power Hour will take place from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Dan's Chocolate Factory on Front Street. This is a perfect opportunity to see the variety of work possibilities that are out there, meet directly with those movers and shakers that can assist you, and at the same time enjoy some new and interesting drinks and snacks provided by Dan's Chocolate Factory.
"This particular Power Hour is very special. It is the first of the bimonthly networking possibilities that we would like to continue to do and it is the highlight of our first participation in the Global Entrepreneurship Week", Ife Badejo, founder of FOUNDATION INFOBIZZ mentioned.
With double digit youth unemployment, Badejo, stressed the importance of entrepreneurship as a key driver in lowering unemployment. Foundation INFOBIZZ was set up to help in the areas of entrepreneurship education and financial literacy.
"We have so much planned. Still we need to build our reputation one program and activity at a time. This has been something that has been clear to me since moving back home," Ife concluded.
A daughter of the soil, Ife Badejo has lived in the US and in the Netherlands and decided to contribute her skills set and knowledge to helping entrepreneurs and professionals through FOUNDATION INFOBIZZ.
Tickets for the BLACK & GOLD Power Hour are available at $25 each at Van Dorp Stores. This includes the snacks and drinks.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 8th annual Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala Event is sold out with the exception of just a few tickets. The event which will be held on November 22nd, 2013 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, recognizes excellence in service and outstanding performance at the various levels and throughout the different sectors of the Tourism & Trade industry.
The Organizing Committee has been successful in attracting a host of high profile sponsors such as Interval International who is the main sponsor for this event and the Discover Card. The venue is being decorated by the premier event planning and décor company on St. Maarten. "We are thrilled that Artemia will be creating our vision for 'Sustainable Tourism' this year. We are convinced that they will do a wonderful job as they always have," said the Organizing Committee.
A sumptuous buffet will be available for all attendees. Chef Iwan Pennings of the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is looking forward to wow-ing the guests with culinary treats. There will be a silent auction and a raffle, each with exciting prizes. There will even be a surprise for each of the attendees of the spectacular gala event, courtesy of our sponsors. Opportunities will be available for the guests to have their picture taken as a memorable souvenier of the event. The evening will end with the very popular Control Band so guests can dance the night away. This event promises to be one to remember!
The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, or to become a member please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

studentsatfestivalvillagewithdonatedfoodanddrinks20112013~ Students performed for Royal Couple at Festival Village on November 13th ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever, founder of Art Saves Lives expresses her gratitude to companies who donated food and drinks to the 200 students who participated and provided transportation of supplies to the festival village in preparation for the Cultural showcase. Philip & Charlotte Forster and John & Heather Caputo provided Domino's Pizza and drinks for the students during their rehearsals. National Institute of Arts expressed their thanks to BGC Distributors for their generous supply of PowerAde and to Mr. Stanley Lint of STM N.V Shipping company for their help in transporting the supplies to the venue.
Ms. De Weever, founder and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation was the choreographer of the closing segment of the cultural segment at Wednesday performance for the Royal couple.

studentsatculturalyouthshowcase20112013~ 200 Students performed for Royal Couple at Festival Village on November 13th ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever, founder of Art Saves Lives foundation expresses her gratitude to the 200 amazing students who performed for His Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima. Ms. De Weever also wishes to thank NIA, Charlotte Brookson Academy for the Performing Arts, Redeye Crew Band, Carlishia Philips, Christophe Champare, Jerome Chrilias, the Cultural Center for the flags used in the performance and the local committee who organized the Royal family's visit for allowing her the opportunity to choreograph the finale "Kalala". Ms. De Weever was honored to give back to her country.

carnivalconquestcaptainfrancescolafaucireceivesplaquefromhectorpeters19112013POINTE BLANCHE:--- On Tuesday morning port management and supervisory board directors were on hand to welcome the Carnival Conquest to the Port of St. Maarten on its first inaugural call with over 3000 cruise passengers.

Carnival veteran Captain Francesco La Fauci told port management representative Hector Peters and supervisory board of directors Renald Williams and Humphrey Mezas, that the destination is one of his favorites. He added that all guests and crew love St. Maarten and always have good things to say about the island upon their return to the ship.

Captain La Fauci is one out of 10 senior captains of the cruise line with 30-years' experience. Prior to the Conquest, he was captain of the Carnival Triumph for four years which also called at the port. The last time Captain La Fauci visited the destination was back in 2009. This is his first time docking at the port's new pier.

The Captain spoke with Peters, Williams and Mezas about the progress the country has made since the last time he was here, and he was very pleased to learn about the economy.

Peters, Williams and Mezas who were presented with plaques by the captain thanked the captain for the cruise lines continued interests and confidence in the destination. They pointed out that the port and the destination overall is always looking ahead and trying to do our best to keep cruise passengers and crew members interested in returning to the island.

The Conquest will homeport out of Miami, Florida after completing two repositioning's which started at the beginning of November. The new Miami-based schedule is part of Carnival's ongoing Fun Ship 2.0 initiative of repositioning its vessels.

The Carnival Conquest can carry 2984 passengers but has a total guest capacity of 3,700; and has a crew of 1150. The vessel is 953 feet in length and has a gross tonnage of 110,000.

The vessel was built at a cost of US$500 million by the Fincantieri Cantieri Navali Italian shipyard. Its inaugural cruise was December 1, 2002.

Also in port on Tuesday were the Disney Fantasy and Norwegian Epic.

babyclinicvaccinationtraininggroup19112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour in early November collaborated with the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment and the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (RIVM) to provide training for the staff of Youth Health Care section Baby Clinic. Participants also came from Saba, St. Eustatius, and Bonaire.

Staff received a general presentation about the background of infectious disease control and vaccination; vaccination techniques and register; epidemiology of Diphteria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio; prevention of cervical cancer by the HPV vaccine; vaccine safety measles, mumps and rubella; and invasive vaccine-preventable diseases, Hib, Meningococci and Pneumococci.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that a section of Back Street will be closed Wednesday evening, November 20 from 10:00pm to 1:00am.

The section of the road closure will take place at Zout Steeg and DC Steeg.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

Permission for the road closures were granted by the Ministry of Justice.

swescotwilliamsatmarinebasepointeblanche19112013POINTE BLANCHE:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined His Excellency the Governor of St. Maarten Eugene Holiday in opening Marine Base Pointe Blanche on Tuesday afternoon. The Prime Minister and Governor were guided around the base by Detachment Commander Wokke and were given a tour of the facilities. Some twenty Royal Marines are expected to be rotated through the base, assisting in safety and security operations as well as the possible social development project centered on training young people in practical skills.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarysxmsunriseboard19112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise was named "Club of the Month" for October 2013. The club was chosen out of 84 clubs within the district.
The achievement is special for the club, as October is designated by the Rotary organization as "Vocational Service Awareness Month". It is the first time that the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise has earned the "Club of the Month" title since the award existence in 2010 onwards, the club won third place for "Rotary Awareness Month" in January 2013
The club currently has 22 members, who meet every Tuesday morning at 7:00 am for breakfast at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant in Philipsburg. The club is responsible for numerous projects designed to assist the community, and which range from fundraising events such as the successful "End Polio Now" Charity Flea Market this Saturday, to events in which the members themselves put hard work into a good cause, such as painting of the Oranje School. The club other endeavors include collaborating with the business community issuing over 800 school bags to students, supplying four schools with daily nutritious breakfast, issue eyeglasses to students, job shadowing for our youth, collaborated with sundial school in different projects along with a newly charter interact club at the school and the tremendous growth in our Readers are Leaders program where students are challenged to read at least one book per month.
The club also ran an "Active Parenting" session aimed at fathers, various projects for youth, and the club helps and supports other volunteer organizations on the island. Many of these projects have been highlighted in the media, and particularly the Active Parenting session was highly successful, with a follow up course being organized by the club.

CAY HILL:--- TelEm Group technicians will be cutting over a phone cabinet from an overground network to a more secure underground network Wednesday morning causing some interruption in service to residential and commercial customers in parts of Cay Hill.
The work is scheduled to begin at 8:00 am and will affect residential and business properties in Tiger Road, Leopard Road, Zebra Drive and a portion of Welgelegen Road from Eco Market to Teke Teke Bar and including Builder's Paradise.
Technicians expect to complete the cutover at approximately 4:00 pm.
TelEm Group management has apologized for any interruptions in service that may be caused by the outside plant network upgrade to improve and secure connections to residential and commercial properties in the area.

Telem Press Release

danygriffithsandvincenthodge19112013ROAD TOWN, Tortola:--- Two men accused of lying to cops after landing in the territory illegally were next to tears on Friday (November 15) as they pleaded with the court to send them back to their country so they can reunite with their families.

The men, who gave their names as Vincent Hodge and Dany Griffiths, stated that they are from St Maarten.

They were before the Magistrate's Court on charges of landing in the territory without leave from an immigration officer, causing a vessel to arrive at a place other than a Customs port, and giving false information to the police.

The two pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Allegations are that on November 12, police marine base received information that a disabled vessel was in the vicinity of Norman Island. The officers responded and, on their arrival, they met the two accused in a 24ft vessel.

While questioned by the police, they explained that their fishing boat developed engine problem and drifted into BVI waters.

The police said, when the boat was examined, no fish or fishing gears were found. They also found no weapon.

It was said that the officers however received information that the men came into the territory from the day before.

They were then arrested on suspicion of landing without leave.

vincenthodge19112013During an interview the men reportedly admitted that they came ashore, but only to purchase fuel from a gas station in Baugher's Bay.

Griffiths, in court on Friday, pleaded with Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards to reverse her decision to remand them in custody, saying that his family doesn't know whether he is dead or alive.

"I never went to prison; I can't go back. I have a son who is 7 months and a daughter who is two years. I don't have any reason to lie to all a you; my name is Dany Griffiths. If you want to deport us, deport us and I will never come back," he appealed.

He explained that he and his friend Hodge were fishing in St. Maarten waters when the boat, which only had one engine, ran out of gas.

Griffiths further stated that, on seeing that the gas was finished, they decided to anchor the vessel.

But, soon afterwards, it began taking on water.

"We threw out the fish and said let's leave it up to God," he continued.

Griffiths explained that, some time later, they saw another vessel heading into the territory.

He said the captain of the other vessel decided to pull them into the BVI so they could purchase gas.

Griffiths further told the court that, since they were arrested, neither of them has been able to get even a phone call to their families back home.

The Magistrate ordered that the men be remanded and seek legal representation. They are schedule to return to court on December 13.

BVI News Online

cayhillscooteraccident19112013CAY HILL:--- A scooter rider lost his life on Tuesday morning due to an accident. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said in an invited comment that the rider that lost his life is a French metropolitan citizen who was riding his motorcycle at very high speed. Henson said when he arrived at the scene the victim was lying on the road dead.
He further explained that based on information the police received, the victim tried to overtake a mini-van (taxi) that was going to Divi Little Bay Hotel. However, the rider lost control and hit into a railing. Because of the severe injuries the victim sustained in the head area he died on the spot. Henson said no further details on the victim is readily available. The police spokesman said the body of the victim has been confiscated as the investigation into the tragic accident continues.

SMN News learnt that the victim is a businessman on the French side of the island and he was almost unidentifiable because of the amount of head injuries he sustained.

An eyewitness said the businessman rides a black scooter, one that is very durable. Due to the acccident the roads were blocked off causing some severe traffic jams.

Fatal scooter accident.

On Tuesday, November 19th, 2013 at approximately 9:30am, the Police Central Dispatch received a call regarding a very serious traffic accident involving a scooter rider, which took place shortly before on the Little Bay road at the entrance of the Divi Little Bay Hotel. Several police patrols, personnel from the Police Traffic Department and Forensic Department along with paramedics were sent to the scene to investigate the matter. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the lifeless body of a white male scooter rider who had suffered severe head trauma as a result of the impact into the guardrail on the side of that road. The scene of the accident was immediately sealed off from the Great Bay Hotel to the One Tete Lokay round-a-bout, and all traffic going into that area was diverted through other routes to get to their destination. Traffic became quite congested due to the temporary road closure. Dr. Mercuur came to the scene and pronounced the death of the victim. The preliminary investigation by the Traffic Department showed that the driver of a taxi coming from the direction of Philipsburg was making a left turn into driveway of Divi Little Bay Hotel. At that same moment the scooter riding behind of the taxi, also coming from the same direction at a high speed, suddenly lost control of the scooter and impacted the guardrail. At the time of the impact the rider was wearing a helmet. The body of the victim has been confiscated for further investigation. Up until this press release the identity of the victim was not established. As additional information regarding the investigation comes in the media will be informed. The Traffic Department will finalize this investigation within short.

Message to all scooter and motorcycle riders.

The wearing of a helmet while riding a scooter or motorcycle is required by law. The wearing of a helmet is to minimize the severity of head injuries if an accident occurs while operating these vehicles. Even though the rider of this scooter was wearing a helmet during this accident, it was not sufficient to save his life. He suffered severe head trauma as a result of the impact. Never the less the Police Department is urging every scooter or motorcycle rider and passenger to wear a helmet when operating these vehicles.

KPSM Police Report

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says that information was provided to DEVCON as the main contractor what is required when transporting such material along the public road, and all parties have agreed to supply the necessary information to facilitate the trucking.

Ministry VROMI also has to be provided with information such as: how much sand is being transported? Where is the sand being transported too? What is the transport schedule? How is the sand being dredged? How much sand is going to what locations?

DEVCON and stakeholders were informed by Ministry VROMI that trucks cannot transport silt when it is wet; secondly, wet silt with seawater running out of the truck on the public road will damage the asphalt.

"Government has to give approval. This is no wild-wild west. We are governed by rules and regulations. I am upholding the rule of law as the responsible Minister. Nobody cannot go on the landfill and tell Windward Roads which is contracted by Government to take care of the landfill that they come to dump sand without the necessary paperwork being in place.

"I have introduced standards and we need to abide by standards if things are to be done according to the procedures, rules and regulations. Doing things in an ad hoc manner is a thing of the past.

"Everything has to be properly documented and there must be a paper trail so when questions are asked you have everything documented according to the laws of the land. There may be those who have operated in the past by verbal agreement, but that holds no water. Under my watch you conform and adhere to the laws and procedures of country Sint Maarten.

"I am not here to take anybody's bread and butter. I am here to create work. Certain people need to get their facts straight. Things have to be planned properly, and I am not here to play any political games," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

DEVCON Island Manager Conley Browne said he totally agreed with the way the meeting went on Monday morning with Minister Lake and that they were doing their best to meet the requirements of Ministry VROMI. Browne added that the project has not stopped and everybody is working in the interest of the truckers and stakeholders.

The Minister met with DEVCON Island Manager Conley Browne, harbor representatives, and Ministry VROMI Secretary General and members of the Minister's Cabinet.

GREAT BAY:--- The Ministry of Public Health , Social Development & Labor intends to maintain the spotlight on those suffering from disabilities, by structurally addressing this issue thru a deliberate adjustment in legislation. The importance of this cannot be overstressed – as we note that all persons are created equal, and therefore have equal rights to a good quality of life, comfortable and free from discrimination.
The call of the Honorable Minister V.H. Cornelius de Weever to his policy departments is to ensure that legislation is finalized and prepared immediately – affording those who are disabled to contribute positively to society and to be able to tap into additional financial resources.
" I am holding my Management team accountable to get this done , and time is of the essence – because each day that passes and this remains unaddressed , is yet another day that the disabled person runs the very real risk of not being able to meet his/her basic needs," said Minister De Weever.

GREAT BAY:--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour and more specifically the Departments of Labour and Public Health are reinforcing the stance of the International Labour Organization in supporting the need for safe work for all. Fifty eight percent (58%) of the world's population spend one-third of their adult life at work, contributing actively to the development and well-being of themselves, their families and of society. The average adult spends approximately 40 percent of their total day at work. Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) involves the health and safety of everyone involved, not only the workers and the employers of a workplace but also the patrons.

Every employer and worker therefore has a responsibility as it regards OSH, namely:

  • keeping the workplace safe; preventing danger
  • taking reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of every person in the workplace; and
  • ensuring that all employees with special needs be given directions, notices, information and instructions on training that is required, by any method of communication that readily permits the employees to receive it.

The departments of Labour and Public Health together with VROMI aim to ultimately ensure that all businesses abide by existing legislation as well as international standards and guidelines. In the meanwhile existing legislation will be updated to include the international standards and guidelines as recommended by the ILO and its conventions.
"The importance of safety on the job can't be underestimated and all accidents should be reported to the Inspectorate and SZV," said Minister Cornelius De Weever.
The Ministry of VSA with the assistance of the Ministry of VROMI will therefore be executing an awareness campaign targeted towards educating the public on a safe and healthy workplace, thereby familiarizing and preparing the businesses and the public in general for future OSH adherence. This campaign effort is being supported by the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), Windward Islands Civil Servants Union / Private Sector Union (WICSU/PSU), Chamber of Commerce & Industry (COCI) and the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) and will utilize two articles of the current safety ordinances which will be specifically promoted and enforced within the country, thereby introducing increased awareness and inspections on the matter. The decrees including selected articles that will be focused on are: the presence of first aid kits in ALL businesses (Veiligheidsbesluit I article 50) as well as hard hats and safety shoes being worn on construction sites (Veiligheidsbesluit II article 39).
"I would like to congratulate all stakeholders for participating and working together to create a safer workplace," said Minister De Weever.
Government, one of the largest local employers, will lead by example, and as such will be ensuring compliance by ensuring a safe working environment for all its employees. After the initial education and awareness phase, the Inspectors of both the Ministry of VROMI and of the Ministry of VSA will then conduct inspections to ensure compliance throughout the various local businesses. The education before enforcement approach should thereby produce better results by increasing safety adherence, all the while preparing employers and workers for the upcoming enhanced enforcement.
If the public has any further questions pertaining to OSH and the campaign, feel free to contact the Department of Labour at 54-23704 / 23702, the Department of Public Health at 54-22078, the Inspectorate of VSA at 54-23579 / 22059 / 2209 or the Inspectorate Department of VROMI at 54-24289. In addition, all current local legislation is available on the website http://www.sintmaartengov.org/Laws/Pages/SearchEngine.aspx. All international standards and recommendations can be found on http://www.ilo.org/safework/lang--en/index.htm.

GREAT BAY:--- On the morning of Sunday, October 13th 2013 a fire, from unknown origin, engulfed the area in Cole Bay known as City 40. Every home burning down in the locality and leaving an estimated 100 persons homeless.
"Minister De Weever stated that the ministry has done their utmost to accommodate the victims of the fire, by putting people first," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.
The Ministry Public Health, Social Development & Labor immediately initiated the Crisis Care Unit – and the taskforce, consisting of expertise from the Department of Social Services, Social Development and Community Development Humanitarian & Family Affairs, visited the fire victims on Monday, October 14, and Tuesday, October 15, to gather basic information and to get a realistic overview of the situation and those affected. During those visits, all fire victims were given the opportunity to register at the Department of Social Services. The purpose of this registration was to further ascertain people's eligibility to access the one-time financial assistance granted by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor under the approved policy initiative of the Honorable Minister V.H. Cornelius de Weever.
A total of 62 persons have thus far registered, of which only 16 are in fact legally eligible to receive the one-time financial assistance. The Department of Social Services will be contacting those 16 persons to provide information on the collection process.
Ensuring compliance with our laws as it pertains to legally residing and working here remains of paramount importance, and this coupled together with the assurance that those who are afforded the benefit of legally working and residing here are also granted suitable housing and living conditions.
"I will continue to work with all ministers to ensure this becomes a reality in our Country," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.

Miami, FLORIDA:--- Interval International, a prominent worldwide provider of vacation services and an operating business of Interval Leisure Group (Nasdaq: IILG), is the title sponsor of the eighth annual St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala. The event is being held November 22 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino and serves as a fundraiser for SHTA.
"Interval is pleased to sponsor this year's ceremony that will acknowledge individuals who make such important contributions to the tourism industry," said Neil Kolton, Interval's director of resort sales and service for the Caribbean and Florida. "Their dedication and exemplary service helps make the island a special place to visit and a popular destination among our members."
"We're very appreciative of Interval's support of our association's efforts to promote St. Maarten and the wonderful vacation experience we provide to many thousands of visitors every year," said Emil Lee, president of SHTA and general manager of Princess Heights Hotel.
As a Strategic Partner of CHTA and a Board Member of the CHTA Education Foundation and the Caribbean Tourism Organization Foundation, Interval has been a long-time supporter of the tourism industry in the Caribbean. The company is committed to providing products and programs tailored to the unique needs of the region.

POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group has sought the intervention of the Government of St. Maarten, and in particular the Minister of Telecommunication, Mr. Ted Richardson, to resolve an ongoing issue of frequency interference from neighbouring St. Kitts and Anguilla.

The matter presently has the attention of the Bureau of Telecommunication and Post St. Maarten (BTP), whose officials are working along with TelEm Group to get the issue resolved. However, TelEm Group believes unless the matter is handled on a government-to-government level, the interference will continue with TelEm Group customers being the ones to suffer.

"Our customers are being adversely affected by the frequency interference with increasing reports of dropped calls and other connection problems," said Chief Technical Officer, Mr. Eldet Louisa.

He said management is taking a very serious view of the issue because of the damaging effect it is having on the company's efforts to provide the best service possible to customers.

"We are most grateful to the BTP for their actions and involvement so far. With some additional help from government and the Minister of Telecommunications, who may be able to discuss the matter with his counterpart in both St. Kitts and Anguilla, we are hopeful that the matter can be resolved without further delay," continued Mr. Louisa.

He said while the company awaits a response from government, it has taken additional steps to find alternative solutions, including a new request for a change in frequency if necessary.

Mr. Louisa has meantime appealed to customers to be patient and understanding in the knowledge that the interference they are experiencing is out of the control of the company and its technical staff.

"All we can do at this stage to ensure that we are doing all we can to impress on third parties the importance of working with us to resolve this matter as quickly as possible in the interest of our customers," said Mr. Louisa.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Off the heels of the 3rd anniversary of St. Maarten, in its own right, becoming a constituent state of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (October 10th) and the observance/celebration of St. Maarten's Day (November 11th), the draft Electoral Reconciliation Ordinance (submitted June 2013) has been amended to include: an explanation memorandum for further clarification and embodiment/comprehension.

The principal aim of the draft Ordinance is to ensure the highest average method for optimum proportionality between votes and seats in Parliament as required by the Constitution and provide a pragmatic solution that will remove the present anomaly where non-elected members of Parliament could declare themselves as "independent", align with a different party list and render the fall of Government.

Within the coming week(s) renewed efforts will be made to ascertain the opinion and esteemed input of the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament (of the Draft Ordinance) - - with the resolve for introduction, support, and ratification by Parliament.

Click here to view the amended Draft Electoral Reconciliation Ordinance.

MARIGOT:--- A 34 year old man believed to be one Joe Richardson who was affiliated with a gang was found dead not far away from Baie Lucas lookout point on Rue de Coralita on Sunday.
Reliable sources said the man was killed by several gunshot wounds. According to information provided to SMN News, the dead man was no stranger to law enforcement as he was arrested several times and was under investigation for an attempted murder which took place about a year ago. One well placed source said the late Richardson threatened someone with a knife about a year ago. It is not clear if the dead man assaulted the victim with the knife or if he only threatened the person's life. He was last living somewhere in Madame Estate.
Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault confirmed that the gendarmes found the body of a man that bore gunshot wounds. Joualt said the gendarmes are busy investigating the circumstances of the latest homicide that took place on the French side of the island. Jouault did not confirm neither deny the identity of the male body they found on the French territory on Sunday. The Captain of the Gendarmerie also did not say whether or not they requested any type of assistance from the Dutch authorities as they are in the early stages of the investigation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On November 16, 2013 the tenure of the first Corporate Governance Council comes to an end. The last act was to complete the 2013 Annual Report over the period January 1 2013 to November 16, 2013. The report contains a detailed list of the tasks performed during the reporting period and a chapter setting out the concern the council members have for the future in light of the three integrity investigations. The report further contains recommendations for improvement by government on corporate governance matters. The annual report will be disseminated to amongst others the Prime Minister, the Governor, Parliament, the Advisory Council, the General Audit Chamber, the Social Economic Council, the Ombudsman, CFT and SOAB.
The Corporate Governance Council recognizes the critical challenges associated with good corporate governance and that insufficient routine has been built up in dealing with the procedures of good corporate governance. To the end of the tenure a huge backlog of matters remains that requires action. The Corporate Governance Council recommends investment in and execution of the Plan of Action they submitted to government in 2010, and up-dated recently.
Louis Duzanson, Chairman of the Corporate Governance Council states that recently an increased awareness of the need to comply with the legal requirements set out by the Ordinance Corporate Governance could be seen. Reporting on the experience of the Corporate Governance Council he reports that: "Based on interaction with other government advisory institutions, it is clear that their experience bears some resemblance to the experience of the Corporate Governance Council. Shining the spotlight on where good governance is lacking is not a popular act, but an eminently important one to mature as young country. This shared experience led to a profound wish of the Corporate Governance Council to improve things and the determined approach, resolve and engagement of the members of the Corporate Governance Council in the execution of the task entrusted to us".
On the eve of the termination of the tenure of the first Corporate Governance Council the Chairman wishes to express on behalf of all of the council members the heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all persons and authorities with whom the Council worked during its tenure. "We had the privilege of the assistance of legal and financial specialist who assisted us at no cost other than investment of their time, not demanding any credit for what they did. We owe a special thanks to them. Together we have done our utmost to meet the challenges and execute our tasks as required by the legislative framework."
A special word of thanks goes to former minister of finance Mr. R. Tuitt, who took it upon himself to make sure together with his cabinet staff that the backlog in approval of the 2010 to 2012 budgets of the Corporate Governance Council was dealt with and that funds were made available. This leaves only the 2013 budget as an open item, which we trust will be dealt with in good order.
The Corporate Governance Council wishes its successors courage and fortitude to continue with the legacy they leave behind.

And last, but not least, the Corporate Governance Council wishes the Sint Maarten Council of Ministers and Parliament, both current and future and whatever the political constellation may be from time to time, the confidence and political courage needed to guide our young country on the voyage towards ensured integrity, throwing away the shackles of willful blindness and earning the political legacy as leaders of a truly free and united nation.

CGC Press Release

telemdonatestobeablefoundation17112013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group Shareholder Representative, Prime Minister, Sarah Wescot-Williams presented a check of $5,000 to the Be Able Foundation for a week of activities, starting today (Monday).

The donation was made on behalf of TelEm Group, to Be Able Committee Members, Mr. Henri Brookson and Michel Soons, Saturday, following a walk from the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex to the John Cooper/Jose Lake Sr. Ballpark.
The Prime Minister thanked TelEm Group Management and staff for their generous contribution and support of the work of the Be Able Foundation and their many activities in the St. Maarten community.
Foundation member, Mr. Michel Soons also thanked TelEm Group for participating in the morning walk along with other supporters and friends in the community.
He said the week of activities will include an official opening ceremony and wheelchair tennis tournament at the Port de Plaisance tennis courts Monday.
There will also be various public awareness activities highlighting the difficulties physically challenged persons face in the local community, including finding productive work.
"During the week we will be urging people to invite the physically challenged on outings and into the workplace to keep them active and playing an important part of the island's social community."
Also present at Saturday's event were Minister of Education and Sport Mrs. Patricia Laurens, Minister of Health, Dr. Cornelius De Weever and Minister of Public Works (VROMI) Mr. Maurice Lake.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) has received information from reliable sources that No Teachers or members of the Non-Teaching Staff employed at the Government Subsidized Schools have received the payment of their COLA 2011.

While ALL the Teachers and Non-Teaching Staff of Public Education were able to access this payment at least 2 to 3 days prior to the promised date, which was November 15th, 2013, WITU is getting the impression that school boards are still struggling to get their figures together to claim the monies from Government to be able to pay their personnel.

Clarity was also being sought on issues like which fiscal year would be used for the calculation of the lump sum payment and what would be the formula of calculations and the deductions to be made from this in terms of social premiums and taxes.

The WITU strongly feels that this is very unfortunate and unfair to our members employed at the school boards, since this information should have been requested or shared in a timely fashion from Government to school boards and back.

WITU doesn't have a clue either regretfully, when their members would be paid since this information was not shared by the school boards or the government.

This situation is unacceptable and WITU is therefore calling on all school boards to provide this information and the payment of the COLA 2011to all members of teaching and non-teaching staff by Tuesday, November 19th, 2013.

In addition a lot of questions are being raised by members and retired members, as to whom are entitled to these payments since there are members, who have been employed in 2011 and 2012 and are now not on the payrolls of 2013. WITU from information gathered, it is the understanding that only members on the payroll of 2013 will be compensated. Persons, who are not on the payroll but were working in 2011, need to request the COLA payment in the form of a letter to the Minister and these cases will be handled separately.

The calculations would then be: gross salary x 12 x 2.3% minus social premiums and taxes. In the case of persons working part of the year the calculations would be times the amount of months instead of 12.

WITU will continue to strive within a newly established Petite Committee to demand and negotiate for the way forward on the remaining 50%of 2011, 2012, 2013... cost of living adjustment will be put in a Collective Labor Agreement and to be budgeted in future budgets. This is to guarantee that the purchasing power of our members is being secured.

GREAT BAY:--- For the first time ever, St. Maarten will be taking part in the Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) from November 18- 24, 2013. Foundation INFOBIZZ, one of the GEW´s top partners, will be hosting a media campaign during this week called: Entrepreneurs...Let´s GO!. Every day there will be information on entrepreneurship (from the idea to how to impact your community). The campaign will also highlight various local entrepreneurs.
Global Entrepreneurship Week is an international awareness campaign in which people in almost 140 countries, connect and create opportunities to start business, assist in economic growth and expand human welfare. Started in 2007, with just 37 countries, GEW has a bottom-up approach that allows countries to organize different kinds of events. It is supported by internationally acclaimed organizations such as Dell, International Labour Organization (ILO), Entrepreneur´s Organization (EO) and the Kauffman Foundation.
St. Maarten is among the top partners and associates of the Global Entrepreneruship Week, thanks to the participation of Foundation INFOBIZZ, founded by Ife Badejo, to inspire and stimulate entrepreneurs and innovators to take their dreams from ideas to impact through the development of programs and events. One such event will take place on November 23, 2013 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the newly opened Dan´s Chocolate Factory (next door to Sea Palace on Front Street 141). The BLACK & GOLD POWER HOUR is a networking event which is for young professionals and entrepreneurs. At $25 entrance fee, drinks and snacks are included.
In 2014, Foundation INFOBIZZ will organize several business bootcamps, called 3-2-LAUNCH, focused on assisting upcoming entrepreneurs in taking a business idea and transforming it into a viable business.
'We believe these programs and experiences are critically important because with the changes happening in the world today, just having a job no longer cuts it," said Ife Badejo. "You need to be entrepreneurial even at your job. You need to be able to see opportunities especially in these times when there is no more real job stability," she added.
Entrepreneurs...Let´s GO! is a campaign to assist entrepreneurs to go to the next level, she concluded.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The National Development Program (NDP) facilitated under the auspices of the project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," continued building the foundation for dialogues by training a team of local Dialogue Champions on democratic dialogue through a virtual course and face to face courses.

The trainings are part of the strategy to build the capacity of local people and provide skills to develop the country's NDP in a participatory process.

The capacity building trainings were organized by the project in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and the Regional Centre of the UNDP for Latin America and the Caribbean (RCLAC).

Dialogue Champions are people who have enthusiastically accepted the challenge of working collectively and together in planning, convening, organizing and writing the country's NDP.

The Dialogue Champions come from different professional backgrounds in civil society, government departments and private sector organizations.

The NDP is being developed through community engagement/people participation. The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going participation in its implementation.

The NDP is being led by the country's Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

gracitaarrindell17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell will start going into the various schools to provide information about the functioning of the House of Parliament and the role that it plays in shaping the laws of the land.

The first information for high school students is scheduled with the Sundial School on Monday morning at 9:00am. Her second session for the week will be on Thursday at 10:00am at the Charlotte Brookson Academy of the Performance Arts.

President Arrindell stated that her information session with schools are designed to encourage meaningful engagement between students and the House of Parliament in order to increase young people's understanding of the work, impact and relevance of the highest legislative branch of Government in the country.

"In the past we have had the primary schools coming to the House and roll playing with their peers in order to experience exactly how it goes when a Minister comes to the House of Parliament to be questioned by members of the House or to provide information about a specific topic(s).

"We have had some Members of the House also present during the roll playing which gives the students the opportunity to express their own views on topical issues to their Members of Parliament," President Arrindell said on Sunday.

The President of Parliament has also embarked upon weekly Wednesday open house of Parliament from 9:00am to 11:00am allowing the public to visit and receive information.

The aim according to President Arrindell is to strengthen parliamentary democracy and encourage greater public involvement in politics.

In the case of young people, by involving young people in the democratic process, her program aims to communicate the importance of the political process to young people and help them develop as active citizens of the society of country Sint Maarten.

truckdriversstoppedfromworking17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Several truck drivers gathered at the sandpit close to the Harbour Group of Companies on Sunday as they questioned the verbal work stop given to them by the Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake.

President of the United Unified Truckers Association Charles Hodge told SMN News that they were hired by DEVCON to remove the slush at the harbor and take it to the landfill so that the harbor could continue dredging the sand to complete the project they are currently working on. Hodge said some 20 trucks have been moving the slush for the past three days and taking it to the landfill where it is needed to compact the waste material there. He said on Sunday morning the Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake approached DEVCON and the truck drivers and he immediately halted the project claiming that the roads are being messed up and the Ministry of VROMI was not informed about the removal of sand or slush from the harbor. Hodge further explained that the United Unified Truckers Association hires a sweeper from Windward Roads every day to sweep and clean the road in case there are leaks while transporting the slush from the sandpit to the landfill.

When asked if he believes that there is some sort of lack of communication between the Harbor Group of Companies and the Ministry of VROMI, Hodge said it could be so but they have been waiting on the work for the past two months and they do not believe that DEVCON or the Harbor did not inform the Ministry of VROMI. Furthermore, they have been moving the slush for three days and only on the third day which happens to be a Sunday morning the Minister showed up himself and verbally stopped them from working. The President of the United Unified Truckers Association said they will give the Minister 24 hours to get matters straightened out before they take the necessary actions. When asked if the Minister gave them a written work stop, Hodge said that neither DEVCON nor the drivers received such a document. "We were told verbally by the Minister that we have to stop working and when we asked why he told us that the roads are dirty and his Ministry was not informed." Hodge further explained that Minister Lake claims that he is working in the interest of locals but so far he has been working against local businessmen.

Leroy La Paix, one of the truck drivers said it is clear that the Minister of VROMI is totally against locals that are working on various projects. He said Minister Lake stopped the FOGA project, the Little League Project and now this one that was given to DEVCON by the harbor.

SMN News made several phone calls to Minister Maurice Lake for a comment on the allegations made by the truck drivers but Minister Lake never answered the phone.

Click here to view more photos of the truck drivers and the area they were supposed to clean up for the continuation of Harbor project.

kingwillemalexanderandqueenmaxima17112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Police officers, the organizing committee and all those that worked on organizing the visit of King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima last week needs a pat on the back for the way they organized the visit of the Royal Couple since the visit was incident free. The Royal Couple visited several public institutions and also walked down Front Street while on St. Maarten.

Their visit to Bonaire was hampered because the residents of that island protested the King's visit. Additionally, on Saturday night a police officer who was escorting the King and Queen got knocked off his motorcycle while escorting the Royal Couple on Curacao. The officer is said to be in serious condition.

Several persons on St. Maarten including police officers said not one person including the Minister of Justice ever thought it fit to compliment them for the job they did during the King and Queen's visit to St. Maarten. Some of them who spoke to SMN News on the condition of anonymity said that politicians and Ministers complained about the traffic situation because they were forced to close certain roads during the King and Queen's visit to St. Maarten.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinics at the Brouwer's Road 6A (behind the former FATUM Insurances Building) and the clinic at the Vineyard Office Park in Philipsburg, will be partially closed on Wednesday, November 20, and Thursday, November 21.

The hours that the clinic will be closed on both days are from 8:00am to 2:00pm.

The closure of the clinic is in connection with staff training.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) would like to remind then general public about the introduction of its high tourist season for the Simpson Bay Bridge which is located opposite the Royal Palm Hotel. This schedule which is effective Monday, November 18 has nothing to do with the Causeway Bridge.

Motorists and other road users should take the new season bridge operational times for the Simpson Bay Bridge into consideration when heading to or coming from work, and for visitors who are heading to the Princess Juliana International Airport.

The opening times are as follows:

8:30 hrs Outbound Traffic

9:30 hrs Inbound Traffic

10:30 hrs Outbound Traffic

11:30 hrs Inbound Traffic

15:00 hrs Inbound Traffic

16:00 hrs Outbound Traffic

17:00 hrs Inbound Traffic

An assessment will be made after three months to determine if any changes are to be made to the time manual.

gracitaarrindelldonatesfloralarrangementtosmmcward15112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell this week donated several beautiful floral arrangements to the wards of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC).

The floral arrangements were locally made and on display at the House of Parliament. President Arrindell said that she would like to make it a tradition where the flowers are given to different institutions on the island for the enjoyment of their customers and staff. In the past floral arrangements were given to the senior citizens home.

The floral arrangement was well received at the hospital. President Arrindell also had the opportunity to meet the Director of SMMC Kees Klarenbeek who said he appreciated the gesture.

Nurses present for the handover were Vitalia Richardson, Ariene Tearr, and Carina Celestyn.

wibdonationboxestohelptyphoonhaiyanvictims15112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. is assisting the Filipino Community of St. Maarten with the collection of funds by placing donation boxes in all of its branches. We have all seen the news reports about the Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) that struck the Philippines with up to present almost 5000 casualties and still rising. Experts have recorded this typhoon as being more devastating than Hurricane Luis and Katrina. The boxes will be present until the end of the month. The funds collected will be sent to the Philippines Red Cross in order to provide immediate assistance. Given our distance from the Philippines, monetary donations are preferred.
WIB would like to thank our community and the Filipino Community for their efforts to assist and contributions given.

WIB Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be a partial road closure on Arch Road, Sunday, November 17 from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

The road closure will be on one side of the road on Sunday.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

The road closure is in connection with GEBE carrying out repairs to a meter box on the Arch Road.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake will introduce standards with respect to public infrastructure: wastewater facilities design; roadway facilities design; road drainage design; pavement strips and markings; and standard engineering details for wastewater.

The process of quality standards was initially started by former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger just before he left office, resulting in him not getting the opportunity to complete the process.

A company has been contracted to prepare several manuals on standards and criteria for the country's public infrastructure to be implemented by the Ministry in 2014 with respect to new projects. Ministry VROMI will be meeting with representatives of the company next week.

A standard process and criteria has to be followed where accountability and transparency are at the forefront Minister Lake said. In the case of wastewater facilities, design criteria shall pertain to all gravity sanitary sewers, lift stations and force mains.

Concerning roadway facilities, uniform minimum standards and criteria for design and construction must be applied to all country roadways and related facilities. These standards are intended to provide basic guidance for developing and maintaining a roadway system with reasonable operating characteristics.

The Roadway Drainage Design Manual sets forth drainage design standards. The manual's purpose is to protect the safety and general welfare of the people of the country and to preserve and improve all transportation and drainage facilities. Drainage is an essential component of roadway design and is required to minimize potential damage to roadways and adjacent properties during storms and flood events.

Pavement stripes and road markings design manual will state that for the purposes of design, all permanent pavement stripes and markings shall specify thermoplastic materials.

The Department of New Works will be enforcing the new standards as soon as possible in order to improve the quality of work within the Ministry.

"Road markings have been an issue where after the strips have been painted, in two weeks they are gone or faded out. Standards will be coming in this area. We need thicker road markings and that shine at night when illuminated.

"Round-a-bouts with big islands in the center is not needed; simple ones will do the job. We don't have a big amount of land to splurge. We have to be practical and going back to basics and being realistic and using scarce resources wisely.

"Small drain pipes and the type of grills used are inadequate. Standards are needed for these. A small shower of rain clogs the drains and the type of grills needed are those that can withstand the weight of heavy vehicles and not the inferior type that caves in," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Friday.

Minister Lake would also like future public and private projects to take into consideration provisions for handicapped and wheelchair bound persons, making their properties accessible to them, adding: "Every infrastructure project and public parking areas from now on, I am going to make sure is handicapped accessible."

Adequate parking for various public and private sector projects also needs to take into consideration the size of cars that are driven on the island such as American models which are wider. Minister Lake said standards will be put in place with respect to this: "Why build parking lots only for small cars?"

For those who win a government tender for a public sector infrastructure project, Minister Lake would like to see noted in the contract that work is guaranteed for the small contractor and an amount of funds or a percentage figure for doing the job.

"The details in relation to the contract where work has to be guaranteed to small contractors and a sum or certain percentage have to be researched and worked out by the legal minds.

"Somewhere in there we have to guarantee work for the small man and woman who are in business and have families to feed. In the past the big companies that would win the public bids were asked to utilize small contractors, but this does not happen and for 2014, I would like to see things changed.

"Another change as well is quality control. You cannot have a contractor who gets a company to design a building or some type of project as an example, and then have the same design company come back to carry out quality control for Government on the same structure that they designed. This is a clear conflict of interest. Government has to also start enforcing contractual clauses where quality of work is concerned.

"Another point I would like to see addressed is the use of interns from abroad. Government expects quality work. Thousands and millions of guilders in tax payer money is paid out and the public and government expect quality work and not inferior. We can't have interns engineering/designing consultant companies experimenting on major projects.

"I believe we have to better safeguard with public tenders, otherwise we get exactly what we pay for – marginal work for marginal pay. We need to set our standards higher and quality of work that we accept as Government.

"My approach is all about going back to basics. Guaranteed work for our small contractors who have families to feed and also employ others who also have families is essential for our socio-economic development of the country. This has to be in the contract otherwise I will not sign it.

"Quality control is essential for public projects and we need to make sure that there are standards in place in order for everybody to follow so the public is not duped in any way, fashion or form.

"Next week's meeting with Miller Leg Consultant can help to start raising the quality of work standards," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

swescotwilliamsandroyalcoupleatculturalyouthshowcase15112013King Willem-Alexander: "If all of the presentations that we have witnessed since my first visit in 1987 is a yardstick for what this island can do this island has the best potential you can imagine"

PHILIPSBURG:--- During the Youth Showcase in honor of the visit of the Royal Couple King Willem-Alexander joined the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Her Excellency Sarah Wescot-Williams in expressing their gratitude and thanks to the organizers and participants of the event. The Prime Minister started out the showcase by welcoming the Royal Couple and by expressing the wish that what they will witness during the evening will remain with their Royal Highnesses for many more years. "I hope that the memories of St. Maarten in this trip will stay with you for many more years. St. Maarten is the youngest and the smallest country in the Dutch Kingdom and we are proud to have been the first country on your visit to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. Young and small, but indeed we are only small geographically. St. Maarten is big in hospitality, big in unity, big in tolerance, big in peace and we are proud to be a part of the Dutch Kingdom. We have thought long and hard on how we can present the colorful history that St. Maarten has. We have thought long and hard on how to give a brief synopsis on what St. Maarten was, is and what we aspire to be. We have put together this evening the way we best describes the best of that. Enjoy St. Maarten, its youth, talents, aspirations and ambitions. We pray that God continues to bless you, St. Maarten and its people," opened Prime Minister Wescot-Williams

The showcase continued with cultural performances by the Charlotte Brookson Academy, the National Institute of the Arts with works choreographed by Arlene Halley and Clara Reyes and spoken word and song presented by various artist. Nicole de Weever of Art Saves Lives also choreographed the closing dance segment, energizing the delegates that we present as well as the large public turnout that cheered the youth along.

royalvisitculturalyouthshowcaseparticipants15112013At the close of the event, to thunderous applause, the Prime Minister expressed her most heartfelt and deepest appreciation to especially the young people who showcased their talents that evening. "Words are not sufficient to express our gratitude and appreciation. If you do not feel what it is to be on St. Maarten tonight then you will never feel it. We should appreciate our young persons for the show that they have been able to put on this evening. This is St. Maarten; this is who we are and what we represent. Our past, our present presented by the Future of St. Maarten. You have made St. Maarten so proud this evening. It is truly amazing. Thank you to the organizing committee and all who have assisted in making this possible this evening. What Their Majesties I am sure witnessed here tonight will stay with them for very long time. We are so grateful and proud to show what we did tonight to you," commented the Prime Minister.

In a breach of protocol Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima joined Prime Minister Wescot-Williams on the stage to express their thanks to the youth for putting on such a showcase. "Thank you very very much to all who have made our visit so special. Only silence should be our part because what we saw tonight was almost too impressive for words. This first day of our tour in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom could not have started better. If all of the presentations that we have witnessed since my first visit in 1987 are a yardstick for what this island can do this island has the best potential you can imagine. Two years ago we saw the incredible work that has been done already and now two years later we are very impressed with the improvements we have seen. We can remain one strong Kingdom and we look forward to serve you in that capacity. Thank you very very much," stated His Royal Highness to thunderous applause from the crowd.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sundialschoolhealthandwellnesspbandbstudentsandvolunteersfordiabetestesting14112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary of St. Martin Sunrise and Sundial Health and Wellness PB&B sector Diabetes testing under the guidance of Rotarian and Teacher Jacqueline Morris went well on Saturday; Angela Gordon President of Rotary Sunrise, Mr. Rogers Executive Director of Sundial and MPC, and Principal Mirielle Peterson opened the testing event.
The event saw a cross section of the community came to be tested; this activity provided the students with hands-on practical approach, which enhances their learning and development of their Care and Wellness skills. The students displayed professionalism in their undertakings and they too were pleased with the persons they assisted.
We had the assistance of two (2) nurses from the Medical Center, Diabetes Nurse Dion Thustfull, and Chiropodist (a person who treats minor disorders of the feet) Zenia Duncan. The forms from this activity will be turned over to the Diabetes Foundation for their database.
It is evident that people are increasingly feeling the effects of diabetes as thousands of people suffer from the disease, and many others may have diabetes without knowing it.
The Health and Wellness sector of Sundial School is and will continue to focus on educational program that promotes healthy living, school spirit and community involvement.
Manrique Caprilles was on hand to supply the participants with cookies, cake, coffee and lemonade all sweetened with splenda.
We at Rotary Sunrise will continue to work with the community as the need arises.
Special thank you to Oduber agencies, Philipsburg pharmacy, Visser Pharmacy, Manrique Caprilles and the Druggist for making it possible for the Sundial PB & B sector students to display their Health and Wellness skills.
We meet at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) announces the introduction of its high tourist season Simpson Bay Bridge opening schedule effective Monday, November 18.

Motorists and other road users should take the new season bridge operational times into consideration when heading to or coming from work, and for visitors who are heading to the airport.

The opening times are as follows:

8:30 hrs Outbound Traffic

9:30 hrs Inbound Traffic

10:30 hrs Outbound Traffic

11:30 hrs Inbound Traffic

15:00 hrs Inbound Traffic

16:00 hrs Outbound Traffic

17:00 hrs Inbound Traffic

An assessment will be made after three months to determine if any changes are to be made to the time manual.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has organized a workshop on Sexual Reproductive Health for physicians and other stakeholders for this weekend.

The speakers at the session will be UNFPA representative Mario Aquilia and local gynecologist Dr. R. Friday. The session is primarily for gynecologist, physicians, mid-wives and pharmacists.

The information session will take place at the Simpson Bay Resort on Saturday, November 16 from 9:30am to 2:30pm.

The objective of the session is to share the most recent information and developments related to Sexual Reproductive Health as a means to supply services and information based on the identified need in the community.

The suggestions and recommendations that come out of the information session will be compiled by Section General Health Care from the Collective Prevention Services which falls under the Ministry, leading to the development of a National Sexual Reproductive Health Program for the country.

The two other outcomes expected from the session are: identified roles and responsibilities of the different health care providers with the program; and consensus on collective actions by each responsible stakeholder to improve local Sexual Reproductive Health with the aim to improve cervical cancer prevention.

The information session falls within the confines of the 'Get Checked' campaign initiated by Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever.

As the world population edged to seven (7) billion people in 2011 (up from 2.5 billion in 1950), it has had profound implications for development. Governments need to gather adequate information about population dynamics and trends to create and manage sound policies in order to be able to address both current and future human needs.

UNFPA delivers a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

UNFPA partners with governments, other agencies and civil society to advance UNFPA's mission. Two frameworks guide its efforts, the program of action adopted at the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development, and the Millennium Development Goals, where eight targets have been identified to reduce extreme poverty by 2015.

New Commercial Strategy Progressing Steadily

SIMPSON BAY:--- At least seven new concessionaires are set to open for business by the beginning of the St. Maarten tourist season. This was revealed by Suzy Kartokromo, acting manager of Marketing and Customer Service Department of SXM Airport.

Kartokromo said that about 92% of the available space at SXM has already been allocated, and 85% of the concessions are local and already existing stores that would be returning.

"Work is progressing with the renovation and fitting of the stores and as can be expected everybody is not only excited but also eager to open up for business," Kartokromo said.

"'Coming Soon' signage will soon go up at the various stores to alert visitors of what is coming," she added.

At every major international conference, the issue of airports optimizing their non-aeronautical revenues has been highlighted, with particular focus on creating a sense of place for the passenger. It is this strategy that SXM Airport has embarked upon and is implementing with due diligence.

swescotwilliamswithroyalcoupleatgovtadminbuilding13112013PM: "We Have Extended Our Typical, Traditional St. Maarten Hospitality"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received Their Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands at the Government Administration Building on Wednesday. The Prime Minister, joined by dozens of Elementary School Pupils, received the Royal Couple for a tour of the Government Administration Building and a brief meeting followed by an appearance on the balcony of the Government Administration Building. Hundreds of residents crowded in front of the Government Administration building to greet the Royal Couple, the Prime Minister, His Excellency the Governor and Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk.

The Prime Minister extended her welcome to the Royal Couple and their entourage on behalf of the Government and People of St. Maarten. "On behalf of the Government and People of St. Maarten I would like to extend a warm welcome to His Majesty King Willem Alexander and Her Royal Highness Queen Maxima. We wish our King and Queen an enjoyable stay on our island as we extend to you our typical traditional St. Maarten hospitality," commented the Prime Minister.

The official program for the Royal Visit continued on Wednesday Afternoon with visits to various educational facilities, schools, sports facilities and monuments in the Historic Centre of Philipsburg, Front Street.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

emiliowilsonestate3flamboyanttrees13112013PHILIPSBURG:--- On April 18th, 2013 Parliament of St. Maarten made history by passing several motions which instructed the Council of Ministers to take measures aimed at protecting the island's Natural and Cultural Heritage. Motions passed included:

  • a motion on beach access intended to secure accessibility to beaches by the public via land and sea;
  • a motion titled National Heritage instructing the Council of Ministers to strengthen monument protection and national heritage conservation legislation;
  • a motion titled 'Fort Amsterdam' charging the Council of Ministers with the task of pursuing all legal measures necessary in securing access to Fort Amsterdam and to present the options, consequences, implications and costs of the purchase of Fort Amsterdam;
  • a motion titled 'Mullet Pond' declaring that parliament is in favor of establishing Mullet Pond as a protected area and charging the Council of Ministers with the task of taking the necessary measures towards establishing Mullet Pond as a Nature Park;

These motions listed deadlines by which the Council of Ministers would have to initiate suitable measures such as the drafting and implementation of legislation towards meeting the objectives of the resolutions as stipulated in the respective motions. All of these deadlines have since quietly passed without any known efforts by the Council of Ministers having been taken to meet the requirements as set forth in the motions.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation recently submitted a letter to Parliament reminding Parliamentarians of the motions and inquiring about the realization of the resolutions as listed in the aforementioned motions.

The Foundation is left to wonder how Parliament will proceed. Will members of Parliament opt to attempt to withdraw these historic motions aimed at the protection of Sint Maarten's Heritage? Will Parliament follow the line of Member of Parliament Leroy de Weever who indicated during the debate on April 17th, 2013 that: "... ... these areas should not be protected but should instead be reserved for [real estate] development?" Will Parliament agree with de Weever's previously published opinion that "we should not protect our heritage as it is only a reminder of slavery which should be forgotten"? Or will Parliamentarians Romain Laville and Frans Richardson pursue the fulfillment of the motions and associated resolutions they tabled?

After forty years of largely unplanned and unregulated development which has lead to the devastation of much of Sint Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage including the destruction of 14 of St. Maarten's 19 ponds it is high time for Parliament and the Council of Ministers to protect the little that is left.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation reminds the Council of Ministers and Members of Parliament that it is Government's constitutional duty to protect Sint Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage, considering that;

· Article 21 of the Constitution of Sint Maarten states that: "The government shall set out conditions for social and cultural development and recreational activities, as well as for the preservation of the cultural heritage";
· Article 22 of the Constitution of Sint Maarten states that: "It shall be the constant concern of the government to keep the country habitable and to protect and improve the natural environment ... ...";
· the Preamble of the Constitution of Sint Maarten states: "WE, THE PEOPLE OF SINT MAARTEN", (Being)"...DETERMINED to care for the perpetual maintenance of nature and the environment";

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation urges Parliament and the Council of Ministers to uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten by working towards the realization of the aforementioned motions, by protecting Mullet Pond and purchasing the Emilio Wilson Estate and by taking all necessary measures to protect Sint Maarten's remaining Natural and Cultural Heritage.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation

cdeweeverwithdiabetesfoundationrep13112013GREAT BAY:--- Like many other countries in the world Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death in St. Maarten and the number of people with Cardiovascular Risks (CVR) is increasing. When no measures are taken, the wave of complications resulting from obesity and diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) will lead to a catastrophe for the well-being and finances of the population of St. Maarten.

There is obviously momentum with different stakeholders ready to pick up the glove to fight challenges in diabetes care. Stakeholders have already started some initiatives to optimize diabetes care, among which awareness campaigns and case finding in the communities. But efforts are necessary to align initiatives and make them complimentary to each other. Otherwise the synergy between multiple activities will not be achieved. Instead of moving directly into action, a comprehensive program was designed with lessons learned elsewhere.

In 2009 the then Sector Health Care on St. Maarten had taken the initiative to develop a Diabetes Mellitus Disease Management (DM-DM) frame¬work. After consultations with stakeholders the scope was broadened to include all patients with cardiovascular risks in the program and not only the ones with a diagnosis of DM2. The strategy for the Cardiovascular Risk Management (CVRM) Program on St. Maarten is based on the first Care Standard for CVRM. The Care Standard is developed by the CVRM Taskforce, which consists of representatives of all relevant stakeholders of CVRM care on St. Maarten.

The CVRM care standard describes an integrated care program to shape care for this population. Not the
diagnosis, but the specific health problems of the patient are the primary approach in integrated care. The care needs of patients, necessitating chronic care can be categorized based upon the health problems to be treated. These problems can be disease specific, such as hypertension for CVRM and the diabetic foot for diabetes mellitus. But there are also disease--‐overarching problems, relevant to both disorders, such as smoking and overweight.

The implementation of the CVRM program will start with a two year pilot program. The execution of the pilot program will be a collaboration between the Diabetes Foundation, Public Health Department, Collective Prevention Services and 4 or 5 family physician clinics. Two diabetic nurses will be recruited to assist in the execution of the pilot, the vacancy notice will be published in the newspaper next week. Qualified diabetic nurses can send their CV and motivation letter to the Diabetes Foundation, nurses living abroad who are willing to return home are also encouraged to apply.

World Diabetes Day which is observed every year on the 14th of November was selected to officially launch the pilot program. The Minister of VSA and the Diabetes Foundation both committed to a successful implementation of the pilot program.

dennisrichardsoninductedashonorarylionsclubmember13112013PHILIPSBURG:--- While attending the induction of one of his staff members Kelly Busby recently at the Oasis Lounge, Justice Minister Dennis Richardson was caught by surprise when among not only Lion members but also some of his other staff members he was called to the podium by Past District Governor Claudius Buncamper.

After reading the requirements for Honorary Membership Lion Claudius instructed Lion President Claudio Buncamper to do the honors by pinning the Honorary Pin unto the Justice Minister's lapel.

The minister graciously accepted honorary membership and thanked the Lions for this gesture.

Since then the Lions have been told that the Minister faithfully and proudly wears his Lion's Pin on a daily basis.

simondonckerclubworkingonslavehut13112013ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius:--- King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands will open the exhibition entitled 'Days of Slavery on St. Eustatius' in the Museum of the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation (SEHF), the Simon Doncker House. This 18th century residence was bought for the SEHF by the King's mother, Princess Beatrix. The exhibition was put together on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in the Dutch Caribbean. Historical objects and illustrations from the collection of the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation and from a private collection tell the story of where the enslaved Africans came from, the slave trade that brought them to St. Eustatius, their life in slavery, their resistance, and finally abolition and beyond.

The exhibition has been put together by the St. Eustatius Historical Foundation together with the St. Eustatius Archaeological Center (SECAR) with funding from the Mondriaan Fund. Incorporated in the exhibition are the results from the archaeological research conducted by SECAR on the former Schotsenhoek plantation, nowadays referred to as "The Farm." The remains of the slave quarters of the plantation from the first half of the 18th century were discovered.

One of the slave huts has been reconstructed on the grounds of the museum. The Historical Foundation's youth club, the Simon Doncker Club, worked on recreating the interior of the slave hut to illustrate what life was like for the enslaved Africans. The Simon Doncker Club educates youngsters about the past and culture of their island by organizing events for kids at the museum and elsewhere on the island and involving them in the museum's activities.

~Urges public to support~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Filipino Community in St. Maarten is raising funds to assist victims of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which Philippine officials said has left some 10,000 casualties in its wake and millions displaced.

The small Filipino Community in St. Maarten have opened a special dollar account at Windward Islands Bank (WIB), where kind hearted persons in the community can show their love and compassion by donating any amount to help victims. The account number is: 80312508.

Filipino Community President Ferdinand M. Odoño is calling on the community to lend their financial support to assist victims.

In addition to the special relief account; the Filipino Community will also be sending out letters to businesses requesting emergency aid donations.

Experts said Yolanda is one of the biggest in typhoons in the history of the world, much more devastating than hurricane Luis, which wreaked havoc in St. Maarten in 1995 and Hurricane Katrina, which hit New Orleans, United States in 2005.

Philippine officials have estimated that casualties will surpass the 10,000 mark. Many were evacuated prior to the storm but, due to the unimaginable force of this super storm evacuation centers were damaged and flooded forcing evacuees to seek shelter on rooftops leaving thousands exposed to the elements. Many of these persons unfortunately perished, Odoño said.

The number of casualties continues climb to ever growing to proportions unheard of in the Philippines. Everyone was affected: the affluent as well as the poor have been displaced leaving entire communities in chaos, incalculable property damage and entire cities almost wiped out, he added.

The Filipino Community said whatever is donated will be rushed to assist victims. Monetary donations is preferred as the fastest means to send help that is desperately needed given the distance of the Philippines from St. Maarten. Donations collected will be sent to the Philippines Red Cross.

"From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for considering our plea for help on behalf of the victims," said Odoño.

Persons interested in donating can contact any member of the Filipino Community Foundation directly: President Ferdinand M. Odoño tel: 553-1129 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; board members Jovito Hermoso tel: 581-0898 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; Marlon Gueriña tel: 586-2695 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Gilda Jandongan tel: 586-2453 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- A Central Committee session of the House of Parliament is scheduled for November 15 regarding the physically handicapped.

The session is set for Friday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

A presentation will be given by Top Promotion Foundation Be Able concerning the position of the physically handicapped in the country.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

lionsclubinductssixnewmembers13112013PHILIPSBURG:--- In its endeavors to bring as many former Leos to the Sint Maarten Lions Club, the club recently inducted no less than six former Leos at an impressive induction ceremony at the "Oasis Lounge".

Alison Busby, Kelly Busby and Nathalie Busby of the former Alpha Leo Club (age: 12-18) of Sint Maarten and Veronica Browne, Nina Diaz and Carmen Reyes of the former Omega Leo Club (age: 18-30) of Sint Maarten were inducted into the Sint Maarten Lions Club at a special ceremony which was conducted by Past District Governor Lion Claudius Buncamper.

After all six prospects were duly instructed at special orientation sessions they were reminded by Lion Claudius Buncamper about their commitment to serve with love and dedication.

After they all took the Oath of membership their lapel pins were pinned on by their respective sponsors.

Alison, Kelly and Nathalie Busby were sponsored by Past District Governor Lion Wally Havertong and Veronica Browne, Nina Diaz and Carmen Reyes were sponsored by Past District Governor Lion Claudius Buncamper.

The new members' skills were tested shortly after when they were quite involved in the Senior Citizens' Annual Party and the preparations for the Multiple District 60 Mid Year Conference which is being hosted during this week by the local Lions Club at the Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel November 13th-17th.

royalcoupleatparliamentbuilding13112013PHILIPSBURG:--- King Willem Alexander and his wife Queen Maxima had a packed schedule on their first official visit to St. Maarten since King Willem Alexander was crowned in April 2013.
The Royal Couple arrived on St. Maarten on Tuesday 12th November but they chose to rest at their hotel for the first afternoon after a long flight from the Netherlands to St. Maarten. On Wednesday, the Royal Couple started off their day by the King inspecting the uniform troupes at the Clem Labega Square at 9am sharp. The Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and Queen Maxima looked sharply as King Willem Alexander inspected the troupes, while the seven Ministers from the Council of Ministers stood in a straight line and looked on also.
After the official inspection of the uniform troupes, they left for an official visit to the Governor's Office then to the House of Parliament where they met with the Members of Parliament. The House of Parliament was nicely decorated with orange ribbons, flowers, and trees. Students from Oranje School and Sister Borgia School lined the sidewalk to get a glimpse of the King and Queen and waved orange flags as they arrived at the House of Parliament.
King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima then went to the Government Administration Building where they were greeted with by a number of students from Oranje School, Sister Borgia School, and St. Joseph School.
Traveling with the Royal Couple on their first official visit to St. Maarten was Minister of Interior and Overseas Affairs Ronald Plasterk who met with the Council of Ministers before they emerged on the balcony of the Government Administration Building to wave to the people that gathered outside to get a glimpse of them.
royalcoupleatgovernmentadministrationbuilding13112013On their way out, a young student from Sister Borgia school grabbed Queen Maxima and refused to let go as she hugged the Queen tightly. As they left the Government Administration Building, the Royal Couple shook almost every child's hand as they mingled and smiled with them. King Alexander was seen asking the students who waited outside in the hot sun some questions about their studies.
The second part of the Royal Visit commenced after a short lunch break where the Royal Couple headed to the Milton Peters College where they interacted with the students who showed them the projects they each worked on. Both King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima asked the students what were their plans after school and if they intended to travel overseas to further their studies.
Students of Sundial School also participated in the showcase at the Milton Peters College. After that, they visited the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex which is fully renovated. On the grounds were several sportsmen, and Minister Maurice Lake who joined the Royal entourage, including Governor Holiday and Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams to watch a part of a football match between Milton Peters College and the St. Maarten Academy. The stands at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex were filled to its capacity as the Royal Couple and those from the local government sat in the center of the field to watch the game.
willemalexanderwithmpcstudent13112013The Royal Couple continued their official visit to various buildings on Front Street. They started off at the Orange School where the primary school students sang for them before they entered building to take a look at the oldest school on Front Street.
While security was high and there was a host of media persons looking for the best shots of the Royal Couple, the entire Front Street was lined with people on both sides, all of whom wanted to shake the King and Queen's hands. King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima walked down Front Street as they moved to the other location. While walking they shook the hands of the people that waited to see them and waived at those that could not reach to get a handshake. Their second stop was at the Methodist Church, there they walked the grounds of the church and looked at some of the signs while some students from the Methodist Agogic Center greeted them with a song. After that they entered the church where the choir of the Methodist church performed for them in song.
As they moved to their final stop on Front Street the Royal Couple continued with their friendly demeanor by shaking the hands of the people that gathered alongside the road to see them. They ended the first part of their official visit at the Court of First Instance. There they went inside with their entourage and met with Court House officials. The Royal Couple will finalize their official visit on St. Maarten on Wednesday where they will attend a cultural event Wednesday evening at Festival Village.

Click here to view more photos of the Royal Couple's official visit to St. Maarten 1.

Click here to view more photos of the Royal Couple's official visit to St. Maarten 2.

telemdonatestolionsclub12112013POND ISLAND:--- More than 400 Lions from various Lions Clubs throughout the Caribbean will be streaming their Mid-Year Conference "live" to all parts of the world from the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort from today – courtesy of TelEm Group.
The live webcasts will feature the opening ceremony and various meetings of Districts 60A and 60B.
A similar live-stream set up was successfully provided by TelEm Group for the Bureau of Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten Internet Seminar, recently hosted at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort.
According to TelEm Group Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa, the live stream facility is becoming very popular with conference delegates and he credits technical expertise Network Engineer, Mr. Percival Cocks, and the rest of the staff of Technical Operations for making this form of communication possible.
He said TelEm Group is proving complimentary internet communication for the conference as well and part-sponsorship of the group's conference publication.
The donations were made to Lion Melvin James during a brief presentation ceremony at the TelEm Group building, Pond Island, Friday.
The Lions Mid-Year Conference brings together two Lions Districts from Cayman Islands in the North to Guyana in the South.
There will be separate District meetings from the start of the conference today and until Friday with a joint meeting of both Districts on Saturday when information between the two districts will be exchanged.
Sint Maarten Lions Club President, Mr. Claudio Buncamper, has thanked TelEm Group for its assistance and sponsorship to make the group's conference a success.

He is especially pleased with the live video stream which will allow those who cannot be at the conference on St. Maarten, to follow developments online.

Telem Press Release

ministryteattlivepresentationofbusinesslicenseonlineapplication12112013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On Friday, the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication (TEZVT), went through the process of a live demonstration with the stakeholders—notaries, chamber of commerce, and related departments—in regards to the Business license online application.

"This is a live practice exercise on the functionality of the system, testing all aspects of the functioning of the system. Not the aesthetics of the program for now," Miguel de Weever said, Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry of TEZVT.

This system will, for now, deal with only new businesses license requests, not existing business licenses and not amendments to those old business licenses.

The persons involved from different organizations (notaries, chamber of commerce, and related departments dealing with business licenses from the various entities) went through the process of a simulated registration. From this experience, the technical issues will be worked out and eliminated.

This exercise was later in the day duplicated from the stakeholders' offices.

Upon completion of the exercise of registering businesses today; there will be a soft launch next week, registering of only new business licenses. So starting next week, the notaries can begin using the online registration of business licenses system.

After this period, and within six months, there will be a hard (official) launch of the business licenses online registration. In addition to adding additional elements i.e. amendments to business licenses, applying for taxi licenses, and other such matters. Registration can also take place locally and internationally.

The benefits of such a system is that the process goes faster and more efficient; the work flow will be electronic; all transactions will be recorded (there will be a tracking method to determine the location and/or process of the document); clients will be updated regularly and notified when action is needed, i.e. processing fee; crib number will be generated; the minister will be able to approve licenses electronically as well.

f5tornadowinssxmdaytraditionalboatrace12112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Five Traditional Sail Boats raced in the St. Maarten Day Traditional Sail Boat Race. The early weather conditions may have cancelled some boats from attending. The 5 boats that attended were Alma Gloria, F5-Tornado, Kedro's Pride, R.O.B.B, and Stay Up 2. Once the horn was blown, the race started with all boats sailing to capture the Marker Prizes (A, B, and C). Alma Gloria quickly took Marker A followed by Marker B and C. The waves slightly came to a calm making sailing conditions better for the boats that were on there way to Simpson Bay and back to Philipsburg. As the boats approached the finished, the crowds gathered to view the winning boats:

1st Place....... F5-Tornado

2nd Place....... Alma Gloria

3rd Place....... Stay Up 2

The participants of the boat race are thankful for the support of the following sponsors; The Windward Islands Bank, Government of St. Maarten, Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco, Taloula Mangos Restaurant and La Voix FM 101.5). Thank you for bringing back "we old Boat race".

smitcomsandrcnsignmoaforsscscable12112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson proudly witnessed on Tuesday afternoon the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between St. Maarten International Telecommunications Services (SMITCOMS) and the National Office for the Caribbean Netherlands (RCN) related to the Saba, Statia Cable System (SSCS).

The MOA allows for further arrangements to be made to land the SSCS cable on Sint Maarten at the landing point operated by SMITCOMS (beach manhole).

Minister Richardson and members of his Cabinet were very instrumental in facilitating the process in bringing the two signatory parties together reaching to the point of the signing of the MOA on Tuesday.

An overview was carried out by the Minister and his Cabinet in August to ascertain what had been done in the past. Thereafter, all parties worked diligently leading to the successful signing of the MOA three months later.

The SSCS will bring extra telecommunications capacity for St. Eustatius and Saba, and it will also benefit Sint Maarten.

The MOA was signed by SMITCOMS Managing Director E. Louisa while Sybren van Dam, signed on behalf of RCN as its Director.

Minister Hon. Ted Richardson stated on Wednesday prior to observing the signing by the two aforementioned parties, that Tuesday was an important day for the countries of Sint Maarten and the Netherlands as well as the TELEM Group of Companies.

"The issue of the subsea SSCS telecommunications cable has been resolved after lingering for nearly three years. After reviewing what had transpired, I decided to look for a win-win situation for all parties concerned, and this is the result of it.

"The signing of an MOA represents a win-win for both signatories and for the consumers of the BES islands and Sint Maarten," Minister of Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson said on Tuesday afternoon.

RCN Director Sybren van Dam said he was very pleased that the problem was resolved and was very glad to have been able to reach an agreement by working together.

SMITCOMS Managing Director E. Louisa stated that he was very happy today as he represented the landing partner, adding that the TELEM Group of Companies has the expertise and knowledge, and RCN choose the best party with respect to this endeavour.

confiscateddrugs12112013For the fourth time in a short period, Royal Netherlands Navy vessel HNLMS Amsterdam has interdicted an illegal drug transport in the Caribbean Sea. A gunner from the maritime helicopter NH90 eliminated one of the outboard engines to stop the go fast smuggling the drugs. HNLMS Amsterdam prevented the transport of 650 kilograms of cocaine.

Warning shots
It was an American patrol aircraft that spotted a fast smuggling boat, going from the Colombian coast in Northerly direction. HNLMS Amsterdam was at that time patrolling in the vicinity. The ship reacted immediately by launching its NH90 helicopter. When the helicopter arrived at the go-fast, the clear stop signs were ignored and the speedboat continued at the same speed. Warning shots were fired from the helicopter, but the go fast didn't react to this either and fled away. The helicopter was forced to use disabling fire on the outboard engines of the go-fast.

Engines eliminated
The gunner in the helicopter got the opportunity to eliminate one of the two outboard engines, so that the go-fast was very limited in her propulsion. After the outboard engine was eliminated, the crew of the go-fast started to ditch their contraband, but they were too late. A rubberboat was launched from HNLMS Amsterdam with the Law Enforcement and Detachment Team of the US Coast Guard on board. They detained the go-fast crew.

This was the fourth interdiction of a go fast in three weeks. In total, the navy ship prevented 3600 kilogram of cocaine from being transported.

Press Release from the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Crystal Pineapple Awards voting period closed on Friday November 8th with a record 6,329 votes. Votes were able to be cast from October 28th, 2013. The organizing committee is pleased with the record setting votes cast and thanks the public for their enthusiasm.
With only 10 days left till the Award Gala Event, ticket sales have taken off. Limited tickets are still available at the SHTA office at a cost of $150 per person. Individuals also have a choice to purchase a table of 10. Each ticket gives access to the welcome cocktail party, the recognition ceremony, a sumptuous dinner, the silent auction and live entertainment. This year's Crystal Pineapple Award Gala Event promises to be even bigger and better than before.
The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association is hosting its 8th Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala Event on November 22, 2013 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino, recognizing excellence in service in the Tourism, Trade and Environmental industries. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A review of the minimum wage, a cost of living allowance and the situation regarding short-term contracts is very much needed, yet OSPP considers that MP Frans Richardson and N.A. advocating urgent attention to the minimum wage issue at this time smacks of opportunism and perhaps hypocrisy. According to Richardson, "thirteen years have gone by in St. Maarten with no increase in minimum wage despite the cries of the public". It also happens that Richardson has been a politician during the entire period that the current minimum wage has been in force. Richardson and N.A. had also been in government for a portion of that time, and there is no evidence that they even had an opinion on the matter. It is also very ironic that during the preparation for St. Maarten becoming a country, discussions were also taking place regarding salaries. The average minimum wage earner was very enthusiastic, for he believed that the salary changes would have included an increase to his salary also, but not realizing that after the astronomical high salaries for the MP's were finalized, there was no more concerns for the salaries of the small man. Yet, it is not strange that Richardson and N.A. are so suddenly passionate about the minimum wage issue, politicians tend to be fired-up and people-oriented on the eve of elections.
In OSPP's opinion, it is often the case on St. Maarten that employers view and applies the minimum wage as a maximum wage. They make it clear that by law they are not obligated to pay more. This way of thinking has to stop.
OSPP favors an adjustment of the minimum wage among others by differentiating the minimum wage structure for example by different age categories and by professions, which would be overall equally beneficial to the employer and employee.
Employers will also be guaranteed the best business possible business climate, such as more favorable investment incentives, rapid issuing of business licenses, work and resident permits. All structures that impede the conducting of business efficiently on St. Maarten deserve adequate attention.
An adjustment of the minimum wage should not result on the businesses being able to increase their prices otherwise we are back to square one.

OSPP Press Release

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever during the career fair opening last week at the Belair Community Center congratulated the organizers and urged young people to find a career that has potential for growth.
"I work closely with the Minister of Education, and it would only make sense that in her absence I represent her," said Minister De Weever. "I mention this to link education and the workforce, finishing school and finding a job is one thing, but a career that includes the potential to grow is a goal we should all have for our students."
Minister De Weever further stated at the opening of the career fair that he noticed many businesses that were not present and that there is a clear correlation with work permits. "I hope we can change that trend in the future without jeopardizing our economy," said Minister De Weever.
The minister thanked the organizing committee for their hard work, and also thanked the various companies, colleges locally, regionally and internationally for making the event possible. Minister De Weever closed his opening remarks by asking each and every one present to stay committed to building St. Maarten together.

cdeweeveratsmmctriage12112013GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever commends the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for completing the Triage Room in the emergency room.
"Although it took a while, I am happy to see that the Triage is finally up and running," said Minister De Weever. "A trip to the Emergency Room is now quite different compared to the past, as you are attended to quicker, and the waiting period has been cut down."
The Minister is also commending the SMMC on the training that was involved for those to run the Triage.

PHILIPSBURG:--- To enhance the chances of youngsters between the ages of 12 and 25 the funding agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean decided to do more than short term funding of youth activities and projects and initiated a special program with the duration of four years. The main objective is to prevent youngsters from dropping out of schools and help those that have dropped out already. The funding agency searched for 20 projects on the six islands of the Dutch Kingdom, that would aim to reach this goal, preferably in an innovative way and strengthening existing projects with the same target group.

Seven foundations on St. Maarten were among the 47 foundations that took up this challenge and sent in their project dossiers. After two selection moments, one in July and one in September, three of the St. Maarten project proposals met all criteria and were selected to participate. In total 18 projects were selected: 9 from Curacao, 3 from Aruba, 1 from St. Eustatius, 2 from Bonaire and 3 from St. Maarten. Flying to Aruba for the kick off meeting on November the 21st are:

"Build your Future" of Kids at Sea Foundation
Kids at sea wants to draw more St. Maarten youngsters into an important business sector of the island: the marine sector. Although St. Maarten used to be number 1 in boat building in the region in the old days, nowadays a lot of kids cannot swim and sailing – the most important skill for anyone in the maritime sector- is considered a rich man's hobby. Students of MPC and Sundial, that have been identified to need a boost in motivation, will get intensive sailing lessons and three teams per year will build their own boats. Participation in regatta's and facilitating youngsters to get jobs in the maritime sector are other important features of this plan.

"Students teaching students" of Participant Foundation
Participant Foundation wants to tap into the largest teaching resource at schools that normally is overlooked: the students themselves. The students will form a club in which high performing students will help those that are struggling but are willing to make an effort. They will do this by providing extra tutor classes, repeating the lesson material in their own way. Furthermore students will be trained in counseling fellow students, to help avoiding that small conflicts will end up in suspension or expulsion. Participating schools are Sundial, MPC and St. Maarten Academy. The organization can take pride in having a very driven youth board, consisting of students that participated in Participants' previous initiative of secondary school students teaching pupils of the primary schools.

"St. Maarten Youth Rangers" of Voice of the Youth St. Maarten
Workers in youth care on St. Maarten decided to join forces and initiate new projects for the youngsters in their care. The St. Maarten Youth Rangers is one of their projects; it aims to form a youth VKS group of vulnerable youngsters to regain self esteem, sense of responsibility and purpose in life. The group will meet twice per week and hiking, camping, kayaking, volunteering, and leadership trainings can form part of the program.

The Cooperating Foundations has been established to support social initiatives on the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. It consists of five Dutch Funding agencies, namely Stichting Kinderpostzegels, Oranje Fonds, Innovatiefonds Zorgverzekeraars, Skanfonds and Fonds Sluyterman van Loo.
On St. Maarten an advisory council meets every three weeks to discuss funding requests that foundations on St. Maarten send in. The advisory council would like to congratulate the three selected NGO's and encourage other NGO's with projects for youths, elderly or vulnerable groups in our society to hand in project requests for our regular funding possibilities.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday November 13, 2013, the National Institute of Arts will be closed.
We invite all parents and students to the Festival Village to see the performance for the King and the Queen featuring students from NIA, Charlotte Brookson Academy for the Performance Arts and Art Saves Lives.
Audience encouraged to get there at 6:00 pm, gates close at 7:00 pm after the arrival of the Royal Couple. Free admission!

In connection with the visit of His Majesty King Willem Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Maxima to the Milton Peters College on Wednesday November 13, the school buses will be arriving at the following schools on the L.B. Scott Road, Betty's Estate, St. John's and St. Peters area to pick up the students 30 minutes later than the usual pick-up time in the afternoon.

Names of the schools:

  • Both Methodist Agogic Center Campuses
  • Both St. Maarten Academy Campuses
  • Sister Magda School
  • Ace Foundation School
  • St. Dominic Elementary and High School
  • Prince Willem Alexander School
  • Hillside Christian School
  • Ruby Labega School
  • St. Maarten Vocational Training School
  • Milton Peters College

Parents picking up students in those areas on November 13th, kindly take into consideration the fact that certain roads leading to the L.B. Scott Road and the L.B. Scott Road itself will be blocked until the Royal Couple's motorcade has departed.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The second victim that was shot Saturday night behind Patricia's Bar was removed from the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) on Monday for his own safety. SMN News has been reliably informed that Nino Brown Thewet had to be taken to the "sick bay" of the Pointe Blanche prison for his own safety. Sources say that police felt they needed to protect Thewet because certain gang members were hanging around SMMC while he was in hospital.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Tuesday that the second victim is out of SMMC but claimed not to know where the victim is held. Henson also confirmed on Tuesday that Thewet is not a suspect in the deadly shooting that left Rondell Bobb of Guyana dead.
Relatives of the deceased young man who was residing in Sucker Garden are peeved with sentiments shared by a number of people that are claiming that Bobb was a gangster. One relative told SMN News that Bobb had some deficiencies but he was a hardworking and creative young man. "Rondell could have built anything, he was driving a truck picking up garbage, despite his condition. Rondell was also very friendly and helpful. We agree he might have been in the wrong place at the wrong time and his friends were not well chosen, but he has no criminal record and he was hardworking. Rondell Bobb was never arrested by police either." The relative said that they believe that Bobb was either bullied or was in a situation and he did not know how dangerous it was. "We believe that the second person who was shot knew he was wanted and that is why he had Rondell drive his car and take over 20 bullets for him. We also think that the people that are jumping to conclusions that the late Rondell Bobb had a gun on him when he was killed should know that the object between Bobb's legs at the time of his murder was his phone and the head of his belt." Another matter the relatives of Rondell Bobb are peeved about are the graphic photos of his dead body that are on several websites and Facebook. "We believe the police should ensure that those photographs are removed from online, we (the relatives) saw him that night when he was killed, we saw his body in that car for hours and we do not want to be reminded of this for the rest of our lives. We have to go online but we don't think we have to see the photographs of our relative everyday like that online."
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson also condemned the publication of the photographs online, he said that the person or persons who took those pictures and uploaded them online did not think about the family's feelings while they are jeopardizing an investigation. Henson said up to Tuesday morning police had no clue on the shooter or shooters and are calling on members of the community who might have seen what transpired Saturday night to contact the police with whatever information they may have that could assist them in the ongoing investigation.

swescotwilliamspresentsvipticketstoroyalquizwinner11112013Public Invited to View Secondary School Art Submissions For the Rest of the Week At the Library

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams presented VIP tickets to the Winner of the Royal Quiz. Mr. Wayne Johnson became the winner of the Quiz that was placed in the local newspaper in which historic questions were asked about our previous Queens and Kings. On Monday, November 11, he received his V.I.P. passes to the Youth Showcase that will be held on Wednesday, November 13, in honor of King Willem Alexander at the Festival Village. A cast of approximately 250 children will participate from the various dance schools as well as the Charlotte Brookson Academy under the artistic leadership of Mrs. Clara Reyes and Mrs. Arlene Halley of the National Institute of Arts. The general public is invited to be witness this majestic event which will also be broadcasted live on Cable TV.

On Tuesday, November 12, additional V.I.P. passes will be shared out, this time to the winners of the 'Royal Visit Art contests' which was held among the primary and secondary schools. Children were requested to be creative and make a portrait of the Royal Couple. A judge selected the winners who will receive their V.I.P. passes from the hands of Prime Minister during the official opening of the art exhibition at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 4 pm at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. The public is invited and is able to view all art submissions for the remainder of the week.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

fccafoundationdonatesgiftstocaribbeanchildren11112013PEMBROKE PINES, Florida:--- The holidays will have special meaning for nearly 7,000 children through the FCCA Foundation's 18th annual Holiday Gift Project. FCCA Member Lines will deliver holiday presents and cheer to underprivileged children throughout Florida and 33 Caribbean and Latin American destinations.

The FCCA Foundation contributes toys specially selected by destination partners for appropriate age groups and gender. Member Lines then load the gifts onboard their ships and transport them to participating destinations, where festivities are arranged, complete with food, drinks and appearances including Santa and Disney characters.

"The FCCA Holiday Gift Project has brought smiles to the faces of hundreds of Jamaican children. Since its inception, the FCCA has lived up to its commitment....providing toys for the children who are less fortunate," said Margaret Jones, manager of visitor relations, Jamaica Tourist Board. "Over the years, the Ministry of Tourism and the Jamaica Tourist Board have joined with the FCCA and its Member Lines to make the gift giving a wonderful experience. It is certainly clear that the gifts are selected with great thought and care each year, and the squeals of delight from the children tell of their happiness."

"We are pleased of the good work that the FCCA Foundation has been doing for the past 18 years," told Kevin Sheehan, CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line and chairman of the FCCA. "It's important to take care of children in need, and it's gratifying to see the Foundation continue to grow and partner with charities who have children that are counting on them for some holiday cheer."

In its 20th year, the FCCA Foundation continues to improve the lives of citizens in the Caribbean and Latin America through projects like this. The Foundation has impacted thousands of lives and provided millions in funding to various organizations and causes.

The following destinations will participate in this special event:

  • Antigua
  • Aruba
  • Bonaire
  • Belize
  • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
  • Cartagena, Colombia
  • Colon, Panama
  • Costa Maya, Mexico
  • Cozumel, Mexico
  • Curacao
  • Dominica
  • Eluthera, Bahamas
  • Ensenada, Mexico
  • Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
  • Falmouth, Jamaica
  • Freeport, Bahamas
  • Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos Islands
  • Grenada
  • Miami, Florida
  • Montego Bay, Jamaica
  • Nassau, Bahamas
  • Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  • Progreso, Mexico
  • Roatan, Honduras
  • Samana, Dominican Republic
  • Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
  • San Juan, Puerto Rico
  • St. Kitts
  • St. Lucia
  • St. Maarten
  • St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.
  • Tortola, BVI
  • Turks & Caicos

The FCCA Member Lines are committed to working with its destination partners to deliver holiday cheer.

Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International.

cooperatingfoundationsdonatetosistermagdaschool11112013L.B. SCOTT ROAD:--- Members of the Parent Teacher Association of the Sister Magda School happily accepted a donation from the Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean (Samenwerkende Fondsen) for their clever anonymous breakfast program for those children in their school that need it.
Normally the funding agency Cooperating Foundations does not finance food items and compensation for food preparation for about 6 months if there is no guarantee that it can continue afterwards. Because the government however has firm plans to start breakfast programs in all primary schools next year, an exception was made.

btpsxmdonatesservertompc11112013L.B. SCOTT ROAD:--- Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten donated two HP DL series rack mountable 19" servers with dual power supplies, redundant disk including memory and processor and a 19" equipment server rack to the ICT department of the Milton Peter College.

The servers are intended for the hosting of software applications and will form a critical part of the data network of MPC. They will be used for several network critical functions such as central email services, central data management, shared access to files, and access control to the network. Managing Director of Carib Work IT N.V., Mr. Serge Bakker contributed to this donation by configuring, testing and delivering the servers at no costs and will provide onsite technical support to the schools whenever that's needed.

General Director of Milton Peter College & Sundial School, Mr. de Visser, was delighted with the generous donation of BTP-SXM and stated: "our school will benefit from this contribution both now and in the future. In times of limited resources, contributions such as these make an incredible difference in what's available to our schools".

With the donation of data servers, Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten, spearheaded by Mr. Anthony Carty, wants to stimulate the use of ICT in schools for both students and teachers. "For the future of St. Maarten, it's of great importance that students learn how to apply and further extend their ICT skills in the curriculum".

BTP-SXM Press Release

gracitaarrindell11112013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell says last week Friday Super Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines causing catastrophic damage to part of the island-chain. The number of reported causalities has been estimated at over 10,000 in one city, but that figure is expected to rise as many areas become more accessible.

"We can recall the devastation that our island nation suffered after Hurricane Luis in 1995. As a people we can comprehend what these people are going through, but their storm was much stronger than ours, so you can imagine.

"One can expect that some form of relief effort will be started in the coming days, and we should support legitimate relief efforts that are to help the people of the Philippines," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

More than 660,000 people reportedly have been displaced and 9.8 million have been affected by the passing of the typhoon described as the worst storm system to ever impact a country.

"A major airlift effort is underway in the impacted area as critical relief operations move forward. Many communities are difficult to reach as roads, airports and bridges were destroyed or blocked with debris.

"Let's keep the victims of the Philippines in our prayers and pray for their loved ones living on other parts of the island-chain that were not affected and those living abroad. Without a doubt they are worried about their families living in the impacted areas," President Arrindell said on Monday.

eholidayandpchopinlayingsxmdaywreaths11112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Dignitaries from both sides of the island including Governor Eugene Holiday along with his wife Marie-Louis, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Aline Hanson, first Vice President Guillaume Arnell, and several other elected officials rose early Monday morning to begin St. Martin Day festivities at the Seventh Day Adventist Church where the ecumenical service was held.

The day's celebration continued with the wreath laying ceremony which was done at the Bellevue monument. The first set of wreaths were laid by Governor Eugene Holiday and Prefet Philippe Chopin while the second set of wreaths were laid by two women that held top positions together for the first time, they were Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and President of the Collectivity Aline Hanson. After the official wreath laying ceremony where the national anthems were played by the brass band and a poem was recited by Ruby Bute, the dignitaries were transported to the A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility where the Coast Guard displayed their newly acquired crime helicopter. Two senior officers of the Coast Guard gave the elected officials a brief introduction on what can be done with the helicopter and all that is on board the new crime fighting equipment. Governor Holiday got into the helicopter to get a first-hand look and feel of being inside the helicopter, Prefet Philippe Chopin and third Vice President Ramona Connor did the same.

swescotwilliamsandahansonlayingsxmdaywreaths11112013The dignitaries were then taken to Front Street opposite the Court House were various uniform troupes gave the salute to Governor Holiday and Prefet Chopin while the other dignitaries and invited guests looked at the parade. The final part of the official ceremony took place at Festival Village where elected officials delivered their messages after the various troupes paraded and displayed their skills inside the grounds of Festival Village.

Minister of Education and Culture Patricia Lourens-Philip who was the host of the annual event made clear that she was not going to make promises on cooperation between the two sides because of the difference in laws on both sides. She said that even though she was not making promises she could not deliver, there are committees and commissions working together for the best interest of St. Maarten.

President of the Collectivity Aline Hanson placed focus on what is was like years ago as she reflected on this year's theme "Back in the Day". Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also shared the same sentiments while she encouraged St. Martiners to enjoy the celebration. Prefet Philippe Chopin and Governor Eugene Holiday also reflected on what it was like years ago on St. Martin and how the people of the island survived and made their living.

Click here to view more photos of the official ceremony of St. Martin Day 2013.

Sint Maarten Day Message

by

Eugene B. Holiday
The Governor of Sint Maarten

Fellow Sint Maarteners,

Happy Sint Maarten's Day. It is my hope that you are enjoying our national holiday with family and friends savoring our sweet Sint Maarten land from north to south and from east to west.
Today November 11, 2013, we join together as brothers from Marigot and Philipsburg to celebrate Sint Maarten's Day, our National Day. A celebration where we embrace our traditions and culture and project our potential as a people. Our theme: Back in the Day, for this Sint Maarten's day is therefore fitting because it accentuates the foundation of yesteryear, built for our Sint Maarten of the now and here.
When we hear the words Sint Maarten back in the day, we tend to get nostalgic and reminisce of the way things used to be. We poetically reminisce about:

  • the time when we knew most everyone by name
  • the time when we could sleep with our doors and windows open
  • the time when parents disciplined their children with the belt and the family was the cornerstone of our community
  • the time when good morning, good afternoon and good night were common
  • the time when your word was as good as gold
  • the time when our lagoons and ponds were rich sources of sea food
  • the time when our great salt pond banked on backstreet
  • the time when during dry weather we played baseball in the fresh pond
  • the time when wells and cisterns were key to our water usage
  • the time when we could sit and count the cars pass by
  • the time when the old Simpson bridge only allowed for one vehicle to pass at a time
  • the time when boys and girls scouts and boys and girls brigades were THE youth organizations
  • the time when children made their own toys such as rollers and tree houses
  • the time when Sunday school was mandatory and held by miss Glorine under the tamond tree at Emilio's estate
  • the time when Sunday Matinée at Vava Flanders was the big outing;
  • the time when Seaview Hotel and Pasangrahan Hotel were the top hotel properties;
  • the time when we got our hamburgers and milkshakes at Risdon's;
  • the time when groceries were synonymous to Food Center and beverages to Vance James & Sons
  • the time when we had various mom and pops shops for a pound of this or that;
  • the time when we tanked our cars bought from L.C Fleming Ford and Vlaun and Sons at Scott's ESSO station;
  • the time when we shopped at L.C. Fleming Materials, Caribe Lumber and Philipsburg Utilities, Yankees Department Store, Beach Islander and Paul White and Brothers, as well as at Ms. Matteau, Caribbean palm and Bata
  • the time when we got our melee from the neighbor and our news from the Windward Islands Opinion
  • In summary Sint Maarten Back in the Day.

My fellow Sint Maarteners, my brothers and sisters,
This is a but brief reflection of Sint Maarten Back in the day as I experienced, read about and remember it. There is so much more that I can share but time does not permit.
The Sint Maarten/Saint Martin I described has changed and transformed. And while change is inevitable as the wields of time rolls on, it is important that we not do lose sight of the strengths, characteristics and values of the people of Sint Maarten that made today possible.
Looking at the picture I described I would therefore like to draw your attention to the values of the people of Sint Maarten Back in the Day. The picture reveals a Sint Maarten people who at the core are:

  • family centered, community oriented and friendly,
  • hard working and self-reliant,
  • has respect for self and for others,
  • live in harmony with our Sweet Sint Maarten land; and
  • in cooperation, solidarity and unity

These my fellow Sint Maarteners, my brothers and sisters have been key factors in the realization of the aspirations of our people. It is therefore imperative that we all pause for a moment and assess where we stand relative to these values. And whatever your assessment it is my hope that each of us, at the end of the pause, will embrace these values and characteristics. On this Sint Maarten Day let us thus cease the moment and commit to these values and characteristics and do all in our power to pass them on to the next generation. Core values which makes the interest and further development of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin paramount in all we do. For it is only by doing that that we can expect to achieve the continued and balanced growth and aspirations of the people of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.
My fellow Sint Maarteners, my brothers and sisters
Anchored in my embrace and commitment to these values for a stronger Sint Maarten/Saint Martin I hereby, on behalf of my wife Marie-Louise and myself, wish the people of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin a pleasant, happy and safe Day.
May God bless you and may God Bless Sint Maarten.

Thank you.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announces that the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for the Greater Philipsburg area will be held on November 18.

The public consultation will take place Monday, November 18 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

The OSPP extends its' deepest condolences to the people of the Philippines and its' community here in St. Maarten on the loss of so many lives caused by the storm and the damage done to the country. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Lenny F. Priest
President/Interim Leader

patricialourensatunescogeneralconference10112013Honorable President, Honorable Director General,
Your Excellencies, Distinguished delegates,
Ladies & Gentlemen,
Mr. President, as the new Minister for Education, Youth, Culture and Sports on St. Maarten, it is an honour and pleasure for me to participate in this illustrious event.

Let me take a few seconds to extend on behalf of Sint Maarten, congratulations to the people of Anguilla on achieving associate membership with UNESCO, Anguilla is one of Sint Maarten's neighboring islands (less that 30 minutes away by boat), our people share many common aspects of culture, economic and social activity.

Mr. President, Sint Maarten became a Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in October of 2010 and a year later we became an associate member of UNESCO. Since then we have made important strides in many areas and I would like to share with you our major achievements.

The legal framework for the installation of the St. Maarten's National Commission for UNESCO has been approved by government, the Secretariat is functional and a Secretary General for UNESCO has been appointed.

In the domain of Culture on St. Maarten, where the preservation and highlighting of our National Heritage is concerned:

  • Historically, July 1st is known as our Day of Emancipation. This day was proclaimed as a public holiday for the first time in 2012 to afford our people the opportunity to reflect on the atrocities of slavery and celebrate our freedom from its shackles.
  • Also in 2012 and 2013 the Governor of St. Maarten hosted two symposia with the themes "National Heritage: its historical, cultural & economic importance" and "Sustainable Development: challenges for Sint Maarten as a Small Island Caribbean Nation" respectively.
    These symposia brought together a large cross-section of the community of our island as well as professionals from neighbouring islands.
  • By Ministerial Decree at the beginning of this year, the decade starting in 2013 and ending in 2023 was proclaimed: "The Decade of Revitalizing Our Natural and Cultural Heritage".

Mr. President, against this backdrop St. Maarten is in the process of acceding to the Convention for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage. In addition, we support and endorse the project proposal on strengthening capacities to implement the 2003 Convention in Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, St Maarten, St Eustatius and Saba, in cooperation with the Netherlands and Surinam, which will be realized in 2014.

The cultural institutional infrastructure of St. Maarten was further advanced by the establishment of the Foundation called "CARIBBEAN PITCH – IT".
"CARIBBEAN PITCH – IT" proposes to collaborate with other member states in the Caribbean and to serve as the portal for the Tangible Cultural Heritage project "The Eastern Caribbean Coastal Fortifications and Related Cultural Landscapes".

In this context I call attention to one of our new objectives, which is to obtain recognition for a category 2 center on St. Maarten.
Our proposal for this center is to serve as a world-renowned professional institute in the area of Tangible Cultural Heritage supported by Information Technology.

Culture and education meet where the focus on the youth of St. Maarten begins. Mr. President, representing the multicultural composition of our society, our youth came together in a Youth Round Table Conference in September of this year.

The preliminary report of the Youth Round Table conference cited "IDENTITY" as an area of importance to our youth. As a result St. Maarten's 2013 program in commemoration of the International Day of the Rights of the Child will focus on mentioned area under the theme "My right to an Identity: My Right to Belong".
Our Youth Parliament engages in annual sessions at St. Maarten's Parliament's Headquarters. Their session this year was centered around the need to introduce more technology in our schools.
As far as science is concerned, Mr. President, a Man and Biosphere (MAB) committee has been established on St. Maarten. A potential site has been selected as a biosphere reserve and presently the committee is engaging in the process to request the designation of the selected site as a UNESCO reserve.

In the area of education, Mr. President, I am proud to announce that St. Maarten now has its own National Institute for Technical & Vocational Education. Our government is committed to provide the students of this institute for continuing and tertiary education with appropriate knowledge, skills and competencies to enable them to either successfully enter the job market or to actively pursue an opportunity for self-employment.

Mr. President, I am equally proud to announce yet another project to you, which is the "one laptop per child project". The ambitious goals of this project are to provide a tablet to each student, to equip our schools with the necessary infrastructure and provide our teachers with the necessary training to make our education system relevant to the technological requirements of the 21st century.
In order to provide optimal development opportunities for our students with special needs, we engaged the assistance of a U.S. University to categorize the special needs of our students and to make recommendations for individual remediation plans.
In closing Mr. President, it is our aim as a new associate member of this august body, to continue building that on which we have embarked and developing new initiatives in the area of Education, Science, and Culture in our continued efforts to uphold the ideals and goals of UNESCO. In light of this we will like to take this opportunity to announce our full support and sponsorship of the draft resolution to reinforce UNESCO's strategy in SIDS as part of the post 2015 development agenda.
I thank you!

pjiaesoccerplayersatarubaslamgames10112013SIMPSON BAY:--- Warmth and sportsmanship were the two main characteristics of the recently concluded Airport Slam Games held in Aruba. The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) Sporting Club, which participated in the games, returned very satisfied with the organization of the event and the performance of the teams it fielded in the five sports.

"Our teams gave a good account of themselves and made us proud, especially in volleyball and dominoes in which they became sub-champs," said Evans Marshall, president of SXM Sporting Club Foundation.

He said the St. Maarten representatives took third place in softball and fourth in soccer and target shooting respectively.

Other airports represented at the Slam Games were those of Suriname, Curacao and Aruba, the hosts.

"The official hosts, the Reina Beatrix International Airport, gave the SXM group a rousing welcome reception and provided transportation via a party bus," Marshall said.

"At the farewell party, they thanked SXM for its branded promotional items and its successes at the games," Marshall added.

It was also announced that the next edition of the games will be hosted by Suriname in 2014.

SXM Airport managing director, Regina LaBega, congratulated the contingent for "the pride and honor with which they represented St. Maarten at the Slam Games" and wished the Sporting Club more success in all of its undertakings.

winairatsxmcareerandstudyfair10112013BELAIR:--- On November 7, 2013 First Officer Ashnil Sakhrani and Captain Michael Jeffrey represented our National Airline WINAIR at St. Maarten's annual Career & Study Fair held at Belair's Community Center. The fair was held between 7am to 6pm. It was attended by companies and organizations such as the PJIA, Education Department, Customs, Coast Guard, St. Maarten Medical Center, Telcell, Florida Universities and many more. The Fair targeted all high schools on Dutch St. Maarten and the Island of Saba.

The students showed great interest in WINAIR and asked many questions concerning the job opportunities at the airline. During the fair a raffle was held giving students a chance to "Win a day at WINAIR", visiting each department of the airline and flying along with its pilots.

Over 150 students entered the raffle. Four lucky students won this opportunity. They are Juliy He (St. Dominic High) LeQuan Brooks (MPC) Simon Speetjens (MPC) and Danel Lucas (MPC). The raffle was drawn by Ms. Ruthline Rogers-Steba one of the organizers of the Career and Study Fair.

WINAIR's booth at the Study Fair continues to be one of the most popular among the students and WINAIR's dynamic Captain Jeffry confided that each year the airline's Activity Committee looks forward to having our National Airline attend this fair. He echoed Managing Director Michael Cleaver's wish to have the country's Ministry of Education include in their student education financing program, scholarships for careers in the airline industry such as Pilots, Aircraft Mechanics, Aviation Management and other related studies. Each year WINAIR has to recruit pilots from abroad to fill the various vacancies in their aircraft cockpits due to a lack of local pilots in sufficient numbers.

3winprizesinpjiaequizatcareerandstudyfair10112013SIMPSON BAY:--- Three students, all of them of the St. Maarten Academy won prizes for having the most correct answers in a quiz organized by the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) during the highly successful Career and Study Fair held at the Belair Community Center, Thursday.

The first prize of a Samsung Galaxy tablet was won by Jayni Suero, while the second prize consisting of a 5th generation iPod Touch went to Sue Kishana Bera. Damion Lee of St. Maarten Academy PSVE took the third prize of a Nikon digital camera. He was unable to attend the prize-giving ceremony held at the end of the Fair.

Participants in the quiz were asked a total of 15 questions, all but five of which were multiple choice questions.

The Quiz was obviously a big hit with the students who milled around the SXM Airport stand at the Fair to answer the questions. They also received information on career opportunities at the airport and were able to view videos of the Flash Mob dance held recently at the Meet and Greet area of the airport, which featured some of the students at the Fair.

All the students who visited the SXM Airport stand received branded gift items and showed a lot of interest in the career opportunities the airport offers.

"The Fair was very well-attended and we were very happy to see so many students interested in what the airport does and what careers they can study for to work there," said Suzy Kartokromo, acting manager, Marketing and Customer Service Department at SXM.

patricialourensphilipmeetswithpmivarasjes10112013PARIS, France:--- On Thursday November 7th, 2013 Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs of Sint Maarten, Mrs. Patricia Lourens-Philip and Honorable Prime Minister and Deputy Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Curaçao, Mr. Ivar Asjes took the opportunity during their attendance of the 37th UNESCO General Conference to discuss several issues regarding education in both countries.

Coming out of this discussion, which was held at the Kingdom Embassy in Paris were opportunities for cooperation and collaboration between St. Maarten and Curacao.

In another few weeks, the public will be subjected to the kind of commotion over the 2014 budget as there was over balancing of the 2013 budget. As it was then, it happens again that instead of scrutinizing government's fiscal management and development policy to ensure that we receive most for our tax dollars, MP's will huddle together to present a balanced budget to the CFT before the deadline expires. From Parliament, instead probing questions and well-reasoned arguments, we will be bombarded with superficial ramblings in the name of debate. Ultimately, the MP's supporting the government will all agree to a balanced document, which will be busted open widely once again a few months later with amendments.
As reported in the media, that the CFT is standing by the stipulation that the first rendition of the 2014 budget should be available for handling by December 15. It is also notable that the CFT has admonished that government trims 20 million guilders from the budget before presenting it. In other words, the CFT is prepared to give a negative advise on the 2014 budget - balanced or not – unless at least expenditures to the tune of 20 million guilders is cut from the budget. In meeting these stringent requirements, the Finance Minister is likely to engage in a willy-nilly cutting of those sections of the budget that are easiest to manipulate. In other words, government will downgrade its services and other public undertaking in order to decrease expenditures; and very few parliamentarians will be equipped to challenge the arguments that will be advance in defense of those cuts. However, while cuts may be necessary they should not result in diminishing government services to the people, for which the public dutifully pays weekly, monthly and annually as the case may be.
"In this context and for other reasons the OSPP expects that the draft budget be made available to the public, says Lenny Priest, "that the ordinary man on the streets may have an opportunity to contribute to the budget debate through interaction with his favorite parliamentarian. This is certainly not asking too much. If the public is to better appreciate how his money is spent, it is advisable that upon the Council of Minister's approving the draft budget, an English version of this important policy document be posted on the government website for public consumption. And if this is not possible this time around, the Dutch version should be posted. We are also suggesting that when eventually the Parliament approves the 2014 budget, a summarized version of this document be posted on the government's webpage for the use of students, businesses and other organizations etc, any and everyone who may be interested in the details of the government's intention for their future. Now is the time for us to commence educating our people about matters that affect their lives through presenting them with a copy of the draft budget 2014 for their information. We sincerely hope that our government would agree and show maturity in this matter.

OSPP Press Release

My Fellow Citizens, Happy St. Maarten Day 2013.

This Monday, November 11, 2013 we will be celebrating St. Maarten Day on the Southern side of the island, on Dutch St. Maarten. It is always a privilege and honor to have our elected officials from both side of the island come together have lunch, make some beautiful speeches and then the next day business as usual. Over the last couple of years the government from both sides has added another dimension to the celebration, the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for this, that and the other. The next year, another signing but no significant changes as it pertain to the working together of the two governments.
Many years ago these celebrations include the people from both sides as they compete with each other for the November 11 football cup, the boat races, the swimming races from the A. C. Wathey Pier to the Captain Hodge wharf, running races around Philipsburg, zinc boat races in the Great Bay Salt Pond and so many more cultural activities. Those were the good old days. This reminds me of the calypso that King Stunky won the Calypso crown in 1984, namely; "Where have our culture gone"
It is a fact that we don't experience the great celebrations that existed many years ago and the people see this as just another day off from work and our students don't have to go school. Is this the price we paid and are still paying for this development?
The OSPP feels very strongly that St. Maarten day celebration should be one week of activities leading up to St. Maarten Day. Every evening there should be some type of activities organized by all the organizations within the various districts such as the community councils, the churches, the schools, the community police officers, the businesses and last but not the least the department of culture and community development within the government as the coordinators, Once activities are organized, the people of the districts would be in the mood and would get involved in all the celebrations on St. Maarten Day. This form of celebration should continue every year as it would include the people from all the districts and we will get the people involved and not just a day to stay home.
After that week of celebration in the various districts St. Maarten Day on November 11 will be celebrated by all the residents, bringing the people together, enhancing love for our country, encouraging our norms and values while bringing back our culture. St. Maarten is my home and I will not leave it to go nowhere else.

OSPP Press Release

CAY HILL:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center can expect improved services at the emergency department of the hospital.

Adjoining the waiting area in the emergency room, is a newly built Triage room. In the ER, patients are not treated on a first come first serve basis but on the severity of their health situation. To determine in which order the patients see the doctor, an assessment is made. The newly built triage room will offer the patient privacy during this assessment. This new space gives us opportunity to give care sooner.

Triage is the assessment of a patient's condition to determine the order of treatment. In the emergency room nurses assess the patient during triage. Though triage is a system used by nurses, in the emergency room doctors and nurses work close together and so the doctor must have knowledge of this process.

Before making use of the room to fully implement Triage in the ER, a total of 24 ER doctors and nurses and other critical care workers at SMMC, received Triage training from MeduProf-S Mr. Philip Vriend, a team leader with 18 years of nursing experience in the ER. The staff received training about giving clinical priority, asking questions, taking vital signs, privacy and examination of a patient. The training included theoretical and practical training over a period of 5 days in October. Early next year, Mr. Vriend will return to evaluate how the process is working in the hospital's emergency room and to give on-the-job coaching.

With this training and the facility to fully implement triage, the quality of care at our emergency services will improve by reducing risky situations that occur during a patient's wait for assessment.

In any emergency room, short waiting times cannot be guaranteed as a patient waiting time can increase if there is suddenly a more urgent case. However, the time of making first contact with a care worker to assess the patient's current health condition will significantly be improved at SMMC. Every patient who enters the emergency room will have Triage care within 15 minutes. After triage, the nurses will remain vigilant regarding the patient's health status up until the patient is seen and treated by the ER doctor.

At our ER, we give immediate professional care to about 13,000 emergency visits each year and we know that in emergencies patients and family members are stressed and anxious. Yet at all times, the care workers at the emergency room are doing their best to help our patients as quickly and efficiently as possible.

One week, after the building of the triage room, Manager Patient Care comments that "it has guaranteed the SMMC a more structured and timely screening of our patients before seeing the ER doctor." He continues, "We will keep informing the community of our new changes in the Emergency Room. What we want to accomplish, is for our patients to know and feel that they are getting the best of care in our Emergency Room."

From the Board of Directors, Kees Klarenbeek, "This Triage room is one of many changes we are making in our hospital for the improvement of patient care."

SMMC Press Release

rondellbobb09112013SUCKER GARDEN:--- Police were busy most of Saturday night investigating a shooting that took place behind Patricia's Bar on Sucker Garden Road. Dead is Rondell Bobb also known as "Bobb the Builder" (23) a national of Guyana who was shot multiple times in a vehicle. Bobb is well known in the Sucker Garden area as being very creative with his hands as he builds almost anything. He uwas partially handicapped and is also known to be friendly.
Residents in Sucker Garden said they cannot imagine why anyone would shoot and kill Bobb. "This young man was partially handicapped and he was also creative and friendly." Some alluded that he must have been in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people. Bobb was shot to death inside a vehicle which was parked behind Patricia's Bar. The vehicle was parked at the car wash located behind the bar. Relatives of Rondell Bobb are at a loss for words, they confirmed that Bobb does not own a vehicle and he was in someone's car when he was shot multiple times. Some persons said they believe that the shooter who used a machine gun was after the second victim who was also inside the vehicle when the shooting took place.
A second person identified as Nino Brown "Thewet" is in critical condition at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Unconfirmed reports state that Nino recently came out of prison, he is said to be a national of St. Kitts with ties to the Thewet families on A.T Illidge Road.
Chief of Police Peter de Witte confirmed the shooting Saturday night that left one person dead. De Witte said the shooting took place sometime around 10pm behind Patricia's Bar. Chief Prosecutor Hans Wesslink said he knew of the shooting but up to Sunday afternoon he did not have further information. Press prosecutor Dounia Bennmar said she did not feel comfortable releasing information to the press on the most recent homicide because she is the Prosecutor in charge of the investigation.

Two men shot, one dies during incident.

On Saturday November 9th, 2013 at approximately 9:25pm, police patrols, detectives and paramedics were directed to Flanders Bar on Sucker Garden Road for a shooting incident. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to a witness who stated that shortly before he heard several gun shots fired in the parking lot at the back of the building and was told that someone had been shot behind the building. During the investigation on the scene the officers encountered the lifeless body of the man with initials R.B. (23) from Guyana who had been shot several times and was not showing any signs of life. When the victim was found, he was sitting behind the steering wheel of a gray colored Kia Rio. A medical doctor who came to the scene pronounced the death of this victim. As the investigation continued the officers were informed that a second victim in this incident was brought to the Sint Maarten Medical Center to be treated for gun shot wounds he had suffered. This victim with the initials A.B. was treated and then admitted for observation. The detectives are questioning witnesses and the Forensic Department immediately started collecting evidence in the attempt to bring some clarity to this case.
Up until this press release, no suspect or suspects have been arrested in this case. It is still entirely unclear why this incident took place and who the persons are that are responsible. The Police Department is asking anyone who may have information that could shed some light on this case to use the tip-line (9300) and share this information.

KPSM Police Report

telemdonatestoima08112013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group handed over a check and two mobile phones to the Indian Merchants Association Friday, as a donation towards hosting of the group's annual Diwali Ball. IMA representative, Mr. Cookie Bijani, said the mobile phones will be part of a popular silent auction that is organized each year. "We thank TelEm Group management and staff for their kind donation," said Mr. Bijani.

Telem Press Release

pjiae28062012SIMPSON BAY:--- The ultra-modern Terminal Building at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) will be seven years old on the eve of St. Maarten Day. The facility was officially opened on November 10, 2006 by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands during her royal visit.

"Not only is the new terminal building a beauty to behold, it has become a landmark that other countries in the region" are fashioning their airport after, said SXM managing director, Regina LaBega.

"Coincidentally, we are also celebrating our 70th anniversary this year," she continued, "making this seventh year of the terminal building a double celebration."

LaBega said that the history of the transformation of the terminal building reflects the history of tourism and economic development on the island.

"The Terminal Building and its several transformations since 1943 may be seen as the symbol of the development of not only the airport, but also of the island's tourism economy over the decades," she said.

"In 1964, a Terminal Building was constructed to replace the original one as tourism started to seriously develop on the island. Twenty-two years later, as tourism began to boom and passenger traffic shot up, another Terminal Building became necessary. In 2006, another 20 years after, the brand new, US$100 million ultra-modern Terminal Building was completed to serve the people of our island, and to cater to the increased passenger traffic and the demands of the hub function of the airport," LaBega said.

The new Terminal Building can handle about 2.5 million passengers annually. Its four-level, fully air-conditioned, and spacious modern facilities span an area of 30,500m2 and consist of 12 boarding gates, including 4 passenger loading jet bridges; 46 check-in positions, all equipped with CUTE (Common Use Terminal Equipment) and 8 CUSS kiosks or self-service check-in systems.

"With these and other amenities, our goal continues to be increasing customer satisfaction and ensuring that the 1.7 million passengers that make use of our facilities each year have an experience that will move them," LaBega said.

In order to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards a Runway End Safety Area (RESA) was constructed at the East end of the runway, aimed at minimizing the risk of damage to an aircraft undershooting or overrunning the runway.

In fact, the rehabilitation of the runway, which is currently being carried out, forms a significant part of the Capital Improvement Program that was embarked upon thanks to the successful floating of a new bond issue on the international market. This was facilitated by the Moody's rating which made SXM Airport the first government-owned company to obtain such an important rating by a world renowned agency.

Other projects in the Capital Improvement Program include the relocation of the Fuel Farm, the construction of a new Fixed Base Operator (FBO) facility, renovation of the Cargo Building and the beautification of the Airport roundabout.

"As an award winning airport, we have to continue to innovate, renovate and improve our services in order to remain competitive, especially in view of our increasing role as a regional hub," said LaBega. "This is among the main reasons we have rebranded the SXM airport."

"The people of St. Maarten have an airport they can be proud of because it is their continuing support and the work of the entire staff past and present that has made it into the regional leader it is today," she added.

wibdonatestoima08112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) made a financial contribution in support of the Indian Merchants Association of St. Maarten (IMA) who is busy preparing for their annual fundraising event, The IMA Diwali Ball 2013. IMA promotes social and cultural activities on St. Maarten in which the proceeds of events are donated to various worthy local charity groups and causes on the island. WIB was thanked by the Indian Merchant Association for their generous donation. The management and staff of WIB wish our Indian Community a Happy Diwali.

WIB Press Release

sxmsignsnewagreementwiththenetherlands08112013PARIS, France:--- On Thursday November 7th, 2013, Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs of Sint Maarten, Mrs. Patricia Lourens-Philip signed a cooperation protocol with the Honorable Minister of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands, Dr. Jet Bussemaker concerning the 2013 budget for Studying in the Region, at the Dutch Embassy in Paris.

This yearly budget (138.000 euro) was made available for Sint Maarten in 2004 to replace the possibility for Antillean students to get Dutch Study finance for studying in the region.

The monies will be used this year for the development of four programs. These programs will include an acculturation course for all new teachers, a postgraduate diploma in Education, a certificate in Education for Technical and Vocational Education for all teachers at the NIPA (National Institute for Professional Advancement), and a program for continuing education for all teachers in Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Education.

All programs will be developed in close cooperation with the University of St. Martin (USM). The level and quality of the programs will be such that they are similar to the standards used by the NVAO in the Netherlands.

jacquelinejosephreceivesawardfromchrisbrown08112013HOLLYWOOD, Florida:--- St. Maarten resident Jacqueline Joseph has been named "Professional of the Year" in the Independent Category at the 2013 Auto Rental Summit presented by American Express. Participants at the event gathered in Hollywood, Florida on November 5 to hear the announcement of this year's award winners. As a newly named Auto Rental News Professional of the Year, Jacqueline has been recognized for her outstanding customer service in the car rental industry.

Jacqueline started working in the Car Rental industry as a Car Rental Agent at Easy Rentals in Roseau, Dominica. She is now a Marketing Executive at Leisure Car Rental in St. Maarten, an Independent Car Rental company known for their Excellent Customer Service. Joseph joined the Leisure team in 2009 as a Marketing Representative and was quickly promoted to Marketing Manager due to her consistent and effective work on behalf of the company and its customers. When asked to comment on the award and the ceremony Joseph said, "It is a great honor to be recognized as Leisure Car Rental's Professional of the Year. Over the years, I've discovered that customer service is Key! We always strive to go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure Maximum Customer Satisfaction."

According to Jimmy Fitzpatrick at Leisure Car Rental, Joseph wears many hats. In addition to her duties as Marketing Manager, she also assists the company with planning, operations and human resources. Joseph now has the distinction of bringing positive recognition to the company and to the St. Maarten community. According to Fitzpatrick, "This is indeed more than an honor for little St. Maarten to be recognized in this prestigious, International Event. Congratulations, Jacqueline, you are indeed an asset to Leisure Car Rental and more importantly to the Island Nation of St. Maarten!"

The 2013 awards luncheon was just the second, but already the event has become something for the car rental industry to look forward to each year. Those who work in the industry are excited to have a chance to recognize their best and most effective employees. Chris Brown, Executive Editor of "Auto Rental News summed it up this way, "The awards are a forum for the auto rental industry to celebrate its champions, enhance industry morale and promote its good works." Awards were presented to winners in each of the car rental business categories, Independent, Corporate and Franchise. A panel of five judges chose the winners and this year's judges included Sharon Faulkner, Executive Director of ACRA (American Car Rental Association); Diane J. Clancy, director of ACRISS (Association of Car Rental Industry System Standards); Leslie Pujo, Attorney/Owner at LaPlaca Pujo, PC; Ziad Khoury, founder and president of the Frontline Performance Group (FPG) and Chris Brown, executive editor of Auto Rental News.

To learn more about Leisure Car Rental and the services they offer visit our website at http://www.leisurecarrentalsxm.com, become a fan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lcarsxm or call 721.581.8577 to speak with a representative. You can also email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

pjiaerepsataerotropolisamericasconference08112013Delegation back from Aerotropolis Americas Conference at DFW

SIMPSON BAY:--- "Airports have become multimodal, multifunctional, economic engines driving commercial development well beyond their boundaries," said Dr. John Kasarda, Director of the Center for Air Commerce at the University of North Carolina, and chairman of the recently concluded inaugural Aerotropolis Americas Conference held at Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport (DFW).
The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) was among the over 400 participants from 60 different airports at the conference. The SXM delegation consisted of Anastacio Baker, Quality Assurance Manager, Michael Lake, Manager, Accounting & Reporting Department, and Kalifa Hickinson, Corporate Communications Specialist.
DFW was chosen to host the event because it is a prime example of an Aerotropolis. It has numerous commercial developments underway, including 15 new international routes, and light rail service starting in 2014. DFW also has service to over 200 nonstop destinations worldwide, providing access to international and domestic markets for business. The Dallas/Ft. Worth area is the fourth largest and fastest growing region in the USA, in large part due to DFW and its access to the world as a global hub. It has been reported that it contributes over $31 billion to the economy of Texas.
Dr. Kasarda, the world's leading expert on the concept of Aerotropolis, describes this as a multimodal freight and passenger complex that supports efficient, cost-effective, sustainable development in a defined region of economic significance centered around an airport. He further noted that "in the process, an airport-integrated economic region is forming (the aerotropolis) made up of spines and clusters of aviation-linked businesses and associated residential complexes stretching up to 30 miles outward."
He stressed the importance of keeping "Last Mile" costs at a minimum, which is the cost of travel from one airport to another (including time on the ground), in other words, the total time/cost of connecting through a particular airport. He stressed that airports should be looking at ways to reduce the time it takes passengers to get to and from their facilities.
According to Dr. Kasarda, regions can also increase their employment and income by reducing the cost of passenger and air cargo movement on the ground. In addition, he spoke about the need for airports to reserve the land nearest to them for air intensive activities. He noted that Aerotropolises create investor value by reducing the cost of business and accelerating regional economic growth and job creation.
The major threats to a successful Aerotropolis are lack of community support and insufficient communication. It is important for the local community to understand the role an airport plays in regional economic activity.
Airports globally are creating shopping mall concepts for their airside operations, as well as exploring other ways of increasing non-aeronautical revenue. Some of the commercial activities include the development of airport hotels and conference centers; upscale boutiques and restaurants; spa/recreation centers, all near airport premises as well as hosting airport weddings – a phenomenon that is becoming increasingly popular.
The idea of an Aerotropolis is for businesses that have significant economic impact to surround an airport. However, the time and cost of connecting is even more crucial to the Aerotropolis strategy than physical space.
Similarly, the spirit of collaboration, not competition, is what drives (Aerotropolis) growth in a region. Speakers at the conference repeatedly stressed the importance of stakeholder collaboration and regional cooperation.
Connectivity and strengthening the airport's hub function were recurring themes as well as moving goods and people through the hub seamlessly and swiftly.
An Aerotropolis is a long-term vision that needs a strategic plan in which collaboration and communication are crucial. For this reason, SXM will be hosting a symposium in December, not only to commemorate its 70th Anniversary, but to give stakeholders a better understanding of the Aerotropolis concept, and the steps airports are taking to increase non-aeronautical revenue and the overall role of airports in regional economic development.
The symposium will be held on December 3, 2013 and will feature the "Father" of the Aerotropolis concept himself, Dr. John Kasarda.

nagicohonorslongstandingclients08112013PHILIPSBURG:--- NAGICO Insurances held a Customer Appreciation Day on Friday Nov 8, 2013 where they showered their clients for their continued patronage with snacks, drinks, and gifts throughout the day.

The highlight of the day was the honoring of NAGICO's longstanding clients amongst which were Ms. Angelyn Fowler and Mr. Orville Thompson both clients since NAGICO's inception in 1982.

"We can't thank you enough and we are very grateful to have you as customers for over 30 years" said Mrs. Gervaise Schoobaar-Maynard, NAGICO's Customer Service Manager as she presented them with commemorative plaques, a well filled gift basket and a special goody bag.

There was also a raffle held amongst persons that liked NAGICO's Facebook page and shared it amongst friends. "It's just one of the ways we can give back to our loyal customers and which we will continue to do in the future" said Paul Dijkhoffz, NAGICO's Executive Marketing Manager.

The day was opened by the Soualiga Brass Band and music from DJ Norbert Graves continued to entertain the many customers that stopped by throughout the day.

NAGICO Press Release

lionsclubdonatestodowsmusicalfoundation08112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Lions Club on Wednesday made a contribution of US$ 3000,- to the Dow's Musical Foundation to assist the foundation with the great work they are doing providing steel pan lessons to the various schools and kids on the island. The musical foundation headed by the Mighty Dow has truly saved the art form of steel pan on the island and the Lions Club wanted to ensure that kids that are not able to financially pay for these lessons aren't excluded from learning this great art form.
The club represented by its President Lion Claudio Buncamper, Treasurer Lion Alphons Gumbs, Secretary Lion Davey Woods and Past District Governor Lion Claudius Buncamper visited the present location at the Cottage Round-a-bout and toured the various class rooms being used for the classes. During the visit the youngsters also recited some tunes they are learning to play under the guidance of the maestro himself DOW.
What the club members also noticed was the urgent need for the expansion of the location as at present no less than 250 plus youngsters from various schools partake in the steel pan lessons that are being offered. To advance to higher levels more space is needed so individually more can also be offered. In that aspect businesses should come together and assist to get the location up to par. The Lions themselves will also look into this matter and see how it can assist.
All the kids that are busy with the classes will be given a stage to showcase their talents as the Lions have offered them to play for their annual Christmas Bingo Spectacular at the Festival Village prior to the start of the bingo games. That on itself will be a great treat for all the bingo players and should set a wonderful atmosphere for the evening in question on Saturday, December 7th.

seatrekcrew08112013PHILIPSBURG:--- On October 10th, 2013, two students from Teen Times, Sakir de Castro and Rochana Richardson told Members of Parliament that the youths of St. Maarten were ready to take up the challenge to work in the interest of their country. Richardson rejected the label "destitute" that certain MPs had given the youths of St. Maarten. In their moving address that caught the attention of everyone that attended the special session of Parliament in commemoration of Constitution Day, both youths of St. Maarten said that St Maarten would be "better together" if politicians and businesses involve the youths in developing St. Maarten.

It seems that both De Castro and Richardson knew their peers, they also knew what some of them were doing and they knew that those sitting on the blocks were not doing so by choice but they are waiting for an opportunity to get involved.

Four young St. Maarten youths, the youngest being just 18 years old, make up the crew for Sea Trek Helmet Diving. These youths namely Kevin, Joshua, Terry, and Denzel join an older gentleman by the name of Chin to form the crew of Sea Trek Helmet Diving.
These young men are the ones that make up the crew at Sea Trek Helmet Diving, they are the ones that are taking the island visitors some 25 to 30 feet under water so they can see and enjoy some ecological sites on St. Maarten.
The five young men are trained rescue divers, while they also learned how to entertain the island visitors while under the water. Joshua just started with Sea Trek Helmet Diving three months ago and already he is a certified Rescue Diver, but he still has a long way to go to catch up with Denzel who is already a Dive Master.
SMN News reporter spent most of the day on Thursday with the crew of Sea Trek Helmet Diving in order to see how these youths perform their duties. It's amazing to see these very youths that have very little at their disposal are able to take boat loads of tourists on ecological tours. They tell each and every guest what they should expect while going underwater and how to deal with the air pressure in their ears. They also do tricks and provide entertainment during the half hour tour underwater.
Just next to Sea Trek Helmet Diving is Tiki Hut, there the visitors are able to relax and have a healthy lunch that is also prepared by young women of the island. Alcoholic beverages are also on sale while Zet Blacks is there to help persons who cannot swim enjoy the scenery under water. Even children get the opportunity to snorkel because Tiki Hut has gear in all sizes for their visitors.

There are beach chairs for those who want to take a tan or just relax while others snorkel. Spending a day at sea is fun, especially when the entire crew are young men and women that are known in the community.

marcpritchard08112013General Manager of Sea Trek Marc Pritchard told SMN News that he started Sea Trek Helmet Diving in the year 2009. While he started Tiki Hut Snorkel in 2005. Marc started both businesses from scratch. "I was there when there was absolutely nothing and brought it to what it is today, back then he said it was impossible to find one local person to dive. We literally had to hire divers. Five years ago I went to the labor department and pleaded with them to get us some youngsters that are willing to dive and to learn the trade. Just recently it was impossible to find a young boy or girl that was willing to do this job. But today the entire crew of Sea Trek are youngsters from St. Maarten. It's like we just got a new generation that wants to be part of the development of their country and also to be part of the tourism industry. Sea Trek Helmet Diving took on the responsibility to train these youngsters that were ready to work. Only about 18 months ago I got some local youths that showed interest and today they are the ones doing the work. These youths were trained by Sea Trek in order for them to become rescue divers and they can move up the ladder by going further and become a pro rescue diver and instructor." Marc said that the most important thing he had to do was to discipline the youths that he trained. "I basically taught them how to speak to their clients, how to dress properly and how to entertain them. The key to the trade is to make the visitors happy, once they are happy they will come back and send other people to enjoy what they enjoyed."

Marc said government does not provide any assistance to businesses that are willing to train its youths, all they say is businesses should hire local youths but at no time they offer assistance to train the local youths. Marc said despite the effort Sea Trek Helmet and Tiki Hut have been putting into their businesses and into training youths of St. Maarten, they feel that they are being harassed by government even though government did not offer any help.

One of the objectives that Sea Trek wants to accomplish is to be able to get locals and ex-pats out to Tiki Hut and for them to experience the Sea Trek Helmet Diving. "The company invested lots of monies to develop the Little Bay area with artifacts and to make it an area for tourism. Five years ago no one came to Little Bay but today everyone even businesses from the French side comes to Little Bay with their guests.

For more information on Sea Trek Helmet Diving and Tiki Hut, visit their websites www.snorkelstmaarten.com and www.seatrekstmaarten.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be road works over the weekend in the Weymouth Hill area.

On Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10, the Government will carry out some road infrastructure repairs at the entrance of Mildrum road up to 300 meters inwards.

The road will not be closed off, but motorists must exercise caution as only half of the road will be in use while the other section is being repaired.

Truck traffic will not be allowed over the weekend.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs and to drive with extreme care.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

giovanimattis08112013CAY HILL:--- A 24 year old man identified as Giovani Bobby Mattis (24)died just after noon on Friday where he was involved in a traffic accident. According to a press release from Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson, police responded to the scene of the accident at Jaguar and Cougar Road around 12:35pm. Henson said when police reached the scene the victim identified as G.B M (24) was lying on the road in the middle of the street showing no signs of life.

The paramedics who arrived on the scene examined the victim but Dr. Douglass who arrived shortly after stated that the victim had died as a result of the injuries he suffered. According to witnesses, the victim had been riding quite recklessly with his motorcycle (MF-945) through the neighborhood earlier during the day and due to his irresponsible way of riding, lost control and hit into the right rear corner of a pick-up truck with license plate V-1180 that was parked on the side of the street. Due to the impact the victim was thrown from the motorcycle and fell to the ground where he remained. The Police Traffic Department is finalizing this investigation.
motorcycleaccidentscene08112013

telemdonatestoredcrossforcolebayfirevictims07112013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group management and staff have come to the aid of homeless victims of last month's massive fire in Cole Bay, presenting them with a host of household items to help them get back on their feet.
The selection of items included pillows, mattresses, various cooking items – including pots and pans, dinnerware and different paper products.
The items were presented to the Red Cross, Tuesday, for distribution to families and other victims of the fire most in need.
According to Red Cross Operations Manager, Julia Boasman, many of the fire victims are still living with families and friends and all will have to pick up their lives from scratch having lost all of their possessions in the devastating fire.
"The donation from TelEm will go a long way towards helping many of the fire victims as they continue to get their lives back together," said Ms. Boasman.
The Red Cross has taken on the task of assisting as many as 40 of the fire victims immediately after the fire and has continued to assist with the distribution of items donated by various community well-wishers.
TelEm Group said it was after consulting with the Red Cross and others assisting the fire victims with their recovery, that it was determined there is a great need for replacement of basic household items that were lost in the fire.
"Management and staff of TelEm Group were keen to assist in the best way possible because of the number of persons affected at one time," said Marketing Officer, Marelva Felix-Jones during the presentation.
She said management sent a message on behalf of the company immediately after the fire offering help and support and is pleased to be able to deliver on that promise with needed items.
TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel said the company wanted to help, especially families and children, who have been made homeless and have lost their personal possessions from the fire.
"Any little we can do to bring some order back into their lives we are happy to do," said Mrs. Etnel.

Telem Press Release

CAY HILL:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center, Obstetrics and Gynaecology ward in collaboration with Abbot, will host the second Annual Nurses Symposium on November 14, 2013 at the Port de Plaissance convention hall. The topic of the symposium is "Our baby has Down Syndrome, now what?"

Abbot is a group of companies that sponsor neonatal and infant milk to the ObGyn and Paediatric ward of the SMMC.

The objective of the symposium is to bring to light the challenges that SMMC has when caring for a neonate who has Down Syndrome. Other objectives of the symposium is to educate ObGyn and Pediatric nurses and other allied healthcare providers on how to deal with nursing dilemmas, educating parents of their responsibilities for their newborn. The symposium will highlight the need for a support group for parents who have newborns and children with Down Syndrome.

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder named after John Langdon Down, the doctor who first identified the disorder. Down syndrome affects ones physical appearance, as well as the ability to learn and develop mentally. It is a lifelong condition, presented at birth.

The public, nurses, general practitioners and other health care providers, insurance companies and government health care sectors are invited to the symposium which begins at 7pm.

According to the physicians, there are many persons who are still not informed about Down syndrome and often are unaware of approaches to get the best care needed for their babies; what St. Maarten has to offer and where to go for support.

"It is important for us that you (the public) are informed," says Sheryl Carty, Supervisor ObGyn ward. "It is a step to bringing awareness to the general public about how to give assistance to parents caring for their children with Down Syndrome."

SMMC Press Release

manupmovienightflyer07112013FRESH MOVIE NIGHT: MAN UP TONIGHT AT THE RUPERT I. MAYNARD COMMUNITY CENTER

PHILIPSBURG:--- John Legend's profound and legendary song, "If You're Out There," written by Bryant, Marcus John speaks volumes to the global, regional and St. Maarten dilemma. The lyrics of the first stanza read:
If you hear this message, wherever you stand
I'm calling every woman, calling every man
We're the generation, we can't afford to wait
The future started yesterday and we're already late
We've been looking for a song to sing
Searched for a melody, searched for someone to lead
We've been looking for the world to change
If you feel the same then go on and say
If you're out there, sing along with me
If you're out there, I'm dying to believe
That you're out there, stand up and say it loud
If you're out there, tomorrow's starting now, now, now
No more broken promises, no more call to war
Unless it's love and peace that we're really fighting for
We can destroy hunger, we can conquer hate
Put down the arms and raise your voice
We're joining hands today
Oh, I, I was looking for a song to sing
Searched for a leader but the leader was me
We were looking for the world to change
We can be heroes just go on and say...
These inspiring yet challenging lyrics hit the nail on the head and resonate with Victorious Living's youth wing, Y2X (Youth to Xtreme) which hosts the powerful, insightful, yet entertaining radio program, Fresh, every Saturday on YR 92.5 FM (www.yr925fm.com) from 6-7 p.m.
This Saturday, the Y2X crew will focus on this generation of youth leaders; what they see as the ills in our society and the change that they are willing to make to create lasting solutions on St. Maarten. With these powerful lyrics as the back drop, Fresh will focus on generation now and what we can do to make a difference by interviewing members of the St. Maarten Youth Parliament.
The entire public is encouraged to tune in to Fresh; and hear the voices of our youth on St. Maarten this Saturday from 6p.m. -7 p.m. on www.yr925fm.com. Y2X also invites youth, fathers, mothers, caring adults, and especially young men to their FREE Fresh Movie Night, at the Rupert I. Maynard Community Center in St. Peters, from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. tonight, Friday November 8th. Drinks and snacks will be on sale as well as educational material from Victorious Living. For details call 1-721-524-8731.

teamkarakteratbeachtenniscourt07112013SIMPSON BAY:--- Coming November 9,10 and 11, St. Maarten's Kim Sha Beach will be the location of an International Beach Tennis Tournament organized by Julie Labrit (#1 Female Player St. Maarten) which is recognized by the ITF (International Tennis Federation).
Beach Tennis was born in the late seventies and is played on the sand, on a beach volley ball court with the basic tennis rules played in double or mixed couples.
Beach Tennis is very popular on the French side of St. Maarten already, two Beach Tennis Clubs are located on Orient Beach, on the Dutch side of the island this fun sport is upcoming!
This tournament will be the 6th Tournament organized on the island, but only the 2nd one on the Dutch side and around 120 of the very best Beach Tennis players from all over the world are expected to come to St. Maarten to participate in this big tournament which promises this event to be a very exciting one for our island!
The Dutch side of St. Maarten will be represented in the Mixed matches by Jerry Wikkeling and Tess Blom, who have been practicing for the past 6 months for this Tournament. The Dutch side team will be sponsored by Beach club Karakter (located at Simpson Bay Beach) who recently invested in a Beach Tennis court their selves. Anyone who would like to try and play Beach Tennis can come to Karakter and try this fun sport anytime! (Karakter staff can be asked for the racquets and balls)
An island such as St. Maarten, with natural playing conditions and favorable weather throughout the year is perfect for this concept that combines fun, sun, sport and beach and there is no other way than to embrace it!

For any questions about the organization and for more information visit www.kbt971.fr or call 06 90 57 83 92 or for more information about Beach Tennis on St. Maarten you can also join the Facebook page 'Beach Tennis Saint Martin'. The public is invited to come to the Tournament to get to know this fun sport and to support the players (food, drinks and music will be available).

GREAT BAY:--- Margje Troost, Policy Worker at the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team and General Practitioner Gerard van Osch will be traveling to Barbados to attend the PAHO meeting on the "Elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV and congenital syphilis" November 11-14, 2013.
"It is very important for St. Maarten to take part in these meetings, especially because we have been able to have and maintain 0 (zero) mother to child transmissions over the last few years and seeing the fact that we are an associate member of PAHO," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever. "Participating in such meetings brings much experience to our participants and they can share our success as well, which eventually trickles down to the community and most importantly having the data is of utmost importance."
Caribbean countries have committed to the "Elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV and congenital syphilis" by 2015 and St. Maarten is also part of this. According to PAHO, many Caribbean countries and territories may have reached the targets for the achievement of Elimination and the Caribbean has the potential to be the first sub-region to achieve this status.
At the meeting participants will discuss the validation method and start preparing countries for participation in this process to enable the documentation in the Caribbean countries by 2015. At this technical meeting participants will be introduced to the global, regional and national validation processes, plan for adoption of the national processes for validation with timelines and technical supports required. In addition, participants will be updated on the status of the "Elimination Initiative in the Caribbean, and the recent global recommendations for the prevention of mother to child transmission.

swescotwilliamsreceives7theditionofsxmgoldenbook07112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was presented a copy of the 7th edition of the St. Maarten Golden Book by Golden Book General Manager and Publisher Emile Cukier.

The Golden Book of Sint Maarten gives important information about the Government of St Maarten, the investment opportunities St. Maarten provides, advice on how to build a company, taxes , Tourism, and information on the neighboring islands of Saba, Statia and St Barth. It is considered to be the information book for businessmen and women, investors and tourists.

"In today's world investors are choosy when it comes to investing their money or that of others for which they are responsible. Against this backdrop the Golden Book publication ensures that investors, visitors and locals have access to our country's latest and most up to date information. Government continues to welcome investors' interest in our country and will ensure the proper environment to ensure that these investments continue to grow," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmdayboatrace07112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Traditional Sail Boats are getting ready for St. Maarten's Day boat race and barring great weather, will be ready for sailing on Monday morning. Come see how these traditional boats are rigged and sailed. The boats are known as "Traditional", base on their open-hull wood crafted design, manual rigging styles, and are 23 feet in length. There are 14- 15 boats in the "B-Class" boat category, each of them carrying crews of 9 to 11 persons.

The race begins at 1:00 pm in Great Bay Harbor (Taloula Mangos Restaurant) sailing out to the marker at Divi Little Bay point, tacking back to the start and sailing down towards Simpson Bay Airport and back for the finish at Great Bay Beach.

The race will be broadcasted live and for those who are not sailing, there will be great entertainment, food, drinks and beaching. The participants of the boat race are thankful for the support of all the sponsors, especially The Windward Islands Bank, Government of St. Maarten, Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco, Taloula Mangos Restaurant and La Voix FM 101.5). Thank you for bringing back "we old Boat race".

cdeweeverendingpolio07112013GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is participating in the world's biggest commercial, the largest health initiative to End Polio Now. This is an initiative of Rotary's PolioPlus Program.
"As Minister of Public Health I am more than delighted to participate in this initiative and try to make a difference in the fight against polio." Minister De Weever is also encouraging others in the community to participate in this initiative.
The ad with Minister De Weever has been sent out to all civil servants via e-mail, as a means of bringing awareness to the issue, and also to encourage civil servants to also participate.
This initiative stars thousands of people around the world, everyday folks from all walks of life who will join with Nobel laureates, movie stars, famous musicians and other notable people to express a united commitment to End Polio Now.
According to a report from Rotary, after nearly 30 years, and after immunizing more than 2 billion children against polio, Rotary and its partners are on the brink of making history. We are this close. When Rotary began the fight in 1985, polio affected 350,000 people, mostly children, in 125 countries every year. Since then, polio has been reduced by more than 99 percent.

slaandmarinecommunityrepsatftlauderdaleboatshow07112013SIMPSON BAY:--- Mega yacht brokerage firms, agents, boat captains and other stakeholders were very pleased to receive an update from the St. Maarten Marine community including the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority who for the first time – Lagoon Authority - showcased the maritime and yachting sector of the country at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in Florida that took place from October 31 to November 4.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is considered the "Yachting Capital of the World," and hosted the 54th Lauderdale International Boat Show. The show exhibited a range from yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts.

Lagoon Authority staff along with Port of St Maarten informed the yachting sector about the Causeway and how it will relieve traffic in the Simpson Bay area; the Causeway bridge and Simpson Bay Bridge opening time manual; also the removal of boulders and other potential obstacles from the channel at the Simpson Bay Bridge, which was all well received.

The Lagoon Authority has played a significant role in and around the Simpson Bay Lagoon with respect to upgrading and improving infrastructure and services. The authority continues to pay for the removal of garbage at the bridge that is dropped off by the various boats anchored or docked in the lagoon; moorings were installed for the safe transit of yachts and mega-yachts in and out of the lagoon; security cameras, sidewalks and streetlights were installed on both sides of the Simpson Bay Bridge to enhance safety and security of residents and tourists who patronage the various businesses located on the so-called Simpson Bay strip.

The Lagoon Authority invested in the extension of the bridge deck which brought more business into the Lagoon for the various marinas and by extension the entire marine sector and business community. If this wasn't done, mega yachts such as Venus and Limitless would not have been able to dock at one of the marinas in the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Investments have been made in the interests of the country.

Lagoon Authority/Port of St. Maarten staff told by the boat show attendees that St. Maarten is a great destination if not the prime destination, and would like to see a boat show hosted by the destination in the future.

The Lagoon Authority management says the participation of the marine sector at the boat show was a plus and both organizations can build on future participation in the same show as both parties feel and agree that the collaboration will definitely be a plus as it will give a boost that is needed to gain an edge in this swift growing industry, an edge that would be welcomed by many attendees of the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show.

A wide variety of boats and sea vessels were on display including runabouts, sport fishers, high performance boats, center consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bow riders, catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, canoes, and extraordinary super yachts.

The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) and its individual members and non-members took the opportunity after being invited by the Lagoon Authority to supply promotional materials of their marinas, services and products that were placed at the Port/SLAC financed St. Maarten Booth to promote the destination's marine and yachting sector.

St. Maarten marine and yachting sector is responsible for 12.5 per cent of the national economy according to a 2008 study that was commissioned by SMMTA and carried out by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of the former Netherlands Antilles.

Back in 2008, there were over 80 companies providing services to the marine sector and over the year 2007, the country's marine sector produced over US$200 million (Naf.399 million), and representing 16.3 per cent of the overall production of the businesses on Sint Maarten. In terms of wages and the number of employees, 2,794 employees, 17.2 per cent of the total work force earned Naf.106.5 million.

Since the Harbor Group of Companies took over the Lagoon Authority in December 2009 from the Economic Development Corporation, the company now breaks-even from a financial perspective which is good for the shareholder representative, the Government. The company is not a burden to the tax payer.

The Lagoon Authority has been able to partner with the Nature Foundation and develop a relationship that looks at developing a sustainable environmental management plan for the lagoon since it's a very important eco system for the country.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On November 6th, 2013, the Ombudsman Bureau launched its website. Persons will now be able to file a complaint on line, monitor upcoming events, view reports of cases, and other relevant information and pictures. Useful links are: Parliament, the Government of Sint Maarten, and the IOI –International Ombudsman Institute Websites. This site has been designed by a Sint Maartener, Ms. Deshana Richardson owner of Bitmakerz and her team.

An official presentation to the press will be done during our end of year Press Conference scheduled for Tuesday, November 26th, 2013.

The site is www.ombudsmansxm.com.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says the Government has a vehicle policy where cars and trucks should be parked up at their work area or by their office facility at the end of the work day.

"Government for the 2014 national budget has to cut its budget by Naf. 20 million. I have started within my Ministry and have instructed the Secretary General which is the first top civil servant to take the lead by meeting with all Department Heads and let them make a schedule which civil servant needs a vehicle during the day or weekend.

"I believe if you are not working or carrying out an assignment, why should you need a vehicle? I think all Secretary Generals of all ministries should enforce this policy and not just talk about that there is a policy. Execution is key!

"Only personnel who are on call one can understand will need a vehicle to carry out their tasks, but the other fleet of vehicles throughout the government organization, I'm sure some if not many can be parked at their office until the next morning 8.00am.

"We have to look seriously within to cut our costs. We have a policy on paper and now it has to be executed, and it is the responsibility of every Minister to sit down with their Secretary General and draft a plan of action. This is a back to basics approach.

"Government has to take the lead in cutting its own costs. Turn off office lights at the end of the day. Change the bulbs and lights that we use to energy saving ones. We also need to cut down on renting various offices by bundling some together for the short to mid-term.

"Government has to take the lead by also cutting back on un-necessary travel and joining un-necessary organizations and associations abroad that has no real return on investment.

"We need strict enforcement and adherence, and we need all ministries working in the same direction as well, and together we will make a difference," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 182-room, Oyster Bay Beach Resort (www.oysterbaybeachresort.com) in St. Maarten has been chosen as one of the Top 10 Top Family Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas for 2013 by Travel + Leisure readers. The resort placed #7 on the list of family favorites.

This award comes on the heels of Oyster Bay Beach Resort being voted a "Top 5 Hotel for Value in the Caribbean" in 2012 by Travel + Leisure readers.

"Our selection by Travel + Leisure as one of the top 10 family hotels in the Caribbean is affirmation that we have created the perfect formula for family vacation experiences at an attractive price point," said Ricardo Perez, general manager, Oyster Bay Beach Resort.

Oyster Bay Beach Resort is the perfect blend of paradise living - breathtaking ocean views, sandy beaches, comfortable rooms, private yachts, exclusive property, on-site dining and Caribbean nightlife. An Oyster Bay vacation includes: accommodations; use of the resort's infinity-edge pool and whirlpool; free use of snorkeling gear to explore the nearby reef; nightly entertainment; on-site access to laundry and fitness facilities as well as on-site gift shop; Manager's Cocktail Party (Mondays) and Farwell Party (Fridays).

Oyster Bay Beach Resort offers an array of oceanfront or garden view accommodations from superior rooms, studios and deluxe lofts with oceanfront or garden views and kitchenettes to one- and two-bedroom suites with magnificent views and fully-equipped kitchens.

Additionally, construction is underway on the Oyster Bay Marina. The Marina - located in Oyster Pond, just off the lobby of Oyster Bay Beach Resort - features 38 condominium boat slips. Oyster Bay Beach Resort is retaining three slips for the Resort and selling 35 slips to private owners. Entry to the marina is limited to owners, renters and their guests.

Plans for the Oyster Bay Marina include first class amenities such as a resident harbor master, solid concrete construction; access to Wi-Fi, telephone, showers, restrooms, and individually metered water and electricity; a private, gated entrance with 24-hour security; rental program and services.

For more information about Oyster Bay Beach Resort or reservations, call 1-866-978-0212 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) participated in the St. Maarten Career and Study Fair on Thursday, November 7, 2013 at the Belair Community Center.
In addition to information on the airport's strategic plans, rebranding, etc., there was a quiz on SXM Airport related matters, past and present, for the students to participate in. Three winners were selected, based on the number of correct answers. Prizes included a 7" Samsung tablet, a digital camera, and an I-Pod Touch.
The students were encouraged to "come out and learn about what we do at SXM Airport and what the requirements are for working at the company," said Kalifa Hickinson, the airport's Corporate Communications Specialist.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Health Care, Social Development and Labour is scheduled to meet on November 07.

The public session is set for Thursday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is a presentation concerning diabetes care on Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

rotarysxmsunrisesigningmouforbreakfastprogramatsxmvocationaltrainingschool06112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and St. Maarten Vocational Training School sign MOU for breakfast program for the school year November 2013 to June 2014.

The school breakfast program is one of the most important programs run by Rotary Sunrise; it was piloted in 2012 with 2 primary schools in response to the growing awareness that there were students going to school most days without eating breakfast. To date the Club has signed four MOU's insuring that children who are from less affluent backgrounds in our community are provided with a healthy breakfast.

With the identification of some 60 students by the school counselor, Rotary Sunrise wants to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to receive a wholesome, nutritious breakfast on a regular basis. The School Breakfast Program is geared towards improving the social and educational needs of our children. The program evaluated on a quarterly basis. The purpose of the evaluation is to assess the impact on the students, as well as to identify aspects of the program that are working well or that may require improvement.

We at Rotary Sunrise take this opportunity to once more thank our corporate sponsors for their continued support, without you we could not have made this breakfast program possible

A special thanks to Firgos Paper for donating over 3500 Hot and Cold cups towards the program.

As we continue to assist where it's necessary; we are calling on the business community and persons who are interested in making a difference to assist with sponsoring a school breakfast program. We can be contacted at the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise; we meet at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast.

For more information on Rotary Sunrise, please visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., you can also visit our Facebook page: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Tweet us: @RotarySunSXM.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Statistics (STAT), informs the general public that although the main results of the 2011 Population census have been finalised, these results will not be made available until the population figure is corroborated.
STAT recollects that an enormous effort went into the Population census data-collection, processing & analysis of this data and drafting of the main report. This was achieved in part by its small in-house staff as well as through the services of freelance interviewing staff and other contracted third-parties.
Notable, is the population figure in particular (which is based on a count of persons either residing or intending to reside on St. Maarten for at least 1 year) from the population census when compared to the number of registered persons at the Civil Registry Department (CRD), shows a considerable difference of some 21, 000 fewer persons.
Although a gap between the resident and registered population on St. Maarten is neither a new nor unique phenomenon, the current gap between both figures is large and should be further examined.
As a result, both STAT and CRD are working in closer cooperation, to validate each departments' population figure, minimise this and future gaps and dispel all uncertainties surrounding the official population-size of St. Maarten.
From the Department of Statistics' perspective, plans are in place to conduct a 'household listing' exercise from mid-January to end of March 2014. This seeks to provide an up-to-date count of the number of households and persons within households by collecting only basic data from each household on their numbers, sex, age, country of birth, nationality and address verification. International observers will be on-island during these months, to observe and objectively report on the enumeration process of this initiative. This in an effort for STAT to highlight its transparent way of working and consistency with international standards.
At the same token, the Civil Registry Department will intensify several on-going measures to update its population registry, with for example correct address information of persons and ensuring that their registry is not overstated with persons who have emigrated.
In the coming weeks, additional information will be disclosed to the public concerning the steps being taken by both departments.
STAT acknowledges its many stakeholders who contact the department on a daily basis, with requests for census information. We therefore ask for everyone's understanding and patience, as we work for the good of the country in being able to present a sound population number.

pjiae28062012Music, Candy and Free Parking for Visitors

SIMPSON BAY:--- St. Maarten Day will have a special ring to it at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) with musical entertainment and students in cultural wear distributing made-in-St. Maarten candy to visitors.

The early afternoon hours when traffic is usually at its highest will feature Connis Vanterpool, The Jolly Boys and Kirk Williams welcoming visitors or bidding farewell to others at the Meet and Greet Area, and the post-Screening and pre-Immigration areas of the airport.
Visitors will also be able to sample island goodies such as prune and coconut tarts, assorted candy, peanut brittle, cookies, and sugar cake among others.
SXM will, as has become customary now, be dressed up for the occasion, while there will be free parking all day long.

"St. Maarten Day is a very special day and as the major gateway to the island, SXM Airport will make sure that visitors – whether arriving, departing or just passing through – are aware of it," said Managing Director, Regina LaBega. "For a lot of people, St. Maarten Day will begin at SXM Airport."

swescotwilliamsdonatestotoppromotionsfoundation06112013PM Continues to Pledge Support for the Plight of the Disabled on St. Maarten

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams presented a personal contribution to the Top Promotions Foundation supporting the Be Able Program, which is centered on sponsoring sports for the disabled and raising awareness for those who may have a physical disability.

"With this personal donation I would like to commend the Top Promotions Foundation on the excellent job which they have been doing with regards to the disabled here on the island. The plight of the disabled is very dear to me due to the memory of two of my siblings who passed away in 2010 and 2011 because of a very rare disease which caused them to be disabled during the last part of their lives. Before they passed they were able to have a good quality of life because of the care of the Sister Basilia Center and the caregivers that work there. In their memory I present this personal contribution to the Be Able Activities and I urge the community of St. Maarten support the activities centered on bringing awareness and assisting those with a disability," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

dutchcaribbeancoastguardhelicopteronsxm06112013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday, November 4th, 2013 the Coast Guard helicopter AW139 arrived in Sint Maarten. This is the first time the helicopter is temporarily stationed on Sint Maarten since the introduction of the helicopter in 2011. The home base of this helicopter is the Coast Guard substation Hato in Curacao. This is where the helicopter gets its maintenance and where the other airplanes of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard are stationed. To emphasize the importance of a Coast Guard helicopter in Sint Maarten, the AW139 was welcomed by the Minister of Justice, D. Richardson and a delegation of the Coast Guard substation. The helicopter will conduct duties in counter drug operations, counter human trafficking operations, and also police duties like the control of shipping and fishery. The crew will also be ready for search and rescue-tasking. All duties will be conducted in cooperation with the services of Sint Maarten and international partners.

Press Release from the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard

dutchcaribbeancoastguarddrugseizure06112013The guardship of the Royal Netherlands Navy in the Caribbean, Zr. Ms. Amsterdam, is on a roll. In one week, the crew of the supply vessel stopped two drug shipments where a total of 1,200 kilograms of cocaine were revved from the vessels.

Maritime helicopter NH90

In the first case the illegal shipment was en route from Colombia to the North. After the discovery of a quick go-fast, immediately the maritime helicopter NH90 was deployed from the ship. The speedboat was forced to stop. The members of the Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) of the U.S. Coast Guard, who are a part of the crew of Zr.Ms. Amsterdam, arrested four persons on suspicion of illegal drug trafficking.
After searching the boat it showed that the go-fast was loaded with 600 kilograms of cocaine.

Escape at high speed

In the second case a suspicious speedboat departed at high speed from Venezuela to the North. Zr.Ms. Amsterdam headed out to intercept the go-fast in the dark. They were able to approach the go-fast within the mile, before the crew of the speedboat knew they were being followed. When they realized they were being observed, they took off with high speed while the crew tried to throw its contraband overboard. The go-fast boat escaped, but the crew of the Amsterdam removed from the water 19 bales of cocaine weighing 600 pounds.

October

In late October the Zr.Ms. Amsterdam also had a successful interception of a go-fast headed toward the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The NH90 managed to bring four passengers who were taken into custody. On board the vessel they found 1450 kg of cocaine.

Press Release from the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard

minvsacleanupyoursurroundings05112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is appealing to resident's country wide to step up measures at homes and businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito especially after several days of rainfall.

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

The main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis. Elimination of mosquitoes is an individual responsibility, a community responsibility.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesycallfromkingdomambassadortopanamajwiebedeboer05112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit by the Kingdom Ambassador to Panama J. Wiebe de Boer at her Cabinet on Tuesday. His Excellency de Boer was on a courtesy visit to St. Maarten where he attended the Business Innovations Symposium held at the Westin on Monday. The Prime Minister and Mr. de Boer discussed the need to come to concrete solutions in marketing St. Maarten as a business hub to the Latin American market. In 2012 the PM also held a brief meeting with Mr. de Boer while she attended the Rio+ 20 Summit on Sustainable Development in Rio de Janeiro. Various items were discussed during the brief meeting including COPA Airline's commitment to St. Maarten and the Kingdom Embassy in Panama's activities.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

smhgrepsatabudhabiseatradeinvestmentforum05112013POINT BLANCHE:--- Harbour Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo and Supervisory Board member Humphrey Mezas have concluded their attendance in Abu Dhabi at the Seatrade Shipping and Investment Forum that took place on November 05 at the Park Hyatt Hotel Resort.

According to Mingo, the forum provided an ideal platform for local and international maritime professionals and industry financiers to discuss the challenges and investment opportunities in the maritime industry.

The Investment Forum brought together more than 200 senior executives to take part in this premier event, including international financiers, insurers, lawyers, bankers, ship owners, port operators, investors and executives from the international maritime industry. Attendance of the forum allowed one to gather market information, increase knowledge and monitor competitor's activity.

"This is the first time the Port of St. Maarten attended this forum. It allowed us to network and meet with senior executives from maritime and finance sectors.

"We are looking forward as a port, and from a strategic perspective, and we have to remain ahead as country St. Maarten. National interests are key in combination with diversification. You have economies moving west to east and north to south, and young people are also playing an important role.

"We have to look at safeguarding our national economy and at the same time creating a stable environment based on interdependence and sharing. The global trade system is interconnected and nobody can go it alone, so we have to look at niche markets and activities and plan for that in order to remain ahead as a port and as a destination.

"Country St. Maarten must rethink its investment approach and strategy. We are dealing on an international level where productivity is at the top and inefficiencies have to be worked out of the system in order to survive and provide the best service you can," Port of St. Maarten CEO Mark Mingo said on Tuesday from Abu Dhabi.

Seatrade was founded in 1970, and is a well-established brand in the international cruise and maritime community. Its publications, events, management training, award schemes and websites cover every aspect of cruise and maritime activity and are known and respected around the world.

Seatrade's principal strength is its ability to bring key people together, encouraging innovation and facilitating better communication within the industry.

Seatrade is headquartered in Colchester, United Kingdom, with regional offices in Dubai, Singapore, as well as representatives in all major maritime centres and cruise destinations across the globe.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The OSPP applauds the Permanent Committee of Health, Social Development and Labour for meeting with the soon-to-be-discharged RBC employees to understand more fully their concerns as they face redundancy according to the bank. In the weeks following announcement by RBC that it would dismiss 13 workers on St. Maarten, there had been a silence from mainstream politicians regarding this issue. During this time however, the OSPP had maintained opposition to their dismissal, and have sought to stimulate public and official support for the workers bid to have the bank reverse its decision or to adequately compensate the workers after serving the company for so many years.
Prior to the Permanent Committee of Health, Social Development and labour meeting with the RBC workers it seemed evident that our mainstream politicians were pleased to wait and see how this matter plays out; to allow agency tasked with overseeing such matters, to do its work. The OSPP rejects this idea, though making it clear that our opposition has nothing to do with the Labour Department personnel. To the contrary we have lots of confidence in the working of the labour department. We oppose the notion of allowing things to take the usual process because the case is not a usual case. Usually in such cases, the role of the department is to ensure that dismissed employees get what is due unto them, and to ensure that other workers are not brought in to replace them. Most likely the department will follow the rules that are applicable in the case of a request to dismiss the workers. Based on the above criterion, the department will find that the law is being adhered to and exceeded, and that the specific operation formally carried out by these workers will cease to exist after the termination of the 13.
"This is where we think government in the personage of the Minister of Health, Labour and Social Affairs, Mr. Cornelius de Weever ought to step in, says Lenny Priest, President and Interim Leader of the OSPP. The Minister ought to articulate a distinct policy aimed at preventing social upheaval and a strain on our resources as repercussion to large scaled redundancies.
While we are not privy to the motion and strongly worded letter that the MPs have sent to the bank, we feel very strongly that the management of RBC should be called into parliament to have a word with them. Parliament has heard the position of the workers and management should be given the same opportunity. From our vantage point, we fear that the employees are being coerced into accepting the latest bank's offer. Moreover, in the present economic reality, it may be that many will not find employment, and become a burden to our social services. Except if the workers stand together in refusing the payout, the other workers who are not being laid off as yet rally in support of their co-workers and the Labour Department lessens the possibility for dismissals of this nature, RBC will have its way. And this will only be the beginning for much more to follow thereafter within RBC and other large corporations here in St. Maarten.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour has collaborated with the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment and the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport to organize a meeting with family physicians, health care providers for Wednesday, November 6 and a public meeting for Thursday, November 7 with respect to vaccinations, dengue and mosquito control.

The session with physicians and health care providers will take place at the University of St. Martin on Wednesday, November 6 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

The public meeting for interested persons will also take place at the same venue on Thursday, November 7 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. The session will give the public an opportunity to obtain information from the experts, ask questions and express their concerns during the meeting.

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

funmilesreps05112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Fun Miles, the Caribbean's largest customer reward program, is proud to be a part of the D'Event Bathtub Derby 2013, to be held at Kim Sha Beach on November 10th from 11 a.m. After a highly successful first edition in 2012, this exciting race is set to make waves once again. Teams will build cardboard boats and race them around a course. To add to the fun, there will be entertainment, food, drinks and a Fun Miles tent with games, giveaways, and specials.

ABOUT THE D'EVENT BATHTUB DERBY 2013
Organized by the enthusiastic ladies of D'Event Planners, The Bathtub Derby is an event where teams race homemade boats of recycled cardboard, duct tape and environmentally friendly waterproof paint. Participating teams include companies, schools, families and groups of friends. Apart from a very interesting nautical competition, the Bathtub Derby is a festive affair that brings people together, complete with DJs, MCs, a barbecue and lots of fun and entertainment. Part of the events' proceeds will donated to the 'Technology in the Classroom' to benefit the youth of our community.

FUN MILES WILL BE THERE
Fun Miles will be present at the Bathtub Derby with its own tent. New and existing cardholders will be able to win 100 Fun Miles with the teeter toss game, and a whopping 15,000 Fun Miles with a special Facebook campaign. For a chance to win, they will need to apply a temporary Fun Miles tattoo, post a picture to Facebook, and tag Fun Miles. New cardholders will receive 250 Bonus Miles with purchase of their card.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In just 16 days, the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association will be hosting its 8th Crystal Pineapple Awards Gala Event, recognizing excellence in service in the Tourism, Trade and Environmental industries.
The voting period has been opened since October 28th, 2013 and will close on November 8th, 2013. The organizing committee is pleased with vast amount nominees that have been submitted for the 14 different voting categories. A total of 3400 people have already casted their votes.
"These are the last days to vote and we are urging the general public to show their support for their favorite nominees. This is your opportunity to make someone a star for the night!" said the Crystal Pineapple Awards Committee. For voting instructions and information about the Crystal Pineapple Awards, please visit http://shta.com/crystal-pineapple-awards.
Tickets are now available at the SHTA office and are $150 per person. Persons can also purchase a table consisting of 10 seats. Each ticket includes entrance to the Gala Event, the cocktail reception, a sumptuous dinner, the silent auction and live entertainment.
SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

royalprincess05112013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is expecting a busy cruise season ahead with 603 cruise vessel arrivals placing the destination in the lead for the Eastern Caribbean.

On Wednesday morning the destination will welcome the world's sixth largest cruise ship of Princess Cruises, the Royal Princess. This also signals for port officials the start of the 2013/2014 cruise season since it is the first inaugural call for the season.

Port management would like to congratulate Princess Cruises on their new addition and wish them much success with the new vessel. Port officials would also like to thank the public for their friendly hospitality towards cruise passenger's season after season.

The Royal Princess made its five-day maiden Caribbean debut on October 29, followed by a program of seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings. The Royal Princess arrived in Port Everglades in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida on October 27.

The Royal Princess debuted this past June with a christening ceremony by The Duchess of Cambridge who officially named the ship in her last public appearance before giving birth to her first child. The ship thereafter sailed in the Mediterranean throughout the summer.

Port management has held several meetings with various stakeholders in order to make the 2013/2014 cruise season incident free and a success for the destination, and looks forward to a continued good working relationship with the various emergency services whose presence creates a safe environment for cruise passengers.

The success of destination St. Maarten has to do with the treatment of cruise passengers received from the populace, which has successfully placed the country in the lead in the Eastern Caribbean outpacing six other countries: Antigua 298, Barbados 373, Dominica 202, Grenada 155, St. Kitts & Nevis 258, St. Lucia 331, and St. Vincent 162, according to these Caribbean Maritime Magazine October-December 2013 edition figures.

The Royal Princess is the first of two new-generation ships for Princess Cruises, Royal Princess' prototype designed to carry over 3600 cruise passengers and over 1300 crew. The vessel weighs 141,000 tons and is 1,083 feet long and 217 feet high, and was built in Italy.

Some of the features of the vessel are dramatic over-water SeaWalk, where passengers can venture 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel in a glass-bottomed walkway; a water and light show that has been dazzling for cruise guests; a dedicated pastry shop and a gelateria; a soaring atrium and many new eateries and entertainment options.

The Royal Princess will sail from Ft. Lauderdale through April 20, 2014.

lesfruitsdemerfallwildlifeeducationprogram05112013GRAND CASE:--- Last week, hundreds of local children learned how wildlife came to this island in the pilot version of the Fall Wildlife Education Program, created by the Les Fruits de Mer Association in cooperation with SXM Wildlife. Multimedia presentations about the origins of wildlife on St. Maarten/St. Martin, designed specifically for the youth of the island and for use in local schools, were given to over 350 students in kindergarten through 8th grade.

The students actively explored concepts like migration, natural colonization, human introduction of animals, evolution and adaptive radiation, island biogeography and ecosystems and food webs during the presentations of "Voyagers, Castaways and Stowaways: How life arrived on SXM". The sessions were all taught by wildlife expert Mark Yokoyama, the author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin. Classes also received copies of The Incomplete Guide so students can continue learning about local wildlife.

The pilot Fall Wildlife Education Program visited 14 classes in 4 schools: Sister Regina Primary School, St. Maarten Montessori School, Sister Borgia Primary School and Learning Unlimited. These schools and classes were chosen to be part of the first program because their teachers responded to the Les Fruits de Mer Association's open invitation to have the presentation. Parents who knew about the opportunity to participate in the pilot program also played an important role by bringing it to teachers' attention.

A short survey was given before and after presentations to measure improvements in understanding four fundamental aspects of St. Martin's ecology. Prior to the presentations, only 22% of students knew that the island originally had no terrestrial animals, only 56% knew that some of the species on the island are migratory and spend only part of the year here, and only 32% knew that St. Martin hosts endemic species that live nowhere else in the world. After the presentations, 74%, 92% and 94% of the students answered these questions correctly–a marked improvement, even amongst young students.

"Local wildlife is a subject that is underrepresented in curricula designed for Europe or North America, as most existing curricula here is. So our goal is to produce initiatives that educate about the natural heritage of this island, and illustrate concepts in relation to the place where these students live, with examples they can see every day when they walk out the door or look out the window," said Yokoyama. "Now that we've had such a successful pilot program we hope to work with education departments on both sides of the island to organize and fund this type of program on a larger scale to reach as many kids as possible."

This first Fall Wildlife Education Program was funded by private donors contributing to the SXM Wildlife Sponsor a School Visit Program, with additional books from Buy-One-Give-One book program. Individuals and businesses can sponsor presentations and other activities by supporting the Sponsor A School Visit Program at http://www.sxmwildlife.com/support/sponsor-a-school-visit/, contributing items from the wish list of equipment and materials for presentations and other educational activities at http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org/about-us/wishlist/, or donating to the Les Fruits de Mer Association.

Les Fruits de Mer is a non-profit association based in St. Martin whose core mission is to raise awareness about nature, culture, and sport. One way the organization carries out this mission is to champion, create, and implement education for children. In cooperation with SXM Wildlife, Les Fruits de Mer conducts education initiatives on both sides of the island including the Fall Wildlife Education Program, and other hands-on classroom visits, presentations, workshops and field trips as well as work with after-school groups and the book donation program. The education initiatives are focused on local wildlife, arts and culture, and learning activities for students of all ages are designed to be fun, engaging and interactive as well as educational. The Association is currently accepting program funding and new member applications on its website, http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org.

wibdonatestotoppromotionfoundation05112013PHILIPSBURG:--- WIB made a financial contribution to the Top Promotions Foundation to assist with their awareness week of the disabled and international tennis tournament. Top Promotions currently has 3 local disabled persons receiving weekly tennis training. They also organized various trips for the disabled and continue to improve the situations around the homes of the disabled. WIB was thanked for its generosity in making a difference.

WIB Press Release

swescotwilliamsatcocsymposiumseries05112013Urges for Results of the Symposium to be put into Practice

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry Symposium Series entitled Business Opportunities and Best Practices in Economic Development and Sustainability. During her opening address the Prime Minister thanked the Chamber of Commerce and Industry for their efforts in establishing the necessary dialogue in creating the right business atmosphere for the country: "This Symposium, Business Opportunities and Best Practices and its focus on St. Maarten as a business hub for the region is essential. Through the initiatives of the Chamber of Commerce we have seen an increase in dialogue taking place between the Private and Public Sectors and has been essential in contributing towards the process of contributing to the National Development Plan for country St. Maarten," stated the Prime Minister.

The Symposium featured a keynote address from the Kingdom Ambassador to Panama His Excellency Wiebe Jakob De Boer who also went on the sign a Proclamation and Interaction Agreement with the Kingdom Representative in Panama, thus fostering closer economic ties with that region.

The PM also went on to reiterate that on St. Maarten it behooves the Public and Private sectors to also look at education, not only as a sub hub but also as a driver for education in and of itself. "We often boast of being at the vanguard of tourism and trade, however the question we need to answer is whether or not our hub culture is significantly recognized and exploited. This symposium is therefore very important in terms of identifying what the state of affairs is on our island with regards to human capital, innovation and the climate for fostering business and industry on St. Maarten and indeed for making it the hub for the region.

"Make no mistake, what we need is active collaboration and active development. As I mentioned the National Development Plan for St. Maarten seeks to accomplish exactly that, but in the meantime let us hope for some quick successes. I once again re-iterate my call for an economic think tank which would only make sense if we are committed to follow through. We need active consensus building and it is my hope that this symposium will serve as an impetus for creating action. I also hope to see our University be counted as a sub-hub as well. Instead of a momentary feel-good high which you often get from these types of Symposia I urge everyone to act on the outcomes. And that is my challenge to you," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

denguetrainingopeningattendees05112013GREAT BAY:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor Section General Health Care a section of Collective Prevention Services officially opened the Dengue training at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall on Monday, November 4, 2013. Minister of Public Health Social Development &Labor, Cornelius De Weever officially opened the week long training for members of public health and stakeholders.
The training aims to increase and sustain the knowledge of the trainees with respect to mosquito and dengue control. As there is no effective vaccine or medicine available as yet to interrupt dengue transmission, disease prevention through vector control is an important component of disease control, but also a very challenging one. For this reason surveillance and control of the Ae. Aegypti mosquito will receive extended attention during the training. In addition, there will also be focus on dengue surveillance and control predominantly from a public health perspective and less from a clinical perspective or individual case management. Therefore, public education and participation will be presented.
At the end of the training everything will come together when the importance of integrated collaboration of actors will be stressed. To prepare for the future attention will be given to the possibilities of the future arrival of the Chikungunya and the Asian tiger mosquito, Ae. Albopictus.
"This is a form of the Ministry moving forward as we try to obtain as much knowledge as possible to take care of our community," said Minister Cornelius De Weever.
The facilitators for the trainings are: Dr. M. Braks, Public Health Professional, Dutch National Institute of Public Health & the Environment (RIVM) Netherlands; Dr. Francis Schaffner, Entomologist AviaGIS; Dr. H. van Berg, visiting senior Scientist and independent Research Professional, Wageningen University, Netherlands.

Minister Cornelius De Weever speech at opening Dengue training.

In our mission statement we say that we as ministry promote the general wellbeing and quality of life of our population by means of services such as health protection and health promotion.

The Vaccination program and the Vector Control Program are two examples of programs through which we achieve these goals. Our vaccination program started in the early seventies with the White & Yellow Cross, at that time covering vaccination for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio and Smallpox. In the late seventies the program was expanded with the school vaccination program to ensure the inclusion of children in the school for their Diphtheria Tetanus and Polio vaccination.
By the end of 2000 we had gradually increased the coverage for vaccine preventable diseases by including measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hemophilus Influenzae and Hepatitis B.
In 2013 we added two important vaccines to our list:

  • In April 2013 we started vaccinating against Pneumococcal disease
  • In October 2013 we began vaccinating girls with the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine, protecting them against Cervical Cancer.

At this time we have more than 20.000 children registered in our database. Our Vector Control Program also started around the same time as the Vaccination Program in the early seventies in the battle against yellow fever.
The yellow fever and combatting of mosquitoes (GKMB) program was initiated and set up my Mr. Charles Maccow under the auspices of the then Hygiene Department.
Over time the concern gradually expanded to other mosquitos and the concern for other vectors such as rodents spreading disease such as Leptospirosis or the Weil's disease arose. With the change of Country status in 2010 the Assistant Vector Controllers together with this program were transferred to Collective Prevention Services.
As this moment it is suggested to change the name of the program to Vector and Rodent control to make it more representative of our scope of work. Major attention of the program is directed towards "dengue prevention and control."
The vision of the Ministry of Public Health Social Development and Labor is to be a knowledge institute which will result in being in being the recognized government authority for public health, social development, social security and labor related policy and service domains.

Being knowledge institute and being recognized as an authority means believing in and having a culture of "continuous education."
In the past year:

  • We flew in experts from the Holland, the United States and the Caribbean region to give training to our staff in both these areas;
  • We collaborated with Regional Expert Institutions such as PAHO, CAREC and now CARPHA to come to St. Maarten for training workshops to upgrade our programs;
  • We sent out staff to Holland, the United States and the region for work visits and/or internships to improve individual skills in both programs

Today we have the opening session of again two training programs on Vaccination and Vector Control. I take this opportunity to thank the instructors that came from Holland to deliver these trainings. I hope that you will find the time to enjoy St. Maarten and find out for yourself why we are called "the Friendly Island."
I also thank the organizers BAK and PNO for their input and collaborative effort to ensure that the USONA funds were put to good use with these trainings.
To the trainees I say: Make good use of the experts that is what they are here for; ask as many questions as you have, this is the time to ask, when they are gone it is usually too late, but with modern technology I am sure that it is never too late.
With these two training we again show that we don't only "talk the talk" but also "walk the walk" and we will continue doing so through our continuous education approach.
I wish you fruitful training days and hereby declare these trainings open.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Nature Foundation will be holding Public Sessions informing the public regarding issues surrounding the Tilapia die-offs and the Great Salt Pond this Thursday at the University of St. Maarten starting at six in the evening. During the session the Nature Foundation will give a short presentation followed by time for a question and answer session where the public can ask questions regarding the Tilapia and the pollution in the Great Salt Pond.
The presentation will be centered on the testing results show that the Great Salt Pond is indeed faced with poor water quality, the predominant results which stand out are related to a drop in oxygen in conjunction with a rise in salinity or saltiness. This shows that yes, there is an issue with water quality in the Great Salt Pond, but that the primary reason for the fish die-off is the species itself and is not related to the Pond. The Great Salt Pond, as its name suggests, is a Saline to Hyper Saline Environment and although Tilapia can withstand salinity up to a certain point, after attaining a certain level the species dies massively.

PHILIPSBURG:--- His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and wife Queen Máxima will begin their first visit to the Dutch Caribbean Islands as King and Queen on Nov. 12, 2013, with St. Maarten being the first stop. St. Maarten Governor, His Excellency Eugene Holiday will host the Royal Couple.

A welcoming ceremony with honor guard will take place at the Cyrus Wathey Square in the front of the Court House on Front Street on Nov. 13, followed by a brief meeting with the governor, a welcome by the President and members of the Parliament of St. Maarten, an interview with Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and a gathering with the Council of Ministers.

After the official welcome, the Royal couple will visit Milton Peters College and Raoul Illidge Sports Complex to meet with the winners of the Kingdom Games, followed by a "monument walk" through Front Street in the afternoon highlighting the Oranje School, Methodist Church and Court House. The day will close with entertainment in the Festival Village in Philipsburg. Entertainment will include musical performances by local artists and musicians including Tanny & The Boys, Ebony Steel Orchestra, Gunslingers, Percy Rankin and The Bonfire Band. There will also be dance performances by various schools and poetry by the One Poet Society. The day of celebration will end with fireworks around 9:00 pm. The general public is invited to attend the activities at the Festival Village.

The King and Queen will then travel to Saba, St. Eustatius, Bonaire, Curacao and Aruba, with the Royal visit wrapping up on Nov.19, 2013.

telemfamilyfunday04112013POND ISLAND:--- There was a record turnout of youngsters and families for the TelEm Group Family Fun Park event on the company's parking lot Sunday.
More than 2000 excited guests turned out on the day, braving stormy clouds ahead, to take part in a host of activities for all ages.

"The Family Fun Park just keeps getting bigger and better every time it is set up for the youth and for family entertainment," said event coordinator Angel Richardson.
She said despite getting off to a slow start because of the prospect of rain, the rainclouds held back and people literally poured in from the later afternoon until the Family Fun Park came to a close at 7:00 in the evening.
"Everyone had a ball, especially the children. We have to thank TelEm Group management, the host of volunteers from the company and from the St. Dominic School who turned out to assist and also to Gitridge Marketing and Consulting, who jointly organized the event with Telem," continued Angel.
She said parents are repeating the call for the Fun Park to become a twice-annual event for St. Maarten's youth as a contribution from TelEm Group towards the positive uplifting of the island's youth.
"Many parents told us there is a great need for these kind of activity for the children and especially for families so that parents and guardians can enjoy activities with their children and in the company of other children and families and most of all in a safe environment," said Angel.
She said all the performers, including TelCell's Breakthrough talent show event winners were well received by the public when they performed live on stage and all the activities were well attended.
Once again, cartoon characters Dora the Explorer, and Smurf were a hit with the younger children while the Gamefest stage was a hit with the older children. Children and adults were also fascinated with the water games and parents, along with their children, patiently waited to receive their personalized portrait by the caricature artists.

"The food stands, barbeque, popcorn /snow cone stand and games tent were all filled to capacity. We are very very pleased with the turnout and want to thank everyone for their support. We will definitely do it again, if only because of the support and positive comments we have received," continued Angel.
TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer, Helma Etnel, was also pleased with the turnout and with the enjoyment she personally witnessed on the faces of the youngsters enjoying the various rides and activities.
"Thankfully the rain held back so that everyone could have an enjoyable time. We are most pleased to contribute this event to the youth and the community as good corporate citizens and we fully appreciate the positive feedback we have received from the public and from our customers," said Mrs. Etnel.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on a part of Front Street starting Tuesday, November 5, from 7:00pm to 6:00am the next morning.

The area to be closed off is from the Oranje School to the Cyrus Wathey Square.

The temporary closures during the aforementioned hours will be from Tuesday evening until Friday. Barricades will be put in place and special garbage collection rules will be in effect if needed for the period of the closure.

Street repairs will take place during the closure in connection with the King's visit.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A closed door Central Committee session of the House of Parliament is scheduled for November 06 regarding the National Security Service (VDSM) along with two other agenda points.

The closed door session is set for Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is a discussion with the Prime Minister/Minister of General Affairs on recent developments related to the VDSM including the suspension of the Head of the agency James Richardson.

This meeting was requested by the National Alliance (NA) faction in parliament, namely Member of Parliament Hon. William Marlin, MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, and MP Hon. Hyacinth Richardson.

The second agenda point is a proposal from the Kingdom Government to appoint Queen Maxima as queen regent to Princess Amalia in the even that King Willem-Alexander is unable to carry out his duties and the princess is not yet eighteen years old.

The proposal requires the approval of all three parliaments of the Kingdom.

The third agenda point is an invitation for the President of Parliament to be present for the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Kingdom.

COLE BAY:--- On Sunday, November 10, 2013, the St. Martin grassroots movement will celebrate its annual St. Martin Day event in the Garden of Touzah Jabash in Bellevue. The celebration will start at 2pm and there will be a very interesting program, which will also have a regional flavor and impact.
Please make a special effort to attend. A special invitation goes out to our brothers and sisters in Anguilla. Food and drinks will be available free of charge.

gspdeadtilapia04112013To Hold Public Sessions with the Community Informing them on Issues related to Tilapia deaths and the Great Salt Pond

PHILIPSBURG:--- Based on the three fish die offs the Nature Foundation St. Maarten has compiled and delivered a report based on research conducted during the week of the 27th of October which outlines the causes, results and possible preventative measures for the increase of fish die off events St. Maarten has been experiencing over the last few years.
The report gives recommendations by the Nature Foundation to the Government/ VROMI Ministry of St. Maarten regarding the issues associated with the introduction and massive fish die-offs of the introduced Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) and the Blue Tilapia (Oreochromis aureus) which are the species of Tilapia most introduced into the wetlands of St. Maarten (Great Salt Pond, Fresh Pond).
Both types of Tilapia are a species of fish in the Cichlidae family. Native to Northern and Western Africa, and the Middle East, through introductions it is now also established elsewhere, including parts of the United States and the Caribbean, where it has been declared an invasive species and has caused significant environmental damage not only through fish die off events but also in harming already depleted ecosystems. The Tilapia invasion in our wetlands can be compared to the Lion Fish Invasion on our Coral Reefs.
Anecdotal reports suggests that, although there have been minor reports of Tilapia being in the Great Salt Pond since the 1970s a large introduction of Tilapia was done into the Great Salt Pond in 2004 by a pet shop owner (since moved to Great Britain)who had his business in the Madam Estate Shopping Center. The proprietor of the Pet Shop introduced the Tilapia into the Great Salt Pond after the specimens became too large to handle. This research is corroborated by the fact that since the initial introduction in 2004 and based on the research none of native St. Maarten fish were found dead during the fish die-offs.
Tilapia are fast growing, breed rapidly, and once introduced into a habitat they generally establish themselves very quickly. In doing so they compete with native fish fauna, reduce the light available for aquatic plants, and eat certain types of aquatic plants causing changes in local aquatic flora. Such problems have been observed in many different places, including Australia, Philippines, and the United States.
Although the testing results show that the Great Salt Pond is indeed faced with poor water quality, the predominant results which stand out are related to a drop in oxygen in conjunction with a rise in salinity or saltiness. This shows that yes, there is an issue with water quality in the Great Salt Pond, but that the primary reason for the fish die-off is the species itself and is not related to the Pond. The Great Salt Pond, as its name suggests, is a Saline to Hyper Saline Environment and although Tilapia can withstand salinity up to a certain point, after attaining a certain level the species dies massively.
The Nature Foundation will be holding Public Sessions informing the public regarding issues surrounding the Tilapia die-offs and the Great Salt Pond.

wibemployeesdonatetofirevictims04112013SIMPSON BAY:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd, WIB employees held an internal drive to collect the certain necessities, such as clothing, water, canned goods and more, to assist the families of the Cole Bay fire disaster. WIB management wishes to thank its employees for their contributions and encourages those in the community to also assist. WIB also thanks the SXM Red Cross for the diligent work and support to this affected community.

WIB Press Release

stcrepmeetswithharriscountyhoustonsportsauthority04112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten Foundation (STC Sint Maarten) Executive Board member Reggie Plaisir met with Harris County Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA) Chief Executive Officer Janis Schmees Burke to discuss sports development and sports tourism opportunities for country Sint Maarten.

A follow-up meeting is planned for late November to discuss further details such as a Sister Sister Partnership.

The Harris County Houston Sports Authority manages the debt financing of two billion dollars for all major sports facilities in the City of Houston.

Plaisir stated that country Sint Maarten's sports development could benefit greatly with the vast experience that the sports authority has gained.

The HCHSA, the Sports Authority, is a political subdivision of the City, the County and the State of Texas, created for the purposes set forth in the Concurrent Order and the Act, including planning, acquiring, establishing, developing, constructing or renovating of one or more sports and community venue projects and related infrastructure.

The Sports Authority completed its initial project on Opening Day for the downtown baseball ballpark (Minute Maid Park) on March 30, 2000, on time and under budget.

The Sports Authority began its second project with the groundbreaking for the new Reliant Stadium in March 2000, and the stadium was officially opened on August 24, 2002.

The Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten Foundation has as its primary goal to develop Sports Tourism as a niche market for the destination. The new entity is structured to attract annual sports events to the island and to stimulate economic development.

STC representatives will be attending a number of sessions at the four-day conference and expo that will fully prepare them for the promotion of the destination as a sports tourism destination. Some of the sessions will delve into Economic Impact Analysis; Event Safety, Security and Integrity; Social Media, Mobile and Your Events; Advancing Integrity in Sports; and the Business of Sports.

STC Sint Maarten seeks to develop triathlon event, marathon, cycling tour, youth basketball tournaments, softball tournaments, indoor slot model car racing, a kickboxing event, celebrity games, cricket tournaments, baseball tournaments, soccer tournament and other sports related events.

For those requiring additional information about the Sport Tourism Council, you can call 522-2828 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

rotarysxmsunrisedonateswatercoolertohillsidechristianschool04112013ST. PETERS:--- Members of Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise (Sunrise Rotary Club) visited the Hillside Christian Schools Helmich Snijders Campus recently and it was brought to their attention that the school is in need of a new water cooler.

These Sunrise Rotary Club members brought the request to the board of the club, which moved to approve the purchase of a brand new water cooler.

Accepting the water cooler on behalf of the school was Principal Mrs. B. Sprott, who disclosed that she was excited about the donation. Mrs. Sprott further noted that the donation came just in time for the school and is a very welcome addition to the coolers that the school already possesses.

On behalf of the students of the school, 6th grade student Nikita Doran thanked the members of the Sunrise Rotary Club for the water cooler.

Sunrise Rotary Club is always keen to provide schools with the necessary tools to assist the children in their learning process, and providing potable water is part of that. It is now commonly known that children who drink plenty of water have improved concentration levels and ability to learn. Experts agree that every child should drink at least one liter of water in small amounts throughout the day and that children who drink plenty of water are healthier and function better.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at www.sxmsunrise.org, we are also on Facebook: "Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise" and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

tzuchidonatestocolebayfirevictims04112013COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation donated a total of US $5,600 in cash and gift baskets containing food and essential items to 31 families of the recent fire in Wesley Lane, Cole Bay during a relief programme at the fire site on Saturday.
The cash donation totaled US $4,150 and the gift baskets containing items such as toothpaste, toothbrush, bath soaps, milk, juices, rice, oil, cornflakes, peanut butter and towels totaled US $1,450. In addition to these items boxes of clothing and shoes gathered by volunteers and members were made available for fire victims to select what they wanted.
"I feel so happy but I am keeping it down because [I don't want to cry ed.]. I have never experienced something like this before," Haitian Community President Jestan Guerrier said at the end of the relief programme. Guerrier worked with Tzu Chi to identify the families to receive the items.
This was Tzu Chi's third donation to the fire victims. A total of 69 families have received donations from the Foundation since the fire three weeks ago.
A total of 40 Tzu Chi volunteers including the Foundation's Commissioner Sandra Cheung gathered at the fire site for the programme mid-afternoon Saturday. The programme began with volunteers giving recipients a synopsis of how Tzu Chi was founded and the work of the foundation in St. Maarten and around the world. Fire victims were also enlightened about how the work of the foundation is fueled through donations from its members and volunteers and through the Bamboo Bank (donation box) drives.
Volunteers stood in line and first presented envelopes with the financial donation to representatives of each family and then presented the beautifully decorated gift baskets containing the food and essential items.
Tzu Chi also showed their love and compassion by sharing positive thoughts with the fire victims. Cheung shared the "Three "NOs" of Tzu Chi foundation, which are: "There is no one in the world that I don't love, there is no one in the world that I don't trust and there is no one in the world that I can't forgive." Cheung said persons who live by these principles usually have a better life. Volunteers then performed the "Three NOs" sign language song for fire victims, many of whom followed suit.
Mariana of Fina Salon in Marianne Estate, who witnessed the ceremony, was so touched by the Tzu Chi gesture that she offered free hair washes at her salon to any five female Tzu Chi volunteers.
In remarks at the end of the relief programme, Guerrier expressed thanks on behalf of all the fire victims to the foundation for their kind gesture. He was high in praises to the foundation for their relief work saying that Tzu Chi was the second organization after the St. Maarten Red Cross to donate to fire victims. He said the water that had been donated at that time had been life saving as no one can survive without water. He said Tzu Chi consisted of a strong group of volunteers who were willing to assist where necessary.
Salvation Army representative Haitian national Avrius Jean Baptiste also thanked Tzu Chi and its family of volunteers. Baptiste said Tzu Chi was engaged in "very worthy" work in the community. Baptiste said he too had received assistance from Tzu Chi several years ago when he lost everything in a fire several years ago.
Volunteer Gary Yee-Fong said it was a blessing for volunteers to be able to assist. He sympathized with the victims for losing everything in the blaze and assured that the foundation will continue its work in the community.
Cheung alluded to a saying from Tzu Chi Founder Master Cheng who said: "Beware of danger even during good times. Do not wait until you encounter danger to remember the good times you had."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Career & Study Fair Committee is once again finalizing preparations for the annual Career & Study Fair, scheduled for Thursday, November 7, 2013 at the Bel-Air Community Center.
Under the theme "A Better Future Through Better Education," the fair will accommodate all pre-exam students from all secondary schools on the island from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Career & Study Fair will be open to the general public from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Educational Institutions
Participating colleges and university representatives from St. Maarten, Curaçao, Aruba, the United States and Holland will be on hand to share information about their academic institutions and services. In addition to local educational institutions such as the University of St. Martin, and SBO–St. Maarten, representatives from the Study Financing Department and Student Support Services will be in attendance to provide information to the public regarding their services. Furthermore, Study Financing from Holland (DUO) will be present to share updates in the recent changes pertaining to revised education developments in Holland.
Royal Netherlands Marines
The Royal Netherlands Marine Corps have recently completed a detachment in St. Maarten, located in the harbor. A couple of their tasks are to protect the sovereignty of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia in making sure that the islands are not abused by criminal organizations. They will also be assisting partners, such as the coast guard, customs and police, to stabilize the judicial order in the area. Another of their tasks is to provide emergency assistance in case of natural disasters, such as hurricanes.
As this is a new detachment, they will be recruiting at the Career & Study Fair by providing information to any students that are interested in joining.
Coast Guard, Korps Politie, Customs, Fire Department, Prison
Aside from the Royal Netherlands Marines, various other public safety and security organizations will be in attendance at the fair, such as the Coast Guard, Korps Politie Sint Maarten, Customs, the Prison, and the Fire Department. They will also be providing information to persons that are interested in joining their forces.
Tourism Corporations
Various companies that are prevalent in the tourism industry, such as the PJIAE, Winair, the Harbor Group of Companies and the Tourism Bureau will be there to provide information about their businesses, and what opportunities are available for students interested in obtaining a job after high school.
Medical & Insurance Organizations
Another aspect of the career fair will feature medical organizations such as the St. Maarten Medical Center, Nagico Insurances, Mental Health Foundation, Sociale Ziektekosten Verzekering, and St. Maarten White and Yellow Cross' District Nursing and Baby Clinic providing information to students.
Local Businesses
There will also be local businesses and organizations in attendance, such as Telem N.V, BDO Accountants, and GEBE.
"We are grateful for the financial institutions, companies and colleges that are participating in this event. The information they provide will be helpful to our youth when deciding what their next step would be. Some youngsters will also use this opportunity to obtain more information on a particular career they might be interested in", committee officials said.
This annual event promises to be very informative and will serve to support the decision-making process in furthering one's education. The general public is invited to come out and benefit from the information and advice that will be made available. The fair will be open from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.
For more information please visit the website: www.sxmcareerandstudyfair.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The University of the Dutch Caribbean (UDC) in cooperation with the University of St. Martin (USM) is offering an Engineering program at USM. The program was composed by Saxion University of Applied Science in the Netherlands. Mr. Ruud Thuis, Director of UDC and Mr. Jan Bollen, Representative of Saixon University will both be on island to conduct the intake and evaluation process for prospective students of the Bachelor in Electrical and Electronic Engineering Degree program scheduled to commence January 2014.
Persons who signed up for this program are asked to attend a meeting scheduled for Tuesday November 5, 2013 at 6:00pm in the USM conference room. They are asked to bring along their diplomas, transcripts and other credentials so that they can be evaluated. Persons who have not signed up as yet are free to attend along with their documents. To qualify for admittance you must be in possession of an MBO or SBO level diploma or equivalent and be employed in a technical enterprise. Exemptions will apply depending on technical experience.

arthurlugisse13082010PHILIPSBURG:--- Arthur Lugisse, Director of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation Inc. (TLH-SXMF) said on Sunday a hearty congratulation goes out to the Florida State University (FSU) team the Seminoles, who defeated Miami 41-14 in Tallahassee Saturday night to a capacity crowd, coming from TLH-SXMF and all the St. Maarten students that went to FSU IN Tallahassee.

Florida State entered the game as 21-point favourites. The Seminoles also scored over 40 points for the eighth consecutive game.

FSU junior running back Devonta Freeman produced much of the Seminoles' good fortune. Freeman, a Miami native, scored three touchdowns, two rushing and one reception. Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston overcame two interceptions to complete 21 of 29 passes for 325 yards and one passing touchdown.

Roberto Aguayo kept his perfect field goal attempts and extra points record for the Seminoles as he converted two field goals in the fourth quarter.

Miami attempted to close the gap after converting on its second touchdown of the night after Winston threw his second pick. He's collected six interceptions during the 2013-14 season.

Miami quarterback Stephen Morris entered the game nursing an Achilles injury, but the team was crippled with injuries after it lost leading rusher Duke Johnson with 1:22 left in the third quarter. Miami defensive lineman Olson Pierre limped off the field on the following play.

Florida State's Terrance Brooks also left the game early when he was treated for a concussion.

The Seminoles jumped to an early lead in the third quarter with two rushing touchdowns from Freeman and James Wilder Jr. in the third quarter and never looked back. Florida State collected 517 total offensive yards to Miami's 275.ending in a victory for the capital city of Florida.

swescotwilliamsandadvisors04112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of Parliament from the National Alliance faction posed several questions to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams on Monday regarding the Royal Decree issued by the Kingdom ordering the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of St. Maarten.
The National Alliance Members of Parliament asked the Prime Minister to provide them with answers as to what prompted the Dutch Government to issue to such a decree to the Governor of St. Maarten. They asked if she really believes that the issues such as the fiber optic cable that the Dutch wanted to land on St. Maarten, the removal of the TOT on goods sold to residents of Saba and Statia, and the monies that were owed to them were the main reasons for the instruction given to the Governor of St. Maarten on September 30th, 2013.

Member of Parliament Louis Laveist read out parts of the explanatory notes of a letter sent to the Government of St. Maarten by Minister of Interior and Overseas Affairs Ronald Plasterk on April 4th, 2013. Based on that letter the Dutch Government claimed that what has been taking place within the government apparatus on St. Maarten smeared the image of the entire Kingdom. Minister Plasterk even asked what the Government of St. Maarten is doing to remove this negative image they created. Laveist said based on the instruction given by the Kingdom Council all organs and civil servants have to cooperate with the investigators. He asked the Prime Minister what prompted her to make the statements she made when The Hague made their position known. He said the reaction from the Prime Minister was not at all cute because the matter at hand was serious and not a laughing matter. MP Laveist said shortly after several statements were made by the Prime Minister and Minister of Justice about the Royal Decree they quickly made a 360 turn and decided to pull their tails between their legs and cooperate to some extent. Laveist said he wants to know what problem the Prime Minister has with the investigation ordered by the Kingdom and if she has something somewhere that she does not want the Kingdom or anyone else to know about. He further asked the Prime Minister what prompted her to form a committee to conduct their own investigation on integrity within the Government of St. Maarten. He wants to know if the Prime Minister is aware of some sort of nepotism taking place within government. He raised issues such as the completion of the Government Administration Building and other matters that has the attention of the Hague.
Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin asked the Prime Minister to give Parliament a copy of the Ministerial decree they drafted in order for the Members of Parliament to see exactly what the Government of St. Maarten wants to do. He asked who the six member committee would report to if they are to conduct an investigation on the integrity of government. Marlin said he believes that this committee should report to Parliament and not the Government of St. Maarten. The National Alliance Leader further asked the Prime Minister to explain to Parliament what happened to the National Ordinance that was sent to the Governor to sign off regarding the same committee. He said he wanted to know if the Governor signed the ordinance and if he did not what was the reason behind that? Furthermore, Marlin wanted to know why the Wescot Williams cabinet decided to change their strategy and have a Ministerial decree instead of a national ordinance. He also asked the Prime Minister to inform Parliament as to how Transparency International came into the integrity investigation. Marlin said he wants to know if the idea came from the US consulate in Curacao who informed the Prime Minister that the United States has some concerns about St. Maarten regarding human smuggling and if they are the ones that suggested that Transparency International conduct an investigation.

Independent Member of Parliament Frans Richardson also asked the Prime Minister for explanations since it has been exactly seven months since the Minister of Interior and Overseas Affairs made his position known to St. Maarten. MP Richardson said the integrity investigation is the hottest topic on St. Maarten and everywhere else, therefore clarity is needed on this issue. The MP said it's time for the Government of St. Maarten to stop confusing the people of St. Maarten and they should now tell the people what the legal basis is for the committees they now have to conduct an investigation on the integrity in government. MP Richardson said if the Kingdom will go ahead with its investigation then he wants to know what sense it makes for the Government of St. Maarten to establish more committees and also have Transparency International conduct the same investigation. He further asked the Prime Minister to tell the people of St. Maarten how much these investigations will cost them in the end. MP Richardson asked the Prime Minister if she is ready or who is ready to take the blame for the break down in trust within government as is outlined by the Hague. "The Hague said St. Maarten tarnished the image of the Kingdom and they also embarrassed them therefore I want to know who will take the blame for this because someone in the USA is taking the blame for the Obama Care debacle." MP Richardson further asked if the Kingdom will drop the integrity investigation now that St. Maarten has agreed to give them all they wanted, which is to land the fiber optic cable on St. Maarten, removal of TOT on goods sold to the residents of Saba and Statia, and the monies that were due to them from the Central Bank.

MPs have Big Stones --- Kingdom has no Right to Order Investigation on St. Maarten – MP Roy Marlin.

Member of Parliament Roy Marlin in his statements during the first round said that the Members of Parliament that posed questions about the integrity investigation has "big stones" for asking the questions they asked. MP Marlin who is a representative of the Democratic Party faction said several of the MPs have skeletons in their closets yet they are the ones that are asking questions. He said that during the investigations he is hoping that something on the removal of the sand from the harbor will surface as well as the removal of the asphalt from the airport. He also suggested that the reports from the integrity investigations should be presented to Parliament as suggested by the leader of the National Alliance.
Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams in her response to the Members of Parliament who posed questions to her about the integrity committee said that she does not know who really to blame due to the questions that were posed to her. She said she felt that she gave the Members of Parliament sufficient information when she requested to meet with Parliament to update them on the developments regarding the Royal decree and the Kingdom Council of Ministers. "Its either I did not give enough information or the information that I gave was not properly understood."

As for Transparency International, the Prime Minister admitted that the US Consul based in Curacao made the suggestion in March 20th, 2013 when the Wescot Williams 2 cabinet was in office. She said that three days after receiving that email she contacted Transparency International. Transparency International will be paid just over Euros 200,000. USONA she said will pay Euros 171,000 while the Government of St. Maarten will pay Euros 40,000. The Prime Minister further explained that she even submitted the draft decree on the agreement government has with Transparency International. Wescot Williams also indicated to Parliament that she neither the Government of St. Maarten has a problem with or is against the investigation on integrity. She said if they were they would not have formed the committee consisting of the six persons and they would not have engaged Transparency International. However, the Government of St. Maarten does have a problem with the measures used by the Kingdom when they invoked Article 43 of the charter to issue the Royal Decree.

She further explained that government allocated Naf. 300,000.00 for the committee to work with until they provide a budget to government. This committee she said has to find its own tools and materials to conduct the investigation. She made clear that she included in the Ministerial decree that the members of the committee could work with the Kingdom to conduct the investigation on integrity.

Wescot Williams also admitted to Parliament that the national ordinance that was sent to the Governor for signing was not signed.

Laveist asks for information on Consular Services Provided by Guyanese Consuls --- Come clean or we will call a separate meeting on this agenda point.

membersofparliament04112013Besides committees that were formed to conduct the integrity investigation, Member of Parliament Louie Laveist asked the Prime Minister to provide Parliament with information she has on the consular services that are provided by the Guyanese Consuls and or diplomats that visit St. Maarten. MP Laveist said if the Prime Minister does not provide them with the answers they need on this topic then they would have to call a separate meeting to further discuss the operations that are conducted by these visiting consuls and or diplomats. The MP made clear that he was not looking for any names but he wants to know exactly what the Prime Minister knows about the activities of the Guyanese consuls and or diplomats.

"I do not have a Dog in this Fight, I asked a legitimate question and I need the answers," MP Laveist.

When the public meeting of Parliament resumed on Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams lashed out at MP Louie Laviest who asked her about the procedures foreign countries have to follow in order for them to conduct consular services on St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said she felt that somebody in the house of Parliament wanted to destroy the Acting head of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs. She further stated that she wants to know if the MPs or anyone else understands the law, especially that of the Vienna Convention, which protects foreign diplomats. "Does anyone in here expect me to go out there and check to see how and what kind of services these consuls are giving to the Guyanese community?" Wescot Williams said in the case of the Guyana General Consul, the Government of Guyana sent a request to the Government of St. Maarten (Bureau of Foreign Affairs) requesting that St. Maarten allow the General Consul that is responsible for the region to enter St. Maarten where he could also provide consular services. Member of Parliament Louie Laviest did not take the statements made by the Prime Minister lightly especially her tone when responding to his questions. He said he certainly does not have a dog in the foreign relations fight. "As a Member of Parliament I have a duty and an obligation to the people of this country and all I am asking you is to explain the people of St. Maarten especially foreigners the procedures they have to follow when coming to St. Maarten to conduct business. People (Guyanese nationals) living in the Cole Bay area contacted me and told me they gave their passports and paid monies to certain people and it has been over a year now and they have not received their travel documents or monies back." Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin in his statements said that he heard that the former head of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs was in contact with Guyana which led to the current acting head granting the person entry to St. Maarten. Marlin said that what he understood is the former head of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs started rolling the ball in the wrong direction. He said the questions that were posed by his colleague had nothing to do with wanting to throw anyone under the bus. Marlin said if proper procedures were not followed then government should be big enough to admit such and also say that those mistakes would have been corrected. In responding to the reactions by the MPs, Prime Minister Wescot Williams said that the Government of Guyana sent a request to the Netherlands (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) asking that they accredit Guyana General Consul of Barbados Michael Brotherson the rights to become the Consul on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister said that pending that request St. Maarten granted the request submitted to St. Maarten by the Government of Guyana which is to allow the General Consul entry and to allow him to provide consular services. She said that Brotherson is responsible for the region and the Government of Guyana wants to add St. Maarten to his jurisdiction. Wescot Williams said if persons contacted the MPs with information regarding their Guyanese passports that they gave to Guyanese diplomats for renewal then the MPs should contact the Government of Guyana and not St. Maarten. "The people to contact with the information you have is the Government of Guyana and if you are not satisfied with the information they provided via a press release on this matter then you can contact them also for further information. The Government of St. Maarten is not responsible for the handling of Guyanese passports." Wescot Williams also informed Parliament that she was not at all upset when she answered the questions posed to her but took note of the spin they placed on the matter when they said they knew that the former head (a Dutch National from the Netherlands, started rolling the ball in the wrong direction).

The public meeting of Parliament on this topic will continue at 4pm on Monday.

patricialourensatspecialneedseducationconference03112013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip took part in a conference on Special Needs Education and the way forward for the country. The presenters were the psychologist from St. John's University, New York Graduate School of Psychology who have been testing and evaluating Sint Maarten students for deficits and giftedness since February 2013. The group is led by Dr. Mark Terjesen.

shootingfillin05052013COLE BAY:--- An unknown man was shot early Saturday morning somewhere in Marinana Estate, Cole Bay. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that someone was shot twice by an unknown person around 5am Saturday morning. The police spokesman told SMN News on Saturday that he did not have details on the shooting at the time. He promised to send out a press release on Sunday with details but up to press time Sunday afternoon no further information on the shooting was sent out by the police spokesman.

GRAND CASE:--- Several business owners in Grand Case are calling on the Collectivity of St. Martin and the State to do something to enhance security in the area. Several of the business persons told SMN News that crime in Grand Case has escalated and it is threatening their businesses and livelihood which according to them is going unnoticed.

According to some business owners and residents, a couple (tourists) was attacked Saturday night as they were approaching their car that was parked in a parking lot. One of the business owner said the couple had just finished dining at one of the restaurants and they were leaving the area when they were attacked. They said the female was punched in her face and she apparently lost some of her teeth while her husband was stabbed multiple times.

Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault confirmed the attack on the couple that took place Saturday night in the Grand Case area. He said that currently the Gendarmes are investigating while the male victim is being treated at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for multiple stab wounds.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Wholesalers and retailers who plan on importing Christmas Trees for the upcoming holiday season are hereby advised to request their permit early and to also make sure that the trees have been treated in the exporting country.

There are ordinances that regulate the importation of goods, and a permit will be required in order to import Christmas Trees for the 2013 holiday season.

The Inspection Department TEZVT - Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) that falls under the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, has to ensure that imported Christmas Trees – even though they may appear to be harmless, are free from insects and pests that could harm trees and vegetation on the island.

Wholesalers and retailers for each consignment should have a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country showing that the trees have been treated before they leave the exporting country.

To secure the permit, companies are required to submit an application for import along with a copy of the original pro forma invoice. When the trees arrive, the wholesaler/retailer should notify the Department; and should present the original phytosanitary certificate and proof that the trees were treated with pesticide.

The Inspection Department of TEZVT- Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) office is located in Tamarinde Steeg nr. 16 C, Philipsburg, in the Yellow Building. The office can be reached by calling 542-4509 or 542-4511 for further information.

tedrichardsonreceivesreportfromjuniormeteorologistdesireeconnor03112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson recently received a summary report from Desiree Connor, Junior Meteorologist, Climatology Section at the Meteorological Department St. Maarten (MDS).

Connor travel to Beijing, China in the latter half of October where she attended the 2nd International Training Course on Regional Climate Prediction & Drought Monitoring.

Sint Maarten's MDS received an invitation from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Permanent Representative for the Caribbean Region, Dr. Albert Martis, who is the Director for the Meteorological Department of Curacao.

The course aimed to help participants have a good understanding of short-term climate prediction and drought-related issues. The course is also designed to help participants learn new techniques of diagnosis and attribution on extreme climate events (especially drought events) and improve the climate prediction skills in developing countries.

Minister Hon. Ted Richardson stated on Sunday that the further training of staff is necessary to keep them abreast of new techniques, procedures in climate predictions and forecasting.

"We have to continue to give our people the tools to work with in order for them to be able to perform to their best abilities. Investment in human resources is key in order for country Sint Maarten to move forward," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson summarized on Sunday.

Connor pointed out in her report that the new techniques she has learnt will further enhance the services rendered to the community of Sint Maarten and other stakeholders by MDS.

Enhancements will be seen in the production of short-term predictions (monthly, seasonal, and annual) as well as long-term projections (decadal and beyond).

Besides monthly outlooks on temperature and rainfall that is currently done, the new methods, tools and procedures would be very essential in defining the climatic personality of Sint Maarten and the North Eastern Caribbean region in general.

Desiree Connor added that meeting counterparts from around the world have already proved worthwhile since MDS has already started setting up a network to share climate data.

The network will be used to assist in the monitoring of major events before and after they occur such as droughts, floods, typhoons/hurricanes, dust storms, earthquakes, etc.

The knowledge of using different techniques was also passed on as well.

The international training course was co-sponsored by WMO and the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), also known as the WMO Regional Training Center Beijing.

Countries in attendance were: Barbados, Botswana, China, Cambodia, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mongolia, Namibia, Pakistan, Rwanda, Ukraine, Yemen, and Zimbabwe.

swescotwilliamsatpjljazzekoevening03112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Jazzeko Surinamese Evening at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library last Saturday. The Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with the Jazzeko band held the event entitled "An evening with Lieve Hugo: a taste of Suriname" where through the use of music the community was made about the diversity within the Surinamese culture. The entire evening was dedicated to the popular style of Surinamese music, called Kaseko and in tribute to the genre a documentary about the popular folk-music-singer "Lieve Hugo" was shown.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake encourages the Cape Bay Community Council (CBCC) and the Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) to pursue communal farming after learning that both organizations recently met at Seaside Nature Park to discuss agriculture development in general.

Over the past few years, food security crises around the world have highlighted the urgent need for developing sustainable agricultural systems. Nearly one billion people – one out of six in the world – lack access to adequate food and proper nutrition.

By 2050, the global population is expected to surpass nine billion people, and demand for agricultural products will double. Sustainable agriculture development and food security must remain at the top of the international agenda.

"Agriculture as it was done in the past is not financially feasible today. We have to apply new innovative ways and approaches in a sustainable manner. The interests is there for backyard farming and I encourage those involved to pursue it

"I do believe that communal farming can have an impact on the cost of living for those who participate and are involved. It will also keep the money on the island which means more local investments can be made in our economy.

"From a heath perspective, it would improve the general health of the population, but in particularly those who participate. The fresh produce would be free of all substances currently used today in agriculture production.

"It would be our own Sint Maarten organic produce. We have various groups in the country who are thinking along this direction and are already doing this type of farming. I would encourage them to come together and form an association and that way the movement I believe will grow much bigger and will also be able to do more.

"I commend all groups and individuals involved in creating a sustainable agricultural sector and encourage them to continue as this is also the future for the country even if it's a small micro sector of our economy, it has the potential to grow bigger," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

swescotwilliamsatbenefitconcertforkingarrowfoundation03112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined with a wide section of the community in attending a benefit concert for the King Arrow Foundation. During last night's event the Prime Minister congratulated the performing calypsonians and the various other performers for joining hands in supporting the ailing elder calypsonian. "I recall Arrow's work in the entertainment field for the past decades and praise the fact that in his time of need, his friends and colleagues have come together to raise funds for him. I would like to remind the community of Arrow's "Constitution" song; One Destiny, which is definitively my favorite.

During the fun-filled evening the PM also personally made a contribution in support of Arrow. Attendees danced and celebrated late into the evening.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Everything is in place for the public Open House at Parliament on November 6. The open house will take place on a weekly basis.

In order to increase general knowledge about the House and its procedures, the public are invited to mark the date of Wednesday, November 6, and every Wednesday thereafter from 9:00am to 11:00am.

Parliament is one of the institutions that the nation has seen functioning since Sint Maarten attained country status on 10-10-10 within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Parliament of Sint Maarten is the highest legislative body of the country and currently comprises of 15 members.

The main tasks of Parliament are the ratification of legislation and the exercise of control on government policies.

The objective of the Open House is to further enlighten the community of the country about the important role of the House of Parliament. It is an institution that impacts the lives of the people depending on the type of legislation that the House can draft and approve.

Visitors to the House of Parliament have to abide by a dress code. They must dress appropriately: no slippers remove hats/caps while in the House, and no strapless clothing.

The staff of Parliament will be available during the Open House to provide information to visitors. The Parliament is located across from the Court House on Wilhelminastraat 1.

Interested persons can contact Parliament via telephone number 542-0812 or 542-0635 or via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for additional information with respect to the House of Parliament's Open House.

dennisrichardson17092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson would like to bring clarity to a news story that is living a life of its own regarding Dutch passports and changing the requirements to obtain such.

"The decisions and regulations on the issuing of Dutch passports and attaining Dutch nationality are not done by the Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten or by the Government of Sint Maarten. The Dutch/Kingdom Government plays a decisive role in this regard.

"Neither the Minister of Justice nor the Government of Sint Maarten has submitted to date any requests to the Dutch or the Kingdom Government for changes to the present regulations or on the execution of those regulations or have engaged in any conversations in this respect with those governments. Sint Maarten has other and more urgent priorities," Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson said on Sunday.

Minister Richardson was responding to a story that appeared in the local media on Friday regarding lenient rules for the Dutch passport.

Minister Dennis Richardson added: "There has never been a joint interview between myself, Sint Maarten's journalist Alita Singh and the Dutch journalist Jean Mentens, in which I demanded easier access to the Dutch passport or declared the admittance requirements for candidates to attain the Dutch passport disastrous for Sint Maarten.

"Journalist Mentens approached my person with a request for cooperation for making a report on the developments on Sint Maarten since 10-10-10.

"In a casual general and informal conversation around his request for cooperation and not intended for any publication, the sometimes strained relationship between the Netherlands and the Caribbean countries and Dutch Caribbean islands in general was touched upon.

"Why the journalist has taken out one aspect of this conversation, magnified it out of proportion, portrayed it incorrectly and brought it in connection with a different conversation with which it had no relationship and of which I had no knowledge or was part of, is unknown. Perhaps this is called "creative" journalism!

"It is however becoming clearer and clearer that the article is fueling resentments in the Netherlands and in Sint Maarten and taking on a form that has no relationship with what I said or intended," Minister Hon. Dennis Richardson concluded regarding this matter on Sunday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on a part of Back Street on Monday, November 4, Tuesday, November 5 and Thursday, November 7.

On November 4 and 5 from 10:00pm to 1:00am, part of Back Street will be closed for the pouring of concrete.

On November 5, part of Back Street will be closed to vehicular traffic between the hours 10:00pm to 2:00am. This is in connection with the offloading of building materials for the renovation of the former Midtown Hotel.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For both instances, permission for the road closures were granted by the Ministry of Justice.

rogerhosfordwithlionfishcatch01112013COLE BAY:--- Local fisherman Roger Hosford is currently ahead in the Nature Foundation Lionfish Derby with him bringing in nearly three kilos of Lionfish. Ocean Explorers Dive Center is currently in second place. There are about two weeks left until the end of the second Lionfish Derby. To date nearly five hundred lionfish have been submitted as part of the lionfish derby.

Lionfish are an invasive venomous fish that can inflict a painful and sometimes fatal sting. Lionfish are usually found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans but were introduced into the Atlantic thru the aquarium trade. Native fish species do not recognize the Lionfish as a threat so they are unable to defend themselves against it. In other places were lionfish were spotted there are hardly any snappers and grouper left because those are the type of fish the lionfish likes to eat. Last week the Nature Foundation caught lionfish very shallow by Sunset Beach Bar in Maho.

The Nature Foundation encourages fishermen, divers and all those who may want to take part in the 2013 Lionfish Derby to register via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by calling 5444267 during business hours.

rotarysxmsunrisedonatestomealsonwheels01112013PHILIPSBURG:--- The month of October is designated by Rotary International as Vocational Service Month. In keeping with the 2013-2014 RI themes of "Engage Rotary Change Lives," The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise invited nomination for its annual Vocational Service Awards for 2013-2014. Meals on Wheels Foundation was selected from among the nominees submitted for the award. To be eligible for the award, the nominee (Individual/Organization) had to demonstrate the following attributes:

  • Exemplification of the Rotary spirit of "Service above Self";
  • Involvement at the community level in activities connected to or associated with changing lives in the community
  • High ethical and moral standards displayed in performance / work related to selected area of vocational service.

Meals on Wheels Foundation is a group of volunteers headed by President Mary Bryson who work service above self to prepare and deliver warm meals via their transportation to about 50 elderly and 20 children daily, they work selflessly to change lives in our community.
Accepting the award and Financial assistance retired Registered Nurse Mrs. Mary Bryson stated that she saw the need since 1995 to assist the community with Meals on Wheels, thereby providing warm meals especially to the elderly and underprivileged children, she stated that she takes pride in assisting, and look forward enthusiastically to her daily task.
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email:, we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

patricialourenslaunchesroyalvisitartcontest01112013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday morning October 30th, 2013, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens-Philip, visited the Sister Borgia Primary School in Philipsburg together with representatives of the National Organizing Committee Royal Visit (NOC), Vice-Chairman Mr. Marcel Gumbs and member of the Secretariat NOC Ms. Emilia Thomas.
The delegation visited the school to present one of the first educational packages 'Royal Visit 2013'. The packages were developed to assist the schools in preparation of the arrival of His Majesty King Willem Alexander and Her Majesty Queen Máxima.
They also brought posters to inform the students of the Royal Visit Art Contest. All students on Sint Maarten, elementary and secondary school, can take part in this contest by creating a creative portrait of the King and Queen and handing it in at their school by November 6th, 2013 before 11:00 a.m.
The students can participate in three categories: Cycle 1, Cycle 2 and Secondary Education. First prize in each category are 2 V.I.P. passes to the Youth Showcase on Wednesday, November 13th. The Youth Showcase is a special event hosted by the Prime Minister for the King and Queen. Approximately 250 children will show their talents that evening under the guidance of the National Institute of Arts (NIA).
The second and third prize winners will receive art surprise packages. The winners will be determined by a panel of judges and contacted on November 7th. The prize giving will take place on Friday, November 8th.
For more information persons can contact the NOC's secretariat via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The poster is also posted on the Government website (www.sintmaartengov.org: special campaigns), as well as on the Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Royal-Visit-of-King-Willem-Alexander-and-Queen-Maxima

townhallmeetingzoningdawnbeachandpointblanche01112013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake said the turnout was very satisfactory for the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Dawn Beach and Point Blanche that was held on October 31. Minister Lake said that many of the issues that residents and stakeholders brought forward were discussed further internally on Friday with Ministry VROMI staff.

Residents of Oyster Pond and Guana Bay were also included. The public consultation took place at the University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

telemfunday01112013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group mobile provider TelCell says it's "All systems go" for a bumper Family Fun Park event on the company's Pond Island premises Sunday.
The event will feature live musical entertainment, various shows, fun activities for younger children, and challenging sporting activities for older children.
Organizers will also be providing drinks and snacks for children and adults.
The event will be headlining with a Blowout sale of mobile phones and accessories throughout the day.
"The event is not only going to be a fun one, but it can also be a profitable one for the smart shopper who is looking for a mobile gift before the Christmas rush," said event coordinator, Angel Richardson.
She said the winners of TelCell's recently held Breakthrough talent search will also be performing live to visiting guests and customers. There will also be a raffle of a Sony TV, a Refrigerator and a mobile phone in the raffle hunt.
"With the Rock wall activity, the Bungee Jump, the Game Fest., airbrush and tattoos, water games, surprise raffles, entertaining toys, various street performers and much more, we are sure we have covered the bases to keep everyone entertained throughout the day," said Angel.
She expects a large turnout and is advising parents to come early with their children.
Parking will not be available at the TelEm Building premises therefore motorists are advised to park in the Government parking lot close by.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour has collaborated with the National Institute of Public Health and the Environment and the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport to organize a meeting with family physicians, health care providers for Wednesday, November 6 and a public meeting for Thursday, November 7 with respect to vaccinations, dengue and mosquito control.

The session with physicians and health care providers will take place at the University of St. Martin on Wednesday, November 6 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.

The public meeting for interested persons will also take place at the same venue on Thursday, November 7 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. The session will give the public an opportunity to obtain information from the experts, ask questions and express their concerns during the meeting.

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

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with working closely with various stakeholders as well as the community to eliminate the threat of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, and mosquito breeding areas.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito and about potential breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on Ginger Road on Sunday, November 3 from 7:00am to 12:00pm.

Residents on Ginger Road, junction A.J.C. Brouwer Road at approximately 150 meters, this section of the road will be closed.

Residents are advised to use the other exit of Ginger Road at the Yogesh Building.

Motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

The road closure is in connection with the milled asphalt repairs of the Ginger Road.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

PHILIPSBURG:--- An urgent Plenary session of Parliament is scheduled for November 04 regarding the issue of integrity.

The public plenary session is set for Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is incoming documents; followed by the decision of Government to establish a committee to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of Sint Maarten.

The Prime Minister/Minister of General Affairs has been invited to Parliament with respect to the aforementioned agenda point.

This meeting was requested by the National Alliance (NA) faction in parliament, namely Member of Parliament Hon. William Marlin, MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, and MP Hon. Hyacinth Richardson.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to congratulate the initiators of the country's newly formed Down Street Business/Community Association as well as the new appointed board.

The Down Street organization was formed on Tuesday night and its first elected President is Godfried Richardson. The organization area of focus within their community is from L'Escargot to the old Paper Garden.

The organization has established six committees that will deal with fundraising, marketing, cleanup, decorations, social and transportation.

"Our community continues to get organized because a collective approach and voice is much stronger when having to deal with different stakeholders. Country Sint Maarten is on the move and moving forward as we see more and more people getting involved in their community.

"This approach of communalism is a positive development for the country and I am looking forward to meeting with the newly formed Down Street Business/Community Association board at their earliest convenience to hear about their concerns, views and plans," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

"In my back to basics approach, I announced that I would like to meet with Community Councils on a monthly basis in order to address matters of concern to the community.

"Thereafter, we move forward on infrastructural matters and addressing these within the shortest time possible as they come up. I do not believe in long dragged out solutions for quality of life issues. Those that can be dealt with in the short-term will be dealt with," Minister Maurice Lake assured.

telcellbreakthroughwinnersatrecordingsession31102013POND ISLAND:--- Winners of the 2013 TelCell Breakthrough talent search are on their way to producing and recording their own music video to promote their talents to a wider audience.

The music video recording contract was one of the top prizes won by Breakthrough finalist winners Geniquah Thewet, Jabari York, Cherrianne Danglaben York, and Bianca Dijkhoffz.

According to TelCell Breakthrough project coordinator, Angel Richardson, the video recording got under way recently with the laying down of beats by vocalists, Geniquah Thewet and Jabari York.

"Once they have completed their track, it will be the turn of Cherrianne to place her steel plan solo piece," said Angel.

She said the finishing touch will be left to the other finalist winner, Bianca Dijkhoffz, who will choreograph the music single.

"Everyone is excited and having a lot of fun now that they are getting some hands-on studio time in the ROCK 'N' Vibes studio of Bertaux "Mr. Rude" Fleming of Xtratight Entertainment," said Angel.

She said once the music single is produced, mixed and recorded, ROCK N'Vibes label will be assisting the youths with promotion of the music video.

The youths will meantime be assisting TelCell with various commercial and promotional projects in the coming weeks and months.

Telem Press Release

cftmembers30102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the board of the CFT told reporters on Wednesday that they met with the Government of St. Maarten (Minister of Finance) and they advised him that he should work on presenting a balanced budget for the year 2014. Chairman of the CFT Age Bakker said that he believed that St. Maarten should present a budget based on their guaranteed income which would be Naf 420M. Bakker said that St. Maarten already depleted its reserves and if they continue on this trend they will not be able to borrow in the future. The recommendations made by the CFT for the 2014 budget is Naf. 20 M less than the 2013 budget.

St. Maarten's member on the board of the CFT Richard Gibson Sr. called on his Editor in Chief at the TODAY Newspaper to direct some of the questions he asked the board of the CFT during their press conference to the Minister of Finance and not the CFT board because the CFT is working with the current agreements St. Maarten has with the Netherlands regarding financial controls.

Gibson further stated that if the principles (government) wants more leverage with its budget and how much deficit they are allowed to have then the Government of St. Maarten would have to approach the Netherlands and renegotiate the agreements they made with the Netherlands prior to St. Maarten becoming a country. The statements made by St. Maarten's member of the CFT did not sit well with at least one member of the media who immediately informed the board of the CFT that the reason for press conferences is for them to provide information (answers) to the questions posed to them.

The Chairman of the CFT Age Bakker made clear that they are always ready to provide information to the media. He said that one of the reasons the CFT gave the Government of St.. Maarten such an advice was for them to open the opportunity for the country to borrow for its investment projects. Bakker said that if and when St. Maarten has more income they can always come back with a budget amendment to increase their budget. He said having a margin of Naf 420M is not an end figure, it's a figure that St. Maarten can realize and if they manage to secure more funds then they can always do budget amendments.

telempersonnelassociationbikeathon31102013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group's Personnel Association Bike-A-Thon, held last Saturday in collaboration with the Positive Foundation was a "tremendous success" - according to the event organizers.
More than 50 bikers of all ages turned out to pedal around the Great Salt Pond to mark Breast Cancer Awareness month on St. Maarten.
They moved out from the TelEm Group Building as scheduled with a police escort along the route.
According to Personnel Association President, Stanley Faneyte, participants tackled the course with much enthusiasm and with good spirits for a worthy cause.
""There was a strong family element to the event with some socializing afterwards with some refreshments, games for the children and a game of bolas for the adults to wind down after the grueling ride," said Stanley.
The Personnel Association had a special "Thank You" for all the youngsters who took part, also the Personnel Association members and all the TelEm Group personnel who volunteered and assisted with the hosting of the event .
"We have spoken to the Positive Foundation about repeating the Bike-A-Thon next year because it went very well and also because it is for a very good cause," said Stanley.
He said all monies raised from Saturday's event will go to the Positive Foundation for the group's continuing breast cancer public awareness programs.
For additional information you can contact the TelEm Group Personnel Association on: 520-3500; 522-6926 or 522-6914.

Telem Press Release

dennisrichardsonmeetswithearlbalborda31102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson on Wednesday morning met with Curacao's Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning Hon. Earl Balborda with respect to the future of United Telecommunications Services (UTS).

Minister Balborda introduced Chris Peterson to Minister Richardson as Curacao's nomination to become a member of the board.

Minister Hon. Dennis Richardson said on Wednesday that both parties also exchanged views on the possibilities for cooperation and partnerships between UTS and the TELEM Group of Companies.

Sint Maarten which is a minority shareholder in UTS supports the nomination. Joint approval is needed for board nominations, and Sint Maarten's candidate for the board was also discussed and the appointment should take place in the beginning of 2014.

Minister Balborda also stated on Wednesday that the discussions centered on expanding the customer base by using different strategies, adding that there is a lot of potential and both parties need to get the most out of it and that they are committed to the company's successful development.

"I look forward to improving the collaboration and bringing new services throughout the Eastern Caribbean. We had good discussions and the possibilities are there. Our wishes both coincide with each other," Minister Hon. Earl Balborda said on Wednesday.

This was the first political consultation between Minister Richardson as shareholder representative and Curacao's Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning Earl Balborda who described it as a renewal of relations between both countries.

The Minister and his entourage arrived on Tuesday and left to return to Curacao on Wednesday.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever would like to commend the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation with its pilot programme "Real Talk."

20 Milton Peters College (MPC) teenage boys in the HAVO stream participated in the pilot program of the aforementioned foundation.

"I believe Real Talk can make a difference and fill a void especially for young men who do not have a father figure or positive male role model in their lives.

"This cannot replace it but every little bit helps and can make a difference once these young men apply what they have learned into their daily choices," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Thursday.

The programme provides young men with proper tools to make informed decisions and establish peer norms of respect, accountability and healthy lifestyles.

The teens are offered the opportunity to learn the importance of setting goals for their future, negating/managing peer pressure and protecting their sexual health.

Due to the success of the pilot programme, the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation is looking at instituting it at all secondary schools on the island. The aim is to reach all second-form and most first-form boys before Carnival 2014.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication, hereby informs the business community and investors that the Half Year 2013 Macro Monitor Report is available on the Government website.

The report covers the period January to June 2013 and provides an overview of the macro-economic developments of the country.

A brief overview of the key indicators for 2013 includes; Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth projected at approximately 1.1%. This low growth projection is based on the performance of the external sector for the period January to June 2013, in which cruise arrivals have decreased with 5.48%, while stay-over arrivals only experienced a 1.43% increase.

The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication's preliminary projections for cruise tourism for 2013 stands to decrease with 4.8% while stay over is projected to increase with 1.6%. The occupancy rate showed 2% increase for the first half of 2013 when compared to the same period of 2012.

For the reporting period, Government revenues amounted to an estimated Naf. 218 million. This indicates an overall decrease by 2% when compared to the first half of 2012.

This decrease was notably in the categories of Profit Tax with 2% decrease and tax on households with 10% decrease. Wage Tax however, increased by 4% for the reporting period. Also, there was a decrease in Transfers from Abroad of 23%, which are basically residents' deposits.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "Half Year 2013 Macro Monitor Report" for download.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- For those planning to get a glimpse of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima on Wednesday, November 13, visit the Government's website for the official program.

Go to www.sintmaartengov.org and select the link in the main bar titled "What's New," and you will come across 'Royal Visit 2013;' select the aforementioned which will bring you to the page with the program as well as other information.

The other information available is about members of the Royal House, the Royal Visit Quiz and the Royal Visit Art Contest.

sarahwescotwilliams09112012"Wear your St. Maarten Colors, fly your flags, and show your Pride"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams encourages the community to show their support for the celebration of the National Holiday on the eleventh of November. The Prime Minister, currently attending a meeting regarding the strengthening of the regional integration of the British and the Dutch OCTs on the regional response to HIV/AIDS in Trinidad and Tobago, stressed for the community of St. Maarten to come out in force to celebrate St. Maarten's Day "I would like to urge the community to Celebrate St. Maarten. To all the people of St. Maarten, born here, belong here, visiting here; I would like to encourage you all to commemorate St. Maarten's Day. Our Country deserves that we celebrate her, that we celebrate how fortunate we are to be living on St. Maarten so please wear your St. Maarten Colors, fly your flags and show your Pride," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM also encouraged everyone to attend the various celebrations commemorating St. Maarten's Day. "This year it is St. Maarten South that will be hosting the festivities so I encourage everyone to take part in what is being offered, what is being organized for everyone to celebrate our country," stressed Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

St. Maarten south will be hosting the St. Martin's Day Celebrations this year, however there will be various events held on both sides of the island to celebrate the 521st birthday of the Friendly Island.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The One St. Maarten People Party (OSPP) would like to inform all ticket holders and the general public that its Family Fun Day and Car Raffle scheduled to be held on Sunday November 3rd, 2013, at the Rupert Maynard Community Center St. Peters, has been postponed to Sunday December 15th, 2013. The tickets already purchased will remain valid. OSPP humbly apologizes to all supporters and ticket holders for any inconvenience caused and is seeking the continued support of the general public for the newly advertised event and raffle date of Sunday December 15th, 2013.

OSPP Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinics at the Brouwer's Road 6A (behind FATUM Insurances Building) for the age group 0-4 years will be closed on Monday, November 04, Tuesday, November 05 and Wednesday morning November 06.

The clinic will be open Wednesday afternoon.

The closure of the clinic is in connection with staff attending a training related to dengue and mosquito control.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Sports Tourism Council (STC) St Maarten will soon welcome the Executive Vice President of the Chicago White Sox Kenny Williams to St Maarten to explore sports tourism opportunities for the destination. This is seen as a significant development by the STC.

Sports Tourism Consultant and Executive Board Member of STC Reggie Plaisir met Kenny Williams last August at the Annual MLB Civil Rights Game held in Chicago. At the luncheon Plaisir extended an invitation to Kenny Williams to visit the Friendly Island.

Williams will stay at Sonesta Maho Reef Hotel & Casino for five nights complimentary by the aforementioned hotel.

Kenny Williams is a former outfielder in Major League Baseball. He was selected by the White Sox in the 3rd round of the 1982 amateur draft. Williams made his debut in 1986. In November 1992, Williams rejoined the White Sox organization as a scout. He became the team's director of minor league operations in 1995. In 1997, he was named Vice President of player development, a position in which he remained until 2000.

On October 26, 2012, Kenny Williams was promoted to Executive Vice President of the Chicago White Sox.

The Sports Tourism Council (STC) Sint Maarten Foundation has been structured to attract annual sports events to the island and to stimulate economic development. STC Sint Maarten seeks to develop triathlon event, marathon, cycling tour, youth basketball tournaments, softball tournaments, indoor slot model car racing, a kickboxing event, celebrity games, cricket tournaments, baseball tournaments, soccer tournament and other sports related events.

The Sports Tourism Council has a dynamic team of founders namely: Juan Pablo Piscione as President, Reggie Plaisir as Secretary, and Peter Arndell, board member.

For those requiring additional information about the Sports Tourism Council, you can call 522-2828 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour is working with different stakeholders to host an event on Saturday, November 2nd related to health, education, literacy and prevention.

The free screening event will take place at the St. Peter's Community Center on Saturday with registration set for 9:00am until 11:00am. Screening starts at 9:30am and runs until 12:00pm.

The free screening will be for height, weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol as well as blood glucose.

Screenings will be done by physicians in training from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in collaboration with Dutch licensed physicians of Sint Maarten.

The screening also falls within the scope of the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, which calls for a healthy nation, a healthy country, and that can only be achieved by early and effective screening.

The stakeholders involved and sponsoring the event are American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Diabetes Foundation of St. Maarten and the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake and Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson who are both spearheading the Task Force to deal with the so-called shanty town issues, met last week Friday with the Task Force to discuss a plan of action.

A criterion is to be drafted with respect to so-called shanty town areas; an inventory will also be taken with respect to the areas that are most prone to become a shanty town.

An inventory is planned of buildings that do not meet the building code of the country; an inventory will also be taken of families that will have to be relocated; a plan is also to be designed for low income homes that are hurricane resistant and meets the building codes of the country.

Research will also be carried out regarding the process that has to be followed for landowners who could work with a developer to construct dwellings that meet country building codes.

"The objective is to work closely with all stakeholders as it is people we are talking about – human beings. Landowners, Community Councils and Government have to work together to deal with this issue once and for all.

"The first walk through is planned for this weekend with the Cape Bay Community Council, members of the Task Force, and landowners. I am very confident of the long-term results that this synergy will bring forth from the stakeholders. We are dealing here about back to basics, and this approach will also be valid for other districts.

"We have to improve the living conditions of all the people in this country. We are all human beings. Things won't happen right away, but this is a short to long-term planning with structures being put into place to initially avoid any further expansion of so-called shanty town areas. It's a start with an end result!

"We all must work together to make our country a better place to work, live and play, and this also includes those who have made Sint Maarten their home. They also have a responsibility to work in the interests of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

The Task Force includes the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of VROMI, Social Affairs, Fire Department, GEBE and several other government departments.

mowsmp30102013MARSEILLE, France:--- The Global Islands Partnership and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the European Overseas Program have recognized the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area as an Island Bright Spot, citing the park and the Nature Foundation as Championing the Global Aichi Targets and the key role of Islands as bright spots for marine biodiversity conservation. Aichi Targets have been set forth through the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD) that address the underlying causes of biodiversity loss by mainstreaming biodiversity across government and society through reducing the direct pressures on biodiversity and the promoting of sustainable use. The Man of War Shoal Protected area was chosen based on demonstrated measurable success in advancing conservation of island marine biodiversity. A presentation was given on the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, the Nature Foundation and Government's steps towards the establishment of the County's first protected area during the International Marine Protected Area's Congress in Marseille France.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently attended the International Marine Protected Areas Congress where the organization held significant discussions with regards to St. Maarten's steps towards the establishment of a Marine Protected Area and the subsequent development and management of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area.

Despite being severely understaffed and underfunded and faced with issues related to poaching, climate change and coastal development, the Nature Foundation and the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area was able to show measured success since its establishment on the 30th of December 201o. Travel and accommodation for the Nature Foundation to the world's largest Marine Protected Areas Congress was made possible through the support of the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) and the World Wildlife Fund.

psvetrainthetrainermentorship30102013GREAT BAY:--- The role of a mentor within our school system has proven to be an eclectic and challenging one. As a mentor you are the first person a student may contact when any social, educational or emotional issue arises that the student feels he or she cannot handle. You are also the person your school community relies on to signal when something may not be right with a student. Being a mentor in our modern day society comes along with many responsibilities and requires many skills. No longer can we continue to require teachers to be mentors without equipping them with the necessary skills.

From February through October 2013, thirteen (13) PSVE teachers, representing all 4 PSVE school on the island, were trained in different aspects of mentoring. Topics such as the responsibilities of a mentor (mentor profile), when is it time to refer a student to a professional (referral procedures), confidentiality of a student (confidentiality protocols), were a few that were dealt with during this training. This training was set up as "train-the-trainer" and so its goal was to provide schools on the island with resource persons who are capable of doing in-house trainings for new and existing colleagues.

The Division for Educational Innovations (DEI) could not be more thrilled with the results of the training. The Sundial team and management for instance has already carried out workshops for their staff members and have drafted a mentorship 'manual' that will act as a guide for all future mentors, while the MPC team and management have already started implementing other aspects of the training and warmly accepted recommendations on the way forward.

The training was organized by the Division for Educational Innovations (DEI) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs, carried out by Mrs. Marjan de Visser and funded by the Dutch agency USONA. The certificate ceremonies were held per school board last week.

DEI and the Ministry of Education wishes to congratulate all the participants and to encourage the PSVE schools to make good use of their in-house experts. A warm thank you goes out to the trainer for all her hard work and thanks also to USONA for its continued contribution to the education system on the island.

wibthankedbybfasm30102013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of the Bodybuilding & Fitness Association of Saint Martin visited The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. on October 25th, 2013 to express thanks for their financial support towards the training of bodybuilders and events held. Mr. Francois Carty also informed WIB's marketing manager Mr. Ferdinand of their preparations to host the 42nd Central American and Caribbean Bodybuilding (CAC) Championship in St. Maarten in Oct 2014.

WIB congratulated the Association on being selected to host the regional tournament and hopes that St. Martin's bodybuilders perform well at the event.

WIB Press Release

civilregistrarswearingnewattireforweddingceremonies30102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Romeo Marlin, head of the Civil Registry Department which falls under the Ministry of General Affairs announced on Wednesday that her staff of civil registrars and extraordinary civil registrars has received new attire (togas and bibs) for when they officiate at a marriage.

The new togas display the colors of the national flag with the coat of arms of Sint Maarten enclosed by the name of the department.

There are 12 registrars that perform marriages with six Civil Registrars located at the Civil Registry and five extraordinary Civil Registrars who assist the department with external tourist marriages.

All 12 have been sworn in at the Court of First Instance prior to performing their duties.

So far the Civil Registry Department has performed 180 marriages for 2013.

coastguardnavyship30102013POINTE BLANCHE:--- Have you always wanted to see what a Coast Guard cutter or a Navy ship looks like on the inside? Always wanted to know how they operate and what they stand for? Then visit the Coast Guard Open Day on November 11 at the Cruise Terminal in Pointe Blanche.

On St. Maarten Day, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard will also organize an Open Day, the St. Maarten Maritime Day. During this day, ships from the Coast Guard, Royal Netherlands Navy and from our neighbor islands Anguilla and Saint Martin, but also from the United States and the St. Maarten Sea Rescue, will be open for the public. This year as an added attraction, the Coast Guard helicopter will make its first landing on the pier.

HNLMNS Amsterdam and Coast Guard
One of the ships that can be visited is HNLMS Amsterdam (A836). This is the last replenishment ship serving with the Royal Netherlands Navy. The Amsterdam is operating for the Coast Guard in the vicinity of St. Maarten. To conduct the Coastguard tasks, the Amsterdam has a detachment of personnel from the Coast Guard Substation St. Maarten embarked. Together (ship and Coastguard personnel) they patrol the waters around Sint Maarten, Saba and Statia and conduct frequent inspections on shipping towards and from the islands. The helicopter is used for surveillance flights for which the ship, other Coastguard assets or partners can respond.

Regional Cooperation
Besides cooperation with its partners such as police, customs and immigration on St. Maarten, the Coast Guard has good connections with the neighbor countries. For example, the Rescue and Coordination Center (RCC) in Curaçao coordinates on a regular basis Search-and-Rescue actions with its partner RCC in Fort-de-France, Martinique. Several SAR actions have been conducted in good cooperation using both French assets and those of the Coast Guard. This includes flying assets from substation Hato and maritime assets from substation Sint Maarten. Regarding maritime law enforcement, both French and Coast Guard have to coordinate their operations, since the territorial waters are almost bordering around some islands. Furthermore, valuable information is exchanged on a regular basis.

Program
The ships will be open starting at 11:00AM. Throughout the day there will be demonstrations with the Coast Guard vessels on the water and with the helicopter and the Dash-8 Maritime Patrol Aircraft in the air. At 4:00PM the Open Day closes its doors for the public.

Parking and transportation
Parking for the general public is available at the first turn off after Dock Maarten on your right on the sandy area. Guests are asked to follow the securities instructions. Parking will be open at 9:30AM and closes at 5:00 PM sharp. After parking, guests can walk around via the sidewalk to the main entrance. Photo I.D. will be a requirement for entering the facility. Bags and other items may be subject to inspection. Free transportation is also provided with water taxis from Captain Hodge Wharf to the location of the activities.

Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard Press Release

cftmembers30102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht – Cft) visited Sint Maarten from October 28 to 30 and made its first formal visit to the Government that was sworn in, in June 2013. Meetings were also held with the Governor, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance, the Council of Ministers and members of Parliament. Meetings were held as well with relevant stakeholders in society. The 2014 budget was the main topic of the discussions, as well as the execution of the 2013 budget.
The Cft advised the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom in the beginning of September to issue an instruction to Sint Maarten to finalize the 2013 budget. Sint Maarten completed the budget 2013 mid-September and in doing so an instruction was no longer necessary.

2014 Budget
Since then, Sint Maarten devoted its efforts to preparing its budget for 2014. The Cft acknowledges that the government of Sint Maarten faces some serious challenges with regard to the multiannual budget and its liquidity position. Over the past years, the liquidity position has deteriorated, leaving the current government with a limited amount of financial resources. At the same time, revenues were estimated too high and had to be adjusted downwards during the year. This process of budget cuts during the year proved to be very difficult and time consuming.

Cautious approach
To break this vicious circle of unbalanced and unrealistic budgets and a deteriorating liquidity position, the Cft has advised the government to adopt a cautious approach with respect to the budget 2014. Looking at the outcomes of 2011 and 2012 and the current year to date, a cautious approach implies that Sint Maarten can generate revenues in the order of ANG 420 million. If during 2014 additional revenues are generated, the government can incorporate those in the budget through a budget amendment.

Decisive action
This cautious approach means that the government of Sint Maarten faces challenges in balancing its budget. Decisive action by the government is necessary to break the vicious circle Sint Maarten is in at the moment. A realistic budget, finalized in time, could break this circle and lead to an improvement of the liquidity position. Furthermore, it opens up possibilities for Sint Maarten to invest in projects to strengthen the economy of Sint Maarten, by using the borrowing facility provided by the law, once the multiannual budget is in equilibrium.

Cft Press Release

martinhassink30102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Martin Hassink told reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he met with the CFT recently to discuss the 2014 budget which his Ministry is busy preparing. Minister Hassink said that the CFT wants the Government of St. Maarten to have a balanced budget of up to Naf. 420 million. The Finance Minister further explained that the CFT warned government that they should prepare the 2014 budget with caution and they should not have more income that could not be realized.

Minister Hassink said he expects to submit the 2014 budget to the Council of Ministers in the coming weeks. He further stated that it would be quite challenging for government to balance its budget with the figures given to them by the CFT. He said the 2013 budget was at Naf. 440 million but they now have to cut another Naf. 20 million off for the 2014 budget which means his Ministry would have to propose some more cost cutting measures while finding ways to increase income. He said the deadline to have the 2014 budget approved by Parliament is December 15th, 2013.

Stiff Controls to Start on November 15th, 2013 --- Naf. 1.5 million in Road Tax not paid.

Minister Hassink also announced on Wednesday that up to the end of September 2013 some Naf. 1.5 million guilders were still outstanding in road tax payments. He said normally by the end of September government would collect about 85 Million guilders on the sale of road tax but that amount was lacking Naf. 1.5 million.

Finance Minister said that in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice stiffer road controls will be conducted by the police starting November 15th, 2013 to find the persons who have not yet paid their road taxes. The Finance Minister said persons that did not pay their road taxes for the year 2013 will have to pay the road tax as well as a Naf. 300 fine. He said the necessary legislation is being worked on to make it possible for the Naf. 300 fine to be imposed. The Minister has once again issued a strong call to vehicle owners to pay their road taxes to avoid the Naf. 300 fine.

swescotwilliams30102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Government of Guyana confronted the Government of St. Maarten on an alleged breach of the Vienna Convention after SMN News published an article on the most recent visit of the Guyanese General Consul of Barbados to St. Maarten to conduct consular services.

SMN News learnt that the Government of Guyana went after the Government of St. Maarten alleging that St. Maarten breached the Vienna Convention which protects diplomats of Foreign Countries. According to one Minister, the Government of St. Maarten had to escape by informing the Government of Guyana that they are not responsible for what was published by SMN News and that they were not involved in any mal-treatment of the Guyanese Diplomat. After the article was published on Monday, the Director General of Guyana Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent an unsigned note, bearing no date and no letter head stating that they are warning SMN News that if we publish any more articles maligning their government or officials we may face legal action. The note sent to SMN News is beneath this article.

On Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing, SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister of St. Maarten if St. Maarten has full autonomy on Foreign Relations and if the Bureau of Foreign Affairs on St. Maarten establishes how financial transactions by these foreign consuls and or diplomats are conducted. Instead of answering the question posed to her by SMN News reporter, the Prime Minister lashed out saying that the Government of Guyana and the Government of St. Maarten have followed the necessary procedures and protocols to allow the diplomat of Guyana to enter St. Maarten to conduct consular services. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams further stated that if a certain group of people has a problem with the consuls that are sent by the Government of Guyana to St. Maarten then those people need to address the Government of Guyana with their concerns and not St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said that the Government of St. Maarten will not be dragged into an issue with some nationals of Guyana residing on St. Maarten and an official that was appointed by the Government of Guyana. Wescot Williams said that the Government of St. Maarten received an official request from the Government of Guyana for a representative of the Government of Guyana to conduct activities on St. Maarten and that permission was granted. She said that is as far as the Government of St. Maarten was involved.

Wescot Williams said the Government of St. Maarten is responsible on the basis of the Vienna Convention for consular officers or officials of any country that comes to St. Maarten's shores. "We need to respect and protect the representative of that sovereign country."

It should be noted last week Wednesday when SMN News asked the Prime Minister if she was aware of the consul's visit to St. Maarten she claimed she had no idea and neither did she meet with the General Consul of Guyana who was on the island at the time conducting consular services. The Minister of Justice and Deputy Prime Minister also said he did not have any knowledge of the Guyanese Diplomat's visit.

Shortly after the weekly press briefing, the office of the Prime Minister sent out a press release on the issue, they also sent out a press release that was issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana. While two releases were issued no one on St. Maarten including the Prime Minister said whether or not the Acting Head of the Bureau of Foreign Affairs on St. Maarten could grant Guyana's request without the blessings of the Netherlands.

SMN News has since taken this matter further, by informing the office of the President of Guyana of the activities that are taking place on St. Maarten by its appointed Consuls and General Consuls. SMN News also raised this issue with the Governor of St. Maarten who promised to look into the matter further. SMN News also sent the article published on its website on Monday to officials in the Netherlands since the Kingdom Council of Ministers issued a Royal Decree for the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of St. Maarten. Several Members of Parliament also expressed concerns on the clearance the Bureau of Foreign Affairs of St. Maarten gave to the Government of Guyana and plans to deal with this matter on the floor of Parliament.

Click here to view the letter sent by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana to SMN News.

Press Release from the Government of St. Maarten regarding Consular Relations With Guyana.

The Government of St. Maarten has taken note of a press release by the Government of Guyana expressing its concern regarding allegations as printed in an online news blog discrediting both the Consul General to Barbados, Mr. Michael Brotherson and the Interim Director of the Department of Foreign Relations for St. Maarten. In the absence of a consular representative Mr.Brotherson was given full authorization by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana to conduct consular duties; representing the interest of the Guyanese residents on St. Maarten. Both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana and the Directorate of Foreign Relations of Country St. Maarten followed all necessary protocols with regard to accreditation including due process.

The St. Maarten Government regrets that our country's name is being tarnished by irresponsible blogging. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana executed the consular activities by Mr. Brotherson in total conformity with the applicable procedures on the basis of a request. As a country, St. Maarten is obliged to treat consular officials of other countries with courtesies and protection afforded to all such personnel on the basis of the Vienna Convention.

The falsehoods contained in the story on aforementioned blog site, could have seriously jeopardized the relationship between Guyana and St. Maarten,based on articles of the Vienna Convention on consular relations .The Government of Guyana has also stated that they will issue a letter of warning to the blogger, and that legal actions could result if no heed is taken.

The Council of Ministers has been informed of this communiqué and further action is possible. A breach of the Vienna Convention is a serious issue and the Government of St. Maarten will not accept that any individual or group compromises the name of St. Maarten for personal reasons. A copy of this Press Release has also been forwarded to the Government of Guyana.

The Government of St. Maarten again stresses that due diligence was followed in the matter related to consular activities of Guyana on St. Maarten. Meanwhile the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana has issued a statement that all consular fees, as fixed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana, were processed in accordance with the financial regulations of the Government of Guyana, with the required Government receipts issued.

The Government of St. Maarten is concerned with these incidents of false "news" stories, baseless allegations, and unfounded damaging reports which circulate on this so-called news blog. While the Government of St. Maarten is all for ensuring and respecting the freedom of the press and appreciates the role the media plays in informing the public, the media too has to operate within the framework of professional and ethical journalism and respect for the rights of others.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister of St. Maarten

Press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to express its grave concern over an article written by Bibi Hodge Shaw and carried in the St Maarten News Network (SMN News) which has sought to discredit the Consul General of Guyana to Barbados Mr Michael Brotherson.
The Ministry wishes to inform that in the absence of a consular representative in St Maarten, Mr Brotherson was authorized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana to travel to St Maarten to attend to the consular needs of the Guyanese community there. This visit was made only after the necessary protocols were followed between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of St Maarten.
In the article, Bibi Hodge Shaw has maligned the characters of the public servants of Guyana and St Maarten and has made unfortunate accusations that are totally unfounded.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to advise that all consular fees, as fixed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana, were processed in accordance with the financial regulations of the Government of Guyana, with the required Government receipts issued. All such revenue is remitted to the Government of Guyana Consolidated Fund. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs further wishes to advise that in a separate communication, Bibi Hodge Shaw has been cautioned that any further articles with similar content and which carry false and damaging information, will result in legal action being taken against her.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that in an effort to strengthen the relations between Guyana and St Maarten and to better serve the Guyanese community, a request was made to the Kingdom of the Netherlands for its approval for the appointment of a consular representative to be accredited in St Maarten. The Ministry is awaiting a response to this request.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
OCTOBER 29, 2013

gsptilapiadissection29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has over the last several days been conducting wide-scale research into the cause of last week's massive fish die-off that has affected only the Tilapia population in the Great Salt Pond. Staff of the Nature Foundation tested the water quality of the Great Salt Pond before and after the Fish-Die off and have been dissecting a specimen from last week as well as a specimen caught while still alive this week.
The Report which was requested of the Nature Foundation by VROMI Minister the Hon. Maurice Lake and Member of Parliament the Hon. Theo Heyliger is hoped to be submitted by the end of this week. Skin samples will also be delivered to the Ministry of Public Health for analysis and samples will also be sent by the Nature Foundation to the University of the West Indies for separate analysis.

activeparentingforfathersflyer29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- October 24th 2013, several fathers took time off for their personal emotions to flow out in a gathering of about 60 Fathers at the University of St. Martin. This Project Jointly organized by the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and Sundial School.

This was the First Phase of discussion of Active Parenting for Fathers which involved some community figures to talk about their personal feelings on how they were involved in raising their children and what were the good things and the drawbacks they faced.

Among the Panelists were a Doctor, Businessmen, Member of Parliament, Principal of School & office Manager. Each Panelist were asked different question and had to answer in their own personal level and the truth. The room was filled with only men and there were many emotional moments across as for many fathers it was a realization that such things can happen, or "oh I never did this" and "oh god I have to do these changes in bringing up my kids".....So people, friends all of us have to make sure that we be part of raising our kids for them to have a better life then ours.

In today's society men seem to have a difficult time settling into life. Many struggle with a 'Peter Pan syndrome'. They do not want to grow up, and yet they realize they were created for a higher purpose than endless play in never-never land. How sad it is to see men at the end of their lives, estranged from their families, still unsure about spiritual realities, still questioning the reason for their own existence, and still wondering if they have succeeded in growing into manhood. Just as sad to see are the countless families whose sons fall into the predictable traps along the road of life because they don't know what a man is, much less how to become one.
It is clear that the lack of an intentional transition into adulthood creates a variety of problems for men of all ages. In an attempt to compensate for the lack of a transitional event, some teenage males unknowingly create their own rites of passage by resorting to violence, alcohol other drugs and sexual conquest. In the corporate world some men in leadership positions use the authority of their job titles to prove they have arrived, threatening others into submission.

While the two concepts, manhood and maturity seem very similar, they are as different as night and day. Manhood is bestowed upon a young male by the trusted elders (fathers, grandfathers, uncles, pastors, coaches, and teachers) of his society during a rite of passage. Maturity is gained as a man grows in knowledge, wisdom and character. Manhood is a gift that we adults give to our sons. Maturity is the gift that they give back to us.

If you fathers want to set yourself as a good example to your kids and give them some valuable time please try to attend the Phase II Project which will be coming shortly by our own Rodney Davis, who is a parenting expert and life-skills coach. He is a social worker by profession, and has spent all of his adult life working with young people in various capacities.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday October 28th, 2013, a presentation was given at the Police Headquarters in Philipsburg by Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin and her staff, Secretary General Patricia Philips and legal advisor Marlon Hart. This presentation was given on request of the Police Department with the intention to inform its personnel on the workings of the office of the Ombudsman. The one hour presentation was well attended by police officers and administrative workers. During this very informative presentation many issues such as "propriety" were discussed. At the end of the presentation the Dr. Arduin presented the Acting Chief of Police Commissioner Carl John with the Year Report 2012, which illustrates the reports that were filed at the Office of the Ombudsman regarding the police. The Management will definitely take this report into account and deal with those situations. The police wants to show transparency, be protective and generous, no misuse or abuse of power and to be polite, have good manners and most of all show professionalism. Dr. Arduin promised to give a follow-up presentation in the near future.

KPSM Press Release

cptedadvancedparticipants29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Sunday October 20th, 2013, Community Police Officers, Felix Richards, Ethelwoldus Josepha, Helen Cristina-Romeo, and Juan Statie along with Inspector Ricardo Henson and Edelmiro Jansen from the Department of VROMI traveled to Fort Meyers Florida to attend an advanced three days course in CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design). All participants already followed the basic course in CPTED last year on Sint Maarten and have received certification as a specialist. All participants followed this advanced course successfully and received a certificate from the National Institute of Crime Prevention (CPD) and a diploma from the Florida Crime Prevention Training Institute through the Office of the Attorney General. The goals of the course were to have a good understanding of how to implement the CPTED strategies, to recognize the use of lighting as it relates to safety among many other objectives.

KPSM Press Release

islandgemsdonatestopjl29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Island Gems foundation members and Philipsburg Jubilee Library Director, Monique Alberts (standing center) are seen here in the Children's Section of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, where a new, kid-friendly, reading rug and two foam chairs were purchased from Island Gem's donation of $ 675 to the library. Two children are also pictured making good use of the new furniture presented to the library.

wibswipeandwinwinnerwithfoundationsthatreceiveddonations29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- WIB congratulated Mrs. Virginie Matser, the winner of their 2013 Swipe and Win campaign.

The WIB "Swipe & Win" campaign offered all WIB ATM smart card holders the opportunity to win Ang 5,000.00 by simply swiping their WIB ATM Card at any WIB merchant terminal, during the months of June, July, August, and September. The transactions were queried electronically of all smart card purchases of 100 ANG and more during the 4-month period.

WIB also took the opportunity to make generous donations to 5 Foundations, namely The Diabetes Foundation, The Helping Hands Foundation, Rode Kruis St. Maarten(Red Cross St. Maarten), Turning Point, and The Ujima Foundation), thanking them for their great work within our community

"It pays to swipe with your Windward Island Bankomatiko smart card"

mauricelakemeetswithprogresscommittee29102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake and members of his Cabinet met with the Progress Committee last week with respect to developments at Ministry VROMI based on the plans of approach that were established for that ministry.

The general feeling is that the Plan of Approach for Ministry of VROMI might soon be finalized as much progress has been made.

The committee wanted to know when certain critical vacancies at the ministry will be filled, however Minister Lake explained that there are two perspectives on this. He explained that you have the plan of approach calling for the filling of critical vacancies and you have the Financial Supervisory Committee CFT saying no more hiring due to the financial situation.

"It's like you're in a Catch 22 position, but we are making progress despite the challenges. I am very pleased with what we have been able to achieve. Progress has been made with respect to the backlog in building permits.

"Where enforcement is concerned, the staff from the Ministry has received extra ordinary Police training via our Justice Academy so the committee was informed that this has been completed.

"The committee wanted to know how integrity issues are dealt with in the Ministry and an explanation was given. They were also informed about procedural processes within the Ministry as well as the tendering process with respect to the system that is used.

"I was very pleased with the outcome of the meeting," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Tuesday.

The Progress Committee was established by Royal Decree to ensure that the agreements between the Netherlands, the Netherlands Antilles and the Island Territories of Curacao and Sint Maarten in regards to attainment of country status that the national tasks these new countries would receive are executed accordingly.

Members of the Progress Committee are: Ronald Bandell, Chairman; Richard Gibson Sr., member for Sint Maarten; Nico Schoof, member for the Netherlands; Gert-Jan Stortelers, secretary; and Terrance Rey, deputy secretary.

ssmmeetswithcbcc29102013CAY BAY:--- On October 28th the Cay Bay Community Council (CBCC) and Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) met at the Seaside Nature Park to discuss community farming, back yard farming and agriculture in general. SSM is one of the many groups in today's society that wants to bring back agriculture as a way to reduce the cost of living, reduce the flight of monies out of the country and increase the general health of the population on Sint Maarten. The first front runner to get government policies in place pertaining agriculture was Cay Bay's very own agriculturist Mr. Ewaldo Richardson, father of well-known agriculturist Mr. Joslyn Richardson.
A basic plan for a community garden was discussed and several locations were mentioned as to where this community garden can be placed with the help of SSM. The idea is that the community garden will be maintained by residents of Cay Bay collectively and that produce and fruits will be divided among the caretakers of the community garden. The community garden will also be used for educational purposes on agriculture and Cay Bay's history. A "Harvest Day" as a new local festivity was proposed by the CBCC while SSM will be offering free introduction classes on back yard farming to the residents of Cay Bay.
The CBCC gave numerous examples of what role agriculture used to play in Cay Bay and expressed their interest in bringing back agriculture to their neighborhood. Several possible locations for a community garden will be visited in the following weeks and a first draft plan of the Cay Bay Community Garden will be presented to the CBCC for fine tuning.
The CBCC thanked SSM for choosing Cay Bay to start their "Re-introduction to Agriculture Program" and SSM thanked the CBCC for hosting the very informative meeting.

britishairwaysrepsmeetwithpjiaereps29102013SIMPSON BAY:--- United Kingdom (UK) flagship, British Airways (BA) is very interested in commencing service to the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). This was revealed by SXM Airport Managing Director, Regina LaBega, following a recent meeting in Martinique with Colm Lacy, Head of the Commercial Division of BA.

The meeting was facilitated by executives of Menzies Aviation, with the main aim of familiarizing BA with SXM as a preferred hub for the country partners Anguilla, St. Barths, and Dominica, who were also represented at the meeting. Minister of Economic Affairs, Tourism, Transport and Telecommunications (TEATT), Hon. Ted Richardson was represented by his Chef du Cabinet, Ludwig Ounniche.

In his PowerPoint presentation, Jerome Gumbs of the Marketing and Customer Service Department of SXM outlined the physical infrastructure, air services and expansion projects currently being undertaken at the airport.

According to LaBega, it was clear that the relationship among the country partners and the importance of SXM to their tourism industry resonated well with the BA representatives who noted how a combined Caribbean offered an enhanced market opportunity.

BA took good note of the capacity of SXM and the initiative to establish pre-clearance there which received the enthusiastic support of Anguilla as well as the number of UK visitors to St. Maarten, which stood at 14,500 in the period October 2010 – September 2011. It was pointed out that this figure was achieved without any marketing and with no direct flights from the UK to SXM.

In order to exploit this opportunity, SXM and the country partners were seeking to establish a strategic partnership with BA because of its understanding of the dynamics of the Caribbean market vis-à-vis its culture, people and features.

Pointing to the fact that SXM has conducted preliminary research into the UK market, LaBega stressed that some of the country partners already have both an established presence in that market as well as a relationship with BA and its vacation arm, British Vacations.

"We are confident," she said, "that the product range of our country partners – and past experience supports this – meets the needs of key segments of the UK market, particularly in the upper and middle segments thereby providing an airline partner with a very attractive fare mix, from first class to economy class, on a possible UK – SXM route."

"Indeed, the interest shown recently by Virgin America in establishing service to SXM is testimony to the attractiveness of the destinations to the upper and middle class markets," LaBega added.

She expressed great satisfaction at the strong support that the country partners present at the meeting gave SXM, particularly in recognizing it as their own international airport.

"We really spoke with one voice, as one destination and I'm sure this resonated well with the BA representatives," she said, stressing that the soon-to-be-established Air Service Development Committee between the country partners will be the entity that will develop a joint marketing strategy and determine the marketing budget in consultation with BA.

For his part, BA's Lacy said the timing was right for this initiative, given that the airline is now preparing its 2014-2015 winter schedule and is expected to increase service to Jamaica and a couple of other Caribbean destinations.

Lacy was not only interested in the hotel stock and the type of rooms available but also in the expansion that was planned in each of the destinations in the next 3-5 years.

He similarly took particular note of the large number of visitors to SXM who took day trips to Anguilla as well as the potential of a multi-destination travel opportunity. So impressed was the BA representative, that he requested a copy of the presentation.

"The ball is in our court now to follow up speedily and explore this possibility to its fullest," added LaBega.

DUTCH QUARTER:--- Two men were arrested by police in the Union Farm area on Saturday October 26th, 2013 at approximately 4:15am after they were caught in the act of removing parts from a silver colored Kia Picanto that was reported stolen. The tools that were used to remove the parts from the stolen vehicle and the vehicle itself were confiscated for further investigation. Another vehicle that the suspects used to transport the stolen parts was also confiscated for further investigation. None of these vehicles had documents to prove ownership. The suspects who are 19 and 20 years old were arrested on the spot and are being held for questioning by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Sunday morning October 27th, 2013 at approximately 5:30am, an eighteen year old male was arrested for the possession of an illegal firearm by a Simpson Bay police patrol after he was seen behaving quite suspicious in the vicinity of McDonalds in Simpson Bay. The patrol saw when this man threw away an object that he had, hidden under his shirt between the vehicles that were parked in the parking lot of McDonalds. The suspect was stopped by the police and when the investigating officers searched the area a double barrel handgun was found and confiscated. The suspect was arrested on the scene and taken to the Philipsburg police station where he was held for questioning by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

armedrobberyfillin13082012COLE BAY:--- The Special Robbery Unit is busy investigating three armed robberies that took place on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th of October 2013. These robberies occurred at three Chinese supermarkets in Cole Bay. One of these supermarkets was robbed on Friday and on Saturday at gunpoint. During these robberies small amounts of cash were taken. The owner of the other supermarket suffered an injury to his hand during the struggle to defend his establishment and was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.

KPSM Police Report

jazzekoband28102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with the Jazzeko band invite you to their event, "An evening with Lieve Hugo: a taste of Suriname", on Saturday, November 2, at 7:30 pm, in the PJL Lounge.
At the core of this jointly organized event will be the use of music as a tool to bring awareness about the diversity within the Surinamese culture, to the community of St. Maarten. The multi-talented musicians of Jazzeko and the Library will be presenting a series of events to introduce the St. Maarten community to the rich, cultural heritage of Suriname.
The entire evening will be dedicated to a popular style of Surinamese music, called Kaseko. This music style brought by the enslaved is a fusion of Jazz, Caribbean and other popular music from the various cultural groups residing in Suriname, with Afro-Surinamese folk traditions.
In tribute to Kaseko music, the documentary film, "Iko, The King of Kaseko", will be shown. This documentary is about Julius Theodoor Hugo Uiterloo, the popular, folk-music-singer known today as "Lieve Hugo". Produced in 2008 by Vincent Soekra, the documentary film chronicles the life of Hugo through the experiences of close relatives and friends, while illustrating the development of "Kaseko" music.
Lieve Hugo, one of Suriname's most renowned performing artists, transformed Suriname's original traditional music style into something modern. He managed to not only popularize Kaseko music on Suriname but managed to take his music to the Netherlands, as well. Hugo's music addressed the beauty of love and the complexity of politics in both Dutch and the Surinamese Creole language, Sranan Tongo.
The King of Kaseko died on November 15, 1975 of a heart attack, exactly 10 days before Suriname obtained its independence. His last song, "Srefidensi", which means independence in Sranang tongo, was written and dedicated in observance of this memorable day in Suriname's history.
Jazzeko, a multi-talented band established in 2009, whose name is a reflection of two of their favorite music styles, Jazz and Kaseko, merged together, is testament to the legacy left behind through Lieve Hugo's music. Jazzeko will be playing the music of the late Lieve Hugo in tribute to his life and music.
The Library and Jazzeko hope to highlight the contributions of the Surinamese Community, in the musical and cultural development on St. Maarten.
For more information on this event and to purchase your ticket at a cost of $10, please contact Robin Austen at 554-8265 or Andreas Joedoleksono at 554-0088.

usmsignsslawithpjl28102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The President of the University of St. Martin (USM), Mrs. Annelies Oliver-Van den Assem and Director of Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJ) and Ms. Monique Alberts signed a Service Labor Agreement (SLA).
This SLA is an important step forward in the integration process of the USM library and the PJ Library.
As per the SLA, PJ will be providing information services to USM students and faculty on both USM and PJ premises. An academic section for USM students will be created at the premises of PJ Library.
The information services provided by PJ's librarians will certainly enhance the quality of education at USM. For the PJ library, the academic literature and online database will be a welcomed addition to its existing collection.
USM President says: USM is subjected to the economy of scales of our small country with a limited student population. Nonetheless USM still wishes to provide quality education to its students and that requires, among other things, a high-quality library function. For USM to take on this challenge on its own is a very costly affair, again, because of its limited number of students. Working together with the PJ Library is a win-win situation for both institutions. Piggybacking on the amenities of PJ Library through this SLA the economies of scale rises. Hence, USM gets total access to a professional library function, while PJ Library, through its service to USM, is strengthened as institution also.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The voting period for the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association has officially been opened as of today, October 29th, 2013. This puts YOU in the perfect position to vote for those individuals and organizations you think should really be recognized for their outstanding performance in the Tourism and Trade Industry: May it be an excellent employee, an outstanding manager or for example, someone who has really contributed towards our island's industry.
Voting can be done on www.shta.com. Simply click on the 'Crystal Pineapple Awards' under the 'Events' tab on the left hand side of the page and follow the instructions. A link to the voting poll has also been placed on the Crystal Pineapple Awards face book page. The polls will only be open for approximately two weeks and will close on Monday November 11th, 2013 at 5pm. Remember that your vote can make someone feel like a star that evening.
The Crystal Pineapple Award Gala is the ONLY event on the island that recognizes Hospitality & Trade personnel, organizations and associations for their contribution towards the tourism industry. Individuals who are employed in the Hospitality and Trade industry can receive awards in the categories of Accommodations, Restaurants and Trade as well as categories such as, Environmental Achievement and Outstanding Community Service.
Tickets for the event are NOW on sale at the SHTA office and can be picked up any time during office hours. Please make sure to reserve your Gala tickets right away, as there is limited seating.
The award ceremony will be held on Friday, November 22nd, 2013 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino. The gala evening includes a sumptuous dinner, live entertainment, a silent auction, a raffle, dancing and much more.
The SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our website www.shta.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Finance will meet in a closed door session on October 30 with the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT.

The committee will meet on Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for session is the financial situation of country Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Health Care, Social Development and Labour will meet on October 29 with employees of RBC Bank at 6:00pm instead of 10:00am in the morning in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg. The meeting will be a closed door session.

The agenda point for the meeting concerns the proposal to lay off a number of employees of RBC Bank and what impact this will have on those who are to become redundant.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to remind all stakeholders about the importance of attending the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Dawn Beach and Point Blanche will be held on October 31. Residents of Oyster Pond and Guana Bay are also invited since the draft plan also includes their areas.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, October 31 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. I look forward to a very good turnout as this relates to the development of your neighborhoods," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

mauricelakewalksthroughcayhill27102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday met with the Cay Hill Community Council and concerning a number of issues including those related to community infrastructure. The visit also included a walk-through in a so-called shanty town on the hillside. A follow-up meeting is planned with the council.

Council members spoke about the resurfacing of the Wellgelegen road; waste water running on the Puma road; drainage issues in the area; garbage bins; parking; and stray dogs in the neighborhood.

Also discussed was the sewage plant at the Executive Building in Cay Hill, and how repairs need to be carried out to prevent raw sewage from running on the streets.

The walk-through on the hillside where there is a so-called shanty town was very revealing with a number of dwellings built too close to each other; no space for emergency vehicles to reach the area; and running waste water.

The Council has requested a piece of government property in order to build a Community Center in the vicinity of the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex.

Members of the Cay Bay Community Council would like residents to park their vehicles in their yards rather on the street. Another issue was the cleaning of side-walks in front of various homes, which the Council feels is an individual responsibility.

Minister Lake agreed that every homeowner or person residing at the respective address should have pride and keep their surroundings clean. Adding that if everybody did their bit, it would result in an entire outlook for the neighborhood where everybody is a part of and has a stake in.

"I had a fruitful meeting with the community representatives. My back to basics approach includes meeting with the various community councils and maintaining an open, regular and transparent dialogue with them.

"The issues brought forward and those that I have observed during the walk-through will be drafted into a plan of action by my Cabinet and Ministry and executed in a timely manner," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Besides representatives of the Cay Hill Community Council, the Community Police Officer (CPO), concerned residents and representatives from Ministry VROMI were present for the walk-through.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Bureau Ombudsman is inviting the communities of Cole Bay, Cape Bay, Simpson Bay, Pelican and Low Lands to its District Information Session for Tuesday, October 29.

The district information session on Tuesday is from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at the Salvation Army Building in Cole Bay.

The purpose of the session is to acquaint citizens with the tasks and procedures of the Bureau Ombudsman and most importantly on the various propriety requirements. During these sessions focus will be placed on the standards of proper conduct.

The district sessions are catering to citizens, members and boards of various foundations, associations and civic organizations within the community.

The Bureau Ombudsman is appealing to the aforementioned organizations, Community Councils and Churches to encourage their members in their particular areas to come out to the session, and can even contact the bureau to confirm their participation.

The aforementioned can also contact the Bureau Ombudsman for further information at telephone: 542-1250 or 520-7378 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

MAHO:--- Police and Ambulance personnel rushed to the Maho Beach around 2pm on Sunday to rescue a male tourist at the beach. According to information reaching SMN News, a male tourist from Canada was pulled out of the water showing no signs of life. It is believed that the victim came off one of the cruise ships that were in port on Sunday. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that a male tourist died by drowning at Maho Beach. Henson said he did not have much information on the victim as that was not yet available to him. He further stated that according to information he received, the victim was a passenger on one of the cruise ships.

Man suffers heart attack at Mullet Bay Beach.

On Sunday October 27th, 2013 at approximately 1:00pm, police patrols were directed to Mullet Bay beach were a tourist that arrived on the island with the cruise vessel Norwegian Sun had became ill and was not showing any signs of life. On the scene paramedics tried to reanimate the victim without success. The male victim, a Canadian national, was pronounced dead by a medical doctor who stated that the victim had died from a heart attack. According to witnesses, the victim was coming out of the sea at which time he became ill. The body of the victim was transported to the morgue. The wife of the victim will make arrangements for body to be transported back home.

KPSM Police Report

 

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Health Care, Social Development and Labour will meet October 29 with employees of RBC Bank.

The permanent committee will meet on Tuesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting concerns the proposal to lay off a number of employees of RBC Bank and what impact this will have on those who are to become redundant.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

suitcasefullofmoney27102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Acting Head of St. Maarten Foreign Affairs Department Khalilah Peters allegedly gave the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana the green light to conduct what could potentially be international money laundering between St. Maarten and Guyana without realizing that if that is the case she can be held liable for breaching the agreement St. Maarten has with the Kingdom on Foreign Relations.

Peters allegedly authorized the Guyana General Consul of Barbados Michael Brotherson to visit St. Maarten to conduct consular services to nationals of Guyana residing on St. Maarten. Brotherson came to St. Maarten last week Saturday and left the island with an unknown amount of money on Wednesday which allegedly was not declared, additionally the one percent tax on US currency that is charged at banks was not deducted since Brotherson and a small group of Guyanese nationals that have been conducting consular services on the island allegedly do not have a bank account on St. Maarten for their monetary transactions.

Brotherson came to St. Maarten twice in just over one month to provide consular services, yet he did not call a meeting with the Guyanese population living on St. Maarten. A small advertisement was placed in the classified section of one of the local newspapers informing Guyanese nationals that the Guyanese General Consular of Barbados would have been on the island to offer consular services. Those services were offered in one of the rooms at Maho Resort. Brotherson was receiving assistance from Vanessa Frazer, one of the two persons the consul of Antigua gave written authorizations to act on his behalf. However, just over a year ago the Ambassador of Guyana in a letter to the Bureau of Foreign Affairs of St. Maarten stated that neither of the persons were authorized by Guyana to provide consular services on St. Maarten even though the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guyana was dealing with one Diane Douglas through the back door for her to grant the much needed services to Guyanese nationals on St. Maarten. In that letter the Ambassador made clear that the consul on Nevis was also not authorized to conduct consular work for Guyana nationals residing on St. Maarten. Since then Douglas stopped offering the services she was providing, yet she is plagued by Guyanese nationals who gave their passports to the authorized persons and are having problems getting their documents back.

SMN News reporter called the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Guyana on Wednesday who confirmed that they got written permission from Peters for Brotherson to visit the island to conduct consular services. A senior employee of Guyana's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also clearly stated that the only person authorized to provide consular services on St. Maarten is the General Consular of Barbados Micheal Brotherson who is also a resident of that island. The senior civil servant further stated that Brotherson is veteran diplomat who has over 20 years of experience. However, the well versed "diplomat" chose to conduct his consular services in secrecy in one of the rooms of Maho Resort. One would expect that a veteran diplomat like Brotherson would establish all that is needed to do monetary transactions between two countries but instead of following proper procedures Brotherson did the same thing the other consul and his aides were doing over the years.

Members of the defunct Guyanese St. Maarten Foundation paid a visit to Brotherson at the Maho Resort and were told by Brotherson that he was on St. Maarten to conduct an assessment in order for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to appoint a consul on St. Maarten, but the Vice President of the defunct foundation Neville Mars said he was shocked when he went back to the Resort to meet Brotherson and witnessed what he considered a shady operation in one of the rooms of Maho Resort. Mars said that Brotherson basically brushed him aside and refused to allow him to go into the room because there were people in his room doing business with the assistance of Vanessa Fraser. Fraser, he said is a member of the Foundation who is currently unemployed and he warned her that what she was doing was illegal because the Guyanese Diplomat was not following basic and legal procedures. "In fact he is holding state funds in his hotel room, conducting of state affairs has to take place in a public place with proper security measures but what the Guyanese Diplomats were doing is totally illegal and they can be held accountable for money laundering." Mars said when the Guyanese St. Maarten Foundation was established some years ago they are the ones who took the initiative to bring a Guyana Consul to St. Maarten because Guyanese nationals were having a hard time getting their documents. Besides that, there is a large Guyanese population on St. Maarten that was being exploited. Mars said the intention back then was for a consul from other islands to visit St. Maarten to provide the much needed service until the Guyana Ministry of Foreign Affairs appoints a consul here but they were unable to get that done because the consuls that come to St. Maarten decided they would exploit the Guyanese on St. Maarten instead of helping them.

Mars further explained that his late friend who was the President of the Guyanese St. Maarten Foundation tried his best to have the Guyanese Government appoint a consul here on St. Maarten because there is a large Guyanese population on St. Maarten and this person would also have been able to provide services to Guyanese nationals living in the BES islands and Anguilla. Mars further explained that the former President of Guyana refused to appoint a consul on St. Maarten because he claimed that in order for him to do that he would have to go through the Netherlands and for him (Guyana's former President) that procedure would have been too lengthy.

SMN News contacted Brotherson on Wednesday with several questions pertaining to his visit to St. Maarten and if he had met with the Government of St. Maarten. During the first phone conversation on Wednesday Brotherson claimed he met with the Government of St. Maarten and he did not just walk into St. Maarten to work. Later that same day, SMN News confronted Brotherson when SMN News reporter verified with at least four Ministers to see if they were aware of Brotherson's presence on the island. During the second phone conversation Brotherson said he met "with some people" at the Department of Foreign Affairs and they are aware of what he was doing on St. Maarten.

It should be noted that while St. Maarten is a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands matters relating to Foreign Relations remain under the authority of the Kingdom. The only authority the Bureau of Foreign Affairs of St. Maarten has is to execute the decisions taken by the Kingdom. Since the island became a country there has been no change in the constitutional agreements St. Maarten has with the Netherlands regarding Foreign Relations. SMN News also dispatched a letter to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and Deputy Prime Minister Dennis Richardson alerting them to the situation. SMN News also dispatched a letter to the Ambassador of Guyana raising several questions but up to the time this article is published the Guyanese Ambassador did not respond to the letter sent to her by SMN News reporter. SMN News also sent the letter and email to Office of the President of Guyana asking for an inquiry to take place.
Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson told SMN News that he will discuss the matter with the Council of Ministers as early as Monday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Sint Maarten, with its small dimensions and its geographic location, is very vulnerable to many factors, such as the case with most Small Island Developing States (SIDS as recognized by the United Nations). All SIDS encounter similar sustainable development challenges, including small but growing populations, limited resources, remoteness, susceptibility to natural disasters, vulnerability to external shocks, excessive dependence on international trade, and fragile environments. The latter is an issue that has not gotten as much attention as deserved. Over the past few decades focus was more on 'development' and not on the environmental issues at hand, which can largely be attributed to the anthropogenic factors associated with 'development'.
One of the main environmental issues momentarily is the large Tilapia die-offs occurring in the Great Salt Pond. The die-offs have been known to happen over the years, but have been increasing in occurrences and scale over time.
The introduction of the non-indigenous Tilapia species has come with some positive aspects as they are known to eat mosquito larvae and thrive on nutrients otherwise unused by other organisms, thereby being known as a species to thrive in poor water quality. They grow rapidly and can tolerate high fish densities. This however brings along negative consequences to the natural ecosystem; they can out-compete the naturally occurring species and thereby disturb a natural equilibrium. As they are quite a resilient fish species (except for their non-resistance to colder waters) it is hard to eliminate such a species which is also known as one of the top 100 World's Worst Alien Invasive Species by International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN).
Tarpon is, for example, a fish species that naturally occurs in the Great Salt Pond and our surrounding waters. Just like Tilapia it can survive in brackish water, but different to Tilapia, and many other fish species, Tarpon can withstand low levels of dissolved oxygen due to their swim bladders as well as being able to 'breathe' air by gulping air at the surface. This in itself already demonstrates a reason for the Tarpon species not being affected by the lowered water quality (lower levels of dissolved oxygen) that is presently thought to be occurring.
During many of the prior fish die-offs the Nature Foundation has analyzed water samples from the affected area showing exactly that, the nutrient concentrations are far from optimal and the dissolved oxygen levels being low, pH levels being subpar and coliform bacteria being present. The high levels of ammonia also correspond to the behavior shown by the Tilapia prior to succumbing to the elements. It is however of importance to know that all these elements are interrelated, with one concentration or element affecting the other due to chemical bonds being either broken or created. It is therefore of high importance to do an in-depth analyses of what exactly is occurring in the Great Salt Pond, also as it relates to heavy metals and any other toxins that leech into the Great Salt Pond through unsustainable human impact on of the last remaining water bodies of the island.
With this reasoning the Ministry of VROMI, responsible for environmental issues, and the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), responsible for public health matters, have been collaborating on finding a solution for this situation; trying to find a pro-active solution instead of resorting to reactive clean-up efforts which cause a nuisance of many of the residents of that area (smell, traffic, flies, etc.). As it is an environmental issue resulting in a public health risk it is of great importance for these two Ministries to combine efforts as well as consult the environmental NGO's that have a history of handling such issues as well as having at-hand knowledge of environmental health. Furthermore advice will have to be sought from experts on the Tilapia fish and toxicological investigations of the fish will have to be performed.
It is a known fact that fish bio-accumulate toxins which can affect human health. Without knowing what the exact cause of the fish die-offs is and what the quality of the fish residing in the Great Salt Pond is, it is highly recommended NOT to consume any fish products acquired from the Pond. This, at least until the fish die-off matter is resolved and the water quality of the historical Great Salt Pond is enhanced.

Press Release from Inspectorate of the Ministry of VSA

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Statistics (STAT) will conduct the second Business Cycle Survey for Year 2013, starting Monday, October 28. The data collection will run through December 13, 2013.

This survey is conducted twice a year with the purpose of collecting up-to-date information on business and economic developments for industries, particularly in the non-financial sector.

Additionally, STAT seeks to capture the current opinions and expectations of entrepreneurs as it pertains to business confidence, the investment climate and competitiveness.

The survey will be conducted among all businesses with more than ten employees, and a sample is drawn for those businesses with three to ten employees.

STAT-trained interviewers will be distributing and collecting the questionnaires from these businesses; they will also be on-hand to provide any additional assistance that may be required.

Businesses can also expect questions on the level of their turnover, investments made, their personnel situation over the year 2013 and general expectations for the upcoming year 2014.

STAT is appealing to all businesses approached to cooperate with the Business Cycle survey, as the private-sector input is essential for its success.

By means of this information, STAT will be able to produce amongst other indicators, preliminary GDP estimates of 2013.

These key statistics are needed for the benefit of both the government and private sectors, in their decision-making.

lesfruitsdemerinsectmaskmakingwithyouth25102013LOTERIE FARM:--- Click! A huddle of captivated 11-year-olds from Quartier d'Orléans crowded around a tiny, electric green Leaf-mimic Katydid in a portable photo studio at Loterie Farm, taking turns to try out close-up nature photography. The photo workshop was held as part of two sessions of art, culture and science activities organized by the Les Fruits de Mer Association for the Foyer Socio-educatif du Collège de Quartier d'Orléans program, which gives students new experiences and helps them discover their island during the school break.

The first of these sessions took place Tuesday afternoon at Pic Paradis. The students explored local trails and learned about the animals of the tropical broad-leaf forest on wildlife hikes guided by naturalist Mark Yokoyama, the author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin. They also enjoyed workshops on insect macro-photography and mask-making at Loterie Farm, who generously donated use of their Bamboo Room for the afternoon. Following the workshops, each student was presented with their own copy of the wildlife guide.

The second session was held Thursday morning in Cul de Sac. The students met up with Yokoyama for a guided walk of the Mangrove Discovery Trail to learn about migratory birds and the mangrove wetland ecosystem and its benefits to both humans and nature. Then they hit the water for a kayak excursion to Petite Clef with Caribbean Paddling.

"We're always looking for opportunities to teach youth about local wildlife and engage them with the arts," explained Les Fruits de Mer Association President Jennifer Yerkes. "This was perfect since we could design our sessions to incorporate several kinds of learning experiences, different ways to interact with topics like wildlife and culture."

"For kids, art can make a way to connect with nature and with each other," added Les Fruits de Mer Secretary Stephen Winkel. Winkel, a local artist, led Tuesday's mask-masking workshop, showing the students how to work with each other in partner teams to create one-of-a-kind plaster masks for Carnaval and Halloween based on insect faces. Monarch butterflies, katydids, jumping spiders, and many other colorful insects and arachnids found on the island provided natural inspiration for the students' unique wearable artwork.

"We're absolutely delighted to have been a part of this fantastic program to help these kids explore and learn about their island," said Yerkes. "We think the whole week will be something they'll really remember."

The Foyer Socio-educatif du Collège de Quartier d'Orléans program is managed by teacher Anne Coulon. Sixteen students participated in the week-long program, which included eco-snorkeling at Pinel, zip-lining at Loterie Farm, and diving with Bubble Shop as well as the two sessions of activities organized by the Les Fruits de Mer Association.

Les Fruits de Mer is a non-profit association based in St. Martin whose core mission is to raise awareness about nature, culture, and sport. The organization carries out this mission through publications, an education program, and special public outreach events that entertain, inspire, and inform. The Association is currently accepting new member applications on its website, http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org.

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Thursday October 24th, 2013 around 7:45pm, a police patrol from the Uniformed Department of the Simpson Bay sub station was dispatched to the Triple "D" Supermarket on the Airport road for an armed robbery.
Upon arrival of the patrol they were met by the owner of the establishment with the initials J.L from China. He informed the patrol that not too long before he called the establishment was robbed by an unknown male person brandishing a firearm.
After demanding the money out of the cash register and receiving it the suspect then left the establishment and fled in the direction of the Old Simpson Bay road.
The detective department is further investigating the case.

The Police Department is asking the community in general for any assistance in the above mentioned case. We are also asking the drivers of our public roads to please obey the traffic signs and rules in our Road Safety Campaign.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday October 24th, 2013 around 3:30pm, a lady with the initials J.A.SB from the Netherlands came to the Detective Department and reported that while she was walking on Front Street in the vicinity of Gems Jewelers she was approached by three unknown met from the back and they surrounded her. She then felt a sharp object being pressed against her back. The suspects demanded that she hand over her money.
After complying with their demands the suspects then fled in the direction of the Boardwalk.
The Detective Department is further investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

armedrobberyfillin13082012COLE BAY:--- On Thursday October 24th, 2013 around 3:00pm, a patrol from the Uniformed Department of the Simpson Bay sub station was dispatched to Siccardi Imports for an armed robbery.
Upon arrival of the patrol they were met by the owner of the establishment with the initials A.O.L from Guadeloupe who informed them that not long before he called two armed masked men both brandishing firearms held up the receptionist and stole the cash.
After committing this act the two suspects ran away in the direction of Orange Grove Road. The detective department is further investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

CAY HILL:--- On Monday October 24th, 2013 around 12:00 midday the police dispatcher received a call from the St. Maarten Medical Center stating that a lady had presented herself there with a dead fetus.
Upon arrival of personnel from the Detective Department and Forensic Department they were met by a social worker and a doctor that informed them that the lady with the initials S.H.S from the Dominican Republic was brought into the emergency room by ambulance the night before and she was complaining of severe pain in her stomach while bleeding heavily.
Upon examination by the doctor on call it was discovered that the lady was approximately 17 to 18 weeks pregnant and had given birth to a fetus that had died not to long after she had given birth. Further examination and investigation proved that the lady had bought some pills on the street in the Dominican Republic when she found out that she was pregnant and wanted to be rid of this.
Upon orders of the Public prosecutor the fetus was confiscated pending further investigation. The mother remained in the hospital for further observation. The Detective Department is further investigating this case.
The Police Department is hereby informing the general public not to buy any type of medication on the streets for these types of situations, the best course of action is to seek professional medical advice in such cases.

KPSM Police Report

sermeetswithprogresscommittee25102013PHILIPSBURG:--- During their current quarterly monitoring visit, the progress committee paid an orientation visit to the Social Economic Council (SER) on Thursday, October 24. The progress committee plans of approach Sint Maarten was established by Royal Decree to monitor the post 10-10-10 improvements in certain designated areas such as the justice chain, the civil registry, VROMI and legal affairs, for which 'plans of approach' were drafted as part of the constitutional reform agreements. SER and progress committee exchanged information on their roles, objectives and achievements so far, while expressing the intention of continued future cooperation.
Although the high councils of state and the SER are not part of the progress committee's domain as such, the committee showed a high degree of interest in the buildup and role of the SER in the new constitutional framework. During the meeting progress committee chairman Bandell voiced his appreciation for the efforts of the SER, among the new institutions connected with the status of country within the Kingdom. In this context, members of the progress committee concurred with the importance of the SER receiving timely and relevant feedback from the recipients of their advice. SER chairman René Richardson from his part stressed the importance of efficiency and modern human resource management in executing the new country tasks that place a heavy burden on our civil service.
On a general note, the progress committee and the SER agreed on the enormous achievements made in the past three years, leading to a high degree of attainment in many areas of the so-called 'plans of approach' while at the same time openly facing the reality of challenges remaining in areas of competency building and strengthening of the institutional structure.

oranjeschoolrepainted25102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise with a team of volunteers from different groups came together in Philipsburg over the past weekend to assist the Oranje School with the painting of the exterior walls of the school.
Paint and supplies were provided by the Ministry of Education and the work started in September when teachers, students, parents and persons from the different offices of the Ministry of Education embarked on painting the institution; however, since then the work came to a standstill, stated Principal of the school, Sonia Parrotte-Warner. With no other solution in hand the Principal approached the club for their assistance and in no time President of the Club Angela Gordon recruited a team of over 65 persons to assist, namely the Security Team from the American University of the Caribbean (AUC), Sheriff Security, the Jamaican Association, members of the Rotary Club of Anguilla and the Rotary Sunrise members.
President Angela Gordon stated "When we are called upon to execute projects in the community, we are always happy to do so".
Once again the Club would like to thanked all persons who volunteered their time to make this project a reality and are happy to lend a helping hand when called on to assist for the betterment of our community.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

nagicoconvertstoledlights25102013PHILIPSBURG:--- NAGICO Insurances' head office in Philipsburg has converted its traditional office lighting to LED lighting as part of its ongoing sustainability efforts.
"Becoming more energy efficient will help us protect and sustain our environment for the long term and at NAGICO we pride ourselves in setting the example in being good corporate citizens. LED lights can save up to 50% in electricity usage compared to traditional light bulbs and an additional benefit is that they do not emit any heat compared to traditional lights, which in turn will save air-conditioning power", says Paul Dijkhoffz, NAGICO's Executive Marketing Manager.
"We have installed the LED's in separate phases of which the last phase will be completed by next week", says Louis Henson, NAGICO's Services and Maintenance Assistant, who oversaw the LED installation.
"NAGICO's head office will serve as a bench mark for the rest of our branch offices located throughout the region at which we aim to implement the same sustainable and environmentally friendly measures", added Dijkhoffz.

NAGICO Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet October 28 with Settlement Committee member Jean James.

The committee will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Jean James will provide the House with an update pertaining to the state of affairs of the committee and how they are progressing with respect to settling the division of assets and liabilities of the former Netherlands Antilles.

This meeting was requested by Members of Pariament (MPs) Hon. Sylvia Meyers-Olivacce, MP Hon. Johan Leonard, and MP Hon. Jules James from the United People's party faction in parliament.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations will meet again on October 28 concerning some kingdom related matters.

The committee will meet on Monday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The three point agenda for the permanent committee session is a draft Kingdom law regulating the nomination of a regent; the compilation of the delegation to travel to Curacao from January 7-10, 2014 for the Kingdom Parliaments Summit; and the third agenda point is preparations for the Parliamentary Summit in January.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary deliberation.

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

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

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake recently met with a Taxi Association as they prepare for the upcoming tourist season.

Minister Lake said that his Ministry is busy reviewing the request and suggestions and a plan of action will be drafted to deal with the issues that can be handled post haste.

The Sint Maarten Police Force has a Task Force in place also preparing for the upcoming high tourist season and some of the issues fall under the responsibility of the aforementioned law enforcement agency.

One of the suggestions from the Taxi Association is making Front Street more user friendly to the disabled.

Other matters discussed were taxi stands; additional traffic signs and road markings; additional pedestrian crossings in Simpson Bay; designated drop off and pick up points at small hotels.

The taxi representatives have also requested a taxi stand in the Simpson Bay area.

"The meeting was very constructive and I am looking into the various points that fall within the confines of Ministry VROMI. A plan of action will be drafted to immediately deal with these matters of concern to our taxi drivers, our ambassadors," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

L.B. SCOT ROAD:--- On Thursday morning around 4:15am, two police patrol from the Uniformed Department in Philispburg were dispatched to the St. Johns Estate where residents complained that some unknown persons were busy drag racing in the area.
Upon arrival at the crossing of L.B Scot Road/St. Johns the patrols noticed two vehicles driving on the road of St. Johns in the direction of L.B Scot. When the drivers saw the two police patrols, one of them stopped the vehicle he was driving with the registration plate M-8033 and fled into the bushes. The other driver of the vehicle with the registration M-5402 tried to reverse this vehicle at a very high speed to get away from the police but lost control of the vehicle after it hit a curb causing the vehicle to flip over.
The driver of this vehicle managed to get out of this vehicle and also fled the scene into the bushes. The police patrols give chase but lost sight of both suspects when they ran into the bushes. An intensive search was made but to no avail. The patrol however recognized one of the drivers as a male person for whom an arrest warrant was issued.
Upon controlling both vehicles it was confirmed that both vehicles were stolen as the wires to the ignition switch were tampered with.
The Traffic and Detective Department are investigating this case.
The Police Department is asking the community to assist with any information in the above mentioned case. We are also reminding those of you that are committing crime on our friendly island that you can't hide from the long arms of the law.

KPSM Police Report

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Wednesday October 24th, 2013 around 9:45pm, a police patrol from the Uniformed Department at the sub-station in Simpson Bay was dispatched to the Paradise Plaza Casino where supposedly someone had sprayed some kind of gas in the establishment.
Upon arrival of the police they were met by an auxiliary police officer with the initials F.A.C from the Economics Department who explained that while he was conducting an inspection he detected a strange smell and his eyes had began to burn him and so did those of others that were in the establishment.
The Fire Department whom arrived shortly afterwards began to evacuate everyone in the establishment. Two ladies that were visiting the establishment fell sick and had to be treated by members of the Ambulance Department that were also called to the scene.
The Fire Department along with the Police Forensic Department are further investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

armedrobberyfillin13082012BUSH ROAD:--- On Monday October 21st, 2013 around 8:15pm a police patrol from the Uniformed Department in Philipsburg was dispatched to the Bush Road for a shooting incident. Upon arrival the patrol was met by a lady with the initials M.N.F from Jamaica who informed the police patrol that their was no shooting but that three unknown masked men wearing gloves had broken into her apartment and tied up her partner with the initials D.F with whom she lives.
The lady further explained that the three suspects ill-treated her partner by gun butting him in his head on several occasions while asking him where the money was.
The three suspects after not having received any money then left the scene but not before taking the car keys of the victim.
The Ambulance Department was notified and paramedics arrived shortly afterwards. The victim received medical attention at the scene and was later transported to the SMMC for further observation.
The Detective Department is further investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

middleregionroadclosure24102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic in Middle Region in the vicinity of the Hulda B. Richardson Road intersecting with Middle Region Road on Saturday, October 26.

The road closure will be on Saturday morning from 7:00am to 12:00am. The alleys will also be closed.

Road traffic will be diverted and motorists are requested to be vigilant and observant for the traffic directional signs.

The road closure is in connection with the cleaning and maintenance of the Middle Region Pump Pit.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

ssmmeetswithchcc24102013CAY HILL:--- On Wednesday October 23rd the Cay Hill Community Council (CHCC) and Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) met to discuss youth employment in the Cay Hill area at the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School in Cay Hill, also present at the meeting was CPO Henson. Earlier in the year, SSM and a large group of young men and women in Cay Hill were instrumental in the realization of the CHCC and the main concern of these young men and women was the employment of youngsters from their neighborhood.
A basic plan was proposed by SSM to have separated garbage (plastic, metals, paper, glass, etc.) collected at hotels and other (large) businesses for recycling purposes and to have some young men and women from Cay Hill employed to execute this task. The CHCC proposed to include an awareness program on the environment in the plan. Financing and sustainability of the plan were also discussed.
Other topics related to youth employment and employment in general that were discussed were: the available information on government programs for labor and community development in general, communication of youths with authorities and authority figures, the lack of personal documents and the illegal status of some youths, communication among NGO's and cooperation of NGO's in general.
Both foundations expressed their satisfaction of the meeting and are looking forward to a fruitful working relationship. CPO Henson, once again, stated that any endeavor to improve Cay Hill has his full support and that he is only a phone call away. The president of the CHCC closed the meeting with the words:" Let's not forget that it is not about us. It is all about the youths."

tpxptdonatestocolebayfirevictims24102013SIMPSON BAY:--- On Monday, October 12, 2013 the Turning Point Xtreme Prevention Team delivered canned food and other necessities to the Red Cross. These items would be sorted and distributed to the victims of the Wesley Lane fire. Turning Point Xtreme Prevention Team (TPXPT) is a drumband/youth group that falls under the umbrella of the Turning Point Foundation whose membership includes teenagers and young adults starting from the age of 15. These young people felt impressed to give back to their community and obtained the items on their own to help the various families that are affected by this fire.
It is the prayer of TPXPT that the items will be helpful and urges other organizations that have not yet donated to give whatever they can, no matter how small.

telembikeathonflyer24102013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group's Personnel Association will be hosting a Round-The-Pond Bike-A-Thon event Saturday in collaboration with the Positive Foundation to mark the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness month on St. Maarten.
The Bike-A-Thon sets off at 7:00 am sharp taking a route from the TelEm Group Building, right at the Salt-pickers roundabout, left at the old Van Dorp Building, left at the old Paper Garden Building, up Frontstreet and onto the Sucker Garden Road.
Cyclists will then pedal along the Arch Road, into the Illidge Road and left at the Today Building to take the route along the Pondfill back to the TelEm Group Building.
The Personnel Association says all funds raised from the event will go to the Positive Foundation for the group's various breast cancer awareness programs.
"In order to raise funds we are asking participants to pay $5 for each bicycle in the Bike-A-Thon," said Personnel Association board member Lucrecia Lynch.
She said the $5 entrance fee will also entitle each participant to a drink of water and a snack following the ride.
"We would like everyone to make a good showing by wearing TelEm Group red, or breast cancer pink as a show of support.
Persons who wish to take part in the Bike-A-Thon can contact the TelEm Group Personnel Association on: 520-3500; 522-6926 or 522-6914.

Telem Press Release

portandlagoonauthorityboothrendering24102013SIMPSON BAY:--- For the first time ever, the Port of St. Maarten and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority (SLAC) will be showcasing the maritime and yachting sector of the country at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in Florida from October 31 to November 4.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is considered the "Yachting Capital of the World," and will be hosting the 54th Lauderdale International Boat Show. Show exhibits range from yacht builders and designers to exotic cars and brokerage yachts.

A wide variety of boats and sea vessels will be on display including runabouts, sport fishers, high performance boats, center consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bow riders, catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, canoes, and extraordinary super yachts.

The St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) and its individual members and non-members have been invited to supply promotional materials of their marinas, services and products that will be placed at the Port/SLAC financed St. Maarten Booth to promote the destination's marine and yachting sector.

St. Maarten marine and yachting sector is responsible for 12.5 per cent of the national economy according to a 2008 study that was commissioned by SMMTA and carried out by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) of the former Netherlands Antilles.

Back in 2008, there were over 80 companies providing services to the marine sector and over the year 2007, the country's marine sector produced over US$200 million (Naf.399 million), and representing 16.3 per cent of the overall production of the businesses on Sint Maarten. In terms of wages and the number of employees, 2,794 employees, 17.2 per cent of the total work force earned Naf.106.5 million.

"This is the first time that our Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority will be participating and promoting at such a prestigious boat show. We fully understand the importance of the country's maritime and yachting sector and the role that it plays in our economic development.

"It has been always our intention to work with all stakeholders in making the marine and yachting sector the leading economic segment in this part of the Caribbean. There is much to be done, but if we work together in a sincere manner we can accomplish much more.

"One of the challenges of the sector as pointed in the Economic Diversification Study Final Report, September 2006 carried out by SQW Limited from the UK on behalf of the Island Territory Government of St. Maarten at the time, and described as a key constraint is that of skilled labour before competitors seize on this opportunity. We need more local trained skilled people working in the sector and more effort has to be placed in this area. The Marine Sector has hired over time a number of people and we need to work together on getting more young people involved," Harbour Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo said on Wednesday.

Since the Harbor Group of Companies took over the Lagoon Authority in December 2009 from the Economic Development Corporation, the company now breaks-even from a financial perspective which is good for the shareholder representative, the Government. The company is not a burden to the tax payer.

The Lagoon Authority has been able to partner with the Nature Foundation and develop a relationship that looks at developing a sustainable environmental management plan for the lagoon since it's a very important eco system for the country.

The Lagoon Authority was responsible for the extension of the Simpson Bay Bridge a few years ago in order to ensure that larger mega-yachts could enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon and dock at the various marinas located in the lagoon therefore resulting in increased business for the sector; funds were secured for the construction of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway to provide an alternative route in the event of a bridge malfunction, and to alleviate traffic congestion on the Simpson Bay strip; moorings have been installed for the safe transit of yachts and mega-yachts in and out of the lagoon; security cameras, sidewalks and streetlights were installed on both sides of the Simpson Bay Bridge to enhance safety and security of residents and tourists who patronage the various businesses located on the so-called Simpson Bay strip.

A delegation from the Port will be exhibiting the yacht cruising opportunities that St. Maarten has to offer, which will include Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Hon. Ted Richardson, Chief Executive Officer Mark Mingo, Supervisory Board member Humphrey Mezas, reps from the Lagoon Authority and staff from the Commercial Department.

GREAT BAY:--- In keeping with the slogan "Putting People First" of Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever, the Departments of Labor Affairs and Social Services will be keeping a meeting where all social workers on St. Maarten are invited to attend.
During this time attendees will get to meet their colleagues within the field; discuss synchronization of efforts to improve services of the two departments and lastly build awareness regarding the role of the Social Worker.
"As Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, my aim is and has always been "Putting People First," and by synchronizing our efforts as social workers there is much that we can achieve together and most importantly assist those that are in dire need of help," said Minister De Weever. "The ultimate outcome in this should be that we have a healthier more productive society."
The meeting for Social Workers will be held on Tuesday, October 23, 2013 at the Department of Labor Affairs & Social Services on the Pondfill from 3PM-5PM.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC), a section within Collective Prevention Services of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is calling on the community to take preventive measures to prevent getting gastroenteritis which is very infectious.

In 2013 a cumulative number of 542 suspected cases have been reported to the public health authorities whereas in 2012 the cumulative amount was 431 suspected cases for the age categories less than five and equal or larger than five.

Gastroenteritis is an infection of the stomach and bowel (large intestine). The most common symptoms are vomiting and repeated episodes of diarrhea (three or more episodes within 24 hours). The causes and treatment of gastroenteritis can differ between children and adults.

The most common causes of gastroenteritis in adults are the norovirus and food poisoning. It is self-limiting.

The infection can spread when bacteria found in faeces are transferred to your mouth. Bacteria can be transferred through poor hygiene.

For example, if someone does not wash their hands after going to the toilet, any viruses or bacteria on their hands will be transferred to whatever they touch, such as glass, kitchen utensil or food.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, "Get Checked" campaign, is in line with the preventive measures that should be taken to ensure that you don't get gastroenteritis and pass it on to others.

To prevent the spread of the infection, wash your hands thoroughly after going to the toilet and before eating or preparing food; clean the toilet, including the seat and handle, with disinfectant after each bout of vomiting or diarrhea; don't share towels, cutlery and utensils with other household members; and don't return to work until 48 hours have passed since your last bout of vomiting or diarrhea.

Consult your family physician if you have the vomiting/diarrhea so you can be referred to the lab to get a confirmation on the diagnosis and the virus type.

Practicing good food hygiene will help you avoid getting gastroenteritis from food poisoning. You should regularly wash your hands, surfaces and utensils with hot, soapy water; never store raw food and cooked foods together; avoid cross contamination of foods; make sure that food is properly refrigerated; always cook your food thoroughly; and never eat food that is past its sell by date.

If symptoms persist for a prolonged period of time, the family doctor may consider blood and stool tests to determine the cause of the vomiting and diarrhea.

For more information call 542-2078, 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinics at the Brouwer's Road 6A (behind FATUM Insurances Building) for the age group 0-4 years and the Vineyard Building in Philipsburg for age group 4-17 years will be closed on Friday, October 25.

The closure of the clinic is in connection with staff team building training.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

capebayresidentsatcapebayfollowupmeeting23102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake last week had a follow-up meeting with the residents of Cape Bay.

More than 75 persons turned out at Seaside Nature Park to voice their concerns with respect to the proposed zoning and development plans for Cape Bay.

Ministry of VROMI officials Henry Ellis, Inspection Department, Hans Sellink, Head of the VROM Department, and Thijs Sommers, policy worker at the Ministry were present to answer questions and provide further explanation and clarification to the residents.

The residents were very adamant about the current draft zoning plans pointing out that they are totally against any further industrial development of Cape Bay, and wanted to see more residential development in the district.

Residents voiced their concerns about GEBE with respect to noise and alleged pollution coming from the old generator rooms.

Another topic of discussion is structures that have been constructed not according to the building codes of the country on property that belong to local people who in turn rent the structures to individuals.

Residents would like to see better infrastructure put in place to deal with raw sewage running along streets etc.

"As a Minister I am here to listen to the people and work along side by side with them. If the people don't want something, we have to listen to them. I am not going to propose something in the zoning plan to Parliament that the people don't want in their district.

"Two public meetings were held with respect to draft zoning plans, but being a community-minded person, I invited my key staff from the Ministry to further elucidate to the residents which they did.

"In my basic plan of approach, speaking with the grassroots and other stakeholders is part of the process of transparency. Hearing all views is necessary," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Tuesday.

The Minister commended the Cape Bay Community Council for taking pride in their community and to continue to be vigilant in their community.

Minister Lake informed the residents that he will be doing a walk-though within the next two weeks in an area that has been described as a shanty town in Cape Bay. Lake also stated that the Government is in the process of forming a Task Force to deal with the so-called shanty town areas in different parts of the country.

swescotwilliamspresentstrophytotrinidadwomenssoccerteam23102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams presented the first place trophy to the Visiting Women's Team from Trinidad who participated in the Women's Soccer Tournament over the weekend. The Prime Minister congratulated all women's teams from St. Maarten, St. Barths and Trinidad for participating in the tournament.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

patricialourensatunescomeetingonunderwaterculturalheritage23102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip recently returned from the South American country Peru after the country was invited to attend a UNESCO Ministerial Meeting for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage in Latin America and the Caribbean.

This UNESCO meeting co-sponsored by the Ministry of Culture of Peru and the Government of Spain, was attended by over 20 countries, with six ministers from the Caribbean present, including Minister Lourens who was also representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

These professional discussions were directed at procedural aspects of documentation, ratification and implementation of the UNESCO Convention for the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage of 2001.

Minister Lourens made a presentation on the current status and future goals for underwater cultural heritage work on St. Maarten, including its' relationship to preparations for a world heritage nomination in progress.

Meetings were also held by Minister Lourens and her staff, with the Netherlands Ambassador to Peru, Johan van der Werlf.

Assisting the minister as professional experts were Neville York, the head of the Department of Culture, and Dr. Jay Haviser, director of the St. Maarten Archaeological Center SIMARC.

utsandstaffdonatetocolebayfirevictims23102013SIMPSON BAY:--- UTS and its staff members made a donation to the Red Cross of St. Maarten in support of the recent victims of the Cole Bay fire, which left over 30 families homeless. The company provided 55 new cellular phones, including credit to the victims to allow them to stay in touch and make the necessary phone calls in the aftermath of their ordeal. In addition to that the company's employees collected a considerable amount of food and clothing items to assist the victims in replacing some of the many items they lost in the fire. "What happened to these families could have happened to any member of our community," says UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. "The amount of families affected in this case was so large though that our hearts went out to this group in particular. I have to thank our staff for bringing in the many food and clothing items over the past week. I am sure that with the coordination efforts of the Red Cross they will be put to good use. We also hope that by offering the victims the means to stay in touch, they will also be able to get back on their feet more quickly," Lambert continues. Red Cross relief coordinator, Brigade Commander Julia Boasman thanked UTS for its support in assisting the many victims.

UTS Press Release

POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group mobile provider, TelCell, has announced plans to install three new cell sites on the Dutch side of the island to improve signal quality for residential and business customers.
According to TelEm Group Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa, the new cell sites will specifically deal with network issues including dropped calls, interference and poor coverage affecting customers in the Point Blanche, Bush Road and Guana Bay areas.
He said these areas have become a problem during the past several weeks because of interference from neighbouring Anguilla and St. Kitts along with other network issues that have to be resolved with the help of equipment vendors overseas.
"We are attempting to resolve issues that are completely out of our hands by putting in place our own measures to maintain and improve the quality of service our customers are getting," said Mr. Louisa.
He said in the case of interference to the mobile voice and data network, exchanges are taking place with a major carrier in St. Kitts, also with the assistance of the Regulators on St. Maarten and in St. Kitts to find a permanent solution to the problem of interference to TelCell's mobile voice and data network.

The CTO said work will begin this week on a new cell site covering the Point Blanche area which will greatly improve coverage and signal quality, also data services to the Harbour complex. Installation of the other new cell sites will quickly follow.
Another network issue affecting quality of service has been a problem with TelCell customers maintaining service when they are on the French side of the island. This again is an issue that is out of the hands of the Dutch side mobile carrier TelCell.
"Our partner on the French side is upgrading to a 3G network causing TelCell customers to lose their connections when they drive to the French side. This is a temporary situation which will return to the previous excellent service TelCell has provided in the past once these upgrades are completed," said Mr. Louisa. He said while the French side partners cannot give a definite date when the upgrade will be completed, he is hopeful it will be very soon.
Mr. Louisa said a fruitful meeting was held last Friday with the local Regulator holding out much hope that the interference issues plaguing the TelCell network will be fully resolved before too long.
"We sincerely apologize to customers for any poor customer experience issues they may be having at this time while we await a speedy resolution to these interference issues with the assistance of the telecom regulators on the respective islands," added Mr. Louisa.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, October 22, 2013, a delegation of the St. Martin Grassroots people Movement held a very successful meeting with Chief Minister Hughes of Anguilla.

Present on the side of Anguilla were;
Mr. Patrick Hanley, adviser to the Chief-minister and various members of the Anguillan media, who took several pictures.
One of them, Mr. Keith 'Stone' Greaves of the Angillan Government's Department of Information & Broadcasting, invited us to have a special interview on the radio which took place later the day.

Present in the St. Martin grassroots movement's delegation were;

Nadika Stephen
Horace Whit
Jesse Adams
Freddy Richardson
X Rey and,
Leopold James - spokes-person

The delegation was very warmly and respectfully welcomed by the staff of the Ministry of the Chief Minister and later by the Chief Minister himself.
After expressing thanks to the Chief-minister for making this meeting possible, Leopold James explained basic purpose for requesting the meeting.
In short it was to contribute towards protecting, preserving and improving the special, in-alienable, historical and family bonds between the SXM- and the Anguillan people.
Due to demographic and other developments on SXM this bond is becoming blurred and distorted, making it more difficult for Anguilla/Anguillans being able to determine who are the real SXM'ers among those coming from SXM with Dutch and French passports - oftentimes claiming to be SXM'ers and usurping the historical privileges granted in the past to the native SXM'ers.
The grassroots movement intends to bring clarity in this vital relationship between Anguilla and SXM by identifying the real SXM'er with their SXM-ID card, so that Anguilla/Anguillans will be assured of their true SXM heriitage.
The card will also be promoted in Anguilla among those who also have roots in SXM, so that eventually they too can receive the same rights/benefits on SXM as the native, blood-line SXM'ers of heritage.
The Chief-minister completely agrees with this move and pledges total support and cooperation.
He calls it a very historical initiative and pledges to promote the concept at the Caricom level.
Parties also agree, that the concept of the card can also be very useful in creating reciprocity for SXM'ers in other islands/countries in the region, whose people live, work on SXM and send back moneys to their homes.
This could lead to a decrease in the resentment among many SXM'ers that others are profiting from SXM, but that SXM'ers do not have equal opportunities in their countries.

We both agree to hold regular meetings on the matter, which can result in the ID-card holders having similar entry into Anguilla as Anguillan nationals.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday the 21st of October the St. Nature Foundation was called by staff of Telem regarding a possible fish die off taking place in the Great Salt Pond. On arrival at the Telem main building it was noticed that the trench leading out from Turning Point into the Salt Pond, was filled with Tilapia. Some were alive and some was also dead. The Nature Foundation contacted the Ministry of VROMI in order to ask for assistance to have the dead fish removed and the live fish push back into the Salt Pond. The VROMI Ministry subsequently sent SXM Clean Sweep to assist with cleaning of the canal.

Nature Foundation staff then proceeded to the A. Th. Illidge rd. roundabout where there was a significant number of Tilapia fish dead in the canal leading up to the fresh water pond. Once again Nature Foundation staff contacted the Ministry of VROMI requesting help to have the dead fish removed and the living Tilapia fish moved over into the fresh water pond. The Minster VROMI sent Koop N.V and Windward roads to assist removing the dead fish. At 14.30 the Minister VROMI and Member of Parliament Theo Heyliger visited the site. The Nature Foundation requested asked to have the fresh water pond floodgate opened in order to have fresh water introduced into the salt-water pond to help keep the remaining fish alive. The floodgates were subsequently open to allow fresh water over into the salt-water pond for a period of time.

The Nature Foundation recommends concluding research in order to find a balanced way to control the reproduction of the Tilapia, an invasive species, in the salt pond and the management of Great Salt Pond Water Levels.

The VROMI Minister and Member of Parliament Heyliger have asked the Nature Foundation to come up with solutions and ideas to prevent this from happening again or to minimize the events. The Nature Foundation is currently investigating wide scale management options to stop the occurrence of fish die-offs again.

Nature Foundation staff were present until very late on Tuesday evening and the cleaning of various areas of the Pond will continue indefinitely. This has been the largest fish die off that we have had to date.

On Wednesday morning the Nature Foundation with the assistance of all participants continued to move fish from the areas of A. Th. Illidge Road, vicinity of Telem and along the ring road.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announces that the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Dawn Beach and Point Blanche will be held on October 31.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, October 31 at 7:00pm at University of St. Martin, Philipsburg.

The presentation also includes Oyster Pond and Guana Bay.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever supports the October month of Breast Cancer Awareness activities that have been organized by various organizations and entities.

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that starts from cells of the breast. A malignant tumor is a group of cancer cells that may grow into surrounding tissues or spread to distant areas of the body. Breast cancer occurs mainly in women, but men can get it too.

In the Americas, more than 320,000 women were diagnosed and 82,500 women died from breast cancer, in 2008. By 2030, the number of women newly diagnosed with breast cancer is projected to increase 60 per cent in the Americas, if current trends continue.

"The interest is very high. The turnout has even been higher. Breast cancer touches everybody. It could be your wife, mother, sister, cousin, grandmother, aunt, a friend, or brother, uncle or grandfather.

"Yes, breast cancer not only impacts females but males as well. Breast cancer in Latin America and the Caribbean ranks as the first cancer type both in terms of new cases and deaths.

"Earlier diagnosis coupled with advances in treatment has led to better outcomes and longer survival for women with breast cancer.

"During this period we also remember the victims who have succumbed to this disease and to the current victims who are struggling to overcome this disease, and to the family members and friends who must cope with the loss of someone close or somebody currently living with cancer.

"As part of my 'Get Checked' campaign, I call on the nation's women and men to visit their general practitioners for early and effective screening as early detection/diagnosis and treatment saves lives.

"Breast cancer in men is less common because their breast duct cells are less developed than those of women and because they normally have lower levels of female hormones that affect the growth of breast cells, however it is possible that men can also get this disease.

"The nation can be inspired by the cancer survivors who are with us today, because they were able to overcome this disease. Every cancer survivor is a champion in the eyes of our nation," Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Tuesday.

royalvisitcommittee23102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The committee that is organizing the royal visit of King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima has a packed program for the royal couple who is scheduled to arrive on St. Maarten on November 12th, 2013. Chairman of the committee Keith Franca told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday that the royal couple will arrive on November 12th but the official program will start on November 13th at the Clem Labega Square. The official inspection of the troops will also take place in Philipsburg, a meeting with the Council of Ministers is also on the schedule. The royal couple will then pay a visit to the Milton Peters College, the Oranje School, the Methodist Church in Philipsburg, and the Court of First Instance.

Later that same evening a cultural performance will be held at the Festival Village. Franca said the show which will be hosted by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten will have several cultural manifestations by the youths of St. Maarten.

Franca called on the businesses and people of St. Maarten to decorate their places of businesses and homes as they welcome the royal couple who will be on their first official visit since taking office in April 2013. He said St. Maarten is the first island the royal couple will visit then they will move on to the other islands within the Dutch Caribbean. The royal entourage is expected to depart St. Maarten on November 16th, 2013.

swescotwilliams23102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams gave reporters an overview of her recent visit to the Netherlands on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing. Wescot Williams said she met with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, Minister of Interior Affairs Ronald Plasterk, and the Vice President of the Council of State. Wescot Williams said that in each of the meetings the matter of the Royal Decree was discussed but the Kingdom is adamant on the decision they took when they issued the decree at the end of September. Wescot Williams confirmed that to date St. Maarten did not receive any information from the Council of State regarding the Royal Decree.

In the meantime, the Government of St. Maarten signed the agreement with Transparency International who will be conducting a systematic investigation while the national draft decree on the establishment of the integrity committee is still to be signed off by the Governor of St. Maarten.

The Prime Minister also reported that most of the points mentioned in the motion of election reform are already in place. When asked if these laws were being executed, she said that the laws are there and people (political parties) have to know that there are laws in place when it comes to elections. The Prime Minister further explained that she believes that there needs to be some tweaking with the electoral law but this she said has to be discussed with Parliament.

The full content of the press briefing can be heard by audio which is posted below this article.

swescotwilliamsatcolombierbreastcancerwalk22102013COLOMBIER:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined the residents of Colombier on Saturday in a march against Breast Cancer as part of the activities surrounding Breast Cancer Awareness month celebrated in October around the world. The Prime Minister continues to call for a greater awareness of Breast Cancer in the community. "I encourage all to take part and be made aware of the issues surrounding breast cancer and the need to get regular check ups and tests done early in order to combat this disease. My mother of ninety-two years is alive today because of a breast cancer operation and early detection. Today technology is so much more advanced so it is about getting tested and spreading the message. We cannot prevent breast cancer but we can make sure that those who have are checked and tested and receive the necessary treatment out there," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

fcsoualigainternationalwomenssoccertournamentgroup22102013PHILIPSBURG:--- FC Soualiga women's soccer team, established in April 2013 under the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation, hosted a successful International Women's Soccer Tournament over the weekend of Saturday the 19th of October and Sunday the 20th of October. Five regional teams participated in the tournament, namely Sint Maarten's very own FC Soualiga teams Blue and White, Step by Step Football Academy from Trinidad, Les Diablesses Rouges from St. Barth's and the Victory Queens from Curaçao.

The tournament attracted many spectators that were treated to excellent play from all the teams participating. Spectacular play was shown by first place team Step by Step Football Academy from Trinidad, whom brought along four of their national players which have recently beat Arsenal and Tottenham in the United Kingdom. Their skills, endurance, sportsmanship and technique were a pleasure to watch for the entire crowd and many of the other participating teams learnt a lot from their team and their players. A well-deserved second place went to the Victory Queens from Curaçao. The FC Soualiga Blue ladies finished third. The team scored a total of 15 goals in the three games played. Considering the team has only been in existence for approximately six months this was a great feat to be celebrated. All other teams have been together for many years and have had much more experience of participating in tournaments of a higher level. In addition, the FC Soualiga Blue's goalie Odessa Solomon received a prize for being the best goalie of the tournament. The prize for most goals went to Trinidad's Maylee Johnson. All prizes were presented by the FC Soualiga Management Team together with the support of the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications (TEZVT) Mr. Ted Richardson and the Honorable Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams.

FC Soualiga's management team and their coach Mr. David Forsythe are extremely happy with the outcome of the tournament and deem it a great success. Together they are very thankful for all the support from the community at large and the support provided by the local businesses for this event and women's soccer on the island as a whole. The event would not have been successful if it weren't for the many donations and assistance received from the sponsors. FC Soualiga would therefore like to thank their corporate sponsor Princess Juliana International Airport, the Ministry of TEZVT, the Department of Tourism, Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, Bel Air Beach Hotel, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Cost U Less, Heavenly Water, International Liquor and Tobacco Trading, Domino's Pizza, Looking Good, Sports Gallery, Vanity First, Ballerina Jewelers, the SHTA and Taloula Mango's for their generous donations and contributions. A special thank you also goes out to the volunteers Jules de Vries, Maarten van Rooij, Damien Voges, Nathaly Pieters, Bas van den Bosch, Rita Aikman and Ruth Hooi as well as to the Honorable Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams, the Honorable Minister of TEZVT Mr. Ted Richardson, Honorable Chairlady of Parliament drs. Gracita Arrindell, Honorable Member of Parliament Romain Laville, Mrs. Claudette Forsythe-Labega, the Belvedere Community and the board of the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation for their continuous support and contributions.

The success of the tournament has further encouraged FC Soualiga to attain its goal to encourage fun and energetic women to participate in the sport of soccer, thereby living a healthy and active lifestyle, as well as contributing to the community when and wherever they can. They deem to further stimulate the sport of soccer locally, to get acquainted with other women's soccer teams in the region, as well as stimulate the important role of women in sports. With tournaments such as these, FC Soualiga also hopes to stimulate sports tourism for Sint Maarten and its establishments, thereby reiterating the need for such events and proper sports facilities to have the community become a more active and healthy one.

For those interested in joining the team: FC Soualiga soccer practice takes place every Tuesday and Thursday at the Asha Stevens Campus of the Hillside Christian School in Cay Hill from 6pm. Interest in joining the team and inquiries can be e-mailed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., via the Facebook page: FC Soualiga, or come visit during practice.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday morning the faction of the National Alliance submitted three requests to the chairlady of Parliament, Drs. Gracita Arrindell for meetings of Parliament and the Central Committee.

Leader of the National Alliance, MP William Marlin said on Tuesday that three members of the National Alliance faction Dr. Lloyd Richardson, Hyacinth Richardson and the leader William Marlin, signed the requests. In a letter dated Friday October 18th the MPs have asked the Chairlady of Parliament to convene an urgent meeting of Parliament to discuss the following: The decision of Government to establish a committee to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of St. Maarten.

The National Alliance MPs motivated their call for an urgent meeting by stating that clarity is needed on the matter of investigating integrity within the Government of St. Maarten. It was on September 30, 2013 that a Kingdom Decree was issued instructing the Governor of Sint Maarten to conduct an investigation into the integrity of the Government of Sint Maarten.

The MPs further state in their letter, that on several occasions over the past weeks, the Prime Minister publicly announced that the Government of Sint Maarten had agreed to have Transparency International conduct an integrity assessment into the Government of Sint Maarten.

And while this is going on, the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson, announced at a press briefing last week Wednesday that the Government took a unanimous decision on Tuesday October 15th, 2013, to establish its own committee to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of Sint Maarten.

According to the National Alliance MPs in their letter to the Chairlady of Parliament, this all seems rather confusing and contradictory and warrants an explanation and the public in general deserves clarity in this entire matter.

The three National Alliance MPs also requested in their letter, that the Minister of General Affairs, (Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams) be present in the meeting to provide clarity and to answer to questions from Members of Parliament.

The three national Alliance MPs further requested the chairlady to convene two Central Committee meetings. One of them is to deal with the recent development at the VDSM (Security Services of Sint Maarten) including the suspension of the Head of the VDSH, Mr. James Richardson.

For that meeting the MPs have also requested the presence of the Minister of General Affairs, Prime Minister Wescot-Williams. They have also requested copy of any report prepared by the S.O.A.B. or any other institution or instance on the functioning of the VDSM in general and in particular of the Head, Mr. James Richardson.

In a third letter to the Chairlady of Parliament, the National Alliance faction also requested the presence of the Minister of Youth, Education, Sports and Culture, Mr. Patricia Lourens-Philip to provide Parliament with information and to answer to questions from Members of Parliament on the position of the Council of Ministers on the proposal to establish the Sint Maarten Youth Football League.

Up to Tuesday afternoon no dates had been set yet for the meetings.

Click here to view the letters sent to the Chairlady of Parliament requesting that a meeting of Parliament and two Central Committee meetings be convened.

swescotwilliamszumbasessionatsmmc22102013CAY HILL:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) open house on Saturday. The PM joined in various activities at the open house, including a very special Zumba session with the staff and visitors to the SMMC and a health check-up. The PM was found to be in excellent health.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

SIMPSON BAY:--- The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) announces that the Clearance Offices at Great Bay and at SLAC in Simpson Bay will be closed as of 3:00pm on Wednesday, October 23.

Those who require services are asked to visit take note of the closure and to pass by the office before 3:00pm.

The closure is in connection with a company endorsed project that requires the staff to be present.

Regular office hours resume on Thursday, October 24.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In its efforts to continuously improve their customers' experience using Chippie mobile service UTS has made a number of changes to benefit Chippie postpaid customers when traveling abroad. Chippie postpaid customers can continue to use Chippie service on the network of another mobile provider when traveling; which is called Roaming. UTS has negotiated considerably lower roaming rates with roaming partners and is passing these savings on to its postpaid customers traveling abroad with their Chippie service.

To further assist customers in monitoring roaming charges while traveling, UTS has also implemented an SMS notification system for St. Maarten Chippie customers in September of this year. This service has now also been expanded to serve Chippie customers of Saba and St. Eustatius. Customers will automatically receive a free SMS notification when roaming, another when roaming charges exceed an amount of ANG 250 and subsequent messages for every ANG 250 of additional charges thereafter. This means that they will be notified with regards to the charges they incur with their mobile phone while traveling abroad.

Aside from the above, Chippie customers can also do their part to avoid incurring unnecessary roaming charges. Receiving and listening to voice mail messages or having data services running in the background while your device is idle also incurs roaming charges. UTS therefore recommends deactivating data roaming and deactivating the 'forward call' setting on the device to avoid being charged for usage abroad.

For additional information on the newly adjusted roaming rates Chippie postpaid customers may contact UTS at +1721 542 0101.

UTS Press Release

MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes are currently investigating the protest that was held in front of the Collectivity on October 12th, 2013 when the first same sex marriage was taking place on the island. The French State made same sex marriage legal in May 2013.

Over two hundred persons gathered in front of the Collectivity on Saturday October 12th, 2103 denouncing the first same sex marriage claiming its infringing on the rights of locals. Some of the protestors had placards while one held a hand microphone denouncing what he said is disrespecting marriage since marriage according to him should be between a man and a woman. The speaker who is well known on St. Martin further stated that soon the gay people would want to get married in the churches on the island and that too would be a disrespect. The protestors went as far as calling on first Vice President Guillaume Arnell to resign and not perform his duties claiming that the people of St. Martin was not consulted before the law was passed in the French State.

According to information reaching SMN News, someone filed a complaint with the Gendarmes which initiated the investigation. During the protest which the protestors claimed was supposed to be peaceful bottles and rocks were flung after the gendarmes and the car that took the two men away after they tied the knot.

SMN News further learnt that two vehicles were damaged during the protest but that could not be verified.

It should be noted that the same sex marriage law known as "Mariage pour Tous" was published in the official journal on May 18th, 2013. The law is applicable to the State, Collectivities and Communes that fall under the French jurisdiction. The Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Affairs made known via a memo on June 13th, 2013 outlining the consequences anyone can face if they refuse to marry two persons of the same sex. Elected officials or persons working in the civil registry could face five years prison sentence and Euros 75,000.00 fine if they refuse to conduct a marriage of same sex. Persons holding political offices can also be suspended.

deadfishingsp22102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents heading to Philipsburg through A.T. Illidge Road on Tuesday morning could not believe what they were seeing in the Great Salt Pond. Many concerned residents stopped their vehicles, took photos and posted them on Facebook showing thousands of dead fish while some live fish were among the dead ones fighting for their lives.

Another concerned resident posted a video of the fishes that were in the pond, next to the Firgos paper store. In the video footage he was heard saying that all week there was a strong stench coming from the Great Salt Pond. However, the heavy rainfall on Monday seems to have brought out the thousands of dead fish from inside the pond. Many of them looked like "tilapia" while there were other types of local fishes among those that perished.

Head of Maintenance at the Department of VROMI Claudius "Toonje" Buncamper told SMN News that they received reports of dead fish in the Salt Pond over the weekend. Buncamper said when they checked there were indeed dead fish in the vicinity of Air Lekkerbek and Firgos Paper which is closer to the Flood Gate. Buncamper said most of the fish that perished are the local tilapia.

He said VROMI had planned to clean up the dead fishes on Monday but because of the heavy rainfall they had to change their plans and begin cleaning the roads. Buncamper further explained that on Tuesday morning they had three crews, each comprising of three to five people removing the dead fishes from the pond while they were trying to rescue those that were still alive and place them into the Fresh Pond across from Firgos Paper. When asked if he had any idea as to the cause of the fish kill, Buncamper said that he is of the opinion that the fishes died due to the lack of oxygen. He said the Great Salt Pond is only three to five feet deep therefore the oxygen level in the Great Salt Pond goes down very quickly especially during the dry season. "Our intention is to try and save those that are still alive and place them in the Fresh Pond to see how much would survive." When asked if he could give a rough estimate on the amount of fish that perished, Buncamper said there was a lot but he could not give a figure since the clean-up was still ongoing.

Rueben Thompson from EPIC and Jadira Veen from the St. Maarten Pride Foundation could not be reached for comment as both are off island.

SMN News contacted the Inspectorate Dr. Earl Best to see if his department ever tested the water in the Great Salt Pond to determine what is inside the water that could cause so much of the fish to perish. Dr. Best said that his department has no jurisdiction over the Great Salt Pond because it falls directly under the Ministry of VROMI. Dr. Best further explained that some nine months ago he was part of a meeting where he suggested that toxicology examinations be performed on the dead fishes because so far it is only the tilapias that are being affected during a certain time of the year. Dr. Best said one just cannot conclude it's a lack of oxygen because if that was the case then the other types of fish in the pond would have perished also. He said there are more questions than answers when it comes to the dead fishes in the Great Salt Pond but since it is not his domain the only thing he could do is give advice, one of the advices is to conduct toxicology testing and to bring in someone from overseas with fisheries expertise to come up with solutions. He further explained that if the problem turns out to be the lack of oxygen as concluded by VROMI then they should consider digging the pond deeper and install pumps like the ones in the Fresh Pond to generate more oxygen.

MARIGOT: --- A man known in the community of St. Maarten as "Flashlight" whose real identity is Clinton Henry surrendered to the Gendarmes last Saturday. Flashlight, is the suspect that shot Arinaldo Hanley (23) to death two Sundays ago by Brooks Car Wash in French Quarter. The Gendarmerie confirmed that a suspect surrendered last Saturday and he has been placed in garde à vue in St. Martin as the investigation into the latest homicide continues.
The early morning shooting left another suspect Marlon Brooks with multiple gunshot wounds, he was admitted to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital but later flown to the Dominican Republic for further treatment.
According to information provided to SMN News, Flashlight surrendered to the Gendarmes after feeling guilty for shooting to death one of his best friends. SMN News further learnt that Brooks and Flashlight had some sort of argument about one week before the shooting over a basketball game at the Sports Auditorium in Philipsburg. Relatives of the victims said that Brooks won a game and that did not sit well with "Flashlight".
They explained that on the morning of the shooting when Flashlight visited French Quarter where the illegal motorcycle race is held every week he saw Brooks and went to confront him about the feud they had at the Sports Auditorium in Philipsburg. Eyewitnesses at the scene said that Marlon Brooks pulled out a hammer and lashed Flashlight in order to defend himself from his attacker. It is also reported by eyewitnesses that Arinaldo Hanley tried to stop the fight by holding on to Marlon Brooks which gave Flashlight the opportunity to pull out his gun and fire shots which killed his friend on the spot.
A press release from the Gendarmes states that the alleged perpetrator of the homicide committed on October 13th, 2013 has been arrested. The press release further states that on morning of October 13th, 2013 an argument between three men broke out near Brooks Car Wash in French Quarter. At some point several gunshots were fired, two of the shots hit Hanley who died of his injuries while the second person was seriously injured in his leg area. The main shooter fled the scene of the crime in car towards the Dutch side of the island. On the scene the gendarmes found one of the victims (Hanley) where hundreds of onlookers were while the second victim was admitted at the Marigot Hospital. Gendarmes even placed a security device on the premises of the hospital to avoid further disturbance. The press release from the Gendarmes further stated that after contact with the people around the suspect, he decided to surrender on Saturday October 19th, 2013 at the Gendarmerie where he was placed in custody. The suspect has been identified as H.C.A. He appeared before the Prosecutor on Monday in Pointe a Pitre where he was officially charged and placed in remand at the Basse Terre prison facilities.

armedrobberyfillin13082012MULLET BAY:--- On Sunday morning around 1:30am, the uniformed patrol out of the Police substation in Simpson Bay was dispatched to the grounds of Mullet Bay for an armed robbery.
Upon the arrival of the uniformed patrol at Mullet Bay in the vicinity of the Golf shop they were met by a group of four persons all of French nationality.
The group informed the patrol that they were not too long ago rob by an unknown male person when they had parked their car at said location.
The suspect had grabbed on to the shoulder bag of a female that had exited the car and while the suspect was trying to remove this from her a male person that was together with her in the car came to her assistance only to be assaulted by the armed robber.
The robber whom had a knife in his possession used this against the male person and cut him in his face and on his arm. He also received some punches in his face where as the male victim lost a tooth during this assault.
Personnel from the Ambulance Department whom were also summoned to the scene treated the victim for his injuries at the scene. The victim was later transported by his friends to the hospital on the French part of the island for further treatment.
After committing this cowardly act, the suspect got unto a scooter that was waiting for him. The scooter had another male person on it. Both suspects then fled in the direction of Lowlands.
The Detective Department is further investigating this case.
The Police Department is asking the general public for any assistance in this case and also to be more vigilant when parking or walking in these dark areas. The Police Department has also enhanced their visibility in these areas.

Police Arrest Suspects Purchasing Jewelry with Stolen Credit Cards.

On Sunday midday around 12:10pm the patrol from the uniformed department in Philipsburg was dispatched to Front Street where a group of unknown male persons were busy purchasing jewelry with stolen credit cards.
The caller also give the police dispatcher the description of the suspects which were rapidly apprehended by our quick response bike patrol team.
The suspects were brought over to the Philipsburg Police station.
Further investigation proved that the three suspects all from Malaysia had already purchased some jewelry with these stolen credit cards that were still in their possession. All items were confiscated pending further investigation.
The Hotel room where the suspects were staying was also searched in the presence of an Acting Public Prosecutor. Some other stolen credit cards were found in the room and were also confiscated in connection with investigation.
A total amount of 100 credit cards were found in this case.
The Detective Department is further investigating this case and the suspects remain in police custody.
The Police Department is once again thanking the general public in particular the business community for their assistance in this case. Once again we ask you "If you see something, Say something!". Our emergency and hot lines are open.

KPSM Police Report

tzuchidonatesmoreitemstocolebayfirevictims21102013~Urge businesses to donate, reduce wastage~

COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation continued its assistance to fire victims with donations of clothing and rice to 18 families who were affected by the devastating inferno which destroyed a number of wooden homes in Wesley Lane, Cole Bay on Sunday, October 13.
The Foundation along with six pupils from All Children's Education (ACE) Foundation made a second visit those affected on Wednesday, October 23 and turned over the items to the fire victims.
The visit was not only geared towards relieving the challenges faced by those who lost everything in the blaze; it also served as a lesson for pupils who learnt the value of assisting others in their times of need and the importance of volunteerism.
The receiving families were grateful for the assistance, love and care shown by Tzu Chi as well as of the numerous businesses, groups and individuals who have responded with assistance.
Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said the gesture by donors show that St. Maarten is truly a friendly island.
Tzu Chi will continue to assist the fire victims as its members and volunteers continue to put together packages and clothing for the victims.
Tzu Chi said following the fire, many businesses responded by donating food items to fire victims with just one or two days before they expire.
The Foundation made a special call on businesses, in particular, supermarkets to pay keen attention to the shelf life of their stock and instead of giving these items at the eleventh hour of expiry to fire victims; they should be donated at least two weeks before they expire. She said recipients will be able to make better use of the items this way.
She said items can also be donated early instead of them being left on store shelves to expire and thrown away adding to the country's garbage load. In addition to fire victims; Tzu Chi said there are many persons in the country who go hungry and donating these items in a timely manner; instead of too close to expiry would be a blessing to those in need and will in turn result in blessing those who donate them.
"Your kindness in helping the needy will be rewarded to the maximum and you will be blessed because you will be reducing the garbage burden on Mother Earth. Together we can create a blessed St. Maarten for all of us."

swescotwilliamsatlunchcelebratingelderly21102013ST. LOUIS:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended a celebratory lunch at Lago Heights in St. Louis showing appreciation for the elderly on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister thanked those in attendance for their contribution to St. Maarten and making it the country, which it is. "I want to congratulate the Rambaud, St. Louis, Free Town Association for bringing all of the Young at Heart together for this wonderful occasion. As my itinerary was planned for the Netherlands I made it a point that my travel was adjusted so that I could be there. There are few groups that bring together both sides of the island to celebrate the elderly; there should be no borders on the island that we both love. I want to say thank you to all that are there for their contribution to this island. You have made it possible for us to be proud of this island and it is because of the Foundation that you have created. Let us instill a sense of patriotism to ensure that we all unite as a people because it is part of this unity. I would not have missed this opportunity for the world and thank you for allowing me to be here.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Bureau Ombudsman is inviting the communities of St. Peters, Saunders, St. John's Estate, L.B. Scot Road, Ebenezer, and South Reward to its District Information Session for Tuesday, October 22.

The district information session on Tuesday is from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at the Rupert Maynard Community Center.

The purpose of the session is to acquaint citizens with the tasks and procedures of the Bureau Ombudsman and most importantly on the various propriety requirements. During these sessions focus will be placed on the standards of proper conduct.

The district sessions are catering to citizens, members and boards of various foundations, associations and civic organizations within the community.

The Bureau Ombudsman is appealing to the aforementioned organizations, Community Councils and Churches to encourage their members in their particular areas to come out to the session, and can even contact the bureau to confirm their participation.

The aforementioned can also contact the Bureau Ombudsman for further information at telephone: 542-1250 or 520-7378 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

swescotwilliamsgivesopeningswingatlittleleaguetournament21102013L.B. SCOT ROAD:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave the opening swing the opening of the Little League Tournament at the Jose Lake Ball Park on Saturday. The Prime Minister congratulated the organizers and the sponsors and wished all of the players much success.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

stcmembers06102013NAGICO Insurances supports STC initiative

PHILIPSBURG:--- NAGICO Insurances presented a check to Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten Foundation (STC Sint Maarten) in order for the organization to be able to send two representatives to Teams '13 Conference and Expo from November 4-7 in Salt Lake City, Utah in the United States. The conference is sponsored by the sports world's event magazine SportsTravel.

Teams '13 is considered the world's leading conference and expo for the Sports-Event Industry. More than 300 sports-event suppliers and destinations are scheduled to attend.

The Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten Foundation (STC SINT MAARTEN) has as its primary goal to develop Sports Tourism as a niche market for the destination. The new entity is structured to attract annual sports events to the island and to stimulate economic development.

STC representatives will be attending a number of sessions at the four-day conference and expo that will fully prepare them for the promotion of the destination as a sports tourism destination. Some of the sessions will delve into Economic Impact Analysis; Event Safety, Security and Integrity; Social Media, Mobile and Your Events; Advancing Integrity in Sports; and the Business of Sports.

STC Sint Maarten seeks to develop triathlon event, marathon, cycling tour, youth basketball tournaments, softball tournaments, indoor slot model car racing, a kickboxing event, celebrity games, cricket tournaments, baseball tournaments, soccer tournament and other sports related events.

The Sports Tourism Council team of founders are namely: Juan Pablo Piscione as President, Stanley Lint as Treasurer, Reggie Plaisir as Secretary, General Board Members Reggie Coram, and Peter Arndell.

The foundation welcomes corporate partnerships in order to achieve its main objective of the development and promotion of Sports Tourism on the island.

For those requiring additional information about the Sport Tourism Council, you can call 522-2828 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

governorofarubavisitsombudsmansxm21102013PHILIPSBURG:--- On October 15th 2013 the Governor of Aruba, His Excellency Mr. F. J. Refunjol and the Director of his cabinet Mr. M.G.J. Boelen, paid a visit to the Ombudsman to discuss the experiences in establishing the institution Ombudsman on Sint Maarten.
Aruba is the only country within the Dutch kingdom that does not have an Ombudsman, and is considering to also establish an Ombudsman Institution. The Governor wanted to hear first-hand from the Ombudsman the challenges and her approach in shaping this High Council of State.
The Ombudsman outlined the law pertaining to procedures to guarantee the independence of the Ombudsman, the Strategic Plan 2011-2021 of the Bureau, the yearly action plans, the Handbook, the training of the staff, the networking with the Nationale Ombudsman in the Hague, the Ombudsman of Amsterdam and Curaçao, and the various exchange visits that helped in molding the Bureau Ombudsman. The complaints procedure, the standards of proper conduct as well as the financial structure of the Bureau were briefly discussed.
Actual execution of the unique task of the Ombudsman as Guardian of the Constitution provided interesting food for thought.
Promoting the importance of the awareness regarding the tasks of the Institution and the importance of good governance not only at the level of the government apparatus, but also among the public by means of Exchange Sessions and Workshops with the Ministries, and District Information Sessions was emphasized.
The Governor was presented with the 2012 Annual Report of the Ombudsman, the Strategic Plan as well as the relevant ordinances governing the Institution.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, says the country remains in a dengue epidemic phase, and residents are advised to continually be active in taking measures to mitigate the mosquito population, especially after the downpour of rain on Monday.

For the month of September, there were a total of approximately 53 confirmed dengue cases while in August there was 68. There was also one case of severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic where the person was hospitalized.

From January to September the cumulative number of confirmed dengue cases stands at 226. The type of dengue circulating throughout the country is four.

The four main districts with high dengue fever numbers are: St. Peters, Cay Hill, Cul de Sac and South Reward.

Vector control activities has been stepped up by the Ministry; prompt response to the search of yards and gardens for mosquito breeding sites; stepped up media campaign; fogging activity was carried out from September 05 to 21.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

SHGC is urgently calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases. Persons are urgently recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods, open lots and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

sinatrarouse21102013From the desk of the Area Governor of Area 23, Sinatra Rouse, Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG) and Competent Leader (CL).

Today, October 22, marks World Toastmasters Day. As Area Governor of Area 23, I would like to wish all Toastmasters of Areas 23 and 24, both on St. Maarten and in Anguilla, a Happy Toastmasters Day! This is the time to reflect how far we have come since 1924 when Ralph Smedley launched his vision that has, today, helped more than four million men and women from all walks of life to become better communicators and leaders.

St. Maarten proudly boasts of five clubs – The Disciples, Philipsburg, and Soualiga Corporate of Area 23; and Achievers and Saint Martin Evolutions Toastmasters Clubs, of Area 24. The most recent club – Anguilla Toastmasters – also shares in this vision under Area 24. Together, we are solidifying our commitment to an organization that provides the cheapest way for persons to educate themselves and gain confidence, while building our still fledgling nation.

Toastmasters provides opportunities for us to network with friends in the more than 14,000 clubs worldwide, as is evident through the delegation that just returned from the convention in Puerto Rico.

Our membership here on St. Maarten continues to grow ever stronger and we hold our own among the 292,000 members worldwide, despite being one of the smallest countries. Our island has had representatives in top positions in the hierarchy of District 81, which encompasses the Caribbean islands and Guyana. Currently, Senior Administrator of the Government Valerie Brazier, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), holds the position of Lieutenant Governor of Education and Training in District 81. The Immediate Past District Governor is none other than Rolande Tobias, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), whose joint efforts have placed District 81 among the top 10 in the world.

So, as we celebrate this day, I would like to tell those members who represented Areas 23 and 24 at the convention in Puerto Rico, welcome back and thank you! To the active members who are growing in their leadership and communication skills and contributing to their clubs, areas and District 81, congratulations! To our guests, inactive members and prospective members, our doors are always open at any of our six clubs.

Reflect on what Toastmasters has done for you and what it can do for you, and on this special day, do your part by inviting guests to our meetings, wearing your pins proudly, and continue to spread the word of what Toastmasters has to offer.

For those interested in joining, please feel welcome to visit any one of our clubs. The Disciples Club meets every second and fourth Sunday at St. Maarten Academy from 4:45pm; Philipsburg Club meets every first, third, and fifth Thursday at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 7:15pm; Soualiga Corporate meets every second and fourth Wednesday in the Legislative Hall at 5:15pm; Saint Martin Evolution Club meets every first and third Tuesday in Marigot from 7:15 pm; Achievers Club meets every second and fourth Thursday, at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 7:15pm; and the Anguilla Club meets every second and fourth Saturday of each month, at La Vue Boutique Hotel at 6:45 pm.

divicoisland92androtarysxmdonatetofirevictims21102013COLE BAY:--- DIVICO representatives and Dr. Soc of Island 92 and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten prepare to load and deliver canned goods, drinks and 100 toothbrushes to the St. Maarten Red Cross benefiting the victims of the Cole Bay Fire. DIVICO, Island 92 and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten encourage members of the public to make donations at the Red Cross on Airport Road.

GREAT BAY:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor under the auspices of the Departments of Social Development, Public Health, Social Services and Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs have jointly set up the project "Active Aging Transportation for the elderly and physically challenged."
In the "Active Aging Transportation Project" a registration drive will be held for the public in order for elderly and physically challenged persons to register for door to door transportation service. Persons of this target group that are in need of this type of service can indicate which services they need and also the frequency of service on a weekly/monthly basis. Government is assessing the need for door to door transportation service of this target group in order to have relevant data in this area for policy- and program purposes.
The registration drive for seniors and the physically challenged starts today, Monday, October 21, 2013. Senior citizens and physically challenged persons can either come themselves or have a family member or representative register them. The registration will take place at the following places. The Department of Social Services on the Pondfill between the hours of 1PM-5PM, and at the Community Helpdesks from 9AM-5PM in the areas of St. Peters (Rupert I. Maynard Community Center), Dutch Quarter(Next to Doctor Bryson clinic), Cole Bay(Methodist Church to the rear) or Gaston Boasman Helpdesk for the elderly and physically challenged in Hope Estate. One must bring along an ID for the registration. The registration form is asking for information as it relates to the transportation needs and frequency of transportation. Persons registering will indicate the type of service needed, such as for medical appointments/pharmacy visits; GEBE, TELEM, UTS to pay monthly bills; visits to the bank; grocery shopping; Visits to social activities/clubs and also Church visits, but services can be adjusted to the required needs.
"I am asking all our seniors and physically challenged persons who are in need of transportation services to come out and register, so that government can get an idea as to what type of service is needed in the community for this target group, and we also need to get an idea as to what other types of service may be needed," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.
Active Aging refers to trends all over the world in which the elderly are part of and involved in the communities that they live in. They are connected to their societies and are sometimes also contributing to development in their communities. Governments play a role in ensuring that seniors and the physically challenged are connected to their communities and that they have a good standard of living.

A Consular Officer from the U.S. Embassy in Barbados will visit St. Martin, October 28, 2013 and Anguilla October 29-30, 2013 to provide U.S. Citizens Services and to accept applications for U.S. passports and Consular Reports of Birth Abroad (CRBA). Visa cases will not be discussed.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: We will no longer accept handwritten passport application forms. You must fill out all passport application forms online at https://pptform.state.gov/ and then print. Please have all forms completed prior to your appointment and bring originals and copies of all supporting documents.

Appointments for St. Martin will be held at the CCI (Chambre de Commerce et Industrie), Rue Jean Jacques Fayel Concordia, Marigot:

Monday, October 28: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Appointments in Anguilla will be held at Caribbean Juris Chambers, Hannah-Waver House, The Valley:

Tuesday, October 29: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, October 30: 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

You must arrange an appointment online to meet with the Consular Officer. Please follow instructions on the U.S. Embassy's website at http://barbados.usembassy.gov/acs_consularvisits.html.

Fees must be paid by international money order or bank draft made out to "U.S. Embassy." PLEASE NOTE: The money order or bank draft must have the correct and exact amount. We will not issue any refunds. Fees are:

  • Child's passport (under age 16): US$105
  • First adult passport: US$135
  • CRBA: US$100
  • Notarials: US$50 per signature

If you are renewing a ten-year passport issued less than 15 years ago, and can present your expired passport, you may apply by mail directly to the Embassy; the fee is US$110. If you
cannot present a previous ten-year passport issued less than fifteen years ago, you must appear in person for an interview with the consular officer; fee is US$135.

All applicants must provide: completed passport application, two passport-size photos (2" x 2"), proof of U.S. citizenship such as previous U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, or U.S. naturalization certificate, and social security card. Please bring originals AND photocopies of all documents. You must also provide a prepaid air waybill (FedEx, DHL, LIAT QuikPak, etc.) in order to have the new passport mailed back to you.

For a child under age 16, if both parents are listed on the birth certificate, both parents must appear in person with the child OR you may submit a notarized statement of consent from the absent parent. For more information, visit: http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/get/minors/minors_834.html. Please also bring the documents listed above PLUS the child's birth certificate and both parents' passports or other identification. Please bring originals AND photocopies of all documents including copies of the parents' identification.

Additional information on U.S. citizen services and links to application forms are available on U.S. Department of State's website at http://travel.state.gov.

BELVEDERE:--- Come enjoy a fun day out as Mc Donald's and X104.3 have connected together to form Mc Donald's Kids Fun Day to be held October 27, 2013 at Mc Donald's in Belvedere.
Sunday's schedule of events begins at 1 p.m. with X104.3 Xtreme Team providing entertainment to all visitors and the free Happy Meal give away. LAB Sports Academy will be on hand with some challenging and exciting games for all visitors to enjoy and take part in.
Throughout the day, visitors will have many opportunities to take photos and hang out with favorite childhood characters, such as Dora, Sponge Bob and Spiderman, all while enjoying refreshments compliments of B&C Beverages.
Mc Donald's Kids Fun Day culminates from 4 until 5 p.m. with live music and the final prize give away of the day. Kids Fun Day is a great opportunity for the children of the community to come out and have a good time with their friends, favorite cartoon characters, radio station X104.3 and restaurant Mc Donald's while being able to win free prizes and testing their skills.
This event is possible through the generous donations of Mc Donald's, Radio X104.3, Prime Distributors, B&C Beverages, LAB Sports Academy, Taliesin Construction and La Rich.
For more information on this event listen to X104 live at 104.3 fm, online at www.x1043.com, visit any Mc Donald's location or see the event ad in the newspapers.

swescotwilliamsopendiabetesconference20102013Highlights the Collective Cooperation in Combating the Disease

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the Diabetes Conference on Friday soon after her return from the Netherlands where she highlighted the importance of a joint approach to combating the disease. The conference, organized by the Windward Islands Medical Association, brought together medical professionals from across the region and internationally to discuss ways forward in combating the disease.

The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity to collectively battle diabetes. "Our health barometer shows that we do indeed face our challenges an we will further get a feel for this when our Health Information Systems are put in place. However, good care and prevention makes all of the difference in the care for the patients, for their families and for the communities in general of St. Maarten. In a few weeks, on November the 14th we will be celebrating World Diabetes Day and that makes this conference indeed very pertinent and timely and necessary. Stakeholders and healthcare professionals are here to discuss the trends in treatment and care for those suffering from diabetes. The trend worldwide with regards to diabetes in quite alarming and St. Maarten unfortunately is no exception. As you consider the topic for this conference "Can We Turn the Tide" I believe that indeed collectively, with the Public and Private Sectors, we indeed can however there are some necessary requisites, important amongst those being education. It should be no wonder that the theme for diabetes internationally is about prevention and education. As we contemplate how we can turn the tide and reduce the rate in which diabetes is effecting an important factor is education and understanding of what diabetes means for healthcare and our community and so we must turn the tide together," commented the Prime Minister

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarysxmseniorslagooncruise20102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last Friday, October 18th, over 100 senior St. Maarten residents enjoyed a lagoon cruise aboard the Explorer along with Rotarians from the Rotary Club of St. Maarten and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-Isle as well as Interactors from Learning Unlimited, Milton Peters College and St. Maarten Academy. This was the 28th year this event was hosted by the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Entertainment was provided by The Rhythm Boys.

Rotary Club of St. Maarten President Maria Buncamper-Molanus said, "I can not sufficiently express my gratitude to Marc Groeneveldt and his team of Rotarians and Interactors, who made this event seem so effortless. Russell Bell, as usual, got our Seniors to the boat on time and returned them to their destinations safely. On behalf of the Rotary Club, I want to thank the local business community, in particular, the numerous restaurants that provided great food, and of course, those that provided the beverages for the day".

Later on that same day many Rotarians, guests and members of the public once again boarded the Explorer for an evening party cruise, as a fundraising effort to offset the costs of the daytime seniors cruise. Party goers were treated to the electrifying sounds of the Logix Band.

When asked to sum up the day, President Maria Buncamper-Molanus, simply said, "a grand time, both day and night, was had by all".

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

swescotwilliamsspellingbee20102013Encourages Students to Continue to be Leaders

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the finals of the Seven Seas, Rotary, Rotaract Spelling Bee at the Belair Community Center on Saturday. The five finalists of the spelling bee represented their schools and wowed the audience with their ability to spell difficult words.

The Prime Minister thanked the organizers and the sponsors and encouraged the students in continuing to excel. "I would like to thank Seven Seas, The Rotary Club and Rotaract and the many businesses who have contributed to this event and helped to make all this possible. I am sure that, like me, the students are quite excited to get started in the spelling bee and I commend them for being young leaders in representing their schools at a very worthwhile project. It is important to also recognize all of those who have participated. The fact that you have participated in this study shows that you can compete and that you have confidence in yourselves. You all deserve a round of applause. And I hope in years to come we can see many more students participating and of course to the teachers and parents in supporting and encouraging the students participating," encouraged the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

commeetswithombudsman20102013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On Thursday October 3, 2013, the Council of Ministers held a meeting with Ombudsman Dr. R. (Nilda) Arduin who was accompanied by the Bureau's Secretary General Ms. Patricia Philips and Legal Advisor Marlon Hart. The Ombudsman explained the content of the Year Report 2012 and gave an update on the various complaints received by the Ombudsman addressing governmental issues.

commeetswithbeablecommittee20102013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On Thursday October 3, 2013, the Council of Ministers held a meeting with Top Promotion Foundation/Be Able Committee. The Be Able Committee was represented by Chairman Mr. Henri Brookson, Treasurer Mr. Michel Soons and board members Mrs. Angela Richards and Mrs. Veronica Jansen.

The Be Able Committee is the organizer of the annual Awareness Week, which took place in 2012 for the first time with a week of activities, including the international Wheelchair Tennis Tournament. The Awareness Week is intended to create awareness and perspective for the physically and mentally challenged in our society.

The second annual of the Awareness Week and the International Wheelchair Tennis Tournament will take place from November 15 – 23, 2013. The Council of Ministers had the opportunity to view the documentary that was made about last year's event and received information in regard to the challenges and circumstances that need to be improved in order to better the present situation of the physically challenged on Sint Maarten.

In the picture the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Minister of Finance Martin Hassink, and Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunication Thaddeus Richardson were presented with polo shirts from the organization. Also in picture are Chairman of the Be Able Committee Mr. Henri Brookson, Treasurer Mr. Michel Soons and board members Mrs. Angela Richards and Mrs. Veronica Jansen.

sxmsportingclubboard20102013SIMPSON BAY:--- A 38-strong contingent of the SXM Sporting Club will leave for Aruba on Oct. 24 to participate in the annual International Airports Slam Games, which will feature volleyball, softball, indoor soccer, target shooting, and dominoes.

"The main event is softball," said Evans Marsham, president of the SXM Sporting Club of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Last year the SXM Sporting Club hosted the games when St. Maarten won three of the five events.

"We think we will definitely come back with some trophies from Aruba, but I don't know in what sports yet," he added.

The games began as an annual sporting event among the airports of the now defunct Netherlands Antilles. This year, the participants will also include Surinam and Barbados, apart from Curacao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, and host Aruba.

As members of the board of the SXM Sporting Club sorted out brand new uniforms for the participants in Marsham's office, the atmosphere was upbeat.

"In softball, Curacao and Aruba are our biggest rivals," Marsham said, "while in volleyball it is Curacao, without underestimating Surinam and the other teams. However, our weakest link might be indoor soccer."

Not really, in the opinion of secretary Erica Emer.

"We hope to bring back all the trophies, including indoor soccer, even though Aruba has home advantage," she said.

Emer explained that 14 women are among the SXM Sporting Club contingent.

"It's a mixed match. Each team must have a female player," she said.

The slam ends on Sunday, Oct. 27 and the SXM group is expected back the following day.

parlatinosxmdelegation20102013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell along with several members of Parliament were present in Panama City, Panama over the weekend for the opening of Latin American Parliament (Parlatino) Headquarters (HQ).

The historic inauguration event on Saturday, 19 October was attended by Heads of State including Prince of Spain His Royal Highness Felipe de Borbon and Curacao's Prime Minister Hon. Ivar Asjes.

The inauguration of the new parliamentary HQ was also a special moment for country Sint Maarten. The country's flag hung prominently in front of the new HQ among the other 22 member states as well as inside the General Assembly Hall.

In addition, country Sint Maarten is forever etched in stone on the commemorative plaque placed at the entrance of the Parlatino building where the names of the Vice Presidents of Parlatino are engraved, including that of President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell.

The parliamentary sessions at the XXIX General Assembly concluded with the participants signing the guestbook as a record of the special inauguration event.

The Members of Parliament (MPs) who attended were, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. George Pantophlet, MP Hon. Romain Laville, MP Hon. Petrus de Weever, MP Hon. Sylvia Meyers-Olivacce, President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell, and 1st Acting Secretary General Nancy Joubert.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake on Sunday said he is fully behind the expansion of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC).

SMMC he pointed out should be up there with the harbor and airport which are seen as beacons of the country's progress to date.

Minister Lake who visited SMMC Open House on Saturday commends staff and management for doing a fantastic job in organizing the event for the public to display and showcase to the community what SMMC has to offer.

"We have to give them credit for the sacrifice and hard work they put in on a daily basis, 24/7 with the limited resources that they have," Minister Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake said that once the SMMC Board and Management are ready with their expansion plans, his Ministry will be ready to assist them with the necessary permits to get the expansion underway.

"The health of a nation is the key to socio-economic success of a country. You need a hospital that has the facilities to take care of its people. SMMC has been doing that, and before that you had the St. Rose Hospital on Front Street.

"SMMC has reached the point where it's bursting from its seams and needs to expand and further grow. Our country has grown by leaps and bounds. We have a vibrant tourism sector with over two million visitors, but our medical facility has not grown.

"The health of the people is a primary concern to me as a Minister. I can recall visiting the open house held by SMMC last year October as a private citizen/community activist. At that time I said SMMC is on the right track for success in providing the best health care for our people. I also stated back then that I am looking forward to see government support for the much needed expansion plan for our own hospital.

"I wrote many opinionated pieces in our daily papers in the past about how Government needs to support SMMC's expansion plans.

"On Saturday, October 2013, I visited SMMC open house in the capacity as a Minister of this country. I am now one of the seven in the driver's seat, and SMMC staff and management can count on my support for doing what needs to be done to see our own home-grown medical center expanded," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake added that country Sint Maarten moving forward is based on getting back to basics. "If the country is to continue to progress, it must have a healthy population. Without good health there is no wealth. Our medical center is an institution that is part and parcel of the foundation that this country is built upon.

"This foundation also includes your port and airport among other locally home-grown institutions. We must give it what's due to it and I will do what I have to do to see our SMMC and its staff move forward together. Just recently Government allocated land to our locally home-grown St. Maarten Laboratory Services.

"Our lab will build their own facility in the vicinity of SMMC therefore creating a little health city park. We have all heard of technological parks, why not a health city park where we offer various medical services to the neighboring islands? It can be done," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that road works will take place on the Billy Folly Road starting from in front of the Atrium Hotel going up to the entrance of the Simpson Bay Resort & Marina Security booth Monday evening October 21 starting at 8:00pm.

The Billy Folly Road in the aforementioned area will be paved. One lane will be paved first followed by the next. Through traffic will continue. Leaving and entering the area may take a bit longer due to the road works.

Residents and visitors heading to Pelican or leaving the area are asked to pay keen attention to temporary traffic changes that will be put in place in connection with the road paving efforts.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

PHILIPSBURG:--- There is a Central Committee session of Parliament on October 24 with the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA).

The Central Committee session is on Thursday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Central Committee session is a continuation of the meeting that was last held on March 20, 2013, which was postponed.

The agenda points for the session are: survival and growth of the marine industry on Sint Maarten as it relates to, immigration/visa policies; the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority; and the overall economy of the island and other marine related issues.

This meeting was requested by M.F. Ferrier, on behalf of the SMMTA in a letter dated December 17, 2012.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

semainebleue18102013MARIGOT:--- Within the framework of the Blue Week, week dedicated to the elderly which will be held from 21 till 27 October 2013, the children of the club of Avenir Sportif Club of Saint-Martin will participate in events with the elderly of the retirement home Bethany Home, on Saturday, October 26th, 2013, at the Albéric Richard stadium from 9 am to noon.
To the program, activities in the course of which these two groups of opposite age will become allied to be the best: one 400 meters in wheelchair assisted by a young athlete of the club, a running race in which a young athlete will have to represent an elderly person. The elderly will also have to do their best, because they will be in confrontation on one 100 meters walking race, and diverse workshops of athletics will be dedicated to them.
Let us bet that just like last year, this inter-generational meeting will allow discussions between young and elderly, and that the atmosphere will be warm.

wibdonatestovilleneuvejuniorking18102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) was very pleased to provide a donation to assist Mr. Villeneuve Junior King, who leaves on Sunday for training at one of Florida's top ten baseball academies. Villeneuve, who plays center field, started playing in the St. Maarten Little League and might just be St. Maarten's next professional baseball player.

Villeneuve has now finished his schooling in St. Maarten and is looking to move on to a US college to continue his tertiary education. While at college, Villeneuve's goal is to continue playing baseball and eventually go on to become a professional baseball player. Going to this training academy in Florida will definitely improve his chances at achieving his goal of succeeding at the highest level in the sport.

If you wish to have more information please visit his website at http://sosclif.wix.com/junior-king.

The donation was made to Mr. Villeneuve Junior King (left) by Mr. Derek Downes WIB's Managing Director.

rotarymidislereceivespresentationfromalzheimersfoundation18102013PHILIPSBURG:--- During a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid Isle, Drs. Jessurum gave a presentation of the recently released World Alzheimer Report 2013 which centered around the role of the care givers in dementia care. The Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid Isle was only the second group to receive this interesting presentation. The first presentation was given to the Minister of Health.

Members of the club, especially those who have dealt with family members and acquaintances suffering from this disease spoke of their appreciation of the presentation.

Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid Isle would like to encourage everyone in the community to be aware of the symptoms of Alzheimer's and to contact their physicians for early detection.

rotarymidisledonatestoredcrossforfirevictims18102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Disaster Coordinator of the Rotary Club St. Maarten Mid Isle Mr. Peter Mazereeuw and Past Assistant District Governor Mr. Louis Wever spearheaded a collection drive to collect much needed supplies for the victims of the recent fire in the shanty area in Cole Bay. After contacting the Red Cross, they were informed that it would be best at this time to provide clothing as soon as possible to the victims. Members of the club were contacted and quite some bags of clothes, shoes and schoolbags were donated to those who lost everything in the fire. Rotary St. Maarten Mid Isle will continue its collection drive among members.

PHILIPSBURG:--- General Audit Chamber submits the report on the 2011 financial statements of Sint Maarten to Parliament.

The General Audit Chamber submitted their final report on the 2011 financial statements of the Country Sint Maarten on Thursday, October 17, 2013. In keeping with the National Government Accounting Ordinance, the financial statements 2011 of Sint Maarten were examined and the results are outlined in a report to Parliament. The report provides information on the financial information contained in the financial statements of 2011 which were submitted to both the General Audit Chamber and government's accountant, SOAB, on July 19th 2013. These 2011 annual financial statements, representing the first for Sint Maarten since attaining the status of Country within the Kingdom, were issued late.

As required by law, the SOAB audited the financial statements and issued a report to government and the General Audit Chamber. The General Audit Chamber in turn reviewed both the financial statements and the report of the internal auditor and provided comments, opinions and recommendations regarding, among others, on the quality and value of the financial and policy information contained in the financial statements as well as the operational and financial management of the ministries.

The General Audit Chamber concluded that the financial information provided in the annual financial statements does not satisfy legal requirements. Moreover, the General Audit Chamber determined that the operational management is not "in control". Specifically, there are inadequate internal control procedures in place at the ministries, a consequence of which are numerous errors and uncertainties in the annual financial statements.

The value of information provided in the annual financial statements for 2011 is, in the opinion of the General Audit Chamber, insufficient. Lack of information means that the users of the financial statements, among which, Parliament, cannot adequately form an opinion regarding the implementation of policy nor the (financial) management thereof.

One of the recommendations issued by the General Audit Chamber refers to improving the quality of policy information as part of the annual budget cycle. The Audit Chamber suggests that ministries formulate policy in terms of the so called "W-questions". In other words, What do we want to achieve, what will we do to achieve it, and what will it cost?

By law, within a month after issue of the report, government is required to submit a draft ordinance to Parliament to confirm the annual financial statements and also to discharge the ministers in respect to their financial management.

Once Parliament receives reports from the General Audit Chamber, these reports are made public.
The document will be made available in Dutch and English on the website of the General Audit Chamber (www.arsxm.org).

cdeweeverwithdscrepsandeducationdeptreps18102013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday October 14th, a delegation from Dominica comprising of the Minister of Education the Honorable Petter St. Jean, Dr. Donald Peters, President Dominica State College , Mr. Brian Meade, Chairman Board of Governors Dominica State College and the Minister's press secretary presented the new multi-million dollar developments of the Dominica State College to the Heads of the Ministry of Education and Honorable Minister de Weever who chaired the meeting on behalf of Minister Lourens.

The Dominica State college (DSC) is the largest and most modern state of the art Educational Facility in Northeastern Caribbean, with accreditation to most of the Universities in the US, Canada, and the UK.

The group took the opportunity to establish a close working relationship with the Government and people of St. Maarten. As there are several hundreds of Dominican nationals, who have been living and working in St. Maarten for years, and have children at College level years who qualify for study financing.

smmckidneyfailureinfosession18102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Dialysis patients of the St. Maarten Medical Center and their families and friends, Minister of Public Health, Labour and Social Affairs and SZV representatives attended among others a Dialysis/Kidney Transplant Information Session at the University of St. Martin on Thursday October 17th, 2013.

Dr. Van Buren, a Nephrologist working in the Netherlands, gave the keynote presentation. She spoke about the role of our kidneys and what happens when someone kidney fails.

There are 2 possibilities of treatment for someone who has a chronic kidney disease. He or she can have dialysis or can have a kidney transplant.

In St. Maarten there is only one possibility available for these individuals, this treatment is haemodialysis.

Persons requiring this treatment are on a dialysis machine 2 or 3 times a week for 3-4 hours. These dialysis patients need to follow a specific diet and they need to take a certain amount of medications each day.

When Dr. van Buren visited the St. Maarten Medical Center two and half years ago, she was surprised to see that there are patients on the island who may be on dialysis for the rest of their lives because having a transplant on the island is not possible. Neither is there a donor list or a support system in place for them to receive a kidney.

In the Netherlands the possibilities of a kidney transplant is high, though someone may be on hemodialysis treatment for 6 years before being eligible to receive a kidney transplant.

There are 36 dialysis patients treated at the St. Maarten Medical Center. The dialysis clinic, "started out of a closet in St. Rose hospital" says Antonio Pantophlet, Manager Patient Care in his opening remarks. The department has been possible with the efforts of now retired Internist Dr. Theo Jolles and hard working nursing staff.

A group of qualified registered nurses with certified specialization in dialysis care give patients the best possible care. Recently, the SMMC has been able to attract nephrologists from Curacao to provide medical care to the dialysis patients every two weeks.

Minister of Public Health, Labour and Social Affairs, Dr. Cornelius De Weever reaffirmed that the visiting Nephrologist has assist in improving the care at the SMMC. The need for specialists and the need for the expansion of the hospital have to take place to further improve to care especially for dialysis patients.

"We cannot focus on the cost. We have to provide the quality of care that our family deserves...we need to explore the possibility of a national organ donor list on SMMC," says the minister.

Through Dr. van Buren mediation and cooperation between the dialysis department and social work department it was possible for our first patients to go to the Erasmus Medical Centre in Rotterdam to obtain a kidney transplant. Kidney transplant coordinator Nrs. Georgina Mingau and Social Worker Rachel Hofdom presented how the SMMC gives these patients support in this process.

The SZV discussed how they have been instrumental in this process. Since then they have worked together with the dialysis department of the SMMC and their social worker to send 4 patients to the Netherlands. All of whom has been successful. The transitions has been smoothly, "when we receive the request, SMMC has already done their medical part and we send the patient away and hope for the best" Carele Martha, SZV representative. She also discussed the possibilities for dialysis patients to receive treatment aboard if they go on vacation.

At the session local author Felicita Williams gave her experience of having kidney failure as a child and leaving for the Netherlands in the early 1990 to be on a donor list while receiving haemodialysis treatment.

Years later, there are still challenges for St. Maarten patients. Receiving live donors from family and friends is still yet not common among us. Also insufficient information and myths about kidney transplant may be the cause for a lack of donors.

Many persons regretted the lack of general practitioners at the session, as it is very important that kidney failure be found early. There may be the possibility to prevent renal kidney failure or there may be the possibility for someone to receive a kidney transplant before going on dialysis.

The SMMC will continue to bring awareness of the need for kidney donors on the island. In her closing remarks Anita Rotsburg, Supervisor Dialysis department SMMC, emphasized the need for St. Maarten to work toward a point where a donor list for patients on St. Maarten can be established.

Dr. van Buren was presented with a token on behalf of patients and dialysis staff for her active support two and a half years ago in getting patients with kidney failure, who had live donors, transplanted in the Netherlands.

The dialysis department will be present at the St. Maarten Medical Center Open House to give information and answer questions about kidney failure, treatment and possibilities for kidney transplantation. Persons can also receive a tour of the dialysis unit.

The Open House is at 3:00pm until 8:00pm. It will start with breast cancer lectures and continue with a Zumba session and free breast exams. The public is invited to attend and learn about the services offered at the SMMC.

christophehenocqattourismconference18102013ANSE MARCEL:--- A diverse group of people came together around a conference room table at the Radisson Hotel in Anse Marcel, to spend the day planning how to develop St. Martin's cultural and natural heritage assets to attract a portion of the growing experiential tourism market. Experiential tourism, one term for the growing market of tourists seeking authentic experiences centered around nature, culture, arts and heritage, is a fast growing segment of the global tourism market, and typically includes visitors that stay longer and spend more than traditional tourists. The workshop, moderated by Christophe Henocq, aimed to outline a strategy and action plan to guide future efforts in these areas as a way to increase tourism on the island, particularly during low season.

Part of a two-day tourism conference organized by Député Daniel Gibbs in partnership with Air France and the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), the heritage and environment "think tank" session attracted a mix of business owners and representatives of associations working in ecology, history, culture and the arts to share ideas for development in these areas and seek cooperative solutions to make them a reality.

"For those of us who have been working to develop natural and cultural assets for years or decades, this is a very exciting time due to the rapid growth of heritage tourism worldwide," explained roundtable facilitator Christophe Henocq. "The tremendous economic potential of the island's heritage has created mainstream interest in promoting and protecting the things that make St. Martin unique."

Two hours of roundtable discussion in the morning focused on identifying existing assets on the island, exploring new opportunities and addressing obstacles to developing heritage tourism. Assets identified in the discussion were plentiful and diverse, including protected wetlands of international importance, historical sites like Fort Louis, attractions such as Loterie Farm and public events like Mardis de Grand Case. Cuisine, traditional architecture and local arts were also pinpointed as key elements of the authentic St. Martin experience.

A rich variety of future opportunities were also explored. The team considered attractions and events that combine multiple aspects of heritage to be especially promising, due to their potential to attract a broader audience. A wildlife trail on the Grand Case salt pond that also tells the story of the salt industry was one suggestion. In keeping with the theme of the conference, the group also investigated specific ways to attract tourism during the low season, such as increasing the international appeal of off-season events such as the St. Martin Book Fair and Migratory Bird Festival and creating new magnet events such as art/history/film fusion exhibitions and hiking festivals.

Regrouping after lunch, the workshop created an action plan based on the discussion from the morning, and presented it to the general conference and the press. Key objectives included expanding and improving the island's heritage offerings to increase their appeal and reach new niche markets, creating a committee to develop heritage tourism on the island, and developing a unified brand and message around St. Martin's heritage offerings that it can promote in key international markets.

Significant challenges remain. Difficulty finding information about heritage attractions, the need for improved logistics and parking for events, and security issues were identified as obstacles facing tourists on the island today. However, with a lucrative and growing market to address, a plan of action, and broad interest in developing these assets, the future of heritage-based tourism on St. Martin looks brighter than ever.

pjiaemeetandgreetarea18102013SIMPSON BAY:--- The "Meet and Greet" area at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has been spruced up to mark the airport's 70th anniversary and also to reflect the stunning landing approach for which it has become world famous, with CNN being the latest to list SXM among the world's most dramatic landings. All of this falls in line with the airport's drive to heighten the "sense of place" that would distinguish it positively and impact on the passenger experience. (SXM Photo)

maroonlivescover18102013GREAT BAY:--- "On October 19, 1983, Prime Minister Maurice Bishop, leader of the Grenadian Revolution, and his closest advisers were assassinated by the country's army, and six days later, the USA executed its long-planned invasion of the Spice Isle." That's how the preface by Lasana Sekou opens his just released book from House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

The publication is entitled Maroon Lives – Tribute to Maurice Bishop & Grenadian Freedom Fighters by Lasana M. Sekou; Revolution As Poetic Inspiration: Grenada in 'Maroon Lives' by Fabian Adekunle Badejo, and is available at www.amazon.com and other bookstores.

"Thirty years later, the scars left by the assassination of the charismatic leader of the New Jewel Movement of Grenada, Maurice Bishop, are yet to heal completely. Maroon Lives was and remains for me a dirge for a revolution gone bad; a revolution that held out the best hope for not only the Grenadian people but for the whole of the Caribbean," said Badejo about the title that he collaborated on with Sekou.

Keith Ellis, author and professor emeritus at University of Toronto, is certain that Sekou's Maroon Lives, as a "powerful extensive elegy that privileges revolution—like others by José Martí and Nicolás Guillén—will not grow old, nor will the brilliant essay by Fabian Adekunle Badejo that accompanies it."

The first part of the book is collection of poems by Sekou. He takes aim at the Bishop assassination, the US invasion, and tensions generated by revolutionary struggles and the search for justice. Chapter two is Badejo's in-depth study of Maroon Lives and the critical relationship between literature, revolution, and the transformation of societies.

The authors acknowledge both the achievements of the Grenada Revolution and what Sekou calls in the poem "War Dogs," its "abortion slaughter." "But revolutions don't die once they enter into the hearts and consciousness of people where no weapons can dislodge them," said Badejo.

"The re-publication of Maroon Lives by Lasana Sekou and my paper on it two generations later is proof positive that the dream of Maurice Bishop lives on, like the maroons."

First released as Maroon Lives – for Grenadian freedom fighters, with only the poems written between the arrest of Bishop and the Urgent Fury invasion, the 1983 edition was hurriedly published in New York, just a few weeks after the US invasion on October 25. Sekou was a Howard University graduate student at the time. Badejo's study was first presented at the Caribbean Studies Association conference in 1984.

In the preface to the beefed up edition of 2013, Sekou hopes that Maroon Lives "will resonate with today's protest poetry, related literary criticism, and dispatches from the culture wars and the challenges of globalization."

The St. Martin poet also wants the tribute title to "inform somehow the discourse and defiance of the enterprise of imperialism whatever shape, form, or guise this may take."

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell would like to commend the FC Soualiga Women's Soccer Team on organizing their first international Women's Soccer tournament at Cruyff Court in Belvedere this weekend.

The competition will feature two teams from Sint Maarten and one from Curacao, St. Barths, and Trinidad & Tobago.

"I extend a warm welcome to the invited teams and wish them both local and regional teams much success. As a former amateur soccer player in my teens, I can attest to the fact that being part of any sport especially during your formative years contributes significantly to building a mentality of team spirit, discipline, endurance no matter the obstacles life throws at you.

"Congratulations to David Forsythe for his hard work as well as for his vision in establishing this female soccer team. This is just the beginning.

"I'm convinced that the FC Soualiga Women's Soccer Team will make Sint Maarten proud when it qualifies to participate in a world class international tournament.

"I encourage more teens and young women to take charge of their lives and join any sport of their choice," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- "The OSPP has previously suggested a reasonable pay-out package for the RBC workers to be laid off, says Lenny Priest, and some have commented disparagingly at our proposal. We however feel that anyone who finds our proposal unreasonable, or question RBC's ability to offer the compensation we proposed, knows nothing of the record profits RBC posted in 2012. Nor can our detractors be aware that RBC is among the largest banks in the world, based on market capitalization. We do not expect those that criticized our suggestion; know that about the same time that the local branch of RBC informed thirteen of its employees of their eminent dismissal, the parent company disclosed that it had committed itself to over $95million in donations and sponsorships to world charities over the next three to four years. Thus, the OSPP is in no doubt that RBC is well able, to write off the mortgages of its soon-to-be-let-go employees. They should not try to shun their responsibilities as a corporate citizen and they must also remember that charity begins at home. We think firstly that RBC should not be permitted to create disruption to our fragile economy and social displacement to so many families by sending home these employees, without reasonable economic rationalization for this. It is virtually impossible for RBC St Maarten to present justification for this move, or it would have done so. The only reason given so far – reorganization – downsizing may make the world of sense to RBC, but means nothing to us beyond the hardships so far encountered through its defective services over the months, and the expected upheaval that will follow the complete closure of certain aspects of its local operations. To us, it is a choice of either compensating the employees adequately, or re-deploy these workers, and not at the expense of other sectors of the institution. Certainly, a bank that claims to be interested in "strengthening the social fabric of the communities in which [it] operates" must know that its chosen priorities should reflect those of the community in which it exists, and that our community also needs investments, not the divestment it aims to bring unto the thirteen and unknown others .

OSPP Press Release

pjiaesponsorsfcsoualiga17102013SIMPSON BAY:--- Female athletes of the FC Soualiga Soccer team sponsored by the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), received their branded jerseys on Tuesday, October 15, 2013. They also received breast cancer promotional bags in light of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month currently underway.

The team will be hosting the FC Soualiga International Women's Soccer Tournament, which is slated for October 19-20, 2013, at the Johan Cruyff Court in Belvedere. For this tournament, the team will be welcoming a number of regional women's soccer teams to the island and will have the opportunity to hand over additional promotional SXM Airport bags to the visiting teams.

According to Lieneke Haandrikman, member of the FC Soualiga Management Team, this will be the first time since the establishment of FC Soualiga, in April 2013, that the team will be hosting such an international tournament. Participating teams are from St. Maarten, Curaçao, St. Barth's, and Trinidad and Tobago. St. Maarten will field two teams. Each team will consist of a maximum of 10 players, with six players on the field during the game, Cruyff Court competition-style.

"We've been practicing really hard and both teams have shown great dedication, motivation and improvement in skill. Unfortunately, we have not been able to scope out the competition yet, we have heard that they are indeed very good, but we will definitely do our best to make St. Maarten proud," Haandrikman said, commenting on the prospects of the hosts at the tournament.

"We hope this tournament will open doors and allow us to become acquainted with more teams internationally, as well as allowing us the opportunity to play abroad and represent our island," she added.

Since the establishment of FC Soualiga women's soccer team, SXM Airport has been a partner of FC Soualiga, assisting with the hosting of a Father's Day Business Tournament, providing practice uniforms for the ladies and now officially sponsoring the 'home' and 'away' tournament uniforms for the FC Soualiga players.

"SXM remains committed to supporting sports activities on the island, and we wish FC Soualiga the best of luck during the upcoming tournament," said Kalifa Hickinson, SXM Airport Corporate Communications Specialist.

motorworldprovidescarsforqueenshowwinners18102013~ For Senior and Mature Queens ~

COLE BAY:--- Motorworld and the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) have once again joined forces to offer the winner of the Ms. Mature Carnival Queen Pageant and Senior Carnival Queen pageant, brand new cars as their grand prize.

Motorworld and SCDF had what was called a terrific response to its partnership from Carnival 2013 and is excited about the activities planned for Carnival 2014, the 45th anniversary of Carnival on St. Maarten.

The Senior Carnival Queen will win a 2014 Hyundai Accent and the Mature Queen a 2014 Hyundai i-20. Motorworld will also make vehicles available to SCDF to use for its various Motorcades, the company will also be the co-sponsor of the Senior and Mature Pageant nights and will have a presence in the Grand Carnival Parade.

"Motorworld has been and continues to be a dependable corporate partner for St. Maarten's Carnival. We have developed a great working relationship all in the benefit of Carnival. The contestants for our two biggest pageants, the Senior and Mature, work really hard for months in preparation for their shows. To win a car at the end of it all, it a nice reward," President of SCDF Mike Granger said.

"Motorworld is proud to once again sponsor the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) for the upcoming Carnival season. For Carnival 2014 Motorworld will be donating a brand new 2014 Hyundai i20 and brand new 2014 Hyundai Accent for the winner of the Mature Carnival Queen Pageant (aged 26 and up) and the winner of the Senior Carnival Queen Pageant (18 to 25). We wish all the contestants the very best of luck and hope the people of St. Maarten come out to support this great event in large numbers," Rena Amjad CEO of Motorworld said.

She added that with the car prizes as prizes for Carnival 2013 turnout to the shows were the most in a long time. "They were very successful and we're hoping for an even bigger turn out this year celebrating 45 years of carnival," Amjad said.

Registration for the pageants has been opened since September 1, 2013 and will be closed on December 1, 2013. Forms can be collected at the Government Administration Building (at the security desk) or can be requested by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Information regarding the pageants can be had by calling 5208863 or 5225133.

SCDF Press Release

telemfamilyfunday08042013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group will be hosting a Family Fun Park event on November 3, with an open invitation to all fun-lovers, young and old. This is the second time for the year TelEm Group is hosting the Family Fun park event this year, "and it's back by popular demand," said event coordinator, Angel Richardson. She said a whole day has been set aside for a number of fun activities that visitors of all ages can enjoy, but especially youngsters.
"The winners of our recently held Breakthrough talent search will be there to perform for our guests in some live shows. We will also bring back the popular Rock wall, Bungee Jump, and the Game Fest." Said Angel.
Other activities will include airbrush and tattoos, surprise raffles, entertaining toys, various street performers. There will also be refreshments of food and drink.
"Once again we are happy to say that that we will only be charging $1 for entrance and different fees for each activity," said Angel, who is also predicting a massive turnout that will be even bigger than the record turnout earlier in the year when a similar event was held.
"We are all prepared for a large crowd once again and we will be advising visitors to come early to enjoy all that we will have to offer," continued Angel.
As with the earlier event, the Family Fun Park will take place in the TelEm Group grounds on Pond Island.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Excitement is building as nominations are coming in for the 8th Annual Crystal Pineapple Awards. We want to make sure that your candidate gets nominated, as nominations will be coming to a close on Monday October 21st, 2013. This is the ONLY event on the island which gives you the opportunity to put forward those individuals and companies that you think should be recognized for their outstanding performance in the Tourism and Trade Industry: May it be an excellent employee, an outstanding manager or for example, someone who has really contributed towards the industry. The grand event will take place on November 22nd at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino.

This year's nomination category groups are: Accommodations (Hotels, Timeshares and Rentals) with 4 subcategories; Restaurants with 3 subcategories; and Community Services. Individuals, who have been nominated in previous years, can be nominated again. With tourism being the main economic pillar of St. Maarten, every business on our island, directly or indirectly, contributes to the industry. As such we encourage nominations from all businesses on St. Maarten. So do not miss your chance to submit your nominations! Submission of nominations can be done as follows:

Step 1. Go to www.shta.com
Step 2. Select 'Crystal Pineapple Awards' from the Events Tab
Step 3. Click on link to see the Nomination Categories
Step 4. Download and fill in the nomination form
Step 5. Send the filled out nomination form to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nominations and photos of the nominees should be sent by fax to the SHTA office at 542-0107 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please feel free to send in nominations for more than one category. Once your nominations have been received and they pass the initial screening, three to five candidates per subcategory will be presented to the general public for voting. The Organizing Committee is appealing to the community of St. Maarten to nominate their candidate before it is too late. "This is the opportunity to recognize an outstanding employee, supervisor, salesperson or manager would not be acknowledged for their contribution towards our tourism industry. Therefore we urge the community to not let the deadline pass without submitting their candidates", said the SHTA.

The SHTA, the largest business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail or visit our website www.shta.com.

leatherbackseaturtle17102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation is inviting Organizations, Groups and Individuals who are interested in the proper care and handling of Sea Turtles and their nesting to attend a workshop on Monday, the 4th of November. During the course important information will be given on the handling, reporting, observation and protection of St. Maarten's resident and nesting Sea Turtle Population. "Recently there has been a great deal of interest in hatchling sea turtles; however the population needs to be aware of the way in which the animals should be handled and taken care of. Some in their enthusiasm seek to help the animals but oftentimes create more harm than good and it is therefore that we decided to conduct this workshop for interested organizations, groups and individuals to participate in and learn the proper way to observe, record and handle sea turtles."

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation actively manages the sea turtle population on St. Maarten, particularly during the nesting season and conducts various activities with regards to nesting females including beach surveys, nest excavations, tagging activities, and nest success research. The Nature Foundation welcomes any volunteers who might be interested in Sea Turtle research. Beach communities in particular are in the best position to help ensure that females nest safely, that nests are left undisturbed and that hatchlings make it safely to sea. The Nature Foundation asks that people do not drive on the nesting beaches and that they walk their dog on a leash.

Sea turtle population numbers have plummeted to dangerously low numbers throughout the past century due to human impacts, bringing many species close to extinction, causing them to be listed as critically endangered. In order to reverse this trend, all sea turtle species are now protected by international laws and treaties as well as local laws. Based on ARTICLE 16 and 17 of the Nature Conservation Ordinance St. Maarten it is illegal to kill, wound, capture, pick-up, have animals that belong to a protected animal species, to directly or indirectly disturb their environment resulting in a physical threat or damage to the fauna or to commit other acts which result in disturbance of the animal. It is also forbidden to upset an animal belonging to a protected species, to disturb, damage or destroy its nest, lair, or breeding place, as well as to take the nest of such an animal. Also, it is forbidden to pick-up or to destroy the eggs of animals belonging to a protected species.

To register for the workshop or to report nesting activity or illegal activity, please call the Sea Turtle Hotline 9229 or call the Nature Foundation office at 5444267 or email the Foundation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was joined by the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Aviation, Transportation and Telecommunication the Honorable Ted Richardson in congratulating local Meteorologist and Climate Expert Desiree Connor in traveling to Beijing China to attend the International Training Course on Regional Climate Prediction and Drought Monitoring hosted by the WMO Regional Training Centre Beijing (RTC-Beijing) and sponsored by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

Through the training course, participants will gain a good understanding of short-term climate prediction and drought-related issues. The course is also designed to help trainees learn new techniques of diagnosis and attribution on extreme climate events (especially drought events), and improve the climate prediction skills in St. Maarten.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams stated that she was proud to see a young, local professional in the scientific field travel internationally to gain a more in depth understanding of the changes in climate. "I would like to congratulate and commend Ms. Connor in her travels and I am sure that she will return to St. Maarten with the information necessary to prepare the country for climactic events that will undoubtedly influence us in the coming decades," commented the Prime Minister.

The attendance of St. Maarten was sponsored by the China Meteorological Administration CMA.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

ssmmeetswithsocialaffairs17102013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday 14th October, Board members of the Soualiga Social Movement met with Mr. Wayne Brook to discuss what synergies exist between the SSM's "HandyManVan project" and the various social workplace or employability thru training courses provided by the Ministry.
The HandyManVan project aims to equip a utility van with proper tools and equipment for most home repairs and have a few young adults trained on the job by a tradesman supervisor for some time. The participants would also have to follow mandatory workshops on employability, marketing, social interaction and business practices.
Both parties explained their projects' highs, lows and bottlenecks and it became clear that most of these types of projects encounter similar obstacles such as the unwillingness of some young adults to give information to authority figures and the lack of the proper paperwork needed to be employed.
SSM agreed with Mr. Brook that efforts and initiatives need to be put in place to avoid these bottlenecks for future projects. Both parties discussed other possible projects and would meet again in the near future.

pjl2012halloweenparticipantsandstaff17102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library has opened registration for their Halloween reading & costume party, which will be held on Saturday, October 26, from 6pm to 8pm.
The library has been organizing successful Halloween programs since 2009. At the core of the activities will be reading. Participating youngsters will be able to see the library's garden transform into a haunted graveyard. Activities for the evening will include storytelling, educational games, arts & craft, as well as a graveyard hunt.
Registration is required at a cost of only 5 dollars or 9 guilders and will run from Thursday, October 17 to Saturday, October 26. The registration process can only be done at the library, during our opening hours, until space is filled. The library will only be accepting 45 applicants for this event. Children ages 8 -13 are welcome. Space is limited so parents are required to register their children as early as possible. Parents are advised to pick up their children on time when activities end at 8pm.
Participating children are asked to come dressed in their most creative costume and bring along a flashlight. Snacks and drinks will be available.
For more information, please contact the library at 542-2970 or visit our website at www.stmaartenlibrary.org.

gracitaarrindell17102013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell expresses her sympathy to the fire victims of more than 100 persons who lost their homes and possessions after a fire ripped through the area where they were residing at Wesley Lane, Cole Bay.

"I was shocked to learn about the tragic fire event earlier this week. I would like to commend the various Ministers who have responded to the tragic situation, Minister Maurice Lake, Minister Cornelius De Weever and Minister Dennis Richardson, as well as the personnel from their respective departments and services.

"Such a tragedy must be prevented from happening again. Living in such close proximity from each other presents serious fire hazards as well as challenges once something happens.

"I fully support the calls and steps taken by Minister Maurice Lake and Minister Dennis Richardson not to allow the re-construction of a shanty town, and to also look at other areas in the country that fall within this category and seeking permanent solutions to the so-called shanty town development.

"After the life changing event of Hurricane Luis in 1995, a policy was established not to allow the construction of shanty towns. How easy do we forget, yet we must never forget," President of Parliament Hon. Arrindell said on Thursday.

President Arrindell added that in time of need, more than 100 persons are in need of clothing, children's toys etc. and appeals to the Sint Maarten public to give and donate to such organizations as the St. Maarten Red Cross who are assisting these persons.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Millennium Development Goals (MDG) workgroup, guided by the Department of the Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations (BAK), with the support of the Department of Statistics (STAT), has been collecting data on the eight MDGs for the last couple of months.

The eight MDGs are: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger; Achieve universal primary education; Promote gender equality and empower women; Reduce child mortality; Improve maternal health; Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases; Ensure environmental sustainability; and Develop a global partnership for development.

This data collection phase is critical, due to the fact that valuable information is needed from the ministries and several institutions in order to report on the MDG indicators.

The data will only be used by government to respond to the indicators of the MDGs so that Sint Maarten is able to provide an update to the 2011 MDG report and fulfill one of the obligations Sint Maarten has towards its people and the international community of nations.

The data will also be used in an online human development database (DevInfo) system for Sint Maarten to facilitate the making of policy plans, needed to bring the country steps forward in its national development.

Country Sint Maarten also needs to report on the state of those MDG-goals to the United Nations (UN) in 2014, based on the Millennium Declaration the Netherlands signed in 2000 which applies to the countries within the Dutch Kingdom.

Data collection has been done mainly within government, but a great part of the data needed is stored at some institutions.

The Prime Minister who is responsible for the MDG process which falls under the Ministry of General Affairs, therefore, requests the full cooperation of those institutions on this data collection process, in providing the required data.

These institutions that come from the health, gender, education, and environment related sectors have already been sent a letter from the Prime Minister with a follow-up coming from Drs. L. Morales (of Department of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations) and the Department of Statistics.

Representatives from both departments will be visiting the entities within the coming weeks. The main purpose of the visit will be to facilitate a smooth transition of information by discussing and explaining the process after which the institutions will receive a reasonable period in which to deliver the requested information.

In 2011 the first MDG report for Sint Maarten and Curaҁao was published. Since that year, Sint Maarten is using this report as a baseline for the formulation of a National Development Plan (NDP).

The process of data collection for the MDG's has been started in order to sustain the three year program 'Building a Nation: St. Maarten's National Development Plan and Institutional Strengthening'.

For more information, regarding the MDG process, interested institutions and others can call Drs. L.R. Morales at 542-0896 or write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PHILIPSBURG:--- During a recent Parliamentary debate I stated that were it pertains to remarks made by Members of the 2nd Chamber of the Netherlands, these remarks are almost certain to be carried front page by our two Daily papers. I have also stated that the Bosman law as presented by this member of the 2nd chamber reeks of discrimination against persons from Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten who holds the same Dutch Nationality as persons from Bonaire. St. Eustatius and Saba. In addition the Dutch Constitution only recognizes one Dutch Nationality and no distinction can be made based on the country of origin of those who would like to reside in the Netherlands. In fact no distinction can also be made based on race, social status, ethnicity or any other matter as such.

The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) of the Council of Europe in a recent report advised the Dutch government that this law if adopted will cause unequal treatment based on ethnicity and urges the Dutch Government to withdraw this law proposal.

The Council also advises the Dutch Government to explore positive measures that may be needed to address persons coming from Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten that encounter problems of a social nature, involved with criminality or persons that go to the Netherlands for the so called social support and to make sure that these persons if they reside in the Netherlands or on one of these 3 islands that they may benefit from these positive measures.

The Council states that Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten cannot be seen as separate countries from the Netherlands, whereby restrictive measures are instituted to prohibit the free movement of people. These recommendations were given by the Council in its 4th annual country report pertaining to racism in the Member State the Netherlands. It is strange to me that the two local daily's that does extensive internet research on matters pertaining to issues surrounding the relationship between the Netherlands and Aruba, Curacao and or St. Maarten failed to carry this so important conclusion from the

The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance of the Council of Europe (ECRI). Or isn't this story juicy and negative enough to be carried on the front pages of our two daily newspapers. For further research one may visit the below site.

http://caribischnetwerk.ntr.nl/2013/10/16/raad-van-europa-is-tegen-bosmanwet/

Press Release from Member of Parliament Roy Marlin

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, has sent out a notice to all general physicians to remain on alert with respect to cholera after the Ministry of Public Health received a Cholera Alert from the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Physicians have been asked to strengthen surveillance of acute gastroenteritis.

CPS retains its travel recommendation for persons traveling to Hispanola (Haiti, Dominican Republic), to continue to be cautious with respect to Cholera.

Travelers to the Dominican Republic are strongly advised to follow basic hygienic habits while in one of the aforementioned countries.

As part of the Minister's 'Get Checked,' campaign, travelers who return to the island and display symptoms of cholera are strongly advised to get checked by visiting their family physician.

CPS continues to maintain Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) recommendations which were reiterated recently to maintain in place surveillance activities to detect the occurrence of outbreaks and implementing intervention actions to reduce cholera spread determinants.

Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.

Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.

While in the Dominican Republic ensure that you take vital precautions such as hygienic food preparation, boiling or purifying all water, and washing hands often with soap and clean water.

Symptoms can occur within 24 to 48 hours of being infected with the cholera causing bacteria. Cholera symptoms are generally mild; they include diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. About one infected person out of 20 has severe signs and symptoms, such as increased heart rate, dehydration, and shock. Immediately consult your physician if you have traveled and have any of the symptoms, while maintaining proper hygiene.

To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity. Maintain these basic hygienic habits as you travel.

By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink. Enjoy and keep safe as you travel and help us keep Sint Maarten Cholera Free!

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Preparations are in full swing for St. Maarten's Day, November 11. The St. Maarten's Day Organizing Committee is inviting booth holders and vendors to a meeting on Thursday, 17 October in the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall, Government Administration Building at 7:00pm.

The Organizing Committee is also asking cultural groups that have participated in the past as well as new groups to show their patriotism and come and join the 2013 St. Maarten Day Cultural Parade. The aforementioned can also attend the Thursday evening meeting.

St. Maarten's Day festivities will take place at the Festival Village from as early as 10:00am until 9:00pm.

Click here to view St. Maarten's Day 2013 Program of Events.

SAUNDERS:--- The Police Traffic Department is informing the general public the as of Monday October 21st 2013 from 6:30am to 8:00am, the crossing of L.B. Scot road and Flamboyant Road in Saunders will be closed to all motor vehicle traffic. This measure will be taken every Monday through Friday on school days, until further notice. This traffic measure has been taken to regulate the flow of traffic in the Saunders area during the very busy morning hours. All drivers exiting the Saunders area are advised to use the Coralita road or the Gladiola road. All drivers are urged to take good notice of the traffic measure to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience.

KPSM Public Notice

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Traffic Department is inviting representatives of the Bus drivers Association and independent bus drivers, to attend a very important and information session that will given on Tuesday October 22nd, 2013 at 2:00pm at the Philipsburg Police Station. This session is in connection with the upcoming Holiday Season which is going to be a very busy one. All bus drivers are urged to good notice of this information.

KPSM Public Notice

solarenergyinfosession16102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will host an information session on solar panels and inverters on, Saturday, October 19, at 10:30am.
Members of the general public with an interest in solar powering their home or business are invited to attend this 1 hour information session about going solar. A complete walkthrough of the 48 panel system installed on the Library roof top will be given. This 10 kilowatt system has saved the library over $ 5,000 USD since its installation over 6 months ago.
Certified Solar Installers and Experts of Caribbean Energy Store will be available to answer your questions. Interested participants are requested to bring along their current electric bill to the information session for a free solar quotation and information about going solar.

acestudentsatcolebayfiresite16102013~To assess needs of fire victims; donates water, bread~

COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation joined by All Children's Education (ACE) Foundation school on Tuesday reached out to the victims of the devastating fire that completely destroyed a number of homes at Wesley Lane, Cole Bay early Sunday morning.
Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung along with a group of six ACE pupils, ACE Director Claire Elshot and a volunteer visited the fire site on Monday to conduct an assessment of the needs of the families who were displaced by the inferno to see how the foundation can assist.
The Foundation provided an immediate relief of 20 cases of water and bread for fire victims and will be exploring how it can further assist the families.
The visit was particularly sad for the school and pupils because one of the youngsters displaced by the fire attends ACE. The visit to the fire site was an eye opener for pupils who witnessed first-hand the destruction that a fire can cause as they looked at the remains of razed computers, stoves, gas bottles and the debris scattered on the site.
Following the visit to the fire site; the group visited the St. Maarten Red Cross Foundation; where some of the fire victims had been taken for a meeting. At this location; ACE pupils got to meet their classmate who was affected by the fire.
ACE pupils helped to collect data from families, which will be used to help Tzu Chi compile a plan-of-action as to how it will further assist fire victims.
It has been reported that an estimated 100 persons were left homeless as a result of the fire of unknown origin. The area destroyed by fire contained homes constructed with T1-11 plywood and zinc sheets.

terrancerey16102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Local entrepreneur, Terrance Rey, nominates taxi drivers for a Crystal Pineapple Award. Taxi drivers are a vital component for the tourism industry and it is about time that the taxi drivers are recognized for the important work they do in this sector of our island's economy.

"As it is difficult to nominate each and every taxi driver, I propose we nominate the presidents of each taxi association to represent their respective members," says Terrance Rey. "You have Mr. Otis Hughes of the Dutch St. Maarten Taxi Association; Mr. Jean Samuel of the St. Maarten Airport Taxi Association and Mr. Nathaniel Wyatt of Genesis Taxi Association."

"I personally, would nominate Mr. Rigobert 'Bert' Gumbs of Taxi 267 for his tireless dedication, professionalism and courteousness towards our customers," Rey explained. "When I book a taxi tour with Mr. Gumbs, I can simply walk away and entrust my clients to his care."

Rey continues: "His reliability and dependability over the years has proven to be a critical success element in servicing our clients in this industry."

As an example of the kind of reliability he is talking about, Rey explains: "I remember in 2010, we had a meeting with a group and when the meeting ended, a rain poured down trapping us in the building where the meeting was held. The intention was to walk back to our respective offices. I called Bert and within minutes a taxi van showed up at the door."
Rey concludes: "In my opinion, that is the kind of service that definitely deserves a Crystal Pineapple Award."

Terrance Rey is owner of AirStMaarten and Let's Travel and uses the webpage at StMaartenTours.info as a booking platform for cruise passengers to book island tours, trips and excursion via his agencies with the taxi drivers. Terrance Rey is also a 2010 Crystal Pineapple Award winner himself.

"NEW AGE"

Let me tell you the difference in times,
By elaborating in very clever rhymes.
How the world has developed, these last couple ages.
How we went from books, to online web pages.

RAM was once only a male horned sheep.
Now it's Randomly Access Memory, the data we keep.
When surfing was just going down to the shore
Now surfing is the browsing of info, we always want more

When Hackers were people hacking away at the trees.
Now hackers dig at us, like invasive fleas
Virus was when I would catch the common cold,
Now a virus is something I never want to download

Trolls lived under bridges and were completely mythical,
Now they exist for the 'lols'. With humor that's not hysterical.
Back when mail was hand delivered, and Spam was just meat.
And to meet someone, you actually had to meet.

Remember back when a web was sticky silken spider thread.
And a mouse was not welcomed in the house, alive or dead.
All those are back when, way before the digital phenomenon.
But now in this day and age, things got to start going on.

SO DigiKids. Compliments. You have the right idea.
And you are definitely starting in the right area.
Primary schools first, foundation is the key.
So they are equipped for the digital age, you see

For in this day and age, we cannot falter and lag behind.
As ages change fast, as my poem just defined.
Digital is here now, it's not an idea of tomorrow.
And now, ladies and gentleman.
We all know where we have to go.

-Andrew L. Peterson

lisacoquillasandsareenacarti16102013MARIGOT:--- Halloween holidays will be athletic for the champions of the Avenir Sportif Club de Saint Martin. Indeed, Sareena Carti, champion of France 2013 of 400 meters category younger children(juniors), and recently awarded gold medal on the same distance to the Olympic Festival of the European Youth, was invited by the French Federation of Athletics to participate in two internships.
The first one will be held in the Southeast of France, from october 19th till the 24th of this year, in the CREPS(REGIONAL CENTER FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION) Saint Raphaël Boulouris, an establishment which positions clearly as a center of resources for the training of the high-level athletes. She will be accompanied during this travels by her trainer Patrick Trival.
The second internship in which Sareena will participate, will be held in Italy, from October 24th till November 1st at the invitation of the national technical Team sprint / hedges of the French Federation. This internship has for objective to group athletes presenting the potential to participate in the young summer international terms of the next two years.
At the same moment, Lisa Coquillas from Avenir Sportif Club de Saint Martin, champion of Guadeloupe of the 2000 m walking, category youngest child - girl, will participate in an internship of athletic walking from 24 till 29 October 2013, organized by the committee of walking, and the Etoile club in Guadeloupe.
One might as well say that through his athletes, Saint Martin will be splendidly represented during Halloween holidays.
The club would like to thank the Collectivity of Saint Martin, and more particularly the President of the Collectivity, Madam Aline Hanson, without whom these projects would not have been born.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC) that falls under Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, says nations around the globe on Wednesday, 16 October, observed World Food Day (WFD) under the theme: "Sustainable Food Systems for Food Security and Nutrition."

The objective of the day is to raise awareness in connection with healthy people depend on healthy food systems. The observance also ties in with CPS annual calendar of health awareness.

As part of the Minister's 'Get Checked,' campaign, De Weever is calling on civil society to pay more attention to nutrition and how they can work on improving their intake of nutritional foods and a healthy lifestyle.

The objective of World Food Day is to also encourage attention to agricultural food production and to stimulate national, bilateral, multilateral and non-governmental efforts to this end; as well as heighten public awareness of the problem of hunger in the world.

The Committee on World Food Security, the world's most important intergovernmental and multi-stakeholder platform for food security and nutrition, opened its 40th session at the Food Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Italy, amid urgent calls to build more effective links between international policies and the daily needs of millions of the world's most vulnerable people.

The latest estimates signal there are nearly 30 million less hungry people in the world in 2013 compared to last year, according to the FAO. Progress continues to be made towards achieving the Millennium Development Goal hunger target of reducing by half the proportion of the undernourished population between 1990 and 2015.

The report, the State of Food Insecurity in the World, estimates that 842 million people globally suffered from chronic hunger in 2011-13. This figure is down from 868 million during the 2010-12, and represents a decline of 17 per cent since 1990-92.

About 75 per cent of the world's poorest people live in rural areas and mainly depend on agriculture for their livelihoods.

The lead organization that develops the official theme at the start of every year is the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group and overseas vendor, BTI, will be carrying out critical capacity expansion of the company's fibre core between the hours of 10:00pm Thursday night into the early hours of 5:00am, Friday morning.
The work will be carried out on the TelEm Group Gig-E fibre core remotely by the overseas vendor, BTI, with TelEm Group engineers and technicians providing support.
Project coordinator, and TelEm Group Network Engineer, Jed Carty, says the network expansion will directly affect company equipment in Cole Bay and Simpson Bay and is necessary to provide expanded capacity to customers in these areas.
He said as a result of the network expansion during the hours of 10:00 pm Thursday and 5:00am Friday morning, there will be no 3G mobile service to: Sapphire, PJIAE, La Plage, Fort Willem, Porto Cupecoy, Medical University, Simpson Bay Bridge, and Simpson Bay Exchange.

Also affected will be customers in the area who are connected to the TelEm Group network via fibre, including: Windward Island Bank branch offices in Cole Bay and Simpson Bay, AUC, Blue Mall, Porto Cupecoy and other services the Lowlands area.
"The expansion of the Gig-E network core will create more capacity for our current and future customers and is something that must be done right away," said Mr. Carty.
He said at one stage it was feared all services, including voice and data would also have to be interrupted to accommodate Thursday's maintenance window, however, an alternative was found in which these services could be maintained throughout the operation.
On behalf of management of TelEm Group Mr. Carty has apologized in advance to customers for the interruption in 3G service expected to take place.

Telem Press Release

dennisrichardson17092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Council of Ministers took a unanimous decision on Tuesday and drafted a decree to establish a committee that will be tasked with conducting what they termed as a sweeping investigation within the Government of St. Maarten. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson made the announcement at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday.

Minister Richardson said the draft national decree on the integrity of the Government of St. Maarten was sent to the Governor of St. Maarten to be signed off. The decree was sent to Governor Holiday on Tuesday for his signature. Before that happens he is not in a position to release the document to members of the media for their perusal.

Three persons within the community of St. Maarten have been selected to be on the committee, they are President of the Constitutional Court Judge Jacob de Wit, Former Director of the Windward Islands Bank Jan Beaujon, and Member of the CFT and well known attorney Richard Gibson Sr.

Minister Richardson told reporters that the three persons have also been tasked with finding three persons from the Netherlands to complete the committee that has to do a much broader and deeper investigation than the Royal Decree that was handed down by the Kingdom Council of Ministers on September 27th, 2013.

The Minister of Justice explained that St. Maarten needs an investigation on integrity to take place because the country's image has been tarnished and if there is evidence of corruption or any other thing that would breach the integrity of the country then it will have to be dealt with and if there is none then the rumors and allegations of corruption would have to be placed where they belong. He said the Government of St. Maarten decided to form this committee which would involve people from the Netherlands because they chose to contest the legality of the Royal Decree. Minister Richardson further explained that if the Government of St. Maarten did not take the initiative to show they too want to know what is happening in their country then that would not sit well with the people of St. Maarten as well as the Netherlands. Another aspect is to show the Kingdom Council of State that the case they presented to them is serious. Minister Richardson said that just in case the Kingdom Council rules in favor of St. Maarten then there will be no investigation. However, on the other hand, St. Maarten wants an integrity investigation to be conducted because the perception of corruption in government is rampant and that needs to be addressed, "facts have to be established and dealt with, while fiction has to be sent to the world of magical fiction."

He explained that the investigation that will be commissioned by the committee established by government will touch on every sector of government to ensure that they obtain the information they would need while conducting their investigation. Minister Richardson further explained that the integrity investigation commissioned by the Government of St. Maarten will be an independent investigation which will be conducted by people that are known to be independent people of St. Maarten.

One of the concerns that government has is if the members of this committee will find people from the Netherlands knowing that St. Maarten contested the Royal Decree that was handed down by the Kingdom Council of Ministers. The Government of St. Maarten will be looking for two persons of repute from the Netherlands. These two persons would need to have a high level of integrity as well as be independent. He said if it is not possible for St. Maarten to find such people in the Netherlands then they will go internationally to find the persons they need to conduct the investigation.

Task Force Established for Financial Measures.

The Government of St. Maarten also established a task force to address financial measures on St. Maarten. Their task is to do an inventory within government, establish where they could further cut cost, and find ways to increase revenues for the 2014 budget and the following years.

Shanty Town Fire cannot be Tolerated Any Longer --- Minister of Justice.

Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson also addressed the shanty town fire that left many persons homeless early Sunday morning in the Cole Bay area. He said that government is tired of these types of situations and measures are now being taken to eliminate these shanty towns.

A task force to handle this matter was also established and the Ministry of VROMI will ensure that no further expansion of shanty towns takes place on the island. The task force will also come up with short term, mid-term, and long term measures to eliminate these shanty towns as soon as possible.

The Minister of Justice said that while he made the announcement quickly, finding solutions are not as easy as it sounds because government is dealing with people therefore they must find solutions for the victims.

Minister of Social Affairs Cornelius de Weever said that while he was not in the newspapers, his Ministry was very busy registering people (victims of the fire). So far, he estimated the amount of people that suffered through the fire exceed 100. Registrations were done in phases and priority was given to children. Minister de Weever said that most of the victims of the fire found places to live. He said that the Department of VSA is working with Red Cross, Census Office, Labor Affairs and other persons who are consistently working with them to assist these persons.

DECREE GOVERNMENT INVESTIGATION INTEGRITY & CORRUPTION

During the weekly press briefing today, October 16, 2013, the Minister of Justice, Mr. Dennis L. Richardson, informed the press of the nature of the intended investigation on integrity and corruption in the public sector by the government of Sint Maarten.

This was done in view of the fact that the Council of Ministers in its meeting of Tuesday, October 15, 2013, established a decree initiating such an investigation by an independent committee. In view of the fact that the draft decree has been sent to the Governor of Sint Maarten for consultation (given that the established Kingdom Decree instructs the Governor to commission an investigation as well) the draft decree of the government has not been published as yet, but it is deemed necessary to give the general public insight in some important aspects of the investigation intended by the government of Sint Maarten.
In the interest of accurate reporting by the media the mentioned aspects are hereby presented in writing.

  1. There is an independent committee of inquiry that will consist of a maximum of six (6) members.
  2. The Commission is referred to as "Integrity Committee Public Administration" (further here: the committee).
  3. The initiating members of the committee are:
    (a). Mr. Jacob de Wit
    (b). Mr. Jan Beaujon
    (c). Mr. Richard Gibson Sr.
  4. The committee has the authority to and is charged with the recruitment of an additional three (3) reputable independent members from one or more of the other countries of the Kingdom and/or from reputable international organizations. The committee will submit its recommendations for the appointment of the additional members to the Prime Minister.
  5. The assignment of the committee is as follows:

    The committee is charged with the investigation, reporting on and making of recommendations with regards to the proper functioning and the integrity of the public administration (government) of St. Maarten and the necessary guarantees in that respect. To that end the committee shall examine, amongst other things, the functioning of the various sectors of government, identify the sectors that are particularly vulnerable to corruptive influences and the methods that might be used for that purpose. Furthermore the committee shall investigate whether or not and if so, to which extent corruption exists in the public administration (political, qua policies and, administratively) and shall charter any relationship patterns in the government administration with organizations and/or individuals outside of government that facilitate corruption and or the breach of integrity. The committee shall review and assess existing measures to guarantee integrity and prevent corruption. The committee will report on its findings and make recommendations regarding detected shortcomings, weaknesses and bottlenecks for ensuring the integrity and soundness of government and for combating corruption and violations of its integrity.
  6. The committee shall present an interim report within 3 months and a final report within six months of the publication of the decree.

Dennis L. Richardson, a.i. Prime Minister
Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Justice National Reporting Bureau on Human Trafficking says a recent seminar organized by the Israeli Agency for International Development Cooperation, in cooperation with the Organization for Security and Cooperation Europe, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the International Organization for Migration, revealed that the crime of human trafficking is rarely recognized and when it is – this usually pertains only to situations in which extreme violence has been used.

Very often, while victims are coerced by taking advantage of their personal vulnerability, including by threatening to report their immigration status which would result in deportation, traffickers still go unpunished, according to contributors to the seminar.

Keynote speaker Dr. G. Giammarinaro said when an emerging crime threatens the whole society, the jurisprudence should avoid a conservative approach, and that it was time to be innovative in the interpretation of new legal provisions and apply severe penalties allowing confiscation of the proceeds of crime.

Trafficking in human beings is a crime under international and national laws.

Sint Maarten's National Reporting Bureau on Human Trafficking has brochures in a number of languages, English, Spanish and Dutch. If you know somebody who is being exploited, ask for help by contacting the number below or sending an email.

Victims of exploitation, or those who would like information can contact the following telephone number (+721) 543-0355 from Monday to Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to provide confidential information about human exploitation.

Sint Maarten will be observing Human Trafficking Day within the Kingdom of the Netherlands this Friday, October 18.

This is in connection with a Memorandum of Understanding that was signed by the Ministers of Justice of the Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten in June 2011 to intensify cooperation and making it a priority to fight together within the Kingdom against human trafficking and smuggling.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on Back Street from Voges Straat to Dc Steeg Thursday evening October 17 from 8:00pm to 4:00am. This is in connection with sewage system hook-up in this particular area.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

lesfruitsdemer15102013MARIGOT:--- The Les Fruits de Mer Association has announced its core mission–to raise awareness about ecology, culture, and sport–and launched its website, where membership applications are currently being accepted. Officially founded this summer, the St. Martin-based organization plans to carry out its mission through publications, an education program, and special public outreach events that entertain, inspire, and inform.

The Association gets its name from the Les Fruits de Mer extreme shallow snorkeling team where it first began. Founded in 2007, the team connected people around the world who share a love of snorkeling and undersea life. As the team grew and the members became more deeply involved in areas like wildlife education, forming a non-profit association was a natural next step towards pursuing these goals on a bigger scale.

A few months after the formal creation of the Association, Les Fruits de Mer hosted a free Migratory Bird Festival enjoyed by over 200 attendees. Held at the Mangrove Discovery Trail at Étang de la Barrière in Cul-de-Sac, the festival was a celebration of the many extraordinary birds which travel thousands of miles every year to visit and winter in St. Martin. In keeping with the Les Fruits de Mer mission of promoting nature, art, and culture, the event combined hands-on environmental education with art activities for children.

Planning for future events is already underway, including a Birds and Bugs event in December and a Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival in the spring. "Our events are free, fun, and family-friendly," explains Les Fruits de Mer President Jennifer Yerkes. "They're designed to create opportunities for residents and tourists of all ages to explore and engage with St. Martin's natural and cultural heritage."

In addition to events, the Association is also developing publications that showcase this unique heritage, including a French-language edition of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin and a series of multi-lingual educational and art activity books for children. The organization is hoping to publish several books in the coming year.

The Association's newly-launched website, http://ass.lesfruitsdemer.org, is a bilingual portal to all things Les Fruits de Mer, including current projects and events. The Association is now accepting new members, and an application is available on the site. Membership benefits include discounts on publications produced by the Association, wildlife expeditions on land and sea, and invitations to members-only events like the annual Tacousteau, an evening of tacos and Jacques Cousteau films. The most important benefit, however, is the chance to participate in something truly transformative. "Les Fruits de Mer is a spirit, and a way to come together and make beautiful things," describes Stephen Winkel, the Association's Secretary. "If you want to join Les Fruits de Mer, you must be Les Fruits de Mer."

publicschoolteacherswithcertificatesforoutstandingattendance15102013HARBOR VIEW:--- It was a festive afternoon when Department of Public Education Services Head Mrs. Glenderline Davis-Holiday presented teachers with a small monetary bonus and certificate for their outstanding attendance during the academic year 2012-2013.

About 25 teachers representing all the public schools were awarded for 100% attendance. Mrs. Davis-Holiday and the various school managers thanked the teachers for their faithful participation to the students and encouraged them to continue to be an example to the others.

Minister of Education the Honorable Patricia Lourens-Philip, who was off island, sent words of congratulations thru her staff letting them know that she "knows what it takes to not let your students down when you have your own lives and issues to deal with".
The teachers took pictures and enjoyed snacks and drinks provided by the Department of Public Education Services.

nagicodonatesstainlesssteelwaterbottlestosundialschool15102013PHILIPSBURG:--- To encourage the youth of St. Maarten to recycle and avoid wastage of plastic bottles, NAGICO Insurances donated stainless steel water bottles for the students of Sundial school. The students and coordinators Mrs. La Vaune Henry-Hodge (right) and Ms. Jackie Arrendell (center) expressed their gratitude for the contribution yesterday when NAGICO Marketing Assistant, Derin Kucuk (left) handed over the water bottles to the school.

NAGICO Press Release

mauricelakeandcheyennegumbs15102013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Minister Maurice Lake of VROMI, Housing, and Infrastructure and his Chief of Cabinet, Veronica Jansen, met with Cheyenne Gumbs, fifth form student of St. Dominic High School for an interview concerning the development of Philipsburg.

fcsoualigahostsinternationalwomenssoccertournament15102013BELVEDERE:--- The St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation (SMSEF) and Sint Maarten's very own women's soccer team FC Soualiga will be hosting its first International Women's Soccer Tournament at the Johan Cruyff Court in Belvedere on October 19th and 20th, 2013. Five teams from all across the Caribbean region have confirmed to participate, thereby stimulating the role of women in sports, the importance of the sport of soccer in the region, as well as establishing a great sports tourism opportunity for Sint Maarten and its establishments.

FC Soualiga and its tournament has gained the support from many local businesses and entities, providing the visiting teams with accommodation, local travel, dining and shopping opportunities as well as many more fun activities to be enjoyed during their stay on the Friendly Island.

FC Soualiga hereby invites the public to come out and support the team and enjoy the sports entertainment during this tournament. The games, taking place at the Johan Cruyff Court in Belvedere, will be played from 10 am till 4 pm on Saturday and from 10 am till 1 pm on Sunday.

SMSEF and FC Soualiga would like to thank everyone who has thus far contributed to and supported the International Women's Soccer Tournament. Both organizations look forward to continued enthusiasm and support for women's soccer on Sint Maarten and in the region. Special thanks go out to Princess Juliana International Airport, the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, Divi Little Bay Resort, Bel Air Beach Hotel, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Looking Good, Sports Gallery, Vanity First, Ballerina Jewelers and Heavenly Water. Without the amazing support from the contributing sponsors an event like this would not have been possible.

The St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation & FC Soualiga

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is calling on the community to practice hand hygiene and cough etiquette in order to prevent the spread of influenza.

Keeping hands clean through improved hang hygiene is one of the most important steps one can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Washing your hands should take 40 to 60 seconds.

Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water. If clean, running water is not accessible, as is common in many parts of the world, use soap and available water. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol to clean hands.

Your hands should be washed before, during, and after preparing food; before eating food; after using the toilet; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly from person to person through the coughing, sneezing, or talking to someone with the flu.

Hand hygiene is a simple and effective solution to reduce both the spread of infection and multi-resistant germs, and to protect the community.

Flu viruses also may spread when people touch something with the flu virus on it and then tough their mouth, eyes, or nose. Many other viruses spread these ways too.

People infected with the flu may be able to infect others beginning from day one before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. That means you may be able to spread the flu to someone else before you know you are sick.

Preventive actions entails: try to avoid close contact with sick people; cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; throw the tissue in the trash after you use it; clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor Cornelius de Weever recently delivered an overwhelming speech on the floor of PAHO's 52nd Directing Council meeting in Washington DC to an applause from many delegates.
Minister De Weever addressed the subject of the "Revolving Fund" from St. Maarten's perspective. Minister stated during his speech that St. Maarten has been able to provide vaccination coverage to newborns, children and adolescents by purchasing affordable vaccines through the "Revolving Fund."
"Based on the available data we have been successful in reaching our target groups. On average we have an above 90% coverage in our programs. Our aim for 2014 is to increase the overall coverage to above 95%," said Minister De Weever on the floor of PAHO.
The Minister further stated that thanks to the "Revolving Fund" St. Maarten is now able to introduce two new vaccines, namely HPV and pneumococol vaccine, and the minister stated St. Maarten is extremely grateful for this.
"On behalf of the people of St. Maarten we propose to adopt the resolution without amendments and considering that time is of the essence and we should always be efficient with our time, we look forward to the final resolution without any delay," said Minister De Weever.
Minister further stated on the floor of PAHO that "each delegate in this esteemed chamber is in a global relay race, we have to do our share locally, regionally and internationally and then pass it on to those coming behind us. Let us make sure we do what is right for those who need it most."
The Pan American Health Organization World Health Organization (PAHO) 52nd Directing Council-65th session of the Regional Committee took place in Washington DC from September 30-October 4, 2013. Some of the resolutions pending adoption were "Plan of Action for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases," and "Chronic Kidney disease in Agricultural Communities in Central America." Other items handled during the meetings were: PAHO program and budget; Implementation of the International Health Regulations; Evidence-based policy making for National Immunization Programs amongst others.

Cay Hill:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center will hold a kidney transplant information session at the University of St. Martin on Thursday, October 17, 2013 at 6:45pm-10:00pm
In St Maarten we have a growing population of persons who have a chronic kidney disease that may be caused by diabetes, high blood pressure and other disorders. When chronic kidney disease progresses to kidney failure over time, kidneys do not get better and patients will need dialysis for the rest of their life unless they are able to receive a kidney transplant.
Currently, the St. Maarten Medical Center gives treatment to about 36 dialysis patients, including patients from Saba and St. Eustatius. The hospital also gives treatment to tourists who require haemodialysis during their stay on the island.
This information session will inform medical doctors, medical insurances, other health care workers, patients with kidney diseases and their families about possibilities for patients with kidney failures to receive a kidney transplant.
Sometimes, family members of patients with a kidney disease may not fully understand what a chronic kidney disease means for an individual. The session is also to make people aware of chronic kidney disease and the possibilities of becoming a donor.
A successful kidney transplant provides a better quality of life because it allows greater freedom and often is associated with increased energy levels and a less restricted diet. It will also improve life for our dialysis patients and their family, socially, emotionally and psychologically.

SMMC Press Release

swescotwilliamslaunchesparentpowerinvolvementprogram14102013Civil Servants to Be Given One Day Per Month to be Involved In Activities at their Children's Schools

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Thursday launched the Parent Power Involvement Program which is geared towards allowing parents to spend one day a month in the schools of their children actively involved in their educational activities. Some months ago the Prime Minister announced the she was actively perusing the initiating of a program where Civil Servants would be given the opportunity to spend one day a month engaging their children and their children's classmates in activities at the school, allowing greater involvement in the education of their children.

"A project that I announced some time ago which is the parents participation program I am very happy to announced has been launched with a Pilot Group. Some months ago I announced that what I really wanted to do is to have Government lead by example in allowing our employees to take part in our children's education. For this pilot project I have selected fifteen participants and together with their respective Department Heads and the schools of their children these persons will have one day in the month to spend in their child's education, either at the school with their child or engaged in the activities of the children in the schools such as field trips and I hope this will lead to our schools being more visited by parents. One of the complaints across the board from teachers is the lack of parental involvement in the education of their children. As the children grow older you see the involvement grow less and less and as an employer we want to give a day to registered Civil Servants to spend a day on their children's education. It is not as if they will stay at home their child or children but they will actively engage with their child's education in school," commented the Prime Minister.

During the kick-off event the Prime Minister also stressed to the participants that it was her wish to see government take the lead in the project and to see the private sector follow suit. "I need you to work with me in order to make this happen", the PM commented, "your supervisors will be informed of what will be occurring and eventually I would like to see what the predominant activities you have been involved in with your child during the one activity per month. Hopefully this will catch on in the private sector which I also very much look forward to," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarysxmtourismawarenessbrainstormingsession14102013PHILIPSBURG:--- A recent brain storming session by the members of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten has resulted in club members identifying ways to support and guide the execution of Rotary's next community project: Tourism awareness in the community of St. Maarten.

The brain storming session deviate from what the regular weekly lunch meetings of the Rotary Club held at Divi Little Bay every Wednesday. A regular meeting consist of standard agenda issues such as updates by committees of planned projects, review of projects done, RI (Rotary International) news, District news, fellowship and a presentation by an invited guest often in accordance with the theme of the month.

The meeting of Wednesday, October 9 however, was different. Considering the RI theme for October, which is Vocational Service, Naomi Zaloumis was invited to conduct a brain storming exercise which would lead to the answer to the question: "How do we make everyone on St. Maarten understand how important Tourism is?"

Naomi Zaloumis is a 23 year old student from Breda, The Netherlands where she studies Communication at Fontys University of Applied Sciences. She is in her third year and is doing her internship with the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, where she focuses on business communication.

She was invited by Rotary President Maria Buncamper to engage Rotarians in an effort to start developing the next Rotary project which would focus on Tourism Awareness within the St. Maarten community.

The exercise took about 45 minutes and resulted in six teams of Rotarians and guests providing answers to the question. "Evident was the red line that ran through all suggestions or solutions, which was to increase awareness of the our tourism industry substantiated with facts and figures using audio and visual aids to demonstrate what St. Maarten would look like if we lost our tourism industry compared to it being vibrant," Rotary President Maria Buncamper-Molanus said.

Naomi was supported by the Executive Director of SHTA Karen Hana and fellow intern at SHTA Anthony Gibs. The Rotary Club intends to collaborate with SHTA and other interested parties to further workout feasible scenarios to bring the importance of tourism for St. Maarten in focus.

stabbingfillin24102012A.TH. ILLIDGE ROAD:--- On Monday October 14, 2013 at approximately 1:40am, several police patrols were directed to Son Latino on the A. Th. Illidge road to investigate a stabbing incident. On the scene the investigating officers encountered a large crowd outside of the establishment. The information the officers received was that a fight had broken out and during this incident someone was stabbed and after the incident those involved left the scene. Persons on the scene were very reluctant to give police any information concerning what exactly had taken place and who the persons were that were involved in the incident. According to the investigating officers, the Sint Maarten Medical Center was contacted however no one had reported to the hospital with any stab wound.

Stolen vehicle, female suspect arrested.

On Monday October 14th, 2013 at approximately 2:15am, a 25 old man filed a report with police stating that during the stabbing incident at "Son Latino" his car a grey Kia Picanto was parked next to the night club. He went there with a friend and had gone into the club for while. Shortly after he returned to where his car was parked and noticed that his car was missing. The vehicle in question was located a few minutes after by the Simpson Bay patrol in Cole Bay. The 25 year old female driver of the car was arrested on the spot as the suspect in this case. She was taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where she is held for questioning by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- While the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association is very cognizant of the issues surrounding the discussion about the execution of an integrity audit, we are concerned that the real issue is being lost in the debate. It is important to differentiate between investigations into specific allegations and the creation of a government apparatus that is beneficial to the people. Efforts to improve transparency and accountability do not depend on studies from Transparency International, or a mandate for an investigation into integrity. Though the quick resolution to all pending criminal investigations, and issues like Taxand, Orca, and vote buying need to be investigated and made public as swiftly as possible to minimize public criticism of our judicial system and return confidence in government.

The SHTA believes that there are many areas available for immediate improvement in the areas of transparency and accountability that should be implemented. In some cases the legislature already exists, but implementation has not been tackled. If we are to present ourselves as earnest kingdom partners we should begin with the below mentioned.

Improvements that don't require Integrity Audit:
An Electoral Council, operated independently of Parliament and Government, needs to be finalized as soon as possible, to ensure that the registration of political parties wishing to take part in the next election, meet with the requirements as set forth in the National Ordinance and to carry out the financial supervision of party campaign funds.

Campaign Finance Reform legislation regulates how political campaigns are financed, reports on how the money is spent, prevents any type of vote "buying" taking place, and ensures the public disclosure of assets and incomes of candidates running for public office, public officials, politicians, legislators, judges, and their direct dependents.

A National Integrity Commission, a body that will investigate integrity complaints, requires the implementation of a commission that is financially and politically independent and has the authority to investigate corruption.

Elected officials should be focused on establishing clear policy guidelines versus ad hoc decisions making. There should be less opportunity for personal discretion and more policy, so elected officials can be more focused on setting policy rather than on issuing specific permits. Issuing or denying individual permits creates a structure that is susceptible to corruption.

Review of public procurement procedures, to ensure that the requirements offer equal opportunities for all businesses to apply and make the process more transparent, thus saving the government money and insuring accountability.

The gathering of key data is critical to proper decision making. St. Maarten has sufficient knowledge on what needs to be done. However, many reports end up in a drawer without actually being executed. What we lack is a proper data information system such as the TSIS (Tourist Statistical Information Service), which would allow us to strategically direct our marketing efforts in order to compete with other destinations in the region, validating or discrediting the return on investment for specific programs and projects.

Public Private Partnerships have proven to be excellent vehicles to improve efficiency and focus resources in a productive manner. For example, the Incorporation of the STA (St. Maarten Tourism Authority) would bring continuity to the tourism industry on St. Maarten, for both immediate and the long term goals, regardless of what takes place in the political arena. Consequently, the business of promoting St. Maarten and bringing tourists in, thus generating revenue for our country would continue uninterrupted.

Although St. Maarten has the SOAB, they are not permitted to execute assignments by choice. Instead they need to be requested to perform a specific audit. The SHTA believes that their efficiency and impact could be improved by having the ability to determine what should be audited, instead of being invited to do so.

Besides the more obvious goals that have already been identified, there are many examples around the world of efforts to improve transparency. For example, the state of Missouri has a transparency portal set up at http://mapyourtaxes.mo.gov/MAP/Portal/Default.aspx. In addition more European countries are implementing transparency portals and departments. It is clear that governments around the world are embracing the use of technology to give citizens unprecedented access to information and disclose the government administration procedures, ensuring transparency and accountability.

As the debates and negotiations between Holland and St. Maarten continue, the SHTA hopes that all the players and citizens don't lose sight of the real issue; the efficient and responsible use of the resources that the citizens have entrusted government to use for the collective good of St Maarten. Corruption diverts resources from where they are most needed and worst; it distorts the decision making process prioritizing otherwise undesirable or low priority projects.

The SHTA, the largest private business representative on the island, is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

SHTA Press Release

vlfjourneytofreedomformenposter14102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Violence, aggression, anger, rage, frustration and despair appears to be more prevalent in our society today than in the past. In our homes, at the work place, in our schools, on the street; it appears as if nowhere is exempt from acts of hostility and disgruntled persons.
Yes, among us we have optimists; persons who tend to see life from the perspective of hope where the glass is half full rather than half empty; yet many are hurting and seeking answers.
Sometimes however, when persons do not have the tools to cope with life's challenges or believe that life is hopeless, then they give up on even trying or hoping for better. In light of the aforementioned, Victorious Living Foundation, whose purpose is to empower, enlighten, enrich and reconcile persons to our Creator and each other has started a series of confidential Journey to Emotional Freedom process groups for women and men.
The women's group started on September 26th and runs for five weeks. The women enrolled in Victorious Living's program have already received tremendous breakthroughs after the third session. Many report feeling lighter; like heavy burdens were lifted; and are energized to go forward with their lives.
Now, Victorious Living is launching the male sessions tonight, Monday October 14th for men who are in transition; struggling in their relationships; grieving the loss of a loved one; challenged with depression and physical illness; and looking for greater meaning and significance in their lives.
These confidential sessions utilize some simple but cutting edge and evidence-based techniques which include the Sedona Method and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).
Jack Canfield, co-author of the #1 best-selling series Chicken Soup for the Soul states this about the Sedona Method: "The Sedona Method is a vastly accelerated way of letting go of feelings like anger, frustration, jealousy, anxiety, stress, and fear, as well as many other problems—even physical pain— with which almost everybody struggles at one time or another."
Brian Tracy, author of Deals! states: "This is a powerful and profound way of achieving immediate and lasting improvements and breakthroughs in your personal and business life. Incredibly effective!"
Barbara De Angelis, Ph.D., author of Real Moments and What Women Want Men To Know states: "There is no pilgrimage more important than the one we undertake to explore ourselves. The Sedona Method is a valuable tool to help make our journey of self-discovery one that leads to powerful personal breakthroughs and new beginnings. Designed with wisdom, simplicity, and compassion, it will offer you ways to live the life you've always dreamed of."
Indeed the female participants in Victorious Living's Journey have found the above statements to be true and have been experiencing increasing emotional freedom when employing this technique.
Therefore, the men who enroll in this evening's group process which spans five weeks will also experience this freedom. In addition, participants will learn to utilize EFT, a form of psychological acupressure, based on the same energy meridians used in traditional acupuncture to treat physical and emotional ailments for over five thousand years, but without the invasiveness of needles.
EFT is very easy to learn, and helps to:

  • Remove Negative Emotions
  • Reduce Food Cravings
  • Reduce or Eliminate Pain
  • Implement Positive Goals etc.

Space is limited as each group has a maximum of 12 participants. Therefore, men who are ready for change in their lives may call Victorious Living at 1-721-524-8731/1-305-407-9260; e-mail them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.victoriouslivingsxm.org and register today.

pjiae28062012SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company, PJIAE NV should take "immediate action to form an effective Air Service Development Community with its country clients (to become country partners), regional airlines and ferry services in order to drive the airport's Air Service Development programme to the benefit of all participants."
This was the main recommendation of a study on Air Service Maintenance and Development conducted at the request of SXM Airport by El Perial Management Services. El Perial recently submitted its final report to the airport management. In the report, it says, "The establishment of the Air Service Development Committee (ASDC), led by the PJIAE, will be the organizational vehicle to drive this effort."
Another key recommendation of the report is for PJIAE NV "to immediately start collecting detailed marketing-useful data on its passengers and to convince its now country partners to share similar data with all members of the ASDC in an open and timely manner." This data, according to the report, "will form the basis for a more effective approach to both international and regional airlines to serve PJIAE and its country partners."

In welcoming the report, PJIAE NV Managing Director, Regina LaBega, said that the airport considered the study of "utmost importance if we are to maintain and further develop SXM's hub function and increase airlift to the island."

"We will take the necessary steps to ensure the effective implementation of the main recommendations in the report, and will start with sharing it with our stakeholders who, it must be pointed out, had shown a high degree of cooperation during the elaboration of the study," LaBega said.

It is not the first time El Perial would conduct such a study on St. Maarten. In 2004, the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau contracted the firm to assist it in developing its air services program to support investment in and expansion of St. Maarten's airport. That report, says El Perial, formed the baseline for the one it just concluded. Then, as now, passenger movement was at the center of the study.

"The key word in this report is 'partnership'," said LaBega. "That partnership was at the core of our joint success in attracting JetBlue to the island, as the report correctly notes. We will have to further expand on our partnership with all our stakeholders in order for all of us to move forward together."

The report also includes recommendations on increasing service levels to and from Canada and the Intra-Caribbean as well as the quality of service at SXM. Detailed recommendations on ensuring expanded service from the USA, UK and Latin America are also included in the report.

While acknowledging the support it received in carrying out the study from the management of SXM, El Perial however warned that, "ours was only the first step."

According to El Perial, "The next steps and certainly the greater challenge falls with the management of PJIAE as it proceeds to implement the recommendations, in the full realization that it does not have complete control over such implementation and as such has to create successful partnerships with varied grouping of stakeholders."

GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor Cornelius de Weever would like to congratulate the students of St. Dominic High for the presentation they recently made on proper nutrition.
The students presented information on "genetically modified organisms"- GMO's; eating habits in St. Maarten; obesity and diabetes; building a healthy body; Food guide's and food diaries. Very informative and colorful handouts were given during the presentation, which took place at their school.
"I am encouraging the students at St. Dominic High to be the change in the field of proper nutrition, especially seeing that they are in charge of their canteen at school," said Minister De Weever.

mauricelakeatcolebayfirescene14102013COLE BAY:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday visited the scene of a large fire in Cole Bay that gutted several structures leaving a number of people homeless.

The fire ripped through structures made from T1-11 and zinc located on Wesley Lane, Cole Bay just after midnight on Sunday. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Minister Lake stated a Ministry VROMI Inspection Team would be working closely with the Fire Department inspectors to determine the cause of the fire.

The Minister also stated on Monday that the landowner would not be allowed to construct or rebuild homes that do not meet building code requirements of the country.

Ministry VROMI inspectors have also been asked to assess the site to make sure there are no further threats to surrounding existing buildings where it concerns unexploded cooking gas bottles or other items of this nature.

The landowner will be given a period of five days to clean the property of all fire debris. Should this request not be adhered too, Government will clean-up the area at the owner's expense.

"It was very sad to see that a number of people have lost the place that they call home along with their personal belongings. We need to get back to basics and not allow the building of inadequate structures for humans to live in. Landowners have a responsibility where this is concerned.

"Government will allow any type of construction that does not confirm to the building codes of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

soualiganfyahtortola13102013PHILIPSBURG:--- A small delegation of St. Maarten poets just returned home from Tortola, BVI, where youngsters Jenice Forbes and Andrew Peterson performed at the annual Microphone Messenjah.
Forbes and Peterson, the winner and 1st runner-up, respectively, of the first ever Soualigan Fyah Youth Poetry and Spoken Word Competition held earlier this year, were both excited to present their work to a new audience and both were very well received at the event. The delegation left for Tortola on Friday, October 4 and returned to the island on Monday, October 7th.
While on the island the youngsters were treated to an island tour by host Jerome Joseph and were also able to enjoy a full day on the sea exploring places such as The Baths on Virgin Gorda and Sandy Key. They were also introduced to completely Ital food at well-known restaurant Mellow Moods, were able to link with poets from both Tortola and Jamaica and Forbes took part in an interview with a well known local DJ, which she enjoyed very much.
For both youngsters the trip and performances added fuel to their desire to continue on with poetry and spoken word and to only get better. Both anticipate more local and regional performances in the future, including the upcoming Interscholastic Talent Showdown 2013. Charles also said that the trip allowed for a great deal of networking with other regional poets and she hoped to bring some of them to island soon to meet with the young poets who frequent the monthly Soualigan Fyah afternoons.
The trip, which was a collaborative effort between Conscious Agricultural Awakening Foundation and Foundation 5 square miles St. Martin, only occurred because of the kind contributions from Seven Seas Water, Orco Bank, Edu Consult, Maneks Imports and Top Carrot Restaurant. Nadjesca Gumbs of CAAF and Lysanne Charles of F5SMS, both extend deepest gratitude to the above mentioned companies.
The next Soualigan Fyah: You(th) Take The Mic, which is an open mic poetry afternoon held once a month, is scheduled for Friday, October 25th, 4-6pm at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. Teens interested in learning more about Soualigan Fyah should like its Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SoualiganFyah in order to remain update on planned events.

pjiaedelegationatworldrouteseventinlasvegas14102013SXM Airport at World Routes 2013

SIMPSON BAY:--- Virgin America is conducting a market research on the island as part of its long-term plans. This was disclosed at a meeting the airline requested with the St. Maarten delegation that attended the recently concluded World Routes 2013 held in Las Vegas.

The delegation was led by the Hon. Ted Richardson, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications and included Regina LaBega, SXM Managing Director, and Edward Dest, Interim Director, St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB). Other members of the delegation were Louis Halley, head of Maritime and Civil Aviation, and Suzy Kartokromo, Acting Manager, Marketing and Customer Service Department at SXM.

"Our participation at the World Routes 2013 yielded very positive results," stated Minister Ted Richardson. "We were not only able to meet with key players in the aviation industry, but also discussed the long-term plans of airlines such as Virgin America and Southwest, which are considering possible service to St. Maarten."

More than 2,700 delegates representing 300 airlines, 750 airports and 100 destinations participated in World Routes 2013, considered the world's most important commercial aviation event, which was held this year for the first time on US territory.

The St. Maarten delegation also met with representatives of Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport and New York's Kennedy Airport.

"These meetings were based on our interest to establish meaningful sister airport relationships. We had fruitful discussions among others, about 'best practices' as they relate to retail, technical, customer service, etc. in the operations of an international airport," LaBega disclosed.

The potential of increasing airlift to SXM was among the main focus of the delegation in its discussions with several airlines. US Airways, for example, expressed its satisfaction with the St. Maarten market and revealed that it is finalizing plans to use a larger aircraft in November to operate its weekend flights into SXM. "This larger aircraft, Airbus 330 will result in an increase of approximately 70 seats per flight," LaBega stated.

LIAT also expressed its interest to operate in and out of SXM after 9 PM, to maximize aircraft utilization and profitability.

Similarly, Fly Montserrat, expressed an interest in flying between Antigua and SXM. The company stated, however, that this would not be to compete against LIAT, but merely to complement the existing service from carriers.

JetBlue's San Juan, Puerto Rico service has been performing well and the airline is looking into the possibility for increasing service. The company said its load factors in and out SXM are good and revealed that talks are underway for a possible interline agreement with LIAT. It is also considering "sharing flights" between two markets. In such cases a flight would, for example, operate 4 times weekly into SXM, and the other 3 days the aircraft would be used to operate for example in and out of St. Thomas.

"I am very satisfied with the outcome of our participation in the World Routes event and look forward to follow up action to concretize the results of our various meetings with our aviation stakeholders," concluded Minister Richardson.

armedrobberyfillin13082012BEACON HILL:--- A police patrol was sent to Beacon Hill road on October 11th, 2013 at approximately 5:30am to investigate an armed robbery. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the 30 year old male victim who stated that he was attacked by three unknown men one of which had a fire arm and the other a knife. During the attack he was immediately thrown to the ground, threatened with the gun and the knife, and his bag with content was taken from him. After committing this act the robbers took off in a unknown vehicle.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsatececonference13102013Says that Early Childhood Education Key to Future Learning Success

MAHO:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams extended words of welcome and encouragement at the opening of the 2013 Early Childhood Educational Conference which was held on Wednesday Evening at the Maho Convention Center. The Conference, held under the theme of 'The Future of Early Childhood Education on St. Maarten' brought together educators and educational experts from around the region discussing innovations in early childhood education and the future of such for the Country.

The Prime Minister extended her words of appreciation and welcome while also highlighting the crucial importance of early childhood education to the development of the country: "In a special way I would like to welcome those of you who have traveled to be on St. Maarten in order to be here at this conference. I wish to commend the organizers; it is quite timely to stand still for a moment in order to reflect on where early childhood education on St. Maarten will look like in the future. However, we cannot do this without reflecting where we have come from and recognizing the important strides we have been making in developing early childhood education for, although we are still faced with some challenges, we have indeed come a long way.

"It has been shown, over and over again and through various studies, that children who had the opportunity for quality early childhood education excelled in their later educational career. Research has shown that this is indeed a fact and so on St. Maarten the push has always been to include as many of our young children in early childhood education as possible. Over the years the focus on the quality of early childhood education has become very clear, as all partners including SIFMA, Government, Caregivers and parents have worked together to improve the quality of care and education for the youngest residents of St. Maarten. In, 2010, when the first early childhood care and education conference was held in Moscow a reflection was made with respect to how far the entire world came with respect to the education for all. The first goal of that education is the accessibility and availability for early childhood education in the countries globally. If we localize that thought to our situation here on St. Maarten we can indeed look back on the growth and development of early childhood education and establish how and where we want to go in the future regarding the development of our youngest St. Maarteners, especially given all that we know regarding the importance of educating them early on. And by doing this we will build the future leaders of this society," emphasized the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

ministryvsacertificatespresentedtobabywellnessclinicstaff13102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Staff of the Baby Wellness Clinic which is located at Brouwer's Road 6A (behind FATUM Insurances Building) received certificates on Friday from Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever after completing a week long training related to the "Van Wiechen Schedule," an instrument to monitor the development of children from the age of zero to four. This instrument is also used in the Netherlands, Aruba and Curacao. With the use of the schedule, youth health care nurses are able to easier identify developmental delays at an early stage thereby helping to minimize the delay by early interventions.

MARIGOT:--- Swift work and joint cooperation between the Territorial Police and the Gendarmes led to the arrest of nine persons who entered St. Martin illegally. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that around 1:30am Friday morning the Police Territorial spotted an unusual amount of persons disembarking on the waterfront next to the ferry station. The persons were seen on a video surveillance camera that covers most of Marigot.

According to the press release, when these persons were spotted the gendarmes were notified and two Gendarmes went to the scene where they found nine persons that entered the island illegally. Seven of the nine persons are from Cuba, one St. Lucian, and a Martinican that came off from a small boat. The seven Cuban nationals had on them a bag with their personal items, large sums of monies (both US dollars and Euros), and their identifications. The monies were carefully wrapped in plastic mostly to prevent it from getting wet.

Currently, the Police Aux Frontiers (PAF) are busy conducting an investigation on the entry of the illegal aliens that entered the French territory. As such St. Martin was given full permission to continue with the judicial inquiry to determine and gather all the information on the transport of the persons caught early Friday morning.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The One St. Maarten People Party was made to understand that our Social & Medical health insurance company SZV has decided as of October 1st, 2013 to turn fully to generic medication where applicable. We trust that our health inspectorate is also doing their job by insuring that those medications that are being dispensed by our pharmacies are up to code and okay for public consumption.
"Our greatest problem, says Mr. Leo Richardson with this change of policy as it pertains to the distribution of this type of medication is the lack of respect given to the public on said matter". We believe that it is the responsibility of our health insurance company SZV to explain to the people what is generic medication? How does it measure up in comparison to the medication that the people were accustomed of using? Is it of an inferior quality and why the change?
Why wasn't it published in the newspaper or announced on the radio of said changes? Keeping in mind, that we are a democratic society, shouldn't we have been notified on such a change affecting our social and medical health care? There are people that have been using certain medications for years, only to be told that these medications will no longer be covered by their insurance company without certain stipulations. Be it as insignificant to the people making these changes, don't we the people deserve to know beforehand? Don't we have the right to question, debate or even object to such a move? These things should be made public knowledge and not done behind closed doors. Who are the people responsible for implementing said changes? Have we gotten to such a place where we the people must accept things without any explanation, be it cost efficiency, budgetary issues or whatever reason? We are sure there are frustrations on all ends, but this should not be the accepted norm of doing things. With a slogan that states "Because We Care" you would think they would consider a person's piece of mind as well. We expected more from our health care providers also. Why haven't you taken steps to enlighten the public on the matter? Especially since your first priority is to care for a person's health. As a matter of fact we still believe that it can be done in a blitz advertising campaign informing the people about these changes, after all you owe it to the people. This attitude of force feeding "we the people" what you deem is for our best interest must stop. You can't speak for someone if you've never listened or truly heard them speak. Our voice is just as important and we deserve to be heard on all matters especially if it pertains to our health.
The OSPP believes strongly in preventive health care for the people of St. Maarten and therefore intends to introduce more home grown gardening. The people of St. Maarten must become more health conscious by eating what they grow. One hundred pounds of prevention is better than a 100 pounds of cure.

OSPP Press Release

bottledwater13102013PHILIPSBURG:--- One of the many tasks of the Inspectorate VSA as established by legislation is to monitor and ensure the quality of drinking water. This includes the water as distributed by GEBE through its network, bottled water and ice. The legal basis for this authority and the quality requirements are laid down in the "Inspectorate Ordinance", the "Commodities Ordinance", the "Drinkwater Ordinance" and the "Ordinance Quality of Drinkwater".
For 2013 the Inspectorate has as one of its goals a more strict supervision and enforcement on the quality of drink water and ice.
On March 25th, August 7th and September 30th 2013 samples of different brands of bottled water were collected and analyzed to determine the quality and compliance with legislation. The list might not be complete. Some brands are imported on occasion and not always available, but the most common brands have been examined.
To understand and interpret the results of the analysis, a brief explanation is given below of the most relevant parameters. The norms are based on the Ordinance "Quality drinking water" (AB 2013 GT no. 754) and supplements.

pH
The pH is a measure of the acidity – alkaline balance in a solution and is mainly determined by the bicarbonate – carbon dioxide - carbonate balance.
Careful attention to pH control is necessary at all stages of water treatment to ensure satisfactory water clarification and disinfection.
The pH is of major importance in determining the corrosivity (aggressiveness) of water. In general the lower the pH, the higher the level of corrosion. However, pH is only one of a variety of factors affecting corrosion in distribution networks and household pipes which may lead to adverse effects on its taste, odor and appearance.
Norm for bottled water: above 7.8 and below 8.5
Health risks: At very low (below 4) or very high (above 10) pH water my lead to skin and eye irritation and gastrointestinal disorders but usually has no direct impact on humans.

Conductivity
Conductivity is a measure of the ability of water to pass an electrical current. Conductivity is affected by the presence of inorganic dissolved solids, either present or added , such as chloride, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate anions (ions that carry a negative charge) or sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and aluminum cations (ions that carry a positive charge). Organic compounds like oil, phenol, alcohol, and sugar do not conduct electrical current very well and therefore have a low conductivity when in water. Conductivity is also affected by temperature: the warmer the water, the higher the conductivity. For this reason, conductivity is reported as conductivity at 25 degrees Celsius (25 C).
Norm for bottled water: below 100 mS/m

Turbidity
Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of water. It is used to indicate water quality and filtration effectiveness (e.g. whether disease-causing organisms are present). Higher turbidity levels are often associated with higher levels of disease-causing micro-organisms such as viruses, parasites and some bacteria. These organisms can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches.
Norm for bottled water: clear water and the lower the turbidity, the better.

Microbiological (bacteriological) analysis
Bacteria in water can cause waterborne illness. E. Coli and Enterococci live in the intestine of healthy humans and animals. E.Coli bacteria produce a powerful toxin that can cause severe illness. Infection often causes severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps; sometimes the infection causes non-bloody diarrhea. Frequently, no fever is present. In some people, particularly children under 5 years of age and the elderly, the infection can also cause a complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome, in which the red blood cells are destroyed and the kidneys fail. About 2%-7% of infections lead to this complication which is a life-threatening condition usually treated in an intensive care unit. Blood transfusions and kidney dialysis are often required. Some other, less harmful bacteria may be present up to a certain amount which is measured by the plate count.

  • Plate count (PC) indicator of the amount of bacteria present
    norm for bottled water: below 20 kve/ml
  • T-Coli (total Coliform) Not a health threat in itself; it is used to indicate whether other potentially harmful bacteria may be present.
    norm for bottled water: 0 kve/250 ml (not present)
  • E-Coli : will only be determined if T-Coli is positive
    norm for bottled water: 0 kve/250 ml (not present)
  • • E-Coc (Enterococcen)
    norm for bottled water: 0 kve/250 ml (not present)

Expiration date: by law it is mandatory to have an expiration date stamped on the label, the bottle or the cap. It was observed that many don't comply in this regard due to un-controlled import in Sint Maarten or import from non-official distributors. Bottled water has an expiry date, because of its contents and the exposure to environmental conditions like heat and sun light, which make it non suitable for consumption with time. Consumers should always verify the expiration date and are advised not to purchase bottled water without an indicated expiration date or one which has expired.

Manufacturers' quality assurance
Manufacturers need to be in compliance with HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) guidelines and norms on hygiene. HACCP is a systematic preventive approach to food safety and biological, chemical, and physical hazards in production processes that can cause the finished product to be unsafe, and designs measurements to reduce these risks to a safe level.
Quality control and assurance must be implemented and demonstrated by manufacturers e.g. a water quality monitoring program of the source and along the production process must be in place; keeping proper logs of lab results; packaging control; line, internal pipe and equipment cleaning.

Results
The results of the analysis can be viewed in the table.
As can be seen, there is only one brand that is fully compliant and consistent in all three tests. The manufacturer of this brand is a local manufacturer. The production plant and quality assurance are supervised by the Inspectorate as is done with the other local manufacturer. Too many brands have demonstrated deviations in the pH and also demonstrated an unacceptable high plate count. None tested positive for E.Coli or E-Coc.
The Inspectorate will intensify its supervision and enforcement on imported brands, especially at the import and distribution points. Bottled water without an expiry date will be confiscated. Importers a/o distributors will have to provide proof of manufacturers' quality assurance programs and conduct testing programs in cooperation with the Inspectorate.
More information can be obtained at the Inspectorate VSA, division Food Safety.

Table – 1         Results of the analysis of different brands of bottled water

 

March 25th, 2013

 

Brand

pH

7.8-8.5

Conduct

<100

Turbidity

PC

<20

T-Coli

0

E.Coc

0

1

Alkalife Ten

-

-

-

-

-

-

2

Aqua Panna

7.7

235

0.26

110

0

0

3

Aquafina

5.97

16

0.16

6

0

0

4

Blue Mountain

5.86

10

0.12

4

0

0

5

Blue Water

5.5

23

0.33

11

0

0

6

Capes

6.56

537

0.17

3

0

0

7

Chanflor

6.93

124

0.17

0

0

0

8

Contrex

-

-

-

-

-

-

9

Crystal Geyser

-

-

-

-

-

-

10

Crystal Spring

-

-

-

-

-

-

11

Dasani

5.77

57

0.17

4

0

0

12

Evamor

-

-

-

-

-

 

13

Evian

-

-

-

-

-

-

14

Fiji

7.3

254

0.23

0

0

0

15

Heavenly

7.99

16

0.1

0

0

0

16

Karuline

-

-

-

-

-

-

17

Nestle

7.34

103

0.15

0

0

0

18

Niagara

6.14

9

0.35

340

0

0

19

Nikini

6.58

69

0.25

0

0

0

20

Poland Spring

6.68

57

0.18

0

0

0

21

San Benedetto

7.5

441

0.48

95

0

0

22

Smart Water

-

-

-

-

-

-

23

Spa

6.29

56

0.12

0

0

0

24

Vittel

7.44

532

0.14

0

0

0

25

Volvic

6.59

192

0.17

0

0

0

26

Younique

7.8

19

0.15

0

0

0

27

Zephyrhills

7.67

370

0.15

8

0

0

August 7th, 2013

 

Brand

pH

7.8-8.5

Conduct

<100

Turbidity

PC

<20

T-Coli

<1

E.Coc

<1

1

Alkalife Ten

8.9

142.7

0.21

75

0

0

2

Aqua Panna

7.47

232

0.15

230

0

0

3

Aquafina

-

-

-

-

-

-

4

Blue Mountain

6.45

4.88

0.1

800

0

0

5

Blue Water

6.08

28.8

0.17

1100

0

0

6

Capes

6.46

461

0.1

0

0

0

7

Chanflor

7.94

125.4

0.14

2

0

0

8

Contrex

6.95

2.2

0.25

60

0

0

9

Crystal Geyser

5.93

26

0.13

0

0

0

10

Crystal Spring

7.91

13.28

0.14

3

0

0

11

Dasani

6.93

54.9

1.03

0

0

0

12

Evamor

8.54

265

0.12

0

0

0

13

Evian

7.11

542

0.14

81

0

0

14

Fiji

7.17

270

0.14

22

0

0

15

Heavenly

8.39

15.89

0.14

0

0

0

16

Karuline

7.08

102.8

0.1

0

0

0

17

Nestle

7.53

94.5

0.12

80

0

0

18

Niagara

6.66

5.99

0.16

99

0

0

19

Nikini

7.22

76.3

0.16

0

0

0

20

Poland Spring

7.51

57.7

0.2

0

0

0

21

San Benedetto

7.44

448

1.03

50

0

0

22

Smart Water

7.32

54.9

0.14

15

0

0

23

Spa

6.7

50.8

0.13

0

0

0

24

Vittel

7.24

532

0.13

0

0

0

25

Volvic

7.39

194.6

0.12

0

0

0

26

Younique

6.99

206.3

0.15

0

0

0

27

Zephyrilis

7.25

368

0.19

180

0

0

September 30th , 2013

 

Brand

pH

7.8-8.5

Conduct

<100

Turbidity

PC

<20

T-Coli

<1

E.Coc

<1

1

Alkalife Ten

9.42

144.4

0.12

75

0

0

2

Aqua Panna

7.67

231

0.2

400

0

0

3

Aquafina

6.74

13.05

0.51

0

0

0

4

Blue Mountain

6.24

7.31

0.14

1500

0

0

5

Blue Water

6.04

26.8

0.21

1900

0

0

6

Capes

7.42

519

0.78

70

0

0

7

Chanflor

7.28

125.2

0.37

5

0

0

8

Contrex

7.56

1992

0.26

210

0

0

9

Crystal Geyser

7.5

219

0.15

0

0

0

10

Crystal Spring

7.51

211.2

0.16

40

0

0

11

Dasani

6.28

59.9

0.47

0

0

0

12

Evamor

8.48

264

0.19

0

0

0

13

Evian

7.65

549

0.14

60

0

0

14

Fiji

7.81

267

0.19

9

0

0

15

Heavenly

7.8

26.6

0.24

0

0

0

16

Karuline

7.33

88.2

0.17

5

0

0

17

Nestle

7.12

99.9

0.15

310

0

0

18

Niagara

6.49

11.11

0.15

80

0

0

19

Nikini

7.23

72.6

0.14

0

0

0

20

Poland Spring

6.9

64.8

0.15

5

0

0

21

San Benedetto

7.83

445

0.17

0

0

0

22

Smart Water

6.31

45.6

0.26

10

0

0

23

Spa

6.39

52.3

0.15

2

0

0

24

Vittel

7.58

537

0.16

0

0

0

25

Volvic

7

193.7

0.44

19

0

0

26

Younique

7.05

14.53

0.26

0

0

0

27

Zephyrilis

7.77

369

0.31

220

0

0

Press Release from Inspectorate of the Ministry of VSA

arinaldohanley13102013FRENCH QUARTER:--- A young man identified as Arinaldo Hanley (24) was shot around 9:30am at Brooks Car Wash on French Quarter main road on Sunday morning. The shooting took place during the regular Sunday morning bike race. According to bystanders, the young man was shot while being at the location where the Sunday morning bike race takes place each week. Bystanders at the scene said the young man was shot innocently when a fight broke out among some other young men. They said that one of the fighters hit another person with a hammer in his head and the person reacted by firing a number of gunshots. Another person who was also on the scene tried to stop the shooter by firing shots also, but Hanley died on the spot despite the efforts by rescue workers and a doctor from SAMU who was on the scene trying to revive him.
Some of the regular onlookers of the Sunday morning bike race told SMN News that they ran for their lives when they heard multiple gunshots. "We ran for our lives, because shots were fired from both ends. The shooter who managed to escape from the scene in a car was also shot in his foot, one bystander told SMN News reporter. Both the victim and the shooter it is said are from the Dutch side of the island. The body of the dead young man was still at the scene up to midday Sunday as several gendarmes and crime scene officers remained on the scene to gather evidence as they conduct the latest homicide investigation.
Several persons on the scene said that law enforcement and government officials are responsible for the illegal bike races and gathering on Sunday mornings because they tried to convince government officials to provide a safe spot for their bike racing hobby but their pleas fall on deaf ears.

Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille confirmed to SMN News that two persons were shot in French Quarter Sunday morning one of whom died on the scene from the injuries he sustained due to the gunshots. Betaille said the second victim that was shot in his foot is in stable condition at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital. The head of the Gendarmerie further explained that the shooter managed to escape to the Dutch side through the Belvedere border. Betaille said they already have indications as to who the suspect is and they are working with the Dutch side police to locate the suspect. He further explained that the victims and the suspect are all residents of Dutch St. Maarten and they apparently had some sort of feud which they came to the French side to regulate which led to the shootout and subsequent killing.

Click here to view more photos of the scene Sunday morning.

COLE BAY: --- Firefighters and police officers worked for hours early Sunday morning to contain a huge fire that engulfed a shanty town located behind Carl and Sons in Cole Bay. Senior firefighter Clive Richardson told SMN News that the Fire Department was summoned around 1am Sunday morning. He said when they reached the scene an unknown amount of wooden structures were on fire.
Richardson said up to Sunday morning the Fire Department could not say exactly how many homes burnt down but everyone that lived in the structures in that shanty town are homeless this morning. "We do not know how many structures burned down and we also don't know how many people were living there. When we got there we saw people around but none of them admitted to living there. We also found 30 small gas bottles at the scene, so from that we gathered there were quite a number of people living in that shanty town." Bystanders told the firemen that they believe the fire was electrical because the fire started shortly after the lightning and thunder on Saturday night.
Richardson further explained that the firemen had difficulty obtaining a steady flow of water because there was only one fire hydrant behind Carl and Sons while the other one is all the way up by ACE Home Center. "The fire was behind Carl and Sons but it could not be accessed by Carl and Sons. Firefighters had to go through a dirt road which is located next to Electec."
"We lost time because of the distance of the fire hydrants from the location of the fire. Due to this there was a shortage of water. When we got there the entire shanty town was on fire. Even though we lost time and did not have sufficient water we could not have saved anything from the shanty town. Nearby homes suffered minor damages such as scorches and cracked glasses," Richardson told SMN News early Sunday morning.

Huge Fire in Cole Bay.

On Sunday October 13th, 2013 at approximately 12:45am, several police patrols, fire department personnel, and paramedics were directed to Wesley Lane in Cole Bay where a large fire had broken out involving several homes. Police and fire department personnel had to evacuate several persons living in the area. The cause of the fire is still unclear and under investigation. The damage to many homes is quite severe. No injuries or loss of life has been reported.

KPSM Police Report

MARIGOT:--- Over two hundred people gathered at the Collectivity of St. Martin on Saturday morning to protest against the same sex marriage that took place at 10:30am. Several of the protesters were dissatisfied with elected officials saying they could have refused to conduct the marriage of the two ageable men that tied the knot. Saturday's same sex marriage is the first to take place on the island, it is now part of the history of this French Overseas Territory.

The protesters said that first VP Guillaume Arnell should have resigned instead of performing the marriage of two people that are of the same sex. The bride and groom were sneaked into the Collectivity while the protesters gathered outside waiting to see the couple. Gendarmes had to secure the Collectivity to ensure that the two people were not injured by the protesters. At least one person flung a bottle which almost hit a Gendarme. When the couple left the Collectivity the protestors jeered and booed them as they entered a white vehicle that was waiting to take them to their reception.

The actions of the person who flung the bottle were condemned by the protesters who said that they were there to protest peacefully simply because they want to show the State of France that they were not in favor of what was taking place in their country. The protestors also said that the elected officials on St. Martin did not consult with people of St. Martin prior to the law being passed earlier this year. "We believe that the elected officials should have consulted with the people through a referendum but that too was not done."

Among those that protested were radio personalities and other well known people who said that marriage is meant to be between a man and woman and not two people of the same sex. They said by having a same sex marriage, marriage has been disrespected. However, marriage has been disrespected long before many of us were born. When a man and woman take a vow in marriage they vow to be with each other despite good or bad and in sickness and health. They also vow to remain sincere and true to each other yet we have married people that have extra-marital affairs, some with people of the same sex, they also have children outside of their marriages and it has been accepted by everyone. One of the protesters said that the soon the church will be disrespected by same sex marriages. Again, it must be noted that the church has been disrespected for years by the pastors that sleep with members of their congregation and when they tolerate hypocrisy by christening and or baptizing illegitimate children.

PHILIPSBURG:--- "The One St. Maarten People Party has been following with keen attention the developments within the RBC Bank in particular as it pertains to those workers that are being sent home", says Lenny Priest, Interim Leader of the OSPP.
Our first reaction is to implore the Ministry of Labour officials, among others, to move incisively on this matter. Thirteen employees (to begin with) in a small community, is a significant number. They represent thirteen families that will be without an income earner in a sluggish economy. Retrenching thirteen employees at the same time amounts to mass dismissal, very much like the Pelican situation, but should not be left to wear itself out as in the Pelican saga.
According to Caribbean Banking Business Update of RBC the bank is boosting record earnings for the year to date, with a 12% growth in net income after taxes compared to prior year, to CAD 6.3 billion. This is a substantial growth in all measurements in this trying economic time.
Now if RBC is posting this type of growth, why would they want to put some of their employees who have been with them for so many years, dedicated and hardworking resulting in the type of growth that they are enjoying today, on the unemployment line?. If RBC bank is not satisfied with these numbers perhaps they should cut back on the fringe benefits of the CEO's and other top managers and they would certainly improve their profit margin even more.
We consider the RBC bank offer as a slave offer, by indicating that it would be in the best interest of the workers to be laid off to accept it as it is more than what they would receive, should the calculations be done by our labour department; secondly that after three months the interest rate on the mortgage would increase from staff rate to the regular client rate from 4% to 8%; these laid off workers will no longer be part of the pension plan. This offer is inhumane and nobody should accept it.
RBC Bank in our opinion, if they truly considered these employees as a viable part of the operation they would offer them a more tangible settlement that would allow these workers to start fresh, but without any existing financial burdens.

  1. Double the amount they offered them and negotiate with the Inspectorate of Taxes for this payout to be exempt from taxes. According to information in the media it was done for the AUC Medical School who got away with a substantial amount that was not paid to the Receivers office.
  2. Write off their mortgages at RBC Bank or pay off the mortgages at any other lending institutions.
  3. Allow those workers to remain within the pension plan as long as they can continue contributing their share of the premium.

Above and beyond we strongly condemn the laying off of the thirteen workers and any others to follow. We implore all the workers to stick together and be each other keepers. Remember in unity you have strength and if you don't stand up and support your colleagues now in action believing that it will not happen to you, well then you are dead wrong. Today it is them and tomorrow it is you.

We will continue to keep a close eye on this case in the interest of our people and we want you to know that we are in total support of any actions that you deem necessary to prevent the laying off of your colleagues.

OSPP Press Release

hawksbillhatchlings11102013PHILIPSBURG:--- In the late evening of Thursday October 10th early morning of Friday October 11th residents of Philipsburg including "Mr. Butterfly"/ "Puffer", "Blacks", "GT", beach attendants and the Dollison family took note of approximately one hundred sea turtle hatchlings making their way from Great Bay Beach up towards the general vicinity of the board walk.

These Hawksbill sea-turtles hatched and emerged from a nest on the beach during the course of the evening and would under normal circumstances be instinctively attracted by the reflection of the moon on the water and head towards Open Ocean. The bright lights on the boardwalk unfortunately seriously disorientated the hatchlings causing them to head in the wrong direction and exposing them to dehydration, fatal fatigue or predation (by birds, cats, dogs).

Alert residents of Philipsburg rescued the sea-turtles by collecting those headed inland, placing them in a large bucket filled with seawater and subsequently calling Sint Maarten Pride Foundation Vice President Rueben Thompson for advice on how to proceed. Upon arrival in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Pride Foundation and area residents released the turtles along the shoreline and ensured that all hatchlings made it to the water safely. The nest site was located, inspected for additional hatchlings and those found were released into the ocean.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation urges Government and the private sector to work closely with local environmental organizations such as EPIC, Nature Foundation and Pride to immediately reduce sources of Light pollution along the island's beaches, particularly along Great Bay Beach as there are potentially several more nests which will be hatching within the coming weeks. Proper management of sea-turtle nesting beaches is a critical step in efforts to save endangered sea-turtle species.

Sea-turtles are protected on Sint Maarten based on the Nature Conservation Ordinance of Sint Maarten and the Sea -Turtle Convention to which Sint Maarten is a signatory making it illegal to kill, injure, catch, pick-up, possess, directly or indirectly disturb their habitat or to carry-out other acts which disturb or harm Sea-turtles. Residents are encouraged to immediately contact Sint Maarten's environmental organizations whenever Sea-turtles are observed on the island's beaches.

The Hawksbill hatchlings in question would have surely met their untimely demise if residents had not opted to take action. Pride Foundation thanks and commends the above mentioned residents of Philipsburg for their vigilance and willingness to give Mother Nature a helping hand.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation Press Release

swescotwilliamsatosppelectoralreformdebate11102013PM: "I think that we should surely strive for a campaign where the electorate is informed and the message is clear"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, members of her Cabinet and President of the Democratic Party Mr. Michael Ferrier were some of the handful of attendees at the One St. Maarten People's Party Debate centered on Electoral and Campaign reform on Thursday evening.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has emphasized that political parties and the campaign promises of politicians should be held accountable through new laws related to electoral reform. "It is no secret that I have been championing electoral reform as I sincerely believe that we should avoid it being intimidating for persons to be casting their vote. I am a proponent of a more sober voting environment, of people understanding what parties and candidates are saying to them and voters understanding what things are feasible and to hold politicians accountable for the campaign promises they make. I think that we should surely strive for a campaign where the electorate is informed and the message is clear to the electorate in what they can expect from their Government," stressed the PM.

"I am looking at electoral reform in general considering what we have been seeing for the last few years, including the changing of factions and giving up seats. I would like to propose that I prepare a position paper and discuss this with parliament and discuss where we want to go with this and then subsequently move to the drafting of legislation and moving it through Parliament.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Low Season Occupancy Rates Up, Extra Flights and Security Commitment for Maho Area Discussed

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received an update from the Maho Group regarding the Maho Group, including Sonesta Maho and Sonesta Great Bay. Besides the Prime Minister the meeting was attended by Armando Pizzuti, Vice President of Hotel Operations, Mr. Bernard Hunt of the Maho Group, Ms. Ramona Thomas Senior Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister and Mr. Quenniche from the Cabinet of Minister Richardson. During the meeting Mr. Pizutti explained that for the first time, and through the cooperation of all stakeholders, occupancy rates at the hotel were up during the low season, with occupancy rates being close to 60%. Workers at the hotel were also able to work five days a week instead of three which was customary during the low season.

Another highlight of the meeting was the commitment of Delta Airlines to fly two extra flights into the island, contributing to Maho Group's all-inclusive plan.

During a subsequent interview Mr. Pizzuti stated that Maho has decided to alter some renovations to offer a more upscale product to Great Bay Hotel, wanting to attract a higher quality of guest and subsequently introducing butler services in our suites. We are trying to differentiate the two hotels on the island and move forward from offering the same product. Also Delta airlines made a commitment to the island to fly from New York and Atlanta. Delta did not ask any Government support which shows that Delta believes in the island to commit the flights from New York and Atlanta with Atlanta being a new destination. We have received the commitment from Government to move into final discussions regarding the crucial upgrading of safety in the Maho area. The all-inclusive concept works and works well in St. Maarten because the St. Maarten product is not enclosed inside walls. There is the freedom to come out of the hotel to explore the island. So we therefore need to safeguard this and ensure the security of the area.

We have had close cooperation with the Prime Minister and Government to ensure the continuous building out of the Maho/Great Bay product. We also have an ongoing partnership with the Sundial School and troubled kids training them and ensuring the continued success of the partnership between Government, public and the Maho Group," stated Mr. Pizzuti.

The Prime Minister thanked the representatives for the update and further committed Governments cooperation on matters regarding strengthening the St. Maarten Tourism Product.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsgivesspeechforconstitutionday10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended various celebrations on Thursday joining with the public of St. Maarten in celebrating constitution day; the third anniversary of the attainment of Country Status for St. Maarten. In the morning the Prime Minister attended the solemn ceremony of Parliament commemorating the Tenth of October 2010, the date St. Maarten received its own country status. The Prime Minister during her address highlighted the strives St. Maarten has made and the way forward for the Country. "Today is a reason for St. Maarten to celebrate and in celebrating it behooves all of us to look back and recognize the work done by so many to make it possible to be where we are today in commemorating the third anniversary of St. Maarten. Many of us, including our youth, worked very hard and gave their much needed input, ideas and contributions to the development of this country and today I say thank you to all who, in one way or another, contributed even in the smallest way to help build the Country of St. Maarten.

"We have surely grown over the last three years. It is true that this growth has not come without its growing pains. Indeed I would like to make an analogy to childbirth in saying that as a country we have gone through labor, a long and difficult labor. We have finally given and now in growing, the young country that is St. Maarten is experiencing its growing pains," emphasized the PM.

The Prime Minister also echoed keynote speaker the first Prime Minister of Curacao Eman when she said; "Prime Minister Eman thank you for your work and it is an eye opener to see that Aruba went through so familiar issues like what we are going through. We have learned to never turn back and we must move forward. As we celebrate and recognize the work done by some many on St. Maarten we must realize that we cannot turn back, and it is up to us to see how committed as a country we are. Every citizens must ask themselves the question; 'What part would I like to be in helping to build my country?' We need to take into consideration the feelings and aspirations of the youth of St. Maarten, who are too often summarized under a negative caption. Our committed young people are a part of that growth and development and we should try to use all of that in a positive way.

The Prime Minister continued by stating that there is a lot of work for St. Maarten in the road ahead but collectively and together the push can be made to realize what has to occur to develop the Country. "We have experienced many storms in the past and so in our growth and development we are experiencing storms also. However, the fact remains that St. Maarten experiences man more sunny days than any amount of storms and so we need to count our blessings as St. Maarten and we need to recognize that we all are here for a purpose. Even today we can say that what we are going through we have weathered worse and we will emerge from this stronger again. I believe that it is with a vision that our slogan is Semper Pro Gradiens was established; always moving ahead and always wanting to give it our best. Let us put that collective psyche to work once again for the benefit and the future of our country St. Maarten. God bless the people, Parliament and Country of St. Maarten and its development. It will be a difficult journey, we sometimes will stumble, but we will always stand up again," stressed the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also joined various dignitaries at the New Testament Baptist Church where Pastor Wycliffe Smith urged all officials present to move forward collectively in building a god-fearing and successful Country.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nfandbtcenvironmentaleducation10102013COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation in partnership with Be The Change St. Maarten is currently involved in the Be The Change Naturalist Course where some six youth from varying difficult backgrounds are given the opportunity to learn about Nature on St. Maarten and environmental. The Idea behind of the Be The Change/ Nature Foundation Project was to motivate and expose challenged youth to become involved in Environmental Conservation in General and Marine Conservation more specifically. The Nature Foundation has always been active in developing and instilling conservation awareness in young people, however it has found that less privileged young people and those coming from difficult homes do not have the opportunity and support necessary to be introduced to the environment of St. Maarten and its conservation. They may not have had the opportunity to have been introduced to a field that is both rewarding and exciting and one which, aside from making a difference in the community, can offer opportunities for further development and employment in the future. "We believe that opening the eyes of children who may have not have had the opportunity to do so to the wonders of the natural world will enrich them and cause them to focus on not only the sustainable development of their island but also of themselves. That is why we considered this such an important project and were delighted to be given the opportunity to realize it through the partnership with the Be The Change Foundation and the some of the Foster Homes where the kids were staying," stated the Nature Foundation.

The program originally ran for four weeks starting on Wednesday the Fourth of September and was supposed to end on Saturday the 28th; however it was decided to extend the classes indefinitely in order to offer the students the experience of being in St. Maarten's unique environment and working actively to conserve it. During the activity the participants were basic environmental, conservation and marine biology education clean-up activities, habitat restoration work, species conservation and were thought snorkeling techniques, boat handling and SCUBA diving skills. Author and Naturalist Mark Yokoyama from the Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Maarten also provided terrestrial environmental education and photography courses and students spent many afternoons and mornings hiking with Mark and learning about various land animals and their habitats and the threats that they face.

The contribution from the Be the Change Foundation and its Members facilitated training activities, materials, field trips, fuel for the boats, equipment requirements and certification. "The Nature Foundation cannot express enough how important Be The Change was in ensuring the success of this project. Through the contribution by its members we saw children develop from having an interest in Nature to becoming actively involved in its protection."

swescotwilliamshaslunchwithphilippechopin10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a lunch meeting with the Prefet of St. Martin Mr. Philippe Chopin at Bacchus Restaurant on Wednesday. The Prime Minister and the Prefet discussed various items during the lunch meeting regarding the cooperation between both sides of the island. The lunch meeting is part of a wider exchange between officials of both sides of the island regarding mutual cooperation.

The Prime Minister has stated earlier that among mutual priorities in cooperation currently being explored between the Governments of St. Maarten and St. Martin are joint road projects, transportation and vehicle registration, recognition of licenses, drinking water production, waste management and garbage handling, sewerage, drainage, agriculture initiatives, exchange of data among hospitals, education cooperation and aspects related to safety, welfare improvements and regulations to discourage fraud. In view of this, a promising start has been made with joint passenger immigration control at Juliana Airport and cross border police cooperation.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemnewphonecabinet10102013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group technicians have completely restored telephone lines to residential and business clients in the Simpson Bay area and are now appealing to customers who are still experiencing problems with landline and internet connections.

The new telephone cabinet has replaced one that was written-off in an early morning accident last week when a motorist collided with the telecommunication connection point.

Technicians successfully "cut-over" the great majority of customer lines last Saturday, however, some customers have reported poor connections or interference on their lines since then.

TelEm Group Manager, Outside Plant, Mr. Marco London said Technicians have remained on site at the entrance to Pelican to deal directly with those customers still experiencing problems.

He is urging residential and business clients between the Simpson Bay Bridge and Cappuccino Restaurant in Simpson Bay to report any problems they are having to any TelEm Group location so that their issues can be dealt with right away.

"This is not the first time a cabinet at this location has been damaged by a passing vehicle so we took the opportunity this time to relocate this telephone cabinet further in from the side of the road. We have also applied to government for a permit to erect a barrier to protect this cabinet from future damage," said Mr. London.

On behalf of TelEm Group management, Mr. London has expressed thanks to customers in the area for their patience and understanding while technicians worked diligently to restore the damaged telecommunication equipment in record time.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave a candid interview during her weekly Radio Program One on One with the PM on 98.1 Pearl FM where she addressed both her disappointment in certain Members of Parliament regarding their reaction to the issue of the Royal Decree and her personal view regarding the push by the Dutch Government.

"As much as we have said that it is not about the Investigation of integrity and as much as I have initiated steps to ensure integrity I have on occasion been on the verge of saying ok, fine, let them do their investigation. Let Minister Plasterk and Prime Minister Rutte do whatever they need to do in order to let them get the political mileage they are so desperately looking for. I have been at this point because I do not need this battle and if there is one person who has nothing to fear with regards to an integrity investigation into the Government of St. Maarten it is the Prime Minister. So during the past few weeks I have sometimes been on the verge of saying fine let them have their investigation.

"However, whenever I reach to that state I know that what they are requesting of us is not right and I will not just roll over and play dead. Today I am in the position to stand up against this and if I will allow a meddling in the affairs of St. Maarten today the person who will be in my place and who might face these same issues tomorrow will have an uphill battle because I would have allowed it. That is the bottom line to all of this. We have offered the Dutch alternatives to come to a mutual agreement because we understand what they requested and we wanted to collaborate. I have been in the process of Constitutional Change and I have never believed that the first few years would be have been easy ones for St. Maarten as a country but I did believe that we would be given the time to focus on building this country. The odds were always stacked against St. Maarten albeit that we were the ones at the forefront of Constitutional change. We insisted and persisted but the doubts against St. Maarten becoming a country were significant. I have been told to my face in the Netherlands that there are municipalities in the Netherlands that have bigger populations than St. Maarten but I have always maintained that this is about us developing as a people, growing from stage to stage," stressed Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

The Prime Minister also stated that she considered it a pity that certain members in the Opposition in Parliament could not resist bringing up issues that were again irrelevant to the discussion regarding the Dutch Government meddling in St. Maarten's affairs and again sending mixed messages in that regard. "Last Thursday I asked the Parliament to hold a meeting so that I could inform them on what was occurring. I informed the Members of Parliament as I informed the Dutch Prime Minister regarding the steps we are taking in order to ensure integrity and the subsequent acts by Prime Minister Rutte and Minister Plasterk. We wanted to inform Parliament so that they could get together and take a position one way or another. I therefore regret that some persons, including MP Marlin, could not resist bringing up all types of things that were irrelevant to the discussions and which again reflected his political agenda and I sincerely believe that this is a real pity. I got quite upset that MP Marlin used the meeting to bringing up matters regarding what is taking place at the National Security for example. MP Marlin had the audacity to insinuate that there is a witch-hunt with regards to certain situations within the VDSM and again sketching false situations. My mother has always said to me to not always spit in the air because it will fall in your face. The wrong signals are being sent. Some Parliamentarians are being negligent in their authority as a Members of Parliament and it is a pity that the opportunity has been lost for Parliamentarians to ask the right questions and to hold the Ministers accountable instead of once again politicking," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

ombudsmandistrictinfosessionatusm10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The first of the series of the Ombudsman District Information Sessions was kicked off on Tuesday October 8th 2013 at the University of St Martin. After the introduction of the staff of Bureau Ombudsman and a synopsis of the Role of the Ombudsman by the Secretary General, Ms. Patricia Philips; the Complaints Procedures were outlined by the Legal Advisor of the Bureau, Mr. Marlon Hart. The Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin explained the Standards of Proper Conduct and introduced the word "Propriety", meaning proper conduct, to the audience. The importance of Good Governance and the rights and obligations of the public, the relationship between Government and Citizens, were some of the topics presented. The Ombudsman stressed the importance of social and political awareness of the citizens in promoting good governance, and explained the application of the 'standards of proper conduct' when the Bureau evaluates the complaints filed with the Ombudsman. The standards of proper conduct applied by the Ombudsman are internationally developed in democratic countries, and are used to evaluate if propriety (behoorlijkheid) is being observed by government, government bodies and agencies, in dealing with the public. Actions of civil servants and private entities charged with government tasks are also sources for investigation.

The Complaint Officer, Mrs. Lysandra William-Crestian presented two cases investigated by Bureau Ombudsman to the audience for discussion, and understanding of 'propriety'. A lively interaction followed on the outcome of the investigations and the recommendations provided to government in these practical cases, after the audience had the opportunity to review the standards of proper conduct during a short break.

At the closing of the evening the president of the USM and the representatives of the foundations present were presented with the Annual Report 2012 by the Ombudsman.

The General public is invited to come out to the following Information Sessions that will be held at the Belvedere Community Center on October 15th, 2013, followed by the Rupert Maynard Youth Center in St Peters on October 22nd, 2013 and at the Salvation Army on October 29th, 2013 in Cole Bay.

mauricelakemeetswithweymouthfamily10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake recently met with the Weymouth family and other representatives concerning Link 6 and other Weymouth Hill road infrastructure.

The meeting was about defining the Mildrum road for Link 6 and the repairing of the side roads for the residents of Weymouth Hill. Government Minister Lake pointed out is busy preparing the design work for Link 6 and the side roads for Weymouth Hill.

"It is our intention to sit down with Mr. & Mrs. Weymouth to present them the total amount that would be needed to contribute to the side roads for the residents of Weymouth Hill. We have to work together in order to resolve small challenges and that is part of my back to basics approach," Minister Lake said on Wednesday.

Minister Lake would like to come to a win-win situation between Mr. Weymouth and the residents who had to endure all the suffering over the years with poor infrastructure.

"I have to say Mr. & Mrs. Weymouth want to contribute to the upgrading of the side roads for the residents. The residents were also complaining there is no water in the area. In a previous discussion with GEBE and the Plantz family, it was established to build a water tank in the area.

Residents are looking forward to the resolutions of issues which have been plaguing them for years. Residents have also formed an Association to look out in the best interest of the residents in the area.

"Government would like to sign this agreement with Mr. & Mrs. Weymouth before the end of this year. I think we are heading in the right direction, and I would like to thank all land owners so far for making this project a reality," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

sakirdecastroandrochanarichardson10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Two writers of Teen Times, Sakir de Castro and Rochana Richardson made sure the Members of Parliament and other dignitaries that attended the solemn session of Parliament on Thursday knew that the youths of St. Maarten are not lost and they strongly rejected the name "destitute" that was given to St. Maarten's youths by at least one Member of Parliament.

Recently, a certain MP described St. Maarten's youths as being lost and even went as far as calling the younger generation "destitute". The Teen Times writers who are very much present and active in the St. Maarten community made it clear to the Members of Parliament that they reject the name given to the youths of St. Maarten. Richardson and de Castro saiid that St. Maarten has youths with potential and those that can contribute to the development of their country but it is the duty of those in authority to give the younger generation the chance to contribute and to also be part of the decision making of their country. The theme for the third anniversary for country status of St. Maarten "Let us all join hands together for a stronger St. Maarten" they said was bit too long and therefore they opted to change the theme just for their presentation "Better Together" simply because St. Maarten would do much better if they are together and will be much stronger together in their view. As the voice of the youths of St. Maarten, they said they hear the complaints of the youths, they also highlight the achievements of youths while they do their best to educate and inform their peers about the past, present, and future.

"We cannot stand here this morning and tell you that your young people are very optimistic about the direction of this country. But we can tell you, they have not given up hope and belief that St. Maarten, with strong, forward thinking leadership can be all it aspires to be. The young people of St. Maarten, like those all over the world, are expressing more and more what they want for the future of their country and they are looking to their leaders to pave the road, not create roadblocks."

The full speech presented by de Castro and Richardson is below:

Better, Together

Delivered by Teen Times staff writers Sakir de Castro and Rochana Richardson on the occasion of the third anniversary of 10-10-10

Your Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday, Honorable Prime Minister, Honorable Ministers, Honorable President of Parliament, Honorable Ministers of Parliament, Mr. Henny Eman, invited guests and dignitaries, good morning.

We are honored to be here this morning on the occasion of the third anniversary of St. Maarten obtaining its new constitutional status. On behalf of the young, dedicated and outspoken members of Teen Times, your future leaders, we congratulate one and all on this occasion.

When we received the theme of this morning's special occasion, as teenagers we thought wow, what a long title for a theme. The theme "Let's all join hands to make a stronger Country St. Maarten". We hope the Honorable President of Parliament won't mind too much if...just for our speech.... we change that theme to: "Better, Together."

As a country, and as people who love this country, we are definitely stronger together. But besides strength, what we accomplish as one people moving forward is what will determine our future. So in that sense we are better when we do things together.

As young writers for Teen Times we are afforded the opportunity to be the voice of St. Maarten's youth. We hear their complaints, highlight their achievements and do our best to educate, inform and excite our peers about their past, present and most importantly their future.

We cannot stand here this morning and tell you that your young people are very optimistic about the direction of this country. But we can tell you, they have not given up hope and belief that St. Maarten, with strong, forward thinking leadership can be all it aspires to be. The young people of St. Maarten, like those all over the world, are expressing more and more what they want for the future of their country and they are looking to their leaders to pave the road, not create roadblocks.

That is not to say that they expect everything to be easy and shy away from hard work. They accept that every generation of leaders, face new and profound challenges. They see that this body of Parliament continues to be tested. The question they ask however is whether we possess the wisdom and the courage, as a small island nation and members of an international community, to meet those challenges and whether St. Maarten can meet the tests of our time.

They ask themselves these questions and they realize that all it takes is a little change of attitude, a change in behavior and a change from individual thinking to collective approaches. Change simply means moving forward and not standing still. The most successful individuals and organizations are those that do not run from change, but turn it to their advantage.

Changing, of course, is a matter of definition. It could mean opening your mind to a new concept or causing you to look at what is common from a different perspective or with new insight. It doesn't have to be revolutionary to be significant. We think change should be met as a friend rather than feared as an enemy.

Madame President. Three years into 10-10-10, St. Maarten's young people see themselves as true citizens of the world. We are more connected than ever before. Teens have access to ideas and initiatives that are changing the world. We can access the entire world with just a click of a button. There is no such thing as "oh we're from St. Maarten so we shouldn't think big." No way. In two words I guess you can say we are Globally Competent.

Therefore, in terms of education, there must be a crucial shift in our understanding of the purpose of education in a changing world. Our students deserve the opportunity to succeed in the global economy and contribute as global citizens. We must develop a more creative and visionary educational response to the interconnected world of the 21st century.
Caribbean countries continue to invest unprecedented resources in education. We know that government's largest budget commitment goes to education, but HOW are we educating the future of this country, and HOW are we eliminating and addressing the systems and methods that are failing our young people?

We see Caribbean countries challenging schools and school boards to set clearer and higher standards and assess student progress in more creative ways, prepare more productive teachers, and provide effective intervention in failing schools.

If you want your young people to be true citizens of the world, we have to be given the knowledge and skills that we will need to succeed in the 21st century. That's the future that we deserve, one where we can focus on opportunities because we were prepared for those opportunities.

Madame President, young people in any country represent the future of that country. They have a vital role to play in the development of their country, a duty they must perform. Although, there are many ways that youth can contribute to ensure the active participation of youth in national development, they need to be supported and encouraged by the government, the private sector, and most importantly, the community and their parents. We do not have to go on and on that there are many young people who if given the required support can contribute meaningfully to national development.

But, bringing such young people onboard the development wagon becomes the responsibility of those in authority. Also, to enhance the participation of youth in national development, they must be given the opportunity to effectively participate in decision-making processes, especially on issues affecting their lives.

That is why we compliment government on hosting events such as the Youth Round Table Conference and having a vibrant and active Youth Parliament.

Having said that, we know that our young people must also believe in themselves, not be over dependent and can become a big asset both individually and collectively to national development. We are here today to tell you that we are not a lost generation as some people have called us.

St. Maarten is blessed with positive young people willing to make a difference and determined to be significant players in their country's future. Teen Times, The Leo Club, The Youth Parliament, St. Maarten Junior Aids Committee, the various Interact Clubs, the Student Governments, the youth of SIMARC and St. Maarten Pride, need I say more? We are all here! Don't believe the hype, this generation is not lost!

Don't believe the hype, this generation is not lost! This generation is not "destitute" as we were described recently by a group right here in Parliament. We reject that label! We are here, we are active and we look to you, our leaders in government, to recognize that you have something to fight for, to govern for, to plan for. You have US!

In 10 years, what will we be able to say about what all of you did for this country? Will you see to it that we will be Better Together?

Madame President, Members of Parliament, Honorable Ministers, and your Excellency, we feel very proud, privileged and honored to have been given this opportunity to address you.

Thank you!

comatsolemnceremonyofparliament10102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Several dignitaries including Governor Eugene Holiday, Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and her cabinet, Acting Governor Reynold Groeneveldt, Ombudsman Nilda Arduin Lynch, Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte, and Commissioner of Police Carl John were among those that were in the packed tribune of Parliament during the solemn ceremony held in commemoration of the third anniversary of St. Maarten being a country. Leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger attended his first public session in Parliament on Thursday.

Keynote speaker Aruba's first Prime Minister Henny Eman outlined the main reasons Aruba opted to separate themselves from the Netherlands Antilles and go directly under the Kingdom of the Netherlands. PM Eman said one of the main reasons the people of Aruba began thinking of a change of status was because the smallest decisions regarding Aruba were made in Curacao and when they were in need of materials such as a typewriter they were given a second hand one. Eman explained that the Aruban people began thinking of status change way back in 1930 when the people of Aruba were going through very difficult times; such as hunger, poverty, and unemployment. He said in order for Aruba to deal with its problems they needed more autonomy and an opportunity to communicate and work directly with the Kingdom. Aruba attained its separate status in January 1986, shortly after that the economic situation worsened because the oil refinery stopped its operations almost crippling the economy of Aruba. Aruba conducted studies to show them how to handle crisis situations which he said helped the island to get back on track and in no time they managed to double their income when the IMF and the Kingdom came down on Aruba to realize its situation and have a balance budget.

However, politicians there did what was necessary by conducting studies and opened up the island for the tourism market. PM Eman said by doing so Aruba managed to double its numbers and saw a significant growth in its economy which was far higher than when the oil refinery was operational. The first PM of Aruba made clear that the only reason Aruba was able to take its country to another level was because they were the decision makers of Aruba.

He said a Curacao banker even said Aruba would crawl back to them on their knees, while the Kingdom thought that Aruba would release them of their responsibilities within ten years. PM Eman further elaborated in his remarks that politicians on Aruba as well as the people of that island worked hand in hand to develop their country. Eman said the people of Aruba chose to remain under the Kingdom for several reasons and they too had to deal with the matter of integrity. Aruba commissioned its own studies when the Kingdom thought Aruba was the heaven for drugs and even though the results of the investigations conducted showed that Aruba's integrity was in good standing that too was not enough.

Other speakers were leader of the National Alliance William Marlin who reminded politicians the road St. Maarten walked to obtain its country status. Marlin made sure he informed those in attendance that it was under his mandate in 2009 to 2010 that St. Maarten got its country status. He said that while the island is struggling to stay above ground, a serious look has to be taken at the country's integrity and finances. Marlin also credited those that worked tireless hours with politicians for St. Maarten to obtain its new status within the Kingdom and called on government to do what is necessary to make October 10th a national holiday. The statements made by the leader of the National Alliance did not sit well with Democratic Party MP Roy Marlin who said that it seems as though St. Maarten obtained its status through the National Alliance. Faction leader of the United People's Party Silvia Meyers focused on the cost of living and the sufferings of the elderly, she called on government to do what is necessary to ensure that elderly on St. Maarten are taken care of. Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville had a panic attack during the ceremony but later recovered to deliver his speech. Laville spoke of the workers who lost their jobs at the RBC and Pelican workers.

The two hour ceremony ended with snacks and drinks at the house of Parliament. After the solemn ceremony, a church service was held at the New Testament Baptist Church, the service at NTBC was organized by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams. Several officers of KPSM attended the church service with the elected officials.

The management of KPSM held a small ceremony in front of the police headquarters in Philipsburg in commemoration of Constitution Day.

Click here to view more photos of the Solemn Ceremony of Parliament.

The Police Department in announcing that connection with the celebration of Constitutional Day on October 10th, the E Camille Richardson Street (Police Station Alley) will be closed from 4:00pm on October 9th through October 10th, 2013 at 05:00 p.m. The public is asked to pay attention to this notice to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience.

KPSM Public Notice

OYSTER BAY:--- On Tuesday October 8th, 2013 at approximately 12:35pm, three men were arrested by police in the vicinity of the border at Oyster Bay. These men were first seen by a patrol driving in a grey Kia Picanto with a French license plate in the Sucker Garden area. When the patrol attempted to stop the vehicle in question they took off at very high speed. The vehicle in question was chased by the patrol but the occupants succeeded in getting away. Shortly after, a second police patrol saw the vehicle and suspects as they crossed the border from Coralita to Oyster Bay. The patrol attempted to stop the vehicle again however the driver refused to stop and increased speed in order get away again. The patrol was forced to block the vehicle and repeatedly ordered the suspect driver and other suspects to exit the vehicle. All suspects refused to exit the vehicle and continued behaving in a very suspicious way in the vehicle. A warning shot was fired in order to force one of the suspects who came out of the car with both hands in his pockets and refused to cooperate after being ordered several times to do so. All three suspects were arrested on the scene and during a search several bullets were found. The suspects were taken to the Police Head quarters where they were handed over to the Detective Department for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

sxmacademyinteractboard09102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last Saturday evening, September 28th, The St. Maarten Academy Interact Club held their Induction ceremony during which no less than 51 students were pined as either first time Interactors or board members.

President Rholdyne Lake in a moving presentation said: "First and foremost, I would like to thank the Rotary family for joining us this evening in inducting our new interact members. Second, my goals and vision this year is to see YOU, our new Interactors, participating in the projects we have on board and I would like to see YOU live up to your standards, develop good and strong leadership skills and build a strong and positive environment. As God gives me his knowledge and guidance with his help, I foresee the activities set will be fun and enjoyable. I can assure you that in the end, you will be delighted to be a part of the rotary family. Last, a BIG thank you to my wonderful board members for a job well done in setting up for this Induction dinner this evening".

On hand to induct the St. Maarten Academy Interact Club board and members were James Ferris Past Assistant Governor and Advisor to the Club and President Maria Buncamper-Molanus representing The Rotary Club of St. Maarten, which sponsored this Interact Club 20 years ago. Joining President Rholdyne on the board are Board Members, Hailey Greaux - Vice President, Marian Felix - Secretary, Norma Jean Illario - Treasurer, Jeffeny Fidel- National Director, Alin Urighre - Financial Director, Andy Yaoxin - Seargent of Arms, Amalia Providence - Social Director and Akesha Flanders - International Director. Also officially pinned were Faculty Advisers Peggy Bell and Patricia Arrindell.

The Interact Club is a club for young people ages 12 – 18, who want to join together to tackle the issues in their community. Through Interact, members carry out hands on service projects, make international friendships, develop leadership skills and have fun!

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

pjiaeatpinkparade09102013SIMPSON BAY:--- More than 35 members of staff of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) took part in the 4th Annual Pink Parade held in Philipsburg last Friday afternoon. It is the second year successively that the airport would participate in the parade to demonstrate its support for the Breast Cancer Awareness initiative spearheaded by the Positive and Elektralyets Foundation.

SXM Airport staff donned branded breast cancer awareness T-shirts during the parade as well as pink cowboy hats and pink boas. "SXM employees really enjoyed themselves and are all set to participate in the 2014 community initiative," said Audrey Jack, Senior Business Development Officer of the Marketing Department.

Jack also disclosed that employees were requested to wear their breast cancer awareness T-shirts every Friday throughout the month of October.

The parade is organized yearly to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month in October and as a form of solidarity with those in our community who are affected by breast cancer and their daily struggle with this disease.

Another goal of the organizers is to encourage people to get checked for breast cancer as studies show that early detection is the best prevention.

Participants in the parade marched to the accompaniment of brass bands, steel pan and drum bands starting from the Festival Village and winding through the Walter Nisbeth Road, onto the Long Wall Road, then Front Street and ending on the boardwalk via the Cyrus Wathey Square.

"The SXM group distributed breast cancer themed promotional items to onlookers along the route. The airport is very happy to take part in the Pink Parade because of the importance of raising awareness about breast cancer in our community," remarked Kalifa Hickinson, SXM's Corporate Communications Specialist, who was in the Parade.

COLE BAY:--- Upon the initiative of the St. Martin Nation Building Foundation (SNBF) and the Association L' Esprit de Concordia, the St. Martin Nation Building and Unification Grassroots People Movement – for short the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement - is herewith officially presented to the public as well as to all relevant authorities.

This movement has been operating as such, in an un-official manner for a number of years in preparation of the broadening of the scope of the functioning of both organizations by networking with like-minded people.

As of today, the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement has now become an officially structured entity, representing and defending the rights of all native, indigenous St. Martin People residing on the island and abroad.

The St. Martin Grassroots People Movement is comprised of the St. Martin Nation Building Foundation (SNBF) and the Association L' Esprit de Concordia, as/at the core of the movement along with Grassroots People Associates or Associated members.

These Associates could be private persons and/or legal bodies/institutions.

Proof of membership is being a (cultural-) St. Martin ID-cardholder and signatory to the Pledge of Allegiance to the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement.

In return the Associates/Associated members also may receive certain benefits in return.

The main objective of the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement is to represent a broad-based network aimed at promoting the recognition, protection, preservation and the best interest of the native, indigenous St. Martin People in the widest sense of the word, in order to create a strong foundation for the inclusion of all others with an 'added value' in the process of nation building/unification.

The St. Martin Grassroots People Movement is open for membership to all, who can subscribe to its objectives and who are prepared to sign a pledge to that end.

The St. Martin Grassroots People Movement reserves the rights to champion its cause on every relevant platform local-, national, regional or international.

The first Associates of the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement are the following persons;

  1. Leopold James
  2. Horace Whit
  3. Miguel Arrindell
  4. Freddy Richardson
  5. Etienne van Heyningen
  6. Nadika Stephen
  7. Touzah Jabash

While all members can be contacted for information, as it relates to the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement the official spokes-person for the movement is Leopold James, president of the SNBF/Association L'Esprit de Concordia.

In his absence Albert 'Jesse' Adams, is the official spokes-person and the substitute spoke-person is Horace Whit.

On a regular basis, updates will be provided to the public.

Copies to be sent to; The Government of St. Maarten, The Collectivity of St. Martin, the Caricom, the UN, the UNDP, The Dutch Government, the French Government etc etc.

sxmdaycommittee09102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The committee that was established to organize St. Maarten's Day activities outlined the program they are working on for St. Maarten's Day 2013 on Wednesday. Chairman of the committee Neville York said the theme this year is "Back in the Day". The committee members said that while they are working on their program they have not yet secured a budget for the St. Maarten's Day activities. They said that their intention is to submit their program by Friday this week in order to secure the budget for the activities. Persons that are interested in selling food or other merchandize on St. Maarten's Day have until Monday to submit their request for a booth or table in Festival Village. Forms can be obtained at the Government Administration Building.

Apart from the wreath laying ceremony and official speeches that will be held at the Festival Village, the committee put together a number of activities to highlight what St. Maarten was like 50 or more years ago compared to what it is today.

The intention is to have local drinks and food as well as the décor of the past for the day's events which will end early this year. Fabiana Arnell said that this year St. Maarten Day activities will close off at 9pm due to the fact that the following day is a working day.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC) that falls under Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, says that Thursday, 10 October, will be observed around the world as World Mental Health Day (WMHD)

The objective of the day is to raise awareness on mental health issues.

The theme for WMHD in 2013 is "Mental health and older adults."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever is calling on the nation to look out for the elderly and to pay more attention to them. As part of the Minister's 'Get Checked,' campaign, De Weever is calling on civil society to pay more attention to the senior population and to assist them wherever possible.

In addition, Minister De Weever says he strongly believes that all institutions must work together in the interest of the patient at all times.

Older adults, those aged 60 or above, have made and continue to make important contributions to society as family members, volunteers and as active participants in the workforce.

Mental health and emotional well-being are as important in older age as at any other time in life.

While most have good mental health, many older adults are at risk of developing mental disorders, neurological disorders or substances use problems as well as physical illness or disability.

The world's population is aging rapidly. Between 2000 and 2050, the proportion of the world's older adults is estimated to double from about 11 per cent to 22 per cent. In absolute terms, this is an expected increase from 605 million to two billion people over the age of 60.

Older people face special physical and mental health challenges which need to be recognized.

Over 20 per cent of adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental or neurological disorder (excluding headache disorders) and 6.6 per cent of all disability (disability adjusted life years-DALYs) among over 60s is attributed to neurological and mental disorders.

The most common neuropsychiatric disorders in this age group are dementia and depression. Anxiety disorders affect 3.8 per cent of the elderly population, substance use problems affect almost 1 per cent and around a quarter of deaths from self-harm are among those aged 60 or above.

Substance abuse problems among the elderly are often overlooked or misdiagnosed.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A solemn session of the House of Parliament will be held to commemorate the third anniversary of country Sint Maarten starting at 10:00am on Thursday. The entire session of the house can be followed on radio, TV and via the internet.

Keynote speaker on Constitution Day, 10 October at the House of Parliament will be Aruba's first Prime Minister Hon. Jan Hendrik Albert "Henny" Eman.

Henny Eman was born March 20, 1948 and was Aruba's first Prime Minister from 1 January, 1986 to 9 February 1989 (a little over three years) and again from 29 July, 1994 to 30 October 2001 (over seven years).

Eman will present his experiences with respect to Aruba achieving its separate status when he addresses the House of Parliament in a solemn session.

The public are asked to tune in to hear the keynote address on Constitution Day along with other activities planned during the House solemn session.

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic from the beginning of Back Street to the intersection near Angelo's Boutique Thursday evening October 10 from 8:00pm to 12:00am (midnight). The alleys will also be closed.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

swescotwilliams09102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams was much calmer and relaxed on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing when she updated the media on the Integrity Investigation that was ordered by the Kingdom Council of Ministers on September 27th, 2013.

The Prime Minister said she will be traveling to the Netherlands at the end of the week where she intends to meet with the Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte, the Council of State, and several St. Maarten based organizations. Wescot Williams said that these meetings were planned way before the Royal Decree was issued which was published last week. She said the Council of Ministers and her person met with the Governor on the matter but to date no official information was sent to the Government of St. Maarten to indicate when the integrity investigation will commence. Wescot Williams said that the Government of St. Maarten will not cooperate with the investigation unless they get the legal advice they requested from the Council of State. When asked if civil servants were officially notified that they should not cooperate with the investigators, the Prime Minister said that they have not sent out any official information such as a "memo" to the government apparatus simply because the Government of St. Maarten has not yet been informed.

The Prime Minister also informed the media that she prepared a package with information such as the letters that were sent to St. Maarten in April 2013 giving indications that the Kingdom would come down on St. Maarten if they did not heed the concerns of the Kingdom regarding the ToT that is applied on goods sold on St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said some Members of Parliament turned the entire Integrity Investigation into a political problem instead of looking at how such an investigation would impede on the country's rights. She said the Royal Decree had some things missing and if the Kingdom Council could explain that which is missing then St. Maarten will cooperate. The use of article 43 according to the Prime Minister is the main issue for St. Maarten.

Transparency International to cost Country Euros 200,000.00 --- No Agreement signed yet.

Wescot Williams also acknowledged that no official agreement was signed with Transparency International even though parties agreed in principle to have TI conduct an investigation on Integrity within the Government of St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the investigation done by TI will cost the Government of St. Maarten Euros 200,000.00.

COLA payments to be made in Lump Sum payment on November 15th, 2013.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also announced that the COLA payments for the year 2011 should be made by November 15th, 2013 now that the 2013 budget has been approved. Wescot Williams said that the 50% that was budgeted will be made in a lump sum payment and not indexed to the salaries as requested by the unions. She said however the payment will not be made at the same time as salaries which will benefit the civil servants. The Prime Minister could not say if the remaining 50% of COLA that will be owed to the civil servants would be placed in the 2014 budget. She said the 2014 budget is just as tight as the 2013 budget and government's projections are to have that budget ready by October 2013.

cdeweeverandstaffunveilingyouthconnectionsprogramposter09102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Labor, Health, and Social Affairs launched a program which is geared at reaching youngsters in various districts. Minister of Labor, Health, and Social Affairs Cornelius de Weever and Ida Hallaman told reporters that some five persons will kick off the Youth Connection program in the Dutch Quarter area. Minister de Weever said the main purpose of this program is to reach persons in the various districts that need help and information to become active citizens. Another reason the Ministry chose to embark on this particular program is to assist migrants that are living in the various communities to integrate in St. Maarten's society and to also attack the social ills affecting the persons living on St. Maarten.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs will assist the persons they connect with and place them into existing programs. Hallaman said some five persons will be working in the various districts in order to find persons that need information and preparation to participate in the programs that are already available. Persons that are interested in making contact with those in the Dutch Quarter area can contact the Help Desk in Dutch Quarter to fill out a form.

The Ministry of Labor is also working with the CPOs in the various districts to meet the persons that are hanging out on the blocks or those that simply cannot find work.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The owner of Unity Tire Center located at Sr. Modesta Road Simpson Bay filed a court case against the Government of St. Maarten. The case is scheduled to be heard on October 25th, 2013.

According to information provided to SMN News, one of the Inspectors of the Ministry of VROMI issued an immediate closure of the business on August 9th, 2013 claiming that the business owner is not in possession of a hindrance permit. Unity Tire Center has been operating since 2009 without a hindrance permit because when the Government of St. Maarten issued the business license in 2009 a hindrance permit was not required.

A representative of the company told SMN News that they were approached in 2012 and informed that since St. Maarten became a country tire centers are required to have hindrance permits and as such Unity Tire Center needed to submit an application to obtain such a permit. The company it is understood submitted their request on August 2nd, 2012 and by August 2013 the Department of VROMI closed their operations because they also denied the permit claiming that Sr. Modesta Road is a residential area. However, the zoning ordinance (2009) from the Department of Economic Affairs shows in article 27 that the entire Sr. Modesta Road is considered a commercial area.

SMN News further learnt that government plans to turn Sr. Modesta Road Simpson Bay into a residential area even though 75% of the buildings in the area are businesses.

It is now understood that after government (the Ministry of VROMI) realized they made a blunder the Minister of VROMI is trying to make some sort of agreement with the business owner in order for him to drop the court procedures.

Unity Tire Center is represented by BZSE law firm. An official comment from the attorney could not be obtained on Wednesday, neither could the Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake be reached for comment on Wednesday.

geniquahthewet08102013POND ISLAND:--- Organizers of the 2013 Breakthrough talent search event this week announced that the winner of the vocals category, Kenyo Baly is unable to continue with the Breakthrough project due to commitments to school abroad.

Under the terms of the show's agreement, the winners of all four categories must collaborate on a video recording. They must also make themselves available for various promotional spots as the faces of mobile provider, TelCell.

Since these activities require the presence of the winners on St. Maarten, Kenyo Baly and his parents have informed that he cannot guarantee that he can be on island when required, therefore, he will gladly give up the title to the next contestant in the vocals category who will now have the opportunity to collaborate with her fellow contestants.

News that she is now the winner of the vocals category has been warmly received by Ms. Thewet, who has already received a prize from the event organizers for being the most dedicated contestant.

"She has been rewarded for her positive attitude, perseverance and talent, and we very much look forward to working with her and the other winners for the year to come," said TelEm Group Breakthrough coordinator, Angel Richardson.

Ms. Richardson said all parties have been informed of the changes and Geniquah will begin filming and recording with the other winning contestants this week.

Telem Press Release

swescotwilliamsatsxmhome08102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined with the Elderly and Senior Citizens of St. Maarten in celebrating International Day of the Elderly at the St. Maarten's Home on Saturday. The PM commented earlier this week that the elderly in our society have to be recognized for their contributions to the country and for guiding generations into shaping St. Maarten society. "We must never forget that it is our parents, grandparents and great grandparents that have shaped our community and that have contributed so much to St. Maarten.

On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated 1 October the International Day of Older Persons. The day is celebrated throughout the world, St. Maarten being no exception.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesyvisitfromocanreps08102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit and held a discussion with representatives of the OCaN organization recently at her Cabinet. OCaN, or the Organization of Caribbean Dutch in the Netherlands) concerns itself with the various developments affecting the social position of the residents of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in the Netherlands. The organization contributes to decision-making and the quality of government policy on Dutch Caribbean by making the consequences of various government proposals clear with regards to the Caribbean Dutch in the Netherlands. The Prime Minister held discussions regarding the OCaN organization defending the interests of Caribbean Dutch in the Netherlands and the improvement of the social position of the Caribbean Dutch in the Netherlands through various advocacy initiatives.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

smmcopenhouse08102013Learn, Experience, Explore

CAY HILL:--- On October 19th, 2013, the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) will host an Open House to connect with the public, bringing to attention how we work to meet the medical needs of our community. We will share essential health information and useful information of the medical services and other support services that are available at our hospital.
The Open House is scheduled in a month when the public is very sensitized about Breast Cancer. While we cannot provide sure ways to prevent breast cancer we want to remind women that they should take actions to check their health regularly because early detection is the best protection against breast cancer.

The Open House will begin with short lectures on breast cancer; prevention and care for persons living with breast cancer. Presenters are Dr. Henk Wassenaar, Oncologist at SMMC and Ms Shelly Alphonso, Positive Foundation President. Women wanting to learn how to do Breast Self Examinations should attend. Attendees will also learn about new developments in breast cancer research and treatments. The lectures will begin at 3:00pm.
A special feature at the Open House is a Zumba Session. More and more, research is showing that exercise can reduce women's risk of getting breast cancer. Exercise is also helpful in restoring movement for patients who have had breast cancer surgery. When we regularly do the right exercises for our body we can easily maintain good health. Twice a week, an SMMC nurse leads a Zumba session for employees at our hospital. This fun way to exercise will be shared with all who choose to participate in this fun Zumba session in our parking lot at 5:00pm-6:00pm.
Honorable Prime Minster Sarah Wescot-Williams, U Too Can Move and Miss Mature 2013 Contestants will be among the participants of the Zumba session.
Free Breast Examinations is another special feature at this Open House. It is important for women to have their breast examined regularly to detect early, possible risks for breast cancer. Two of our specialists, Dr. F. Holiday, General Surgeon and Dr. H. Wassenaar, Oncologist will give breast examinations at no cost to the public. This service will be available between 4:30pm- 7:00pm.
On a guided tour during the open house, the public is invited to explore areas of our hospital. Career and education opportunities can also be explored at our open house. Each year we receive more than 50 interns at our hospital. We also teach accelerated nursing programs by our own education department. Information on these opportunities to learn and work at SMMC will be available.
We hope to connect with a lot of people at our open house on October 19th. There will be a lot to learn, great things to experience and interesting areas and opportunities to explore.

SMMC Press Release

FORT WILLEM:--- On Tuesday October 8th, 2013 at approximately 7:15am, police patrols, detectives, Forensic Department personnel and paramedics were sent to Fort Willem Hill to investigate a case of an infant that was not showing any signs of life. On the scene the investigating officers encountered both parents of the infant. The mother was holding the infant in her arms who indeed was not showing any signs of life. The parents stated that the night before they had gone to bed and their female infant was in good health. The infant had also fallen asleep. At daybreak when they woke up they noticed that the infant was not moving or showing any signs of life. A medical doctor was informed and came to the scene and pronounced the death of the infant. The body of the infant was confiscated for further investigation while the parents are being questioned. This case is under investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

MAHO:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association is excited to announce that the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino will be the host of the 2013 Crystal Pineapple Awards. Year after year, the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino has been the perfect setting for the annual gala event during which the SHTA recognizes excellence in service and outstanding performance at the various levels and throughout the different sectors of the tourism industry.

"As the country's premiere resort and home to several Crystal Pineapple winners as a part of its team, the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is honored to again host the awards ceremony on November 22nd," said Mr. Bernard Hunt, Director of Sales Sonesta Maho Beach.

The nomination period for submitting individuals/organizations opened on Monday September 23rd and will close on Monday October 21st 2013. The category groups are: Accommodations (Hotels, Timeshares and Rentals) with 4 subcategories; Restaurants with 3 subcategories; and Community Services. In addition, nominations can also be presented for the non-voting categories, however, these will be voted on by the Selection Committee. Individuals, who have been nominated in previous years, can be nominated again. "The Organizing Committee is encouraging the community of St. Maarten to go online and visit their Facebook page: "Crystal Pineapple Awards" to nominate their candidate in various categories. The nomination form and categories can be found on the SHTA website www.shta.com as well as additional information and updates on the event.

"We sincerely appreciate the fact that the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino could once again accommodate our event. Throughout the years we have enjoyed a wonderful collaboration with the resort and have been able to count on the assistance of their entire team in making the event better with each passing year", said SHTA. This year's event promises to be even bigger and better than before, with as many as 70 awardees to be recognized. Great food, ambiance and live entertainment throughout the evening culminating in dancing at the end, will surely make this event one to be remembered.

The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

claireelshot08102013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions' press conference on Tuesday that the WITU is willing to accept the 50% of the COLA payment that was budgeted for them for the year 2011. Elshot said the GOA sent a letter to government informing them that the unions will not accept the 50% in a lump sum payment as suggested by government but they want that money indexed to the salaries of the civil servants. Another condition the unions set was that the Government of St. Maarten must budget the other 50% of the COLA payment for the year 2011 in the 2014 budget. Furthermore, the unions believe that the Government of St. Maarten must get its act together for the other years of COLA payments because they do not intend to continue fighting for what is duly owed to them. Elshot said that she personally did not inform her members as yet as to the decisions taken by the union even though during their last membership meetings the members of the various unions mandated their union representatives to ensure that they get their full 100% COLA payment for the year 2011. Elshot said the GOA and the union representatives have decided to settle for the 50% budgeted for the year 2011 because when they met with government they got information on the country's financial situation that they did not have before.

Elshot also gave reporters an insight of the conference that took place last week at the Westin Resort addressing Mental Health Care. She said that an association has been created to address the needs of Mental Health. One of the things Elshot said is missing within government structure is a department that would deal with policies for mental patients. Elshot said that teachers that attended the conference applauded the initiatives taken by the association because they believe they now have a place that they could refer students that need special care.

During the conference several issues were raised Elshot told reporters, she said the General Secretary of the CUT Virginia Albert Poyotte impressed on educators to postulate themselves in elections in order for them to bring about changes for education, especially since they do not believe that the education budget for any country should be cut due to global crisis. Elshot said according to the CUT speaker the lack of education is the main cause of the global crisis therefore monies should be spent on education in order to improve the situation, while educators who are no longer in public office should return to the classroom.

When SMN News asked Elshot if she realized that the three Education Ministers on St. Maarten since 10/10/10 were active educators, Elshot said it is a fact that all the Education Ministers on St. Maarten are educators but none of them got a fair opportunity to fulfill their plans and programs for education while in office. She said due to the current political situation, MPs are allowed to go independent and can create coups to throw the government down when they want and this is a dangerous and bad precedent. Elshot also agreed that the two former Ministers should head back to the classrooms if their positions are still available.

Another area tackled was the need to mandate and regulate early childhood education on St. Maarten. Elshot said there are only two schools that offer early childhood education which are the MAC School and the Christian Protestant School.

Elshot against Integrity Investigation Ordered by the Dutch.

The WITU President lambasted the Dutch when she was asked by SMN News for her opinion on the integrity investigation ordered by the Kingdom Council of Ministers. Elshot said the Dutch does not have the right to call for any integrity investigation on St. Maarten because St. Maarten cannot do the same for the Kingdom. "The Dutch is out of order, when St. Maarten can call for an integrity investigation in the Netherlands then it should be possible for the Netherlands to call for one on St. Maarten." Elshot said she believes the Dutch is out of order because when St. Maarten became a country in 2010 all the other islands that made up the Netherlands Antilles got their debt relief except St. Maarten. Elshot said she asked the elected officials on St. Maarten several times where is the monies they received for the debt relief and each time she was told that St. Maarten did not get those monies.

When asked if she feels an integrity investigation is warranted on St. Maarten, she said that in her opinion St. Maarten is need of Electoral and Tax Reform.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The UP/DP/Laville Government requested that an audit be done by SOAB at Bureau Telecommunications Post (BTP) after the board of BTP denied the Government of St. Maarten advance concession fees which they requested about two months ago to fill the holes that were in the 2013 budget.

SMN News has been reliably informed that the Council of Ministers got their hands on the draft financial statements of BTP which were leaked to them and shortly after that sent a letter to BTP requesting that they pay their concession fees in advance just as GEBE did when government approached them during their budget crisis with the CFT. The source said that BTP immediately responded to the letter they received by informing the Council of Ministers that they need to follow the proper chain of command when dealing with them since the only Minister they have to answer to is the Minister of TEATT Ted Richardson.

SMN News further learnt that since then the Minister of TEATT tried to meet with the board members of BTP but that meeting was allegedly hijacked by the other members of the Council of Ministers.
Ever since then the rift between government and BTP has expanded and government has since ordered an audit be conducted by SOAB. According to information provided to SMN News, BDO is conducting the annual audit for BTP while SOAB will conduct a separate audit for the government of St. Maarten.

SMN News further learnt that the Government of St. Maarten gets 2.5 million guilders per year from BTP as concession fees, this amount was paid to government in 2011 and 2012; while they have to pay their expenses and other bills from the monies they collect from their clients. It is understood that when BTP was setting up their office they were given a key to an empty building and the board had to find equipments and materials to operate their office because up to this date BTP has not received its assets from the former Netherlands Antilles. The Prime Minister is supposed to be dealing with the division of assets but those monies have not yet been sent to St. Maarten. BTP collects concession and inspectrum fees from TELEM Group of Companies, United Telecommunications Services, Global Comtrade, and Corporate Innovations. It is understood that BTP collects about seven million guilders per year in total from the above mentioned companies.

Buncamper-Molanus to be added to Board of BTP.

Unconfirmed reports state that the Government of St. Maarten wants to appoint former Minister of Health and Labor Maria Buncamper-Molanus to the board of BTP since there are allowed to add at least two more persons on the board. The BTP was set up in November 2010 by attorney at law Peggy Ann Brandon who could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.

MARIGOT:--- Residents of St. Martin will witness their first same sex marriage this Saturday at the Collectivity of St. Martin. The male couple is expected to tie the knot on Saturday October 12th, 2013 at 10:30. Publication of the marriage can be viewed at the Collectivity of St. Martin.

The same sex marriage law was passed on the 18th May, 2013. The same sex marriage scheduled for this Saturday is the first to take place in St. Martin since it became legal in the France and its overseas territories.

mauricelakemeetingwithsaunderscommunitycouncil07102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake last week Wednesday met with the Saunders Community Council upon the request of the council.

The Saunders Community Council expressed how happy they were that the minister could meet with them on such short notice, and commended him for the work that he has been doing throughout the various districts.

The Saunders Community Council has a number of pressing issues that they would like to see addressed by the Minister of VROMI.

One of the points brought forward is a community center for the Saunders district and the Council would like to request government long lease land in order to be able to build a community center in their neighbourhood. Minister Lake indicated that although the availability of land in this area is very limited, he would have his staff look into where this would be possible.

Minister Lake also suggested the possibility of the council identifying land that is for sale in their neighbourhood and the possibility of compensating the seller then with another piece of government land in order to make this possible.

"In my back to basics approach, we need to look for solutions together, and by doing this we are able to accomplish bigger things for our districts," Minister Lake said on Monday.

Another point brought forward was the cleaning up of the Saunders district. There are a number of car wrecks in the area that are an eyesore. There are garages operating allegedly without hindrance permits, and according to the Council, GEBE has also done sloppy work in the district leaving water pits uncovered, roads dug up, not fixed back after more than six months, and light poles on the side of the road.

Another issue was the lack of street lights in the neighbourhood. and the fact that there is no underground cabling in certain areas of Saunders. As a result, there are unsightly poles with cables hanging and lights flickering which cannot be replaced because new aluminium poles are needed in order to replace the lights. Mention was also made of the location of water leaks in the area.

Minister Lake had the Head of Inspection Henry Ellis present as well as GEBE Co-Director Romelio Maduro, and they were able to indicate what measures had already been taken and what measures they would continue to take in the neighbourhood to remedy the concerns of the Council.

There were also complaints of noise pollution from establishments in the neighbourhood and on some roads the traffic has been rerouted and as a result people are speeding though certain streets in the neighbourhood resulting in accidents. The council would like to see speed bumps put in in certain areas in order to increase safety for the residents.

The Saunders Community Council would also like to beautify their neighbourhood in time for their annual Christmas celebration. They would like the usual assistance from the Department of Infrastructural Management to assist with trucks to pick up garbage which the residents can put out during a general clean-up campaign. They are also looking forward to the placement of the "Welcome to Saunders" sign being placed before the Christmas event with flag poles.

Minister Lake assured the council that he and his team would look into all the issues brought forward, but urged the council to submit everything to him in writing so that it could be dealt with promptly based on a plan of action and timetable.

The department heads present and the manager of GEBE promised to do their part to take care of the problems. Acting Head of the Maintenance Department Edelmiro Jansen and Community Police Officer Leonard as well as members of the Ministers Cabinet were present for the meeting.

The council then thanked the minister for coming to the meeting on such short notice and with such a large team, and expressed how happy they were to learn that some of the issues that they brought forward were already being addressed within the ministry in collaboration with the Community Police Officer.

swescotwilliamsatndpcocktailreception07102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended a Cocktail Reception at the Holland House Restaurant with representatives of the Directorate of Interior and Kingdom Relations BAK and of the UNDP and Community Representatives involved in the development of the National Development Plan. Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has said earlier that she will be counting on the population for their input and participation in implementing the plan: "We will be putting considerable focus on the National Development Plan. In order to launch and implement the NDP we will need the involvement of all, of each and every St. Maartener whether you were born here or whether you belong here, to craft a vision for St. Maarten. We need the input from all to be able to implement the vision which we have in making this island one of the leaders of sound democratic and people oriented governance in the region. We need the input from all sectors of society to plot the course for our economic, social, cultural and environmental development. The development for a Country which we call home, one which we all should love and cherish."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

COLE BAY:--- On Saturday October 5th, 2013 at approximately 1:15pm, several police patrols, detectives, Forensic Department personnel, and paramedics were sent to Cork Tree Drive in Cole Bay where a man was found lying in pool of blood and not showing signs of life. On the scene the victim was found and after several attempts by the paramedics they succeeded in reanimating the victim. The victim had suffered a very serious wound to one of his arms and had lost a large amount of blood causing him to lose consciousness. The victim was transported in very critical situation the Sint Maarten Medical Center where he was operated on immediately after which he was admitted for observation. On the scene the investigating officers followed a trail of blood that came from the victim to a home in the vicinity. The investigators noticed that the home in question had been broken into and that the suspect had injured himself by breaking a glass window while committing the act. This case is under investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

CUPE COY:--- On Saturday October 5th, 2013 at approximately 3:50pm, a Simpson Bay Police patrol spoke to a French citizen who stated that he had filed a report that his vehicle had been stolen on the French side. He also stated that shortly before he saw when a man parked his car in the parking lot of the Atlantis Casino. On the scene the patrol saw the suspect when he attempted to step into the vehicle. He was arrested immediately and while searching the suspect, the keys of the vehicle were found. Two other suspects that were also in the vehicle were also arrested. All suspects were taken to the Philipsburg Police Station for further investigation by the Detective Department. The vehicle in question was confiscated.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- During the weekend of October 4th through October 6th, 2013, 7 young men, five of which are from the French Side, were held at the Philipsburg Police Station be cause they could not properly identify themselves and because they were riding scooters without helmets, license plates, insurance and proof of ownership. All suspects were released after identification was brought in by a family member. The scooters remained in safe keeping by the police until proper documentation is brought in.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamssignsmouwithapsforcompletionofgab07102013PM: "We have come to an agreement on the steps to be taken in the next eight weeks coming out with a hard decision regarding the investment of the APS in the completion of the new Government Administration Building"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Pension Fund APS towards the understanding of exploring the financing possibilities between Government and the APS which will go towards the completion of the new Government Administration Building.

The Prime Minister stated that she looked forward to a close working relationship with the APS in making the completion of the building a reality and to see through the additional projects associated with the building, namely Block D and the planned parking garage. "On this wonderful occasion this afternoon I would like to thank the Management and Board of APS for coming together with Government in formalizing an agreement in which we will arrive at an approach for formalizing a clear understanding of the completing of the new Government Administration Building. After months of formal and informal discussions between Government officials and the management of APS we have now arrived closer to an understanding of Government's deep desire to get to a solution for the completion of the Government Administration Building and APS' desire to invest in a worthwhile and feasible project on St. Maarten. Bringing those two thoughts together and after significant deliberation between the two parties we have come to an agreement on the steps to be taken and the analyses to be done in the next eight weeks coming out with a hard decision regarding the investment of the APS in the completion of the new Government Administration Building. One of the steps to be taken during the coming eight weeks is to analyze the status of the New Administration Building and to move forward with the necessary steps in order to get the Building complete as well as some of the other necessary projects such as block D and the parking garage. It is my hope that after the financial analyses has been done a firm agreement will be arrived at for the completion of the new Government Administration Building," stated the PM.

The Chairman of the National Pension Fund Mr. Franklin Richards stated in his remarks that he, as Chairman of the Board of APS, had the great pleasure to be at hand for the signing of an MOU between the Government of St. Maarten and the National Pension Fund. "The signing of this MOU is the first step towards the possibilities of a financial and legal framework needed to make the completion of the Government Administration Building feasible and the APS is proud to be a part of this decision. I hasten to add that much consideration has been given towards the signing of this MOU and I assure all that the strict regulations regarding the investment possibilities of the APS are being observed regarding which investments are allowed and what investments can be taken. Some of these regulations entail that all investment possibilities have to be taken into consideration by the Board and the Investment Committee of the APS and all investment decisions are in no way taken if they are in conflict with the payment of pensions. We classify the new Government Administration Building as a sound investment and are therefore embarking on the discussions regarding the steps which can be taken towards its eventual completion. The signing of the MOU indicates that together with Government the APS will work together to provide all the necessary information for the evaluation and the sound decision making for the new Building to be completed and made operational. I would like therefore to thank the Prime Minister for placing Government's confidence to us," concluded Mr. Richards.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsatpinkparade07102013PM Continues to Paint November Pink For Breast Cancer Awareness Month

PHILIPSBURG:--- Early Detection, treatment and a healthy and active lifestyle were some of the points the Prime Minister stressed during a weekend of activities centered around October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The PM joined in on the annual Pink Parade where she expressed her appreciation to not only those organizing the annual event but also to those who are fighting against the disease that affects Millions of women worldwide. "There are so many who have been affected by breast cancer on St. Maarten and some of them are suffering as we stand here tonight. To them we say keep up the fight and indeed we are fighting right next to them. Recognizing the seriousness of the disease and the steps out there that can be taken to combat it is our most important task. We are making St. Maarten aware of what it means to have breast cancer and what we can do to make sure dedication happens early," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of women to get tested for the disease. "I thank all of the companies that have allowed their employees to participate. This day is about telling the people of St. Maarten that we understand what it means to have breast cancer and what the survivors are going through. We also should say a word of prayer this month for those who have succumbed to the illness."

The PM also fitness walk and special Zumba Session through Philipsburg emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle and early detection in combating Breast Cancer; "My mother of ninety-one years is alive today because of a breast cancer operation and early detection. Today technology is so much more advanced so it is about getting tested and spreading the message. We cannot prevent breast cancer but we can make sure that those who have are checked and tested and get the necessary treatment out there and these women here with me are the result of that. Please give yourselves a round of applause," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

COLE BAY:--- In light of the recent unofficial publications in the media concerning the Cole Bay Ice plant, containing incorrect information, speculations and false accusations towards the Inspectorate, the Inspectorate of the Ministry of VSA informs the public as follows.
One of the many tasks of the Inspectorate VSA as established by legislation is to monitor and ensure the quality of drinking water. This includes the water as distributed by GEBE through its network, bottled water and ice. The legal basis for this authority and the quality requirements are laid down in the "Inspectorate Ordinance", the "Commodities ordinance" the "Drinkwater ordinance" and the "Ordinance Drinkwater quality".
For 2013 the Inspectorate has as one of its goals a more strict supervision and enforcement on the quality of drink water and ice. The most important requirements are to have a water and ice sampling program in place, maintaining a log book of the lab analysis and maintaining the facility and plant operations in accordance with HACCP regulations. Water and ice samples are tested by the lab on physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters.
In the month August the main ice manufacturers and suppliers were inspected. These are Cole Bay Ice Plant, Younique Water and Cake House. From the French side Igloo Ice was inspected in cooperation with the French authorities. Hotels producing ice for own consumption are inspected during the regular F&B inspections. The Inspectorate takes samples of both the water intake and ice and also swabs of specific areas for analysis.
Younique, Cake House and Igloo were in compliance. The operation of Cole Bay Ice Plant was shut down by the Inspectorate in August because of this facility and the product (ice) not being in compliance with stipulated requirements, e.g. having no testing program in place, non HACCP compliant and the water and ice contaminated with fecal E-Coli bacteria. On two re-inspections some non-compliant items were corrected, however the water and swabs of the machine up until the last inspection two weeks ago still demonstrated the presence of E-Coli. Samples were taken to both SLS and GEBE lab and both tested positive. The Inspectorate concluded that there has to be cross- contamination somewhere from the cistern and/or well and advised the owner to take appropriate measures to prevent this.
To be able to resume operations, the re-inspection will have to demonstrate full compliance.
The Inspectorate will continue with its strict supervision and enforcing legislation and will publish the results of the testing of the many brands of bottled water shortly.

Press Release from Inspectorate of the Ministry of VSA

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- The wrong perception should not be created says Member of Parliament George Pantophlet that he is against the instruction given by the Kingdom Council of Ministers and approved by the majority of the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament for the Governor of St. Maarten to carry out an integrity investigation. But he is concerned as to what criteria would be used and what it means. Are we talking Dutch assistance or control? In his first encounter with Dutch technical assistant in the mid 90's when he worked at the Immigration Department in a meeting the manner in which so called information was being given or requested he was and is still convinced that the Dutch wanted to take control and not to assist. They were talking about the NAVAS system which would give them access to our immigration files. The Member of Parliament says that in the Kingdom Resolution it says and he freely translates: Based on the results of the investigation and proposals that come out of these investigations, the Government of St. Maarten can in cooperation with the other countries of the Kingdom make improvements where it is necessary. It continues: With this resolution an important step will have been taken to restore the trust nationally and internationally in the integrity and proper functioning of the civil apparatus. He thought that cooperation was already taken place based on agreements signed. The Member of Parliament made it clear on several occasions that he is a proponent for Independence. But this does not mean that it should happen tomorrow and it does not mean that with a simple phone call St. Maarten can be thrown out of the Dutch Kingdom. A referendum should be held where the people decide what kind of status they want. The majority of the people on St. Maarten voted in a referendum on June 23, 2000 to remain within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Mr. Bosman himself stated and he quotes; "International Treaties made it impossible to throw a country (and I insert here questionable) out of the Kingdom." End of quote. There are persons who are saying "Bring in the Dutch". What does this mean? In the opinion of the Member Parliament it means help us get the mess clean up and then you may leave and we will call you when needed. But what is their real agenda? It is a matter of trust. How much do we trust them? Here is where as he mentioned before there needs to be clarity. It would indeed benefit all of us if the government functions in a transparent and responsible manner. The Member of Parliament says he does not condone what is happening presently on the island where politics and some politicians are concerned. He has a very serious issue that still needs to be clarified and this has to do with the AUC and the 100 million guilder tax deal. Don't think for once that this matter will go away. He has issue himself with the National Security Service where an SOAB report is being mentioned in press briefings but not presented to parliament. He has issues with the fact a petition in accordance with article 24.1 of the Constitution of St. Maarten submitted by citizens sometime in May of this year which reads: Everyone is entitled to submit written petitions to the competent authorities has not been handled. They were asking for early elections. Also article 68 of the same Constitution reads: The Parliament shall investigate all petitions submitted to it. The Governor also made reference to this petition in a letter to Government which is also on the desk of the Council of Ministers. These persons deserve an answer. There are administrative laws by which government has to function and these must be adhered to. Again the Member of Parliament is saying that he does not want the wrong perception to be created that he does not support an investigation for reasons mentioned before but needs clarity on the matter.

stcmembers06102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Destination St. Maarten has embarked upon on developing Sports Tourism for the country with the establishment of a Sports Tourism Council. The new entity is structured to attract annual sports events to the island and to stimulate economic development. The destination has new sports facilities under construction and more facilities are scheduled to be upgraded in 2014.

The Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten Foundation (STC SINT MAARTEN) is scheduled to attend Teams Conference 2013 in the USA to attract sports events to the destination, and is also currently busy putting together a 2014 calendar of events.

STC Sint Maarten seeks to develop triathlon event, marathon, cycling tour, youth basketball tournaments, softball tournaments, indoor slot model car racing, a kickboxing event, celebrity games, cricket tournaments, baseball tournaments, soccer tournament and other sports related events.

The Sports Tourism Council has a dynamic team of founders namely: Juan Pablo Piscione as President, Stanley Lint as Treasurer, Reggie Plaisir as Secretary, General Board Members Reggie Coram, and Peter Arndell.

The foundation welcomes corporate partnerships in order to achieve its main objectives. The board would like to thank the council's first sponsor the owners of Trisports with their financial support of the formation of the Sports Tourism Council.

President Juan Pablo Piscione says: "I am very glad that Sint Maarten is getting serious about developing sports tourism. Many countries (several Caribbean islands) are already experiencing economic growth that visiting athletes bring. Entrepreneurs and local companies will grow. And even more exciting is our local athletes will benefit from the more professional levels of sportsmanship".

The Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten will collaborate with various stakeholders including French St. Martin sports organizations in hosting international events. Due to the fact some international sports events may require using sports facilities on both sides of the island. The Sports Tourism Council will also be developing and promoting 20 Annual Sports Events for destination Sint Maarten/St. Martin via a joint marketing and operational budgets.

Sports Tourism Council Sint Maarten is looking to sign a Service Level Agreement with Tourism and Sports Ministries within the near future to develop this new niche tourism product.

This new team embarks on promoting existing annual sports events such as the Heineken Regatta now broadcasted on ESPN and the 3rd Annual Caribserve Video X Games while attracting new events to the destination.

For those requiring additional information about the Sport Tourism Council, you can call 522-2828 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

mauricelakemeetswithcaybayresidents06102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake earlier this week met with the residents and Community Council representatives from Cape Bay.

Residents voiced their grievances with respect to their neighborhoods and about the upgrades and improvements that they would like to see.

Minister Hon Maurice Lake applauded the residents for their pro-active approach as well as the Community Police Officers who have been doing a great job.

Residents expressed their views on having Cape Bay area zoned as residential instead of industrial; they also spoke about lack of street lights on Venus Drive; and additional and larger garbage bins.

In connection with the power utility company GEBE, residents would like GEBE to look into the noise pollution and smoke that is generated by the power plant by looking into the latest technology that could reduce the aforementioned where the plant becomes more environmental friendly.

Minister Lake promised to follow-up with the communities within two weeks including a meeting with Ministry VROMI regarding the zoning plans for the area.

"I am happy to see the community spirit well and alive and the residents working closer together with the various stakeholders, community councils, Community Police Officer Darryl Chandler and Government.

"This is what back to basics all is about. Working together in a collective manner to resolve basic community issues, is the direction of moving country Sint Maarten forward. Working from the grassroots level upward and making a difference," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Government has already started with the necessary repairs to the Cape Bay cemetery which includes the gate, street lights, cleaning of the area, and finding a solution to water running on the street.

Minister Lake is also looking into the issues of the James family that they have encountered on the Windsor Road in Cole Bay. Their complaint regarding the destruction of their boundary wall has his Cabinet's full attention.

A welcome sign will also be placed at the entrance to the district of Cape Bay.

Minister Maurice Lake says it is his intention to continue to meet with Community Councils in the coming weeks and months regarding issues of mutual concern in their respective districts.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Bureau Ombudsman is inviting the communities of Philipsburg, Point Blanche, Belair, Little Bay, and Cay Hill to its District Information Session for Tuesday, October 8.

The district information session on Tuesday is from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at the University of St. Martin.

The purpose of the session is to acquaint citizens with the tasks and procedures of the Bureau Ombudsman and most importantly on the various propriety requirements. During these sessions focus will be placed on the standards of proper conduct.

The district sessions are catering to citizens, members and boards of various foundations, associations and civic organizations within the community.

The Bureau Ombudsman is appealing to the aforementioned organizations, Community Councils and Churches to encourage their members in their particular areas to come out to the session, and can even contact the bureau to confirm their participation.

The aforementioned can also contact the Bureau Ombudsman for further information at telephone: 542-1250 or 520-7378 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

leonaromeomarlin06102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica SALISES RESEARCH CENTER submitted a call for papers on the subject Rethinking Regionalism: Beyond the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Integration Project, and Romeo Marlin, head of the Civil Registry Department was one of the selected presenters amongst the 148 intellectuals chosen to present at the October 2013 SALISES conference.

Romeo Marlin will present the topic of Rethinking Reshaping and Integrating Breeder Documents in the 21st Century. The conference acknowledges the 40th anniversary of CARICOM.

It views this as a time to reflect not just on CARICOM, but on its place in the broader debates and processes of regionalism occurring globally and within this hemisphere.

The key note speakers are, Professor Norman Girvan, who holds several distinguished titles, including former Director General of the Association of Caribbean States, the CARICOM Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, who will be speaking on his perspectives of CARICOM's future direction and Dr. Alissa Trotz who will address the topic of the role, perceptions and aspirations of the Caribbean diaspora towards the regional integration project and their place in it.

The overall objective of Romeo-Marlin is to convey the importance of the authenticity of foundational documents (breeder documents) and the need for regulations surrounding these documents in the Caribbean.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet twice on October 08 with respect to bank license fees and the development of a film industry on the island.

The committee will meet on Tuesday at 10:00am and at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first session of the House at 10:00am is regarding the license fee being charged by commercial banks to individual account holders. This meeting was requested by Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Petrus de Weever, MP Hon. Roy Marlin and MP Hon. Johan Leonard.

During the afternoon session of the House at 2:00pm, MPs will receive a presentation from J.A. Hunt of Eyelander Entertainment with respect to the development of a film industry, and a Film Festival for the country.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- Preparations are well underway to celebrate the third anniversary of Sint Maarten achieving country status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

A solemn session of the House will be held to commemorate the anniversary which starts at 10:00am on Thursday. The entire session of the house can be followed on radio, TV and via the internet.

Keynote speaker on Constitution Day, 10 October at the House of Parliament will be Aruba's first Prime Minister Hon. Jan Hendrik Albert "Henny" Eman.

Henny Eman was born March 20, 1948 and was Aruba's first Prime Minister from 1 January, 1986 to 9 February 1989 (a little over three years) and again from 29 July, 1994 to 30 October 2001 (over seven years).

His grandfather also known as Henny founded the Christian Democratic Party known as the Aruban People's Party (AVP). His father, Albert Eman, better known as Shon A. Eman, dedicated his life to Aruba's quest for a separate status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Henny Eman grew up in a political environment. At an early age he went to Holland where he completed his studies. In 1978 he obtained his law degree based on the thesis dealing with Aruba's historical and judicial aspects of separate status.

Eman will present his experiences with respect to Aruba achieving its separate status when he addresses the House of Parliament in a solemn session.

The public are asked to tune in to hear the keynote address on Constitution Day along with other activities planned during the House solemn session.

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

telembreakthroughteam04102013POND ISLAND:--- Positive public response to TelCell's Breakthrough talent search last Saturday could result in the event being held each year as a major happening for the island's youth.

Speaking after the staging of the "Breakthrough" finals at the Theatre Royale, Maho, last Saturday, TelEm Group's Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) said all efforts will be made for TelEm Group to stage the Breakthrough event annually with the support of others if necessary to ensure continuity.

"We are greatly encouraged by the number of parents who come to us after the show and thanked us for putting on the event to showcase the wonderful talent that we have on our beautiful island," said Mr. Mingo.

He said he would even go further and call on other interested parties to join TelEm Group in the call for a purpose-built performing arts center that can stage local and international performances with an audience of several thousand persons.

"We are not alone in making such a call because many others have made similar calls in the past for a purpose build performing arts center on St. Maarten, but based on the response we had to the Breakthrough event, from all the families and fans and also from the performers themselves, it's clear that we need such a facility urgently on St. Maarten," said Mr. Mingo.

He said a purpose-build performing arts center would not only provide a venue for top class acts and performances, but it can also serve as an important entertainment center for making content for television and live shows.

"I believe shows like TelCell's Breakthrough talent search shows our youth that they can focus less on the passive entertainment they get from social media sites such as Facebook and YouTube and get back to the basics of creating their own entertainment and show channels by working with their peers and in their own environments," continued Mr. Mingo.

He said last Saturday's show is just one example of how TelEm Group and mobile provider TelCell are making good on their corporate responsibility to be active participants in the community and especially in what the youth are doing in that community.

"We have exposed youth culture in a number of ways over the years and we will continue to do so with the active help of some committed staff members, various sponsors in the community and hosting partners such as Xtratight Entertainment Production, " said Mr. Mingo.

He said without these willing participants Saturday's show would not have been the resounding success it was and no one would already be talking about making the show an annual event in the interest of youth culture on St. Maarten.

"TelEm Group and TelCell are very pleased to be giving back to the community in this way. Now it's up to the youth themselves to pick up the ball and run with it with the support of our company and others who have their interest at heart," said the Chief Commercial Officer.

"We gave an unforgettable night of entertainment for an affordable price showcasing our own talents on stage, thank you for the support and making this the hottest ticket item for that weekend. Keep supporting TelCell and "we will do more!", "said Mr. Mingo.

Telem Press Release

eugeneholiday04102013MAHO:--- With a Parade of Nations of flags from 17 Caribbean countries, and the University of the Southern Caribbean, the Adventurer, Pathfinder and the Adventist Youth flags, the sixth Bible Boom of the Seventh-day Adventist Church was opened at Maho Convention Center on Thursday, October 3, 2013 with a cultural ceremony.
In attendance were Honorable Govenor Dr. Eugene Holiday and his wife, Mrs. Holiday; Treasurer of the Caribbean Union of Seventh-day Adventist, Berthie Henry; Youth Director of Caribbean Union Ps. Anthony Hall; President of the North Caribbean Conference Ps. Silton Brown and President of Tobago Mission, Ps. Toney Mapp among other youth directors and leaders across the Caribbean region.
The opening ceremony featured a group of students from the Seventh-day Adventist elementary school who gave a remarkable oral recitation of Revelation 4: 6-12. An equally large group of young people in a mass choir gave a musical rendition before an address by Dr. Eugene Holiday. The governor wished the participants success, "this is a testimony of your work and testimony of carrying on the work of God, and that already makes you a success".
Local SDA pastor, Royston Philbert describes the Bible Boom participants as young people who delight in giving their best to the study of God's word...because they are stewards of God's Grace.
St. Maarten is home to over 3700 Seventh-day Adventists who are privileged to be hosting the Caribbean Union finals of the Bible Boom 2013. The ceremony ended with a light and cultural atmosphere after the presentation of Roberto Arrindell, with his poem "Come lehwe go back to the good old days".
The events will continue today at 6.30pm with a consecration service. The events are also being streamed live on the following links www.philipsburgsdasxm.org (click Watch Online).

taxdepartmentpresentationondigitaltaxfiling04102013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The office of the Tax Department has been upgrading different tax systems--from digitizing tax filing to requesting a tax id or protesting an assessment, for the past months, with the assistance of the Information Communication Technology (ICT) Department of Government.

With the effort to digitalize, the aim of the Tax Department is to facilitate persons, tax consultants, or companies to file their taxes online, which would be beneficial to both entities, from lowering paper usage to efficient use of human resources and technology to less mistake and immediate calculations, hence less cost to tax payers themselves.

Therefore, the Tax Department would like everyone, in essence, to file their taxes on-line through the Government's website at https://onlineservices.sintmaartengov.org and provide their feedback.

Currently, tax declarations for Turnover tax and Wage tax can be submitted through on-line filing. While Turnover tax, Wage tax forms and income tax filing can be downloaded. The ICT and Tax Departments are working diligently to include other forms and payment possibilities, such as AOV. Thus in the near future, more forms will be available for download. New functionality soon expected to be made available are:

  • Payments Online
  • Wage tax summary processing
  • Profit tax forms downloadable
  • Income taxes Online (early 2014)

In light of this upgrade, the Tax Department along with Government's ICT department invited companies, consultants, and advisors involved in tax filing for companies or individuals to view their presentation on digital tax filing. Jean James, project manager at ICT department, went through the entire online application of taxes process, from begin to end, pointing out the procedures and the technicalities. Some of the participants asked questions about authorization, including other forms, benefits to themselves, amongst other integrating with SVZ and having online payments.

Not only to view, but these attendees were asked to give their input and feedback about the functioning of the digital tax filing system which is in soft launch. With this input, the ICT Department along with the Tax Department, will work on perfecting the filing system. As of next week a marketing campaign of this and other digital services will start.

In addition, the public who file their taxes is asked to go online and review how the tax online system works. If there are any comments or questions please send it to the Tax department. In addition, if there are any issues during the processing call or email Tax Department or the Public Service Center (PSC) at 545-3380.

The Tax Department will continue to hold these tax-filing sessions and urge those tax consultants or advisors, to come and see the presentation, but also give feedback so that the system can be improved.

Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 587-6766 for any questions and/or to be included into the presentation.

mauricelakemeetswithospp04102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake last week met with the board of the One St. Maarten People's Party (OSPP) led by President Lenny Priest regarding a number of issues of mutual concern.

"The meeting was cordial, and the issues that we spoke about are the same ones that I have already been addressing and in some cases trying to address as it pertains to other entities which are not under my direct control.

"In my back to basics approach, I am here to meet with all groups and entities as it pertains to the national development of our country. I firmly believe that every individual or group, political or non-political should have a say. We live in a democracy and everybody has a right and therefore I extended an invitation to the OSPP for a meeting which they accepted," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Some of the matters that we discussed related to the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation. The FOGA houses in Sucker Garden were discussed at length. Minister Lake has been dealing with the matter since he first visited the homes and met with residents several weeks ago.

One matter related to the FOGA homes is that there is only one exit and that is a hazard in case of fire; sewage water in the area; alleged and unsubstantiated comments made about ministerial pressure being applied; and the status of the supervisory board.

"As Minister I have my responsibilities. I informed the board of the OSPP that my Ministry is working on the pending matters that are within our scope of responsibility.

"At the same time, the supervisory board is not complete, and I am busy with this aspect where I have already had discussions with the Corporate Governance Council to get this aspect completed where the management of the housing foundation has a full board that can give direction and carry out its authority of supervising the foundation etc. with respect to its core responsibilities of providing affordable quality public housing for the people of this country.

"An operational audit of the housing foundation will provide an overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of the people's foundation. The analysis will guide management and the supervisory board with respect to the way forward.

"In my back to basics approach, you need to analysis your situation first before you can move forward in an efficient manner. You have to take everything into consideration and make wise decisions and choices on behalf of the people of this country, and that is exactly what I am doing. I am doing my job," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake concluded on Thursday.

Minister Lake added that he would like to thank the OSPP for their time in accepting his invitation and wishes them much success in their future endeavors.

pjiaesoftballknockoutwinnersgovtcasinocontrollers04102013SIMPSON BAY:--- The Casino Controllers softball team brushed aside defending champions GEBE on their way to clinching this year's title as the Softball Business Knockout Competition organized by the Sporting Club of the Princess Juliana International Airport came to an exciting end over the weekend.
Eight teams took part in the annual tournament, which Evans Marsham of the SXM Sporting Club described as "once again a great success."
"The games were very friendly and with a lot of sportsmanship," he added.
"Most of the teams are already looking forward to the next tournament, seeing that GEBE wasn't able to retain the championship this year," Marsham said.
He continued: "I would say the highlight of the tournament was the game between GEBE and the Government Casino Controllers that went into extra innings, and which was finally won by the Casino Controllers thus giving GEBE their first loss in the two years the tournament has been organized."
The SXM Airport Softball Team were runners up while GEBE took third place.

The business teams participating in the knockout included the Windward Islands Bank Ltd., Caribbean Liquors, Nagico Insurances and three government departments – the Fire Department, Casino Controllers, and Civil Servants with the host, SXM Airport completing the roster.

CARTAGENA DE INDIAS, Colombia:--- The FCCA Conference and Trade Show closed today, with attendees' overwhelming sense of success and achievement still lingering as the thousand professionals from the cruise industry and cruise destinations' private and public sectors head back to their home countries.

They will have plenty to ponder during their trips, as the four-day conference sessions engaged the attendees with one-on-one meetings with nearly 100 FCCA Member Line cruise executives from various departments,such as operations, purchasing, marketing and shore excursions and even the presidents and CEO's.

Also on their minds will be the event's workshops that provided insight into the cruise industry, cruise lines' itinerary planning, destination brand building, marketability and customer satisfaction, shore excursion operations, service and safety, and more.

Even the social functions will be relived. Pro export Colombia proved the answer was Colombia to the question of who could create such stunning settings, complete with traditional music and food. Yet the engaging environments offered more than pure amusement; they gave additional chances to target the cruise executives and other industry players to foster communications and develop valuable business relationships. Additionally, attendees could connect with the prominent stakeholders in attendance, including successful tour operators, destinations' private sectors-complete with their ministers-and even the president of the Republic of Colombia, His Excellency Juan Santos Calderon, who opened the Conference.

Of course, the Trade Show also made an impression on all attendees, as it combined awing, creative booths with innovative and varying products, from tour operators and tourism departments to custom bed sheets and produce, along with all of the entertainment, handouts and delicacies supplied by the booths.

Better yet, the Trade Show will remain on the executives' minds, as it displayed destination and individual products to this elite audience of key cruise industry decision makers. Exhibiters had prime opportunities to get noticed in a venue where cruise executives consider new business; foster existing business; and impart knowledge on what the lines seek in products,shore excursions, port operations, destinations/infrastructure, etc.

The FCCA Conference and Trade Show again granted the best chance for entities doing or wishing to do business with the cruise industry to increase their contact base with cruise executives; present their destination or product; and learn what cruise lines seek in shore excursions, products,services, destinations and ports of call. It helped attendees establish a clear vision that will map the road to success in future dealings with the cruise industry.

The FCCA prides itself in joining cruise destinations' private and public sectors with FCCA Member Line executives. It is a symbiotic relationship between them; the more that the destinations and companies progress and learn about the industry, the more that the industry is able to grow and thrive. The FCCA promotes this mutually beneficial connection in most of its operations.

To learn more about the Conference and Trade Show or the FCCA, please visit www.f-cca.com.

telememployeesatbtpinternetpolicydevelopmentseminar04102013POND ISLAND:--- St. Maarten Internet Service Provider (ISP) TelEm Group has praised officials of Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten (BTP) for organizing an well-attended internet policy development seminar at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino recently.
The event was hosted in collaboration with the Internet Society and was broadcast worldwide via a live internet stream courtesy of TelEm Group.
The sessions were especially organized to promote internet use and policy development.
Having assessed feedback and received high marks from company personnel who attended the seminar, TelEm Group this week congratulated the BTP on its initiative to jointly host the seminar and hoped that other telecommunication-based events will take place in the future.
"From reports received, the event was not only well attended by our staff, but a lot of information was given out and contacts made that will be invaluable to them when it comes to providing excellent service to the public and TelEm Group customers," said TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer, Mrs. Helma Etnel.
She said not only was the company's participation in the event duly noted, but presentations by Chief Technical officer (CTO) on the Open Caribbean Internet Exchange (OCIX) and by Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Brian Mingo, on new trends in internet use.
Mr. Louisa gave a historical background on the start of the OCIX – the first of its kind in the Caribbean.
He told seminar participants how TelEm Group is redoubling its efforts to increase local membership of the internet exchange with the addition of at least one important member from the French side.
Mr. Louisa is hopeful that the addition of this latest member will entice search engine, Google, to set up a station on St. Maarten.
"Once a company as well known as Google establishes itself on our internet exchange others will quickly follow," said Mr. Louisa, in an appeal to local telecommunication companies to join those who are already part of the Internet Exchange.
Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Brian Mingo, entertained participants with some interesting statistics about the internet and internet use globally and locally.
Mr. Mingo said with the continued demise of traditional telephony, the culture of sharing digital images and video is forcing companies such as TelEm Group to radically change their business models to embrace new technologies that customers and members of the public are demanding.
telemctoatbtpinternetpolicydevelopmentseminar04102013"Right now the increasing demand is for more and more bandwidth at cheaper prices and that is the challenge for us as operators," said Mr. Mingo.
The Chief Commercial Officer provided comparative charts to show where St. Maarten lies compared to other parts of the world both in what the customer pays for bandwidth and what the company can technically provide.
"As a small island are we keeping up with the rest of the world? I would say yes. Can we do better? I would say definitely - and that is our challenge every day," said Mr. Mingo.
Operator of the live streaming feed, TelEm Group Network Engineer, Mr. Percival Cocks, said the opportunity to network with experts in the internet field regionally and internationally was also of great use.
"We will be following-up with some of the people we met at the seminar to exchange knowledge and ideas," said Mr. Cocks.
Internet Society Manager, Regional Affairs Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr. Shernon Osepa, has meantime thanked the TelEm Group executives and the company generally for their support in hosting of this important seminar.
"Everything went smoothly and we will wait to see what type of feedback we receive from the live stream provided by TelEm Group," said Mr. Osepa.
Chief Operating Officer, Bureau of Telecommunication and Post, Mr. Giovanni King, was also very pleased with the level of discussion and presentations that took place during the seminar.
He said the Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten (BTPSXM) in cooperation is the Internet Society (ISOC) organized the seminar called iNET St. Maarten under the theme "Embracing, an Open, Available, and Secured Internet."
"The objective of this particular seminar was to create awareness as it relates to the developments and capabilities facilitated by the Internet globally and on St. Maarten particularly. ISOC invited world-class speakers to address subjects ranging from the transition from IPv4 to IPv6 to the impact on socio-economic development enabled by the use of the Internet. The whole event was webcast and as such made available for the global community to follow the proceedings in real time," said Mr. King.
He said BTPSXM is very happy to acknowledge the fact that the local community contributed immensely in making this even a success.
"For two full days we had a full conference room with participants who actively engaged and interacted with the speakers. In particular BTPSXM would like to make mention of the fact that the Telem Group also contributed to the success of this event as it facilitated Internet access, bandwidth for the webcast, by registering several of its employees to participate in the event, and by providing speakers.
"BTPSXM hopes that at the end of the day we have created the spark that will light the fire needed to move the island forward and ultimately achieving the objective of Embracing, an Open, Available, and Secured Internet.
If we have succeeded in creating value for those that participated in the event and if this new appreciation for the capabilities facilitated by the use of the Internet could be translated into value creation in the participants daily activities then this seminar has been a great success," said Mr. King.

Telem Press Release

We in the Caribbean are joyously joining the international community in celebrating World Teachers' day on October 5thunder the theme: "A Call for Teachers".
All over the world quality education offers hope and promise of a better standard of living. However, there can be no quality education without competent and motivated teachers. The work of teachers is therefore worthy of celebrating.

We are called to remember the importance of our job.A true teacher is not a person who just teaches academic lessons to his/her students. Rather he/ she are like a guide who helps the students in each and every sphere of life, by offering the appropriate advice. We are creators of the future. None of the great achievers in the world has attained their feat without out the guidance and assistance of a teacher.
We of the Caribbean Union of Teachers believe that a call for teachers is call to our governments and administrators to provide adequate training, ongoing professional development, and protection of teaching rights, proper remuneration and decent working conditions for teachers. Society expects a lot from us. We in turn should expect a lot from society.

As teachers respond to the call it is necessary that we respond. Teachers' unions are doing a tremendous job for their members in seeking the best teaching and learning conditions. It is a good time for teachers who are not active members in the unions to get involved in a visible and meaningful way. As the words of one trade union song states; "what force on earth is weaker that the feeble strength of one for the union makes us strong". We trust also that Teacher Union leaders would strengthen their resolve to continue providing inspired leadership.
As we answer the call for teachers may we see the need to support each other as members of the same profession by sharing ideas, best practices and giving encouragement. It would be so wonderful if we make a concerted effort to ensure that the profession is more enjoyable and rewarding for at least one of our other colleagues.
We trust that parents and the public at large will continue to support us in the important job that we do as we answer the call to create the future leaders and citizens.
Best wishes for a successful celebration.

Marvin Andall
President C.U.T

nildaarduin03102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ombudsman of Sint Maarten, Dr. Nilda Arduin, recently returned from her trip to New York, where she attended the annual Board meeting of the International Ombudsman Institute (IOI).
Dr. Arduin is pleased to report that the meeting was very productive; various courses, to be sponsored with IOI funds, were approved. A substantial amount of monies have been reserved for practical training for Ombudsmen and their staff within the Latin American Region to which the Caribbean offices will benefit due to the closer proximity to Latin American countries. In addition the Directors of the Latin America/Caribbean region were also able to secure an amount of 10.200 euros to facilitate translators at regional meetings of the Spanish and English speaking Ombudsmen within the region.
A meeting between the ILO (Institute of Latin America Ombudsman) and CAROA (Caribbean Ombudsman Association) is scheduled to be held in November 2013 in Mexico.
The Seventh Biennial CAROA Conference was held in May on Sint Maarten with various Ombudsmen from the region and outside the region, including the IOI President, was in attendance.
Sint Maarten benefits greatly from these exchanges, through the exposure to best practices of established Ombudsman institutes worldwide, the wide network and excellent relationships between de Ombudsman of Sint Maarten and her colleagues both regionally and internationally. Being able to tap into these resources offers the Bureau Ombudsman great advantages.

Dr. Arduin was elected a Director for the Latin America/Caribbean Region on the IOI Board in November 2012 in New Zealand.

reachoutandtouchfoundationdonatestopjl03102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Reach Out & Read program for the school year 2013—2014 started on Saturday September 14th, with 30 youngsters between the ages 7—11 registered to improve their reading.
This is the 10th anniversary of the program and at the end of the first session the donors of this year, being the management of Orco Bank and the president of the Institute of the Wise, received a solid round of applause for their contribution of material to enhance the program.
The Reach Out & Touch Foundation also donated a cheque to the Jubilee Library for their continued support and cooperation with the reading program.
The Library which will be celebrating its 90th anniversary was very grateful for the contribution.

mauricelakeprovidesgovernmentlandtosls03102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday met with the board of St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) for the signing of 1700M2 of government land for the local institution that provides a host of services to the St. Maarten community.

Minister Lake expressed his elation in being able to once again give land on behalf of government to an important entity in our community in long lease. The minister indicated that although he had received a number of requests for the same piece of property, he believed in giving the land to entities such as SLS which would have a bigger impact on the community.

"It's all about going back to basics. In order to build country Sint Maarten, we have to start from the foundation and build upward. SLS is a St. Maarten home-grown institution that provides essential services, to the public health sector, and is part of the country's foundation. If we want a strong St. Maarten nation, our institutions have to be at the forefront of that nation-building process," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

The location of the government leased land is ideal for the lab because it is near the hospital, and because of that very convenient for their clients and the patients of the hospital.

The director of SLS, Hose Booi, indicated that the lab was very pleased to receive the government land in long lease as it would afford them the opportunity to have their own building and not have to pay rent anymore.

SLS has already spoken to their bankers about how much they can borrow and have already had Independent Consulting Engineers draft preliminary drawings of what they want to construct on the land.

SLS is looking at constructing a two level structure that will allow the lab to grow into the future where they will be able to offer more services such as pathology etc. In the mean time they could always rent out a part of their facilities that is not needed immediately for their future expansion.

Minister Hon. Maurice Lake lauded the SLS organization and in particular the board for being the first organization that requested government land to come with an architect and their bank ready to start construction of their new building.

The chairman of the SLS board, Ravi Daryanani, thanked the minister on behalf of the board and said that he was looking forward to the day they don't have to pay anymore rent anymore and can put that money back into services for its clients.

Present for the signing was Derrick Downes, Managing Director of Windward Islands Bank, Ron Daal of Independent Consulting Engineers, Hose Booi, SLS Managing Director, Ravi Daryanani, Chairman of the Board, Perry Wilson, board member and Dr. Offringa.

The land is located behind the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Cay Hill.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Governor Eugene Holiday finds himself between a rock and a hard place now that the Royal Decree signed by the Minister of Interior and Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk has been officially published in the National Gazette.

The decree which was signed off on September 30th, 2013 orders Governor Holiday who is a representative of the King on St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on integrity in government.

Governor Holiday has three months in which he must submit a progress report to Minister Plasterk who is in charge of the investigation and six months to submit the final report.

On Thursday Members of Parliament discussed the instruction given to Governor Holiday.

The official decree can be viewed beneath this article. While Ministers and certain politicians are crying foul claiming that the Dutch Government used the wrong articles (laws) that is governing the Governor of St. Maarten, it must be noted that the man who did most of the work for St. Maarten to obtain its country status is not too happy with the decisions taken by the Dutch Government. Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson worked with all politicians and political parties to obtain the new status for St. Maarten he also worked on the country's constitution prior to St. Maarten becoming a country.

This is the second time Richardson had to deal with the Dutch in peculiar situations, the first was when higher supervision was imposed on St. Maarten on February 25th, 1993. At the time Richardson came in as Lt. Governor and now as Minister of Justice the Dutch issued an instruction to conduct an integrity investigation within the government of St. Maarten.

Below is the full translation of the Kingdom Decree sent to Governor Holiday to conduct an investigation on integrity within the Government of St. Maarten.

Explanatory Note:

The Council of Ministers of the Kingdom has since the beginning of 2013 been regularly making its concerns known to the government of St. Maarten with respect to the fact that the functioning and appearance of the government has become a matter of public debate. St. Maarten is regularly in the news in connection with recent incidents and rumors about integrity violations by politicians and the perception of the existence of corruption. There is also the generally shared feeling by citizens, business and foreign governments that proper government in the broad sense is a problem that is bigger and deeper than it appears. For example, reports that a Border Management System is lacking has drawn attention, not only within the Kingdom but also abroad-amongst others the United States. Outside as well as within the Kingdom a largely negative image about the country has been created, which also affects the entire Kingdom.

The Kingdom Council of Ministers therefore is of the opinion that there are sufficient grounds to conduct an investigation.

The undersigned has on behalf of the Council of Ministers held regular discussions during the past months, verbally as well as in writing, with the Prime Minister of St. Maarten about the situation which had arisen. On April 4, 2013 a letter was sent to the Prime Minister, wherein she was informed that the Kingdom Council Ministers would like to know which concrete measures the government would take in order to meet the concerns of the Kingdom Council of Ministers and remove the negative image.

As far as the integrity of politicians is concerned, the functioning of government and the civil service and the way citizens are treated, government has to set the example (practice what you preach). The citizens may expect government to carry out its duties in conformity with the rule of law and principles of democracy. That is essential for honorable, authoritative and trustworthy government.
When there is doubt concerning that, then serious consideration must be given to it. It is not apparent to the Kingdom Council that the government of St. Maarten gives this matter due care and attention. To prevent further erosion of the confidence of citizens, business, foreign governments and instances, an independent investigation of the bottlenecks and shortcomings into the proper and honest functioning of government (ministers and civil servants) is urgent.
For this reason the Kingdom government has decided to instruct the Governor (in his capacity as an organ of the Kingdom) to order an investigation into the proper and honest functioning of the public administration of St. Maarten as it ought to be in a democratic state under the rule of law. The investigation must be directed towards known bottlenecks such as prostitution, the gaming industry and immigration and on generally known sensitive sectors such (licenses for) infrastructural works and (other) large contracts.

The public administration which will be investigated includes the ministers and the ministries as well as those who work for them. Government N.V.'s can also be included. Excluded are Parliament, the judiciary, the Advisory Council, the Audit Chamber and the Ombudsman.

The aim of the investigation is to promote of good governance such as ought to be the case in a democratic state under the rule of law. This investigation is separate from the contract which the government of St. Maarten intends to enter into with Transparency International and which is currently being prepared. The Kingdom government prefers to conduct its own investigation as soon as possible, separate from that investigation. The investigation is also separate from any possible ongoing criminal investigations conducted by the Prosecutor's Office which are being conducted under the political responsibility of the Minister of Justice. The investigation must be carried out independently and must not involve instances of the country itself.

Based on those results and the recommendations coming out of report, the government of St. Maarten can, if need be in cooperation with other countries of the Kingdom, make improvements where necessary. So, with this decree an important step has been taken in restoring the confidence, here and abroad, that must be had in the proper and honest functioning of the country's government.

Legal Basis for the instruction:

The instruction is based on article 15 and 20 of the Regulations of the Governor of St. Maarten. The Governor, as an organ of the Kingdom, supervises the compliance with kingdom laws, among which is the Kingdom Charter (Statuut) and General Measures of Governance and the treaties with international organizations. In that regard he submits the necessary proposals to the Kingdom government. Article 15 paragraph 1 stipulates that he watches over the general interest of the Kingdom in accordance with the stipulations of the Regulations and taking into consideration instructions issued by or on behalf of Kingdom decree. He is responsible to the Kingdom government. The decree is also based on art. 43 of the Statuut in order to express that the reasons and considerations on which it rests find their basis in the values, mentioned in this stipulation, namely the fundamental human rights and freedoms, surety of law and good governance. Article 1 stipulates, in connection herewith, that the investigation is directed towards proper and honest functioning of the public administration such as is required in a democratic state under the rule of law. The guarantee function laid down in Article 43 of the Statuut also must be carried out by the Governor. From the stipulations cited in the Regulation it appears that an instruction must be given by royal decree and that it must fit within the normal functions of the Governor. Precisely in order to determine if the public administration of St. Maarten is functioning properly and honestly an investigation is needed. The government considers it necessary that the investigation be carried out under the supervision of someone who is close to the country government, but who can also keep their distance. The Governor knows the local conditions, the culture, the political and constitutional rules and customs. This is why he is the best person to act as the principal of the investigation.

The Regulation provides the Governor with the authority to request the cooperation of country organs; the services and civil servants are at his disposal (art. 24 RvdG). Therefore the entire cabinet of St. Maarten cooperates fully with the investigation. The governor alone is the Principal and he determines independently the work rules and results of the investigation.

To avoid all misunderstandings, be reminded that out of the aforementioned art. 24 follows that not only ministers and those who work for them, but all country organs are obliged to cooperate with the investigation as ordered by the Governor. They must be completely at the disposal of the investigators, if the Governor so desires.

Click here to view the official decree that is published in the National Gazette. This copy was sent to the media by the Governor of St. Maarten.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of The Government of St. Maarten is hereby informing the general public that:

L. B. Scott Road will be partially closed in two sections from Saturday, October 5th, 2013 at 06.00 a.m. to Sunday, October 13th, 2013 at 11.00 p.m. All traffic entering and exiting the Cul-de-Sac district within this period will be partially rerouted.

Section One: Marigot Hill Road to Cutter Road

Works carried out in this section of road will not affect OUTBOUND TRAFFIC from the district of Cul-de-Sac only. INBOUND TRAFFIC to the St. Peters and the Reward areas will be required to detour at Arbutus Road and utilize the Betty's Estate and Ebenezer district.

Section Two: Near the intersection of L.B. Scott Road and Gladiola Road

Works carried out in this section of road will not affect OUTBOUND TRAFFIC from the district of Cul-de-Sac only. Traffic entering Cul-de-Sac district will be required to detour via Zaegersgut Road, Coralita Road and Gladiola Road.

The works will be executed in sections.

In ALL cases, access will be provided for emergency services and persons residing adjacent to the works and detours.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs and detour routes for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the remedial works for Main Sewage Line Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road Phase 1, is completed. Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for the inconveniences that this will cause.

POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group this morning reported an interruption in its voice and data service that is affecting several major companies, including RBC Bank, Scotia Bank, Blue Mall and the Airport facilities at PJIAE.

Technical staff and engineers of TelEm Group are presently working along with a vendor in Texas USA, to properly identify the problem and restore connections as soon as possible.

At approximately 1:00 pm today TelEm Group Management assured all companies presently without service that restoration of voice and data services has top priority with the company at this time.

As of this time, equipment vendors have established that the problem with the connections lie with corrupted software that operates the voice and data transmission equipment.

Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa said due to the complicated process of restoring the software restoration of service is taking longer than expected.

He said when the main issues began to develop shortly before 7:00 pm Wednesday evening, the problem was confined to only a few customers, however by Thursday morning, company technicians and the USA vendor had reported a more extensive failure of the software and its operation of the voice and data circuits.

"This failure is affecting international calls, financial transactions at the ATMs of the banks listed above as well as credit card verification for the same banks and businesses whose circuits are affected.

"Fortunately, the equipment outage has not resulted in a total transmission failure because the majority of customers have remained connected since the problem was reported," added Mr. Louisa.

TelEm Group customers who are experiencing problems with their voice and data links are advised to call 611 to report any outage. Meantime management of TelEm Group is appealing for patience while all efforts are made to reconnect customers without delay.

Management has also apologized to customers for any inconvenience caused by the interruption in international voice and data service.

Telem Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated the people of Aruba and the Arubaanse Volkspartij (AVP) and incumbent Prime Minister Mike Eman on winning the 2013 General Election on the 27th of September.

"I would like to congratulate the people of Aruba and Prime Minister Eman and his party for exercising the democratic right in the General Elections last week. I look forward to a continued close working relationship with Mr. Eman's cabinet for the coming years," commented the Prime Minister.

The AVP won 13 seats in the Estates of Aruba, with the People's Electoral Movement (MEP) finishing second with seven seats, according to preliminary results from Aruba's government elections office.

The AVP received a total of 33,213 votes, according to preliminary results.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

wmarlintolaunchsolarenergyprojectatpjl12032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will host an information session by Anthony Prall, on solar panels and inverters on, Saturday, October 5, at 11:00am.
Since the 48 panels were installed on the Library's roof in March, by Prall of Caribbean Energy Store and configured in collaboration with Archyon Integrated Solutions N.V, there has been a considerable reduction in its electricity bills.
Members of the general public with an interest in solar powering their home or business are invited to attend this 1 hour session on going solar. Certified Solar Installers and Experts of Caribbean Energy Store will be available to answer your questions. Interested participants are requested to bring along their electric bill to the information session for a free solar quotation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Economic Affairs Ted Richardson sent out a memo to all the departments falling under his Ministry on September 15th, 2013 informing them that his personal advisor and chief of cabinet Ludwig Quenniche would be the one to represent him when he is off island or not able to attend meetings.
The note states that the Minister of TEATT is counting on his staff to give Quenniche full cooperation just as they have given him. He further stated that he could be reached at anytime by phone or email.
The note (memo) sent by the Minister created some confusion this week as several department heads are now wondering if the Minister of TEATT does not have a substitute Minister to represent him when he is not available.

Click here to view the memo sent by Minister Ted Richardson to his staff on September 15th, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- There is a Central Committee and Plenary session of Parliament on October 07 with regarding the Civil Code.

The Central Committee session is on Monday at 10:00am and the plenary public session of the House is at 3:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Central Committee session will deal with four agenda points namely: National Ordinance on Insurance & Annuity; National Ordinance Revising Book 2 of the Civil Code; National Ordinance amending the Civil Code regarding the Civil Claims and Bankruptcy Decree 1931; and the National Ordinance amending Book 3 of the Civil Code regarding Trusts.

The Plenary public session of the House has 13 agenda points with the first two related to incoming documents and the approval of the decision list of the plenary sessions of 11 and 12 September, 2013.

The third agenda point is the approval of the National Ordinance Book 4 concerning Inheritance and Legacies; National Ordinance amending Book 3 of the Civil Code regarding Trusts; National Ordinance to amend Book 1 of the Civil Code Implementation Centralized Registration Child Abuse; National Ordinance Regarding Provisions on the Sale of Property and Assets and National Ordinance Sale of Property and Acceptance/Contracting Work.

National Ordinance supplementing Title 1 of Book 7 of the Civil Code regarding Provisions to Protect Consumers, particularly Telesales Contracts and Warranties; National Ordinance Joint Custody of Minors/Under aged Children; and National Ordinance on Sole Proprietorship.

National Ordinance on Insurance and Annuity; National Ordinance Revision Common Law Marriage; National Ordinance amending Book 2 of the Civil Code; and National Ordinance Civil Claims and Bankruptcy.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Police in Curacao arrested three men on Tuesday afternoon on the request of US authorities confirmed spokesman for the Attorney General's Office Norman Serphos. The three men are wanted for two shipments of drugs to the US territories, one of which left from St. Maarten to the United States of America. The three men that were arrested are Rogelio Gregory Koeiman (45), Ronchie Riatwijk (48), and Gilbertico Felcia (35). Serphos identified the three suspects by their initials which he said are R.G.K, R.R, and G.F. Two of the three men were arrested while driving on Curacao while the other was arrested at his house.

Serphos said the Southern District Attorney of New York submitted the request for the three men whom they want extradited to the United States of America.

Among the three men that were arrested on Tuesday is the bodyguard of Member of Parliament of St. Maarten Romaine Laville. The well-known body guard is Rogelio Gregory Koeiman (45), a notorious former police officer.

Just recently, Koieman made the news when SMN News published a letter he submitted to the Government of St. Maarten requesting a vehicle inspection license. Koieman submitted his request to the Minister of Economic Affairs on April 15th, 2013.

It should be noted that Member of Parliament Romaine Laville wanted to be the Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten with the SWW- 3 cabinet but he did not pass the screening process to become Minister/Deputy Prime Minister. Currently, St. Maarten is fighting against the measures taken by the Kingdom Council of Ministers of the Netherlands who issued an instruction to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation on St. Maarten.

mauricelakemeetswithbeablefoundation02102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Minister Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday meet with representatives of the Be Able Foundation Treasure Michel Soons and Member Veronica Jansen-Webster.

Minister Lake has pledged his support to the Foundation and the disabled of Sint Maarten.

The foundation showed the Minister and members of his Cabinet a short documentary film that was produced in Sint Maarten during last year's Be Able Awareness week for the disabled and the international wheelchair tennis tournament that was held to highlight the week.

The documentary which was professionally filmed by a Dutch film crew, depicted the overall living conditions on Sint Maarten for the disabled and focused in on two young men in society who have become disabled and the challenges they face daily.

The Foundation members then asked the minister to assist the disabled more by making it mandatory that new public buildings be required to have facilities for disabled persons.

Minister Hon Maurice Lake was moved by the documentary and expressed his intention to have the relevant departments seriously look into the building codes, and he promised that from now on, during his tenure, any public infrastructure that government designs will take the accessibility of the disabled into consideration.

The Be Able foundation members explained that they are now embarking on a public relations campaign via service clubs, schools and various entities where they hope to get the message out and target as many people in society about people living with disabilities.

Minister also wanted to encourage the Be Able Foundation to assist the disabled in our community to get jobs since even though they have a disability they can still function and make a contribution to society.

The Be Able Foundation agrees with the minister and expressed that it would be a good initiative for government to take a lead in this matter and show an example by hiring capable disabled people in our society.

The Be Able Foundation then announced the upcoming awareness week and wheel tennis tournament which will take place from November 16, and indicated that there will be an exhibition match this year with local people with disabilities who have been training to play tennis.

Minister Lake at the end of the meeting thanked the foundation's representatives and wished them much success with their endeavors.

Recognizes teachers for Teachers Appreciation Day

PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten Seventh-day Adventist churches are preparing for the Caribbean Union Bible Boom finals at the Sonesta Maho Convention Center. The weekend activities from Thursday October 3rd, 2013 – Saturday, October 5th, 2013 is under the theme "A Powerful Generation: Stewards of God's Grace".
This grand event will feature young people from various Caribbean island territories. The opening event on Thursday evening at 6:30pm will be a cultural ceremony and will be officially opened by Honourable Prime Minister, Sarah Wescot-Williams. A consecration service will be held on Friday evening at 6:30pm. At 10:30 am during the Sabbath Church Service, there will be a special acknowledgement for teachers, in recognition of World Teachers Day. All school teachers on the island are invited to attend this special service at 10:30am on October 5th. The Bible Boom Finals will commence later that afternoon at 3:30pm at the Maho Convention Center, the location for all activities during this weekend program.
"Bible Boom" is an event where the knowledge of young people ages 16-30 is tested, based on a certain assigned books of the Holy Bible. Preparation for this event is encouraged in all Seventh-day Adventist churches to promote reading and studying of God's word. For this Bible Boom, the participants have studied the bible books, Ephesians to Hebrews. They have won competitions within their local church, then within churches on their island level. Now they will compete on the union level. The Caribbean Union of SDA is made up of over 20 islands which grouped in several conferences or missions.
The nine competitors of the Bible Boom are Kevon Timothy James from the Guyana Conference; Bevon Douglas, South Caribbean Conference (Trinidad), Junior Noel, Tobago Mission, Jessica Mathurin, St. Lucia Mission, Shanise Hutchinson , St. Vincent and the Grenadines Mission, Shannon Leacock, East Caribbean Conference (Barbados), Tonya Parris, representing the Seventh-Day Adventist University of the Southern Caribbean, X-Saphair King, South Leeward Mission (Antigua), Semone Elizabeth Rey, North Caribbean Conference (St. Thomas).
The winner of this Bible Boom will go on to represent the Caribbean Union at the Inter-American Division Bible Boom finals.
The Seventh-day Adventist church is praying for the Bible Boom contestants and will support them this weekend as they attend the various activities. The public is invited to attend the events.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet October 04 about a paperless work environment.

The committee will meet on Friday at 9:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The presentation will be made by the SIM group about a paper free office environment.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet October 04 with respect to sports developments.

The committee will meet on Friday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

A presentation will be given by the Tony James Group. The presentation will focus on the goals of the Sint Maarten Youth Football Camp and Program; how the program will impact education, sports, tourism and economic development on Sint Maarten.

Other areas of focus are the improvements to the stadium at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex; headquartering the Caribbean Youth Football League on Sint Maarten; strategic and interactive marketing worldwide; and sponsorship opportunities.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

swescotwilliams02102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams made clear during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Government of St. Maarten is prepared to close its doors if they have to and not cooperate with the Kingdom with regards to the instruction given to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity probe.

The Prime Minister went as far as saying that the Government of St. Maarten has more rights over civil servants and they could prevent them from speaking to anyone who was sent by the Dutch Kingdom to conduct the Integrity investigation. Prime Minister Wescot Williams gave reporters a lengthy explanation as to what transpired in July when the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte visited the island and informed the Council of Ministers that he intended to give an instruction to the Governor of St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said that it has been quite some time now that St. Maarten was informed by the Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk that if St. Maarten does not cooperate with Saba and Statia the relationship between the Netherlands and St. Maarten would be hampered. She said one of the main contentions of the Dutch is the Turn over Tax (ToT) tax that is applied to the goods sold on St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said that the Government of St. Maarten explained to the Dutch Government that the Turn over Tax (ToT) is not a Value Added Tax (VAT) and the real reason cost of living is high on Saba and Statia was because of the taxes imposed by the Dutch on those islands.

When asked by SMN News what motivation the Kingdom Council gave for the motion to instruct the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on integrity, Wescot Williams said that the Dutch is claiming that the general image of St. Maarten is tarnishing the Kingdom, she said in order for the Dutch to use Article 43 of the Charter they alluded to the fact that the image of St. Maarten is affecting the Kingdom negatively. She said that in the Royal Decree specific cases were not mentioned but they did mention vulnerable areas such as immigration, prostitution, gambling, projects, permits for large projects and other permits in general. SMN News also asked the Prime Minister if the cases that are laying down at the Landsrecherche for the past years may have caused the Dutch Kingdom to come to such a conclusion. The Prime Minister said that St. Maarten is also concerned about the cases that are not moving as fast as they would like but she said that Bonaire is having problems with the Kingdom representative and the Kingdom has refused to meddle in the matter. She said even though the Prosecutor's Office and other Justice Departments are not working fast no one on St. Maarten told them not to work on the cases they have before them.

Wescot Williams said up to this date St. Maarten does not have a signed off Royal Decree but she assumed the one given to her on Friday last week is the last draft that will be signed off. The Prime Minister said that St. Maarten already asked the Council of State for an advice on how the Kingdom Council came up with the Royal Decree and the articles they used to formulate the instruction given to the Governor of St. Maarten.

When asked by SMN News if she as Prime Minister of St. Maarten met with Governor Holiday and if she was in a position to share his sentiments, the Prime Minister said she will not go into what was discussed with the Governor but she made clear that the Governor is a St. Maartener and so is she and other politicians on St. Maarten.

The Prime Minister said that the Government of St. Maarten signed an agreement with Transparency International and the scope of the investigation to be conducted by TI will be much broader than the instruction given to the Governor. She also made clear that she really does not have a problem with an investigation but the real problem is the principle of the matter, especially the articles that were used to formulate the Royal Decree.

No Decision Taken by Council of Ministers to file Complain against VDSM Head.

In a follow up question, SMN News asked the Prime Minister if the Council of Ministers took a decision as to whether or not they will file a complaint against the head of VDSM (Secret Services) James Richardson. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said no such decision has been taken and the only decision they took thus far is to suspend Richardson.

The Prime Minister initiated an investigation against the head of VDSM when it was brought to her attention that a substantial amount of monies were missing from the department. The SOAB was asked to conduct an investigation on the operations of VDSM. The SOAB already submitted a report to the Government of St. Maarten which it is believed was used to suspend the head of VDSM.

While the Prime Minister in her first press release stated that a substantial amount of monies went missing from VDSM, it is still not clear why the Government of St. Maarten, namely the Prime Minister whose role is to oversee the operations of VDSM did not file an official complaint with the justice authorities.

It should also be noted that the Oversight Committee that has to overlook the operations of VDSM was never operational. Even though there is a law that states who should be on this committee, the Prime Minister did not establish the committee because the Prime Minister did not want the President of Parliament to be on the committee.

Community asked to wear Pink in Respect of Breast Cancer Awareness.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams called on the community of St. Maarten to wear some pink during the month of October which is the month that is dedicated for Breast Cancer Awareness. Wescot Williams said that there are a number of activities planned for this month one being the Zumba which will last for three hours this weekend. A march around Philipsburg and other major activities to highlight the importance of taking the necessary measures for early detection of breast cancer are also planned. The Prime Minister also showed reporters a special flyer that was created to promote breast awareness for the month of October 2013.

nagicoreceivesbasketsfrompositivefoundation02102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Positive Foundation presented two baskets of promotional material to one of their major sponsors; NAGICO Insurances on Monday, to signal the official beginning of Breast Cancer awareness month.
Vice President of the Positive Foundation; Ms. Dilys Alphonso, made the presentation to three staff members representing NAGICO Insurances. "These baskets contain over 300 pink ribbons, pencils, Women's Health tests recorders, Guide to self breast exams and information on women and breast health," she explained. "By presenting NAGICO with these baskets, they can in turn give them to their staff and clients which will help us get the word out about breast cancer awareness."
NAGICO Insurances has been one of the longest standing sponsors of the Positive Foundation since their inception and continues to be a key partner in the fight against breast cancer.

heavyequipmentowners02102013MARIGOT:--- Members of the BTP and several heavy equipment owners began gathering in the Agrement area around 7am Wednesday morning to start a protest action to get the attention of those responsible both locally and in the State of France for the economic situation facing St. Martin. President of the BTP Association Didier Lake told reporters that the BTP has been negotiating with those in political power for the past three years (since 2011) and to date nothing has been done to remove the economic dilemma the island is facing. Lake said the BTP members notified various elected persons about the danger St. Martin is facing especially local contractors. Lake said despite their pleas none of the elected officials on St. Martin or the State took action to eliminate the problems they are facing. "Today we are saying to those in power that we are ready to die but we will die fighting. Today the job sector is down to zero and this is not because there is no work. The problem is that local contractors and heavy equipment workers are left out, while those responsible are actually stifling major projects that could provide work for us. There are several projects that have to begin but local contractors are being pushed around because no one can provide them with documentation pertaining to these projects. Besides that, the State decided to implement certain laws here on St. Martin that are hindering contractors from moving forward. They want to implement la loi sur l'eau on St. Martin without considering the specifics of the island. The State closed their eyes on St. Martin for years and now that the people of this island are on their knees financially they found these laws profitable to them."

Lake further stated that the State of France is playing a cat and mouse game with St. Martin and according to him the State is doing everything possible to hinder the progress of Article 74 which St. Martin acquired in 2007. "With Article 74 St. Martin was supposed to get certain competencies as well as additional finances. We got the paperwork for these competencies but the monies never came. Monies for St. Martin are being sent to other French territories in order for them to shine while St. Martin is suffering like soldier crabs crawling among each other."

The BPT President said that certain projects were stopped because of the la loi sur l'eau and contractors simply cannot move forward with their projects because of this particular law. He said that even SEMSAMAR cannot support the law because it's costing them too much.

didierlake02102013Lake said those responsible for St. Martin's situation would have to find a way and sit around the table with them and give them written decisions as to what will be done to enhance the construction sector on St. Martin. "We are no longer taking verbal answers from anyone, we have done so many times before and that has not taken us anywhere." Lake said local contractors are being discriminated against because all of the larger jobs are given to foreign companies. He said there is a big project that has to take place at the Grand Case Airport and it will be done by a foreign company, the same he says goes for the project that is undertaken by EDF. Lake explained that the bidding for the project for EDF was done overseas and the same company that is constructing the causeway over Simpson Bay lagoon will be doing the work for EDF. He said St. Martin has competent people and materials to undertake these projects but the local contractors are being discriminated against. Lake said that those responsible are using the larger outside companies to pre-finance the projects because the larger companies would give them long term credit. Lake further stated that the French law clearly states that no one can discriminate because one person is financially better than the other. He said every company has the right to bid on projects but that opportunity is being denied. He said large companies from France are coming to St. Martin and they are dropping the price by more than half so that the local contractors cannot compete.

Frank Viotty also of BTP told reporters that they held a meeting with the Collectivity last week and nothing came out of it. He said the BTP has several grievances that have to be addressed and that was the main reason they chose to do a march (manifestation). Some of the vehicles had posters on them stating "We are St. Martiners, we are not sub-citizens, we are not beggars."

As the BTP and its members mobilized themselves not far from the Agrement round-a-bout, several gendarmes and Territorial Police were all over Marigot monitoring and preparing for the manifestation. The protestors left their location a bit late where they drove through the back road in front of Semsamar and were stopped in front of La Vie en Rose as they intended to proceed further up that street. SMN News learnt later that the road the protestors were using was not on the permit. The protesters also tried to meet with officials of the Prefecture of St. Martin when they were stopped.

Some members of BTP met with Prefet Philippe Chopin and they told reporters that they secured a signed document with eleven points. The protesters then stopped their action just after 2:30pm on Wednesday.

Click here to view more photos of the BTP protest on Wednesday morning.

CARTAGENA DE INDIAS, Colombia:--- The FCCA Cruise Conference officially opened today, attracting over 1,000 professionals from throughout the cruise industry and the private and public sectors of cruise destinations, along with anyone looking to extend their contact base, reach, knowledge and business dealings in the industry.

Conference attendees will engage in a four-day span of one-on-one meetings with the nearly 100 cruise executives in attendance, representing the 15 FCCA Member Lines and various departments, including operations, purchasing, marketing and shore excursions.

Workshops are also offered, broaching important topics and granting insight to the cruise industry from panels comprised of those that know the ins and outs-field leaders and numerous cruise executives. Topics include a state of the industry by FCCA Member Lines' CEOs and presidents; discussion of what decides itinerary planning and how to improve destinations' calls, customer satisfaction and marketability; critical elements of shore excursions' service and safety; and development of destinations' brand identity.

To complete the days, evening business functions bring the attendees and cruise executives together to foster communication between them and help develop beneficial bi-lateral working relationships.

In its 20th year, the FCCA Conference provides the best chance for entities doing business or wishing to do business with the cruise industry to increase their contact base with the cruise executives in attendance so that they can present their destination/product and learn what the cruise lines look for in terms of shore excursions, products, services and ports of call. It helps attendees establish a clear vision that will map the road to success in future dealings with the cruise industry.

The FCCA prides itself in bringing together cruise industry representatives with those looking to do business with its Member Lines. It is a symbiotic relationship between them; the more that the destinations and companies progress and learn about the industry, the more that the industry is able to grow and thrive. The FCCA promotes this mutually beneficial connection in most of its operations.

To learn more about the Conference or the FCCA, please visit www.f-cca.com.

dennisrichardson01102013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson expressed his frustration and disappointment on Tuesday during an interview with SMN News about the instruction the Kingdom Council gave to the Governor of St. Maarten. The Justice Minister said that when Prime Minister Rutte visited St. Maarten earlier this year he told the Council of Ministers that he issued an instruction to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation. Minister Richardson said when the announcement was made they immediately protested it because in the view of the Council of Ministers the instruction was illegal. He said they had no problem with an investigation but when it comes down to an instruction the Prime Minister would have had to be informed through the Minister of Plenipotentiary. "It was told to us that an instruction was given and we made it clear it was not possible based on the laws in place. We further investigated this and found out that no instruction was given but the Prime Minister of the Netherlands gave that impression while he was on the island." Later, the Prime Minister said he consulted with the Council of Ministers on St. Maarten but that was absolutely not the case. "In the meeting I attended with Prime Minister Rutte he said an instruction was given to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct the investigation." It should be noted that Prime Minister Mark Rutte also told SMN News reporter on the day he was leaving St. Maarten that he issued an instruction to the governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation. The Prime Minister also praised St. Maarten's Prime Minister whom he said agreed to cooperate by using Transparency International in this integrity investigation.

He said while Prime Minister Rutte said he issued an instruction back then, it was not the truth because the KB was only done last week Friday. "What transpired is that Prime Minister Rutte made a statement while visiting the islands and today the Kingdom Council has to do something to maintain the statement they made. Furthermore, the Kingdom is meddling in St. Maarten's business (affairs illegally) the KB issued by the Kingdom Council is illegal and without merit because they used an article that governs the Governor to issue this instruction." Minister Richardson and the Prime Minister of St. Maarten both were in the Netherlands last week where they objected to the instruction and the way in which it was done. Minister Richardson said that St. Maarten even made a proposal to have a committee installed, four of the persons on that committee would have been from the Netherlands to conduct an independent investigation and that too was rejected by the Kingdom Council of Ministers. He said besides that St. Maarten has an agreement with Transparency International, another independent organization that would conduct an integrity investigation.

The Minister of Justice said if the Prime Minister of the Kingdom is going to meddle in the affairs of the island then it would be better if he sends St. Maarten's Independence by mail and stop the meddling because this is not in the interest of St. Maarten as well as the other countries of the Kingdom. Minister Richardson said St. Maarten already requested an advice from the Council of State on this matter and he is of the opinion that the Kingdom Council should wait on the advice that is to be given by the Council of State before they proceed with the instruction.

When asked by SMN News what are the grounds used by the Kingdom to issue the instruction, Minister Richardson said the Kingdom feels that the government of St. Maarten is hindering justice because there are several cases that involve politicians that have to be investigated and they are not moving forward. He said when St. Maarten became a country the Landsrecherche did not even have an office space or manpower to operate and the Kingdom was supposed to assist St. Maarten but they never assisted. Minister Richardson said the investigators at the Landsrecherche are working on all the cases and maybe they are not working fast enough for the Kingdom. Minister Richardson said the Kingdom is also blaming the former Minister of Justice for hindering investigations. He said the moment he took office which is just over 100 days now he asked Attorney General, Prosecutors and everyone else in the Justice Ministry if the former Minister was hindering them from doing their jobs and they all said that was not the case instead former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan assisted them by securing more manpower from Aruba.

Minister Richardson further explained that St. Maarten will not sit back and allow the Kingdom to walk over them instead they will do all in their power to ensure that the constitution of St. Maarten is respected as well as the Governor of St. Maarten. "They placed the Governor in a bad position and we need to protect our Governor because he is a man with integrity who did all in his power to protect his country." The Minister of Justice said that the Governor of St. Maarten has nothing to do with the running of the country. His only role is to co-sign documents that are signed off by the Ministers. He further explained that if the Kingdom gets way with this then St. Maarten is back to colonial times.

telemtreatscustomerstocupcakes01102013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group personnel surprised customers with a treat of a cupcake and a refreshing drink as a token of appreciation for paying their monthly telecommunication bill.

The gesture was the initiative of the company's Change Champions team, represented above by company personnel: Executive Assistant Lilliane de Dje-Robert, Financial Administrator, Monique Hodge and Project Coordinator Jed Carty.

Other members of the team NOC Level 2 Technician Ralph Boirard and Technical Controller Frank Carty, Customer Service Rep Monique Dopwell continued to meet and greet customers Monday afternoon and also the following day at other locations.

"We wanted to show customers who come in at the end of the month to make payments at our main office, that we are very grateful for their business by giving them a surprise treat," said Mr. Carty, noting that the a similar treat will be provided to customers at other TelEm Group branches the following day, Tuesday.

He said the opportunity was also taken to speak with customers as they waited in line to pay their bills to find out how TelEm Group can improve its service to them.

"Most of the customers appreciated the gesture and some made some very good recommendations that we will bring up to management," continued Mr. Carty.

The TelEm Group Change Champions team was established during the company's restructuring process this year to motivate and inspire staff to provide excellent service from TelEm Group and to TelEm Group customers.

Telem Press Release

rotarysxmdonatesdictionariestomac01102013The Rotary Club Of St. Maarten donates over 3000 dictionaries in five years

PHILIPSBURG:--- This is the fifth year that the Rotary Club of St. Maarten is donating Dictionaries to students of group 5 (3rd graders) in sixteen primary schools. "There should be no doubt about the commitment of Rotary to literacy says President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Maria Buncamper-Molanus". These Caribbean English Dictionaries in most cases are the first dictionaries the students can call their own and over the five year period we have made over 3250 children proud owners of a Caribbean English Dictionary.
For most of us, reading and writing are as natural as breathing. But nearly 800 million adults worldwide lack the literacy skills needed to complete a job application, understand a child's report card, or read a prescription.
Rotary International and the International Reading Association know that literacy is an essential ingredient for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development and promoting peace. Since 2002, Rotary International and the Rotary International Association have combined their resources and skills to advance literacy in communities worldwide by providing books and educational materials, building and supporting schools, mentoring students, training teachers and establishing literacy programs for children and adults.
Community Project Chairman Marc Groeneveldt will continue to focus during this Rotary year on literacy with additional projects being unveiled in March 2014 "Literacy Month".
"I would like to emphasis the fact that we are able to carry out projects such as this one, because of the contributions we receive from individuals and corporate sponsors, this is truly the result of private - corporate cooperation": concludes president Buncamper-Molanus.

tedrichardsonvisitssxmhouse01102013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Minister Plenipotentiary of St. Maarten the Hon. Mathias Voges and his Cabinet received a courtesy visit last Saturday from Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs the Hon. Ted Richardson and members of his Cabinet.

The meeting focused on strengthening the working relations between the Cabinets. One of the items discussed were the areas in which the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary could facilitate the Ministry of Tourism & Economic Affairs.

The Cabinet being located in The Hague has been busy developing a vast network in the Netherlands and in Europe which all Ministries on St. Maarten can make use of.

Discussions were also held on the developments with respect to the upcoming 11th European Development Fund and the draft European Union (EU) Overseas Association Decision (OAD) that will go into effect on January 1st, 2014. The opportunities these changes bring along with them were discussed in great detail.

pjlereadingworkshopfacilitators01102013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) in collaboration with Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise will be hosting an E-Reading workshop for students and parents, through the "Readers are Leaders" program, on Thursday, October 3, at 6pm.
The major goals of this free, E-reading workshop are for participants to become aware of the e-book services the library offers and to promote reading through technological devices such as; E- Readers, smart phones, tablets, and computers.
The "Readers are Leaders" reading program was started by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and Rotary Club Sunrise in March 2010. As part of the program, the teenagers run their own book club. The aim of "Readers are Leaders" is to turn St. Maarten's teenagers into avid readers. High school students are challenged to read at least two books per month.
Thursday's E-Reading workshop will be conducted by library staff members: Francia Housen, Circulation Head and Assistant System Administrator and Annelies Starreveld, Librarian. Both Housen and Starreveld recently completed their exams after conducting a two-week, intensive Media Coach Training through the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI), which was carried out by the National Academy for Media and Society, stationed in the Netherlands.
For more information please contact Morenika Arrindell at the library by calling 542-2970, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit our website at www.stmaartenlibrary.org

digikidzlogo0110201321st Century Learning Planned for St. Maarten Schools

PHILIPSBURG:--- For the past 18 months a group of enthusiastic educators and ICT specialists have worked together to prepare a comprehensive educational technology plan - DigiKidz@St. Maarten. This exciting project is scheduled to be launched in one St. Maarten primary school and the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, and after in a number of other primary schools.

The creator of the DigiKidz project - the Foresee Foundation – is comprised of experienced educators and young St. Maarteners specialized in IT, marketing, communications and business. The DigiKidz project will roll out a comprehensive ICT project for elementary schools, including hardware with laptops/tablets, wired and wireless network, and professional development for staff for those schools that are motivated to teach students innovative 21st century learning skills.

The vision of the DigiKidz team is fully supported by the Windsong International Foundation, which has proposed to provide substantial financial support for the DigiKidz project. The Foundation was formed by Windsong Trust, a U.S. private foundation formed by the late philanthropist Martin Crowley to provide educational assistance to children throughout the world. It is the wish of the Foundation to work closely with the public and private sector in order to guarantee long-term sustainability after the initial capital investments. The DigiKidZ project team is currently meeting prospective partners in the public and private sector for the purpose envisioning and translating the concepts of "Corporate Social Responsibility" and "Building Capital for Sustainable Development" as presented during recently held symposia, organized by the Social Economic Council and the Governor's office.

The DigiKidz project will officially launch on October 15th at Beau Beau's Restaurant at Oyster Bay Beach Resort. The following day, October 16th, an informational session will be held for School Boards and School Managers of all St. Maarten Primary Schools. Date and venue will be announced in the upcoming week. Prospective business partners and organizations who are enthusiastic about this project can contact the DigiKidz team through its emails This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

swescotwilliamsanddennisrichardsonwithoralgibbes01102013PM: "This is not about an investigation; it is about the autonomy of the Countries within the Kingdom being at stake"

Minister of Justice: "The people of St. Maarten, Curacao and Aruba did not leave their autonomy in the hand of the Dutch Government so that the Bosmans and Wilders' out there can use St. Maarten as a political pawn."

PHILIPSBURG:--- A reversal of St. Maarten's autonomy as a Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and an erosion towards neocolonialism was how the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams and the Minister of Justice the Honorable Dennis Richardson explained the so-called 'instruction' of the Kingdom Council of Ministers to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an integrity investigation on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister and the Minister of Justice appeared together on the popular television talk show Oral Gibbes Live where they explained television viewers on the illegal, un-constitutional handling by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte and Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk. The PM and Minister Richardson emphasized that the issue is not centered on the investigation itself, since various steps were already being taken by the Government, amongst which the signing of an agreement with Transparency International to conduct a country wide integrity assessment for St. Maarten. "We made it a point to be in the Netherlands so that we could be present for the Kingdom Council of Ministers as it became clear that they were adamant about issuing a Royal Decree that would instruct the Governor to carry out an investigation on St Maarten. Prime Minister Rutte believed and still believes that he could give an instruction to have an investigation carried out within an autonomous country within the Kingdom. When we heard this we immediately asked ourselves how would they be able to do that? It is important to state that it is not about an investigation. If it were about an investigation we would not have contacted Transparency International to conduct an investigation, we would not have contacted a worldwide organization that deals with that specific issue. We have told Rutte and Plasterk about this initiative because we believe that there was so much negative talk out there regarding St Maarten and we wanted to find out where the sensitive areas were where it comes to St. Maarten and where we could improve with regards to this. We believe a dangerous precedent would be set if the Kingdom Government could interfere in our internal affairs. We wanted to make our case very very clear as it pertains to this," stressed the Prime Minister.

Dutch Misuse of Article 43 within the Kingdom Charter

The Minister of Justice the Honorable Dennis Richardson said that Government contests the legality of the decision of the Dutch Government, who de facto initiated what has been termed a constitutional blunder. "Rutte and Plasterk used an article in the laws for which that law was not intended and we believe this is against the principles of good governance and we believe it is illegal, which is ironic considering what they are saying. If the Kingdom Council of Ministers uses the article of higher supervision, which is the proper procedure, they would subsequently need to involve the Kingdom Council of State. Even then St. Maarten can appeal that decision and it is clear that political games are being played since this was not done. Because we believe that this is an illegal decision we have the right and obligation not to go with it. This is also of great importance to the other countries within the Kingdom because if this precedent is set the Dutch can subsequently use Article 43 for any purpose to interfere in the internal handling of a country within the Kingdom. There is a procedure in place to initiate the guarantee function which involves the use of article 51. The Dutch cannot justify that our system is not working. All allegations are in the public prosecutors system. So therefore we need to ask ourselves what is it that the Dutch really want?"

Dutch Putting Governor in Awkward Situation

The Prime Minister continued by stating that everyone, including the Governor His Excellency Eugene Holiday, has worked diligently in securing the independent position of the countries in their internal matters but that that work is now being brought into jeopardy by the unlawful actions of Prime Minister Rutte and Minister Plasterk. "If the countries themselves do nothing to remediate a situation and the systems do not work then yes the Kingdom Council of Ministers can invoke article 43. If they determine that our systems are failing fundamentally they need to use the procedure as outlined in article 51 to reach to article 43. There is also a process when it comes to that. Because none of these procedures were followed we are going to continuing to object. If it were something we had to hide we would not bring in Transparency International to St. Maarten. This is a reputable organization and are not there to give favors. If you bring them in you better be prepared for what they might find. What we realize is that Rutte and Plasterk had to back up their political statement in wanting to instruct St. Maarten, it was about meddling in our internal affairs to begin with. Our Governor is being put into a very awkward situation through coming with this Decree," stressed the Prime Minister.

The Minister of Justice further commented that the Dutch Government is using thin, baseless and ungrounded explanations for the issuing of the royal decree. "The backdoor is being forced to be wide open for Dutch Ministers to interfere with anything on St. Maarten or Curacao or Aruba and they want us to not do anything about it."

"We don't have a problem with an investigation. We invited TI and made a proposal that is more direct and broader than that of the Dutch Government using reputable people from Holland and St. Maarten to guide the investigation but they refused that. The Dutch Government has put in this Royal Decree that countries have gone to the Dutch Government saying they have concerns about St. Maarten but when we questioned this they were unable to substantiate anything. It is a tactic of using this to allow them to interfere in our own affairs, in the affairs of all of the countries in the Kingdom. This kind of paternalistic feeling shared by the Dutch Ministers and a general feeling of resentment that St. Maarten became a country. We have worked day and night to do the things that were expected of us to become a country and St. Maarten has proven itself.

Back to the Old Days of Colonialism

"If this happens we will have reverted to the old days of Colonialism and ruling the people indirectly. That is not what we fought for. The people of St. Maarten, Curacao and Aruba did not leave their autonomy in the hand of the Dutch Government so that the Bosmans and Wilders out there can complain and say that PM Rutte is not doing his job politically and using St. Maarten as political pawn.

"The Dutch have stopped funding social development on our islands, have left us with a debt of the Netherlands Antilles without providing the debt relief which was promised to us. They have left us no room to maneuver. We never received the money promised to us because of the famous statement that 'the door is closed'. All this while the Dutch Government cannot stick within the European Norm as far as the Budget is concerned because the Dutch Government is having a hard time to keep within the 3% deficit. But us we cannot have a Budget Deficit because of CFT, we receive no aid and to nail the coffin shut now they are saying that they want to investigate us?

What is their objective? Do they want to help St. Maarten? We do not get that impression. It is not about an investigation because in fact that is what we want, that is what we have been calling for. We are being scapegoated. For example during the last couple of months every time a question is asked to Plasterk his response would be that most likely ST. Maarten would get an instruction on the Budget. When that did not happen and no instruction was given the Dutch Government saw they compelled to use something. The thinking is that that little miserable child of St. Maarten is something we as Dutch need to do something about. As St. Maarteners we cannot accept that. Forget about me as Prime Minister, as a St. Maartener it hurts me to see that St. Maarten is made out to be as something that it is not," stressed Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

Minister of Justice Richardson also stressed that St. Maarten will move ahead with Transparency International but that until the Kingdom Council of Advice gives their statement, that no cooperation will be given to the so-called 'instruction'. "Let it be clear to the people that we are moving ahead with Transparency International and others but we will not cooperate with a Royal Decree that will leave the door open for any Dutch Politician to interfere in the matters of the countries. We will not accept that."

To Inform Parliament

The Prime Minister also explained that a request was sent for a meeting of Parliament so that the body can be brought up to speed on the issue. "Today we have asked the Chairlady of Parliament to schedule a meeting so that we can apprise Parliament on the situation. This is not about Sarah Wescot-Williams, Dennis Richardson, William Marlin, this is about the back door being forced open for the Dutch to conduct neocolonialism and if we do not take our stance then, as we say here, "Crapaud Smoke our Pipe". This leaves the three Countries in a very difficult situation and we have the support of Willemstad as it is in all of our interest. If we want to be a real autonomous country in the Kingdom we need to stand together to avoid this neocolonialism," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet October 03 in an urgent session of the House regarding the Royal Decree to instruct the Governor to carry out an integrity assessment of government.

The committee will meet on Thursday at 3:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Members of Parliament according to the agenda point will have a discussion with the Council of Ministers with respect to the Royal Decree to instruct the Governor to perform an integrity research on the public administration of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

CARTAGENA DE INDIAS, Colombia:--- Today marked the opening of the annual FCCA Trade Show, taking place in conjunction with the FCCA Cruise Conference in the Cartegena de Indias Convention Center. Over 100 companies are represented on the trade show floor, which will see exposure from the prestigious audience of decision makers from FCCA Member Lines and prominent professionals from throughout the industry and cruise destinations' private and public sectors.

The FCCA Trade Show is specialized by offering publicity from this exclusive crowd in a setting focused on doing business with the cruise industry, where about 100 cruise executives, presidents and CEOs gather to source new business; expand established business; and grant insight on what the lines want in terms of products, shore excursions, port operations and destination development/infrastructure.

This focus leads to a great diversity of trade show exhibits, from tours and customized products to countries' tourism departments. Anyone doing business or wanting to do business with the cruise industry has a chance to target some of the most important decision makers in the industry.

And there is increased attention displaying destinations' various offerings with specialized pavilions-designed for a destination to come together as one entity to present their numerous destination products, stakeholders, infrastructure and more.

To learn more about the FCCA, the current Conference & Trade Show or the upcoming 2014 event in St. Maarten, please visit www.f-cca.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic from the beginning of Back Street to the intersection near Angelo's Boutique Thursday evening October 3 from 8:00pm to 12:00am (midnight). The alleys will also be closed.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

damagedtelemcabinetinsimpsonbay01102013POND ISLAND:--- An early morning accident in the Simpson Bay area Tuesday, left a TelEm Group telephone cabinet totally damaged interrupting landline and internet services to the area.

The damage was reported by a concerned member of the public who spotted the damaged cabinet at the entrance to Pelican early Tuesday morning.

The result of the damage is that a number of residential and business customers in the area from the Simpson Bay Bridge to the Simpson Bay Yacht Club are without landline and internet service from TelEm Group.

According to TelEm Group, Manager, Outside Plant, Mr. Marco London, due to the dry weather and the manner in which the cabinet was damaged, not all the customer lines in the area are down, nevertheless customers are being informed in a general public message.

He said a number of customers will be unable to make and receive calls or have internet service until repairs are carried out. Customers are therefore being encouraged to make use of their mobile phones to maintain communication links if their landline is down.

TelEm Group technicians have assessed the damage and have already started carrying out repairs. They estimate it could take up to three days to fully restore the service and reconnect all customers who have lost service.

TelEm Group management has meantime apologized to customers in the Simpson Bay area for the interruption in service and say they have reported the matter of the collision to police for further investigation.

Telem Press Release

ruthdouglass23092012PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Dr. Ruth Douglass submitted her letter of resignation to the griffier of Parliament on Tuesday. Sources close to the United People's Party confirmed that Dr. Douglass submitted her resignation in order for the party leader Theodore Heyliger to take up a seat in parliament. Dr. Douglass received 84 votes during the 2010 elections. She was the MP with the least amount of votes on the UP slate. Efforts made to reach party leader Theodore Heyliger and faction leader Silvia Meyers proved futile on Tuesday afternoon.

Press Statement by Former Member of Parliament Dr. Ruth Douglass.

Dear people of St. Maarten,
Grace to you!

A wise man once said: "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: ..." And my time, to step down as an elected member of parliament, has come.

First and foremost I would like to thank the Most High God, for His guidance in my life,
I would like to thank all those who cast their votes for me and trusted that I can be different and make a difference. Thank you!
To all my supporters, you know who you are, thank you for giving me a chance to serve the people of St. Maarten in a higher calling.
My Mission in Life is and has always been to Serve others and that is exactly what I will continue to do.
Last but not least I would like to thank my family for enduring my lengthy absence from quality family time. Thank you for standing by my side, in thick and thin. While wearing multiple hats.

I would like at this time to share with you my personal reasons for stepping down: in politics I have learned that there are multiple strategies in demand for a successful political career, and one of them is to keep your party leader in the forefront. I have chosen to give UP my position in Parliament so that the party leader, which in this case is "Theo Heyliger", may come in. I believe that being the mayor vote getter of the election of 2010 this was and is a clear indication of the people's will. I too trust the political skills, wisdom and humanism of the UP party leader.
The reason of my resignation has been questioned by some by asking what have I received in order to step down? With this I would like to make it over and abundantly clear that my party leader, Theo Heyliger, has in No form or Fashion requested me to step down from my position as a member of parliament and nothing has been offered to me and no one has offered me any thing to take the action that I have made. I have and always will work hard for what I want as long as God give me health and strength. I have done this willingly and in my own time.

I pray that God will give him wisdom and discernment. God bless the Leadership of St. Maarten, God bless the people of St. Maarten.
God bless St. Maarten.

Dare to be Different and make a Difference!

Douglass, Ruth M.D. M.P.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic on the Cannegieter Street in the vicinity of the UTS Building Tuesday evening October 1st from 8:00pm to 11:00pm.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

swescotwilliamsataddictionandpsychiatrycongress30092013PM: "It is not only about taking care of the patients but also about caring for the families and the communities that are effected by Mental Illness"

OYSTER POND:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams offered words of welcome to the delegates and attendees to the Addiction and Psychiatry Congress on Transforming Care The congress symposium at the Westin Resort and Casino on Monday.

In her address the Prime Minister stated that, despite her returning from the Netherlands on Sunday, she thought it extremely important to attend at least part of the session on mental health and addiction and its treatment on St. Maarten and throughout the region. "I believe that it is important to let you know how pleased I am to welcome you here at this conference. I would like to express words of appreciation the Mental Health Foundation and to the Ministry of Health, Social Development and Labor and all other entities for making this conference possible here on St. Maarten. Yesterday after I returned from the Netherlands I was informed that a gentlemen that I know well was apprehended due to his mental health state and he was able to receive help for the condition. And so it is in this gathering that I see concrete steps being taken in providing care for the patients that can be faced with significant challenges. And indeed it is not only about taking care of the patients but also about caring for the families and the communities that are effected by Mental Illness," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

theprincetonencyclopediaofpoetryandpoetics30092013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- The St. Martin poet Lasana M. Sekou on Sunday joined others in signing a change.org Petition against what he calls "the unjust and fundamentally racist law" in the Dominican Republic that strips citizenship and affects over 200,000 people born in the DR to migrant parents, especially from Haiti, from 1929 to the present. And what Sekou stands up for may be exactly why US professors Roland Greene and Stephen Cushman wrote in the new Princeton University Press encyclopedia, about Sekou's "activities" having "far reaching consequences."

Literature and socio-political or cultural activism don't always go hand-in-hand. However, The Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry and Poetics: Fourth Edition, edited by Greene, Cushman et al. engages the complex nature of poetry around the world.

John Flood, an English literature teacher at the University of Groningen, calls the book "the most recent edition of the 'Bible' of poetry." The "1,639-page encyclopedia of over a million words" has "over 1,000 entries," writes Michael O'Sullivan in Cha: An Asian Literary Journal.

The Yvy League title departs on "poetry in the Dutch Windward Islands" with Wycliffe Smith's seminal survey, Windward Islands Verse (1981), then cites that, "Thereafter, the activities of Lasana Sekou, ... have had far-reaching consequences."

The question is raised about whether St. Martin's "creole English" had "a poetical dialogue with Dutch" and its relationship to publishing and "written literary languages."

For Nicholas Lezard's UK Guardian review, if we still need to "realise there is an impulse to poetry in us that is universal, there is really no better book than this."

Sekou's work with House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) is noted for attracting "local talent and ... other Caribbean writers to St. Martin." The island's additional "concrete point of reference" with Africa through the "widely seen" theater performances and workshops of "the Nigerian critic Fabian Badejo" is also noted.

More than 250 new entries cover recent terms, movements, and related topics in the encyclopedia. Broader international coverage includes articles on the poetries of more than 110 nations, regions, and languages, wrote the book's editors.

The coverage of the literatures from most of the language zones in the Caribbean by The Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry and Poetics, outclasses great English-language anthologies that have committed the sin of omission. "Those that left out the writers and publications of whole parts of the region, focusing only on the larger nations of the English-speaking Caribbean. Sometimes they gave a token mention to the literatures of French- or Spanish-speaking countries and territories but hardly ever to writings in Suriname or the Dutch colonies," said Jacqueline Sample, president of HNP.

The Princeton University literary encyclopedia is the newest book that's making a difference with more material about serious Caribbean literatures and literary activities, said Sample.

In fact, it is through the treatment of the whole Caribbean that the discussion emerges in the Princeton tome about the relationships, or lack of, between Dutch, Papiamentu, "English creole," and Sranan in Suriname and the remaining Netherlands territories. The editors even make a point of difference in the relationship between Dutch and Papiamentu (Curacao) and Papiamento (Aruba).

George Lamming, Kamau Brathwaite, and Amiri Baraka are the other HNP authors referenced in the authoritative study.

According to David Marx:Book Reviews, "The Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry & Poetics may well evolve into becoming the most important reference book in anyone's library; serious writers, novelists, short story tellers and those with a penchant for language and poetry in particular."

The Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry & Poetics explores assiduously American, European, African, Arab, Asian and other literatures. With references from the ancient and Aristotelian to modern Zulu poetry, Lezard lets the "succinctness" of the book's preface speak for the edition: "This is a book of knowledge, of facts, theories, questions, and informed judgment, about poetry. ... Poetics, the theoretical and practical study of poetry, is one of the oldest disciplines in the west, one of those founded by Aristotle along with ethics, logic, and political science."

arianejasorglisavandepul30092013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- It wasn't our idea at HNP but we love it! University law student Ariane Jasor Glisa-Vandepul allowed a family photographer in on her school vacation readings — at a favorite St. Martin reading spot. Lucky for us, one of the books on her list was Where I See The Sun – Contemporary Poetry in St. Martin — pictured here in the hands of the fashionable reader. The new anthology from House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) is available for your reading pleasure at Shipwreck, Arnia's, Van Dorp, Amazon.com, and other bookstores. (CLF Photo)

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet October 02 concerning a three point agenda.

The committee will meet on Wednesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point has to do with changes of the national ordinance related to the government organization; name changes of organizational sections; and other technical legal adjustments.

The second agenda point is related to the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics, University of Kansas. The President of Parliament of the House has been invited to be a guest speaker at the aforementioned institute.

The third agenda point is the composition of a delegation for the General Assembly meeting of Parlatino.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

jaapvandenheuvel30092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The owner of Bada Bing strip club who is one of the suspects involved in the ORCA investigation allegedly gave himself up to police on Monday.

According to information reaching SMN News, Jaap van den Heuvel was in the Netherlands since the Bada Bing bribery scandal broke and the Prosecutor's Office requested that he return to the island now that the ORCA investigation has completed and actions by the Prosecutor's Office are to be taken. Van den Heuvel was seen on tape offering what appears to be a bribe to Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge. The scandal broke early this year when the MP was in the Netherlands. Back then MP Illidge told SMN News that he was being blackmailed by the leader of the UP. The MP also provided emails that was sent to him by Van den Heuvel who told him that he was asked to tape him while he was paying back the MP monies he borrowed from him during his divorce episode.

SMN News learnt that Van den Heuvel returned to the island on Sunday and was heard on Monday shortly after midday. He was then taken into custody.

Several efforts made by SMN News to obtain confirmation from the Prosecutor's Office proved futile up to Monday evening. SMN News reporter made several calls to Chief Prosecutor Hans Wesslink but all of the calls went unanswered.
Attorney at Law Cor Merx who is representing Van den Heuvel refused to comment when he was contacted on Monday evening.

SMN News is following the developments surrounding the ORCA investigation and will bring you more information when it becomes available.

Arrest in Orca Investigation.

Monday morning, September 30th, 2013 JvdH was arrested by the Landsrecherche. The suspect was arrested on the accounts of forgery, tax fraud, and money laundering. VdH, who has been off island for a while, voluntarily turned himself in. The interrogation is pending. In the interest of the ongoing investigation no further information can be disclosed.
The Orca investigation started in March this year following the showing of a film on the websites of The Daily Herald and the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf. On the footage JvdH, owner of the "Bada Bing" brothel, can be seen handing over probably banknotes to the independent parliamentarian PI.

Press Release from Public Prosecutor's Office

policechasefillin29092013COLE BAY:--- On Friday September 27th, 2013 at approximately 10:30pm, during a routine patrol by the Special Task Force, they saw a grey Ford Escape with license plate R-601 driving dangerously at a very high speed on the Welfare Road. The patrol also noticed that the driver was in conversation on the phone while driving. The patrol ordered the driver to stop, but instead he increased speed in order to get away from the patrol. A short chase by the patrol followed and on the Orange Grove Road the driver slowed down and jumped from the vehicle leaving it in drive. The driver then took off running into the darkness. A warning shot was fired by the patrol in order to force the driver to stop however he continued fleeing. The vehicle continued rolling forward and came to a standstill in the vicinity of Carl and Son's bakery. During a control of the vehicle the patrol found three plastic bangs, each containing a brick of compressed marijuana. A substantial amount of cash was found in the center console of the vehicle. The vehicle in question, the cash, and drugs were confiscated for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 8th Annual Crystal Pineapple Awards organized by the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association officially opening its nominations period TODAY. Businesses and the general public are hereby invited to submit their nominations. As with the previous years, the criteria for each category and the nomination procedures have been digitized and placed on the newly re-vamped SHTA website www.shta.com. The nomination period closes on Monday, October 21st, 2013, and the voting will start on October 25th, 2013.
Nominations can be put forward and, once they have been reviewed by the Nomination Committee, the three to five candidates selected per subcategory will be presented to the general public for voting. The three categories are: Accommodations (Hotels, Timeshares and Rentals) with 4 subcategories; Restaurants with 3 subcategories; and Community Services. In addition, nominations may also be presented for the non-voting categories, however, these will be decided on by the Selection Committee. Based on the various categories and subcategories, we look forward to have as many as 70 individuals and/or organizations being recognized for their excellence, service and outstanding performance in the tourism industry.
The Organizing Committee is appealing to the private sector and community of St. Maarten to nominate their candidate as soon as the nomination period opens today. Individuals, who have been nominated in previous years, can be put forward again this year. We kindly request that you motivate why you would like to nominate a particular individual, company, or organization. Make sure you let them shine. The submitted nominations along with the motivation are deciding factors in combination with the results of the voting. SHTA will once again have the support of Price Waterhouse Coopers for auditing the voting process.
SHTA encourages the community to visit us on Facebook: "Crystal Pineapple Awards" or on our website www.shta.com. For more information, please contact the SHTA office: 542-0108, e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

mauricelakeatjusticeacademygraduation29092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last Friday a number of staff from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) graduated allowing them to better serve the Sint Maarten community.

Ministry VROMI Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said he is very proud of the staff that has completed another level of training to add to their existing skills and credentials.

The Minister stated at the graduation ceremony last week that the training will, "...lead to an enhancement in the work of the Ministry as the staff has been given additional tools in order to carry out their work.

"Country Sint Maarten is growing. Things are being put into place by us. We have our own Justice Academy which allows staff from different ministries to acquire the necessary qualifications which results in you being able to do your job.

"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you and wish you much success as you carry out your daily responsibilities in a well prepared and professional manner," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake told the Ministry VROMI graduates on Friday.

Minister Lake added that country Sint Maarten had a responsibility to offer its civil servants the opportunity to upgrade themselves which in turn would contribute to better improved services for the community.

pjiaeandgrandcaseairportmeeting29092013Shuttle Service On Agenda of Talks

SIMPSON BAY:--- Management of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), met recently with a delegation of the L'Esperance Airport in Grand Case, to further explore areas of synergy between the island's two airports.

On the agenda was, among others, the initiative of L'Esperance Airport, also known as Grand Case airport, to introduce a shuttle bus service between SXM and Grand Case.

It is estimated that between 20 and 30 passengers would be transferred by the shuttle bus daily. The shuttle will operate between 8:15 AM and 7:15 PM. Parties agreed that the buses would be purchased by the Collectivité of St. Martin, while approval would be given by SXM. The initiative will be discussed with the respective airport taxi associations before it is implemented.

Another important agreement reached at the meeting was for SXM Airport to conduct a survey on the amount of Grand Case airport passengers that require assistance to fill out their ESTA forms (via the SXM Customer Service Department).

"We are happy to maintain this kind of constructive contact between the two airports of the island," said Regina LaBega, managing director of SXM Airport. "As the hub airport for Saint Martin, Anguilla, St. Barths, Saba, St. Eustatius and now, Dominica, it is an integral part of our strategic policy to engage in regular consultations like this one with our hub partners."

According to the Grand Case airport director, Mongi Djouba, L'Esperance Airport "complements the Princess Juliana International Airport."

Djouba disclosed that St. Barths dropped its flights by 30% of its total traffic due to increased use of ferry transportation.

The director of the Grand Case airport updated the management of SXM about plans to extend its runway. Negotiations are ongoing for this runway extension to commence in the next two years.

The plans are to re-route the road in the area to commence with the extension, however, the land being considered for the extension is not owned by the Collectivité but by a private owner. The Grand Case runway extension will result in the possibility of added aircraft services for the airport, Djouba said.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Bureau Ombudsman will embark upon several District Information Sessions during the month of October.

The purpose of the four sessions with the first one to start on October 8 is to acquaint citizens with the tasks and procedures of the Bureau Ombudsman and most importantly on the various propriety requirements. During these sessions focus will be placed on the standards of proper conduct.

The district sessions are catering to citizens, members and boards of various foundations, associations and civic organizations within the community.

The Bureau Ombudsman is appealing to the aforementioned organizations, Community Councils and Churches to encourage their members in their particular areas to come out to the sessions, and can even contact the bureau to confirm their participation.

The aforementioned can also contact the Bureau Ombudsman for further information at telephone: 542-1250 or 520-7378 or by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The four sessions are scheduled as follows:

 

Districts:

Dates:

Time:

Locations:

1

Philipsburg, Point Blanche, Belair, Little Bay  and Cayhill

October 8 2013

7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

USM

2

Belvedere, Middle Region, Dutch Quarter, Mount William Hill, Lower and Upper Princes’Quarter

October 15 2013

7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Belvedere Community Center

3.

St. Peters, Saunders, St. John’s Estate, L.B. Scot Road, Ebenezer, South Reward;

October 22 2013

7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

R. Maynard community Center

4.

Colebay, Cape Bay, Simpsonbay, Pelican and Low Lands;

October 29 2013

7:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Salvation Army

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation (SLAC) announces that the Simpson Bay Causeway Bridge will be closed to marine traffic for several days on two occasions to allow for civil works to be carried out on the bridge structure.

The first closure of the Simpson Bay Causeway Bridge to marine traffic will be from Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00am to Saturday, October 5 at 12:30pm.

The second closure will be from Friday, October 11 at 7:00am to Sunday, October 13 at 7:00am.

The contractor will start aligning, pouring and curing of the joints between the steel swing bridge and the concrete decks on the East and West side of the swing bridge.

During the second phase of the bridge closure, the contractor will put asphalt on the decks.

If there is inclement weather, the aforementioned bridge closure times could change.

For stakeholders who require additional information, they can contact the Lagoon Authority at 520-2059, 554-7474 or 520-1867.

josianneflemingartsenmeetswithlaurensbeukelaarhomereps29092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen recently met with representatives from the Laurens Beukelaar home for demented persons located in the Dutch municipality of Rotterdam.

The Laurens Beukelaar home was represented in the meeting by Ruthmila Cicilia, founder, Michiel Versteegh, architect and Lloyd Vera, project manager.

Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Fleming-Artsen said that the concept of the project is very impressive. "The organization has constructed a building to house persons from six different cultural backgrounds.

"The concept allows the six different cultures to live as they would do back in their own country. The way the unit is established allows for individual independent living. They have their own kitchens etc.

"Caribbean people cook according to their culture and the Indians do the same as well as Moroccans and Turks. The living rooms are also decorated according to their cultural heritage.

"Their living environment has been made comfortable which allows them to really feel at home and this helps with them in coping with their dementia," Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen said on Sunday.

Minister Fleming-Artsen added that it was an inspiration to see how these persons come alive and is able to enjoy their culture, keep their traditions, enjoy their festivities and events, and is cared for in the most respectful manner.

"This is a great example of how cultures can age together and live together and enjoy their last days. Happy people live longer and in the Laurens Beukelaar there is enormous respect for the different cultures, which live together and yet separate," Deputy Minster Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen said on Sunday.

swescotwilliamsatbreastcancerzumbasession29092013"I urge the whole community to come out to these very special events organized with our partners in the private and public field to create awareness"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Cabinet of the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams announced on Monday its schedule of activities surrounding Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.

The Prime Minister and her Cabinet announced that it would be organizing various activities in order to bring the awareness of Breast Cancer and its effects and what can be done to manage the disease throughout the month of October.

This coming Friday October 4th the Prime Minister urges all civil servants to join her in the Pink Parade starting at the Festival Village at four thirty in the afternoon. On the fifth of October starting at six in the morning at the Government Administration Building, the Prime Minister will be hosting a fitness walk around town accompanied to the rhythm of the Generation New Status STM Drum Band. On the 19th of October the PM will attend the special Breast Cancer Awareness Zumba Session at the St. Maarten Medical Center Open House starting at five in the afternoon. "I urge the whole community to come out to these very special events organized with our partners in the private and public field to create awareness not only about breast cancer but also about the importance of healthy living and exercise. I encourage all to take part and be made aware of the issues surrounding breast cancer and the need to get regular check ups and tests done early in order to combat this disease. My mother of ninety-two years is alive today because of a breast cancer operation and early detection. Today technology is so much more advanced so it is about getting tested and spreading the message. We cannot prevent breast cancer but we can make sure that those who have are checked and tested and receive the necessary treatment out there," emphasized the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

SUCKER GARDEN:--- On Friday, September 27th, 2013 at approximately 5:25am, a Philipsburg Police Patrol was sent to Old Man Cactus Drive in Sucker Garden to investigate a case involving a one month old infant that was not showing any signs of life. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the nineteen year old mother of the infant. They also saw the infant lying on a bed in the bedroom. The officers could not feel a pulse or notice any breathing from the infant. The paramedics who arrived on the scene tried to reanimate the victim without having any success. Dr. Mercuur arrived on the scene and pronounced the death of the victim. The body of the infant was confiscated for further investigation because the exact cause of death could not be determined on the scene. According the mother, she had woken in order to feed and further take care of the child and she realized the female infant was not breathing. This is when she immediately informed the authorities. This case is under investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliams27092013PM: "This action by the Dutch Prime Minister and Minister Plasterk sets a dangerous precedent that I will not have on my conscience for not having warned them"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams traveled to the Hague this past week in order to clearly outline the position of the Government of St. Maarten regarding the Dutch Prime Minister instructing the Governor of St. Maarten through a Royal Decree to conduct an integrity assessment for the Country. Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has made it clear that the Government of Country St. Maarten has taken several steps with regards to ensuring integrity across the board through the initiating of various integrity projects and that such an instruction would set a dangerous precedent in the meddling in the affairs of countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Council of Ministers of St. Maarten on Tuesday also signed an agreement with Integrity International to initiate an independent countrywide integrity assessment for the country. Prime Minister Wescot-Williams commented on Friday that an instruction by the Kingdom Council of Ministers, or the Dutch Government, to do an integrity assessment through a Royal Decree on St. Maarten would set a dangerous precedent regarding the meddling in the internal affairs in the Kingdom by the Dutch Government and that through the issuing of a Royal Decree a serious constitutional blunder was made by both Prime Minister Rutte and Minister Plasterk.

"The Dutch Prime Minister announced in July during his visit to the Dutch Caribbean that he would advise the Kingdom Government to instruct the Governor of St. Maarten to have the integrity of the public administration of. St. Maarten investigated. Prime Minister Rutte claimed he consulted with all parties but in fact instead of consulting he simply announced that the assessment would take place.

"Several weeks ago, the Minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations, Mr. Plasterk, presented a draft Royal Decree (KB) to formalize this instruction to the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday citing article 43 of the Kingdom Charter and articles of the Governor's Regulation. St. Maarten objected to the use of this article in the Charter as there is no evidence or motivation for such and if there was, then the Kingdom Government must use the instrument of a General Kingdom Measure in accordance with the same charter. St. Maarten made it clear that it is not about the investigation but about the meddling in the internal affairs of the Country and offered to have the same investigation Ministers Plasterk and Prime Minister Rutte are envisioning carried out by reputable parties within the Kingdom. This would have been in addition to tan investigation by Transparency International (TI) that the Government of. St. Maarten and TI have already agreed to and signed off on.

"Minister Plasterk then amended the draft instruction to the Governor and subsequently deleted any mention of Article 43 in the Charter. Minister Plasterk also refused to accept St. Maarten's offer to have the investigation carried out by mutual agreement to avoid a constitutional dilemma, insisting on misusing the instrument of a Royal Decree and thus compromising the position of the Governor.

"This is a back door tactic that St. Maarten refused to accept and we subsequently instructed our Minister Plenipotentiary to make use of the constitutional possibility and ask the Kingdom Council of Advice to advise on this action by the Kingdom/Dutch Government. This has been done and the Dutch Prime Minister has been informed of such and of St. Maarten's refusal to cooperate with such a constitutional blunder.

"On Friday, September 27th, upon learning of St. Maarten's Minister Plenipotentiary's request to the Kingdom Council of Advice, the Minister of Kingdom Affairs again amended the draft Royal Decree, giving the Governor an instruction, this time putting back in the third draft the reference to article 43 and again refusing St. Maarten's offer for a joint agreement on the basis of the Kingdom Charter.

"The persisting in the unlawful use of a Royal Decree to interfere in the internal affairs of another country further strengthens St. Maarten's request to the Council of Advice of the Kingdom to issue an advice on the fundamentals of the matter.

"Can the Kingdom Government, or better said, can the Dutch Government in a meeting of the Kingdom Council of Ministers, decide to ignore the charter and use the position of the Governor to have an internal affair of the country elevated to a kingdom matter? We believe not and will not accept such unless the highest advisory council in the kingdom can justifiably argue that the Dutch government has acted rightfully and constitutionally.

"I attended the meeting to make sure St. Maarten's position is clear and that it has nothing to do with the matter an investigation, but that this action by the Dutch Prime Minister and Minister Plasterk sets a dangerous precedent that I will not have on my conscience for not having warned them about and offering what could have been a face-saving avenues for them," emphasized the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

theyliger04032012BUSH ROAD:--- Members of the United People's Party (UPP) met Tuesday night on Bush Road at the Meyers property where they had serious discussions as to which of the UP MPs will surrender their seat to the party leader Theodore Heyliger.

It should be noted that Heyliger won all six of the seats his party has in Parliament since none of the other members of the UP pary secured enough votes to elect themselves. Even though the UP MPs did not elect themselves, they refused to surrender their seat to the leader of the party who got the votes necessary to place them in office. SMN News learnt through a reliable source that the UP leader is peeved at the behavior of his MPs because it shows immaturity, especially since the leader of the National Alliance William Marlin got back his seat in Parliament when the SWW-2 cabinet fell. The source said former MP and Chairman of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel showed maturity and respect when he surrendered his seat and gave it back to the party leader.

During the 2010 election Theodore Heyliger secured 2967 votes while Gracita Arrindell got 336 votes. Arrindell was the second highest vote getter on the UP list. Candidates that postulated themselves needed to secure 770 votes in order for them to be elected.

The source further stated that the discussion on Tuesday night was very intense and heated because the UP leader made clear that if one of the MPs does not surrender their seat now for him to get into Parliament then he will not put them on his list for the 2014 election. The source said the party members asked MP Ruth Douglass to surrender her seat since she got the least amount of votes (84) in total. SMN News learnt that MP Douglass refused to give up her seat for anyone. However, MP Johan Janchi Leonard suggested that he would surrender his seat if the UP leader guaranteed him the position of Minister of Justice if they are elected in 2014. MP Leonard secured 111 votes on the UP list last election. While Leonard ran in several elections before, once on his own party and once with Gracita Arrindell on the PPA slate, this is the first time Leonard got so little votes but still managed to get into Parliament.

SMN News further learnt that the UP MPs were given 48 hours to say exactly what they will do and which of them will surrender their seat to the party leader who won all six seats the party has in parliament.

It should also be noted that while the MPs were given 48 hours to respond and give the UP board a definite answer, ten MPs left the island on Wednesday to attend Parlatino meetings in Mexico.

SMN News is following these developments closely and will bring you more information as it becomes available.

pjlstorytimewithrboasman26092013PHILPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be hosting its monthly, Saturday, story time at 11:00am on Saturday, September 28.
Every last Saturday in the month, the library conducts story time sessions for visiting children in the library. This Saturday, storyteller, Morela Hodge-Houterman will be reading from one of the library's children's books called "Recycle Everyday!" by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace. Children will learn how little Minna works hard to find the perfect entry for the recycle contest at her school.
After story time, there will be a hands-on arts & craft activity for all of the attending children to do. Mrs. Hodge-Houterman will demonstrate how plastic bottles can be turned into beautiful bracelets.
For those children who would like to learn more about recycling, there will also be an exhibition on display at the library, with a large variety of books on recycling.
For more information on this and more storytelling events, please contact Maryland at 542-2970.

rotarysxminductsone26092013David McGregor Newest Rotarian

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Maarten is pleased to announce the induction of David McGregor as its new Rotarian. Mr. McGregor was formally inducted on September 25th at the Rotary Club of St. Maarten's regular luncheon meeting held at Divi Little Bay Resort.

Mr. McGregor is no stranger to the St. Maarten Business Community. He is a well-known motivational speaker and trainer, working with many of the island's premiere organizations and at last winter's Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) conference held on St. Maarten, he wowed youth from all over the region on one of his favorite topics, a hands on seminar on leadership, listening and feedback skills.

President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, Maria Buncamper-Molanus, was thrilled to welcome David to the Rotarian ranks and said, "David will make a great addition to our club in so many areas. I know I speak on behalf of all the members, when I simply extend a heartfelt welcome to David and his partner in service, Christine. Welcome to the Rotary family". Mr. McGregor told the attendees how grateful he was to be joining a community minded organization like Rotary.

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

tedrichardson26092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On the occasion of World Tourism Day (WTD) which will be celebrated around the globe on Friday, 27 September, the Department of Communication will be airing a WTD Television Special on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 115 at 7:00pm.

27 September WTD is considered as the most important international observance day of tourism.

The special will feature a WTD Message by the Minister of Tourism Hon. Ted Richardson, Inspector Herbert Libier, Assistant Operations Manager of Seven Seas Water Lester Bryan, President of the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association Emil Lee and President of the Nature Foundation Tadzio Bervoets.

The theme is: "Tourism and Water: Protecting our Common Future."

Each interview highlights the importance of water to our tourism based economy, how its created and inspected and why conservation is essential to having sustainable access to high quality water.

The purpose of World Tourism Day is to foster awareness among the international, national and regional community of the importance of tourism and its cultural, political and economic value.

September 27 is the most widely celebrated global day for tourism, and represents a unique opportunity to raise awareness of tourism's role in water access and shines a spotlight on the sector's contribution to a more sustainable water future.

armedrobberyfillin13082012GUANA BAY:--- Several police patrols, detectives, and paramedics were sent to a home on Canoe road to investigate a robbery in which persons were injured. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to a couple and their teenage daughter living at the home who stated that shortly before, four unknown men had forced their way into their home and violently robbed them at gunpoint. During the robbery the couple was struck in their heads with the butt of the gun. The robbers threatened to use their weapons if the couple did not hand over the money. The robbers succeeded in taking an amount of cash and a laptop computer. After committing this act, the robbers fled the scene. The victims' injuries were treated by paramedics. The Detective Department is investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

repairedoysterpondroad26092013VROMI, Sint Maarten Timeshare Association, Hotels, Local Business Work Together

PHILIPSBURG:--- An unprecedented public/private partnership led by VROMI working in conjunction with the Sint Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA), Oyster Bay Beach Resort, The Westin Dawn Beach, Princess Heights, Coral Beach Club, Mr. Busby's and other local businesses and organizations in Oyster Pond has come together to carry out urgently needed repairs to public roads in Oyster Pond.

The repairs carried out by Windward Roads were started on August 28 and completed within five weeks at a cost of $39,000. In total, 250 square meters of badly damaged asphalt road have been ripped out and replaced by steel-reinforced concrete road built to standards set by VROMI to support the heavy traffic that occurs in Oyster Pond near to the French border. At the same time, parts of the road were re-designed to ensure that the occasional flooding from heavy rains that occurs in that area does not threaten the personal safety and security of any of the road users.

Ricardo Perez, General Manager, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, stated that "This project would not have been possible without the active support and involvement of VROMI and the $26,000 in financial support of the SMTA Dollar a Day program, which is a voluntary contribution to the well being of the island by our timeshare tourists.

"The deterioration over the past several months of critical road sections in Oyster Pond had resulted, not only in an eyesore for residents and visitors alike, but more importantly damage to vehicles and potential safety hazards.

"With further deterioration likely in the next few months, access to and from important tourist destinations such as Dawn Beach, Princess Heights, Coral Beach Club, The Villas of Oyster Pond, as well as Oyster Bay Beach Resort, could have become dangerous or impossible, requiring immediate action."

Mr. Perez, having secured financial support from the SMTA, appealed in June for additional financial support from local businesses, resorts, and residential neighborhoods, who together committed an additional $13,000.

On being approached by the SMTA with an urgent request for assistance, VROMI responded immediately, forming an unprecedented public/private partnership to address the problem in conjunction with their selected road contractor, Windward Roads.

Maurice Lake, Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure VROMI, stated "In these times with reduced public budgets and increasing demands on the public purse, local communities and businesses must step up to help government address their needs.

"By combining forces, government, businesses and the people can work together for the greater public good, protecting our most important industry, tourism, and enabling a better quality of life for all.

"Under my leadership, VROMI intends to be a responsible and responsive partner in addressing the urgent needs of the people. We will work in support of all local community initiatives that are in our common shared interests and in the best interests of Country St. Maarten."

GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Labour in collaboration with the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team finalized a National HIV and AIDS Workplace Policy in 2012. The document came to fruition with the assistance of International Organizations of the United Nations both in Labour and Health, in addition to representatives of local private and public sector organizations and governmental departments. This National Policy was approved by the Council of Ministers and launched in December of 2012. This policy aims to provide a set of guidelines to be adhered to by all employers and workers of St. Maarten both public and private, in order to address the HIV and AIDS epidemic in and through the workplace.
Government decided to lead by example and not expect the private sector to adhere to the National policy without first ensuring that the Government Organization was also in line with Policy guidelines. For this reason the Personnel and Organization department's assistance was sought. They together with SZV have made it possible that as of August 1, 2013, pre-appointment HIV testing was no longer required for entering the organization. This is a huge milestone in preventing discrimination and ensuring equality in the workplace.
Government would now like to call on the rest of the community to follow suit and begin adhering to the National Policy as a person's HIV status has no bearing on his/her ability to perform most job functions. Let's work together to build a more equal workforce where no one is prevented from entering the labour market!
A copy of The National HIV and AIDS Workplace policy can be obtained from the following: Labour Affairs Agency, The HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team and the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation; in addition the document can be found digitally at the following address: http://www.sintmaartengov.org/Government/vsa/Department%20of%20Labor/Pages/Notices.aspx

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesycallfromusconsulgeneral25092013Looking Froward to Continued ties with the United States of America

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit from the new US Consul General to the Dutch Caribbean James R. Moore. James R. Moore as the new Consul General and Chief of Mission to Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten. Moore, who holds the rank of Minister Counselor, assumed has duties as US Consulate General and Chief of Mission in late June.

Moore is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service with nearly 30 years of experience as a US diplomat. In his previous position, as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia from 2010-2013, he was responsible for US public diplomacy and public affairs initiatives in that region, to which he traveled frequently from Washington DC. He has held high-level positions in US embassies and consulates in several critical areas of the world. The new consul has served twice in South America. As Public Affairs Officer and Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Quito, Ecuador from 1999 to 2002, he was extensively involved in counter-narcotics efforts in the region.

The Prime Minister commented that she looked forward to a continued close working relationship with the Consul General in realizing closer ties and stronger cooperation between St. Maarten and the United States of America

The incoming American consul earned a Master's degree in international relations from the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC and a Bachelor's degree in English literature from Colby College in Maine.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindellmeetswithcdeweever25092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met on Wednesday morning with Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever regarding any outstanding matters related to his aforementioned portfolios.

Some of the issues discussed were a proposal by the SZV to expand the pension plan to include taxi drivers, bus drivers and sole proprietorships; presentation of the Water Master Plan; modification of the Civil Code on short-term contracts; and the secondary pension plan that is modeled after Aruba and Curacao.

Tentative dates have been set to bring pending or new matters before the House for parliamentary sittings.

The aforementioned meeting was the final round of sessions concluding the President of Parliament's one-on-one deliberations with members of the Councils of Ministers.

Cay Hill:--- As a public serving hospital the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) acknowledges our responsibility to inform the public with correct information about our intuition.
At the SMMC, we treat and manage health conditions to the safety, health and satisfaction of our patients. We also strive to maintain transparency, especially when it relates to patient health and safety.
Hence, we deem it necessary to reassure the public that the Hygiene and Infection Control (HIC) department at the St. Maarten Medical Center is always working diligently to maintain a clean and safe environment for our patients, visitors and staff.
Recently, there are rumors that there are patients with Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) at our hospital. These rumors are not true as presently, we do not have any patient in our hospital known to have MRSA.
As any hospital in the world, we are however, at risks for acquiring micro-organisms that are resistant to antibiotics; such as MRSA.
"Staph" is a very common germ that about 1 in every 3 people has on their skin, but sometimes it can cause serious infections such as skin or wound infections, pneumonia, or infections of the blood. Some staph develops resistance, meaning they cannot be treated by antibiotics that the micro-organism is resistant to. MRSA is a type of staph that is resistant to the common penicillin antibiotics.
Persons who are more at risk of getting MRSA are those with weakened immune systems and persons who are hospitalized or are in a nursing home.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 in every 100 persons are colonized with MRSA (carry the micro-organisms without showing signs and symptoms of an illness). On a daily basis this germ does not threaten the individual's health. It becomes a problem when the person is admitted to a hospital and requires antibiotics and is capable of passing on the germ to other patients.
As a public serving hospital, we cannot turn away patients who have MRSA. For this reason the HIC has a stringent policy concerning the prevention and spread of MRSA. These measures include, placing the affected patient in isolation, reinforcing hand hygiene for both healthcare workers and visitors, wearing of personal protective equipment which includes gowns, gloves and masks when taking care of the MRSA patient.
Antibiotic resistance came about as the result of the frequent use of antibiotics and increased travel also places a role in the transmission of MRSA. Hence it is very important for us to know, if our patients were hospitalized in a foreign hospital no less than 2 months ago so that proper measure can be put in place to prevent the spread of MRSA and other resistant micro-organisms.
Some weeks ago we saw a High Resistant Mirco-Organism (HRMO) on one ward in our hospital. This is a bacteria that Dutch hospitals check for, unlike many hospital in the U.S. and other regions. The Inspectorate of Health was informed and our staff was mobilized to care for our patients and bring them to good health. We acted quickly and efficiently and as a result we no longer have cases of the HRMO.
This is the way we will continue to work, to ensure the safety of our patients.
Currently, at the St. Maarten Medical Center, there are no patients with known cases of MRSA. Nonetheless we, as a hospital, are capable of taking care of any patient with MRSA or other resistant micro-organisms without threatening the safety of our other patients, visitors and staff.
On October 19th, the SMMC will have an Open House. Our HIC department will be present and the public is invited to visit us and learn about how we care for our patient's safety. The HIC will be able to answer questions and give information about the importance of hygiene in hospitals and also in our homes and what we can do to keep ourselves and families safe.
The public is invited to learn more about our services and how we provide care for our community. Please visit our website at smmc.sx to keep informed about this upcoming event.

SMMC Press Release

monumentcouncilmembers25092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Monument Council since its first meeting in June, for the past months has been on a fact finding mission steadily gathering the necessary information and at the same time familiarizing themselves with the various laws and pending matters surrounding designated and non-designated monuments.

By Ministerial decree and in compliance with Article 3 sub-section 1 of the Monument Ordinance (A.B. 2000, nr. 1), a seven (7) member Monument Council was appointed. This measure was unanimously approved by Parliament in March 2013.

The Council consists of the following members: Chair Leona Romeo Marlin, Vice Chair Jocelyn Arndell, Secretary Alfonso Blijden, Assistant Secretary, Patricia Arrindell, Members Danae Daal, Niek van der Ree and Marla Chemont.

The Council's tasks is to: 1) provide advice to the Minister of Education, Culture Youth and Sports Affairs regarding aspects relating to the preservation and restoration of designated monuments; 2) disseminates information to the general public about our National Heritage; 3) execute the Monuments Ordinance of St. Maarten; 4) and review the current monument list and evaluate those monuments that require immediate attention.

In addition, the Monument Council has already taken steps to meet with local stakeholders and establish contact with regional Monument Councils and Heritage organizations.

The Council meets every second and fourth Thursday of every month, and urges the community to contact them with concerns of the discovery of old buildings or ruins, natural structures and identify activities of persons and/or groups that appear to demolish, destroy or alter designated or non-designated monuments.

The Monument Council can be reached by mail via the Ministry of Education, Culture Sports & Youth Affairs, and Department of Culture, C/O Monument Council N. Debrot street 2, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten or via cell +1721-5204511.

martinhassink25092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Finance Minister Martin Hassink told reporters on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he dispatched a letter to the Parliament of St. Maarten addressing the profit tax matters involving the former owner of the American University of the Caribbean (AUC). Minister Hassink did not divulge the contents of the letter he sent to Parliament but said he informed the Members of Parliament that they need to be discreet when it comes to Government financing and private entities.

SMN News asked the Minister of Finance what has he done since taking office to secure the over 100 million guilders that the former owner of AUC still owed the government of St. Maarten after the sale of AUC. The Minister said that since he took office he could not find any documentation on what the former Minister did when he was in office to resolve the AUC issue. He said that the consultant (law firm) informed him that there were some discussions with the former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt but he could not find any documents to support the discussions that were held. He indicated that the former owner of AUC has decided to proceed with a court litigation which might take place before the end of the year. Hassink further stated that he sent a letter to the consultant requesting that they meet to further discuss the matter but to date he did not get any response. When asked when he sent the letter, he said sometime in July 2013.

It should be noted that if the current Minister wanted to know or have documents pertaining to the AUC profit tax scandal he could have checked with the tax department because the former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt declared the agreement AUC had with government null and void before leaving office. That agreement can be found at the tax office, furthermore, AUC according to information provided to SMN News did not provide accurate information to the tax department in order for them to make the correct assessment on how much monies AUC had to turn over to government after the sale of the property.

Kingdom Council waiting on CFT Assessment of 2013 Budget.

The Finance Minister also said he believes this is last time he would have to address matters regarding the 2013 budget, since the budget amendments have been approved and signed off by the Governor of St. Maarten.

Minister Hassink said that the CFT had informed the Kingdom Council to issue an instruction to St. Maarten regarding its budget but that did not take place as yet neither has the Kingdom Council said what they will do or not do. Minister Hassink said the Kingdom Council has decided to wait on the assessment of the CFT. The approved budget and its amendments which were signed off by the Governor of St. Maarten was sent to the CFT for their approval. To date the CFT did not say if the 2013 budget that was approved in September 2013 is to their satisfaction and if they would or would not approve it.

Minister Hassink further explained that his Ministry is busy working on the 2014 budget which should be completed and ready by the end of this year. The Finance Minister said that he is not very happy with the 2014 budget which they started to work very late on because of the 2013 budget. He said right now the other Ministries are looking at figures for each Ministry and they have to get back to the Ministry of Finance to complete the budget of 2014.

Finance Minister Wants SOAB to Investigate Road Tax Payments.

Minister of Finance Martin Hassink also reported on Wednesday that a substantial amount of persons did not pay their road taxes for this year. When SMN News asked the Minister what exactly he meant by substantial if he has a ball park figure as to how much monies government did not collect on road tax sales, the Minister said there is about one million guilders outstanding and he has decided to ask SOAB to conduct an investigation in order for him to get a clearer picture. The Finance Minister said that he also asked SOAB to give him some advice as to how they believe he should proceed in collecting the monies road users owe government and what other measures government should implement for 2014. The Minister also indicated that he believes that more road controls must be done to catch delinquent car owners but that he said is not the ultimate solution. Minister Hassink said he does not believe that police has to displace themselves to collect taxes but they do have an obligation to do more controls. He further explained that the number plates for 2013 have been ordered and sale of the new number plates should begin as early as January 2014.

cftsxmandcuracao27062012WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Board of financial supervision Curaçao & Sint Maarten (College financieel toezicht - Cft) concludes in its semiannual report concerning the first six months of this year that Curaçao as well as Sint Maarten are confronted with significant challenges to structurally balance their public finances. For this purpose Curaçao has implemented substantial measures. On Sint Maarten planned measures to increase income finally were not executed, resulting in a 2013 budget that was not balanced in the first six months of 2013. Not only Sint Maarten, but also Curaçao are still failing in their efforts to timely set up and adopt budget related documents and timely report to the Parliament (Staten) concerning the public finances. The financial management in both countries therefore still requires the necessary improvements.

The long term budgets illustrate that both countries have to do major efforts in order to reach a balanced picture. The fact that there were deficits in the past years and that these need to be compensated, makes this task even more challenging. The board has a lot of appreciation for the fact that the government of Curaçao took the necessary steps in the past year to structurally strengthen the budget by implementing various painful measures. This appreciation was translated into a positive evaluation of a request for a loan. Sint Maarten has to take measures on the income side in order to structurally be able to finance its desired multiannual expenditure level. Because the intended income increasing measures were not implemented, the budget was not balanced on Sint Maarten. In the beginning of September the Board advised the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom to give Sint Maarten an instruction, in order to accomplish as soon as possible an adopted 2013 budget. On September 16tyh, the Sint Maarten Governor adopted the 2013 budget. A few days later this adopted budget was presented to the Cft for advice. The Cft will give its advice as soon as possible, in any case within two weeks.
The Board is concerned about the timely production of the budget documents. Both countries started 2013 without an adopted budget and Sint Maarten only has an adopted 2013 budget since September 16th, 2013. Besides the annual reports for 2010, 2011 and 2012 and the budget amendments since October 10th, 2010 have not yet been adopted, which makes it once again clear that the financial management in both countries need improvement. This is also apparent from the measurement of the state of the financial management, which the Board executed jointly with both countries in the past period. Not only is a proper execution of policy difficult without adopted annual reports and budgets, it also has consequences for Parliament's budget right.

CFT Press Release

MARIGOT:--- Following the establishment of the large Delta Belvedere station in 2011, Delta Group is expanding its activities with the purchase of the three former GESS gas stations on the French Side.
Renovation and redevelopment work is underway, and the reopening of the French Quarter, Savane and Sandy Ground stations under the "DP" ensign should take place in the following weeks.
Delta has been headquartered since 2008 in Galisbay on the French Side, and its distribution activities already represent a 70% market share there. Indeed, Delta group has been present throughout the Caribbean for nearly 30 years, and is well known for the quality and the reliability of its marine and land use products.

smhgrepsatseatradeeurope24092013SIMPSON BAY:--- Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Hon. Ted Richardson and St. Maarten port officials met with several cruise lines on Monday during the first day of Seatrade Europe currently taking place in Germany.

The meeting with the European cruise lines was to get their commitment and to explain to them about the latest Shore Excursion Developments. MSC Cruise Line executive team updated the Minister and port management that with their new vessels currently online the cruise numbers for the Port of St. Maarten will increase. Last year the port received approximately 30,000 passengers from MSC while for the next season this will go up to 120,000 passengers, which is almost a four-fold increase.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo said on Monday out of Germany that this is great news for the destination however, "We need to a have a clear Destination Strategy in order for us to sustain this and to make sure that other nearby destinations don't start edging ahead because we forgot the fundamentals of the success of our vibrant cruise sector. I can state that the games have changed and the decision makers have also changed."

The delegation from the Port of St. Maarten are attending workshops, which provides insight into the options for the future in Environmental Advances such as waste, opportunities and challenges for suppliers and service providers, Itineraries and deployment drivers, which include new shore regulations and also very important the changing face of on-board revenue generation.

Mingo added that the information received so far: "All in all it confirms that the Port of St. Maarten with its stakeholders, are on track, however a clear strategy must be developed for the destination as a whole especially when the same travel agents also determine where guest are going on their next cruise."

During the State of the Industry address a lot of focus was placed on New Green Shipping Technologies and its impact on Ports and Shipping Lines.

During the address the following topics were discussed, the investment of cruise lines and their new builds, this according to St. Maarten harbour officials is looking great. The German market has shown strong signs of rebounding.

Smaller niche markets are also showing signs of stability. In 2003 the Port of St. Maarten indeed had focused and emphasized on the European market but port officials felt more needs to be done with product offerings and enhancements.

"What we did a few years back we tried to adjust to the European customers, and we even organized a "German Night." We need to think and be innovative about what we are offering cruise passengers and stay-over visitors. Some might be big investments but smaller ones are just as good, but we have to think outside the box, be creative and make use of our rich cultural heritage," CEO Mark Mingo pointed out.

During the first day of the conference a lot of attention was paid to huge product offerings, a changing Cruise Industry and movements of passengers. With the new Green Shipping Guide 2013 which was handed over to conference delegates during the opening, port officials learned about the new challenges and technologies.

With the implementation of new ECA rules, cruise lines will have to retrofit their vessels to comply in connection with hull air bubble systems, new paints/coatings being used, as well as scrubbers. New LNG/LPG pilot projects have been implemented and it is evident that the supply chain for fuel suppliers will change also in the near future.

Carnival Cruise Lines for example will retrofit a few of their vessels with scrubbers, and will run a pilot project in 2014 to retrofit a vessel with LNG technology.

Currently the Port of St. Maarten has received approval from the Government to finalize the TNO Fuel Mapping Report for country St. Maarten, CEO Mark Mingo disclosed. "This will make it clear how we need to deal with fuel matters and challenges and prepare us strategically in this matter," Mingo said on Monday.

The 7th Seatrade Europe Cruise & River Cruise Convention is being held in Hamburg Messe, Germany and runs through September 26.

rotarysxmmidisleinductsone24092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary St. Maarten Mid Isle welcomed a new member during the District Governor's, visit to the club. DG Jeremy Hurst did the induction ceremony in the presence of President Sanjay Surtani and pinned Vinod "Vinnie" Punjabi making him the newest member of the club. After the induction all present at the meeting welcomed Vinnie and his wife Varsha to the Rotary Mid Isle family.

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesyvisitfromheadofdutchsecretservicemarckuipers24092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy call by head of the Dutch Secret Service the "Algemene Inlichtingen en Veiligheids Dienst" (AIVD) Marc Kuipers (right) at her Cabinet on Monday. Mr. Kuipers has been head of the AIVD since the 1st of November 2012 and has been active at the organization since 2005. The Prime Minister commented after the visit on the relationship between the AIVD and its counterpart on St. Maarten the VDSM; "There is an ongoing working relationship between the two services. On Monday Mr. Kuipers reiterated the AIVD's commitment to continue the assistance and collaboration with our local national security, the VDSM."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

CAY HILL:--- Several patients of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is said to have picked up a bacteria (infection) known as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). According to reliable sources, these patients contracted the infection while in hospital and they most likely got infected in the operating room of SMMC. SMN News learnt that a premature baby contracted the infection and tests were conducted on the cribs for premature babies but no traces of MRSA were found. Another source said that several patients have been having unusual fevers and tests are being conducted in the operationing rooms to see if traces of the bacteria can be found in there.

The exact amount of patients that contracted the infection which was described as being a deadly infection is not yet known. It should be noted that so far there is no specific antibiotic that can treat or eliminate MRSA completely.

SMN News brought forward this information because just over a year ago an employee of the operating room tested positive for MRSA and had to be isolated for more than two weeks in order to stop the infection from spreading. Besides that, there are a number of patients that currently have unusual fevers at SMMC. While MRSA is a dangerous infection, it is quite known to medical professionals that this strain of bacteria is found in several medical institution and not only at SMMC.

SMN News contacted the public relations officer of SMMC with specific questions about patients having MRSA and the hospital responded by stating that after doing some research within the hospital they must state that the information SMN News obtained is incorrect. The statement from SMMC further states that The St. Maarten Medical Center is always taking measures to ensure patient safety.

"We do routine checks to detect micro-organisms that are resistant to antibiotics, such as MRSA. We do not have any patients diagnosed with MRSA. Neither have there been any alerts of infection in our operating room."

MRSA --- Information on the bacteria and its effects.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is caused by a strain of staph bacteria that's become resistant to the antibiotics commonly used to treat ordinary staph infections.

Most MRSA infections occur in people who've been in hospitals or other health care settings, such as nursing homes and dialysis centers. When it occurs in these settings, it's known as health care-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA). HA-MRSA infections typically are associated with invasive procedures or devices, such as surgeries, intravenous tubing or artificial joints.

Another type of MRSA infection has occurred in the wider community — among healthy people. This form, community-associated MRSA (CA-MRSA), often begins as a painful skin boil. It's spread by skin-to-skin contact. At-risk populations include groups such as high school wrestlers, child care workers and people who live in crowded conditions.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF) has been very busy with a number of new and ongoing projects, but we felt it was important to address the insinuations and baseless allegations being reported in the media by persons vying for Political office and choosing to use propaganda as campaigning material.
In response to two articles published in the Daily Herald on Monday; September 23 one; by a reporter of the 'trusted' newspaper and the other by the founder of the 'OSPP' One St. Maarten People's Party.
In regards to 'Foga' SMHDF would hereby like to confirm that this project was initiated under the Heyliger Ministry for the purpose of constructing social homes, however after much deliberation it was agreed upon by then ministry, board and management of the SMHDF to develop duplex homes for sale. The initiative of continuity taken by the Marlin ministry to expedite the infrastructure was done to enable SMHDF to develop the thirty six (36) duplex homes, which would have been offered in a unique "SMHDF lease to own Program". So we were very much disappointed when the current minister took a decision to discontinue the infrastructure work on this much needed project. Persons with consumer loans would have benefited most from this project; as every lease payment made would have gone towards purchasing the home, an empty promise made by several politicians over the last 16 years and delivered finally by the current management of the SMHDF.
"The emergency homes in Cole Bay were delivered as the name suggest, in an emergency right after residents were displaced by a hurricane in 1997. Since then, the foundation has been faced with many challenges with these Venezuelan manufactured homes; namely plumbing, electrical, condensation etc. All two hundred (200) homes donated by the Queen were placed on private land with the exception of the twenty-four (24) in Foga and the eight (8) in South Reward. Over the past 16 years, the land lease/value has doubled while the rental prices of Naf. 387 (US $215) has remained the same from 1997 up to date, which is the fundamental problem. We do not fault the landowners for requesting the removal of the homes as they currently are not benefiting financially from this arrangement.
So after receiving the notice to vacate the premises, the SMHDF immediately began the process of a Compliance Investigation to determine which tenants still qualify for said dwellings. The investigation showed that many tenants, more than 50%, had acquired land, had increased salaries and improved earning power, but despite all of this are refusing to give up the Emergency Home which could provide an affordable living for someone else in a lesser position, just because of the low monthly rent of Naf. 387.
Additionally, SMHDF is looking to acquire free hold property on which they can relocate all 24 homes with improved infrastructure, while still maintaining the basic rental fee of Naf. 387, a venture which is impossible given the fact that land price is now over USD $100 per square meter. Management has fought off current Ministerial pressure to acquire property from his associates for undisclosed amounts which would have increased Emergency Home rents to over Naf. 900.
SMHDF finds it 'simply amazing' that reincarnated politicians who promises change would maliciously write an article or letter to the ministry regarding an issue so dear to us. The mobile homes were delivered before Mr. Priest's last term in office, so if Mr. Priest was genuinely interested in resolving a 'Safety Problem', he could have simply requested a meeting with the new management of the Foundation on this 16- year-old problem. Had he done that, he would have found out that instructions were given to subordinates, since January 2011 to grant the installation of second doors in all 200 mobile homes, a task which was neglected until the Quality Assurance officer was recruited in May of this year.
SMHDF absorbed the cost of the door (Naf. 774) which equates to two months' rent per unit, leaving the tenant with the task of simply covering the installation cost, which amounts to Naf. 144 or USD $80.
Like many, Mr. Priest might claim the Director of SMHDF; Henry Lynch is difficult to get in contact with, a claim vehemently Lynch denied stating 'I am not hard to reach or to get in contact with, since just a few months ago Mr. Priest found me very easily when he tried to recruit me to join his party (which by the way I declined).
I want to publicly request that while postulating and campaigning for political office, something that I, Henry Lynch is not interested in, despite several offers, the long abandoned now revived Foundation; the SMHDF, should be left out of all propaganda and not be used as a scapegoat as we; Management and Board strive to maintain a level of professionalism, transparency and fairness in the way we conduct business with our community and clients."

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday, September 28, 2013 the grand opening of the Congress will take place at the Westin Hotel. The program will start at 6:30 PM sharp; the opening ceremony will commence with a speech by the Minister of Public Health Social Development and Labor, Honorable Cornelius de Weever.
Why the title Transforming Care? The Congress symbol is the butterfly, which transforms from a young insect, to a cocoon and then becomes a beautiful butterfly. The Congress is a combined effort of, the
St. Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Mental Health Foundation, Turing Point, The Parnassia group in the Netherlands, and SVP-CN of the BES Islands.
The Congress is also supported by the Ministries of Justice and Education in an effort to create cooperation between the organizations.
Much has been suggested regarding care delivery systems, and one of the main discussions is cooperation between health care organizations as well as the stakeholders. What is being done? Formal cooperation agreements do exist between organizations in the Caribbean but the majority remains informal.
The goal of the congress is to transform how we deliver care, with the intention to improve lives of patients, prevention of criminality and community disruptions, including the economic advantage of cooperation and prevention. The focus will be on the youth the program focuses on 'Co-creating younger peoples program for resilience.'
In short the congress contents:
Saturday evening, September 28 is the official opening by, the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever, registration and a reception. Health-care providers; local and from abroad are invited to attend.
Monday September 30, Day I.
The theme is; 'Treatment methods and cooperation agreements.'
Psychiatrist from St. Maarten, Curaçao and the Netherlands, and amongst others;
Dr. Gilbert Thomas, well known for the years that he visited St. Maarten. He is living in the Netherlands and works on a Fact team (assertive community treatment).
From bureau Berenschot in the Netherlands Drs. Kraal will lecture about "The importance of creating partnerships in Addiction and Mental Health"
Monday afternoon, 3 simultaneous workshops 1:30 PM that are repeated at 2:45 PM.
Dr. Gandotra of MHF with Kenneth Cuvalay of Statia will conduct a workshop on "Different contexts, different challenges, setting up psychiatric and addiction care and treatment between the islands of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia"
Drs. Schloss of Social Welfare on 'Community based prevention.'
Monday evening starting 7:00 PM, 4 lectures for General Practitioners, Specialists & Pharmacists and simultaneously there will be 2 lectures for Students & Parents.
Prof. Walburg, President of the Supervisory board of the Trimbos Institute in the Netherlands and Drs. Havermans Researcher at the innovation Centre of Mental Health and the topic is "Flourishing St. Maarten"
Tuesday, October 1, Day II.
The theme is; 'Addiction psychiatry and re-socialization.' Lecturers are; Mrs. Martina of the Ministry of VSA about the results of the AIMS research (assessment instrument for Mental health systems) Mrs. Kestel of the Paho experiencing of the MHGAP and Dr. Kour of the Mental Health foundation "Addiction spectrum disorder" Dr. Noorlander from the Delta Psychiatric Centre in the Netherlands "A practical approach to addiction" and Drs. Steven van der Meer 'Sheltered Housing and means to recovery".
Tuesday afternoon 3 simultaneous lectures; 1:30 PM that are repeated at 2:45 PM Case Discussions on, 'Drugs and Alcohol abuse amongst the Youth of St. Maarten' and 'Which course to sail for child and youth psychiatry on small Islands?' By, Dr. Arndell, Dr. Jurgensen, Dr. Ferero and Dr. van Wijk.
Tuesday evening starting 7:00 PM; 'Co-creating younger peoples program for resilience.' By Professor Walburg; for this program as much as possible students and parents, educators, and stakeholders are invited.
October 2, Day III.
Wednesday's theme is; 'Youth awareness and prevention' 4 lectures
Resilience and addiction prevention, game addiction, community police, youth addiction and criminality, psychiatric evaluations and the justice system and involving parents in prevention and addiction programs, are the main topics for this morning. St. Maarten Chief of Police Mrs. Jacobs, and Public Prosecutor Mrs. van Nie and Mrs. Muller from the Parnassia group, are the speakers.
The afternoon workshop topics are: "You are UniQue: Youth prevention and treatment program for drug use, abuse and dependency", by Ms. Pengel from FMA Curaçao and 'A chain approach: Youth/Addiction/Criminality' by Mrs. van Nie.
This Congress is BIG accredited for psychiatrists and general practitioners.
We hope to welcome as much as possible persons from St. Maarten and the region.
More detailed information is available on the web-site www.tc-sxm.com.

sxmachieverstoastmastersclubinductedeightnewmembers24092013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday 12th September, 2013, the SXM Achievers Club held an induction ceremony, in which 8 new members were inducted. The club have been doing extremely well as it relates to the growth of its membership base.

With the addition of the 8 new members the club has now accomplished DCP goal 7 and 8 and has reached its annual minimum new member quota. "This is an outstanding job considering that we are just at the end of the first quarter of the Toastmasters year 2013-2014", Said the club's vice president of public relations: Giovanni Mardenborough.
As part of the Distinguish Club Program (DCP) there are 10 preset goals that each club is guided by in other to qualify in the program. The Distinguished Club Program and Club Success Plan helps clubs promote quality, ensure productive meetings, provide structure and guidance and increase the enthusiasm of the club. Every year, high-performing clubs are well recognized by Toastmasters International.
The new Members are: Ashayna Nisbett, Catherine Magdeleine, Confesora Mendoza, Davina Gabriel, Davinia Brooks, Veronique Livingstone, Giovanni Mardenborough, Jonini Chatelier and Odele Anderson,
The SXM Achievers Club Meet on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library from 7:15 pm to 9:00pm. All is welcome to join.

PHILIPSBURG:--- "We are busy with the process of waking up the population as to the importance of the involvement of the whole community in building St. Maarten" was the Prime Minister's answer when asked why the process of the National Development Plan is so important during a radio interview on Friday. The PM again reiterated the importance of involving the whole community in drafting the National Development Plan, a common vision for the country.

"St. Maarten can sometimes be a community where persons go about their daily lives not thinking about the bigger picture, a common vision. That is not yet what the situation is and we want to get there. As part of the process to come to the NDP there is a lot of dialogue and consultation to take place. We need the input of as many as possible for the development of St. Maarten. This cannot mean that everyone will have the same opinion and it is particularly those opinions, those inputs that we are looking for. The National Development Plan is a product for the vision of St. Maarten at the end of the trajectory that we are now in. What we do to get to the NDP is just as important as the final product. For St. Maarten it is new to seek the engagement in a process that will lead to a collective vision. What we are doing is encouraging people to be a part of the Country, the Nation in which we reside," stated the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister handed out certificates to some fifty persons from within all sectors of the community who graduated on Wednesday from the Democratic Dialogue Course. These graduates will form in integral part in getting all from within the community to be a part of the Nation Building Process.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that there will be no through traffic from Emmaplein to Gevangnis Steet as of Tuesday, September 24 from 8:00pm to 10:00pm.

The closure is in connection with the laying of a new sewage line to connect an additional part of Back Street to the main sewage line.

The Department of Infrastructure Management is asking all motorists and pedestrians to pay keen attention to their surroundings when in this particular area and to follow all traffic and directional signs.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

sportsclinicwithimanshumpert23092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A Sports Clinic held over the weekend at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium and hosted by Iman Shumpert, who is the starting shooting guard for the New York Knicks, left a lasting impression on the youths who attended the camp.

The Sports Clinic was coordinated by The American Clinic (TAC) and Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever. TAC and the Minister hope to continue this type of outreach program in the future.

Shumpert came to Sint Maarten as an Ambassador to TAC to speak with the country's youth about keeping your mind and body strong.

Iman Shumpert spoke about health and wellness and what it's like to be an NBA star.

"I was very pleased that our young people got the opportunity to experience first-hand from an NBA player what it takes to reach to the professional level of playing basketball.

"The advice provided will go a long way once applied on a daily basis in preparing our own young professionals. I look forward to working with the TAC in organizing additional camps for more of our young people," Minister Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Monday.

Shumpert enjoyed his time with the youth who attended the camp, but had to get back to practice to prepare for the 2013/14 NBA Season.

The New York (NY) Knickerbockers, commonly referred to as the Knicks, was founded in 1946. It is a professional basketball team based in New York City, New York.

The NY Knicks is a charter member of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and one of the benchmark franchises of American sports.

TAC is a patient centered physician guided specialty hospital committed to enhancing the health and wellness of the people of Sint Maarten.

Theo Heyliger was also helpful in organizing the camp, according to TAC representative Noah Sheer.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Sunday, September 21st, 2013 at approximately 2:20pm, police patrols, detectives, and Forensic Department personnel were directed to a home on Ginger Road in the Yogesh Building to investigate a possible suicide. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the husband of the victim who stated that he had left the house at approximately 7:45am to go to work. It is customary for the victim, a 28 year old female from India, to call her husband during lunch time. On Sunday, that was not the case. After several attempts to contact the victim by phone, her husband went to the house and found the victim hanging from a cloth tied around her neck. The husband tried to resuscitate the victim without any success. Dr. Mercuur pronounced the death of the victim. The body of the victim was confiscated for investigation by the Forensic Department. The reason for this victim taking her life is still under investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsataceschoolreopening23092013CUL DE SAC:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the re-opening of the ACE Foundation School on the LB Scott Road on Sunday afternoon at a ceremony also attended by the Minister of VROMI the Honorable Maurice Lake, the Minister of Health and Social Affairs the Honorable Cornelius de Weever and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Affairs the Honorable Patricia Lourens-Phillip. The ACE re-opened through the efforts of the Buddhist Compassionate Organization Tzu-Chi St. Maarten Chapter and through the assistance of the Maho Sonesta Resort and various private and public entities contributing towards the school's new location.

During her address to the crowd of parents, teachers, students and well-wishers the Prime Minister reminded the crowd of the importance of ensuring that all children receive fair education and the key role this plays in the development of St. Maarten as a Country. "With compulsory education haven been introduced in stages since 2009 there where many undocumented persons who were residing on St. Maarten whose children, through no fault of their own, were not able to attend school. As a Government and a people we collectively believe that children should never ever suffer because of the circumstances their parents face. We should be grateful as a community to offer children the education that they deserve and it is important that we all work together as Government, Private Sector and Civil Society to make St. Maarten a better place for all of us and a better place starts with an educated population. We need to ensure that in today's world our children understand what it means to be a member of a multi-cultural society, we need to have children understand that in today's world it is peace which will see us through in the coming decades and so today it is my pleasure to see the ACE Foundation and the Tzu-Chi Foundation and their partners realize the completion of this school, where we may offer the education necessary to continue to develop our country. Therefore a special congratulations needs to go out to the ACE Foundation and the Tzu-Chi Foundation for making this school a possibility. Every so often we should look back and see from where we have come and where we should strive to move forward as a country, developing St. Maarten and its children into the country and citizens it deserves.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- An unprecedented public/private partnership led by Ministry Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) under the leadership of Minister Hon. Maurice Lake working in conjunction with the Sint Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA), Oyster Bay Beach Resort, The Westin Dawn Beach, Princess Heights, Coral Beach Club, Busby's and other local businesses and organizations in Oyster Pond, came together to carry out urgently needed repairs to public roads in Oyster Pond.

On Monday the project was officially concluded with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

The repairs were carried out by Windward Roads were started on July 28 and completed within five weeks, ahead of the onset of the peak period of the 2013 hurricane season.

In total, 180 meters of badly damaged asphalt road have been ripped out and replaced by steel-reinforced concrete road built to standards set by Ministry VROMI to support the heavy traffic that transits via Oyster Pond near to the French border. At the same time, parts of the road were re-designed to ensure that the occasional flooding that occurs in that area does not threaten the personal safety and security of any of the road users.

Ricardo Perez, General Manager, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, stated that, "This project would not have been possible without the active support and involvement of Ministry VROMI and the financial support of the SMTA Dollar a Day program, which is a voluntary contribution to the wellbeing of the island by our timeshare tourists.

"The deterioration over the past several months of critical road sections in Oyster Pond had resulted not only in an eyesore for residents and visitors alike but more importantly damage to vehicles and potential safety hazards.

"With further deterioration likely in the next few months, access to and from important tourist destinations such as Dawn Beach, Princess Heights, Coral Beach Club, The Villas of Oyster Pond, as well as Oyster Bay Beach Resort, could have become dangerous or impossible. Immediate action was required."

Ricardo Perez, having secured financial support from the SMTA, appealed in June for additional financial support from local businesses, resorts, and residential neighbourhoods, who together committed an additional US$30,000 in a matter of days.

On being approached by the SMTA with an urgent request for assistance, Ministry VROMI responded immediately, forming an unprecedented public/private partnership to address the problem in conjunction with road contractor, Windward Roads.

Maurice Lake, Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure stated, "I would like to thank the President of the SMTA Marcel Javois and his team for spearheading this public/private partnership.

"This fits into my back to basics approach of working together with stakeholders in order to make a difference within our communities. At the same time this also goes back to the vision and original plans of the former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

"By combining forces, government, businesses and the people can work together for the greater public good, protecting our most important industry, tourism, and enabling a better quality of life for all.

"Under my leadership, Ministry VROMI intends to be a responsible and responsive partner in addressing the urgent needs of the people. We will work in support of all local community initiatives that are in our common shared interests and in the best interests of Country St Maarten," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

sundialschoolinteractclub23092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise is pleased to announce the formation, of an Interact Club at the Sundial School. The club will hold its official elections on September 24, 2013 at the schools grounds. The positions that the students have postulated themselves for are: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary amongst other available positions. The students had the honor of meeting with District Governor Mr. Jeremy Hurst, who is presently on island to meet with all Rotary clubs, Rotaract and Interact clubs. DG Jeremy stated to the enthusiastic group that "Interact Clubs give young people an opportunity to participate in fun, meaningful service projects, all the while developing leadership skills and meeting new friends. Each year, Interact Clubs complete at least one community service project and at least one project that further international understanding and goodwill. Interact Clubs are sponsored by Rotary clubs who provide guidance and inspiration, but the Interact Clubs are self-governing and self-supporting".
Jacqueline Morris, graciously volunteered as the faculty advisor for the club along with Mr. Frans, while Paula Gordon, New Generation chair for Rotary Sunrise is the Interact Liaison.
Interact is Rotary International service club for high school students. Rotary International is the world's first service club organization, with more than 1.2 million members in 34,000 clubs worldwide. Rotary Club Members are volunteers who work locally, regionally, and internationally to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace, and eradicate polio under the motto Service Above Self.
Paula Gordon stated that "these students have a unique opportunity to not only participate in a meaningful service club, but to actually be the founders of this club! Although the club is in its infancy, the advisors and students will be working together to adopt bylaws and organize meeting formats".
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM.

discoverytrail23092013CUL DE SAC:--- Nature lovers of all ages are invited to attend St. Martin's celebration of International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD). The event will be held at the mangrove discovery trail at Étang de la Barrière, right beside the Pinel ferry dock in Cul-de-Sac on Sunday, September 29th from 8-11am. Attendees can stop by any time during the festival and stay as long as they like.

St. Martin's Migratory Bird Festival is free and open to the public. Guided tours of the mangrove discovery trail in English, French and Dutch will help guests understand these birds, their miraculous journeys, and the important wetland habitats that they depend on. Photographers will be on hand to give tips on how to get the best bird and wildlife photos. There will be bird art activities for children and free Caribbean bird coloring books. Attendees are encouraged to bring photos and memories of St. Martin birds and wetlands to add to a scrapbook that will be compiled at the event.

"The annual bird migrations are one of the most fascinating natural phenomena in the Western Hemisphere," explains event organizer Mark Yokoyama. "Each year, migratory birds travel between their North American breeding sites, and wintering grounds in Central America, South America and right here in the Caribbean. These birds travel thousands of miles, some flying for days without stopping. In St. Martin, some birds will stop to rest in September and October before flying on to South America, while others will spend the winter here, returning north in the spring."

Many of these birds are shorebirds. Although varied, they often have long legs for wading in shallow water and long bills they use to catch small fish and probe the mud for snails and crabs. Most of our shorebirds can be found on our beaches and salt ponds.

Étang de la Barrière, with its mudflats and shallow mangrove wetlands, is an ideal place to see these birds. An elevated boardwalk through this wetland was completed earlier this year and is now part of the Caribbean Birding Trail, a collection of the best birding sites in the Caribbean. Along with a number of other ponds and marine areas in St. Martin, it is considered a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

"We built the boardwalk trail at Étang de la Barrière to make it easier for residents and tourists to enjoy this unique part of our natural heritage," says Julien Chalifour, the Officer of Scientific Missions for the Réserve Naturelle. "We look forward to sharing it with the public at this event."

St. Martin's Migratory Bird Festival was organized by Les Fruits de Mer, a non-profit association dedicated to raising ecological and cultural awareness, through publications like The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin and events like this bird festival. The Réserve Naturelle de Saint-Martin and Conservatoire du Littoral are co-hosts for the Migratory Bird Festival on St. Martin. Réserve Naturelle staff will be guiding tours at the event, teaching guests about our migratory birds and the wetland ecosystems that support them. The Réserve Naturelle and Conservatoire du Littoral protect and manage St. Martin's marine and terrestrial protected areas and constructed the discovery trail at Étang de la Barrière where the event will be held.

A number of additional partners and supporters, both local and international, are contributing to this event. Birdwatching equipment and educational materials for this event will be provided by Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC). EPIC has been working on St. Martin for over 12 years to protect the local environment through research and community-based action. For the LOVE of Grand Case will be providing refreshments for the attendees. They are a group of Grand Case residents dedicated to improving and enjoying Grand Case, through cleanups and other events. The Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds (SCSCB) is the regional coordinator for IMBD events for the Caribbean. The Society is the largest organization devoted to wildlife conservation in the Caribbean, and has been coordinating IMBD events throughout the Caribbean for six years. Environment for the Americas produces educational materials for IMBD and is the overall organizer for IMBD events from Canada to South America.

To find out more about the event, visit http://www.sxmwildlife.com. Birders and non-birders alike are encouraged to attend and learn more about our fine, feathered friends.

gracitaarrindellreceivescourtesyvisitfromusconsulgeneral23092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Monday received a courtesy visit from the U.S. Consul General James R. Moore and Willem J. Remie, Public Diplomacy Affairs.

President Arrindell and Moore discussed several issues which need to be followed up in the near future.

The House of Parliament conference room has served as the venue for a number of years accommodating U.S. Consular visits.

Moore assumed his duties as Principal Officer of the U.S. Consulate General in Curacao and U.S. Chief of Mission to the Dutch Caribbean in late June, 2013.

disciplestoastmastersinductsfournewmembers23092013CUL DE SAC:--- On September 22, 2013, the Disciples Toastmasters Club inducted four new members. These members are Sharon Layne, Rose-Anne D. Segnia, Patricia Peter and Clayton Felix.
Sharon Layne's desire to improve her writing and public speaking skills influenced her decision to become a toastmaster. "As a teacher, it is always a motivation for my students to see me as a role model, in and out of the classroom," says the Miss Mature winner 2012-2013. Most important for her, Ms. Layne recognizes that the organization fosters leadership, friendship and togetherness in an ever changing and challenging world.
Rose-Anne D. Segnia is a graphic artist who became a toastmaster when she realized the organization can truly help her become a competent communicator. She looks forward to enhancing her self esteem to confront situations in an amicable manner.
The entrepreneur, Patricia Peter, is working on improving her communication skills and learning how to present herself to an audience with confidence. As an entrepreneur, Patricia embraces opportunities and is happy to be part of an organization that will help her grow in a friendly and encouraging way.
Clayton Felix is the husband of the club's vice president education. He has seen how his wife transformed from someone who was insecure and unsure of her speaking skills to a dynamic speaker who now 'wows' the audience with her speeches. Clayton would like to do likewise and hence his reason for becoming a toastmaster. That evening, Clayton gave his icebreaker, which is the first speech of a toastmaster.
The other new members have already given their icebreakers, and as Sharon stated in her first speech, 'Now that I've spoken, the ice has been broken". Indeed, the ice has been broken for all four new members. The rest of the Disciples Toastmasters Club will embrace them as they grow to become powerful speakers and leaders.
The Disciples Club meets every second and fourth Sunday at St. Maarten Academy's academic campus, at 4:45pm to 6:30pm. The next meeting will be held on October 13. All are welcome to attend this club where leaders are made.

Says Politicians Should Also be Held Accountable for Campaign Promises

PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has emphasized that political parties and the campaign promises of politicians should be held accountable through new laws related to electoral reform. The PM's comments were made as renewed discussion arose last week regarding campaign and electoral reform within the community. "It is no secret that I have been championing electoral reform as I sincerely believe that we should avoid it being intimidating for persons to be casting their vote. I am a proponent of a more sober voting environment, of people understanding what parties and candidates are saying to them and voters understanding what things are feasible and understandable, to hold politicians accountable for the campaign promises they make. As little as possible voters should be disappointed with regards to who gets into Government and what the vision of that Government is. The political parties need to be clear and as honest with the people. I am feeling dissatisfaction from persons expecting from their Government the world while the world cannot be delivered for various reasons. I think that we should surely strive for a campaign where the electorate is informed and the message to the electorate what they can expect from their Government," stressed the PM.

The Prime Minister was also quoted as saying that she is investigating the possibilities of the various ways electoral reform may look at and that she expects to propose discussion points to the Council of Ministers within three weeks. "I am looking at electoral reform in general considering what we have been seeing for the last few years, including the changing of factions and giving up seats. I would like to propose that I prepare a position paper and discuss this with parliament and discuss where we want to go with this and then subsequently move to the drafting of legislation and moving it through Parliament.

"I consider that campaign reform as proposed by Parliament a priority and I am looking at some proposals in this respect and I hope to have in the next three weeks the first discussion paper to discuss this matter in the Council of Ministers," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell would like to congratulate the Kingdom Youth Parliament with respect to their recently launched website which can be found at www.kingdomyouthparliament.org.

The Kingdom Youth Parliament (KYP) is the initiative of the Committee Kingdom Relations, the National Committee 200 years Kingdom and five enthusiastic young people: the KYP ambassadors.

Five teams of ten young people each will go into debate in May 2014, a team from the Netherlands, one from Curacao, one from Aruba and one from Sint Maarten, and one team of young people from Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.

"In May 2014 Sint Maarten will be the host country for the KYP debate. We are looking forward to this in welcoming the other teams to the 'Friendly Island.'

"I would like to wish the various teams much success as they prepare for the debate that will take place in 2014," President Hon Gracita Arrindell disclosed on Monday.

patricialourensphilip22092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip congratulated the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation (SMSEF) at a recent 20th anniversary celebration.

Different school teams received monetary awards from Naf. 250 to Naf. 1000.

The Minister also congratulated parents of the children, the teams and the children who participated.

telemrecognizesyouthsoccerplayers22092013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group was amongst 22 companies and organizations praised for their support of an innovative sports program organized by the St. Maarten Soccer Foundation.
According to Foundation President, Mr. David Forsythe, the program consisted of a primary schools inter-schools soccer tournament with cash prizes awarded for the first time, to the winning schools for their own school soccer programs.

Speaking during a gala presentation event at the Belair Health and Fitness Center, Saturday, Mr. Forsythe praised the corporate sponsors who responded to his Foundation's request to help with the cash awards – among them TelEm Group.
"The youth received trophies at the end of the tournament, but also important was the cash award given to the first ($1,000) second ($500) and third ($250) placed teams for their school programs," said the Foundation president. He said the funds could be used for anything that will further promote soccer in the schools, including purchase of uniforms, providing insurance for players and/or soccer equipment and training.
"Our board thought it would be a good idea to bring the sponsors and recipients together to encourage the corporate citizens who have been so generous to continue to do what they do and also to monitor how the funds they give are being used, to ensure they are being used in the most proper and effective way," continued Mr. Forsythe.
The gala event featured encouraging words to the youth, their parents and guardians as well as school officials, from Prime Minister, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Mrs. Patricia Lourens. Other featured speakers were Mr. Forsythe himself on behalf of the Foundation and Kevin Dekkers, a former youth player and soccer coach now with the Department of Education, on behalf of the youth.
TelEm Group was represented at the event by Manager, Marketing and Sales, Mr. Emile van der Weerd, who said afterwards, TelEm Group was happy to be counted amongst the St. Maarten companies and organizations recognized as being good corporate citizens.
"This year we have focused on the youth and various community programs to give something back to the St. Maarten community in which TelEm Group plays such as prominent part," said Mr. van der Weerd.
He thanked Mr. Forsythe and his foundation members for the gala event, which was specially arranged to bring all parties together.
"It was an especially nice touch to have cup cakes made out in the logo of the foundation and have all the youngsters present take one cupcake - symbolically taking a piece of the foundation with them," added Mr. van der Weerd.

He said TelEm Group would certainly take encouragement from the words of the Prime Minister, the Minister of Sports and the foundation president and will continue to support such innovative programs so long as funds are available.

Telem Press Release

acenewlocation22092013~ For lower rent, stable location ~

CUL DE SAC:--- All Children's Education Foundation (ACE) School on Sunday cut the ribbon to signal the official reopening of its elementary school at Daisy Road # 2 in Cul de Sac thanks to the assistance of Buddhist Compassion Relief Organisation Tzu Chi Foundation.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said the project was Tzu Chi's first major education mission in St. Maarten.

She said the new location means that ACE, which had been undergoing some major challenges in the past and had been under threat of closing, would pay a lower rent and now has a stable location to educate its pupils.

Cheung said when the Tzu Chi Foundation realised that ACE was in need of assistance, the foundation embraced the institution with love and assisted them. The foundation's support to ACE began in 2006 with donations of rice and school supplies for students. This assistance continued when Tzu Chi collaborated with cultural foundations in the community and held a fundraiser to help ACE school cover its rent.

"The school had been going through some tough times. It was unable to keep up with its rental payments and its other financial obligations. Beside the financial problem, teachers and students also faced a major problem: whenever it rained the building flooded and education was interrupted," Cheung said at the ceremony.

"Because we embraced them with love, we could not bear to see the suffering of this school. We decided to apply the principles of Tzu Chi Education which are: great compassion, great mercy, great joy and great giving, she said. "ACE school was chosen as the first recipient of our 'Education Mission."

The Foundation purchased the property in March to help the school with a stable location with lower rental payment so that it can focus on its main task: education.

According to Cheung the property was empty for many years and it was in a very bad state of disrepair. The challenge was to get it ready in time for the new school year in August. Like a river of love, the kindness of the people of St. Maarten flowed during this time, she said.

"Thanks to the assistance of many of our committed volunteers, the business community, organizations, associations, students and parents who sacrificed their days, nights and weekends working on the property to help repair the building, the project was completed in time," she said. "This project was one of love, dedication, compassion and most of all - one of volunteerism. Most of the work to the building was done by volunteers. From the cleaning of the yard, the painting of the building, mixing of cement and sand, to the restoration of furniture and even technical work such as the electrical work (thanks to the professionals donated by Maho), this project was completed," she added thanking the many persons, businesses, foundations and groups that were involved.

"Tzu Chi is truly grateful for the efforts of everyone who was involved. It shows that volunteerism is still very much alive and kicking in St. Maarten and that many people are willing to be part of something positive that can benefit the community."

acereopening22092013ACE Director Claire Elshot, who is also a Tzu Chi volunteer, said the institution was thankful for the gesture of all those who were involved in this project. She said it was ten years ago this month that ACE had moved to its former location. Elshot used most of her speaking time to highlight some of ACE's success stories and said it was of utter importance that all children get a chance to be educated.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams stressed the importance of ensuring that all children receive fair education and the key role this plays in the development of St. Maarten as a country. "With compulsory education having been introduced in stages in 2009 there where many undocumented persons who were residing on St. Maarten whose children, through no fault of their own, were not able to attend school," she said at the ceremony.
"As a Government and a people we collectively believe that children should never ever suffer because of the circumstances their parents face. We should be grateful as a community to offer children the education that they deserve and it is important that we all work together as government, private sector and civil society to make St. Maarten a better place for all of us and a better place starts with an educated population. We need to ensure that in today's world our children understand what it means to be a member of a multi-cultural society, we need to have children understand that in today's world it is peace which will see us through in the coming decades and so today it is my pleasure to see the ACE Foundation and the Tzu-Chi Foundation and their partners realize the completion of this school, where we may offer the education necessary to continue to develop our country," the Prime Minister noted.

Education Minister Patricia Lourens-Philip congratulated Tzu Chi and ACE on the collaboration. She also lauded the way in which the initiative was done with volunteers, businesses and groups in the community. She underscored the importance of educating youths in the community as this guaranteeing the future. The Minister said while she is not making any promises, she urged ACE Foundation to regulate matters so that it can obtain government subsidy.

Sonesta Maho Group of Companies General Manager Armando Pizzuti, one of the major donors, said Maho was more than happy be involved in this initiative and that Maho was looking for more education projects to sponsor.

Other dignitaries at the ceremony were Health, Labour and Social Affairs Minister Cornelius de Weever and VROMI Minister Maurice Lake.

Pastor Wycliffe Smith performed the blessings of the building. During the ceremony ACE pupils sang a song in Chinese and another in Dutch and delivered a sign language performance of the song "Three Nos."

Tzu Chi also donated relief packages to several underprivileged persons in the community as well as had a "Bamboo Bank Return Ceremony" in which persons with bamboo donation boxes emptied the boxes at the event. Many in the audience also donated in support of support the foundation.

Tzu Chi thanked its donors, the Sonesta Maho Group of Companies, the foundation also thanked donors the St. Maarten Timeshare Association, the St. Maarten Harbour, the American Navy League, American Coast Guard vessel 'Eagle,' Cake House Supermarket and Bakery, American University of the Caribbean, the Filipino and Haitian Communities, Key to Freedom, Prins Willem Alexander School, Eric Vlaun, Euro Caribbean Linkup NV, WIB, S & R Construction, LU, ACE, construction workers Culture, Victor and Fabin and all the numerous volunteers from the Tzu Chi Foundation and from all over St. Maarten who assisted.

ministryofpublichealthstaff22092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Staff from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, Section Collective Prevention Services, last Friday took part in their annual strategic planning workshop. Based on 2013 evaluations and 2014 projections, the staff during working groups discussed a two-year planning period. A special guest was Acting Head of the Department of Communications Rodney Richardson who elaborated on media options opportunities and social media possibilities. He was supported by Ricardo Eights from Computech.

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that enough time was given to the Minister of Finance Martin Hassink to seek legal advice on the matter of the 100 million guilder AUC tax deal. The Member of Parliament finds it strange that he as a representative of the people was told that the people's business was a private matter. The Member of Parliament will be sending a letter to the Minister requesting the information the Minister claims to already have in his possession. If this does not materialize then the Member of Parliament will be requesting a meeting of the Committee of Finance of which he is chairman to which the Minister of Finance and the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams will be invited to present whatever available information and or documentation they posses on this matter. The preference in first instance is to have a closed door session. But it must be explained as to how 100 million guilders was not collected from the purchase of the former AUC by DeVry a very prestigious institution with a good reputation. The Member of Parliament says there is another recourse established by the constitution which he can follow but is leaving it as a last resort. He also feels that enough time has been given to the Minister of Finance to update Parliament on the process of the draft laws being prepared to increase taxes on alcohol and tobacco, implementation of the increase of dividend from government owned companies, and the increase in casino fees. He needs to know whether these will be ready to be debated in Parliament during the discussion on the 2014 Budget.

jordanhuntwithgracitaarrindell22092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Friday met with Managing Director and local entrepreneur Jordan Hunt of film and media production company, Eyelander Entertainment Network.

Hunt during his deliberation with the President of Parliament discussed the potential and opportunities for country Sint Maarten with respect to the film and entertainment industry.

Jordan Hunt would like to make a formal presentation to the House of Parliament in the setting of a Central Committee meeting.

Hunt went to school in New York and studied acting at the New York Film Academy, but later switched to film production. He also attended the Lee Strasberg Film and Theatre Institute.

"I was very pleased with the meeting I had with Mr. Hunt. We must support young talent with a vision and who have shown initiative, enthusiasm and determination to be successful in their career choice.

"When we have young talent coming with fresh ideas on how to market Sint Maarten during the off season and by extension making Sint Maarten a 'year round place to be' we have to take notice," President Hon Gracita Arrindell disclosed on Sunday.

President Arrindell added that giving Hunt a platform to present his project to the House of Parliament is a natural thing to do to create awareness.

"We have to think outside of the box in order move our country forward. We have young educated people who are thinking outside of the box and we have to embrace them.

"Successful countries around the world are grabbing young innovative talent, and we cannot afford to lose our young brilliant professionals to these countries because it would mean a human resource loss for us.

"Jordan and the team of young people he represents with his organization, I am convinced will be successful with their endeavours in exposing local talent and film projects to an international market. This may be the impetus our country needs to create a positive buzz, Sint Maarten is IN again," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell concluded.

moneymeetspurposeconferenceartwork22092013Conference themed "Money Meets Purpose"

PHILIPSBURG:--- Four churches on the island have come together to host what is considered a very timely and needed conference. This conference, which is themed "Money Meets Purpose," is being hosted by Christian Faith Ministries International, Living Praise Ministry, Solid Rock Assembly and Repairers of Broken Walls Ministries International. Guest speaker for this free event is Apostle Dexter James from Trinidad and Tobago.
Prophet Edwin Arrindell of Christian Faith Ministries International explained that the purpose of the conference is to educate the public, especially Christians, about the proper use and management of money. "Money meets purpose and money has purpose," Arrindell stated, reaffirming the theme for the conference. He further disclosed that right now the island on a whole is experiencing an "economic challenge" and the conference is geared to aid those that attend by teaching them about budgeting and proper financial decision making. "There is a scriptural reason for money and when we recognize it and apply it in our lives we will reap the benefits," Arrindell stated.
Apostle Hutson Flanders of Solid Rock Assembly explained that after observing the various problems that people encounter because of mishandling of money and the negative effect this is having in our community, he became part of this timely conference. "This conference will teach people how to manage their money properly," Flanders continued to expound. He further stated, "We use money; money don't use us, and we are careful, as leaders, to protect our congregations against mishandling of their money."
Apostle Dexter James, who is also known as "The Wealth Ambassador" is well-qualified, both financially and spiritually, to speak at this conference. James is a living testimony that the biblical financial principles that he teaches produces results. James, who was once very poor, is now a millionaire, not by confession but by possession, as he always testifies. James is traveling with a sixteen member team, which includes certified accountants as well as other professionals. James is also the author of more than eleven books and the founder of Dexter James Impartation Ministries. He has been traveling around the world teaching and preaching the biblical financial principles that destroy the financial restrictions over God's People.
The conference which is scheduled for the 25th, 26th and 27th of September 2013 will be held at Solid Rock Assembly in French Quarter and will commence at 7:30 nightly. The entire public is invited to attend.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Port of St. Maarten will be represented at the 7th Seatrade Europe Cruise & River Cruise Convention that kicks off on September 24 in Hamburg Messe, Germany and runs through September 26.

The port delegation will be headed by Minster of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson.

Seatrade Europe includes a high-class exhibition and an informative conference, bringing together over 260 cruise line executives, including senior buyers, planners and key decision makers from Europe's ocean and river cruise lines, with suppliers from all sectors of these industries.

There will be more than 230 exhibitors from over 40 nations, including numerous companies new to cruise or that has not previously exhibited, are expected to showcase products and demonstrate innovations on the exhibition floor, a unique trade platform for suppliers from all sectors of the industry.

There will be over 60 speakers who will focus on key topics within Europe including the state of the cruise industry in Europe. The cruise line-port interface, ship building and refurbishment, Food & Beverage and hotel, onboard revenue, environmental advances in technology, itineraries and deployment, and also an exclusive Care Team awareness training session from Carnival.

The Port of St. Maarten was absent for a number of years, but its return is seen as very important in order to inform the industry in Europe about the current state of destination and cruise sector.

"Being present at Seatrade Europe allows us to learn about the challenges and future trends in the European cruise market. As a port and cruise destination, we have to be well informed and up to date in order to plan strategically. Therefore we will be meeting with all major European cruise line partners.

"This will be the first time that we are taking part in the Caribbean Village. We need to put the focus back on Europe and our emphasis is on destination shore development," Port of St. Maarten Chief Executive Officer Mark Mingo said on Sunday.

Mingo added that the harbor is looking to attract additional business from Europe. "The Port of St. Maarten is not sleeping. We have a lot in the planning especially moving towards the FCCA Conference in 2014.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Minister Hon. Ted Richardson for his tremendous support and for his involvement. It is not easy and we need the support from all including our shareholder rep to go out there and tackle the challenges.

"The port is also looking forward to seeing the launch of the Tourism Authority in order to align our strategies in further adding to the synergy needed to keep our country ahead of the rest especially looking at the upcoming high season," Mingo stated on Sunday.

Seatrade Europe remains the only cruise convention that incorporates river cruise, a market that is especially strong in Europe.

Recent figures have shown that cruise lines spent 6.6 billion Euros with European businesses in support of their cruise operations in 2012.

The European cruise industry is offering numerous new and updated routes. Between the Mediterranean and the Artic there are 65 different sea routes with more than 530 individual port destinations.

dennisrichardsonwithjusticeacademygraduates22092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Preparations are well underway by Sint Maarten Justice Academy management and staff for an October training session for members of either the Ministry of Justice or other departments that fall under the six other Ministries of Government.

The Sint Maarten Justice Academy recently marked its first anniversary with a graduation ceremony of cadets from different services within the Ministry of Justice and other Ministries.

A total of 25 persons graduated. The objective of the program is to authorize different stakeholders via trainings in different aspects of the law, to be able to carry out ordinances more effectively without restraint due to the lack of skills and expertise in law enforcement capabilities.

The course for judicial officers was for a four-month period while courses for other uniformed groups such as Customs, Immigration, Prison was for a period of one-year.

Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson offers his congratulations to all participants.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams Announces Concrete Agreements For Integrity International to do Country Wide Integrity Assessment

PHILIPSBURG:--- Due to the steps already being taken by the Cabinet of the Prime Minister and Government of St. Maarten regarding Integrity, the plans of the Kingdom Council of Ministers to instruct the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday to investigate the integrity of the Country have been put on hold. During her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams stated that based on the steps already being taken, including concrete arrangements with Transparency International and the moving for the approval of the Legislation for the establishment of an Integrity Bureau, the Kingdom Council of Ministers has deferred the handling of the topic until St. Maarten gives its position on their steps towards ensuring integrity.

"Since July of this year the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte announced the intention to instruct the Governor of St. Maarten to carry out an integrity or corruption assessment for St. Maarten. When we took notice of this we objected on more than one ground when we received a copy of the proposal to be handled and that matter too was to be on the agenda. However, the Kingdom Council of Ministers has deferred the handling of that topic and that gives us the opportunity to give our decision regarding that assessment via our Minister Plenipotentiary the Honorable Mathias Voges. Our main objection is centered on the point that St. Maarten has been doing all that is necessary to combat corruption and lack of integrity. For example I am happy to announce that we have an approval for an agreement by Transparency International to conduct an integrity assessment on St. Maarten. This coming week we will be formalizing this in the Council of Ministers as we continue with the legislation necessary for the establishment of an Integrity Bureau. That legislation has been started and we have already been offering for some time training and workshops across the board," stated the PM.

The Prime Minister also commented that the Minister of Justice the Honorable Dennis Richardson has also proposed an integrity quick scan in the short term. "The Minister of Justice has proposed a quick-scan integrity assessment while we wait for a longer term assessment. It is therefore not necessary to instruct the Governor to do an assessment. There is also no legal basis for the Kingdom Council of Ministers to act on the internal matters of the country. We are very particular about setting a wrong precedent in interfering with the matters of Country or Countries within the Kingdom. We now have been given the opportunity to present our case so that the Kingdom Government does not have to interfere in the matter," concluded Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Division for Educational Innovations in collaboration with Sifma St. Maarten and USONA is hosting a Conference on Early Childhood Development on October 9th – 11th, 2013.
The theme for the conference is the "Future of Early Childhood Education on St. Maarten".
This conference will host distinguished guests, panelists and speakers from the neighboring islands and from St. Maarten within or relating to the field of Early Childhood Education.
The opening ceremony of the conference will be held at the Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel and Casino on Wednesday October 9th, 2013, from 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Guest speakers include Ms. Jacquelyn Morris from the Ministry of Education of St. Kitts, who will address the importance of using the High Scope curriculum in Day Care Centers and Pre-School, Ms. Marva Springer from Barbados who will speak on Parental Involvement and Ms. Tamara Salsbach from Curacao who will speak on the Rights of the Child as it relates to Early Childhood Education.
Thursday October 10th, 2013 is reserved for workshops from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. These sessions will be held at the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School in Cay Hill. Topics to be covered include: The High Scope Curriculum, Parental Involvement and The Transition from Pre-School to Foundation Based Education in the Primary Schools.
On Friday, October 11th,, 2013 the closing of the event is scheduled to be at the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School also with a Panel discussion from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Early registration will be held at Sifma in the Lion's Building in Sucker garden.
The conference is financed by USONA (Dutch Development Funds)
For further information contact Sifma office at 543-7299 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

rafaelboasmanandgwendolienmossel20092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library's two-part "Power of Knowledge" series will be delivered by Rafael Boasman and Gwendolien Mossel at the library on Monday, September 23 and Wednesday, September 25, at 6:30pm.
After giving a successful lecture at the Library's first "Power of Knowledge Series" held in 2011, Boasman was invited to lecture again on the popular topic of labor. Boasman, the current Head of the Department of Labor, will address the key aspects of labour agreements and the termination of said agreements, in a two-part lecture on Monday, September 23 and Wednesday, September 25.
Mossel, Coordinator of Policy for Immigration and Border Protection (IBP) will discuss visa requirements and the services offered by IBP on Wednesday, September 25.
"Both Boasman and Mossel were chosen to lecture because of their many years of experience and overall knowledge on labor and immigration on St. Maarten," stated Morenika Arrindell, Library Public Relations/ Activity Manager.
"The Power of Knowledge Series" is a lecture series designed to equip and empower the community of St. Maarten with knowledge on various important topics that effect their everyday life. It is the intention to continue this series annually with topics ranging from housing, health, and nutrition.
The general public is invited to attend the library's free and informative "Power of Knowledge Series" on Monday, September 23 and Wednesday 25, at 6:30pm. For more information, please contact the library at telephone number 542-2970 or on our website www.st.maartenlibrary.org.

MARIGOT:--- Prosecutor Flavien Noailles lectured first Vice President Guillaume Arnell while presenting his arguments to the court as the AOT (Authorization of Temporary Occupation) trial continued on Friday. Vice Prosecutor Noailles told VP Arnell that if the members of the Executive Council did their jobs correctly then the Collectivity of St. Martin would function as it should. He further stated that Arnell told the court on Thursday that when he signed the AOT for Sindextour he had no knowledge and or experience about the functioning of the pole that was designated to him. Noailles said that Arnell has a right to say he has confidence in the people working for him but he also has an obligation to ensure that proper procedures are being followed because he is the one that signed the AOT granted to Sindextour. However, Noailles felt that "things" were happening behind Arnell's back that he did not know about. After lecturing Arnell he asked the panel consisting of three judges to acquit Arnell of all the charges that he was facing which were fraud and forgery. Arnell told the court that even though the prosecutor decided at the end to have him acquitted the damage done to his personal image and family is irreparable. He said everyone knows he was placed in garde à vue and was under judiciary control. "This entire case has caused a lot of stress to my wife, children and family but today I am here for my children." His lawyer Maitre Jean Yves Le Borgne showed no mercy for the prosecution when he presented his defense. Maitre Le Borgne said that the prosecution did not build their case on facts instead they used suspicion to destroy the image of his client. Maitre Le Borgne destroyed Prosecutor Noialles saying that he built a case based on suspicion and not on facts, he said the prosecution could have analyzed the documents he had before him prior to filing the charges against his client. Maitre Le Borgne also defended Norbert Luftman whom he said was picked upon simply because he is a wealthy and successful businessman.

Noailles did not share the same sentiments about the former director of Urbanism Jose Carti and Norbert Luftman. He said Carti worked hand in hand with Luftman to give Luftman what he wanted which was the renewal of the AOT. Noailles said that there is proof that Carti was in contact with Luftman because all of that was revealed on Thursday. He said Carti did not answer important questions on Thursday even though in his view he knew the answers to the questions that were posed to him. He said Carti knew there were Euros 514,000.00 in a trust account as rent payments and by granting Luftman the AOT, the COM would get that money. Therefore the decision taken to grant Luftman the AOT was political, Noailles said.

Noailles said that Luftman was paying 50,000.00 francs per year to the Collectivity/commune while he was subleasing the property to other developers for $10,000.00 a month. "Luftman was paying less that 600 francs per month to the Collectivity but he obtained his riches at Orient Bay by subleasing the lots," the vice prosecutor said in his arguments. He said Elisa Cohen and Philippe Just were the ones working to fill up Luftman's pockets and when they asked for their own AOT their requests were not even considered.

Noailles asked the court to sentence Josi Carti to two years suspended sentence with four years probation and to ban him from public service for a period of five years. Maitre Thierry Herzog felt that the prosecution did not prove their case and what happened to the three defendants was some sort of plot because according to Herzog there are emails between Cohen and one of the investigators. Maitre Herzog asked the court to fully acquit his client since the case presented by the prosecution had no merits.

Noailles made the same request for Norbert Luftman which is to condemn the businessman to two years suspended sentence with a four year probation period, he also asked the court to impose a fine of Euros 200,000.00 on the businessman.

Maitre Pradines told the court that his client Norbert Luftman did not commit any crimes. He said Luftman did what any businessman would do which is to go after the AOT simply because that is where he makes his living. He asked the court to fully acquit his client.

Maitre Jean Yves Le Borgne also came to the defense of Luftman by indicating to the court that it does not mean that Luftman committed any crime because he is a successful businessman. He said cases should not be built on suspicion but on facts and proof of the charges. Le Borgne said that the civil parties were not paying their rent for about 21 months and when Luftman tried to seize their account they had overdrafts, therefore the COM could not take the risk to grant an AOT to persons that could not pay their bills.

The court would render its decision on November 28th, 2013.

Prime Minister: "Now working diligently to have an approved 2014 Budget before the end of 2013"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented on Friday that the Kingdom Council of Ministers have not issued an instruction on the 2013 Budget on Friday due to Government's diligent work in balancing the amended Budget. The Council on Financial Supervision CFT had issued an advice regarding the 2013 Budget, however with the passing of the Budget by Parliament and the subsequent signing by the Governor and Prime Minister the Kingdom Council of Ministers did not see the need to issue an instruction on Friday.

"Friday was a day that we all were looking at with keen attention as far as the 2013 Budget is concerned. As we all were aware there was a pending advice by the CFT regarding the 2013 Budget of St. Maarten. Due to the amended Budget that was accepted by Parliament and later signed off by the Governor and the Ministers the advice from the CFT to the Kingdom Council of Ministers to issue an advice regarding an approved Budget is now off of the table. Considering that Parliament approved the Budget any instruction in that context would have not been necessary and we are satisfied to see that the Kingdom Council of Ministers did not accept it.

"The amended Budget has now been signed off and the next step is to have the necessary review conducted by the ombudsman as per the constitutional ordinance. Additionally the Government of St. Maarten has already started with the preparations of the 2014 Budget, which have picked up speed. We as Government would like to see an approved Budget 2014 before the year 2013 closes and are working very hard on achieving that. So for now the instruction is off of the table and we still need to continue the process for the preparation of the 2014 Budget before the end of 2013," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telembreakthroughsmswinners20092013POND ISLAND:--- Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams and Minister of Culture, Youth & Sports, Mrs. Patrica Lourens, will be amongst the distinguished guests rooting for St. Maarten talent, at TelCell's Breakthrough talent search at the Casino Royale Theater, Maho, September 28th.

Both VIP's have informed that they will be attending and are looking forward to the show, hosted jointly by TelEm Group mobile provider TelCell in collaboration with promotion company, Xtratight Entertainment.

The government VIPs will be joined by a full range of supporters in the audience who organizers say are also looking forward to the show of talent in several categories from the island's youth.

The countdown to the contest began in earnest during the past fortnight with an invitation to TelCell customers to use their mobiles to send an SMS message voting for their favourite performer on the night.

From the hundreds of customers who voted, a computer-generated draw was made this week to choose five winners to receive free tickets for the show.

"We can see from the SMS messages received that we will have good attendance and enthusiastic support on the night," said one of TelEm Group's coordinators of the show, Angel Richardson.

She said her co-organizers were especially pleased to hear that the Prime Minister and Minister of Culture will be attending to give their support and encouragement to St. Maarten's youth talent.

"The Breakthrough show is all about the youth and about how TelCell can assist in exposing the talent we know exists in our community and amongst our youth," said Angel.

"Mr. Rude" of the promotion company Xtratight Entertainment, is also looking forward to the night and to congratulating the winners in each category, especially the music category where a recording contract from his company is one of the prizes being offered.

"We were blow away by the level of professionalism at the auditions so only the performers themselves know how they intend to lift their game next Saturday," added Mr. Rude.

He is encouraging anyone who has not yet bought a ticket for the show to do so now, because space will be limited at the venue.

Telem Press Release

swescotwilliamswithddtcgraduates19092013Again Stresses the Need for the Wider Community to be involved in the Nation Building Process

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Wednesday presented certificates of completion to the more than two-dozen participants in the Democratic Dialogue course co-organized by the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations BAK and the United Nations Development Program.

The online training course, which was taught through the United Nations University, gave the opportunity to participants from all walks of life within the community to learn tools to engage in the democratic dialogue and information gathering necessary for the involvement of the whole community in the drafting of the National Development Plan. The United Nations Coordinated Course trained participants of the community of St. Maarten from various backgrounds and social standings to engage in Democratic Dialogue to bring the population into the process of developing St. Maarten into the Nation they would like to see.

The Prime Minister commented that she was extremely satisfied at the large number of enrollments in the course and to see such a large group graduate. "I am extremely pleased at the large group that graduated from this extremely important course and I would like to thank all of you for having taken up the challenge into making the importance clear for the progress of the National Development Plan in St. Maarten. It is extremely to realize that this training is not only about the National Development Plan but it is about engaging in dialogue and receiving information from within the community to not only arrive at the National Development Plan but to also engage in the Nation Building Process," stressed the PM.

The Prime Minister also commented that some very important elements are being raised with regards to inclusion of all in society, something that was also addressed during the course. "There are numerous groups within our society. Some have different opinions and in some these differences are very pronounced. There are also groups where there is a sort of apathy regarding society where people just go about their personal lives with disregard for the community in which they live. Some people continuously knock heads and some people really don't care. We do have certain elements of these attitudes; differing opinions on various matters. Within that environment we need to bring the people of St. Maarten together and bring them into the process. We need to create that ownership and ensure that when we, the policy makers, will be going in the streets and talking about the people, the people's voices can be clearly heard, and this course was an important element in creating that sense of ownership amongst the population," emphasized Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

Rodney Davis, a participant in the course reiterated the PM's call for all to be involved in the Nation Building Process; "For me the Prime Minister threw down a friendly challenge. We have always talked about the people of St. Maarten getting involved. We cannot stand aside and not rise to the challenge. For me it was a matter of taking the opportunity to respond to that challenge. The people of St. Maarten should be involved in this dialogue. It is extremely important that we present ourselves and be involved. What the Prime Minister is saying is correct; the opportunity is there for everyone to be involved. The call was there and I responded and we need to get everyone involved in the same way. Provisions have been made to ensure that we are in a safe place for everyone to express their views and also have open dialogue. It is about communication and letting our minds unfold and not be fearful of repercussions or people labeling you. It involves us actually ensuring that every voice is heard. I would like to reiterate everyone to join with the Prime Minister; the efforts are genuine, I have seen it."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

scalesofjustice28052013MARIGOT:--- The Palais de Justice of St. Martin was packed to its capacity on Thursday when the trial regarding the issuance of the AOT (Authorization of Temporary Occupation) given to Sindextour began. The President of the COM Aline Hanson, Vice President Ramona Connor, and Territorial Councilor Louis Fleming were some of the elected officials that attended the trial of the century. First Vice President Guillaume Arnell dressed in a white shirt and black pants, he was surrounded by several members of his family including his mother, several sisters and his brother. A number of persons within the community that supported the RRR government during their political campaign were also in the audience to witness the trial. Also in the court room were the civil parties Elisa Cohen of Bikini Beach with some of her staff and Philippe Just of Kontiki Beach along with some of his staff. The civil parties were represented by Maitre Stephen Montravers.

While the RRR government said on several occasions that the COM had no monies when they took office on April 1st 2012, they managed to hire two top lawyers from France to represent First Vice President Guillaume Arnell and Jose Carti. The lawyer that represented Jose Carti was Maitre Thierry Herzog, the same lawyer that represented the former President of France Nicolas Sarkozy and Maitre Jean Yves Le Borgne, the Batonier of Paris. On Thursday there were five lawyers, three of which are being paid by the Collectivity for this case while Norbert Luftman had two lawyers Maitre Michel Pradines and Maitre La Cassagne. The courtroom in Marigot looked more like a movie hall with five lawyers against one that is seeking justice for two business owners who operated at Orient Beach for 20 years and seven years consecutively.

Standing before the court to answer charges of fraud and forgery were first Vice President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Guillaume Arnell, Jose Carti former head of the service Urbanism, and the owner of Sindextour Norbert Luftman.

The lawyers representing Arnell, Carti, and Luftman tried to convince the court that their clients did not commit any crimes and such the case should be thrown out based on technicalities.

Maitre Jean Yves Le Borgne tried his best to paint Prosecutor Flavien Noailles to be a dreamer, someone that he felt was young and went on a witch hunt against his clients. After the long argument presented by Maitre Le Borgne which was supported by Carti's lawyer Maitre Herzog and Luftman's lawyer Maitre Pradines, the court took a half hour recess to discuss whether or not they would consider the arguments presented by lawyers of the defense. When the trial resumed the President of the Court rejected the request of the defense and decided that they needed to proceed with the hearing by getting to the bottom of the case.

Norbert Luftman, the owner of Sindextour was the first defendant that was questioned by the President of the Court Judge Gerard Egron Rereseau. Luftman told the judge that he obtained his first AOT from the Prefet of Guadeloupe in 1994, at the time Luftman said he was paying 50,000.00 Francs for the AOT on a monthly basis for the occupation of Orient Beach. He said the commune of St. Martin issued a renewal of his AOT in 2007. He also told the court that at some point the ownership of Orient Bay was contested by the real owners which are the heirs of Ferdinand Beauperthuy. Luftman said when that happened he secured a lease from the Beauperthuy family. He said in 2010 the Collectivity of St. Martin refused to renew his request which he requested in 2008 and 2009, one of his letters was delivered to the DGS of the COM Pascal Avern on an Easter Monday which is a public holiday.

The Prosecution even said that the second letter was delivered to Avern on a Saturday morning but it turned out that the request was delivered on a Wednesday and not a Saturday. The court could not understand how Luftman or his lawyers managed to submit a request on an Easter Monday, that request had the stamp from the Collectivity and the document also had Pascal Avern's signature.

Luftman also denied having contact with anyone from the Collectivity but the prosecution and the lawyer for the civil parties showed that Luftman had email exchanges with Josi Carti and he even met with a Territorial Councilor, Jeanne Vanterpool. Luftman claimed on several occasions when he was asked to verify and to give the court details that he could not remember most of what they were asking because he did not have contact with anyone, instead most of the transactions were done by his lawyers he told the court. He said when the ownership of Orient Beach was contested he was advised by his lawyer and administrator to put the payments for the AOT in a trust account which amounted to Euros 450,000.00.

It turned out that the AOT that was issued to Luftman on April 17th 2012 by the RRR government retroactive by two years was to allow the Collectivity of St. Martin which was cash strapped to collect the monies that was in the trust account for the years Luftman did not have an AOT or lease. The head of the Financial Services told investigators that the reason the AOT was given to Sindextour was to enable the COM to get the monies Luftman had put aside for the AOT payments. It also came out during the trial that an AOT is not to be subleased but Luftman claimed that he was not subleasing instead, Bikini and Kontiki were his businesses while Cohen and Just were just managers. He told the court that problems started on Orient Beach when the manager of Kontiki Philippe Just tried to sell Kontiki. Luftman said that he could not have allowed Just to sell the business because he is the one who chooses the operators on Orient Beach. The judge asked him on at least three occasions why he believed he had exclusive rights to Orient Beach. Luftman maintained that he was the one that had an AOT and he was one that the COM would hold responsible for their payments

Jose Carti was the second defendant that was questioned by the President of the Court. While Carti is the director of the Service Urbanism he could not tell the investigators neither the court how his department functions. On several occasions the judge told him that he could not understand how he was the one in charge yet he did not know how the AOT or building permits are being processed. Carti on several occasions simply could not answer the questions that were posed to him. The judge asked Carti why he did not process the request submitted by Luftman in 2008 and 2009 when the court ruled that AW33 was domain land and part of the 50 pas geometrique.

The judge told Carti that his subordinate Ms. Glascow provided more clear answers as to how an AOT request is processed. He also read to Carti some of the statements that were given by his former boss Max Ogundele Tessi.

Carti also could not explain to the court why he did not process the request submitted by Elisa Cohen and Philippe Just. The judge showed Carti that the requests were not even booked in yet and the AOT for Luftman which was requested in March 2012 was numbered as number 3. The President of the Court told Carti he wanted to see where they registered number one and two because nowhere in the documents he had before him showed that there were two other requests in 2012 that were handled prior to Luftman. Glascow told the investigators that she only saw the requests of Just and Cohen one day after the executive council took a decision to grant the AOT to Sindextour, she also told the investigators that when she got the two requests she was not given any instructions as to what she should do or how to handle them.

First Vice President Guillaume Arnell was more clear to the court when he told the President of the Court that he did not understand why he was dragged before the criminal courts because there were administrative errors that took place way before he took office. He told the court that he took office on April 1st 2012 and he was not even present when his party was sworn in. Arnell said he was designated as the Vice President of the pole Urbanisme on April 10th 2012 and on April 16th 2012 he was presented with the AOT for Sindextour for signature. Arnell told the court that he was a General Councilor prior to April 2012 and when he took office he had no experience as to how AOTs are handled. He said that he counted on the department of Urbanism who prepared the advice. He also admitted that he did not question the AOT because he simply did not know how the process worked and he had no prior experience. He also told the court that he does not know up until today how many requests for the AOT were submitted to the department and that he did not take sides or act with prejudice against anyone. Arnell told the court that he instructed the department to send an official response to Cohen and Just in September when he was notified that the AOT granted to Sindextour was problematic and is contested.

The President of the Court stopped Maitre Montravers on several occasions when he was asking Luftman certain questions. On at least three occasions the judge told Maitre Montravers to stick to the criminal case and he should not bring in the cases that were handled in the administrative courts. The President of the Court also refused to hear the civil parties Elisa Cohen and Philippe Just. At one point the President of the Court told Luftman he did not need to answer a question posed by Maitre Montravers because he was not interested in the answer.

The trial of the AOT granted to Sindextour continues on Friday where the Prosecution and the defense will present their arguments to the court.

telemdonatesbackpackstopwas19092013POND ISLAND:--- Forty lucky students of the Prins Willem Alexander School in St. Peters have received backpacks filled with school supplies for the current school term – courtesy of TelEm Group and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten.

The backpacks and school supplies were requested for the school by the Rotary Club in keeping with the service club's current drive to distribute hundreds of backpacks to schoolchildren throughout St. Maarten during this academic term.

Rotary Club member and project coordinator, Angela Gordon, was present during the handing over ceremony to the school-children Tuesday, along with TelEm Group's Marketing Officer, Marelva Jones-Felix.

"We have focused a lot on the youth and schools this year, so when the Rotary Club asked for help in a way that would assist the youth and the school we were only too happy to help," said Marelva during the brief presentation to students.

The students, Principal and staff of Prins Willem Alexander school said they were most grateful for the donations, which will be put to good use. They also thanked both TelEm Group and the Rotary Club for their kind gesture.

Telem Press Release

vromiandcgcreceivingpresentationongebesharetransfer20092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake who met with the Corporate Governance Council (CGC) last week, was pleased that GEBE was able to organize a presentation for the CGC on Thursday about the share transfer process which is progressing very well.

The CGC was represented by Chairman Louis Duzanson, Agnes Gumbs and Maria Plantz.

Minister Lake's cabinet had already provided extensive documentation about the GEBE share transfer to the CGC enabling the Council to be well informed with what had already taken place up to the presentation.

The CGC was full of praise for GEBE, Van Eps Kunneman and Van Doorne as well as the Minister's Cabinet for the great work done so far, and have pledged their cooperation once they receive the official request for advice which is awaiting the approval of the Governor.

"In my back to basics approach, the Corporate Governance Council has a role to play in our young country. I took it upon myself to seek their input in this very important process. All key bodies will be informed.

"Once the national decree is signed off by the Governor, it will go to the CGC and thereafter to the Council of Ministers and then to Parliament. Every link along the good governance process is being included and followed, and the road to progress is being done in a transparent manner," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

The presentation was conducted by Sueena Francisco and Michiel Gorsira of Van Eps Kunneman and Van Doorne; Paul Marshall, the project Manager for the transfer; and Romelio Maduro of the Managing Board were also present together with Minister Lake and his Chief of Staff responsible for Energy Affairs Veronica Jansen-Webster.

swescotwilliamsandpmsknddouglas24042012PM: "As Sister Islands We Share a Common History and a Common Heritage"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister the Right Honorable Dr. Denzil Douglas and the People of St. Kitts and Nevis on celebrating their thirty years of Independence from Great Britain. "I would like to wish the people of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Hon. Dr. Douglas a very happy 30th anniversary Independence Day Celebration to all nationals and people of Kittitian and Nevisian heritage at home and here on St. Maarten. St. Kitts and Nevis are our sister islands and as sister islands we share a common history and a common heritage and keeping that in mind I congratulate the Federation on thirty years of independence and self-determination," commented Prime Minister Wescot-Williams. The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis gained independence from Britain in 1983 and became the youngest fully independent country in Latin America and the Caribbean.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Number of dependent older people to increase to 277 million by 2050, half with Alzheimer's Disease or other dementia

PHILIPSBURG:--- The World Alzheimer Report 2013 will be presented today to Minister Cornelius de Weever, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour. The report is released today by Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) and examines the latest global and regional trends of people needing dementia care, and provides an analysis of long-term care systems around the world.

The report reveals that as the world population ages, the traditional system of "informal" care by family, friends, and community will not be sustainable. Data from the 2013 World Alzheimer's Report predicts the number of dependent older people will rise from 101 million in 2010 to 277 million in 2050, an almost threefold increase. Nearly half of them are living with Alzheimer's disease or other form of dementia, quickly becoming a global health crisis.

According to ADI representative to WHO/PAHO drs Raymond Jessurun the amount of persons living with dementia today in this PAHO region is more than 8 million persons. This amount will almost double to more than 15 million in 2030 and will be 500% higher in 2050. The lower and middle income countries of Latin America and the Caribbean will register the largest amount of the growth, with related economic hardship and challenges at the family and health care systems level.

This years World Report provides a comprehensive view of the impact the disease has on society. A particular focus this year was the impact of Alzheimer's and dementias on those who provide care. The report concluded that there is need for additional support in order to lessen the burden on the individual as well as the global infrastructure.

Professor Martin Prince, leading author of the report, comments "People with dementia have special care needs. Compared with other long-term care users they need more personal care, more hours of care, and more supervision, all of which is associated with greater caregiver strain, and higher costs. Their needs for care start early in the disease course, and evolve constantly over time, requiring advanced planning, monitoring, and coordination. That's why dementia needs to be a public health priority and adequate planning needs to be in place so that people with dementia can live well."

ADI is calling for all governments to make dementia a priority by developing National Dementia Plans to ensure that national health and social care systems are adequately structured and funded to provide high-quality long-term care to people throughout the dementia journey.

Marc Wortmann, executive director, Alzheimer's Disease International said: "We need to value those that provide frontline care for people with dementia. This includes paid, as well as unpaid family caregivers, who share much in common. Governments need to acknowledge the role of caregivers and ensure that there are policies in place to support them."

Sint Maarten government has already taken steps to prioritize Alzheimer Disease and other Dementia's as part of our national development agenda, according to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams in her Opening Remarks at the Alzheimer University Workshop held in Sint Maarten last month, and according to Minister de Weever the ministry of Public Health is writing a national dementia action plan.

Globally the current investment in research and development into dementia (including prevention, treatment, cure and care) is currently an order of magnitude lower than would be indicated given the burden and cost of the disorder, says this year's report. It calls upon governments and research funders worldwide to transform their system of priorities, ensuring at least a tenfold increase in current levels of investment.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC) that falls under Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, reports that the World Health Organization (WHO) has convened two International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee Meetings in connection with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

The committee reviewed and deliberated on information on a range of aspects of MERS-CoV, which was prepared or coordinated by the Secretariat and States in response to questions presented by Members during the first meeting.

It is the unanimous decision of the Committee with the information now available, and using a risk-assessment approach, the conditions for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, have not at present been met, however the situation is serious and of great concern.

The WHO has been informed of an additional 18 new laboratory-confirmed cases including three deaths with MERS-CoV infection in Saudi Arabia. These cases were announced by the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia within the first two weeks of September.

Additionally, in Qatar, a previously laboratory-confirmed patient died in the first week of September.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which includes viruses that may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Viruses of this family also cause a number of animal diseases, however the NCoV itself has not yet been found in an animal.

Travelers who return with symptoms from areas affected by the virus should call their family physician immediately. This is in connection with the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked' campaign in order to protect public health.

Based on the current situation and available information, WHO encourages all Member States to continue their surveillance and to carefully review any unusual patterns.

Globally, from September 2012 to date, the WHO has been informed of a total of 132 laboratory-confirmed cases of infection with MERS-CoV, including 58 deaths.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, hereby announces that mosquito fogging is continuing and should be completed in another week. Fogging of course is dependent on weather conditions.

Some of the areas pending are: Fort Willem, Belair, Cay Hill, L.B. Scott Road, Jose Lake Ball Field, Mary's Fancy, Saunders, and A. Th. Illidge Road.

Residents are however strongly advised to continue to step up measures at home and by businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

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

Residents must bear in mind that fogging is not a total solution to eliminate mosquitoes. Fogging activity is kept to a minimum in order to prevent the mosquito population from developing immunity to the chemicals that are deployed.

Fogging is one intervention of several, and the main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis.

Homeowners are reminded during the time of the spraying they should open all doors and windows. Dishes, bowls, pots and pans, fish tanks and bird cages should be covered. Stay away from open windows and doors during the spraying.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

youthmonitorresearchtrainingparticipants18092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Youth Monitor Research training given by Mr. Runy Calmera of Calmera B.V, has been organized in a collaborative effort to increase the analytical and research skills of policy officers from various governmental departments. The first part of the one week training that started on the 22nd of April 2013 was attended by 15 policy officers, from the Ministries including the Ministry of Public health, Labour and Social development, Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports.
During this training the basic aspects of conducting research, analyzing and compiling information were presented.

After this training, the policy officers of the Department of Youth Affairs received a
bi-weekly follow-up training starting the 20th of June and concluded on the 30th of August.
The emphasis of the training was placed on the writing policy notes, technical aspects of conducting research, analyzing and compiling information regarding the development of young people on Sint Maarten. This training is very important giving the fact that statistical information is essential when developing policies.
The Youth Monitor presents a picture on how the population between 0 and 24 years is developing. Crucial information on the various areas such as health, education, labor, recreation, justice, family and social life will be compiled in a database that will be made accessible to the public. This tool can assist policymakers and other professionals to create and assess the effectiveness of policies and projects. The information of the Youth monitor will be compiled based on existing reports and research. The goal is to have the first official Youth Monitor published on the government website in 2015.

In the upcoming weeks, the department of Youth Affairs in collaboration with other ministries will be conducting a youth survey prior to the Youth Round Table Conference that will be held on the 26th and the 27th of September 2013. Secondary schools and unattached youth will be targeted to participate in this survey and the conference. The preliminary results will be presented and discussed at the Youth Round Table Conference. By conducting this survey youth will be given the opportunity to voice their views and opinions. This valuable information will be used by policymakers to review existing projects and programs and create new policies and legislations in the interest of our children and youth.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the head of VDSM (Secret Services) James Richardson has been suspended. The Prime Minister made the confirmation when SMN News reporter asked her whether or not Richardson has been suspended or dismissed and if she had filed a complaint against Richardson with the Landsrecherche or the Prosecutor's Office. Wescot Williams said that Richardson was informed in writing that his employer (the Government of St. Maarten) has decided to suspended him immediately based on the information they have thus far. Wescot Williams said that Richardson is a civil servant and Government has the power to suspend or dismiss civil servants based on the LLMA. She further indicated that there are two trajectories, the government as the employer can take action through, one of them being the law governing civil servants which is the LLMA. This she said is separate from any matter that is being handled by the prosecutor or the Landsrecherche. She explained that government is yet to take a decision as to what they will do with the information they have gathered thus far. "We are yet to decide if there will be criminal liabilities and that decision has not fallen as yet, the second trajectory involves the justice authorities." The Prime Minister also said that a very small part of the VDSM falls under the Government of St. Maarten since there is also another law in place for the VDSM. She further explained that the recruitment and dismissal of staff also falls under the law that governs the VDSM and not under government.

SMN News asked the Prime Minister who is conducting the investigation on VDSM and the so called missing funds. She said that the SOAB did an investigation and they compiled a report and based on that information government decided to suspend the head of the secret services. It is still not clear as to who is continuing with the investigation against the head of the VDSM and how this investigation will proceed. Since the Prime Minister did not file a complaint with the justice authorities and she did not indicate who is continuing the investigation against James Richardson and for how long will he be suspended.
When asked if she filed a complaint with the justice authorities Wescot Williams said that government had not taken such a decision as yet. SMN News reporter also asked the Prime Minister who conducting the investigation and she responded by saying "everyone" knows that the SOAB did an investigation and they submitted a report to the government of St. Maarten.

When it comes to the oversight committee that has to overlook the VDSM, that still has to be finalized because the Prime Minister does not want the chairlady of Parliament to be on that committee. She made clear that if the chairlady is on that committee she will not be there to represent the Parliament of St. Maarten.

SUCKER GARDEN:--- On Tuesday September 17th, 2013 at approximately 6:50pm during a routine patrol by the Police Special Task Force (Zero Tolerance Team) in The Keys area, they saw three vehicles suspiciously parked on the side of the street. The officers also saw several men sitting in these vehicles and they smelled a very strong scent of marijuana coming from the direction of the vehicles in question. The officers approached the vehicles in order to have them checked for illegal drugs and the occupants identified. During the investigation, a considerable amount of cocaine and cash were found. In connection with this case five young men between the ages of 23 and 33 were arrested and taken to the Philipsburg Police Head Quarters where they are being held for questioning. The drugs, cash, and vehicles in question were all confiscated for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

niaopenhouse18092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Institute of Art has held its Open House on Saturday, August 30th, 2013 at the John Larmonie Center in Philipsburg. The Open House called the NIA Family Fun Day was well attended by prospective students and artists alike in the fields of Dance, Music, Comedy, Theater, Drama to Contemporary Traditions. The Open House provided prospective students the opportunity to come in contact with the different forms of art and expression and find areas that interest them. In addition to participating in free art and dance lessons, there was a fashion show, water slide, massages, manicures as well as a flight simulator for kids to interact with. "The Open House was a great success and we met many students who were interested in our classes. Students and parents had a great time interacting with teachers and discovering art," said Clara Reyes, Co-Director of the National Institute of Art, a non-profit foundation with the aim to provide nationally and internationally recognized interdisciplinary art.

Classes are now in full swing at the newly established National Institute of Art. The NIA would like to remind parents that classes have started for the new school year and to take the opportunity to sign up their children. The NIA offers a wide range of classes and programs in the visual and performing arts. "Our doors are open to all who wish to partake in the creative art experience," welcomed Arlene Halley, Co-Director of the NIA. Classes are available in areas such as Caribbean Folk Techniques, Modern Dance Techniques, Ballet and other dance genres, Voice Lessons, Art Classes, Drumming, and Theatre. Children's classes start at $35/month for one class a week and adults can buy an Adult Class Card for $75 for 10 classes. Drop in rate is $12. For more Information about the National Institute of Arts, please visit our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NationalInstituteOfArts.

The official launch of the NIA is slated for October following its founding on April 11, 2013 by the merging of two prominent dance schools on the island, Imbali Center for Art and Movement and Motiance Dance School. The launch, called The NIA Festival of Arts and Culture will feature various theatrical and dance performances and exhibits at the school. "The launch is meant to be a celebration of arts and culture for the community of St. Maarten. Art plays such an important role is safe-guarding our cultural heritage," states Arlene Halley, Co-director of the National Institute of Art. "We hope that community will come out to join us," Ms. Halley added.

cdeweeverwithgebeworkersatpbwatertank18092013GREAT BAY:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever, responsible for the production and distribution of drinking water, on Monday September 16, 2013 visited the tank site in Pointe Blanche to officially --take into service-- the first of two new tanks for storage of drinking water. The Minister has been monitoring the progress of the works since early this year.

"The supply of drinking water is principally a Government responsibility with distribution tasks outsourced to GEBE and production to Air-Fin; the continuous supply of safe and affordable drinking water to the St. Maarten Community is an essential condition for Public Health," said Minister De Weever.

GEBE was responsible for the site preparation, design and construction of the foundation, construction of retaining walls, installation of the water lines and for the total coordination of works. The concrete works for the construction of the foundation have been contracted out by GEBE to Liccom NV. Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water ordered and supplied the tank and was responsible for the erection works.

"It is important that we all continue to work together to better serve the people of St. Maarten and assist our brothers and sisters on the northern side when the need arises," said Minister De Weever.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that she responded to the chairlady of Parliament regarding the letter sent to her by Member of Parliament Frans Richardson who requested information from her about the motion that was adopted by Parliament regarding the Government Administration Building on Pond Island. Wescot Williams said she informed the chairlady of Parliament that no individual MP could act as the body of Parliament to request information while she also included a complete update (status) on what has been taking place with the Government Administration Building.

The Prime Minister said she received a second letter on Tuesday, this time asking her about the motion on the Election Reform. Wescot Williams there too an MP is taking it upon himself to instruct Government to execute a motion of Parliament. She said as to the content of the motion, she is working on two aspects of Electoral Reform. The first being Electoral Reform and the other being Campaign Reform. Wescot Williams said the motion that was passed in Parliament during the budget debate fits more in the aspect of campaign reform.

Wescot Williams said that this matter is a matter of priority for her but she would need the cooperation of the various fractions of Parliament to modify the electoral law.

Wescot Williams said she intends to respond to the chairlady within short and sometime soon she should have a "position paper". She said when this position paper is available then the political parties in Parliament could come together and discuss the Electoral Reform and the proposals she would be putting forward so that when this matter is tabled she would have an idea as to what the political parties and factions in parliament are thinking about this subject because it is in these areas she would need the support from all fractions of parliament. She said she has an idea as to where Parliament wants to go and she also has her own idea on the entire issue of electoral reform.

The Prime Minister also indicated that she received a response from the three entities that have to establish the electoral council, these bodies are the Council of Advice, the General Audit Chamber, and the Joint Court of Justice. Wescot Williams said these three institutions also put forward the candidates that they want on the council which would have to be established by national decree.

swescotwilliams18092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams informed reporters at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that the government of St. Maarten will strongly object to one of the points that the Kingdom Council has on its agenda for this Friday where they will discuss the instruction given to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on integrity on St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said the Kingdom Council has no legal basis to demand such an investigation and they also do not have the right to even discuss or table the matter in their meetings. Wescot Williams said St. Maarten has two issues with the motion that will be tabled on Friday, she said such a proposal has no legal basis and there is also no need to give the Governor of St. Maarten such an instruction. She said it is not a situation lingering on St. Maarten where government is not taking the necessary action to address these issues. "The position of the government of St. Maarten will be sent to the Kingdom Council of Ministers, basically we will be objecting to the proposal and to the handling in the Kingdom Council." Wescot Williams promised to apprise the media further when the draft that will be sent to the Kingdom Council is finalized.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten said when the Prime Minister of the Netherlands visited the island earlier this year the government of St. Maarten learnt of the proposal to have the governor of St. Maarten conduct the integrity investigation and they discussed the matter with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte. Wescot Williams said the government of St. Maarten made clear that it is outside the legal parameters between the countries within the Kingdom. She further explained that St. Maarten also informed the Kingdom Council of the initiatives taken by St. Maarten such as having Transparency International conduct an investigation on the island.

The Prime Minister said only on Thursday the Government of St. Maarten received correspondence from Transparency International who have agreed to conduct this investigation (system analysis). Wescot Williams said the government of St. Maarten also decided to have other assessments conducted to address corruption and other matters. This she said will be done by St. Maarten and it would be a pity if the Kingdom Council proceeded and gave an official instruction to the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation on matters related to integrity in government.

gracitaarrindellattendsparlatinoexecutivemeeting17092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell departs Panama on Wednesday after attending an Executive Committee meeting of the Latin American Parliament (Parlatino). The meeting started on Sunday and concluded on Tuesday. Arrindell said a number of issues were discussed including the official opening of the Permanent Headquarters of Parlatino in Panama City in October.

mauricelakespeakswithresidentaboutblockeddrain17092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Over the weekend Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake inspected road pavement preventive maintenance project activities that the Minister instituted. Minister Lake was informed by residents about the water drain near a drugstore that is not able to handle the amount of rainwater and floods the area temporarily. Minister Lake said that he will have his Ministry look into the matter and come up with a solution.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Caribbean Regional Compliance Association (CRCA) is pleased to announce that the 7th annual Regional Compliance Conference will be held in St. Maarten – November 7 & 8 with a CAMS preparation workshop to be held on the 6th November. COMPLIANCE...THE MOVING TARGET?

A comprehensive, networking opportunity for professionals in the compliance, regulatory, and anti-money laundering sectors of the financial services industry, the conference will bring together compliance professionals throughout the region with a full international and regional line up of speakers, sponsors and delegates.

The Windward Islands Bank Ltd is proud to have the CRCA conference held in St. Maarten and has thus partnered with a platinum sponsorship for this prestigious event.

AVINASH PERSAUD, Professor Emeritus, TO ADDRESS DELEGATES AT THE CRCA CONFERENCE NOVEMBER 7 & 8, 2013 THE WESTIN, ST. MAARTEN
This year, back by popular demand, our keynote speaker is Avinash Persaud. Avinash wowed the CRCA audience in 2012 with his insightful and thought provoking session and feedback demanded his return. Several years before the financial crisis hit Avinash recognized the dangerous interaction between the "herd" behaviour of financial firms and new risk management practices and will speak to the application of this concept in the Caribbean region.

"As in previous years the conference committee has worked hard to put together a relevant and meaningful learning opportunity that is delivered by experts from a variety of fields" reported Carolyn Hanson, Co -Chair of the 2013 CRCA Conference Planning Committee, "We understand the ongoing challenge that continuing professional development presents Caribbean compliance professionals with so we have looked for a wide based program including extensive accreditation from a variety of professional organizations". Credits available include ICA CPD, CAMS and FIBA.

The theme "Compliance – The Moving Target" sums up the feeling within the compliance environment at the moment where seemingly the only constant is change. Providing a mix of specialized compliance and AML subjects the conference includes such topics as the Cost of Enforcement (KYC Remediation), Balancing Disclosure with Confidentiality, extensive coverage on FATCA from 101 to working under an IGA, Correspondent Banking and Sanctions to name just a few.

Sponsors who support the CRCA Conference of 2013 also include: Platinum level - The Windward Islands Bank Ltd.; Silver level - Silo Compliance System, Thomson Reuters Accelus; Coffee Break level – BVI International Finance Centre; Exhibitor level – Kixko, ACCUR, Compliance Services Caribbean; Corporate level – Baker Tilly, Nagico Insurances, CIBC FCIB, Global Bank of Commerce Ltd. and; Media sponsors - ACAMS, BahamasB2B, IFC Review, KYC360 and International Compliance Association.

CRCA member jurisdictions include Antigua & Barbuda, Bermuda, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands (BVI), Cayman Islands, Curacao, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago with representation from Anguilla, St. Maarten, and more...

...

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday September 17th, 2013 at approximately 1:40pm, several police patrols, detectives and an ambulance were directed to the parking lot behind of the Police Headquarters next to the Richardson Building on the Walter Nisbeth road (Pondfill road) to investigate a shooting incident. On the scene the investigating officers located the 36 year old victim with initials K.H. sitting in his pick-up. The victim, who was conscious, was bleeding from a gunshot wound to the right side of his body. The victim stated that the shooting had taken place at his home in Point Blanche. He further stated that he was attacked by three unknown masked men, one of whom was armed with a gun. He was threatened by these young men who demanded that he give them everything he had. At one point during the incident the victim was shot. The robbers then fled the scene on foot and did not succeed in stealing anything. The victim jumped into his pick-up and drove to the parking-lot where he was found. The paramedics gave the victim first aid and then transported him to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The Special Robbery Unit and the Forensic Department are investigating this case.

KPSM Police Report

ralawardsceremony04042013PHILIPSBURG— On Thursday, September 19 the Readers are Leaders annual reading program will be re-launching at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 6pm under the theme "A New Beginning".
The Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise Club is recommencing its reading program aimed at all high school students. The main goal of the reading program is to encourage St Maarten's teenagers to become avid readers.
High school students will be challenged to read at least one book per month and hand in book reports on seven or more books they have read. In addition, a special quiz category will be included in the reading competition this year. Interested participants will be tested on the books they have read. For this quiz category, a special book list based solely on a selection of books authored by St. Maarteners and African-Americans will be compiled.
As an extra incentive to encourage participants to continue reading, prizes will be awarded. Prizes for the winning participants will include a number of electronic devices such as a laptop, iPod, iPad, and free internet hours at the library.
In order to qualify to win the reading competition participating students will have to:

  1. Read a minimum of seven (7) books which are part of the school's English Language curriculum or books from the Readers are Leaders' Book list. This has to be done before the month of March ("Literacy Month")
  2. Participate in discussions on the Readers are Leaders Facebook page.
  3. Participate in at least one (1) of the following extra curricula reading activities:
    a) Being a member of the Readers Are Leaders Board
    b) Participating in a Reading or Book Club at school
    c) Reading or assisting children with reading at an afterschool program
    d) Tutoring fellow classmates or others for the subject of English
    e) Participating in the Poetry Evening or Black History Month Program (development of original poems, stories, skits)
    f) Participating in book quiz competitions

The reading campaign will end with a closing party celebrating the achievements of all participating students in March 2014.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 2013 International Coastal Cleanup is in full swing as organizers from both sides of the island are gearing up for another large turn out this coming Sunday September 22nd in Baie Nettle.
Local coordinator for the International Coastal Cleanup Jadira Veen says that everything seems to be in place as donations have been pouring in from the community to make the 2013 ICC a successful event. The public has an opportunity to join hands and be part of this worldwide eco-event to cleanup the worlds oceans, beaches, and wetlands.
Volunteers will be collecting trash from the beach coastline, documenting each piece of trash on a special data card provided by the Ocean Conservancy. Bags will weighed and all data will be summarized and sent on to the Ocean Conservancy to be added to their final report on trash free seas.
Once again, the Sint Maarten PRIDE Foundation has teamed up with the French side eco-group SXM TRAILS, a local hiking group active in hiking the islands unbeaten paths.
Volunteers are asked to come out on:

Sunday September 22nd.
Time: 7am-9:30am
Location: Entrance to La Belle Creole

Police on the French side have been requested to provide assistance on the Baie Nettle road at the start, during, and ending time of the cleanup, to control the flow of traffic.
We ask that volunteers just show up, register their name and their business, social group, youth group or school that they attend on the sign in sheets.
Gloves and Trash bags will be provided to volunteers.
The SXM Trails Hiking group will be conducting a cleanup around the peninsula at La Belle Creole, adult volunteers may sign up for this exercise. This hike-cleanup covers treacherous terrain and is not suitable for children. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more info on this special cleanup exercise.
In addition to the large event on Sunday, 200 Sundial School students will be participating in the 2013 ICC this coming Friday and Saturday on 2 Dutch side beaches.
The students and teachers have been briefed in the class room by the local coordinator on how to fill out the data cards and cleanup tools have been provided.
Later on in the month more schools will participate at various locations, as well as an upcoming cleanup around the Oyster Bay Lagoon which will see the participation of Garnier beauty products, Pure Magazine, and guests and staff from the Oyster Bay Resort.
Sint Maarten PRIDE Foundation would like to thank the Sint Maarten Time Share Association for their generous contribution to the 2013 International Coastal Cleanup, by helping to provide cleanup tools for all the ICC events taking place in the month of September.
For more information on the 2013 International Coastal Cleanup, feel free to call 5204096 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit our Facebook page.

utsdonatestopolicesportsorganization17092013PHILIPSBURG:--- With a donation of $2000, UTS has pledged its support to the Police Sports Organization in its endeavor to organize its yearly Police Song Festival on September 20th. "UTS is a regular contributor the Police Sports Organization and we are happy to again be able to support the people that dedicate their lives to keeping our community safe with their fundraising initiative," said UTS Marketing & Communication Officer Ivy Lambert. Organizing member of the Police Sports Organization, Ms. Janice Philips expressed his thanks by saying, "on behalf of my fellow board members we would hereby like to thank Chippie/UTS for their continued support and cooperation towards making our fundraising event a reality." The Police Song Festival will feature international Zouk sensation, Carimi. The event will take place at the tent in part De Plaisance on September 20th. Tickets are available for $20 at Van Dorp and the Police Station.

UTS Press Release

sandrojacobswith25kgfish17092013FRENCH QUARTER:--- 16 year old Sandro Jacobs caught a 25kg fish while fishing in the lagoon of French Quarter on Tuesday morning.

His brother who was then 7 years old also caught a 20kg fish in that same lagoon two years ago.

While other kids are caught up with electronics, the two brothers spend all their free time fishing in the lagoon which is in their back yard in "round the pond" French Quarter.

mauricelakeatcupecoystreetlightsgroundbreakingceremony17092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday attended a ground breaking ceremony for street lights for the Cupecoy community.

The project was initiated by the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine where 25 street lights are to be installed by Payless Electricity.

Minister Hon. Maurice Lake says he likes to see two private entities coming together to serve the public good.

"This is similar to the public-private initiative that was discussed with the timeshare association. The installation of streetlights increases safety within the Cupecoy community for residents, tourists and medical students.

"Government welcomes these types of initiatives from private sector entities," Minister Maurice Lake said on Monday.

princessheightshotel17092013Dawn Beach:--- Princess Heights Luxury Boutique Hotel has been named "the Leading Hotel in St. Maarten for 2013" by the World Travel Awards (WTA). Heralded by The Wall Street Journal as the "Oscar's of the travel industry," the WTA has developed into the most prestigious and comprehensive awards program in travel and tourism, and is recognized worldwide as the hallmark of industry excellence.

Emil Lee general manager stated "Combined with our third straight year with the Trip Advisor certificate of excellence, this prestigious award is a wonderful validation of the countless hours that staff and management have invested to ensure that our guests enjoy lavish accommodations with world class personalized service."

Lee added: "The management of the hotel as well as the rest of its staff would like to thank its loyal clientele and partners, who have supported and worked jointly with the property since the beginning, helping it achieve its place as of a world-class hospitality provider."

This family-operated luxury property is located in on a hillside overlooking Dawn Beach. Princess Heights Hotel offers magnificent ocean view studios, one bedroom and two bedroom suites. "Our luxurious suites are perfect for couples and our large suites and full kitchens make us perfect for families," said Jorge Diaz-Granados, Princess Heights Director of Marketing. "Princess Height Hotel offers tremendous value for money," he added.

For more information on the hotel, go to www.princessheights.com, or call 543-6906 or 800-881-1744.

GREAT BAY:--- The Department of Labor Affairs has launched a Facebook page in an effort to continue to use social media to reach the target customer base it serves. Additionally, the use of social media improves our ability to function in the most transparent manner, while engaging with the public on the workings of this critically important department of our Government. The Facebook page will feature announcements, press releases, job vacancies, photos, and links to great articles and information!
We want to also ensure that our students abroad are informed via the Facebook page.
The general public is encouraged to 'like' the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/laboraffairsSXM.

dennisrichardson17092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson's intention is to see that the image of the country regarding combating money laundering and terrorist financing is improved. A key organization in this regard is the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) which falls under the Ministry of Justice.

It is a new entity established on October 10, 2010, also known to many as MOT that has the mission to detect and deter money laundering and terrorist financing and other underlying crimes which contributes towards a safe and stable financial economic environment for the country.

"We as a country do not tolerate anybody using us for money laundering. We have taken upon ourselves as a country to have an FIU entity in place to combat such illegal activities that may take place on our territory. We have international obligations and responsibilities and we are complying with them.

"I am sending a very strong message to investors that we welcome your investments as long as these are legitimate. Sint Maarten will always be open to legitimate foreign investment.

"For those who think they will be able to launder their ill-licit gains, you are hereby informed that we will not accept nor tolerate this, and you are not welcome here," Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson said on Tuesday.

The Minster pointed out that Sint Maarten wants to have a strong and dynamic financial sector free from money laundering and terrorist financing and other underlying crimes. The financial sector falls under the supervision of the Central Bank of Curacao and Sint Maarten.

The Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions (DNFBPs) fall under the supervision of the FIU.

These businesses and professions have been invited to register with FIU via its online website (www.fiu-sxm.net). These businesses and professions are: lawyers, notaries, tax advisors, accountants, administration offices, jewelers, car dealerships, and real estate agents. Registration must be completed before September 30, 2013.

The business sector and professionals of Sint Maarten play a vital role in combating money laundering and terrorist financing. FIU wants to foster a close working relationship with those categories of businesses and professions that have been identified.

Combating money laundering and terrorist financing is seen as a national collective responsibility and therefore joint combative measures from government involving the private sector will lead to a successful effort with the end result of a better economic environment for all to thrive in connection with the national development of the country leading to the improvement in the quality of life for all.

Sint Maarten is a member of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and fully subscribes to the mission of developing and implementing effective anti-money laundering and terrorist financing and counter-terrorist financing systems and to contribute to the setting of global standards.

Justice Minister Richardson also stated that the FIU of Sint Maarten subscribes to be an efficient and responsive organization that plays a leading role, within the region and the global community, in the prevention and suppression of money laundering and terrorist financing and terrorist financing through the effective implementation of the international standards.

Those requiring additional information can call the FIU at 542-3025 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, continues to recommend for persons traveling to Hispanola (Haiti, Dominican Republic) to continue to be cautious with respect to Cholera.

Travelers to the Dominican Republic are strongly advised to follow basic hygienic habits while in one of the aforementioned countries.

According to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the total number of cases in Haiti since October 2010 to mid-August 2013 has reached 671,033 of which 372,241 were hospitalized (55 per cent) and 8,231 died.

Since October 2012, a decreasing trend in the nationwide number of cases and deaths has been observed with the exception of the first quarter of 2013 when compared with the same period in 2012 showed an increase in cases from the departments of Artibonite, Centre and Nord.

In the Dominican Republic, since the beginning of the epidemic in November 2010 through July 2013, the total number of suspected cholera cases reported was 30,681, of which 454 died. The Dominican Republic also reported an increase in cases for the first quarter of 2013.

As part of the Minister's 'Get Checked,' campaign, travelers who return to the island and display symptoms of cholera are strongly advised to get checked by visiting their family physician.

CPS continues to maintain PAHO recommendations which were reiterated recently to maintain in place surveillance activities to detect the occurrence of outbreaks and implementing intervention actions to reduce cholera spread determinants.

Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.

Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.

While in the Dominican Republic ensure that you take vital precautions such as hygienic food preparation, boiling or purifying all water, and washing hands often with soap and clean water.

Symptoms can occur within 24 to 48 hours of being infected with the cholera causing bacteria. Cholera symptoms are generally mild; they include diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. About one infected person out of 20 has severe signs and symptoms, such as increased heart rate, dehydration, and shock. Immediately consult your physician if you have traveled and have any of the symptoms, while maintaining proper hygiene.

To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity. Maintain these basic hygienic habits as you travel.

By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink. Enjoy and keep safe as you travel and help us keep Sint Maarten Cholera Free!

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinic located at Brouwer's Road 6A (behind FATUM Insurances Building) will be closed on Friday, September 20. Regular services resume on Monday, September 23.

The closure of the clinic on Friday is related to a staff training session that will take place on that day.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

serchairmanrenerichardsonandaicesispresidentevgenyvelikhov16092013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, September 12th 2013, the Social Economic Council (SER) achieved another mile stone, as SER Chairman René Richardson was elected to the international board of International Association of Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions (AICESIS) during its General Assembly in Algeria. AICESIS is a worldwide organization representing 70 member states from four different continents. AICESIS functions as an important international organization for social and economic policy. The election of Sint Maarten on the AICESIS board, serves as an example that international organizations continue to recognize Sint Maarten as an autonomous country. This illustrates that Sint Maarten is ready to fulfill its responsibility on an international level.
In the Palace of Nations in Algiers 34 countries from four continents gathered to discuss social and economic topics, exchange best practices, and plan future activities. During the General Assembly the members of AICESIS voted to install the new board for the years 2013-2015. Sint Maarten will represent the region of Latin-America and the Caribbean together with the members Brazil and Curaçao. The president of the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation dr. Evgeny P. Velikhov was elected President of the international board of AICESIS.
Topics of concern were the consequences of the financial crisis of 2008, the fight against poverty, and the fight against economic crimes. The topic of youth unemployment received special attention and was elaborated on extensively. Presentations were given by, for example, Italy, Brazil, Vietnam, Burkina Faso, Russia, Senegal, China, Argentina, South Africa, Greece, and Spain. Each country elaborated on its main challenges and future social and economic policies.
The delegation of Sint Maarten consisted of SER chairman René Richardson, board member Joseph H. Lake Jr. and policy worker Bas Peters. The costs involved for the SER trip to Algeria, were covered by Dutch cooperation funds managed by USONA.

An interactive workshop, for our secondary schools' exam and pre-exam students, on "How to choose a Major/Study" is being organized on September 26, 2013 by the Student Support Services Division of the Ministry of Education Culture Youth & Sports. This event will be held at the University of St. Martin from 5:00 P.M. to 6:30 P.M. in Room 202. This workshop will address choosing a career path, overcoming being undecided about a major or study at college/university, exploring various career options, and not overlooking other career options. Call Ms. Manek or Mr. Chance at 543-1235 for more information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Town hall presentations about Dutch Quarter, Middle Region, Cole Bay-Billy Folly and Cay Bay areas, are available for download on the Government website www.sintmaartengov.org.

Interested residents and stakeholders can go to the website and select the drop down tab "Government," followed by "Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI)."

On the aforementioned page you then go to "Zoning/Development Plans" and a page will open with an interactive map. Select one of the maps noted above and you will go to the presentation that was made at the town hall meeting which is in a PDF file.

All presentations have been uploaded to the website which would allow residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review the aforementioned at their own leisure.

Persons can also write MinVROMI via the following email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with respect to their views and ideas regarding the development of the island.

Government has embarked upon the process to develop plans, and the plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The Zoning Ordinance (EROP) prescribes that development plans are established regulating the development possibilities and land usage on the Dutch side of the island.

NEW YORK:--- "The Power to Be Better in Good Times and Bad" is a principle message conveyed by economist Zhivargo Laing who urges people lashed by the recession to "not feel bad because these have been momentous times with shifting fortunes leaving legions in states of anxiety, hopelessness and despair."

An extended period of economic turbulence has shattered the American dream for millions of Americans and with it, he reminds us, " the fortunes of many outside the United Sates whose well-being is tied to the advancement of that dream."

The former finance minister of the Bahamas, who plans to embark on a speaking tour on the theme "Released!" this Fall, noted: "Unemployed millions, underemployed millions and fully employed but over-leveraged millions now share a common fate - the democratization of pessimism."

Those at the margins in fragile communities, especially those heavily populated by minorities, asserted Laing, "face the additional burdens of the dissolution of social support systems and widespread despair."

With material security in doubt and economic prospects obscure, he added, "the times have raised the central question of human existence: Why are you here and what are you about?"

The times call for an awakening, he said, "to an untapped, limitless power within, one which when discovered provides the means to be and do better in good times and bad."

This power within, the author declared, "first works its miracle on the person, providing inner peace, clarity of perspective and renewed personal purpose. The power then works itself outward, providing the means to produce, provide and prosper."

Laing describes it as a liberating power which "frees from the shackles of regret, the chains of pessimism and the burdens of discontentment. It releases us to be free to be now, to do now and to excel now."

It is at this stage where Laing stated: "Physically, emotionally, socially, financially and spiritually ... the released soul is centered, at peace and joy, and an excellent candidate for family and community building and development. Released is a pocket of wisdom that gives life and riches in full measure, whatever the times."

For further information about Zhivargo Laing, visit www.zlaingconsulting.com.

The St. Maarten Career & Study Fair Committee is a committee consisting of career guidance counselors/student counselors representing the secondary schools on the island, namely Milton Peters College, Sundial School, PSVE Academy, St. Maarten Academy, and St. Dominic High, as well as representation of the University of St. Martin.

"Our Theme Is: "A Better Future Through Better Education"

How it all started:
The Career Guidance Counselor of the Milton Peters College had a vision to organize a Career & Study Fair for the students attending the institution. This vision was realized in 1992, and was limited only to the students of Milton Peters College. After years of organizing and executing the Fair exclusively for this group of students, the Career Guidance Counselor extended the invitation to the other high schools on the island. The Career Guidance Counselors of these high schools, a representative of the University of St. Martin and of the SHTA came together in 2001 to organize it for all schools on the island and for the general public.
For many years, the Fair was held at the Milton Peters College, its original birth place. From 2003, as a result of the magnitude of the Fair and of the number of persons that it eventually had to accommodate, the venue to host the Fair moved to different locations on the island. For the past few years, Belair Community Center has become the place of gathering for all students and the general public to benefit from what the Fair has to offer. The fair provides proper information in order to make informed decisions for future careers and endeavours.

The Committee organizes every year a Career Fair to provide College and university representatives from St. Maarten, Curaçao, Aruba, the United States and Holland to share information about their academic institutions.
This annual event promises to be very informative and supportive in the planning and decision making involved in furthering one's education.
For students attending, the Career Fair provides an opportunity to network with prospective colleges, universities and employers, to enable them to obtain information about various companies, and generate a list of contacts and whereby they will be able to express their interest in a specific college, university or company.

This year the Career Fair will be held on Thursday November 7, 2013.

As of September 16, 2013 the Sxm Career and Study Fair Committee will also be able to serve you better through the newly launched website.

For more information, please check our website: www.sxmcareerandstudyfair.com

x104givesawayfreegas16092013PHILIPSBURG:--- X104.3 Your Xtreme Party Station just found another lucky winner of their free gas giveaway promotion. The Trust Your Car to the Star campaign is one in which X104.3 partnered together with Texaco to find a lucky winner to the weekly $104.00 worth of free gas. The X104 team was on location last Friday, at Texaco in Cole Bay giving drivers a chance to win $104.00 of free gas.
The winner, Mr. James Carty, a taxi driver and frequent customer at the Texaco Cole Bay was all smiles when he was approached as the winner and handed $104.00 of free gas vouchers. Party Dude Jason and Elton Richardson of X104's Xtreme team and Texaco Cole Bay Branch Manager Mrs. Macressa Simon were all pleased to present Mr. Carty with his vouchers. "We like to think outside the box and be a little Xtreme with our promotions" said Party Dude Jason, on-air personality at X1043.
Other prize winner were Cassandra David and Robert Trot winners of an Apple ITouch, Dannie James winner of a Dominoes Pizza voucher and Ereline Presentacion winner of a Capuccino Diner voucher.
The Trust Your Car to the Star free gas giveaway will continue weekly for the remainder of September as X104's Xtreme Team will be alternating weekly between both Cole Bay and Bush Road Texaco locations to surprise a lucky driver as the weekly winner. This Friday X104 will be at the Texaco on Bush Road to give away more prizes and another $104 free gas voucher.
For more information be sure to listen to X-104.3 FM, visit our website at www.x1043.com, check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/x1043 or call the X-line at 721-543-9104.

nipalogo16092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Institute for Professional Advancement proudly announces its logo. The Board of the Institute worked with Trakx Design, Marketing and Advertising Agency created the design, which reflects the state of the art modern institute.
The NIPA palm, which coincides with the name of the Institute is the only palm of which the trunk grows beneath the ground and only the pinnate leaves and flower stalk are above the surface. Similar to the characteristics of the NIPA palm, the trunk below the surface symbolizes NIPA's objective, which is securing a strong foundation through education in particular vocational and adult education/training, in collaboration with government, government departments, organizations, private sector. And its pinnate leaves are symbolic to reaching out towards the needs of the community of St. Maarten.

NIPA also has a temporary webpage up, where interested persons can find contact information. The website of the Institute is: nipasxm.com and the general email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In the upcoming months the website will be fully developed. Both the logo and website development are sponsored with Dutch Development Funds for Education (USONA) as part of the Advanced Vocational Education program under the Ministry of Education.

glenyeungandjeansamer16092013PHILIPSBURG:--- USM engaged the services of Carib Work IT to carry out the necessary hardware installations in order to be eligible to give the GED computer-based testing (CBT) delivered on the Pearson VUE (PV) platform. All exams are proctored by certified administrators.
USM has been St. Maarten's only GED paper based testing center for a number of years.
Jean Samer was the first student to take USM's computerized GED Exam from Pearson VUE.
Mr. Samer commented that he had a while waiting on the test to pop up, and it finally did. "When I started the exam I realized it was way easier to handle on the PC. I had success. This is the best way to do the GED exam. Thanks USM for the opportunity, and thanks to Mrs. Agnes who helped me a lot."
In addition to offering the CBT exams, USM will continue offering GED Tutorials evening and morning classes. Classes are scheduled to begin on Monday, September 23rd.
Persons interested in joining the Tutorial classes are asked to register at the USM Student Service Center.
An information session for registered persons is scheduled for Friday September 20th at 7pm in the USM lecture hall.
Persons are urged to settle their outstanding balances before registering for exams.

simpsonbayroadworks15092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Over the weekend Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake and Member of Parliament Hon. Janchie Leonard visited the Simpson Bay area to inspect the road pavement preventive maintenance district project that the Minister instituted.

Over the weekend works were carried out starting from the intersection Airport Road/Sister Modesta Road, up to the intersection Regina Road and on a section of the Regina Road intersecting with Sister Patientia Road.

gracitaarrindellatsisterborgiaschool15092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell, resumed her reading sessions at the Sister Borgia School last week. Arrindell along with others volunteer their time every school year to participate in reading sessions with the school children.

"Research has shown that the single most important thing a parent or volunteer can do to help a child acquire language, and instil a love of learning, is to read to a child. Reading to a child is one of the easiest ways to prevent future learning problems. This simple act has an enormous positive impact on the child," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell pointed out.

President Arrindell encourages others, parents, and professionals to volunteer some time to read to the nation's youth.

jeremyhurstwithpaulharrisfellowmariabuncampermolanus15092013Alvin Obersi, Maria Buncamper-Molanus and Meena Ramchandani all honored as Paul Harris Fellows

PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary District Governor Jeremy Hurst was recently welcomed by the Rotary Clubs of St. Maarten/St. Martin at a grand cocktail reception at The Pointe in the Sonesta Maho Resort during his official visit to the island. During his visit on St. Maarten, Mr. Hurst met with the Governor, Honorable Eugene Holiday and the Prime Minister, Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams. At the opening of the reception, Mr. Hurst thanked all the Rotarians in attendance and their guests for their dedication to service above self. He continued, "our theme for this Rotary year is to 'Engage Rotary and Change Lives' and during my short official stay here on St. Maarten/St. Martin, it is very obvious to me that Rotarians here are doing exactly that; they are making a difference where it counts and they are changing lives".

When asked about his favorite part of his St. Maarten visit so far, District Governor Jeremy Hurst stated, "there's nothing that compares to working with children. I so much enjoyed going to the Sister Borgie Primary School to participate in the Dictionary Distribution Project to third graders. Handing a young student their first dictionary is just one great example of engaging Rotary to changes lives here on St. Maarten/St. Martin".

During the evening and reception, three new Paul Harris Fellows were named for their service and dedication to the community. Alvin Obersi, Maria Buncamper-Molanus and Meena Ramchandani were all recognized and honored for their commitment to serving the community.

The District Governor's official visit to the region also included a trip to Saint Barthélemy, as well as meetings with the Rotaract Clubs on St. Maarten/St. Martin, and a trip to Anguilla this week. On Monday, September 16th (TODAY), Mr. Hurst will be meeting with Board Members of all the Interact Clubs on the island, at a special gathering at Carl's and Sons on the Pond Fill Road at 4:30 PM. In addition, the District Governor will attend the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School Interact Club Induction Ceremony tonight at 7 PM in the school gymnasium, where he will officially pin the new Board Members and new inductees of the Learning Unlimited Interact Club.

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

PM: "Let us look at the jobs which are being filled by expatriates and see where the gaps lie, both in education and training, in preventing St. Maarteners from getting those jobs."

PHILIPSBURG:--- During a discussion on her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams stated that Government is engaged in various initiatives to ensure that the number of persons depending on welfare is decreased and that those who are capable of doing so are being funneled into the job market. The Prime Minister also discussed training and education and ensuring that St. Maarteners are given preference in the job market.

"Clearly it is the aim of Government to ensure as much as possible that the persons who are receiving welfare and who are able to work to get them under active employment. On one hand you have the businesses that are saying that they need to bring in foreign labor because there is a lack of labor here on St. Maarten, while on the other hand others are saying that they cannot find the jobs that they need. We are addressing both issues as Government but in order to properly do so we need to research what specifically the problem areas are. On the one hand we are researching who the persons are that are looking for specific jobs and on the other hand what or who does the business community need so that we can effectively ensure sustainable employment growth for this country," stressed the PM.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of training for the job force in order to make those seeking a job more qualified for specific areas; "Training is an important part of the solution and we need to work on a specific plan amongst all of the stakeholders in the private and public sectors. Let us look at the jobs that are being filled by expatriates and see where the gaps lie, both in education and training, in preventing St. Maarteners from getting those jobs. We are also working on offering a system where people can receive assistance while working towards getting them in the workforce," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Gives Information on the Structure of Government Owned Companies

PHILIPSBURG:--- With the discussions surrounding the Amendments to the 2013 Budget reaching a high-point and with many of those discussions being centered on Government Owned Companies, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams clarified the role and structure of Government owned companies and their relationship vis a vis Government. The Prime Minister also discussed recently steps that are currently being undertaken to establish a process whereby information from Government Owned Companies reaches Parliament directly.

"Most of what we see as Government owned companies used to, in fact, be services that used to be provided by Government; airport, telephone companies, and harbor were for example all services that were provided by the Government. However, it was decided some time ago to create what we now refer to as Government Owned Companies in order to carry out the activities and services that are required while not making a part of the Government Budget. In this structure a Government Owned Company is operated as any company, with the Government being the shareholder in that company. So in this case the Government is the shareholder and the can make profit and the shareholder can then be given dividend", explained the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams also gave information concerning the established Corporate Governance Code and the Corporate Governance Council. "Government has also structured a Corporate Governance Code and a Corporate Governance Council in order to ensure that the operation of these companies operate according to the law and good corporate governance. We are now also developing a dividend policy while some companies have in fact already started to pay out dividends.

The Prime Minister further expanded on steps that she is overseeing in order to ensure that the information regarding Government Owned Companies is made available to Parliament in a timely and open fashion. "During the Budget Debates Parliament expressed frustration at not being satisfied with regards to receiving information of the Government Owned Companies. Therefore, I will establish a process whereby the Government Owned Companies will present their year reports and financials to shareholders and we will make this information available to Parliament. A member of Parliament can approach Government Owned Companies and request to look at financials out of their own accord, but I think that Government as the shareholder should facilitate that process and that is what I intend to do," emphasized the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

reginalabega26092012SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company, PJIAE N.V. has been selected to receive another international business award as "one of the most prominent businesses in its industry and region."

Known as "The BIZZ 2013," the award will be presented at a gala ceremony celebrating "business excellence" on September 29, 2013 at the Atlantis, The Palm Hotel & Resort, Dubai, UAE.

The BIZZ is granted by the World Confederation of Businesses (WORLDCOB), an international organization with headquarters in Houston, Texas (USA). Founded nine years ago, WORLDCOB's mission is to "encourage business growth, promote corporate social responsibility, and recognize the managerial excellence of its associate members." There are about 3,000 of these, spread across some 75 countries.

Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE NV, Clarence Derby, said the award is a clear indication that the hard work, commitment to excellence and dedication of the board, management, and staff of the airport has not gone unnoticed.

"This international award – the second this year – is a reward for the team work at SXM Airport," Derby said. "It fills me with joy to see that our efforts are recognized in the international arena."

For her part, PJIAE NV Managing Director, Regina LaBega, said the achievement means that as an international airport, "we're on the right path."

"We are thrilled at this news," she added. "We consider it one of the biggest birthday presents SXM could receive, coming as we prepare to celebrate the 70th anniversary of our airport in December."

In his letter to the managing director of PJIAE NV announcing the award, WORLDCOB CEO, Jesus Moran said: "We would like to take this opportunity to recognize the proven experience and steady growth that your company has experienced. It is for this reason that WORLDCOB wishes to honor and distinguish Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company NV and its team with the world's most important business recognition."

Winners of the BIZZ award are chosen by an Evaluation Committee based on the following criteria: Managerial Leadership, Management Systems, Managerial Creativity, Managerial Innovation, Product and Service Quality, Social Support, and Achievements. Last year's winners in the Middle East include: the National Bank of Bahrain (Bahrain), Doha Bank, Qatar Airways (Qatar), and Saudi Telecom Company (Saudi Arabia).

josianneflemingartsen13092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen thanked the Aruba House on September 12 for paying tribute to Elis Juliana by Mirto Lacle. In the presence of approximately 70 persons, there was a display through poetry, dance and music into the vision and life of Elis Juliana. Minister Hon. Fleming-Artsen expressed how fascinating the event was and on behalf of Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges and the Government of Sint Maarten, accepted copies of Anansi Masters Stories from Aruba and Curacao.

Ministries Worked Day and Night to Present Amendments for a Balanced Budget

PHILIPSBURG:--- On the heels of Parliament adopting the amendments to the 2013 Budget late Thursday night, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Friday updated the community and expressed thanks to Parliament on the way forward with regards to the approval of the 2013 Budget. The approval by Parliament will allow Minister of Finance the Honorable Martin Hassink to respond to the advice by the CFT on the deficit of the Previous Draft Budget approved by the former NA-led coalition in Parliament in April.

The Prime Minister started by thanking both the Chairlady and Members of Parliament for seeing the urgency in getting the amended 2013 Budget Approved; "I need to thank the Chairlady of Parliament and the Members of Parliament for, notwithstanding the sometimes heated and oftentimes longwinded debates, giving the urgency of the Budget situation the deserved attention and to have within a short period of time both the Central Committee and Public Meeting which saw the approval to the amendments of the Budget," stated the Prime Minister.

The PM went on to clarify various items with regards to some comments which were made by Parliamentarians of the opposition, including suggestions that she did not sign off on the previous Draft Budget, which is in fact the task of His Excellency the Governor; "A Member of Parliament from the opposition has stated that the reason why the Budget was not passed was because the Prime Minister did not sign off on it, which is quite an unfortunate statement. The MP should have his facts straight when informing the public he represents considering that as a National Ordinance the budget has to be signed off by the Governor. When Minister Hassink came in to office it was in fact the Governor who asked the Minister the day after he took office to make the 2013 Budget his top priority. Every day and every night Minister Hassink and his Ministry as well as all of the other Ministers were coming up with a feasible amended Budget 2013. The good thing is that the Government overall was very conscientious in its spending pattern despite us having to do our mandate to do the people's work. Moving forward now that we have an approved 2013 Budget by Parliament, the Budget will go to the Governor who will sign off on it and it then will be sent to the Council of Ministers for Co-signing. The Budget will subsequently go to the Ombudsman and the CFT for their review," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Texaco Star Mart in Cole Bay is the second gas station to join Fun Miles in St. Maarten. Fun Miles is the Caribbean's largest and most exciting customer reward program. The 1st gas station is located on the Bush Road across from Auto Depot, the former Shell Scott's gas station, they have been with Fun Miles since 2007. Clients will save one Fun Mile for every ANG 4.00 spent, and can redeem these Fun Miles for more gasoline or any other products/services with all our participating stores. All this requires is a Fun Miles card, which is also available at Texaco Star Mart. To celebrate the new partnership with Fun Miles, clients will receive Double Fun Miles at Texaco Cole Bay through October 13, 2013.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The 2013 Atlantic Hurricane Season has seen nine storm systems form as well as its first hurricane for the season.

With 11 weeks still to go, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) says residents should continue to be vigilant as storm systems can still form in the coming weeks and possibly pose a threat to the country.

At the moment two tropical systems, namely, Tropical Storm Ingrid (in the Gulf of Mexico) and Tropical Storm Humberto (Eastern Atlantic Ocean) are churning in the aforementioned areas, and poses no threat to the country.

The country is currently in the peak period of the season which runs up to the middle of October.

ODM says the community should not become complacent as we continue to move through the peak weeks of the season.

ODM is calling on the community to make sure everybody has everything in place and are storm ready.

Everybody must take the required actions to minimize the risk of injury and damage to property in case there is a hurricane strike, and the time to act is now if you haven't already. Remember, it only takes one.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

comgivenpresentationabouttreaties12092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Council of Ministers recently was given a presentation by Khalilah Peters, Acting head of the Directorate of Foreign Affairs and Danaë Daal who is a Treaty Lawyer at the aforementioned office. The presentation focused on International Treaties procedures and processes. This has become a more relevant topic now that Sint Maarten has a country status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

rotarysxmsunrisesignmouforbreakfastprogramatpwas12092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise, PJD2 Radio, Now you Know Radio Program (Valerie Van Putten) and Prins Willem Alexander School signs MOU for breakfast program for the school year 2013-2014.

Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise collaborated with PJD2 Radio and Now You Know Radio Program (Valerie Van Putten) to establish a nutritious breakfast Program for the students of Prins Willem Alexander School.

Studies have shown that students who are given nutritious breakfast daily make significant improvements in learning, school attendance, behavior and self-esteem, therefore PJD2 Radio, Now you Know Radio Program want to ensures that the 50 children of the Prins Willem Alexander School have access to a healthy breakfast each day in a safe and supervised environment. Daily breakfast will help each child start their day ready to learn.

Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise noted that the school breakfast program is growing as School Social workers continue to identify more children and youth indeed each year, Rotary Sunrise philosophy of the program is that no child should be turned away.

Rotary Sunrise thanked the sponsors for collaborating and making it possible for the Prins Willem Alexander school student to have daily breakfast which will lead them being better citizens of our community.

The School Breakfast Program is a wonderful partnership where, community organizations and businesses come together to make the nutritional needs of children and youth a priority.

Persons and Business who interested in making a difference by sponsoring a school breakfast program can contact the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise; we meet at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at www.sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

nationalsecurityservicesupervisorycommitteemeeting12092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The first meeting of the National Security Service (NSS) Supervisory Committee took place recently. The members present introduced themselves to each other. Thereafter they were given a tour of the NSS offices where they received a brief presentation with regards to the tasks and responsibilities of the service. Members of the Supervisory Committee that were present were: Judge Selma Verheijen, President, Judge Albert Beukenhorst, Vice President, Maritza James-Christina, Secretary, President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell, member, and Mavis Brooks-Solomons, Vice Chair of the Council of Advice, member, who was absent.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The 8th Annual SHTA Crystal Pineapple Awards is around the corner. On Friday November 22nd 2013 the association will once again be gathering the 'Who's Who' of the hospitality, tourism and trade industry and community of St. Maarten. This event has been established by the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association to recognize outstanding performance and those individuals, companies and organization which have made significant contributions in to tourism industry and the island as a whole.

The Crystal Pineapple Awards Fundraiser gives the private sector the opportunity to put forward the people that should really be recognized for their outstanding performance or contribution; may it be an excellent employee, exceptional manager or someone who has really contributed towards tourism, the environment, and the economy.

SHTA's famous Silent Auction will also be part of the program. The event will be filled with fun, excitement and recognitions. From the champagne cocktail hour before the event, the food stations style dinner buffet, and great ambiance, to the live entertainment and dancing at the end of the evening, this night will be one to remember for both nominees and attending guests.

Nominations can be submitted to Selection Committee from September 23rd to October 22nd, 2013. The committee will then select a maximum number of nominees per category and digitize the results for voting. Voting can take place from October 25th to November 8th, 2013, via internet and social media. Price Waterhouse Coopers will once again be in charge of overseeing the voting procedure.

So mark your calendars! Nominate somebody who you know has done an outstanding job. "Appreciation is a wonderful thing: It makes what is excellent in others be part to us as well" So November 22nd is not only their time to shine but the Island's as well!

We look forward to receiving your nominations by October 21st, 2013, via our newly improved website www.shta.com. Next week we will be releasing more information regarding the requirements for nominee submissions. Should you have any questions or would like to receive additional information, please feel free to contact us that the SHTA office, Tel: 542-0108 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- Bureau Telecommunication and Post St. Maarten (BTP-SXM) is monitoring reports of signal interference to mobile networks on St. Maarten, possibly emanating from a mobile carrier in St. Kitts – the interference is causing dropped calls, and is also affecting quality of service on the voice and data network of at least one major mobile carrier – TelCell.

For two weeks in May this year, technical staff of BTP-SXM successfully measured and isolated signal interference to mobile networks on St. Maarten that originated from neighboring Anguilla. Following extensive scanning and a spectrum analysis on Dutch St. Maarten, BTP-SXM issued a new frequency range to mobile carrier TelCell, to alleviate the problem of signal interference to the company's mobile network originating in Anguilla.

It has come to the attention of BTP-SXM that there is once again inference on the new frequency range issued to TelCell. Discussions with Technical staff of aforementioned carrier indicates signal problems are being experienced, especially in the Dawn Beach, Point Blanche and parts of Philipsburg, and that the source of this new interference could be signals originating in St. Kitts. BTP-SXM and its St. Kitts counterpart are working diligently at addressing these issues promptly.

BTP-SXM is presently conducting tests and measurements in the affected areas to determine the extent of the interference and will advise TelCell and other mobile carriers on St. Maarten accordingly. Meantime BTP-SXM will have discussions with its counterpart regulator in St. Kitts to find a permanent solution to these interference problems and will also notify mobile customers accordingly.

BTP-SXM Press Release

swescotwilliamsattelemshareholdersmeeting11092013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the annual Telem shareholders meeting at the Telem Conference Hall. Commenting on the annual meeting the Prime Minister stated that during the meeting various items were discussed including the approval of the annual accounts for 2012 as well as the Board being given discharge for 2013. "Generally speaking, notwithstanding the very competitive environment of telecommunications sector in which Telem operates, the company is able to hold its ground and is focused on the future and the things that need to be done to ensure its survivability going forward," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmhouserepsateuconference11092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen and members of the Cabinet of Sint Maarten attended a two-day conference on September 5 and 6 at the Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands given by Dr. Flora Goudappel and Jean Monnet, Chairman of the European Union (EU) trade law in the Overseas Territories.

During the conference a draft EU Overseas Association Decision (OAD) was discussed in great details in particular the shift in focus from a relationship based on Development Aid to a partnership between the Overseas, Countries and Territories (OCTs) and the EU.

In addition, there were discussions about possible alternative relationship arrangements as well as the current complex situation with respect to EU citizenship.

GREAT BAY:--- Postal Services St. Maarten (PSS) and the St. Maarten Communication Union (SMCU) signed a protocol on, September 4, 2013 in the presence of the Government Mediator regulating the process and the rules of order to be followed during the Collective Labor Agreement (CLA) negotiations. SMCU as the sole representative of the workers at the post office had requested the intervention of the mediator to get the stalled negotiations resumed. After a number of sessions with both parties, it was possible to conclude and sign this protocol which governs such items as duration of the negotiation process.

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesyvisitfromjeremyhurst11092013PM Calls for Continued Cooperation between Private Sector, Service Clubs and Government

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister and members of her Cabinet received a courtesy visit from Rotary Club District Governor Mr. Jeremy Hurst and representatives of the local Rotary Clubs on Wednesday morning. District Governor Hurst highlighted the fact that he had an excellent welcome and was exceptionally received on St. Maarten.

Mr. Hurst is the District Governor for district 7020, which is the general Caribbean Region. Explained the 535 districts across the world with more than a million Rotarians offering their service to the communities in which they live.

"I cannot highlight enough the importance that service clubs such as Rotary International plays. Together with Government we continuously strive to work with various organizations, including Rotary, to improve the wider community of St. Maarten.

At the end of the presentation Mr. Hurst pinned the Prime Minister with her honorary Rotary Pin to distinguish her as an honorary Rotarian. The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams expressed her great appreciation and gratitude and wished continued cooperation between the Private Sector, Service Clubs and Government.

The Prime Minister was awarded the title as Honorary Rotarian during the Change of Board Dinner at Infinity Restaurant in Oyster Bay on Saturday, June 8th.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Why the title Transforming Care? The Congress symbol is the butterfly, which transforms from a young insect, to a cocoon and then becomes a beautiful butterfly. The Congress is a combined effort of, the St. Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Mental Health Foundation, Turing Point, The Parnassia group in the Netherlands, SVP-CN of the BES Islands. The Congress is also supported by the Ministries of Justice and Education in an effort to create cooperation between the organizations.
Much has been suggested regarding care delivery systems, and one of the main discussions is cooperation between health care organizations as well as the stakeholders. What is being done? Formal cooperation agreements do exist between organizations in the Caribbean but the majority remains informal.
The goal of the congress is to transform how we deliver care, with the intention to improve lives of patients, prevention of criminality and community disruptions, including the economic advantage of cooperation and prevention. The focus will be on the youth the program focuses on 'Co-creating younger peoples program for resilience.'
Transformation is a painful process just as the process of the insect cocooning, but the result is a beautiful butterfly. As organizers we believe that this congress realizes a need that benefits patients and supports many in caring for addicted and psychiatric patients. The role of stakeholders and caregivers as well as, the social aspects of addiction and psychiatric care, needs more exposure in order to reduce the stigma. We have therefore have made sincere efforts to present a Congress with a wide variety of experienced and established speakers.
In short the congress contents:
Saturday evening, September 28 is the official opening by, the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever, registration and a reception. Health-care providers; local and from abroad are invited to attend.
Monday September 30, Day I.
The theme is; 'Treatment methods and cooperation agreements.'
Psychiatrist from St. Maarten, Curaçao and the Netherlands, and amongst others;
Dr. Gilbert Thomas, well known for the years that he visited St. Maarten. He is living in the Netherlands and works on a Fact team (assertive community treatment).q
From bureau Berenschot in the Netherlands Drs. Kraal will lecture about "The importance of creating partnerships in Addiction and Mental Health"
Monday afternoon, 3 simultaneous workshops 1.30 PM that are repeated at 2.45 PM.
Dr. Gandotra of MHF with Kenneth Cuvalay of Statia will conduct a workshop on "Different contexts, different challenges, setting up psychiatric and addiction care and treatment between the islands of St. Maarten, Saba and Statia"
Drs. Schloss of Social Welfare on 'Community based prevention.'
Monday evening starting 7.00 PM, 4 lectures for General Practitioners, Specialists & Pharmacists and simultaneously there will be 2 lectures for Students & Parents.
Prof. Walburg, President of the Supervisory board of the Trimbos Institute in the Netherlands and Drs. Havermans Researcher at the innovation Centre of Mental Health and the topic is "Flourishing St. Maarten"
Tuesday, October 1, Day II.
The theme is; 'Addiction psychiatry and re-socialization.' Lecturers are; Mrs. Martina of the Ministry of VSA about the results of the AIMS research (assessment instrument for Mental health systems) Mrs. Kestel of the Paho experiencing of the MHGAP and Dr. Kour of the Mental Health foundation "Addiction spectrum disorder" Dr. Noorlander from the Delta Psychiatric Centre in the Netherlands "A practical approach to addiction" and Drs. Steven van der Meer 'Sheltered Housing and means to recovery".
Tuesday afternoon 3 simultaneous lectures; 1.30 PM that are repeated at 2.45 PM Case Discussions on, 'Drugs and Alcohol abuse amongst the Youth of St. Maarten' and 'Which course to sail for child and youth psychiatry on small Islands?' By, Dr. Arndell, Dr. Jurgensen, Dr. Ferero and Dr. van Wijk.
Tuesday evening starting 7.00 PM; 'Co-creating younger peoples program for resilience.' By Professor Walburg; for this program as much as possible students and parents, educators, and stakeholders are invited.
October 2, Day III.
Wednesday's theme is; 'Youth awareness and prevention' 4 lectures
Resilience and addiction prevention, game addiction, community police, youth addiction and criminality, psychiatric evaluations and the justice system and involving parents in prevention and addiction programs, are the main topics for this morning. St. Maarten Chief of Police Mrs. Jacobs, and Public Prosecutor Mrs. van Nie and Mrs. Muller from the Parnassia group, are the speakers.
The afternoon workshop topics are: "You are UniQue: Youth prevention and treatment program for drug use, abuse and dependency", by Ms. Pengel from FMA Curaçao and 'A chain approach: Youth/Addiction/Criminality' by Mrs. Jacobs and Mrs. van Nie.
This Congress is BIG accredited for psychiatrists and general practitioners.
We hope to welcome as much as possible persons from St. Maarten and the region.
More detailed information is available on the web-site www.tc-sxm.com.

nipastudents11092013PHILIPSBURG:--- As of Monday, September 9th, a total number of 82 students have started the preparation courses at the brand new National Institute of Professional Advancement.
These prep courses can be considered as the transition phase of integrating the former Youth Development Program and SBO courses with a variety of soon to be offered advanced vocational education courses by NIPA. Until December 2013 all courses and programs are still funded by USONA as part of the Project SBO under the Ministry of Education and Division of Educational Innovation.

In the 4-month prep program students are introduced to classes and workshops related to Social Skills, Career Preparation, Hospitality, English, Practical Training, Physical Education and Information Technology.
The four groups comprise of students interested in Hospitality, Caregiver one, Maritime, Construction, Carpentry, ICT and Car Mechanics courses.
Next to the preparation program, the courses Bookkeeping, Secretary and Licensed Practical Nurse, which were originally held by St. Maarten Academy and Milton Peters College, have continued at NIPA. Next week the Caregiver's Course SPW level 1 under auspices of SIFMA, will also start.

Recently 377 persons registered and many others walk in every day to find out what the Institute can offer for them. Unfortunately the Institute cannot start all courses immediately and will gradually introduce a full program.

Persons who registered, but did not receive a telephone call from the Coordinators, will be informed at a later stage when final decisions are made on courses in the different career fields at the different levels. These programs are scheduled to start in January 2014.

manofwarshoalmarineparkfishincrease11092013Fish Abundance Increases by 10-20%

GREAT BAY:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently concluded a research project where the changes were measured in the environment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park since it was established almost three years ago. In September 2010 the Nature Foundation conducted baseline research into the health of St. Maarten's Marine Ecosystem in order to arrive at a baseline in order to determine the health of the ecosystem.

Results from the Coral Reef monitoring aspect showed that in 2010 there were significant challenges facing St. Maarten's most important coral reef areas. There was a significant lack of important fish species, including grouper and butterflyfish, which showed that this area had been significantly overfished. There was also a significant absence of lobster on the monitored site, which also indicated overfishing.

With regards to the health of the monitored coral, there was a worrying predominance of harmful Nutrient Indicator Algae observed at the Research Site. These harmful algae can indicate an increased incidence of nutrients from land runoff affecting the reef and can eventually smother and kill coral. There was also significant evidence of vessel damage which has severely destroyed some segments of reef.

However, on December 30th 2010 the then Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs the Honorable Mr. Franklin Myers signed a major step towards marine environmental protection and conservation in general for the country St Maarten when he approved the establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, the Caribbean's youngest MPA.

The research which was conducted in 2013 was done in order to show whether or not the implementation of the MPA had any changes to the environment of the coral reef area the Marine Park Encompasses.

Compared to the period prior to the establishment of the Marine Park fish abundance in 2013 increased some 10% with marked increase in grouper (20%) in general and Nassau Grouper (20%) more specifically which shows a reduction in fishing threats. Interesting also is that the data shows an increase in the presence of butterflyfish Grunts, snapper and parrotfish were again found to be the most abundant. This increase is important due to the fact that spill over of fish species outside of the Marine Park will increase fishing in local waters outside of the Marine Park.

The 2013 study also there was a worrying low number of lobsters on certain researched reefs. Unfortunately this may be due to collecting of lobster by irresponsible divers and diving guides. There was however an increase measured in Coral Shrimp.

With regards to coral, the 2013 study follow-up research showed that cover remained somewhat the same, with a five percent increase in the coral cover overall and a two percent decrease in Nutrient Indicator Algae. This is due to the fact that coral cover or coverage on substrate changes are slow to occur as the organisms are slow growing. Follow-up research will show whether the increase in coral cover has any additional effects.

Based on the research the measures that accompany the implementation of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area has shown an increase in mean fish abundance overall and in certain species specifically. There are still challenges with regards to poaching of especially lobsters within the Marine Protected Area. The Nature Foundation will continue to manage the area going forward and enforce the rules and regulations of the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area accordingly.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (the "SHTA"), the largest private business representative on the island, stresses the urgency in having the Electoral Council (the "EC") becoming functional as soon as possible. With the 2014 elections around the corner it is imperative that the EC is able to carry out the tasks that it has been entrusted with i.e. facilitating the registration of political parties wishing to participate in the elections, financial supervision of party campaign funds etc. Even though the 'Landsverordering Registratie en Financien Politieke Partijen' (the "National Ordinance") prescribes an EC, to date, the long awaited appointments of EC members have not been made.
It is commendable of Parliament to have passed a motion on regulating campaign paraphernalia and combating vote buying, in cash or in barter, via the drafting of legislation, but without an EC the recent call from Parliament requesting Government to prepare the accompanying legislation may be pointless. In accordance with the National Ordinance the EC is an entity which operates independently of Parliament and Government. A political party wishing to take part in the next election will have to submit a written request to be registered to the EC. They will only be registered if they comply with the requirements as set forth by the National Ordinance. Amongst other things registered political parties are required to submit an annual report outlining the organizational makeup of their parties, the amount of contributing members, the financial outline of contribution fees accumulated each year and the annual activities. In addition they have to submit a detailed financial report, which show amongst others an overview of the income and expenses. The EC ensures that these reports are available to the public for inspection.
As was suggested by the SHTA in their April article, individuals that are campaigning should be required to make public certain information as it pertains to the election process, including sources and amounts of campaign donations in cash, services and in kind. Candidates should make public their business interests and either take positions that don't have conflicts of interest or dissociate from those investment prior to taking office. Candidates should declare after the election how the money was spent. When elected, these officials should be focused on developing criteria, transparency, policy, legislation and oversight.
The people of St. Maarten should be able to hold their elected representatives to the highest ethical and moral standards. Qualifications and experience are to be properly evaluated when selecting the best man, or woman, for the job. With regard to any future elections, the SHTA considers electoral reform an absolute must to safeguard the democratic rights of the people of St. Maarten when choosing a government to represent them. One whose goals are solely focused on the best interests of the country as a whole, and not just in the short run but also in the long run.
Not having a fully functional EC in place can hamper the electoral process and result in a repeat of forgone years when the oversight of the political parties was minimal. This creates a discrepancy in the intention to elect the right people for the right purpose instead of for financial reasons. The EC is yet another essential tool in ensuring that democracy and the chosen government adheres to the corporate good governance, accountability and transparency. These traits lead to consistency which paves the way for true sustainable development.
The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- General Audit Chamber (GAC) is announcing that they have started on the Tax Compliance Performance Audit.
Following the presentation to the minister of Finance, Mr. Hassink, that took place on September 11th, the actual audit work, in other words gathering and reviewing information related to the performance audit on the tax compliance has started.
Following the establishment of Sint Maarten's new constitutional status on October 10th 2010, a project entitled "New Tax office of Sint Maarten" was established. Based on the work of this project, the GAC will investigate the improvement of the tax levies and tax collection, the simplification of the tax system, the tax harmonization with French St. Martin, the increase in compliance, as well as the elimination of the free riders and the revision of the tax holiday policy. These are the five objectives that were prioritized by the Minister of Finance in the 2011 Budget. The GAC will investigate if the measures were implemented, and the extent (including actual cost) this implementation relates to budget policy.
As an institution, the GAC is authorized by law to investigate (audit) the efficiency and compliance related to the management of finances and assets (revenues and expenditure) of Country Sint Maarten.
Once the investigation phase is completed, a report including recommendations and conclusions will be sent in to the minister of Finance. A final report will be issued to Parliament, where after it will also be published for the public. Publication is expected in the first quarter of 2014.
Additional information on the role, task as well as previous reports of the General Audit Chamber can be found in both Dutch and English on the internet at www.arsxm.org.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will continue its discussion regarding the 2013 Budget amendment on September 12.

There will also be a plenary public session related to the same topic in the afternoon on the same day. The Minister of Finance Hon. Martin Hassink will be present for the parliamentary sessions.

The Central Committee will meet on Thursday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg while the plenary session is scheduled for 3:00pm.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

rotaractsunriseandrotarysunrisemembers11092013PHILIPSBURG:--- In celebrating New Generation Month the Rotaract Sunrise President Norrisa Anatol chairs the Rotary Sunrise "Mother Club" meeting on Tuesday, 10 September, 2013.

  • This September's New Generations Month takes on a different meaning than in the past. The commitment to getting youths and young adults actively involved in Rotary events is very important.
  • New generation chair Paula Gordon stated that "investing in our Youth is our future". "As Rotarians we take pride in the fact that we have a youth program such as the Rotaract Club with proud Rotarians serving as caring sponsors."

The Rotaract Club discussed their upcoming projects and further discussed their year plan with the club.

Rotaract club meeting every 2nd and 4th Saturday at Holland House at 7pm and Rotary Sunrise meets every Tuesday morning at Air Lekkerbek at 7am.

10000manmarchflyer11092013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- The committee for the St. Martin Day march, also called "The 10,000 Man March for St. Martin" for November 11, 2013, has been meeting on the theme details, invited speakers, the route, and other aspects of the march/rally, said committee member Shujah Reiph.
The committee is made up of persons from both sides of the island, including businessmen, labor and religious leaders, social workers, and community and cultural activists, said Reiph.
Reiph, one of the nation's leading cultural activists, and a union leader in his own right, said that the committee has been meeting and discussing the serious issues and grievances for which the population of St. Martin is known to be very concerned and even vocal for some time. The committee in their discussion has also concluded that the march will pro-active, one with the initiative to bring about positive change for the St. Martin community.
"The march will be non-political or partisan and non-commercial. We are planning to start the march at the border point in Cole Bay/Belle View, 9 am, on St. Martin Day. The march will then rally at the Marigot Water Front," said Reiph.
"Various speakers will address the gathering of concerned people from all walks of life and from throughout our island," said Reiph.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithgracitaarrindell10092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met last week Friday with Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams regarding outstanding matters related to her portfolio as Minister of General Affairs.

The meeting focused on pending or draft legislation to be handled by the House of Parliament.

Tentative dates for a plenary session of the House have been set to finalize deliberations on the draft law pertaining to the composition of the supervisory committee of the National Security Service.

A recently submitted draft law regarding the Government's Organization is set to be handled in September in a Central Committee meeting.

The President and Prime Minister also discussed the re-establishment of monthly meetings between the two office holders set for every first Wednesday of the month.

swescotwilliams10092013PM: "We are creating opportunities on the island and channeling them into addressing youth unemployment specifically."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams outlined some of Governments plans and wishes this week, particularly regarding unemployment and youth unemployment in particular. The Prime Minister also attended the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor's We Can Build St. Maarten Together Symposium where she reiterated Governments commitment to cooperate on ensuring employment opportunities, especially for the youth within the labor market.

"We will continue to contribute to the overall program of Government to work together towards the common vision for St. Maarten. In addition to Government it is up to everyone on St. Maarten to contribute to the sustainable development of the whole island, including the work force and the labor market. Government has also made it its business to put the needs of the people, and especially with regards to jobs and the labor market, at the forefront. It is important that the community of St. Maarten to let your voice be heard in what you want from your Government and from this country. And, of course, also what you are willing to contribute to its development. Therefore the theme of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor "We Can Build St. Maarten Together" is a very important and pertinent one," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister also reiterated that the Government of St. Maarten takes the matter of unemployment in general and in particular youth unemployment very seriously and that steps are being taken to address the issue. "We are bringing together the community of St. Maarten, creating opportunities on the island and channeling them into addressing youth unemployment specifically. We have been having discussions in a tri-partite setting between Government, Labor and the Private Sector to come to an initiative to ensure that employment rates increase, especially amongst our youth, because that too is developing the country sustainably.

"It is also time that the issues regarding unemployment and the labor force be brought into the districts. Government will again be taking governance into the districts, to the people, to ensure that everyone's voice; everyone's wishes, are heard and taken into consideration. It is about involving those who are directly involved and here I challenge all, but in particular our young people to respond to the call of letting your voices be heard. Government would also like to stress that to those that are in need of assistance the Department of Labor specifically and Government in general can assist you in finding your way in the labor market. Let us collectively build this country and this great nation of St. Maarten," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Economic Licenses will be closed to the public from 12:00pm on Wednesday, September 11. Regular services resume on Thursday.

The closure of the department is in connection with staff training related to a new automated system.

The Department of Economic Affairs, located at Zoutsteeg #3, Philipsburg apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

michelleandjeremyhurst09092013Jeremy Hurst to be honored at September 11th Cocktail Reception

PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Clubs in St. Maarten/St. Martin are pleased to announce the arrival of Rotary District Governor, Jeremy Hurst, and his wife Michelle to our island. DG Jeremy is responsible for leading over 80 clubs in Rotary District #7020 which spans 16 islands and 10 countries which include: the Bahamas (excluding Grand Bahama), Turks and Caicos, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Haiti, Anguilla, St. Barthelmey, St. Martin and Sint Maarten.

His Assistant Governor, Rebecca Low, of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, stated, "We are pleased to welcome DG Jeremy and Michelle to our shores. This is their first visit to our island and they will see first-hand Rotary in action. They have a packed agenda but a few examples of their activities include: participating in dictionary distribution to students; the Readers are Leaders initiative; touring the AUC facilities; and participating in the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School Interact Club Induction and Change of Board Ceremony. As part of official duties they will also be visiting each Rotary club, meeting with our exceptional young leaders from high school Interact Clubs, as well as our young professionals from the French and Dutch side Rotaract Clubs. As a motivator, DG Jeremy's mission is to engage all aspects of Rotary in order to change lives."

The District Governor will be honored by at a cocktail reception on Wednesday, September 11th at 7pm at The Pointe Restaurant in the Sonesta Macho Resort. Tickets are available from any Rotarian or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For more information about the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

lourdesdiazwithshtareps09092013International Jury to decide on Blue Flag Status

PHILIPSBURG:--- Compliance of Sint Maarten's Blue Flag locations Divi Little Bay Beach Resort and The Yacht Club Isle de Sol with the 2013 Blue Flag Criteria was scrutinized and evaluated by National Blue Flag Jury Members during the months of July and August.

The Blue Flag is an exclusive, voluntary eco-label annually awarded to beaches and/or marinas that meet a specific set of criteria concerning environmental information and education, water quality, safety, services and environmental management. The eco-label has become an international symbol of quality recognized by tourists and tour operators around the world and can be used as a promotional tool for the awarded beach, marina, or destination.

The Blue Flag Program is owned and operated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), an independent non-profit organization. EPIC has been a member of the Foundation for Environmental education since 2008 and is the National Coordinator of the Blue Flag Program on St. Maarten. Divi Little Bay and Isle the Sol Yacht Club were first awarded the prestigious Blue Flag eco-label in October 2011, making Sint Maarten the first and only Country in the Dutch Caribbean to have Blue Flag locations.

Vice-President of the Foundation for Environmental Education, Mrs. Lourdes Diaz visited Sint Maarten recently to inspect the island's Blue Flag locations as part of the annual evaluation process. During her visit Mrs. Diaz provided a presentation on the Blue Flag and Green Key Eco-labels to representatives of the hospitality industry at the Sint Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association's (SHTA) office.

The National Blue Flag Jury and EPIC have forwarded their findings to the International Blue Flag Coordination which will in turn submit the document to the international Blue Flag Jury for final decision making during the month of September. The International Jury includes representatives of the FEE Board of Directors (Chairman), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), International Lifesaving Federation (ILS), International Council of Marine Industry Association (ICOMIA), the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and an Environmental education expert.

Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC) partnered with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in 2008 to work towards establishing the Blue Flag Program on St. Maarten. Since then the program has enjoyed the support of successive Governments, the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association, the St. Maarten Timeshare Association and the Marine Trades Association.

Sint Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association
Environmental Protection In the Caribbean

wibwebsite09092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) is continuing its commitment in being St. Maarten's premier financial institution with the unveiling of its newly redesigned website. WIB is celebrating the transformation of the new website that aims to deliver improved customer interaction. In an easy to navigate web page customers are able to search for information on all major Debit and Credit cards, Online Banking, Loans, Mortgages, Insurances and much more.

The website is fixed with an easy navigation drop down display of all WIB's products and services. The following new features are also added to the WIB website such as:

  • Online application forms for Auto & Personal loans, Mortgages, and Credit cards
  • Current Exchange Rates
  • Print forms
  • WIB Links (News, Travel, Weather and more)
  • Online brochures
  • Easy Charge (Cell phone recharge instructions for Prepaid phones)
  • ATM locations (via Google Maps)

And much more...

WIB online visitors will now experience a more vibrant and seamless view of WIB and its many convenient online services. To visit our newly redesigned website, go to: www.wib-bank.net. WIB's website was developed by the excellent work of Litemon.com. WIB ensures that the new website is focused in the right direction – an updated, convenient, and more user-friendly direction that the residents of St. Maarten can appreciate.

"The Windward Island Bank, we are your partners in progress".

drugoverdosefillin09092013AIRPORT:--- On Saturday, September 7th, 2013 at approximately 1:30pm, a Simpson Bay Police Patrol was sent to the Princess Juliana International Airport to investigate a case, where a lady was found unconscious in the restroom. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to personnel of airport security who took them to the restroom room where the lady in question was found. In the restroom they found a lady lying on the floor with a very weak pulse. The lady in question had a syringe in her mouth and in the immediate surroundings of the victim there were two small plastic bags containing a small amount of heroine and cocaine. The lady in question with initials C.E.S.C. from Venezuela possibly lost consciousness while injecting herself with one of these illegal substances. Personnel of the Airport Fire Department arrived on the scene and provided the victim with first aid. Dr. DEKETH arrived shortly on the scene and reanimated the victim. The victim, after regaining consciousness admitted to the doctor and investigating officers that she is a drug addict. She was taken to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further medical treatment. The syringe and drugs were confiscated for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

SUCKER GARDEN:--- On Saturday, September 7th, 2013 in the early morning hours, two Community Police Officers (CPOs) were sent to Sucker Garden in the vicinity of "Gas King", where residents in the neighborhood smelled a strong scent of cooking gas. On the scene the investigating officers could smell the strong scent of the gas and also hear a "hissing" sound. The owner of the establishment was immediately informed of the situation. Shortly after, the owner with initials J.R. arrived on the scene and turned "off" a valve of a large gas cylinder and explained to the officers that the cylinder was left open over night as part of the process to have it cleaned. The officers reprimanded the owner of the establishment for his very irresponsible action and he was told to report to the police station with all the necessary permits to operate the business. Personnel Fire Department who was also on the scene will have this situation investigated.

KPSM Police Report

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to congratulate Toastmasters Rolando Tobias (District Governor), Valerie Brazier (Lieutenant Governor Marketing) and Raymond Romeo (District Treasurer) for a well done in representing Sint Maarten abroad.

The aforementioned Toastmasters comprised three of the top Toastmasters on the District 81 Executive who made history by successfully leading the District to #7 out of 89 Districts world-wide for the term 2012-2013.

Tobias is the first District Governor to head Toastmasters District 81 in its 10-year history.

Brazier as Lieutenant Governor Marketing saw District 81 expand from 17 to 20 territories, as clubs were started on Antigua, Anguilla and Dominica.

While the District has goals set for growth in three categories of three per cent, five per cent and eight percent, Brazier achieved 12 per cent growth in new clubs and 10 per cent growth in member payments as a result of her marketing campaigns and initiatives.

Romeo was lauded for being among the top three district treasurers in the world when it came to financial accountability and reporting. As a result of his prudent attention to details and Toastmasters International financial accountability, the District ended the term with the highest surplus of dues collected in its 10-year history.

"I am very proud of Tobias, Brazier and Romeo for what they have further been able to achieve as being part of Toastmasters. Congratulations on behalf of the Council of Ministers and the people of Sint Maarten.

"They were already dynamic people within our community, and their thrust and contribution as being part of Toastmasters has made a regional impact. This is testament that we can achieve anything. Work hard and you will reap the benefits.

"Tobias, Brazier and Romeo started from the premise of back to basics. They worked from the bottom up. The mission of Toastmasters is to help people learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking, the aforementioned seen as the basic vital skills to promote self-advancement of oneself that leads to the betterment of mankind.

"Tobias, Brazier and Romeo, you have done your country well as well the St. Maarten Toastmasters Club. You are in your own right leaders and role models for young adults in our community to follow. Congratulations to you once again and to the homegrown club as well, and continue to shine and make our country shine along with you," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

District 81 comprises 122 clubs in 32 Areas forming six Divisions spread throughout the Caribbean in 20 territories.

patricialourensphilip11082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip is reminding those persons, institutions, and organizations that are involved in keeping the Intangible Cultural Heritage alive with craftsmanship; this week is the final week to submit their application for funding.

Minister Lourens-Philip urges all persons active in the field of Culture in particular the craft section to take advantage of this program and submit their project(s) in a timely manner.

The Netherlands became signatory to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention in 2012.

The Dutch Participation Fund for the coming year has as its theme "Craft/Ambachten," and has reserved funds for persons, institutions, and organizations that are busy keeping the Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Kingdom of the Netherlands alive.

As such the Dutch Participation Fund is seeking projects that contribute to keeping the Intangible Culture alive, in particular that of craft.

The deadline for submission of projects is September 15, 2013 before 12:00 pm Sint Maarten time or before 17:00 hours Netherlands time.

Should you require further information please contact the Department of Culture at 542-2056 or 543-1172 or you can contact directly the Dutch Participation Fund via www.cultuurparticipatie.nl

The Minister wishes all persons, institution and organizations the best in this endeavor!

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever, is reminding stakeholders to attend a very important meeting regarding "We Can Build Sint Maarten Together."

Those invited to attend this very important national push to address labour related issues are the business sector, unemployed persons, youth, investors, small business owners, and non-profit foundations.

The meeting will address work permits, employment and unemployment, the rights and responsibilities of employers and workers.

The aforementioned factors in one way or the other are part and parcel of wealth creation as well as its distribution that is needed for economic prosperity as well as social justice, and that solving our society's problems could not be found without a partnership between the social partners.

The meeting will be held at the Dutch Quarter Community Center on Monday, September 9 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

The program, "We Can Build Sint Maarten Together," is a strategic push by the Minister of Labour which was initially launched on May 1, Labour Day.

"For the betterment of our Country, for the betterment of our communities, and for the betterment of our people, this initiative is to create economic prosperity. Government is about improving the quality of life of our people.

"This is just the beginning of a process to make Sint Maarten work. Let us all work together to create opportunities for everybody as we move forward together as a country," Minister Cornelius de Weever stated on Sunday.

The Minister is reminding all stakeholders to join in resolving the pertinent issues that impact the economic sustainability and prosperity of the country, and Minister De Weever is of the resolve that together we can do this.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will meet on September 09 in a public plenary session with respect to the closing of the 2012-2013 parliamentary year.

Faction leaders of Parliament will give closing statements on Monday in relation to the 2012-2013 parliamentary sitting year.

A solemn session of the House will be held on September 10 leading to the opening of the 2013-2014 parliamentary year by the President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell. His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday will present the Government's plan of action for the new sitting of the House.

The closing of the parliamentary year will take place on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg while the opening session for the new parliamentary year will be on Tuesday at 10:00am.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament closing session on Monday. The Tuesday session will be for invited guests, dignitaries, heads of Government Ministries, judicial branch and members of the High Councils of State.

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

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

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinic located at Brouwer's Road 6A (behind FATUM Insurances Building) will be closed on Thursday, September 12. Regular services resume on Friday.

The closure of the clinic on Thursday is related to a staff training session that will take place on the same day.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For additional information you can call: 543-2070 or 543-2071.

"Un-attached youth urged to participate"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Youth Affairs in collaboration with the Departments of Sports, the Department of Social Development, Court of Guardianship and St. Maarten Youth Council will be hosting the 2013 Youth Round Table Conference on September 26th and 27th 2013.
As a part of the conference, the Department will be conducting a survey among the youth from the ages of 12 through 24 years. This target group will include students attending high school, employed youth as well as unemployed youth. The goal of the survey is to garner the thoughts, views and opinions of our wider youth populace which will ultimately assist the Department in developing much needed additional Youth Programs in relation to the present Youth Policy.
The Department is therefore encouraging all youth who in particular are not attached to any educational and or labor institution to visit the Department of Youth Affairs to participate in this survey. The survey will take approximately 15 minutes and will address the following topics:

  • Family Life
  • Youth Crime
  • Sports and Recreation
  • Youth participation
  • National Identity.

The deadline for this survey will be on Friday September 13th, 2013.
The Department of Youth Affairs is located upstairs in the Vlaun Building across from the Post Office and can be reached on telephone 54- 22056 or 54-23873.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented recently on the law initiative of Member of the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament André Bosman of the liberal democratic VVD party to regulate the permanent residence of people from Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Maarten in the Netherlands.

"During the course of many years numerous Dutch politicians and political parties have come with suggestions to limit the movements of persons from within the Kingdom in the Netherlands. To mention just one we have to just go back to the days of the politician Rita Verdonk, who played around for a while with similar laws. There have been several attempts at limiting in particular the entering and settlement of persons of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom in the Netherlands and they have tried different ways to come to those restricted measures. Their ambiguous argument is that too many people from the Caribbean go to the Kingdom and are creating a mess in the Netherlands. That is the argument that is being used," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister continued by explaining that in the recent case of the member of parliament Bosman drafting an initiative law of persons from the island settling in the Netherlands, that that case concerns matters of unity and equality within the Dutch Kingdom, something which is being disregarded by the Bosman law. "The thing is that Bosman has drafted this is a matter regarding the Netherlands and that the Netherlands can set those requirements as it relates to restrictions to other citizens in the Kingdom. This would be done without consultation of equal Kingdom Partners. This is a law geared towards citizens of Dutch Kingdom. Our Parliament has said absolutely no to this initiative, as have numerous other institutions in the Netherlands. Many Dutch politicians have the false opinion that other persons from the other countries in the Kingdom are affecting the Netherlands. This is definitely not the case and is completely false. To this Law Initiative I say absolutely not; this is one kingdom. If the Netherlands wants to discuss items with regards to the other countries in the Kingdom it should always occur within the context of equality," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) hereby announces that the intersections leading to the Prins Bernhard Bridge will be closed to motorized traffic from 2:00am Sunday until 6:00am in connection with the resurfacing of the road.

Motorists are advised to be alert and attentive to the road traffic deviation signs which will indicate road closures and re-routing of traffic.

Roads that will be affected are intersection Bush Road/Prins Bernhard Bridge and intersection Zagersgut/A.Th. Illidge Road area Eddy Auto Supply, and intersection Walter Nisbeth Road/Prince Bernhard Bridge, and the road intersection Longwall Road/Prince Bernhard Bridge. There will be no through traffic at all these intersections.

Motorists are advised to observe the traffic directional signs when road works are underway during the aforementioned hours.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that may be caused with the partial closures during work activities.

mauricelakeinsuckergardennearbridge07092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake visited the district of Sucker Garden specifically the area known as the Keys to check out a small project that is making a difference in the community.

The Minister's going back to basics approach shows that simple repairs make a world of difference.

"Repairs to the bridges in Sucker Garden, Keys, and King of the Seas area improve safety for pedestrians and vehicles. It's all about going back to basics and improving the quality of life for the people.

"Member of Parliament Hon. Romain Laville also suggested about the bridge repair and possibly widening them. With the little funds we have we are trying our best to do what we can to improve the different districts and addressing the safety issues," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Friday.

Ministry VROMI Department of Infrastructure Management executed the bridge repairs which entailed the repair of the entrance bridge to the Keys and three bridges on the King of the Seas road which were in dire need of repair.

Minister Lake pointed out on Friday that his back to basics approach also entails putting young people to work.

"The young adults will be playing a very important role in helping their communities by enhancing their districts by fixing and repairing the little things that don't costs a lot of money but can make a big difference in the lives of the residents.

"As I meet with the various Community Councils, we will be doing a lot more. Ministry VROMI will also utilize its own staff keeping in mind the precarious financial situation of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, September 5th, 2013 at 5:00am, a Philipsburg Police Patrol was sent to Zenitel on the Juancho Yrauquin Boulevard to investigate an attempted robbery. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to the two female victims from Venezuela with initials A.D.V and J.C.C. who stated that they had gone out to a night club in the Maho area. After leaving the night club they took a gypsy-taxi who would take them to their residence in Point Blanche for the price of $ 20,-. On the way in the Philipsburg area the driver of the gypsy-taxi changed his mind and wanted to be paid $ 70,- instead of the $ 20,- that was previously discussed. According to the victims they were then driven close to the seaside between R.B.C.-bank and Diamond Casino. The driver and victims stepped out of the car at which time the driver demanded the $ 70,-. When the victims refused to pay that amount the driver attempted to pull at one of the victim's bag. The victims took off running and screaming for help until they ended up at the security booth of Zenitel at which time the police were notified of the incident. A search of the area was done to try to locate the possible suspect but he was not found. The victims were taken to their home and advised to file an official complaint with the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

armedrobberyfillin13082012CUPECOY:--- On Thursday September 5th, 2013 at approximately 3:00pm, a police patrol was sent to Porto Cupecoy to investigate an armed robbery. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to the on duty security officer who stated that earlier before he saw two young men riding on a scooter coming from the French side enter the premises. A short while after he saw the same young men leaving the premises in the direction of the French side. The security guard continued by saying that he later learnt that the two young men in question had robbed the office of "Low Lands Management and Partners" at gunpoint. The investigating officers went to the scene where they talked to the two employees of the establishment who stated that they were robbed at gunpoint by the two young men who tied them up with "binding straps". The robbers searched the entire office, taking four cellular phones and a small amount of cash. The Special Robbery Unit is investigating the case.

KPSM Police Report

maxpandt06092013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- As of 2008 Mr. Th. M. Pandt, also known as Max Pandt, was appointed as a member of the Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht) based on the Decree temporary financial supervision BES, upon proposal of the former islands territories Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (BES). When the Law on finances for the public entities Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (Wet financiën openbare lichamen Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba - Wet FinBES) came into effect, this appointment was prolonged. Mr. Pandt notified Minister Plasterk of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations (Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties) that he would rather not be eligible for prolongation in October, when his appointment expires. So, he will also retire as a member of the Cft BES.
Mr. Pandt has a long career as a fiscal expert. He has worked at the Tax Office (Belastingdienst) of the Netherlands Antilles and has his own tax consultancy on Sint Maarten. Aside from his career in the tax world, Mr. Pandt was lieutenant governor for the Windward Islands (Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius and Saba). Mr. Pandt is an active publicist and commentator in the area of tax and sits in a number of supervisory boards. With his sincere involvement with the islands, Mr. Pandt made an important contribution to the completion of the financial supervision on the BES. His dedication over the past five years is highly appreciated.
Following the procedure described in the Wet FinBES, the public entities will now look for a replacement to postulate as a member of the Cft BES for the vacant position. Finding a replacement for Mr. Pandt, and the desired connection between all partners involved, however will take the necessary time. For the benefit of continuity of the Board of financial supervision, Mr. Pandt indicated to be willing to remain in the Board until a replacement is appointed. The Cft BES furthermore consists of President Prof. Age Bakker and the member Sybilla Dekker, upon proposal of The Netherlands. The remaining members of the Board of financial supervision Curaçao & Sint Maarten, Mr. Alberto Romero and Mr. Richard Gibson, are advisors for the Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba.

CFT Press Release

district81toastmasterstrio05092013CINCINNATI, Ohio:--- DTM Rolande Tobias, DTM Valerie Brazier & CC Raymond Romeo comprised 3 of the top Toastmasters on the District 81 Executive who made history by successfully leading the District to #7 out of 89 Districts worldwide for the 2012-2013 term. DTM Tobias led the District as District Governor, while DTM Valerie Brazier functioned as Lieutenant Governor Marketing and CC Raymond Romeo was District Treasurer.

During a press conference on Thursday September 5th at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, the three Toastmasters leaders from St Maarten pointed out the achievements of Leaders from the territory of St Maarten. DTM Tobias is the first District Governor to head Toastmasters District 81 in its 10 year history. For the past nine years, the leadership was held by leaders from Barbados, Curacao & Jamaica only. As such, the achievements by Tobias along with DTM Brazier and CC Romeo are very significant for the island. "St Maarten has some of the best Toastmasters leaders in the Caribbean and the achievements by these 3 St Maarteners are testimony to the caliber of leaders on this island" DTM Tobias was quoted as saying.

With a plan of approach focusing on:

  • Showing the big picture of Toastmasters
  • Empowering our leaders to fully perform their
  • Lighting the fire within, not under

District Governor Rolande Tobias guided the District to the 7th highest overall in the world out of 89 Districts worldwide.
This was made possible through great leadership, but also with the outstanding performances by the leadership Executive, including Lieutenant Governor Marketing Valerie Brazier & District Treasurer Raymond Romeo.
As LGM, DTM Valerie Brazier was responsible to ensure marketing initiatives were devised to attract new members, retain existing members and facilitate club growth and expansion of the District. Because of her determination, District 81 expanded from 17 to 20 territories as clubs were started on Antigua, Anguilla and Dominica. While the District has goals set for growth in three categories of 3%, 5% and 8%, LGM Valerie Brazier's achieved 12% growth in new clubs and 10% growth in member payments as a result of great marketing campaigns and initiatives.
District Treasurer Raymond Romeo brought the District to a new level of financial discipline while overseeing the Treasury. With a solid plan of approach, strict financial discipline and reporting, he was lauded for being amongst the Top 3 District Treasurers in the world when it came to financial accountable and reporting. As a result of his prudent attention to details and Toastmasters International financial accountability, the District ended the term with the highest surplus of dues collected in its 10 year history.
As a result of the hard work and effort by all members of the District Executive Council, District 81 made history by posting the following achievements:

In the rankings of the three critical success factors by which each District is measured throughout the world and in the regions, District 81 has also been very impressive with its achievements:

CATEGORY

World ranking

Region ranking

New Clubs

4

1

Member payments

13

2

Distinguished clubs

8

1

spread throughout the Caribbean in 20 territories:
Aruba (2), Bonaire (4), Curacao (17), Jamaica (24), Cayman Islands (2), Barbados (14 ), Trinidad & Tobago (9), Guyana (6), Grenada (4), St Vincent & the Grenadines (7), St Lucia (2), Martinique (1), Haiti (22), St Maarten (5), BVI (Tortola (1) & Virgin Gorda) (1) & St Croix (1), Puerto Rico (6), Antigua (1), Anguilla (1) & Dominica (1).

As a result of their performance, the District Trio, which included Rolande Tobias, Ewart Adams and Valerie Brazier received great recognition during the Hall of Fame ceremony at the 2013 Toastmasters Convention in Cincinnati Ohio. DTM Rolande Tobias was lauded for his outstanding leadership skills and for having guided the Team and District to such high prominence. DTM Valerie Brazier also received great accolades for her role in marketing the District and realizing growth in practically all areas.

The mission of the Toastmasters District is to help more men and women learn the arts of speaking, listening, and thinking—vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind.

To accomplish this mission, the network of Toastmasters clubs must continually expand, thereby offering more people the opportunity to benefit from the Toastmasters program. Encouraging educational excellence in each club is fundamental in accomplishing this mission. Members receive the full benefits of their membership through the Toastmasters communication and leadership programs.

For more information on Toastmasters District 81, please visit our website at www.caribbeantoastmasters.com.

rotaryclubofstmartinsunrisesupportsactiveparentingforfathersprogram05092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise welcomed to their weekly breakfast meeting Mr. Rodney Davis, who is the youth social worker at the Sundial School; Mr. Davis gave a presentation of the program which is currently being offered at the school under the name of "Active Parenting of Teens".

The objective of the Rotary Club is to join forces with Mr. Davis and offer a similar program focusing mainly on fathers under the theme "Active Parenting for Fathers", the primary objective of this program, is to train fathers how to act as a parent; what their role as a father is and what their role as part of the family is. The relevance of this training tool is that it has been shown that there is no youth problem that cannot be solved with good parenting skills. The Impact on children and youth has been staggering and it forces us to be cognizant of what is happening today and understand the cultural differences between generations at this time, between now and the past. The goal of the tool is to reach higher standards in parenting; to increase their learning ability by building character and respect for themselves and for their families. With the acquired skills they would know how to get their kids to survive in life to become movers and shakers

As Rotarians we can support the training by letting our voices be heard by using the media to broadcast best practices and to profile role models. As society it is also important to redefine the definition; it is outdated and need to be adjusted to better reflect the current world we are living in. The program will be delivered free of charge with fathers opting to purchase the parenting guide book if they desire and will require 15 hours, spread over 6 to 12 weeks, with social and competitive fellowship activities specially designed for men.

Although the role of the father is being highlighted in this training, the role of family as a unit is pivotal on different levels of education.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM.

jacinthhunkins05092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Jacinth Hunkins, a 12 year old student of the St. Maarten Academy School has placed second in the Junior Division of the annual FCCA Essay contest organized and coordinated by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

The competition is designed to create a greater awareness amongst our school going population on the importance of the tourism industry and more specifically, the Cruise Industry.

This year's essay competition attracted entries from 19 nations, with the theme being:
"What makes my destination different from others."

As the winner in her age group, Jacinth Hunkins will be awarded a cash scholarship of $1500,- with the St. Maarten Academy School receiving a monetary award of $1500,-

"This is indeed a proud moment for St. Maarten, to have a second place winner in this important competition, says Edward Dest, Interim Head of the Tourist Office. He further states, that the competition is deemed very important and that it helps our students to get a better understanding of our tourism based economy and by understanding it, they become more positive contributors to the further development of the industry."

Once more we would like to congratulate Jacinth, her teacher and the St. Maarten Academy School on this great accomplishment.

reverendbrisset05092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The lists of over twenty performers are ready for the biggest all male concert of the year, the 7th annual Philipsburg Methodist Church's "Men Night of Praise Concert".

Member of the Organizing Committee Frank Arnell said, "The organizing committee consisting of members from both church classes have worked hard with the various performers and the MNOP Band to put on an exciting show this Saturday". "We now look forward for the public to come out and enjoy the show", concluded Frank Arnell.

The partial list of male artists includes Chardonay Martis, Nathaniel Wyatt, Denisio Mardenborough, Jeffrey Richardson, Dion Gumbs, Don Froston, Marvin Dollison, Philipsburg Men's Fellowship, James Brothers, Bobby Ottley, Isidore York, Russel Simmons, Reverend Brisset & Reverend Hunkins.

The public's contribution to attend to this dynamic concert is $10 at the door or from any member of the organizing committee and funds raised will aid annual church missions.

The concert is partially sponsored by Steve Rodgers, Sound 2000, PJD-2 Radio, AVS News, Philipsburg Broadcasting, Pearl FM and
St. Maarten Cable TV/TV15.

The 7th annual Men's Night of Praise Concert, is being held this Saturday, September 7th starting at 7:30pm sharp at the Philipsburg Methodist Chapel on Front Street.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday September 5th, 2013 at approximately 9:40am two police bike patrol officers while on the in the vicinity of Ocean's Hotel noticed that a jet ski had capsized due to the rough seas in Great Bay. They also noticed that two persons, a male and female were holding on to the Jet Ski and screaming for help. One of the officers immediately jumped into the water and swam towards the victims to assist them. The female jet ski passenger, who could not swim, panicked after the vehicle overturned causing her to fall into the water. She then started holding on to the male passenger pulling him under water, causing him to become quite exhausted. The female victim with initials A.M., traveling on board of the Royal Caribbean Cruise ship was rescued by the officer and brought ashore. She was in good health and did not require any medical treatment.

KPSM Police Report

homemadebomb05092013EBENEZER:--- On Thursday August 5th, 2013 in the morning hours, a student of the Sint Maarten Academy PSVE was injured by a homemade plastic bottle bomb. This bomb, which can be made with different chemicals available at any supermarket, was thrown possibly by another student. When the bomb exploded the victim suffered a superficial wound to his face and his body. He was treated on the scene by paramedics. The parent of the victim was notified. The entire premises of the school was searched by police. The remains of the plastic bottle bomb were found and confiscated for further investigation. At this time no one has been arrested as a suspect in this case.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten marketing representatives from around the world reported a very active year in 2013 as well as new plans for increased promotions for 2014, all within the confines of the current budgets allotted to the Tourist Bureau. Among the findings released at the recent Annual Tourism Marketing Conference were:

Tambourine, the island's North American advertising and marketing firm, reported that advertising budgets were focused on generating visits to the VacationStMaarten.com website which resulted in an increase in visitors to the destination.

Tambourine's goals and objectives in 2013 have been designed to put St. Maarten in the consideration set for any traveler seeking a Caribbean experience. The company, which created the very successful VacationStMaarten website, has used Paid Search (PPC) as the cornerstone of its digital marketing budget.

Tambourine's digital advertising campaign generated millions of impressions across a wide spectrum of Google sites in various countries as well as The New York Times' website.

Before Tambourine began advertising in March there were 5,145 Fans on the destination's Facebook page and today there are 91,706 Fans (a 1,682% Increase since March). St. Maarten went from being #26 in the region for Facebook fans to #7.

Tambourine is planning a co-operative on-island food festival promotion to attract top editors, critics and consumers. It would include a year-round promotion in print, online and social media featuring St. Maarten and its culinary scene.

KTCpr, the marketing and public relations firm for North America, noted that public relations in the U.S. and Canada were focused on generating articles by mainstream media as well as promotions on national television and local radio shows in key market areas.

KTCpr reported that there were more than 50 separate press releases averaging about one per week going out directly to U.S. and Canada trade and consumer publications as well as distribution via public relations efforts in Europe, South America and Puerto Rico by the other marketing agencies in those areas. The releases promote events taking place throughout the year, individual hotel packages and island-wide promotions as well as the cruise port and airport.

A number of press trips were conducted with major press attending from the bridal markets, family travel magazines, culinary trades, sailing publications and individual writers from major consumer magazines and newspapers.

Promotions included local and national television such as the Dr. Oz show and the Ellen Degeneres show as well as major multi-day coverage on the WPIX Morning Show in the New York tri-state area following on-location filming in St. Maarten by one of the Morning Show's personalities.

Upcoming promotions will include some nationally syndicated network and cable television shows with an emphasis on filming on location in St. Maarten. A radio come-along is being discussed in Canada with a major Toronto radio show in which the host will bring his show and a plane load of vacationers to St. Maarten to broadcast live from the island.

The other agencies representing St. Maarten were equally active in their particular markets including:

Interamerican Network, based in Brazil, increased its efforts across South America and reported that Copa Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding to launch or increase service from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Panama, Columbia, Paraguay and Uruguay. Brazil was up 40% this year and Columbia and Argentina were up 23%. They are working with Copa as well as Avianca to increase air service out of South America where interest is up for vacations, especially in the slower summer season.

Interamerican started an aggressive social media campaign in 2013 launching a Facebook Fan page for Spanish-speaking countries and another for those who speak Portuguese. Partnering with Ecuadorian tour operator Dream Travel, Interamerican promoted seven charter flights from Quito to SXM. Interamerican also intends to take small groups of journalists to St. Maarten as well as a celebrity to be a "St. Maarten Ambassador."

InterReps in Holland increased structured marketing online which resulted in a gain in bookings to St. Maarten. They are focusing on the wedding and honeymoon market as well as culinary and also launched an online promotion with a weather channel generating 3.5 million impressions and more than 10,000 visits to the website. They also are working diligently to help add air service from Scandinavia where there is interest from vacationers to visit St. Maarten.

Paradigm Associates out of Puerto Rico has increased its joint promotions with JetBlue and has also launched a major year-round, island-wide promotion in movie theaters in which St. Maarten is featured in the theater and movie trailers with vacation prizes for movie goers. They have also been working closely with JetBlue on increasing frequencies of air service between Puerto Rico and St. Maarten. Paradigm has launched a number of major shopping mall promotions at high traffic sites including Plaza las Americas, the largest shopping center in Puerto Rico, which has generated broad interest in St. Maarten.

Sales activities in North America have been enhanced by the addition of Jaunt Marketing headed up by Catherine Pentiricci, a veteran sales rep who previously worked on the St. Maarten account 10 years ago. She returns with her own company and numerous connections to the travel industry trade. She will be representing the destination as the St. Maarten Tourist Office in Canada, attending key trade shows on behalf of St. Maarten and bringing top tier travel agents to visit the destination on fam trips. She also is working closely with KTCpr in New York to assist with promotions in Canada.

Also working closely with KTCpr in New York is Cyndi Miller Aird, a veteran sales rep who has represented the destination for more than 25 years. She continues to seek out relevant travel agent and consumer trade shows and coordinates with the hoteliers on St. Maarten to attend these shows. Cyndi also sets up and conducts training sessions for both travel agents and tour operators and in her spare time visits 30 to 40 individual travel agents each month to educate them and update them on the latest hotels, restaurants and activities on island. She also works closely with the tour operators and airlines to ensure that they promote and sell the destination.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The 2013 Atlantic hurricane season has churned out seven named tropical storms so far, and as part of its annual hurricane awareness campaign, the Office of Disaster Management would like to shed some light on protecting your pets this hurricane season.

Without proper planning, pets can get injured, lost, or worse. Hurricane shelters cannot accept pets because of space and for health and safety concerns.

It is important to always plan ahead. If you need to evacuate your home, you should have a plan in place for your pet.

Prepare an area at home that is easily cleaned, such as a bathroom or utility room. Do not leave your pet near a window. Leave several days of dried food and water. The bowls that you place the aforementioned in should be set-up in such a way that they do not spill over.

For additional information, contact one of the Veterinary offices or an animal welfare organization. Remember, plan ahead.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The House of Parliament will meet on September 09 in a public plenary session with respect to the closing of the 2012-2013 parliamentary year.

A solemn session of the House will be held on September 10 leading to the opening of the 2013-2014 parliamentary year by the President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell. His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday will present the Government's plan of action for the new sitting of the House.

The closing of the parliamentary year will take place on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg while the opening session for the new parliamentary year will be on Tuesday at 10:00am.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament closing session on Monday. The Tuesday session will be for invited guests, dignitaries, heads of Government Ministries, judicial branch and members of the High Councils of State.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, commends Members of Parliament for their clear message to the Council of Ministers pertaining to the Annual Reports of the government owned companies. Appreciation was also expressed towards the Minister of Finance for his efforts into looking at government's expenditures with an aim to reduce costs.
The firm stand that the Members of Parliament have taken with regard to the disclosure of annual reports is in direct line with the principles outlined in the presentation by the former Lieutenant Governor Franklin Richards on Corporate Governance during the Annual General Meeting of the SHTA earlier this year. One of the principle guidelines outlined in his presentation indicated that Government should "act as an active owner and establish a clear and consistent ownership policy, ensuring that the governance of owned companies is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner, with the necessary degree of professionalism and effectiveness." During his presentation at the time, Mr. Richards also noted that the entire 2013 Budget for Country St. Maarten is Naf. 457.9 million (38% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP)), while the balance sheets of the 12 government owned companies together are Naf. 1.8 billion (or 150% of GDP) and that the turnover of these companies was expected to generate Naf. 603 million or 50% of GDP. Having a clear understanding of the financial statements of these government owned companies is therefore imperative for Parliament's sound decision making process.
The SHTA is in agreement with the stance Parliament has taken as this corresponds with the guidelines and policies that the SHTA has been advocating since its inception i.e. transparency, accountability and good governance. While SHTA clearly supports economic diversification to create a more stable and resilient economy, we may want to consider maximizing the diversification within the tourism industry before looking into other industries which could require substantial initial investments.
The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. "By making St. Maarten a better place to live, we also create a better place to visit" stated the SHTA. For more information please contact the SHTA office at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

josianneflemingartsenattendshiswaboatshow04092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen accompanied by members of the Cabinet from the Sint Maarten House, visited the HISWA on the Water 2013 Boat Show where the Sint Maarten Tourist Bureau in cooperation with the Heineken Regatta took part in the event.

There were more than 200 stands at the Boat show and the focus of the Tourist Bureau was to market the nation's well-known premier Heineken Regatta.

The Boat show was held in Ijmuiden, Amsterdam.

PHILIPSBURG:--- What was a rumor became a reality on Wednesday when SMN News recovered a copy of the request for a Vehicle Inspection Permit that was submitted on April 15th, 2013 by the bodyguard of Member of Parliament Romaine Laville to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (TEATT).

Under the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government, Member of Parliament Romaine Laville and Member of Parliament Frans Richardson were the ones to overlook and appoint the Minister of TEATT. It was during the last weeks of the SWW-2 cabinet Laville had his bodyguard Rogelio Gregory Koeiman submit a letter to the Minister of TEATT requesting a Vehicle Inspection Permit. SMN News learnt that this was one of the reasons the SWW-2 government fell because MP Laville was demanding too much from the government he was supporting at the time and his coalition partners namely the National Alliance was not going to allow an Independent MP to hold the government hostage for his personal benefits.

The request SMN News recovered will be published under this article for clarity. On April 15th, 2013, Laville's bodyguard Rogelio Gregory Koeiman, a former police officer who was convicted and ousted from the Police Force, requested that the Government of St. Maarten grant him a permit to operate a Motor Vehicle Inspection Center. SMN News further learnt that a well-established businessman is in the loop to operate the Vehicle Inspection Center when the license is granted to MP Laville's bodyguard Rogelio Gregory Koeiman.

It should be noted that Member of Parliament Romaine Laville is seeking to obtain licenses for the businesses his colleague MP Silvia Meyers is currently operating. SMN News also learnt that MP Meyers had no idea that the government she is currently supporting is trying to undermine her companies and her family that is working and managing the Water Taxis and Vehicle Inspection Center by living up to the demands of MP Laville.

Another permit/concession Laville wanted from the Ministry is a concession from the Harbour Group of Companies to operate Water Taxis. SMN News learnt that Laville already has a license to operate Water Taxis but he does not have the concession with the Harbor Group Companies to use his license.

According to reliable information provided to SMN News, the only two companies that have exclusive concessions to operate Water Taxis are St. Maarten Tender Services (STS) owned by Robert Velasquez and Connecting Waves (CW) owned by Etienne "Toochi" Meyers. The source said that STS has about 16 years lifespan left on their contract which is also renewable, while Connecting Waves obtained their first contract with the Harbor Group of Companies about four years now. Currently STS leased out their license to Connecting Waves (CW) who is also operating some of the vessels owned by STS. SMN News further learnt and confirmed that someone went to Bobby's Marina about two weeks ago and offered to purchase the remaining four vessels that STS has moored at Bobby's Marina. "This person came to Bobby's Marina in the name of the MP and his bodyguard, because somehow government will ensure that Laville gets a concession/permit to operate his Water Taxis from the Harbor to Philipsburg."

Members of the former government SWW-2 cabinet said when government fell that MP Laville was demanding quite a lot from the government of St. Maarten even though Government is unable to balance its 2013 budget. Laville wanted $600,000.00 to give the organizers of TEMPO even though government lost last year when they injected $400,000.00 in TEMPO Turns 7. It is also said that Laville wanted two million dollars to clean trenches and when he was told that government did not have that kind of monies right now he let go some foul language at a Minister and informed him that he needed to ensure that what he wants is placed in the 2013 budget.

Laville also obtained longlease land in the name of Joe's Construction while the SWW2 cabinet was in office. Efforts made to reach the Meyers family and MP Meyers on Wednesday proved futile.

Click here to view the request submitted by Rogelio Gregory Koeiman to obtain a Vehicle Inspection Permit.

tabletennisgovernorscupchampionship04092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Youths between the ages of 10 and 18 battled it out last Saturday during the first round of the St. Maarten Table Tennis Federation Governor's Cup series at the L.B. Scot Sport Auditorium in the presence of His Excellency drs. Eugene Holiday.

The game set up was "Round Robin style" whereby all players played 6 different opponents in the strive to come out to the top of the rounds. The youngest player of the tournament went undefeated in all 6 matches leading up to the finals. His opponent had 5 wins and 1 loss tied with the defending champion from last year. During the final match, young Josiah P. (10) won his first round against Garwin 13-11 after which Garwin retaliated with a 15-13 win. The beginning of the third round was tense, the sparse crowd cheered them both on and Young Josiah secured the championship winning with a 11- 8 score.

After the match his excellency presented all participants with a medal as a token of appreciation and handed the Grand winner his cup.
His Excellency mentioned that discipline is important for all youngster while building themselves and he is proud to see the improvement of the players compared to the championship last year.

Coach Radjouki thanked all the Sponsors, participants, media personalities and parents that came out to support.
"We will push to make bring this great sport on another level on St. Maarten."

The next tournament is scheduled for October 26th at 10 am sharp in the L.B.Scot Sports Auditorium Hall.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In its efforts to continuously improve their customers' experience using Chippie mobile service UTS has made a number of changes to benefit Chippie postpaid customers when traveling abroad. Chippie postpaid customer can continue to use Chippie service on the network of another mobile provider when traveling; which is called roaming. UTS has negotiated considerably lower roaming rates with roaming partners and is passing these savings on to its postpaid customers traveling abroad with their Chippie service.

To further assist customers in monitoring roaming charges while traveling, UTS has also implemented an SMS notification system. Customers will automatically receive a free SMS notification when roaming, another when roaming charges exceed an amount of ANG 250 and subsequent messages for every ANG 250 of additional charges thereafter.

Aside from the above, Chippie customers can also do their part to avoid incurring unnecessary roaming charges. Receiving and listening to voicemail messages or having data services running in the background while your device is idle also incurs roaming charges. UTS therefore recommends deactivating data roaming and deactivating the 'forward call' setting on the device to avoid being charged for usage abroad.

For additional information on the newly adjusted roaming rates Chippie postpaid customers may contact UTS at +1721 542 0101.

mauricelakevisitsashastevenshillsidechristianschool04092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Wednesday went back to basics when he visited his former elementary school once known as the St. Peters Hillside School.

Tatiana Arrindell, Parents/Teachers Association President of the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School, has introduced a new program called, "Products of Hillside Christian School."

This program is designed to motivate students to greatness. Each month the students will be introduced to different professionals in the community, which all attended and/or graduated from the St. Peters Hillside School now known as the Hillside Christian School.

For the month of September the invitation was extended to Minister Maurice Lake to kick off the program. Minister Lake gave the students of group seven and eight, seven steps to success. The kids listened energetically and in amazement to know that one of their own was now holding the position of Minister.

"I too am a product of Hillside and am glad that I can give back to my school in this position as President of the PTA Board," Tatiana Arrindell said on Wednesday.

Arrindell is also urging other "Products of the Hillside Christian School" interested in coming in and giving the students a motivational talk to please contact the office of the Asha Stevens Hillside School.

Minister Lake stated that it was an honor giving back to his school as alumni and sharing with grade seven and eight his seven success factors as a former student. The students wrote down Lake's seven success factors and will apply it to their life long journey in education.

The seven success factors are: 1) have a positive attitude at all time. Your attitude determines how you act in life; 2) Be a team player, to be supportive of your teacher, classmates and friends; 3) Perseverance, never quit; 4) Respect yourself and others; 5) Do your homework, keep up to date with your lessons; 6) Be a leader and not a follower; 7) Be an overachiever, strive for the best and more, and to always give it your best.

In closing the students sang the school song and Minister Lake wished them all the best with their studies and reminded them they are Sint Maarten's future and to make the country proud of them.

Minister Lake also disclosed to the students his favorite bible verse, "When the enemy put doubts in your head," Philipians Chapter 4, verse 13.1, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Minister Lake reminded the pupils that Jesus says all things and not just one thing and for them to keep their head up and follow their dreams and goals and be the best they can be.

Also present for the motivational speech were: Principal Clara Curiel and Managing Director and Co-founder Asha Stevens.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that the Hensley Beaujon Street will not be accessible as of Friday, September 6 at 8:00pm.

The street will not be accessible during the weekend due to infrastructure works that will be carried out in connection with the laying of a new sewage line to connect an additional part of Back Street to the main sewage line.

The Department of Infrastructure Management is asking all motorists and pedestrians to pay keen attention to their surroundings when in this particular area and to follow all traffic and directional signs.

The infrastructure works will be carried out over a 10-day period starting on Friday evening, and all safety and precautionary measures will be taken with respect to the site area.

Measures will be taken to ensure that school buses and parent's dropping/picking-up or walking their children to/from school are able to do so in a safe manner in the week of September 9.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

The Acting Commander of the Voluntary Corps of Sint Maarten (VKS) hereby announces that the VKS will be having a target practice on Saturday September 7, 2013, from 10 AM - 5 PM at the shooting range, located at Emilio Wilson's Estate.

The general public is requested to exercise caution when passing through this area.

The Acting Commander regrets any inconvenience caused.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet September 05 with Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip.

The committee will meet on Thursday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the House session is regarding the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) report about the state of children's affairs.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

swescotwilliamsandtedrichardsonpresentcheckstofccacompetitionwinners03092013PM: "This shows the type of talent and awareness regarding issues amongst the youth of St. Maarten."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was joined by Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication the Honorable Ted Richardson in presenting the checks to the St. Maarten winners and participants in the Florida and Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Poster Contest. On behalf of the FCCA the Prime Minister presented a Scholarship Check worth USD $1500 dollars to second place winner Isiah Haakmat of the Learning Unlimited School for winning second prize in the Senior Division out of dozens of entries from thirteen nations from within the Caribbean. The Learning Unlimited School also received a scholarship from the FCCA for taking part in the competition.

Sidney De-Weever of the Browlia F. Mailard Campus of the Methodist Agogic Centre also won a cash scholarship worth USD $200 dollars for making it to the final round in the Junior Division.

"I was very happy to be able to present the check to these two very talented students of St. Maarten for reaching so far in the FCCA Poster Contest. This not only shows the type of talent on St. Maarten, talent which Government is continuously fostering, but also an awareness on the environment and the steps taken to address the environmental issues on St. Maarten and in the Caribbean," commented the Prime Minister.

Students were asked to create a poster that visually depicted at least three ways to help protect the environment and promote environmental awareness in their country. The competition's purpose is to promote and stimulate environmental awareness among students and to effectively educate the younger generations on the importance of environmental protection.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The College Financieel Toezicht (CFT) has sent an advice to the Dutch Government to issue an instruction to St. Maarten. The letter of the CFT to the Dutch Government was sent on Monday. The Chairlady of the Parliament of St. Maarten Gracita Arrindell was notified of the advice the CFT sent to the Dutch Government on Tuesday while St. Maarten Parliament was busy handling the "Bosman" law.

The letter to Chairlady Arrindell quoted article 14.3 of the Financial Supervision Act of Curacao and St. Maarten.
The CFT in their letter said that they sent an advice to the Kingdom Council of Ministers informing them that they should give St. Maarten an instruction based on Article 14, Paragraph 2 in order for the country to establish a fixed budget that complies with the Kingdom law.

CFT advises Council of Kingdom Ministers to give an instruction to Sint Maarten to adopt its budget.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht - Cft) has advised the Council of Ministers of the Kingdom on September 2nd to give an instruction to Sint Maarten in order to accomplish an adopted 2013 budget that complies with the norms of the Kingdom Act.

The Cft has reached this decision in view of the fact that Sint Maarten still does not have an adopted 2013 budget. The deadline the Cft and Sint Maarten agreed on was end of August.

CFT Press Release

Click here to view the letter sent to the President of Parliament by the CFT informing her of the decisions taken by the CFT.

claireelshot03092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions' weekly press conference on Tuesday that the government of St. Maarten has decided to abandon their plans to bring in a foreign consultant to conduct a study on how the COLA payments will be made.

Elshot said that these were some of the things that were discussed during the meeting with the various unions and the Council of Ministers last week. Elshot said the Minister of Finance Martin Hassink told the unions that he had to do some research to see exactly what was done by his predecessor and now that he saw that there is no binding agreement with the consulting agency in the Netherlands he can abandon the idea and work with the unions instead. Elshot said the Prime Minister (Minister of General Affairs) sent a proposal to the GOA and the unions also sent their proposal on how the COLA has to be paid. She said all of these matters will be hammered out in an extra-ordinary meeting on Friday.

Elshot further explained that they informed the Council of Ministers of the mandate given to them by their membership for the 2011 and 2012 COLA payments and how they intend to move forward on this matter. She also stated that government gave the unions the necessary explanations as to why only 50% of the COLA was placed in the 2013 budget for the year 2011.

Elshot was also very peeved at an unsigned letter that was sent to teachers and school managers this week from one of the Catholic School Boards. The letter states that teachers and their unions have been planning a strike with regards to the COLA payment. She said the person who sent the letter states that the teachers are claiming their rights but they took the time to explain to the teachers the responsibilities they have towards students attending school. Elshot did not give all the details of the letter but said that it stated that if the unions should call them to meetings during school hours then they need to consider the rights and responsibilities they have towards the students attending school.

Elshot said the COLA rights is not a right of teachers alone but it's a right for all civil servants and even workers in the private sector. Elshot said the unions have a problem with the unilateral decision on the COLA payment. She made clear that the letter that was sent to the teachers is an infringement on the rights of the teachers. Elshot said the unions call their members to update them on the decision taken by government. She said the same teachers are removed from the classroom to participate in trainings and other programs such as the "Catholic Week". She asked what happens then to the rights of God chosen children. The WITU President said they have been calling for social dialogue in order for them to come to a reasonable solution on issues affecting teachers and schools. Elshot said she wants to know the motive of the letter that was sent to the teachers because she wants to know if this is some form of intimidation and if that is the case then it is regrettable. "I would like to inform my members that nothing comes without struggle."

Elshot said last week she also got "flacked" by certain school boards because she spoke out about issues taking place at these schools. "Right now, the place is extremely hot which is affecting students and teachers in the classrooms. Besides that, the flow of sewage at schools is also hampering the school environment." On Tuesday several photographs were sent to SMN News showing flowing sewage at the St. Maarten Academy PSVE section. The sewage flow is in the computer lab that has been disturbing the teaching sessions at the school. On several occasions the computer lab had to close down leaving students without an alternative.

Elshot also condemned the vandalism that took place at one of the schools in St. Peters (Browllia Millard Campus, M.A.C) less than two months after school reopened. She called on the community to assist the police to safeguard the school facilities because education is fundamental for society. "Those that opens the door of a school closes the door to a prison, schools should be considered a sanctuary and not for vandalism."

tthompson03092013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of the Workers Institute for Organized Labor (WIFOL) Theophilus Thompson told reporters at the Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions weekly press conference on Tuesday that he fears that the same strategies that were used by Simpson Bay Resort Management Company (SBRMC) are now being used by Sonesta Group of Companies.

Thompson said one of the main problems the union is having is that some workers don't know their rights even though they have been working on St. Maarten for years. He said some workers sign labor agreements that are not in their benefit. He said that the Sonesta Group of Companies was allowed to close down one of their companies without following the necessary procedures and open a new company to which the workers were transferred. He said one of his fears is that the benefits the workers accumulated for the years they worked for the old company is not taken up in the new company. "This is a very serious problem in the labor market, since the Pelican Resort saga we noticed that a number of companies have been changing hands. The same owners of old companies are opening new companies without ensuring they preserve the rights of their workers." Workers from the Sonesta Group of Companies suffered through this kind of operation. The workers that suffer the most are the workers of the housekeeping department. "These workers were asked to sign new contracts and their accumulated rights were not taken into account." Thompson said because of the lack of knowledge, workers have been giving up their rights. He called on workers to ensure they inform the unions that are representing them about these new contracts even if the employers tell them that nothing changes. The unionist said when workers sign these work contracts they in fact take back the power they gave to the union. He said an employee who worked for six years at Maho was recently told that her services are no longer needed.

Thompson said WIFOL is representing the workers at Great Bay Beach Resort and the union is expected to sign a new Collective Labor Agreement (CLA) next week with the company.

WILLEMSTAD/PHILIPSBURG:--- Hans Wesselink (66) will be, for the next six months, the interim Chief Public Prosecutor for St. Maarten. He succeeds Hans Mos who returned to the Netherlands on August 1, 2013. Wesselink arrived on Sint Maarten with his wife on Friday August 30th. Wesselink knows the island, he was Prosecutor in St. Maarten from 1989 to 1993 and at that time the first Prosecutor living on the island. Wesselink occupied several positions at the Public Prosecutor's Office in the Netherlands in Rotterdam, Den Haag, Den Bosch, and Amsterdam. Since March 1, 2012, he left the Public Prosecutor's Office for his retirement. Hans Wesselink is in the Netherlands part of the "Toetsingscommissie Gerechtelijke Deskundigen" and also editor of the "Nieuwsbrief Strafrect".

bikinibeachcloseddown03092013ORIENT BAY:--- The owners of Bikini Beach Elisa Cohen and Kontiki Beach Phillipe Just and their employees experienced "Black Tuesday" on Tuesday morning when the Gendarmes and two hussiers showed up to execute an eviction order of the court. The gendarmes and the two huissiers that delivered the order to the Prefecture was on the location as the eviction took place leaving the business owners and their workers outside.
It is bizarre and almost unbelievable to see that the same gendarmes that investigated the owner of SINDEXTOUR were used to assist the two huissiers with the expulsion of Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach on Tuesday. Mathieu Doligez of the Prefecture of St. Martin said in an invited comment that the only thing the Prefecture did was give the two huissiers assistance to execute the order of the administrative court. Doligez said that there are three cases involving the business persons and the owner of SINDEXTOUR. He explained that in one of them there is a penal procedure which will be heard on September 19 and 20th and another case will be heard in the commercial court on September 11th. When asked if the expulsion done on Tuesday will hinder the other cases, Doligez said absolutely not because all of the procedures are different and in different courts.
Elisa Cohen said she got the time to remove the perishable items from the building. Cohen said the hussiers gave her one month to remove everything from the building. She said that when she does that she must remove everything at the same time. Cohen said that while all of this was happening the electricity and gas were also cut while the locks on the establishment were changed. "All of this happened in front of my 15 employees who are jobless today."
Bikini Beach has been operating on St. Martin for over 20 years and the company has a number of employees who worked for as long as 20 years for Cohen. On Tuesday those workers were left speechless because of the decision taken by the Prefecture to assist with the eviction while they are one week away from a hearing which is scheduled for September 11th, 2013. The administrative court gave a ruling once to evict these two businesses in April 2013. However, the commercial court is still to hear the case which has been contested by the two businesses.
kontikibeachcloseddown03092013That eviction was scheduled to take place on August 7th, 2013 but the lawyer representing the two companies met with Prefet Phillipe Chopin on August 9th, 2013 where he asked the Prefet to turn over certain pieces of documents to him in order for him to see why he (The Prefet) chose to evict the owners of the long time businesses while they are still waiting for their hearing which is scheduled for September 11th, 2013. The attorney also pleaded with the Prefet to hold off on the eviction especially knowing that his clients appealed the decision and a hearing is scheduled for September 11th, 2013 and the upcoming criminal hearing for the issuance of the AOT is scheduled for September 19th and 20th 2013.
According to information received from the two businesses, Prefect Chopin decided to hold off on the eviction on August 7th, 2013 and decided he will execute the eviction order on September 2nd, 2013 even though the eviction hearing is scheduled for September 11th. It is still not clear why the Prefet chose to walk this route and if he is intentionally hindering justice from taking its course. The eviction of the two businesses on Tuesday seems to have become a personal vendetta between the two hussiers, the vice prosecutor, and the lawyer representing Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach.
SMN News also learnt that the Vice Prosecutor of St. Martin Flavien Noailles intervened on Monday in an effort to stop the eviction but the Prefet refused to show leniency towards the businesses and the Prosecutor that is leading the criminal investigation on the issuance of the AOT.
It should be noted that Prefet Philippe Chopin also contested the issuance of the AOT that was issued to SINDEXTOUR.
The case surrounding AW33 of Orient Beach has made headline news since the Collectivity of St. Martin decided to renew an AOT for SINDEXTOUR owned by Norbert Luftman. Several elected officials have been detained and questioned on the issuance of the AOT, Luftman had his passport taken away by the Prosecution and he also had to put up a bond of Euros 300,000.00 but the criminal court judges quickly revoked that and returned Luftman's passport while lowering the bond. The judges lowered the bond without hearing the victims and their lawyer.
The case of the AOT was called on March 19th, 2013 and the judges of the Criminal Court said that the only case that will be heard on September 19th and 20th is the issuance of the AOT to Luftman. On this date, Vice President Guillaume Arnell has to appear before the court to answer several charges as to why he issued an AOT to SINDEXTOUR while the requests submitted by Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach were not handled.

damascussyriaareaaffectedbychemicalattack03092013The United States Government assesses with high confidence that the Syrian government carried out a chemical weapons attack in the Damascus suburbs on August 21, 2013. We further assess that the regime used a nerve agent in the attack. These all-source assessments are based on human, signals, and geospatial intelligence as well as a significant body of open source reporting.Our classified assessments have been shared with the U.S. Congress and key international partners. To protect sources and methods, we cannot publicly release all available intelligence – but what follows is an unclassified summary of the U.S. Intelligence Community's analysis of what took place.

Syrian Government Use of Chemical Weapons on August 21
A large body of independent sources indicates that a chemical weapons attack took place in the Damascus suburbs on August 21. In addition to U.S. intelligence information, there are accounts from international and Syrian medical personnel; videos; witness accounts; thousands of social media reports from at least 12 different locations in the Damascus area; journalist accounts; and reports from highly credible nongovernmental organizations.
A preliminary U.S. government assessment determined that 1,429 people were killed in the chemical weapons attack, including at least 426 children, though this assessment will certainly evolve as we obtain more information.
We assess with high confidence that the Syrian government carried out the chemical weapons attack against opposition elements in the Damascus suburbs on August 21. We assess that the scenario in which the opposition executed the attack on August 21 is highly unlikely. The body of information used to make this assessment includes intelligence pertaining to the regime's preparations for this attack and its means of delivery, multiple streams of intelligence about the attack itself and its effect, our post-attack observations, and the differences between the capabilities of the regime and the opposition. Our high confidence assessment is the strongest position that the U.S. Intelligence Community can take short of confirmation. We will continue to seek additional information to close gaps in our understanding of what took place.

Background:
The Syrian regime maintains a stockpile of numerous chemical agents, including mustard, sarin, and VX and has thousands of munitions that can be used to deliver chemical warfare agents.
Syrian President Bashar al-Asad is the ultimate decision maker for the chemical weapons program and members of the program are carefully vetted to ensure security and loyalty. The Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center (SSRC) – which is subordinate to the Syrian Ministry of Defense – manages Syria's chemical weapons program.
We assess with high confidence that the Syrian regime has used chemical weapons on a small scale against the opposition multiple times in the last year, including in the Damascus suburbs. This assessment is based on multiple streams of information including reporting of Syrian officials planning and executing chemical weapons attacks and laboratory analysis of physiological samples obtained from a number of individuals, which revealed exposure to sarin. We assess that the opposition has not used chemical weapons.
The Syrian regime has the types of munitions that we assess were used to carry out the attack on August 21, and has the ability to strike simultaneously in multiple locations. We have seen no indication that the opposition has carried out a large-scale, coordinated rocket and artillery attack like the one that occurred on August 21.
We assess that the Syrian regime has used chemical weapons over the last year primarily to gain the upper hand or break a stalemate in areas where it has struggled to seize and hold strategically valuable territory. In this regard, we continue to judge that the Syrian regime views chemical weapons as one of many tools in its arsenal, including air power and ballistic missiles, which they indiscriminately use against the opposition.
The Syrian regime has initiated an effort to rid the Damascus suburbs of opposition forces using the area as a base to stage attacks against regime targets in the capital. The regime has failed to clear dozens of Damascus neighborhoods of opposition elements, including neighborhoods targeted on August 21, despite employing nearly all of its conventional weapons systems. We assess that the regime's frustration with its inability to secure large portions of Damascus may have contributed to its decision to use chemical weapons on August 21.

Preparation:
We have intelligence that leads us to assess that Syrian chemical weapons personnel – including personnel assessed to be associated with the SSRC – were preparing chemical munitions prior to the attack. In the three days prior to the attack, we collected streams of human, signals and geospatial intelligence that reveal regime activities that we assess were associated with preparations for a chemical weapons attack.
Syrian chemical weapons personnel were operating in the Damascus suburb of 'Adra from Sunday, August 18 until early in the morning on Wednesday, August 21 near an area that the regime uses to mix chemical weapons, including sarin. On August 21, a Syrian regime element prepared for a chemical weapons attack in the Damascus area, including through the utilization of gas masks. Our intelligence sources in the Damascus area did not detect any indications in the days prior to the attack that opposition affiliates were planning to use chemical weapons.

The Attack:
Multiple streams of intelligence indicate that the regime executed a rocket and artillery attack against the Damascus suburbs in the early hours of August 21. Satellite detections corroborate that attacks from a regime-controlled area struck neighborhoods where the chemical attacks reportedly occurred – including Kafr Batna, Jawbar, 'Ayn Tarma, Darayya, and Mu'addamiyah. This includes the detection of rocket launches from regime controlled territory early in the morning, approximately 90 minutes before the first report of a chemical attack appeared in social media. The lack of flight activity or missile launches also leads us to conclude that the regime used rockets in the attack.
Local social media reports of a chemical attack in the Damascus suburbs began at 2:30 a.m. local time on August 21. Within the next four hours there were thousands of social media reports on this attack from at least 12 different locations in the Damascus area. Multiple accounts described chemical-filled rockets impacting opposition-controlled areas.
Three hospitals in the Damascus area received approximately 3,600 patients displaying symptoms consistent with nerve agent exposure in less than three hours on the morning of August 21, according to a highly credible international humanitarian organization. The reported symptoms, and the epidemiological pattern of events – characterized by the massive influx of patients in a short period of time, the origin of the patients, and the contamination of medical and first aid workers – were consistent with mass exposure to a nerve agent. We also received reports from international and Syrian medical personnel on the ground.

We have identified one hundred videos attributed to the attack, many of which show large numbers of bodies exhibiting physical signs consistent with, but not unique to, nerve agent exposure. The reported symptoms of victims included unconsciousness, foaming from the nose and mouth, constricted pupils, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Several of the videos show what appear to be numerous fatalities with no visible injuries, which is consistent with death from chemical weapons, and inconsistent with death from small-arms, high-explosive munitions or blister agents. At least 12 locations are portrayed in the publicly available videos, and a sampling of those videos confirmed that some were shot at the general times and locations described in the footage.
We assess the Syrian opposition does not have the capability to fabricate all of the videos, physical symptoms verified by medical personnel and NGOs, and other information associated with this chemical attack.
We have a body of information, including past Syrian practice, that leads us to conclude that regime officials were witting of and directed the attack on August 21. We intercepted communications involving a senior official intimately familiar with the offensive who confirmed that chemical weapons were used by the regime on August 21 and was concerned with the U.N. inspectors obtaining evidence. On the afternoon of August 21, we have intelligence that Syrian chemical weapons personnel were directed to cease operations. At the same time, the regime intensified the artillery barrage targeting many of the neighborhoods where chemical attacks occurred. In the 24 hour period after the attack, we detected indications of artillery and rocket fire at a rate approximately four times higher than the ten preceding days. We continued to see indications of sustained shelling in the neighborhoods up until the morning of August 26.
To conclude, there is a substantial body of information that implicates the Syrian government's responsibility in the chemical weapons attack that took place on August 21.As indicated, there is additional intelligence that remains classified because of sources and methods concerns that is being provided to Congress and international partners.

MOTION

The Parliament of Sint Maarten in public session on the 3rd day of September 2013

CONSIDERING

  • That the Permanent Committee for Safety and Justice in the Second Chamber of the States General by letter dated July 11th 2013 requested the Parliament of Sint Maarten to give a reaction to the private member's bill (initiative draft law proposal) of the member Bosman, containing regulation of taking up residence of Dutch Citizens of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten in the Netherlands (Parliament document 33325);
  • That the Countries of the Kingdom in accordance with the Charter of the Kingdom of the Netherlands of 1954 have a common Dutch nationality and that at the realization of the Charter the choice has been made for one unified Dutch nationality whereby for the establishment of the nationality no distinction is drawn of origin or loyalty to a country of the Kingdom;
  • That the private member's bill (initiative draft law proposal) of the member Bosman makes distinction of origin and loyalty to countries within the Kingdom. The private member's bill (initiative draft law proposal) after all draws a distinction between Dutch (Netherlands) citizens who form part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, whereby the establishment in the Netherlands of Dutch citizens originating from Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten is restricted;
  • That such a distinction (discrimination) furthermore is in flagrant conflict with the current provisions of international conventions (treaties) to which the Netherlands is bound.
  • That such a distinction (discrimination) among other things is in conflict with the requirements of the order to equal treatment and the prohibition of discrimination as that is described in article 26 of the Convention on Civil and Political Rights), article 5 of the International Convention on the eradication of all forms of Racial discrimination, article 1 of the Twelfth Protocol at the European Convention on the Human Rights and the Fundamental Freedoms and provisions for the execution of EU-conventions on the right to freely travel and to stay on the territory of the EU-member states;
  • That such a distinction (discrimination) furthermore also does not comply with article 1 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on the requirements of the order for equal treatment and the prohibition of discrimination;
  • That in this case no objective and reasonable justification exists for such a distinction (discrimination) between the Dutch citizens of Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten on the one hand and Dutch citizens of the Netherlands, non-Dutch citizens of the E.U and foreigners from non E.U. member states on the other hand;
  • That the Parliament of the then Netherlands Antilles many times and in different ways has expressed its disapproval of earlier unilateral policy measures and proposals from the Netherlands, which intended to realize a legal regulation of admission and residence of Antillean Dutch citizens;
  • That the Parliament of Sint Maarten concurs with and wishes to ratify the position adopted earlier by the Parliament of the then Netherlands Antilles;

RESOLUTION

  1. The Parliament of Sint Maarten resolutely rejects the private member's proposal (initiative draft law proposal) of the member Bosman.
  2. The Parliament of Sint Maarten urges the Government of Sint Maarten to make every effort in order to ensure that the initiative draft law proposal of the member Bosman does not gain force of law.
  3. The Parliament of Sint Maarten requests the Government of Sint Maarten urgently to inform the relevant international organizations and instances of the initiative draft law proposal of the member Bosman;

and proceeds to the order of the day.

Copy of this motion to be sent to:

  • the Government of Sint Maarten;
  • the Government of Aruba;
  • the Government of Curacao;
  • the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands;
  • the Government of the Netherlands;
  • the Committee on Safety and Justice of the Second Chamber of the States General;
  • the Second Chamber of the States General;
  • the First Chamber of the States General;
  • the Island Councils of the Public Entities Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba;
  • the Committee for the Human Rights;
  • the European Parliament;
  • the European Committee against racism and intolerance;
  • the Decolonization Committee of the United Nations;
  • - the Latin American Parliament (Parlatino);
  • la Conferencia Permanente de Partidos Políticos de América Latina y el Caribe; (Copppal);
  • CARICOM;
  • the Foundation Consultative body Caribbean Netherlands nationals (OCaN );
  • Movemento Antiano i Arubano pa Promové Participashon (MAAPP);

sarahwescotwilliams05052013PM: "It is important to have a collective vision as to where we would like to see St. Maarten."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has outlined plans to launch two pilot projects that will address areas where St. Maarten is lacking based on the Millennium Development Goal Report for St. Maarten. The Prime Minister explained that the Millennium Development Goal, or MDG, Report highlighted some areas the Country needed to address in terms of its Sustainable Development going forward.

"As per the date of 101010 when we look at international standards and norms, St. Maarten needed to be able to respond to questions and needed to be able to take part in the reporting that occurs on an international level as far as our people are concerned.

"The MDG report for St. Maarten was finalized after 101010 and subsequently presented. The report covered St. Maarten and Curacao according to international requirements that have been set in the area of sustainable development and there have been targets that have been set as an internationally recognized measuring mechanism with regards to that development. We now know where we stand as far as accomplishing the eight Millennium Development Goals," explained the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also explained that coming out of the MDG Report there were two areas that were highlighted which showed that the development lacked in two specific areas and that Government will address these two areas specifically. "In the process we will also be tackling two of the Millennium Development goals to move this country forward in the areas of Goal 1: poverty eradication and Goal 2: environmental sustainability.

"How often have we not been asked the question where would you like to see St. Maarten in the next five or ten years? It is therefore important to have a collective vision as to where we would like to see St. Maarten be in the future. Generations to come may have to change it and tweak it but this is the process we want to see on St. Maarten. We have to step up to the plate.

"We have been spending some time on the organization of these two projects because we recognize how important it is. The project itself must be sustainable so we have set it up in such a way that the process is monitored by a steering group consisting of public and private individuals chaired by the Prime Minister.

St. Maarten is doing well in the other goals but the two of Poverty Eradication and Environmental Sustainability were being identified as two where some additional focus should be put so that by 2015 we can look back and see how we are doing as a new country," explained the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also explained that during her forming part of the Kingdom Delegation at the Rio +20 Summit, participants at the conference established the Sustainable Development Goals and established ways on going forward in realizing them. "It is important that we take these Sustainable Development Goals into consideration with regards to our own development. We need to know what those particular goals mean for St. Maarten and how to move forward with it," emphasized the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

fireserviceatmaccampus03092013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Classes at the MAC School Browllia Maillard Campus will be back to normal on Tuesday, September 3 at 8:00am.

On Monday teachers, parents and pupils were confronted with empty fire extinguishers scattered throughout the school grounds.

The Fire Department responded to the situation and sprayed down the grounds with water to wash away the contents of the emptied extinguishers.

The school remained open on Monday. Parents were allowed to pick up their children if they had a respiratory condition or a concern for their children's health.

The Fire Department indicated that the chemical agent used in fire extinguishers do not pose a threat because it was released out into the open air. If the content of the extinguishers were released in a closed space then it could cause problems to those with asthma and possibly skin irritation. Apparently the vandalism took place over the weekend.

The fire extinguishers will be refilled to ensure that the campus meets fire codes.

hurexsteustatius02092013ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius:--- The first weekend of September was a busy one on Statia. After the arrival of the support vessel of the Royal Netherlands Navy, HNLMS Pelikaan, and the Marine Corps Company from Aruba on Friday, the people of Statia had a short time to prepare themselves on the disaster exercise on Saturday and the Navy Introduction Day on Sunday.

Disaster Exercise
Two car crashes with several victims, a leaking fuel truck and a fire kept the Disaster Committee, the Police, the Fire Brigade and the different medical services very busy. In cooperation with the oil company Nu Star, the Netherlands Navy constructed a very realistic disaster scenario. The different services on Statia got the opportunity to exercise how to handle such a difficult situation. It was quite the challenge for them but they managed well. After a few hours the wounded people were evacuated, the fire was extinguished and the roads were free of car wrecks. In the evaluation, the Disaster Committee and the different services were happy with this great opportunity and the things they learned.

Introduction Day
On Sunday, the harbour of Statia was transformed in a small navy village where people could visit HNLMS Pelikaan and the coastguard cutter Poema. The marines of the Netherlands Marine Corps had some cool events for kids: they could get a camouflaged face and they could shoot. There were different demonstrations from the Coastguard and the marines and there was even a flyby of a Dash Coastguard airplane.

Saba
After the weekend the ships and the Marine Corps left for Saba, where they will also organize a disaster scenario and an introduction day.

On Saturday, September 7st, 2013, Scouting Antiano District Sint Maarten will resume their activities with a sports day.
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00pm
Place: At our Clubhouse opposite the Ruby La Bega School in Retreat Estate.
For youngsters from 4 -17 years. If you are 17 years and up and love to work with kids, you are welcome into our scouting organization.
For more information contact Mrs. Merlyn Schaminee-Miguel, at 520 1053

sermeetswithsmdf02092013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, August 28, 2013 the board of the Social Economic Council (SER) met with the interim director Mr. Keith Franca of the Sint Maarten Development Fund (SMDF). The SER has taken the initiative to gain better insight in the activities of the NGO-community. The scope of the SER includes the quality of life and the NGO's play an important role therein.
In May 2012 the SMDF was established to replace the funding organization AMFO. AMFO received funds from the Dutch government and distributed the funds to eligible and qualifying NGO's in Sint Maarten. The activities of AMFO will cease on Sint Maarten the end of this year. The role of SMDF is similar to that which AMFO carried out on Sint Maarten and in addition, to develop programs and projects as outlined in its policy document " Contributing to a Community that Cares 2013 – 2023". Funding is provided by government of Sint Maarten and other donors and distributed to qualifying and eligible NGO's. Therefore the SMDF holds a vital role for the NGO community distributing the funds needed for current and future projects.
Mr. Franca gave an eloquent and informative presentation on all the activities of the SMDF from its establishment until today. The SMDF has cooperated closely with AMFO to smoothen the transition through a memorandum of understanding. SMDF has also established a comprehensive policy document 'A Society That Cares' to guide the years 2013-2023. Moreover, Mr. Franca conveyed that the SMDF already has received funds from the government of Sint Maarten to keep a number of current programs and projects running. Mr. Franca also elaborated on the transparent application process for NGO's, public-private partnerships and other initiatives to secure the financial future for NGO's in Sint Maarten. The SER board members and Mr. Franca agreed that a thriving NGO-sector would greatly benefit Sint Maarten. The SMDF recently opened its office in the Yogesh building.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to congratulate the initiators of the country's newly formed South Reward Community Council.

"I fully support the non-political group approach which was founded to address the challenges and issues affecting the district by taking a collective approach by involving the residents of the area.

"The various districts have some collective concerns such as a playground for the children and sporting facilities for the youth. Roads and streets also need attention; hence a few weeks ago I publicly stated that I will be introducing a district maintenance program for these very issues.

"I am looking forward to meeting with the newly formed council to hear about their concerns, views and plans," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake would also like to congratulate the newly elected board of the Upper Prince's Quarter Community Council Foundation (UPQCCF).

Minister Lake is also looking forward to meeting with the board of the UPQCCF with respect to their infrastructural concerns and plans for the future.

"In my back to basics approach, I announced that I would like to meet with Community Councils on a monthly basis in order to know firstly what their views are and concerns. The first meetings will be of an introductory nature.

"Thereafter, we move forward on infrastructural matters and addressing these within the shortest time possible as they come up. I do not believe in long dragged out solutions for quality of life issues. Those that can be dealt with in the short-term will be dealt with," Minister Maurice Lake assured.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is appealing to resident's country wide to step up measures at homes and businesses to mitigate the rise in dengue fever caused by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

There has been a significant rise in the number of confirmed dengue fever cases when comparing the months of July and August. The number of cases for 2013 from January up to the end of July was 101 cases, and up to the end of August are 167 or 66 confirmed cases just in the month of August alone.

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

The logistics for mosquito fogging are just about complete and a schedule for district fogging will be issued soon as fogging vector control activities get underway for September.

Residents must bear in mind that fogging is not a total solution to eliminate mosquitos. Fogging activity is kept to a minimum in order to prevent the mosquito population from developing immunity to the chemicals that are deployed, and therefore is only used when really necessary.

Fogging is one intervention of several, and the main measure is for every household and business to take action by removing potential mosquito breeding spots in and around their premises on a daily basis. Elimination of mosquitos is an individual responsibility, a community responsibility.

Residents must bear in mind that rain events can disrupt mosquito fogging activities, therefore the district schedule will be adjusted accordingly and this will be communicated to the community in a timely manner.

The two districts that have seen the highest cases of confirmed dengue fever are Simpson Bay and Cole Bay. Residents and business owners of these areas are requested to step up their actions to eliminate mosquito breeding spots. This is then followed by the districts of Cay Hill and Belvedere.

The serotype of dengue circulating on the island is Dengue 2 and 4 which have been identified by French authorities from the North side of the island. The age groups with the most reported cases are 25-44 and 45-64.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

wibdonatestoitcl01092013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. gave a donation to the "I Too Can Learn Foundation (I.T.C.L)" to assist with the startup of their Educational Center. The foundation's goal is to enhance the quality of life for challenged children. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Downs Syndrome (DS), and Learning Disabilities (LD) will be catered to at the Education Center.
Mr. Alfred de Windt, Assistant Managing Director at WIB in presenting the donation, lauded the efforts of the foundation and underscored the need for all children, whether challenged or not, to benefit from a good education.

WIB Press Release

swescotwilliamswithndpparticipants01092013PM: "In the process of the National Development Plan the voices of St. Maarten should and will be heard."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The project leaders of the National Development Plan and participants of the Social Dialogue Training Course joined the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams in explaining the process and the importance the National Development Plan has with regards to the building of Country St. Maarten.

The Prime Minister joined by Department of Kingdom Relations and Interior Affairs reps Okama Brook and Joeri Arion as well as Gerald Davis, participant in the Democratic Dialogue Course.

"The completion of the National development Plan is just as important as the process of getting there," commented the Prime Minister. The PM continued by stating that the process is part of the general Nation Building that is the collective vision for St. Maarten; "We believe that this should be a bottom up approach. In the process of the National Development Plan the voices of St. Maarten should and will be heard," explained the Prime Minister.

The PM further elucidated that the Department that has been guiding this process in collaboration with the UNDP, the Department of Kingdom Relations and Interior Affairs falls under the Ministry of General Affairs and that considerable time was spent putting together the organization for the process which will eventually lead towards the NDP. "It is important that we monitor the way forward with our goals concerning a vision for St. Maarten. We are continuously monitoring weather or not the community gives the feedback that is necessary for this Plan but we also need to realize that Government cannot do this by ourselves. We have looked at persons and institutions that can play a vital role in helping that process along.

"It is similarly also important that there is a collaboration and involvement with the UNDP and we look forward to having a healthy and dynamic process in the definition of that vision for St. Maarten. Oftentimes you hear comments saying that people do not have ownership of their island anymore, giving the usual 'whatever' answer. Finding excuses why they cannot be a part of the process. We are now challenging all to be a part of the NDP and let us channel the positions which we all have into a direction so that everyone's input can be taken along," emphasized Prime Minister Wescot Williams.

Okama Brook of the BAK Department and Project Lead stated that the NDP is a partnership between the Private Sector, NGO's, and Private Citizens from all walks of life. "We would like to have everyone have a space in the development of this plan through using the concerns and the assets to place the plan where it has to be. This is not just a beautiful plan that will end up in someone's draw collecting dust. This is about building the foundation and the process in developing this Country St. Maarten. It is about the people to ensure that they see the development they want to see for their country. Each community should form a part of the plan and take ownership of it.

The Prime Minister continued by stating that in the coming weeks more emphasis will be placed on the public relations side of this process of arriving at a National Development Plan. "There are so many discussions regarding the process of building and developing our Nation that I don't think that a week goes by without mentioning the NDP. Therefore the public can expect much more information in the coming weeks regarding this process," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The collecting of concession fees for a number of years in advance from government owned companies to assist government with its current financial predicament will ruin the country's budget in the future. At least three years ahead of this year the budget of St. Maarten will have a shortfall of five million guilders.

SMN News reported last week that the government of St. Maarten approached the GEBE and asked them to take out a loan for them due to severe financial problems but GEBE refused to take a loan on behalf of government because they already have loans of their own. Instead, GEBE decided they will assist the Government of St. Maarten by paying them Naf. 15 million in concession fees for three years in advance. This proposal was accepted last week and it is further understood that government intends to approach the other government owned companies such as the Harbor Group of Companies who also pays Naf. 5 million per year in concession fees while TELEM Group of Companies was off the hook because they were operating at a loss. A source close to the Finance Department said that TELEM is supposed to starting paying its share now that the company rebounded from its financial woes and is making monies.

During the NA/DP/I-3 coalition, talks were to begin for the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) to start paying its shares to government since they have not been paying any concession fees or dividends over a period of years.

An accountant and someone that deals with budgets for several countries told SMN News that the mere fact that GEBE paid its concession fees in advance for a period of three years to this government means that the budgets for the next three years will have a shortfall of five million guilders per year. This will show up in the multi-annual report and the budget of each year. The professional that deals with budgets and figures said that this is not a good way to get out of a financial crisis because it can be considered a quick fix for now that will hamper the budgets down the line.

The professional said that whichever political party wins the election next year will have to deal with the decisions taken by the SWW-3 cabinet to collect concession fees in advance.

Another scenario given to SMN News is the amount of monies government is spending to pay salaries and other bills that they must pay monthly and the question is how far will this extra money take them. Having the COLA payments at a standstill and Ministers from the past and present collecting their salaries every month also punches a huge hole in the budgets through government expenditures.

Just recently SMN News learnt the that Parliament of St. Maarten will be spending some $20,000 for the reopening of parliament scheduled for September 10th, 2013. "This is indeed a waste of money and as a citizen I need to know why would government spend this kind of money for the opening of Parliament when it's not the beginning of a new governing period neither is it the first time the Parliament of St. Maarten is being opened. For two hours we are paying $20,000.00, $13,000.00 will be spent on decorations while the other $7,000.00 on food."

utspresentsprizetodreamvacationwinner01092013PHILIPSBURG:--- Allison Van Dam is the winner of The Chippie Dream Vacation Giveaway. Allison will select the trip of her choosing to wherever in the world she would like to go, totaling a value of up to ANG 10,000. Chippie, the mobile operator offering this grand prize embarked on this endeavor in February of this year, to celebrate the mobile operators 10 year anniversary on the island of St. Maarten. Every Chippie customer, prepaid or postpaid was automatically entered to participate and had a chance of winning the trip. For every ANG 10 spent on calls the customer would get a digital ballot. These ballots accumulated over the duration of the campaign and the winner was selected at random last week.

"The intention was to really give all the customers that have helped make us what we are today a chance at winning this prize. So we developed a giveaway that everyone would be included in, whether they are a prepaid or a postpaid customer," said UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. "We congratulate Allison on her win. Her entry was selected from millions of ballots. Selection of our winner took place at random under the supervision of an independent auditor." Allison has not yet selected her travel destination of choice. She has 4 months to decide where she would like to go. "I was really very surprised that I won but am so very happy that I did," said winner Allison Van Dam. "I was a bit overwhelmed when I was told that I had won so I will really need to think about where I would like to go on my trip. I sincerely thank Chippie for giving me this opportunity."

UTS Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet September 03 to discuss the Penal and Civil Codes with Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson.

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

The seven point agenda for the meeting will deal with national ordinances that cover Inheritance and Legacies; Revision Common Law Marriage; Rent or Leasing; Provisions for the Sale of Property and Assets; Sale of Property and Acceptance/Contacting of Work.

Provisions to Protect Consumers, particularly on Telesales Contracts and Warranties; Sole Proprietorship; Implementation Centralized Registration Child Abuse.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

henrilaurence30082013SIMPSON BAY:--- The entire board, management, and staff of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), was thrown into mourning with the passing of the company's statistics manager, Henri Laurence, on Sunday.

"We are all devastated by this tragic news," said managing director, Regina LaBega who described Laurence as a "hard-working, dedicated and competent member of the management team."

Laurence began work as an accounts clerk at SXM Airport on December 1, 1986 at the age of 25 and within 10 years, worked his way up to Chief of Finance. He was the recipient of the Yearly Gratification Program under former PJIAE director, Hans Messelink. He was also acknowledged by drs. Eugene Holiday, former PJIAE president, for his special performance that enabled PJIAE to accomplish the important task of maintaining operations in the old facilities and preparing and ultimately starting operations in the new Terminal building.

Henri Laurence was a member of several PJIAE negotiating teams, committees and work groups and twice served as the company's temporary replacement Manager of the Finance and Accounting Department.

"He was well-respected by his colleagues and remains a shining example of loyalty and commitment to the Princess Juliana International Airport, where he served with distinction for 27 years," said Clarence Derby, chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE.

"On behalf of the board, I extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of Mr. Henri Laurence," he added.

kpsmhelpsfilmdocumentary30082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, August 29th, 2013, a film crew from the Caribisch Netwerk headed by Jean Mentens (coordinator) and his colleagues Marcel Ouddeken and Marzouk Magouz, in collaboration with the President of the D.A.R.E. Major Dientje Muller, C.P.O.'s Major Helen Romeo and Officer Rensley Henson filmed a documentary regarding youth issues on Sint Maarten. During the filming of the documentary several areas such as Cay Hill, Welfare road in Cole Bay, Sucker Garden, Sint Peters, Emergency homes in Union Farm, and Belvedere were visited.

KPSM Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday August 29th, 2013 at approximately 12:30pm, a police patrol was directed to Backstreet where shortly before a lady was robbed of her shoulder bag. The suspect in the case fled the scene and jumped into a bus on the Cannegieter street heading out of Philipsburg. The officers after receiving the description of the suspect and the license plate of the bus he jumped into started a search in the Philipsburg area. During the search, the bus the suspect was traveling in was stopped in the vicinity of Beach Plaza Casino. The suspect was found in the bus and the stolen shoulder bag with its contents was found hidden underneath one of the seats. The bag was confiscated for further investigation. The suspect with initials L.D. (23) from the French side was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg police station where he was turned over to the Detective Department for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, Mr. Eugene Holiday,
Her Excellency the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, Mrs. Sarah Wescott-Williams,
His Excellency the minister of Justice of Sint Maarten, Mr. Dennis Richardson,
The Chairman of Parliament of Sint Maarten, Mrs Gracita Arrindell,
Members of the Joint Court of Justice and the Prosecution Service,
Other dignitaries,
Members of the press,
Ladies and gentlemen

It's for me a real honor to welcome you all at the Office of the Attorney General. We consider it a milestone in the history of Sint Maarten and our organization.
Since 10-10-10 Sint Maarten, as a autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has its own Prosecution Service. In the meantime this country has also it's own Solicitor General with full authority of Attorney General. With the opening of this Office we took a further step in the progress of our Organization.
This has been possible due to the efforts of my staff, especially Mr. Taco Stein, and the cooperation of the Government of Sint Maarten in general and the Minister of Justice in particular.
With the completion of this project and putting in place the infrastructure for improving the professionalism of our Organization I consider it as a mission completed.
It's now time for change and to hand over the scepter to another generation. After 38 years as a Government Official, of which 16 years as Chief Public Prosecutor and 11 years as Attorney General, its now time for change. In the past years I served the Netherlands Antilles and the new countries Curacao, Sint Maarten and the Dutch Caribbean islands Bonaire, Statia and Saba with pleasure. This was possible thanks to the cooperation of my dear, trustful and loyal colleagues and the Government of the countries I served.
After 3 years in the new constitutional structure the Prosecution Services of Curacao, Sint Maarten and the Dutch Caribbean islands are on their way to further professionalization to comply with the needs of our communities in this modern age. The time has come to pass the scepter to another generation.
According to my plans and with the Grace of God I consider to resign as your Attorney General the 1st of February 2014.
You can be assured that Sint Maarten, that always had a special spot in my heart, can always count on me.
I would like to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your cooperation during the years I had the honor to serve your country as a Government official. I will now pass the floor to the acting Attorney General Mr Taco Stein, who is "beaming" in his new office.

Sint Maarten, August 30, 2013

tabletennis2012governorscup30082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Table Tennis Federation (S.M.T.T.F.) would like to invite the public to come and support the young talent battle it out this Saturday for the Governor's cup round 1 and His Excellency Governor Drs. Eugene Holiday will embrace spectators with his presence at the event.
Last year champion R. Pantophlet will be defending his bragging rights which has already cause some hype within the federation.

Coach Radjouki said that the youngsters have been preparing for this tournament for a while with the goal to capture the Govornor's trophy and gain the rights to brag within the Federation.
The tournament will be held this Saturday starting sharp at 10am- 3pm at the L.B Scott Sports Auditorium.

Radjouki also explained that the board of S.M.T.T.F is going through a transitional phase and plans will be publicized soon in regards to making table tennis back as one of the top sports on the island.

We would like to thank the Government of St. Maarten, esteemed sponsors and parents for their contributions over the past years to the Federation.
Our motto is "the sport young and old can get high on".

wibpresentsprizetojulyclickandgogreencampaignwinner30082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) campaign "Click and Go Green!" started on April 23, 2013 and lasted until July 31st, 2013, International Earth Day. Clients of the bank who selected to receive online statements only via WIB@Home during the campaign had an opportunity to win one of three Kompa Leon Money cards, valued at Naf. 500.00.

WIB would like to congratulate Mr. Reinder Torrenga as our July winner for selecting to receive online statements only and helping save Mother Nature.

For more information to receive statements online, log on to WIB@Home or visit your preferred WIB branch. WIB supports going GREEN! Will you join us too?

WIB Press Release

swescotwilliamsreceives2012annualreportfromsonadirector30082013PHILIPSBURG:--- During the Council of Ministers meeting on Tuesday representatives from SONA/USONA gave on update to the Council of Ministers regarding the functioning of the organizations. SONA/USONA was represented by Mr. Richard Hart (chairman SONA), Mr. Miguel Alexander (board member SONA), Mr. George Lichtveld (secretary SONA), Mr. Reginaldo Doran (director USONA) and Angela Dekker (manager USONA St. Maarten). During the meeting the Council of Ministers was supported by members of the Department of Interior and Kingdom Affairs as well as the Secretary General of General Affairs, Mr. Julien Larmonie. SONA/USONA presented the Prime Minister with a copy of their Annual Report 2012 and further discussed the topics regarding the finalization of the development programs and the 10th European Development Fund (EDF).

USONA is responsible for a legitimate and efficient management of the funds that donors make available for projects centered on institutional strengthening and reinforcement, education and youth, safety and socio-economic Initiative to Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba for development purposes. USONA is also responsible for the management of EU programs.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelakewithpatchworkcontractor30082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announced on Thursday that road pavement preventive maintenance will commence in the first week of September on some of the main road arteries that leads to Philipsburg.

These activities will be carried out in the evening hours from 8:00pm until 5:00am. Contractor MNO will be carrying out the road maintenance work.

Motorists are advised to be alert and attentive to the road traffic deviation signs which will indicate road closures and re-routing of traffic.

On September 2 work is tentatively scheduled to commence on the Bush Road in the vicinity of Kwik Bargains, where the existing base of the road surface will be removed. On Wednesday September 4 a new layer of asphalt will be placed. Roads that will be affected are Bush Road starting from the Prince Bernhard Bridge and the intersection Bush Road/Zagersgut Road. There will be no through traffic on Bush Road area Kwik Bargains.

On September 3 road maintenance works will be carried out on Arch Road in the area of Cable TV. The existing road base will be removed and on September 4 a new layer of asphalt will be placed. Roads to be affected by the maintenance activities are the intersection A.Th. Illidge Road/Arch Road area Madame Estate Gasoline Station and the Arch Road area near the Zoo. There will be no through traffic on Arch Road section Cable TV.

On September 8 work will be carried out on the four sections at the intersection Prins Bernhard Bridge. These road work activities will commence from midnight Saturday into Sunday and will continue until all the necessary works are finished.

Roads that will be affected are intersection Bush Road/Prins Bernhard Bridge and intersection Zagersgut/A.Th. Illidge Road area Eddy Auto Supply, and intersection Walter Nisbeth Road/Prince Bernhard Bridge, and the road intersection Longwall Road/Prince Bernhard Bridge. There will be no through traffic at all these intersections.

"The surface areas of the aforementioned roads are in dire need of repair, and Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that may be caused with the partial closures during work activities.

"These works are being carried out during the evening hours to ensure as little inconvenience as possible. I appeal to motorists to be patient and to drive carefully," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Motorists are advised to observe the traffic directional signs when road works are underway during the aforementioned hours.

naturefoundationrelocatesturtlenest30082013Nature Foundation Relocates Nest to Safer Area

GREAT BAY:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation was alerted to a Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) nesting on Great Bay Beach early on Thursday morning. Upon arrival at the location it was found that the turtle nested very shallow in the sand on Great Bay beach and her nesting was interrupted by stray dogs roaming the beach. It was also decided that because of the high number of beach activities that the Nature Foundation relocate the nest to a more suitable location. The nest was excavated and quickly removed to a quieter beach in order to avoid undue stress to the 178 eggs.

Sea turtle population numbers have plummeted to dangerously low numbers throughout the past century due to human impacts, bringing many species close to extinction and causing them to be listed as critically endangered. In order to reverse this trend, all sea turtle species are now protected by international laws and treaties as well as local laws. Based on ARTICLE 16 and 17 of the Nature Conservation Ordinance St. Maarten it is illegal to kill, wound, capture, pick-up, have animals that belong to a protected animal species, to directly or indirectly disturb their environment resulting in a physical threat or damage to the fauna or to commit other acts which result in disturbance of the animal. It is also forbidden to upset an animal belonging to a protected species, to disturb damage or destroy its nest, lair, or breeding place, as well as to take the nest of such an animal. Also, it is forbidden to pick-up or to destroy the eggs of animals belonging to a protected species.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever is in full support of the initiative of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) #TOUCHINGLIVES international school talent contest, which invites students from throughout the Americas to submit creative work that promotes hand washing, one of the most effective and low-cost measures for preventing disease and illness.

Registration for the contest will be open through September 14, 2013. Submissions may include videos, songs, illustrations, photographs, essays, or any other artistic expression that promotes hand washing. Finalist will be selected based on the creativity, impact and persuasiveness of their submissions.

Each winner will receive an official certificate from the PAHO/WHO office in his or her country of residence. In addition, winners' schools will receive a special plaque. Winning entries will be promoted by PAHO/WHO through its website and social networks.

The contest is open to students ages 25 and under. Submission requirements are available at the contest rules homepage (http://www.paho.org/handwashing).

The deadline for submitting entries is September 14, and winders will be announced on October 15.

The purpose of the contest is to reinforce awareness about hand washing in schools throughout the Americas in advance of Global Hand Washing Day, which is celebrated every year on October 15.

This year, participating schools throughout the Americas will attempt to set a new Guinness World Record as part of the Global Hand washing Day celebrations.

In 2011, schools in the Americas set a Guinness World Record of 740,870 people simultaneously washing their hands in different locations of the region. The goal for 2013 is to mobilize more than one (1) million students to participate in Global Hand washing Day.

Hand washing with soap and water is one of the most effective and low-cost measures for preventing infectious diseases, which cause some 3.5 million deaths worldwide among children under age five, mainly from diarrheal diseases and acute respiratory infections.

According to data from the Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS), in some countries, more than 15% of students respond that they never or rarely washed their hands before eating during the previous 30 days.

commeetswithunionreps29082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Thursday, the Council of Ministers had a meeting with representatives of the various unions on the matter of the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).

The unions present were WICSU/PSU, WITU and NAPB. The Council briefed the Union on the current precarious financial situation of the government as well as the status of the Budget 2013 as it relates to the decision of the Council for the payment on the COLA.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise, a community service based organization will be conducting their 2nd Hurricane Awareness Mission this Saturday 31st August 2013 at Le Grande Marche on the Bush Road from 11am-2pm. The members of the Rotaract Club are asking the general public to come out on Saturday and donate non-perishable food items to assist our fellow citizens incase a natural disaster strikes.

Rotaract's Hurricane Awareness Mission is a project whereby the club members collect non-perishable items from customers shopping at the supermarket from July to November. The items collected are then given to the local Red Cross in the event of a hurricane or natural disaster. If there are no natural disasters, The Red Cross distributes the items to persons in the community that are in need.

The members of the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise would like to extend its appreciation and gratitude towards persons in the community that made and will continue to make contributions to Rotaract's H.A.M project. Other than non perishable food items; persons can also donate clothing at the club's H.A.M event on Saturday.

wibdonatestosxmzoo29082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) in recognizing the importance of maintaining a ZOO for recreational and educational purposes in our community, made a financial contribution to the St. Maarten Zoo.

Managing Director (ag), Mr. Derek Downes in presenting the donation said "the St. Maarten Zoo has been in existence for over 20 years and we would like see it continue for future generations". He also urged the business community and citizens to continue to support the Zoo.

WIB Press Release

CUPECOY:--- On Wednesday, August 28th, 2013 at approximately 1:30pm, a police patrol was sent to Porto Cupecoy to investigate a case concerning a lifeless body that was found. On the scene the patrol spoke to witnesses who explained that their tenant, who was staying in apartment Rhine road # 13-3A was not seen for several days and that a very bad scent was coming from the apartment. The investigating officers gained access to the apartment by using a spare key. In the apartment they located the lifeless body of Karl Barhenbruch (21), who was found slummed over sitting at his computer desk. Dr. Mercuur pronounced the death of the victim and further stated that victim had died of natural causes. There were no signs of foul play in the apartment. Family members of the victim have been notified.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- The government of St. Maarten is broke and they are currently asking the government owned companies to take out loans for government in order for them to stay afloat and pay their bills. According to a reliable source, the government (Prime Minister) of St. Maarten contacted GEBE and asked the company to take a loan for government.

The source said that GEBE management refused to take out a loan for the government of St. Maarten but they decided to assist the government by paying three years of dividends in advance. "Normally, GEBE pays government some five million guilders per year as concession fees. The proposal of paying the advance concession fees was made known to the Prime Minister on Wednesday. The source said that government gladly accepted their offer and they are now going to see if the other government owned companies such as PJIAE, TELEM Group of Companies, and the Harbour Group of Companies would be willing to assist them during their financial crisis.

Disorder with Management of GEBE.

In the meantime, SMN News learnt that the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of GEBE has submitted his resignation to the supervisory board of GEBE. According to information provided to SMN News, the CFO Ivan Solomon and the Chief Operations Officer (COO) Romelin Maduru are at constant loggerheads. SMN News learnt that the CFO and COO are the two persons that are considered as the management board and the presidency of this board was supposed to rotate every six months but chairman of the Supervisory Board Ir. Julius Lambert decided to make Maduru President of the Management Board until further notice.

Efforts made by SMN News to reach Lambert on Thursday for a comment on the advance concession fees GEBE will pay to government and the fracas between the CFO and COO proved futile as Lambert could not be reached by telephone.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet September 02 to discuss the First Half Year Report with the Minister of Finance Hon. Martin Hassink.

The committee will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The First Half Year Report is for 2013 and is related to Country Sint Maarten. The discussion is in accordance with article 44 of the Compatibility Ordinance.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

captainoliversrestaurantandmarina29082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Illegal employees of the Captain Oliver's Restaurant ran over to the French side of the property Thursday morning to evade the team of officers of "Operation Clean Sweep" who conducted a raid at the restaurant.

According to one of the heirs of the property that is residing at the hotel, she was disturbed by a lot of noise in front of her door. The heir said when she opened her door she found several of the employees that are working for the Captain Oliver's Restaurant camping out in front of her door. The heir who has been fighting for justice to regain her uncle's property said she was scared because of constant attacks and threats by the people who claim to have inherited Cactus Tree and Frilang, both companies belonging to the late Olivier Maria Lange. "I am even attacked by some of the employees here and Thursday morning was another scare for me, the last time people chopped off a chicken head and hung it on my door along with a wrinkled doll full of needles. My little daughter was scared to death when she opened the door and saw what was placed at our hotel room door."

Head of the Labor and Health Inspectorate Dr. Earl Best confirmed to SMN News that the officers that make up Operation Clean Sweep did conduct a raid at Captain Oliver's Restaurant on Thursday. Dr. Best said these raids are done in such a way that it is kept as top secret so no one knows about them. Operation Clean Sweep comprises of officers from the SZV, Labor Inspectorate, IND (Immigration), and the Coast Guard.

Several phone calls made to the Head of IND Udo Aron went unanswered on Thursday. SMN News contacted Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson who said the officers are doing controls constantly and the team has his full support. However, Minister Richardson said the Dutch Coast Guards had the lead in the raid conducted at Captain Oliver's Restaurant on Thursday morning. The Minister said based on information he received, the French Customs was contacted for assistance but they were unable to give assistance due to other circumstances on their side, therefore there was a lack of joint cooperation from the French side.

However, SMN News learnt that the Prefecture of St. Martin was not notified of the raid which according to the French authorities is an illegal raid because parts of Oyster Pond is still considered a zone de non droit.

It is quite troubling that IND conducted the raid at Captain Oliver's restaurant without assistance from the French side's Police aux Frontiers (French Immigration and the Labor Inspectors) especially knowing the risk they are facing with the location of the business place. It was evident that no assistance was given because at the time of the raid, the illegal employees ran across to the hotel and there was no one from the PAF or Labor Inspectorate from the French side at the time to give officers from Operation Clean Sweep assistance. Shortly after the officers from Operation Clean Sweep left the location, the illegal workers went back to working as if nothing had happened.

SMN News contacted the Prefecture of St. Martin to inquire if they received a request for assistance from the Dutch authorities but that information could not be obtained.

It should be noted that Captain Oliver's is considered zone de non droit because part of the property is on the Dutch territory while the other part is on the French territory. Discussions are currently taking place between the French and Dutch Ministers in the Netherlands and the State of France to determine who owns what in the Oyster Pond area.

dolphindefendersdonatebooktopjl29082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten representatives Mercedes de Windt, Kim Frye and Tadzio Bervoets donated a copy of David Kirby's bestselling book Death at SeaWorld to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's PR Officer Morenika Arrindell. Death at SeaWorld is a groundbreaking scientific thriller that exposes the dark side of SeaWorld, America's most beloved marine mammal park. From the tragic death of trainer Dawn Brancheau in 2010, to other, less-publicized violent incidents, journalist David Kirby puts these brutal attacks in context and explores the controversial and even lethal ramifications of keeping killer whales in captivity. "We find it extremely important that this book is at the library so that all can read it and be aware of the great tragedy and crime the keeping of Marine Mammals in Captivity really is," read a Dolphin Defenders statement.
Dolphin Defenders will also be hosting a free screening of the winning winging, critically acclaimed move The Cove this Saturday in order to commemorate International Dolphin Day. The Cove is a 2009 documentary film that analyzes and questions Japan's dolphin hunting culture. It was awarded the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2010. The film is a call to action to halt mass dolphin kills, change Japanese fishing practices, and to inform and educate the public about the risks, and increasing hazard, of mercury poisoning from dolphin meat. The film is told from an ocean conservationist's point of view.[2][3] The film highlights the fact that the number of dolphins killed in the Taiji dolphin drive hunting is several times greater than the number of whales killed in the Antarctic, and claims that 23,000 dolphins and porpoises are killed in Japan every year by the country's whaling industry. The migrating dolphins are herded into a cove where they are netted and killed by means of spears and knives over the side of small fishing boats. The showing starts at eleven. Dolphin Defenders will also be donating to the Library the film The Cove as well as another critically acclaimed film a Fall From Freedom. Later this year Dolphin Defenders will also be showing the latest movie exploring the dangers of Marine Mammals in Captivity; Blackfish.

bandcchampsofsxmknockout29082013SIMPSON BAY:--- It took two OTs before B & C Beverages could finally dethrone defending champions NAGICO to win this year's edition of the SXM Airport Business Basketball Knockout Championship on Monday, August 26, 2013, at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium.

Right to the final seconds of the second 5-minute overtime, it was evident that NAGICO was not going to relinquish its crown without a fight to finish. At the end, B & C Beverages pipped the defending champions by a score of 61-58.

The battle for third place was also a hard fought one as Halley Aviation Services defeated Menzies by a thin margin of 53-51.

"Although 15 teams registered for the tournament, we could only accommodate 12 due to time constraints," said Evans Marsham of the SXM Airport's organizing committee.
"The games were very competitive and exciting," he said. "We had a good turnout of fans every night. We are very please and satisfied with the event and are now looking forward to next year's tournament already."

tzuchivolunteersatstmartinshome29082013ST. JOHNS:--- St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation volunteers continued to spread seeds of love and kindness during their monthly visit to the St. Martin's Home in St. Johns on Sunday, August 25.

A group of about ten volunteers including Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung visited the home on Sunday afternoon to spend quality time with residents and to give them some pampering and attention. Volunteers engaged clients of the home in conversations, treated them to massages, polished their nails and did other fun stuff with them.

Many clients look forward to the monthly visit by volunteers, with some clients even requesting their deep massages when they see volunteers. Some clients make optimal use of the opportunity to recap how they spend their days or to share stories about their younger years.

The Foundation believes in giving back to the community in which we live, in particular to the elderly and the upcoming generation. "We value the time we spend at the St. Martin's Home with the clients and even if we manage to brighten the day of one client, then for us the visit is very meaningful," says Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung.

The experience is also a very rewarding one for volunteers. "It's always a delight to visit the St. Martin's Home. It's a humbling learning experience and it's always a pleasure to put a smile on their faces," said Volunteer Bradly Attyl.

"I'm happy to be able to share the love with them," adds volunteer Yamile Bastidas.

Cheung says Tzu Chi will continue with its voluntary visits to the home as well as to other places on its annual calendar as the foundation continues its mission to touch the lives of others and make a meaningful difference in the community.

Tzu Chi carries out several missions in St. Maarten in the areas of education, health, charity, volunteerism and other areas. Its work is possible thanks to the donation of its volunteers, members (donors) and other individuals, groups and businesses in the community.

Anyone can become member of the foundation to help it continue its work for the community. To join the foundation and become a member, please call Sandra Cheung at Tel: 5863019 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

secretarygeneralsmeetwithanguillancounterparts29082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Secretary Generals of the Government of Sint Maarten met with their counterparts earlier this week, Permanent Secretaries, of Anguilla, as an introductory exchange of information on the roles and responsibilities of their function.

Sint Maarten hosted their Anguillan counterparts and they were also treated to lunch. Now that the initial contact has been made and an understanding of the various Ministries and the corresponding responsibilities, continued cooperation and exchange of information will be done on a bilateral level between the various Ministries.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On Monday, September 16, 2013, there will be a bond issue on behalf of the country of Curaçao. It will be a 2.75% loan with a term of thirty years with a semiannual coupon.
On Friday, September 6, 2013, the Dutch State Treasury Agency (DSTA) will be able to subscribe and up to Tuesday, September 10, 2013, 10:00A.M., the general public will be able to subscribe to this bond issue at all commercial banks on Curaçao. Subscription will take place according to the tender system in which parties indicate for which amount and price they wish to participate in the loan, thereby revealing their desired yield.
After the closing of the subscription, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten will publish the price of issue. Parties that have subscribed for a higher price than the price of issue will receive full allocation. Parties that have subscribed at a price equal to the price of issue will receive the remaining amount of the issue.
As of August 29, 2013, subscription forms will be obtainable free of charge at the commercial banks and on our website http://www.centralbank.cw/subscription-forms.

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN

armedrobberyfillin13082012PHILIPSBURG:--- Workers of Island Finance had the worst scare of their lives early Thursday morning when three men wearing masks and armed with a gun stormed into the financing agency to commit an armed robbery.
Police spokesman Ricardo Henson said in an invited comment that the incident took place around 8:45am. "Based on the information I have, three men stormed into Island Finance, they were all wearing masks and at least one of them had a firearm." Henson further stated that police arrested a possible suspect shortly after the crime was committed. When asked if the robbers got monies from the financing agency during the early morning robbery, the police spokesman said based on what he knew they got a very small amount of money during the daring robbery.

Armed Robbery at Island Finance.

On Thursday August 29th, 2013 at approximately 8:40am, several police patrols and detectives were sent to Island Finance on the Walter Nisbet road (Pondfill road) to investigate an armed robbery that occurred shortly before. On the scene the investigating officers learnt that three armed men, dressed in dark clothing with their faces covered had stormed into the establishment. One of them attacked the security guard, striking him in face causing an injury and holding him hostage. The other two jumped behind the counter and demanded money from the employees while threatening them. The robbers took a very small amount of cash. After committing their act the robbers fled the scene. The paramedics were also called to the scene to treat the security guard and traumatized employees. A possible suspect in this case was arrested in the Philipsburg area shortly after. The Detectives from the Special Robbery Unit are investigating.

KPSM Police Report

formerlittlemissstmartindaypageantcontestants28082013GREAT BAY:--- "I am excited to announce that registration is open for the third annual Little Miss St. Martin Pageant 2013, set for Sunday, November 3, 2013," said Nzinga Lake, pageant director.
The Little Miss St. Martin Pageant is a St. Martin Day calendar event open to girls, 8 to 11 years old. "I'm encouraging all princesses from the primary schools from both sides of the island to register to take part in the pageant," said Lake.
The main idea of the Little Miss St. Martin Pageant is to two-fold. "Firstly, the pageant serves as a motivational program, to inspire positive activities for young girls. Secondly, the pageant honors the traditional sense of unity of our island's culture and the original meaning of St. Martin Day. Of course, that is also why we use the traditional spelling of our island's name to brand the pageant.
The categories of the pageant competition are: Introduction, Talent, What I want to be when I grow up, and Princess Wear. "The contestants are encouraged to excel in cultural knowledge and to value educational excellence while being graceful ambassadors of their schools, neighborhoods, and the island as a whole," said Lake.
"I want to challenge the little princesses to do their competitive best; as well as for the pageant organization to produce a fine show that will entertain our audience creatively,"
To register for the Little Miss St. Martin Pageant, parents, guardians and schools can contact Nzinga Lake at 522-4280 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. and Like us on our Face Book Page. The registration deadline is Monday, September 16, 2013.
In 2012, Genesis Meyers of the St. Dominic High School captured the crown while the 1st runner prize went to Nilka Richardson. The 2nd runner-up was Cheyenne Nunes and the 3rd runner-up was Saphire Elisa.
"Queen Genesis Meyers has been having a full fun-packed schedule from the start of her reign. "She was an invited guest at the official St. Martin Day event last November where she met dignitaries from both parts of the island. Queen Genesis has already made numerous media appearances; and in July she hosted a very successful book reading program, 'Summer Storytime with Queen Genesis Meyers' at Philipsburg Jubilee Library," said Lake.

wibdonatestosoualigadominofederation28082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd., made a financial contribution to the Soualiga Domino Federation whom will be hosting a championship competition on the island. The championship is tentatively set to start on September 20th, 2013 and will run until December 15th, 2013. The game of dominoes has always been local favorite past time and social sport. We wish all players much success and congrats to the winning team.

WIB Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that she invited the unions to a meeting to be held on Thursday regarding the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) for civil servants. Wescot Williams said she will be attending the meeting along with Minister of Education Patricia Lourens and Minister of Finance Martin Hassink. The Prime Minister said in the letter she sent to the unions she apologized to them because government received several letters from the unions, some of which she said crossed paths and government did not respond to them.

Wescot Williams said she attempted to put things back on track through her letter to the unions. She said when she looked at the paper trail there has been communication between the GOA and government which stared in August 2012. The Prime Minister said that in June 2012 the COLA for 2010 was paid out and after that took place government informed the GOA of their intention to discuss the COLA payment and its current structure.
Wescot Williams stressed that she sat in meetings with the GOA on more than one occasion to discuss government's position. She further explained that there is a law that governs the GOA which existed since the island was part of the former Netherlands Antilles and it was transferred to country St. Maarten without any changes to the law which she described as a brief law. Wescot Williams made clear that the GOA is an independent body that advises government. The Prime Minister further stated that none of the Members of the Council of Ministers have a role in the GOA but they do advice government on matters related to personnel.

Wescot Williams said she put in writing government's position on the issue of the COLA which she asked the GOA to communicate to their members. Wescot Williams explained that in her correspondence to the GOA she outlined government's position for the COLA for year 2011 while asking them to give government their advice.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet August 30 to discuss two agenda points related to Kingdom matters.

The committee will meet on Friday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is related to the proposal of Dutch Member of Parliament (MP) Bosman with respect to the residency regulation of persons from Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten in the Netherlands, which the MP submitted to the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament. The Parliament of Sint Maarten will establish its position at the House session on Friday.

The second agenda point regards the proposed Kingdom law regarding the 12, May, 2011 Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons between the Kingdom the Netherlands and the Republic of Peru. The House is also expected to establish a position on this agenda point.

The aforementioned agenda points were discussed earlier in the week in the Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations Permanent Committee.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Frans Richardson submitted a letter to the President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell on Wednesday where he pointed out that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams has failed to comply with the motion passed in Parliament regarding the Government Administration Building which falls under the Prime Minister.

In the letter MP Frans Richardson called the Prime Minister's attention to the motion passed on April 13th, 2013.

In that motion MP Richardson asked the Prime Minister to submit within 60 days of the motion an updated schedule of investment per activity with timelines and to give an elaborate elucidation with respect to the completion and occupation by civil servants of the new government building. The Prime Minister had to also commence within six months block D of the building and the parking garage on Pond Island.

MP Richardson said the deadline for the requested information expired on June 12, 2013 and its now four months since the motion was passed and the Parliament of St. Maarten has not heard from her. He also reminded the Prime Minister that she is charged with the oversight of government operations.

Click here to view the letter sent by MP Richardson to the President of Parliament for the Prime Minister.

swescotwilliams28082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed to reporters during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that the Council Ministers discussed the proposal that was sent to the Council by Minister Maurice Lake to regulate (muzzle) the media on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister said that meetings of the council are confidential but she spoke on her own behalf when she said that the council discussed the Minister's letter but they did not get into the details of his proposal. Since the publication of the letter Minister Lake sent to the media, several media outlets including the Caribbean Media Association and Member of Parliament from the Netherlands Andre Bosman questioned the intentions of Minister Maurice Lake. MP Bosman said in a letter to the Minister of Interior and Foreign Affairs Ronald Plasterk that Minister Lake's wishes would trample on the country's constitution and asked that the Minister get in touch with the Government of St. Maarten to find out what their intentions are.

Minister Maurice Lake sent the letter to the COM to curb the media especially SMN News even though media regulations fall under the Minister of Traffic and Telecommunications. This happened one day after SMN News posed some harsh questions to Minister Lake about the work stop he issued on the FOGA Development plan. However, the Minister used a story SMN News published last week stating that the SWW-3 cabinet collapsed as his excuse for wanting to regulate and dictate who are allowed into the Government press briefings. Minister Lake even suggested that non Dutch nationals such as SMN News reporter should have a working permit to operate or enter the weekly press briefings.

Wescot Williams who was obviously eager to speak out on the topic said that there are concerns among everyone in the council and there needs to be dialogue and discussions among everyone in the community. She said even the media should discuss among themselves what they want while there should be an open discussion on what is allowed on the internet in general. Based on the Prime Minister's statements, it is clear that the Council of Ministers have a beef with SMN News reporter who exposed several instances of corruption in government especially involving the Prime Minister herself.
One of the questions posed to the Prime Minister was if French nationals need to have a working permit in order to work on the Dutch side, Wescot Williams said that was not the case in the past but now that is indeed a requirement. What the reporter and the Prime Minister failed to mention are the requirements to obtain a working permit and if Dutch nationals from the Netherlands must register at the census officer in order for them to work legally on the Dutch side. SMN News asked the Prime Minister if Dutch nationals are required to register at the census office and she confirmed it is indeed a requirement.

In fact, the illegal workers found at Brasserie New York some months ago were from the French side according to reports reaching SMN News. Yet the businessman who happens to be the Prime Minister's son was not fined.

The audio of press briefing will be posted under this article for the sake of clarity and transparency.

Just after the fall of SWW-2 cabinet the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan confirmed to SMN News that the Prime Minister's son and son in law were the ones negotiating on behalf of the foreign investors for the so called Justice Park. SMN News also exposed the raid that was conducted by Immigration and Labor inspectors at the Brassiere New York which is owned by the Prime Minister's son. When the raid was conducted the inspectors found several irregularities including health hazards.

SMN News also broke the news and showed evidence that the United People's Party is using an active member of the media to write their press releases while the reporter in question is being paid by the Harbor Group of Companies, a government owned company. The same journalist had her working documents denied for the lack of qualifications but three members of the former Executive Council voted in favor of going against the decision taken by the former Commissioner of Labor Louie Laviest. Since then, the reporter in question has been working and writing on behalf of the politicians who allowed her working permit to be renewed.

The Prime Minister said the Government of St. Maarten is working on its media policy while the Parliament of St. Maarten has to deal with the draft media law that was proposed by former Minister of the Netherlands Antilles Omyra Leeflang.

It will be interesting to see if the media policy government is working on would allow active journalists that are working for the external media houses to work for politicians as is the case right now.

Editor's Note: While the current Council of Ministers is trying to do everything in their power to muzzle SMN News, we will remain vigilant and ensure that the Council of Ministers abides by the Treaty of Concordia which allows the free movement of persons and professionals. St. Maarten/St. Martin has respected this treaty since 1648. Besides the Treaty of Concordia, the Association Treaty with the EU, also allows EU citizens (holders of French and Dutch passports) free movement of professionals and capital goods. It will be interesting to see how the current Council of Ministers will bypass these treaties to accomplish their goal to muzzle SMN News.

niparegistration28082013PHILIPSBURG:--- After two weeks of registration, the National Institute of Professional Advancement (NIPA) registered 377 persons. Persons in the age between 16 and 61 have filled out registration forms with the assistance of staff of the Division of Educational Innovation (DEI). The NIPA plans to start courses and programs for youngsters and adults during day time and evenings, hence enhancing career opportunities for St. Maarten's population.
Based on registrant's interest and needs in the local labor market, course selections will be made and registrants and the general public will be informed in due time.
Persons who missed the first registration round will have the opportunity to still register in the next weeks. The exact dates on next registration opportunities will be announced.

telcellbreakthroughfinalsposter28082013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group mobile provider, TelCell, is getting subscribers involved in its search for St. Maarten's most talented youth – by allowing fans to poll for their favourite artistes.
Recently, 15 of the talented youth were named to go through to the finals of the TelCell/Xtratight Entertainment showcase "Breakthrough" on September 28th.
Now, leading up to the date of the finals, TelCell has set up a popularity poll for fans who wish to vote for their favourite performers on the night.
"We are still a month away from the big day and we want to keep the interest and excitement in the community leading all the way up to the finals," said TelCell coordinator, Ms. Angel Richardson.
She said all fans have to do is send an SMS message to #8844 along with the number of the contestant they are voting for from the list below.
Voting closes on September 27th, - the day before the finals – and a popularity prize will be awarded to the contestant with the highest votes.
Below are the finalist and their numbers:

# 1 = Tommylee Busby
# 2 = Cherrianne Dangleben York
# 3 = Geniquah Thewet
# 4 = James Whiter
# 5 = Paul Brown
# 6 = Kyanni Atmopawiro
# 7 = 2KC Dance Group
# 8 = Jabari York
# 9 = Mahalia Jackson
#10 = Dyonce Boasman
#11 = Serenity Martinus
#12 = Bianca Dijkhoffz
#13 = Kenyo Baly
#14 = Ger-Dwinda Browne
#15 = Georgio Richardson

educationministryvolunteerspaintoranjeschool28082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday 24th of August, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs the Honorable Patricia D. Lourens – Philip, Department head of the department of Culture, Division head of Public Education and the School Manager of Oranje School were all joined by about 15 volunteers from within the Ministry (SSSD, Inspection, Cabinet of the Minister, Cabinet of the Secretary general, teachers of Oranje school) and a few parents to assist in painting the Oranje School.

The Ministry along with the ministry of VROMI had attempted to have to school painting during the summer repairs program but fell short on time and human resources to get all the much needed painting done before school started. "School has been open for weeks and during my visit there last week, I really felt something needed to be done and we cannot continue to wait on money to appear to get it done, its time we take it in our own hands, set an example and get the job done" said Minister Lourens.

On Wednesday, the Honorable Minister sent out an email to her department and division heads encouraging them to volunteer some time on Saturday or Sunday to paint as the situation there needed urgent attention. Despite the short notice, a well-spirited group of workers including management worked at scraping off old paint and applying new coats of paint to the interior of classrooms on both Saturday and Sunday.

Minister Lourens would like to thank all the volunteers who showed up last week and helped to complete 3 classrooms. She would also like to encourage all staff members in the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs, the parents of the students attending Oranje School and any foundation or group that would like to help to come down to the Oranje School this Saturday at 8am and lend a helping hand for a good cause.

naturefoundationretrievingfountaininfreshpond28082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Over the last few weeks the St. Maarten Nature Foundation with the assistance and support of the VROMI Ministry and the Section ROB have been busy implementing various measures in order to curb the amount and frequency of fish kills in the Great Salt Pond and Fresh Pond. The fountains which have been placed several years ago in order to aerate the pond are being repaired and additional fountains and pumps are being placed at additional locations to ensure better oxygen levels. Additional Mangroves will also be planted in order to ensure that as much oxygen as possible is being provided to the area during times of extreme heat and low rainfall.

Fish kills occur when there is a drop in oxygen levels in the ponds resulting in a large amount of fish not being able to pump oxygenated water through their gills resulting in them dying off. Over the past few months the island has witnessed three large fish die offs and with the additional measures it is hoped that that volume will be reduced.

In order to properly maintain and place in the pumps and fountains some mangroves will have to be removed which will be replanted as soon as the works have been completed. Additional mangroves will also be planted to ensure that the water will be more optimally oxygenated.

perrygeerlingsmeetswithsxmmps27082013Proposed Bosman-law extensively discussed

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Director of the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague Mr. Perry Geerlings held a meeting with Parliamentarians the Hon. Leroy de Weever, the Hon. Roy Marlin and the Hon. Patrick Illidge at Parliament last week, updating the Parliamentarians on various matters related to the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary and its roles and responsibilities.

Mr. Geerlings explained the functioning of the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague and the support and services that cabinet renders while representing St. Marten in the Netherlands. Mr. Geerlings also explained that much focus was placed on the so-called Bosman-law, the law proposal of Member of the Second Chamber of Dutch Parliament André Bosman of the liberal democratic VVD party to restrict the residency of people from the Dutch Caribbean in The Netherlands.

"The gentlemen were particularly interested in what exactly the concept Bosman-law entails. I explained the content of this concept law but also the ramifications and consequences thereof. They showed keen interest for this concept law because they are concerned about the consequences it might have for St. Maarten and the free movement of its people throughout the Kingdom and more in particular when moving or traveling to the Netherlands," explained Mr. Geerlings. "We also discussed and exchanged ideas of possible strategies against to prevent this concept law from going into effect."

The Three Parliamentarians were also interested in the status of the political climate presently existing in the Netherlands and how the Dutch politicians see the introduction of the concept law of their colleague Bosman, but also how the Dutch people perceive the citizens of the Dutch Caribbean part of the Kingdom.

Also discussed were the ways and means to come to a better exchange of information/communication between the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary and Parliament. Follow-ups regarding the meeting and subsequent meetings will be held in the future.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

hendersoninsurancesdonatestoasl27082013~Art Saves Lives Program's students benefits from donations~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives received a donation and high praise from Neil Henderson of Henderson Insurances in support of Art Saves Lives. The summer intensive program featured 16 artists from the United States who in addition to teaching classes performed community service as part of their contribution to St. Maarten. Mr. Henderson praised De Weever's initiative in giving back to St. Maarten and encouraged her in her endeavors to assist young St. Maarteners fulfill their creative dreams.

Ms. De Weever, founder and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation was very grateful to Mr. Henderson for his support and looks forward to upcoming Art Saves Lives events which will be announced soon.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says he welcomes the debate here and abroad in other parts of the Kingdom with respect to his proposal related to 'yellow journalism' and responsible journalism.

'Yellow journalism' is described as a type of journalism that presents little or no legitimate well-researched news and instead uses eye-catching headlines to sell news.

"A healthy debate is always good and one of my objectives was to generate a discussion. I do feel that some have missed the point I was making in my letter to the Council of Ministers which I wholeheartedly shared with the media and public. I am not calling for any measures that would infringe upon the freedom of the press. This is far from the truth.

"I am not regulating or imposing rules on a free press or trying to muzzle the media. The press can ask how many questions they want and I am ready and willing to answer them whenever called upon, but it must be done in a respectful and professional manner.

"I have a great relationship with all members of the press. The freedom of the press and speech I know is already regulated by law and safeguarded. Journalist and publishers that break those laws expose themselves to lawsuits and in some cases criminal prosecution.

"My point was that Government needs to get back to basics and have a press briefing code with a criterion for journalist to attend press briefings. How can some journalist attend Government press briefings without a work permit for the Country?

"I do believe that the majority of the Sint Maarten media are responsible journalist, however, I have heard from a few of them how they view others who do not carry out their job in a responsible and professional manner. The media sector needs to set up an association which would further enhance its profession," Minister Maurice Lake said on Tuesday.

Minister Lake added that he would like to see existing laws reviewed where it concerns internet news and blogs and other forms of social media such as Facebook.

"We need to draw a line in terms of how people feel they can do or say anything about anyone and get away with it. In this case you have a wild wild west and we can't have that. Gossip sites and others should be held responsible for the actions of others who abuse by posting slanderous comments about individuals anonymously. IP addresses should be available.

"In many countries around the world, the Government works with media accreditation standards for press conferences. Tom or Mary can't just walk off the street and attend a Government press conference without presenting the proper media credentials.

"This is not acceptable in Holland or in other countries that have standards in place. We are not a banana republic, and it is up to us as Country Sint Maarten to set the standards and accreditation without infringing on freedom of the press in any manner or form. Let's work together to raise media standards in our new country which would be in the interests of all those especially those who read the news," Minister Lake said.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Attorney General Taco Stein said on Tuesday in an invited comment that the team of detectives that are currently working on several high profile investigations that involves politicians are moving in the right direction. "I cannot give you details that would hamper the cases but what I can tell you is that we are very satisfied with the ORCA (Bada Bing) Investigation and soon the people will see action. The detectives are also busy working on the threat investigation that involves Member of Parliament Romaine Laville. "The Laville investigation is also looking good but I cannot say when we will act."
Stein said the Prosecutor's Office is busy reviewing the files in the Piranha Investigation that involves former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto and Roberto Gibbs. Stein said they have the final report on that investigation and they are now reviewing to see what decision they will take and how they intend to move forward.
Former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto was arrested a few days before the Christmas holidays last year. At the time, the Prosecutor's Office said that Shigemoto is suspected of committing fraud, forgery, and he was also suspected of breaking government rules while paying double for services provided by Global Advisory Services.
On Tuesday, reports coming out of the Netherlands state that the former Netherlands Antilles cannot give account for some 270 million guilders in grants. According to reports, 270 million guilders is unaccounted for and it is impossible to find out if the monies were well spent because of bad administration in the subsidies account of the former Netherlands Antilles.
Moreover, there was fraud committed with a portion of the grants, this is according to a report from the Audit Department. The grant money went to USONA (Foundation for the development of the Netherlands Antilles), of which Wilbert Stolte was the treasurer between 2008 and 2011. Stolte is now the Chief Executive of the Caribbean islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
USONA cannot sufficiently prove whether the 270 million guilders were used according to the rules noted by the Kingdom's Audit Department. Two people have been convicted of fraud with some 170,000 euros from the foundation and the Public Prosecutor in St. Maarten suspects another duo of fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement of a grant of one million from SONA.
The Landsrecherche has had several cases piled up on their desk, one of them being the Election Fraud case which to date cannot reach the court. Right now, it seems as though the time to investigate these cases will soon expire even though four persons working for the police department (KPSM) confessed to the police internal affairs during their investigations that they took monies from the UP party in exchange for their votes.

rotarysxmdonatestonaturefoundation27082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Maarten, on behalf of the Rotary's Group Study Exchange Team from England and Rotary Clubs in Devon, England, presented a check for US $3,500 to the St. Maarten Nature Foundation to benefit the ongoing Junior Park Ranger program.

The Group Study Exchange Program allows young professionals from around the world travel to other parts of the world to learn about local customs, history and their vocation in another environment. A team from St. Maarten, led by Assistant Governor Rebecca Low traveled to Devon, England and conversely a team from Devon, England came to St. Maarten with a vocational focus on Hospitality and Tourism. Rebecca Low commented, "this was a fantastic experience from a professional perspective, but also a great opportunity to make friendships around the world. One of the exceptional outcomes of Rotary's Group Study Exchange is that lifelong friendships and bonds are forged".

When the team from Devon, England (Rotary District 1170) came to St. Maarten they spent a day on the water with the Tadzio Bervoets of the Nature Foundation learning all about St. Maarten's ecology and marine biology as well as the role a strong, healthy environment plays in a tourism-based economy. This experience left the team with a desire to give back to St. Maarten. As a result, over the last year the team, in collaboration with host Rotary clubs throughout Devon, held a series of fundraising "Caribbean nights." Caribbean food, drink and culture were on display as well as a formal presentation on the team's experiences here on St. Maarten and around the Caribbean.

On a recent trip to Devon, England the team presented a check for US $3500 to Rotary Assistant Governor Rebecca Low during a Rotary Club of Ivybridge meeting. It was requested that the check be presented to the St. Maarten Nature Foundation. These funds will be directed to the Junior Park Ranger program that teaches 13-17 year olds swimming skills, first aid, marine biology and leadership skills.

Tadzio Bervoets of the St. Maarten Nature Foundation graciously accepted the donation and thanked the Rotarians around the world for their generosity.

For more information please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

patricialourensphilip11082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip would like to thank social service clubs, businesses, and other entities that have donated school bags and other school materials to the country's schools.

"This effort is commendable because it shows community solidarity as well as corporate social responsibility and giving back to your community. Every business and organization should develop such policies as these initiatives can go a long way and do make a difference in the lives of those that receive the assistance," Minister Hon. Patrcia Lourens-Philip said on Tuesday.

Minister Lourens-Philip would also like to express her gratitude to the Community Police Officers for their assistance and role that they play where it concerns the safety of students in and around schools.

Last week two schools announced the results of May/June Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

The St. Maarten Academy had a 100 per cent pass rate. Fifty-five students wrote between seven and 12 subjects offered by the Caribbean Examination Council.

The St. Dominic High School recorded a 100 per cent college passing rate at this year's CSEC and Cambridge IGCSE. Students who sat the CSEC examination received grades one to three in at least five of the subjects and many did exceptionally well.

Four students from the Community Tutoring Foundation (CTF), who sat the General Education Diploma (GED) exams electronically performed extremely well.

"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the St. Maarten Academy, St. Dominic High School and the Community Tutoring Foundation on their student's successes with exams.

"After much hard work, the results are there to see, and after much effort and dedication you have succeeded, and now you can move on to the next phase. Congratulations once again and much success as you move forward on your educational journey," Minister of Education Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip said on Tuesday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- An Anger Management Workshop will be held on Thursday August 29, 2013 at 6:30 p.m. for adults and parents who are struggling with anger control issues or persons who would like additional information in this area. Anger affects the body in numerous negative ways and can have both long term and short term effects such as a weakened immune system, heart disease, stroke, stress or severed relationships. This workshop will concentrate on a myriad of skills that will focus on anger control, problem solving and relaxation techniques. The free two-hour workshop will help participants to identify and understand anger better, provide techniques for improving anger management and help participants resolve sample conflicts and build a climate of reduced stress and peace. The workshop is open to the general public and will be held at the University of St. Martin.
The workshop is hosted by the Student Support Services Division (SSSD). The Student Support Services Division is part of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports and includes prevention, intervention, transition and follow-up services for students and their parents. The general objective of SSSD is to provide care and support services to students for the effective continuation of the developmental process. SSSD believes that If every child must learn, then every parent, family and community must be a part of the process.
For more information on the workshop call 543-1235 and ask for Ms. Tamara Groeneveldt.

earlbest27082013Food safety
The food safety division of the Inspectorate has been, for the past 2 weeks, conducting audits on Ice manufacturing plants that sell and/or distribute ice for consumption to the public. These audits are being conducted in accordance with the ordinance on "Waren", the ordinance on "Drinking water" and the ordinance on "Drinking water Quality". The plants are being audited for compliance with hygiene standards and the quality of the ice is measured by having samples analyzed by the water lab of SLS. All producers of ice also need to have a mandatory sample testing program of their own in place for safety and quality assurance and keep a log of the results for future inspections.
So far Cole Bay Ice, Younique Ice and Cake House Ice have been audited. Cole Bay Ice was in violation of basic minimum hygiene requirements for a manufacturing plant and the samples contained E. Coli, bacteria that may cause gastro-intestinal illness. Consequently there operation was closed by the Inspectorate until the minimum requirements as set by legislation are met. Younique Ice and Cake House Ice were in compliance.
All producers selling ice must have minimum their company name, contact information and production date on the ice bags.
Hotels and large restaurants producing ice for them a/o for sale will also be audited during the regular inspections.
The Inspectorate is also in the process of setting up a bottled water testing program. The same legislation applies to bottled water. Importers and/or distributors must be in compliance and must have a mandatory sample testing program in place before distributing to the public.
The Food safety division of the Inspectorate urges anyone producing, importing, distributing, and selling any of these products to be in compliance. For more information the Inspectorate can be contacted.

Health care

SMMC
The SMMC was placed under intensified supervision as of September 2012. Since the termination of the contract with Dr. Scot as of mid. December, the hospital was governed by the supervisory council and the management team. On April 1st an interim director was appointed in the person of Mrs. van Ameijden. Her contract ended by July 31st. During the transition period much effort have been put by the supervisory council, the board of directors and the Inspectorate upon improving the relationship towards a more transparent one with better communication and also following up on an action plan containing all important matters from the Inspection report that need to be addressed.
A new (financial) director, Mr. Klarenbeek has been appointed for 5 yrs. as of August 1st. The Inspectorate is working very intense with him and the hospital staff on the action plan to improve matters, so the intensified supervision can be lifted soon and also hopes a much needed medical director will be appointed on short term.

Ambulance Service
The ambulance service was audited on July 12th. Some findings concerning quality of care and patient safety from this audit demanded immediate actions to be taken by the Ministry and management. The fact that there was no medical supervisor whilst medication was administered and other medical procedures were performed by ambulance staff were reasons to urgently take some necessary measures. As a result he Ambulance service was also placed under intensified supervision as of July 19th.
Through quick intervention by Minister de Weever these problems were addressed in short time and the prohibition by the Inspectorate on the administration of medication and medical procedures was lifted on July 29th .
There are still many other matters that will be addressed in a timely manner and according to an actionplan that the Inspectorate VSA and the Ambulance service have agreed upon and will be monitored closely by the Inspectorate, reason why the intensified supervision has not been called of as yet.

Dr. A. Arrindell
On July 21st Dr. Arrindell was suspended temporary by the Inspectorate based on complaints received, the investigation carried out and in expectation of an evaluation of her health status. Meanwhile she appealed the decision taken by the Inspectorate in court. On August 22nd the judge ruled in favor of Dr. Arrindell, purely based on the lack of a legal basis for the authority of the Inspectorate to take such a measure against a medical professional and not considering the circumstances and not withstanding the received report on her medical status.
Although the Inspectorate realizes the need for new legislation regarding medical professionals, she still has the legal task of safequarding the community against poor quality of care and unsafe care and had hoped the judge would have taken this into consideration. By law the Inspectorate has to guarantee that care provided to the community of Sint Maarten is being given in a responsible manner.
In the meantime the Inspectorate is reconsidering its position and the Ministry VSA has marked the announcing of the so called ordinance BIG( Individuele Beroepen in de gezondheidszorg) as a very high priority.
The Inspectorate will continue to strive and work towards internationally accepted quality standards of care and patient safety for the community of Sint Maarten.

Pharmaceutics
The Inspectorate of Pharmaceuticals has been and will continue to supervise the import of pharmaceuticals by importers and pharmacies hereby combatting the illegal import and distribution of unregistered and black market medications.
In addition to this the department has been inspecting supermarkets and cosmetic stores to ensure that they are not retailing any pharmaceuticals such as pain killers and antibiotics amongst others to consumers. For safety reasons we advise consumers not to buy medication from any other sources than your local pharmacy. The Inspectorate cannot guarantee the origin or safety of any pharmaceuticals sold outside the pharmacies.

Labor
The Labor inspectorate conducted a number of random joint inspections with IGD(formerly known as IND), SZV, Coastguard & Maritime during June and July throughout various areas on the island to ensure that businesses are up to labor standards.
The establishments inspected were advised on regulations, some were issued written warnings and others fined dependent upon the violation.
A total of 25 establishments were inspected including cleaning companies, recruitment agencies, construction sites, night clubs, security companies, watersports companies, boat repair companies and a casino. 22 employees were found working illegally. Four fines were issued to companies for not complying with the Labor laws. The most common violations encountered were having illegal employees (violation of the ordinance LAV), not having a personnel list and not being registered with Labor Services. This report shows that our businesses on St.Maarten are still ignoring the need of being fully compliant.
However, no child labour was encountered during the joint inspections and all businesses were in compliance with the minimum wage ordinance (Landsverordening Minimumlonen ).
These inspections will continue during the month of September. The Inspectorate hereby advises all businesses to have all of their documents in order, such as business registration, personnel list, overtime register, accident insurance, work schedule.
All persons should carry on them a valid identification and their residence and work permits.
And for safety compliance by all businesses measures to be taken, if not present, should include:

  • cleanliness
  • procedures in case of accidents
  • clean drinking water for employees
  • sufficient daylight and efficient artificial lighting
  • sufficient ventilation
  • safe and healthy working environment including availability and use of personal protective equipment(PPE)

The community of Sint Maarten is encouraged to report irregular findings on consumable products, unhygienic conditions where food is prepared a/o sold, illegal sale of pharmaceuticals, medical interventions by non-registered professionals and all other possible violations of legislation and regulations to the Inspectorate.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet August 29 with respect to the Rules of Order of the House.

The central committee will meet on Thursday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting will be about the revised rules of order and the explanatory note. A parliamentary ad hoc Revision of the Rules of Order Committee was established a few years ago to work on revising the House rules.

The stage has now been reached where these rules that govern the functioning of the House can be debated.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The United Nations (UN) General Assembly last week Friday proclaimed 6 April as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace. The decision has been hailed as a historic step in recognizing the power of sport to erase cultural barriers and mobilize people around the world.

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip, who is the chairperson for UNESCO National Commission is very pleased with the proclamation as sports is an area that brings people together.

Sport is seen as a formidable development tool. It builds self-confidence; it defies gender stereotypes; it provides an alternative to conflict and delinquency; it improves health; it can bring hope and a sense of purpose to refugees, impoverished communities and other people in need.

Sport has also been described as the embodiment of humanity's most valiant characteristics and it requires perseverance and discipline, engendering the principles of personal integrity, fair-play, and honorable competition, inspiring people to push themselves beyond limits.

Sports should always be used as a vehicle for the application and promulgation of peace, fairness and excelling, Minister of Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip said on Tuesday.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- During the hurricane season, residents must be prepared for different things. The Office of Disaster Management in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health would like to bring forth the following tips regarding food and water safety before and after a hurricane strike.

Make sure you have appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer. An appliance thermometer will indicate the temperature in the refrigerator and freezer in case of a power outage and help determine if the food is safe. Make sure the freezer is at or below 0 degrees F and the refrigerator is at or below 40 degrees F.

Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator, or coolers after the power is out. If your normal water supply is contaminated or unavailable, the melting ice will supply drinking water.

Freeze refrigerated items such as leftovers, milk, and fresh meat and poultry that you may not need immediately. This helps keep them at a safe temperature longer. Group food together in the freezer. This helps the food stay cold longer. Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerator food cold if the power will be out for more than four hours. Purchase or make ice cubes and store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.

Plan ahead and know where dry ice and block ice can be purchased. Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of contaminated water in case of flooding. Make sure to have a supply of bottled water stored where it will be as safe as possible from flooding.

When the power goes out keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours if it is unopened. A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.

If you plan to eat refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish or eggs while they are still at safe temperatures, it's important that the food is thoroughly cooked to the proper temperature to assure that any food borne bacteria that may be present is destroyed.

Wash fruits and vegetables with water from a safe source before eating. For infants, if possible, use prepared, canned baby formula that requires no added water. When using concentrated or powered formulas, prepare with bottled water if the local water source is potentially contaminated.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

celshotandtthompson27082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions (WICLU) vice president Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday that the unions will be meeting with the GOA on Wednesday to further discuss the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) that are owed to civil servants from 2011 to 2013. Elshot said the WICSU/PSU sent a letter to the government of St. Maarten via a lawyer requesting that a meeting be convened to further discuss the payments of the COLA which she said is long overdue.

The unions are also expected to submit a proposal to government on how they believe the COLA payments should be structured. Elshot said government was supposed to present the GOA with a proposal and to date they have not done so. She said that unions and their memberships are strongly against an outside consultant coming to St. Maarten to conduct a research on how the COLA should be structured, therefore the unions on St. Maarten will send government their proposal in order to start a dialogue on the new structure government wants to create.

Elshot further explained that during their membership meetings the members of the various unions made clear that they want their 2011 and 2012 COLA payments to be indexed to their salaries while they want the 2010 payments to be retroactive to the date when government is able to make the payout. "Our members are telling us that the COLA is a collective right which they have acquired and they want what is due to them. They will not accept the 50% as proposed by the Ministers of Finance both former and current. They know that the payments can only be made when the budget is approved but they want the government of St. Maarten to know that they will not be accepting any half payments."

Elshot said after the meeting with the GOA the unions will meet again to further discuss how they intend to move forward with the COLA. After that meeting they will also call another membership meeting to further update their members on the progress the unions have made since they met last week.

Government Subsidized School refused to pay teachers for certain leave.

Elshot also shared some information that she received from some of her members (teachers) who told her that a particular school board has informed its staff that they will not be paying certain approved leave. Elshot said teachers have rights to paid time off if they are sick, if they are pregnant or if a close relative died. But at least one government subsidized school board told its staff that they will not be honoring some of those approved leave of absence. "The school board made clear that they will not pay their staff if they leave on certain purposes. Already some teachers saw that their salaries were cut when they left their job on approved leave." Elshot said she is currently discussing the matter with the government subsidized school board and will bring the media up to speed depending on the outcome.

WIFOL Meeting with GEBE and its partners in the BES to ensure workers protection.

In the meantime, President of the Workers Institute for Organized Labor (WIFOL) Theophilus Thompson told reporters that he met with the Minister in charge of GEBE where they discussed the MOU that was signed with GEBE and government which deals with the protection of workers rights now that the company is being dismantled. Thompson said he is also working with his union partners ASWE to put together the same package and rights workers of GEBE that work in the BES islands have.

The dismantling (division of assets) of GEBE is set to take place in January 2014 Thompson said.

participantsinndpvirtualcourseondemocraticdialogue26082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs project National Development Plan (NDP) virtual online course on democratic dialogue, attracted close to 80 persons which is double the course capacity.

74 persons pre-registered and of that 57 are currently enrolled ranging in age from 20 to 65-years of age. The course started on August 13 and runs until September 6. Language of instruction is in English.

The Regional Centre of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) for Latin America and the Caribbean (RCLAC) is supporting the Sint Maarten NDP process through a capacity building program for "dialogue champions" and "facilitators" integrating virtual and face-to-face learning on democratic dialogue.

The participant after successfully completing the course will receive a certificate of approval issued by UNDP Virtual School and UNDP RCLAC.

The NDP project operates under the theme, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening."

The course attracted persons who are interested in getting involved with the NDP process and playing a crucial role in the bottoms-up approach that has been embarked upon.

The NDP is being developed through community engagement/people participation. The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going participation in its implementation.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897 or visit the Facebook Page St. Maarten National Development Plan.

toastmasterswelcomesfournewmembers26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On August 15 the Philipsburg Toastmasters installed four new members Leeandra illidge, Elvida Gumbs, Glendon Wilson, Karim Hamer in photo with the new members is President Georges Richardson.

On the International level the membership of Toastmasters has grown with more than 292,000 members in over 14,350 clubs in over 122 countries.

Toastmasters International is helping more people than ever to become more confidence speakers and leaders.

OYSTER POND:--- On Sunday August 25th, 2013 at approximately 12:45am, a Philipsburg Police patrol was directed in the direction of Casablanca in Oyster Pond where according to witnesses shots were fired just over the border in the area of Coralita. The witnesses also stated that shortly after they saw a vehicle driving at high speed towards the Philipsburg area. On the scene the patrol spoke to the Gendarmes who were investigating a shooting in that area on the French side. According to the Gendarmes, the victim involved in the shooting incident was located and they are conducting an investigation into the matter.

KPSM Police Report

mauricelakemeetswithsolandcaybaycommunitycouncil26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is very pleased with the site visit last week Friday that he took part in along with SOL Fuel provider and representatives from the Cay Bay Community Council.

This site visit is a follow-up to a meeting that Minister Lake had with the Cay Bay Community Council a few weeks ago.

"In my back to basics approach, you also have to follow-up and get back to the grass roots people who are impacted on a daily basis by quality of life issues. At the same time you have to bring in the other stakeholders because we all use one space and everybody has to look at how better we can live together.

"The site visit that took place on Friday was to review certain situations in Cay Bay and see how we can resolve these matters in a manner that is a win-win for everybody concerned. I believe this form of back to basics approach will go a long way in finding common solutions to common problems and challenges with the different community councils in the districts," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

SOL was represented by its Managing Director David Antrobus and Mr. James. SOL is interested in working on a joint partnership with the community with respect to restoring the well. SOL will have a design made with respect to the well on how it can be restored.

SOL will also assist with the maintenance of running water on Aaron Jacob Drive and restore the Cay Bay Cemetery.

"Cemeteries are sacred places and they must be kept in good condition as we must respect our elders as well as the young who have passed on and who have been buried," Minister Lake pointed out.

Ministry VROMI is busy replacing the cemetery gate and has already cleaned up the silt from around the area. Minister Maurice Lake will contact the landowner of a piece of property in the area of the cemetery to see if they would give permission for the lot to be used as parking during funerals.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank SOL as a stakeholder in the Cay Bay area for being a good corporate citizen within the community where it has its facility.

"I encourage other businesses in the area and in the other districts to give back to their communities in some form or manner. Everybody has a role to play. We need to get back to basics and look at community development in partnership between corporate and community. We just need to work together with the Community Councils, and Government will also do its part," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Monday.

Minister Lake plans to meet with Community Councils on a monthly basis.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care under the auspices of Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, has sought the help of the nation's Community Councils in taking immediate measures to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes after rain events.

Each resident in a community can prevent mosquito breeding sites by taking preventive actions in and around their environment thereby creating a mosquito free zone.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with CPS's appeal for residents, and business owners in the districts to check-in and around their homes, and businesses in order to reduce breeding sites of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The Minster added that Community Councils can play a key role in motivating their communities to take action.

Minister De Weever adds: "At this time we have to be very strategic in identifying the hot spots and focus our attention there. The challenges with our infrastructure also have to be addressed – this is not just a public health issue.

"We are all personally responsible for our surroundings and what we wear. One should wear long sleeve clothes to protect ourselves and follow our prevention tips and campaign that has been on-going.

"We must all be aware that fogging has an environmental impact and we have tried to minimize this as much as possible," Minister Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Monday.

A list of preventive tips in the form of a flyer has been sent to the Councils with the request to spread the information around within their respective district and to also hold district sessions with members of the community in order to spread the information throughout the district for immediate action to be taken to prevention dengue fever.

SGHC has also offered to attend Community Council information sessions in order to disseminate as much information as possible to the residents of the district.

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

Based on the aforementioned it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings within seven days to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

Persons are recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Actively destroy or dispose of tin cans, old tires, buckets, unused plastic swimming pools or other containers that collect and hold water. Do not allow water to accumulate in the saucers of flowerpots, cemetery urns or in pet dishes for more than two days. Throw out the water and turn them over every time it collects water.

Clean debris from rain gutters and remove any standing water under or around structures, or on flat roofs. Check around faucets and air conditioner units and repair leaks or eliminate puddles that remain for several days.

Change the water in birdbaths and wading pools at least once a week. The treatment of ornamental pools should be discussed with the experts. Fill or drain puddles, ditches and swampy areas, and/or remove, drain or fill tree holes and stumps with mortar and regularly treat and monitor.

Eliminate seepage from cisterns, cesspools, and septic tanks. Eliminate standing water around animal watering troughs. Flush livestock water troughs twice a week.

Check for trapped water in plastic or canvas tarps used to cover boats, pools, plastic bags, foam dishes or even plastic cups strewn on the road side.

Clean the dead leaves from banana and coconut trees. Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days. If ditches do not flow and contain stagnant water for one week or longer, they can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to the respective government agency.

Mosquitoes can be kept out of the home by keeping windows, doors and porches tightly screened (16-18 mesh). Those insects that do get into structures can be eliminated with a fly swatter or an aerosol space spray containing synergized pyrethrum.

Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly. To further reduce adult mosquitoes harboring in vegetation, insecticides may be applied to the lower limbs of shade trees, shrubs and other vegetation.

The aforementioned measures should also be taken in and around the workplace, social gatherings and living quarters to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

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

BELAIR:--- On Sunday August 25th, 2013 at approximately 02:15am during a routine patrol, a Philipsburg police patrol saw a blue Kia Picanto parked in the parking lot opposite the entrance of the Belair Hotel. One of the doors of this vehicle was wide open. While checking this vehicle the driver with initials K.K.D. (24) from Jamaica was found sleeping in the driver seat of the vehicle. He was awakened by the patrol after they saw several bags on the backseat of the car. The driver could not give an acceptable statement in regard to the content of the bags. During a search of one of these bags two pistols and a revolver were found. As the patrol continued their investigation in the car another revolver and ammunition were found. The driver of this vehicle was arrested on the spot for weapon possession. The vehicle was confiscated for further investigation. The suspect is being held for questioning by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

accidentonpondfillroad26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Sunday August 25th, 2013 at approximately 11:35am, the Ambulance Department, Fire Department, and Police Department were directed to the Walter Nisbeth (Pondfill) road for a serious traffic between a private vehicle with license plate P-7763 and a bus with license plate P-6757. The driver of the private vehicle remained trapped in the vehicle after the collision. The Fire Department used their heavy equipment (Jaws of Life) to cut parts from the mangled vehicle in order for the victim to be removed by the paramedics. The victim with initials S.S. complained of pain in her chest, neck, and the left side of her body. After being removed from the wreckage she was transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. On the scene the police and paramedics were assisted by the Dutch military officers presently on the island conducting training for the hurricane season. This case is still under investigation by the Police Traffic Department.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamswelcomesjudges26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams welcomed new judges at the Joint Court of First Instance Judges Koos van de Ven and Katja Mans late last week at a ceremony in Philipsburg. The two judges were officially installed at the Court of First Instance during an extraordinary sitting last Friday afternoon. The Prime Minister stated that she looked forward to the professionalism and dedication of the two new judges in upholding the laws that govern St. Maarten. "I would like to welcome Judge van de Ven and Judge Mans to St. Maarten and wish them much success while they uphold the laws that Govern this Country," commented the PM. The Prime Minister is here seen sharing a conversation with Judge Katja Mans.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

clowns26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with "Lez Nez Cool" will be showcasing a free Clown Show on Thursday August, 29 from 5 to 6pm.
Klusha and Yvan, two clowns from the company Les Nez Cool, specializing in Clown Theatre, will be performing "Little Red Riding Hood's Trunk". Children ages 4 and older and their parents are welcomed to attend. This interactive clown show will be about two loveable clowns who find a treasure box of imagination. Both clowns will discover a world of fairy-tales. The play will be mostly in mime so there will be almost no talking.
If children don't remember the classic fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood, they can simply borrow a book from the Library and get a teacher or parent to help them read it.
This play will serve as the official launching of the Library's brand new story time sessions, which will start in September. For more information on future storytelling events, please call Maryland Powell at 542-2970.

sermeetswithsxmaidsfoundation26082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, August 15, 2013 the board of the Social Economic Council (SER) met with representatives of the Sint Maarten AIDS Foundation. As the Social Economic Council continues to provide government with advice pertaining to matters of socio-economic nature, the board has taken the initiative to meet with various NGO's, in an effort to gain better insight on their roles in our society.
The board of the SER were briefed on a number of activities carried out by the Sint Maarten AIDS Foundation.
Executive director, Rae Merlet outlined some of the outreach and support programs of the foundation. The board was updated on the "Girl Power" program which was developed for teenage girls attending the various secondary schools. Girl Power focuses on gender equality and empowerment of young teenage girls. Treasurer Rajesh Chintaman stressed on the importance of another program named "Real Talk", which will pilot later this year. A program that targets teenage boys, "Real Talk" focuses on teaching youngsters; discipline, having a good attitude and problem solving. Information on safe sex practices and sexually transmitted infections are also shared with both groups.

The SER emphasized on the importance of working with our young people and commended the Sint Maarten AIDS Foundation for its efforts. The foundation president Dr. Gerard van Osch highlighted the progress that's being made with the free rapid HIV testing and its public awareness programs. Furthermore the SER was briefed on a number of topics ranging from counseling, care and treatment of HIV patients, cost of medicine for HIV/AIDS treatment and the plans to expand the Foundation's work to include overall sexual reproductive health in the future.

The National HIV/AIDS Workplace policy from the Department of Labor was also discussed. The Foundation stressed the importance for this policy to be implemented to provide a work environment that is free from harassment and/or discrimination for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Gerard van Osch also pointed out some of the challenges the foundation has encountered over the past years, mainly with its subsidy. The SER noted that this was indeed a point of concern and stressed on the importance that NGO's should have sufficient access to funds. Without a proper subsidy the foundation stressed that it would become more difficult to consistently carry out certain projects and build on the gains already made against HIV/AIDS in our community.

In conclusion it was noted that the NGO's together with the cooperation of businesses and government should continue to make a joint effort in the spirit of corporate social responsibility.

flora25082013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group, has extended its invitation to photographers everywhere who wish to submit their favorite digital photos depicting the flora, fauna and marine life of St. Maarten/St. Martin, Saba and Sint Eustatius.
The company is seeking digital photos of the highest quality (300 DPI) showing the beauty of the islands through their plants, animals and marine life, for publication in the upcoming Telephone Directory 2014.
"We have had a great response from members of the public who have sent some fantastic shots for inclusion in the new telephone directory," said Marketing and Sales Officer, Cheryl Rismay.
She said some of the shots are taken in back yards and some feature beautiful plants in equally gorgeous settings.
"Of course there are a number of pictures of iguanas, but there are also some interesting ones featuring everyday creatures and plants that we see all around us," said Cheryl, who is also impressed by the quality of most of the shots received.
TelEm Group says any submitted work must be original and must also be of hi-resolution (300 DPI). No software enhancement is allowed and the photos can only be of flora, fauna and marine life from St. Maarten/St. Martin, Saba or St. Eustatius. All submissions must be accompanied by the full name and contact information of the person(s) making the submission.
All photos chosen for publication will be entered into a draw with the chance to win one of several super prizes.
Interested persons are asked to send their "Beautiful St. Maarten, Flora, Fauna and marine life" digital shots as well as their name and contact numbers to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The new deadline date for submissions is now Wednesday, August 28.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Silvanico Pauletta, Section Head Prevention, Preparation, and Education & Training at the Sint Maarten Fire Department announced on Sunday that two days of workshops will kick-off on Monday and run into Tuesday in preparation for the Hurricane Exercise (HUREX 2013) drill on Wednesday, August 28.

The workshops are based on the scenario of a hurricane strike and how the various Governmental and Non-Governmental Organizations will operate on the ground during a disaster.

The workshops are for employees of the Fire Department, Police, Emergency Medical Services, Ministry of Defense personnel, coordinators of the communication centers, Red Cross, St. Maarten Voluntary Corps, Windward Islands Emergency Medical Service, members of the Disaster Management Organization core group, and representatives of the core group from the Ministry of Defense operational level.

A multidisciplinary workgroup comprising of representatives from the Fire Department, Police, Emergency Medical Services, Ministry of Defense and the Department of Communication will be working in preparing the logistics for the workshop and drill.

A large scale drill will take place on Wednesday, August 28. The

Suckergarden Road will be closed for motorized traffic in front of the former BBW building from 8:00am to 12:00pm.

Motorists are advised to take note of the aforementioned road closure.

tacostein11032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The detectives of the Landsrecherche that are currently investigating the alleged threats that Member of Parliament Romaine Laville fired at Member of Parliament Jules James will also include in their investigation the complaint MP Laville filed against Leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger whom MP Laville said offered him bribes on more than one occasion to return to the UP Party.

Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said in an invited comment on Sunday to SMN News that the plans of the Landsrecherche is to include the complaint Laville filed against Heyliger. SMN News also learnt that MP Patrick Illidge filed a complaint against Heyliger when the Bada Bing scandal surfaced but that could not be verified.

During the past two weeks, two Marchechausee who joined the team at the Landsrecherche began questioning a number of witnesses including other Members of Parliament who witnessed the threatening. The detectives also questioned a number of staff of the Parliament of St. Maarten during several visits to the House of Parliament as they continue the investigation. SMN News also learnt that the detectives also questioned Sir Isidore York (The Mighty Dow) because York also filed a verbal complaint some months ago against Laville claiming that he threatened him. The threatening of Dow took place in the hallway of the Government Administration Building over the TEMPO Turns 7 show that was held on the island last year.

The penal code of St. Maarten states that a person can only be arrested if they commit a crime that warrants four years in jail or more, threatening someone could cause a person to be sentenced a maximum of two years. Even though the penal code has how and when someone could be arrested, article 101 has a list of crimes that can be exempted from the regular application of the law.

Under article 101 of the penal procedure someone that threatens another person can also be arrested. Therefore, MP Romain Laville can be arrested depending on the outcome of the investigation and the decision taken by the Prosecutor's Office.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The coordinators of Millinium Construction Pro's (MCP) intend to file a court injunction against the Government of St. Maarten next week.
According to MCP cordinator  Slyvin Flanders, the company instructed their lawyer Attorney at Law Roland Duncan to file an injunction against government for not living up to the bid and contract they won with the FOGA Development plan. According to the company's coordinator said that they met with the MInistry of VROMI where Minister Lake asked the company Manager to retract the letter that was sent to him by their lawyer. MCP made clear to the Minister that he needed to put in writing what he will do with regards to contract awarded to MCP on the FOGA development. MCP said to date they have not recieved anything in wrirting and therefore the instructed their lawyer to move forward.
Flanders said the Minister of VROMI wanted MCP to meet with him and for them to abandon the instruction their lawyer sent him but they refused to do so. "We did meet but there is no was agreement made with MCP and Minister Lake.
Flanders further stated that the last time he spoke to his Managing Director Franklin Patrick he was supposed to meet with the company's lawyer and instruct him to move to courts.
Attorney at Law Roland Duncan also confirmed that his clients instructed him to file a court injunction next week. Duncan said that he knows nothing about an agreement the company has with the Minister and he is busy right now preparing to submit the court injunction.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Junior Chamber International (JCI), formerly and widely known as the Jaycees hereby extends an invitation to the general public to attend its Open House Meeting this Wednesday, August 28th. This special evening will be held at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and will commence at 7:30PM.

Returning from their Summer Recess, the local chapter is kicking off their second half of the year with an exciting and energetic evening, where they will also take the time to showcase their work, socialize and highlight the benefits of being a member.
The evening will have a special program surrounding the theme for the evening is "Re-Invent yourself".
Whether you're unemployed, self-employed, middle manager or an executive, it's sometimes easy to get stuck in a monotonous life and only fantasize about what could have been. Attendees will leave with some simple techniques for breaking down barriers and learning how to let go of negative thoughts that are preventing the individual from achieving their goals and dreams.

Junior Chamber International (JCI) is one of the biggest worldwide non-political and non-sectarian youth service & self-development organizations. They are an international community of citizens between the ages of 18 to 40 with the aim and purpose of creating positive changes in their communities and by extension, the world.
The organization believes that these changes must first begin with the individual, by empowering themselves to create the changes they wish to realize.
JCI St. Maarten meets every last Wednesday of the month for their General Membership Meeting at the University of St. Maarten (USM) at 7.30 PM

This evening promises to brings to you a whole new perspective, where fun is free, knowledge is power and your presence is vital and where strangers become your friends.

For more info contact JCI St. Maarten at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit their Facebook page; JCI St. Maarten or at telephone # 522-0558 0r 581-4015.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with Millinium Pro's Construction. In the meeting included ICE, Ministry VROMI and representatives from the Minister's Cabinet.

The company has been instructed to close the trench in the vicinity of the Flanders's residence in Sucker Garden. Minister Lake added that we are in the hurricane season and with respect to dengue fever, open trenches of this nature cannot be allowed where water can gather. The contractor did not have proper approvals such as a waiver nor did they have permission to excavate a trench, Minister Lake point out.

Ministry VROMI states that the site needs to be returned to its original state in order to avoid any possible claims. Failure to comply with this instruction will lead to Government carrying out said works at the expense of the company. Ministry VROMI in a letter to the contractor has given the former to Sunday, August 25 by 6:00pm to close the trench.

In order for things to move forward, the Minister wanted to address a couple of things and to have these cleared up. "I made it clear in the meeting that mistakes were made by all parties involved, from the contractor, the former Minister of VROMI William Marlin, and Ministry VROMI on the instruction letter written by the former Minister to New Projects instead of following the right procedures within government.

"Everything was rush rush on the last days of the outgoing National Alliance-led government, and also based on verbal agreements without any paper trail. So you have situations of who say and who not say which in my book is a bunch of hearsay. This cannot hold up in a court of law.

"I was amazed by this type of sloppy work by the previous Minister who praises that Government is a continuity of work. No one at the Department of Information Registration, Ministry of General Affairs could locate the original advice. The approved draft advice had the condition that reads as follows, 'the works will only be granted upon the approval of the loan to Country Sint Maarten for the covering of infrastructural projects.'

"This was a decision point of the approved advice by Ministers Marlin and Tuitt within the last days in office with the objective of rushing this draft advice through which nobody knows where the original advice is in the system. I would suggest to Marlin and Tuitt to check their boxes of paperwork that they took out to see if it's not stuck somewhere in there," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake summed up the matter on Sunday.

Minister Lake further adds: "The letter to grant the works was worded in such a manner that the Department Head of New Projects could give a start date without informing the Secretary General of his Ministry and Minister who is ultimately responsible.

"This is irresponsible governing at its core! Imagine we have no loan approval for the project, but the former Minister of VROMI granted a letter for a Naf. 6 million job at the expense of the people. I have no beef with local contractors, but this matter is about how procedures were not followed.

"Then the past Minister goes on radio and lying to the people knowing that a kick off meeting was held on June 12th under the auspices of the former minister, and he comes now to state how it only happened on June 27th under my watch. Millinium Pro's Construction also didn't have a waiver permit which was at the police for advice when they were stopped by the Ministry of VROMI.

"I have never seen anything like this in government where a minister would grant work to a contractor knowing there is no money to pay the contractor. Accountability is needed here as irresponsible decisions should not go un-countered. I also discussed this issue in the Council of Ministers meeting and asked for assistance to locate the original advice which disappeared without a trace.

"I have never seen or witness a Government that just governs by hearsay or verbal agreements, and don't like to put anything in writing. A clear example is the Asphalt from the airport. This is the track and course the country was heading down and this goes against all the principles of good governance. Everything I do is in writing.

"We need to go back to basics. This irresponsible governance from the National Alliance would have placed the country in a dire state. As minister, I have decided to pay Millinium Pro's Construction for the work they have done so far and put the project on hold upon the approval of the loan.

"Millinium Pro's Construction was working but wasn't following the right procedure of the following minister. The company has agreed in the meeting with my proposal and they have decided not to pursue any legal action. As minister, I am not into the petty politics involving lying, but the main focus is working in the interests of the people. What you see is what you get.

"I have a job to do and I will do it to the best of my ability and be fair and open to the local people of Sint Maarten. Whatever is happening at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex and the Little League Stadium should be investigated but that's within the rights of the Ministry," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake concluded on Sunday.

The St. Maarten Zoo has been in existence for over 20 years and yet there are still people who have never been to the Zoo. In recent years, with financial difficulties, the Zoo has been unable to make the improvements we wanted. Sadly the Zoo has fallen on hard times as have many things on St. Maarten.

The Board of the St. Maarten Zoo still feels strongly that the Zoo is an important recreational and educational facility for the island. We realize we have to work harder to make it better.
We have a Board now with new dedicated members and we will soon be taking over the actual running of the Zoo ourselves. The management company we had an agreement with basically made lots of promises but followed through with nothing.
Our government stipend dried up and the Zoo has been running on gate proceeds and small donations only.
This keeps the Zoo alive but does not make the necessary improvements to make it a better zoo.

We want to make a "new" Zoo for you. We want to the Zoo to be a fun attractive pleasant place to visit. To do this we need new partners from the community to help us.
In the past we have always had support from the community, particularly the business community.
We are asking for that support again.
Help us make a "new" Zoo for you and help us get the Zoo to where it needs to be.

To that end, The Board of the St. Maarten Zoo has invited several people to a partnership meeting. At this meeting we will take a tour of the Zoo and present our ideas for what needs to be done to improve the Zoo.

The invitation to this meeting can be found online at
http://www.pingg.com/rsvp/qr8t2qm733g5zyyei/envelope

The meeting will be held at the Zoo this Saturday August 31 at 11:OO AM.

If you think you can help us in any way, please attend this meeting and help us make a "new" Zoo for you.

For further information you can email the zoo at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact Amy Arrindell at 522 1449.

patricialourensphiliptoursschools25082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip continued on her second tour of primary public schools last week Thursday where she visited the Genevieve de Weever, Martin Luther King Jr. and the Oranje School. Minister Lourens-Philip gave out the Lizzy Lizard Book to Cycle 1 teachers and VOOC Agendas to Cycle 2 students of grade 6.

sxmfiusignsmouwithbarbadosfiu25082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On August 23, at the Marriott Biscaye Hotel in Miami, Florida, during the annual Special Ministerial Meeting of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), where Sint Maarten was represented by Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson, the Directors of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of Sint Maarten Ligia Stella and FIU Barbados, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) making it possible for the exchange of intelligence information in connection with combating money laundering and terrorism financing and other related international border crossing crimes.

toastmastersclubofficers25082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Area Governor Sinatra Rouse of Area 23, has completed the first round of Officers Training for Toastmasters in Area 23 and any other member from Area 24 who missed the July training workshop.
Club officers from the six clubs on both sides (French and Dutch) of the island, as well as Anguilla, must be trained two times during the Toastmasters year, which runs from July to June.
With the addition of the Anguilla Toastmasters Club this year, the Area was split in two with Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG) Rouse controlling Area 23 and Advanced Leader Bronze Malcolm Jacques, Area 24.
As such, both Areas scheduled trainings that are open to officers of all six clubs. Jacques, along with Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Rolande Tobias, and District 81 Lieutenant Governor of Education and Training, Valerie Brazier DTM, led club officers through the first training in July, while Rouse's first training netted all other officers who were unable to attend the July workshop.
Over two days, August 12 and 17, clubs under AG Rouse's leadership – Disciples, Philipsburg, and Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Clubs – were led through presentations by Rouse, Tobias, and Brazier.
Amid a full house at St. Maarten Academy, where the August 12 workshop was held, Rouse presented on the roles and responsibilities of the various club officers, while Tobias and Brazier looked at conducting effective evaluations and how to motivate members to have a successful year, respectively.
During the interactive sessions, club officers fielded questions and benefited from the knowledge of the more experienced Toastmasters. In total, 19 more officers are now equipped with the knowledge of how to plan and set personal and club goals.
Most officers after the trainings expressed renewed confidence on how to progress as some of their misconceptions were cleared up. They were also motivated to grow personally, and to see their clubs, areas and district achieve greater success come next year June.
Clubs on St. Maarten and Anguilla take pride in working together as a team, as they see themselves as completing each other, and not competing against one another.

mauricelake18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake will be forwarded a letter to the Council of Ministers with respect to 'yellow journalism.'

'Yellow journalism' is described as a type of journalism that presents little or no legitimate well-researched news and instead uses eye-catching headlines to sell news.

Techniques include exaggeration of news events, scandal-mongering, or sensationalism.

The attached letter from the Minister is self-explanatory and will be submitted to the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers (COM) to be booked in as incoming correspondence for the COM to handle.

Click here to read the letter sent by Minister Maurice Lake to the COM on yellow journalism.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A 30-min TV Special about the country's Fire Department will be aired on St. Maarten Cable TV on Monday evening Channel 115 at 7:00pm.

The special can also be viewed by visiting the Government's website www.sintmaartengov.org as of Monday.

Featured in the special is Chief of the Fire Department, Winston Salomon, Section Head Repression, Material and Logistics, Clive Richardson, and Section Head Prevention, Training and Education, Silvanico Pauletta.

Fire fighters protect life and property from fires and a variety of other emergencies. They are usually the first to respond to emergencies.

Firefighters not only respond immediately to fires, accidents and medical emergencies but at the scene, they perform specific tasks in order to handle and solve dangerous situations based on their professional training.

St. Maarten Fire Fighters strives to consistently promote a professional image during performance of all duties.

The special will highlight a number of responsibilities that the fire department has and how these are executed in the interests of public safety and protecting property.

The TV program will highlight skills, basic life support, emergency calls, women fire fighters, the advancement of the fire department over the years, inspections, maintaining current awareness and much more.

Tune in for the program on Monday evening and be informed of the workings of your community fire department.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations will meet August 26 in a closed door session to discuss a five point agenda related to Kingdom matters.

The permanent committee will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The five point agenda that the members of the committee will be dealing with are:

The first agenda point is related to the proposal of Dutch Member of Parliament (MP) Bosman with respect to the residency regulation of persons from Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten in the Netherlands, which the MP submitted to the Second Chamber of the Dutch Parliament.

The second agenda point is an initiative note from Dutch MPs Bosman and Van Raak regarding the Dutch Gemenebest.

The third agenda point is an agreement between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States of America regarding the status of personnel from the United States in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.

The fourth agenda point is the Treaty between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States of America regarding technical cooperation in the area of civil aviation safety.

The fifth agenda point regards the proposed Kingdom law regarding the 12, May, 2011 Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons between the Kingdom the Netherlands and the Republic of Peru.

ocipresentsdreambook23082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Inauguration of His Majesty King Willem Alexander took place on April 30th in Amsterdam, The National Committee Inauguration had the task of coordinating the celebrations around the inauguration. One of the outcomes of the Inauguration celebration is the Dream Book.
His Majesty King Willem Alexander requested the National Committee Inauguration to have citizens of the Kingdom share their dream for their country as an inspiration to him and all citizens within the Kingdom. On St. Maarten the Organizing Committee Inauguration requested persons to submit their dreams with the hope of being selected to be part of the Dream Book. The OCI took the opportunity to also submit a dream.
From over 5600 submitted dreams a jury of sixteen well known Dutch persons chose 300, amazing and inspiring dreams. The submission of the OCI was selected to be published in the book. Below is the text that was submitted to the jury of sixteen.
"Our dream is that the Dutch acknowledge the full school curriculum in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. That educators and writers will be assigned to write about our history, culture and people which will be taught in primary and secondary schools throughout the Kingdom. Our history, culture and people not only include the Dutch history and culture, but also include that of the Countries of the Kingdom: St. Maarten, Curacao and Aruba, as well as the Dutch Caribbean BES islands Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius. In order to share a dream and a vision, knowledge of our partners is pertinent to the Netherlands. . Through teaching our youth, a nation will be taught. "
Those selections chosen led to the publishing of the book "My dream for our country, inspiration for the King". The book will also contain a number of photos of the Inauguration Ceremony April 30th, 2013.

One free book per household
On September 5th King Willem Alexander will receive the 1st copy of the book from the National Committee Inauguration.
All households on St. Maarten and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom will also receive a free copy of the book. In the next coming weeks OCI in collaboration NV GEBE shall distribute a flyer with information and a voucher to all households on Sint Maarten.
Thereafter on September 5th from 2:00pm anyone holding the voucher one can pick up the book at Van Dorp Eddine Bookstores at their locations in Madame Estate and Simpson Bay.
From 10:00 am on September 5th a digital version will be available for download at the website www.mijndroomvooronsland.nl. In the spirit of "Going Green" NV GEBE and OCI encourages persons not to print the downloaded publication but to save it and read it on their computers and mobile devices when necessary, this will help to save paper and contribute to a greener environment.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake this week met with the board and management of the Cadastre where he presented his basic plan of action for the Cadastre organization.

The plan calls for the hiring of a Change Manager who will be hired for a year to work along with a local company that does human resource training. The objective is to upgrade the personnel which would lead to an improvement in services to the public and other entities.

The Change Manager should be hired within two weeks to assist Management and improve personnel services.

"I would like to encourage the staff at Cadastre to challenge themselves to climb up the ladder within the Cadastre organization, because everybody has their own niche and field of expertise. Be the best that you can be, if management is going the extra mile to pay for courses to upgrade skills, make use of the opportunity.

"Employees in every business or entity have a responsibility to do their best and give the best service. The 'I born here' mentality doesn't work. Everybody is paid to perform. I commend the board and management for putting various social policies in place such as a pension plan, full medical coverage and upgrading of courses for employees.

"I have asked the Cadastre to organize a seminar on the responsibilities of staff as this would further enhance the working relationship within the organization. It was also suggested for the Cadastre to meet with the Notaries to discuss how services can be improved as well as the communication. It has also been recommended that board have a legal representative," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

Minister Lake has also asked the Cadastre to review their fees taking into consideration their operational costs. Special attention should be given to the "small man." The Minister is of the opinion that some form of payment plan should be established.

"As a community person, we need to look at ways and means to empower our local people to own their own land and encourage them also into owning their own business. It's all about going back to basics and helping others to progress and move forward as we move forward together as a country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Friday.

The Minister plans to monitor the progress closely at Cadastre and strongly believes that his back to basics approach is a win-win between management, the employees and customers.

The Minister recently met with all parties concerned about matters at the Cadastre, and this included employees, board and management as well as the Ombudsman.

cdeweeveratalzheimersworkshop23082013Dr. Daisy Acosta, Honorary Vice President
Mr. Johan Vos, Director of Development ADI
Mr. Keith Franca, President of St. Maarten Alzheimer's Foundation
Distinguished guests

It is with great pleasure that I address you this morning as we discuss ageing in the world, the Caribbean and St. Maarten. In particular I heard that some of you thought that St. Maarten has the utopian fountain of youth but given my platinum highlights that glitter under this light, and the fact that I do not move as fast as I used to or remember as much as I could or should-rest assured that we are still looking for it on our paradise.
Based on your request, I will mainly focus on ageing here on our beautiful shores of St. Maarten, by sharing with you some of the evidence that was collected during the recent elderly research. According to statistics 11% of St. Maarten's population was elderly in 2012 showing 6,269 elderly persons as of January 1, 2012. Here on St. Maarten we have seen that in the last 10 years the elderly population doubled, especially in the last 5 years.
The nationalities that comprise our elderly population are Haitians, Dominicano's, Dominicans, Jamaicans, Indians, Americans and Guyanese. Unfortunately 50% of them do not have the Dutch nationality and 13.4% of the elderly registered only between 2000-2011. When we take a look at the age group 60-70 years old, about 52.1% have been on the island for more than 20 years.
When the time comes to choose an island to open a regional ADI office please consider St. Maarten as your hub. In our own way we are very international given that over 100 nationalities reside on this "metropolitan" centrally located island.
When it comes to the caring for the elderly here on St. Maarten, about 7% of them are fully dependent on others to have their regular activities done. Those relied on for care are family members, district nurses, neighbors and the Helping Hands Foundation.
Due to the declining economy the scenario of the extended family and friends is under attack, as it is now necessary that many/most people HAVE to work resulting in less time to look at our elderly. Approximately 15-33% of our elderly experience loneliness while 25% reported feeling left out or isolated. Based on research, our elderly would like to be more involved in activities and would welcome the development of services and service points which cater to them.

Being aware, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor-with our theme: Putting People First-opened and staffed the Gaston Boasman helpdesk for the elderly and physically challenged in the Hope Estate to assist "vulnerable groups"." This helpdesk is staffed by our Department of Family, Humanitarian Affairs & Community Development and is also used for foundations to keep their meetings to discuss their needs and concerns and to avoid them from using their limited financial resources. As minister I am an advocate for sharing resources and synchronizing our efforts.
Members of the Golden Age Foundation, the St. Maarten elderly and recreational foundation, Home Away from Home, Meals on Wheels, Diabetes Foundation, COME, faith based elderly groups and social clubs like the Lions and the Rotary are all trying to fill the gaps, increase awareness and provide added-services. This only proves that we must and should work together.
The Departments of Social Development and Social Services remains committed to research, policy development and services which strengthen the position of elderly people in our community. Yesterday I was informed of a case of an Alzheimer's person who was dropped off at our social services office by an unknown person. The team kicked into gear because they were never confronted with such a case and with the effort of all they were able to contact their offspring and resolve the situation. Our question was: What would have happened if the team was not able to contact the family member-this may be the benefit of a small island but there are still situations that we are not familiar with. Where would we have housed this person? The medical center, mental health foundation or a hotel? Until we figure out where the person should be. This new situation created a learning opportunity for all involved. We have to be the "enablers" as referred to in your handout. I look forward to being part of it by the work we have done so far to enable and to empower foundations, patients and their families.
I would like to thank ADI for choosing St. Maarten as their preferred destination for this regional workshop and rest assured you have my support should you decide to open your regional office here as well. Thank you and have a very productive final day but please take some time to enjoy St. Maarten.

ST. PETERS:--- The new school year has begun. Parents are bringing and picking up their children in this school area again. Traffic into and out of this area during school days is quite heavy. Police officers and officers of the Control Unit are doing their utmost to make sure that there is a smooth and constant flow of traffic.
On Thursday August 21st 2013 the Community Police Officer Major Felix Richards attended a meeting at the Rev. John Gumbs Campus (M.A.C. School) to discuss many issues in connection with the opening of the new school year. One of the main topics of discussion was, the dropping off and picking up of children that attend school in that area.
During the last school year a project was launched to have the terrible traffic situation resolved. The property next to the former gasoline station was prepared for that reason and a walk way donated by N.V. GEBE was put in place to have the children going to school in the area get there safely. However, there are some parents who are not cooperating by helping to alleviate the traffic situation and are not making use of the drop-off and pick up area.

KPSM Press Release

mauricelakeatsigningofdeedforwiemsgovernmentland23082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake was present on Thursday for the signing of government land on long lease to the Windward Islands Emergency Medical Service (WIEMS) Foundation.

The parcel of land was issued in long lease to WIEMS for the purpose of constructing a training center with related activities and parking for the organizations ambulances.

Minister Lake said it was a very historical moment for him to sign the deed for the local organization that has been into existence for more than 20-years serving the community.

"WIEMS has been doing a fantastic job. They have qualified instructors, training equipment, they are members of the country's disaster emergency structure falling under Emergency Support Function (ESF) 6, and they have also been recognized by government for their service.

"We need to support our local Non-Governmental Organizations especially in this area of expertise where medical training and the knowledge of first aid is very important.

"It's all about going back to basics. You need trained professionals who in addition to existing first responders, will also play a role in attending to those injured in whatever fashion or form.

"The more persons trained the better for the community in an event of a disaster. I am very proud to be a part of this moment," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

SIMPSON BAY:--- With an average of four games per night, the SXM Airport's Annual Business Basketball knockout competition enters its crucial stage this weekend. Four games are planned for Friday, with another five for Saturday as the competition heats up, confirmed Evans Marsham, of the Princess Juliana International Airport Sporting Club, organizers of the tournament.

"So far, the games are going very well," Marsham said. "They are very well played and there is a lot of excitement at what will happen in the next few days."

The games started on August 19 and will close on August 27 when two games will be played to determine the third and fourth placed teams as well as the first and second. The first three teams will each receive a trophy. Twelve teams are participating in the games, divided into two pools of six teams each.

B & C Beverages and Menzies currently share top honors with two wins and no loss each, while defending champions NAGICO Insurances, and SXM Airport each have one win and one loss. Of course, all of this could change by Tuesday, Marsham agreed.

He said the games were conceived as a means of "bridging the gap between companies on the island."

Marsham urged the general public, particularly employees of the participating companies, to attend the games, which are being played at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium each night at 7:30 PM, to cheer on their teams.

belvederetrenchesbeforeandafter23082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Green Diamonds landscaping and construction managing director Troy Dormoy confirmed that works have been completed at the trenches in Belvedere, Oyster Pond, Dutch Quarter & Middle Region.
Dormoy said his crew consisting of 15 employees worked vigorously day and night to complete the works. I would like to thank the Ministry of VROMI namely honorable Minister Lake for awarding us the contract to clean our district and surrounding area. This gave us an opportunity to employ youngsters in the neighborhood who had nothing to do.
Certain areas had sludge and mud up to 3 feet deep that had to be excavated out. We were all overwhelmed when we watched the before and after photos. We would also like to recognize the employees for the hard work they put in to have the works finished.
We are looking forward to a continued relationship ahead whereby we would be granted the chance to carry out such works on a periodic basis. Residents of Belvedere praised us after completing the works, while some even said "the trenches seems as if you can eat from them now" but most important was to eliminate the breeding ground of insects.
While working in Dutch Quarter and Middle Region, we incorporated youngsters from those districts as well to facilitate with the cleaning works.
As youngsters and entrepreneurs, we will continue to focus and pursue our targets as an upcoming company.

naturefoundationcoralbleachingsurveydive23082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Nature Foundation staff carried out survey dives within the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area on Thursday in order to record the presence of the serious coral ailment Coral Bleaching. Because of the recent warm weather it was decided to initiate phase one of the Nature Foundation's Coral Reef Bleaching Response Plan which called for initials surveys to check for the presence or absence of coral bleaching. When corals are stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or nutrients, they expel the symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn completely white. Warmer water temperatures can result in coral bleaching. When water is too warm, corals will expel the algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues causing the coral to turn completely white. This is called coral bleaching. When a coral bleaches, it is not dead. Corals can survive a bleaching event, but they are under more stress and are subject to mortality.
During the research dives on Mike's Maze within the Marine Park there was a low incidence of bleaching but overall the coral was in good shape.

swescotwilliamsatregionalalzheimersconference23082013PM Presented with World Health Organization Publication on the Disease

GREAT BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the Regional Workshop of Alzheimer's Disease International on Thursday afternoon at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort. The two-day regional workshop brings together various regional and international partners to discuss global solutions for the disease that affects some thirty million people worldwide.

"Allow me on behalf of the Government and people of St. Maarten to welcome all of the participants at this very important workshop and all who have traveled to our shores to attend. I want to thank Alzheimer's disease International and our local St. Maarten Alzheimer's Foundation to bring all the groups together to discuss ways to treat and combat the disease. St. Maarten is honored to have professionals in the field of Alzheimer's to discuss some of the strategies and to share your practices and what you have learned on ways forward in treating patients

"Governments all over the world are coming together to explore ways to tackle this disease and St. Maarten is no exception. Together with our Local Alzheimer's organization and our service clubs Government is moving forward in putting the disease high on the National Agenda. We need to provide the necessary care to the patients and the support to the families while simultaneously ensuring that the information in the community regarding Alzheimer's is constant and pertinent," stated the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister was also presented a World Health Organization Publication entitled "Dementia; A Public Health Priority" by Johan Vos, Director of Development for Alzheimer's Disease International, Mr. Vos was joined by Dr. Daisy Acosta, Honorary Vice President of Alzheimer's Disease International, Mr. Keith Franca, President of the St. Maarten Alzheimer's Foundation, and Drs. Raymond Jesserun, St. Maarten Alzheimer's Foundation and Alzheimer's Disease International WHO/ PAHO Volunteer.

"As we will be having a conference on Sustainable Development on Friday this meeting definitely falls within that scope. Ensuring healthcare is part of our Sustainable Development and combating and treating Alzheimer's disease is definitely a part of that," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

guardiangroupsignunveiling23082013CUL DE SAC:--- Residents, insurance policy holders, and the general public will have to get use to the new name of Fatum Insurances that is located across from the Le Grand Marche. Several insurance brokers and business people from within the community joined the staff of Fatum and the executives of Guardian Group in the historic rebranding ceremony and cocktail party. Among the invited guests was Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake. The other politicians and Members of Parliament that were invited to the ceremony did not show up.

The staff and executives of Fatum enjoyed what they termed as a historic moment when they unveiled the new sign with the new name "Guardian Group". Fatum Insurances is one the branches of Guardian Group that is servicing several of the Caribbean countries including Trinidad, Jamaica, the Dutch Caribbean, and just last year the Netherlands. Their intention is to move through the European market. Fatum has been doing business on St. Maarten for the past 107 years under the same name but the mother company has decided that they have to bring all their branches under the same umbrella in order to better market themselves in the outer world. In the year 2003, Guardian Group bought Fatum from ING. According to the Guardian Group executives, the Guardian Group has been one of the leading financial and insurance conglomerates in the Caribbean basin. The executives said that even though Guardian Group is doing business throughout the Caribbean, they are operating under different names. Guardian Group just purchased the Royal and Sun Alliance in the ABC islands which they will integrate in Guardian Group.

One of the intentions of Guardian Group is to introduce e-technology and beef up their good corporate citizens.

Click here to view more photos of Fatum's rebranding ceremony.

mauricelake22082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake has decided to pay the contractors of Millinium Construction Pro's (MCP) for the work they did some weeks ago. Minister Lake said that he also intends to send the contractor a letter informing them that they have to fill back the huge gut that is next to the Flanders home.

Minister Lake said he did not issue a work stop but instead he placed the FOGA Development on hold until the loan is approved. Minister Lake explained that the advice and other paperwork regarding the project could not be found at the department of General Affairs. He said that the former Minister of VROMI made several mistakes including several of the staff of VROMI and the contractor whom he said won the bid. Minister Lake further stated that even though the contractor won the bid they have to follow the letter of the law. "At the time they started the project, the waiver was still at the Police Station. Lake said that he has to work by the books and what is in the advice written by the former Minister of VROMI William Marlin. When asked if the work stop has anything to do with politics, Minister Lake denied that and said that if any other contractor had done what MCP did he would have done the same. SMN News asked the VROMI Minister how it is possible for other construction work to take place and not the FOGA Development. Minister Lake said he could only speak for his Ministry and he cannot pay a contractor close to Naf. 6 million when the Government of St. Maarten does not have monies. When asked about the reserves government has, he said he is not going to speak about the reserves instead his focus is what is in the advice which is unless the loan is approved the work could not start.

Minister Lake said that prior to putting the work on hold he held a meeting with his staff and none of them at the Ministry knew about the project. He said the only person that knew about the project is the head of New Works Kurt Ruan. Minister Lake told SMN News that he is working with the advice he saw and that politics does not have anything to do with his decision. SMN News also asked Minister Lake what is the reason his government starting with the SWW1 cabinet did not repair Cassava Road where his cousin lives, Minister Lake said only on Wednesday he saw his relative and assured her that now he is the Minister of VROMI he will ensure that the road and the wall that is falling on her house is repaired. Minister Lake confirmed that his cousin, the former adviser of the Leader of the National Alliance, has been trying to get the department of VROMI to repair her road and to safeguard her home but it was not done.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Information reaching SMN News late Thursday night states that the Sarah Wescot Williams III cabinet has fallen and the Prime Minister was meeting with Governor drs. Eugene Holiday to discuss the political situation on St. Maarten. SMN News contacted Governor Holiday after 9pm Thursday night and he confirmed that he was in a meeting and could not speak at the time.

The Governor's vehicle along with the Prime Minister's vehicle were seen parked in front of the Government Administration Building close to 10pm Thursday night. Thursday night several politicians and Members of Parliament were seen at the cigar bar discussing the political crisis on St. Maarten.

An advisor to the United People's Party had on his Facebook on Thursday morning "13/12/13" which he believes will be the date for elections on St. Maarten.

Member of Parliament Romaine Laville met with a lawyer on Thursday morning to discuss the political situation on St. Maarten and his concerns with the SWW3 cabinet. SMN News also learnt that Laville is peeved about the ongoing investigation against him where MP Jules James filed a complaint against him with the Landsrecherche last year claiming that MP Laville threatened his life.

Apart from the disgruntled politicians and their disagreements, the government of St. Maarten is facing higher supervision because to date they do not have a budget. Based on the current projection figures in the 2013 budget that is being prepared by Minister of Finance Martin Hassink, no government can collect the amount of monies predicted as incoming revenues. SMN News further learnt that St. Maarten has to rewrite its budget since they are not able to collect what they predicted monthly unless they increase all the current taxes. A certified accountant told SMN News that there are expenses in the 2013 budget that must be met but there is no way any government could collect what they have predicted in the budget and if there is no approved budget for the year 2013 then there will be higher supervision imposed on St. Maarten.

SMN News will bring you more information on the political crisis on St. Maarten as it unfolds. So far no one is making any official comment on the state of affairs of the island.

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says he still can't believe what he read on Wednesday morning in the daily newspaper that government would settle for 10 million or 10% of the profit tax on the sale of American University of the Caribbean (AUC) School of Medicine. How can you give away more than100 million guilders (some say it is closer to 140 million guilders) at this very difficult time in our economy? This amount would have more than paid the complete Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2011 and 2012. Our budgets need some serious financial injection and the UP/DP government of 2011 gave away the people's patrimony. The DP/UP government (they are one and the same) remain consistent in their actions. Education and Health are always on the bottom of the list. We know that they are not going to include 18 or so million guilders contribution to the SZV in the 2013 budget. What about when the pensioner and the small man wants to make an arrangement? What about when the middle class and other businesses want to make an arrangement? They are told that they have to pay within a short period of time with no regard to their financial situation. Businesses have been closed, people have lost their homes and their salaries have been seized because of taxes. MP Pantophlet can now understand why this government does not want to write off taxes, because the people have to pay for that deal. The Member of Parliament says he would like to see the documentation on this binding agreement. If it is a done deal then why did the Minister of Finance say that it has his attention? The people have a right to know. The Member of Parliament says that there conflicting statements by the former owners of the AUC because on the one hand it mentions and he quotes "The former owners of American University of the Caribbean (AUC) School of medicine had a legally binding "tax settlement agreement" with government regarding their owed taxes and therefore have complied with their tax obligations" end of quote. Then further on in the same article it states and he quotes "the former Minister apparently found it appropriate to disclose information on a pending case" end of quote. So is the matter resolved or not? What he finds reeks with intimidation is the statement in the article attributed to the former owners and he quotes "that if the tax authorities had not entered into the tax settlement agreement, the transaction would have been renegotiated in a different form that completely and legally would have exempted the sale from profit tax" end of quote. In this case, the Member of Parliament wants to know if the former owners are saying that this sale would have taken place overseas through some off shore companies? Everyone has to pay their fare share of taxes. That the government at the time would make such agreement begs for some serious questions. I can't believe it.

mauricelakeatenergypolicymeeting22082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake initiated a meeting recently to follow-up on a draft Energy Policy that was commissioned by the first coalition government of the United People's (UP) party and Democratic Party (DP) with the first draft appearing in February 2012.

Since the initial meeting and a follow-up meeting, an Energy Committee has been established. The committee will start working next week.

The energy policy covers several areas which now have to be worked out by the committee. Some of these are: Initiate an energy efficiency program to improve the efficiency of energy production; Preparation of a Green Energy Plan with the objective to have 20 per cent of the electricity demand on St. Maarten to be generated with renewable energy sources by 2015.

The Green Energy Plan should include a provision for renewable energy users to connect to the grid under specific conditions; To introduce attractive incentives for solar.

Government will create an Energy Efficiency Program for stimulating the electricity consumers to reduce their energy consumption.

A study will also be initiated to identify the feasibility of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) as an alternative fuel for GEBE production and as an alternative for cooking gas.

"Residents and the business community need to have incentives at their disposal in order to Go Green. One of the main reasons is to reduce our country's footprint on the environment. We have a responsibility firstly to ourselves and secondly to the international community of nations, to also make a valid valuable contribution to reducing pollution even though our footprint may be small.

"Every footprint made in saving our world is one step closer to achieving that goal. At the same time, we are reducing the costs to the consumer by promoting green energy production. Former Minister of Energy Affairs Theo Heyliger was spearheading the Energy Policy for the country and I am happy to get things moving forward again in conjunction with GEBE our utility company," Minister Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

During the initial meeting participants exchanged views on what is already in the energy policy, what should be added, and GEBE indicated that they will send their comments and suggestions to the report in writing.

Both GEBE and Government representatives see the necessity for the island to have an energy policy and are committed to the development of this document together within the shortest timeframe.

tedrichardsonreceivesclsfinfophotobook22082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Hon. Ted Richardson recently received the first Info-Photo Book of Caribbean Living Statues Festival (CLSF) 2011-2012 published by the Beyond Writing Foundation, the initiator of this unique art.

The first edition of this storytelling by body language festival took place in December 2011 in Philipsburg where the heritage of Sint Maarten and the Caribbean was exhibited with performing arts.

"I think this is a great way to showcase our country's heritage to our people and our visitors. I am looking forward towards the next exhibition since it will be my first one.

"The festival definitely plays a role in our tourism and adds an additional dimension. Congratulations to the organizers and much success with their future exhibitions. The new book will be an asset in addition to the already existing documentary and slide shows especially for those who were not able to view these living art works," Minister Hon. Ted Richardson said on Wednesday.

Morales, president of the Beyond Writing Foundation is very happy with this milestone: 'It is important to make such unique happenings tangible in many ways. This hard covered, full colored Info-Photo book is one way, next to our 50 minutes documentary and the 30 minutes slide show, published in March this year.

This hard cover and full colored info-photo book is the first of its kind on Sint Maarten and comprises 64 pages. This book is a candy for the eye. It showcases the nicest living statues of Sint Maarten's CLSF first and second edition. It can serve easily as a special gift for many occasions, wherein the talents of Sint Maarten's youth are shown,' Morales stated.

In December 2012 the 2nd edition of this festival was extended with an exhibition of the Statues by Night in the Maho shopping area.

In the foreword of the info-photo book great recognition is given to the main sponsor, The Mondriaan Foundation of the Netherlands, which contributed to this info book production in 2012.

Morales expresses her thanks to the other sponsors who made both editions of Caribbean Living Statues Festivals possible: The Tourist Bureau of Sint Maarten (2011), the Prince Bernard Cultural Fund Caribbean (2011/2012)), the Representative of Holland in Philipsburg (2011) and all other social sponsors, but especially the statue participants and the volunteers.

Partners in the CLSF-1st and 2nd edition were Arlene Halley, director of the former Motiance Dance School and the World Statues Foundation, based in Arnhem, the Netherlands.

Morales said: 'This info-photo book is an ode to performing arts lovers and the caretakers of our cultural Heritage. We hope to continue expanding our horizons with this unique form of art in the Caribbean region by reviving our heroes and showing our Cultural Heritage and way of life to the world.

'We hope that the private sector and government of Sint Maarten will support the Caribbean Living Statues Festival event this year. Every support is needed and if we want Sint Maarten to be the focal point for CLSF in the Caribbean. We just want everyone to enjoy this form of art that can be considered as an asset in diversifying the cultural and tourist product on this Island,' Loekie Morales said.

A very limited amount of copies of the info- photo book is available. There are also two DVD documentaries on the CLSF 2011 and 2012 available at Beyond Writing Foundation. To get your copy, call 556-2735.

dennisrichardsonreceivesthesisfromkeisharichards22082013Thesis on immigration and principles of good governance

PHILIPSBURG:--- Young St. Maarten law student Keshia Richards (22), on Wednesday made a presentation to St. Maarten's Minister of Justice, Dennis Richardson, in the wake of her recently obtaining her HBO law degree at the Hanze Hogeschool in Groningen, Netherlands.

Justice Minister Dennis Richardson, in honoring Ms. Richards' request to make the presentation, welcomed the initiative, stating that "it is important to support our young people in developing their talents in any way we can".
Richardson added that "in this particular case, it also concerns the daughter of a respected former colleague" (former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards).

While on St. Maarten several months ago, Ms. Richards initiated her study assignment working as an intern at the Immigration and Naturalization Department.
The exercise afforded her insight into bottlenecks faced by immigration services and resulted in her writing a 52 page master thesis entitled "Residence permits and principles of good governance at IND in St. Maarten", intended for internal purposes.

Coming from St. Maarten, she chose to focus on a topic related to governance on St. Maarten, choosing the immigration process as theme.

Ms. Richards had initially hoped to do her internship at the cabinet of St. Maarten's minister plenipotentiary in The Hague but quickly realized that immigration is more a matter resorting directly under the government of St. Maarten. By sending e-mails and making inquiries, she eventually secured her internship at the immigration services – providing her a first-hand look at procedures. Her assignment entailed looking at immigration procedures and coming up with possible recommendations on the granting of residence and labor permits.

Among conclusions listed in the report submitted by Ms. Richards is that the process concerning the entry and residence of foreigners in St. Maarten has improved compared to a few years ago, but that there are still several areas that need improvement. The report suggests that the IND keeps better reckoning with taking the principles of good governance into account in the handling of residence permits, as this is not done on a constant basis. The situation is said to be related to a cumbersome relationship with the labor department, when it comes to the timely processing of work permits and synchronization between residence and labor permits.

The thesis mentions how research has shown, that persons residing here illegally and those remaining here longer than originally allowed are not being deported, due to financial constraints and lack of manpower at immigration services.

The findings conclude that IND must ensure that a foreigner be allowed to return to the country of origin in case of violation of the laws of the land. It is therefore recommended to draft a law, whereby the foreigner (who is being legally admitted to St. Maarten) upon arrival to St. Maarten, deposits money on a special bank account of the IND. The amount deposited would equal the cost of a return ticket to the country of origin of the foreigner, should the foreigner be deported or expelled from St. Maarten.

Additional recommendations listed in the report are that:

  • The residence permit and labor permit be linked to each other in a way that expiration dates of permits are synchronized.
  • A "one-stop-shop" approach be implemented so that undocumented persons do not have to provide the very same documents separately at both the labor department and immigration services and that
  • information folders be published in several languages, informing these persons of procedures and how to appeal decisions.

Ms. Richards expresses her sincere gratitude to Udo Aron (director of the IND), August Emanuel (mentor during her study assignment), Robert Barbij (Head of control) and Gwendolyn Mossel (Policy worker), for their supportive roles during her internship at the IND.

Ms. Richards will now continue to study notary law at university in Leiden, Netherlands, during the upcoming academic year. The decision for studying Notary law lies in her interest in real estate, corporate law, family law and inheritance law. Her intention is to return to St. Maarten after concluding her studies.

GREAT BAY:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Cornelius De Weever will be appearing on two local radio talk shows next week Monday, August 26, 2013. The radio shows are "Wake up with Elektra" on Laser 101 at 8AM and the "Lloyd Richardson Show" at 12PM on PJD2 radio.
"As Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, I feel that we have to put people first, and we can only do this by building St. Maarten together."
The minister will be discussing the putting people first and building St. Maarten together concept during this time. All aspects related to Labor will be addressed by the minister, and he will be accompanied by Head of Labor Affairs, Peggy-Ann Dros. The community is encouraged to listen to the radio programs and hear firsthand from the Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever how his ministry will be putting people first in the labor market.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- With the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season now in the peak period, the Office of Disaster Management is urging livestock owners to review their plans now of how they will secure their livestock in the event of a hurricane strike.

Livestock owners should make sure that their animal holding areas and other infrastructure are able to sustain a hurricane strike. Any loose material should be securely fastened in order to avoid damage to property and endangering human lives during the passing of a hurricane.

The following tips have been provided by the Office of Disaster Management and Animals R Friends: All cattle should have identification. Identification can be an ear tag, ear notches, neck chain or microchip. Paperwork should also be in order that shows ownership.

Don't keep your cattle in a barn or stable. This is to prevent injury from flying debris. If the barn collapses, cattle have no chance to save themselves. Relocate livestock to a predetermined safe area and ensure that they have access to hay, pasture, clean water, and a safe area or high ground above flood levels.

If you have chicken cages, these should be reinforced. Medical supplies and a first aid kit should be kept on hand.

Store drinking water for a number of days. Also have an adequate supply of feed.

CUL DE SAC:--- St. Maarten Academy has achieved yet another year of success at the May/June Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations, securing another 100 percent pass rate.
All CSEC passes recorded by the school were secured at one sitting of the regional examinations. Fifty-five students wrote between seven and 12 subjects offered by the Caribbean Examination Council.
There were many outstanding performances. One student majoring in Science scored nine grade ones (the highest grade at the CSEC Examination) while another Science major achieved eight grade ones. Forty-four percent of the candidates achieved passes in nine or more subjects at grades one, two and three; while 89 percent passed at least seven subjects at grades one, two and three. Most colleges require five passes at grades one, two and three.
The school recorded 100 percent passes in Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, English B, Geography, Human and Social Biology, Information Technology, Integrated Science, Physics, Social Studies, and Visual Arts.
Other subjects that showed strong passes were Principles of Business (97%); Principles of Accounts (95%); English A (94%); and Caribbean History and Mathematics, both with 91% passes.
According to Principal Shareed Hussain, most subjects showed an improvement from the previous year and he is extremely happy.
"We are very proud of our results, because it proves that at the Academy we are producing quality citizens to further build St. Maarten. We pride ourselves in developing students who are not only academically inclined, but who are well-rounded," Mr. Hussain said, making reference to the most recent interscholastic competitions the school won.
Current fifth form student Jenice Forbes and second former, Jacinth Hunkins recently beat out candidates at elementary and high schools across the island to win in both the senior and junior categories of the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) essay competition. St. Maarten Academy has also been amassing accolades in sports, science, music, and poetry competitions.
"Aside from the multitude of awards that the St. Maarten Academy claims, I believe that the results of this year's CSEC examinations are also reflective of the virtues that we instill as part of our Student Care Department, because without that sense of community spirit and development of character, they [the candidates] would not have understood what it meant to strive for excellence, build themselves, build their community, and by extension, build their country. So I congratulate them all for a job well done," the principal said.
The Board of the Foundation for Academic and Vocational Education (FAVE), under which the St. Maarten Academy falls, also extends congratulations to the management, staff, and students of the St. Maarten Academy for achieving yet another year of excellent results. The board is happy that students continue to perform well since the inception of the school in 1986.

PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten might be looking at early elections due to alleged turmoil in the SWW3 cabinet. SMN News learnt from well placed sources that the Prime Minister met with some of the faction members in Parliament that are supporting her government. The source said that at least one member of the Democratic Party already indicated that he is not into the business of breaking and making governments. The source said the DP MP made clear that he could make monies elsewhere and that he is more than ready to hand over his seat to the Prime Minister.

Other strong unconfirmed reports state that Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville has thrown in the towel because of the ongoing investigation against him. The source said Laville is upset with his colleague MP Jules James who is pushing the investigation on the alleged threats he made against him last year. SMN News also learnt that Laville has issues with Minister Ted Richardson who is closely related to MP Patrick Illidge. Sources within the Government apparatus said that Laville did not want to go through with the appointment of Minister Ted Richardson but he was told by some other MPs that the Minister is not going anywhere. Ever since the Minister of TEATT took his position in office he is yet to introduce himself to the people of St. Maarten.

SMN News learnt that Laville already contacted a lawyer with whom he will discuss the political crisis. SMN News tried to reach Laville by phone for a comment but he could not be reached.

wicsupsuandwitucolainfosession21082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Civil servants from various sectors of government packed the head office of the Windward Islands Civil Servant Union/Private Sector Union (WICSU/PSU) on Wednesday afternoon to receive follow up information from the board of WICSU/PSU on their COLA payments which the unions claim are due to their members for the years 2011 and 2012.

On Tuesday, the Presidents of the two unions namely WICSU/PSU and WITU told reporters that they were going to be updating their members on Wednesday and they would also decide on a way forward on how to deal with government regarding the payment of the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). President of WICSU/PSU Derie Leonard said that the members mandated the board to ensure that they get their full COLA payments for the years 2011 and 2012 at 4.6%. Leonard said the unions under the umbrella of WICLU will meet again on Thursday to further discuss the matter since they all have a mandate from their membership.

However, it was a bit disappointing for the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) who also held their information session on Wednesday afternoon at the WIFOL headquarters on Pondfill Road.

While all members of the WITU board were at the location, their membership turnout was somewhat low. Some teachers said that this is the norm for teachers when there are information sessions because many of the teachers that work for government subsidized schools fear victimization and that is one of the main reasons they do not show up to meetings and or industrial actions.

On the other hand, WICSU/PSU has members from all sectors of government therefore it is expected that they would receive more attendance during these meetings.

Members of the WITU voted on a resolution indicating that the COLA payments must be made in full for the years 2011 and 2012. The board of the WITU also decided to take the resolution to the various schools for all teachers to sign it especially since a large number of teachers did not attend the meeting on Wednesday afternoon. President of WITU Claire Elshot could not be reached by phone for an official comment Wednesday evening.

While the Presidents of the WICSU/PSU and WITU met with their members on Wednesday, it is understood that the NAPB President Carlyle Rogers met with his members on Monday.

It should be noted that Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson and the management of KPSM have to deal with an awkward situation because the President of NAPB Carlyle Rogers is part of the management team of KPSM since he was appointed head of the Simpson Bay Police Outpost by former acting Minister of Justice Roland Tuitt. According to information provided to SMN News, Rogers was appointed based on a court decision that says the Government of St. Maarten has to make an official decision on his appointment which was rejected by former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan who told him that if he wants to become part of the management of KPSM then he has to choose between the union and the police force because there is a conflict of interest with the two positions he is holding. SMN News further learnt that the management of KPSM met on Wednesday to discuss the situation. Efforts made to reach Chief of Police Peter de Witte on Wednesday by telephone proved futile while the Minister of Justice also could not be reached by telephone for a comment.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- With an on-going dengue outbreak and increased mosquito activity around the country due to recent rain showers, it is recommended that you take some simple steps to avoid mosquito bites and thereby protecting children from mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.

Section General Health Care (SGHC), a section within the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), an executing government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, recommends the following measures on how to avoid mosquito bites: avoid areas of high mosquito activity, especially around dawn, dusk and the first few hours after sunset.

Wear long, loose-fitting, light colored or protective clothing when outdoors or apply a personal repellent to exposed skin or clothing; socks. Apply repellent only to exposed area of skin, not under clothing.

Don't use DEET-containing products on infants younger than six-months. Don't let young children get DEET or picaridin-containing products on their hands or faces. When you go indoors, wash with soap and water to remove any remaining repellent.

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

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with SGHC's appeal for parents and guardians, to take measures to prevent children from getting bitten by a mosquito.

Mosquitoes can be kept out of the home by keeping windows, doors and porches tightly screened (16-18 mesh). Those insects that do get into structures can be eliminated with a fly swatter or an aerosol space spray containing synergized pyrethrum.

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

dutchsupportvesselpelikaan21082013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On Wednesday morning, the emergency detachment of the Dutch Ministry of Defense departed for the annual Hurricane Relief Exercise on the Windward Islands. The squad of the Royal Dutch Marines left from Aruba, the support vessel Pelikaan left from Curacao. This year, a special team of divers will accompany the detachment.

Underwater Surveillance
The detachment will first go to Sint Maarten. There, they will find the island in full preparation on the impact of a hurricane. The military will assist in the construction of shelters and the will exercise with the emergency services like the police, the fire department or the medical services.

When the hurricane has hit the island, the military will assist in the prevention of raiding or help in the removal of debris. But they will also make sure the airport and the harbour stay open for the arrival of aid. That's why this year the special team of divers will survey the harbours with their underwater surveillance robots, to make sure the entry of the harbour stays open and the ships can moor.

The detachment will also travel to Saba and Sint Eustatius, where they will assist the disasters staffs in the organization of the annual disaster relief exercise.

Military assistance
Military assistance before, during and after the passage of a hurricane is one of the main tasks of the Dutch Ministry of Defense. The emergency detachment, the disaster staffs and the emergency services of the three Windward Islands will exercise in very realistic scenarios. Cooperation and sharing of experience are the main objects of the Hurricane Relieve Exercise.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), hereby announces that Back Street will be partially closed on Thursday evening until Friday morning.

The closure is related to the demolition of a building at Back Street #47.

The section of road that will be closed off to motorized traffic is from the Emmaplein down to Angelo's Boutique intersection.

The road closure will be from Thursday evening 8:00pm until Friday morning 6:00am.

Ministry VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience that this may cause.

SIMPSON BAY:--- A joint operation took place in Simpson Bay in the vicinity of Peiking Supermarket on Wednesday afternoon. According to information reaching SMN News, members of KPSM and Customs and Immigration formed the team that conducted the operation. It is believed that persons residing in a house behind Peiking Supermarket are in possession of drugs and firearms.

SMN News learnt that a number of people that are residing on the island illegally were detained by immigration officers.

Prosecutor Dounia Benamaar confirmed that a joint operation took place in Simpson Bay Wednesday afternoon but she said she could not say what the officers found. Benammar said the police will send out a press release sometime on Thursday after the operation is completed.

naturefoundationsnorkelclub21082013Three Participants Graduate as Junior Rangers

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation Snorkel Club came to an end recently with the graduation of some sixteen students. Three snorkel Club members who have been attending for numerous years, Hailey and Britney Beauperthuy and Theodore Wilson graduated as Junior Rangers.

The Nature Foundation, in a continued effort to educate the youth on conservation issues and stress the important role the youth plays in the future of nature conservation on this island, established the Snorkel Club program with the aim of educating local youth in snorkeling skills and marine conservation. Children were given a number of lessons with each lesson consisting of both theory and practical elements. "Educating the youth on the environment is one of the most important tasks of the Nature Foundation. It is through educating the children that will eventually inherit this island that we can ensure true development in the sustainable sense while conserving our natural environment," read a Nature Foundation statement. The Nature Foundation will also be partnering with Be The Change St. Maarten and Naturalist and author Mark Yokoyama in introducing under privileged youth to the environment and conservation activities.

Lessons included snorkeling skills, marine naturalist courses, and introduction to SCUBA diving, hiking tours, and a special closing party.

swescotwilliamsatlionsstudentsexcellenceawards23062013The St. Maarten Lions and Leo club, in keeping up with the theme of the International Association of Lions Clubs in the month of August, have been actively getting the youth engaged in various programs and projects.
At present the education committee has already started all preparations to get the Peace Poster kits to the various elementary schools so that our youth between the ages of 11 – 13 years can participate in this drawing competition to depict, in their own way, 'Peace in the World'. In November a winner will be chosen and will be presented at the, locally held, Lions' Mid-Year Conference for participation against the other clubs in our district 60B; the winner of district 60B will then compete on the international level. We encourage all elementary schools to participate in the art contest.
The goal of the contest is to promote the artistic development of our youth and at the same time combat crime and violence by encouraging peace.
The education committee is also busy expanding on the great success booked in our last fiscal year with the Lions Quest, when international instructors gave the implementation and usage guidelines to 74 caregivers and also some school board managers. It is our intention to continue getting more caregivers and teachers involved in this program that has touched the lives of more than 20 million youngsters in 81 countries. The Lions Quest training is set to be held after the mid-term break in February 2014.
Our annual Student Excellence Award Ceremony is also on the agenda for this scholastic year This award is granted to grade six (group 8) students that excel in their social behavior and show their interest in humanitarian assistance at the end of the year.
In our continued effort to work and empower young people, the St. Maarten Lions Club will be starting an Omega Leo club where young adults between ages 18 – 30 can join and serve mankind through the various programs available on an international level. An Open House is in the planning where adolescents will be invited to join and serve their community in the various ways offered through the Omega Leo movement.
The existing Leo Club of St. Maarten is an Alpha club that has many youngsters with ages ranging from 12 – 18 years. This Leo club is fully functional and has a wonderful program already set out for its young members to serve and at the same time empower themselves with knowledge and love for mankind.

Their projects include, but are not limited to:

  • The "Sister Basilia Talent show", in which senior citizens enjoy a fun evening while at the same time share their singing, dancing, modeling, and other talents;
  • "Tis the season for giving", an annual food collection for the under-privileged families of St. Maarten which allows the club to deliver an average of 60-70 food baskets on the island;
  • The painting of senior citizen homes, a project that started 30 years ago;
  • The "basketball tournament" which is held for 5th and 6th graders and has included the participation of over 13 schools in the past six years.
  •  Assisting Lions with the Lion Nelson v/d Linde Seniors Citizens Party
  • The "Easter Food Drive", which has been carried out with success over the past two years and donations to families that are in need, such as school items.

List of participants to be posted on APS website

PHILIPSBURG:--- The general pension fund administrator, APS, is in the process of cleaning up its database, to better reflect its listing of actual participants.
To facilitate the process, APS will be publishing a list of names of persons that it would like to get in contact with as soon as possible. The list of names will also be posted on the APS website, www.apsxm.org, under the heading "news". Persons concerned are being contacted so that they may provide information required to complete the APS administration and, at the same time, update files of participants.
The publishing of the list of names is in addition to APS already approaching these persons directly or through their respective employers. "This very essential exercise is fundamental in assisting APS to provide even better service to our client base and plan for their future", says APS director Kendra Arnell. APS is inviting persons listed to contact APS, as soon as possible, in order to gather all needed information.

Sint Maarten PRIDE volunteers join hundreds of thousands of people around the world for Trash Free Seas this September during the 28th annual International Coastal Cleanup.

What: St.Maarten/Saint Martin has joined the movement for Trash Free Seas by being a part of the 28th annual International Coastal Cleanup, the world's largest volunteer effort to help protect our ocean, lakes and rivers. Each year, hundreds of thousands of volunteers from around the world spend a few hours removing trash and debris from beaches, lakes and rivers, keeping track of every piece of trash they find. Ocean Conservancy uses that information to produce an annual snapshot of the problem of marine debris. Last year, more than 550,000 people picked up more than 10 million pounds of trash along nearly 20,000 miles of coastlines.

When/Where: Sunday, Sept. 22, from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., La Belle Creole Beach-meeting place will be entrance to La Belle Creole.

Contact: More information will be forthcoming in the coming weeks. Schools and faith based groups may sign up for additional cleanup sites during the month of September. In addition we are also seeking volunteer dive operators to carry out the underwater cleanup in the month of September. Contact information for the 2013 International Coastal Cleanup is Jadira Veen, President of the Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation on 5204096 or visit St.Maarten Pride Facebook page

On Sint Maarten, volunteers found over 5000 pounds of trash in 2012.

Sint Maarten PRIDE foundation is a community based environmental advocacy and activist non profit, non government, foundation on the island of Sint Maarten. The foundation educates on environmental best practices, ie, anti-littering, ocean conservation and nature preservation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The difficulties of students abroad returning to St. Maarten was one of the topics discussed on August 19th, when the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, Soualiga Social Movement and the Soualiga Foundation met for the first time. Three members of the Soualiga Social Movement namely Alston Lourens, Emilio Kalmera and Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson met with Perry Geerlings Chairman of the Soualiga Foundation and Karen Hana, Executive Director of the SHTA in the meeting room at the offices of the SHTA.
The Soualiga Social Movement asked for the meeting, after recognizing the issues most students abroad have in regards to returning to St. Maarten to work or for an internship. Other related issues were discussed such as the reluctance of some graduating students to start at a lower position than what they have studied for, the issues some local interns sometimes bring to the table and the international experience some of our students shy away from.
All organizations in the room acknowledged that a lot could be done to help the businesses on the island get quality interns and employees from amongst our student populations abroad. The SHTA, SSM, and SF decided that a web-based solution would best serve this purpose and pledged to further discuss possibilities. The SHTA already signed an accord with SXMjobs.com last July, a job board with around 15,000 visitors per month, operated by a group of St. Maarten students currently studying in the Netherlands. It targets primarily young St. Maarten professionals and students living abroad; uploading vacancies is free for SHTA members. The groups will conduct further correspondence via email and announce the solutions at a later date.

stagnantwateringut20082013PHILIPSBURG:--- A well known law firm on St. Maarten has already dispatched a letter to the Government of St. Maarten informing them that they must take up their responsibilities and pay Millinium Construction Pro's (MCP) or face legal action by next week.

The attorney representing MCP told SMN News in an invited comment that MCP won the bid in January 2013 and the contract was signed off in June 2013. "This company won the bid and they received written instructions to start the project early from VROMI because of the hurricane season. All of this is in writing and government must comply and respect the obligations they have with contractors. The excuse about the 2013 budget has no bearing because the government of St. Maarten has over 40 million in the bank as reserves."

The attorney said this is not a case of politics, it's a case where a Minister thinks he can do as he pleases and disrespect the law. "There is a case of safety and security in the area while there is a legal obligation the Government of St. Maarten has with MCP. So far my clients spent over one million guilders and they have to get their monies. I gave the government of St. Maarten a time frame in which they must comply if not they will face legal action."

SMN News learnt that the Minister of VROMI is trying to force MCP to forget about their lawyer and to now sit around the table with him to discuss a way forward.

Ever since Minister Maurice Lake took office he never attended the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefings, instead he has been sending out press releases with information he sees fit for publication.

On Wednesday SMN News asked the Prime Minister of St. Maarten about the FOGA Development that was stopped by the Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake. The Prime Minister said she knows that the Minister is busy with the case but she thinks that questions regarding the safety of the people living in the area should be posed to the Minister himself and not her as the Prime Minister of St. Maarten.

anthonymolanusgalvez21082013COLOMBIA/ST. MAARTEN:--- The 13 year old son of well known businessman Derk "Dicky" Molanus was shot twice in Colombia on Tuesday evening around 6pm. Dicky Molanus told SMN News in a telephone interview that he received a phone call around 7pm Tuesday evening with the news. He said based on the information he received, his 13 year old son was playing with another young man on the street with a bike when he was shot. Molanus said his son was shot twice, once in his head and another shot somewhere on the body area. He said the other boy who was playing with his son was also shot multiple times but he was still alive up to Wednesday afternoon.

Molanus said that both boys were shot by others, he could not say if the shooters were teenagers or adults. He further stated that he does not know the motive of the killing because the mother of his son was not at the location when her son was killed. "I am hoping that the other boy survives so that he could shed some light as to what exactly happened and who shot my young son to death."

Molanus identified his son as Anthony Molanus-Galvez who was a student of Learning Unlimited. The bereaved father said that his son went to Colombia mid June when the school vacation started and he was due to return to St. Maarten sometime this week because he was in the seventh grade.

SMN News learnt that the mother of the young victim is from Colombia and she and her son went to her native country on vacation.

swescotwilliams21082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams told reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that she has been in consultation with the unions and the GOA regarding the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) payments that is owed to civil servants. "I have been in touch with the unions both individually and collectively based on their request for an update on the COLA payments. However, I have been repeating what I told the unions in the press when questions were being asked about the COLA payments."

Wescot Williams said she is not a member of the GOA but because of the issue she met with them on at least three occasions to apprise them of the COLA issues. She said that it is absolutely not true that she only gave information through the media because she also communicated to the unions and responded to the letter sent to her by joint unions. She said she did receive a letter from the unions in April 2013 and while they discussed the letter she did not respond to the letter officially. The Prime Minister said she also received a letter from the WICSU/PSU and they received a response from government informing them that the COLA has been an ongoing discussion with the GOA and government's preference is that they continue to discuss how they should move forward with the COLA.

The Prime Minister further explained that the "Remuneration and Salary Policy Performance Payments by Government" for the COLA was approved in October 2007 by the Executive Council and it is clear in that policy that the COLA payments will be made when it is feasible for Government. Wescot Williams said the same policy was taken over by government when St. Maarten became a country. She further explained that it is not without reason, she stressed that evaluation and performance had to be included in the policy. Wescot Williams said due to that there was a shift in the payments by government and emphasis was placed on performance.

Wescot Williams said that COLA payments take place depending on the financial room that government has. "This is clearly mentioned under point 2.5 of the policy while the inflation adjustments is decided by the Executive Council (Council of Ministers). Under point 5, the inflation correction states that yearly the Executive Council (Council of Ministers) will determine the feasibility of the general indexation. Wescot Williams said the COLA payments is not automatic and this is not something new. She stressed that one has to look at the entire policy to see where the emphasis is regarding remuneration and compensation for government workers. The Prime Minister said she gave this lengthy explanation to show that nothing has changed and they are still discussing the matter. "If you look at government's financial situation for the past years you would realize that it is not getting better. I have said in the past that government needs to tie its financial situation into the economic development of St. Maarten because government revenues will not grow just like that. There are economic developments that would have to be increased and be promoted in order to have better economic growth."

Wescot Williams said that government has been looking for a new way to do the indexation and the inflation adjustments all of which was explained to the media and the GOA in order for them to come to a proposal and not a decision for the calculation of the COLA. She said so far there has been a few things that have not moved forward, however the Minister of Finance indicated last week that he has picked up the matter from where his predecessor left off. "Minister Hassink picked up the issue and he is busy trying to get the research done while the 2013 budget remains a status quo and no payments can be made unless the 2013 budget is approved."

PM Admits to Receiving Letter from SCDF on Festival Village.

When SMN News asked the Prime Minister if the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) sent her a letter regarding the management of Festival Village, Wescot Williams admitted that she received a letter from the SCDF expressing their feelings and opinions about the Festival Village.

Wescot Williams said that she already responded to the letter sent to her by SCDF. However, she made clear that she believes that they have to look at ways to make better use of the Festival Village on a long term and year round basis. Wescot Williams explained that the SOG (foundation that manages government facilities) has to take into account the agreement that TELEM has regarding the Festival Village while looking for ideas and possibilities regarding the usage of Festival Village. In addition, the SOG must take into consideration the annual carnival festivities and other proposals for the usage of the Festival Village.

Wescot Williams said she already indicated to the SOG that they have to first determine what they want or like for the location. She said the SOG cannot wait on different proposals and then decide which is better. "Let me say it this way let us see what we want and not the SOG alone, after that we can look at the various proposals and which would be the best entity to execute the proposal that is selected. There needs to be some plan in our minds on how to move forward. I have not seen a terms of reference going forward."

Wescot Williams also indicated that the discussions are ongoing and no decision has been taken on who would have control over the Festival Village.

SMN News managed to obtain a copy of the letter the Prime Minister sent to the President of the SCDF Michael Granger. According to the response the Prime Minister sent to SCDF, the SCDF made reference to the agreement that the Festival Village has with TELEM Group of Companies and the future plans for the usage of Festival Village. The Prime Minister assured SCDF that the annual carnival activities will not be hindered and furthermore SOG will hold regular meetings with SCDF when the planning of the annual carnival preparations take shape.

She also informed SCDF that the government of St. Maarten is a co-signee to the agreement TELEM Group of Companies has with Festival Village and they have a legal responsibility that must be upheld to avoid legal consequences.

PM Confirms Mobilization Fees for Government Building Exceeded Naf. 1 million.

Wescot Williams also chided the former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt on the information he released on the amount of mobilization fees that were paid to a contractor for the Government Administration Building on Pond Island. In response to a question posed to the Prime Minister asking that she shed some light on the mobilization fees that were paid to the contractor, Wescot Williams said that the matter of the Government Administration Building was on the desk of all the Ministers of Finance and she wants to know what the former Minister of Finance did about it. She said she wants to know how long the project was on Tuitt's desk when he took office. She further stated that if he had made the statements he made in her presence she would have asked him how he tried to stop the payments.

Wescot Williams said she advised her Ministers especially the Minister of Finance not to join his predecessor in any type of back and forth discussions. The Prime Minister said she also took note of the statements that were made by former Finance Minister Roland Tuitt and she cannot say why the statements were made now. "The mobilization cost is no big secret, I already gave information on why the mobilization fees built up."

Wescot Williams said she announced on several occasions the reasons the government of St. Maarten was incurring cost and still is incurring cost for the Government Administration Building. The Prime Minister could not say exactly how long mobilization fees are to be paid for any construction project.

Click here to view the letter sent to SCDF in response to the letter they sent to the Prime Minister regarding Festival Village.

patricialourensphilip20082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Patricia Lourens – Philip hereby brings the following to the attention of the general public in particular those persons, institutions, and organizations that are involved in keeping the Intangible Cultural Heritage alive with craftsmanship.

The Netherlands became signatory to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention in 2012. The Dutch Participation Fund for the coming year has as its theme "Craft/Ambachten," and has reserved funds for persons, institutions, and organizations who are busy keeping the Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Kingdom of the Netherlands alive.

As such the Dutch Participation Fund is seeking projects that contribute to keeping the Intangible Culture alive, in particular that of craft.

The deadline for submission of projects is September 15, 2013 before 12:00 pm Sint Maarten time or before 17:00 hours Netherlands time.

Should you require further information please contact the Department of Culture at 542-2056 or 543-1172 or you can contact directly the Dutch Participation Fund via www.cultuurparticipatie.nl.

Minister Lourens-Philip urges all persons active in the field of Culture in particular the craft section to take advantage of this program and submit their project(s) in a timely manner.

The Minister wishes all persons, institution and organizations the best in this endeavor!

stagnantwateringut20082013SUCKER GARDEN:--- Several homes in Sucker Garden are now in danger because of the work stoppage issued by Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake. The Flanders family told SMN News on Tuesday afternoon that their homes and several young children are at risk because of the decision taken by Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake to stop the work that was being done as the FOGA Development.

According to the Flanders family and the President of the Sucker Garden Community Council Leroy La Paix, the FOGA Development was placed on bid on January 2013 and four contractors submitted their bids. Millinium Construction Pro's won that bid for the sum of Naf. 5,291,137.07. La Paix who spoke on behalf of the Sucker Garden community said he wrote several letters to government regarding the safety and security of the children that are at risk due to the work stoppage. La Paix said he could not say exactly why the work was stopped but he knows that the project was supposed to last a period of five months and the intention was to build proper drainage which would also lead to the sewage plant on A.T. Illidge Road. Louise Flanders said there are over 40 children living in the area and their homes will flood out if it rains. "In 1995 when hurricane Luis hit St. Maarten our family lost every single thing and we knocked on every door looking for help and we did not get the help we needed. We saw trucks passing with beds and everything for people who really did not need it but because they support certain politicians they were taken care of. Right now if rain falls our homes will flood out again. Besides that, these guts are seven to eight feet deep and filled with water that is stagnant. Anyone of the children could fall in the guts and drown. Our children play in the yard and there is no security around the guts that were widened by Millinium Construction Pro's. N.V. La Paix said the work was supposed to begin on August 1st, 2013 and it had to be completed in five months. He said a team from VROMI visited the location before the work started including the secretary general Louis Brown and they all gave the green light to start the work because of the upcoming hurricane season.

flandersfamily20082013Slyvian Flanders, a shareholder of Millinum Construction Pro's N.V. told SMN News that his managing director did not want to speak about the company's dilemma in the media because they took an attorney who will be taking government to court. Flanders said that of the four companies that submitted their bids, MCP won the bid. He said he also got written authorization from VROMI to start the work earlier because of the hurricane season. Flanders said the company ran up a bill of $162,000.00 and to date the Ministry of VROMI did not pay them. Flanders said that the workers who worked on the project for about ten days were not paid, the truckers that removed the mud and rock material and the excavator still have to be paid while he built an office area just next to the where the project was taking place for his workers and to store materials all of which indebted the company. Flanders said that the current Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake is attacking Slyvian Flanders and not Millinium Construction Pro's N.V. He said he is of the opinion that politics is playing a major role in what has happened to the FOGA Development. Flanders said four companies bid for the project namely MNO Vervat, Windward Roads, Millinum Construction Pro's N.V., and Sobrezo's. Flanders said the FOGA development was placed on bid in January 2013 and MCP won the bid but now Minister Lake is saying Government does not have monies for the project. He asked how could it be possible for SWW2 cabinet to put a project on bid and now they are saying they stopped the project because government does not have monies and using the 2013 budget as an excuse.

Click here to view more photos of the stagnant water that is beside the Flanders home in Sucker Garden.
Click here to view the contract issued to MCP in January 2013.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health is calling on the community to take immediate measures to prevent the breeding of mosquitos after rain events.

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

Based on the aforementioned it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings within seven days to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

CPS is calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases.

Persons are recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Actively destroy or dispose of tin cans, old tires, buckets, unused plastic swimming pools or other containers that collect and hold water. Do not allow water to accumulate in the saucers of flowerpots, cemetery urns or in pet dishes for more than two days. Throw out the water and turn them over every time it collects water.

Clean debris from rain gutters and remove any standing water under or around structures, or on flat roofs. Check around faucets and air conditioner units and repair leaks or eliminate puddles that remain for several days.

Change the water in birdbaths and wading pools at least once a week. The treatment of ornamental pools should be discussed with the experts. Fill or drain puddles, ditches and swampy areas, and/or remove, drain or fill tree holes and stumps with mortar and regularly treat and monitor.

Eliminate seepage from cisterns, cesspools, and septic tanks. Eliminate standing water around animal watering troughs. Flush livestock water troughs twice a week.

Check for trapped water in plastic or canvas tarps used to cover boats, pools, plastic bags, foam dishes or even plastic cups strewn on the road side.

Clean the dead leaves from banana and coconut trees. Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days. If ditches do not flow and contain stagnant water for one week or longer, they can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to the respective government agency.

Mosquitoes can be kept out of the home by keeping windows, doors and porches tightly screened (16-18 mesh). Those insects that do get into structures can be eliminated with a fly swatter or an aerosol space spray containing synergized pyrethrum.

Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly. To further reduce adult mosquitoes harboring in vegetation, insecticides may be applied to the lower limbs of shade trees, shrubs and other vegetation.

The aforementioned measures should also be taken in and around the workplace, social gatherings and living quarters to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

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

richardvanzwolandmathiasvoges20082013GREAT BAY:--- On Monday afternoon the new Secretary General from the Dutch Minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations Richard van Zwol paid a courtesy visit to the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague.

Minister Voges used the opportunity to discuss matters to improve the relationship between both partners in the Dutch Kingdom.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is reminding stakeholders to come out to the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Dutch Quarter and Middle Region on Thursday, August 22.

The public consultation will be held at the Belvedere Community Center in Low Estate Road, Belvedere August 22 at 7:00pm. The first public meeting was held in November 2012.

The draft development plan focuses on such areas as traffic (roads and other infrastructure), tourism (recreation), industry (commercial, industrial), residential (housing, public space and facilities), nature (water, landscape and ecology) and culture (heritage and archaeology).

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Tuesday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

seniorcitizensvisitpjl20082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, August 15 residents of the St. Maarten's Home visited the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
The objective of the visit was to provide seniors with more contact with their community and provide stimulation to the clients, mentally and physically thereby promoting a better quality of life. Mariane Pantophlet, Activity Coordinator of the White and Yellow Cross, along with her assistant, Yoainna de Lain, were instrumental in making the senior citizens visit possible.
During their visit they were given a tour of the entire library by staffers, Morena Ignacio and Melackia Spencer. Seniors were also briefed on the activities being done at the library and given a hands-on, short introduction on using the library's computers.
For many of the visiting seniors, this was their first trip to the library and they expressed interest in coming again. They specifically expressed a desire to learn more about using computers and browsing the internet
The library thanks the White and Yellow Cross Foundation for choosing to bring their clients to the library and encourages them to come again.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (TEATT) will meet August 22 with the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA).

The permanent committee will meet on Thursday at 11:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by the SHTA.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

derieleonardandtheophilusthompson20082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The two unions (WICSU/PSU and WIFOL) that are representing workers of Sonesta Great Bay Resort and Sonesta Maho Resort intend to seek more clarity from the Minister of Justice and Minister of Labor regarding the influx of foreign workers that are coming to St. Maarten and placed in leadership positions while workers on St. Maarten are left behind.

In responding to a question posed to the unions on Tuesday during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions' weekly press conference, President of WICSU/PSU Derie Leonard said that she received complaints from some of her members and had already addressed the matter, Leonard said that sometimes the workers file complaints with the union and when the time comes for them to face their employers they do not show up. When asked if she believes that the workers don't show up for these confrontations due to fear of being victimized, Leonard said that the days of slavery is long gone and workers have to stand their ground, she said some workers might even lose their jobs but they have to stand up in order to end the abuse in the work place. "Everyone has rights especially if they are paying their taxes. These people have a right to seek representation and I honestly don't think they should be afraid to seek help for their rights. Leonard said she had a number of meetings with the management of Maho and the issues regarding the schedules of workers were solved. However, there are some issues with the workers in housekeeping but those workers are not part of the union. In addressing the issue with the Jamaican nationals, Leonard said she met with the former Minister of Justice to discuss the matter and he was aware of the situation but even after her meeting her concerns fell on deaf ears. Leonard said Jamaicans are coming to St. Maarten as stagers and tourists and the next thing you know they are holding a high position at Sonesta Resorts. "Right now, it is not a pleasure being an immigration officer because immigration officers are being called and told who they have to allow to enter St. Maarten. Politicians went after country status because of self-interest and greed. "When I was working as an immigration officer under the former Netherlands Antilles I felt like an immigration officer without getting a phone call and being told what to do. At times I get very emotional about this issue because I know what takes place at the port of entry. Even though I am no longer working in Immigration, the feedback I get from my colleagues is that they are no longer proud to be an immigration officer anymore. Right now there is no control, just last month I attended the CPS conference in St. Lucia and everyone else is protecting their shores except St. Maarten. St. Maarten is more interested in nourishing someone else's child/children rather than nourishing their own. One of the things you hear constantly is that the youngsters on St. Maarten don't like to work but I want to state here that is not the case. Parents spend monies and send their children abroad to study and when they come back they are over qualified and cannot find proper work. When St. Maarten was part of the Netherlands Antilles, immigration workers were able to execute their duties based on the law. But today they are receiving calls from elected officials and told who to allow into St. Maarten."

Leonard said she did not want to sound as though she was a radical but at some point they have to stand up to what is taking place on St. Maarten. "I am telling my members if they have to lose a few days of pay or even their jobs they have to take a stand in order to stop the abuse for their children in the future."

Leonard said she wants to meet with the two Ministers because there is a network on St. Maarten. "This network involves various nationalities and even takes place in government. As a unionist I intend to tackle this matter. I am busy piling a case on this matter and I don't want to release too much information on this case now." Leonard could not say if the Jamaicans and other nationals that are coming to St. Maarten are coming with the required visas. When asked if their passports are being scanned she said the question should be if the system to scan and store visitors information is up to par.

President of the Workers Institute for Organized Labor (WIFOL) Theophilus Thompson said he met once with the Minister of Labor and was told that Sonesta Resorts has an agreement with the Government of St. Maarten to bring in workers from Sandals Resort in Jamaica to train the workers of Sonesta Resorts. Thompson said while the Minister of Labor said these persons were coming to train workers on St. Maarten they are being placed in managerial positions. Based on the information Thompson received, he said he is not satisfied because he is of the opinion that Sonesta gave Government an excuse to bring in these foreign workers to St. Maarten. Thompson said this is a matter of concern to both unions. Thompson said that the former Sandals workers were attracted to St. Maarten and they were interested in the working and residency permits for these people that are now working for Sonesta Resorts. Thompson said he is concerned about the working permits that are issued to these new workers. He said government introduced a wrong policy when they agreed to accept Sandals workers on St. Maarten. The WIFOL President said that St. Maarten has been in the tourism industry for some 60 years and government is underestimating the competency and qualifications of the workers on St. Maarten. He said he does not see any need for St. Maarten to bring in these foreign workers while tourism is an industry that is over 60 years old and the island has competent and qualified workers when it comes to servicing clients.

Thompson further stated that he along with the President of WICSU/PSU plan to meet with the two Ministers to discuss their concerns further. Thompson said all the workers that were brought in are in managerial positions and the local workers have to be the ones to teach these people that were brought it. Thompson said even though St. Maarten is in the tourism industry for over 60 years there is still no hotel and hospitality school that can certify workers. He said because of that WIFOL established the CCEF in order to train workers.

claireelshotandderieleonard20082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Presidents of various unions on St. Maarten will be holding information sessions on Wednesday afternoon to update their membership on the negotiations they had with government on their Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) for the years 2011 and 2012.
President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot and President of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union (WICSU/PSU) Derie Leonard told reporters on Tuesday during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labor Unions' weekly press conference that they are not in favor of government's idea to bring in a consultant from the Netherlands to conduct a survey on how to structure the indexation for civil servants.
WITU President Claire Elshot said that it seems as though government does not know how to do business because they intend to pay a local consultant on St. Maarten to obtain the figures and then they want to pay another company in the Netherlands to tell them how to do the indexation. "Those in the Netherlands do not know the real situation here on St. Maarten and there are consultants on St. Maarten that can do the same job as the ones the previous Minister of Finance wanted to bring in. Furthermore, government said they budgeted 50% of the COLA for the year 2011 but we want to know when government will pay the other 50% and when they will pay for 2012." Elshot said that the people should take an example on the big white elephant on Pond Island (Government Administration Building) she said Government has this building that they are paying rent for and yet they have to rent another building to house them and their staff. Leonard on the other hand said people need to know who that building belongs to because one thing is said about the ownership of the building while another thing is said on the street.
Derie Leonard from WICSU/PSU said that she wants the politicians to know that elections is just around the corner. She said she also listened to the press briefing last week when a reporter asked the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance if they will review the salaries of Ministers and Members of Parliament. Leonard said that the two Ministers said that Ministers and MPs salaries are bound by law and they are professionals. Leonard said the Minister insulted the civil servants especially her because she wants to know what criteria there is to become a Minister or MP. "As far as I know there is none, anyone can be appointed Minister or anyone can get elected to become an MP yet their salaries are mandated by law. I need those in government to know that there are criterias in place for civil servants. Teachers and other civil servants have to meet certain requirements before they are employed. Last year the Prime Minister told the members of the GOA that the COLA payments will bankrupt the government and she will get back to them with a proposal. To date the Prime Minister did not go back to the GOA with that proposal, what they are doing is communicating with the stakeholders via the media, therefore I will do the same by telling the Prime Minister that the civil servants ranging from the police, tax department workers and others will not accept the 50% they budgeted for the 2011 COLA payments." Leonard said civil servants are entitled to the 2011 and 2012 COLA payments the way it is structured and they are open for discussions for the 2013 COLA payments. Leonard also made a call on her members to hold their ground because the government of St. Maarten has to show respect to its people. "Government was elected by the people and they have not shown respect to the civil servants and the people of St. Maarten. Civil servants have families to feed. Leonard said there are pensioners that are living in poverty, and all is not well on St. Maarten. She said she wants to know what is the priority of government right now. "I know there is enough monies in government's coffers to pay the COLA. They still have the idea for the Justice Park and they are looking to save monies for that and other projects that interest them." Leonard said that in July 2013 the WICSC/PSU dispatched a letter to the Prime Minister requesting that they meet to discuss the COLA payments. Leonard said they received a correspondence from the Prime Minister telling them that the COLA payments was going to be discussed that same day in the Council of Ministers' meeting but to date they did not get a follow up. Leonard said that when St. Maarten was placed under higher supervision the current Finance Minister was brought in and today he is the Minister of Finance. She said the people of St. Maarten have to look at the bigger picture.
The President of the WITU said that prior to St. Maarten becoming a country there was the "indexeering" which according to her is a law on how civil servants are to get their indexation. Elshot further explained that when St. Maarten became a country certain laws from the former Netherlands Antilles were taken over by the various countries and if the law on indexation was not taken over then the Members of Parliament that are receiving huge salaries need to start working for the $10,000.00 they are getting every month. They should start by drafting a legislation on the COLA payment. Elshot said that the workers were told they were going to receive a lump sum because that is what was placed in the 2013 budget. She said right now the workers are confused with the information they are getting. Elshot also slammed the Minister that took a unilateral decision to place 50% in the budget for the COLA payments without consulting with the stakeholders. Elshot said civil servants have to get 4.6% as indexation but to date they don't know what the workers will get.
Elshot said to date they did not hear if the government of St. Maarten would equalize the vacation allowance as it is throughout the Kingdom. She said in her view the monies government is going to take to pay these consultants they (government) should take that monies and pay the workers the COLA payment that is owed to them. Elshot said that they are reading in the newspapers about St. Maarten's economic growth and she wants to know how is possible that government did not share in that growth, she further stated that it appears as though they would have to teach government how to do business.

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesyvisitfrompietdonner19082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit from Kingdom Council of State Vice President Pet Hein Donner and Dutch Representative (VNP) Gert Versluis. Mr. Donner is no stranger to the Caribbean due to his former role as Minister of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations. The Prime Minister and Mr. Donner discussed various items as it relates to the Kingdom Council of State and its counterpart the St. Maarten Council of State. The Council of State is a constitutionally established advisory body to the government that consists of members of the royal family and Crown-appointed members generally having political, commercial, diplomatic, or military experience. The Council of State must be consulted by the cabinet on proposed legislation before a law is submitted to the parliament. The Council of State Administrative Law section also serves as a court of appeal for citizens against executive branch decisions. The King or Queen is President of the Council of State but she seldom chairs meetings. The Vice-President of the Council of State chairs meetings in their absence. Under Dutch Constitutional Law the Vice-President of the Council is acting Head of State when there is no Monarch; for example if the Royal Family were to become extinct. It was founded in 1531, making it one of the oldest, still active, governmental organizations in the world.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

experiencestmaartenstmartincover19082013MIAMI, Florida:--- HCP/Aboard Publishing, a division of the Miami Herald Media Company, was recently honored by the Florida Magazine Association with a prestigious Charlie Award for its annual publication, Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, produced in partnership with the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association.
Noted for its spectacular photography and informative articles, the publication is a product of the fruitful and long-running partnership between the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association and HCP/Aboard Publishing.
Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin received the FMA's Silver Award for Design Excellence/Best Single Photography for "A Divine Abode", a multi-page feature highlighting the extraordinary and diverse real estate offerings available to those hoping to make their home on the island.
Recognizing achievements by Florida magazines since 1957, the FMA's annual Charlie Awards competition crowns publishers, writers, editors, artists, photographers, printers, marketers and others as the best among their peers in scores of categories. Juried by a panel of noteworthy professionals in the magazine and newspaper industries, as well as college journalism professors, the annual competition draws hundreds of entries each year.
The FMA recognized photographer Thierry Dehove-Richert, whose work has appeared in the Wall Street Journal and Condé Nast Traveler, among other publications, as well as Managing Editor Rosa M. Calderon and Art Director Ethan Duran for their work on Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.
The annual publication showcases the best of what makes Sint Maarten/St. Martin a distinctive and desirable locale – from its high-end hotels, robust culinary scene and luxury shopping to its natural wonders and vibrant arts and cultural offerings.
The award-winning 2013 edition of Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin can currently be found at hotels, shops and other establishments located throughout the island. The 2014 edition of Experience Sint Maarten/Saint Martin will debut in December 2013.

swescotwilliamsreceivescourtesyvisitfromlindomarschoop19082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a Courtesy Visit from the Dutch Caribbean Director of KPMG, one of the worlds largest Professional Services Companies. Mr. Schoop was accompanied by local KPMG Representatives Reymond Begina and Ronald Pieters. KPMG is one of the largest professional services companies in the world and one of the Big Four auditors, along with Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY) and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). Its global headquarters is located in Amstelveen, the Netherlands.

KPMG employs 152,000 people and has three lines of services: audit, tax, and advisory. Its advisory services are further divided into three service groups – Management Consulting, Risk Consulting, and Transactions & Restructuring.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Expedia Study Shows St. Maarten as Fastest Growing Caribbean Destination

PHILIPSBURG:--- The friendly island of St. Maarten (http://www.VacationStMaarten.com) continues to prove itself as a preferred destination for travelers with a 12.1% increase in Canadian passenger traffic during the first six months of 2013 compared to the same period in 2012. The island is also the fastest growing Caribbean destination, according to a study done by Expedia.

The figures show that St. Maarten has held its own despite the economic and financial challenges faced by nations around the globe. Compared to 297,179 arrivals from January - June 2012, the Princess Juliana International Airport saw an increase to 300,092 arrivals during the first half of 2013. Of the total visitors from the first half of 2013, 56.5% were from North America while Canadian visitor traffic increased by 12.1% from 24,513 to 27,480 in the same time period.

American Airlines led in passenger arrivals from the North American market to Princess Juliana International Airport, followed by Jet Blue and U.S. Airways.

Further establishing itself as a favorite location for travelers around the globe, Expedia released statistics from the first quarter of 2013 proving St. Maarten to be the fastest-growing Caribbean destination with an overall growth percentage in room nights at 55.48% from the previous year.

"St. Maarten is an island that is as unique as it is beautiful. These statistics reinforce that our island is still a preferred destination of choice for global travelers," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "We will continue to work diligently to promote our Caribbean paradise," he added.

mauricelakemeetswithdirectorofsxmhouse19082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Perry Geerlings, Director of the Cabinet Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague met with Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Friday to discuss the functioning of the Sint Maarten House in The Hague especially as it relates to Kingdom Relations and Foreign Affairs. The meeting was of an informational nature.

trisportandmarkyokoyamaatbackbay18082013GUANA BAY:--- The rugged, undeveloped coastline between Guana Bay and Pointe Blanche is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes on Sint Maarten, and on Friday it was also a classroom of sorts. Local naturalist and author joined the tour operator and hiking guides of Tri-Sport on Friday to share wildlife knowledge and guiding techniques. As they hiked the trail together, they discussed local nature and history, and how to tell the story of St. Maarten to guests.

Nature tourism is a fast-growing segment of the tourism industry, and part of a broader movement towards what is often termed experiential tourism. Geared towards tourists seeking authentic natural and cultural experiences, this type of tourism is seen by many Caribbean nations as a way to generate sustainable growth as the traditional tourism market matures. Focusing on local heritage is also seen as a way to create a distinctive identity for an island in a competitive tourism market.

"Tri-Sport has helped people enjoy outdoor activities on St. Maarten for over 20 years, so it was a terrific opportunity to learn how they share the island with visitors," said Mark Yokoyama. He continued, "I know quite a bit about the local wildlife, but I always jump at the chance to hear new perspectives and see how others interact with the natural environment.

Learning more about local wildlife and ecology was a top priority for the Tri-Sport team, and there were many tales along the trail. Seabirds circled the offshore rocks that are critical breeding sites out of the reach of most predators. The group crouched around spider webs to see tiny spiders that live in — and steal food from — the webs of larger spiders, a phenomenon known as kleptoparasitism. Off on the horizon, St. Barths sat as a reminder that during the last ice age St. Martin, St. Barths and Anguilla were connected as a single land mass, one reason why they share so many of the same species.

"We are always looking for ways to make our tours as engaging and rewarding as possible, and we love helping visitors make a deep connection with the island," said Tri-Sport tour designer Juan Pablo Piscione. "Hiking with Mark gave us a new perspective on the trail and the wildlife that lives there."

Tri-Sport and Yokoyama plan to work together in the future to develop themes that weave nature and history together for the guided hike on the Guana Bay trail as well as other sites on the island where Tri-Sport leads tours. Step by step and guest by guest, they hope to share St. Maarten's heritage with the world.

telcellxtratightbreakthroughfinalists18082013POND ISLAND:--- They strutted their impressive stuff in front of five keen-eyed judges and at the end of the day 15 talented St. Maarten youth were named to go through to the finals of the TelCell/Xtratight "Breakthrough" talent search on September 28.
According to organizers, Saturday's auditions at the Cultural Center, Backstreet, went without a hitch, with the judges naming the finalists one hour earlier than planned.

The finalists are:

  • KENYO BALY
  • BIANCA DIJKHOFFZ
  • CHERRIANNE YORK
  • GENIQUAH THEWET
  • KYANI ATMOSPAWIRO
  • MAHALIA JACKSON
  • GER-DWINA BROWNE
  • 2KC DANCE GROUP
  • DYONCE BOASMAN
  • SERENITY MARTINUS
  • TOMMYLEE BUSBY
  • GEORGIO RICHARDSON
  • JABARI YORK
  • JAMES WHITER
  • PAUL BROWN

Xtratight Entertainment Production owner, "Mr. Rude" said an equally impressive number of performers, from the youngest, at the age of 10 to the oldest at the age of 18, turned out on the day to audition for the finals and the chance to win some super prizes and a recording/video production contract.
"We listened to all of their stuff and honestly, there were some jaw-dropping moments when it came to the vocals and the dance routines," said the production company owner.
He joined TelEm Group's Breakthrough show coordinator, Angel Richardson in thanking the judges for their time and expertise and also the performers themselves for turning up on time and giving their best.
"People will be really impressed with the collection of talent we have going through to the finals, so congratulations to all the finalists who we will see again on September 28 for a knockout show," added Mr. Rude.

Telem Press Release

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that in reading the first half year report 2013 of Country Sint Maarten presented by Minister of Finance Martin Hassink begs him to make the following remarks observations and ask some questions. The information provided in the introduction is nothing new as the statements have been made over and repeatedly with regards to the debt relief agreement with the Netherlands (in my opinion not completed where St. Maarten is concerned) not being allowed to accumulate debts again and so on. The table showing the ratio's of deficits and public percentage of GDP from other Caribbean countries according to the Member of Parliament does not change St. Maarten's reality that the country is not allowed to have a deficit. What is notable though is that in mentioning the European countries France which is the second largest economy in Europe was left out. Maybe this was an honest mistake. The Minister of Finance on the issue of Budget deficits also mentions in the report and he (the Member of Parliament) quotes:" What would have happened if St. Maarten was allowed to during the process of building up the organization to an acceptable public service level have budget deficits over a period of let's say 4 years and reduce the budget deficits gradually to zero" end of quote. The Member of Parliament says we cannot deal with ifs but we have to face reality and the reality is that we must have a balanced budget based on our constitution and of course the final accord signed November 2, 2006 which made room for the establishing of the Kingdom Consensus Law which brought the Committee for Financial Supervision into being. What the Member of Parliament hopes that the Minister of Finance can clarify, is why the contribution to the SZV is excluded from the expenses and what amount are we talking about? (The 18.2 million?), because if the estimates are between 425 million and 435 million guilders we are talking about a difference of some 10 million guilders then his question would be will the excluded amount be placed on the 2014 Budget? The report also includes according to the Minister of Finance two major areas of concern. Cost control; specifically increasing personnel expenses and compliance. The Member of Parliament says that these concerns have been expressed for many years now. It is the action to address them that is lacking. The Minister of Finance mentions seven points to deal with personnel expenses such as no automatic price indexation compensation, adjustment pension plan, adjustment no show no pay, sick pay arrangements in conformity with ZV/OV legislation, No automatic salary increases but performance based increases and other. Which of these are new and the matter on the subsidies are not new. The report also mentions the companies that pay a yearly concession fee namely GEBE and the Harbour and the matter of the dividend policy. The Member of Parliament really hopes that this dividend policy situation will be solved once and for all. The report also talks about payment arrears for this reason the Member of Parliament would like to know to what do the payment arrears refer. In other words, what are they for? This final statement is not mentioned in the 2013 half year report but he would like to remind government once again of the establishing of a casino gaming board and the Consumer Protection Agency. There must be control.

mauricelakemeetswithsmhdf18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with the Management and Supervisory board members of the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF) on August 8.

Minister Lake has advised the board to execute a quick scan operational audit into SMHDF. "I also stated that the board should be to its full membership in alignment with the laws and articles of incorporation.

"At the moment there are two board positions and there supposed to be five, and this does not bode well for an efficient, effective and transparent operation under the principles of good corporate and public governance.

"I look forward to receiving hard copy reports of the presentations that were made. I am not here to create any negative image of the SMHFD. I am here to work together in the interests of public housing for Sint Maarten people. With this in mind we can all make a difference," Minister Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake added that he is busy with the Corporate Governance Council in getting the other board positions filled.

"The rumour mill on public housing has been working overtime. I have not stopped the progress of public housing on Sint Maarten, to the contrary. We are moving full speed forward, but I have a responsibility to the people of this country that everything is done in a transparent manner.

"As a former board member I sent a lot of emails to the Chairman about the open bidding process among other matters. Now as Minister I have requested an operational audit. I would like to see an open bid which allows all local contractors to have the opportunity to participate and not just a selected few," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Public Housing and the creation of availability housing opportunities for Sint Maarteners is a short, medium and long term goal of the SMHDF and the Minister.

The Minister received an update based on an agenda established by the Minister on the inventory and availability of homes and apartments from the Management of SMHDF, insight into the number of persons listed as waiting for housing, the selection procedure and policy for future tenants and home buyers. In addition the Minister and SMHDF discussed the area of FOGA and specifically the mobile homes located there.

"In my meeting with the housing foundation, I requested them to present to me the selection criteria and procedure for qualifying tenants. I would also like to know who is on the selection committee for the homes; what is the status of the management team, and how many times they meet on a monthly basis.

"High priorities are the issues related to the FOGA development whose tenants are in dire need of assistance. I have asked the housing foundation to address immediately the maintenance and sewage challenges of the residents of FOGA.

"The quality of life issues must be addressed soonest and if you have a plan of action that puts people first, then the issues and concerns that impact the daily lives of people could be addressed immediately.

"My Cabinet has also been receiving many complaints from tenants who have been having it hard with meeting their rent payments due to the economic situation. More humanity should be given in such cases and a solution found to help them out in these difficult times. Payment plan options are one route to take. The main focus should also to give homes to local Sint Maarteners who are in dire need," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake and his Cabinet are working diligently towards assisting the SMHDF with land for future development for young middle class professionals in addition to options for the mobile homes located in Cole Bay.

The Minister encouraged transparency in execution of projects and communications to potential buyers who may be interested in purchasing homes currently or in future development. In this regard, the minister offered technical assistance from the Ministry of VROMI in connection with the open bidding process.

The Minister will receive a presentation within the coming week by the Management of SMHDF with respect to projected future housing development for the people of Sint Maarten that includes development of parcels of land in Upper Princess Quarter, Blue Mountain at Defiance, Windsor Road, Senior citizens apartments and a commercial development at Belvedere.

The vision of the Management of SMHDF for financing and partnering with Government and the Ministry for continued development of affordable units for rental and purchase will be the focus of the presentation.

SMHDF was established in 1996 to manage the Belvedere housing complex and develop additional public housing. In 2012, the SMHDF developed and sold 18 homes at Belvedere and is completing six dwellings at Ebenezer with additional residences slated to be started later this year.

The Minister was accompanied by Marieke Van Zadelhoff, a member of his Cabinet. Representing the SMHDF were the Managing Director, Henry Lynch and Emilio Kalmera, Financial Controller of the Foundation. Also in attendance were Supervisory board members of SMHDF, Jackie Arrendell and Keith Franca.

PM: "Within the context of the Kingdom we are exploring the possibilities to have cases which are of a smaller Civil Nature be handled by a Small Claims Court."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams announced on Friday that Government is exploring the possibilities of establishing a Small Claims Court for St. Maarten. "Ever since we were preparing our justice system for Country St. Maarten it was clear we would have to stick within the context of the Kingdom were our Court System is concerned; the Court of First Instance, Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

"Within the context of the Kingdom we are exploring the possibilities to have cases which are more of a smaller Civil Nature, be handled by a Small Claims Court. Given that sometimes there is a large burden put on our Court System by these smaller cases we are exploring how we can establish a Small Claims Court or to take some of these smaller issues and see if somehow we can institute such a court or hearing which would take a burden off of the Court System we are familiar with. We are looking at how to develop that and put that in place," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelakemeetswithkadaster18082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake has already met with employees, board and management of Kadaster as well as the Ombudsman regarding operational matters and issues of concern.

Minister Lake said on Sunday that he will be following up with the management of Kadaster regarding the issues during the course of the week where he will be presenting an action plan and the way forward together in the interests of all.

"The Kadaster is an entity that is part and parcel of the governing process of Country Sint Maarten. It is an institution that registers the ownership of properties, transfers etc, and a key body where it concerns the lands of the country be it private or public. At the same time this entity provides services to the public and various other institutions and therefore its integrity and operation must be of the highest standards.

"As Minister responsible for the Kadaster, I would like to see Management up-hold its motto as one team with their employees and working in the best interests of serving our community. I listened to all parties in separate meetings that were organized, and now we need to move forward with an action plan for improved services to the community and taking care of the employees.

"Training and upgrading of staff as well as the promotion of young people to take up positions needs to be outlined in a human resource development plan. While employees are being trained and upgraded they should retain their existing salaries and benefits and not face any cutbacks.

"Employees are an asset and need to be kept motivated in order for the organization that they work for to be a success for all. It's all about getting back to basics within organizations, foundations, businesses and government, it's all about putting people first," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake added that oversight is needed into the functioning and operations of government-owned entities and companies or those that are associated in some form or manner in serving the public good on behalf of government.

"Government-owned companies, foundations and other entities are not governments upon themselves and must bear this in mind and will be held accountable for their actions.

"As Minister responsible for any of the institutions that supports and carry's out the services on behalf of Government as shareholder, I have to be appraised of what they are doing in order for us to have a transparent process," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

When "Machi," a Whimbrel carrying a satellite transmitter, was shot and killed in Guadeloupe in September 2011, the international bird conservation community had a rude wake-up call about what was happening to migrating shorebirds in the French West Indies. The fact was that tens of thousands of shorebirds representing several species were being shot by hunters each fall. Swift action by the Society for the Conservation of Caribbean Birds (SCSCB) [1] and its members and partners, including AMAZONA (the local bird conservation organization) [2], has resulted in significant progress on the issue of shorebird hunting.

Whimbrels are amazing long distance migrants. Machi had been tracked for over 27,000 miles (44,000 km) back and forth between the breeding grounds in the Hudson Bay Lowlands of Canada to wintering grounds on the coast of Brazil. In 2011, we had learned from the satellite tracking study being conducted by the Center for Conservation Biology [3] that Machi, after hunkering down in Montserrat during Tropical Storm Maria, flew to Guadeloupe where she met her end. Ongoing tracking studies have shown that Whimbrels like Machi and other shorebirds utilize the Caribbean islands to rest and refuel, take refuge from dangerous storms, or spend the winter. However, the journey ends for many that attempt to stop in Guadeloupe, Martinique, or Barbados, where sport hunting of shorebirds remains a popular tradition.

At the time when Machi and a second satellite-tagged Whimbrel named Goshen were killed, there were no daily bag limits in the French West Indies, and no protection for species of conservation concern, such as the Red Knot. Thankfully, due to proactive advocacy, there have been some positive changes in hunting regulations since Machi's death.

Following the shooting of the two shorebirds and in light of the fact that populations of many shorebird species are declining in the Americas, SCSCB organized a letter writing campaign targeting decision makers in environmental departments of the French government as well as other key authorities and international organizations. Many SCSCB members and partners sent letters to these officials, urging them to take actions in support of a more sustainable and responsible harvest. They also wrote about the issue in their local newspapers, websites, and blogs (see links to some of these below).

As a result of this international campaign and months of dedicated work by the National Hunting and Wildlife Agency (ONCFS) together with other departments and local hunters, there has been a change in policy which benefits migratory shorebirds that rely on these islands' mangroves and wetlands as wintering and critical stopover sites during their long migrations.

The Ministère de l'Environnement and the Fédération Départementale des Chasseurs de la Guadeloupe and Fédération Départementale des Chasseurs de la Martinique have acted to place some restrictions on shorebird harvest: First, the Red Knot (beginning in 2012) and Solitary Sandpiper (2013) were closed to hunting on Guadeloupe and the Red Knot was closed to hunting on Martinique in 2013. The Ministère de l'Environnement in Paris is also considering long-term removal of the Red Knot from the list of hunted species. Second, a bag limit of 20 birds per day per hunter was instituted in Guadeloupe in 2013. This action of setting bag limits, initiated by an Overseas Department, is a rare action for the French hunting community and regulatory agency. Finally, a three-year moratorium on the shooting of Whimbrels and Hudsonian Godwits was put in place in Martinique in 2013.

The SCSCB community is encouraged by these outcomes. Lisa Sorenson, Executive Director of SCSCB commented, "Machi's death drew attention to the fate that awaits hundreds of thousands of other shorebirds that pass through the Caribbean in the future, and provided an opportunity to encourage these governments to adopt more sustainable hunting regulations. There is still much work to be done, but we consider the change in hunting laws to be a very important and significant conservation outcome. Machi did not die in vain."

Said Howard Nelson, President of SCSCB, "We applaud the French government's and the Fédérations des Chasseurs of Guadeloupe and Martinique actions on this issue, and we want to thank our members and partners for their help in bringing about this positive change." [4] He added, "We all need to remain vigilant about issues like this throughout the region as we continue to work to conserve resident and migratory birds for future generations to enjoy." Nelson remarked that the Society supports broader social and ecological values of shorebirds and that in the longer term, he was hopeful that this would support meaningful behavior change on the islands.

armedrobberyfillin13082012MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes are busy investigating an armed robbery which took place around 9am Saturday morning at the BFC bank.
Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault confirmed that two young men entered the bank with firearms and committed the robbery. Jouault refused to say how much monies the culprits stole during the early morning robbery. The Captain of the Gendarmerie said that he cannot jeopardize the investigation or the bank by releasing sensitive information. At the time of the robbery, a security guard was in the bank but he was unable to stop the robbers. Jouault also confirmed that no one was injured during the robbery.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), Department of New Projects Development and Planning, hereby informs the general public that road marking activities will be carried out on the L.B. Scott Road leading to the Round-about by Grand Marche and in the vicinity of Cake House Supermarket on Saturday from 7:00am until 12:00pm.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the works is being executed.

Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for any inconvenience that this may cause.

telemandxtratightorganizingbreakthrough15082013GREAT BAY:--- Final adjustments are being made to the performing stage and the five judges are all but ready for Saturday's opening round of TelEm Group's search for St. Maarten's most talented youth performers.
Organizers said Thursday, registration for auditions are now closed. All that remains is for the 40 persons signed up for Saturday's showcase "Breakthrough" talent search, to turn up on time and be ready to put on the show of their lives.
"Check-in time for those who have registered to audition is between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm and we will be keeping strictly to those times," said TelEm Group coordinator, Ms. Angel Richardson.
She said five judges will be evaluating various performances including, vocals, drama/comedy, rap, instrumental and dance during the course of the day.
The judges will tally the points for each performer at the end of the auditions after which time they will announce the names of the 21 performers who will be going through to the finals of the talent search on September 28th.
The winners of the final will have a chance to win some super prizes, including a recording contract with the production and recording company Xtratight, who are collaborating with TelEm Group in the "Breakthrough" Talent Search event.
Miss Richardson is urging all participants to be on time, but most of all to have fun in expressing their talent.
During Saturday's event, drinks and snacks will be provided for participants who will also receive a token of appreciation from the company for taking part in the event.

Telem Press Release

telemofferscellairismobileaccessories15082013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group has become the first telecommunication company in the Caribbean to offer mobile smartphone accessories from exclusive global vendor, Cellairis to fashionable customers.

TelEm Group struck a deal with Cellairis earlier in the year allowing the company to sell the latest line of mobile accessories for different brands of Smartphones, other mobile devices and tablets.
According to TelEm Group Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas, TelEm Group is the first Company in the Caribbean to represent Cellairis – a retail vendor which has more than 700 store locations throughout the USA, Canada and the United Kingdom.
"The company has a very nice variety and range of new cases and trendy items for the latest smartphone models at a fraction of the cost of any store on the island," said Mr. Ramdas.
Also being offered for sale are car and wall chargers, headsets, tablet cases, various data cables and portable battery packs.
He said the accessories are available at TelEm Group's store at the Harbour, and at all branch stores.
"We believe customers will love the products and we are very proud that Cellairis has confidence in TelEm Group and St. Maarten to represent their product in the Caribbean," Mr. Ramdas added.

Telem Press Release

motorworldandrotarysxmsunrisedonateschoolbagstomgdwschool15082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Motorworld donated 320 school bags in collaboration with the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise to the Marie Genevieve de Weever School on Monday, August 12, 2013. The school bags contained school materials such as, pen, pencil, copy book, sharpener, and eraser to start the kids off for the new school year.
Motorworld would like to thank the Rotary Sunrise for proposing this collaboration. It was a pleasing experience to see the smiles on the students' faces when receiving their new school bags with supplies.
Motorworld would like to wish all the students a wonderful and successful 2013/ 2014 school year!
Motorworld was voted "The Best Auto Dealer" on St. Maarten by the public of St. Maarten. Motorworld is the car dealer for the brands Hyundai, Honda, Daihatsu, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Motorworld showroom which is located on Welfare rd #20, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tel 1-721-544-5294 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

flora15082013POND ISLAND:--- St. Maarten telecommunication company, TelEm Group, is inviting photographers everywhere to submit their favorite digital photos highlighting beautiful scenes of flora, fauna and marine life - to have them published in the upcoming TelEm Group Telephone Directory 2014.
The company is seeking digital photos of the highest quality (300 DPI) showing the beauty of the island through its plant and marine life and says the photos must represent flora, fauna and marine life from St. Maarten/St. Martin, Saba or St. Eustatius – all the islands that are included in the 2014 Telephone Directory listings.
"For the next week, we want to see the best digital shots that exemplifies the directory's theme: "Beautiful St. Maarten, flora, fauna and marine life," said Marketing and Sales Officer, Cheryl Rismay.
She said the submitted photos can be anything from a shot in the garden, to a clump of seaweed on the beach or a lazy iguana munching on a leaf.
"If it's beautiful, quirky or just plain unusual, we want to see it," said Cheryl in announcing the invitation for submissions Wednesday.
She said anyone submitting their digital photo will automatically be granting permission for TelEm Group to publish the photo in the new directory within which the authorship of their work will be officially recognized.
She also announced that there are specific requirements and conditions for submissions to be accepted:
The work must be original and must also be of hi-resolution (300 DPI). No software enhancement is allowed and the photos can only be of flora, fauna and marine life from St. Maarten/St. Martin, Saba or St. Eustatius. All submissions must be accompanied by the full name and contact information of the person(s) making the submission.
"How many of us take beautiful photos all around us and never let them see the light of day. Here is a chance to have your picture published in a telephone directory that will be around for a long time, and so will your photo, if it is chosen," continued Cheryl.
She also announced that all photos chosen for publication will be entered into a draw with the chance to win one of several super prizes.

Send your "Beautiful St. Maarten, Flora, Fauna and marine life" digital shots as well as your name and contact numbers to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The deadline date for submissions is Thursday, August 22.

rolandtuitt15082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt shed light on several issues related to finance at a press conference in the Turning Point conference room on Thursday. The former Finance Minister said that the current Minister of Finance is busy trying to undo the things the former government did instead of working on matters that would benefit St. Maarten and its people.

Tuitt said he allowed the new government to enjoy their honeymoon period before speaking out on issues that are affecting the country. In responding to a question, Tuitt said he is speaking as the former Minister of Finance as well as a citizen of the country. Tuitt said that the government has been working without an internal control department. "An internal control department is the backbone of any large institution, but the government of St. Maarten never had this in place, during my stint in office I made contact with SOAB and we hired someone for a period of two years to assist St. Maarten in setting up this department. Someone from St. Maarten was also hired and sent to Curacao for training in order to set up a treasury department for government. St. Maarten does not have a treasury department and because this is essential someone was hired and sent to the Central Bank in Curacao to be trained. It is my hope that this person will be allowed to use the skills he acquired for the treasury department."

AUC Profit Tax Deal.

One of the issues Tuitt spoke about is the deal the government of St. Maarten made with the former owners of AUC on the amount of profit tax they paid to the government of St. Maarten. SMN News reported on Wednesday that the former owners of AUC sold the business to DeVry for $235 million dollars and they were supposed to pay government 34.5% in profit tax but they managed to broker a deal with the former government (DP/UP/Illidge) and paid only 10%.

Tuitt said he tried to resolve this issue up to the last day he spent in office because the businessman owes government up to Naf. 100 million by not paying the full 34.5% percent on the sale of AUC to DeVry. This deal was made after the businessman enjoyed a 10 year tax holiday. Tuitt explained that the former owner of AUC only paid 10% of what they were supposed to pay and the moment he took office he made contact with the businessman to have him settle his bills. Tuitt further explained that if government collects this money they would have enough monies to cover the budget deficit for a period of three years (2013 to 2015). The former Finance Minister said one businessman was allowed to get away with 25% of the country's budget.

Government paid Naf. 1.7 to Dutch Contractor as Mobilization Cost on the White Elephant.

newgovernmentbuilding15082013The former Finance Minister said his predecessor paid a Dutch contractor (Betonbouw) Naf. 1.7 million for mobilization cost. "Mobilization cost is paid for one or two months to allow contractors to take their equipment's to the location but the government of St. Maarten paid this contractor mobilization cost for three years for the white elephant on Pond Island. That is the most expensive chicken coop because government paid Naf. 45,000.00 per month for mobilization cost." Tuitt said when he took office last year he had to pay that Dutch contractor Naf. 1.7 million guilders because his predecessor and the Prime Minister had already signed off on it. Tuitt said it's normal to pay mobilization cost for one or two months as the contractors relocate to the site but he never heard of anyone paying mobilization cost for almost three years. "When I took office I found this to be unfair so I tried to get the project started in order to stop the mobilization cost. I was successful in getting the work started and stopping the mobilization cost. Tuitt said the "Theonomics and Sarahnomics" created a hole of Naf. 1.7 million for the government of St. Maarten with the white elephant.
Further research on the issue of the government building showed that the son and son in law of the Prime Minister was busy trying to buy over the contract RGM has in order for them to complete the building and furnish it through a financing agency they are representing in the USA.

TAXAND Scandal cost Government USD 11 million.

Tuitt said that the company that had to develop a new tax system for the government of St. Maarten cost government some USD 11 million. Tuitt said when he took office some Naf. 4.2 million was already paid to the consultancy firm. He said the consultancy firm sent additional bills to the tune of Naf. 5 million but he did not pay them. He said that the UP/DP/Illidge government had no basis to pay the Naf. 4.2 million. Tuitt said the SOAB conducted an investigation and the report was submitted to Parliament so that they could deal with the matter.

Tuitt said that he submitted all the information he has to the Parliament of St. Maarten and he is hoping that Parliament will do its job. Tuitt said even though he is no longer a Minister, he stands ready to provide more information to the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Budget Woes --- CFT and Council of Advice is above Parliament.

Tuitt said last year the 2013 budget was approved by the Parliament of St. Maarten and there is no other entity that has the right to question the budget after it has been approved. "Today, the CFT and Council of Advice is above the people and the Parliament of St. Maarten."

As for the alcohol and tobacco tax that Tuitt mentioned in the 2013 budget, he said an advice was being worked upon and if the government did not fall that piece of legislation would have gone to Parliament prior to June 2013 and that would have enabled government to collect taxes on tobacco and alcohol for part of 2013. Tuitt urged the Minister of Finance to finalize the process so that this can be done in 2014 and St. Maarten could get some more monies. Tuitt said the only businesses that are not paying Turn over Tax (TOT) are the casinos. He said that is the only reason he saw it fit to increase their fees in order for them to fall in line with the other businesses that have to contribute to government coffers. "Based on what I read and saw in the news, this government is putting the taxes on alcohol and tobacco and the levies aside. If they want to put them aside for 2013 because the laws are not yet in place then they should work on these laws now and have them in place for 2014 so that all of this can be implemented."

In addressing the number plate issue, Tuitt said his intention was to have stickers made for 2014 while the persons that did not pay their road taxes this year would not have gotten away lightly. "Those delinquent payers when caught would have had to pay the road tax, a fine, towing fees, and storage cost. This would have cost them way more than the road tax which is less than Naf. 300.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) Michael Granger penned a letter to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten requesting that she give SCDF full control over Festival Village.

SMN News learnt that Granger sent the letter to the Prime Minister shortly after the 2013 carnival and the dispute between SCDF and TELEM. The source said SCDF and the SOG (foundation that manages government facilities) members refused to sit around the table to discuss the matter which must be resolved before next year's carnival. SMN News could not reach the chairman of SOG Kurt Ruan or President of SCDF Michael Granger for a comment on the ongoing saga.

While SCDF is asking for control of Festival Village in order to organize more shows and other activities they may not have realized that TELEM has an agreement with the Government of St. Maarten for a period of 20 years. TELEM invested some 1.2 million USD to build the stage inside Festival Village and their compensation is to have TELEM banners remain on the stage at all times. In that contract between the Government and TELEM it clearly states that if any artist or promoter wants to remove the TELEM banners from the stage they have to pay TELEM $20,000.00 for each night the banners are off the stage. "Promoters are refusing to use the Festival Village because they simply cannot afford to pay TELEM that amount of money to remove their banners when they have shows. Most of the people that want to use the Festival Village have other sponsors that want their banners on the stage during the shows. Just recently this was raised when Percy Sledge held his show there," one promoter told SMN News.

In order for the Government of St. Maarten and TELEM to break the 20 year contract, the Government of St. Maarten would have to pay out TELEM at a time when they have no funds and their 2013 budget has not yet been approved.

During the carnival this year TELEM sent several letters and reminders to SCDF when they saw that SCDF allowed UTS/Chippie to place television screens beside the stage to advertise their services and they also allowed UTS/ Chippie to launch the sale of the Blackberry Z10 inside Festival Village during the carnival. TELEM protested this because they claim to have exclusivity on and around the stage inside Festival Village all year round due to the 1.2 million USD they invested.

SMN News has been reliably informed that SCDF did not take TELEM's letters lightly because TELEM had threatened to take them to court for violating the contract between TELEM and Government. According to a reliable source, SCDF used their lawyer at Bloem and Associates to respond to TELEM's letters instead of complying with the agreement TELEM has with Government.

SMN News further learnt that SCDF did not copy the letter they sent to the Prime Minister to SOG who manages all government facilities. According to a well placed source, the letter was dispatched as a confidential letter to the Prime Minister. It should be noted that SCDF articles of incorporation clearly states they are only allowed to organize carnival related festivities. SMN News further learnt that discussions are taking place on how to solve the ongoing dispute but all parties remain tightlipped.

nicoledeweeverwithcocreps15082013~Art Saves Lives Program was held June 24-30 on St. Maarten~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives expressed gratitude and thanks to the Chamber of Commerce in support of Art Saves Lives Summer Project held this summer. The Chamber collaborated with Art Saves Lives' Entrepreneurship and Jewelry Design workshop. The workshop taught marketable skills in the area of jewelry design and production. Through learning the basics of creating a marketable jewelry company, the students were educated on key business topics including sales strategies, target markets and customer satisfaction. They also learned jewelry making techniques such as wire wrapping, metal work and packaging. The students were taught by fashion designer Zebi Williams, whose designs have been featured in Caribbean Fashion Week under her own label "Born as a Raggamuffin" and has also been a guest designer for VP Records Riddim Driven Clothing line.

The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry is a public-law institution that is responsible for the registry of all businesses and legally established entities on St. Maarten. The Chamber strongly believes in empowering youth and young adults with the knowledge, skills and sound training to become the young entrepreneurs of today who complement the St. Maarten business community tomorrow. In that spirit, the Chamber was pleased to partner with Art Saves Lives' Summer Workshop Program to help aid in their mission of providing young artists with the training, education and guidance needed for the successful pursuit of careers in entertainment, creative arts, and education. Art Saves Lives is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announces that the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Dutch Quarter and Middle Region areas will be held on August 22.

The public consultation will take place Thursday, August 22 at 7:00pm at the Belvedere Community Center, Low Estate Road, Belvedere.

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"The Cole Bay-Billy Folly and Cay Bay town hall meeting was a huge success. Many stakeholders came out and I was very pleased with the turnout. I am looking forward to a similar big turnout by the residents and stakeholders of Dutch Quarter and Middle Region.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered of paramount importance in this process in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

tedrichardsonandgracitaarrindell15082013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell in her process to update members of the Council of Ministers and to also orientate herself with the new ministers who were sworn in on Wednesday met with Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (Ministry TEATT) Hon. Ted Richardson.

President Arrindell stated it was a pleasure to meet with the new Minister and they discussed pending meetings of parliament related to his portfolio and possible dates that the House could meet with the Minister.

After an overview, there was only one pending Central Committee meeting of parliament related to matters of Ministry TEATT.

While visiting the House of Parliament for the first time, the Minister was asked to sign the parliament guestbook.

curasubsubmersible14082013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Kirk Johnson, the Director of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC arrived on Curacao August 13 to support Curacao's inclusion in the Smithsonian's planned global marine biodiversity network of coastal monitoring sites. Mr. Johnson oversees a collection of more than 126 million specimens and artifacts—the largest collection at the Smithsonian. The Museum of Natural History hosts an average of 7 million visitors each year, and its scientists publish about 500 scientific research contributions a year.
The world of science and the public at large realize and understand that shallow coral reefs are in peril worldwide, but comparatively little is known about tropical deep reefs (30 to >300 m). The Smithsonian Deep Reef Observation Project (DROP) aims to help fill this major gap in knowledge. Capitalizing on exploratory submersible diving, DROP is discovering a new world of biodiversity and beginning to monitor long-term changes in environmental and biological parameters that may help to determine the interconnectedness of deep and shallow reefs.
Substation Curacao's Curasub submersible (http://www.substation-curacao.com) addresses questions related to biodiversity and conservation of deep reefs. Curacao is an ideal location for monitoring because shallow reefs are in good condition relative to many Caribbean localities; deep reefs are easily accessible because the bottom slopes rapidly to great depths right next to shore. The manned submersible Curasub is available and equipped with the necessary hydraulics to deploy and retrieve monitoring gear.
A private enterprise initially established to accommodate tourists, Substation Curacao now supports deep-reef research efforts by scientists from around the world. Deep and shallow reefs are not isolated ecosystems, and their interconnectedness may be significant. It seems likely that deep reefs may play an important role in the survival of shallow reefs above. Deep reefs should therefore be candidates for designation as marine-protected areas, but such management decisions require scientific data on a multi-year basis. Curacao is the ideal place to support these efforts.

kpsmandrotarysxmsunrisedonatetocrystalhome14082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday August 13th the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten Sunrise represented by the Vice president Mrs. Joseanne Peterson and the Police Department represented by Community Police Officers Steven Carty and Arcella Leonard, collaborated in a project to empower the youth of the Crystal Home represented by Mrs. Rachel Marten Mardenborough by providing them with the much needed schoolbags and supplies for this academic year.

KPSM Press Release

rotarysxmdonatestowhiteandyellowcrossfoundation14082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten on Wednesday presented a donation in the amount $500 US to the White and Yellow Cross Foundation of Sint Maarten in support of its Rehabilitation Center. Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten, Robert Judd, and Vice President, Pierre DeCelles, presented the donation to Michel Soons of the White and Yellow Cross. Mr. Judd commented, "we are extremely proud to assist the White and Yellow Cross Foundation of Sint Maarten in their efforts provide world class rehabilitation services to people in need here on St. Maarten".

The White and Yellow Cross Foundation operates the St. Martin's Home on the Dutch Side of the island. The St. Martin's Home is a 60-bed nursing home facility in St. John Estate and offers traditional nursing home services, rehabilitation services, elder services and activities. Mr. Soons of the White and Yellow Cross thanked the Rotary Club for their generous donation and years of support, financial and otherwise, directed toward the elder community on the island.

For more information please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

5thannualsunsetbarbikinicontestsponsorscontestantsandhost14082013GREAT BAY:--- St. Maarten companies are mixing corporate citizenship with fun promotions to give back to their patrons and the St. Maarten community. According to TelEm Group Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas, the companies who play together can also stay together during tough economic times by lending each other support with joint sponsorships and shared cost of promotions. "The recently ended 5th Annual Sunset Bikini Contest is a good example of several companies working together with the super prize of a brand new motor car to the lucky winner," said Suraj. "From our own viewpoint, we target our younger customers and also our visiting customers and provide them with general information about our company's products and services and some of the things we do in the community," continued Suraj, who, outside of office hours, is also the de-facto coordinating member of TelCell's self-proclaimed "TelCell Night Crew." He said it has been a learning experience for his team.
"This summer we have built a great relationship with other business and company owners who are interested in bringing some fun back into corporate promotions around the island. Hopefully we will be able to repeat this with our Summer promotion next year and certainly with other promotions we are lining up for the coming months and leading up to Christmas," Suraj continued.
Suraj has extended a special "thank-you" on behalf of his committed team, to the owners of Sunset Beach Bar, and Soggy Dollar Bar for agreeing to TelEm Group's participation in these Summer events and the Bliss Night Club for agreeing to the company's participation in the – Beach Rockers – Caribbean Tour last weekend.GREAT BAY - St. Maarten companies are mixing corporate citizenship with fun promotions to give back to their patrons and the St. Maarten community.
According to TelEm Group Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas, the companies who play together can also stay together during tough economic times by lending each other support with joint sponsorships and shared cost of promotions.
"The recently ended 5th Annual Sunset Bikini Contest is a good example of several companies working together with the super prize of a brand new motor car to the lucky winner," said Suraj.
"From our own viewpoint, we target our younger customers and also our visiting customers and provide them with general information about our company's products and services and some of the things we do in the community," continued Suraj, who, outside of office hours, is also the de-facto coordinating member of TelCell's self-proclaimed "TelCell Night Crew." He said it has been a learning experience for his team.
"This summer we have built a great relationship with other business and company owners who are interested in bringing some fun back into corporate promotions around the island. Hopefully we will be able to repeat this with our Summer promotion next year and certainly with other promotions we are lining up for the coming months and leading up to Christmas," Suraj continued.
Suraj has extended a special "thank-you" on behalf of his committed team, to the owners of Sunset Beach Bar, and Soggy Dollar Bar for agreeing to TelEm Group's participation in these Summer events and the Bliss Night Club for agreeing to the company's participation in the – Beach Rockers – Caribbean Tour last weekend. "We also wish to congratulate the lucky winner of the TelCell Samsung smartphone with 3G service for dancing up a storm at Bliss and everyone who partied with us and also took home some great TelCell prizes," he said.

Telem Press Release

usmalumnifoundationmeeting14082013-- Facebook page launched --

PHILIPSBURG:--- The University of St. Martin (USM) Elite Alumni Foundation held its first meeting on Tuesday among members of the board. The foundation headed by President Stuart Johnson discussed several discussion points and projects which will promote USM. Johnson said, "our first meeting primarily focused on the structure and membership of the foundation. We need to tap into our alumni membership base of over six hundred former students and embrace their professional experiences gained since successfully completing USM."

Johnson also announced that the Foundation recently launched its Facebook page which will promote the activities of the foundation and serve as a communication link for its members. "We live in the modern age of technology and we surely will be utilizing this medium to inform our membership of our activities."

Johnson is encouraging all former students of USM to embrace the Alumni Foundation and pledge their support towards USM. "We need to believe in USM, not only by the words we speak, but by the actions we display. The time to make education as truly priority number one has arrived," Johnson concluded.

martinhassink14082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Finance Minister Martin Hassink confirmed on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he is currently reviewing the tax write off that was implemented by the former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt. Minister Hassink said he still has to decide on whether or not to use measures the former Finance Minister used for the write off or if he would need to make some changes on who would receive the tax write off.

It should be noted that former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt already issued a Ministerial Beschikking (MB) for the write off going back to the year 2006. The MB issued by former Minister Tuitt was published in the National Gazette. In order for the current Minister to make changes or get rid of the write off he would have to issue his own Ministerial Beschikking (MB) to annul the MB issued by Tuitt.

Minister Hassink told reporters that the only reason his predecessor did the write off was to clean up the tax systems which he said still needs further cleanup. Minister Hassink said that the tax department is not optimal because they are still in two separate locations and despite the technologies in place it is not enough for proper functioning of the tax department. "One of my main priorities is to bring the two departments together in one building so that they can function better."

AUC Debt still has the Attention of the Finance Minister --- MOU was signed with DeVry not the former owners of AUC.

In response to a question posed by SMN News reporter regarding the profit tax that has to be paid by the former owners of AUC (Medical School), Finance Minister Martin Hassink confirmed he is still looking into the matter to ensure that the former owners of AUC pay government what is owed to them in the sale of AUC. Minister Hassink said that clients and tax related issues are private matters and he is not at liberty to divulge more information. According to information provided to SMN News, the former owners of AUC sold the establishment for $235 million dollars and they were supposed to pay the government of St. Maarten some 34.5% in profit tax but they only paid 10%. It appears as though the former owners of AUC managed to broker a deal with members of the UP/DP/Illidge government when they sold AUC to DeVry.

Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams tried to deviate from the issue on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing when she said that the former Minister of Finance with the blessings of the Council of Ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AUC in February 2013. She said that this MOU was to ensure that AUC hires more locals and invests more on St. Maarten.

It is true that an MOU was signed in February 2013 with AUC and the Government of St. Maarten, but that MOU was signed with the new owners which is DeVry, well respected investors who have been paying their dues on St. Maarten. It must be made clear that the first owners of AUC are the ones that sold AUC and did not pay the full percentage of profit tax to the government of St. Maarten. Should government collect these monies they should not have issues with balancing their budgets for next four years.

2013 Budget still to be approved --- Council of Advice reviewing budget.

The Finance Minister also told reporters on Wednesday that he is expected to submit his report on the budget by Thursday August 15th. He said that report is completed and he expects to give Parliament further details on the 2013 budget early September. The Finance Minister made reference to the Netherlands that has a 4% deficit in their budget which according to the law is too high yet the Netherlands through the CFT is putting enormous pressure on St. Maarten to have a balanced budget (deficit free). He said that if the CFT allows St. Maarten to have either 1% or 2% deficit it would have been good for St. Maarten. The Finance Minister further stated that if the budget that was presented by his predecessor was accepted by the CFT for the year 2013 it would have been beneficial to St. Maarten. Minister Hassink made clear that the current situation is hampering St. Maarten and he already foresees problems with the 2014 budget which is supposed to be ready by October 15th, 2013.

swescotwilliams14082013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams stated that the COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) has not yet been finalized since the budget of 2013 is not yet approved. Wescot Williams said that the COLA indexation has to be reviewed since the current system that is being used for the indexation is not feasible for government. She said a review has to be done while they are also considering to do the indexation based on the performance evaluation that has to be conducted. Former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt while in office stated that he had contacted a company in the Netherlands to assist St. Maarten with an assessment on how the indexation would have been done. According to information provided to SMN News, the legal affairs department was working on advice that had to be sent to KPMG who was supposed to work on an evaluation for the Government of St. Maarten prior to the company from the Netherlands conducting their study.

In earlier press briefings, the Prime Minister said that Minister of Finance Martin Hassink could not find any trace on the company or what was done with the evaluation process when he took office. On Wednesday, Minister Hassink said he managed to make contact with the company in the Netherlands and they are still negotiating for them to visit the island to conduct the study for the government of St. Maarten.

Minister Hassink said personnel expenses for the government of St. Maarten is very worrisome. He said in 2011 personnel expenses was 39% of the budget which increased to 43% in 2012. He said that the expenses for the Education Ministry is included but it does not include the subsidies given to school boards. Minister Hassink explained that people should not look at the COLA cost, but they should globalize it to entire personnel expenses of government. Minister Hassink said this is not just an issue of indexation but also automatic increases and pension plans which are all very important.

SMN News asked the Prime Minister since they are reviewing the cost and indexation for government workers if they intend to also review the salaries for Ministers and Members of Parliament. In her response the Prime Minister said that the salaries for Ministers and Members of Parliament are mandated in a law. She said that Ministers work for their salaries and they cannot do any other thing while holding office as a Minister. Wescot Williams said that they will not be reviewing the salaries for Ministers or Members of Parliament even though the guidelines for Members of Parliament is lighter. "The set up that was made for Ministers and MPs salaries was a choice made for St. Maarten prior to it becoming a country, we are the ones responsible for the operations of the country. With regards to Ministers salaries I believe the argument put forward is a valid one because Ministers cannot use the excuse that they are not properly compensated compared to when they were an Island Territory. The arguments are still very valid but the law is not very specific for Members of Parliament."

She further stated that the same law states that Ministers and politically appointed workers have a right to compensation until they find a job (the bridging allowances).

rlaville08052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Landsrecherche has started to question witnesses in the case filed against Member of Parliament Romaine Laville by Member of Parliament Jules James. SMN News learnt that two Dutch detectives attached to the Landsrecherche questioned Benjamin Kelly, Kelly is an employee of the Parliament of St. Maarten. Kelly was questioned most of the day on Tuesday while the detectives also visited the house of Parliament on Tuesday and Wednesday as they continue the investigation.

Attorney General Taco Stein said in an invited comment that the complaint was filed a year ago but the Landsrecherche has a lot of work and when they read in the newspapers that the two Members of Parliament had kissed and made up, they had not yet started the investigation. St. Maarten's Attorney General said earlier this year when the former Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, and himself visited Parliament MP James raised questions about the complaint he filed against MP Laville. "MP James was very emotional when he made his comments back then, shortly after that they interrogated MP James again and took the decision to open an investigation into the threats." It should be noted that Member of Parliament Jules James made some comments again this week when Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson visited Parliament. Stein said that he does not have all the details on the investigation but he knows that the detectives have been speaking to witnesses and they also visited the house of Parliament where the incident occurred. He explained that there were threats made against MP James but there was no gun. When asked if Sir Isidore York filed an official complaint against MP Laville, Stein said York spoke to the police about an incident but no official complaint was filed. He said he does not know if York (Mighty Dow) will proceed with filing an official complaint.

When MP James filed the complaint against MP Laville, Member of Parliament Silvia Meyers went along with him and gave a statement as a witness to the threats.

Political pundits have said to SMN News that the leader of the UP party is doing everything he can to remove MP Laville from Parliament so that he could get into Parliament. Some pundits said that Laville killed his political career and stunt the DP and UP members pulled backfired because Laville did not pass the screening to become a Minister.

swescotwilliamsatlunchwithcocandotmaroduber13082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended a working lunch with Aruban Minister of Tourism, Transportation and Labor the Honorable Otmar Oduber and the Board of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce at Holland House on Monday. Various topics were discussed regarding common goals, visions and projects between the two islands and involving the Chamber of Commerce.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

CUPECOY:--- Questions are now being raised as to who made a deal with the former owners of the AUC (Medical School) on the 34.5% profit tax they were supposed to pay the Government of St. Maarten when they sold AUC to DeVry. According to information SMN News obtained, the former owners of AUC sold the establishment for $235 million dollars and they were supposed to pay the government of St. Maarten 34.5% of that amount which would have been USD 81,075,000. However, members of the former government UP/DP/Illidge government made some sort of deal with the former AUC owners and they only paid 10% (USD 23,500,000) of what they were supposed to pay the government of St. Maarten. Based on calculations, AUC still has to pay USD 57,575,000 on the profit tax but that was not done up to when the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government fell.

According to reliable sources, AUC received a ten year tax holiday from the Government of St. Maarten when they first opened the school and as soon as that period ended they sold AUC to DeVry.

The sources said that former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt was trying to get the former owners of AUC to pay the balance of the profit tax they did not pay to the Government of St. Maarten. SMN News learnt that Tuitt was willing to make an out of court settlement with the former owners of AUC because he told them that if they did not pay up the monies they owed government he would have taken them to court. The source said based on the calculations if the former owners of AUC had paid the USD 57,575,000 they owed the government of St. Maarten then St. Maarten would have had a deficit free budget for at least four years.

It is also understood that since Tuitt left office the negotiations with the former owners of AUC fell through the cracks because it's the same government that made some sort of deal with the former owners of AUC that are back in office.

It is clear St. Maarten is facing some severe budget cuts, civil servants are still waiting for their COLA payments while the UP/DP government has decided to allow shrewd businessmen to escape their tax obligations.

rotarysxmsunriseandsponsorsdonate600schoolbagstoschools13082013PHILIPSBURG:--- As the new school year resumed on Monday August 12, 2013, the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise and Sponsors: SOL, Motorworld, and Postpaarbank made a presentation of well over 600 bags containing school materials to three schools on the island.

The bags were donated to the Marie Genevieve de Weever School and the Leonald Connor and Charles Leopold Bell School in collaboration with SOL, Motor world and Postpaarbank. On hand to deliver the school supplies were: President of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise, Angela Gordon, Marketing Officer of Motorworld Kimberly Meyers, representative of SOL, David Antrobus, Director of Public Education Glenderlin Davis- Holiday and members of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise.

This was the second time the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise undertook this initiative of contacting businesses within the community to participate in this school bag project. Last year, the club and UTS donated over three hundred bags to the students of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School and the Dutch Quarter Community Center.

Rotary Club Sunrise will continue to support education in the various schools on St. Maarten.

The new school year is always an exciting time for students, and Rotary Sunrise and the sponsors: SOL, Motorworld and Postpaarbank are happy to assist with equipping children with the tools needed to start the new school year.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

narduinlynchpresentsombudsman2012yearreporttoswescotwilliams13082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin-Lynch presented the 2012 Year Report of the Office of the Ombudsman to the Prime Minister the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Monday.

The main task of the Ombudsman pursuant to the Constitution is the investigating of the conduct and behavior of Government and other Administrative bodies as a result of complaints that are received at the office. Dr. Nilda Arduin-Lynch gave an outline to the Prime Minister about the number of complaints and the Departments within the various Ministries of Government.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

deptoflabourinspectionduringilotrainingsession13082013GREAT BAY:--- A team from the ILO was on Sint Maarten recently to install the Labor Market Information System (LMIS). Mr. Reynold Simons, the Senior Specialist for Employment and Labor Market Policies and Mr. Kerwyn Roach, the Software Developer administered training to users while installing the software. This new program will heighten the services of the executing agencies which would allow for the distribution of reliable and timely statistics nationally, regionally and internationally.
By utilizing this product, the Department of Inspection can enhance their service quality, and allow the monitoring of trends which assists in program and policy development. The system provides modules for performing inspections; planning and scheduling, site visits, report formulation and any follow ups necessary for the Inspectorate to carry out its functions appropriately. These functions can include processing of occupational accidents, labour regulation breaches and all complaints registered both at the inspectorate or referred from the Labour Affairs agency.
"With this system in place, the inspectors will be able to carry out their inspections in a more organized, proficient and professional manner, all as a means of enhancing its services," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labour, Cornelius De Weever.
The standard reporting format output from the system allows for better communication and comparison throughout the various ILO countries which makes tracking Regional trends all the more easier.

cdeweeverobserveslabouraffairsagencyilotraining13082013GREAT BAY:--- An ILO Team consisting of Mr. Reynold Simons, the Senior Specialist for Employment and Labor Market Policies and Mr. Kerwyn Roach, the Software Developer administered training to users while installing the software at the Department of Labor Affairs. This new software will enhance the labor administration services and allow for the dissemination of relevant labor market statistics both locally and internationally.
Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that with the implementation of this new software, much needed data can be collected, which will enable much needed policies to be developed in the interest of our population.
By utilizing this product, the Labor Affairs Agency can heighten their service quality, and allow monitoring of trends which assists in program and policy development. The system provides modules for registering of unemployment, vacancies, job placement and requesting and tracking of employment permits among others.
The interlinking of the various modules allows for reliable statistics to be compiled from various sources each having the ability to input their own data. The standard reporting format output from the system allows for better communication and comparison throughout the various ILO countries which makes tracking Regional trends all the more easier.

markyokoyamapresentsbookstopjl13082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Mark Yokoyama, naturalist, author and wildlife photographer officially presented copies of the second edition of his book, The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin, showcasing the animals of St. Martin/St. Maarten to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's Director, Monique Alberts, on Friday, August 9, 2013. The book is now available to the public at the Library.

swescotwilliamsatyouthparliamentsession13082013Debated Topic Current and Pertinent

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Youth Parliament session at the Parliament Building on Monday where young Parliamentarians discussed technology in the classrooms. The extraordinary session was also attended by the acting Governor the His Excellency Reynold Groeneveldt, the Honorable President of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell and the Minister of Education the Honorable Patricia Lourens-Philips. The Youth Parliamentarians discussed the advancement of technology in the classroom from both the pro and contra perspectives and eventually stressed upon Government to enact the necessary legislation to advance technology, something which has already been enacted.

The Prime Minister commended the Youth Parliamentarians and the organizers of the session for an excellent job well done. "I wish to commend the organizers and mentors of the Youth Parliament and I congratulate the YMPs on their excellent performance. They chose a very current topic and their debate was refreshing. I hope other young males will join the lone male YMP, Mr. Peterson, and I encourage all YMPs to continue on this track. There are a couple of basic lessons one can take away from today's YP meeting, such as debating is also learning from one another and respect for opposing views and common parliamentary procedures," commented the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

eholiday14122012HARBOUR VIEW:--- The Governor of St. Maarten, his Excellency drs. Eugene Holiday will host the 2nd annual Governor's Symposium entitled 'Sustainable development: Challenges for St. Maarten as a Small Island Caribbean Nation' on August 23.

"At this symposium speakers will address you from a national, regional and international perspective on sustainable development and its challenges. In doing so they shall pay special attention to critical issues such as nature preservation, energy supply, economics and poverty and social cohesion. I hope that their messages will stimulate greater interest for and contribute to the promotion of national dialogue and policymaking towards a more balanced and sustainable construct of our nation." says Governor Holiday.

The Key Note speaker will be Ms. Elizabeth Thompson. She is a former Minister and Member of Parliament of Barbados, serving from 1994 to 2008. As graduate from the University of the West Indies and the Faculty of Law Mrs Thompson held various portfolios including Energy, Environment, Health, Housing and Lands and Physical Development and Planning during her 14 year in office. In 2008 Mrs Thompson was awarded the UN's highest award for work in environment, climate change and sustainable development – that of Champion of the Earth. Ms. Thompson was appointed to serve as a UN Assistant Secretary General with responsibility as one of two Executive Coordinators of the UN's Rio+20 Conference on Sustainable Development.
The Symposium has as further speakers: The Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Mr. Martin Atherton (Dominican Agronomist and Agricultural Economist), Mr. J. Beaujon (former Managing Director of Windward Island Bank and Chairman of the Board of Nature Foundation), Mr. R. Maduro (President of the Managing Board of GEBE) and Ms. Joy Arnell (Head of the Department of Social Development for the ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor).
The admittance to the Symposium will be by personal invitation only, but the contents will be taped and made available to all by TV and radio.

From the Cabinet of the Governor of St. Maarten

tacostein11032013PHILIPSBURG:--- Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said in an invited comment that the investigators that are working on the ORCA (Bada Bing Bribery) investigation are making progress on a daily basis. Stein said that they are very satisfied with the progress that is being made but he is unable to say much more on the ongoing investigation because he does not want to jeopardize the investigation. Stein said that while he nor the Prosecutor's Office is not making any statements on the investigations the Landsrecherche is working on that does not mean that these investigations have been shelved.

Another case the national detectives are working on is the Election Fraud case but Stein was not able to provide an update on the three year long investigation.

The national detectives have been working on several investigations that involve politicians and top civil servants but to date none of these cases have been completed.

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Tuesday August 13, 2013 six houses and one company building (a real estate office) in Sint Maarten were searched. Those house searches, led by the judge of instruction and the public prosecutor took place due to an international drugs investigation by the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST). All the premises are located in the Maho/Simpson Bay area.
Both the Douane Curacao and the Douane Sint Maarten, as well as the Korps Politie Sint Maarten (KPSM) gave assistance to the RST.
During the searches the authorities were looking for narcotics, weapons, and administration. Goods like money, vehicles, administration, and data carriers were confiscated for further investigation. Three persons were arrested: a 33-year old woman A.R., a 31-year old man A.H., and a 37-year old man G.K, all from Sint Maarten.
Last week three other suspects were also arrested in this investigation. These suspects are, a 27-year old man Q.G., a 36-year old woman R.J., and a 26-year woman D.H., are still in pre-trial detention. After those arrests two houses were searched in Maho. During those house searches narcotics (weed, cocaine, and probably XTC), money and a firearm were confiscated.
Regarding the ongoing investigation no further information can be disclosed.

Press Release from the Public Prosecutor's Office

williammarlin27052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The former Minister of VROMI William Marlin gave specific instructions to the contractors that are constructing the causeway to ensure that the old Tamarind Tree be saved and protected since it's a historical tree. In a letter to SLAC, the former Minister of VROMI through the Acting Secretary General of VROMI Louis Brown gave the instructions when he approved the revised plans for the roundabout. SMN News obtained a copy of the letter that was sent by the Acting Secretary General to SLAC and the Port of St. Maarten on May 29th, 2013.
In a press release the new Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake stated that he received advice from the Manager of the Marine Park/ Nature Foundation Tazio Bervoets and from Jay Haivser to remove the Tamarind tree which is over 200 years old. It should be noted that Bervoets is working for the Prime Minister of St. Maarten, an issue SMN News raised with Bervoets several months ago. It is a clear conflict of interest because Bervoets remains the manager of the Marine Park/Nature Foundation while working for the Prime Minister of St. Maarten. The Minister of VROMI also stated that he obtained advice from Jay Haviser who is an employee of the Government of St. Maarten. Haviser works for the Department of VROMI.
The St. Maarten Pride Foundation objected to the removal of the Tamarind Tree, they stated that they were not contacted for advice even though they have been fighting the environmental causes on St. Maarten.
Minister Maurice Lake said he prefers to save lives rather than saving a historical tree. Residents of the French side made several comments on Facebook and several writers have written poems highlighting the importance of the Tamarind Tree in Cole Bay. One such writer is Raymond Heyliger who wrote in his poem that the Tamarind Tree sheltered the slaves that ran from the Dutch side to the French side when slavery was emancipated in the year 1848. Slaves from the Dutch side also ran over to the French side to escape to Anguilla who obtained their emancipation in 1838.

Click here to view the letter sent by SG Louis Brown to SLAC on May 29th, 2013.
Click here to see the revised plans for the roundabout.

"Proposal for an amended balanced Budget is now with the Council of Advise and with the CFT"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave an update on the Budget Process recently. The Prime Minister explained that the Minister of Finance needed to make some quick and realistic adjustments to the Budget 2013: "The issue that some persons do not understand is that the Budget was balanced by Parliament. However the CFT does not only gives opinion on the drafting of the Budget but also after Parliament adopts the Budget the CFT needs to take a look at it again. The CFT also needs to give a check on that Budget approved by Parliament and some of the items mentioned in the Budget needed to be legislated and as time passed the CFT started to wonder about the feasibility of that item because no attempts have been made to legislate that until then.

"We came up with a proposal for amendments that would come to a realistically lowered and balanced Budget. The proposal for an amended balanced Budget is now with the Council of Advise and with the CFT and we hope to within short present this to Parliament.

The Prime Minister stated that since before 101010 St. Maarten was on one hand fortunate because it did not have significant amount of employees on the payroll of Government which was the case on Curacao. "We did not have the excesses but at the same time we needed to create new services and departments and expand others. There are critical departments that are critically understaffed. Within the context of a reduced Budget and considering how we need to provide these services we are exploring how to best address these issue," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

joslynrichardsoninhergarden12082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Agriculturists Joslyn Richardson said he provided advice to Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake with respect to the Tamarind Tree at the Causeway Roundabout in Cole Bay near the border.

Besides professional advice being provided from a number of entities, national police force section traffic division, the Ministry of VROMI, the Nature Foundation, and Archeologist Jay Haviser, professional advice was also provided by local Agriculturalist Joslyn Richardson who has been involved over the years in historic tree conservation.

On Monday Agriculturist Joslyn Richardson stated that two months ago at the request of Minister Maurice Lake he was asked to see how the Tamarind Tree could have been saved.

Richardson said he went to the site and checked out the situation and came to the conclusion that a successful transplant of the tree would be less than 50 per cent successful.

"The big hype around the tamarind tree is wrongly conceived. You can't extract the tree without killing it. Removing the tree would have killed it. First you would have had to dig a trench six feet away from the tree trunk and right around it. A crane would have had to be used to take out the tree after you have severed the roots.

"A trench was impossible to do due to the current road. If the tree was out in a field, you would not have had any problem with creating a 360 degree trench around it. Another factor is the age of the tree, more than 150 years of age. In Holland they extracted an old tree but it died later.

"This was something impossible. People have to realize you have to look at the process involved in an adequate manner where it concerns extracting such an old tree and not become emotional about it. The main roots would have had to be secured. I advised Minister Lake that saving the tree was an impossible feat," Agriculturist Joslyn Richardson said on Monday.

letstravelbudgetingcoursestudentswithcertificates12082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week Tuesday, students participating in the Let's Travel budgeting course, received their certificates of completion. Five students were able to successfully complete the four week course after learning the history of money, money management and how to effectively budget their income and expenditures.

Local travel agency Let's Travel partnered with financial expert, Emilio Kalmera, to organize the budgeting courses as part of its empowerment initiatives launched under the SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER and LET'S SAVE programmes in observance of the travel agency's plans to celebrate 25 years in business. Let's Travel is a renown travel agency specializing in airline tickets, cruises, packages, tours, charters and more since 1988.

Let's Travel will be organizing another round of budgeting classes. The next round of "Let's Save" budgeting courses is expected to be held during the month of September. In the introduction to managing money participants in the course will learn how to budget their income and expenditures. The budgeting course will allow participants to learn the different ways of effectively saving and growing their money to pay for such things as a college education, buying a home, vacation travel, starting a business and last, but not least, saving for their old age pension.

The regular price of the budget course is $290 US Dollars, but as Let's Travel is the main sponsor, a special price of $250 will be on offer and an introductory 'early bird' price of $215 per person will be promoted for fast decision-makers. Participants will get all course materials in digital format, such as the budgeting tool, budgeting booklet, syllabus, theoretical booklet, PowerPoint presentation files and other digital articles for general knowledge purposes on money management.

For more information and registration, clients can visit the Let's Travel office, call 543-1023 or 542-2381 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

swescotwilliamsatpattyszumbathon12082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined some one hundred women (and some men) on Saturday at Patty's Zumbathon at the L.B Scott Sport's Auditorium on Saturday. For three hours the Prime Minister and attendees from Government and the Business Community joined in an exciting and fun-filled exercise session. At the end of the event the Prime Minister stated that she wanted to thank everyone to come out on a Saturday evening to join in a fitness program ensuring the health of the population. "I would also like to encourage everyone to come out to other Zumba events such as the one that forms part of the U2Can Move Fitness Program," stated the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

HARBOUR VIEW:--- His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, made the following declaration on the news that came from the Netherlands today about the passing away of Prince Friso.
"It is with sadness that I took notice this morning of the passing away of His Royal Highness Prince Friso. I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the members of the Royal Family, who have suffered so much since the tragic accident of the Prince in Austria last year. Prince Friso, who was such a talented person, will be remembered with great respect inside and outside the Kingdom. On behalf of the people of Sint Maarten I convey heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and wish them strength, courage and God's guidance during this difficult period."
The Governor and his wife sent their condolences today to the members of the Royal Family in letters to the King and to Princess Beatrix.

From the Cabinet of the Governor

mauricelakesignslongleaselanddeedformhf12082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake last week Friday signed the long lease deed of a piece of government land for the country's Mental Health Foundation (MHF). This was done in the presence of Notary Parisius at the SPS Offices.

Terms of Reference (TOR) for the land had been submitted to Government some years ago in order to facilitate the Mental Health Care needs on St. Maarten.

Present for the signing were, Jimmy Challenger, secretary of the foundation and Rogier Brans, engineer and board member of the foundation as well as the director Eileen Healy.

Minister Lake, had been involved in allocating land for MHF as advisor to the, at that time Commissioner Theo Heyliger and was extremely pleased to be able to now officially transfer the land to the foundation. The Minister expressed during the signing that he is eager to support the foundation and to assist the foundation whenever it is necessary.

"We need to go back to basics by supporting our own home-grown foundations that are providing services to the St. Maarten people. We have persons within our community who need assistance.

"Mental illness does not know any bounds and it can happen to anyone of us. Mentally ill persons do not belong in prison but in a facility where they are cared for by professionals and family.

"It was a great pleasure for me to sign the deed bringing closer to reality a bigger mental health facility that the MHF can utilize and provide the best services for the people of St. Maarten, especially those in our community who suffer from mental illness," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

Mental disorders comprise a broad range of problems, with different symptoms. However, they are generally characterized by some combination of abnormal thoughts, emotions, behaviour and relationships with others. Examples are schizophrenia, depression, mental retardation, and disorders due to drug abuse. Most of these disorders can be successfully treated.

The MHF will now commence with the planning and re-designing of the existing TOR. This will require involvement of all relevant parties in the process of adequately designing in accordance with the needs of the patients and clients.

MHF's main focus is and will remain community based care, supporting families at home who care for their challenged relative. The majority of the families care for their relatives and are supported by MHF in doing so, however some parents are getting older and are concerned about what will happen to their son or daughter after they pass away.

Many clients are capable of working in the community but need guidance. Affordable housing that facilitates adequate guidance for these clients is a challenge to find.

The Clients, Board and Staff of the Mental Health Foundation extends its gratitude to Minister Lake for being instrumental in supporting the cause of the foundation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell expressed her sadness immediately after learning of the passing on Monday morning of His Royal Highness Prince Johan Friso Bernhard Christiaan David, Prince of Orange-Nassau, Jonkheer van Amsberg passed away on Monday at the Royal Palace Huis ten Bosch in The Hague, the Netherlands and the age of 44.

The late prince leaves to mourn his wife Princess Mabel and his two daughters Luana and Zaria.

"On behalf of the people, and members of the House of Parliament, we express our sincere condolences to the Princess Beatrix, Princess Mabel and her daughters, and to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and the remainder of the Royal Family," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

A digital condolence register has been opened for Prince Friso and can be accessed by visiting www.koninklijkhuis.nl

The President of Parliament is calling on the nation to visit the aforementioned website and send a message to the Royal Family who is in mourning.

Prince Friso was in a bad skiing accident back in February 2012 in Lech, Austria. The Prince died due to complication related to his brain injury he suffered from the accident.

Show to Include Performances by Aidonia, Ding Dong & Incline

PHILIPSBURG:--- International pop star and rapper, Shaggy, is set to bring his famous hit songs to St. Maarten for the SUMMER VYBES 2K13 show on Aug. 23 presented by Guinness in collaboration with S&C Promotion. The event, taking place in Festival Village at 8 p.m., will also include performances by Aidonia, Ding Dong and Incline.

Tickets can be purchased in advanced from Vandorp shop locations and at SOS Radio for $30 or at the gate the day of the event for $40. VIP tickets are also available for $100. The concert will be hosted by Elektra of Laser 101 and will include special appearances by Sugary Treasure Models and DJ Baby Face & The Official Band.

"St. Maarten continues to solidify its reputation as the 'entertainment capital of the Caribbean' by bringing Shaggy to the island," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, a sponsor of the event. "We're excited to see residents and visitors coming together for a fun night filled with great music."

Shaggy is best known for the hit singles "Boombastic," "It Wasn't Me" and "Angel."

For more information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

It is with profound sadness that I learned yesterday of the passing of Prince Friso of the House of Orange Nassau. On behalf of myself, the Council of Ministers and the People of St. Maarten I would like to express our profoundest sympathy and condolences to their Majesties King Willem Alexander and Queen Maxima and Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrix and the entire Royal Family.

I would like to wish them much strength in these most trying times and I would like to ensure our Royal Family that my thoughts, those of the Council of Ministers and indeed the prayers and thoughts of the People of St. Maarten and the whole Kingdom are with them as they mourn the loss of a brother, son, husband, father, uncle and nephew.

Once again our sincerest condolences and much strength to the Royal Family during this period of grieving.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams

"We are all part of the Civil Service and when someone from Government in General passes away it leaves us with much sadness"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams expressed her condolences and those of the Council of Ministers on Sunday on the passing of Civil Servant and Employee of the Receiver's Office Jessica Lawrence. "I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Jessica Lawrence and to assure the bereaved that my thoughts and indeed those of the Council of Ministers are with them in this most trying and difficult time. We are all part of the Civil Service and when someone from Government in General leaves us with much sadness," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Food wholesalers and warehouse depots are requested to have their facilities storm/hurricane ready by having a plan in place to prepare and secure their properties in the event of a storm/hurricane threat, the Office of Disaster Management said on Monday.

With the peak start of the hurricane season a few days away, every effort must be made to be prepared to take timely action in clearing properties in the event of a weather related threat.

The primary objective is the protection of the people first and foremost, property and surrounding residential areas.

Materials such as plywood, shipping pallets, food pallets, pieces of metal used to secure pallet shipments, can easily become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its way.

It is the responsibility of the business owner to have plans in place to remove any materials and/or have them properly secured on the property within a short period of time in the event of a storm/hurricane threat.

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued 48-hours before a system is forecasted to hit the island or area, businesses should activate their business resilience hurricane preparedness plans which should also include the aforementioned.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Another school year started on Monday, and the School Busing & Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs reminds motorists to drive safely. Hundreds of students have started the new school year and many start and end it with a trip on the school bus.

School Bus Section Inspection Head M. Thewet told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) on Monday that she is calling on all motorists to observe the traffic rules throughout the new school year, and of course it is always important to drive cautiously.

Heavy equipment is prohibited from operating during 6:30am to 8:30am and 12:00pm to 2:00pm, and this is according to the Traffic Ordinance.

The School Bus Inspection section is also appealing to parents to speak with their children about proper behavior while being transported on a school bus to and from school.

"Safety is our main concern! Any bus driver who experiences any challenges while busing school children, are asked to contact the school principal and the School Bus Inspection Section immediately. Everybody has to abide by the rules and regulations governing the safe transport of school children.

"We would like this new school year to be incident free. We don't want to find school children carrying potential weapons and other things in their bags which do not belong there. You go to school to learn and become productive citizens of your community.

"The Section Inspection is looking forward to the full cooperation of all stakeholders, schools, parents and motorists in order for us to have a safe school busing year.

"Anybody who sees any unusual behavior on or with a school bus is encouraged to report this to the Inspection Section. Bus drivers are reminded that safety comes first and to practice it at all times.

"Otherwise, have a productive new school year and safe busing. We are here to ensure reliable, comfortable and safe busing. I would like to conclude by wishing school management, teachers and parents a safe and productive school year 2013/2014," School Bus Section Inspection Head M. Thewet said on Monday.

Parents who would like busing information can call the section at telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509 for additional information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Sint Maarten Pride Foundation is rather baffled by the Press Release issued by Minister Lake on Sunday evening regarding the destruction of the historic Tamarind Tree at Bellevue. In his press release the Minister stated the following "... ... when I took over the responsibility of the ministry this project was ongoing and one of the principal bottlenecks was the tree and the road alignment". The Minister seems to have conveniently forgotten that the causeway project was commissioned by his Mentor and party leader Theo Heyliger at the time when now Minister Lake served as executive assistant to Heyliger. The Tamarind Tree in question was obviously situated in the same location for the past two hundred years and should not have come as a surprise to Minister Lake. Infrastructure related to the causeway should and could have easily been adjusted to accommodate the continued presence of the Tamarind tree from the early planning stages of the causeway.
The Minister goes on to state that "the final decision of the entire work group including Nature Foundation was to remove the Tamarind Tree". Sint Maarten Pride Foundation would hereby like to point out to the Minister that the removal of a tree and the destruction of a tree are two entirely separate concepts. In addition Pride Foundation points out that Nature Foundation is not qualified or authorized to speak on behalf of Sint Maarten's environmental organizations.
Lake states that "it was a tough decision", Sint Maarten Pride Foundation is of the opinion that the Minister took the cheapest way out and did not take feasible alternatives such as realignment of the road or in the worst case scenario, transplantation of the Tree to a safe location such as the Emilio Wilson Estate into consideration.
The Minister goes on to claim that he is working in the "general interest of the people", that he is "not here to play political games" and in the same sentence continues by saying he is "happy to see that Pride Foundation has gotten their voice back after a year of silence". Minister Lake has also repeatedly declared to be in favor of a "back to basics approach", and to be of the intention to include the "people through stakeholder consultations". Yet by excluding the Cole Bay Community, Sint Maarten Pride Foundation, Environmental Protection In the Caribbean and the many other Environmental, Cultural and Historical Interest groups from consultations regarding the Historical Tamarind Tree which the Minister so offhandedly chose to destroy, Minister Lake has shown that he intends to continue the politics of oppression and exclusion he has so enthusiastically served for the past twenty years.
The Minister and his press team are insulting the intelligence of the electorate and the public at large by claiming that Sint Maarten Pride Foundation has been silent for the past year. Anyone who has been paying attention to the media knows that Pride has been uncompromisingly consistent and unambiguous regarding its advocacy for the protection of Sint Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage regardless of who holds the majority in parliament.
It would serve the Minister well to truly heed the call of public service and to indeed stop playing politics and acclimatize to the responsibilities of serving the general public rather than continuing his life-long role as the unquestionably devoted servant of his political leader.

Sint Maarten Pride Foundation

gracitaarrindell24062013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell is inviting the nation to tune in on Monday, August 12 which is also International Youth Day, to Channel 120 on St. Maarten Cable TV for the live broadcast of the country's youth parliament in session.

The live broadcast will also be available on Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

The youth parliamentarians will be making presentations about "A Curriculum that prepares us for life; incorporating technological advancements in education."

"I would like to take this opportunity to wish the youth of the nation a happy International Youth Day August 12 which is being observed internationally.

"The theme chosen by our young parliamentarians from the St. Maarten Youth Parliament for their Monday parliamentary session is very much relevant today. Without information one is rendered powerless. Being well informed gives one power by enhancing their knowledge. An educational system with information communication technology as its centre piece will allow our youth to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

"I wish our youth parliamentarians much success on behalf of the members of parliament in their deliberations on Monday morning," President of Parliament, Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

On 17, December 1999, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth that 12 August is declared International Youth Day.

The theme of International Youth Day 2013 is "Youth Migration: Moving Development Forward."

Young people make up a significant share of the global number of international migrants. In 2010, there were an estimated 27 million international young migrants.

According to the UN, while migration can often offer valuable opportunities and contribute to the development of communities and society at large, it can also pose risks and lead to unacceptable situation, including discrimination and exploitation.

The UN and Governments around the world in observance of International Youth Day will raise awareness of the opportunities and risks associated with youth migration, share knowledge and information stemming from recent research and analysis on this topic, and engage young people in discussions on their migration experiences.

The St. Maarten Youth Parliament is part of the St. Maarten Youth Council Association.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams announced on Friday that St. Maarten is very close in making the necessary arrangements to have Transparency International Come to St. Maarten to conduct an Integrity Assessment.

The Prime Minister explained that Government is an institution and within that institution significant strides are being conducted to ensure integrity in all sectors. "Integrity is by definition a collective noun and with that I mean that it is very broad and encompasses the handling of many issues regarding how we handle collectively and how we view certain standards, ethics and. When we talk about integrity it is not only about making laws but we need to collectively believe how certain things can be a breach of integrity or any law to that effect will be a paper tiger.

"The slogan of Government regarding integrity is that integrity at work starts with the individual and indeed it is about that realization. Oftentimes many criticize others about integrity but he or she themselves are breaching integrity. It is the way how we as community accept certain things. We started about creating that awareness, about researching who is most vulnerable and who would do certain things with regards to integrity rules.

"It is a learning program; we have had courses for not only workers but also for Ministers and government officials and in fact I have insisted that the Ministers participate in these discussions and courses.

"If the image of St. Maarten is one where integrity is totally lost it is about the institution. I wanted to get a sort of an assessment on where we stand collectively. Transparency International has done this assessment for many countries including the Netherlands, who also have issues and which has been made and reported with regards to integrity in various sectors. The assessment looks at various institutions including the media and the business sector were it will be evaluated and what will be done.

Having said that I am happy to announce that we are very close to finalizing the grant agreement in order to get that assessment going, something which is very important for the Country of St. Maarten. In the coming weeks I look forward to finalizing agreements which would enable Integrity International to conduct a country wide assessment so that we can know where we stand," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mvogesjflemingartsenandeabath11082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Recently Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Josianne Fleming-Artsen was introduced to Aruba's Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Edwin Abath at the Aruba House in The Hague as part of her orientation in the Netherlands. "I am adapting very well since my arrival. The orientation is going well, and it's all about working together for Country Sint Maarten," Deputy Minister Fleming-Artsen said on Sunday.

COLE BAY:--- On Saturday July 13th, 2013 at approximately 9:35pm, an armed robbery took place at an apartment building on the Water Front road in Cole Bay, whereby the victim by the name Nassar Abbas BASHITI (52) was seriously injured by two unknown robbers. The victim suffered very serious injuries to his head with a machete. After committing this horrendous act the suspects fled the scene on foot. The victim was transported immediately in serious condition to the Sint Marten Medical Center for medical treatment. The following day (July 14th) the victim was flown out to the Dominican Republic for treatment due to severity of his injuries. The victim was admitted to the hospital for two weeks and then sent back to Sint Maarten. On Friday August 10th, 2013, the Police Department learnt that the victim had died as the result of his injuries.
The Public Prosecutors Office and the Police Department are asking anyone in the community who may have any information that may shed some light on this investigation to come forward and give this information. The tip line number is 9300 or call the Detective Department at 54-22222 ext.215/222/224.

KPSM Police Report

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC) that falls under Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, reports that the World Health Organization (WHO) has convened two International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee Meetings in connection with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

The committee reviewed and deliberated on information on a range of aspects of MERS-CoV, which was prepared or coordinated by the Secretariat and States in response to questions presented by Members during the first meeting.

It is the unanimous decision of the Committee with the information now available, and using a risk-assessment approach, the conditions for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, have not at present been met, however the situation is serious and of great concern.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which includes viruses that may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Viruses of this family also cause a number of animal diseases, however the NCoV itself has not yet been found in an animal.

Travelers who return with symptoms e.g. with fever, cough, shortness of breath, or breathing difficulties, or other symptoms suggesting an infection, and with a recent history of travel in the Middle East and from areas affected by the virus, should call their family physician immediately. This is in connection with the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked' campaign in order to protect public health.

Although the source of the virus and the mechanism of transmission is unknown, it necessary to try and reduce the general risk of infection while traveling.

As you prepare to travel we remind you to avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections; frequent hand-washing, especially after direct contact with ill people or their environment; adhering to food safety and hygiene rules such as avoiding undercooked meats, raw fruits and vegetables and avoid close contact with live farm or wild animals.

Protect you and your family during your vacation and return healthy and safely to St. Maarten only together can we maintain a healthy St. Maarten.

Globally, from September 2012 to date, the WHO has been informed of a total of 94 laboratory-confirmed cases of infection with MERS-CoV, including 46 deaths.

Countries that have reported laboratory-confirmed cases to date are: Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Tunisia and France.

Consult your physician for additional information or call SGHC at 5422078/23003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

aslflashmobatpjiae11082013SIMPSON BAY:--- About 48 students of the celebrated Art Saves Lives (ASL) project, aged between 12 and 32, under the inspirational leadership of Broadway star, Nicole de Weever, surprised arriving passengers and several departing ones as well with a short but exciting performance of a Flash Mob dance Friday afternoon at the Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM.
One departing passenger, Charlotte K. Forster posted this on Facebook about the dance: "You guys ROCKED!! Got to see you just before I went through security for my Miami flight. So proud of all of you. My angels were looking out for me by scheduling my flights for today. Sending you all love, love, LOVE."
As the unsuspecting passengers streamed out into the Meet & Greet area, they were greeted by a group of young, energetic dancers, doing the Flash Mob dance with spectators forming a circle around them. Some of the visitors flipped out their cameras and began taking pictures.
St. Maarten poet, artist and art professor, Deborah Jack, who had just arrived for a visit home, was simply wowed. "This couldn't have been better timed," she said.
Another St. Martiner, Dorothy Dow, former curator of the Nanetter Bearden Fine Arts Gallery, was practically speechless. She had just come to pick up her visiting nephews. "Wonderful!" was her opinion of the flash mob dance.
Although several other much larger airports have held a similar flash mob dance (Heathrow, LAX, Denver, Hong Kong, Dubai, et al) the initiative came from SXM Airport, a major sponsor of the highly successful Art Saves Lives project.
"We are very excited to partner with Ms. De Weever on this unique event," stated SXM Corporate Communications Specialist, Kalifa Hickinson.
An obviously satisfied Nicole de Weever not only praised the performers but also thanked SXM Airport for coming up with the idea and allowing the group to put on the show.
One spectator summed up the sentiments of those who witnessed the show when he shouted at the end of the routines: "We want more!"

mauricelakevisitscausewayroundabout11082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Saturday visited the Causeway Roundabout in Cole Bay near the border.

Accompanying the Minister was a member of his Cabinet and Inspector Gout from the National Police Force.

The objective of the site visit was to gather information and review a few things before the round-about is finalized. A test run is to be carried out with a 40-footer container truck from a road safety perspective in a few days.

"I was not really shocked when I read the statement from the PRIDE Foundation, but more disappointed. As Minister, when I took over the responsibility of the ministry this project was ongoing and one of the principal bottlenecks was the tree and the road alignment.

"Because of the newly built round-a-bout and the road leading from the French side of the island, the road needed to be realigned to prevent road users from getting hurt or killed including tourists. The lives of people were the key issue – road safety. I am an advocate of my cultural heritage. As minister I held several meetings with the Inspector of Traffic, Nature Foundation, Lievense Consultants, Ministry VROMI and the contractor about this topic and particular the plans to protect the historical Tamarind Tree.

"All efforts were made to relocate the road with the traffic department and the discussions of pruning the Tree with Nature Foundation, and our own archeologist Prof. Jay Harviser. The final decision of the entire work group, including Nature Foundation was to remove the Tamarind Tree after we received a negative advice from the traffic police about allowing the tree to remain in the center of the two traffic lanes.

"Based on the public safety aspect of the visitors and residents of this Country the ministry acted and the decision to remove the tree was given. This whole discussion started under the previous minister and ended with me as minister, and all efforts were made to save the tree but it was not to be. I and the entire workgroup are also saddened by the fact that this historic Sint Maarten tree had to go.

"According to the Inspector of Traffic, that particular area has a very dangerous slope which you don't normally realize until your speed is a little too high. The traffic police had to deal on several occasions in the past with accidents some with fatalities. A huge tamarind tree in the middle of a road was not a safe option for the Traffic Inspector based on the traffic law.

"As a Minister with the responsibility, I listened to the work group including also the serious concerns that came from our French counterparts, the Nature Foundation, archeologist Prof. Jay Harviser, and then made a final decision based on the traffic law of the land to save people's lives in the best interest of this Country.

"It was a tough decision, but I had to look at the interests of all the people, not just of a few. Not just the environmentalist mourn the loss of this tree, but all Sint Maarteners do, we know the importance of the tree to our cultural heritage, but I made a realistic decision based on human life which comes first and foremost and in the general interest of the people.

"The Nature Foundation also asked to adapt the causeway roundabout on the Union road side so they could continue beautifying our island and this has been done.

"I am not here to play political games or be back and forth, I am also happy to see that Pride Foundation has gotten their voice back after a year of silence in the community with respect to other developments.

"The decision taken was made in the best interest of the people of this country in the interest of public safety," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Sunday.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013"Educating today's youth for tomorrow's Sint Maarten"

Allow us, as Prime Minister and Minister of Education, to firstly extend our best wishes to all students, teachers and parents for a very successful school year 2013- 2014. It is our sincerest wish that we can all contribute to making this school year one that is a large success and one in which all; and by this we mean students, teachers and parents, will have an excellent and fruitful year.

This is an exciting time for the nation's youth as another school year begins.

As a new school year begins, we want to reaffirm the commitment of Government to ensure that all students succeed. Education is the most important issue for the nation and our greatest national responsibility.

We would also like to underline how proud we are of our teacher's commitment and resolve in their daily mission to build the future of this country via the young people of this nation. Young people who will be the future doctors, lawyers, politicians, architects, nurses, police officers, EMTs, firemen, business leaders, hotel and restaurant managers, carpenters, plumbers, mechanics, or whatever profession that will contribute to this country.

For many students this will be a year of a new school or new classroom, new teacher(s) and some new acquaintances. In the case of the latter, you have the choice as students to choose who will be your friends. Like every year we urge all students to do so carefully, for as young minds there might be influences which unfortunately will affect your performance and development as a student.

Some students unfortunately are returning to repeat last year's program. To these students we would like to offer extra words of encouragement; do not place your energy in being disappointed, instead focus on graduating this year at the top of your class. We all know that you can indeed do it and all students are encouraged to do their best, notwithstanding last year's results. If you closed off last year successfully, stay focused and do even better. If your results were discouraging, start the school year with a firm resolve to do better this year

As a nation, as a country, we must all redouble our efforts to improve education, because education is the vehicle for national, social and economic development. We must see this as our collective responsibility.

The new school year represents opportunity to develop academic, technical and vocational skills as well as artistic competencies.

In order to achieve good results this school year, we all need to work together. Therefore, we appeal to everyone, parents, teachers, support staff, the business community, volunteers, to work together for our children and youth.

Educational outcomes are what determine our future as a country. Therefore, we must understand what each of us must do throughout the school year.

patricialourensphilip11082013As government we are asking Parents to renew their commitment to their child's learning and encourage their children child to communicate daily regarding what is happening with them or around them in school. Encourage them to do their homework every day. Check their books and contact their teachers regularly or at least once a month to find out how they are doing. Take interest in the schooling of your children. Offer you children the support and dedication they need as they shape their young minds into becoming the citizens that this country needs.

Parents of older secondary school students need to be emotionally and physically there for their children, for even though the students sometimes act like and think that they are grown, they still need your support, your direction and your commitment to their future. Parents are very important in the educational process of their children. The development of healthy study and dietary habits contribute to the wellbeing of our students and this, parents have control over.

To the teachers/ educators we would say challenge these minds. Always remember that all children can learn. As a teacher you must be diligent in finding the keys that will unlock the potential of their minds and abilities.

The role of the community and especially the cooperate world must not be underestimated or understated. We would like to appeal to the business community to allow some flexibility in your workers' time once it is for their children. I can't make this call without asking parents: If granted to use the time for the children, visit the school, talk to the teachers. There is nothing like a personal visit or a call to your child's school.

We see your role to be far more important than that of a financial donor to a school event. This is good and it is indicative of you showing some cooperate responsibility but we need your support to students to be expressed in terms of providing temporary internships, being reading mothers and fathers, volunteers for school excursions and school events, available for sharing expertise and abilities with students and morally supporting schools as they strive to excel.

We would like to commend the dedicated efforts of the Ministry of Education, Ministry VROMI and the additional persons that were hired to help get our educational institutions ready for today, August 12. Thank you to the school boards, teachers and support staff who also worked diligently in preparing their classes and schools for this new school year.

And finally, on this first school day, I would like to again encourage all of those rushing to get their children to school and to work, all of the bus drivers and those car-pooling to their appointments, all of those walking to school or to their places of employment, to do so carefully and to do so with respect to all that use the road. Let us make the opening of this academic year effortless and without incident, and join us in wishing all a very Happy 2013/ 2014 School Year.

Let us put all our collective energies in making the 2013 – 2014 school year a most successful and rewarding experience where our students can achieve their dreams through education.

May God guide our school children, May God Bless the youth of this nation.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip

"I encourage St. Maarten to give your two cents in building our Nation in a constructive way as is opposed to a destructive way."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams encouraged the community on Friday to play in active role in not only the development of the National Development Plan but in the Development of Country St. Maarten in general. Her comments were based on the increasing momentum in the community regarding the NDP and the call for all sectors of a community to form an integral part of that process. "More than being about the National Development Plan it is about National development, about our Country's development. In coming to the National development Plan we have to be engaged in dialogue and Nation Building. We have to encourage everyone on St. Maarten to talk about the future of his or her country and contribute to the development of the island. The process to get to the plan is as important as the plan itself.

"We are building our Nation and a central part of that is making people aware. Making them aware about what it really means to be a citizen of St. Maarten. Social Dialogue is very important and this requires certain skills to attract people's opinion. There is a certain way to do that. Everyone's opinion counts and that requires skill. Everyone is encouraged to give his or her opinion in the context of building. We should pick each other's mind and brains and that is why in the past we have taken issue with expressions such as genocide in the context of our community. Do we really know what we are saying in terms of what we are saying?"

The Prime Minister also emphasized that the process of dialogue should be on centered on mutual respect and understanding and should not be done with the aim of breaking down an individual or a group. "We will be talking about this National Development Plan as we go along, we will be talking about Nation Building and I encourage St. Maarten to give your two cents in this building in a constructive way as is opposed to a destructive way. We do not lack opinions but we should not break down someone else. For example why hide under the mum of anonymity. When things are wrong it should be said but not just say things to destroy people or their reputations; not hearing the truth but saying things just to say things.

As we continue I will be out there in the community talking and listening to show that this is not about the Government just making a plan we will do all of this together; government, business, society to come to a common vision for St. Maarten," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave further explanation on the amendment to the law to the Security Service VDSM on her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1. The Prime Minister said that although the discussions which were held in Parliament after her elucidation of the proposal were healthy and necessary, it is important that proper information be given regarding the proposal.

"I thought that it was a good meeting because that is how meetings of parliament should take place. On the other hand several members of the opposition made an issue about the proposal which was not centered on the issue. But I must say that these types of debates are healthy and necessary but that the proper information and explanation has to be given in order to avoid politicking.

"The National Security Service is a very particular service. It is not a regular Government Department, especially considering that a lot of what happens at the Department is actually confidential. However again considering that nothing can function completely on its own without checks and balances in place that is the reason why we have a law stipulating that there has to be a Supervision Committee overseeing the operations of the VDSM. The First task of this Commission ensures that the National Security Service executes its tasks in a legitimate way. The second task is to advise the Minister, in this case the Minister of General Affairs, either on their own or via request of said Minister. Additionally, the third task of that Commission is to assess complaints. So considering this the task of the commission is quite clear. The National Security Service does not investigate or persecute; it is called to guard the security of the Country. It is called to analyze, study and gather information. They do not investigate anyone, that is the job of the prosecutor and saying that this office has been working very closely in collaboration with the police and the Public Prosecutor's Office."

The Prime Minister again reiterated that according to law the commission exists by a Chairperson nominated by the Joint Court of Justice, a member who holds the function as the Vice Chair of the Council of Advise and, when the law was passed, the Chairperson of Parliament. "Going back to 2011 when the Legal Minds looked at the composition of that commission it was stated that there were two issues regarding the Chairperson of Parliament being a member of the Commission. One: in the Constitutional Relationship it would be skewed to have the Chairperson of Parliament reporting to the Minister of General Affairs considering the political responsibility of that Minister is to Parliament and the Chairperson of Parliament. In addition to that you do not want to put anyone in a position that people could feel, or perceive, that that person is political and that they might look at the handling of the Secret Service with a political eye.

"Members of the opposition took it in the wrong context. They said that if the Chairman of Parliament is removed, which is in fact not the case; it is a change in the law, the powers of Parliament is being reduced. This is not the case. The Chairperson of Parliament is a member of the committee. The faction leaders have a responsibility to inform Parliament on issues regarding the VDSM and not a member of the Commission. Because some Parliamentarians considered this as a point to politick on it took a lot of time in that discussion rather than focusing on the fundamental issue which was the composition for the Supervisory Commission of the National Security Service. We of course defended the position as was put forward by Government and hope that members of the Opposition can put politics aside and make decisions that would bring the Country forward," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

shakeelmartinback09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The mother of 19 year old Shakeel Martin of St. Peters vows to get justice for her son who was badly beaten by a police officer last Wednesday night in the vicinity of the Basketball court in St. Peters.

Charlyse Williams told SMN News in an exclusive interview that her son was playing with a group of boys at the basketball court around 8pm Wednesday night. She said her son was leaving the basketball court when a set of police officers rolled up next to him and told him to get off his motorcycle. "My son told me that he got off his motorcycle when the officer told him to do so and when he did one of the officers knocked him to the ground and shackled him while the another officer identified only as "Naps" start beating him." Charlyse said the officer beat her son mercilessly on the St. Peters road and the other boys began screaming at them and asked what did the young man do but the police swore indecent language at them. "After they finished giving him a good beating they arrested him and took him to Philipsburg Police Station along with his motorcycle. My son told me while on the way to the station the police officer continued to beat him and even called him a bitch. When they reached the station he slapped my son again and told him now that he is being beaten he is crying like a baby."

Charlyse said when the police reached the station they called the ambulance and the ambulance personnel cleaned her son's wounds and left him there. "The following morning my husband went to the station and the police decided they will release my son without saying why they arrested him in the first place. They said they beat him because he resisted arrest. When SMN News asked Charlyse if the police told her or her son if he was a suspect of crime or if he was wanted by police. Charlyse said her son did not commit any crime and based on what she knew her son was not wanted by police.

Charlyse claimed that the officer in question "Naps" beat a few young men in the St. Peters area and those boys plan to take the law in their own hands. But she and her family will do everything by the book to ensure that her son gets justice. Charlyse said she already filed a complaint by police internal affairs and on Monday she will go to see the Prosecutor and her lawyer. "I told my son we will seek justice because what we are hearing is this officer who came from the Netherlands was in Aruba and he did the very same thing there and Aruba sent him back to the Netherlands now he is in St. Maarten."

SMN News learnt that some of the young men who witnessed the police brutality Wednesday night went to the Philipsburg Police Station where they were threatening police officers but a senior police officer spoke to them and managed to bring the matter under control.

parliamentofsxmmeetswithcollectivityofstmartin09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- After the presentation on Friday afternoon in the House of Parliament by the President and Vice Presidents of the Collectivite of St. Martin and other officials, an exchange of gifts of appreciation took place between President of the Collectivite Hon. Aline Hanson and President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell. Arrindell received the first of a limited edition of the new logo of the Collectivite of Saint Martin in the form of a paperweight.

The meeting of Friday concluded where there will be a follow-up meeting to take place at the Collectivite in Marigot. The agenda will include the following issues: European funding, Safety and security, Social issues (substance abuse), and the formalization of a structural working relationship between the permanent committees of Parliament and the committees of the Territorial Council.

CAY HILL:--- The St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) in a letter to the Inspectorate of Health of St. Maarten claimed that they conducted the necessary screening procedures prior to hiring wanted vascular surgeon Dr. Robert Willem Johan Muller. Dr. Muller worked as a surgeon at the St. Maarten Medical Center for close to three months while he was under investigation by the Inspectorate of Health of the Netherlands (IGZ). SMMC claims that based on their research, Dr. Muller did not perform any vascular procedures during his work stint at the St. Maarten Medical Center.

SMN News reported that Dr. Muller left the island last month and moved to Switzerland but SMMC said he left to work in France.

A report coming out of the Netherlands and the letter IGZ sent to Dr. Muller on July 31st, 2013 prohibited him from practicing medicine as the investigation continues. The Inspectorate is trying to locate Dr. Muller in order to put him in front of a medical court while family members of his victims are also trying to locate Dr. Muller to bring charges against him. The report which was finalized on July 31st, 2013 states that Dr. Muller is responsible for the deaths of several persons and while they already identified two, the list will get longer by the time the investigation ends.

Based on information provided to SMN News, the Department of Public Health is required to contact the Inspectorate of the Netherlands when they are conducting screening. It is not clear if the Department did a quick search three months ago in the BIG registry and did not find the conclusion of the report since it was not yet published.

SMN News made several phone calls to the Department of Public Health on Friday to obtain information on the screening process but no one could be reached at the department by phone. Secretary General for Labour and Health Joireen Wuite said they will supply the information when they get the time to do so.

In an invited comment, Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever said that based on the screening process the applicant has to provide some documents which are: a copy of their valid passport, a copy their BIG registration, their resume, certified copies of their diplomas, and the working agreement between the applicant (specialist) and SMMC. De Weever said all of the documents that were required were submitted and the BIG registry showed that Dr. Muller had a clean record. Minister De Weever said that the Department of Public Health also did a background check in South Africa and Australia where Dr. Muller worked in the past and they did not find anything suspicious.

When SMN News asked the Minister of Health how the Department of Public Health determines that a doctor has a clean record, Minister De Weever said that the department does so by checking the BIG registry since that is the current procedure to follow.

SMN News asked the Minister if he knew that the only time reports are published in the BIG registry is after an investigation is completed, Minister De Weever admitted that is the case. When asked if the Department of Public Health ever contacted the Inspectorate to make inquires about doctors who want to practice medicine on St. Maarten, Minister de Weever said that is done when the applicant is suspicious or refuses to share information. He said that right now the Department of Public Health and the Inspectorate on St. Maarten would have to review the current procedures and if there is need for tweaking then that has to be done.

As for Dr. Muller, Minister De Weever said he worked at SMMC for a period of two months which was his trial period. During that time he did not perform any vascular surgeries on St. Maarten. Minister De Weever said based on information given by SMMC, Dr. Muller stopped working for SMMC at the end of his probation period because he claimed that he wanted to take up a new position in France.

Click here to view the letter sent to Dr. Muller by IGZ on July 31st, 2013.

semfdirectorwalterhellebrandwithverdict09082013ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius:--- The St. Eustatius Monuments Foundation (SEMF) won their appeal at the Joint Court of Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten and of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba in their case against the island's Spatial Development Plan as adopted by its Island Council. The case of the SEMF is principally against the amendment facility in the Spatial Development Plan that enables a decision to construct a new oil terminal on the town side of Signal Hill to be rushed through by the Executive Council. The judge of the Court of First Instance previously ruled that the case was inadmissible as in his opinion the SEMF could not be affected by a possibility but only if use was made of that possibility. This decision has now been declared null and void.

Mr. B.G. Hofman of Bermon Law Office represented the St. Eustatius Island Council. As an interested third party, NuStar Terminals N.V. had also been asked to appear. They were represented by Mr. T.J. Leijsen of law firm VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne. The Director of the Monuments Foundation, Walter Hellebrand, handled the case himself.

The two lawyers repeated the arguments they had used in the lower Court. They failed to convince the Joint Court. However, representing the Foundation himself, Hellebrand took the opportunity to argue that the very amendment facility itself affects the state of the island's heritage and safety as it enables a quick, low profile procedure for the most impactful part of the entire Spatial Development Plan. Instead of a careful process with proper information sessions for the general public and opportunities for active involvement and participation, it only requires for the decision of the Executive Council to be available for public consultation for a period of 15 days. In his plea, Hellebrand highlighted the harmful effects of the possibility itself. The verdict of the Joint Court reads: "His plea is successful."

The Joint Court ordered that the case will have to be dealt with by the Court in First Instance in its entirety once again.

The SEMF is opposed to allowing a new oil terminal south of Signal Hill as it will be too close to Oranjestad, impacting on the monumental aspect of the historic core, constituting an unacceptable risk, as well as destroying 17 monuments including the burials and plantation cemetery of Benners that contains 6 of the 7 oldest dated tomb stones of St. Eustatius.

The SEMF was founded in 1990 for the protection, renovation and reconstruction of all the historical cultural goods on the island of St. Eustatius. It has since then campaigned and worked to preserve the material heritage of the island's rich past.

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet is not surprised by the decision of the UP/DP coalition government to scrap the proposed plans to increase the turnover tax (ToT) on tobacco and alcohol and write off of back taxes up to December 2006. Apparently the way forward will be presented by the Minister of Finance Martin Hassink to the Council of Ministers. In other words, as of the present moment nothing has been prepared as yet. The Member of Parliament does not know if it is a personal opinion of the newspaper or a statement from government. But in the article it is stated: "The main reason for not going through with a two percent increase is the legislation to make the increase and the collection possible is not ready." What then is the other reason? Legislation can still be prepared in time for the 2014 budget. According to article 100 section 3 of the Constitution of St. Maarten which states as follows: "The government shall submit the budget to the Parliament in one or more drafts no later than September 1." So there is still 3 weeks left to do so. The other matter the Member of Parliament is querying is the freezing of the hiring of personnel. It is either there is a freeze or there is none. One cannot state on the one hand that there is a freeze and on the other hand say if a ministry wants to hire it has to be justified and properly documented by the department wanting to hire. The word freeze should not be mentioned because it is not realistic. What this government has to be careful with is that civil servants who are already overburdened with work, will find themselves having to carry more of the workload in those critical functions that are not filled. This will lead to exhaustion, stress, and increase in sick leave which will in turn hamper the proper functioning of government. The Member of Parliament said he is sure this cannot be the intention of the UP/DP coalition government. Another matter the Member of Parliament took note of was that no mention was made as to the legislation on the increasing of casino and lottery fees which have remained the same for some 20 years. He understood they were being worked on but was never finalized.

mauricelakeandpatricialourensinspectschools09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens-Philip, on Thursday continued with their inspections of several public elementary schools with respect to their readiness for the start of the new 2013/2014 school year that kicks-off on Monday, August 12.

The schools visited were Ruby Labega, Charles Leopold Bell, Leonard Connor and Dr. Martin Luther King School.

smtbandhotelierspromotesxminusa09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Representatives from the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and hoteliers from five St. Maarten/St. Martin properties (Princess Heights Hotels, Sonesta Resort St. Maarten, Grand Case Beach Club, Orient Beach Hotels, and Radisson Blu Resort) recently visited several reservation centers across the U.S. to promote travel to St. Maarten/St. Martin. Their trip included stops at the following centers: Expedia, Springfield, MO; JetBlue Airlines/JetBlue Getaways, Salt Lake City, Utah; Go Go Worldwide Vacations, Las Vegas, NV; Cheap Caribbean, Phoenix, AZ; US Airways Vacations, Tempe, AZ; and Costco Vacations, Seattle, WA.

Over the course of their trip, the St. Maarten/St.Martin and participating hotel representatives presented the island destination to more than 900 reservation agents so they could confidently field questions and offer vacation suggestions about the island to travel agents looking for the ideal Caribbean vacation.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, has reported to the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever that for two consecutive weeks there has been five or more persons infected with dengue fever, therefore leading to the Minister declaring a dengue epidemic.

The total number of confirmed cases for 2013 from January up to the month of July is 101 cases.

As a response to the increase of dengue numbers vector control activities has been stepped up by the Ministry; prompt response to the search of yards and gardens for mosquito breeding sites; stepped up media campaign; fogging activity is also planned as part of this response and will commence as soon as possible once all logistics are in place.

Fogging activity is kept to a minimum in order to prevent the mosquito population from developing immunity to the chemicals that are deployed, and therefore is only used when really necessary. The most effective way to eliminate and/or keep the mosquito population at bay is for every member of the community taking their own personal responsibility and making sure that their own yards and surroundings are kept clean by following the recommendations of the Ministry of Public Health.

Residents with dengue fever symptoms are requested to consult with their family physician who can then refer them to the lab for a laboratory test that would confirm if they have dengue or not, and to give the proper advice to ensure a healthy recovery avoiding other health risks.

Dengue symptoms include high fever, severe headache, backache, joint and eye pain, nausea and vomiting, and rash. Once a person has developed a fever, the infectious period lasts for about a week. Most people recover without any complications, using pain relievers, liquid intake (preferably water or juice) and bed rest. Avoid self-medication and consult your physician.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there aren't any containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there won't be any adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

SHGC is urgently calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases. Persons are urgently recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods, open lots and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

2ndtownhallmeetingforzoningcolebaybillyfollyandcaybay09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is very pleased with the large turnout of stakeholders to Thursday evenings second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Cole Bay-Billy Folly and Cay Bay.

The public consultation was held at the Carl & Sons Conference Room in Orange Grove, Cole Bay. The first public meeting was held in September 2012.

mauricelakespeakingwithfogaresidents09082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is busy addressing the concerns of the FOGA residents after 23 persons living in the area brought to his attention issues of concern and their living conditions.

Minister Lake received a letter dated from the residents of the Sucker Garden area who have been living in the emergency homes for more than 15-years.

The Minister after receiving the July 31, 2013 dated letter on August 2 he and some members of his Cabinet did a walk-through the FOGA neighborhood on Tuesday and spoke with many residents in order to see the quality of the living conditions in and around the area.

"The residents wrote a letter to the former Minister of VROMI William Marlin seeking his assistance with respect to their concerns in a letter of April 9, 2013. The Minister had two months to speak with the residents and they never heard anything from him. My approach is getting back to basics and the quality of life of our people. These are human beings and their needs should be addressed by first meeting with them and listening to their concerns and problems," Minister Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

Some of the issues that the residents spoke about with the Minister were that they had received a request for the removal of structures that tenants of the homes built over the years; the removal of fruit trees that they planted in the back of their yards; and an answer with respect to a second doorway exit for the homes. The removal of structures etc. request was in connection with the construction of infrastructure.

Minister Lake will discuss the challenges of the residents with the relevant departments within Ministry VROMI, the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation, and BHOTA.

"I believe we need more communication. It's not right to leave people hanging. They deserve answers. I will meet with the other relevant stakeholders who have a responsibility towards the tenants, but everybody must live up to their responsibilities in the end," Minister Maurice Lake concluded.

The Netherlands/St. Maarten:--- The Health Care Inspectorate in the Netherlands (IGZ) is busy trying to locate Dr. Robert Willem Johan Muller who was working at the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) up until about a month ago. Dr. Muller left SMMC about a month ago indicating that he was going to work in Switzerland. SMN News learnt that Dr. Muller left when he received a letter from the IGZ informing him that they are holding him responsible for the wrongful deaths of at least two patients. Dr. Muller worked for a period of time at SMMC with Dr. Holiday.

According to news reports coming out of the Netherlands Dr. Muller, an acting vascular surgeon vanished and cannot be reached by the IGZ in the Netherlands. Media reports state that Dr. Muller is responsible for at least two deaths and that number might increase as the investigation continues. He was working at the Bethesda Hospital in Hoogeveen. The operations Muller performed on the patients who eventually died are reserved for vascular surgeons. The IGZ considers Dr. Muller to be a real danger to patients' safety.

Just last week the medical staff of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) protested against the hiring of the new medical director because he is accused of running a hospital in the Netherlands into bankruptcy while the operating theaters did not meet proper health care standards. So far, it appears as though the Supervisory Board of the St. Maarten Medical Center is not conducting background checks when hiring critical staff for SMMC.

Click here to view the letter sent to Dr. Muller by IGZ on July 31st, 2013.

telcellbuy10get13poster07082013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group mobile provider, TelCell, is launching a new $10 Top-up promotion islandwide, saying it's the company's best deal yet for cash-conscious mobile customers.

From today (Friday) TelCell customers can Top-up their mobile phones with the new $10 package and get credit to the value of $13 for voice and/or text messages.
Manager, Marketing & Sales Mr. Emile van Der Weerd says the new promotion is a direct response by TelCell to customer requests for a cheaper Top-up package.
He said customers have been asking for a new package that is as attractive as a similar promotion launched earlier in the year where customers received $30 of call credit for any $20 Top-up purchased.
"We heard the most recent calls of many of our pre-paid customers who wanted another package that could fit a tighter budget. We discussed it internally and also with our vendors, and we came up with a very attractive package that everyone can afford," said Mr. van der Weerd.
He said the 30% extra value TelCell's mobile subscribers will receive from the package is a hefty saving and can be seen as a form of relief to customers from their favorite mobile service provider.
The extra $3 call credit can be used to call any TelCell or TelEm phone or to send SMS messages. The extra amount will also be applied for any Top-up purchase from $10 to $19.99.
"We continue to live by our slogan "When you want more" and the new package is yet another demonstration of how we care about and listen to our customers needs and wants," continued the Manager, Marketing & Sales.

Telem Press Release

PM: "As we go along we will be faced with these proposals for change. We should be big enough to admit that we are growing as we go along and where we need changes we will do such"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Central Committee of Parliament meeting on Thursday regarding the proposal to amend the law regarding the membership of the Oversight Committee of the National Security Service VDSM. The Prime Minister explained the proposal to Parliament to which would make a small yet significant change to the law that governs the VDSM, proposing to remove the membership of the President of Parliament on the Oversight Committee of the VDSM to an appointee by the Constitutional Court. The proposal would remove the membership of the Oversight Committee from the President of Parliament, regardless of who holds that seat, to a person appointed by the Constitutional Court.

The Prime Minister firstly welcomed back the Members of Parliament who were in attendance from the summer recess and continued to explain the proposed changes in detail: "I would like to welcome the Members of Parliament back after the summer recess and welcome President Arrindell back after her vacation. The topic I will elucidate today is the proposed amendment to the law of the National Security Service of country St. Maarten VDSM which would result in a small yet significant change to the Oversight Committee.

"There is a chapter on the law of the National Security Service regulating its supervision. This law establishes that there will be a Commission that stipulates the supervision of the VDSM. After careful consideration and review of the current composition of the Supervision Commission, which consists of a representative of the Joint Court of Justice, the Vice Chair of the Council of Advice and the President of Parliament, the proposal was launched to have the position of the Chairperson of Parliament changed to a submission of someone who comes from the Constitutional Court. The considerations of this amendment relates to two matters; firstly that the Commission must report to the Minister responsible for the VDSM, the Minister of General Affairs or the Prime Minister. Thus the position of the Chairperson of Parliament as part of a Commission that must report to the Prime Minister is in fact a skewed position. The political responsibility of the Prime Minister is to Parliament and the President of Parliament, and the responsibility of the Oversight Commission and the members thereof is to the Prime Minister. Because of this there is indeed a skewing of the hierarchy and that is something that must be avoided.

"Secondly, in a small community like ours the perception could be created of some type of political influence in the Committee. I am sure that Parliament can agree with me that this is not desirable. We want to avoid politicking or the perception of politicking in a position as sensitive as the Oversight Commission for the National Security Service.

"The only change in this amendment is to change the membership of the Chairperson of Parliament, regardless of who has that seat, filled by someone appointed by the Constitutional Court," commented the Prime Minister.

In her answers to the questions posed by the members of Parliament, the Prime Minister stated that the law governing the VDSM, which was initially based on the Aruba system, was not made on the basis of issues but from the Constitutional Perspective, or the relationship between the dualistic nature and the overall controlling right of the Parliament of St. Maarten. "The President of Parliament is not being removed; the position of the President of Parliament on the committee is being changed or amended by this proposal. It is not as if that committee is a conduit of information on the service to the Parliament, the committee ensures that, according to the law, the National Security Service operates. This Service has far reaching powers according to the law and therefore there should be checks and balances with regards to the Service and that is the role of the Oversight Commission or the Supervisory Committee. The person that is in the Commission has a specific task as outlined in the law. The information about the VDSM gets to Parliament via the faction leaders of Parliament. I need to take away the perception that if the Chairperson of Parliament were not in the committee the accountability of that service would not be given. That is not true and again that is the responsibility of the faction leaders. In fact Article 56 Sub 2 of the law that governs the VDSM clearly states that Members of Parliament can also request an investigation as to the execution of the laws of the Service as expressed by the Majority of Parliament that has to be submitted within the period of six weeks. I am not trying to be patronizing by stating this but I have done so in order to highlight that that is not the case because of how the commission is expected to function," commented the Prime Minister.

"The point I would have wanted to stress in the answering of this point is that it is not about the representation by Parliament and it should not be conveyed in that matter. Nowhere does it state in the law that regulates the VDSM that Parliament has a role on the basis of the Chair of the Parliament in the Commission. It is not the case that the Parliament is being excluded from a function. We, going towards 10-10-10 had to work in a pressure cooker system because there were particular laws that needed to be ratified and passed or else Country Status would not have happened. There were some areas were we saw a system and we thought the system worked and we took them over. We are going to have to change some of those because some of the situations have changed. As we look at the laws we will, in the future, see that there has to be a discussion regarding the functioning of that law. As we go along we will be faced with these proposals for change. We should be big enough to admit that we are growing as we go along and where we need changes we will do such."

The final decision on the proposal will be taken at the Public Meeting of Parliament which will be held as soon as possible according to President of Parliament the Honorable Gracita Arrindell.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelakemeetswithsmta07082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with the Board of the St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA), to discuss areas where his Ministry and the SMTA can work together for the benefit of the Island.

SMTA Chairman, Marcel Javois presented the Minister with the need for correcting the drainage of the Billy Folly Road leading to Pelican key and the repairs to the damaged road surface.

Approximately 50% of St. Maarten's timeshare tourists use this road to access one of the five major resorts in the area.

Minister Lake was well prepared to tackle the subject and had ready for discussion the road design plans to solve this problem and also had the engineer, Rogier Brans of Lievense Consulting Engineers, on hand to discuss the technical aspects.

Minister Lake said, "In my back to basics approach we have to look for solutions where none exist. If we had the funds, I have plans already drawn up that could solve almost every infrastructural issue. Can I and the Country of St. Maarten ask the SMTA to provide financial support the way businesses and residents contributed in the Cupecoy area? There are many parts of the island where people cannot afford to contribute, but to make scarce financial resources go farther, I think it only fair to ask those who can to help out."

The SMTA committed to Minister Lake that it could fund a part of the project from the timeshare tourists' $-a-day contributions and would be willing to act as the private sector organization to raise additional funds as it has recently done to fix a section of the road in the Oyster Pond area by the border.

Minister Lake will, as the project leader, work on the feasibility issues and determine the amount of private sector contribution needed for what could be a three million guilder project. "Public and Private are the two ingredients for "win-win". With cooperation we can achieve great things." Minister Lake summed up as he insisted on a follow up meeting in two weeks on the site.

The SMTA submitted its concept for sixty-five tourism directional signs, using the highest quality reflective aluminium and built to Florida's strict hurricane standards. The SMTA offered to pay for the signage from the $-a-day and requested Minister Lake's support on logistics for permits and assistance on the installation from Public Works.

Minister Lake likes the concept of yet another public/private project and recognizes the need to improve the visitor experience. Minister Lake requested that the SMTA meets with Minister of Tourism, Ted Richardson for his support. Minister Lake said the project would have his support to go through the necessary processes to have a professional outcome.

Minister Lake and the SMTA board rounded off the meeting with a good spirited discussion of the need to ensure clean and safe beaches for both the tourists and the locals alike. All present agreed that the meeting was just a prelude to concrete actions to make St. Maarten a better place.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet August 09 with the Territorial Council of St. Martin.

The central committee will meet on Friday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is a presentation to the Parliament of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

swescotwilliamsmeetswithunreprichardblewitt07082013UN Rep Commends Prime Minister During Private Audience

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams met with regional UN Representative Richard Blewitt at her Cabinet on Wednesday Morning. Mr. Blewitt is the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator and UN Development Program Resident Representative for Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten.

During the half hour meeting Mr. Blewitt presented his credentials to the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams and stated, "it was a great pleasure to meet a Prime Minister that has done such considerable work for the development of the country."

Richard Blewitt was appointed to as the United Nations Regional Coordinator in April 2013. Prior to his appointment, he was Chief Executive Officer of HelpAge International for six years and has also held several key posts with various humanitarian agencies such as the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent; the British Red Cross Society; UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs; and the Save the Children Fund.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

studyfinancingdelegationvisitssxmhouse07082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The St. Maarten delegation that accompanied 70 students to the Netherlands visited the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague. The delegation is headed by Antonio Aventurin who met with the Cabinet to discuss the newly arrived students; students currently residing and living in Holland; and the way to go forward with S4.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A representative from the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs and a representative from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), will be the guests on Thursday, August 08 on PEARL 98.1 FM Radio at 9:00am.

The Government of Sint Maarten started a National Development Plan (NDP) project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," in the latter part of 2012.

The process entails community engagement and a bottoms-up approach.

The NDP rep Tom Woods, United Nations Volunteer and Ministry VROMI rep Joan Sellink, Department Head, will inform radio listeners and the community about the linkage between development planning and zoning.

The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going dialogue and participation in its conception and implementation.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is reminding stakeholders to come out to the second public consultation related to the drafting of development plans for Cole Bay-Billy Folly and Cay Bay on Thursday, August 8.

The public consultation will be held at the Carl & Sons Conference Room in Orange Grove, Cole Bay August 08 at 7:00pm. The first public meeting was held in September 2012.

The draft development plan focuses on such areas as traffic (roads and other infrastructure), tourism (recreation), industry (commercial, industrial), residential (housing, public space and facilities), nature (water, landscape and ecology) and culture (heritage and archaeology).

The process of the preparation of zoning plans in the format of public consultations is cardinal for the preparation of the aforementioned that meet the needs and expectations of the community of Sint Maarten, and specifically those of the important stakeholders such as the neighborhood community councils, home owners associations and other entities that serve a role in voicing the concerns of residents within the neighborhoods.

"This is a follow-up public consultation and the input of the community is considered paramount in this process and in order for the right choices to be made. The people have to have a say by giving their views with respect to the spatial development of the country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

The aforementioned plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The town hall meeting process is part of process of drafting of development plans/ "zoning plans" for country Sint Maarten which was initially started back in the first quarter of 2012 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), Department of New Projects Development and Planning, hereby informs the general public that road marking activities will be carried out on the L.B. Scott Road leading to the Round-about by Grand Marche and in the vicinity of Cake House Supermarket on Thursday from 9:00am until 12:00pm.

On Thursday afternoon road marking activities will continue from 2:00pm to 5:00pm and again on Friday morning and afternoon, August 9. This will be carried out on the Welfare Road from Kentucky Fried Chicken up until Tropicana Casino.

If necessary, the road marking activities will also be executed in the evening hours or early Saturday morning.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the works is being executed.

Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for any inconvenience that this may cause.

CUL DE SAC:--- Parents of new first form students who will be attending St. Maarten Academy's academic campus this year are invited to an orientation on Thursday, August 8 at the school.
This very important meeting starts at 6:30pm to provide parents with relevant information as it relates to this school year.
All parents are urged to attend with their children.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet August 08 with respect to the National Security Service.

The central committee will meet on Thursday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Central Committee meeting was first organized on November 8, 2012 and then postponed.

The agenda point for the meeting is a change to the National Ordinance National Security Service with respect to the composition of the Committee of Supervision.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs would like to inform school bus owners who did not show up to have their school buses inspected that the aforementioned will apply the 'No Pass No Pay' rule policy that was drafted in 2010.

A number of school buses have not been inspected and those who had to be re-inspected have not shown up to have this done.

All buses that do not meet inspection requirements will not be allowed to transport children on behalf of the Government. Those buses will be stopped.

School bus owners and drivers were given two opportunities in July to have their school buses inspected.

The key objective is to continue to provide safe, reliable and comfortable transportation services for school children.

For further information about services rendered by the Inspection Section, call telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509.

swescotwilliams07082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Council of Ministers approved the amendments made to the 2013 budget. Wescot Williams said the 2013 budget is now by the Council of Advice and after that it will follow the other channels so that it can be approved. The Prime Minister said due to the budget cuts the various Ministries through their Secretary Generals were informed to pay keen interest on their finances. She said an announcement was made to freeze the hiring of new workers even though there are some vital positions that still have to be filled. Wescot Williams said if there are critical vacancies that have to be filled, that will be approved by the Council of Ministers. Wescot Williams said that the current government has placed much emphasis on the finances of government. She further explained that emphasis is also placed on the relationship between government and government owned companies and semi- institutions.
Wescot Williams said there has been talk for a long time now on a dividend policy for government owned companies and they are now looking into that. Wescot Williams said the Government is even discussing their obligations with SZV and foundations that receive funding from government.

The Prime Minister also announced that the Government of St. Maarten also elevated the discussions on the economic situation on St. Maarten. She said every week these two topics, budget and the economy are being discussed and the Minister responsible for the portfolios would put their advices on the table. She said government is working on a long term strategic economic plan for St. Maarten which is running parallel to the national development plan but they are also looking at the issues regarding the economy as they develop.

Minister of TEATT to Review Moratorium on Bus and Taxi Licenses.

Wescot Williams also announced that the Minister of TEATT Ted Richardson is now busy reviewing the moratorium that was placed on the issuance of bus and taxi licenses by the former Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet. Wescot Williams said shortly before the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government fell, the former Minister submitted the moratorium but the procedure was not completed. She said that moratorium was based on an advice dating back to February 2013.

VDSM Head still has time to respond to SOAB Report.

SMN News asked Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams if there is any new development on the investigation she initiated at VDSM. Wescot Williams said that she received the report from SOAB which was sent to the head of security service James Richardson for him to respond.

Wescot Williams said that the head of the department still has time left to respond to the SOAB report therefore there is no new development because she did not receive a response from the head of the department.

On another topic, the Prime Minister said in responding to a question posed by SMN News that the government has to wait at least six more months before they can move in to the Government Building on Pond Island. She said workers are still busy working on the building but she made clear that government had to squeeze water out of stone to find the monies to complete and furnish the building.

VROMI Minister to Review Report on Removal and Milled Asphalt.

Wescot Williams also announced on Wednesday that the Minister of VROMI Maurice Lake presented a report on the investigation on the removal of ground asphalt from PJIAE and sand from the harbor. The Prime Minister said that those that conducted the report made some recommendations but refused to say what those recommendations are. She said the Minister of VROMI has to review the report along with the recommendations and then take it back to the Council of Ministers.

francescocoralloarrestedinitaly07082013ROME, Italy:--- Media reports coming out of Italy show that the police in Italy finally arrested casino boss Francesco Corallo. According to the reports from Italy, Corallo who is wanted in his native country for fraud was hiding in the Dominican Republic.
However, Corallo went to Italy on his own where he was apprehended by police. Several media outlets recently published that Corallo was no longer on the Interpol's wanted list but SMN News verified that Corallo's name was never taken off the list. He is suspected of defrauding Banco Popolare of 150 million Euros.

marcelloor17032013PARIS, France:--- Former Head of Immigration Marcel Loor who was convicted on St. Maarten for fraud, forgery, and money laundering was convicted to 18 months imprisonment in Paris last week for drug trafficking. Loor was arrested on July 19th at the Charles de Gaulle Airport (ROISSY) with 1.1 kilograms of cocaine. Loor was immediately arrested when he came off an Air France flight that left St. Maarten on Wednesday July 18th and landed in Paris on Thursday July 19th, 2013. The disgraced former cop appeared in a criminal court in Paris and was tried as comparution immédiate where he was sentenced immediately to 18 months imprisonment.

Marcel Loor, a former head of immigration of St. Maarten made headlines in St. Maarten when he was arrested some years ago and was charged with fraud, forgery, and money laundering. Loor was convicted and spent a few years in prison. His assets were seized by the public prosecution during the trial, some months ago the court ruled that Loor and his long time partner Charlene Craig have to pay Naf. 900,000.00 to the justice system. The amounts seized by the prosecution exceed what Loor has to pay. However, it is not clear if that payment was made and how much time the disgraced cop has to comply with the conviction.

mauricelakemeetswithpjiaemanagement06082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake recently met with SXM Airport Managing Director Regina Labega and members of her Executive Team where he was briefed about the airports plans.

The Minister and members of his cabinet received a presentation about the loan acquisition; the economic impact of the airport on the economy of the country; future plans for the airport with the aim of keeping the facility competitive within the region; relocation of the fuel farm; a new fire station; and construction of the FBO facility for private jets.

Minister Lake was very pleased to be briefed about the airports plans and commended management, board and employees for their stewardship, and especially employees and the other stakeholders for their professional service provided everyday to visitors.

The Minister also requested that an alternative location be looked into with respect to the fuel farm since it is now projected close to a hotel. The airport agreed to study this further and get back to the Minister within two weeks.

Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pledged his support to the airport with respect to any permits that they would need in order to facilitate the construction works, and was looking forward to a continued close working relationship.

The Executive Team of SXM Airport also included Robert Brown, Max Schakel and Khalifa Hickenson.

rotarysxmsunrisewelcomesguestspeakerkeomahamer06082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise welcomed as Guest Speaker at their weekly breakfast meeting the founder and President of the KeLaHa Projects Foundation Keoma Hamer and Secretary Mireya Ostiana. The topic discussed was "Cervical Cancer and HPV Awareness" Ms. Hammer also mentioned that the aim of the foundation is to bring social change within the community by meeting the basic needs of the people by providing educational initiatives, youth development programs and health care awareness. Their mission is to serve as a bridge that connects partnering companies and individuals to the needs of the community by inspiring, informing, and enabling people to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

The members of the Sunrise Rotary will be organizing a future meeting with Ms. Hamer to continue the discussion that was well received by the membership. The Sunrise Rotary would like to thank Ms. Keoma Hamer and Mrs. Mireya Ostiana for speaking at our breakfast meeting.

The Club meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

orangegroveandfcsoualiga06082013On Thursday, August 1st, Orange Grove joined Sint Maarten's very own women's soccer team, FC Soualiga, during their regular practice in support of stimulating local talent. Momentarily, Orange Grove is touring through the Caribbean. While being home, the band took time out to show their support to the FC Soualiga ladies. "It is important that local talent supports each other in their endeavors, albeit through sports, through music, or any other art form", as was stated by the members of the FC Soualiga management team. "Here we have two groups of people that are both committed to supporting positive activities for the community and getting involved and participating in a positive manner, each in their very own way. Whether you enjoy making music, playing sports or any other activity, give it your all, and never give up on your dreams."

LOWLANDS:--- On Monday August 5th, 2013 in the evening hours based on a tip of criminal activities taking place, a raid was conducted by police at a home in the Lowlands area. During this raid three persons, two females and one male were at the location in question and were arrested. An undisclosed amount of marijuana, cocaine, and a firearm were found and confiscated for further investigation. The investigation into this case is ongoing and as more information regarding this case becomes available, the media will be informed.

KPSM Police Report

SIMPSON BAY:--- On Tuesday August 6th at approximately 12:00pm, the Simpson Bay Police patrol informed the Central Police Dispatch and other police patrols that they were in pursuit of a man riding on a black scooter at very high speed in the direction of Philipsburg. The man in question had just ill-treated a female in the Simpson Bay area and there was also a warrant out for his arrest for ill-treatment with a weapon of the same female. The female in question was shot by the suspect on July 6th 2013 at an address in Sint Peters. After the shooting, he fled the scene and has been on the run and in hiding ever since. The suspect was located on the Link-one road by a Philipsburg patrol and when the patrol, on several occasions, tried to stop the suspect he refused to do so and continued at high speed on his scooter through the neighborhood. The pursuing officers fired two warning shots to force the fleeing suspect to stop however he refused. Due to his reckless riding the suspect at one this point lost control of the scooter and fell to the ground. He did not stop and continued fleeing on foot. He then ran through bushes into the Belair Pond. The pond was surrounded by police officers and when the suspect noticed that there was no way out he gave himself up. The suspect with initials R.C.D. from Sint Maarten (22) was arrested on the spot and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where he is held for questioning.

KPSM Police Report

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section Youth Health Care, part of Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, in collaboration with the Department of Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs and Women's Desk, have finalized preparations for the 3rd Annual Pregnancy Market that will take place on Wednesday, August 7.

The 3rd Annual Pregnancy Market will be bigger and better. It will be held at the Vineyard Office Complex in Philipsburg in the parking lot from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. Entrance is free.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, encourages the community interested in products and services related to pregnancy to visit the market on August 7.

The pregnancy market is an information market that will provide the public with a variety of information on a wide array of topics related to healthy pregnancy and new born child care.

Different stakeholders such as the Sint Maarten Medical Center, Civil Registry, pharmacies, physical therapists, White and Yellow Cross and distributors of products related to baby and/or mother care will provide information on their services and products.

In addition, several informative presentations will be given on topics ranging from healthy nutrition, staying physically fit, child birth and breast feeding.

The market will target in particular women and their partners who are planning a pregnancy, women who are pregnant, new parents and other persons who or are in need of information.

Participants are reminded that it is an informational market and not a seller's market: participants are not allowed to sell services or products, but can refer those interested to their place of business.

coconuttreesgokartingburntdown06082013La Savane:--- Coconut Trees Go-Karting in La Savane went up in flames just before midday on Monday. A firefighter that was trying to bring the blaze under control was seriously burnt and is currently hospitalized. Business owners and workers in the area said they are suspicious of the fire because the business was not operational at the time the fire started.

They said that the owner of the Coconut Trees Go-Karting invested almost three million Euros when he bought the land and built the business but business was very slow for him. The business was no longer opening all day, they were opening based on appointments because of how slow it is on the French side. "This businessman tried to do something good but he could not make it because of the high taxes on the French side. He was faced with high utility bills and other expenses to open all day. One of his employees that were living on the property is now homeless but luckily he was not on the premises when the fire started."

They said that cars that were parked in the area were damaged while the building and 35 go-karts were completely destroyed. However, the track stayed intact.

Just in front of the Coconut Trees Go-Karting where the fire took place on Monday is the Gess Service Station that did not suffer any damages.

The Gendarmerie is said to be conducting an investigation to determine whether or not the fire at Coconut Trees Go-Karting was criminal or accidental.

SIMPSON BAY, St. Maarten:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport operating company, PJIAE N.V. has taken note of a press release issued by DAE regarding the failed talks between both parties Monday, August 5, 2013 and stands by the statements it made regarding same. The facts are the facts and they are incontestable.
It has also taken due note of the personal attacks and name calling directed at the Managing Director, Ms. Regina LaBega and prefers not to comment on same in the name of professional ethics. Suffice it to say that the DAE official, accompanied by the airline's local representative met face to face for nearly two hours with the PJIAE negotiating team that consisted of Director of Operations, Mr. Larry Donker, who was deputizing for Ms. Regina LaBega, Finance Manager, Michael Lake and PJIAE's financial team, Corporate Communications Specialist, Kalifa Hickinson as well as legal counsel. Ms. LaBega joined the deliberations by conference call.
PJIAE NV wants to make it abundantly clear that it has for the past three years bent over backwards to accommodate DAE and is confident that it and all its officials, starting with its Managing Director, have acted in good faith all along. The latest proof of that good faith was rendering services on humanitarian grounds to DAE so it could execute its flights via St. Maarten on Sunday and Monday. It behooves DAE and its representatives to indicate what good faith the airline has shown in its negotiations with PJIAE.
Regarding going public with what transpired at Monday's negotiations, it must be stressed that PJIAE has not once disclosed details of the debt DAE owes it. However, since DAE has thought it fit to reveal how much it has so-called paid out of the amount owed, it should feel free to release the actual figures of its debts as well as the proposals and counter-proposals between both parties and indicate which one of these it has adhered to.
Of course, PJIAE would like nothing more than to see DAE solve its problems and be able to continue to use SXM airport's facilities and services. However, the airline must be the only debtor in the world that can dictate to its creditors when, how much and how it intends to settle its bills. In pure St. Maarten English, that is called being wrong and strong.
Nevertheless, our doors remain open for honest negotiations, with a transparent show of good faith. However, engaging in a media war is not how PJIAE does business, and certainly not with a debtor who seems to have an issue with dealing with a female managing director.

Regina LaBega acts unethical

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Director of the Sint Maarten airport decided that she wants DAE to immediately pay an old debt the company has with the Juliana International Airport (PJIA). She also chose to make publicly known the deliberations between the airport and DAE. DAE does not know what the Director's intentions are.

Now that DAE is confronting its current situation, the Director, Mrs. Labega also wants to take an intransigent position, by being a monopoly and act unprofessionally. This can also be considered unethical.

To state the facts, on May 29, 2012, both parties PJIA and DAE came to an agreement to pay an old debt made by the former DAE management which PJIA did not collect at that time. The current DAE management agreed to pay the old debt in 36 installments. Based on this, DAE reduced this debt with more than 310,000.00 guilders, paying 13 installments. It's true that DAE recently fell behind with 2 installments (months), the reasons are already known. Not PJIA decides that it doesn't want to wait anymore and decided that it wants the debt to be repaid in only 5 to 7 installments. Thus, it reduced the amount with more than 4 to 6 times from what was agreed upon in May of last year. Right now when DAE is going through a tough time, PJIA unilaterally has decided to impose a condicio sine qua non. Even more, if DAE does not comply, DAE will not be able to fly to Sint Maarten anymore and they will request bankruptcy through the court. If that is not enough, after a member of the DAE management flew to Sint Maarten to personally deliberate with the PJIA authorities, the Director Mrs. LaBega released information from the meeting between the parties in her own distorted words. Once more, it is not known with what purpose this was done.

DAE wants to maintain itself to the former agreement. Because DAE fell behind with two payments from the old debt, DAE offered to pay these in one month, in August, included the costs of last month and current month to get things back in order. This entails a not so small amount to be paid in one month so that the problems can be solved. DAE reiterates that it cannot comply with a demand imposed by a monopolist, which it cannot pay. DAE will continue to deliberate with the competent authorities in Sint Maarten to reach an agreement which is just and to continue serving the loyal passengers to and from that destination and to avoid having to stop serving the Sint Maarten market.

DAE does not have other words for that abuses mentioned above, imposed by a unilateral monopolistic party and it hopes that both parties can reach an agreement soon to clear the abovementioned situation. Whatever the decision may be, DAE wants to reiterate that it will defend the interests of its passengers, in Sint Maarten, Santo Domingo and Curacao which DAE has been transporting to and from the island of Sint Maarten.

DAE Press Release

george21082009PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that just about one month ago it was said that a plenary session will be held during the first week of August when Parliament resumes to handle to 2013 Budget issues. The Member of Parliament believes that the Budget of 2013 which is long overdue (because it did not pass the scrutiny of the Committee for Financial Supervision) unless the process (Advisory Council and the CFT) is shortened will not be handled until sometime in September. To date he has not received any documentation on the revised Budget. And when such happens he will need at least one to two weeks to study the amendments to it. It will then be discussed in a Central Committee meeting where questions will definitely be asked. Depending on the amount of questions asked and the response time, it can take another week or more before it is handled in another central committee meeting. After this process is completed it will be debated in a plenary session where the final handling of the Budget will take place. The Member of Parliament has been following statements made in the written media but will await the actual documentation. However, he is hoping that the burden is not placed on the pensioners, the minimum wage earners, the working poor, or the middle class. He is hoping that legislation being worked on with regards to generating revenues by increasing taxes on alcohol and tobacco (as agreed by the Committee for Financial Supervision) providing the proper legislation that is being drafted is finalized. He is convinced that these matters were meticulously studied by former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt who assured Parliament that we would remain competitive. He is hoping that legislations to increase casino fees and lottery fees are being worked on. If according to newspaper reports a lottery owner can offer 10 million guilders to settle a matter out of courts then the people should know that they (this particular lottery company) is making large sums of money and can afford to pay much more in fees than is being paid presently. And as the member always stated if this is not the case let them open their books. We should not forget the around 45 million guilders is sitting in a United States Bank. He hopes that the 25 million guilders owed in casino fees to government for over 10 years will be paid. These funds are very much needed for government to meet its obligation towards the vital institutions of St. Maarten namely; Education, Health, Law Enforcement, Social Services such as the pension fund amongst others. He already learnt that several after school programs will be affected by the proposed cuts. He learned that in particular one after school program two thirds of the teachers will not be returning because of cuts this government is proposing in the Budget 2013. The National Alliance led government had made provisions to keep these badly needed programs running. He also learnt that the proposed tax write offs will be discontinued. This is unfortunate because this would have benefited businesses and individuals as they would have had more spending power.

gracitaarrindellmeetswithschoolboardforsecondaryeducation04082013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met recently with the School Board for Secondary Education to discuss the opening of the parliamentary school year 2013-2014.

The reception will be held this year at the Sundial School. President Arrindell discussed the logistics with the school board. Arrindell added that this is a great opportunity once again for the students and the school to showcase its culinary and organizational talents in co-hosting such an important event. "I take this opportunity to thank the school board as well as the Managing Director Joseph Rogers for their support and approval to host this event at the Sundial School," President Arrindell said on Monday.

smhdfdonatesschoolsuppliestotenants04082013BELVEDERE:--- Fifty students living in the government owned apartments, will receive a care package of school supplies from the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation, as part of their "Back to School" goodwill initiative.
"While this may not seem like a huge donation to many," Managing Director of the Foundation, Henry Lynch explained. "It cuts some of the expenses that parents bear for back to school preparation. It gives them one less thing to worry about and saves them a few more dollars which they can put towards something else."
Lynch said that after going through the Payment Analysis of the two previous years, he realized the in August, there is a decrease in payment. "I noticed that just around the re-opening of school in August, there is a dip in rental payments and this I believe is because people try to make the sacrifice to get school supplies and payments in order for their children to return to school," he said. "The goal of the SMHDF is to operate towards the benefit and improvement of our community by making living affordable for people, so since we had a 'light' 17th anniversary celebration in June, we redirected some of our funds and efforts to assisting our tenants with school supplies for their kids."
This offer is only applicable for the tenants of the SMHDF since their stock is limited. "It will be only for our tenants and will be done on a first come first serve basis," Lynch said. "To secure one of these packages the tenant simply has to come to our office with the last Report Card of their child, as proof that the child has been promoted to the next grade and they will receive a package. In doing so we are also encouraging the children to do better."
He also encouraged other businesses to come on board and offer support. "The SMHDF has identified a need and took the first step to assist as best as we can," he said. 'But I am urging other companies in the community to assist us by donating at least 50 more packages of school supplies and school bags by the end of the week. Remember, we can accomplish so much if we do it together."
The school supplies includes: pens, pencils, copy books, math books, hype agendas (a locally compiled agenda), pencil cases and back packs. Distributions of these packages begin as early as Monday.

gracitaarrindellreceivesactionplanfrompatricialourens04082013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell in her process to update members of the Council of Ministers and to also orientate herself with the new ministers who were sworn in several weeks ago, last Friday met with Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports (Ministry ECYS) Hon. Patricia Lourens.

Minister Lourens briefed President Arrindell about the current state of affairs within the Ministry and about what are some of her priorities based on an action plan that the Minister has drafted and of which a copy was provided to President Arrindell on Friday morning. The action plan will also be a guide for the 2014 budget from the perspective of the Ministry ECYS.

Minister Lourens also briefed the President of Parliament about her long-term vision for the Ministry.

Other issues discussed is the continuing improvement for special needs education; capacity building within the Ministry; performance standards; a manual on processes and procedures when dealing with internal and external publics.

President Arrindell informed the Minister that there aren't any pending parliamentary meetings related to Ministry ECYS.

The President did discuss the United Nations UNICEF report about the state of affairs regarding young people of the country, and it was decided that the Minister will come to the House of Parliament to address the UNICEF report in a Central Committee meeting that is tentatively planned for the first week of September.

Other points discussed is a NFL project for the country's youths; reading as a subject in schools; violence in schools; and art displays.

Minister Lourens apprised President Arrindell about the student tracking system and parent platform; as well as the safe schools program which will be coordinated by student support services

At the end of the meeting, President Arrindell and Minister Lourens went on a brief tour to look at potential locations for public art displays.

Passengers advised to contact airline directly for information about flights

SIMPSON BAY:--- Crucial talks between the Princess Juliana international Airport operating company, PJAIE N.V. and Dutch Antilles Express B.V. ,DAE, broke down Monday afternoon when Mr. Steven Sloop, the airline's Planning Director, went back on the proposal it submitted to the airport just last week.
The deal breaker was the amount DAE could honestly commit to paying monthly in settlement of its large outstanding with the airport. Mr. Sloop, asking the PJIAE negotiating team to "trust him", was unable to convince members that DAE could be held to any of its own previous proposals.
Mr. Sloop acknowledged that DAE has been in arrears with the airport dating back to 2010. He attributed most of the company's financial woes to the airline losing service to Venezuela. According to Sloop, Venezuela represented 70% of the airline's business and DAE was very heavily dependent upon this market. However, he failed to give any clear picture of DAE's financial projections.
"It's unfortunate and rather disappointing that DAE could not even stick to its own previous proposals," PJIAE N.V. managing director, Regina LaBega stated. "We have been more than lenient and accommodating and it has come to the point where we have to think about our own responsibilities to our investors and Shareholder."
"This is a situation that has been ongoing for too long and cannot be allowed to continue. We would love to see DAE continue using our facilities, however, if the airline cannot meet its financial obligations with us, then it is obvious that it has other plans," she added.
LaBega said she does not know for certain what these plans may be, however, she advised all passengers holding DAE tickets to contact the airline or its representatives directly to find out what they should do.
"DAE is directly responsible for them, not SXM Airport, and they should therefore seek further information from the airline," she added.
It will be recalled that PJIAE offered the usual airport services to DAE on Sunday and Monday out of consideration for the plight of passengers. Those flights were considered "evacuation flights". Mr. Sloop confirmed at the talks that there were no stranded DAE passengers left.

uvc04082013It took five sets, but the United Volleyball Club boys were able to avenge their loss three years ago to the Colorado Tigers in their friendly "Battle of the Sexes" exchange on Saturday. The games were part of the UVC's fundraising weekend tournament that featured the Colorado College women team as the highlight.
The Colorado women had scheduled the trip to the St. Martin as part of the school's training program in the Caribbean, which takes place every three years, and contacted the UVC again to see how the two organizations could collaborate. The collaboration involved three days of volleyball games, training, and community service, where Colorado and UVC painted classrooms at the Prince Willem Alexander School.
This week, the Colorado delegation will continue their Caribbean tour in St. Kitts while 21 members of the UVC will be attending a training camp in Florida at the Orlando Volleyball Academy. The UVC youngsters say they are really looking forward to the Orlando experience and have pledged to take in as much as possible.
The United Volleyball Club extends gratitude to the Colorado College team and all the other persons and businesses that have contributed to their fundraising efforts. Upon returning to the island, the United Volleyball Foundation will be starting up the United Academy program, with a balanced focus on sports and academic development, directed by Dr. Rhoda Arrindell.

POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group is presently updating customer information for the upcoming 2014 Telephone Directory for residential and business clients.
Starting Monday, August 5th, and until August 16th, business and residential clients can update their telephone numbers and addresses as presently listed FREE of charge. After this date, a fee will be applied for any changes made to the listings.
"We want to give all our customers the opportunity to review their listed information and make any corrections before the 2014 Telephone Directory is sent to print," said Directory Project Coordinator and Business Development Officer, at TelEm Group, Estalita Gumbs.
Business and residential customers can use any of the following means to review, update and make corrections to their directory information:

  1. Online: Visit www.telemgroup.an – refer to banner to go to online review and follow instructions.
  2. Hard Copies: Visit our branch offices and obtain a copy and drop in our check box or fax to: (1-721)-542-5900
  3. E-mail: scan and email completed form to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

"We are keen to make the 2014 Telephone Directory as accurate as possible that is why we are taking unprecedented steps to double check numbers and addresses with customers and why we are asking for cooperation from the public," said Ms. Gumbs.
The project coordinator says customers risk having incorrect information included in the new directory unless they review the information and take any of the steps listed above to have the information corrected.

"While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our residential and business telephone listings, we are not liable for any omissions or errors which may result," added Ms. Gumbs.

For further information or for specific inquiries, please send an e-mail to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 611.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Richard Blewitt, United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator and UN Development Program Resident Representative for Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten, will be visiting the country for the first time on Tuesday and will be paying a courtesy call on the Prime Minister Wednesday.

Blewitt will present his credentials to the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams on Wednesday morning.

During his visit Blewitt will also meet with the representatives of the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations that is coordinating the National Development Plan process for the country. This meeting is scheduled for Wednesday morning.

He will also meet with other organizations and Ministries on the island who are trying to forge relations with UN agencies.

On Tuesday Blewitt will also pay a courtesy visit to the Cabinet of the Governor.

Richard Blewitt was appointed to his position back in April. Prior to his appointment, he was Chief Executive Officer of HelpAge International for six years. During that period he assisted HelpAge to win the Hilton Prize for its groundbreaking work on aging and development.

The new UN Resident Coordinator has also held several key posts with humanitarian agencies such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent; the British Red Cross Society; UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs; and Save the Children Fund, are just some of the organizations that he worked for.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Efforts in the Field of Politics Recognized by Premier Women's Magazine

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has been elected as one of the Top-100 most influential and powerful women by the Dutch Women's Magazine Opzij.

In a communication from the Magazine's Editor-in-chief Margriet van der Linden, the Prime Minister was informed that, through her contribution in the field of politics in the Dutch Kingdom, she has made it on the list of the most influential women. The Magazine will organize an award winning ceremony at the City Hall in Amsterdam mid-October to honor some of the most influential women in the ten different fields.

Opzij is a mainstream Dutch feminist monthly magazine. It was founded as a radical feminist magazine in November 1972 by Wim Hora Adema and Hedy d'Ancona. The magazine calls itself the "only opinion magazine for women," and considers itself a part of the women's movement.

The magazine currently contains articles about women and women's issues, as well as "lifestyle" sections.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams commented that she was honored to be a part of the list and felt proud to have been chosen through her dedication and commitment in her function as Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gastanksatcaptainolivers04082013OYSTER POND:--- Two huge gas tanks erected on the land inside Captain Oliver's has the attention of the State of France and the Kingdom since the tanks were built on French land. According to information obtained from the Prefecture of St. Martin, they are busy investigating the installation of the two white gas tanks above the surface of the earth at a resort. Based on international regulations, gas tanks are supposed to be underground because they contain explosive fluids. However, officials on St. Maarten say they do not have to comply with the international regulations but they do have to take it into consideration when issuing hindrance permits.

Earlier this year the operators of Cactus Tree N.V. erected two huge gas tanks on the Captain Oliver's premises and they submitted a request at the Ministry of VROMI to obtain a hindrance permit to sell gasoline to the boaters at Captain Oliver's marina.

An official at the Department of VROMI confirmed to SMN News that they did not issue any building permit to erect the gas tanks because it was not a requirement. The official further stated that the procedure such as payment for the hindrance permit was completed last week and sometime next week a publication will be in both of the newspapers on the Dutch side to inform the residence of the area that an application for a hindrance permit to sell gasoline was submitted at the Ministry of VROMI. The official further explained that residents of Oyster Pond and those that might be affected by sale of gasoline in Oyster Pond can submit letters to protest the issuance of the hindrance permit. It should be noted that after the first publication those interested in protesting have 14 days after the first publication to submit their letters of protest.

It should also be noted that SOL was supplying gas at Captain Oliver's but since the owner of the estate passed away in 2010, SOL removed their underwater pipes that needed to be replaced. A former employee of Captain Oliver's marina told SMN News that SOL had to remove their pipes because the situation was extremely dangerous because gasoline was leaking from the rotten pipes that were placed under the water over 30 years ago. The employee said when SOL removed their pipes the new owners refused to sign a new contract with SOL because SOL wanted a long contract that would cover the expenses they would incur to change the pipes. According to the employee, management of Captain Oliver's owed SOL $29,000.00 and refused to pay them for over one year. That payment was made less than three months ago.

Cadastral documents show that the owner of Cactus Tree N.V., the late Olivier Lange obtained three long leases for "Water Rights" from the Government of St. Maarten to construct a marina. It is clearly stated that the water rights given to Cactus Tree N.V. cannot be filled in because it was issued for the construction of a marina, one of the water rights long lease indicated that Cactus Tree N.V. has Water Rights with a landing range.

On the deed of 547/1996, Cactus Tree N.V. received 10,710 square meters of water rights with landing range. On deed 330/1988 Cactus Tree N.V. obtained 7,720 square meters of water rights, while on deed 83/1983 Cactus Tree N.V. received 2,280 square meters of water rights.

The long lease 83/1983 was issued to the owner of Cactus Tree N.V. to build a wooden pier while 330/1988 shows that the long lease was issued for the construction of a marina. Long lease 547/1996 was an expansion to these water rights. The cadastral registry does not have anything in its registration that shows that the water rights were filled in and who authorized the filling in. Therefore, there is no registration of land belonging to Cactus Tree N.V. at the Cadaster registry.
According to officials at the Ministry of VROMI, surveyors were sent out and they placed stakes on what they have as part of the Meetbrief as water rights. These long leases were issued to Cactus Tree N.V. in 1983 and in 1999. Since then no official modifications were made to the long leases that were issued as water rights which clearly states that there must be no filling in of the water.

Currently, the heirs of Captain Oliver's are engaged in a legal battle to verify the last testament of the late Olivier Maria Lange. Right now several people claim to be the owners of the estate and there has been a three year battle taking place in the French and Dutch judicial systems.

Click here to view the deed given to Cactus Tree in 1989 and 1999.

swescotwilliamsatsxmgno03082013MAHO:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the St. Maarten Girls Night Out Event at the Sonesta Maho Resort. The event provided the opportunity for women from all walks of life to gather and socialize. The Prime Minister commended the organizers for their initiative in strengthening the bond of women in the community and for organizing incentives that will boost economic activity even into the tourist low season. "I want to commend you on this initiative, not only as an opportunity for women to shop and relax, but the sense it makes in terms of off-season activities on our island. I therefore also commend the businesses for participating and their obvious realization that the local women shoppers are also an important client base and with supporting businesses can enjoy and support activities such as this. It is up to us, individuals and businesses, to come up with strategies that will benefit us all and maintain the year-round "busyness" our island likes to boast of," stated the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

COLE BAY:--- Based on information reaching the police department that at an apartment building located on Welfare road illegal drug activities were taking place, a raid and search of two apartments was conducted by police on Sunday August 4th at approximately 1:40am. During this raid two persons were arrested because of their illegal status on the island and three for the possession of illegal drugs. During the search over USD 2300, 110 Euros, and 75 Guilders along with two bricks of compacted marijuana, 6 XTC pills, 14 small plastic bags containing an amount of hashish was found. The money and drugs were confiscated for further investigation. All suspects also remain in custody for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

COLE BAY:--- On Saturday August 3rd at approximately 11:15pm, police patrols were directed to Peiking Supermarket in Cole Bay to investigate a case involving two unknown men who were driving in a white rental car with license plate 7073 AAA and were in the possession of a firearm. On the scene the police encountered four young men who after identifying themselves were told to leave the area which they did. During a search of the area the police found a small plastic bag containing a quantity of cocaine, which was confiscated. No one was arrested in connection with the cocaine that was found. As the investigation continued in the area, two men were seen standing next to a scooter on Bottle tree drive. When these men noticed the police were approaching them they took off running. However, shortly after both men were caught and arrested for the illegal possession of a firearm. The initials of the suspects are C.D. from Sint Kitts (26) and A.A.J. from Sint Maarten (22). The suspect C.D. was in the possession of a shotgun during his arrest. The gun was confiscated for further investigation. The suspected vehicle with license plate 7073 AAA was located in the Baringtonia drive with the keys in the ignition and windows open. During a search of the car shotgun shells were found in the center console and were also confiscated.

KPSM Police Report

marijuanaplantation03082013MIDDLE REGION:--- Based on information that came into the police department, two marijuana plantations were located. One plantation was located in the hill close to the Basseterre Drive and one in the hill close to Gibbs Drive. On Saturday morning August 3rd, 20 police officers conducted searches to locate these marijuana plantations. A total of 54 marijuana plants and equipment such as plant pots, buckets, and water hoses were also found and confiscated. The plantation in the hill close to Gibbs drive is the same one that was destroyed approximately two months ago. Unknown persons are again busy getting the plantation up and running. No one was arrested during these searches.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsathennesseyartistryevent03082013Encourages Show Organizers to Continue Growth of Event

CUPECOY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams kicked off the Hennessey Artistry Event last Thursday at Porto Cupecoy where she welcomed residents and visitors alike to the shores of St. Maarten. The Prime Minister, during her opening remarks which were simultaneously aired to millions of listeners in the United states, remarked that there was no better location in the Caribbean to host such a significant show. "There is no such place like St. Maarten to host an event like this one. There are many of us here tonight that will proudly represent St. Maarten. It is also an opportunity for St. Maarten which we will surely grasp and develop into even a larger event." Commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also thanked the Tourism Office for their part in organizing the event. "I would also like to thank the St. Maarten Tourism Office for their input and dedication in supporting not only this event but others that will strengthen the product of St. Maarten," emphasized the PM.

As part of the launch of the event the Prime Minister also with popular American R&B Radio Show host Lenny Green where she stated that "this event is about enjoy ourselves on this beautiful island and about listening to the musical offerings of top level musical acts such as Percy Sledge and John Legend. It is also about preparing for 2014 and making this show an even bigger one than it was this year."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday that Ministry of VROMI has concluded its investigation with respect to the 37 truckloads of milled asphalt that was transported from the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) on the evening of June 14 to different properties on the island.

Minister Lake says there are two recommendations which involve another Ministry and Department, adding that he will submit the Ministry of VROMI report to the Council of Ministers (COM) on Tuesday.

"I don't have to resort to name calling on any radio program that has been done by former Minister William Marlin. We need to take politics to a higher level and get away from the gutter politics and also not telling the truth. Be always truthful to the people.

"There are three sides to a story, the former Minister William Marlin side, Minister Lake side, and the truth. As a Minister I have a responsibility to the people of this country and I want to get to the truth based on the law.

"Parliament has to hold Minister's accountable for their actions. We can't run government based on verbal agreements. We are not a banana republic," Minister Lake pointed out.

robinboasmanpresentslizzylizardbookstopatricialourens03082013GREAT BAY:--- The Lizzy Lizard tour recently made a stop here at the office of Minister of Education, Culture, Sports & Youth Affairs Patricia Lourens (R). Minister Lourens graciously received 50 copies of the children's adventure book from its author Robin Boasman (L). "Minister Lourens assured me that one copy would be archived and one would be sent to the Department of Culture, while the rest would be distributed to the various public schools," said Boasman. The presentation (6.27.13) of the increasingly popular Lizzy Lizard was made in keeping with the April 2012 subsidy by the ministry toward the storybook's publication, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP). (Photo courtesy RB)

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says an investigation has revealed that so far indications are that sand was removed illegally from a stockpile behind the Zoo at the Ring Road without any written authorization.

An investigation carried out by Ministry of VROMI in connection with sand that previously was dredged by the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies and placed at the location behind the Zoo, reveals that several trucks have been illegally removing the sand to a location in Sucker Garden.

Three truck owners have been identified. Two of them have responded to the Ministry of VROMI's inquiry while the third driver has not. The inquiry from the Ministry requested the drivers to provide the basis for their activities being conducted which took place in and around mid-July.

The Department of Infrastructure Management during the investigation was informed that more information could be given by the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies. After the Ministry sought clarification from the harbor, the Ministry was informed in writing by the Harbour Group of Companies the following, 'Management hereby desires to make it clear that without any written consent from Government as Shareholder Representative and/or the undersigned, any removal of sand will be considered as theft of property.'

"I have met a series of wrong doings when I started to look into matters to see where we are at in order to move the country forward on what needs to be done. The people have a right to know, and in line with good governance and transparency in government, if public property is removed without the written consent of Government, we call that theft.

"Based on 20-years of work experience in Government, I have never heard anything about verbal agreements and hearsay in running a Government. This is how part of the Government operated for up to a year. Therefore, we need to go back to basics where everything is in writing and lives up to the letter of the rule of law which is the basis of Country Sint Maarten," Minister Maurice Lake pointed out on Sunday.

"The former Minister of VROMI William Marlin has been throwing up smoke screens to blind the people and hide the truth from them. He hasn't followed procedures. It took him 40 days to comment on the trucking of asphalt from the airport, and back in the latter part of 2012, it took him three months to comment on the trucking of sand and dumping of it illegally in a protected area of the Salt Pond. If milled asphalt is really meant to repair secondary roads on the Dutch side, what part of the French side does Country Sint Maarten own where milled asphalt ended up to pave a road?

"Again, verbal agreements regarding the FOGA project, a project for a sum of Naf. 6 million of tax payers' money, Ministry of VROMI advises the former Minister William Marlin in an advice that work cannot be carried out without an approved budget, instead former Minister Marlin gives a verbal agreement to the contractor who won the bid to go ahead. This goes against all principles of good governance.

"Back in April the FOGA Homeowners wrote then Minister William Marlin that they protest the trenching activities so close to their homes and where they plant fruit trees. Marlin neglected to bring this forward to the people during his radio interview.

"I am not against any contractor getting a job, but it must be done according to the laws of this land. If you don't follow the law then we become a wild-wild west and that is not going to happen under my watch. You cannot run a country under verbal agreements," Minister Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

randolphbloieman03082013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Internal Affairs headed by George York is currently investigating Inspector Randolph Bloieman for threatening one of the heirs of Captain Oliver's in Oyster Pond. According to one of the heirs that is residing on the island, she called Inspector Bloieman Tuesday evening when she was told the officer was trying to obtain her phone number through SMN News. The heir said this officer is someone she trusted and knew for years. "Actually, he was the one that protected me on St. Maarten. Randolph Bloieman is my friend so when I heard he wanted to speak to me I called him but to my surprise the 34 minute phone conversation was full of threats. Bloieman said I should back-off and that I should stop everything that I am doing. He said two detectives told him that I lost my cases both in the lower and the court of appeals. He said I am in danger, something bad is going to happen to me and that I needed to accept a settlement and disappear from St. Maarten. Randolph asked me several times how much monies I wanted and if I was to going to risk my life for greed, I told him it was not about money instead I wanted justice for my uncle, lifelong savings, and the inheritance of my grandparents. Bloieman told me that there is no justice on St. Maarten/St. Martin and I should shut up and listen to him because he knows that I lost the cases. Bloieman said he would bring the parties around the table on Friday which is supposed to be my last day on the island if not something really bad would happen to me. He even accused me of hiring hit-men and said that I am a troublemaker. He instructed me to go directly to my room and to my car and not to set foot on the marina and other parts of the estate even though I lived there. He made me promise not to tell anyone about the conversation because if I did he would no longer be my friend and if he was not my friend then I should know what that meant." The heir said she was shaken and scared for her life after the phone conversation but she knew that she could not keep it to herself so she went to the Police Internal Affairs and filed a complaint on Wednesday.

On Friday, the heir got the opportunity to confront Randolph Bloieman in the presence of Chief of Police Peter de Witte and head of Internal Affairs George York. The heir said that Bloieman admitted to calling her and he also admitted to almost everything she said he told her. He told his boss he lost his mind that day when he made the call on Tuesday evening. The woman said that Bloeiman blamed SMN News reporter who called him last week Sunday to inquire what involvement he has with Captain Oliver's because several employees and other persons on the premises accused him of being involved in corruption. "Several persons who spoke to SMN News said someone related to the people who claimed to have inherited Captain Oliver's Estate has Bloieman by his balls." She also said Bloieman denied telling her that she was in danger and that she was going to die, there are few things he denied but everyone in that room knew that Randolph Bloieman was not telling the truth because of their facial expressions. "He even said that the woman who now claims to be the owner of the estate was in front of him when he called me and when I asked him twice if the person was in front of him he said "of course not".

The heir said she felt that she needed to confront Bloieman in the presence of his bosses to find out what changed between them because for her he was her friend and friend to her family including her late uncle. She also said that when she spoke to him on Tuesday she realized that someone was either blackmailing Bloieman or putting due pressure on him because the criminal cases are soon to kick off. Besides that, she wanted to know if Randolph Bloieman knew the other party involved in the three year battle she is fighting to regain ownership of her uncle's estate. "To my surprise he said he knew the woman who claimed to be my uncle's wife whom he constantly called by her first name."

SMN News has taped interviews with Inspector Randolph Bloieman who admitted that he is friends with both parties and he wanted the two parties to settle because for him getting one million dollars is a lot of money and he never saw a million dollars in his life. Bloieman told SMN News that he is tired of the Captain Oliver's saga and he felt that he could bring an end to the investigation and battles and in order for him to do that the blood relatives and heirs of the estate must accept a settlement. "He went as far as saying that the Captain Oliver's case would give him a heart attack. He also admitted that he went once to Captain Oliver's with his wife for a seafood dinner. Those interviews and all documentation provided to SMN News will be published after the current investigation is completed by Police Internal Affairs. The heir also intends to file a complaint against Bloieman with the Landsrecherche.

SMN News began investigating the inheritance of Captain Oliver's that is being disputed in a Court of Law on the French and Dutch side of the island, ever since then several documents were provided to SMN News and taped interviews were conducted with the relatives and employees.

The heirs and blood relatives of the USD 25 million estate said that since Oliver Lange passed away in a hospital in Paris in September 2010 they have been trying to get the Dutch and French Justice systems to investigate the last testament of Oliver Lange but to date the investigation has not reached to court. "We have been living a nightmare these past three years because of constant attacks, threats, and intimidation." The brother of Oliver Lange said he tried to file a complaint with the Dutch side police when his brother's safe was stolen by someone they knew and the police refused to take their complaint. "My daughter called Bloieman from Paris moments after Oliver Lange died and his hospital room was robbed. We also called him when we learnt the safe was stolen from the marina and taken to Simpson Bay but at no time we were told by phone that there is a time frame in which a complaint must be filed, neither were we told that we could have sent the complaint by email. I came to St. Maarten from the USA to file that complaint and that was when Bloieman told me he could not take the complaint because 90 days had passed. My daughter checked with the former Chief Public Prosecutor and he told her to take the case to the French side because we are French citizens, up to now we cannot understand that because most of the crimes were committed on the Dutch side of the island. But we followed the instructions and the Gendarmes are still working on the investigations which amounted to be numerous and complicated.

The Prosecutor's office on the Dutch side of the island executed an international request where they arrested and questioned two notaries and one of the witnesses that did not sign the last will which was sent to the Lange family two days after his death by email by one of the employees of Captain Oliver's.

SMN News will bring you more information and documents when the investigation by the French and Dutch authorities finalizes.

SIMPSON BAY:--- Police raided a house on the Airport Road on Thursday night. Prosecutor Dounia Bennamar confirmed that two persons were arrested but refused to divulge any information on the ongoing investigation. Bennamar said a press release will be issued later this week since the investigation is in its early stages.

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that the police confiscated two firearms, over $200,000.00 in cash, and two vehicles. Up to press time, the police did not issue a press release on the raid and arrest of the two persons and the items seized. It is still not clear if the two suspects in custody are involved in the drug trade or human smuggling.

Police Conducts Raid.

On Thursday evening August 1st, 2013, police raided a house on the Airport road based on a tip that illegal activities were taking place there. During the house search approximately U.S. $ 200,000.00 dollars in cash was seized as well as 3 illegal firearms and 2 cars. Two adults were arrested on the premises, one male and one female. At the time of the arrest, 3 small children were on the premises as well. Upon request of their mother they have been placed in the care of a relative. The suspects are being charged with money laundering and possession of illegal firearms and will be led before the judge of instruction on Monday August 5th, 2013. The investigation is ongoing.

KPSM Police Report

telcellanddauphintelecomteamup02082013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group mobile provider, TelCell, and French counterpart Dauphin Telecom are joining together to welcome world-famous music mix master, DJ Robbie Leslie to St. Maarten's night life today (Saturday).

Both companies are part sponsoring a Saturday night party at Le Shore in Simpson Bay, where the well-known Studio 54 DJ will be performing his sets.
TelCell and Dauphin Telecom say they will also take the opportunity during the course of the night, to renew their business arrangement as Dauphin Telecom prepares to launch its own 3G mobile network on French St. Martin.

"It's a long time since the two companies have partied together even though we have had a working relationship for the past 10 years, and we are looking forward to Saturday's event at Le Shore where customers and friends of both companies will be present" said TelEm Group Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Brian Mingo.
Mr. Mingo said much progress has been made in recent weeks to synchronize both mobile networks now that they will both be operating 3G services. He is positive this will create a better user experience for mobile customers traveling from Dutch St. Maarten to French St. Martin and vice-versa.

"We are confident Dauphin Telecom's 3G service will further enhance the mobile experience of TelCell customers and we will take the opportunity to announce this when we welcome DJ Robbie Leslie to St. Maarten," added Mr. Mingo.
DJ Robbie Leslie has been billed as one of the first major DJs to perform multiple clubs weekly, at a time when management insisted on exclusive control of their artists. It is a freelance practice that has remained in practice with today's DJs.
The artiste has been instrumental in making international DJ party circuits popular with music-lovers and club owners the world over.
He currently produces a weekly show on Sirius/XM Studio 54 Radio sharing his classic recordings, his international shows and vintage DJ showcases.

Telem Press Release

The board for Advanced Vocational Education (AVE) would like to announce the registration for the National Institute for Professional Advancement, NIPA. The registration period is set for a period of two weeks, starting from Monday, August 5th 2013 to Saturday August 17th 2013. All interested persons, as well as recently graduated students, youth 16 or older and adults, who wish to pursue vocational education, are invited to register.
Place: Library of the National Institute for Professional Advancement (NIPA), Cay Hill (next to the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School)
Date: Monday thru Saturday
Time: 9 am to 12 noon

The following documents are required for registration:

  • Valid ID/ Passport
  • Proof of registration at the Census Office (not older than 3 months)
  • Diploma / Certificates
  • Grade list / Cijferlijst that comes with diploma or grade list / transcript / report card of last school attended
  • Residence permit/verblijfsvergunning (if not in the possession of a Dutch Passport)
  • One (1) Passport picture

It is important that all who are interested in following a vocational program register during these two weeks. Based on the registration forms and the number of interested persons per course, the AVE Board will announce which programs will start in the upcoming months. This will be communicated to the general public and registered candidates early September.

This project is funded by USONA via the Innovations in Education Project.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunications (TEZVT) Hon. Ted Richardson met with the management team of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication (TEZVT), consisting of Acting Secretary General, and the departments of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication, Tourist Bureau, Business License, Statistics, Meteorological, Inspection, Civil Aviation & Shipping, and Maritime

The meeting was introductory in nature, and the Minister provided information about how he operates, his views, goals, and objectives.

The Minister is well aware of the many issues relation to the national economy and he is looking forward to working with all stakeholders with respect to the challenges that confront the country from an economic perspective.

"I am pleased to be here and I look forward to working with all of you. I have already started working on some ideas, and with your input, we can improve the current situation across the board," Minister Richardson said.

"There are some things that need to be decided upon, and in so doing, I will be practical, but also straightforward," the Minister said.

"We cannot be all things to everybody, so we would have to focus, to be realistic, and we have to work hard in not only accomplishing goals but also managing expectations."

After the introduction, the minister was given a general presentation about the Ministry's departments, insight into the budget of the Ministry (budgeted, spent, committed and remaining) as well as the priority issues of the Ministry.

As early as next week Minister Richardson and his team will be visiting each department to be further familiarized with their individual functioning and needs. This is done in an effort to better assess the ministry's platform for the delivery of 'economic quick wins' during this rather short governing period.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Interests is high for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) virtual course on democratic dialogue. There are a few spaces left and the deadline to sign-up is Tuesday, August 6.

The Regional Centre of the UNDP for Latin America and the Caribbean (RCLAC) is supporting the National Development Plan (NDP) process through a capacity building program for "dialogue champions" and "facilitators" integrating virtual and face-to-face learning on democratic dialogue.

The NDP project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," is being led by the country's Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs.

The course can accommodate up to 40 persons and will start August 13 and run until September 6. It will be in English, there are no costs/fees involved, and the deadline to register is August 6. The participant after successfully completing the course will receive a certificate of approval issued by UNDP Virtual School and UNDP RCLAC.

Requirements for the course are that you have access to a computer and internet, and have 10 hours minimum per week to participate in course activities. BAK is arranging computer facilities and locations that would allow individuals without the aforementioned still the opportunity to participate in the virtual course.

The course is for persons who are interested in getting involved with the NDP process and playing a crucial role in the bottoms-up approach that has been embarked upon.

The second two-page spread will be published on August 6 in the daily newspaper and will also be available on the Government website with respect to more information pertaining to this virtual course and how to sign-up.

The NDP is being developed through community engagement/people participation. The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going participation in its implementation.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

smhdfcolebaycleanup01082013GREAT BAY:--- A team from the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF) spent the weekend clearing and removing debris from the neighborhoods in which their rental units are located. This cleanup campaign forms part of their planned 'Clean up Awareness Campaign', which according to the foundation, will take place twice per year.
From as early as 6:30 am on Saturday morning, the staff of SMHDF along with members of other organizations could be seen removing debris from in and around the homes in South Reward, Cole Bay, Pendant Cactus, Foga Estate and The Keys in Sucker Garden. While on Sunday the focus was in Belvedere and Union Farm.
"Over time, some people have become lax with cleaning up their homes and the areas around it and that has led to pile up of unwanted household items, both big and small, which in turn has become a breeding ground for insects and termites," a press release from the Foundation said. "This behavior leads to an unhygienic atmosphere which puts both the tenants and their neighbors at risk. Therefore the SMHDF has taken a 'hands on' approach to clean up these areas and we hope that by doing this it will create a behavioral change in the community.
Throughout the two-days of clean up, unwanted items such as fridge, stoves and even cars were removed from homes; overgrown trees which created a hazard were also cut down and removed.
"We are in what is termed as an active hurricane season and we want to ensure that we are ready and prepared in the event of a disaster, therefore we are advising everyone to do their part and take the necessary precaution," the Foundation said.
The Clean-up drive was dubbed a success as all target areas were tackled with the support of organizations like: I-Dad Foundation, N-Sync Youths, The Gifted Foundation, Red Cross, All waste in Place, Meadowlands, Leonard Enterprises and the Nature Foundation. The SMHDF also lauded the residents that joined in to assist. The next clean-up campaign is expected to be held in November, but will be announced at a later date.

oysterpondroadpotholes01082013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake has executed an additional road repair action plan after a survey was carried out on the public road network as well as secondary roads.

Pedestrian crossings and speed bumps in the vicinity of schools will be painted or repainted.

Pot holes and other road repairs in the vicinity of public schools are slated to be completed before the new school year opens. Road repairs will be carried out in the vicinity of Sister Marie Laurence School, MAC School Betty's Estate, and Ruby Labega School.

The following roads which have pot holes are on the repair list: Walter Nisbeth Road; Cannegieter Street; Bush Road; Arch Road; Long Wall Road; Zagersgut Road; A.Th. Illidge Road; Hulda B. Richardson Street; Oyster Pond Road; A.J.C. Brouwer Road; Well Road; Welfare Road; Sister Modesta Road; Airport Road; Patientia Road; Blue Berry Road; and Rhine Road.

"The road repairs will be done in the quickest time possible in order to ensure the safety and security of pedestrians and motorists.

"This is what it's all about, the getting back to basics approach and the quality of life of our people. Drivers avoiding pot holes can endanger other road users and we have to ensure that our road network is in order," Minister Maurice Lake said on Thursday.

fathersimonwilsonvisitssxmhouse01082013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Rev. Father Simon Wilson, former Catholic priest in St. Maarten and his delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague.

Father Wilson is celebrating Holy Masses in 13 different cities in Holland especially for the Dutch Caribbean people. His journey throughout Holland will end with a concert in the Peter and Paul Church in Tilburg on August 4 at 2:00pm.

abughazishwarma31072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Fun Miles proudly introduces a tasty new expansion of its program: Abu Ghazi Shwarma, which is widely recognized for serving the island's best shwarma. Cardholders can redeem their Fun Miles for different varieties of the popular Middle Eastern dish at the restaurant's two locations: Madame Estate and Simpson Bay. Fun Miles is the Caribbean's largest free customer reward program and is celebrating its 15th birthday this year.

ABOUT ABU GHAZI SHWARMA
As a simple Google search will immediately confirm, the award-winning Abu Ghazi Shwarma eateries have become a mecca for both local and international shwarma lovers (including vegetarian ones), who never fail to praise its delicious sauces and seasonings, as well as its generous servings. Open till late, Abu Ghazi is a true hot spot; a meeting point where friends get together to socialize and enjoy great food. The slogan "If it's not Abu Ghazi, it's not a shwarma", has become famous in its own right.

FUN MILES AT ABU GHAZI
By enabling cardholders to redeem their Fun Miles for shwarma, Abu Ghazi has become even more inviting. This is a selection from the menu:

Shwarma Fun Miles
Lamb, chicken or a mix of both 545
Shrimp 725
Soya 635

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A representative from the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs and two from Civil Society Organizations (CSO), will be the guests on Friday, August 02 on Elektra at Laser 101 Radio at 8:00am.

The Government of Sint Maarten started a National Development Plan (NDP) project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," in the latter part of 2012.

The process entails community engagement and a bottoms-up approach.

The NDP and CSO reps will inform radio listeners and the community about issues and the upcoming virtual/online course.

The course can accommodate up to 40 persons and will start August 13 and run until September 6. It will be in English, there are no costs/fees involved, and the deadline to register is August 6.

The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going dialogue and participation in its conception and implementation.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

shtahurricaneseminarparticipants31072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Tuesday at Carl's Unique Inn in Orange Grove, Cole Bay, the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) organized a Hurricane Preparedness Seminar. Presentations were carried out by Paul Martens, Section Head Disaster Management, Joseph Isaac, Interim Director of the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten, Claudius Buncamper, Department of Head of Infrastructure Management, Roberto Levenstone, Head of Safety & Security Port of St. Maarten, and Larry Donker, Director Operations Division Princess Juliana International Airport.

The seminar was organized for Business Owners, General Managers, Operations Managers, Human Resources Managers, Security Managers and Chief Engineers.

swescotwilliamsduringoneononewithpm07042013"Be informed to form your own opinion"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has again encouraged the public to not only listen to, but also call into and ask questions on her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 Pearl FM at nine in the morning.

"With all that has been happening I again would like to encourage the community to listen into the program and have your questions on the topics we will be discussing from beforehand. If you feel uncomfortable calling in you can email your questions in and I will make sure to answer them," commented the Prime Minister.

"Oftentimes people form their own opinions without haven spoken to anyone regarding what is occurring. The people of St. Maarten are in a unique position to ask questions and interact with their Prime Minister every Friday on my radio program and I encourage all to make use of that privilege and do so," continued the PM.

The weekly program will allow listeners the opportunity to do exactly what the title of the show suggests; to go One on One with the Prime Minister on various pertinent topics within the community and government and allows the listener to ask questions. The show will air weekly ever Friday from nine to ten on 98.1 Pearl FM and callers can call in on 5430462 or via sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmcuracaofiumousigning31072013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- On July 30 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Financial Intelligence Unit, Sint Maarten and that of Curaçao.

The signing marked an historical accomplishment between the two countries that allows the two organizations to share information, according to Director of FIU Ligia Stella.

Director of FIU Curaçao Kenneth Dambruck concurred, and added that by exchanging information we are able to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism and related crimes.

The two organizations were elated to reach this point, and that now progress can be made in FIU Sint Maarten further establishing itself and qualifying to become a member of the Egmont Group of FIUs.

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), an organization that falls under Justice Ministry, is a national center for the receiving and analysis of unusual transactions reports (UTRs) regarding possible money laundering and terrorist financing.

FIU cooperates with the relevant partners in the Justice chain in a timely fashion, with a view to the national and international fight against crime, particularly money laundering and terrorist financing.

If the Reporting Center after proper analysis of an unusual transaction concludes that there is a suspicion of money laundering and/or terrorism financing, this transaction will be reported to the Public Prosecutor's Office as a possible case of money laundering and/or terrorist financing.

In Dutch the name of the FIU division is Meldpunt Ongebruikelijke Transacties or MOT for short. Sint Maarten is a member of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).

For more information, visit the website: fiu-sxm.net.

smmcworkersprotest31072013CAY HILL:--- Workers from all sectors of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) held protest action on Wednesday against the hiring of the new General Director Gersji Pereira. The protest started off with the workers holding a lengthy meeting while some of the workers held up placards protesting the hiring of Pereira who left the Netherlands because of alleged corruption and incompetence at Ijselmeerziekenhuizen. SMN News reported last week that the Minster of Health and Labour had dispatched a letter to the chairman of the supervisory board expressing concerns when he learnt of some of the allegations against Gersji Pereira. The four members of the supervisory board hired Pereira despite concerns raised by one of the board members and the specialists of SMMC.

Over 100 staff members of SMMC participated in the protest action held on Wednesday, while a small number of medical workers remained at their posts to ensure that the patients received minimum care. Most of the protesting workers marched through the hospital holding placards and chanting "No Pereira". The workers even tried to seek an audience with the administrative staff but none of those working in the offices on the upper floor opened their doors to let the workers inside.

The workers of the St. Maarten Medical Center received full support from the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever and the health care union. SMMC management team and specialists expressed concerns over the hiring of Pereria who was accused of bankrupting the Ijselmeerziekenhuizen in the Netherlands in 2008. That medical institution had a deficit of seven million Euros while the institution was placed under intensified supervision by the Inspectorate of Health when they conducted an inspection and found that the operating rooms were not in optimal condition.
Pereira was supposed to take up his position on Wednesday but the health care union (WIHCUA) said they were not going to support neither endorse the hiring of Pereira. One of the placards read "SMMC is about democracy and the Supervisory Board does not have the word. It's not what the Supervisory Board wants but it's what SMMC needs, the three pillars, safety, health, and satisfaction is what we preach."

WICSU/PSU President Derie Leonard and former President William Reed also showed up at SMMC to show their support to SMMC workers.

Prior to the hold out on Wednesday the union and its workers met inside the cafeteria of the hospital. During that meeting, the workers expressed themselves on the ongoing situation at SMMC and the appointment of Pereira. "We believe that SMMC just came out of a controversial situation with the former director Dr. George Scot and therefore the Supervisory board should seek to hire someone with a clean and spotless background. Some medical specialists and members of the SMMC management team were also seen at the meeting that was held prior to the protest.

Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever showed up to the meeting where he addressed the workers. Minister de Weever said he would support the union and he would also provide them with a copy of the letter he sent to the supervisory board on the appointment of Gersji Pereira.

The Minister of Health said that the local market should be checked for a good candidate and if the workers walk he would walk with them in their fight. He clearly indicated that he will back them all the way.

WIHCUA said that the Supervisory Board of SMMC wants to force their decision to appoint Pereira down their throats despite the fact that the Minister of Health, the workers, the union, the specialists and the management team all expressed concerns over the hiring of Gersji Pereira. "Even if Pereira is qualified, his track record does not make him a good candidate. We also believe that the Supervisory Board needs to step down if they continue to disregard the sentiments of the workers and others in the medical field."

 

Medical Specialist Association pledge full support to Union and Minister of Health --- Letter was sent to Chairman of Supervisory Board.

7/30/2013

Mr. Izzy Gerstenbluth
Chairman- Supervisory Board of SMMC

Re- appointment of medical director

Mr. Gerstenbluth
We, the specialists at the St.Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) have been paying keen attention to the recent developments with the appointment of Dr. Pereira as the medical director by the Supervisory Board of the SMMC.

After careful review and analysis, we have determined that we stand with the union with the objection of this appointment.
Over the last couple months, we were looking forward to new people with new ideas coming to the hospital to fill the necessary void in management after the departure of Dr. Scot. We were hoping that those appointments would continue to move the medical center in the right direction. Where quality patient care is not only the goal- but also the norm. The nurses and specialists are equally willing to make that sacrifice and continue to do so. However, it seems like the Supervisory Board neither cares or is aware of the current needs of the hospital.

In that regard we will not support your most recent decision. We as specialists will stand together and if that appointment is made- regardless of our objections- we will take further actions to ensure that the management of the SMMC is a reflection of not only the workers at the hospital- but the people that we serve.

In the end- we demand a fresh start with the right people in management- we want to let the past few years go and give the people of St.Maarten what they deserve- a hospital that they can be proud of. However, that will not take place if we keep making the same mistakes. Having said that we implore the Supervisory Board to re-assess their decision in a timely fashion- before more stringent actions are taken.

 

Sincerely,

Randall Friday M.D.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Chairman – Medical Specialists Association.

 

 

 

middleregionsewagehookup31072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday morning Contractor MNO Vervat connected several apartments to the Middle Region main sewer line along the main road. Sewage water use to run on the public road from several apartments and is now a thing of the past.

Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is very pleased that the sewage situation has been resolved.

"The running of raw sewage on the public road was a nuisance for residents in the past. Nothing was done to help the Middle Region people for an entire year. It was also not good for tourists who would also drive through the neighborhood while scouting the island.

"The sewage running on the public road was a matter discussed in a meeting with the Middle Region Community Council (MRCC), as they brought this and other issues of concern to my attention back in early July.

"A promise made is a promise kept. I took a tour of the area early July and progress has been made. There are other issues to be dealt with and doing that is part of my action plan. My approach is back to basics and continuing to improve the quality of life of our people," Minister Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

Other issues discussed with the Minister by MRCC back in early July was overflowing garbage bins, malfunctioning street lights, and exposed cable lines by the various utility companies.

"The Ministry of VROMI is busy discussing with the waste collection companies to work out a plan to address issues of concern. I am looking forward to a plan that addresses overflowing garbage bins which was one of the issues," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday in an update.

Minister Lake indicated that the community of Middle Region has seen a great transformation with the infrastructure upgrade that began in the year 2011 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger, with the implementation of a new concrete road, drainage system and installation of sewer lines of which were the initial kick of rehabilitating the neighborhood.

swescotwilliams30072013COLE BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the SHTA Hurricane Preparedness Seminar at the Carl's Unique Inn Conference Center on Thursday where she emphasized the need for the wider community to not become complacent and to remain vigilant for the 2013 Hurricane Season.

"It has been quite some years already since the last Hurricane struck St. Maarten and in fact the ones that we remember most are Hurricanes Luis in 1995 and Hurricane Lenny in 1999. The danger is always present that we become complacent, that we let our guards down with regards to what has to be in place for the passing of a storm. Every year as June 1st comes around we look and we listen to the predictions that are made and are changed as the Hurricane Season Progresses. However it is equally important that we also take time out to stand still and reflect on where we are, what it is that we are doing, and as the cliché goes to make sure that our plans are in order because indeed it only takes one. It is for this reason that I commend this initiative," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that Government has plans that ensure that the various public and non-public stakeholders have a solid Hurricane Strategy in place going into the Hurricane Season. "It is equally important that as we do what we must to ensure proper planning as Government, that the wider community and in this respect every business person on St. Maarten plays a role starting with their own businesses, encouraging both employees and residents to be prepared and cooperating with all partners.

"We need to remind ourselves that we are in the Hurricane Belt and that a storm can happen at anytime during the season. Of course we pray that nothing does, that St. Maarten is spared from any national disaster, however preparedness is key. The Office of Disaster Management has come a long way in being as prepared as possible for the passing of a storm, however we still have a long way to go and we can never, ever let our guards down," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sswdonatestoislandhoops30072013SIMPSON BAY:--- Island Hoops has become the latest recipient of a donation made by Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten). The donation was made over the weekend by Seven Seas Water operations manager, Lester Bryan. Accepting the donation was Paul Bell, founder and head coach of Island Hoops, who just recently established the foundation, thus realizing a dream of seven years.

Seven Seas Water decided on granting Island Hoops a donation to facilitate a summer basketball camp after its operations manager praised the level of professionalism and knowledge of the sport being shared by the coach with young participants.
Bell, who is a youth basketball coach recently returned home to St. Maarten after nearly a decade abroad. In that time span, he trained elite youth players at UBALL (Utrecht Basketball) in the Netherlands from 2007 to 2009 and served as a team manager with the Dutch National Basketball program, among others.
Both operations manager Bryan and Seven Seas Water managing director Franklyn Richards say that the company supports initiatives benefiting youth development and that competitive and organized sport is among endeavors it would encourage and support within that framework.
"We are happy to make a donation to Island Hoops, particularly in recognition of its work with basketball enthusiasts between the ages of 12 and 18, future basketball projects for youth between the ages of 9 and 18 and programs targeting teenagers between the ages of 14 to 18", say Seven Seas Water officials.

hivlaboratoryassessment30072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week, Valarie Wilson, a consultant who was sent on behalf of PAHO from the Caribbean Medical Labs Foundation located in Trinidad visited St. Maarten in order to conduct an assessment of the laboratory services available on the island, with a special emphasis on HIV. This included: HIV testing procedures, genotyping, CD4 counts, STI testing procedures, opportunistic infection procedures for examples syphilis, dengue and tuberculosis, algorithms, quality of services, and accessibility of services at the St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS), Dr. van Osch's clinic, the SXM AIDS Foundation, and the Lepres Laboratory on the French side.
During her visit, Mrs. Wilson met with representatives from HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team (PMT), Public Health Department, Collective Prevention Services (CPS), SLS, SXM AIDS Foundation, lead HIV/AIDS physician Dr. van Osch, and the Lepres Laboratory. She also had the opportunity to attend the joint collaboration HIV test outreach at La Bamba on Tuesday July 23rd. Minister Cornelius de Weever was also at La Bamba and said that he was very impressed with the initiative of the young people/ volunteers to reach other young people while they were out partying.
From the information gathered on her visit she will be writing recommendation to PAHO on how the various island can be assisted. Mrs. Wilson also provided one-on-one advice on how St. Maarten can enhance their laboratory services on the island. As St. Maarten is aware of the changes that need to be made and the direction in which they would like to head, they will be looking to PAHO to provide the technical support needed in order to ensure that the Laboratory services offered on St. Maarten are of top notch quality. "The technical assistance granted by PAHO illustrates that our associate membership and our willingness to work with PAHO has its privileges, responsibilities and benefits. This is a win –win situation for St. Maarten and PAHO, and we are looking forward to the final report to guide us in making the right decisions as we strive to provide a better service to the people of St. Maarten," said the Minister.
The Ministry is busy exploring how they can strengthening the relationship between Government and the laboratories to safeguard the quality of services being offered. Ensuring access the healthcare services for the people residing on St. Maarten is highly important and will be given top priority for the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.

usfolsupportsvacationschool30072013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Volunteers from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) donated 90 hours in support of the annual Vacation Bible School that was held in Fuik at Fundashon Amigunan di Cristo in July. FOL members helped set up the classrooms, prepared materials, and built castle walls out of cardboard. During the event, they provided water and served as helpers for the 250 children who took part in the classes. The men and women of the FOL often donates their time to community projects like this in order to give back and to show appreciation for the hospitality they have received from the citizens of Curacao.

natishahansonandmalaikamaxwell30072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, August 2, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) in collaboration with La Rich Arts & Entertainment Management will host the finale of their 3 part Spoken Lyrics summer event, to be hosted at the library's new PJL Lounge, at 8 pm.
The objective of this collaboration is to promote the library as more than just a location to borrow books but to also showcase another layer of literacy which translates into performance poetry and music. Events like these also stimulate St. Maarten's up and coming entertainers to participate in sharing their work with the general public, which provides opportunities for personal creative development.
The library, in its quest to continue to be a relevant part of St.Maarten's continuously changing society hopes to make the PJL Lounge available to the public for future events which encourage literacy, creative expression, and appreciation of the arts or simply for lounging during library opening hours to browse the internet with a laptop using the library's free WIFI.
This Fridays show will be dedicated to women under the theme "It's a Woman's World", in celebration of the multitalented young women of St. Maarten. The finales featured artists are two powerful and passionate singers, Natisha Hanson and Malaika Maxwell. Although the pair has similar roots in gospel music, their style and delivery are all their own. Natisha is no stranger to the mic and is known for effortlessly belting out high notes to popular songs, ranging from Aretha Franklin to Beyonce Knowles. Malaika, the evening's second featured artists, is a soulful artist who sings with an eclectic fusion of jazz, neo soul, and the rhythm of reggae in every note. The creative pair will be backed by the Jazzeko Band performing alongside: Morena Ignacio, Melissa Fleming, Maye Boo, Ms. Yorkie, Shanica Richardson, Keoma Hammer and special guest Theo De Weever.
All local poets and lyricists are welcome, during the open mic, to contribute any material that is line with the theme of the night.

mauricelakemeetswithshta30072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with board members from the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) regarding a variety of issues.

Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday that he was very pleased with the discussions that took place with the SHTA and is ready and willing to work with them as they presented several good initiative ideas.

The SHTA was briefed about the minister's plans for the Market in the Park whereby a location has been designated for the SHTA. Government is providing the land and the SHTA would be responsible for constructing the building in conformity with certain esthetic standards.

The SHTA was very interested in the plan and will now convene a meeting with members to discuss the feasibility of constructing an SHTA office building.

The other points that the SHTA brought forward was the lack of sidewalks in Simpson Bay which makes it unsafe for pedestrians walking in this busy area home to many restaurants and eateries.

Bidding procedures were also discussed and the SHTA proposed to have the procedures adjusted to make it more accessible to all contractors including small and new companies which would also allow them to participate.

SHTA would like to see the Ministry of VROMI publish which building permits have been issued; and the issue of the length of time it takes to get a building permit.

The SHTA also suggested that a policy be put into place that all building permit holders are required to put up a sign on their property once they are building. According to the business representative association, this would make it easier for Building Inspectors to locate the property and for the neighbors to see if the building is being constructed legally.

The aforementioned currently takes place on the North side of the island. Minister Lake liked the idea and has instructed his staff to look into the matter.

The SHTA is very interested in the zoning and development plans for the country especially those related to the environment. The SHTA members informed the minister that they do not support the further destruction of the country's natural resources such as the filling of the lagoon or remaining ponds. The SHTA would also like to see more green spaces designated as play areas for children.

The SHTA would also like to see the Government develop an energy policy and for GEBE to move forward with the production of energy using green energy sources. They would also like to see incentives for people who invest in green energy.

Other issues related to GEBE were about knowing who is the persons managing the company; what is GEBE's strategic plan; and improvements in customer service.

"Private and public sectors need to come together for our common economic goals"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams offered additional comments regarding the recent presentation by the Director of the Central Back Emsley Tromp. The Prime Minister commented that the information which was distributed regarding the balance of payment of the Monetary Union is concerned, consideration needs to be made regarding the financial developments on St. Maarten vis a vis Curacao; "On St. Maarten there would be no need for measures to be taken with regards to the financial outlooks. However those same financial outlooks are based on the current monetary union. Certain restrictions that are in place on St. Maarten have been placed because of the situation on Curacao.

"St. Maarten has experienced a growth of 1.5%. Of course that is not the growth that St. Maarten has been accustomed to. Growth on St. Maarten has been normally four or five percent but because of the financial crises we are not to that level yet. But given the global crises we should indeed count ourselves lucky that we have been experiencing growth, growth that will continue in 2014. What we should do at this time, as St. Maarten is to ensure that our economy performs better than what is projected in 2014. Private and public sectors need to come together and create a shared vision to increase our common economic goals. That should be the aim; in order to see that we have a higher growth than projected.

"We talk about economic growth and increase in GDP, however it is about economic activity that yields money and keeps money in circulation. It means what we should keep that growth going, we should create employment opportunities that keep the production going. This vision calls for a coming together of all sectors to aim for a strengthening of our further economic growth. We need investments, projects, and employment.

The Prime Minister explained that the main economic sectors on St. Maarten remain tourism related activities, but that Government's push is to broaden the traditional types of tourism to include alternative tourism oriented activities. "When we talk about the Marine Industry on its own for example, which is an important industry on the island, it is still part of the Tourism product. One of the things we have been talking about exploring alternative tourism experiences. We have natural attributes to cater to various alternative tourism experiences. We could look at sports tourism, education tourism, eco tourism, and medical tourism and of course conference and convention tourism. We need to look at activities during the off-season; to have those months contribute to the economic development. We need to make the hub function that St. Maarten fulfills work. Government and other institutions such as the Chamber of Commerce is exploring various ways on how to develop our cosmopolitan nature, how to use the adaptiveness and positiveness of our people in order to offer all that St. Maarten has to offer and to reinforce and strengthen the economy," commented the Prime Minister

The PM also re-emphasized her call for the establishment of an Economic Think Tank that would include representatives from various sectors to research ways in strengthening the economy further. "Again I reiterate the call for an Economic Think Tank which would involve all sectors to make the necessary things happen," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindell24062013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell commends the Unified St. Maarten Connection (USC) foundation on their launch of the organizations website on Monday. The website address is www.uscfoundation.com

USC is engaged in assisting young St. Maarteners studying in Holland as well as young professionals.

The Holland-based organization is seen as an essential body that can provide clarification on scholastic and other issues and social and informative events that bring students and young professionals together.

On the home page of the website, the site features a flash slideshow of pictures that depicts exactly what the foundation stands for: to foster a greater sense of unity among St. Maarten students and young professionals in the Netherlands and on St. Maarten, and to parlay this dynamic into affecting change that is beneficial and related to the unique position we hold within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The website also features a discussion forum and information section for media, events, what the foundation is about etc.

"I would like to take this opportunity to commend USC and its members for this great initiative. The organization already utilizes social media in the form of a Facebook page, and the website is another avenue to promote the great work that this St. Maarten student/professional interest Holland-based foundation is doing.

"I encourage USC to take their organization to the next level and network with the 'Wereldstage' organization which can provide apprenticeship opportunities for students and young professionals.

"The 'Wereldstage' to my understanding has placed hundreds of Dutch students in different businesses including in the hotel and tourism sector in for example Curacao. It is time for our students from Sint Maarten be afforded similar opportunities," President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Tuesday.

telcellatsabacarnivalevent29072013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group mobile provider, TelCell, created a big impression during the recently ended Saba Carnival 2013, having successfully sponsored a night of entertainment featuring the 3-Cylinder Band from Antigua and the Grandmasters from St. Kitts.
According to TelCell representatives, Angel Richardson and Melvin Richardson, the special night of entertainment was much appreciated by music lovers and carnival revelers alike.

"We promoted various TelCell products and services, handed out a number of give-away items and provided some top-ups and sims to new and loyal customers," said Angel.
She was especially pleased with public reaction to 10 mobile phones that were raffled to visitors at this year's carnival event.
Once again this year, TelCell promotions were carried out in collaboration with local telecommunication provider Satel, to whom the TelCell representatives are most grateful for their assistance and support.
"We want to thank Satel and the government and people of Saba, along with the hosts of this year's carnival for making us feel so welcome and allowing us to have such a fun time," said the TelCell representatives on behalf of TelEm Group.

Telem Press Release

lavendercarwithbulletholes29072013COLE BAY:--- The third reported shooting incident over the last weekend leaves a second person injured. On Sunday July 28th at approximately 11:00pm, police patrols and detectives were directed to the parking lot of Peking Supermarket opposite Tropicana Casino for a shooting incident. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to the victim with initials J.R. (19) from Sint Maarten, who was a bleeding from a wound on his lower left-arm. He stated that he was sitting in car playing music when all of a sudden he heard several gunshots being fired off and he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his left arm. He knew immediately that he had been shot. The investigating officers noticed a bullet impact and a bullet hole to the left side of the vehicle. The victim further stated that he did not know who shot at him and why. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then taken to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The vehicle in question has confiscated as the investigation by the Forensic and Detective Department is ongoing.

KPSM Police Report

bluecarwithbulletholes29072013DEFIANCE: On Friday July 27th at approximately 5:10am, a police patrol was sent to Defiance road to investigate a shooting incident. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to the victim with initials A.A.F who stated that he and his son were driving in his car with license plate 47 ZBG 971 on the A. Th. Illidge road in the direction of Middle Region. In the vicinity of the ITC building on the A. Th. Illidge they heard several shots successively being fired off. The victim stated that he did not stop and continued driving. Arriving at home he discovered that at least two bullets hit the rear of his vehicle leaving two holes. The victim stated that he does not know who had shot at his car and why. The vehicle in question has been confiscated for further investigation by the Forensic and Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

nipa29072013GREAT BAY:--- The Board for Advanced Vocational and Adult Education is proud to unveil the name of the new AVE "SBO" Institute that is scheduled to begin serving the community as early as September 2013. The official name of the new SBO Institute which is in its final construction stage, is the National Institute for Professional Advancement or NIPA for short. NIPA will be providing the local community as well as persons from the neighboring islands with the opportunity to follow courses/programs in advanced vocational education and adult education.

The Board is currently in the process of creating a logo for the new institute and can already divulge that the centerpiece of this logo will be the NIPA palm. The NIPA palm, which coincides with the name of the institute, is the only palm which trunk grows beneath the ground and only the leaves and flower stalk grow upwards above the surface. Similar to the characteristics of the NIPA palm, the trunk below the surface symbolizes NIPA's vision.

The Board would also like to inform the public that NIPA will be holding a registration drive in the month of August. Exact dates and times will be provided in a subsequent press release. However, the Board can already inform all persons interested in registering next month, to please bring along a copy of your registration form provided by the Census, valid identification, a copy of your diploma and (if applicable) a copy of the list of marks when coming to register. Registration will be held at the NIPA Institute located in Cay Hill next to the Asha Stevens Primary School (behind Raoul Illidge Sports Complex) during the month of August.

This project is being funded by USONA via the Innovations in Educations project.

swescotwilliamswithjflemingartsen29072013SIMPSON BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, joined by the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Honorable Patricia Lourens wished Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary the Honorable Josiane Fleming-Artsen a Bon Voyage at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Sunday. The Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary is accompanying the students to the Netherlands where she will be taking up her post as Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

"We know what we need to do as individuals, as households and as a community"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams again called on the Community of St. Maarten to remain vigilant for the Hurricane Season and not to become complacent. During her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister, the PM said that although the island has thus far been spared, there is still a long way to go for what has been called a very active 2013 Hurricane Season.

"Never let your guards down and St. Maarten needs to be prepared. It is a message that cannot be said too often and one that I will repeat during the course of the 2013 Hurricane Season. We know what we need to do as individuals, as households and as a community. As unfortunate as Hurricane Louis and those following Louis were they have been a learning lesson for us. Nevertheless it has made us stronger in terms of preparations in the public and private sector. We have seen some near misses and tremendous disasters in countries surrounding us. We have been spared and we should not be complacent. We have changed so many ways in how we build and in terms of cleanups. Government does clean districts but we have the responsibility as individuals to keep our surroundings clean. We need to make use of the possibilities that we have and the infrastructure that we have for cleaning up our districts. As our motto goes it really only takes one, and when that one comes it is important to be and to remain prepared," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

uvcgirls28072013PHILIPSBURG:--- After their maiden Pajamathon fundraiser on July 5, the members of the United Volleyball Club will be hosting the women of the Colorado College volleyball team in another fundraiser on Friday, August 2 and Saturday, August 3.
The Colorado women, along with their coaches and other family members, will arrive on Wednesday, July 31 and will be staying for five days before going on to St. Kitts. In St. Martin, the group will participate in a number of activities with the United members, including practice sessions, games, workshops, and a community service activity.
Games will take place at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium, starting at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Entrance to all games is US$ 1.00, and there will be a raffle for a Blackberry phone, donated by Telem, on Saturday. The cost of a ticket for a chance in the raffle is US$ 5.00 and can still be bought from UVC members.
The United Volleyball Club is urging everyone to come out and support their fundraising efforts while enjoying great volleyball. UVC also thanks all those who have so far contributed to their trip, where the youngsters will attend a training camp at the Orlando Volleyball Academy.

swescotwilliamswithstudentsatpjiae28072013"Today it is about telling you how proud we are of you, how expectant we are of to return to your country"

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined the Minister of Education the Hon. Patricia Laurens, the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Drs. Eugene Holiday, Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary Josiane Fleming-Artsen and Director of the Airport Regina Labega in wishing the departing students Bon Voyage at the Princess Juliana Airport on Sunday. The students were given much encouragement and many offered emotional and kind words to the excited crowd.

The Prime Minister stated that she was very proud to see the some seventy students departing and that she wished them all the best in their studies abroad. "Today it is about telling you how proud we are of you that you have made it thus far and how expectant we are of you and trust that you will do an excellent job in your studies in the Netherlands. Every year our students leave us to further their studies in the Netherlands and elsewhere and there are great expectations from your parents, peers, your Government and indeed the whole community for you to return to the island and contribute to the development of your country.

"I would like to thank the Princess Juliana International Airport for hosting this farewell and for wishing all of you a proper Bon Voyage on your journey. You are traveling abroad to develop yourselves but I would like to encourage you to use technology to stay in touch, to ask questions or just to talk if you need some words of encouragement. I wish you a wonderful and exciting time of study and I look forward to the day when you will be returning to St. Maarten with a diploma in your hand.

To the parents I say that I know that is hard to be separating with you. But our parents are with them; stay in touch with you children and let them know that St. Maarten cares for them. I have been witnessing the departure for many many years. I always do it with mixed emotions. I am happy to see our students leaving but I am also aware of the many pitfalls that they are faced. I am a mother and I understand the nervousness that parents have with the students being out there in the Netherlands. It is a good experience but there are many pitfalls. We urge our students to be strong and to use the values that have been given to them and I wish them many luck," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsopensmcdonaldsdq28072013DUTCH QUARTER:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the opening of the brand new McDonalds at Dutch Quarter on Friday. The ceremony featured members of the Council of Ministers, invited guests and various dignitaries from both sides of the island.

The Prime Minister stated at the opening that she was happy to be at the opening of a new franchise for the fast food chain on St. Maarten, adding value to the districts of Dutch Quarter, Belvedere and surrounding areas: "I want to congratulate the principles of McDonalds on this significant opening and the meaning this has for this district. Not only is the opening of McDonalds important related t the service that will be provided to residents but in terms of employment this also has significant impact, employing young residents of these districts.

The McDonald's Corporation is the world's largest chain of hamburger fast food restaurants, serving around 68 million customers daily in 119 countries. A McDonald's restaurant is operated by a franchisee, an affiliate, or the corporation itself. The corporation's revenues come from the rent, royalties and fees paid by the franchisees, as well as sales in company-operated restaurants. McDonald's revenues grew 27 percent over the three years ending in 2007 to $22.8 billion, and 9 percent growth in operating income to $3.9 billion.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

MAHO:--- On Friday July 26th at approximately 4:00am, several police patrols were directed to Maho reef in the vicinity of Tantra for a shooting incident. On the scene, the investigating officers learnt that shortly before shots were fired in the area and that a blue SUV with license plate M-10115 that was involved in the incident had already left the scene. While on the scene the patrols were informed by the Central Police Dispatch, that the SUV in question was driving at very high speed in the direction of Philipsburg. A Philipsburg patrol located the SUV at the Sint Maarten Medical Center. Two young men with initials L.J.G and R.T. were also at the medical center and stated that they were in the vehicle when the incident took place. They also stated that the driver of the vehicle with the initials A.T. was injured as a result of the shooting. The victim stated to the investigating officers the while leaving the area several shots were fired at his vehicle by an unknown person. One of the shots struck his left hand injuring him quite seriously. After being shot, he drove to the hospital for medical attention. The victim remains in hospital for observation. The blue SUV has been confiscated for further investigation by the Forensic and Detective Department. It is still very unclear as to what exactly happened and why.

KPSM Police Report

gracitaarrindellandmauricelake28072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met with Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Hon. Maurice Lake on Thursday at the House of Parliament.

This was the first meeting between the president and the minister. President Arrindell briefed Minister Lake on pending matters related to his portfolio.

President Arrindell provided Minister Lake with the list of meetings that have been adjourned and not rescheduled over the past year, including the adjournment of the Central Committee meeting of September 4, 2012 pertaining to the presentation regarding zoning and development plans for the country.

Also pending, is the discussion with the Minister of VROMI, the Supervisory Board and members of the Shareholders Foundation to provide information on the current situation and plans of the utility company GEBE, which was held on February 13, 2013.

These pending matters and other issues to be presented by Minister of VROMI will be reconvened as soon as possible.

"These consultations with the new business cabinet are necessary in order to get pending matters out of the way after being idle for 12-months. I hope to meet the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports later this week followed by the other ministers in the coming weeks," President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

mauricelakewithwifolandasewireps28072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with GEBE employee and management union representatives, namely ASEWI (Association of Staff Employees) and WIFOL (Windward Islands Federation of Labour) on Thursday morning in the Dr. A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.

Minister Lake during his introduction mentioned about his meetings with GEBE management and the shareholder foundation, and he also presented his position with respect to the transfer process which is scheduled to be completed on December 5.

Minister Lake pointed out that he was very disappointed that nothing was done on the side of Sint Maarten for a 12-month period with respect to GEBE transfer.

"The country lost 12-months without anything being done by the previous administration. I am pleased to inform the people of this country that everything is being facilitated to complete the transfer process of GEBE where the Dutch public entities will establish their own utility companies by December 5, and GEBE Sint Maarten will be solely a company belonging 100 per cent to the people of this country," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Sunday.

The Minister has also taken the initiative to contact GEBE management to have them organize General Assembly of GEBE workers within the shortest time possible.

"I would like all workers to be present with the exception of those that have to remain on the job to keep the lights on, from the cleaners to middle management, to have the opportunity to be informed about the transfer process, and to be able to ask questions pertaining to this. Communication is essential, and it resolves concerns that workers may have.

"When corporate changes are made to a company, the employees must be part and parcel of this process. I will also be present to give Governments position and what we are doing to facilitate this process. This would also be an opportune time for GEBE management to inform the employees and myself about the company's strategic plan and long-term outlook," Minister Maurice Lake said.

WIFOL/ASEWI gave an overview of their experiences with the process and the information that they had received during the period of former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger, and wanted to know from the new Government if the process would continue on the same track as was presented to them back then.

The unions are of the opinion that the workers should be part of the decision-making process and that they believe in the principle of social dialogue.

The workers wanted to hear if their rights are guaranteed and secured. Minister Lake assured the representatives of both unions that the workers' rights remain the same with no changes as GEBE will continue to exist after December 5. The only change coming is two new companies will be established for Saba and St. Eustatius and the employees on the two aforementioned islands will join those two companies.

WIFOL/ASEWI also sought information with respect to the supervisory board with respect to the two positions out of three left vacant. The unions wanted to know if these positions would be filled by December 5.

Minister Lake informed the union reps that the matter has his priority and the vacant board positions are to be filled, but it has to go through the proper channels such as the Corporate Governance Council.

"I would like to see a supervisory board that is firstly looking out for the overall interest of the employees and management. Opportunity must be given to existing employees to grow within the corporate structure of the company, especially young vibrant professionals who have a lot to offer.

"We need an innovative thinking board that looks at the long-term development of the company and new technologies available as well as alternative energy sources.

"The latter is the route that has to be taken to ensure the long-term viability of electricity production and also the lowering of electricity tariffs for consumers," Minister Maurice Lake explained on Sunday.

WIFOL/ASEWI at the conclusion of the meeting stated that they looked forward to the continued social dialogue.

Minister Lake in conclusion said: "I subscribe to the principle of social dialogue. My door is always open. Let me know when there is an issue so I can address it. Thank you for bringing me up to date. I believe in the bottoms-up approach and going back to basics.

"I look forward to the General Assembly, as I think this is a very important step where all employees attending have the opportunity via their representatives to ask questions, but also at the same time to be informed. Success is measured by how many people you bring along, not by just one person," Minister Maurice Lake concluded.

Minister Lake was supported by members of his Cabinet Joseph Richardson, Senior Advisor, and Veronica Webster-, Chef of the Cabinet.

Has Concerns on the Autonomy of Countries in the Kingdom Being Infringed Upon

PHILIPSBURG:--- During her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented that the comments of the Prime Minister regarding independence were, according to her, taken out of context. The Prime Minister stated that despite the various things that were said various media sources unfairly focused on those comments. The Prime Minister also commented on the request by the Dutch Prime Minister to the Governor regarding integrity.

"I can understand why the call for independence throws some people off guard and in my opinion too many people have been paying attention to those statements. The issue came up in the context of talking about the constitutional changes and now that the islands from the former Netherlands Antilles have a different constitutional status there is a lot of work that has to be done to get this status the way we want to see it. The statement that was made was made in the context of moving away from the constitutional talk and towards economic talk. The only comment that the PM Rutte made was that if there was a need for countries to be independent those discussions could be had.

"There has been much criticism in Holland for the Dutch Caribbean, in particular for St. Maarten, from the Dutch media. They either don't know or don't want to know what the reality of what is occurring in the Caribbean. Instead of them wanting to know the truth they focus on hearsay and this is an example of that," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister also stated that she had some concerns regarding the request by Prime Minister Rutte regarding integrity issues. "I am concerned about the statement by Rutte asking the Governor to conduct an integrity assessment, although I have not seen required paperwork on that. The concerns that I have are related to the fact that Prime Minister Rutte has indicated that he will make that request on behalf of himself and Minister Plasterk which is not possible according to the laws that Govern the Kingdom Council of Ministers. A decision of the Kingdom Council of Ministers needs to happen exactly there, where our Minister Plenipotentiary forms a part of. It is clear, and Prime Minister Rutte is aware, that there is an integrity program on St. Maarten that has been ongoing from since before 10-10-10. I would hope that the Kingdom Council of Ministers would research the things that happen here before they make a decision either way. Integrity is a process and that process needs to be respected. To have the Governor asked to do such an investigation I think is simply a way to go back to the media and say I have done this or that, however what are the real benefits for us on St. Maarten?

"It is my belief that the Dutch Ministers sometimes loose out of view the fact that there is a Dutch Cabinet of Ministers and when there are meetings of the Kingdom then the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the three islands participate in those meetings. With the Dutch Ministers and the Ministers Plenipotentiary you have the Kingdom Council of Ministers so it can't be so that the Dutch Prime Minister and the Dutch Minister Plasterk agree to do something and say it is on behalf of the Kingdom Government. Kingdom decisions are made in the Kingdom Council of Ministers. We need to guard against the autonomy of the Countries being infringed in anyway. That is why I am concerned about the decision and I want to see it clarified," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A representative from the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs and two from Civil Society Organizations (CSO), will be the guests on Tuesday, July 30 on PJD-2 Radio host Lloyd Richardson at 12:00pm.

The Government of Sint Maarten started a National Development Plan (NDP) project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," in the latter part of 2012.

The process entails community engagement and a bottoms-up approach.

The NDP and CSO reps will inform radio listeners and the community about issues and the upcoming virtual/online course.

The course can accommodate up to 40 persons and will start August 13 and run until September 6. It will be in English, there are no costs/fees involved, and the deadline to register is August 6.

The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going dialogue and participation in its conception and implementation.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

GREAT BAY:--- NAGICO Insurances recently launched a new Facebook fan page and is currently raffling concert tickets to its fans. According to their Marketing Department, the Facebook page was created to increase the privileges of clients and prospective clients and to keep them updated on local and regional developments, activities and events.

"Through this medium, people have the opportunity to win prizes, giveaways and to be the first to know what's happening with NAGICO by simply liking our page" Executive Marketing Manager; Paul Dijkhoffz said. "This is one of the many ways that we are able to engage with our clients and also a way to show our appreciation for their continued patronage."

The NAGICO Facebook page was opened only recently but has already generated over 200 'Likes'. The ongoing promotion now features the chance to win a free ticket to the John Legend & Percy Sledge Concert on August 3rd with a drawing each day until the day of the show.

To be eligible for the raffle, simply like the NAGICO Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nagico-Insurances/199149536911258

wreathlayingatclaudewatheystatueatportofsxm28072013POINT BLANCHE:--- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo and Hector Peters, General and Governmental Affairs, on Wednesday, July 24 placed a wreath in the presence of some of the harbour staff at the statue of Dr. A.C. "Claude" Wathey in observance of his 87th birthday. Dr. Wathey is considered the Father of modern day St. Maarten. The Port of St. Maarten was named the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facility in his honour to recognize his contribution to national development.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian on Saturday degenerated into a tropical wave approximately over 500 miles east from the Leeward Islands.

On Saturday satellite-derived wind data according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) out of Miami indicated that Dorian no longer had a closed surface circulation, and the remnants of the system were moving rapidly at 24 miles per hour westward.

The remnants of Dorian should pass north of the Leeward Islands on Sunday and Monday. An Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter plane is scheduled to investigate the wave on Sunday if necessary.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) has discontinued monitoring this system.

The Sint Maarten community is reminded by ODM to remain vigilant this hurricane season and to have everything in place in the event of a storm strike. Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

For those requiring information about storm/hurricane preparations, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

robbysstarspresenttrophytotelem27072013POND ISLAND:--- TelEm Group were the proud recipients of the Under-13 Soualiga Mini-Youth Basketball Association sub-champions trophy during a handing over ceremony at the company main office, Pond Island Wednesday.

The trophy was presented by the coach and some of the players of Robby's Stars to TelEm Group's Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Brian Mingo as a "Thank You" for sponsoring the team for the past two years.
Coach Robby Pantophlet said he could not have been more proud of his lads, who went all the way to the fifth game in the best-of five tournament finals during the end of June. Robby's Stars came up just short, losing to Champions Junior Cats for the second year running, but this time by only a three-point margin.
"The team was outstanding and the parents were very supportive all along," said Robby.
"We came to present the trophy to TelEm Group and to thank them for being our sponsor and having confidence in us," continued the coach. He also presented the company with a team photo for their archives.
Mr. Mingo congratulated the youths on their achievement and said their trophy and team photo will find a proud place amongst the many trophies the company has collected over the years.
He wished the team and coach much success for the future and pledged continued support for Robby's Stars as they seek to win the coveted Junior Championship trophy next year.

Telem Press Release

swescotwilliamsatvxg26072013Says Her Government Will Always Support Young, Local Endeavors

MAHO:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams welcomed the participants of the Video X-Games at the official opening of the event at the Maho Convention center at noon on Friday. The Prime Minister welcomed the participants and urged them to not only be engaged in the gaming activities they traveled to St. Maarten to do but to also enjoy the island to its full potential.

"I want to join the organizers in welcoming you to the island. You would have to agree with me that when it comes to St. Maarten this is a very special place to be to engage in the activity you are so passionate about. This event was organized by a group of young persons of St. Maarten with the help of several sponsors, and in order to pull this off we need to say kudos to all involved. We need to thank the organizers and the sponsors for making this possible; to make it possible for you to gather to engage in something that you are passionate about and that is something special. Knowing that we are able to attract you to our shores we the Government of St. Maarten are a sponsor to this event and we would always support local endeavors such as this. Please enjoy what the island has to offer in addition to your competition. It is about being on St. Maarten and being involved in technology. Enjoy your stay, the competition and enjoy St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsreceivespresentationfromcentralbank26072013Nation Books Growth in Various Economic Sectors

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams and the Minister of Finance Martin Hassink received a presentation on the 2012 Annual Report of the Central Bank of St. Maarten and Curacao from Director Dr. Emsley Tromp at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall on Wednesday. Mr. Tromp, accompanied by numerous support staff and Central Bank of St. Maarten and Curacao Officials, presented information to both Ministers regarding the Monetary Union, the state of the Gross Domestic Product of both Curacao and St. Maarten, the Inflation Rate, the Performance of the various sectors of both islands and the general Economic Growth and Development.

With regards to St. Maarten, Dr. Tromp presented that the Country experienced a 1.5% growth rate and a general decrease in the inflation rate. The presentation also outlined that there was an increase in stay over tourism and an improvement in the performance of the Service Industry. St. Maarten also saw growth in both the wholesale and retail as well as in the utilities sectors, which altogether combined resulted in an improvement in total net income. Dr. Tromp also highlighted that, with the increased economic growth, the actual growth rate of the Economy was higher than that of Curacao.

Dr. Tromp also explained that there are positive steps with regards to Governments ongoing broadening of Administrative Institutions and that the steps being undertaken to diversify the St. Maarten economy from only relying on the Tourism industry has also been moving forward, with various sectors seeing an improvement.

The Prime Minister commented that the presentation was well received and that Government will continue the steps it has been taken to ensure economic growth for Country St. Maarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sspamembers27072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Small Properties Association (SSPA) held its first official meeting on Friday July 19th, 2013 at the Carl and Sons Lounge Pondfill. Properties represented were L' Esperance, Lucy Guest House, Midtown Hotel, Seaview Hotel, Sunset Inn Hotel, Bute Hotel, and LAMA Guest house.
"Our association has with over 30 years experience in the Hotel Industry, therefore as a Board we knew that our first keynote speaker had to be someone very passionate about St. Maarten's development. To have Mr. Connor as our first Keynote speaker is an historic honor. Mr. Connor was very instrumental in the formation of the St. Maarten Small Properties Association in which his organization the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce is an Honoree member" stated Ms. Nzinga Lake, President of S.S.P.A.
In Mr. Connor's presentation, he stressed the importance of how as an Association the members must move the Association forward, keeping in mind that any successful association must project a positive image from the onset, be professional, be accessible, be efficient, build a rock solid reputation and most of all we must get involved within the Private and Public Sectors in our community.
Topics discussed were Branding, Marketing, Funding, Trainings, New Membership Drive and meeting key stakeholders in our community and within the region.
"We must create partnerships with key organizations in our community such as our Community Police Officers, the St. Maarten Timeshare Association, SHTA, St. Maarten Bankers Association but most importantly the association must introduce itself to the New Minister of Tourism and his Ministry team since the idea was also a government initiative to have the small properties represented on the Tourism Authority Board of which the S.S.P.A. president is now a member. We are prepared to work hard aggressively, it's essential to the success of the association stated Ms. Nzinga Lake, President of S.S.P.A.
The St. Maarten Small Properties Association's objective is to provide the best possible networking and industry forum for its members, to assist them with improving the standards and quality of their properties and the services provided, and to establish closer and more effective collaboration with other private and public sector organizations.
S.S.P.A. other major goal is to create a better forum to promote and market its member properties and the destination St. Maarten in general.

The United Volleyball Club will be hosting the Colorado College women volleyball team in a fundraiser at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium, starting at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 2 and 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 3. Entrance is US$ 1.00; US$ 5.00 for a chance to win a Blackberry phone. Raffle tickets can be bought from UVC members. For more information, call Keishan: 550-3434 or Rhoda: 520-1136.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Foster Families Central contributes child protection on St. Maarten by providing protection, assistance, and equal development to all children by matching them with a foster family that suits their needs.
For many years, the Foundation Judiciary Institute Windward Island has been working with and for the youth, to provide them with the opportunity to grow up in a better environment. The Foster Families Central was established in august 2008 to support these efforts and assist with achieving this goal.
The Foster Care Central is a unit within the Foundation Judiciary Institute Windward Island (FJIWI) that works in the benefit of foster children and foster parents. This department is involved with recruiting, screening, and training foster parents, as well as matching of foster children with a suitable foster family. We focus our efforts on families and individuals that can be of some assistance to children that are being neglected, abused, exploited, abandoned and children who are in a serious family crisis.
For all the foster children that are on the island of St. Maarten, an attempt will be made to match the foster child with the appropriate foster parent. These families will provide a (temporary) supportive and safe environment for foster children, who unfortunately are not able to live with their biological parents. The foster family provides a home where the child can be given stability, receive affection and consistency, in a nurturing environment for their optimal development. Foster parents are monitored by the Foster Families Central and guided by the Family Guardian from the inception up to when the child is free to go back to their respective home.
Families that are interested in serving as a foster family are not only required to have a strong and stable family make-up but also must be willing to work along with the different departments in the best interest of the foster child. Additionally, the foster parent will have the opportunity to follow training (which the first training will start before the end of 2013) and participate in the Foster Family Support Group, where their personal experiences, important information, and day to day challenges can be shared.
Currently, there are several foster children that are waiting for foster parents, who are willing to open their house and hearts to welcome them. The kind of foster parents we are seeking are as follows: long term, short term, weekend, crisis, respite (to assist the actual foster parents in a weekend or during the week) or vacation foster parents.
For more information on how you can become a foster parent, please contact the F.J.I.W.I. or Foster Families Central, Drs. R. Hanze, at telephone number (721) 542-3468 or by emailing us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . You can also visit our websites at www.sjib.net, www.sjib.net/fosterparenting and www.caribbeanfostercare.com.

pjiaerescueandfirefightingstaff27072013SIMPSON BAY:--- When 25 young St. Maarteners moved in to establish the Rescue and Fire-Fighting Department of the Princess Juliana International Airport 18 years ago, there was no way they could have known that theirs would be a baptism of fire – literally – as weeks later, the biggest natural disaster the island has ever known hit with unrepentant fury.
Manilo Penijn, one of those youngsters, who today heads the department, remembers the date like it was yesterday.
"We were just established on July 25, 1995 and you know... on September 5 of the same year, we had to face Hurricane Luis," he said. "That was the most important and most difficult moment we have faced in our 18 years of existence."
"Luis was scary; a learning process, but scary. We couldn't go home to our families. We all had minimum experience at the time; that made it doubly tough."
Those memories, even though they still linger, have been sifted through 18 years of dedicated service and constant training to remain up to date with the most modern fire-fighting techniques and equipment.
Now 28 strong, the R&FF Department of SXM continues to lay emphasis on training, readiness and well-maintained modern equipment.
"We are well-equipped," Penijn asserts. "And as for training, the whole department is undergoing rigorous NSTA training. We're in transition to the American system and we're half-way through with it now. There are six fire-fighters from the Department currently training in Canada. They will be back in the second week of August."
Penijn said the Department has five fire trucks, while three are required to be available at all times. The equipment is compatible with the ones the government Fire Department has.
"Cooperation with them is at a professional level and we can use their equipment and they can use ours whenever the need arises because as a matter of fact, we have the same manufacturer," Penijn said.
He continued: "We have three shifts of nine firefighters each. The goal is to have three more so that the shifts would become of 10 members each."
For Penijn, education is key to making a good career out of fire-fighting. "It has to be a calling, too. You have to be physically and mentally fit, motivated, energetic and willing to work in a team setting because fire-fighting is not an individual thing."
Although 18 is the age of maturity and hence a milestone, Penijn said they're keeping the activities to mark the anniversary rather intimate and internal. This is not to say that the Rescue and Fire-Fighting Department is party shy. To the contrary, Penijn pointed to the active involvement of his staff in the celebrations of Valentine's Day this year.
"And you'll see us in action again this Sunday with the Bon Voyage event for the students leaving the island to study in Holland," he added.
The fire-fighters will be executing a water canon to send off the youngsters with "blessings".

wildlifeofstmartin26072013GRAND CASE:--- The fascinating fauna of one tiny Caribbean island can now be explored by people around the globe, thanks to naturalist, author and wildlife photographer Mark Yokoyama. Yokoyama officially released the second edition of his book The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin, showcasing an astounding array of animals from the tropic isle of St. Martin/St. Maarten. The guide features over 500 stunning color photographs and profiles hundreds of species, from mammals and birds to insects and spiders, some of which can't be found anywhere else in the world. This unique work also features special sections on local ecology and the history of biology on the island–a captivating who's who of Caribbean researchers, explorers, and naturalists reaching back to the mid-1600s.

"Non-scientists contributed much of what we know about Caribbean biology," says Yokoyama. "It's a tradition that goes back hundreds of years and never stopped. Although they are seldom recognized, dozens of doctors, clergy, teachers and military officers contributed a great deal to our understanding of local wildlife and many other subjects." Their work, as well as Yokoyama's guide, would be described today as citizen science, a rapidly growing phenomenon of scientific research done by nonprofessional scientists.

Though Yokoyama views his guide as part of this long Caribbean tradition, in many ways the book is also a quintessentially contemporary project. Yokoyama used the website Kickstarter.com to crowdsource funding to print the volume, and has made a full electronic version available for free on the book's website. And unlike the work of history's many unsung Caribbean naturalists, Yokoyama's book is already receiving high praise from many in the scientific community. Biologist and ecologist Dr. James "Skip" Lazell has called it "the best, and most complete, natural history book I have read about any single Caribbean island."

The book launch event was held July 23rd at the Jubilee Library in Philipsburg. Copies of the book were presented to representatives from many organizations doing conservation, education and public service on the island, including Nature Foundation St. Maarten, Environmental Protection in the Caribbean, St. Maarten Heritage Foundation, Pride Foundation, SIMARC, St. Martin Trails and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Minister of Education Patricia Lourens-Philip was also present. A presentation describing five reasons why the study of wildlife on St. Martin is fascinating was delivered by the author.

The publication of the book is just the beginning for Yokoyama, whose mission is make knowledge about wildlife and natural heritage freely accessible to everyone. He recently launched a wildlife education program to teach students on the island about local fauna and promote wildlife awareness among locals and tourists. He is also working on a French-language edition of the book. To learn more about Yokoyama's work and download a free electronic version of the guide, visit http://www.sxmwildlife.com. The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin is available on Amazon.com.

MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmerie is calling on persons who witnessed the murder that took place on July 20th, 2013 in the vicinity of Bamboo Vert (Green Bamboo) bar to come forward as witnesses. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that around 7:30am on July 20th a fight broke out between two men which escalated. One of the victims jumped into the Sandy Ground canal to save his life but the other one followed him and he was dealt several stab wounds causing his death. The Gendarmes in their plea said that anyone who was at the Bamboo Vert that morning or on the street where the incident occurred should make contact with the Brigade du Research of St. Martin. Persons that have information can call the landline of the Gendarmerie "17" or 0590 52 30 10. Persons that have information and want to give that information on the condition of anonymity will also be accommodated.

SMN News learnt that the 35 year old man that is in custody for the brutal murder dealt his victim five stab wounds to his back and he is now claiming self defense. The victim was killed in the water where he sought to run from the man he was having an argument with but that did not help him. The suspect waited on the Gendarmes after murdering the other man with whom he was arguing.

CANTO held its 29th Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition (CANTO 2013) in the Happy Island of Aruba from the 14th -17th of July 2013. The highly acclaimed event was co-hosted by the local telecom operator, SETAR at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, Oranjestad.

Over 450 delegates from CANTO's membership of 34 countries attended the four day event along with 14 Caribbean ICT government ministers.

The popular annual Conference and Trade Exhibition also known as CANTO 2013 is the Caribbean's premier telecommunications event for industry professionals, academics and regional governments. This year, the theme was "Towards a SMART Broadband Caribbean Community".

The opening ceremony of CANTO 2013 was chaired by Roxana Semeleer Ras of SETAR and addressed by Mr. Roland Croes, Director of SETAR; Dirk Currie - Chairman, Regenie Fräser - Secretary General, Karen Bevans - Vice Chair all of CANTO. The featured address was delivered by Richard A. Arends, Chief of Staff, on behalf of Hon. Mike de Meza the Minister of Finance, Communications, Utilities and Energy of Aruba.

Mr. Arends told delegates that the Government of Aruba is a firm believer that there is strength in the power of unity. He saluted all the island-nations and countries that were represented in the Conference & Trade Exhibition. He reminded the delegates that the changing structure of the Telecommunications industry has such an important role in all sectors of our lives and is constantly evolving which is very crucial in the development of this area.

The Monday morning LIME sponsored Ministerial Breakfast Briefing was a closed forum where government ministers and invited guests got a high level overview of the current ICT affairs within the Caribbean. The keynote speaker was Chris Dehring- Chief Marketing Officer of LIME and Chairman of LIME Jamaica, who gave a private sector perspective on broadband development including LIME initiatives; Ayanna Samuels, Regional Coordinator, gave an overview on the Broadband Infrastructure, Inventory & Public Awareness in the Caribbean (BIIPAC) Project.

CANTO prides itself on developing strategic relationships with all stakeholders in the ICT sector and its renowned, highly anticipated, Ministerial Roundtable provides a neutral forum each year, for government ministers to share their successes and concerns and seek solutions from participants which include operators, regulators, industry experts and suppliers. The Ministers in attendance were from Anguilla, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, Montserrat, Nevis, St. Lucia, Suriname, Tortola (BVI), and Turks & Caicos. The two government representatives were from Bermuda and Aruba. During the ministerial forum the participants took the opportunity to share their views on how the region can develop broadband plans that combine strategies and programs to foster GDP growth, create jobs and stimulate innovation. The keynote was delivered by Lourenco Coelho, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Latin America and Caribbean, Ericsson, who spoke on mobile broadband and its benefits for operators, society and government.

On Tuesday morning, CANTO 2013 hosted the "Women and Girls in ICT" breakfast meeting. This session sought to create a sustainable project which will fall under the Women and Girls in ICT umbrella; discuss potential program components and decide which activities to include; and solicit partners and sponsors to implement and deliver the project.

The event witnessed powerhouse female panelists such as: Regenie Fräser - Secretary General of CANTO; Ronella Tjin Asjoe-Croes, CEO, Aruba Tourism Authority; Olivia Leigh Campbell, Special Advisor to Minister of Science, Technology, Energy, & Mining, Jamaica; and Deirdre Zoe Subran-Ganesh, 2013 Winner- WTISD Essay Competition, Trinidad & Tobago.

The Trade Exhibition displayed the spectrum of communications technologies, offering in-depth information on the latest developments in voice, data, image, and multimedia captured in 62 booths. The winner of the Best Exhibit award went to Ericsson with Icemobile securing second place and Columbus Networks third.

The Conference, which was co-located with the Exhibition, facilitated discourse on key issues from a panelist of experts on areas such as:

  • Mobile Networks, Broadband Capacity and the Regulatory Paradigm Shift
  • Connect the Caribbean initiatives -Projects and partnership: key to regional development
  • Global Initiatives and its Caribbean Impact
  • Smart Partnerships
  • Network Automation and Big Data equals Big Opportunities

The members of the five CANTO working committees namely Marketing and Communications, Financial Advisory, Human Resource, Disaster Recovery Planning and Regulation & Emerging Technologies also met to discuss CANTO affairs in their respective areas and also charted the way forward for even more projects to make the CANTO brand more robust.

The CTC Project of the Year was awarded to Telesur of Suriname with their project titled: Providing Broadband to Customers in the Interior of Suriname: Coping with Challenges.

Second place went to the Government of Jamaica with e-Learning II: Tablets in Schools (TIS) and third place was iGovTT from Trinidad & Tobago with their project - TTconnect Mobile Companion Application.

A spinoff of CTC is the Broadband Infrastructure and Public Awareness in the Caribbean (BIIPAC) Project, which held a 2 day staging of the 1st BIIPAC Steering Committee meeting on Jul 14 & 16, 2013. The Steering Committee's (comprising public and private players in addition to the 8 IDB member countries) major challenge is how to best facilitate the future implementation of the national broadband strategies. Will the incorporation of Public Private People Partnerships in the governance structure from the beginning play a major role? The Broadband Infrastructure and Public Awareness in the Caribbean (BIIPAC) project's objective is to support the design of national broadband strategies in the Caribbean and to identify the regional aspects that need to be incorporated into these strategies to support the Caribbean as it evolves towards universality in broadband access and service, regardless of the location or social strata of its citizenry.

The social networking events have become an integral part of CANTO's Conference and Trade exhibitions and allow patrons to unwind and network in a relaxed setting. Each night the delegates were treated to plethora of great food and were entertained by the versatile local bands and entertainment.

The third annual CANTO/Ericsson iCreate eContent Mobile Apps Award ceremony sponsored by Ericsson took place on Monday evening. The ceremony officially acknowledged and rewarded the winners of the mobile apps competition. The first and third positions went to entrants from Suriname and second position was captured by a Trinidad & Tobago national.

On Tuesday evening, CANTO thanked all its members and sponsors at a special appreciation dinner, jointly sponsored by Facey Telecom and Oberthur Technologies.

The final two events were the 7th Annual CANTO Human Resource Forum (July18th -19th) and the LACNIC workshop (July 17th – 19th).

The Human Resource forum focused on leadership development in an organization. This dynamic two-day interactive forum enabled delegates to motivate and learn how to retain the best employees during tough economic times, awaken the spirit of leadership and recognize how to use different strengths and talents to exceed objectives/expectations.

CANTO 2013 was a success and the event would not have been possible without the support of SETAR, Ericsson,Comverse, Icemobile, Oberthur Technologies, Facey Telecom, Columbus Communications, ATNI, Internet Society, LIME, iGovTT, Coyote, Ciena, LACNIC, ARIN, Parktel USA, Telem, ICTUAL, BTI Systems, SES, TMCell, Blink Broadband, Peoplesurv, CMC, TEMPO. The CANTO train heads to Jamaica in January 2014 where the 30th AGM will be hosted by LIME.

For more information on CANTO 2013 visit www.canto.org/canto2013

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian on Friday afternoon was approximately 1000 miles East from the Leeward Islands. The system has shown signs of weakening and is disorganized.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will monitor the progress of TS Dorian as the storm moves towards the West at 22 miles per hour (mph). Maximum wind speeds at 5:00pm on Friday were 45 mph.

Residents are requested to monitor weather reports over the weekend related to this system.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will keep the country informed if there is a dramatic change in its intensity and course as this storm moves over the Atlantic Ocean.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

reginalabega25072013Water canon salute to "bless" KLM plane carrying them

SIMPSON BAY:--- It will not be the usual teary farewell for students leaving to pursue further studies in The Netherlands this year; at least, not with the plans Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, has for Sunday, July 28th when the 76 students board the KLM flight for Amsterdam. For the second year running, the airport, in collaboration with Domino's Pizza is preparing a lavish send-off for the departing students meant not only to lift their spirits, but also to give them a lasting memory of such an important day for them and their families and friends.
Beginning Sunday morning with free parking all day at the airport to encourage family members, friends and loved ones of the departing students to come and see them off, there will be complimentary entertainment at the terminal building provided by DJ Out¬cast and Gee Money who have donated their time and talent to this initiative.
Then it will be pizza galore for the students, courtesy of Domino's Pizza, who will be distributing its famous Dominators to all students to grab a slice prior to taking flight. In addition, the students will receive gift items from Dominos as well as branded specialty gift packs from SXM.
There will be more to please the palate, as SXM has contracted Aurora Berkel to bake a special cake for the students as well as cup cakes.
Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Education Minister Patricia Lourens and SXM Managing Director, Regina LaBega are billed to offer some words of encouragement to the students.
While the flight is set to depart, the SXM Rescue & Fire Fighters & Operations Department will execute a water canon salute that has been arranged by SXM, in collaboration with KLM.
This is meant to symbolize an official blessing so to speak for the college-bound students.
"This is our second year of organizing this kind of event under the theme of "Bon Voyage"," noted LaBega, "and we want it to be special, first because SXM Airport is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year and secondly because our students deserve it. We wish we could do this for ALL of them who are going abroad to study."

swescotwilliams25072013"Conference Tourism Moving in Right Direction"

OYSTER POND:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the Association of Haitian Physicians Living Abroad (AMHE) conference at the Westin Resort and Spa on Monday evening. The Prime Minister, on behalf of the Government and people of St. Maarten, extended her sincerest welcome on St. Maarten for its 40th Annual Convention at the Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa held from the 21st to the 22nd of July.

The PM stated that it is good to have the some 250 delegates here on island, representing a 40 year old membership not-for-profit organization of over 5,000 Physicians of Haitian ancestry, physicians that are represented in clinical practice and academia through the United States, Canada and Haiti.

The Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad (AMHE), an organization that was founded some four decades ago by a group of Haitian physicians determined to mark their presence as a growing ethnic entity in their adopted home and to promote the health and interest of the Haitian immigrant community at large.

"It is a worthwhile and admirable aim to ensure that physicians of Haitian Ancestry and indeed those practicing in Haiti have, through the AMHE, the support necessary to provide the necessary care. Haiti is the second free republic in the western Hemisphere, and the legacy of the Haitian People is clearly seen through the dedication and professionalism of some of the finest physicians in the world.

It is also good to see there is support for the development of healthcare in Haiti and to ensure that the types of healthcare necessary in order to realize the health of the Haitian population. Similarly on St. Maarten, with its large Haitian community, I am sure that the delegates will find no where more open and more conducive to having your General Conference on our home on St. Maarten. So having said that welcome to St. Maarten and enjoy your time here. We hope to see you here soon and have an excellent and fruitful conference.

On behalf of the Government of St. Maarten, an island that we are all so very proud of, we welcome you warmly. We thank the association of the Haitian Physicians Abroad for choosing St. Maarten for this conference. You will not be sorry that St. Maarten has been chosen this year to host you and your delegates for this conference. You have already made your presence felt on St. Maarten for engaging in a social program as you provided testing and consultations to many of the Haitian Nationals living on St. Maarten. The Haitian Community is one of the largest on St. Maarten and it is important to recognize that your message of healthy living is not only reaching them but all of the people of St. Maarten," commented the PM.

The Conference is part of the PM's push to attract more conference tourism to St. Maarten, which the Prime Minister has recently called for an increase of. "We need to further explore Conference Tourism and both this conference and previous ones such as the ICAO Conference are definitely steps in the right direction," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mcdonaldsbelvedere25072013PHILIPSBURG:--- McDonald's, the largest restaurant chain on the planet, will open a new location at Belvedere, which will be the third SXM location after Front Street and Simpson Bay. This is great news for Fun Miles cardholders, who will now be able to redeem their Miles there for the burgers, salads, value meals, and many other items that McDonald's is famous for. On Saturday July 27, 2013, the day of the Grand Opening, Fun Miles will be present at McDonald's Belvedere with its Fun Team to play exciting games and give away fun items. McDonald's is one of the most popular redemption partners in the Fun Miles program.

About McDonald's Belvedere
Every day, about 68 million people across the globe choose McDonald's. The hamburger restaurant has 34.000 locations is 199 countries. On our island, McDonald's has been around since 1995, and its burgers, nuggets and other favorites are still growing in popularity. This is why, after Front Street (1995) and Simpson Bay (2005), there is now also a location at Belvedere, which boasts a drive-thru and PlayPlace for kids.

McDonald's and Fun Miles: a fun combination
McDonald's and Fun Miles have more in common than just the colors red and yellow. Both organizations believe in the power of fun. At McDonald's, this is evident from the Happy Meals and playground facilities for kids, but also from the new items that are frequently added to the menu and which include many low-calorie options. Fun Miles is happy that it can point its cardholders to the possibility to redeem Fun Miles at Belvedere. This is yet another valuable asset to the program.

gracitaarrindell24062013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Youth Parliament is looking for new members to continue the programme of young residents learning about civic leadership.

President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell is calling on the nation's youth to consider joining the Youth Parliament of the country.

"A youth parliament allows for young people to have a voice. Young people must have a forum that would allow them to discuss issues that are of importance to them. The youth parliament allows them to do this and at the same time the young people learn how parliament operates," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Wednesday.

The new participants in the youth parliament will also represent the country in next year's Kingdom Parliament sessions.

The youth parliament will also have a live debate in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament on August 12 regarding the merits of investing in technology.

The youth parliament is open to young people between 12 and 24. Members debate public policy and host forums for discussions about social and youth issues.

Bi-weekly meetings are held on Fridays at 5:00pm in the conference room at the House of Parliament.

Interested candidates can contact St. Maarten Youth Council by calling 550-8971 or emailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visiting 'St. Maarten Youth Parliament' Facebook page.

PHILIPSBURG:--- APS is extending words of understanding and apologies to pensioners who may not have received their regular pension payments over the course of past days. The pension fund administrator received calls from active participants over the past few days, indicating they had not yet received their pension payment for the month of July.
APS immediately looked into the reports but could not determine if the delay was in any way related to technical or administrative challenges reportedly faced by some banking institutions, where it concerns the processing of the usual pensioners payroll.
APS says it pleased to note that in the case of one beneficiary bank, the matter has been resolved and that the pensioners affiliated with that bank have received their pension payment, as scheduled. APS will continue to monitor the situation with remaining banks and expresses regret at the inconvenience caused to pensioners still awaiting their monthly pension payments.

PHILIPSBURG:--- With a donation of $5000 UTS has pledged its support of the St. Eustatius Musical Foundation in its endeavor to stage the 2013 carnival festivities on the island of St. Eustatius. "UTS is a steady yearly contributor towards Carnival in St. Eustatius, and we are happy to be able to support them in the festivities once again this year," said UTS Marketing & Communication Officer Ivy Lambert. Foundation Treasurer, Ms. Lavinia 'Makeba' Mitchell thanked UTS for once again supporting the foundation in its efforts. The St. Eustatius Carnival festivities kicked off on July 19th and will continue throughout the week with various events and local, regional, and international performances. The celebrations end with the Last Lap parade on July 29th.

"We are trying within our financial limits to give something as difficult as that sometimes is so that the larger community can see the positive spinoff"

PHILIPSBURG:--- On the heels of the successful AMHE Conference recently held at the Westin Resort, where some two hundred Haitian Physicians working abroad gathered to share thoughts and ideas, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has again reiterated the call for St. Maarten to broaden its infrastructure to provide more opportunities for conference tourism.

"As Prime Minister I can say that we have indeed been making St. Maarten very attractive for hosting conferences. The Country needs to further grasp these opportunities and together with the private sector, we need to push harder for conference and event tourism.

"This Friday, for example, we will see the start of the Video X-Games, which is another event that has a huge attraction to St. Maarten. It is also an activity that has grown tremendously, especially in the area of what especially attracts our youth. So far for this competition we will see more than three hundred participants from 48 countries taking part in the event taking place over this weekend.

"The fact remains that the uniqueness of St. Maarten is a very large selling point and when we host large conferences where sometimes two hundred people are attending it will have a very significant economic spinoff.

"We are trying within our financial limits to give something as Government as difficult as that sometimes is so that the larger community and the larger economy of St. Maarten can see the spinoff from this," commented the Prime Minister," concluded Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

undpvirtualschoolpresentation25072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Regional Centre of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) for Latin America and the Caribbean (RCLAC) is supporting the National Development Plan (NDP) process through a capacity building program for "dialogue champions" and "facilitators" integrating virtual and face-to-face learning on democratic dialogue.

The NDP project, "Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan & Institutional Strengthening," is being led by the country's Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs.

The course can accommodate up to 40 persons and will start August 13 and run until September 6. It will be in English, there are no costs/fees involved, and the deadline to register is August 6. The participant after successfully completing the course will receive a certificate of approval issued by UNDP Virtual School and UNDP RCLAC.

Requirements for the course are that you have access to a computer and internet, and have 10 hours minimum per week to participate in course activities. BAK is arranging computer facilities and locations that would allow individuals without the aforementioned still the opportunity to participate in the virtual course.

The course is for persons who are interested in getting involved with the NDP process and playing a crucial role in the bottoms-up approach that has been embarked upon.

A two-page spread will appear in the daily newspapers and will also be available on the Government website with respect to more information pertaining to this virtual course and how to sign-up. The first advertisement will appear on July 31 followed again on August 2.

The NDP is being developed through community engagement/people participation. The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going participation in its implementation.

The NDP is a strategic policy on a constitutional level. Governments will have their own four-year term proposals in how to implement their programs in accordance with the NDP, but the actual overarching strategy of the NDP will not be able to be changed by governments themselves at the end of this process.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

joshuaferrol25072013SUCKER GARDEN:--- GIFTED Foundation's GLOW party series continues this month on Saturday, July 27, 2013 in Sucker Garden with GIFTED On Ya Block G.L.O.W. Party- Sucker Garden Edition. Cohosting the event is the Church of God (7th Day) Denver Conference on Pincushion Cactus Drive #13B.
With the community still buzzing about the SXM Weekend of P.O.W.E.R. that passed in early June which featured Curtis Jordan, Kevin Smith, Positive, Prodigal Son, among others, persons have been looking forward to the next GIFTED event. Leader of the Church of God 7th Day in Sucker Garden, Pastor Joel Saban said, "If the music at the GLOW party is anything like the music from the Weekend of POWER, it is going to be great!"
GIFTED has taken their monthly praise parties to different communities around the island, including Dutch Quarter, French Quarter, and Philipsburg. The Sucker Garden edition has the theme "Double, Double". Patrons are encouraged to double up on any piece of apparel or accessory. The music entertainment will be provided by DJ Joshua DRJ Ferrol of DRJ Sounds and Radio Maranatha. There will also be live performances, prizes and surprises.
G.I.F.T.E.D. GLOW parties provide wholesome entertainment for youthful Christ-minded people with enjoyable company, great music, and good fun times. GLOW parties are held on the last Saturday of every month. At the end of a GIFTED party, each person is energized to Go Light Our World!

markruttetouringportofsxmfacility25072013POINT BLANCHE:--- Port of St. Maarten Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo says he is very pleased with the visit to the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facility by Dutch Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte and his delegation of business executives over the weekend.

"The Port of St. Maarten over the years has been nurturing a close working relationship with members of the Dutch Government. Various Ministers and other representatives of Ministries have visited the port and they have all been very impressed with the port operations and facilities that our country has developed. It is my priority to continue to nurture this positive relationship to the benefit of the port and the people of St. Maarten," CEO Mark Mingo said on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte and his entourage were given a tour of the port facilities before they sat down for a presentation and luncheon that covered past, present and future investments; cruise and cargo developments; Dutch heritage and historic ties and the Dutch Village; port security; real estate; the importance of the marine sector to the economy; and economic challenges.

During the tour emphasis was placed on the joint ventures that have been strategically negotiated with the cruise line partners, and CEO Mingo pointed out how important this was for the port and country.

Mingo also pointed out the strategic visionary investment decisions that were taken to accommodate Future Larger Vessels and now the further expansion plans for Pier II.

With respect to the cargo services and facilities, Mingo addressed how important training is of human resources to operate the cranes at the port, and was top of the agenda in order to continue to provide safe and efficient services where it concerns the off and on-loading of cargo vessels at international performance levels. Developments related to the opening of the Panama Canal were also touched upon.

Prime Minister Rutte was informed that current cargo business activities have stabilized, but the performance needs to be improved. The harbour group is looking at various options, such as additional shipping links, and from an infrastructure perspective, a breakwater and dredging of the cargo basin. The cargo software GLS that was a partnership with a Dutch company, was also explained to the Prime Minister.

The CEO explained to Prime Minister Rutte about the security mechanisms that the port has in place and how that facilitates the processing of passengers from the larger vessels. The Prime Minister was very impressed with how the port handles the large cruise ships and queried about the selling points of the country and why cruise passengers enjoy visiting the destination.

With respect to the harbour group of companies and its internal operations, CEO Mingo explained about the internal checks and balances such as the "umbrella" system that the port utilizes to audit its operations in order to ensure it is in line with good corporate governance.

CEO Mingo also brought into perspective the three Kingdom countries of Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten where it concerns cruise and cargo movements. Cruise tourism figures for 2012, Aruba 576,578; Curacao 436,068; St. Maarten 1,753,215. For cargo container movements (full imports) in 2012 Aruba 28,864; Curacao 49,877; and St. Maarten 39,300.

The Prime Minister was also informed about the long-term strategic planning in relation to real estate and property needed for future expansions in connection with the economic development of country St. Maarten. Mingo said there must always be room for expansion just as the ports of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Miami have done, adding that the acquisition of strategic properties is part of a strategic vision of the Harbour Group of Companies.

During the discussion about economic challenges, the Dutch Prime Minister was very critical and exchanged ideas on how to deal with challenges. CEO Mingo said they discussed the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten loan where the CEO explained that the Harbour Group saw this as a strategic opportunity to get a loan from the Bank at a lower interest rate which facilitated the Harbour Group of Companies in aligning its position to the benefit of the country.

Mingo added that part of the loan went to cover the construction of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway currently being constructed by a Dutch firm. The investment in the causeway was a strategic decision to safeguard accessibility to the Simpson Bay-Airport-Cupecoy area in the event of a malfunction of the Simpson Bay Bridge; but also to alleviate traffic congestion; and to also serve as a route when the time comes for the Bridge to be replaced.

Political stability was also discussed and the Prime Minister wanted to know if the political situation back in May and June impacted the Harbour Group of Companies in any manner. CEO Mingo stated that the harbour's strategic partners queried about the situation as well as other investment partners, so political stability is key in any modern democratic country.

Mingo and Rutte were both in agreement that a clear economic policy was necessary; they also discussed monopolies, unfair competition and the non-efficiency of the transportation of goods as potential threats to the Port of St. Maarten.

pwasstudentsinfrontofwinairaircraft25072013SIMPSON BAY:--- Students of the graduating class of the Prins Willem Alexander School (PWAS) were still flying high as they were treated just after their graduation to an aerial tour sponsored by the Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, and WINAIR.
Accompanying them on the flight were Jerome Gumbs of the Marketing & Customer Service Department, along with SXM interns Chiaria Bowers and Valeska Celestine. Those students who did not go on the flight were given a tour of the terminal building by Daphne Roberts (MCD).
Once the flight was over, the students were bused to SXM's Rescue & Fire Fighting Department where the firefighters already had hotdogs and hamburgers on the grill waiting for them. There the students also met Acting Manager of Marketing & Customer Service, Suzy Kartokromo, who gave them branded backpacks with supplies.
PWAS was adopted by SXM Airport in 2011 as part of the latter's educational outreach program.

smmc23082012CAY HILL:--- The Minister of Health and several members of the board of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) have raised concerns over the hiring of the hospital's new director Gersi Perreria. According to reliable information provided to SMN News, Perreria was employed at the Ljselmeerziekenhuizen. Several news articles found online stated that Perreria resigned after the scandal broke which involves corruption and mismanagement. According to the articles on the internet, the hospital that Perreria worked at had to close its doors because of mismanagement. The Ljselmeerziekenhuizen had a deficit that amounted to 7 million Euros in 2008 mainly because there were not sufficient patients. According to the articles, the hospital stated that they did not have confidence in Perreria.

The articles state that the hospitals were located in two small towns and they were not having enough patients. The Inspectorate of Health in the Netherlands also intervened and determined that the operating rooms were not sterile enough which could have caused infections. While all of this information is available online, the four members of the Supervisory Board of St. Maarten Medical Center did not conduct any background check prior to hiring the new director.

According to a reliable source, some members of the Supervisory Board did not want to hire Perreria because of the allegations and unsolved problems he has at Ljselmeerziekenhuizen in the Netherlands. SMN News also learned that the specialists of the St. Maarten Medical Center protested against the hiring of Perreria because of what took place at the institution in the past. However, other members of the supervisory board voted in favor of hiring Perreria as the new director of SMMC.

SMN News contacted Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever who is currently off island and he said that he is aware of the situation regarding the new director of the St. Maarten Medical Center. Minister De Weever did not divulge any information regarding the concerns except to say that he sent a letter to the chairman of the supervisory board expressing his concerns over the hiring of someone that has a questionable background.

It should be noted that the 2012 financials of SMMC showed that the medical institution suffered a huge loss of monies which cannot be accounted for. Efforts made to reach the Inspectorate of Health for a comment proved futile as Dr. Earl Best is currently on vacation.

marcelloor17032013France/St. Maarten:--- Former convicted head of immigration Marcel Loor is expected to appear in the Criminal Courts in Paris early next week. According to information provided to SMN News, Loor was caught last week Thursday morning at the Paris Charles du Gaulle Airport (ROISSY) with one kilo of cocaine. "To be exact Loor had 1.1 kilograms of cocaine in his possession when he was arrested." The disgraced cop left St. Maarten last Wednesday on an Air France flight to Paris; he arrived in at Paris Charles du Gaulle early Thursday morning where he was arrested when the illegal drug was found in his possession.

Law enforcement agents in Paris told SMN News that Loor will be taken before the judge to face charges of drug trafficking. "The investigation already determined that Loor will be tried as a comparution immédiate, where the case against him will be presented and sentencing will be pronounced immediately after the trial."

SMN News asked if the investigation determined whether or not Loor was part of a drug organization but that information was not released. "The only way to know that is to see what is presented to the Paris Criminal Court when the drug mule appears in court."

The disgraced cop can face a maximum of ten years in prison while he would have to pay a fine which could be as high as 75,000.00 Euros. However, his sentence and the amount of fine he has to pay will only be made known when he appears in court.

The prosecutors and customs (douane) in Paris will also take into consideration Loor's professional background as a former commissioner of police in the former Netherlands Antilles and they will also present his criminal records to the court to show that Marcel Loor is not only a drug mule but one that had abused his judicial powers while he was the head of the Immigration Department of the Police Force on St. Maarten. Marcel Loor was convicted for fraud, forgery, and money laundering. Recently, the Supreme Court upheld the decision of lower court and he now has to pay fine of approximately Naf. 900,000.00 for the crimes he and his partner committed while they were employed as law enforcement officers in the former Netherlands Antilles.

SMN News will bring you more information on the court proceedings next week when Marcel Loor appears in the Paris Criminal Court.

sbltournamentchampions25072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The 2013 Summer Basketball League Tournament came to a close on Friday, 19th July, 2013 at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium where the B-Class/Juniors the Grand Case Scorpions went up against the Down Street Clippers.
The Grand Case Scorpions entered as the 2012 defending champions of the B-Class, and the Grand Case Scorpions won the Championship in a repeat by a Score of 56 -48. The Most Valuable Player for the B-Class/Juniors Tournament is Jonathon Philips from the Scorpions team. In the A-Class/Seniors Division, the Sucker Garden Kings went up against the Marigot Warriors. The Sucker Garden Kings also repeat and became Champions again by a score of 65 - 72. The Most Valuable Player for the A-Class/Seniors Tournament is Steve Nacasia from the Sucker Garden Kings team.

Before the 2 championship games, a Female Basketball game and a Veterans game was held. The Females: The Grand Case Girl Thunders Basketball Club went up against the Lightning Girls Basketball Club. The Thunders Girls won the game by a score of 17 - 27. Veterans: The Bad Boyz went up against the Yellow Tales. The Bad Boyz won the game by a score of 24 - 23.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The fourth storm of the Atlantic hurricane season formed on Wednesday morning – Tropical Storm (TS) Dorian - in the Atlantic Ocean more than 2000 miles from the Eastern Caribbean island chain.

The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) will monitor the progress of TS Dorian which up to Wednesday morning was tracking West North West at a fast 21 miles per hour (mph). Maximum wind speeds at that time were 50 mph.

Based on historical records the 4th storm of the season normally forms by the third week of August. Residents are requested to monitor weather reports related to this system.

The Office of Disaster Management reiterates to the nation that they should have already completed storm/hurricane preparations for the 2013 season; for those who have yet to make preparations such as putting together a family plan on where you would ride out a storm in case your home is vulnerable to a storm/hurricane (wind, flooding, storm surge); to have a disaster supply kit containing items that you will need regardless of where you will ride out a storm/hurricane.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make the season a bad one.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will keep the country informed if there is a dramatic change in its course as this storm moves over the Atlantic Ocean.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

rotarysxmsunrisepaulharrisfellowrecipients24072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotarians Sidharth "Cookie" Bijlani & Prakash "Peter" Dialani is the most recent recipient of the Paul Harris Fellowship from The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise, Rtn. Cookie served as President for the year 2006-2007 and Rtn. Peter served for the year 2009-2010, among their accomplishments were donation of the Warm Bed for the Pediatric Ward of the Medical Center, Creation of a playground at the Emilio Wilson, launching of the successful Reading Program "Readers are Leaders", support to Haiti in the form of Shelter Boxes and the Big Kid Project, funding for St. Maarten Cultural Poster Project donated to all schools on the island, Donation to the University of St. Maarten towards it expansion plans, Youth mentoring with Victorious Living Foundation and Creation of a community Park in Belvedere, to name a few. Along with leading the Sunrise Rotary with its annual event and projects, their contribution as Presidents to the Rotary ideal has been a very positive part in motivating and continuing the work of Rotary.

The Paul Harris Fellow is an award given to those who have given $1000 dollars possibly over several years to the Rotary foundation or by a sponsor that has given the money in the recipient's name for extraordinary services rendered, It is one of the most prestigious awards in Rotary and thereby named after the founder of Rotary, Paul Harris who founded Rotary with three business associates in Chicago in 1905. The Fellowship was established in his honor in 1957 to expressed appreciation for a contribution to the humanitarian and educational programs of the Rotary Foundation, giving any sum of money to the Rotary Foundation makes you a part of the eradication of Polio, a partner in creating PEACE, a person who supports Clean Water and Sanitation where water is worth more than gold, it is measured in LIVES.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin sunrise meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise and Twitter: @RotarySunSXM

markruttewithpjiaemanagementatpjiaepresentation24072013SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, gave a PowerPoint presentation to visiting Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and members of his delegation shortly before their departure Saturday, which, according to managing director, Regina LaBega, was well-received.
"The Dutch Prime Minister showed keen interest in the facts and figures presented to him and his delegation and was quite impressed with developments at the airport," LaBega said.
Rutte was informed about the Moody's rating of Baa2 achieved last year by SXM, making it the first company on St. Maarten to be so rated by a world-renowned financial institution. He was also briefed about the Capital Improvement Program of the airport, which is being financed with part of the US$132 million bond issue SXM successfully floated last year.
Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, Clarence Derby, was in attendance during the presentation.
In earlier separate meetings, LaBega had discussed SXM's vision of establishing a training center for the region at the airport. The idea was met with much enthusiasm by Mr. Van Brakel, director of De Braak, a Dutch firm which counts Schiphol Management as one of its clients and which also has experience working in Curacao. Van Brakel is expected to draft a proposal to this end for consideration by SXM.
"We also met with Mr. Lubberhuizen, Director of the company, Structon, who was among the delegates that attended the SXM presentation," LaBega said.
The SXM team included Director of Operations, Larry Donker, Special Projects Coordinator, Robert Brown, Corporate Communications Specialist Kalifa Hickinson,acting Manager, Marketing and Customer Service Department, Suzy Kartokromo, Legal Counsel, Sandy Offringa, and Max Schakel of Special Projects.

wtncabledonatestosafehaven24072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Caribbean Cable & Telecommunication Association in St. Thomas has accepted the nomination from their member, WTN Cable to provide funds for Safe Haven in St. Maarten from their CCTA 2013 Community Charities Program.
WTN Cable feels that it is time to lead our community business associates to come forward and stick out their helping hand to Safe Haven. We need continuous support for Safe Haven and the good work which they are doing.

A BIG THANK YOU TO CCTA.

nfsnorkelclubduringdivinglesson24072013COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation Snorkel Club kicked recently with an introductory session of approximately fifteen kids at the Nature Foundation offices in Cole Bay. The Foundation holds its yearly after school activity/ vacation summer camp program for children ages eight to twelve were children are exposed to the ocean and marine environments. Children are taught how to Snorkel, given an introduction to Scuba Diving, given Information about marine life and are though basic seamanship skills. The program runs for ten lessons and was made possible through the assistance of Isle de Sol/ IGY Marinas, the Scuba Shop, Island Water World and TJ Maxx. This year the Nature Foundation also hosted various adults as part of their Snorkel Club Program.

swescotwilliamsatvksfoundationdeedsigning24072013"The Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten Continues to be an Institution in Evolution"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams oversaw the signing of the deed of the newly established VKS Foundation at the SPS Notarial Office at the Speetjens Arcade on Friday. The PM, under whose authority the VKS falls, congratulated the organization for now officially establishing a Foundation and stated that she looked forward to a broadening of the organization now that the VKS Foundation had been officially established.

Previously the PM also congratulated the VKS on their sixteenth anniversary year, during which the VKS Foundation was established. "Clearly the Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten continues to be an institution in evolution: continuously moving forward and adopting new tasks and also introducing new members into your ranks. Every year it is good to stand still for just a moment and recognize your service to this community as well as to contemplate as you move forward. So as we recognize promotions and service it is also a fact that as VKS officers you are acting as role models in the community of St. Maarten. Contributing to the VKS is contributing to the community of St. Maarten and as we look towards a settlement of a Marine Base later this year I myself look forward to seeing a broadening out of your tasks and supporting the community of St. Maarten and building this country block by block and step by step," commented the Prime Minister.

The Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten (VKS) is a paramilitary organization that conducts emergency services, protects the population and conducts law enforcement services. The Board Members of the VKS Foundation are Antonio Rogers, Taco Stein, Emilia Thomas, Patrick Wokke and Franklyn Richards.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

pjiaepersonnelafterfodwalk24072013SIMPSON BAY:--- Following a review of the activities held to mark Foreign Objects and Debris (FOD) Month at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) last month, organizers have concluded that the event was a "huge success".

About 350 people attended the FOD information sessions and did a written examination about the presentations, while almost 100 people participated in the FOD Walk. "Although this figure was a bit less than last year, we were still very pleased with the turnout, said Michel Hyman, Operations Manager at SXM.

"The various stakeholders ensured that "all hands" participated in the FOD "walk down." Participants ranged from flight crews, mechanics, bus operators, fuel agents, cargo handlers, counter/gate agents, security officers, airlines and handlers managers/representatives, and the PJIAE Operations Team consisting of Emile Levons, Franklin Wilson, Edmund Missoudan, and Z'haria Richardson."

About 103 lbs of FOD was collected which was 25 lbs less than the preceding year. "The less FOD we collect each successive year, the better," said Hyman. "It is an indication that progress is being made in terms of fewer FODs at the airport."

The participants stood shoulder to shoulder at the east general aviation ramp (foxtrot) and walked down toward the west covering the taxiways, runway safety area, main apron and commuter apron.

The group walked at a slow pace with eyes focused on the pavement and grass areas – bending over whenever necessary to pick up a piece of FOD. The items were collected into FOD bags and then analyzed to identify problems and process breakdowns.

"For example, if tools or objects were found, the item is traced to the specific responsible party with whom the matter would be discussed for better accountability. This helps to prevent incidents that could eventually lead to accidents," Hyman explained.

Continuous safety training, regular safety meetings and distribution of safety information/bulletins, etc, are among the ongoing program at SXM to reduce FOD. The international airport is also making a substantial investment in a new TYMCO (model 600) Regenerative Air Sweeper to assist the Operations Department in keeping the aprons clear of debris.

The FOD walk down is common at most, if not all airports. It gives everyone the opportunity to focus on the objective of the activity and also strengthens the commitment to the motto: "Safety is everyone's responsibility regardless of rank or position."

"At SXM, we continue to instill in our staff that the very first order of business everyday is to conduct a FOD walk down of aircraft stands prior to and after aircraft handling at the gates," said Hyman.

"We will start the awareness activities as early as February next year, thus enabling all staff from the various stakeholders to attend and participate in the scheduled activities. We will also use environmentally friendly bags during the FOD walk down," Hyman said, with respect to next year's FOD Month.

newkpsmofficerswithkpsmmanagement24072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Several dignitaries including the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams, President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, MP Johan Janchi Leornard, Minister of Education Patricia Laurens, Secretary General from the Ministry of Justice Richard Panneflek, outgoing Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, and Head of Customs Anthony Doran joined the management team of KPSM and Acting Minister of Justice Martin Hassink at the first graduation ceremony for BPO cadets on Wednesday morning. The management team of KPSM decorated the front of the Philipsburg Police Station and placed large tents outside where the graduation ceremony was held. Eleven out of the twelve cadets that graduated on Wednesday immediately took the oath in the presence of Acting Minister of Justice Martin Hassink while Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte congratulated them as he welcomed them into the organization as police officers.

Head of the School of Police Science Conchita Alvarez presented the diplomas to the cadets who took part in a parade to open the ceremony. Alvarez in her address to the cadets and their relatives said that the idea for the project was conceived three years ago and it is her opinion that they achieved a great result. "All parties have put resources, energy, effort and sometimes a lot of hard work in the training of the young police officers. Every community deserves a well trained police force and I am convinced that the graduates have the knowledge, skills, and attitude needed for good police work. I really hope that KPSM will succeed in merging the new skills and capacity of the young cadets."

Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte thanked the three teachers who taught the cadets and expressed profound gratitude to Commissioner of Police Carl John and Inspector of Police Keturah Brown who acted as the coaches for the cadets while in training. De Witte said its been three years now since St. Maarten became a country within Kingdom of The Netherlands and one of his goals is to develop a professional police force by providing the necessary training. He said St. Maarten was successful in providing the training due to excellent cooperation between the Police Force of Bonaire and the Dutch Police Academy. The top cop said 80% of the training took place on the island while the other 20% took place in Bonaire.

De Witte extended congratulations to the cadets who managed to finish the first part of the Basic Police Training (BPO) especially because the training the new cadets received was much more challenging compared to the old program, therefore it is fitting to highly compliment them for their achievements. In addressing the cadets, De Witte told them that they have learned the theoretical part of the program now they have to express what they learned through practice in order to protect the community, its visitors, and the fight against crime. The top cop said just last week he was engaged in some discussions to have the police academy continue the program they started with the BPO. The other part of the program will last between one year to 18 months but first KPSM has to get the quotation on what it would cost them for the continuation of the program.

Commissioner of Police Carl John in his closing remarks said that St. Maarten now has more experience in cooperating with other islands of the former Netherlands Antilles. He made no mistake by stating that he is extremely proud to be a member of KPSM. "The only reason this is possible is because St. Maarten cooperated with other entities on the island. He said for the BPO training program USONA stood 100% beside them, while the Justice Ministry was prepared to face the challenges that stood before them when the island obtained its new status on October 10th, 2010." John said when the project was presented to them they scrutinized it heavily in order to produce quality police officers for the island. John explained that for a period of two years there were people in the upper ranks who made them understand that there are better ways of doing things despite the culture on St. Maarten and they were able to do different things in different ways. John also gave the teachers credit for their work, especially one of them who stood as a father figure for the cadets. "In many speeches I have heard that St. Maarten will be thrown in the waters and they will have to learn how to swim. I want to recognize the fact that after the planning I realized that St. Maarten has talent so I took one of the most experienced inspectors of the force to coach the new cadets. The coach, Keturah Brown, did an incredible job." While addressing the students he told them that he was involved in their school now he has the opportunity to guide them. "You were not compelled to choose the profession to become a police officer, but now that you have chosen it you are obligated to perform the duties of a police officer, while living in the high standards of life that comes with the job. Some of the requirements are for you to serve your community, be an example in your community, and if you do not form a partnership with the community you will be misunderstood, you will be criticized, and most of all you will be put on the dishonest way." John told the new officers that policing demands a noble character, courage, and loyalty. "Loyalty to the organization and loyalty to the community of St. Maarten," with that he presented a token to the cadets that they are to take along with them and use it as they carry the message of hope for KPSM.

Click here to view more photos of the graduation ceremony on Wednesday morning.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Council of Ministers approved the downsized budget for the year 2013 on Tuesday during their weekly Council of Ministers' meeting, announced Minister of Finance Martin Hassink during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday. Minister Hassink said St. Maarten had to reduce its 2013 budget by 30 million guilders. He said his Ministry replaced that with other income that amounts to 17 million guilders. He further stated that the 2013 budget now stands at 440 million guilders.

Minister Hassink said that all Ministers in the Council of Ministers play a role in the preparation of the budget and it is not the Minister of Finance that has sole responsibility. He said the Ministry of Finance basically plays a facilitating role. He explained that they already met with the CFT but the new draft budget now has to go to the Council of Advice. The Minister of Finance said that he is hopeful that the process for the 2013 budget could be finalized by the end of August since it also has to go back to Parliament after the Council of Advice reviews it and sends their comments to him. He said he wants to be able to spend his time preparing the 2014 budget which has to be submitted by October 2013 to the CFT.

Minister Hassink said that he also submitted the financial statements for 2010 and 2011 to the General Audit Chamber and when they approve it then that too could be handled by the end of August or early September. Minister Hassink also announced that he met with the Minister of Finance of Curacao to discuss the division of assets and liabilities. The Finance Minister said the Ministry of Finance is responsible for 80% of Government's income and they are busy working on a plan to ensure that the incoming revenues of Government stays intact while they are also working on a plan to increase compliance on St. Maarten. One of the things that is necessary is the reorganization of the tax system.

MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmes are busy looking for the suspects that robbed a woman in the Concordia area Tuesday evening. According to reports reaching SMN News, a woman was robbed of her personal belongings. The attackers who managed to escape from law enforcement officers used excessive violence during the robbery.
Captain of the Gendarmerie, Sylvain Jouault confirmed the incident. The Captain of the Gendarmerie also said that an investigation has been launched and it is ongoing.

shootingfillin11102012THE VALLEY, Anguilla:--- Seven persons are now in the hospital in Anguilla injured by gunshots. According to information reaching SMN News, a drive-by shooting took place after 10pm Monday night in the Blowing Point area leaving seven injured. "The shooters used machine guns to fire shots at people who were standing in the area." One of the seven persons had to be flown out of Anguilla for further medical treatment. SMN News learnt that the victim who was flown out received a bullet to his head.

Up to press time on Tuesday Anguilla's Commissioner of Police, Rudolph Proctor did not release any information on the shooting. The shooting came one day after police and other law enforcement officers seized 31 bales of cocaine which has an estimated street value of USD 25 million. The cocaine was seized during a joint operation conducted between the Royal Anguilla Police Force and the Criminal Investigation Department. During the drug bust some three persons from the Dominican Republic were arrested while guns and ammunition were also seized.

reginalabegameetswithmaxsmits23072013SIMPSON BAY:--- Following a meeting between the managing director of Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, Ms. Regina LaBega and Air France/KLM representative, Mr. Max Smits Friday, July 19, 2013, KLM will look into the possibility of filling the gap that would be left when Air France reduces its number of flights to SXM during the low season.
The issue was tabled by Ms. LaBega who requested that KLM fill this vacuum to ensure a daily transatlantic flight to Europe from the island. Smits said the reduction bore a similarity with flights operating to CUBA and agreed to look into the request to ensure a daily flight during the low season to SXM.
Smits further elaborated on the booking classes, yield management and expressed his concern with regards to the imbalance in promotions for Air France/KLM on St. Maarten/Saint Martin. He said he will try to ensure a dual promotion from both halves of the island.
According to Smits, KLM is encouraging e-ticketing which is now operational in Curacao and Bonaire. He further elaborated on Aruba's ongoing efforts to implement European pre-clearance at their station.
The Air France/KLM representative also disclosed that KLM is to introduce a new business class seating on its B747 equipment. He also said the airline will soon receive new EMBRAER aircrafts, 3 years earlier than expected.
"The meeting was very productive and we're looking forward to some concrete follow up that would yield mutually beneficial results," said LaBega.

armedrobberyfillin13082012ST. PETERS:--- On Monday July 22nd at approximately 8:05pm, police patrols were sent to Sint Peter's road where shortly before the Sint Peters Supermarket and Ho Supermarket were both robbed at gunpoint by at least two unknown men. Both men were dressed in dark clothing and wearing masks over their faces. One of these men was carrying a firearm and threatened the employees while robbing the establishments. After committing this act, both suspects fled the scene on foot. The Special Robbery Unit is investigating.

markruttemeetswithsxmparliamentfactionleaders23072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell stated on Monday that the meeting between the faction leaders of parliament and the Dutch Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte centered on business promotion and trade, public safety, security and the visa policy of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting took place in the Conference room at the House of Parliament last week Thursday. The President of Parliament first welcomed the Prime Minister and then gave a synopsis of the state of affairs with respect to Parliament.

The faction leaders present for the working visit of the Dutch Prime Minister were Democratic Party (DP) Faction Leader Hon. Roy Marlin and United People's (UP) party Interim Faction Leader Hon. Sylvia Meyers.

Issues' pertaining to public safety and security especially during the high tourist season was discussed, as well as the visa policy of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and how this is impacting Sint Maarten.

Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Roy Marlin requested special attention and once again underscored the need for a more flexible approach for Sint Maarten where visas are concerned.

Business travelers and tourist from Colombia and the Dominican Republic, who already possess a United States of America Visa, is still subject to get a visa from the Dutch Embassy to visit Sint Maarten.

The MPs asked Prime Minister Rutte to consider exempting these categories of travelers from obtaining a visa from the Dutch Embassy to visit Sint Maarten.

The MPs feel that a more practical policy needs to be put in place that enhances tourism and business travelers from these two countries, and according to the President of Parliament Arrindell, the Prime Minister was not unreceptive to the proposals made and suggested the necessary follow-up be made with the relevant Ministries.

"At the end of the visit to Parliament, Prime Minister Rutte signed the guest book and he and his entourage were given a tour of the House. He was especially impressed with the view from the office of the President overlooking Great Bay and the General Assembly Chamber of the House," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

utsdonatestoscf23072013PHILIPSBURG:--- With a donation of $4000 UTS has pledged its support of the Saba Cultural Foundation in its endeavor to stage the 2013 carnival festivities on the island of Saba. "UTS is a steady yearly contributor towards Carnival in Saba, and we are happy to support the foundation again" says UTS Marketing & Communication Officer Ivy Lambert. President of the Saba Cultural Foundation, Mr. Dave Levenstone expressed his thanks by saying: "On behalf of my fellow board members we would hereby like to thank Chippie/UTS for their continued support and cooperation towards Saba Carnival 2013. Chippie from its inception has always played a very important part in our carnival." The Saba Carnival festivities kicked off on July 22nd and continue throughout the week with various events. The celebrations end with the Last Lap parade on Sunday, July 28th.

UTS Press Release

SPECTACULAR BACK TO SCHOOL CAMPAIGN AT SELECTED PARTNERS

PHILIPSBURG:--- Fun Miles, the Caribbean's biggest free saving and redemption program, presents a back to school campaign that is as straightforward as it is spectacular: until August 30, cardholders will receive double Fun Miles at Divico Cash & Carry, Keijzer Computers, Penny's Department Store, and OMNI, as well as with all WIB Bankomatiko Smart card purchases. For existing and new cardholders, the doubled rewards are a tremendous incentive to shop at these partners.

ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF FUN MILES TWICE AS FAST
Suppose that a cardholder would shop for 175 Guilders at Penny's Department Store, he or she would normally receive 70 Fun Miles. During this summer campaign, this becomes 140 Fun Miles. If the Fun Miles member would make this purchase using a registered WIB Bankomatiko Smart card, he or she would also receive an extra 35 Fun Miles. This becomes 70 Fun Miles, leading to a total reward of 210 Fun Miles, which can be redeemed for not one, but two ice-cream cones at McDonald's, just to provide an example.

WHICH PARTNERS OFFER WHICH REWARDS?
Cardholders will receive double Fun Miles with all their purchases at Divico Cash & Carry, Keijzer Computers, and Penny's Department Store. They will also receive double Fun Miles with purchase of a Panasonic inverter airco at OMNI, and, as mentioned above, with all WIB Bankomatiko Smart card purchases. As this school year kicks off, Fun Miles and these partners make it twice as easy to bring fun within your reach.

pjiaeaistraininginstructorsandgraduates23072013SXM A Step Closer to Having its Own AIS Office

SIMPSON BAY:--- All five Flight Information Officers who participated in the six-week Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) and Aerodrome Flight Information Services (AFIS) training successfully completed the course at the end of June and have now made SXM Airport equipped to establish its own AIS Office.

Deshawn York had the highest score and passed with 100 percent on the AIS exam. He wasn't the only one to record a perfect score: Veronica John also scored 100 percent on the (AFIS) Exam.

The five members of the SXM Air Traffic Services team are no longer just Flight Information Officers, but now qualified AIS personnel. They are: Tamisha David, Deshawn York, Veronica John, Bruce Barry, and Cami Artsen.

Within the six-week period, they completed seven modules: Aviation Legislation, Navigation, Meteorology, AIS, AFIS, ATM, and Aerodromes.

This is the first internationally recognized training to be conducted in St. Maarten that is also endorsed by the Department of Civil Aviation in St. Maarten, ATS officials said.

Procedural Control Department manager Gregory Hassell noted that the goal is not only to establish an AIS Office at SXM but also a Training Academy. He said the academy would be a great cost-cutting measure that would have a positive economic impact on both the airport and the island. According to Hassell, these five staffers and their three instructors represent "continued progress in establishing an ATS Academy in St. Maarten."

Hassell also stated that all staff at ATS will be upgraded and trained in the latest developments in Air Traffic Services. He revealed that 99.9% of employees are certified.

The training was conducted by three recently qualified SXM Air Traffic Service instructors, Duncan van Heyningen, Philmore Watson, and Reynaldo Richardson, who administered the course under the guidance of ICAO Qualified Sr. Consultant Gabriel Virlan. "The instructors prepared the curriculum and training on their own," Hassell said.

During the ceremony, Watson, Van Heyningen and Richardson were recognized for their continued service to ATS Division at SXM. "All instructors did well," Hassell said.

Hassell disclosed that ATS intends to work extensively with Virlan in the near future.

Virlan congratulated the five staffers for successfully completing the rigorous training and commended the SXM instructors, saying "they did their job perfectly."

Radar Control manager Lloyd Hinds congratulated the staffers as well, noting that they did a "very good job." He encouraged the team to maintain the highest level of quality regarding their work and noted that the completion of the training "is just the beginning."

Duncan van Heyningen addressed the group and congratulated the team for its hard work and for helping to grow air traffic services. "We work as a team," he said, and thanked Virlan for sharing his vast knowledge.

"This is, indeed, another important step forward for SXM, and I wish to congratulate the course participants, their instructors and everyone involved in the training," said SXM managing director Regina LaBega.

sxmtoastmastersexecofficers23072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Toastmasters Club executive officers on both sides of the island were given a four hours long training.
On Wednesday July 17, 2013 twenty Toastmasters Club officers attended the first round of club officers training for the new term at the UTS Training and Development Center.
The main objective of the training was to assist each officer to clearly understand their roles and responsibilities. At the end of the training the officers should have the necessary tools and knowledge to plan and set personal and club goals in their quest to reach success at the end of their term.
"Providing effective training for club officers is one of the most critical parts of the district's mission. Area Governors are given the mandate to plan and execute this Training. Without being properly trained, officers and clubs cannot meet members' needs or introduce the benefits of Toastmasters to others. This is why two specific training events are provided yearly by each district, one in July as an orientation, and the other in February as a "follow up" explained Area Governor Malcolm Jacques.
Club officers were given detailed information on their roles and responsibilities. Offices were also trained in leadership skills such as motivating others, coaching team members, and delegating tasks among others.
District 81 Lieutenant Governor of Education and Training, Valarie Brazier DTM, presented a session on Distinguish Club Program (DCP) and The Area Governor for Area 24, Malcolm Jacques, presented the session on the roles and responsibilities of the club officers. The Training was very interactive and met all if its objectives. Also in attendance was Distinguish Toastmaster Rolande Tobias who offered his expertise during the training.

PHILIPSBURG/MARIGOT:--- HIV & AIDS Project Officer Margje Troost and lead physician on HIV & AIDS/ St. Maarten AIDS Foundation President Dr. Gerard van Osch met with delegations from French St. Martin, Guadeloupe, and Anguilla at the French side Hospital L.C. Fleming last week Monday, July 15th. Participants included Doctors, healthcare specialists, civil servants, and INTERREG Representatives. The meeting was held to evaluate the project entitled the "Development of an inter-Caribbean HIV observatory" and come up with ideas for new projects. These new projects will be based on the needs of the various Caribbean islands in order to strengthen the collaborated response to the HIV epidemic in the Caribbean region.
The project is an initiative extended by the European Regional Development Fund via the INTERREG IV Programme with the overall objective to enhance cooperation and build regional evidence on the viriological strains of HIV in order to equip and prepare countries with the knowledge, skills and systems to respond to patient's needs. Discussions on future cooperation were very fruitful and a proposal is being developed.
It is important to recognize the collaboration with the French Government, our French colleagues and physicians such as Dr. Clavel and Dr. Stegmann as well as Lepers Laboratory in the Interreg program. Through this program the Dutch side has been able to do free genotyping tests as well as CD4 and Viral load tests for both the insured and uninsured persons. The project also gives valuable (anonymous) information about resistance to certain medications which is beginning to circulate on the island.
As St. Maarten and St. Martin continue to strengthen ties with each other and neighbouring islands, the work that has been achieved thus far should be acknowledged. Currently, St. Maarten and St. Martin are able to accommodate and provide treatment for HIV patients, have seen a tremendous increase in the amount of people getting tested, have teamed up with AIDES to do joint testing days, we have managed to increase the number of patients that are receiving state of the art information on their virological strains in order to tailor treatment, and we are working with NADIS which is a highly protected, confidential, joint surveillance system used to monitor the HIV epidemic on both sides of the island.
NADIS has allowed St. Maarten and St. Martin to produce more accurate HIV data which is extracted anonymously without the names of the patients and then used for surveillance and planning purposes. Storing information on one unique database has allowed closer relations to form by sharing HIV data which can only be accessed by very few physicians. The sharing of knowledge allows doctors from both sides to provide an excellent continuum of care as it is known that patients often seek healthcare on both sides. The recent visit by Dr. Ward Schrooten, the PAHO expert on ICT and surveillance systems, helped strengthen the collaborative efforts between St. Maarten and St. Martin by aiding Dr. Van Osch with the extraction of data from the extensive anonymous HIV database which has been compiled by Dr. van Osch over the years. This extracted data will be used by the Dutch and French side to develop collaborative reports which will highlight the HIV epidemic on St. Maarten and St. Martin as a whole rather than two separate countries.

pjiaeroundaboutwithbronzepelicans-artistsimpression22072013SIMPSON BAY:--- Three bronze sculptures of the "National Bird," the Brown Pelican, will adorn the roundabout at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), when the infrastructural works are completed by October 1, 2013.

The works, which will be carried out in four phases, began on June 19, 2013. Phase 1 is the construction of the roundabout itself that will be finished by the end of August. This includes the erection of the concrete walls and installation of the pavement.

The installation of the lighted SXM signs will constitute the second phase while in the third phase, the bronze sculptures of the pelicans, being made by famed sculptor, Mike Maghiro, will be erected. The final phase is the greenery to beautify the whole roundabout.

When finished, the roundabout, which is being fully financed by SXM, will be turned over to the government of St. Maarten as a contribution from the airport as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations.

PHILIPSBURG/MARIGOT:--- Innovative Strategic Concepts (INSCO) is proud to announce that they have partnered with Marketing Solutions in launching SXM Girl's Night Out(SXMGNO).
On Saturday, August 3rd from 5PM to Midnight, SXM Girls Night Out will be a one-of-a-kind event on the island and in this region solely focused on women. It is a fun-filled seven-hour shopping event where women will relax and unwind over SXM GNO signature cocktails, mini-massages and mini-makeovers while hunting for EXCLUSIVE ONE-NIGHT-ONLY DEALS as local businesses showcase their latest or best-selling products or services. It will be the ideal fun night out for women that will feature a SILENT AUCTION, so women will be Shopping For A Cause!
According to Bernadette Davis, one of the organizers, "Women today are a rising economic powerhouse. This is significant information for companies positioning products and services to a female audience. According to recent research conducted, women have been identified as "the Third Billion," meaning that internationally women are the next emerging economy, the Sheconomy."
The SXM woman and the rest of the Caribbean is an important market that is overlooked.
What woman would not enjoy a fun night out with her BFFs Shopping for exclusive deals, discovering new products and trends and being pampered all while sipping delicious cocktails?

EVENT OBJECTIVES & GOALS

• To connect businesses that cater to women to their target market
• To promote and create additional avenues for sales for local businesses that cater to women
• To create a bi-annual revenue/membership producing event for local businesses and organizations that women enjoy
• To create a bi-annual event for women where they relax, unwind, shop, network, and get pampered
• To create a membership opportunity that will generate ongoing revenue through ongoing promotional opportunities to keep local businesses in touch with this influential target market
• To provide customers with a positive brand experience.

Tickets are available at various outlets: Van Dorp, La Voix radio station, SOS Radio & Youth radio.
In addition, for those women who thinks one night is not enough, we offer a Week-End Get Away for $495.00 per person, double occupancy.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon is advising the country's economic mainstay, the tourism sector and business community, to review hurricane preparation plans since we are approaching the most active period of the 2013 hurricane season which runs from August 15 and through October 15.

The tourism sector, business community and also residents are advised to pay keen attention to weather reports with special focus on the Eastern Atlantic Ocean where tropical weather systems that form off the African Coast (Cape Verde Islands) can become a serious threat to the Eastern Caribbean island chain.

At this stage of the hurricane season, tourism-oriented businesses should be prepared. The prevention of the loss of life of our visitors and staff along with protecting property from damage is the responsibility of every business owner.

The engine of the economy is every single business operation on the island. Each one plays a very important role in the island's tourism-oriented service economy.

As the Office of Disaster Management annual theme says, "It only takes one!" Now is the time for business community in its entirety as well as residents to review what preparations are in place, and not when a storm is about to hit.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell would like to congratulate local teens David Colas and Chantal Richardson who have been recognized by Soca Awards 2013 for their musical talent.

The two are among finalists for Caribbean Pop/Rap/Hip-Hop Song of the Year.

Colas and Richardson are graduates of Milton Peters College. They were able to write a song together titled "Let You Know."

Anyone who wants to support "Let You Know" in the contest can visit the official website: www.socaawards.com/vote.html Their nomination is in Category 31. The two young artist hopes to get enough votes to win the contest.

"I was very pleased to read that another group of young people are doing well and reaching for the stars. The music branch is not easy as they contested in a newspaper article on Monday while they were working on writing and producing their song with third parties.

"Connecting talented and disciplined young artist with the right attitude, with international producers and talent hunters, goes a long way in helping young artists to breakthrough internationally.

"I would like to wish Colas and Richardson much success and I call on the country to support these two young people by visiting the Soca Awards website and voting for them.

"When we see our young people progress we must support them when they ask for our support. This support from the community goes a long way and gives them a boost with respect to their further endeavours," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday.

The video can be seen on Colas YouTube channel: "Official Kullus."

mauricelakemarketinthepark22072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says he has already had a preliminary study drafted by Lievense with respect to a 'Market in the Park' and an area for 'Multi-purpose Development."

The 'Market in the Park' entails the creation of a central marketplace comprising of local arts and crafts, a culinary restaurant where the training of hospitality students can continue to take place, a fresh produce market of agriculture, fish and fruits, and a food court for vendors opposite the John Larmonie Center.

"As I stated before, the establishment of a Sint Maarten Organic Market in a centrally located area where produce can be sold is now becoming more of a reality as a location has been found along the Ring Road.

"At the same time we are bringing the food trucks that are located in an ad-hoc manner all over to one central area and the same can be said about the food stalls that sell provisions. More organization is being brought into play," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

The remaining area adjacent to the marketplace would be a multi-purpose area that would house the following local institutions after the Air Lekkerbek Restaurant: Chamber of Commerce & Industry, General Pension Fund St. Maarten, St. Maarten Small Business Development Foundation, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, Multi-purpose Building, Arts & Crafts and the Market in the Park.

"The approach is about taking care of our own by putting things in place where our children can also do business in the future. The allocation of land to the different organizations that serve our community is essential where it concerns accessibility and easy to do business.

"We need to start thinking country and putting a structure in place for the future instead of just focusing on self. This entire project places prime emphasis on institutions that serve the community and some of them have done so for many years.

"I respect the previous decisions made by others in government, but I will make decisions that are in the best interest of the people and the country and for the next generation," Minister Maurice Lake pointed out on Monday.

sermeetswithdutchdelegation22072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Social Economic Council (SER), hosted a delegation of three persons who were part of the Dutch trade mission on Saturday, July 20, 2013. SER chairman, René A. Richardson welcomed the Director-General for Foreign Economic Relationships at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Simon Smits, chairman of MKB, the Dutch organization for medium and small enterprises, Mr. Hans Biesheuvel and Mrs. Marije Feersma-Hoekstra, senior policy advisor of the Representative of the Netherlands on Curacao.
The visit of the Dutch delegation to the SER, served mainly as a familiarization visit to the council. The SER chairman, gave an outline of the workings of the advisory body and highlighted the achievements over the past two years. Secretary-general Gerard Richardson outlined some of the future projects of the SER and summarized the recently submitted draft law AOV advice. The delegation members were interested to know in what areas SER contributed to Sint Maarten society. The SER council members expressed their views on this matter and focused mainly on the cooperation between businesses, government and labor unions. Topics such as the economy, education, crime, (youth) unemployment, pension schemes and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) were also discussed.
Senior policy advisor of the SER, drs. Arjen Alberts provided the guests with a presentation on its symposium theme Corporate Social Responsibility. The delegation members shared their views on the topic and comparisons were drawn with the other nations where CSR is becoming a more integral part of the operations of the companies.

In conclusion all parties agreed that the best way forward for businesses, is to accept some sort responsibility for the social challenges faced in the community. This rule can be applied worldwide in these challenging economic times.

pjiaemanagementwithsahaboard22072013SIMPSON BAY:--- The Managing Director of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), Regina LaBega, earlier this week received the newly elected president of the St. Maarten Aviation Handlers Association (SAHA), Walter Borel.

Borel was accompanied by new SAHA board members Francois Boasman, operations manager at Halley Aviation Services (vice president); Anne Beck, station manager of US Airways (treasurer), and Shelliann Ramchandani, supervisor at JetBlue (secretary).

"The meeting was very cordial. We dealt with several matters of mutual interest and agreed to structure our regular meetings to make them much more productive," said LaBega.

"Congratulations to the new SAHA board and we at SXM are looking forward to a continued positive, constructive and mutually beneficial working relationship with SAHA," LaBega said.

pwasgraduates22072013SIMPSON BAY:--- There were lots of smiling faces as the proud students of the Prins Willem Alexander School (PWAS) recently posed with their certificates, and SXM, having adopted the school one year ago, was present in full force to support the students.

The SXM Airport also surprised two deserving students, Willem Labardy and Juan Carlo Galva, at the graduation ceremony with the news that they will be receiving complementary uniforms for the coming school year – courtesy of SXM.

Twenty-two students received certificates at the Prins Willem Alexander School graduation, thus signaling the end of one chapter in their lives and the beginning of a new one.

Master of Ceremonies was Jerome Gumbs, the newest member of the Marketing & Customer Service Department at SXM, who kept the crowd engaged. The decoration for the ceremony and refreshments were also courtesy of SXM.

The keynote address was delivered by Dionsse Carti, a former pupil of the school who went on to St. Maarten Academy after graduating, and will be attending the University of the Virgin Islands to study mechanical engineering. He is a living testament that the students at PWAS can truly be anything they want to be.

Carti encouraged the students to follow their dreams and "Don't give up. ... I won't," he said.

The ceremony was moving and really highlighted how special each and every student is at PWAS.

Robert Brown, special projects coordinator at SXM addressed the students on behalf of SXM Managing Director, Regina LaBega, who was unable to attend. In his brief address, Brown said he was moved by emotions of joy and pride throughout the ceremony and encouraged the students to keep their eyes on the prize.

"If you focus on your education, you can achieve anything," he said.

The program included the song "Lean on Me" by students of class AO 5/6, a moving dance rendition by a member of the Voices of Our Children, a poem by graduating student, Trisha Isaac, and a song by the graduating class.

In addition to their certificates, students of the graduating class were recognized for their attendance and for most improved. This was the first year students at PWAS participated in the traffic exam, which is administered yearly at elementary schools throughout St. Maarten. Four proud members of the graduating class who took and passed the traffic exam were honored during the ceremony. The atmosphere was jovial and the theme "hold on to your dreams" echoed throughout.

GREAT BAY:--- On July 12th 2013 a first audit of its kind was carried out at the Ambulance Department by the Inspectorate of Public Health who is responsible for the supervision of health care institutions including the Ambulance Department to safeguard the quality of care of the general population.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever wants to make it clear that the Inspectorate has to do their job and the Ambulance has to comply and work together to ensure the highest possible standard of care to the population of St. Maarten.
Based on some inconsistencies observed and the fact that the Ambulance Department did not have a medical advisor forming part of its team to supervise the medical actions of the ambulance nurses, the inspectorate of public health in anticipation of the inspection report considers it necessary to immediately take the following measure to prohibit execution of four reserved procedures being carried out by the ambulance nurses in absence of having a medical advisor on the team. The medical doctor plays a key role in the supervision and supervision possibilities of the nurse.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever upon being notified of the audit immediately called an emergency meeting with Secretary General Jorien Wuite and Ambulance Department Head Cylred Richardson, to discuss matters further. "We have been able to secure a medical advisor for the department, as a means to bring operations up to par at the Ambulance Department," said Minister De Weever.
The Ambulance Department to date has complied with the measure and the pre-condition set by the Inspectorate by presenting a plan of approach to strengthen the ambulance care and has also acquired the services of a medical doctor on the team as medical advisor.
On the basis of the plan of approach that was presented (plan van aanpak versterking ambulancezorg) including that of a medical advisor who will be able to check the ability of the ambulance personnel to perform restricted actions by testing and to ensure, the inspectorate has withdrawn three of its previous imposed measure.
Furthermore, a training plan to perform restricted actions by the ambulance nurses has been put in place for execution during this week in which the ambulance nurses will be tested on their ability to execute restricted actions in collaboration with a training coordinator and the medical advisor.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section Youth Health Care, part of Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, in collaboration with the Department of Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs and Women's Desk, are busy organizing the 3rd Annual Pregnancy Market on August 7.

Organizations and businesses who would like to take part are being asked to register before Friday, July 26.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, encourages organizations and businesses to sign-up so pregnancy market attendees can check out their products and services on August 7.

The pregnancy market is an information market that will provide the public with a variety of information on a wide array of topics related to healthy pregnancy and new born child care.

Different stakeholders such as the Sint Maarten Medical Center, Civil Registry, pharmacies, physical therapists, White and Yellow Cross and distributors of products related to baby and/or mother care will provide information on their services and products.

In addition, several informative presentations will be given on topics ranging from healthy nutrition, staying physically fit, child birth and breast feeding.

The market will target in particular women and their partners who are planning a pregnancy, women who are pregnant, new parents and other persons who or are in need of information.

As in previous years the market will be held on the parking lot of the Vineyard Office Park from 5:00pm – 8:00pm and entrance is free.

Any organization or business that would like to participate by means of having an information booth can contact Suzianne Duzong-Davis at the section Youth Health Care on 542 3003 or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Denise Vijber at Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs on 542 1122 or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., before July 26th.

Participants are reminded that it is an informational market and not a seller's market: participants are not allowed to sell services or products, but can refer those interested to their place of business.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Trinidadian prostitute that was arrested last Thursday by immigration officials as a favor for a well known businessman filed an official complaint against the businessman and his lawyer with the detectives department on Monday. The complaint that the woman filed against the businessman is for stealing her passport while she filed a complaint against the businessman's lawyer for issuing threats to her when he was negotiating for his client.

Last week Thursday, the woman was arrested by immigration officials at the Philipsburg Police Station where she went to file a complaint against the businessman who refused to pay her for the kinky sex she provided to him for a period of time and to also get back her passport from the businessman since he took it from her sometime ago. The woman claimed the businessman ran up his kinky sex bill to $11,000.00 and so far he has only paid $4,000.00.

The woman whose identity SMN News chose not to release went to the Philipsburg police station with a lawyer who was trying to settle the dispute between the woman and the businessman through his lawyer.

The woman told SMN News on Monday evening that her landlord (Michael Wescot) approached her Monday morning and verbally informed her that she must vacate his property within two days.

The woman further explained that she did not pay her landlord because he knew the problems she was having with the businessman and also because she was out of work. "My landlord said he did not have a problem with me not paying my rent now because he wants me to market two businesses for him, those businesses she said are Brasserie New York and the Taste Factory. He even told me that he would put me in a smaller apartment in Cupe Coy because he needs my services but suddenly he came to me on Monday morning and informed me verbally that he wants me out of his property within two days. It is clear that the businessman who did not get his way last week to get me deported is now using my landlord who is the stepson of the Prime Minister to get rid of me without following the legal procedures."

It should be noted that the woman told SMN News last Friday that the shrewd businessman told her that he had brothers that were Ministers and he was also advising two Ministers. However, it must be made clear that the businessman does not have any brother or brothers that held Ministerial positions on St. Maarten. However, he does have a brother that holds a top position in the civil service.

SMN News will bring you more updates on this case as it develops especially now that an official complaint has been filed against the businessman and his lawyer.

veronicaalbert22072013

MARIGOT:--- A 34 year old woman identified as Veronica Albert was killed on Rue de Low Town, Marigot around 2am Monday morning. Captain Sylvain Jouault said the woman was picking up large items such as furniture and other items as garbage when she was struck by a speeding vehicle. Based on all indications, the woman seems to be garbage collector. At the time she was struck down she was putting the items she picked up on the side of the road in her truck.
Jouault said that the driver is a 35 year old man who was driving at high speed while he was under the influence of alcohol. Captain Jouault said the driver was slightly injured but he was arrested and placed in garde à vue as the investigation continues. Jouault said due to the ongoing investigation he could not release more information on how much alcohol the driver had in his blood at the time of the accident.

swescotwilliamsandmarkrutte21072013PM: "There needs to be a better response from the side of the Netherlands"

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a private meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte at her Cabinet prior to the Council of Minister's Meeting. During the meeting various items were discussed including matters related to the various integrity projects initiated by the Government of St. Maarten during the Prime Minister's presentation to the Prime Minister of the Netherlands.

"Matters of Justice and Integrity were also discussed during my presentation to Rutte and I spent significant time explaining how the Government of St. Maarten views integrity. It is interesting to note that somehow when these things were previously said they are not registered and some were actually pleasantly surprised to learn that Government is indeed working very hard in establishing an integrity project for St. Maarten. St. Maarten is preparing the legislation to set up an Integrity Bureau and training for civil servants and politicians. Sometimes information is sent out of St. Maarten for purely political reasons that are quite harmful to the country and people need to realize this fact. When I mention that we have this integrity project on-going and that we are in talks with Transparency International some even seem surprised and it is because some of the false rumors and allegations which are being concocted for political reasons which are being thrown out in the media," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also specifically mentioned the request by the Dutch Prime Minister to Governor Holiday with regards to Integrity. "The request to the Governor, via Prime Minister Mark Rutte, to explore integrity is fine by me. What does bother me, and this is information that we receive from our Minister Plenipotentiary, is that in the Kingdom Council of Ministers they continue to raise questions and present inaccurate information regarding St. Maarten despite us giving the correct information through our Minister Plenipotentiary. We have given a whole explanation on the matter of integrity to the Kingdom Council of Ministers. Clearly the Dutch Government took and is taking a position while not having all of the information available despite us putting all of those things clearly into perspective.

"We received information that the Dutch government is concerned with regards to integrity. When the Kingdom Council of Ministers receives information regarding to St. Maarten I told the Prime Minister Rutte that they should verify the information and see what is being done on St. Maarten instead of jumping the gun. We took the lead into ensuring integrity with our programs and I personally contacted Transparency International. We even have an agreement with the city of Amsterdam in ensuring integrity and have even developed laws to ensure integrity.

"If the Kingdom or Dutch Government feels that the Governor needs to do a report to them with regards to integrity well I do not necessarily have a problem with that. If that is what they want I do not have issue with that. I do have a problem with the information being provided and no response being received based on that. Sometimes I wonder what is done with all of the information we provide the Netherlands as items which have been worked on, are being worked on and will be worked on are constantly being brought up and questioned. There needs to be a better response from the side of the Netherlands," commented Prime Minister Wescot Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sarahwescotwilliams05052013PM Proposes Establishment of Economic Think Thank to Bolster St. Maarten Economy

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Friday gave a recap of the visit by Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and some of the points that were discussed during his visit.

"This is the first visit by Prime Minister Rutte in the capacity as Prime Minister of the Netherlands. Leading up to the visit the Prime Minister made it clear that he would place the focus on the economic part of the visit and therefore brought several persons along with him in order to explore the establishing of business contacts between our Country and the Netherlands. For St. Maarten this is quite new; Aruba, for example, has a strong link to the Business sector of the Netherlands and we believe that also for St. Maarten this relationship could yield win-win situations. In this area we are very diverse geographically and St. Maarten's location makes it a very special candidate for being the bridge between the region and the Netherlands and between the region and Europe.

"Hopefully we can see a large delegation from the Netherlands return and it is also important to note that some agreements are also already on the table."

The Prime Minister was also able to explain that, on the political front, the Council of Ministers also gave presentations to Minister Rutte on their various Ministries. "All Ministers were also able to briefly elucidate the activities and status of their Ministry and their vision going forward. Those overviews were given by Ministers who are just a month in office and considering that they made excellent presentations.

"Important to also note was that some concerns were expressed regarding the challenges that St. Maarten faces going forward with regards to the 2013 Budget. Minister Hassink has that as priority number one and is working on the preparation for the Budget of 2014 and these intentions were also made clear to Prime Minister Rutte."

The Prime Minister explained that this meeting was more of an exploratory one and that concrete steps will be taking to manifest some of the items that were already discussed with regards to renewed political development. "This was a feeling out meeting with regards to the private sector prepared by the office of the Dutch Representatives. Going forward we of St. Maarten need to now decide on how best to move forward in this direction and we need to have a follow-up in that regards. Even at this stage we are seeing some promising results moving forward. The National Development Plan is part of that way forward for the people of St. Maarten, including cooperation and dialogue with sectors and entities across the board. During my presentation I also launched the idea of an economic think tank for St. Maarten where ideas are shared on topics on getting together to talk about the economic future of St. Maarten. Thinking about St. Maarten's future and its economic development are necessary to provide the opportunities for our children and we need to have those broad discussions in the community," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) is very pleased with the work carried out to address certain road conditions.

The Department of Infrastructure Management repaired a pothole and an additional section of Lemon Road on July 18. The road will be re-opened on Monday, July 22. The concrete needs a certain period of time to cure before vehicular traffic is allowed to drive on it.

Minister Lake said he signed an advice for the repair of road sections and potholes in all districts throughout the country, especially in the Simpson Bay area. These works should start within short.

Minister Lake said this was part of his 'back to basics' approach.

"There is no need to leave things fester into bigger problems for the people of our neighborhoods.

"Potholes and other small infrastructure issues should be addressed as soon as possible. It's all about improving the quality of life and it's the small things that make a difference to people and I am determined to have these addressed during my one-year term," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Click here to view before and after photos of Lemon Road.

CUL DE SAC:--- On Saturday July 20th, representatives from the Elwaldo Richardson Agriculture Foundation, Spaceless Gardens and Soualiga Social Movement mutually agreed to plan and execute an agricultural-industrial fair in observance of World Food Day October 16th 2013.

The theme of World Food Day 2013 is "Sustainable Food Systems for Food Security and Nutrition". The group is poised to host this open fair where the public can experience what a sustainable food system would look, work and taste like.

Today almost 870 million people worldwide are chronically undernourished. Unsustainable models of development are degrading the natural environment, threatening ecosystems and biodiversity that will be needed for our future food supply. Calls for profound changes in our agriculture and food systems are becoming more frequent and more insistent. (Source F.O.A)

Hence, a food market with locally grown food, presentation booths from various food-, health-, gardening- and agricultural producers, businesses and organizations can be expected at this fair. Also being planned, are live presentations of sustainable food systems that can be setup and maintained in anyone's garden. There will also be presentations of how important agriculture and self-sustainability is for the population of the island of St. Maarten then, now and in the future.

The organizations involved have recognized and are hereby adhering to the frequent calls from society for a profound change in our agriculture and food systems in this nation. Any businesses, persons or organizations that would like to participate in this fair, by selling locally grown produce or exhibiting products, systems or agricultural equipment please contact Joslyn Richardson at telephone number 1721-580515 or email the group at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

markrutte21072013AIRPORT:--- Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte told SMN News on Saturday just prior to his departure from St. Maarten that the major concerns for the Hague right now are the financial situation on St. Maarten, integrity, good governance, and matters related to justice. The Prime Minister said because of these concerns he asked the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an investigation into the issue of integrity on St. Maarten.

Prime Minister Rutte said that on this matter the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot-Williams has agreed to allow Transparency International to conduct the inquiry he requested that the Governor conduct. Another good thing PM Rutte said is that St. Maarten has decided to accept the report and recommendations from the US on human trafficking.

PM Rutte did not want to comment on specific cases but said that the Hague will monitor the state of finances, integrity on St. Maarten, and the rule of law. He gave an example of what the Kingdom did last year by giving instructions to Curacao in order for them to get their finances in order. He said in Curacao the result was spectacular because the instructions they gave worked. PM Rutte said he wants to stick to the agreement signed prior to 10/10/10 and that is why the CFT is monitoring the budget while an evaluation on the status change and the progress the islands have made is scheduled for 2015. PM Rutte said during that evaluation process it would be the ideal time for St. Maarten to bring up or look at new ideas but for now he does not want to speculate. He made clear that he is quite happy with his position as Prime Minister and Chairperson of the Kingdom Council of the State which gives him the power to intervene when it is deemed necessary.

When SMN News asked PM Rutte if he was happy with the justice situation on St. Maarten he made clear that he was not at all happy but is more than happy that the Minister of Justice has been replaced and that Minister Dennis Richardson is now heading that Ministry because for the Hague Minister Richardson brings hope for the country. When SMN News asked PM Rutte for his views on the integrity of St. Maarten's Prime Minister whose relatives were part of the negotiations of the Justice Park and the Government Administration Building, PM Rutte said he did not want to issue a judgment on that because those things have not yet been proven. "This is one of the reasons we asked the Governor who is a representative of the Kingdom to conduct an investigation on integrity, not particularly about Wescot Williams but in general." On the cases that are to be investigated by the Landsrecherche, Rutte said that he could not speak about individual cases but one of the main concerns of the Hague is integrity and good governance and that is the main reason they asked the Governor of St. Maarten to conduct an indepth study and to submit its findings to the Kingdom Council of Ministers. "These cases that you speak of are the responsibility of St. Maarten but I just cannot discuss case by case but we have the right to ask the Governor to conduct the inquiry since he is a representative of the Kingdom."

RST and Coast Guard Performances.

The tripartite committee involving the Ministers of Justice of Curacao, Aruba, and St. Maarten have been meeting and have been discussing the RST and Coast Guards. During these meetings all three countries have said that they are not satisfied with the performances of those two entities and so far they have not approved the budget of the RST for the year 2013. SMN News asked PM Rutte for his views on the role of the RST and Coast Guard in the Dutch Caribbean and he said during his working visit this past eight days he did not hear anything negative about the RST and Coast Guard, on contrary he said each of the countries are satisfied with the two entities. "I have not heard any complaints, I had endless discussions on both issues and none of the three countries expressed discontent, to contrary I have heard very positive remarks. I believe if these countries had issues they would have discussed it now and what I am hearing is all new to me. If there are concerns then I think these countries would place the RST and Coast Guard on the agenda for the evaluation that is to take place in 2015."

As for debt relief PM Rutte stressed that the books on debt relief are closed, in their view they all lived up to the deal that was signed for 10/10/10 so that issue will not come up again not even in the evaluation process that has to take place in 2015.

US Monitoring St. Maarten and its Integrity Issues.

It should be noted that PM Rutte gave the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams credit for wanting to involve Transparency International in the integrity inquiry. SMN News got hold of emails that were sent to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in March 2013 by the Consul General of the United States Valerie Belon advising her that the United States have been monitoring the "Bada Bing" allegations on St. Maarten and her advice to the country is to have Transparency International conduct a comprehensive, systemic review of anti-corruption laws and procedures, as was done at the time in Curacao.

The US Consul General also provided a link where contact could be made with Transparency International and numbers at which they could be reached. More interesting is the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan sent an email to Prime Minister Wescot Williams informing her that he is in full agreement with the recommendations made by the US Consul Valerie Belon and requested that she (Wescot- Williams) place it on the next meeting of the Council of Ministers. A decision was subsequently taken by the Council of Ministers to have the inquiry conducted as suggested by the US Consul. As proof, SMN News has the email that was sent by Valerie Belon to the Prime Minister which is below. SMN News also got the email that was sent to the Prime Minister by the former Minister of Justice which is also below this article.

Click here to view photos of PM Mark Rutte as he arrived at the PJIAE on Saturday for his departure.

Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2013 11:10 AM
Subject: corruption allegations in Sint Maarten

Madame Prime Minister –

I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to let you know that my government is following with interest news reports about the unfolding Bada Bing bribery allegations in Sint Maarten.

I would like to take this opportunity to suggest, if I may be so bold, that the Government of Sint Maarten consider inviting a well-respected, neutral nongovernmental organization – like Transparency International -- to conduct a comprehensive, systemic review of anti-corruption laws and procedures, as they are currently doing for Curacao. I really think such a review could be extremely beneficial for Sint Maarten, helping to improve Sint Maarten's reputation and the perceived investment climate and thereby stimulate economic growth.

http://www.transparency.org/news/pressrelease/transparency_international_to_conduct_national_integrity_system_assessment

Transparency International's Regional Program Manager for the Americas is Zoe Reiter, who can be reached at tel: +49-30-34-38-20-24 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

I hope you will give serious consideration to my suggestion.

Best wishes and warm regards,

Valerie Belon

Consul General and Chief of Mission

for Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba,

St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten

J.B. Gorsiraweg #1

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Roland E. Duncan <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
To: William V. Marlin <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Roland S. Tuitt <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Sylveria Jacobs <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Romeo Pantophlet <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Sarah Wescot - Williams <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Cassandra Janssen <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>; Cornelius De Weever <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2013 12:14 PM
Subject: Fw: corruption allegations in Sint Maarten

Dear PM,

In principle i agree with the suggestion made by Ms. Belon. However, what is going to play a very essential role is the 'term of reference' or the parameters of the investigation.

I propose that we put this subject on the agenda of the next meeting of the council of ministers.

Regards,

Roland E. Duncan

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Hon. Maurice Lake during a recent meeting with representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry asked them to look into an entrepreneurial program and an apprenticeship training program.

"I would like to see the Chamber explore the possibility of an entrepreneurial program that would help local people start a business.

"In my back to basics approach, we all start from small and grow over time. You have to crawl first as a baby before you begin to walk, and those that need that assistance should be able to get it via programs that are in place.

"I would like to see more local people getting into business. It is not easy, and you must have a passion for the type of business that you would like to open.

"Another area that I discussed with the Chamber reps is an apprenticeship training program for hospitality students where they train and develop further into the area of restaurant management and customer service.

"We have a viable tourism sector and the key assets to this sector are the people who work in it. We have no natural resources, but we are rich in human resources. Every business needs to establish a program to help the young people of our nation.

"We all grow together as a strong and viable nation and at the center of this growth should be our people, the leaders of today and tomorrow," Minister Maurice Lake pointed out on Sunday.

Minister Lake also discussed what form of assistance the Chamber could render for the further development and enhancement of agriculture and businesses in this specific area.

The Minister added that a location for the Chamber of Commerce & Industry to be housed was also discussed as this request was handled during the term of former Ministry of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

"Politically Motivated Lies And Allegations Serve No Purpose but to Tarnish the Name of St. Maarten"

PHILIPSBURG:--- During her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams called for an end to tarnishing the name of Country St. Maarten for political reasons. During the radio program the Prime Minister referred to various erroneous reports and false information that has been circulating in the community lately and appealed for responsible behavior with regards to ethical reporting.

"There are some people on St. Maarten who would prefer to see the name of St. Maarten blemished rather than just deal with the truth and the facts. We should not tarnish the name of St. Maarten for political reasons and it is unfortunate to see that blatantly untrue reports circulating in especially online websites. Of course it is the truth that will prevail and clearly it will show that these types of reports are not based on fact, specifically regarding the statement of the VDSM.

"Again I don't know if these persons have nothing better to do on St. Maarten than thrive on this type of information. We have to counteract these issues and question the so-called sources or highly placed sources as irresponsible, hiding behind anonymity to further political gain and tarnishing the image of our Country.

"There are some people on St. Maarten who would prefer to see the name of St. Maarten blemished rather than deal with the truth and the facts. First of all a matter like the National Security Service should not be politicized. Clearly, if you look at some of the damaging reports there are political orchestrated it is a pity that persons would let themselves be used for political reasons and I have a serious issue with that. As Prime Minister I have come to accept the fact that in the office that I occupy they will say the craziest things about me as a person and about my function and I accept that as part of the territory. However I have issue with the way my Country is being tarnished.

The online report regarding the National Security Service is quite unfortunate and blatantly untrue. When these type of issues come around you can do one of two things: you can let it be because the truth will always prevail and will show that these types of reports were totally malicious. However these reports do remain in cyberspace involving innocent persons and there should be a way to counteract them.

"It does not serve any purpose to throw anyone under the bus. These false allegations do affect and do hurt. Why? Because as a St. Maartener I believe we should take issue with the malicious manipulating of the truth for political gain and persons letting themselves be used for political reasons not realizing the damage they are causing to our Country.

Additionally the National Security Service is not the Prosecutors Office; that is not their purpose. It cannot prosecute or investigate a particular person. Yet false information is being put out there regarding an investigation and the Government Building and this is indeed quite unfortunate. Where are we going as a country if we allow this to happen unchallenged?

People should see how for merely political reasons they are using lies to bring this country into discredit, hiding behind anonymity. It cannot be that false things are being said about people in our community, especially a small community like ours, and these things are unsubstantiated and untrue. We need to realize as St. Maarten that we are a part of the wider world. And in today's modern world whatever we do and say here locally go all over the world. These things live a life of its own and things are very negatively effected. It is the people of St. Maarten that need to realize the damage they are doing to this country," concluded the Prime Minister

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs would like to inform school bus owners and drivers school bus inspections are scheduled to start July 22 through July 25.

School bus owners and drivers are hereby advised to take note of the dates.

School bus owners/drivers are requested to call the department to make an appointment.

The key objective is to continue to provide safe, reliable and comfortable transportation services for school children.

For further information about services rendered by the Inspection Section, call telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509.

patricialourensandyvettehart21072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President Sanjay Surtani was extremely honoured to have the former principle of his highschool, the honourable Minister Patricia Lourens speak at Rotary St. Maarten- Mid Isle's Change of Board ceremony where he and his board were officially installed. Minister Patricia Lourens praised the Rotary club for its efforts in the community and likened the experience of the new president to her experiences as a new minister and wished him much success in his endeavours during this Rotary year.

During the ceremony, President Sanjay presented the minister and the outgoing first lady of Rotary, Mrs. Yvette Hart with a bouquet of flowers. The first lady was thanked for her tireless support of Immediate Past President John Hart during this past year of service.

jonhartandjimferris21072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Outgoing President Jon Hart of the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle recently presented Past Assistant Governor of District 7020 Jim Ferris with a token of appreciation for his support and guidance of the six Rotary Clubs on St. Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Barths under his helm from 2010-2013.

mooringatmowsmarinepark21072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Lions Club and the ROB Department of the Ministry VROMI recently assisted the St. Maarten Nature Foundation in placing five one-ton concrete and steel blocks as mooring placements within the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area. Previously the Nature Foundation used specially placed underwater pins to attach mooring lines to, but these pins suffered extensive damage due to the often rough conditions within the Marine Park. The St. Maarten Lions Club was able to donate the five one-ton blocks for use as moorings to the Nature Foundation with VROMI/ ROB offering logistical support. The Nature Foundation and commercial dive and salvage company Aquatic Solutions proceeded to place the blocks to use as moorings at various locations within the Marine Park, including the Coralita Dive Site, which has not been operational for quite some time.
Because the Marine Park is an important aspect of St. Maarten's tourism product due to the significant amount of dive tourists that visit there, moorings are installed so that dive boats can tie unto them instead of illegally dropping their anchors, which damages the fragile coral ecosystem.
The Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area includes the island's most ecologically and economical important marine habitat, including extensive coral reef areas and seagrass beds and has a high intrinsic ecological, economic and cultural value. The Man of War Shoal Marine Park is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species. It is an area with a relatively healthy population of marine mammals including migratory whales and dolphins, numerous species of shark, sea turtles and numerous fish species. Studies conducted by the St. Maarten Nature Foundation have shown that biodiversity in this area, particularly coral reef density, is high and the economic goods and services which the ecosystem provides are in excess of fifty million dollars annually.

markruttewithjusticeministryofficialsatborderpoint21072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson, outgoing Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte, head of the Detective Department Denise Jacobs, head of the Court of Guardianship Richelda Emanuel and other high ranking officers met with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte on Saturday morning. During the meeting the police along with the Court of Guardianship gave the Prime Minister a PowerPoint presentation about the penal code and the issues facing youths on St. Maarten.

After the presentation, the Prime Minister and his delegation were given a tour of Middle Region, Dutch Quarter, Union Farm, and Belvedere. At Belvedere, Community Police Officer (CPO) Rensley Henson guided the delegation throughout the tour. CPO Henson is designated to work in Cay Hill but he was appointed by the Police Management Team to conduct the tour with the visiting Prime Minister and his delegation. CPO Henson took Prime Minister Mark Rutte through Belvedere starting from Happy Estate. The Prime Minister of the Netherlands got a firsthand look at the local community especially the state of the play ground in Belvedere that has been left unattended. He was taken to the basketball court, Border Point, and the monument where Prime Minister Rutte got a chance to stand on French soil without having to deal with border control or immigration. After that guided tour which was very informative for the Prime Minister, the delegation went to the Pointe Blanche Prison where they got a tour of the facility.

Click here to view photos of Prime Minister Rutte meeting with Police and the tour of various districts on St. Maarten.

murderfillin13082012SANDY GROUND:--- A 35 year old man from St. Martin is now dead due to several stab wounds he received from another 35 year old man who is now in garde à vue. According to information reaching SMN News, the two men got into an argument while they were in Bamboo Vert located in Sandy Ground. SMN News learnt that the argument escalated into a fight and one of the men jumped into the water by Sandy Ground Bridge to escape his attacker but the other man jumped into the water and stabbed him multiple times where he died. The suspect was also slightly injured when he was arrested by the Gendarmes at the location where the killing occurred 8am Saturday morning.
Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille confirmed to SMN News that a 35 year old man was killed while the killer is now in garde à vue. Betaille said both the suspect and victim are 35 years of age. The head of the Gendarmerie said the investigation is ongoing.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Murder convict Devon Otto who is currently serving a 30 year prison sentence at Point Blanche prison was attacked on Saturday morning. According to information reaching SMN News, Otto received multiple stab wounds. He is in critical condition at the Sint Maarten Medical Center. Police arrested two suspects who they believe were involved in a fight with Otto. An investigation is currently ongoing.

This incident took place shortly before Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte and his delegation visited the prison. SMN News will bring you more information later today when the prison management or police makes an official statement on the incident involving Otto.

This is the fourth prison fight that has prisoners injured and there has never been an official statement from Prison Director Edward Rohan. Just three weeks ago three prisoners escaped from the prison cells located behind the Philipsburg Police Station and an investigation into the escape is currently underway.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A female Trinidadian spent one night at the Pointe Blanche prison Thursday after immigration officers from IND arrested her at the Philipsburg Police Station where she went to file a complaint against a businessman who took away her passport. The woman spoke to SMN News exclusively on Friday after the Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson ordered her immediate release pending an investigation.

The woman told SMN News that she worked on at least two cruise ships and at Seaman's Club for a period of time. She said she also worked for two restaurants in Philipsburg and other business establishments in Simpson Bay but most of her employers deceived her when they took her documents to file for working documents. She said while working at La Bamba she met a businessman whom she went out with to drink and then took him to her apartment in Pelican where she provided all sorts of kinky sex for the businessman. "He told me he wanted certain sexual pleasures and was willing to pay for it. This man never told me he was married however, he told me he had a brother that was a Minister and he was the personal advisor to two Ministers on St. Maarten therefore he could not go to strip clubs to meet his sexual needs. He wanted a woman who could provide it all to him at home or at some private villas."

The woman said she decided to end the relationship when she got pregnant and the man wanted the baby which she did not want. She further explained that at some point she made an agreement with the man who brought his lawyer in and he paid her $3,000.00. Later the lawyer paid her $1,400, some of which she used to do an abortion. "The lawyer made me sign an agreement that if I told anyone about the arrangement I had with the businessman he would sue me and have me deported. I signed it because I wanted my money. When I made the agreement with "the client" to do the abortion, he told me that he will hold my passport until the deal is over, but I did what he wanted and now he has to pay me the balance that he owes me which is $6,800.00 for the services I provided to him. I tried getting my monies and passport from the businessman but each time he keeps playing a game with me because he does not want to end the relationship and he thinks that I need time to think about my decision to change my life and end the relationship with him since I found out he is married."

The woman who was obviously distraught on Friday afternoon provided SMN News with invoices for the sexual services she provided to the businessman. She said that she was advised to contact the Prosecutor's Office for help so that she could get her passport back. "On Thursday, I went to the Prosecutor's Office and I spoke to a Prosecutor who told me to go over to the Philipsburg Police Station to file a complaint. The Prosecutor that spoke to me told me that I should speak with Detective Baptiste but when I went to the Police Station I was told that Detective Baptiste is on vacation. Another detective spoke to me and he passed the case to another detective and that detective asked if I was from Trinidad and I told him yes and he told them put me to sit on a chair to wait. The next think I know some immigration officers came and searched me and shackled me and took me to the IND building. These officers treated me very badly, they also tried to force me to sign some documents that were in Dutch and I refused. They forbid me from using my phone but I managed to get in touch with my lawyer and informed him of the incident. Later, the IND immigration officers took me to my house and they ransacked my apartment, broke glasses and threw things all over the place. They claimed that someone told them I had my passport in my apartment. They looked everywhere and they did not find it, then they took me to Pointe Blanche prison where I spent the night. I don't know what happened but I know on Friday two immigration officers who treated me like a pig came for me from at the prison and brought me back to IND building and they had me sign some documents and they released me. They said I have six weeks to stay on the island until I get my passport back and collect the monies that the businessman owes me, then I have to leave St. Maarten. I also have to check in at IND every Friday and on Monday with the detectives." The woman said she intended to press charges against the businessman and the businessman's lawyer on Monday.

SMN News has copies of the invoices as well as an audio interview with the woman but felt it quite in appropriate to publish it because of the contents.

rotarymidisleboardofdirectors19072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The new president and board members of the Rotary Club St. Maarten- Mid Isle were installed at the clubs "Change of Guard" ceremony last Friday at Divi Little Bay. The new board consists of President Sanjay Surtani, Vice President Charles Davis, Immediate Past President Jon Hart, Secretary Wayne Wilkie, Treasurer Tony Da Cunha, Sargeant At Arms Thomas Roggendorf, Club Service Director Louis Wever, Community Service Director Ramesh Manek, Vocational Service Director Wayne Johnson, International Service Director Russel Bell, Webmaster Peter Mazareeuw, and Public Relations Director Veronica Jansen-Webster.

louisweverandjonhart19072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotarian Louis Wever has been named "Rotarian of the Year" by the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle. Outgoing President Jon Hart thanked Mr. Wever and presented him with the recognition for his outstanding dedication and service to the Rotary Club's various projects and activities in the year 2012-2013. In his over ten years with the Rotary Club, Louis Wever has served on several boards, carried the leadership twice as President, and was District 7020 Assistant Governor from 2007-2010. He attended various Rotary International Conventions including the recent one in Lisbon, Portugal. The past Rotary Year he served as Club Service Director and Sergeant-at Arms in the Mid Isle Club.

 

jenisediazinmiami19072013POND ISLAND:--- Beyonce fan, Jenise Diaz, is back on St. Maarten after experiencing a "once in a lifetime" trip to the USA to see the mega-star "Live" in concert at the American Airlines Arena, July 10. Jenise won the trip in an exciting Beyonce SMS contest organized by mobile provider TelCell in collaboration with Extreme Party radio station, X104.3. She took along, boyfriend, Jessie James, to share in the experience which included a stay in a swank Miami Hotel, a tour of Florida, a $1,043 cash prize and a brand new Z10 Blackberry Smartphone.

"We had a great time. I didn't get the chance to meet Beyonce backstage, but the whole experience of being there and seeing her live was unbelievable," said Jenise on her return to St. Maarten. The lucky couple took time out to do some serious shopping while in Miami and upon their return thanked everyone for making their trip a success. X104.3 station owner Etienne Brown was also pleased that all arrangements went as planned. "This is just the start for our group. We have a lot of exciting things planned that are fun and will continue to make our listeners happy," said Etienne.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY:--- St. Maarten is in the process of developing a National vision on Mental Health including but not limited to psychiatric and addiction care. With the current country status since 2010, it is important for the Ministry of Health of Sint Maarten, as leader of the Health Sector, to develop a (long term) vision on Mental Health in the broadest sense, including areas such as care and treatment policies, capacity and infrastructure, legislation and management and control. It is therefore imperative to engage all stakeholders in a dialogue on this subject and to have an understanding of the current status of the situation on Sint Maarten.
As a first step, the first Dutch Caribbean mental health workshop, for the implementation of the World Health Organization-Assessment Instrument for Mental health Systems(WHO-AIMS) and the introduction of mental health GAP (mhGAP) action program was recently held here on St. Maarten. This was organized by Collective Prevention Services in collaboration with PAHO Venezuela and facilitated by Devora Kestel, Mental Health Regional Advisor for PAHO/WHO.
The WHO-AIMS tool was developed by the WHO as an assessment instrument, and touches on all areas of mental health services and provides recommendations on how to improve on those services.
During the opening ceremony, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever mentioned that regardless of one's mental condition we should always strive to put people first. "although we have limited human and financial resources we should continue to put people first and tailor make things for our reality."
The workshop was attended by representatives from Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Saba and St. Eustatius, as well as representatives from governmental and non-governmental organizations on St. Maarten. The main topic discussed was the WHO AIMS. The Assessment Instrument for Mental Health Systems, developed by WHO, was introduced in a context of a larger presentation of mental health as a public health issue, emphasizing current trends and tendencies, at a global, regional and Caribbean level. The recommendations of PAHO and WHO were also presented at this time.
Additionally in the evening a session was organized for the general practitioners from primary health care where they were introduced basically to a general perspective on mental health and its impact in the population as well as a brief introduction of the program mhGAP Intervention Guide, developed by WHO to capacitate non-specialized health professionals to identify and mange persons with most common mental disorders, behavioral disorders, dementia, alcohol, drug abuse, suicide and other significant emotional or medically unexplained complaints.
"I would like to thank all the participants and the organizers for participating in and contributing to all events leading to the development of the vision and policy plan of mental health care on St. Maarten," said Minister De Weever.
The conclusions of the meeting came to the following decisions. The importance of sensitizing the community; a new sub regional meeting to present results from WHO AIMS should take place during the first trimester next year; leadership of the process should stay at MOH, in collaboration with other key stakeholders, and the identified team who will revise the material should be multi-sectorial.

mauricelakeatlandfillwithmarkrutte19072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Hon. Maurice Lake informed Dutch Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte about his plans for a Solid Waste Management facility during a visit to the Landfill on Thursday afternoon.

Minister Lake informed Prime Minister Rutte that he would like to see the new facility up and running by mid-2015 and believes that such a date is feasible if all parties work towards it.

Edelmiro Jansen, from the Ministry VROMI Department of Infrastructure Management explained the history behind the landfill while Louis Brown, Acting Secretary General of Ministry VROMI provided information about plans for a Solid Waste Management Facility.

swescotwilliamsatcphdforum19072013BELAIR:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the 6th edition of the Caribbean Plant Health Directors Forum which is being held over the next two and a half days at the Belair Community Center. Approximately 55 Chief Plant Health Officers from the Ministries of Agriculture in the Dutch, French, Spanish and English-speaking Caribbean countries and territories will attend the forum that concludes on Friday. The CPHD Forum is largely the result of efforts by the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with support from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The Prime Minister urged the participants fruitful and in-depth discussion regarding plant health within the region and urged all to explore various ways to ensure the health of plants and their ecosystems.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

marcelloor17032013Philipsburg:--- Former Head of Immigration Marcel Loor who was condemned on St. Maarten for money laundering, fraud and forgery was arrested on Thursday in Paris while carrying one kilo of cocaine into France. Based on all indications the disgraced cop was traveling from St. Maarten to Paris with the drug but was caught when he arrived in Paris.
Sources from the Gendarmerie of St. Martin confirmed that Marcel Loor was arrested on Thursday in Paris and is now facing drug trafficking charges in France. Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said the French authorities already informed the Dutch authorities about Loor's arrest in Paris. Stein said they did not have any more details on the arrest; all they know is that Marcel Loor was arrested with cocaine in Paris.
According to well placed sources, Loor visited an insurance company on Tuesday in Philipsburg seeking to purchase travel insurance but did not buy the package because in his opinion the insurance was too expensive. An agent from the insurance company told SMN News that Loor did not want to pay $3.50 per day per person for the travel insurance which has a value of $5,000.00. The agent said Loor did not even want to tell them how many people were traveling with him neither did he want to tell them when he intended to return to St. Maarten. "He said it was not worth purchasing travel insurance for that price because he had no intention to stay off island for a long period of time."
It should be noted that customs at the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) does not focus on out-bound flights instead they focus on in-bound flights. During the months of May and June customs at the Princess Juliana International Airport did not have their dogs to sniff bags because their dogs were in heat and could not work during that period of time. A technician at the PJIAE told SMN News that PJIAE has the best scanners but the employees that are working those scanners are not sufficiently qualified to use the scanners to detect drugs when it's placed in suitcases. "St. Maarten is a hub and while the island is considered to be a main location used to take drugs to Europe, it is sad that Government and Airport management does not seek to train its employees to use the equipments they have optimally."
The Commandant of the Gendarmerie on St. Martin could not be reached for an official comment, while Prosecutor Flavien Noailles is currently in Guadeloupe and also could not be reached. SMN News is still busy gathering more information on the arrest of Marcel Loor..

markrutte18072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte who is also the chairperson of the Kingdom Council of The Netherlands arrived on St. Maarten for a working visit on Thursday. During the first day of the visit, Prime Minister Rutte met with Governor Holiday where he informed him that they (The Netherlands) are very concerned about the integrity of St. Maarten and asked the Governor Holiday to conduct an investigation on this matter. Prime Minister Rutte when addressing members of the media Thursday afternoon said that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams has agreed to their request and also decided to ask Transparency International to be part of the investigation regarding integrity on St. Maarten.

Prime Minister Rutte said The Netherlands is very concerned about the financial status of St. Maarten and has also asked that the country get its 2013 budget in order as soon as possible. Another concern for The Netherlands is matters related to justice and this was conveyed to the Governor and Council of Ministers when they met on Thursday. "The Kingdom has a clear overview on the financial status, therefore I made it clear to the Council of Ministers that they need to get the 2013 budget in order. Every effort is now being made to get the budget of 2013 and 2014 regulated. I also conveyed to the Council of Ministers that both I and Ronald Plasterk have asked the Governor to conduct an investigation (inquiry) on issues of integrity on the island of St. Maarten." Another issue the Council of Ministers has promised to look into is the trafficking of persons in which actions have to be taken based on a US State Department Report where they made comments and recommendations on the issue of human trafficking. Prime Minister Rutte said St. Maarten has promised to take all necessary actions based on the US State Department Report. Prime Minister Rutte also confirmed to reporters that the books are closed on the matter of debt relief.

The six members of the Council of Ministers also apprised Prime Minister Rutte of various issues and priorities in their Ministries. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams told reporters, "Each of the Ministers took the opportunity to apprise the Prime Minister on their priorities and way forward."

Prime Minister Wescot Williams said that the second part of the visit has to do with trade relations between the State and St. Maarten.

Members of the local media waited for quite a long time for the press conference which was scheduled to take place at 3:30pm but was delayed because Prime Minister Rutte was late due to Airline delays. While the local media workers were asked to wait downstairs, the Dutch press was given special preference when they were allowed to take photographs while Prime Minister Rutte was meeting with the Council of Ministers.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The parents of an eight year old girl are at their wits' end and currently seeking legal representation in Guyana against LIAT airlines and Juliana Handlers in St. Maarten. According to the child's mother Coel Jones, her eight year old daughter left St. Maarten on Wednesday July 10th, 2013 on LIAT flight 561 which was bound to Antigua, she was scheduled to board a connecting LIAT flight 563 from Antigua bound for Barbados. The eight year old passenger was then supposed to connect on LIAT flight 773 leaving Barbados bound for Georgetown, Guyana her homeland. The first LIAT flight was scheduled to depart St. Maarten at 11:25am and the passenger would have reached her final destination at 10pm on Wednesday July 10th. Mrs. Jones said she paid $499.93 for a one way ticket for her daughter to travel home, this includes the fees for flight attendant assistance.

According to the mother, when she went to Cheddi Jagan International Airport at 10pm that night to retrieve her daughter she learnt that the flight from Barbados to Guyana was canceled and they had no information on her daughter's whereabouts. The mother said she immediately contacted her mother in St. Maarten because her daughter was staying with her maternal grandmother in St. Maarten and it was her grandmother that took her to the Princess Juliana International Airport and checked her in that day. The mother said the child's grandmother had no idea that the flight was canceled and she too was not informed about her granddaughter's whereabouts.

The mother said that the grandmother (her mother) called someone she knew at the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) who informed her that he was aware that a minor returned to St. Maarten and that someone was supposed to call her to get the child. "After my mother made that call shortly after she hung up the phone, someone from PJIAE Immigration on St. Maarten called her and told her that she could go to PJIAE Immigration Department and get her granddaughter. When my mother reached there the airport was completely shut down but she met a security officer who managed to get her to immigration where she saw her granddaughter cuddled up on a chair covered with her blanket and her eyes were red because she was crying all the time."

Jones said when her mother picked up her eight year old she was traumatized, tired, and scared because she apparently returned to St. Maarten at 6pm on Wednesday July 10th, 2013 and someone placed her in a room and just left her there. "We don't know if she was fed and why no one took the time to search her bag and call her relatives, she had phone numbers and everything on her but someone just did not care and did not do their job. Besides that, the family paid extra monies for a flight attendant to accompany the minor throughout her journey. When she was picked up she did not have her baggage because no one knew anything about her baggage. The mother said the baggage finally reached Guyana some days after. She further explained that her mother has been in contact with LIAT agencies in St. Maarten while she personally wrote a letter to LIAT's director in Antigua asking that they refund her daughter's ticket money so that her daughter can travel back home but to date no one has responded to her letters and her calls to LIAT agencies.

SMN News contacted one of LIAT's agents on St. Maarten on Thursday to gather information on the incident and the agent was more concerned about how a news outlet got her number than the purpose of the call. The female agent said that she had no information on the case on Wednesday July 10th because she was off that day but said she heard something about a child. The agent said that LIAT is not responsible for what transpired because all of that is taken care of by Juliana Handlers. SMN News contacted Juliana Handlers and managed to speak to a supervisor who identified herself as Siona Hurtault. Hurtault said she did not know about the case but she would have gotten in touch with the Manager of Juliana Handlers Delsia Lake who would contact SMN News to give an explanation as to what transpired on Wednesday July 10th, 2013 with the eight year old passenger. Up to press time Delsia Lake did not contact SMN News and the supervisor or anyone else at Juliana Handlers could not be reached by phone because they immediately placed their telephones on switchboard operators.

Jones told SMN News on Thursday evening that she contacted a lawyer who will be sending a letter to LIAT to inform them that legal actions are being taken. Jones said on Thursday afternoon when she checked her email she saw that LIAT responded to her letter stating they will refund her but they did not say when the refund would be made. "If the media did not make calls to LIAT and Juliana Handlers I would be here waiting for a response from them. However, I had to pay a lawyer and I will go through with a lawsuit against LIAT and the other parties that are responsible for my daughter's dilemma when she left and returned to St. Maarten. Efforts made by SMN News to reach the head of Immigration IND Udo Aron proved futile. Aron could not be reached all afternoon for information on the incident regarding the 8 year old passenger.

Juliana Handlers responds through Law Firm.

Click here to view the letter sent to SMN News by Law Firm Representing Juliana Handlers.

Footnote:

With reference to paragraph five of this article, SMN News contacted both LIAT and Juliana Handlers to get both sides of the story. LIAT responded while Juliana Handlers did not. The explanations given by the law firm that JAH sought could have been given yesterday if JAH was responsible enough to provide an explanation when they were called on Thursday.

mohicanscoutgroupattelem18072013GREAT BAY:--- TelEm Group wished a safe and successful trip to Cub-Scouts and Cub-Scout leaders who called in on the company Wednesday - before leaving for the 13th Annual Caribbean Cuboree in Suriname, July 21-28.
Cub-Scout leader Mrs. Angela Richards-Huggins thanked the company for assisting with the fare for one of the cub-scout members to attend the Cuboree, which takes place every three years.
"As a gathering for cub scouts from around the Caribbean region the Cuboree provides an opportunity for our boys and girls between the ages of seven (7) and 11 to interact and experience the different cultures around them," said Mrs. Richards-Huggins.
She says the seven Cub-Scouts and three Cub-Scout leaders, who leave for Suriname today, will also benefit from lasting relationships in an environment where they can experience the full meaning of scouting.
TelEm Group Carrier Relations Officer, Angel Richardson, met with the cub and cub-leaders on behalf of management and wished them much success and a safe return home with the only condition being that they make "lots of lasting friendships."

Telem Press Release

comereceivesgrantfromcooperatingfoundations18072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Cooperating Foundations commends Community Outreach Mentorship & Empowerment Center with their beautifully renovated center, in which they organize activities for youngsters, have literacy classes and entertain the elderly on Wednesdays with crafts, dance and discussions.
The funding agency handed a cheque of Naf. 2880 to support the activity program for currently 20 senior citizens.
Foundations that would like to apply for funding from Cooperating Foundations are advised to call 5860808 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an appointment.

eugeneholidayandmarkrutte18072013by H.E. Governor Eugene B. Holiday
Delivered at the Welcome Luncheon on the Occasion of the
Visit of Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands to Sint Maarten

Distinguished Guests,

Good Afternoon and welcome to this Luncheon. I am, on behalf of the people and government of St. Maarten, pleased to extend a very warm welcome to my Guest of Honor, Prime Minister Mark Rutte on your first official visit to Sint Maarten in your capacity of Prime Minister of The Netherlands. Prime Minister Rutte welcome to our sweet Sint Maarten land. I also bid a special welcome to the members of Prime Minster Rutte's delegation from the Dutch business community who have joined him on this trip.
In welcoming you I shall with a view of the importance of quality over quantity share a few of my thoughts about the potential impulse of this visit with you. Having reviewed the program of this visit I wish to emphasize that it is important that we welcome and make use of the business and government opportunities which it presents. I use the word opportunities because this visit, or rather this Sint Maarten-Dutch meeting, is taking place at an opportune moment. I say that because I believe that we must make use of the potential of this visit to give greater content to a constructive Sint Maarten – Dutch partnership. The cornerstones of which, like any partnership, should be and are (a) mutual understanding, (b) trust, (c) respect and (d) cooperation.
Looking out into the room I see enthusiastic individuals ready to join in friendly discussions regarding investments, education, trade, and politics, that is discussions about issues that affect the lives of the people of Sint Maarten and the Netherlands. It is my hope that these discussions will explore the available opportunities, build on mentioned cornerstones and serve as a defining impulse for furthering strategic and constructive Sint Maarten – Dutch relations.
Prime Minister Rutte it is against that backdrop of opportunities that I welcome and support your initiative towards a new impulse to the Dutch – Sint Maarten relationship through this trade mission. And it is my hope that your mission starting with this lunch will develop and blossom into better, stronger and mutually beneficial business and government ties. I say this because I am convinced that the spirit of constructive cooperation, which I see in the program of this mission, is the best way forward.
In closing, having taken note of the hectic program prepared for you, I once again welcome you - Prime Minister Rutte and your delegation - to our lovely Island and considering the importance of quality over quantity for this new impulse hope that you find some time to experience and enjoy the quality of Sint Maarten Hospitality. Thank you.

marineparkmarker18072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has replaced the marker buoys for the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area over the course of last week. The buoys are placed in order to designate the boundaries of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park so that the various vessels sailing in St. Maarten waters are aware that they are entering into the Marine Park.
The boundaries of the Marine Park are between 18̊ ̊N and 17 ̊-57.0 N and 63 ̊-01.03 W and 63 ̊-04.05 W, in an area better known as "the Proselyte Reef Complex ". This area includes the island's most ecologically and economical important marine habitat, including extensive coral reef areas and seagrass beds. The Man of War Shoal Marine Park is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species. It is an area with a relatively healthy population of marine mammals including migratory whales and dolphins, numerous species of shark, sea turtles and numerous fish species. Studies conducted by the St. Maarten Nature Foundation have shown that biodiversity in this area, particularly coral reef density, is high and the economic goods and services which the ecosystem provides are in excess of fifty million dollars annually. Fishing, the removal of organisms alive or dead, the removal of shells or corals and anchoring is strictly prohibited within the Boundaries of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park.

Turkish carrier's schedules, inventory and fares available to Sabre-connected agencies worldwide

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico:--- Sabre, a global technology company, has signed a multi-year agreement with Turkish carrier Pegasus Airlines. The deal means more than 370,000 travel agencies connected to the Sabre travel marketplace in more than 130 countries will be guaranteed access to the airline's seats and fare classes.

Güliz Öztürk, senior vice president, commercial, for Pegasus, said: "Sabre's innovative leadership and ability to help airlines market and sell products to millions of travelers worldwide is an extremely important for airlines.

"Being a low-cost airline, costs have to be kept to a minimum so the lowest possible fares can be offered to customers. Our aim, therefore, is to provide customers with alternative sales channels, with Sabre one of the most important of those. As such, this partnership supports our business model and multi-channel approach.

"Sabre's global reach and access to hundreds of thousands of travel agents will allow us to boost sales and drive the business to the next level. In turn, out ever-expanding network in the Middle East, Caucasus, Russia and Europe will mean Sabre-connected agents have access to our network of 71 destinations at low cost."

David Gross, Sabre's Senior Vice President, Global Supplier Commerce, said: "Pegasus is one of Europe's fastest growing airlines based in a country that is quickly establishing itself as a leading hub for aviation. This is, therefore, an extremely important partnership as it provides Sabre agencies with valuable content to offer their customers and gives Pegasus an unrivaled reach into hundreds of global markets."

"Sabre invests hundreds of billions of Euros every year in technology to help airlines grow their businesses and provide agencies with an efficient and transparent platform to sell air travel to their customers."

Sabre operates the world's largest travel marketplace, facilitating the sale of travel between buyers and sellers.

PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten:--- The Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad (AMHE) will hold its 40th Annual Convention on the Island of St. Maarten, July 21-28, 2013. This convention is the largest gathering of Physicians of Haitian ancestry. The Physicians are represented in clinical practice and academia throughout the United States, Canada and Haiti.
The Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa will host this momentous event. Visiting Physicians will participate in academic and scientific programs in the morning and explore the island of St. Maarten/St.Martin in the afternoon. Group visits to Philipsburg, Marigot, Loterie Farms and the Heritage Museum are planned throughout the week. The Sint Maarten Tourism Office has provided a tremendous amount of information and support to the AMHE Convention attendees. Convention guests are excited to shop, dine and thoroughly enjoy their island visit.
In keeping with the organization's mission to advocate for the community's health wellness, AMHE member Physicians will participate with a series of FREE Community Health programs on the French and Dutch sides of the island. Louis Constant Fleming Hospital will host a Free Family Health Fair on Saturday, July 20th and various churches on the Dutch side will host visiting Physicians on Sunday, July 21st during the morning services.
The Saturday Family Health Fair at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital will feature a full day of health screenings and health wellness presentations from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. All are welcome to this FREE community event to see a Haitian Physician! On Sunday, July 21st, the AMHE member Physicians will visit church congregations in Philipsburg, Cole Bay and Sandy Grounds speaking on the importance of health wellness. A thriving community is a healthy community and the AMHE is committed to promoting community health wellness.
For additional information on the AMHE and its 40th Annual Convention, please contact Cheryl Mack via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Join us for a Press Conference at the Westin Dawn Beach Hotel Friday, July 19th 2:30 pm.

AMHE Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is calling on residents of the Cay Hill district to heed the call of the Cay Hill Community Council to help clean their district on Saturday.

All debris should be placed in dumpsters on Saturday and trucks will empty the dumpsters on Sunday.

"We are in the hurricane season, and it's an individual responsibility to keep their premises around their homes and businesses clean.

"Besides, premises should be kept clean all the time. Debris being a hurricane threat, also harbors mosquito's which cause disease and vermin such as rats, mice and flies.

"The clean-up appeal by the Council serves keeping the Cay Hill community debris free and lessening the threat from any flying items due to the passing of a storm. At the same time, potential public health issues are also eliminated because contains that can hold water and become a breeding ground for the dengue mosquito is eliminated.

"The removal of old car parts and wrecks also limits the harboring of vermin therefore once again eliminating any public health issues. A clean environment, a clean neighborhood contributes to the improvement in the quality of life of the people living in that community.

"I commend the Cay Hill Community Council and the Community Police Officer for the initiatives and work that they have been doing to date," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

Ministry of VROMI is an integral part of the country's disaster management system known as Emergency Support Function (ESF-3).

jeffreydelacombeandlouiswever17072013Jeffrey de la Combe and Raymond Green were inducted into membership of the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle during the Club's "Change of Guard" ceremony last Saturday. Mr. de la Combe's classification is "Shipping", and he was sponsored by Rotarian Louis Wever. The classification of Mr. Green is "Banking" and was sponsored by Rotarian Wayne Wilkie. The Mid Isle Rotary Club has experienced a steady growth in membership in the past 12 months, and there are at the moment over 1.22 million Rotarians in over 200 countries in the world. Rotary is the first service club organization which was founded by Paul Harris in Chicago in 1905. Rotarians are business and professional leaders dedicated to making a difference in communities around the world through the credo "Service Above Self." Members are volunteers who work on both local and international projects to combat hunger, improve health and sanitation, provide education and job training, promote peace and eradicate polio. Both Jeffrey and Raymond have rendered service to their community in the past, and now stand ready to extend their service through Rotary.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Three DHL pilots that travel to St. Maarten every week became victims of robbery last week while they were at Mullet Bay Beach. Three youngsters raided the belongings of the pilots that were left on the beach and stole their cellular phones. A witness on the beach saw when the three culprits committed the act. That eyewitness called an off duty police officer who managed to run down the suspects and arrest them in the parking area of the Princess Juliana International Airport. SMN News understands that the vendor's booth holders and persons selling on the beach are encouraging the bandits that are constantly robbing tourists on the beach.

The three pilots filed charges against the suspects as the eyewitness managed to identify two of the three suspects that were caught last week when the incident occurred.

On Tuesday night, the pilots became victims again, this time two unknown persons entered their apartments and stole their personal belongings, such as their wallets that contained monies and other personal items, keys to their vehicle and the vehicle that was parked outside their apartment building. One of the pilots was unable to fly back to Puerto Rico on Wednesday as he was busy filing a report with the detective department on St. Maarten. Up to press time the police department did not issue a report on the house break in that took place Tuesday night.

Opening Hours as of Next Saturday for BTA Applicants, Census Computers Installed at Justice Department

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister, as the Minister of General Affairs, has announced that she has taken further steps to alleviate the long lines currently experienced at the Census Office.

"We have again taken additional measures to ease the stress of waiting in long lines at the Census. I have recently had tents put up at the Census office as a temporary solution to the long lines currently experienced there. It was the least we could do given the fact considering the long lines, partly due to the BTA applicants needing to collect their documents. Now I just got informed from my Ministry that the additional Computers from the Civil Registry have been put in place at the Justice Department so that those requiring their documents can also go there. Additionally as of Saturday the 20th of July the Census Office will also be open to BTA Applicants" commented the Prime Minister.

The Census office has been quite busy as of late due to the large number of requests in order to get registration papers, including some 3000 clients as part of the Brooks Towers Accord. The extra-ordinary opening times will be every Wednesday from two to four in afternoon and also Saturday mornings for BTA Applicants specifically. Usually on Wednesday the Census Office is closed in the afternoon. The Ministry of General Affairs will examine if opening hours will need to be further extended and are also exploring additional ways to ensure that the necessary services are rendered.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

islandhoopssummerbasketballcampflyer17072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Coaches and trainers of Island Hoops Basketball Academy, opened registration for their 1st Annual Summer Basketball Camp.

Over 50 players attended the Open House Showcase held at the St. Maarten Academy at the end of June. The 3 day event showcased the Basketball Academy's skills development training methods to the players and their parents in attendance.

Due to the high level of interest at the Open House showcase, Island Hoops Founder and Head Coach Paul Bell, decided that the Summer Camp would go on and made the necessary arrangements to accommodate two age groups for 2 weeks.

The camp is not restricted to those who participated in the Open House Showcase, all players aged 9 to 18 can enroll in the program for a small fee of $50 for the 2 weeks. The program will focus on Fundamental Basketball development; Ball-Handling, Passing, Shooting, Footwork, Defense, Teamwork & On-Court Leadership.

Starting from July 30th, the camp will be held Tuesdays thru to Fridays at the St. Maarten Academy Gym. Beginning at 9am and ending at 11:30 for players aged 9 to 13 years old. Players aged 14 to 18 years old will begin at 1:30pm and end at 4:00pm.

All players must be properly attired,wearing loose basketball clothing and gym sneakers. Space is limited, players that want to sign up for the Summer Basketball Camp can do so by simply contacting Island Hoops representatives by calling +1 721 526-1121 or emailing us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., also information will be posted on the Island Hoops Basketball Academy Facebook page www.facebook.com/IslandHoopsBasketball.

armedrobberyfillin13082012COLE BAY:--- On Tuesday July 16th at approximately 9:30pm, the Central Police Dispatch received a phone call informing them that shortly before an armed robbery had taken place at the Texaco Gas Station on the Welfare road. On the scene, the investigating officers learnt that the gasoline pump-attendant was robbed at gunpoint by two suspects. After committing their act the suspects fled the scene on foot and later jumped into a white Kia Rio and drove away. Based on the description of the suspects and the vehicle, the police patrols searched the area. Shortly after, the car in question with the two suspects inside was located on the parking lot of Ace Mega Center. The suspects with the initials S.E.W. (19) from Sint Maarten and C.G.S. (24) from Jamaica were arrested on the spot. During a search of the vehicle a fire-arm was found under the back seat of the vehicle and an amount of cash was located next to the center console. The vehicle, firearm, and cash were confiscated for further investigation by the Special Robbery Unit.

KSPM Police Report

POINTE BLANCHE:--- On Wednesday July 17th, 2013 at approximately 10:00am, the Central Police Dispatch sent a police patrol, Detectives, and personnel from the Forensic Department to investigate a case of suicide which occurred in one of the cabins on board of the Carnival Dream Cruise Ship, docked at the A.C. Wathey Cruise Facilities. On board, Detectives spoke to the ship's authorities and the ship's doctor. The captain of the ship stated that shortly after leaving the port of Saint Thomas on Tuesday July 16th with destination Sint Maarten he received a report of the incident. The incident had taken place in one of the cabins on deck #2 of the ship and the victim was a female U.S. citizen by the name of Christina Michelle Mullin (40). The victim was accompanied on the cruise by other family members. However, during the absence of her family members from the cabin, she took her own life by hanging herself. Dr. Mercuur confirmed the death of the victim as "death by hanging". The reason why the victim took her own life is still unclear. However, that investigation will be done by U.S. authorities once the ships docks at the nearest U.S. port.

KPSM Police Report

d.kullus17072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, July 19, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with Movement for Music Dance Art and Entertainment powered by La Rich Arts & Entertainment Management will once again present the 4th edition of Spoken Lyrics, to be hosted at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's new Lounge, at 8 pm.
This Fridays Spoken Lyric Session follows in the footsteps of the successful and excitement-filled "Drums of Fire" which was held on Friday, July 6, 2013. This Fridays show promises to be even more exciting than the last and will be themed "Urban Flava", in celebration of the talented youth of St. Maarten. Under the guidance of talented MC Tammy G, the nights main featured artists will be our islands rising star, D.Kullus along with DJ Earz. Kullus, a popular lyrical rapper is best known for his latest song "Let You Know" featuring Chantal "Chanti" Richardson. The creative pair will be performing Tempo's chart topping hit song live. Other featured musical and poetry performances will include: The Greenlight Band comprised of an eclectic set of musicians, Devondre Jones, Sigma & Simpletune, Entry Payperview and Yellow Boy and much more.
This session will showcase the beauty of spoken lyrics fused with music. The objective of this collaboration is to encourage the growth of up and coming, as well as dormant but talented young St. Maarteners, who display a passion for the arts, while providing a place for them to share their work with the wider community.
The final hour is the open mic session for the general public to share their work based on the theme of the evening. Our last show will follow on Friday, August 2, 2013.

swescotwilliamswithmohicanscouts17072013PHILIPSBURG:--- A group consisting if seven scouts from the Mohican Scout Group that is scheduled to leave the island on Thursday to attend the 13th Caribbean Cuboree in Suriname made a courtesy call to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten prior to their departure on Wednesday. During that courtesy call, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams presented the group with a Ruby Bute painting on a tile to take along with them on their trip. The Prime Minister wished the cubs well and told them to have fun and to be extremely proud of themselves, their island, and its flag during their trip.

The scouts will be engaged in a number of activities during their ten days in Suriname. Some 1,500 scouts from across the region will attend the Cuboree, which Richards-Huggins said will be a life lasting experience.

Accompanying the young scout members are leaders, Angela Richards-Huggins, Marva Veraayne, and Soraida Ersilia.

Prime Minister Receives Courtesy Call From Mohican Scouting Group Prior to Trip to Suriname --- Presents Scouts with Token to Present to Suriname Leader Desi Bouterse.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit by the Mohican Scouting Group of St. Maarten and its leaders prior to them traveling to Suriname on a group visit. The Scouting group will also be meeting with the President of Suriname Desi Bouterse and thus the Prime Minister presented a tile painted by renowned local artist Ruby Bute to be presented to the President by the Scouts.

"I would like to welcome the scout leaders of the Mohican Scout Group as well as the Mohican Scouts themselves here today at the A.C Wathey Legislative Hall because they are indeed embarking on a significant trip. Not only will the scouts be travelling to Suriname as part of their usual annual visit abroad, but they will also be paying a courtesy visit to the president of Suriname Mr. Bouterse and so I am truly honored by the fact that before they leave on Thursday they decided to pay a Courtesy visit to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also expressed how beautiful the scouts looked in their uniform and in particular their showcasing of he national colors and flag of St. Maarten. "I want to tell you that you look beautiful in your uniforms, especially in the colors of St. Maarten, and I want you to during this trip to be extremely proud of yourselves as scouts, your island's colors and your island's flag. I look forward to heating about your visit to Suriname. As a small token of our appreciation of the Scouts to Suriname I present Scout Leaders Mrs. Richards with this small presentation of a tile painted by local Artist Ruby Bute as you pass it to the Government representatives of Suriname," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliams17072013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that SOAB has submitted their report and the findings of the investigation they conducted at VDSM (St. Maarten's National Security).
Prime Minister Wescot Williams did not divulge the contents of the report except to say that SOAB found that a considerable amount of funds could not be substantiated as funds used for the operations of VDSM. Wescot Williams said that SOAB also made several recommendations, one of which is to give the VDSM head the possibility to substantiate or give elucidations and or explanations in terms of the findings of SOAB. Wescot Williams said that government will be looking at the recommendations that were given in the report and decisions will be taken thereafter. Wescot Williams said she also asked SOAB to conduct a quick scan of the organizational procedures at the VDSM and submit some recommendations to government.

The Prime Minister further explained that she is expected to get those recommendations within a two week period. Wescot Williams said the SOAB report will be sent to the supervisory committee (oversight committee as described in the law), the general audit chamber will also get a copy of the report SOAB submitted on VDSM.

She said that the head of the Department now has to respond to the findings of the report and give accountability for the missing funds. SMN News asked the Prime Minister how and when it was made known to her about the missing funds. Prime Wescot Williams said that the discovery was made during the month of April 2013 and the discovery was made within the department itself. When she was asked to give a ball park figure of how much monies are unaccounted for, Wescot Williams said she did not want to do so because the VDSM head still has the right to respond. SMN News asked the Prime Minister if the oversight committee that is established by law was functioning if St. Maarten would have had this problem. The Prime Minister said there is no rules of order on the oversight committee. However, she re-enforced the fact that only in April 2013 the chairperson and vice chairperson were appointed. SMN News reporter further asked if this discovery was made during the same period of time when the VDSM asked for their funds to be replenished, Wescot Williams said the replenishing of funds had to do with something else but she said that when anything of this nature takes place in government it does come to light. Secondly, she said that when a department approaches government for monies and checks and balances are down they will make discoveries.
Wescot Williams said that when the department found out that something was amiss and they informed her, that is when she asked SOAB to investigate.

President of Parliament will deal with Amendment of VDSM Oversight Committee in August.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also announced that she discussed the amendment put forward by government to change the law that governs the VDSM and its oversight committee with President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell. According to Wescot Williams, the President of Parliament assured her that she will be making a schedule on the laws that has to be dealt with, but the one regarding VDSM will be dealt with as soon as the recess is over, meaning the first week of August 2013. Other laws that will be dealt with the Prime Minister said are those relating to the Ministry of Justice, such as the amendment to the traffic ordinance.

Prime Minister Furious about Statements made by MP Richardson.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams did not take lightly the statements made by Member of Parliament Frans Richardson who openly called on the Prime Minister to resign now that it is known that there are problems at the VDSM (National Security Department). Member of Parliament Frans Richardson said that the Prime Minister has the responsibility of the VDSM and therefore he believes that she should resign. He also felt that the Prime Minister should have taken the initiative to inform the Members of Parliament of what has happened at VDSM even if that was done in a closed door meeting. He said that the Prime Minister did not have to wait on Parliament to call her. When one of the reporters at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing asked the Prime Minister about those statements she said that it is unfortunate for words or terms such as "a breach of security" be used to describe what happened at VDSM. She said that is absolutely incorrect because no breach of security occurred and those statements are misleading. "It is also unfortunate for the MP to use examples such as the Snowden case. One and I for sure know that certain matters must be kept out of the political realm. There is a process that has to follow regarding informing and reporting to Parliament as far as the National Security Services are concerned. The supervisory commission has an important role to play in that process. I consider the statements really unfortunate and for it to be taken out of context. This MP could call for my resignation as often as he wants to." Wescot Williams also made clear that she has no intention to resign at this moment.

Prime Minister Says it Unfortunate Words Such as Breach of Contract, Resignation are Being Used Politically.

"There are certain matters that should be kept outside of the political realm"

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams reacted yesterday at the Council of Ministers Press Briefings regarding calls o a member of Parliament for her to resign to what he falsely refers to as a breach of security at the VDSM. The Prime Minister stated that it is quite unfortunate that in this context terms and words like a breach of security were used. "These terms are absolutely incorrect and misleading. To then make a relationship to cases abroad like the Snowden case to what has been occurring here for example I think is quite unfortunate. One should expect that members of Parliament would understand that there are certain matters that one should keep out of the political realm. And there is a process to be followed as part of informing Parliament as far as the National Security Service is concerned. The Supervisory Commission has an important role to play in that process and of course Parliament can at anytime ask a Minister to come and give account for any matter but one can imagine that the same kind of carefulness will also be used towards Parliament regarding the National Security Service and Parliament is asked to respect that.

"I consider it unfortunate that such a situation is taken totally out of context. This member of Parliament can call for my resignation as much as he cares to but outside of that it is quite unfortunate that this particular item is being used in this fashion. No one ever mentioned a breach of security. One uses these terms in order to sound popular and to cause an emotional reaction in the population. The Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf in one of its reports erroneously mentioned that there were discrepancies with money regards to the DEA as it pertains to the National Security Service which is completely erroneous, so we as those elected to represent St. Maarten and its people should have a better understanding and not drop words and make accusations; we should realize that there is a world outside of St. Maarten that is looking at St. Maarten and we need to be cognizant of that fact. And as a matter of course I will not be resigning.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Statistics, hereby informs the general public about the start of its National Accounts & Import/Export surveys in 2013. These surveys are carried out amongst business establishments on Dutch St. Maarten with an aim to collect financial data from all industries operating on the island. In the case of the Import/Export (IMPEX) survey, the main objective is to gather data on the value of the commodity flow on St. Maarten.
All companies with 10 or more employees, and are involved with the import and/or export of goods can expect to receive both questionnaires. A sample-selection has also been made of those companies who employ less than 10 persons. Given the fact, no data-collection was carried out for these surveys in 2012, data is now being gathered for the years 2011 & 2012.
In preparation for these surveys, STAT has trained a total of 7 freelance- interviewers who are tasked with delivery and return of the completed questionnaires to the department. STAT is urging the business community to fully cooperate with interviewers during the survey period, which runs officially from Monday July 15th 2013 until year-end. Interviewers are able to assist with filling of questionnaires but can also be provided with a copy of the company's financial statements for the applicable years and can complete the questionnaires on your behalf.
These surveys are critically important, to enable STAT to provide regular statistics on economic developments on St. Maarten. In the event, enterprises or institutions require any additional information or support during this data-collection, kindly contact our office directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

jayhaviserrameshmanekandcarlhousen16072013PHILIPSBURG:--- At last Saturday's Change of Guard Ceremony, organized by the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle, Mr. Ramesh Manek, Mr. Carl Housen, and Dr. Jay Haviser received Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. Rotarian Manek served as President of the Mid Isle Club in 2011-2012, and continued to support, advice and provide hands on Rotary work with the club's projects. Mr. Carl Housen has for many years supported the Mid Isle Club with their projects, especially the youth-oriented Sports and Spelling Bee projects by providing baked items and snacks for the participants and organizers. Dr. Jay Haviser was recognized for his tireless efforts in educating the youth who are members of his SIMARC Foundation about archaeology and history of Sint Maarten, and extending their knowledge further with various educational trips abroad. His contributions to our island in preserving its heritage is second to none. The Rotary Club is pleased to present these recognitions on behalf of the Trustees of the Rotary Foundation "in appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations between peoples of the world."
The Paul Harris Fellowship is named for Paul Harris, who founded Rotary with three business associates in Chicago in 1905. The Fellowship was established in his honor in 1957 to express appreciation for a substantial contribution to the humanitarian and educational programs of The Rotary Foundation. The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle designated the Paul Harris Fellows to Manek, Housen and Haviser whose lives demonstrate a shared purpose with the objectives and mission of the Rotary Foundation to build world understanding and peace.

soggysoundsdjcompetition160720131st round of Bikini contest at Bliss

SIMPSON BAY:--- A new Soggy Sounds DJ Champion will be named Saturday at the end of the final heat of an exciting DJ competition at the Soggy Dollar Bar in Simpson Bay and following last Saturday's elimination of defending Champ, DJ Chubs.

Of the eight contestants who put on their best performances Saturday, four have now advanced to the finals: DJ Chicken, DJ Maestro, DJ Skillz and DJ Big Boss.
Organizers say it was another packed night with some unbelievable sets from some of St. Maarten's hottest DJs.
They expect the largest turnout of fans and supporters this coming Saturday when the finals take place and the judges announce who will be taking home a $2,500 cash prize and bragging rights as the new House DJ for the Soggy Dollar Bar.
TelEm Group Lead Customer Service Officer, Suraj Ramdas, says TelEm Group is one of the sponsors of the competition and has been present at each of the elimination rounds to meet with fans and music lovers, "and also to give the contestants some encouragement," said Suraj.
He said the DJ contest is just one of a number of Summer events that TelEm Group is sponsoring and is involved with in the coming weeks.
"We had a real blast at the Bliss Nightclub on July 13 for a "Dutch Invasion/Pre-Bastille Day Celebration" that set the tone for all that has happened up to now," said Suraj.
He said the Bliss event was especially "Hot" because of the performance of music mix-master "Allure" who rocked the nightclub for four straight hours until the party came to an end at 5:00 in the morning.
"Our TelEm Group and TelCell teams are really looking forward to the DJ finals on Saturday and to meeting more and more of the friends we are making throughout this Summer," continued Suraj.
Also starting this Saturday is another event on the TelCell Summer program – the First Round of the Sunset Bar & Grill 5th Annual Bikini Contest.
The contest gets under way at 9:00 pm, while the DJ Finals are scheduled to begin at 10:00 pm.

Suraj says his team has been giving out many giveaways and spot prizes during these events. One popular giveaway very much in demand is "Designer" TelCell Condoms in the mobile carrier's bold red color.
"Whether people turn out for the giveaways or just to have a great night out, we welcome them to have fun with us to make it a Summer to truly remember," said Suraj.

Telem Press Release

markyokoyama29052013PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and visitors alike are invited to join in celebrating the release of the highly-anticipated second edition of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin. This gala book launch event will be held at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library from 6-8pm on Tuesday, July 23. The festivities will feature a fascinating multimedia presentation about the extraordinary wildlife of the island by the author, naturalist and photographer Mark Yokoyama, refreshments, and book signings. The event is free and open to the public, and everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy this very special evening.

The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin has brought the unique wildlife of St. Martin/St. Maarten to the world stage, capturing the attention of the scientific community and wildlife fans of all ages. The second edition of the guide has been warmly welcomed by many of the most influential scientists working in Caribbean biology and ecology, as well as leaders in the Caribbean conservation community. "This guidebook is a groundbreaking contribution to natural history for St. Martin and surrounding islands...and will certainly prove to inspire young and old to get outside and see what wonders await them." says Natalia Collier, Executive Director of Environmental Protection in the Caribbean. Dr. James "Skip" Lazell, President of The Conservation Agency, calls it "the best, and most complete, natural history book I have read about any single Caribbean island. The text is enlightening and entertaining and the photographs are superb."

The book is a unique full-color guide to all the terrestrial wildlife of St. Martin/St. Maarten, from bats, birds and lizards to insects, spiders and snails. It includes over 500 stunning color photographs, and profiles hundreds of species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world. So what else makes this book especially important for St. Martin/St. Maarten? Unlike most wildlife guides, it places wildlife in a historical and cultural context unique to the island, with detailed information about both the biology and the local history of the animals–so it preserves and promotes this important part of the island's heritage. By showcasing nature, a currently under-appreciated aspect of our island, the book points to an important way to drive future tourism. Finally, it's written to be accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds, so this knowledge can be shared by everyone.

The second edition boasts all-new descriptions and text with hundreds of new photos, over 100 new species, and more local names and stories. It also features new sections on the habitats and ecosystems of St. Martin/St. Maarten, and the history of biology on the island–a captivating who's who of researchers, explorers, and citizen scientists reaching back to the mid-1600s. To make it possible to include the new sections, print the book in a big, glossy, high-quality format, and drop the retail price to $20, Yokoyama successfully leveraged an international crowdsourced fundraising campaign. "With the help of supporters from this island and all over the world, the second edition is here, it's beautiful, and it's more affordable, which means it's more accessible for more people," says Yokoyama, "and that's something to celebrate!"

The July 23rd festivities mark not only the official debut of the all-new second edition of the book itself, but also the release of the free PDF version–so anyone will be able to download an electronic copy of the book at no cost, at any time. Yokoyama will launch the live download link on www.sxmwildlife.com during the event, as part of his mission of making knowledge about local wildlife and natural heritage freely accessible to everyone, especially the young people of the island.

Yokoyama will also be speaking about his wildlife education program, which includes public presentations, school visits, field trips, and a book donation project. A "Buy One, Give One" book donation package of $30 will be available at the event, so buyers can take one book home and donate another copy to a school or library.

The second edition of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin will be available for $20 at the July 23rd event. Following the launch, the book will be sold on amazon.com and at bookstores, museums, and gift shops on the island. The free PDF version will be downloadable at www.sxmwildlife.com starting the evening of the event.

The book launch event will take place Tuesday, July 23 from 6-8pm at the Jubilee Library in Philipsburg.

claudiuscartyreceivesawardafteruscoastguardmarineinspectorcourse16072013PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- Marine Affairs Inspector Claudius Carty from the Department of Civil Aviation & Shipping and Maritime attended a US Coast Guard Marine Inspector course in York Town, Virginia (USA) at the US Coast Guard Training Center, from May 28 to June 28.

Carty passed with a 98% grade and, apart from that accomplishment, his overall performance was recognized, earning him the Lt. Commander William B. Turek Award for his overall outstanding performance.

The award is the Lieutenant Commander William B. Turek Award, given to the person "who, as voted by classmates, most exemplifies the personal qualities necessary in a Coast Guard Marine Inspector: professionalism, integrity, flexibility, and an overriding concern for the safety of vessel personnel," according to the letter from P.M. Tubalado, LCDR, Chief, Inspection and Investigation School.

Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication Miguel de Weever and Department Head of Civil Aviation & Shipping and Maritime Louis Halley congratulated Carty on his outstanding performance. "We are proud of Mr. Carty and his performance. He is an outstanding civil servant and an example to all."

In addition, we wanted to thank the US Coast Guard for their assistance and support, not only for the reduction of the cost of the course from $11,000 to just $1,600 but also for the general and ongoing working relationship in the Marine Inspection area.

So far, Carty has completed 2 out of the 3 courses necessary, Halley said. In October, he will go for the third. There were 27 other persons from the US coast guard who took part in the course; Carty was the only Non-Coast Guard inspector. The marine officer is vital to the further development of St. Maarten. Their main task as a government marine inspector is: to inspect ships, boats, tugs, tankers, barges, dredges and their components and machinery to ensure they meet crew and passenger safety regulations and construction standards.

dwaccountingdonatestoasl16072013~Art Saves Lives Program's students benefits from donations ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives received donations from UTS, Antek , Maduro Travel, Sunny Foods, Affordable Car Rental, Office 1, Harbor Group of Companies and DW Accounting before the program was conducted in June. The recently held Art Saves Lives summer intensive program featured 16 artists from the United States who in addition to teaching classes performed community service as part of their contribution to St. Maarten.

Ms. De Weever, founder and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation was very grateful to these companies for their support and will give more detail in an upcoming press conference on how these and other sponsors helped Art Saves Lives be the resounding success that it was.

annmarielynch02012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The investigation into the disappearance of Ann-Marie LYNCH, from Jamaica, who most recently worked at Pineapple Pete's in Simpson bay, has so far been unsuccessful. Ann-Marie Lynch has been missing since December 28th, 2012.
From the moment the missing person report was filed for Ann-Marie Lynch, a team was immediately formed by the Police Force of Sint Maarten, who has painstakingly investigated every tip and clue they had. Given the circumstances under which Ann-Marie went missing, the police suspected that Ann-Marie Lynch had become the victim of a criminal act.
Led by the prosecution many witnesses were heard by the investigation team, camera images viewed, phones tapped, and forensic investigations done. Raids were carried out and a suspect was arrested, but was later released due to insufficient evidence.
Despite investigations done by police and volunteers on different locations, the Coast Guard along several bays and beaches on the island, so far Ann-Marie Lynch has not been found. Also with the help of the FBI who carried out searches and investigations in the U.S. Virgin islands.
The Police Department is making an appeal to the entire population, requesting anyone who may have any kind of information regarding this investigation to report it to the Detective Dept. or call the hotline: Telephone Number 9300.

KPSM Press Release

stabbingfillin24102012SUCKER GARDEN:--- On Monday July 15th at approximately 8:20pm, the Central Police Dispatch received a call informing them of stabbing incident which had taken place on the Sucker Garden road in the vicinity of Coastal Car Rental. Several police patrols were sent to the scene to investigate what had taken place. On the scene the victim with the initials D.W. from Jamaica was found lying on the ground bleeding from serious stab wounds to his stomach and neck. The victim stated that he had an argument with a man with initials J.D. and during this heated dispute he was stabbed several times by the suspect with a machete. After committing this act the suspect fled the scene. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then taken to the Sint Maarten Medical center for further treatment. The entire area was searched to locate the suspect, however without any success. The Forensic Department and Detective Department are conducting their investigation to determine exactly what happened and why.

KPSM Police Report

prisonescapees23062013PHILIPSBURG:--- Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed on Tuesday that the three prisoners that escaped from the prison cells located at the back of the Philipsburg Police Station on Sunday June 23rd, 2013 have not been recaptured. Stein said that the police did not get any leads from the public to assist them with recapturing the escapees. He said the Justice Department offered a reward of $15,000.00 for any information that would lead them to the escaped prisoners but that also did not lead to any fruitful tip. Stein said that they are of the opinion that the three suspects left the island already.

In reaction to a question posed by SMN News regarding the investigation that is being conducted by the Landsrecherche on how the prisoners managed to escape from the prison cells that is located behind the Police Station, Stein said he still did not get the report from the investigators. When asked if he had any indication that would lead him to believe that the escapees got inside help in order to escape, Stein said he has absolutely no indication on that and he is not even sure when he will get the report on the ongoing investigation.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced last week Monday that an investigation into the operations of the VDSM is currently taking place where the SOAB is investigating them to see if there was inappropriate or misuse of funds.

SMN News has learnt from well placed sources that the VDSM was given monies as their budget for their operations even though the oversight committee was not functioning. According to one well placed source, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten submitted an advice during the Wescot Williams II cabinet on behalf of the VDSM asking that monies be replenished. "The request was a strange one that the Prime Minister could not explain or back up, except to say that the VDSM used their monies for certain things and they had to be reimbursed."

The source said that the Ministry of Finance under the leadership of former Minister Roland Tuitt rejected the advice because he wanted to know if the VDSM provided any accounting on the monies they were given in the first instance. SMN News learnt that the Prime Minister who is responsible for the VDSM felt that the department needed monies and they should get it even though they did not provide government with their financials on the monies they were granted prior.

What Sparked the Current Investigation --- PM's Son in Law Representing Financiers of Government Building.

SMN News further learnt that the VDSM was busy conducting an investigation on the Government Building on Pond Island and when the Prime Minister got word of this she called for an investigation on how VDSM is spending the monies that were given to them by government. "Certain people are saying that the VDSM embezzled between Naf. 100,000.00 to Naf. 500,000.00 but that is yet to be proven. What the Prime Minister did is turn the focus on the VDSM in order to take the focus away from her and the Government Administration Building that falls directly under her and her son in law being the representative of the financiers."

SMN News understands that the VDSM was particularly concerned about the Prime Minister who is in charge of the completion of the Government Administration Building and her son in law as the one representing the financiers of the project. While the sources could not provide the real name of the company that was providing the financing of the Government Administration building, they said it is one of the subsidiary companies of WP Carey. It should be noted that the Prime Minister's son in law was the one negotiating the Justice Park with former Justice Minister Roland Duncan. At the time, the Prime Minister's son in law was representing Global 17. The two negotiators for the 100 million dollar project was the son of the Prime Minister Andy Wescot who was negotiating on behalf of Orista N.V. and Gary Master negotiating for the financiers Global 17. The idea was for Orista N.V. to sell two of their properties located in Cay Hill to Global 17 for 25 million dollars. Global 17 would have then developed the project of the Justice Park and rent it to Government for a period of 30 years before the Government of St. Maarten becomes the owner of the properties. The information on the Justice Park and who was negotiating for the financiers and the Orista N.V. was confirmed by the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan just prior to the fall of Wescot Williams II cabinet.

The source further explained that the Prime Minister's son in law once met with the Ministry of Finance to discuss their proposal on financing the completion of the Government Administration Building but the outcome of that meeting is not known.

SMN News further learnt that the former Minister of VROMI William Marlin wanted to take over the Government Building from the Prime Minister since her son in law was involved in the project and that in itself placed the Prime Minister in an uncomfortable position but the Prime Minister refused to release that project to the former Minister of VROMI whose department is also involved in the project. Another project that came under the microscope of the Wescot Williams I and II cabinets and was stopped by the National Alliance led government in the Wecot Williams II cabinet is the Justice Park where the Prime Minister's son and son in law were directly involved. Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson recently told SMN News in an interview that the Justice Park project was halted by the Wescot Williams II cabinet and he is currently reviewing the project.

SMN News learnt that the NA/DP/I-3 coalition put a halt on the Justice Park because the Dutch and CFT both denounced the project. According to one source, the NA led Government felt that the Prime Minister's son and son in law were also involved in a project that has the concerns of the people and the Dutch and therefore they halted the project even though St. Maarten needed several justice facilities that were incorporated in the Justice Park.

The source said that because of the decisions taken by the National Alliance, Ministers the Democratic Party decided that they needed to use Member of Parliament Romaine Laville as a scapegoat to throw the Government down because projects that would benefit the Prime Minister and her immediate families were halted. It is left to be seen how the Prime Minister will react to this information and if she will now tell the people of St. Maarten about the Government Administration Building that has been sitting on Pond Island for several years. That building was built by a Trinidadian company (RGM) who never completed the building.

Who is the head of VDSM --- James Richardson.

In order to know who exactly is the head of VDSM, SMN News did some digging. According to information received, James Richardson, a local St. Maartener, was described as a very upstanding citizen that studied in the Netherlands. Richardson has full police training but instead of working as law enforcement officer he moved to Aruba after leaving the Netherlands and there he opened a security company.

During the dismantling process in which the current Minister of Justice was highly instrumental, James Richardson was selected as the person to head the VDSM. SMN News understands that while Minister Dennis Richardson was involved in constitutional process for St. Maarten to become a country, the Dutch Security Agency was heavily involved in assisting St. Maarten to set up the departments that are needed for the island to become a country within the Netherlands. SMN News made several efforts to reach James Richardson for a comment on this ongoing saga but he could not be reached by phone or at his home in Guana Bay. SMN News learned that Richardson was placed on suspension the moment the Prime Minister initiated the investigation.

dennisrichardsonatprisonrenovationkickoff15072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A number of dignitaries were on hand including Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson for the kick-off of the multi-million guilder renovation of the Point Blanche Prison.

Minister of Justice Richardson told the invited guests that a lot of time and effort has been spent in reaching the current phase for the execution of the renovations, and thanked all concerned who were involved and made it a reality.

The Minister also thanked the Dutch Government for making the funds available via USONA to the tune of Naf.7.5 million adding that the prison will now be able to comply with the stipulations of the Committee for the Prevention of Torture once the renovations have been completed.

Minister Richardson also pointed out that Country Sint Maarten has accomplished a lot since 10-10-10 with the establishment of several bodies which are required under international regulations in order to comply with obligations in the overall fight against crime.

Among the guests was Acting Secretary General (SG) at the Ministry of Justice Richard Panneflek, Prison Director Rohan and his staff, Solicitor General Taco Stein, representative of USONA Angela Dekker, representatives of the contractor Liccom, and the project supervisor Lievense.

mvogeswithargentineambassador15072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Sint Maarten's Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges received a courtesy call at the Sint Maarten House in The Hague last week Thursday from the new Argentine Ambassador Hon. Hector Horacio Salvador.

After the introduction, the Ambassador and Minister Voges discussed cooperation and future relations between both countries.

Argentina is known for its export of meat and related foods and other agricultural products. The economy of the Republic of Argentina is picking up and the Caribbean is becoming a popular tourist destination for the Argentines.

A follow-up meeting will take place at the Embassy of the Republic of Argentina.

Minister Voges presented the Ambassador with a USB stick containing a wealth of information about Sint Maarten and the economic opportunities on the island.

nicoledeweeverandhelmaetnel15072013GREAT BAY:--- Art Saves Lives Program Director, Nicole de Weever, made a courtesy call on TelEm Group last Wednesday, to talk about recent activities and the program's plans for the future.

During a brief meeting with TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mrs. Helma Etnel, Nicole outlined the achievements of a week-long Summer Intensive at Port de Plaisance Country Club, June 24-28th - TelEm Group was one of the sponsors of the program and its series of workshops.
"We were fortunate to attract the involvement of sixteen professional artists from overseas in our goal to use art as a bridge to education about the arts and how it can save lives," said the Foundation Director.
She passionately believes the Art Saves Lives Foundation can facilitate personal improvement of St. Maarten's talented and underprivileged youth through creative pursuits and much-needed guidance and encouragement.
According to Nicole, the Foundation and its workshop participants are in the process of selecting eight (8) of the island's most talented youths to take part in open auditions in the USA later in the year and the chance to make noted careers in the performing arts and other artistic pursuits.
"I would like to thank TelEm for their support and also encourage other companies to consider their own responsibility when it comes to supporting this type of initiative that is totally geared towards support or our youth, providing creative means for them to express themselves in a profound way. This support must be from the heart and must be given without expecting more in return than the improvement and benefit of deserving youth in a community that we must all care for," said Nicole.
She said she was especially impressed and was brought to tears at an open air performance of various acts on the Boardwalk at the end of the Summer Intensive.
"We have truly talented youngsters on St. Maarten. I was lucky enough to have parents who could allow me to follow my dream and now it is my mission and the mission of other dedicated board members to assist others, less able, as much as we can, to follow their own dreams," continued Nicole, a talented and highly acclaimed dancer and performer in her own right.

TelEm Group's Chief Financial Officer, Mrs. Helma Etnel said she was delighted to learn that so much had been achieved by the Foundation board members and praised the enthusiasm and dynamism of Director, Nicole de Weever.
"We wish you continued success and congratulate you for the efforts you are making on behalf of young people St. Maarten," added Mrs. Etnel.
Arts Saves Lives Program (ASLP) is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change.
The collaborative project selects renowned artists from around the world who use the arts to introduce participants to global and local traditions and empower them with life skills necessary to effectively deal with the demands and challenges of every-day life.

Telem Press Release

mauricelakewithgebemanagementinfortwillem15072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Monday morning visited Fort Willem along with GEBE management to observe the street light repair program underway. GEBE has already put on the lights for the first phase of Fort Willem Street lights.

One of the key areas for the Minister is the repair of street lights in the various districts. The site visit by the Minister is a follow-up to a meeting Minister Lake had with GEBE management.

"Street lights serve the key purpose of safety and security in the districts. I am looking forward to receiving an action plan from GEBE with respect to the repair of street lights in the different districts. People walking or jogging can see where they are walking and running, and avoid injury during this activity.

"From a security perspective, street lights also serve as a deterrent to would-be burglars. Ft. Willem residents have been suffering with a string of robberies. A lighted area can help prevent car theft and home invasion. Every residential district must be properly lighted," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

Minister Lake met with GEBE management a few weeks ago regarding the situation of streetlights and GEBE management informed the Minister about the progress so far with their light maintenance plan which is being executed in close consultation with the Department of Infrastructure Management.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday the 6th edition of the Caribbean Plant Health Directors (CPHD) Forum will open at the Belair Community Center.

Approximately 55 Chief Plant Health Officers from the Ministries of Agriculture in the Dutch, French, Spanish and English-speaking Caribbean countries and territories will attend the two and a half day forum that concludes on Friday.

The CPHD Forum is largely the result of efforts by the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), with support from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture and the Food and Agriculture Organization.

Mervyn Butcher from the Inspection Department TEZVT Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, told the Department of Communication on Monday that the forum is geared towards developing and implementing strategies for the protection of the Caribbean Region from harmful pests to the agriculture sector and by extension the economy.

He added that attendees will review the activities of the past year and plan for what they would like to achieve for the upcoming period.

A critical goal of the CPHD Forum is to increase communication and the transparent exchange of phyto-sanitary information among Caribbean countries. One of the means of promoting this exchange is through individual and group interchange of information via the annual CPHD Forum Meeting.

CPHD's drive is to form a plant health organization comprising all Caribbean countries as well as a series of technical working groups under the annual meeting of the CPHD Forum.

The first meeting of CPHD, was convened at the CARICOM Secretariat Headquarters in Georgetown, Guyana in April 2008.

cdeweeverwithdutchandfrenchwaterdelegation15072013GREAT BAY:--- The Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever, who has the authority on drinking water supply on the Dutch side and Mr. Louis Fleming, the Président of the Etablissement des Eaux et de L'Assainisse-ment, [EEASM] the French side Water Authority on Friday July 5, and Thursday July 10, 2013 met on the respective sides of the Island to discuss an urgent need for drinking water on the Eastern part of the French side of Saint Martin. The delegation of both Water Authorities included the operations and technical staff of EEASM, GEBE, Seven Seas Water (AirFin) and the water advisors.
"As Minister responsible for drinking water we will do our best to assist our neighbors on the northern half of the island, as a means of jointly cooperating to come to a solution," said Minister De Weever.
The request for the first meeting was an initiative of EEASM. There is an urgent need to repair the reservoir on Morne Valois which supplies water to French Quarter and beyond, which includes Grand Case, French Cul de Sac, Orient, French Quarter and Oyster Pond. The repair of the reservoir and possible other works will take a few months. During these repairs the French side would like to be supplied by the Dutch side. A total of 1000 m3 per day is required. Presently the technical staffs of the distribution companies are assessing the possibilities of new connections or reinstating existing facilities at the border point and in French Quarter and Oyster Pond to supply the quantity required.
Currently the resources to produce the water are limited and the production capacity is very close to the demand of water. A new plant in Pointe Blanche is under construction but will not be operational until the last quarter of this year. However Minister De Weever considers supply of drinking water, in particular when there is urgency, an essential service to the community whether it is on the Dutch side or on the French side. Therefore all efforts will be made to comply with the French request, without continuously compromising the service on the Dutch side.
To establish the feasibility of the supply, we have to ensure that the quality of water and water pressure flowing to the French side is up to par for example will the volume of water flowing to the French side be sufficient, will the water pressure be good, EEASM and GEBE will jointly carry out hydraulic calculations. The outcome and conclusions will be available by August 16, 2013 at the next meeting.

swescotwilliamscongratulateslittleleagueteams15072013Commends St. Maarten Team for Playing Excellently and for Inspiring National Pride

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated all participating teams and attendants who participated in the weeklong 2013 Latin America Little League Championship Competition over the last few weeks. The Prime Minister stated that, although there were some challenges with regards to the weather, that the general consensus was that the championship was an excellent one. The Prime Minister congratulated Panama, who players were able to bring home the Championship Trophy after they beat Venezuela 1-0.

The Prime Minister especially congratulated the St. Maarten Little League Players, whom showed much strength and dedication during the tournament. "I Especially would like to congratulate our St. Maarten players for playing excellently and for fighting for the title. I understood that sometimes it was a little overwhelming but you played very very well and we are all proud of you. Also to the supporters I would like to say job well done. You have come out in strong numbers to support our local players and that shows not only pride in the team but also pride in your country. And finally to the organizers for putting this competition together I would like to commend you for an excellent job well done," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

icaoconference15072013"It is good to be able to build our reputation and image through our ability to host these types of events and the economic spinoffs they provide."

SIMPSON BAY:--- On the heels of the successful ICAO Conference recently held on the island, where some 42 countries were represented at one of the most significant Civil Aviation Conferences in the world, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has reiterated the call for St. Maarten to broaden its infrastructure to provide more opportunities for conference tourism.

"As Prime Minister and Vice Minister for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Telecommunication and Transportation I can say that we have indeed been making St. Maarten very attractive for hosting conferences. The Country needs to further grasp these opportunities and together with the private sector, we need to push harder for conference tourism. If we are going to attract conferences to St. Maarten we need to make sure that our technology, accommodations etc. are up to date and up to speed. I am always amazed as to how first time visitors that come to St Maarten are blown away by what the island has to offer. We need to make sure that technically we are operating on the level that we should be operating at. We need to ensure that we have the necessary technology in place. The fact remains that the uniqueness of St. Maarten is a very large selling point and when we host large conferences where sometimes two hundred people are attending it will have a very significant economic spinoff," stated the PM.

The Prime Minister stressed her point by announcing that some 140 delegates of the Haitian Physicians Working Abroad Organization will be visiting the island for a large conference later this month. "For example we have the Haitian Physicians working Abroad coming here for their annual conference and this will have numerous positive spinoffs. It is good to be able to build our reputation and image through our ability to host these types of events. We are open for discussions, we are willing to have these conferences here which places St. Maarten on the international map and the information that we ourselves are able to get from these conferences is also very important," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsvideoconferencewithronaldplasterk15072013Minister Plasterk Satisfied With Progress Reports, Renovation of Point Blanche Prison

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held her once quarterly meeting with the Dutch Minister of Interior Plasterk at a Video Conference held at the Conference Room of the Parliament Building on Thursday. The meeting was held in conformity with the agreement regarding reporting on the Plans of Approach. This agreement states that the PM and Dutch Minister of BZK meet once the quarterly reports have been submitted by the relevant ministries and vetted by the Progress Committee under the chairmanship of Mr. Bandell. Mr. Richard Gibson Sr. is St. Maarten's representative in that committee.

"Today we handled two progress reports, namely from the fourth quarter of 2012 and the first quarter of 2013. The ministries that fall under the Plans of Approach are General Affairs (Census and Legal Affairs), VROMI, and Justice (Point Blanche Prison, Police and National Detective). Given the emphasis on Justice, the Minister of Justice usually sits in on these so-called MO (Ministrieel Overleg) meetings. This was Minister Richardson's first MO and generally speaking the progress in all areas is moving ahead well. Minister Plasterk was happy to learn that renovations at the Point Blanche prison are slated to begin next week," commented the Prime Minister. Representatives of the relevant ministries were also present during the meeting.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- On July 10th, 2013, the Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten, Mr. Dennis L. Richardson held a meeting with border control institutions. Present at this meeting were representatives of the Police, Coast Guard, Customs, Immigration and Border Protection Service, and the Attorney General.

The purpose of this meeting was to develop proposals on how to more effectively control the borders on St. Maarten and/or prevent human smuggling and human trafficking and the infiltration of the community by persons with "less than good intentions" and proposals therefore to curb crime. The Minister of Justice is in favor of a firm approach to combating criminal activities in the aforementioned way, whilst taking into consideration the economic/tourist interests of St. Maarten.

At the airport there is already collaboration between officers of the Royal Marechausee, the staff of the Police Force of St. Maarten, and the Immigration and Border Protection Service. Together these services combat not only migration criminality, but also the problem regarding false and/or forged documents and general offenses at the airport. To strengthen the first line control (control at the counter) and in the BackOffice (further verification of suspected irregularities) a recently launched program will be expanded and strengthened for certain risk flights. It will require a more intensive cooperation between the airport and the airlines taking their interests into account. Along with risk profiles working instructions will be established at the airport, to filter out the first line control passengers with bad intentions. These passengers will be further investigated at the BackOffice.

To jointly tackle this problem, the Immigration and Border Control Service and the Coast Guard were given instructions to draw up action plans for the airport, the seaports, and beaches. This includes a risk analysis of the ports and beaches, as well as an inventory study on the implementation of a radar system or other similar modern technologies for the monitoring of movements of ships. In this context, the minister wants to continue to look for other possibilities with international partners (including the United States of America and France).

In the coming period these border control institutes will submit a report to the Minister with recommendations for the improvement of the situation. As of July 11th, 2013, these institutions will finalize their plan of approach and within a month this plan, including the first results will be presented to the Minister.

KPSM Press Release

swescotwilliamsatbastilledayceremony14072013Matriarchs Honored for Providing Traditional Sweets and Tarts to Community

MARIGOT:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Bastille Day July 14th Celebrations at the Waterfront in Marigot on Sunday. The highlight of the official ceremony was the presentation to various matriarchs of the various districts who have been keeping the tradition of baking, making and providing traditional sweets and cakes within the community. The Prime Minister wished residents of the Northern Side of the island and the People of the French Republic and its territories on a happy Bastille Day and National Holiday.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

disciplestoastmastersclubinductsfive14072013CUL DE SAC:--- The Disciples Toastmasters Club on Sunday (July 14, 2013) opened the new Toastmasters year with the induction of five new members, bringing to 25, its total membership.
Among those making the pledge to help the club maintain a positive and friendly environment with honest and highly ethical standards were Tamara Carty, Amanda Vital-Bedminister, Agnes Mardenborough- Brooks, Yolanda Pond, and Rebecca Aldophin.
For Carty, joining Toastmasters is another step in her life, as her aim is to enhance her speaking skills. "My goals are to become a competent communicator and enhance my leadership skills," the new Toastmaster said. Adolphin, on the other hand, wanted to be a part of something valuable in the community and be able to help others.
Pond, a native of Dominica who grew up on Saba from age three, was a former Toastmaster and has decided to complete her educational goals this time.
"I have decided to step out once again from my solitary comfort zone and rid myself of the fear of public speaking. Anytime you conquer a fear or achieve a goal, you are going to feel good about yourself. I don't think I'm that bad at public speaking, but I feel that Toastmasters will help boost and sustain my confidence in public speaking so that I don't miss future opportunities to 'stand out' from the crowd. Toastmasters will also give me the ability to sharpen my leadership skills," Pond stated.
She echoed Einstein that communication puts your education at your disposal. For, if you can't express yourself, what use is your knowledge? Communication skills are essential for confidence and leadership. Pond is encouraging anyone who is terrified to speak in front of a group to join Toastmasters.
Meanwhile, Mardenborough- Brooks joined Toastmasters to become more organized and concise when expressing herself. "Since I'm always training and motivating others, I find it would be a big benefit to me and my future plans and goals," said Mrs. Mardenborough- Brooks.
Mrs. Vital-Bedminister, on the other hand, a busy mother of six, is looking for inevitable growth in her communicative and leadership skills. She also wants to use her strength and qualities to enhance the club.
"One clear goal I have had for numerous years was to be in active organizations that ultimately lead to my personal development and career growth. Toastmasters International (TI) is one personal goal that I have finally taken, to challenge the greatness God has placed inside me. It is indeed a pleasure to be a member of TI. It is rare that you find people that are truly interested in your personal growth; that are willing to share and enhance you. The atmosphere of The Disciples Club has shown those characteristics and I consider that attribute highly meritorious," said Mrs. Vital-Bedminister. Her motto echoes that of Paul J. Meyer that "communication – the human connection – is the key to personal success".
All five new members of the club were led in their pledge by newly-installed president, Advanced Communicator Bronze (ACB) and Competent Leader (CL) Ingrid Holaman before they were pinned by Vice President Membership, Competent Communicator (CC) Sharanne Gibbs.
The Disciples Club meets every second and fourth Sunday at St. Maarten Academy's academic campus. All are welcome.

gracitaarrindellmeetswithdennisrichardson14072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met with Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson on Wednesday to update the Minister with respect to upcoming parliamentary sessions related to penal and criminal codes.

The meeting at the same time served as an introductory and the President plans on meeting with the other ministers as well during the coming weeks.

"I am continuing with the preparatory process for upcoming parliamentary sessions regarding various pieces of legislation that are incomplete. When Members of Parliament (MPs) return from their recess on August 2 we will hit the ground running to move pending matters forward before the end of the 3rd Sitting of the House comes on September 10.

"The Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson was provided with a list of pending laws, as well as all the verbatim reports that are available pertaining to these draft laws.

"Tentative dates to finalize the deliberations in Parliament were set and all MPs have officially received the same list as well as the verbatim reports pertaining to the hearings held in 2011.

"Also discussed were issues that the Minister considers his concern and priority to handle including the draft law regarding changing of the composition oversight/supervisory commission for the Security Services of Sint Maarten," President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

armedrobberyfillin13082012PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday July 13th, 2013, two armed robberies took place, just 25 minutes apart. The first one occurred at approximately 9:35pm when the Police Central Dispatch received a call of an armed robbery that happened shortly before, in the vicinity of Island Water World on the Water Front road. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the victim with the initials N.A.B. who was bleeding profusely from a deep wound to his head. The victim stated that he was attacked by two unknown men while walking up the stairs to his home. At least one of these men was armed with a machete and during the attack injured the victim on his head with that weapon. Both suspects were dressed in dark clothing and had their faces covered. They robbed the victim of all his money and fled the scene. The paramedics came to the scene and attended the victim. He was then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. Witnesses are being questioned and the investigation is in the hands of the Special Robbery Unit.

On Saturday July 13th at approximately 10:00pm, the Central Police Dispatch received a call informing them of an armed robbery which had taken place shortly before on Front Street in the vicinity of Levi's. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the victim with initials A.N.K. who stated that while walking on Front street, he was approached by two unknown men, one of them unexpectedly struck him with an unknown object in his face, knocking him to the ground. While on the ground the other suspect searched his pockets taking his money and other important documents. After committing this act the suspects took-off running. The victim was bleeding from a cut under his chin and was treated on the scene by paramedics. He was then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The Special Robbery Unit is investigating.

KPSM Police Report

newspaperarticleon1963alandmarkyearinstmartin14072013During the month of April 2013, 1963 – A Landmark Year in St. Martin was advertised on the AIRTRAN Magazine with 7 other books published by XLIBRIS under the title "Every Book Is An Adventure Waiting For You..." It was also advertised on the New York Times Book Review Magazine in the June 09, 2013 issue.
Recently in the New York Amsterdam News, on its page Resorts & Travel of the June 20-June 26, 2013 issue, Lysa Allman-Baldwin, the cultural travel writer for www.Examiner.com, a senior travel writer for SoulofAmerica.com, and a writer for numerous online and print publications covered with 3 other books, 1963 and the island of St. Martin, in the third part entitled "1963 was a hell of a year" of a very uplifting article, where she highlighted the island in her introductory paragraph and 4th paragraph as follows:
"Considered by many as one of the most exciting destinations in the Caribbean, the island of St. Maarten/St. Martin is brimming with culture – three distinct one in fact: French, Dutch and what has been described as the blending of both with exotic native heritage – all on one 37-square-mile island.
"....In the end, readers will come away with a unique perspective of the island's history, which they can meld with today's reputation of this Caribbean gem nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Seas one of the most beautiful, natural paradises.
The book and its French version, 1963 - Année Charnière à St. Martin is available at your favorite bookstores, and on line at Xlibris.com, Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

wardschrooten14072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Last week a consultant from PAHO, Dr. Ward Schrooten visited St. Maarten in order to assist the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team (PMT), Public Health Department, and Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor with the surveillance system that is used to monitor HIV & AIDS patients. This initiative is part of the EU project titled "Strengthening the Integration of the British and Dutch Overseas Territories in the Regional Response to HIV/AIDS through PANCAP."

During his visit, Dr. Schrooten met with several stakeholders on the island including representatives of the Government, St. Maarten Medical Center, the St. Maarten Laboratory, and various physicians. Based on the information he gathered he will provide recommendations that will assist St. Maarten in deciding on which surveillance system will be the most feasible option. With the advancements in modern technology there are a variety of improved systems that the Ministry is currently exploring.

Once St. Maarten takes a decision on the way forward, the surveillance system will be used to analyze data on the number of new HIV & AIDS infections, the number of people on ARV treatment, and viral load counts among others. This data can then be used for international reporting and developing new ways to tailor our HIV response.

Members of Public Health and Collective Prevention Services also received training by Dr. Schrooten on how to manage databases. The participants received some useful tips that they will begin using in their daily work.

cooperatingfoundationsfundsasl14072013The intense week with workshops for 93 young St. Maarten artists organized by the Art Saves Lives Foundation is considered a prime example of initiatives that the funding agency wants to support: namely enhancing youngsters to follow their dream. Nicole de Weever, board members and volunteers of Art Saves Lives have been successful in mobilizing quite a few businesses, private persons, and organizations to donate towards their endeavour of bringing 16 renowned international artist to St Maarten for a week of training in pilates, dance, voice projection and entrepreneurship. The NGO has already embarked upon a new plan, namely to send a few talented youngsters to the US for more indepth training. Funding Agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean commends Art Saves Lives for inspiring and training St Maarten Youngsters and wants to encourage other NGO's with community projects or social projects for youngsters, senior citizens or vulnerable persons to approach the funding agency for financial assistance. Foundations can contact the project advisors Leon Lake and Saskia Kliphuis at 5860808 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss if their projects can be eligible for funding from Cooperating Foundations.

Has Ordered SOAB to Continue to Look Into Matter
VDSM Itself not Compromised

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot–Williams has further explained the serious indications of malversations at the National Security Department of St. Maarten (VDSM) on Friday while she spoke on her weekly Radio Program One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 Pearl FM.

The Prime Minister gave clarity on the status of the VDSM and the progress of the ongoing investigation. "I need to start out by informing the people that our National Security Service is governed by a National Security Law which is an organic law and thus a public law. We need to realize that this service is specific in the fact that it operates independently. Indeed, Government finances the service and if you look at the Budget, which is approved by Parliament, there is a post for the National Security Service. The only difference is that there is a total mention for the National Security Budget overall. They manage their operations and finances independently and are not part of the normal procedures and constraints of Government. If a department needs finances there is a whole process it has to go through, however by law the VDSM does not fall under these procedures as the National Security Service manages their finances Independently.

However, the Prime Minister also explained since the law grants the VDSM that kind of independence there are control mechanisms in place. "For the operation of the National Security Service there is an Oversight Committee and that Committee is also laid out in the law, the composition of which includes a representative of the Joint Court of Justice, the Vice Chair of the Council of Advice and the President of Parliament."

However Government, on the recommendation of the service, requested to change the membership of the National Security Service Oversight Committee, specifically that of the President of Parliament. But until that proposal is accepted or rejected the Committee is still in place. The proposal for the change has to do with the fact that the Committee reports to the Minister of General Affairs, so to have the Chairperson of Parliament in a committee, whom the minister has a political responsibility to, makes for a difficult situation. The new proposal calls for a member of a Constitutional Court," stressed the Prime Minister.

Upon hearing of the Investigation, the Prime Minister had ordered an investigation by the Government Account Bureau SOAB. This investigation is currently being finalized. "Given the nature of the service and the implications of an investigation for the reputation of our security department and the country in general, extreme judiciousness needs to be exercised in analyzing the result of the investigation and potential actions as a result thereof. In addition to the Committee that looks at the rightful operation of the services there is control of the accounts through the General Audit Chamber. Some of the expenses of the service are labeled as secret expenses because those not involved should not know what they are about. As Prime Minister I do not and should not want to know what those finances are but I do need to know that there is some control in place. In rechecking the accounts we noticed that there was something wrong or some discrepancies with regards to the finances of the service and so I ordered the SOAB to look into the matter and have received their report and we are currently analyzing and studying the results of that report and then Government would decide what actions will be taken.

"What is coming out of the investigation is unfortunate given this particular service, however the integrity of the VDSM itself has never been compromised and the personnel of that service has done everything to make sure that does not and did not happen and indeed the service itself has not been compromised," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

All Efforts Being Taken to Ensure a Timely 2014 Budget

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave an update on the Budget on her weekly call-in radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on Pearl 98.1 FM on Friday. The PM stated that for the last few weeks as the new government one of the critical points was the handling of the 2013 Budget.

"There is so much that is critical to the Government Budget and Government finances. As we all know Parliament did approve the budget but given the time that passed and given the fact that there was and is legislation necessary passed in time we were not able to get the estimates necessary to get the 2013 Budget approved. One of the items which was subsequently brought off the table in the budget was the tax on alcohol and tobacco but also on other matters there needs to be changes made to current laws and that did not happen and so the estimates needs to be corrected," commented the Prime Minister.

"As Minister Hassink got into office his first goal was to get a Budget that the Government of St Maarten could operate on. In order for him to do this he needed to make some changes, including the estimates that need to be changed due to them being no longer feasible. He has been working very hard in presenting a new proposal and corrections that would ensure that there still will a balanced budget. The Minister has made proposals to the Council of Ministers and he is now in discussion to reach an agreement with the CFT that is necessary for the Budget to be ratified," continued the PM.

The Prime Minister also stated that because of the lateness of the 2013 Budget Government is being very careful in the spending of the various Ministries and Departments. "We need to finalize the budget process and we need to finalize the budget and the plan of the Minister within soon. All Ministries and departments are very prudent in spending for 2013 and have taken measures to reduce the spending. Having said this we are also now focusing on the 2014 Budget and to have this through in time in order to avoid a similar situation.

"People oftentimes overlook that the law on financial supervision also establishes that even after the accepting of the Budget by Parliament the CFT still needs to give the Budget one more review. With the political stalemate there was a delay regarding the budget and that was what our Minister was confronted with when he took office," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

cdeweeversignsepetitiononcervicalcancer12072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever is calling on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and the general public to sign the cervical cancer E-Petition online.

On Friday morning Minister De Weever was one of more than 1800 signatories who have signed the E-Petition to date. This was done in the presence of Keoma Hamer, a leading NGO activist and President of KeLaHa Projects.

"The agreed objective of the regional E-Petition is to 'increase Caribbean women's access to affordable Cervical Cancer screening.' I am calling on the nation to support this effort by visiting the following web address and signing the petition in order to reach the target signature amount of 500,000.

"The web address is: www.endcervicalcancernow.org and follow the instructions that are provided. This is a regional effort also supported by Sint Maarten. Let's join the region in making a difference for our Caribbean women and girls," Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Friday.

The E-Petition was one of the recommendations of a workshop held on Sint Maarten in February 2013.

Every year, approximately 31,700 women in Latin America and the Caribbean die from cervical cancer. The Caribbean is among the top four highest sub-regions in the world with respect to incidence of cervical cancer and has the highest burden of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) in the Americas.

Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death among Caribbean women with death rates several magnitudes higher than countries such as the USA.

More than 95 per cent of cases of cervical cancer can be prevented.

The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC), formed in 2008, is a live network of NGOs and civil society organizations from across the Caribbean Region with a remit to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

In March 2013; 20 Cancer NGOs representing 16 Caribbean countries came together in an act of solidarity to make a bold statement against cervical cancer. It was at this meeting that the seeds were planted for the first ever Caribbean wide Cervical Cancer E-Petition.

The objectives of the petition were driven by the Cancer NGOs themselves based on the identified collective priority needs around cervical cancer policy and programming across the Caribbean.

Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is appealing to NGOs, civil society organizations and the public at large to sign-on to the E-Petition.

The E-Petition was developed and approved by 20 Caribbean Cancer NGOs with the ultimate aim of having the support of a much wider cross-section of civil society and corporate partners with a vested interest in the health of women and girls.

The petition targets Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government as well associate members. Participating countries in this cause are: all CARICOM member countries and associate members including the 16 represented at the workshop: Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Sint Maarten, Saint Martin, Guadeloupe, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, Suriname, and Trinidad & Tobago.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Philipsburg Jubilee Library has already started with their special summer opening hours since the start of July.
The Library's summer openings hours will be as follows:
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9:00am – 12:30pm & 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am – 12:30pm & 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Thursday 2:00PM – 8:00pm
Friday 9:00am – 12:30pm & 2:00PM – 5:00pm
Regular opening hours will resume on August 13, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday June 5th, 2013 seven candidates, one of the Federal Detectives and 6 of the Sint Maarten Police Force received their certificates in Advanced Financial Investigation from the head of the Detective Department, Commissioner Denise Jacobs. They received 3 weeks of intensive training from Forensic Services.

Financial Investigation is of great importance to the Police Force of Sint Maarten. It is of great importance because it is a very effective way to control crime in general and in particular the laundering of money.

CFATF requires that Sint Maarten have good financial investigation officers. Sint Maarten is working hard to be compliant; because the fight against money laundering contributes to the integrity of country St. Maarten and is of great importance to our economy and tourism.

KPSM Press Release

MULLET BAY:--- On Friday July 12th at approximately 11:40am, the Central Police Dispatch received a call from an off-duty police officer who saw three teenage boys walking very suspiciously in the Mullet Bay area towards Maho Reef. The officer explained that he had also received a call from someone informing him that three teenage boys had stolen some items including a cellphone from a tourist at Mullet Bay beach shortly before.
When these boys saw the police officer approaching them, they took off running in different directions. The Police Dispatch was informed and other patrols were sent to assist in apprehending these suspects. A foot chase followed by several officers through the Mullet Bay and Maho Reef started and shortly after one of the suspects with the initials N.O.M. (15) was caught stepping into a bus in the vicinity of the airport. Shortly after another suspect with initials C.H. (18) was arrested in the Maho area. Both suspects are from Sint Maarten and they were taken to the Philipsburg Police Station and turned over to the Detective Department for further investigation. The third suspect has not yet been arrested.

KPSM Police Report

williamnunes12072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Police found the body of a man identified as William Nunes dead late Friday night in an apartment in Philipsburg. Police spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that Nunes was found dead. However, Henson refused to divulge any information surrounding the death of Nunes.
William Nunes was a resident of Back Street. SMN News learnt that Nunes committed suicide by hanging, however this could not be confirmed. This article will be updated as more information becomes available.

overturnedjeep12072013SIMPSON BAY:--- On Friday July 12th at approximately 2:15pm, the Central Police Dispatch received a call informing them of a serious car accident involving a female driver that took place on the Opal Road in the Pelican Key area. The driver of the car was stuck under the vehicle and was not showing any signs of life. Immediately several police patrols which included officers from the Police Traffic Department and Forensic Department along with personnel from the Ambulance Department and Fire Department were sent to the scene to investigate what had taken place. The preliminary investigation by the Police Traffic Department indicated that the female driver for unknown reasons had lost control of her vehicle with license plate 3690 AAA while driving down the hill, hitting into a rock wall. As a result, the vehicle turned over throwing the victim from the driver's seat. The vehicle landed on its right side on top of the victim. Paramedics attempted to revive the victim without any success. Dr. Bekele pronounced the death of the victim at the scene. The Police Traffic Department is still investigating to determine the exact cause of the accident.

KPSM Police Report

mathiasvogesandltcolonelstephanblaas11072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges received a courtesy visit from Lt. Colonel Stephan Blaas on Thursday. The visit was to update the Minister in connection with preparations for the realization of a permanent naval base in Sint Maarten.

Minister Voges said Lt. Colonel Blaas is no stranger to the country. "After Hurricane Luis struck the island in 1995, his platoon of marines was very much involved in clean-up and assisting with the repairing of schools. Under his leadership many schools were repaired and he was very instrumental during the Food Center fire and got the nick-name, 'Captain fix-it,' Minister Voges pointed out.

Minister Voges thanked Lt. Colonel once again for the special assistance he provided to the people and Government of Sint Maarten back in 1995, and presented him with a photo book of Sint Maarten and a country pin.

lowlandscommunitygardengreenhousebeforeandafter11072013Lowlands Community Garden Project Launches Appeal

Fact: 99% of all food consumed on St. Maarten is imported and there are around 100,000 people living on our island.

If that fact doesn't concern you, then you may be one of the few people on the island that grows their own food. For the rest of us however, this news should be very troubling, because if and when the container ships stop coming to St. Maarten, we would have a real disaster on our hands.

It wasn't always this way.

Until tourism made an impact on St. Maarten, people here were pretty well self-sufficient, growing crops, fishing and keeping livestock. But in recent years fertile fields and orchards have been left to grow wild or have been built on – just look at the land in Cole Bay, opposite Le Grand Marche, for the latest example of our island being destroyed in the name of development.

Houses don't feed people but community gardens do.

The non-profit organization 'LightWorkersSXM' is addressing this situation. They want to help make St. Maarten self-sufficient by setting up an island wide network of community gardens, run by St. Maarteners for St. Maarteners.

The first project is the 'Lowlands Community Garden', which will provide delicious, local, sustainably-grown, non-GMO produce for the various communities on the island. All of the fresh produce is grown using the latest 'aquaponic' technology, which means that in addition to fruit, vegetables, and herbs they will be growing organic freshwater fish too.

The community garden network will provide food security for all St. Maarteners and will help low-income families, the elderly and children to receive organically grown produce to which they might not other wise have access.

There is an online 'crowdfunding' campaign to raise funds for the project. To watch the video and make a contribution, just go to: www.indiegogo.com/projects/lowlands-community-garden
Alternatively, if you'd want to know more, would like to become a partner, sponsor or would like to volunteer some spare time to help with the project, just go to: www.lowlandscommunitygarden.com or call +1721 5544 4156 or +590 590 87 12 99

The Lowlands Community Garden – Growing With You For St. Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) is very pleased with the work carried out to address deplorable road conditions on the Orange Grove and Well Road especially certain areas between Cork Tree Drive and Belle Tree Drive.

The Minister pointed out that the road is used by many motorists on a daily basis besides residents. Parents and school buses also use the Well road to drop off and pick-up school children at the SDA Primary School.

Click here to view before and after photos of Orange Grove and Well Road.

wibpresentsprizesto2clickandgogreenwinners11072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) continues its ongoing green campaign "Click and Go Green!" which started on April 23, 2013, International Earth Day. Clients of the bank who selected to receive online statements only via WIB@Home during the campaign had an opportunity to win one of three Kompa Leon Money cards, valued at Naf. 500.00.

WIB would like to congratulate their May and June winners, Rene Gartner and Mrs. Hilary Grant.

There is still one more month remaining for you to participate, by activating the online-only statement option on WIB@Home to help save Mother Nature's natural resources. For more information to receive statements online, log on to WIB@Home or visit your preferred WIB branch. WIB supports going GREEN! Will you join us too?

Your Partner in Progress supports going Green!

WIB Press Release

pjlbooksale11072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library's book sale continues for this week and ends on Saturday, July 13 during our open hours.
If you missed out on the Library's book sale last Saturday, you still have a chance to purchase your favorite books for a minimal fee during the course of this week. Choose from our selection of children and adult books, covering numerous topics in fiction and non-fiction. Buy 15 books and pay only $5 or NAF 9.00. Interested in buying single copies? The prices are as follows:
Single hard cover books $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Soft covers $ 0.60 / NAF 1.00
Magazines $ 0.25 / NAF 0.50
Video & DVDS $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Support your local library by purchasing your favorite books, magazines, novels (fiction and non-fiction), and videos in several languages

gracitaarrindellmeetswithconniefrancis11072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Tuesday met with the President of the Sint Maarten Youth Parliament (SMYP) Connie Francis.

The discussions centered on a live plenary broadcast of the SMYP and the establishment of a Kingdom Youth Parliament.

"The youth parliament will receive all necessary assistance from Parliament to make their meeting a successful one. I highly commend Connie Francis for the work she has been doing in this field.

"It's not an easy task she has before her, and I'm convinced the event and the participants will be well prepared to take part in this important democratic learning and formation process," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Wednesday.

The first plenary meeting of the Youth Parliament to be held in the General Assembly Chamber of Parliament will be on August 12. This day is also celebrated globally as International Youth Day.

The agenda for that meeting based on a selection by the youth parliament is: a curriculum that prepares us for life incorporating technological advancement in education.

The meeting which will be held on the first day of school will be televised nationally.

Other issues discussed was the evaluation of the mentorship program, preparation of the 200 year celebration of the Kingdom and in connection thereof the establishment of a Kingdom Youth Parliament.

Follow-up meetings between the two will be held in the coming weeks.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is appealing to day-care centers, summer camps and play schools to increase measures to prevent an outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD).

HFMD is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children who are 10-years of age or younger. It can sometimes occur in adults. There is no vaccine to protect against the viruses that cause hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Persons with symptoms should contact their family physician and continue to take preventive measures in order to avoid getting HFMD.

Symptoms of HFMD include cold-like conditions, fever, mouth sores, loss of appetite, cough, and a skin rash; a non-itchy red rash that develops on the hand and the feet, and sometimes the rash can develop into painful blisters; painful mouth ulcers.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is spread from person to person through nose and throat secretions (such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus), blister fluid, or stool of infected persons.

If your child or you have any of these symptoms, according to the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, visit your family physician.

To lower your risk of being infected with hand, foot, and mouth disease, wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers and using the toilet; disinfecting dirty surfaces and soiled items, including toys; avoid thumb-sucking and nail-chewing.

Wash surfaces and items with soap and water, and then disinfect them with a solution of chlorine bleach; and avoiding close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing eating utensils or cups with infected persons.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is not the same as foot and mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and pigs. The two infections are unrelated, and you cannot catch hand, foot and mouth disease from animals.

For further information you can call 542-2078 or 542-3003.

marvelynewielsmeetswithmathiasvogescooperationdiscussion11072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary of Curacao Hon. Marvelyne Wiels paid a courtesy visit to the Sint Maarten House on Wednesday morning and was welcomed by Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges. During their meeting both ministers discussed strengthening the working relationship between the two cabinets in The Hague.

The meeting also included the Directors of both Cabinets, Melvin Statia (Curacao) and Perry Geerlings (Sint Maarten) and staff members Monica Hazel, Margje van Gijn and Carol Voges. At the end of the meeting, Minister Voges presented Minister Wiels with a photo book of Sint Maarten/Saint Martin.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is calling on contractors and builders to have a plan in place to prepare and secure their job sites in the event of a passing hurricane.

The most active months of the hurricane season are approaching and every effort should be made to be prepared in the event of a threat to the country.

"Again it's going back to basics. If building sites are not secure, the tax payer has to pay for the clean-up of debris from construction sites after the passing of a hurricane if the contractor does not secure the site.

"To avoid un-necessarily burdening the tax payer, such sites should have plans that are easily implemented, a basic simple plan to secure the site and protect lives and other homes and buildings from being damaged by unsecure construction materials. It's simple as that; we all have a responsibility as a community to protect ourselves and each other. It starts with you and me.

"Let's all work together in making our country safe and secure and for the hurricane season we need the contractors and small builders to think in that manner as well and have a basic plan to secure your building site," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake appealed on Thursday.

Contractors and home builders during severe weather are responsible for securing job sites for the protection of the public, property and surrounding areas.

Materials such as plywood, shingles, zinc, and other construction material could become flying missiles capable of impaling brick walls or anything in its way.

Construction debris can cause severe damage to property and loss of life. With building and construction activity still taking place on the island, every construction site supervisor and/or foreman is advised to have a plan in place with respect to what action they will be taking.

A tropical storm system could form during any part of the hurricane season and not necessarily during the peak months from mid-August to mid-October.

As a general rule, all job sites should be kept clean. Arrange timely pick up of trash dumpsters, and only keep materials on the job site you actually will utilize at any given week especially during the hurricane season, and keep construction equipment secure. Any planned supply deliveries should be postponed if there is a hurricane threat to the island.

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued 36-48-hours before a system is forecasted to hit, remove all scaffolding, and remove, or safely secure, all building materials and equipment.

Sub-contractors should also be alerted to their responsibilities as well with respect to securing or removing their materials and equipment.

Stop job processes that will likely become damaged by the hurricane, such as window installations, house wrap, or landscaping. Complete those tasks that will likely prevent damage, such as concrete work, closing in a house, or filling in foundation excavations.

Follow through with a quick inspection of your job sites. Do not wait until the last minute to inspect your job sites, as you may need that time to go home and secure your own family home. Employees will need to also do the same.

Once the hurricane is over, return to the job site for damage inspection only when the all clear sign has been given by the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) headed by the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten.

Keep in mind that damages from the hurricane on other parts of the island may impede efforts for immediate attention of job sites.

swescotwilliamsreceivesbookfrommarkyokoyama10072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was presented a copy of the second edition of Mark Yokoyama's the Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Maarten at her Cabinet on Wednesday. The Guide, which is based on over three years of fieldwork, combines scientific, cultural and historical research to tell the story of the fauna of St. Martin and their relationship with the island and its people.

Mark Yokoyama is a naturalist, author and wildlife photographer living on Saint Martin. He holds a degree from Harvard University and is an avid entomologist – a lifelong passion that was sparked early in his childhood and led him to serve as president of the Oregon Entomological Society at the age of fifteen. After moving to Saint Martin in 2009, he took to the hills to study
and document the wildlife of the island. He published the first
edition of this guide in 2010.

The Prime Minister commented that she very much looked forward to reading the book. "It is very interesting to have such a publication available and I am very interested in going through it. This is an excellent educational publication that will enlighten both residents and visitors on the wildlife that can be found in our country," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Great Bay:--- A team from the International Labour Organization (ILO) is on Sint Maarten this week to install the Labour Market Information System (LMIS). This system will provide greater efficiency within the Department of Labour as far as statistics are concerned.
Mr. Reynold Simons, the Senior Specialist for Employment and Labour Market Policies and Mr. Kerwyn Roach, the Software Developer will be administering training to users and installing of the software. This will enhance the labour administration services, the compilation of labour statistics and facilitate the dissemination and use of labour market information which would result in the collection of valuable labour market statistics.
"This is a major step forward in acquiring data to substantiate policies, propose changes in legislation and to analyze trends," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labour. "This system will improve better service to the workers, employers and labour services."
The staff to be trained will be those from the executing agencies such as Labour Affairs Department and Labour Inspection. The system provides modules which include complaints handling, dispute resolution, labour inspections, and various other employment and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) related operations.
When fully operational, the Labour Market Information System will enhance the Department's capacity to generate more reliable and timely statistics. The system will also foster closer collaboration among employers' organizations, workers' organizations and the Department of Labour along with other key stakeholders in the production, use and dissemination of labour market information.
Back in 2010, the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean formally established the CLMIS Project (Caribbean Labour Market Information System) with the objective of implementing a computerized system to generate reliable and timely statistics for use by government, Employers' and Workers' Organizations.
This project was piloted in St. Vincent and the Grenadines as well as in St. Lucia and is now ready to be implemented in the English and Dutch speaking Caribbean. With the use of this product, the Departments of Labour in the Caribbean can heighten their service quality, monitor trends and develop policies and programs.
Key stakeholders that have committed their support to the LMIS on Sint Maarten are SZV, Department of Statistics, Department of Inspection, Department of Public Health, Inspectorate of Education and Labour Affairs. The installation of the system at the Department of Labour will be achieved through collaboration with the Department of Information Technology and the International Labour Organization who will provide initial training for personnel who will utilize the system.
The follow up to the installation of the LMIS will be the establishment of a website whereby the producers of labour market information can disseminate statistics to the general public through the internet.
Once the system is up and running and in use, the ILO team will once again return to Sint Maarten and officially launch the website by year's end.
The Ministry of Public Health Social Development and Labour is truly grateful to the ILO for their commitment in providing technical assistance to Sint Maarten and making the LMIS a reality.

tentsandchairsoutsidecensusoffice10072013Opening Hours Extended to Wednesday Afternoons

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten has announced that she has taken steps to place shelter, shade and rest areas in the form of tents and chairs in front of the census office in order to accommodate the long lines currently being experienced by Citizens.

"You might have noticed for the those of the population who have ventured to the Census Office that we have taken additional measures to ease the stress of waiting in long lines at the Census. I have had tents put up at the Census office as a temporary solution to the long lines currently experienced there. It was the least we could do given the fact considering the long lines, partly due to the BTA applicants needing to collect their documents," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister has also previously ordered that the Census Office have extraordinary opening times in order to accommodate the large volume of clients it has been experiencing over the last few weeks. The Census office has been quite busy as of late due to the large number of requests in order to get registration papers, including some 3000 clients as part of the Brooks Towers Accord. The extra-ordinary opening times will be every Wednesday from two to four in afternoon. Usually on Wednesday the Census Office is closed in the afternoon. The Ministry of General Affairs will examine if opening hours will need to be further extended and are also exploring alternative ways to ensure that the necessary services are rendered.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

emillee10072013THE CARIBBEAN:--- The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) has elected Emil Lee president-elect to take over the helm of the Association June 2014-2016. Lee is the president of the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), general manager of Princess Heights Hotel, and co-operator of Atlas Construction Company in St.Maarten.

Lee was elected by acclimation at CHTA's Annual General Meeting which was held in conjunction with the "Taste of the Caribbean" culinary competition in Miami, FL.

"The current president, Richard Doumeng, and his executive board have done a tremendous job of laying a solid foundation for CHTA moving forward," said Lee. "Great strides are being made in fiscal discipline, strategic planning and restructuring the CHTA," he said, adding: "I will continue to support the current strategy of using CHTA to strengthen the National Hotel Associations (NHAs). If CHTA can function more effectively as a centralizing and coordinating entity for the Caribbean, I believe we can access the vast untapped potential of the Caribbean hospitality industry."

"I am very pleased that our membership chose Emil Lee as President-Elect," said Richard J. Doumeng, president of CHTA. "He has the depth of knowledge and strategic thinking to carry on the tasks of restructuring our Association to meet the challenges of the 21st Century," Doumeng added.

Lee currently serves as first vice president of CHTA and has served as president of the SHTA since 2001, making him one of the longest standing presidents of a NHA in the Caribbean. At SHTA he is responsible for guiding the activities of the National Hotel Association which includes advocacy, marketing, product improvement and private sector partnering with government projects.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is proud to be the provider of internet, mobile and data services to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Conference now under way in Maho.
At the request of TelEm Group Shareholder Representative, Prime Minister, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams, the company is providing a package of services which includes internet bandwidth at 10mbs and pre-paid phone lines for internal and external communication.
TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer, Mrs. Helma Etnel says, as the incumbent telecommunication provider for St. Maarten, the company is pleased to assist government in its request to provide telecommunication services to the ICAO Conference in Maho, as an economic partner in the St. Maarten community.
"It is not always possible to grant every request, but whenever it is possible promote our local telecommunication services to our visitors," said Mr. Etnel.
The CFO noted that since participants come from different parts of the world with their own advanced telecommunication networks, it is important for TelEm Group to to provide nothing short of excellent service to the conference guests.
Mrs. Etnel is in the meantime thankful to TelEm Group Technical, Marketing and Sales personnel for making the necessary arrangements and connections for the conference.

Telem Press Release

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Labour which falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, will be stepping up its communications with stakeholders in the coming weeks and months as part of an effort to further improve its contact with the community.

Minister of Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever fully supports transparency and open government and is an advocate for the community to be provided with as much information about labour matters in order for employers and employees to be able to know their rights and make informed decisions.

"Everybody has a right to information, to know what their obligations are, and to be aware of Labour Department policies and the types of services that the aforementioned can render to employers and employees.

"The Department of Labour plays a very important role in a society, and it is the objective of the staff to bring the department closer to the community," Minister of Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Wednesday.

Earlier in the week the Minister was informed about the new communications policy and about the communication methods that will be used to reach various stakeholders.

One of the communication products is a digital newsletter in collaboration with the Department of Communication. The e-newsletter will be distributed to key stakeholders such as employer and employee organizations, advisory councils, and judiciary just to mention a few.

Another communication product is a quarterly newsletter for civil society that would benefit employers and employees containing a wealth of information regarding obligations, and responsibilities to services available by the Department of Labour, and information about the laws that govern labour matters.

In addition, a series of brochures will be developed which will feature information about contracts, procedures for firing an employee, vacation days, overtime, collective labour agreements and much more. These brochures will also be available online on the government website for download and on display at the Department of Labour Affairs on the Pondfill.

martinhassink10072013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Martin Hassink told reporters during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that at least 20% of road users did not pay their road taxes which is a mere NAF. 275 per vehicle. Minister Hassink said that his Ministry is hopeful that vehicle owners would step up to the plate and pay their dues because controls are being conducted to ensure that everyone pays up.

The Finance Minister also indicated that the 20% represents some 1.6 million guilders. He said next year number plates and stickers will be re-introduced in order to make it easy for controllers to identify the delinquent vehicle owners.

Minister Hassink said one of the reasons it is difficult for the controllers to identify the vehicle owners that did not pay their road taxes is the fact that the former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt removed the number plates and stickers for the year 2013, therefore making it almost impossible to identify those that did not pay their road taxes.

Budget woes continue.

Minister Hassink also told reporters that he is still working on the 2013 budget which has to be approved by the CFT. He said that the budget had some 30 million guilders deficit at the time he took office and he had to make several cuts that would affect all the Ministers in Government. Minister Hassink explained that one of the reasons changes had to be made to the 2013 budget was because there were incoming revenues mentioned in the budget that could not be collected because the legislations are not in place. The former Government (Finance Minister) wanted to levy alcohol and tobacco taxes but there is no legislation in place to implement those taxes. The Minister said he expects to get the 2013 budget approved by August 2013. However, next year government will face the same kind of issues with a late budget because his Ministry is still busy working on the 2013 budget. Minister Hassink further explained that he made some new proposals for the 2013 budget which was submitted to the Council of Ministers for their consideration and approval before it is sent to the CFT for their approval.

Minister Hassink said he is planning to implement some of the measures Curacao implemented when they realized that a number of businesses were not contributing to the tax base. He said that one of the things he intends to do is to collect the data from GEBE and match them with the data at the tax department to find out who are the unknown taxpayers. When asked by reporters if GEBE will cooperate with his wishes, the Minister said a letter was sent to GEBE and according to the law they have to provide the information government requested from them. "When we collect that information and identify the delinquent businesses then we will contact those people by sending them a friendly letter informing them that they have to pay their taxes."

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, reports there have been 76 confirmed cases of dengue fever during the past six months (January to June) indicating an increase in reported cases. There was a total of 301 laboratory request.

The month of June reported the highest number of dengue fever cases, 23. For the remaining five months of the year, January 15 confirmed cases, February 14, March eight, April six, and May 10.

SGHC is calling on the populace to take daily actions to eliminate mosquito breeding opportunities around their home and workplace. On a daily basis check containers such as buckets and water tanks for larvae and eliminate the breeding source. Water tanks should be properly secure and screened to prevent mosquito's from entering. If there are no containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there will be no adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings on a weekly basis and after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

SHGC is calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases.

Mobilize family, friends, neighbors and colleagues to collectively take actions to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Persons are recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

On a daily basis check plants in your yard for mosquito breeding sites, keep vegetation properly trim, and avoid overgrown vegetation.

When out during dusk and dawn hours, use mosquito repellent or wear proper clothing to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

An increase in the mosquito population puts all residents and businesses at risk. Call for information on the Aedes Aegypti mosquito breeding sites and respective preventive measures at 542-2078 or 542-3003.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake this week was appraised with respect to the current status regarding the construction of a Solid Waste Facility for Country Sint Maarten.

The final and third phase of a process to establish a Solid Waste Facility will commence in August. During this stage, four companies will take three months to prepare and submit bids end of November or early December.

The selection of the most favorable bid will take place in January 2014, and thereafter another three months would be needed to finalize and sign the concession and contracts with government and GEBE.

"As Minister I would like to grant the contract in January 2014 and have it constructed within the shortest period of time, the latest mid-2015. A location has to be identified. In the meantime the country is covered by a landfill budget for any emergencies such as fires.

"The recycling of waste is a priority and this has to be fully worked out and ready to be implemented when the Solid Waste Facility is ready to handle the processing of waste.

"The separation plan will take about one year max. This plant can separate the different waste into categories into recyclable and burnable waste, whereby the latter will be bundled and temporarily stock piled until it can be processed," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake said on Wednesday.

After the signing, another 2.5 to three years will be needed for the design, build and testing of the country's Solid Waste Facility.

In 2012, it was decided to start a new tender procedure with a competitive dialogue for the realization of the facility seeing the urgent situation with the current landfill.

The new tender procedure consisted of three phases, firstly, qualification, followed by dialogue and the bidding phase. In December 2012, a total of nine companies were selected for the qualification phase of the tender procedure. These companies were then invited to send in a request for participation in the tender process.

Of the nine companies, five companies qualified and were invited to take part in the dialogue phase. One of the five companies refrained from further participation in this phase and the remaining four companies completed this phase in the fourth week of May.

The four companies are all qualified to design, finance, build and operate the new Solid Waste Facility, and have proven technologies that can be operated in accordance with European Union regulations.

The four companies currently involved in the process are Matrix/Befesa/Abeima/Vinci (US-Spanish-French combination); Synergy (US company); Covanta (US company); and Babcock Wilcox Volund/Electrawinds (US-Danish-Belgian combination).

swescotwilliams10072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Reporters on St. Maarten tried effortlessly to get further information from the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams who announced that she initiated an investigation at the Department of National Security of St Maarten (VDSM). On Monday, the Prime Minister said through a press release that she asked the SOAB to conduct an investigation because there are serious indications of malversations at the department.

On Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing, the Prime Minister said she is still awaiting the report from the SOAB and as such would prefer not to divulge further information on the case. Reporters asked the Prime Minister several times if the head of the VDSM is reachable but she refused to give an answer to the question or further elaborate on what sparked the investigation and how long ago the investigation started.

Prime Minister Wescot Williams also indicated that the oversight committee has been established according to the law but somehow they are expected to hold their first meeting sometime soon. After three years of being appointed it is strange that the committee did not hold meetings prior to now and one would also wonder what role they played prior to the suspected malversations that sparked an SOAB investigation.

SMN News asked the Prime Minister to say exactly when the committee was established and she said it is in the law who should be on the committee but did not say when the actual committee was put in place. The law does state that an oversight committee has to be in place and which representatives from which institutions should be on the committee but that committee based on information reaching SMN News was never established. Therefore, the VDSM had a free hand to whatever they wanted. Wescot Williams said that there is a proposal at the Parliament of St. Maarten to amend that law because she wanted to remove the President of Parliament from the oversight committee, she said the proposal to amend the law has not yet been dealt with even though it was submitted since the Wescot Williams I Cabinet was in place. The Prime Minister further explained that it is awkward for the VDSM to report to her while the President of Parliament is on the oversight committee.

The head of the VDSM is James Richardson, a resident of the St. Maarten. Reporters at the Council of Ministers' press briefing asked the Prime Minister if the investigation currently taking place is affecting the services of the VDSM such as the screening of the Minister who still has to take office. Wescot Williams assured that the investigation is not hampering the work of the VDSM.

It should be noted that the VDSM is not a judicial entity and whatever information they find that looks criminal has to be turned over to the Police. Questions were raised by SMN News and the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan earlier this year when the Bada Bing video tape surfaced about the role of the VDSM and how long they knew of the tape and kept it.

Another point of concern is that several departments such as the VDSM and Landsrecherche want to handle their own budget but they do not have accountants or anyone that could record the management of their funds.

 

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The third storm of the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal passed well south of the country on Tuesday and posed no threat to Sint Maarten.

However, the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) is appealing to residents not to let their guard down, preparedness pays off, do not be complacent.

The Eastern Caribbean island chain will see an increase in the formation of tropical wave systems coming off the coast of Africa from now until after mid-October, and these waves have the potential to develop into a tropical storm.

Weather experts have reported that the formation of TS Chantal East of the Eastern Caribbean island chain in early July from a tropical wave that rolled off the coast of Africa has been described as an uncommon occurrence.

The formation of the third storm of the season based on historical records by the National Hurricane Center out of Miami usually occurs around mid-August.

ODM is calling on the Sint Maarten community to view the formation and passing of TS Chantal through the Caribbean as a reminder that they should not become complacent and to make sure everybody has everything in place and are storm ready.

Home owners and business operators must take the required actions to minimize the risk of injury and damage to property in case there is a hurricane strike, and the time to act is now if you haven't already.

Being prepared is essential prior to a hurricane strike. Businesses and government must survive and recover from a disaster as quick as possible which would ensure that the economy can be up and running and our way of life returns to normal.

Remember, it only takes one to make this a bad hurricane season for the country.

The hurricane season runs through November 30.

swescotwilliamsaticaoseminar09072013Encourages Participants to Come Up With Best Practices on the Management of Border and Migration Issues

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) conference yesterday at the Sonesta Maho resort when she delivered her remarks to more than one hundred and twenty delegates from more than two-dozen countries on St. Maarten to discuss matters related to Civil Aviation and Border Control Management and Civil Registries.

The Prime Minister in her opening remarks extended her welcome to the delegates on behalf of the Government and People of St. Maarten. "I extend on behalf of the Government and People of St. Maarten a very special welcome to those of you who have traveled from afar to be here for this seminar. I want to say a special word of appreciation to the ICAO Organization and in particular the MRTD Program and Program Officers for having selected St. Maarten as the venue for this seminar. I think it is appropriate and timely, and so St. Maarten is very pleased to host this seminar and to join ICAO in establishing this program. I also thank the local organizers for having collaborated in making this possible and I wish to mention our Civil Registry Head Misses Leona Marlin and Emilia Thomas from my Cabinet for their contribution in making this all possible.

"You might ask yourself why I emphasized that St. Maarten is the right place for this seminar at this time. I hope that you have been able to take note of St. Maarten's unique situation as far as borders, border control, and travel documents are concerned. I am sure that many delegates bring with them the unique experiences of their own country and of their own island as well and so having said that it is extremely important and something I very much look forward is to receive a synopsis of the best practices arrived at to manage border issues as a result of this seminar. With the technology available to us, despite our limited resources globally, there is so much that can be done and that we can do together while simultaneously maintaining our own sovereignty as far as border management and travel documents are concerned," stated the Prime Minister.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, created in 1944 to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. It sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection. The Organization serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 190 Contracting States. 

The ICAO Machine Readable Travel Documents and biometrics Program develops and adopts international standards for international travel document (e.g. a passport, electronic passport, visa and ID cards used for travel) containing eye-and machine-readable data.

The MRTD Regional Seminar will assist Member States in implementing ICAO machine-readable travel document specifications and related ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. The Seminar will specifically address the needs of States to further enhance the integrity of the passport issuance process and ensure robust identification management in order to maximize border security and facilitation benefits.

In particular, the Sint Maarten MRTD Regional Seminar will focus on the very foundation of travel document and border security: a robust national identification management system. Seminar presentations and discussions will explore in depth key components of identification management, including the role of civil registries, evidence of identification (EoI), social footprint and investigative methods of confirming it, manufacturing and personalization of national ID cards, data sharing between national agencies involved in identification management, and much more.

An industry exhibition will complement the Seminar with a broad range of products and services related to MRTDs, biometric identification, travel document security applications and border inspection systems. Seminar participants will have an opportunity to interact with ICAO industry partners and experts to discuss the latest available MRTD technologies.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

wibsummerworkers09072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) welcomed 15 students who will be working in various departments at the bank for the summer. The students will gain working exposure while at WIB for a period of one month. Some of the various departments they will work in include Bankcard Services, Insurance, Foreign Exchange, Reconciliation, and the Branch Network.

The students were introduced to Mr. Derek Downes, WIB's Managing Director (ag) who welcomed them and encouraged them to do their best, not only during this short stint at the bank, but also in their chosen fields of study.

cdeweeverreceivesfindingsfromdiabetesfoundation09072013GREAT BAY:--- The Diabetes Foundation St. Maarten on Monday morning presented Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever with the results of testing during their 15th annual fair held here on June 29, 2013.
According to the report a total of 391 persons were tested, of which 76 were male with 19 known diabetics and 315 females with 137 known diabetics. The report includes results for three main groups, namely: group with already known diabetics; group non-diabetics and "risk" group non-diabetics.
Minister De Weever stated that the work the foundation is doing continues to improve over the years, as more persons are being reached, especially with emphasis being placed on the Spanish speaking community, with plans to later on reach the Haitian community.
"Prevention is still the key as it keeps medical costs down, and it is important for people to "Get Checked", and know their glucose results," said Minister De Weever.
The report further showed that the glucose testing results of non-diabetics showed that 17% of this group was not aware they were possible diabetics, which means that probably 8510 persons of the estimated population of St. Maarten suffer from this disease and don't even know it.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithjosephisaac09072013Discusses Hurricane Forecasting and Disaster Coordination

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a meeting with the Interim Director of the St. Maarten Meteorological Department Mr. Joseph Isaac at her Cabinet on Tuesday. The Prime Minister received an update on the functioning of the Meteorological Department and the forecasts related to the Hurricane Season, including the possible weather associated with the passing of Tropical Storm Chantal well south of St. Maarten.

Prior to January 2013 decisions with regards to inclement weather were previously by her office upon consultation with the Met Office in Curacao and the Office of Disaster Management on St. Maarten. However since January the St. Maarten Meteorological Service will be issuing weather information and updates.

The Prime Minister, as Minister of General Affairs, is the Minister responsible for Disaster Management and coordination on issues of inclement weather including hurricanes is done through her Cabinet, the St. Maarten Meteorological Service and the Office of Disaster Management ODM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) continues to closely monitor the progress of the third Tropical Storm for the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal.

Based on the 8:00pm advisory of Monday evening, the National Hurricane Center in Miami has indicated that additional watches and warnings could be required for a portion of the Northern Leeward Islands later tonight (Monday).

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will provide an additional update early Tuesday morning. The population is advised to monitor government and weather reports for any further updates.

TS Chantal was located on Monday evening at 8:00pm over 300 miles East South East of Barbados.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the Eastern Caribbean island chain early Tuesday morning and throughout the day in the vicinity of the islands of Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The third tropical storm system of the Atlantic hurricane season – Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal - is currently east of the Eastern Caribbean island chain.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the island chain in the vicinity of the islands of St. Lucia, Martinique, and Dominica during the course of Tuesday.

Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with the management team of Ministry of VROMI on Monday morning to be briefed with respect to the nation's preparedness in the event of inclement weather.

TS Chantal does not pose a threat to Country Sint Maarten. The storm is forecasted to pass well south of the country, but the Office of Disaster Management continues to closely monitor the storm system for any possible changes in its forecasted track.

Minister Lake took a proactive approach on Monday after learning about the TS Chantal. "I was pleased to learn when we went through the checklist with respect to storm pumps and trench cleaning, we are on track and would be able to act very quickly should the need arise.

"I would like to also use this opportunity to call on the Sint Maarten community to make sure they have completed their hurricane season checklist and don't wait until the last minute because then it will be too late. Make sure you are prepared for this hurricane season," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

Ministry of VROMI is an integral part of the country's disaster management system as Emergency Support Function (ESF-3).

PHILIPSBURG:--- Motorists are being advised to follow the rules of the road with respect to the Prins Bernard bridge traffic lights intersection. This is to avoid traffic accidents.

Parts for the traffic lights are expected to arrive on Wednesday and installation will begin immediately on Thursday.

Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is hoping that the lights will once again be operational within short.

"I appeal to motorists to observe the rules of the road especially at the intersection since the traffic lights at not functioning at the moment.

"Because the lights are out, it doesn't mean that you don't have to be conscious while driving through the intersection. Be courteous and observe the rules of the road in order for all motorists to have a safe transit to wherever they are driving too," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday in an update pertaining to the traffic lights.

MARIGOT:--- As the investigation of the boat mishap continues, a fourth person was arrested on July 4th, 2013 around 6am. Vice Prosecutor Flavien Noailles said in a press release that the fourth suspect is the captain of the ill-fated boat who managed to escape while the boat was sinking. The suspect (captain) was previously convicted on human smuggling charges and he confessed his participation on Sunday June 30th, 2013 when the incident occurred.

The third person who was arrested last week was released as he assisted logistically. Based on the investigation, the suspects will be charged with involuntary homicide, conspiracy by providing assistance to foreigners to enter St. Martin illegally for a number of days, while the third charge involves not providing assistance to the victims that were in danger. The three main suspects managed to escape from the Anguilla canal when the boat began sinking, leaving the victims who paid as much as $16,000 each to go to St. Thomas or St. Johns as they wanted to reach the shores of Puerto Rico. The three suspects were transferred to Basse Terre where they were indicted for the charges and have been placed in preliminary detention. Each of the suspects are facing a 10 year prison term, Noailles said.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithicaorep08072013Regional Seminar for the Caribbean and Americas Region being held on St. Maarten July 9 to 11 --- Conference Will Address Issues of Transborder Crime and Migration

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy call from Mauricio Siciliano, ICAO MRTD and Biometrics Program Manager of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) yesterday at her Cabinet in preparation for the ICAO conference which starts today, Tuesday July 9th and lasts until the 11th.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, created in 1944 to promote the safe and orderly development of international civil aviation throughout the world. It sets standards and regulations necessary for aviation safety, security, efficiency and regularity, as well as for aviation environmental protection. The Organization serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 190 Contracting States. 

The ICAO Machine Readable Travel Documents and biometrics Program develops and adopts international standards for international travel document (e.g. a passport, electronic passport, visa and ID cards used for travel) containing eye-and machine-readable data.

The MRTD Regional Seminar will assist Member States in implementing ICAO machine-readable travel document specifications and related ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. The Seminar will specifically address the needs of States to further enhance the integrity of the passport issuance process and ensure robust identification management in order to maximize border security and facilitation benefits.

In particular, the Sint Maarten MRTD Regional Seminar will focus on the very foundation of travel document and border security: a robust national identification management system. Seminar presentations and discussions will explore in depth key components of identification management, including the role of civil registries, evidence of identification (EoI), social footprint and investigative methods of confirming it, manufacturing and personalization of national ID cards, data sharing between national agencies involved in identification management, and much more.

An industry exhibition will complement the Seminar with a broad range of products and services related to MRTDs, biometric identification, travel document security applications and border inspection systems. Seminar participants will have an opportunity to interact with ICAO industry partners and experts to discuss the latest available MRTD technologies.

Representatives from various Governmental and non-governmental departments have registered for the conference and delegates from some 42 countries will be in attendance. The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams will open the three-day conference at the Sonesta Maho Resort early Tuesday morning.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sarahwescotwilliams05052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot–Williams has confirmed that there are serious indications of malversations at the National Security Department of St. Maarten (VDSM).

Upon hearing of such, the Prime Minister had ordered an investigation by the Government Account Bureau SOAB. This investigation is currently being finalized. "Given the nature of the service and the implications of an investigation for the reputation of our security department and the country in general, extreme judiciousness needs to be exercised in analyzing the result of the investigation and potential actions as a result thereof," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister already has had several meetings with SOAB and the management of the VDSM on the investigation and she has been assured that in any case, the regular works of the National Security Department will continue as usual.

Finally, the Prime Minister wants to stress that the National Security Department, because of its specific tasks, is managed independently and that the control mechanisms are according to the ordinance on the national security service (AB 2010, GT no.4).

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mauricelakemeetswithgebeshareholders08072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with representatives of the GEBE Shareholders Foundation on Wednesday to get an update on the current status of share transfers to the three islands of Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten.

"My main concern was job security for the employees of GEBE Sint Maarten. I have been assured that there wouldn't be any consequences for the GEBE workers as a result of this share transfer. I also discussed personnel issues as well during our deliberations, and all benefits and rights accumulated over the years remain as they are.

"I would call on GEBE management to give a presentation to their employees to bring them up to speed on current developments. Communication is essential in such a process in order to ensure that everybody has the right information, the factual information rather than hearing things through the grapevine which then creates unnecessary stress for the employees.

"I will be following this process very closely to make sure things go smoothly and I am confident that this process can be done within the shortest period possible and in a professional manner to the benefit of all parties," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Sint Maarten initiated the process to separate GEBE into three companies back in 2011 under former Minister of VROMI Theo Heyliger.

The representative of the Government of St. Eustatius has already received instructions to execute the share transfer. Saba still has to give instructions up to Wednesday last when the Minister was appraised about the current state of affairs.

Saba has already ratified the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the transfer while Sint Maarten is picking back up the process by sending the request to transfer shares through the proper channels.

"After the United People's party led Government left office in May 2012, the process on the end of the Sint Maarten Government seemingly but unfortunate came to a standstill, and I am happy now that we can see this process through where Sint Maarten becomes the 100 per cent owner of its public utility company," Minister Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

The Parliament of Sint Maarten still has to be informed about the transfer of shares.

"Bringing relief is still on the agenda and I will take up the ball on this effort and look into lowering electricity tariffs for the people and business community of Sint Maarten. Bringing relief is one of the major priorities of this Government," Minister Lake concluded.

jhartpassesthegaveltossurtani08072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On July 1, 2013 a new Rotary year commenced. Last Tuesday was the first meeting of the club for the new rotary year and in this meeting, the gavel was passed from immediate past president Jon Hart to the new president Sanjay Surtani in the presence of the members of the club. The official change of board ceremony or as president Sanjay terms it "change of guard" ceremony is slated to take place at Divi Littlebay on Friday July 12 at 7:30 pm.

President Sanjay's focus for this year is to continue with Rotary Mid Isle's successful signature projects such as the Spelling Bee and the Youth Table Tennis Tournament. He also would like to do more fundraising projects in order to be able to contribute even more to the community.

The club thanked Immediate Past President Jon for the good work that he has done in the past year and wished president Sanjay much success with his projects in this new rotary year.

ssurtanilnashandkmirchandani08072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Club St. Maarten Mid Ilse has inducted a new member, Dr. Lance Nash. Dr. Nash who is a professor at the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) was sponsored by Rotarian Kishor Mirchandani. The Rotary club of St. Maarten Mid Isle is elated to have a medical professor join its club as we strive continuously to better serve our community. We know that Dr. Lance Nash, through his knowledge and experience, will be able to contribute positively towards the clubs endeavors and to the community in general.

PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten's Hennessy Artistry Concert (www.hennesyartistrysxm.com) is proud to announce its partnership with American Urban Radio Network (AURN) for the second annual concert event on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2013 in Festival Village, Philipsburg. The show, featuring nine-time Grammy® award winner John Legend and soul singer Percy Sledge, will be broadcasted live across the U.S. through AURN.

Urban Radio, the largest network reaching urban America with over 200 weekly shows and an estimated 20 million listeners, will be live streaming from St. Maarten Aug. 1 - 3, 2013. On Aug. 3, the day of the concert, Urban Radio will be at the Festival Village to stream the performances live through its 28 network affiliated stations across various cities in the U.S.

"It's an honor to partner with Urban Radio for this year's event," said Georges Gréaux Jr., owner of Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco, the official distributer of Hennessy. "This is a great opportunity for urban American listeners to get a taste of what Hennessey Artistry St. Maarten and the island have to offer."

Basil Murrain, vice president of promotions at AURN, announced: "This will be our first broadcast from St. Maarten, and hopefully not the last. We pride ourselves on giving our audience access to the best vacation hot spots in the world and the Hennessy Artistry event is the perfect occasion to present the beautiful island to our listeners."

Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten, organized by CD Entertainment, is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music.

This year the event has united with Ticket River, a leader in online ticketing services and printing, to provide online ticketing and tour operators. The service will give local and international visitors more flexibility in purchasing their tickets by reservations, local businesses, and online via the official Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten website (www.hennessyartistrysxm.com).

There are two ticket options available this year: VIP tickets will be US$150 with advance purchase; US$175 at the door. These tickets include VIP service, premium Hennessy drinks and food. Tickets are also available for those who would like to experience only the concert aspect of the show for US$55 with advance purchase; US$75 at the door. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa is the host hotel for the event and is working closely with the marketing and sales team of Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten to finalize vacation packages with tour operators from the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and South America. The Westin has arranged for packages for the local market as well.

For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact by Phone: +1 721 520-7120 / 520-1872 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Press Release from Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten

hypeagendacover08072013Available at high schools

PHILIPSBURG:--- The colourful and informative HYPE school agendas are ready for the new 2013/2014 academic year. Produced by Voice Of Our Children (VOOC) Foundation and HYPE Design with the input of 20 dynamic students from the various high schools. The agendas are specifically tailored for the academic year and cover the months that coincide with the school year. The 192-page agendas feature a number of educational, informative, inspirational and fun articles that appeal to students as well as information on the various school vacation dates. Articles range from safe sex tips and information on study financing to bullying, the ills of social networking and features inspirational young persons, such as songstress Mischulaikah Richardson, who speaks in depth about how being abused as a young child and managing a debilitating medical condition helped shape the person she is today. Mischulaikah is hoping that her story can be an inspiration to others. A number of role models from each high school in St. Maarten, Saba and Statia are also featured in the full-colour, glossy publication. The cultural diversity of St. Maarten is depicted throughout the agenda with students from the various secondary schools dressed in cultural wear of some of the nationalities represented in St. Maarten. The pictures were taken at some of the country's national monuments and historical sites – an interesting mix of culture and history. The intention is for every high school student in St. Maarten, Saba and Statia to have their own copy of the agenda. The agendas can be obtained, for a contribution of NAf. 5 at Milton Peters College (MPC), Sundial School, St. Dominic High, both sections of St. Maarten Academy (Academic and PSVE), St. Maarten Vocational Training School, Charlotte Brookston Academy and Learning Unlimited (LU) Preparatory School. They are also available at the Gwendoline van Putten School in Statia and at the Saba Comprehensive School in Saba. Copies can also be obtained at Penny's Department Store on Back Street, Pete's Photo at the Le Grand Marche complex and Executive Business Services on Bush Road. Additional information can be obtained from HYPE Designs at tel: 520-1941 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake is prioritizing the solutions of important issues that are affecting the quality of life and safety of the citizens of St. Maarten which also includes road links.

In order to alleviate the traffic on Sint Maarten, besides Minister Lake's diligent efforts on road repair, Lake is also paying attention to get the much needed road links executed. These links such as the, Ring Road, the so-called "Cake House" road and the much-needed Link 6 that will connect Union road to Belvedere, with a feeder road from South Reward, is high on his priority list.

"The Link 6 connection will not only ease the very hectic morning traffic in the South Reward, Ebenezer, L.B. Scott Road areas due to not having other access roads in that area, but will also enhance safety in case of life threatening situations.

"The time that is lost being stuck in traffic in the aforementioned area, especially in the morning, and the valuable resources that is used in the form of Control Officers, can be minimized just by improving accessibility through an East-West connection," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out on Monday.

A UNESCO report that was made after the excessive flooding in the aforementioned areas in 2005 that cost the lives of two persons, highly advised the Government to work on an alternative road infrastructure network to that area that could be used as an escape route, and for emergency vehicles to be able to reach the various district neighborhoods in case of calamity and or accidents.

A lot of preliminary preparation and planning has gone into the different options for Link 6. Minister Lake has decided to take a more hands on approach in the realization of Link 6. The Minister will call a meeting as soon as possible with the owners and representatives of all the landowners connected to the proposed Link 6 route.

"Everybody should be involved to give speed and coherence in the execution of this project," Minister Lake pointed out.

A presentation will be given at Ministry of VROMI in presence of the Minister to all stakeholders to align all interest and seek input of all the stakeholders in order to come up with a comprehensive plan of approach and execution timetable for Link 6.

"The time has come to act now. The construction of Link 6 has to start as soon as possible in the interest and safety of the citizens of Sint Maarten and in particular the residents of St. Peters, Saunders, South Reward, Ebenezer, St. John's Estate, Mary's Fancy and Cul de Sac.

"When things drag on for too long, people lose faith. I will make sure during my one-year tenure in serving the people of this great country, that important projects such as those mentioned are executed and realized instead of just laying around in some bookcase. Projects like these also create jobs, and our people and construction sector need work in order to revitalize our economy," Minster Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Disaster Management (ODM) has been closely monitoring the progress of the third Tropical Storm for the Atlantic hurricane season, Tropical Storm (TS) Chantal.

Based on the 8:00am advisory, TS Chantal does not pose a threat to country Sint Maarten.

ODM will continue to monitor the progress of this fast moving storm and will provide an additional update later today-Monday. The population is advised to monitor weather reports for any further updates.

TS Chantal was located on Monday morning at 8:00am over 500 miles East South East of Barbados.

TS Chantal is forecasted to pass through the Eastern Caribbean island chain on Monday evening and Tuesday morning in the vicinity of the islands of Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- As of Monday July 8th, the Raoul Illidge Sport Complex will be temporarily closed for the general public.

Contractor MNO Vervat St. Maarten will start with phase one of the renovation works on the Complex that includes the running track and the football field.

The first week of the construction period will be mainly used for the demolition of the existing field. The top layer of the athletic track will be removed, and the football field will be excavated.

The coming weeks will be used for the installation of a completely new drainage system around and in the area of the playing field.

In this same period the contractor will be busy with the rehabilitation of the field lighting system. The poles will be painted and the existing flood lights will be replaced with new ones.

The new light fixtures will have a greater capacity than the existing ones.

The installation of the synthetic grass is scheduled to start mid-August. The installation of the running track will start end of August.

Phase 1 of the renovation is scheduled to be completed by November 2013.

In a later stage, Phase 2 of the renovation will be carried out, and this comprises of the renovation of the buildings and the upgrade of the swimming pool on the complex.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Affairs is the Principal of the project.

The project is being supervised by the Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development & Planning.

cooperatingfoundationspresentchequetococaae07072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Youth Drumband COCAAE happily accepts a cheque of Naf. 21,432.00 from funding agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean for new drums.
Wednesday after their practice the young drummers of the Council of Cultural and Artistic Expressions Youth Drumband (Cocaae) were surprised with a big cheque from funding agency Cooperating Foundations. The Naf. 21,432.00 is a contribution towards the purchase of 36 new drums to professionalize the performances of the energetic young drummers. Within COCAAE kids and youngsters do not only learn how to play an instrument, but there is also a lot of attention for discipline, team work, and overall development.

swescotwilliamswithramgoat07072013Encourages Communities of Both Sides of the Island to Support the Ram Beauty Contest

COLOMBIER:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams opened the annual Ram Goat Competition Beauty contest in Colombier on Sunday. The Prime Minister, who has been a staunch supporter of the event since it first started in 2000, commented that she was once again "very happy and grateful to be once again able to attend this beautiful occasion in a beautiful part of St. Maarten. It is good to be here and to be able to spend some quality and cultural time at Colombier to once again mark this very special event which is very dear to my heart."

The Prime Minister gave a special welcome to all those who spend much of their time caring for and being excellent managers for the numerous ram goats, without which the competition would not be possible.

"I would like to see more entries into the competition and I think that it behooves the I Love My Ram Association and Governments of both sides of the island to look at ways to make sure that this show is able to continue for the enjoyment and the education of the people of St. Maarten. We should think on how we can promote the animals and the show so that we can be here every year. I encourage all the goat keepers to continue doing their excellent jobs", continued the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister and Territorial Councilman Daniel Gibbs also presented a token of appreciation to representatives from Presidente beer, which has been the sponsor for the very special and popular beauty contest.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

martinhassinkandgracitaarrindell07072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell met with Minister of Finance Hon. Martin Hassink on Thursday to discuss handling of amendments to the 2012 and 2013 national budgets.

Budget matters are to be taken up in a plenary session to be scheduled for the first week of August when parliament returns from summer recess.

President Arrindell plans to meet with the Chairman of the parliamentary permanent Expenditures Committee Member of Parliament Hon, Roy Marlin to discuss matters pertaining to the budget of Country Sint Maarten.

This was the first visit to the House of Parliament by the Minister of Finance as well as his first official meeting with the President of Parliament.

A number of issues were discussed pertaining to the Ministry of Finance including the handling of the approved 2013 national budget.

"It's of vital importance to have certainty and credibility with regards to the budgets of Country Sint Maarten. We have to build a sustainable resilient economy in challenging times. We do have our inherent limitations as a small island nation, but we have succeeded despite the challenges.

"A tentative date has already been set for the first week of August to have a first public plenary meeting related to the outstanding budget issues.

"I was very pleased with the discussions that we had and on how we should move forward. The new Minister of Finance has hit the ground running. He is well aware of our small, resource challenged, structurally dependent open one pillar economy.

"As a country we possess immense possibilities, opportunities and strengths. One of our key strengths is a resilient and largely hardworking people. I am very confident that we will overcome our budgetary challenges," President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Gracita Arrindell said on Sunday.

mauricelakemeetswithdqcommunityrepandcpo07072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake recently met with the President of the Dutch Quarter Community Council (DQCC) Sidney de Weever Community Police Officer (CPO) Statie to discuss a number of community related issues.

Minister Lake will be doing a walk-through in the district of Dutch Quarter as a follow-up to the meeting with community representatives.

The Minister was briefed about certain situations throughout the Dutch Quarter neighborhood and those that should be addressed soonest. CPO Statie also highlighted some issues from a public safety standpoint.

The main concerns brought forward were street lighting in the neighborhood especially along the main road; and the exposed trench in front of the football field.

The DQCC President De Weever also asked that the Council have the opportunity to review draft plans where it concerns infrastructure and other related developments for the DQ district.

"I fully support inclusion in community district development. This is where getting 'back to basics' comes into play. We need to dialogue and communicate more and work together in resolving pressing community issues.

"Our community councils know their districts well and may have ideas and solutions on how to better improve their neighborhoods. We need to work together and we will create better and improved living environments for our people," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out.

Another area of concern for the DQCC is garbage collection where secondary and tertiary roads are not being serviced regularly by the garbage contractor who is responsible for this area, and they would like to see a solution found in order to improve the services being rendered.

DQCC also suggested when employing young people from the district, they should also receive basic life skills especially in the trade that they work in.

"I fully agree, any government program must have as its foundation skills development. We must provide marketable skills to those who are lacking these for whatever reason. Everybody deserves a chance and a second chance.

"We are a small community and nobody should be left behind. We are reliant and dependent on each other, and must support each other.

"The further training and formal certification of these individuals would enable them to improve their competence and put the consumer and employer in a better position to get value for money.

"It would create an environment for these young individuals to claim higher wages, benefits and greater job security," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake within short will also be meeting with Union Farm homeowners to listen to their concerns.

rolandduncan08032013I don't usually respond to news reports and other nonsense coming out of the Netherlands, particularly the Second Chamber, regarding my person, but your abovementioned front page article in your edition of today, July 5, 2013, has nevertheless forced me to make the following statement, which I ask you kindly to publish:

It is correct that the Royal Marechausees were asked by me (as minister of Justice) to concentrate their 'assistance' on training the personnel of the Immigration Department, in the back office, where documents (passports and other travel documents) are checked for forgeries, etc. In the back-office there is a database containing international information on passports, persons and related documentation which is used for detecting forgeries, lost or missing items or persons, etc. Before 10-10-10 the Marechaussees (KMAR) were deployed - on request of the Netherlands Antilles - in the front line, that is at the booths, because of lack of personnel. During my term of office we trained and employed over 100 young people in law enforcement (the so-called BAVPollers) throughout the Justice Ministry, including more than 20 in the Immigration Dept. By employing and training our own young Sint Maarteners, the services of the Kmar were no longer needed in the front line.

There is a protocol signed with the Dutch for assistance of the KMAR, valid until mid 2015. This assistance is provided by (a) deploying detectives in the Police Force, and (b) assistance in the Immigration Dept. There is NO agreement that the Kmar should be in the frontline at Immigration or anywhere!! We, additionally, requested the Kmar to also train the personnel of the Customs Dept, which department also carriesout border control(!). Initially this request was rudely turned down by a former minister of Kingdom Relations, but later - when I pointed out that such assistance was also part of the protocol signed - assistance was promised. After more than 1 (one) year now, no actual assistance has been provided to the Customs Dept.! It has been said that the Kmar does not have sufficient personnel!

I refer to a report of Kmar published very recently in your newspaper, in which the EXCELLENT relationship with me and the ministry of justice was confirmed! This contradicts the allegations of Plasterk, Bosman c.s. in your aforementioned news article!

The problem, as Plasterk has openly confirmed, is that the Dutch government bases most of its attitude, strategies and decision-making on secret and unsubstantiated reports by Dutch civil servants who come here to work and so-called "help" Sint Maarten on assignments or short-term employment. These sources are protected and kept secret, so we can never know who they are and if and how accurate the "melee" they carried really was. This mis-information is used, however, to put Sint Maarten in a bad light and in position for criticism and pressure. And, we shall never be able to defend ourselves properly! Meanwhile, official reports are ignored, because they don't contain enough unfavorable information that can be used against us for their purposes! I submit that this modus operandi of the Dutch government and parliament is blatantly, immediately and directly in breach of the rules of integrity; the same rules they impose on us!

Speaking of integrity: A primary rule of integrity is also that one speaks truthfully, honestly and solely based on (verified) facts. Messrs. Plasterk and Bosman have repeatedly broken the rules of integrity by making loose statements of my "alleged illegal" links, connections, relations and activities, without any shred of evidence or truth, referring only to "reports", which nobody has ever seen or can show. You know the saying: "kill the messenger" and by whatever means. The ad hominem approach: attack the person, duck the issues and facts! And, they make their slanderous statements under the protection of immunity in parliament. While they 'allege' whatever falsehoods about Duncan, or any other Sint Maartener, it is a fact - proven by their own statements - that they themselves breach the rules of integrity with such slander.

Another thing, what do the Dutch mean or want to accomplish with their ranting about the removal of the Kmar from the frontline at Immigration? That we cannot do the job ourselves. That we cannot be trusted. So, only Dutch officials can be trusted or are competent to carry out the responsibilities of our country, government and people? There are no salient complaints, as far as I know, about the quality of work and integrity of our young law enforcement officers at the Immigration front line! Just think of what their statements imply -- they insult us and blatantly expose their arrogance and false attitude of superiority!

It is my belief that the Dutch continue to refer to me - months after I have left office - in an attempt to intimidate my successor(s) and the government and to force and coerce them to do what the Dutch want, which - which is simple to see - is definitely not in the best interest of Sint Maarten. I was appointed to the office of minister to serve the best interest of (the people of) Sint Maarten, not the Dutch government or parliament! Self reliance has been part and parcel of every single decision that I have made as a minister! Only the people of Sint Maarten can judge me and my actions!

The Kmar protocol - among others - was entered into for assistance - to teach us to fish - not for the Dutch to fish in our name and stead! Immigration and border control is our responsibility. And, who says the Dutch can do a better job? Remember the "Cerberus (human smuggling) case", in which some 9 persons died!

I am proud of having had the privilege to train and employ many young Sint Maarteners to work in law enforcement - including the frontline of Immigration - for them to take their rightful positions in our society and help carry out the duties of their government, building careers and improving themselves! I hope we do let the Dutch take all this away in their envy and arrogance.

Thank you for your attention.

Roland E. Duncan,
Former Minister of Justice of St. Maarten

Dawn Beach:--- On Friday June 28th, 2013, ninety four (94) new Dutch Citizens 29 of whom are born on Sint Maarten, 55 of whom are female and 39 are male, took the pledge of allegiance before His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday during the naturalization Ceremony which took place at The Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa. The pledge of allegiance, as is expressed when either taking an oath or making a promise, is the final mandatory step in the process of obtaining the Dutch nationality.
Governor Holiday addressing the gathering emphasized: "In the context of the St. Maarten community naturalization is the start of a new chapter in your life. For those of you who were born here or came here at a young age St. Maarten may be all you know and this day will be a formalization of your relation with the St. Maarten Community. For the older ones among you, today is a validation of your decision to make Sint Maarten your home. For all of you it is truly a new beginning and it is my hope that it will be a journey of growth towards a stronger St. Maarten."
After the ceremony, Governor Holiday congratulated the new citizens who had obtained their Dutch nationality in a more personal way during a reception.

From the Governor's Cabinet

chuchubifoundationdonatestosxmlittleleaguefoundation05072013Philipsburg:--- On July 4th, 2012, the Chuchubi Foundation presented a monetary donation to the Sint Maarten Little League Foundation to assist in the organization of the Senior Latin American Tournament.

In celebration of its 10th anniversary the Foundation is giving back to the community by assisting established foundations/associations in achieving its goals.
The Sint Maarten Little League Foundation has been established for many years and via sports in instilling good values in the youth of Sint Maarten

The Chuchubi Foundation applauds the Sint Maarten Little League Foundation for its youth program and wishes them much success with the international tournament.

Present were representatives of the board of the Chuchubi Foundation headed by the president Mrs. Glenda Groeneveldt who presented the president Mr. Ronny Jacobs of the Little League Foundation with the donation.

telemoptimizingnetwork05072013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group has drafted in a Polish and British Network Performance Consultants to fine tune the company's 2G and 3G networks now operating under a newly assigned frequency.

The frequency change became necessary last month following interference problems originating in nearby Anguilla.

As a result of this change TelEm Group's mobile equipment also had to be adjusted to work optimally with the new frequency.

TelEm Group announced this week that for the next three weeks it will be carrying out "fine-tuning" work on the 2G and 3G mobile networks to further improve service to customers throughout St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius

"There has been a tremendous improvement in the overall network performance since we reconfigured our equipment to the new frequency. Now we are taking things a step further by fine-tuning our mobile network for optimum performance," said Manager Networks, Mr. Julien Lake.

Mr. Lake said the visiting consultants began the optimization of the networks last week. Based on early drive tests and measurements, there has been a "significant improvement" in network performance and mobile customer experience.

The consultants have been tweaking mobile network parameters and their primary focus has been the manner in which these cell sites hand over calls from one cell site to another. The next step will involve the increasing of network resources to afford our customers greater availability of the network for their calls and data sessions.

"We are encouraged by the early tests and we expect further improvement as other adjustments are made. Customers should already be having a much better experience with their voice and data service than they were having last month," said Mr. Lake.

TelEm Group's Chief Technical Officer, Mr. Eldert Louisa, said the visiting experts are knowledgeable in their respective fields. Mr. Fuksa is a Network performance and Optimization consultant with extensive experience working on various networks in Europe and South America, which Mr. Lake is a 3G RAN Engineer with network experience with telecommunications systems in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Louisa says TelEm Group has been fortunate to call on their combined experience to assist with network improvements on St. Maarten.

"Last month's frequency interference created some problems for us, but it also highlighted the matter of congestion of our networks caused by a growing demand for voice and data traffic from our customers - especially data on the 3G network," continued Mr. Louisa.

He said TelEm Group, like telecommunication companies the world over, have to continually assess and adjust hardware and software to meet these growing demands - in some cases having to project future demand to maintain good customer experiences.

He said while here, the visiting experts will also be looking at improvement to TelEm Group's mobile coverage on neighboring French St. Martin in collaboration with business partner, Dauphin.

Customers have complained about dropped calls to family and friends when visiting the French side. Technicians believe the situation can be greatly improved with better synchronization between Dauphin and TelEm Group switches.

"We have clearly seen some improvements and we expect to see more in the coming weeks. We want to thank our mobile and data customers for their patience while we continue to optimize our networks for better performance," added the Chief Technical Officer.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Boat owners are being advised by the Office of Disaster Management to review their hurricane preparatory plans so they can be ready to take action in the event of a storm/hurricane threat to the island during the 2013 hurricane season.

The 2013 hurricane season has already seen two systems form. With the start of the peak months from mid-August and September up to mid-October approximately five weeks away, preparation is essential in order not to be caught off guard.

The Office of Disaster Management hereby advises mariners to ask themselves, "How have you prepared yourself for the hurricane season?"

Hurricanes have been the cause of many maritime disasters. Constant monitoring of hurricane potential and continual risk analysis when used with some fundamental guidelines become the basic tools to minimize a hurricanes' impact to vessels at sea or in port.

Systems that are forecast to make landfall within 50-100 nautical miles of a particular port tend to be more destructive than those that approach the port from over land or parallel the coast in the vicinity of the port. Also, ports located in the right front quadrant, based on direction of movement of hurricanes during landfall tend to have higher winds, seas, and storm surge.

The decision to leave port for hurricane avoidance must be made very clearly. Consideration to the latest safe departure time and likely avoidance routes must be balanced with a number of other factors. Most important of these is time versus distance.

The risk of damage to a vessel at sea increases as the motion of the hurricane increases towards the maximum safe speed of the vessel attempting to leave port in advance of that system.

Considerations to remain in port during hurricane passage must include an evaluation of the amount of protection afforded by the port. The direction from which the strongest winds are forecast to blow along with the potential for storm surge must be factored in when deciding whether to seek haven pier side or at anchorage.

Philipsburg:--- Over the past 4 weeks a series of informative sessions held by APS, the general pension fund administrator, have been warmly received by participants. Two groups were targeted: representatives of employers affiliated to the pension fund and active members from the Public Education department.
The employer sessions had as objective the providing of general information on the role of employers in regulating pension issues for APS participants, specifically information on the procedures to be followed when registering participants with the fund.
Led by APS account managers Giorla Doran and Lucien van Zanten the sessions were well received by participants.
One participant on the employers' session said the following with regards to the session: "I myself had found it very informative and it was a good and necessary initiative of APS. The topics and interaction between participants and APS was good. Handouts and information leaflets were a plus as well as the location and space. There was attention paid to the various questions of the participants, which I personally found very good. It was a professional information session."
"These types of sessions will certainly aid to facilitate a two-way flow of information and strengthen the bond between the respective employer organizations and APS", says APS director Kendra Arnell.
In sessions more recently held for employees of Public Education, APS employees provided insight into a variety of subject matters, such as 3 types of possible retire income when one retires, how pension benefits are calculated and that the amount of pension one is entitled to depends on the number of years the employee has worked. "Transfer of information on the pension plans and creating awareness remains the goal of the session for participants" says APS Director Kendra Arnell.
It is the intention that one-on-one meetings will be held with employers every quarter of the year to ensure that information and data needed by APS is forthcoming.

mauricelakemeetswithgebemanagement05072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake met with GEBE management to get an overview of the company's activities and to discuss some issues that the Minister would like to see addressed.

One of the key areas for the Minister is street lights in the various districts. "Street lights serve the key purpose of safety and security in the districts. People walking or jogging can see where they are walking and running, so they avoid injury during this activity.

"From a security perspective, street lights also serve as a deterrent to would-be burglars. A lighted area can help prevent car theft and home invasion. Every residential district must be properly lighted," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

GEBE management informed Minister Maurice about the progress so far with their light maintenance plan which is being executed in close consultation with the Department of Infrastructure Management.

Lights are being repaired systematically within a couple days where possible. Once a report is submitted by the Department of Infrastructure Management, and if the fixtures are in stock, the repairs are then carried out.

Minister Lake also wanted to know about GEBE's strategic plan and the GEBE management mentioned that the strategic plan should go hand in hand with the Energy Policy.

With respect to the Energy Policy, the Minister and GEBE agreed that a final Energy Policy document would be drafted after some amendments have been made to the initial 2011 document which can be used to guide the sector for the foreseeable future.

GEBE management during the meeting with Minister Lake indicated that they would work together with other utility companies to have the wooden poles removed in the various districts and along the main public roads.

"Every public and private sector utility service company should have an aesthetics policy in place that looks at the clean-up and beautification of the area where they carried out infrastructure or civil works.

"Every company has a corporate social responsibility to the community that they serve. Let's get back to basics and improve upon the little things that will bring about big results and having the place looking brighter and better," Minister Lake appealed to public and private utility companies and businesses in general.

rotarysxmsunrisechangeofboard04072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise celebrated the successes of the nearly ended Rotary Year 2012-2013 and the installation of the board members for the year 2013-2014. The event took place at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort on Saturday, June 29, 2013 in the presence of Rotarian, Rotaracters, their families and other guests also present for this occasion were among others, Judge Jacob Wit who was the keynote speaker, Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin, former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, and Minister with the responsibility for Infrastructure Maurice Lake.
Outgoing President Marcellia Henry thanked her fellow board members and entire membership for their enthusiasm and support during the year. She highlighted how the club was able to obtain five awards from our District 7020 and our Zone 34, by fulfilling 90% of the goals set for the year 2012-2013; summarizing the executed projects including increasing our visibility within our community, initiating new community and vocational projects that benefited the youths, establishing partnership with businesses in the community: the school bag project and the breakfast program at the Martin Luther King Jr. school with UTS, and the Ruby Labega school with Sheriff Security NV; promoting "Peace through Service". Which was evident with our ability to mobilize over 120 volunteers to paint the entire school of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, strengthening our existing projects that are successful such as the "Readers are Leaders Program". President Marcellia Henry concluded in wishing the incoming president Angela Gordon and her team of board members a successful Rotary Year 2013-2014.

The new Rotary Board consists of: President Angela Gordon, Vice-President Joseanne Peterson, Past President Marcellia Henry, Secretary/President Elect Virginia Asin, Service Projects Director
Marieke Quist, Treasurer Ahmed Bell, Sergeant at Arms Solaika Serbony, Membership Director Monique Alberts, Club Administration Director Angelique Gumbs, Public Relations Director Martha Pouchie, Rotary Foundation Director Meredith Boekhoudt, Fundraising Director Peter Dialani, New Generation Chair Paula Gordon and Club Disaster Chair Claret Connor.

In her speech incoming President Angela Gordon, pledge to continue with our longstanding tradition of reaching out to members in an effort to encourage participation at all levels. She outlined her goals for the new rotary year consisting of creating a Peace Monument on our island, continue with Men's Health awareness campaign, facilitate school breakfast programs in collaboration with the business community, provide educational materials and supplies to schools, promote reading through Readers are Leaders project, improve literacy through adult education program, support the Rotary Foundation and the Future Vision Plan in eradicating Polio, increase interaction through fellowship and partnership with the Rotary Clubs of St. Maarten, Anguilla, French St. Martin, St. Barth and the Sunrise Rotaract Club. Finally and most important; as we wear our Rotary pin this is what it says about us, you can rely on us, we are dependable, we give more than we take, we are available to serve our community "Service above self" as we "Engage Rotary and Change Lives".

Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise would like to thank all Rotarians involved in the organization of the Change of Board Ceremony.

The club meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise.

mauriciohandler04072013COLE BAY:--- The St. Maarten Nature Foundation and the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation recently hosted world renowned Wildlife Documentary film maker and National Geographic Freelance Photographer Mauricio Handler on St. Maarten as part of his travels documenting Natural History and the Environment in the Dutch Caribbean.

Mauricio Handler is a professional marine photojournalist, natural history filmmaker and expedition leader who for many years formed a part of the premier underwater photography team at National Geographic Magazine. He has documented life, landscapes and people living close to all bodies of water all over the world. Mauricio Handler is now producing natural history documentaries. He works with Ultra High Definition 4K footage, which has a quality four times that of regular HD.

Mr. Handler spent time with representatives of both the Nature Foundation and the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation documenting natural landscapes both above and below the sea. "St. Maarten is a beautiful island but has considerable issues especially on the terrestrial side of things. The island urgently needs a Land Park and needs to have Mullet Pond as an important Fish Nursery fully protected. I also had the opportunity to dive in the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area and was pleasantly surprised at the health of the reefs and the amount of fish life; which is unique for the Caribbean," commented Mr. Handler.

Mr. Handler's accommodation was provided through the kind support of the SHTA and Sonesta Great Bay Hotel. Mr. Handler will travel to the islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao next.

aliettehyman06072013French Quarter:--- Relatives, friends, and residents of French Quarter are mourning the loss of Miss Aliette Menta Hyman better known as Miss Olette who was born on September 28th, 1909 in Abymes, Guadeloupe. Miss Olette is the founder of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in French Quarter.

Miss Olette died during the morning hours of July 4th, 2013. She leaves to mourn, her two children, several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and the congregation of the St. Joseph Catholic Church.
SMN News extends condolences to the Hyman families during their time of bereavement.

ssmmeetswithser04072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Representatives of Soualiga Social Movement met with the Social Economic Council to discuss the role of NGO's in the socio-economic development of Sint Maarten. The Social Economic Council has to give solicited and unsolicited advice to government pertaining matters of socio-economic nature.
Both parties sat at the table to discuss the role of NGO's in today's society. SSM pointed out that there has been a symposium on corporate social responsibility organized by the SER and wanted to know how the SER envisions the role of NGO's in the socio-economic development of Sint Maarten. The SER emphasized on the importance of public-private partnership and that one cannot do without the other. Furthermore, the concept of a "social summit" was discussed. This is a program that SSM is working on and that should give a clear helicopter view of the general needs and issues in Sint Maarten and where and how NGO's can work together to increase effectiveness in the usage of funds and human resources.
It was recognized that there are many social ills in Sint Maarten and the SER supports social initiatives to tackle these issues. The SER encouraged SSM to continue addressing these issues and offered their assistance in channeling proposals to government. SSM was asked to put some of their ideas on paper pertaining structuring NGO's and the involvement of NGO's in decision making. It was agreed upon that both parties would meet again in August to continue talks.

wibpresentsprizetokompaleonwinnerarvinadamus04072013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) brought awareness to Carnival on St. Maarten via a cross-island initiative with its parent bank Maduro & Curiel's Bank N.V. (MCB) in Curacao. This initiative involved inserting a specially designed carnival card stuffer in 16,500 Kompa Leon credit card statements of MCB credit card customers. The campaign offered one lucky Kompa Leon card member the opportunity to win NAF. 1,000 for having made the winning purchase on St. Maarten during its Carnival Season. WIB is proud to announce the Kompa Leon winner of our campaign, Mr. Arvin Adamus (residing in Curacao). WIB/MCB congratulates Mr. Adamus on wining NAF. 1,000.

mathiasvoges03072013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In the presence of His Royal Highness King Willem-Alexander and Her Royal Highness Queen Maxima, Government officials and thousands of persons who came out to the Oosterpark in the Dutch City of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Sint Maarten's

Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges placed a wreath at the Slavery Emancipation Monument on behalf of the Government and people of Sint Maarten. On July 1, 1863, some 1500 enslaved persons officially obtained their freedom in the Southern part of Sint Maarten.

MARIGOT:--- The French Prosecutor Flavien Noailles who is leading the investigation on the boat tragedy that occurred in the Anguilla canal late Sunday night (June 30th, 2013) said in a press release late Wednesday night that some 26 persons were on the ill-fated boat that capsized in the Anguilla canal Sunday night. Noailles said that the first report showed that some 12 persons were rescued, three persons perished while another three were lost at sea.

Noailles said one more person was rescued at the end of the morning on July 2nd, he said that means 13 persons were rescued from the waters in the Anguilla canal, three are dead, and three are still missing. While Noailles said that there were 26 persons on board the ill-fated boat, he only gave accountability for 25 persons. SMN News reporter asked the prosecutor to clarify whether there were 25 people on board or 26. Noailles said that one of the persons that was on board the boat managed to reach the shores of St. Martin without anyone’s assistance. Therefore, he could not be registered as one of the rescued persons or missing persons. It should be noted that 14 of the 26 people that were on board “God is Good” survived in the boat mishap.

An investigation has been opened and is led by the Chief of the Homicide Department. One of the things this investigation has to determine is how the illegal immigrants entered St. Martin. So far, it has been determined through witness testimonies that most of the occupants on the boat arrived on St. Martin via the Princess Juliana International Airport at the beginning of June 2013. They came from Brazil and the Dominican Republic and their main goal was to go to Puerto Rico via St. Thomas or Saint John. However, the mission turned into a drama due to a broken water pump. Because of this, the back of the boat took on water. In total there were 26 people on the boat, six of them were rescued by a passing boat and not the search and rescue teams. It has been determined that of the other 20 people, 13 were rescued by the search and rescue teams, 1 swam to the shores of St. Martin on his own, three people perished, and three are still missing. Due to the heavy drifting from west northwest, the researchers could not locate exactly where the boat went down.

Noailles said the investigation will go to the very end until they have found all the persons that were involved in the bringing in of illegal persons to the island and transporting them to other destinations.

Some of the victims paid as much as $16,000 (USD) for the trip.

So far, two persons that were residing on St. Martin have been arrested and placed in garde à vue. Those two persons already appeared before a judge and their detention has been prolonged for another 48 hours. A third person who assisted with the transportation of the illegal persons was also arrested and placed in garde à vue. The third person was arrested sometime after midday on Wednesday.

gracitaarrindell24062013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell during her official visit to Curacao for Flag Day on Tuesday, was introduced to the new U.S. Consul General to Curacao and Chief of Mission to Aruba, BES Islands and Sint Maarten James R. Moore.

The introduction took place via Curacao's President of Parliament Hon. Mike Franco.

"It was a great opportunity to meet the new U.S. Consul and to also congratulate him on his appointment and assumption of his duties in late June.

"I informed U.S. Consul Moore that the House of Parliament Conference Room is available for his mission to carry out its services to Americans residing on Sint Maarten as a courtesy as was the case with his predecessor," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Wednesday.

Moore is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service of the U.S. State Department with nearly 30-years of experience as a U.S. Diplomat.

Prior to his posting in Curacao, Moore was Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia from 2010-2013, with responsibility for U.S. public diplomacy and public affairs initiatives in that region.

"I would like to congratulate all U.S. visitors and residents on behalf of the Parliament and people of Sint Maarten with this important day – July 4th - in their history. Sint Maarten has enjoyed a very close relationship with the United States of America especially in the economic area where tourism is concerned. Have a safe and happy fourth of July," President Arrindell said on Wednesday.

President Arrindell was accompanied by Member of Parliament Hon. Janchie Leonard to attend Curacao Flag Day celebrations on Tuesday, July 2nd.

sxmyouthcouncilparliamentmeetsrodolphesamuel25012013The Sint Maarten Youth Parliament is a program of the St. Maarten Youth Council Association, geared towards youth 12 -24. The program provides training in Government & Politics, Parliamentary Procedures, Debating, Critical Thinking & Reasoning Skills as well as Leadership Training.

The Sint Maarten Youth Parliament is a youth think tank. In addition to holding public policy debates, the Youth Parliament organizes public forums and discussions that allow young people to voice their opinions on key issues, and to gather information on issues that affect their lives. This vibrant group of young leaders is also service-oriented and actively involved in giving service to the community.

During the period July to August, the group is embarking on a recruitment drive for new members. The intent is to replace members who are leaving to further their studies, and to extend the program to more young persons. The new recruits will also include candidates for the Kingdom Youth Parliament, which will be held on St. Maarten in May 2014. Persons interested in being a part of the program can contact the St. Maarten Youth Parliament by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., call 550-8971 or visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sint-Maarten-Youth-Parliament for more information.

In August of this year, the Youth Parliament will host a public debate on the topic: "A curriculum that prepares us for life: incorporating technological advancements in education." The debate will take place in the Hall of Parliament at a date and time to be confirmed.
The St. Maarten Youth Parliament meets every other Friday at 5 pm at the conference room at the Parliament Building. A special thanks is extended to the Parliament of St. Maarten and the support staff for making this possible.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, says according to its disease surveillance system with family physicians, one case of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) have been reported.

HFMD is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children who are 10-years of age or younger. It can sometimes occur in adults. There is no vaccine to protect against the viruses that cause hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Persons with symptoms should contact their family physician and continue to take preventive measures in order to avoid getting HFMD.

Symptoms of HFMD include cold-like conditions, fever, mouth sores, loss of appetite, cough, and a skin rash; a non-itchy red rash that develops on the hand and the feet, and sometimes the rash can develop into painful blisters; painful mouth ulcers.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is spread from person to person through nose and throat secretions (such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus), blister fluid, or stool of infected persons.

If your child or you have any of these symptoms, according to the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, visit your family physician.

To lower your risk of being infected with hand, foot and mouth disease, wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers and using the toilet; disinfecting dirty surfaces and soiled items, including toys. First wash the items with soap and water, and then disinfect them with a solution of chlorine bleach; and avoiding close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing eating utensils or cups with infected persons.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is not the same as foot and mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and pigs. The two infections are unrelated, and you cannot catch hand, foot and mouth disease from animals.

For further information you can call 542-2078 or 542-3003.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake earlier this week met with department heads and some staff at Ministry VROMI to discuss his 'back to basics' vision approach.

"I have taken note of the ideas of social writers such as the Soualiga Social Movement and Russell Simmons. Their approach fits into my 'back to basics' vision

"The country has reached the cross-roads where development is concerned, and the people are more interested in the repairs and addressing the little issues that impact their lives on a daily basis. This has been a United People's party philosophy of addressing the quality of life issues of the people.

"We have issues of sewage that need to be dealt with by the utilization of small sewage plants; parking regulations need to be enforced. More parking is needed in Philipsburg and the Simpson Bay strip along with bus stops and proper signage.

"Social writers have suggested a cultural park, eco activities for tourists and residents, which I totally agree. I envision a park in the center of Philipsburg at the Clem Labega Square for example where families can come together, and a multi-story parking facility for the Philipsburg area.

"We need to see where the public and private sectors can collaborate in these areas. These various points have been discussed in my meeting with the staff of Ministry VROMI. There also has to be cross-Ministry collaboration as well," Minister Lake said on Wednesday.

When it comes to zoning, Minister Lake said that he will work in close consultation with landowners to have areas zoned for agriculture and livestock.

"Sint Maarteners are resilient and have always felt close to the land. We need to preserve green areas for the replanting of fruit trees," Minister Lake pointed out.

The United Volleyball Club will be hosting its first fundraising Pajamathon (volleyball in pajamas) in aid of sending youth volleyballers to a training camp in Orlando from August 4 - 11. Interested persons and groups may still register for the tournament, which will take place Friday, July 5 from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. at the Melford Hazel Complex in Sucker Garden. Do come out and support the kids while playing fun volleyball. For more information, contact Keishan: 550-3434, Sophie: 587-9459, or Rhoda: 520-1136.

dennisrichardson03072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson who took office some three weeks ago told SMN News in an exclusive interview that since he took office he initiated an investigation into the Justice Park project in order for him to form his own opinion on the project. Minister Richardson said that investigation would include the structural and financial aspects of the project. "I already started talking to the people involved and I will form my own opinion when the time comes. I just took office and I need to deal with a lot of issues such as having a youth detention facility."

Richardson further explained that the Wescot-Williams II Cabinet had taken a decision on the project, they decided that the project was not feasible at this time, combined with that decision is the advice of the CFT who also submitted a negative report on the Justice Park. SMN News reporter asked the Minister if he would even consider the building that SZV was planning to rent or purchase for their offices but later found out that it did not meet earthquake standards for this region. "Definitely that will be one of the points of discussion because I know better and when I was heading the SZV I did not take a risk. I am the same person with the same attitude and my position on that remains the same. My position back then was that the developer (owner) of the building would have had to upgrade the building at their cost or lower the price of the building in order for SZV to do the upgrades. It is at that point Orista N.V. backed out because they did not agree with my conditions. Today as Minister of Justice I have more responsibilities so definitely I will take the safety and security of people into consideration."

Minister Richardson said that the former and present Government believes that some of the facilities in the Justice Project are of utmost need on St. Maarten. However, he refused to entertain questions on who the negotiators are and if there is any semblance of conflict of interest.

When he was asked how he plans to resolve the issues within the Ministry of Justice, the Minister said that he certainly does not have a magic wand to solve all the problems but he definitely would have to take a decision on the limited prison cells because the prison has to be repaired while he also would have to find a solution for youth detention. He said if there are people with suggestions he will welcome those suggestions in order to solve the problems.

Cases are stacked up at the Landsrecherche --- Ministers cannot intervene in individual cases.

SMN News reporter asked the new Minister of Justice how he intends to deal with the Attorney General on the amount of cases that are stacked up at the Landsrecherche for over three years now. Those cases are the Election Fraud case, the Piranha investigation, the case that involves Regina Labega, the case on former Minister Maria Buncamper-Molanus, and the ORCA investigation. The Minister said that it's not fair to say that these officers are not doing anything but instead the people are not hearing anything. He said the law is very specific where Ministers cannot interfere in cases that are being investigated. Minister Richardson further stated that the Public Prosecutor has to get a certain amount of proof in order to prosecute and if that is not the case the person or persons name should be cleared. He said the law has limitations and that is something that has to be respected. Minister Richardson said he believes that one of the problems in the Landsrecherche is the lack of capacity or lack of evidence for the Prosecutor's Office to prosecute. He said that it is a point of attention which he will confront the Attorney General on.

Labour and Immigration Controls have to take place.

The Minister of Justice said in his view all persons are equal in the eyes of the law and as long as he is at the helm of the Justice Ministry controls will have to take place. He said no one despite their position in society should or will be spared if they break the law. He said there are various people within the Ministry that has to do their work. He said he cannot envision that the Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs has to send him an instruction on how or how not to perform his duties.

Richardson said he does not even know if the controls are taking place but now that the matter is brought to his attention someone will have to explain to him why it's not happening.

Another issue the Minister of Justice said he intends to work on is the issuance of certificates of good conduct that are taking months to process. The Minister said he is aware that these certificates take a long time and he would have to find a way to make this period shorter.

Country Constitution Evaluation to take place in 2015 --- RST and Coast Guard have to Deliver.

Just days after the Minister of Justice was sworn in, the Minister traveled to Aruba to participate in the tripartite meeting which involved the Ministers of Justice of Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten. One of the points of discussion was the performance of the Coast Guard and the RST that are working as a separate entity from the Police.

The Ministers from the other countries have said that they will not renew the agreement for the Coast Guards and the RST but Minister Richardson that the problem they have is that the Coast Guard has to deliver what is expected of them. "We just cannot get rid of the Coast Guard because they are regulated in the Kingdom Law, there are criticisms on how things are done and that has to be regulated. If we are to get rid of them then we need to change the law, but all of that can happen in 2015 when St. Maarten's status will be evaluated. All these entities will be evaluated in 2015 and at that time changes can be made to the Kingdom Regulations. It is not an issue of getting rid of any entity but its more about performance. Aruba's stance is that everyone should get what they are paying for." As for the RST, the Minister said that the RST cannot function as a separate entity from the police because the law is also very clear about that. "When you look at the Kingdom Law on police it is clear and really I don't understand the debate on this issue. The RST is part of the police operation." The Minister said that there has to be full cooperation between the police and the RST and he does not believe putting the RST and the police in same building would make them work better with each other. In his opinion, doing that would only be cosmetic. The RST has a different task but they cannot execute unless they cooperate with the KPSM. "In 2015, if St. Maarten is capable of combating crime locally and internationally then there would be no need for the RST and that will be discussed in 2015 when the evaluation takes place. Anytime these entities start to hamper the combating of crime then it would be time for the Minister of Justice to intervene. The focus should be on getting the job done by all the entities and if that is not the case then something has to be done. The focus should be about getting the job done and not about power struggle."

mulletpond03072013Area is of High Ecological and Economic Value

The Nature Foundation once again expresses concerns regarding the threats to the Mullet Pond Area. Over the past few weeks the Foundation has been observing numerous activities, including the removal of Mangroves, at what is the island's most important fish nursery and mangrove area. "We have seen some mangroves that were removed which we have already replanted. We are concerned that, unless the Mullet Pond will be listed as a reserve, we will lose the most important mangrove area on the Dutch Side of the island," read a Nature Foundation statement.

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

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

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

Mullet Pond is increasingly under threat due to development. As it is, the cause for protecting that ecosystem and the value with which it brings far outweighs the perceived benefit development of the area may have. Any type of development would require the destruction of large areas of mangrove trees and the dredging and siltation of extensive sea grass beds, effectively killing both the economic and ecological benefit of the area.
It is therefore essential that the Mullet Pond, located between Point Pirouette and Mullet Beach, be zoned as a protected area in which it is prohibited to remove and/or cut existing vegetation, including mangroves and sea grass, within 15 meters of the lagoon shoreline including the waters contained therein. It is only through official protection that the protection of the Mullet Pond and the ecosystem it supports will remain an essential part of the St. Maarten landscape.

The Nature Foundation and its sister organization EPIC have been lobbying for a long time both nationally and internationally to get the area protected. Once legislation is enacted proper management of that ecosystem would need to occur in order to reduce the risk of the area being a so-called 'paper park'. This management of should involve natural space bio-mapping, integrated use of GIS mapping, mangrove strand management, the possibility of housing injured and sick sea turtles in housing pens close to the island, doing bird monitoring, invasive species checks, and baseline environmental monitoring.

swescotwilliamsreceivesupdateonsmdf03072013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received an update on the progress of the St. Maarten Development Fund Foundation (SMDF) at her Cabinet on Wednesday afternoon. Attendants to the meeting included Richelda Emmanuel, SMDF Board President, Mr. Keith Franca, interim director of the SMDF, Ms. Emilia Thomas, Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister and Mr. Hensley Plantijn, Legal advisor to the PM.

The meeting update the PM on the progress of the SMDF as the fund will fill the gap left open when the Former Antillean Co-Financing Organization AMFO and Reda Sosial ceased operations. 
The SMDF has its offices at the Yogesh Commercial Complex Unit 1-H.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemrepwithxtratightentertainmentgroup03072013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group's mobile provider, TelCell, has started a massive island-wide talent search to shine the spotlight on St. Maarten's talented youth.

Kicking off this week, St. Maarten's favorite mobile provider, in collaboration with the group Xtratight Entertainment, will be organizing a "Breakthrough" Campaign, featuring the hottest and most creative youth talent.

They are being assembled for a round of auditions that will be taking place at the Cultural Center, Backstreet, August 17, with finals scheduled to take place at the Casino Royal Theater, Maho, September 28.

Through a series of auditions, elimination rounds and performances, youth aged 10 through 18 will be selected for a chance to perform on stage where they can win some fabulous prizes along with real encouragement to take their talents further in the entertainment industry .

The talent categories being showcased includes, but is not limited to:
Vocals, rapping, stand up- comedy, drama, freestyle/creative.

Amongst the prizes available for winners is a recording contract and video clip production for one single along with a host of prizes from various partners and collaborators on the project.

The promotion will also allow the winners of each segment to be adopted by TelCell's Commercial and Marketing team for future promotions and demonstrations.

TelEm Group is not a stranger to exposing youth talent on St. Maarten, having successfully sponsored the St. Maarten Idol contest in collaboration with Hard Rock Café, earlier this year.

The company sponsored the first Flash Mob contest amongst St. Maarten schools to rave reviews last year.

This year's Breakthrough event carries with it the possibility of TV and/or Cinema promotions once the required sponsors and contributors can be encouraged to take part.

TelEm Group is currently promoting the Breakthrough talent search campaign in the local electronic and print media using the slogan "Your Fame, Our Aim!"

For more information: email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 5460200 ext. 126/389.

lucindaaudain03072013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, July 5, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with Movement for Music Dance Art and Entertainment powered by La Rich Arts & Entertainment Management presents the 4th edition of Spoken Lyrics, to be hosted at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's new Lounge, at 8 pm.
The objective of this collaboration is to promote and stimulate local up and coming entertainers to participate in sharing their work with the general public, with hopes of inspiring patrons to create works of their own to share.
"Many supporters have requested the return of Spoken Lyrics after the great response from last year's 3rd edition at Axum Café, "Green Light". These sessions gave undiscovered talent the opportunity to showcase their work during each night's open mic session", stated Lucinda Audain of La Rich Arts & Entertainment.
Specific Fridays in the month of July & August will be dedicated specifically to the Spoken Lyrics sessions in the Library's brand new Lounge area. Each event will begin at 8:00 pm with lounge music and cocktails and light snacks to allow persons to get comfortable. At 8:30pm, the program will begin with the featured artists with brief interludes. The final hour is the open mic session for the general public to share their work based on the theme of the evening.
This Fridays Spoken Lyric Session will be themed "Drums of Fire", in commemoration of Emancipation Day. Featured Artists for the evening will be Papa Umpo, Maguada Jackson, Melissa Fleming, and Juliana Alexander. Special guest drummers will be Shabba & the Jimbe Drummers. This session will fuse spoken word and the drum to create a rhythmic call and response interaction between artists and the public.
"At the core of our library's mission is to facilitate and provide access to cultural expressions of all performing arts. Events like these give us the opportunity to create a space where the public and artists get an opportunity to interact not only for the advancement of literacy, but also to promote creative expression", remarked Morenika Arrindell, Library Public Relations Officer.

letssavebudgetingcourse03072013PHILIPSBURG:--- Let's Travel wishes to announce to the general public that its LET'S SAVE "BUDGETING COURSE" has started Tuesday, July 2nd, and will be held every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at the Sundial School for the whole month of July. Seats are still available and anyone wishing to sign up can contact Emilio Kalmera or Terrance Rey or visit the Let's Travel offices or call 543-1023 to register. The first 10 participants are sponsored by Let's Travel.

lizzylizardnzingalakegenesismeyersandrobinboasman03072013GREAT BAY:--- Boys and girls attending the "Summer Storytime with Queen Genesis Meyers" are in for a treat at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library on Saturday, July 6, from 11 AM to 12:30 PM, said Nzinga Lake, organizer of the program. The reigning "Little Miss St. Martin" Genesis Meyers, 12, will read from Lizzy Lizard, Robin Boasman's new storybook for ages 4 to 9. A coloring contest of Lizzy and visit from a Lizzy Lizard mascot are on the program. Furthermore, "a guest choreographer will teach the kids the Lizzy Lizard dance," said Lake, director of the Little Miss St. Martin pageant, host of the free storytelling program on Saturday. Sandwiches, cupcakes and drinks will be served for the participants. A form will be available for the children whose parents' wish or allow them to join the planned children's book club slated to start in the near future by the pageant organization. Author Robin Boasman is invited as a special guest to the storytime program, said Lake.

acegraduates03072013Cherry-Ann Thomas named Valedictorian

PHILIPSBURG:--- Thirty two pupils graduated from All Children's Education (ACE) Foundation during an inspirational ceremony themed: "Sowing the good seeds to empower change" on Sunday.

The graduates included a number of pupils who had sat and passed the first ever Foundation Based Education (FBE) exist examinations and a number of pupils who sat the placement exams at St. Maarten Academy. Cherry-Ann Thomas was named valedictorian for topping the graduating batch. She will continue her studies at St. Maarten Academy's Academic section.

Additionally, some 14 youngsters also said goodbye to their preschool and kindergarten years.

Alluding to the theme of the graduation ceremony Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Hon. Patricia Lourens likened pupils to a seed that is planted that needs to be continually watered to grow and blossom in their education journey. She told students that this is just the beginning of their journey in education and reminded parents that they need to continue to nurture their children - the seeds - so that they can blossom and grow.

The Education Minister also encouraged the graduates and gave them some positive advice to use along their educational journey.

ACE Director Claire Elshot spoke about ACE's history, its journey educating pupils throughout the years and about the Basic Philosophy of Tzu Chi Education and its vision which she said are to promote four noble characters: Compassion, Mercy, Joy and Unconditional Giving; to provide academic education, humanitarian principles and character building simultaneously in the learning process; to cultivate in scholarly education and morality based on humanism culture so that the students become professionals who possess compassion and noble character among other things.

Keynote address speaker Glenny Santos, a former ACE pupil, spoke about how she benefited from attending ACE school when she first came to St. Maarten and spoke no English. She said the groundings she received at ACE sustained her during her years as an hour roll student at St. Maarten Academy's Academic section. She said however, that she did so well in her initial years at Academy that she laid back and faltered in her third year. She however, got back on track and is now back on the honour roll among the top ten students in her class. She urged graduates not to follow negative friends as they will not be beneficial to them. Only follow positive friends, she advised the batch of ACE graduates. She urged them to take their studies and education seriously as they continue their learning process.

Another inspirational story was shared by Penka Petkova, a Bulgarian native, whose daughter, was accepted at ACE school when no other school would accept her when compulsory education was not yet introduced in St. Maarten. Petkova said her daughter received a solid education at ACE and is now doing well thanks to ACE opening the doors of education to her. Petkova said she and her daughter are grateful to ACE and its Director Claire Elshot. Compulsory education was eventually introduced in August 2009.

Valedictorian Cherry-Ann Thomas also delivered an address on behalf of the graduating class.

The graduation ceremony, which was held at Tzu Chi Foundation's office, started with parents accompanying their children on stage and putting on their graduation caps and the pupils in turn presenting their parents with flowers. This involvement of parents in the graduation ceremony is intended to strengthen the bond between parent and child and to reward both parties for supporting each other during the child's education.

The curtains closed on the ceremony with teachers and volunteers accompanying pupils on stage and turning the tassel on their graduation caps to signal that they had graduated.
Special graduation photographs were also taken of pupils and presented to them at the end of the ceremony along with gift packages compliments of Tzu Chi.

The graduation ceremony was made possible thanks to the assistance of 35 Tzu Chi volunteers who turned out to assist in various aspects of the graduation. The volunteers were happy to help sow seeds of love during the ceremony. Tzu Chi Foundation, which is assisting ACE in its education mission as well as ACE thanked Education Minister Patricia Lourens for taking time out of her busy schedule to attend the graduation and for offering encouraging words to graduates.

ACE and Tzu Chi also thanked all the parents and volunteers who attended the event and congratulated all pupils as they continue their education journey.

swescotwilliamsatvoicesancestorsemancipationdaycelebration03072013Congratulates the Elderly for Their Contribution in Building the Nation.

L.B SCOTT ROAD:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams closed off the Emancipation Day activities by attending the Voices Ancestors Emancipation Day Celebration held at the Emilio Wilson Park. The Prime Minister made very brief comments in which she encouraged those in attendance to realize the importance the ancestors of the St. Maarten people played in building St. Maarten and to use that strength in moving St. Maarten forward.

"I think it is so fitting to have this event here on the Emilio Wilson Estate. It was 150 years ago that slavery was abolished yet it is on this Estate, under the blooming Flamboyant or July tree as we like to call them, that it seems shorter than 150 years because History seems much closer by as we walk these grounds.

"This Ancestral Day Celebration only shows how strong we are and shows that we have persevered through the spirit of our ancestors. And it is also therefore good to recognize the presence of our Senior Citizens that are here with us today; this must be a wonderful occasion for you as you reminisce and recall your contribution to St. Maarten. It is truly a celebration as we recognize how we have grown as a nation and as a people from strength to strength. Days like today when we look back for just a brief moment and recognize from where we have come and as Voices like to put it that we have indeed come from greatness and indeed great we are. If we as a people exercise this realization it is a wonderful way to close off this celebration as we continue to grow from strength to strength and as our national motto says Semper Pro Gradiens: always moving forward.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Division of Study Financing within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, & Youth Affairs in collaboration with the Sint Maarten Student Support Services (S4) will be conducting a series of information session and workshops for parents, guardians and students.
The main goals of the VOBAS information sessions and workshops are to ensure that parents, guardians and students are well prepared for living and studying abroad, to promote financial responsibility and good study habits.
Attendance of all workshops and information sessions is mandatory for all prospective students. VOBAS information sessions and workshop schedule:

vobasinfosessionsschedule03072013

 

To Accommodate Recent Long Lines Because of BTA

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister and the Ministry of General Affairs announce that the Census Office will have extraordinary opening times in order to accommodate the large volume of clients it has been experiencing over the last few days. The Census Office has been quite busy as of late due to the large number of requests in order to get registration papers, including some 3000 clients as part of the Brooks Towers Accord. The extra-ordinary opening times will be every Wednesday from two to four in afternoon for the next two weeks. Usually on Wednesday the Census Office is closed in the afternoon. The Ministry of General Affairs will examine if opening hours will need to be further extended and are also exploring alternative ways to ensure that the necessary services are rendered.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- Several permanent workers of Great Bay Resort contacted SMN News on Tuesday claiming that a Jamaican undocumented supervisor whose name they gave as Cleopatra Blair who began working for the resort last year is making their working lives miserable. The workers who preferred to remain anonymous for the fear of victimization said that the new supervisor has been giving them three to four days off a week claiming that the season is slow. They said part-time workers some of whom are from Jamaica and are undocumented including the supervisor have been working seven days a week while the permanent workers are being given two and three days work per week. "We are not able to pay our bills and feed our families and we are permanent workers that are residing legally on the island and contributing to the fiscal system. Because of the mental and physical harassment, two persons who worked for years with the resort had to resign. One of the workers is 60+ years and she suffers from high blood pressure and other ailments but Ms. Blair chose to harass the elderly worker and even went as far as putting her to work in the bar outside on the beach in the hot sun. When the woman could not take it she resigned." The workers said the dining rooms at Great Bay Resort are very large and the supervisor would schedule three waiter staff workers for each dining room, then she would go around taking photographs with her phone of tables that were not cleaned immediately and take it to Bourne as he builds files to fire permanent and long time workers. The workers said they called in their union representative only to find out that the WIFOL representative was bought out. They said some of the workers went to one of the dailies and since then the situation has become unbearable.

The workers said that Ms. Blair has an extra-ordinary relationship with one of the General Managers who hails from Barbados. "We tried to speak with other supervisors who saw the unfair treatment but they are telling us that Blair has back-up because she has a personal relationship with a General Manager they identified as Carl Bourne." The workers are now calling on the Government of St. Maarten especially the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Labour because the law states that companies that have illegal immigrants working for them can face a fine. Besides that, they said they want to know if the labor laws on St. Maarten have changed because when working permits are being processed for first time applicants the worker has to remain off island until their documents are approved. "Jamaicans have to get visas to come to St. Maarten and the former Minister of Justice granted visa waivers to Maho for all kinds of people as the company tries to weed out the locals from the job market."
SMN News could not reach the Minister of Labour and the Minister of Justice on Tuesday for a comment on this issue.

swescotwilliamsat16vksanniversary02072013Promotes Several Officers to Higher Ranks.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the 16th Anniversary celebration of the Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten VKS at a ceremony in front of the Government Administration Building on Saturday. The PM, under whose authority the VKS falls, congratulated the VKS on their more than 16 years service in protecting and serving the community of St. Maarten and those who have been with the organization since the very beginning.

The Prime Minister also congratulated and thanked the family members of those in the VKS who have stood by them as they put their put their life on the line to protect and serve the people of St. Maarten.

"On this your 16th Anniversary allow me to congratulate those of you who have been promoted to a higher rank and those of you who have been recognized for exemplary service to the VKS over the years. Clearly the Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten continues to be an institution in evolution: continuously moving forward and adopting new tasks and also introducing new members into your ranks. Every year it is good to stand still for just a moment and recognize your service to this community as well as to contemplate as you move forward. So as we recognize promotions and service it is also a fact that as VKS officers you are acting as role models in the community of St. Maarten. Contributing to the VKS is contributing to the community of St. Maarten and as we look towards a settlement of a Marine Base later this year I myself look forward to seeing a broadening out of your tasks and supporting the community of St. Maarten and building this country block by block and step by step.

The Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten (VKS) is a paramilitary organization that conducts emergency services, protects the population and conducts law enforcement services.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

kpsmandgendarmesjointcontrols02072013ST. MAARTEN/ST. MARTIN:--- On Friday June 28th at midnight until Saturday June 29th at 3:00am, the Gendarmes and the Dutch police kept a joint general control. The controls were carried out at the four main border crossings between the French and Dutch side of the island namely, Coralita/Oyster Bay, Belvedere/French Quarter, Union Road/Belle Vue, and Cupe Coy/Low Lands. During this control more than two hundred cars were checked. A total of 40 fines were given on the Dutch side and five cars were towed because they were not in proper working condition. The Chief Commissioner of Police from the Dutch side Peter de Witte visited the control location on border at Union Road/ Belle Vue where he met members from the gendarmes in charge of the control on the French Side. The control was very successful and more joint controls are to be held throughout the rest of the year to further strengthen the working relationship between both sides of the island.

KPSM Police Report

jenisediazwinstelcellbeyoncecontest02072013Pond Island:--- Administration Assistant, Jenise Diaz, is the lucky winner of an all-expenses paid trip to Miami Florida, USA, to see one of her favorite performers, Beyonce – "LIVE" in Concert.

Jenise was named winner of the Beyonce SMS contest, jointly promoted for the past seven weeks by party station X104.3 and mobile provider TelCell.
Her name was drawn at random by computer during a gathering of contest finalists at TelEm Group's main building on Pond Island Tuesday.
An ecstatic Jenise said she will be taking her sister along with her on the dream trip, and thanked all her colleagues for praying for her good fortune on her way to Tuesday's draw.
"My work colleagues all said I deserve to win so that I can have a well-earned break because I am going through a lot of things right now. I am so happy and I really, really wanted to see Beyonce in concert," said Jenise.
She admits to calling into X104.3 every day to participate in the contest, noting that she sent more SMS messages each day than she cares to remember.
"I did not know how many people were entering so I just sent as many as I could hoping my name would be picked up as a winner," Jenise commented when interviewed live on the radio station immediately after her win.
As well as receiving two airline tickets to Miami, Florida to see the live concert, she will also receive tickets to the "Mrs. Carter World Tour" and she will also be staying at the famous Fontainebleu Hotel with her guest.
Jenise was dwarfed by a massive check to the amount of $1,043 which she will be able to cash in for spending money for the trip with a prize-winning Blackberry Z10 with a host of new features to create memorable photo albums of the concert to show family and friends back home.
Contest collaborators, TelCell and radio station X104.3. have congratulated all prize winners, along with the main prizewinner for taking part in the exciting contest over the past seven weeks.
"Our team has enjoyed interacting with the public and with TelCell customers who have really been looking forward to the big draw," said party station owner, Etienne Brown.
He said it is now the station's responsibility to ensure that Jenise and her guest get all that is promised to them "the time of their lives with thousands of Beyonce fans in Miami on July 10th".

TelEm Group Marketing and Sales Officer, Ms. Cheryl Rismay is also pleased with the public response to the contest and the huge number of mobile customers who texted in "Beyonce" each day to the short code 1043 so that they could register for a chance to win one of three Blackberry Smartphones and become a finalist for the grand prize.
"We sincerely hope that after seeing the excitement that has been generated that others will be encouraged to enter future SMS contests we will be running with some more fantastic prizes," said Ms. Rismay in congratulating all winners, at the same time thanking all those who took part.
Ms. Rismay has also thanked the party station X104.3 team for generating excitement amongst their listeners and TelCell mobile customers, TelEm Group management for supporting the contest.
"It has been a runaway success and we wish Jenise and her guest a safe and enjoyable trip to see Beyonce," the Marketing and Sales Officer added.

Telem Press Release

swescotwilliamscongratulatescynricgriffith02072013What a wonderful way to celebrate your work and your contribution to our Country St. Maarten for so many decades.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated renown artist and portraiteer Cynric Griffith for receiving the Prins Bernhard Culture Awards at a reception on Saturday. The Prime Minister joined various dignitaries including Governor Holiday and Minister of Education Patricia Lourens in expressing her congratulations and admiration to the artist.

"What a wonderful way to celebrate your work and your contribution to our Country St. Maarten for so many decades. I think it is so befitting that your work, your contribution and your instruction are being rewarded in this fashion. I also think it is well deserved and so I join in offering you congratulations from the Government and people of St. Maarten in building our island in the area of arts. I wish you many more years of painting and contribution and instruction on your art to the people of this Country.

You have offered me countless advice on various matters and it is through your dedication that the arts are where they are now on this island. Mr. Griffin if we look at person like yourselves we are encouraged to always keep busy in doing what we want to do in order to keep strong. You have contributed so greatly to this country and you very much deserve this recognition," stated Prime Minister to the always-humble Cynric Griffith.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nagicobahamasmanagementwithmcsoodamjad02072013NASSAU, The Bahamas:--- Celebratory cheers and glasses raised in a champagne salute is how NAGICO Insurances (Bahamas) Limited ended their official company launch event last Thursday night, June 27, at the Balmoral Club.
The Bahamas is the newest and the 19th Caribbean territory in which NAGICO Insurances operate. Started over 31 years ago in St. Maarten, NAGICO is AM-Best rated and the largest privately-held general insurance company in the Caribbean. The group has total assets exceeding USD 170,000,000 and premium income in excess of USD 108,000,000. With equity topping USD 77,000,000. NAGICO undoubtedly presents one of the highest solvency and premium-to-equity ratios of any Caribbean insurer.
With a packed audience of dignitaries, agents, brokers and friends of NAGICO, the night began when co-host, Mr. Wendal Jones, welcomed young and talented JoPaul Scavella to led out in the National Anthem. This was followed by a prayer of blessing and dedication offered by Pastor Wilfred Adderley of the SDA Church. Managing Director of NAGICO Bahamas, Vibert Williams, energetically welcomed the attendees before handing over to local art collector, author and resident Director, Dawn Davies, who gave a brief, insightful synopsis of the NAGICO story. This was followed by remarks from the Chairman of the NAGICO Group of Companies, Mr. Michael Bishop, an internationally-acclaimed reinsurance expert, who expanded on previous comments stating that "NAGICO's reinsurance program is second-to-none in the region". Stating that NAGICO's license was the first she signed since taking the post of Superintendent of The Insurance Commission of The Bahamas, Mrs. Michele Fields formally welcomed NAGICO into the local industry and challenged the company to be competitive, fair and responsive to its clients, compliant and cooperative with regulation and regulators and a good corporate citizen.
Mr. Stuart Tavares, Director of Tavares & Higgs Insurance Brokers, told the audience that Tavares & Higgs were proud to be NAGICO's first representative in The Bahamas. He said that, after researching the company and meeting the Executive Team, the decision was 'an easy one' and that NAGICO is and will be a solid and viable option for his clients.
A mini documentary of the NAGICO growth and development was shown, highlighting the many challenges the company faced and overcame. These included major catastrophes – six hurricanes in five years, the volcanic devastation of Montserrat, earthquakes and devastating fires. The last presentation was from the CEO of NAGICO, Mr. Imran Amjad. His message focused on the core of the company, re-emphasizing that, although the company was growing and expanding faster than most of its competitors in the region, the vision was not to be the largest insurance company but to be 'The most trusted insurance company in The Caribbean'. He went on to elaborate the ways the company went about gaining trust: by having the largest group of qualified insurance professionals and accountants than any other regional company; by meeting and exceeding the requirements of the myriad of regulators to whom NAGICO is accountable including the Dutch and French regulators; by being good corporate citizens in supporting education, youth, sports and culture throughout the region; by aligning itself with honest, professional intermediaries and by a firm and proven commitment to deal with claims, whether they occur from a single incident or from a catastrophe, will unmatched speed, fairness and efficiency. Citing examples of situations involving tens of thousands of claims from mega-storms like Hurricane Luis, Mr. Amjad proudly stated that "99% of all claims were settled within 4 months and that not one claim had to be settled by court order".
Donations were made to the Center for the Deaf and to Hands for Hunger and door prizes were distributed. The ceremonial cutting of the cake and the champagne toast immediately preceded the vote of thanks done by Charlene Marshall, the local accountant, and the program ended with Rake and Scrape music, drinks and snacks and people mingling and enjoying and making history together – The NAGICO Way.

serpresents2012annualreporttoeholiday02072013HARBOR VIEW:--- On Friday, June 28th, 2013 the 2012 annual report of the Social Economic Council (SER) was presented to his Excellency, the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E. Holiday.
The Governor met with the chairman of the SER, Mr. René A. Richardson and the Secretary-General Mr. Gerard Richardson at his offices at Harbor View.
The 2012 annual report covers an overview of the activities of the social economic council in its first full operational year. During the presentation of the report, the chairman gave the Governor a summary of the advices carried out in the preceding year and some of the challenges the council encountered. In addition the annual report highlights the achievements and future plans of the SER.
As an advisory and consultative body of employers' representatives, union representatives and independent experts, the Social and Economic Council aims to help create social consensus on socio-economic issues. The SER's advice is guided by the objective of social prosperity in its widest sense. This includes not only material progress i.e., increased affluence and production, but also social progress i.e., improved welfare and social cohesion.
This report represents the second annual report of the SER since its establishment on May 1, 2011.
The annual report is published in both English and Dutch and will be made available to the general public on the website of the SER (www.sersxm.org).

claudiobuncamper02072013Simpson Bay:--- On Saturday June 22nd, 2013, the Sint Maarten Lions Club held its change of the Board Ceremony at Sonesta Maho Beach Hotel.

Amongst a prestigious gathering of Lion members, their partners in service, Leos and invited guests, the installation of the new Lions Board of Directors for the Lions year 2013-2014 was conducted by District Governor 60B Lion Claudius Buncamper, MJF.

Before the installation of the new Board, outgoing President Lion Richard Boyd delivered his outgoing speech in which he thanked all Lions for an excellent year.
With his concentration being on development of the youths during his tenure Boyd was quite satisfied with the projects executed in this respect.
He made specific mention of the "Lions Quest" project whereby several teachers and after school leaders were trained to improve the moral and social values of our youths.

Outgoing District Governor Lion Claudius Buncamper also thanked all Lions and their families for the great support he received during the past year which gave him a most successful year whereby much was achieved on a local level and also around the region.

After being installed as the Lions Club's 43rd President incoming President Lion Claudio Buncamper in his inauguration speech promised to invest much time and energy in the youth and elderly in the community. Membership development by enhancing the experience within the club, partnerships with other NGO's are all high on the new President's list.
His theme reads: "FOLLOW YOUR DREAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE".

As customary the Lions chose a "Lion of the Year" and for the second time in four years the honors went to Lion Davey Woods.

Highlight of the evening was also when District Governor Claudius Buncamper pinned Past District Governor 60B Lion Wally Havertong with "Four Diamond Progressive Melvin Jones" for his unswerving and dedicated service to the club and community for the past 38 years. Lion Wally is the third Lion in the entire District 60B to receive this award.
This award adds to his Melvin Jones award which he received in 1987, Paul Harris Award which he received from the St. Maarten Rotary Club in 1998.

Other members who will serve along with Lion Claudio Buncamper are:

Immediate Past President Lion Richard Boyd
1st Vice President Lion Jessica Challenger-Vrolijk
2nd Vice President Lion Michael van Grieken
3rd Vice President Lion Sunil Khatnani
Secretary Lion Davey Woods
Treasurer Lion Alphons Gumbs
Tamer Lion Henry Ellis
Tail Twister Lion Rafael Boasman
1 Year Director Lion Chantal Schaminee-Ringeling, MJF
1 Year Director Lion Edelmiro Jansen
2 Year Director Lion Oralie Boirard
2 Year Director Lion Merlyn Schaminee
Director of Membership Lion Melinda Hoeve, MJF

swescotwilliamswithtoppromotionfoundationatizirestaurant02072013Says that project is an essential one in involving the disabled in the community.

Simpson Bay:--- During a Fundraising Dinner at Izi Restaurant the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was presented a copy of the Be Able Committee of the Top Promotion Foundation Wheelchair Tennis Tournament held last year. Mr. Henri Brookson also thanked the Prime Minister for her continued support of the organization's aim to involve the disabled in various activities.

The Prime Minister in turn thanked the organizers for making the community aware of the plight of the disabled and for enriching their lives. "I want to thank the committee for what you have been able to do during the last year and I know that this year we can look forward to even greater plans. I look forward to attending the new project for 2013 and I also look forward to continuing to pledge my support for this very important initiative," stated the Prime Minister.

Mr. Brookson explained that the Be Able Program has also been starting to offer disabled tennis lessons as part of its program of encouraging sports for the disabled on St. Maarten.

"I would like to commend the Top Promotions Foundation on the excellent job which you have been doing with regards to the disabled here on the island. Plight of the disabled is very dear to me due to the memory of two of my siblings who passed away in 2010 and 2011 because of a very rare disease which caused them to be disabled during the last part of their lives. Before they passed they were able to have a good quality of life because of the care of the Sister Basilia Center and the caregivers that work there," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliams01072013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined with numerous dignitaries and invited guests and the people of Curacao on celebrating Curacao Flag Day at Oasis Restaurant on the A. Th. Illidge Road on Sunday. Curacao Flag Day is celebrated every 2nd of July in order to commemorate the first coming together of the Island Council of Curaçao in 1951. The Prime Minister commented that despite no longer being part of the same country, St. Maarten and Curacao share a common history and numerous family ties. The Prime Minister also congratulated the people of Curacao on the celebration of their 62nd Dia di Himno y Bandera.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

jessepetersonatmeetingateclacintrinidad02072013PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad & Tobago:--- Jesse Peterson, Treasurer of St. Maarten Marine Trade Association, recently attended a expert group meeting on yachting and marina services in the Caribbean.
The meeting was held at the sub-regional headquarters for the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in Port of Spain, Trinidad.
Marine Industry experts and representatives from all over the Caribbean attended the meeting to discuss the complexities of promoting yachting and marinas in the Caribbean.
As of 2011, the Caribbean region currently had 140 marinas, spread across 25 countries and territories, which together offer roughly 7,340 berths (Authors estimate, 2013). St. Maarten's Marine Industry provides 16% of the total economy on St. Maarten according to a survey completed by the Central Bureau of Statistics in 2009. It is vital that the industry is recognized and developed as a source of future employment for the island.

Jesse Peterson is the manager of Yacht Club Port De Plaisance where he has worked for 7 years after attending MPC and furthering his studies in the Netherlands.

SMMTA Press Release

toastmastersinstallationceremony01072013CONCORDIA:--- For the first time on St. Maarten, two Area Governors (AGs) have been installed to lead the total of six Toastmasters Clubs in Division E of District 81. Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG) and Competent Leader (CL) Sinatra Rouse is now at the helm of Area 23, with responsibility for The Disciples, Philipsburg, and Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Clubs; while Advanced Communicator Bronze (ACB) and CL Malclom Jacques will guide Achievers, Saint-Martin Evolution, and the newly-formed Anguilla Toastmasters Clubs as part of Area 24.
Prior to this division, the five clubs on St. Martin fell under Area 26 with ACG, Advanced Leader Silver (ALS) Leona Romeo-Marlin as Area Governor, but due to the addition of the Anguilla Club, the need arose for two Area Governors.
The installation of the two AGs, as well as the club officers of Areas 23 and 24 took place last Saturday night at Opale, Maison des Enterprises (Chamber of Commerce) in Concordia. Amid the pomp and ceremony, MC Joy Arnell, ACB, CL guided the elaborate programme of awards and speeches, before bringing the curtains down with dancing.
Three clubs – The Disciples, Philipsburg, and Soualiga Corporate – received the highest recognition of President's Distinguished Awards; while Saint-Martin Evolution copped the honour of Distinguished Club.
According to Toastmasters International, the Distinguished Club Programme, which is an annual programme, running from July 1 through June 30, consists of 10 goals each club should strive to achieve. At year-end, the number of goals the club achieved is calculated. Based on this and the number of members it has, the club may be recognized as a Distinguished, Select Distinguished, or President's Distinguished Club.
Outgoing AG Romeo-Marlin echoed the sentiments of immediate past District Governor, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Rolande Tobias that the clubs in Areas 23 and 24 must see themselves as completing each other, instead of competing against each other.
AG Jacques, in his very succinct address, said it is his goal to make sure that every member reaches his/her highest potential. He stressed the need for membership retention. AG Rouse, who outlined her goals for the 2013-14 Toastmaster year, told the audience that service to others is what makes a person learn to communicate, and through Toastmasters, one's character is shaped even more.
"The goals for Area 23 are to follow primarily the leadership and communication track of Toastmasters International, to embrace Area Speech competitions, reestablish the Youth Leadership program for the youth, and host educational sessions, such as debates, and a social to recruit more members...and to extend our network system, while giving each other honest opinions through evaluations," said AG Rouse, while pledging to achieve at least Distinguish Area come June next year.
"Every toastmaster session enhances skills...Just as the rain nurtures the soil that produces specific fruits in a timely fashion, Toastmasters can nurture you in a SMART way - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and with Timely goals...I dare to add to the list of advantages that your Toastmaster experience is Mastering, Incredible, New, and Timely heights – MINT goals."
The new presidents of the various clubs include ACB, CL Ingrid Holoman (The Disciples); Competent Communicator (CC) Arliene Chittick (Achievers); ACB, CL Georges Richardson (Philipsburg); Toastmaster Danae Daal (Soualiga Corporate); and Vernicia Brooks, CC (Saint Martin Evolution).
Toastmasters meetings continue during the month of July and interested persons are encouraged to visit and join. Philipsburg Toastmasters Club meets every first, third and fifth Thursday at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library from 7:15pm. The Disciples Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Sunday at St. Maarten Academy's academic campus from 4:45pm. Souliga Corporate Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Wednesday at the Government Administration Building from 5:00pm. Saint Martin Evolution Club meets every first and third Tuesday in Marigot from 7:15 pm. Achievers Toastmasters Club meets every second and fourth Thursday at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library from 7:00pm. While Anguilla Toastmasters Club meets every first and third Saturday at La Vue Hotel from 7:00pm.

Simpson Bay:--- Windward Islands Airways Intl N.V. (Winair) in its continuous efforts has upgraded it sales channels by joining the Sabre GDS (Global Distribution System) on June 7th, 2013. Joining the Sabre GDS will allow Winair to be sold by an additional 250,000 Travel Agents around the world but primarily in the USA. One of the advantages of joining Sabre is that Winair can now also be sold on Expedia and Travelocity which are presently being implemented. Travelocity and Expedia are the 2 largest On-Line Travel Agents that can sell Air, Hotels, cars and pretty much anything related to travel. Joining Sabre will also allow Winair to have potential Interline agreements with various carriers serving St. Maarten and the various Winair airports.
In further enhancing is customer experience, passengers booked on Winair flights can now check in online for their flights up to 24 hours in advance and up to 2 hours before departure. Clients with only carry-on baggage can now precede directly to the Winair Departure gates at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Clients that have checked baggage can proceed to the special Baggage Drop counters to have their baggage checked in. This new enhancement allows customers to spend less times in lines and have more time to enjoy their travel experience
Winair management and staff thanks its customers for its continued support as we move to make Winair the airline of choice

WINAIR Press Release

 

mischulaikahwithcooperatingfoundations01072013Philipsburg:--- Mischu Laikah, a gifted artist and entrepreneur, received a mini grant of Naf. 3000 for the organization of three entrepreneurial workshops, in which she inspired current and future entrepreneurs to shape and plan their dream in such a way that it can become a viable business idea. She organized the workshops as the last activities of her "Back to the Roots Tour" with the help of the Foundation Art Saves Lives. Mischu Laikah resides in Holland, but plans to be back to her native island SXM to execute more entrepreneurial training.

Foundations that would like to apply for funding from Cooperating Foundations are advised to call 5860808 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an appointment.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Representatives from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports (Ministry ECYS) and the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) will be meeting on Tuesday to work out the details for the "quick school repair project."

Both Ministries have pledged to work together to facilitate the quick repair of all public primary schools before the start of the new school year 2013/2014 on August 12.

Both Ministers namely Hon. Patricia Lourens of Ministry ECYS and Hon. Maurice Lake of Ministry VROMI would like to see the red tape cut which delays the early execution of repairs to public schools.

The departments that will come together are Department of Education Services, the Inspectorate of Education, Culture and Youth, and Sports, and the Department of Infrastructure Management.

Philipsburg:--- Let's Travel wishes to announce to the general public that starting Tuesday, July 2nd, its LET'S SAVE BUDGETING COURSE will be held every Tuesday evening from 7pm to 9pm at the Sundial School for the whole month of July. Seats are still available and anyone wishing to sign up can contact Terrance Rey or Emilio Kalmera via the Let's Travel offices.

Let's Travel announced last month that it would be partnering with financial expert, Emilio Kalmera, to organize the budgeting courses as part of its empowerment initiatives launched under its SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER and LET'S SAVE programmes in observance of the travel agency's plans to celebrate its 25 years in business. Let's Travel has been specializing in airline tickets, cruises, packages, tours, charters and more since 1988.

The "Let's Save" budgeting courses will be held during the month of July. In this introduction to managing money, participants in the course will learn how to budget their income and expenditures. This budgeting course will allow participants to learn the different ways of effectively saving money and growing their money to pay for such things as a college education, buying a home, vacation travel, luxury items and last, but not least, saving for their old age pension.

The regular price of the budget course is $290 US Dollars, but as Let's Travel is the main sponsor, a special price of $250 will be on offer and an introductory 'early bird' price of $215 per person will be promoted for fast decision-makers. Participants will get all course materials in digital format, such as the budgeting tool, budgeting booklet, syllabus, theoretical booklet, PowerPoint presentation files and other digital articles for general knowledge purposes on money management.

From the price participants pay for the budgeting course, a percentage will be deposited in a fund as part of the "Let's Save" programme. The fund will be used to offer qualified graduating participants micro-loans. The management of Let's Travel and the course trainer, Emilio Kalmera, have already agreed to match the initial funds deposited in the "Let's Save" fund.

The budgeting course will last four weeks with weekly classes every Tuesday of 2 hours each from 7pm to 9pm at the Sundial School. Participants have to complete the course with a working and balanced budget and with a theoretical written exam. Participants, who pass the course with a minimum score of 70%, can qualify to get a loan from the "Let's Save" fund.

Financial expert, Emilio Kalmera, was asked to lead this budgeting course not only for his theoretical knowledge and expertise but also because of his impressive resume and track record in the area of financial management. Emilio Kalmera has a Bachelor's degree in Finance & Accounting and has had a number of jobs in the financial and banking sector with such companies as KPMG and RBTT Bank. Emilio Kalmera, who is presently working for the St. Maarten Government as a Senior Financial Policy Advisor in the Finance Department, has been for the past year assisting the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation and the St. Maarten Housing Finance Foundation as a financial manager. Emilio Kalmera has completed various training courses in management, wage tax, budgeting, policy development, and cooperation funding. Emilio has also given various courses and lectures on investment management, improving profitability, marketing, money management and wealth.

For more information and registration, clients can visit the Let's Travel office, call telephone 542-2381, cellphone 523-3564 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

garrindellwithsisterborgiasixgraders01072013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell on Friday received a visit from sixth grade students from Sister Borgia Primary School. The pupils were accompanied by their Teacher Laura.

The visit to the House of Parliament was in connection to presenting the President of Parliament with a token of appreciation for being one of their reading teachers during the past school year 2012-2013.

President Arrindell received an umbrella with the inscription from the parents teachers association of the Sister Borgia School; a commemorative plate with all of the sixth grade pupils and their teacher.

"I was very proud to note that the sixth grade of Sister Borgia did very well, while all the students who came to present the gift passed, and are continuing with their respective higher school of learning.

"My message to these young leaders of the future was, stay in school, study hard, respect your teachers and parents, and make Sint Maarten proud.

"I would like to congratulate all the students, teaching staff, management and parents of the Sister Borgia School for a job well done and a happy holidays," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Friday.

President Arrindell promised to continue reading for the new school year and asked for volunteers who command the Dutch language to spare 45 minutes of their time per week and become a reading volunteer at one of the nation's primary schools.

"You can never regret this worthy investment in the future generations of young Sint Maarteners," Arrindell concluded.

Teacher Laura and the sixth grade pupils received a parliamentary pin from President Arrindell.

swescotwilliamsatpreemancipationdaymass01072013Madame Estate:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined a pre-Emancipation Day Mass at the Moravian Church in Madame Estate on Sunday. The congregation at the service reflected on 150 years since the abolition of slavery and offered praise to Government Officials and in particular the Prime Minister in the task of moving St. Maarten forward as a country.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamswithrngraduates01072013Belair:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated the new group of Registered Nurses at a Graduation Ceremony at the Belair Community Center on Friday. The Prime Minister congratulated the graduates and commended them for offering the very necessary care needed by those in the community who might be ill or infirm.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group today announced that with immediate effect, the Main Office on Pond Island will be closing its doors for customer service, half an hour earlier from Monday to Friday, at 4:30 pm. Regular closing hours for customer service has been 5:00 pm.
The earlier closing time will allow customer service staff to better deal with customers who very often call at the main office minutes before closing with limited time to attend to their problems.
Advertisements have been posting in the local media informing the public about the change. Customers are also being advised throughout this week.
Customer Service staff are confident the change in hours will assist them in providing more efficient service to customers and the public generally, and especially when dealing with problems after office hours.
The change officially went into effect Monday, July 1st and will remain in effect until further notice.
TelEm Group personnel will continue to work until 5:00 pm as normal. The change in closing hours only affects customer service personnel.
TelEm Group has apologized to customers and the general public for any inconvenience caused by the change in closing hours for customer service.

Telem Press Release

 

PHILIPSBURG:--- As of July 1st until August 2, the House of Parliament will be closed for the summer recess.

The House will resume its scheduled meetings for the remainder of the 3rd Sitting of the House in the week of August 5.

Marigot:--- Rescue operators from the French and Dutch side of the island are busy searching for the bodies of persons that were on a boat traveling between Anguilla and St. Maarten. An agent of the Prefecture of St. Martin said that the boat got into an accident around 1:00am Monday morning. The agent said that some bodies were found but sea rescue is still busy looking for more bodies and or survivors.
A press release from the Prefecture of St. Martin states that a boat carrying about 20 passengers got into an accident early Monday morning between the islands of Anguilla and St. Martin. Currently, the Dutch Coast Guard, Sea Rescue, the Brigade Nautique, and the Gendarmerie are coordinating the search and rescue mission.
A helicopter and divers are in the area as they continue with the search and rescue mission and recovery of the ill-fated vessel. The press release further states that three persons perished in the accident, 12 survivors are in stable condition at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital, while three persons are missing. Chief of the Cabinet of the Prefecture DOLIGEZ Matthieu told SMN News that he could not divulge much information on the accident and the victims because the investigation is still ongoing. Doligez refused to say if the captain of the boat was found and if the boat was involved in human trafficking. The chief of cabinet even refused to release the nationalities of the victims and survivors that were on the boat.
SMN News also asked Doligez if the Dutch police were in contact with them since they are in search of three prisoners that escaped from the prison cells next to the Philipsburg Police Station last Sunday. Doligez said the Dutch police are in contact with the Gendarmerie but so far there is no solid information that they can share with their counterparts. He said as soon as they have more information a second press release will be sent out with additional information.

SMN News further learnt that the ill-fated boat is registered as "GOD IS GOOD" and it is registered to someone of Haitian decent by the name of Coulange residing on the Dutch side of the island. A source from the Sea Rescue said the persons on board the boat were not wearing life jackets and most of them were dressed in bathing suits. The ill-fated vessel they said sank close to Dog Island which is on the Northern side of Anguilla.

Authorities in Anguilla deny having any knowledge of a boat sinking in their waters. The commissioner of Police Rudolph Proctor told reporters on that island that he sent out the MV Dolphin to patrol the area in the Anguilla territories when he heard of the news via the internet and Blackberry messages. A reporter from the island of Anguilla told SMN News that authorities in Anguilla claimed they had no information on the boat mishap. However, late Monday afternoon they confirmed receiving information and said they sent their rescue boat to the scene to see if they could provide assistance to those that were continuing the search and rescue mission.

A second press release was issued by the Gendarmerie Monday night stating that they received a call on Sunday night around 11:30pm where a boat that was going through the Anguilla canal capsized. The boat they said measured between seven to eight meters. On board the ill-fated boat were a number of people. Shortly after the rescue team reached the scene they managed to rescue nine persons. The Gendarmes along with several other sea rescue persons continued the search all day on Monday, another three persons were rescued as the search operation continued, totaling the survivors to 12 all of whom were taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. Up to late Monday there are 12 survivors, 3 persons that perished while another three persons are still missing. An investigation was opened shortly after the operation started and is continuing under the authority of the prosecutor in order for the investigators to determine the circumstances of the tragedy while they are trying to identify the victims. Special attention will be given to the survivors based on humanitarian needs, the press release states.

nagicosportsday30062013Philipsburg:--- NAGICO Insurances employees and agents all came out together last week to take part in the 2nd annual NAGICO Sports Day. The event took place on Wednesday, June 26th, 2013 in the evening at Melford Hazel Sports Complex and on Saturday, June 29th, 2013 at Raoul Illidge Sports Complex. The purpose of this event was to allow employees and agents to socialize in a friendly and fun environment outside of work in a healthy and active way. Sports Day also helped on building certain skills such as leadership, communication, and team work. Participants were separated into 4 different teams prior to the event. Teams were prepared in advance with custom designed shirts and banners to represent their team and show team spirit. Various activities took place on both days consisting of obstacle courses, basketball shootout, 3 legged race, 100m dash, tug of war and also volleyball, domino, and soccer tournaments. A trophy and prizes were awarded to the overall winning team.

NAGICO Press Release

pjlbooksale30062013PHILIPSBURG:--- There is a book for everyone at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's book sale on Saturday, July 6, from 10:00am to 1:00pm.
Parents, teachers, and caregivers will be able to take advantage of our huge selection of children books in hard and soft cover, to replenish their at-home collections or classrooms. Buy 15 books and pay only $5 or NAF 9.00. Interested in buying single copies? The prices are as follows:
Single hard cover books $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Soft covers $ 0.60 / NAF 1.00
Magazines $ 0.25 / NAF 0.50
Video & DVDS $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Support your local library by purchasing your favorite books, magazines, novels (fiction and non-fiction), and videos in several languages.

swescotwilliamsatagraduationceremony30062013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten offered special words of encouragement to graduating students and students who are in the final years of their education yesterday. "I would like to encourage all graduating students, students who are moving on to another class or graduating from Grade School, High School or tertiary education to continue striving for excellence and to continue to apply yourselves to reaching your full potential," stated the Prime Minister.

Over the recent few weeks the Prime Minister has attended the graduation of the Milton Peters School, Academy PSVE, Learning Unlimited School, and the University of St. Maarten to name just a few. The Prime Minister encouraged students to continuously raise the bar for what students wanted to attain in their personal and academic development.

"You must control the bar according to the goals you have set for yourselves; according to the standards that you aspire to. Control the achievements you hope to attain. And do not be apologetic for raising that bar; for putting aside short-term enjoyment for your long-term goals. I see many leaders here amongst our students: leaders in the area of athletics, science, academics and yes, also politics. Be that leader; set your bar using the tools that you have been provided and which allowed you to develop academically, socially and culturally. Now it is up to you to use those tools that you have been given and build on your tomorrow. Congratulations to the Graduating Class, Teachers, Staff and Students. You made it and you deserved it. Go out and make your mark," concluded the PM.

The Prime Minister continued by telling the students that in today's world it is easy to feel like the odd-one. "It is students like yourself which make all of the difference. I know that in today's world you might be sometimes called a nerd or similar names by some of your peers because of your dedication, but I would like to encourage you that you are on the right track and that you should stand up and be what you are and don't be afraid to strive towards excellence. So stay focused and continue to strive towards excellence. And to those who did not make it: do not give up; do not give up hope and continue to fight for what you think is important for you," stated the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Marigot:--- To prevent burglaries, St. Martin Gendarmerie Headquarters along with the Collectivité Police Department, have renewed for the summer holidays, Home Safety Campaign against burglars.
During your holidays, gendarmes and Collectivité policemen can watch your home or you store during daily patrols, upon your request. If you are interested, enroll at Gendarmerie station in Concordia or French Quarter.
You can also get some advice to secure your home or your store.
Do not forget to call us when you come back.
For any further information, call :

  • Concordia Station 05 90 52 21 90,
  • French Quarter Station 05 90 52 35 95.

robinboasmanwithlizzylizardfan30062013BUSH ROAD:--- The book signing spree for the kiddies at Le Grande Marche last Saturday, was "a great success," said author Robin Boasman. "Words cannot express my gratitude," said Boasman, to the adults and children who selected copies of her Lizzy Lizard storybook. The first-time children's author also expressed "'a big thank you' to my Lizzy Lizard team for making the day a great success," and to the supermarket's management and employees for their hospitality. Interestingly, at another location, Van Dorp bookstore ran out of Lizzy Lizard copies by Saturday afternoon and will be re-stocked this week, said Boasman.

swescotwilliamsatagraduation30062013Says Social Environment of Students Also Plays a Role

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented on Friday on the issue of low passing rates in both the Sundial and Milton Peters Schools. The Prime Minister received the information on the low passing rates and ensured that Education Officials will be taking up the issue within the next few weeks

"I am sure in the coming weeks Education Officials will be evaluating and analyzing the results. Clearly from the first indications the results are not encouraging and if you take into consideration that these results come from an educational system that has been changed previously we need to take stock of where we are.

All of the factors will be evaluated and taken into consideration to come to a way forward. Some education officials have made the matter of the language a part of the reason and I am sure that that plays a role, but I am also sure that various other factors also play a role," stated the PM

The Prime Minister also stated that external factors outside of the school system should also be taken into consideration, external factors which have an effect on the success of students. "When you hear the stories about the students you realize that it is much more that just about the schools. Circumstances in home life are sometimes very taxing and how the students overcome those circumstances. It is not only about schools and the educational system but we also need to realize that it is also about our students in the community and in their homes and what they face there," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour is appealing to the community to review actions related to cough etiquette and good hygiene at all times.

This appeal is being made after a number of cases were reported in the Dominican Republic.

With the start of the flu season in the southern hemisphere, several countries are experiencing an increase in patient visits for Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI), as well as hospitalizations associated with influenza.

CPS is reminding residents that high standards of personal hygiene entail covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough, and throw the tissue in the trash after using it.

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., after sneezing and coughing).

Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and try to avoid contact with sick people as germs are spread this way.

Persons who are traveling are advised to take precautionary measures such as maintaining high standards of personal hygiene at all times.

Another preventive measure is eating healthy foods, getting a lot of exercise and maintaining an eight hour sleep schedule.

For additional information call or physician or section general health care at 5422078 or send an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

robinboasman28062013BUSH ROAD:--- It's a Lizzy Lizard book-signing spree for the kiddies, taking place at Le Grande Marche (Cul-de-sac roundabout), on Saturday, June 29, from 9 AM onward, said Jacqueline Sample of HNP, the storybook publisher. "Thanks to Robin Boasman (in photo) for taking her new children's adventure book to the supermarket on a busy shopping day, which sometimes involves the whole family. This makes it so much easier for parents, grandparents, godparents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings to get their hands on an autographed copy of Lizzy Lizard for the young ones at home or out shopping with them," said Sample. (Gee Money photo)

The Police Traffic Department is informing the general public, that due to closing of the schools in the areas of Cul-de Sac, Sint Peters, and Reward for the school vacation, the regulating of traffic in those areas by traffic officers will temporarily discontinue as of Thursday June 27th, 2013. The regulating of traffic will commence again at the opening of the new school year. All persons still taking their kids to school in these areas during this period should take a keen note of this information. The Police Department wishes all students, parents, and teachers a very happy, enjoyable, and safe school vacation.

KPSM Public Announcement

Philipsburg:--- This past week "Tracks Inspector" was introduced into the Police Force of Sint Maarten. This software is specially designed by the company Fox IT. Using this software one can easily search through automated files, greatly simplifying the investigations. The Police Force of Sint Maarten is the first police organization in the Caribbean that will be using this software as support during digital forensic investigations.
The Chief of the Judicial Department Ms. D. Jacobs awarded all students who successfully followed this basic training with their certificate in Digital Investigation. Eighteen investigators of the Police Force of Sint Maarten and the Federal Detectives followed this course in which knowledge and skills were taught by Mr. Benno van Leeuwen of Forensic Services in Curacao, with respect to the learning to investigate in the digital forensic environment.

KPSM Press Release

Simpson Bay:--- On Friday morning at approximately 9:00am, a report came in from the Coast Guard informing the Simpson Bay Police Department that the lifeless body of a man was found on a boat anchored in the Simpson Bay Lagoon by the name of Grace Ruth. The victim with initials J.E.E. (72) from the U.S.A was found at approximately 8:30am by a friend of the victim in the alley-way leading to his cabin on board the boat. He stated that the victim told him he was not feeling well earlier in the morning. He had left and gone to work and when he returned he found the victim on the floor. A doctor pronounced the death of the victim and the body was taken to a morgue. There were no signs of foul play.

KPSM Police Report

searchandrescueworkerslookingfordeadman28062013GREAT BAY:--- On Friday morning at approximately 9:10am, the Police Central Dispatch received a call informing them that a well-known man by the name of "Richard Arrindell", who wanders around in the Philipsburg area took ill while standing on the Cyrus Wathey Square and fell into the sea. A witness stated that "Richard" went under water and did not surface. That is when the emergency services such as the Coast Guard, Sea Rescue, Ambulance Department, and Police Department were notified of the incident, who responded immediately. Members of the Coast Guard, Sea Rescue, and Police Department took part in the search for the victim however; the water was quite murky making it difficult to see the bottom. The search continued for quite some time and with assistance of divers from the "Blue Bubbles" dive shop, who volunteered their services, the victim was found a short distance from where he went under. A medical doctor came to the scene and pronounced the death of the victim. Family members of the victim were on the scene to identify the body. Deepest sympathy goes out to family and friends of the deceased on behalf of the police department.

KPSM Police Report

Philipsburg:--- In recent months, the Detective Department has been investigating several cases in which persons have been purchasing second hand vehicles from persons they are acquainted with and also persons they are not acquainted with. When the person who bought the vehicle takes it to be insured that is when they discover that the vehicle in question is stolen. The investigations have shown that the VIN-number of the car has been tampered with by completely removing or replacing it. The advice from the Detective Department is, to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience, "NOT" to purchase any vehicle from anyone, without receiving proof that the car belonged to them. A "bill of sale" is not proof that the "seller" is the owner of the car. The "buyer" should ask the "seller" for proof of ownership of the car and a copy of his or her identification. The "buyer" should then compare the names on the documents before purchasing.

KPSM Police Report

financialintelligenceunitsattrainingsession28062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Thursday the Financial Intelligence Units of Sint Maarten and the BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba) organized a training session about Identity and Document Fraud. The training was carried out under the context of the fight against money laundering and terrorism financing.

The training was provided by the Dutch Royal Military Police and is focused primarily at the financial institutions of Saba, St. Eustatius and Sint Maarten.

The session was held at the Maho Convention Center.

swescotwilliamsreceivesupdatefromemc28062013It is very important that we take into consideration the economic factors that are at play when decisions are made.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams and members of her Cabinet received a presentation from the Economic Monitoring Committee (EMC) on the Economic Progress for Country St. Maarten at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall on Tuesday. The PM received presentations from the Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEZVT) Mr. Miguel de Weever and representatives from the Department of Statistics, Economic Affairs, and the Department of Tourism. Representatives from Private Sector Organizations like the SHTA and the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) were also present at the presentation.

The EMC started in the beginning of 2011 as an internal committee of the Ministry TEZVT to monitor the economy of St. Maarten and was expanded in the latter part of 2011 to include external stakeholders such as the SHTA, SMMTA, Chamber of Commerce, Ministry Finance, and the Department of Labor Affairs.

The primary objective of EMC is to gather useful information that will assist in decision making, to establish economic indicators, and to monitor these indicators and identify leading indicators. The EMC group meets on a quarterly basis to discuss various topics such as Business and Labor Environment, Consumer Environment, Tourism Market and the Marine Industry.

The Prime Minister asked pointed questions during the presentation and stated that the information provided by the EMC will guide certain decisions taken by the Council of Ministers regarding financial matters for country St. Maarten. "As a Government it is very important that we take into consideration the economic factors which are at play when decisions are made that have an economic impact. Therefore it is essential that we use the information provided by the EMC when certain questions need to be answered or certain decisions need to be made within the Council of Ministers," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsataslmeetandgreet28062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Art Saves Lives meet and greet with the artist at a reception at Holland House earlier this week. The Art Saves Lives Program (ASLP) is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change. This collaborative project will select renowned artists from around the world who use the arts to introduce participants to global and local traditions and empower them with the life skills necessary to effectively deal with the demands and challenges of everyday life. The project will also provide guidance for young artists with aspirations in pursuing a career in the arts. The Prime Minister again commended ASLP for their important work, stating that she hopes to see the program be successful and fruitful in empowering the youth through art. The Prime Minister also pledged her continuous support to the program, which is set to start this coming weekend.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday, July 1, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the National Heritage Foundation will join forces with the Philipsburg Cultural & Community Center in presenting the opening of the Art Exhibition "Ancestral History", from 11:00am – 11:30am.
As St. Maarten's Emancipation Day Celebrations draws closer, the organizing committee for the historical exhibition comprised of: Library representatives Monique Alberts (Director) and Morenika Arrindell (Public Relations Officer/ Activity Manger); Heritage Foundation Director, Elsje Bosch and Cultural Center representative Urmain " Youmay" Dormoy, pooled their combined resources together, to shape the ancestral history exhibition.
An exhibition on slavery and emancipation compiled by the the Special Collections department of the University of Amsterdam will also be on display at the Cultural Center. This exhibition, aimed at youngsters, consists of two sets of banners. One set is compiled by the Surinamese comedian Raymann and his daughter and depicts historical objects relating to slavery. The other set tells the story of slavery through texts, maps and pictures.
These two sets of banners will also be on display at selected libraries of Aruba, Curacao, and Surinam during the month of July.
The National Heritage Foundation has made their collection of artifacts and literature relevant to the emancipation day celebrations, available to the Cultural Center for display for the duration of the exhibition.
The general public is invited to view the exhibition on ancestral history on July 1, 2013, from 2:00pm – 6:00pm and also during the course of the week at the Cultural Center.

mauricelakevisitsjohnlarmoniecenter28062013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday morning Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake carried out a site inspection at the John Larmonie Center on the Pondfill.

It was brought to the Minister's attention that the restrooms at the aforementioned facility have been out of order for some time. The recreational facility is used by seniors on a regular basis.

Other shortcomings brought forward were blocked drainage lines, backed-up sewage system, faulty air conditioning and the kitchen cabinets which are all rotten and nearly unusable.

"Our seniors and other users of this facility should not have to contend with such conditions especially when they are using the building for recreational purposes. I have instructed my Ministry to take immediate action," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Friday.

The Minister, members of his Cabinet, Head of the Department of Infrastructure Management Claudius Buncamper, Civil Works Project Leader David Lejuez of the Infrastructure Department, and Chairman of the Foundation Board Claret Connor, walked through the facility and an inventory was compiled of the things that need to be immediately repaired.

Urgent repairs will be started on Saturday and will continue through Monday so the facility could be in order and available for use next week.

Improving the facility will be a joint effort between Claret Connor in charge of the upkeep of the facility and Ministry VROMI.

It has been agreed that the materials required for the repairs will be purchased by the Center based on the inventory list while Ministry VROMI will provide the labour.

Minister Lake said that his motto is getting "back to basics." "Small things that have been left unattended and just with a little time, effort and manpower can make a world of difference, and that is what getting back to basics means. This will be applied to all areas within my ministerial responsibilities," Minister Lake concluded.

The repair work and activities at the John Larmonie Center consists of, but is not limited to the following: repairs to all restroom facilities; fixing and replacing of all cracked light fixtures and bulbs; replacement of dropping and/or damaged ceiling tiles; repairs of all windows; fixing of bricks in the outside area by the side door; and cleaning of the trenches around the premises.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs, would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the 2012-2013 school year in making busing of school children a safe one as the school year comes to an end on Friday, June 28.

The Department will continue to ensure a safe, reliable and comfortable transportation for school children.

"Another school year comes to an end this Friday. The Department would like to thank the school buses and students for their cooperation and looks forward to more continued support during the upcoming new school year.

"The Inspection Department who is also responsible for the Traffic Controllers and Inspectors who are visible during the peak morning hours, would also like to thank the public at large for their cooperation when they approach school zones.

"School busing was faced with some behavior problems during the past few months and would like to ask the parents and guardians to continue to encourage their child/ren to behave on the bus.

"The Department would also like the public to be observant that although school is out and summer is in, a number of children will be using the school bus for their summer camp excursions, therefore motorists should remain vigilant on the public roads.

"Thank you to the school principals as well for their cooperation throughout the school year, and on behalf of the department, wishing the principals, teachers and staff a happy and safe holiday season," School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs.

School bus inspections are scheduled to start July 8 through July 10 known as the early bird inspections, and the regular inspections are set from July 22 through July 25. School bus owners and drivers are hereby advised to take note of the dates.

School bus owners/drivers are requested to call the department to make an appointment.

For further information about services rendered by the Inspection Section, call telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509.

Harbour View:--- His Majesty King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima will be visiting St. Maarten in the fall of this this year.
The visit will be the Kings and Queens first official visit to Sint Maarten in their capacity of King and Queen. The King and Queen last visited Sint Maarten in 2011 while they were still prince and princess, when they accompanied Queen Beatrix.
Earlier this week Governor Holiday convened the Kick-off meeting with the special committee, the National Organizing Committee Royal Visit 2013, which has been established by National Decree to organize and coordinate the upcoming royal visit. The committee is comprised of seven members, these are: Keith Franca (Chairman), Cassandra Janssen (Secretary), Emilia Thomas, Catherine Arrindell-Conner, Marcel Gumbs, Olga Williams, and Bastiaan Bolt.
Today a delegation from the Netherlands, the pre-advance team, visited Sint Maarten to meet with the relevant authorities and to discuss how the royal visit later this year can be prepared optimally.
Governor Holiday stated that the friendly island of Sint Maarten is looking forward to host the royal visit and that the visit by the King and the Queen will be a celebration of Sint Maarten's culture and our bond with the Royal Family and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Further details on the dates and locations for the 2013 visit will be provided at a later date.

From the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten

janbeaujon27062013Philipsburg:--- The outgoing General Manager of the Windward Islands Bank Jan Beaujon seems to be an ordinary St. Maartener who is friendly and very welcoming to people that need his advice especially since he has knowledge and expertise from both the banking and private sector. Beaujon who is known for his pleasant personality and love for music can only be described as a people's person and someone who anyone can approach for a word of advice. Despite being a professional Jan Beaujon found time to play his guitar, this is one of the things he plans to do now that he would have more spare time.

In an exclusive interview with SMN News, Beaujon whose full time job with WIB ends on June 28th, 2013 said that while he is going on pension he will still be with the bank for a period of time to serve as an advisor.

Jan Beaujon started his career in banking in February 1972. "My wife and I moved from Curacao and went to Guadeloupe when I secured a job with Bank Antilles which was owned by my brother in law. I am Dutch so I had to learn the French language and the French banking system. At the time, I knew nothing about banking so in the beginning it was difficult. That was very challenging for me because many nights I had to use a dictionary to learn the French words while learning the French banking system at the same time. I was given a book to learn from, it was tough but I managed and was given the task to deal with the foreign exchange and other foreign banks."

Beaujon said a year later he was placed in the credits and loans department. He said he was trained on the job while working. Beaujon explained that he did some major training in Marie Galante, a smaller island off the coast of Guadeloupe. Three years later the owners of Bank Antilles decided to expand and explore so they decided to open a branch office in St. Barths. Of course the man they chose to open and set up that branch from scratch was no other than Jan Beaujon. "I went and I trained another couple over there but shortly after my wife and I got ill and we had to move back to Guadeloupe. Beaujon explained that in those days everything was manual, work was done with typewriters and manually. He said when someone entered a bank on the French side the noise from the machines was very loud but the workers managed and they grew. Not long after that expedition, Bank Antilles decided to venture to St. Martin and again the man chosen to establish Bank Antilles on the French side was Jan Beaujon.

"This is how Bank Antilles created the Ile du Nord" but St. Martin was extremely challenging because he had to set up the building, get a cellar built and have a vault placed underground. Jan Beaujon remembers the details of his experience setting up the Bank Antilles on the French side because he said when he thought the vault was well secured underground, water became one of their major problems so he had to have a well built and install pumps to pump the water out in order to keep the monies and the vault dry. Jan said for him it was challenging but what was astonishing for him to learn and to deal with back then was the lack of knowledge of the people who were doing business on the French side. Banking on the French side of the island was "wild west". "Back in those days there were no notaries, accountants, no lawyers. Basically there was nothing. When I asked business people if they had financials they did not even know what I was talking about. People were just coming from every place and doing business on the French side and they had no administration which is necessary for the French system. In 1978, there was nothing at all and that side of the island was very much under developed. Jan said while things were bad on the French side and business was dormant at the time, the French side began developing and that too happened very quickly.

Later BFC purchased Bank Antilles and Jan was also very instrumental in setting up BFC in St. Martin even getting the land on which BFC is built. One of the things Jan boasts about is the relationship he had and still has with his co-workers at Bank Antilles and BFC. "Up to today they remain friends, some of whom attended the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday." Jan said that on the day BFC was opening its branch in Bellevue he submitted his resignation because he had secured a job in La Reunion. The reason for that was because his children had to leave St. Martin to attend school so he had no choice but to leave the island. However, all of the plans Jan had then changed when he went to one of his very best friends the late David James, the owners of La Samanna Hotel. Jan said he went to see his friend and to inform him that he was leaving the island to go to La Reunion but when he went there he learnt that his friend was very ill and he needed his help more than anything else. As Jan was speaking about his friend who died of cancer he became emotional even though it's been years now since his friend passed. "I asked James to give me two years and then I would come back to St. Martin and help him but when he told me he did not have that much time to live and he desperately needed his help. Jan said he could not do anything but put his children in boarding school in France and work for the La Samanna Hotel. He said that he knew nothing about managing a hotel because he studied tourism but his friend taught him a lot and he grew there too. He said one of his major roles was to deal with the unions who was giving the American owners lots of trouble, but again due to his personality and willingness to negotiate and discuss with other people that too was successful. Jan worked for La Samanna for about one and half years then he lost his friend to the deadly disease of cancer. After that he had to manage the hotel alone, and later assisted the heirs to sell the hotel because of tax inheritance that the heirs could not pay.

While being at La Samanna for his last year he said he began job hunting on the Dutch side because his children were still in school, then one day he got a call from one of his friends, the Curiel's whom he knew from school days. He said his friend offered him a job at WIB and even though he asked for a lot back then he got it and his mission was to change and develop WIB to what it is today. Jan Beaujon gave 20 years of service to the Windward Islands Bank, something he has no regrets about. He said while working tirelessly he did not realize how much his workers meant to him, but now that he is leaving them it is with a broken heart. Jan Beaujon handed over the reins to Derek Downes whom he said is a very talented young man who also believes in innovation and development.

The People Should be Consulted if Politicians wants to change currency --- Inform the people properly and then call for a referendum.

SMN News asked the man who has knowledge and experience what currency he thinks would be best for St. Maarten. Politicians on St. Maarten have been lobbying for dollarization. Jan Beaujon who is also on the board of the Council of Advice said that the discussion is a political one and not one that relates to the currency. He said Curacao and St. Maarten are having problems with the leadership of the Central Bank but instead of dealing with that issue they are blaming the currency. Jan said in 1995 St. Maarten did not have dollars because the hurricanes destroyed the island. "There was no USD coming to St. Maarten and it was the Central Bank that had to print more notes and distribute it so that the island could have survived. He said the Antillean currency worked for years and he sees no reason for changing it. "Yes we do have to get rid of the Antillean Guilder because the Antilles no longer exists, but it can be renamed either Caribbean Dollar or the Guilder but going for the USD is a no no for Jan Beaujon. "If there is a vote in the Council of Advice on this matter I will not vote because my opinion on this matter is very strong and I have made it known to all the politicians. They know what I think and how I feel as a professional banker."

Jan said that if the politicians still want to continue with their ideas then he believes that the people of St. Maarten must have a say, he thinks that the people must be given accurate and enough information then a referendum should be called so that the people could decide what currency they want for their country.

After speaking with Jan Beaujon for about one hour on Thursday, it's clear that Jan Beaujon will be working behind the scenes for his country. Even though he said he has no interest in politics he will continue to give advice and also keep his eyes open after all he is a citizen of this great nation.

Philipsburg:--- Twelve employees of Colombian Emeralds International are fighting to get their cessentia payments from their employers who notified them at the beginning of June 2013 that they will be closing both shops on St. Maarten as of June 30th, 2013. According to one of the employees, they received a letter on June 6th, 2013 dated June 1st, 2013 informing them that the company (Colombian Emeralds International), whose head office is in Barbados will be closing both shops on St. Maarten as of June 30th, 2013.

The letter which was signed by the Human Resources Manager Mrs. Dale Niles states that the company has been suffering net earning losses for a number of years now and this is the reason for them to close down. One of the workers who worked for the company for 26 years told SMN News that Mrs. Niles promised to pay the workers out by June 10th, 2013 but to date she has not done so. The employee said that the company did not follow the labour laws of St. Maarten prior to sending them the letter and neither did they file for bankruptcy. The 12 workers showed up at the Department of Labour on Thursday morning where they met with the head of the Labour Department Mrs. Peggy Ann Dros Richardson who informed them that she was contacted on Wednesday by Mrs. Niles who also promised that she would pay them out. The employee said that the company is now saying that they wanted to close both stores, the one located on Old Street and the one in the departure lounge of Princess Juliana International Airport. The worker further explained that Mrs. Niles told the head of the Labour Department that they submitted a bid to maintain their store at PJIAE and if they are successful then they want the workers from Old Street to go and work at PJIAE.

The employee said the workers at PJIAE also received the same letter informing them that they will be dismissed as of June 30th. "We have workers who worked for 26 years, 23 years, 22 years, and 5 years for the company. The company acted illegally and the letter they sent us is also illegal. On top of that Mrs. Niles lied to us about the cessentia payments. We do not want to go to the Airport because the workers of that store are our colleagues and they too deserve to be paid out."

SMN News asked Minister of Labour Cornelius de Weever if was aware of the ongoing labour dispute at Colombian Emeralds and he said that he was updated on the issue. Minister De Weever said the head of the Department of Labour and the Secretary General are busy investigating the case.

patricialourens27062013Philipsburg:--- Newly sworn-in Minister of Education Patricia Lourens told reporters on Thursday that a number of measures have been taken to repair and renovate various schools during the summer vacation while the bidding for furniture for the Belvedere School will take place in July 2013. The SBO School in Cay Hill is also expected to open by November 2013 when the King visits the island.

The Education Minister also explained that there has been a 31% increase in requests for study financing this year compared to last year. The Minister said in the year 2012 some 237 students applied for study financing while in 2013 344 students applied. Minister Lourens said that of that amount a total of 143 students were approved to receive study financing while the others would have to appeal their decision. SMN News asked the Minister why so many students were denied, in her response Minister Lourens said there are a number of reasons, however the figure can increase because some students that applied are still waiting on their examination results. She said so far the St. Maarten Academy and St. Dominic School did not get their examination results as yet and those two schools have the largest amount of students. "When these students get their results they can appeal the decision. Another hindrance is that study financing did not get any extra monies this year especially due to the budget cuts."

The Minister of Education also explained that because of the budget cuts and the lack of monies the Ministry has to now raise the level in order for students to obtain study financing and they would also have to conduct an analysis on what the students want to study. "We have to determine what the acceptable grades are for students to obtain study financing." The Minister also said some students may have been denied because of their age to attend the MBO schools in the Netherlands. However, she is confident that the figure will increase when the examination results are submitted and after the appeal process is finalized.

The Minister of Education confirmed on Thursday that she discussed the report that was submitted by the committee that conducted the internal investigation at the Department of Public Education and that report will be further discussed next week. One of the advices given by the committee is to remove Mrs. Glenderline Davis Holiday from her position as head of the department due to mismanagement and lack of communication.

martinhassink27062013Philipsburg:--- Newly appointed Minister of Finance Martin Hassink told reporters on Thursday at the second Council of Ministers' press briefing that the Government of St. Maarten is facing another hurdle with the 2013 budget which is still to be approved by the Governor and CFT. Minister Hassink said just one day after he was sworn into office the Governor of St. Maarten returned the 2013 budget which was approved by the parliament of St. Maarten in April 2013 and asked him to take a look at that budget and see if he could work with it for the rest of the year.

"The very next day I got a letter from the CFT telling me that they cannot and will not approve the budget because the amount of monies the former Minister of Finance predicted as government income is not achievable." The Minister of Finance said that the CFT wants him to cut the budget by another 30 million guilders, "I already notified the Council of Ministers last week and the various secretary generals that would have to make the cuts in the other Ministries. "Government has to decrease its expenditures while they have to find a way to increase their revenues." The Finance Minister said that one of the reasons the CFT feels that the proposed figures cannot be reached is the fact that the former Minister of Finance added a sum he expects to collect on the taxes he wanted to levy on alcohol and tobacco. "The alcohol and tobacco taxes cannot be implemented this year because there is no legislation in place to tax people on alcohol and tobacco. Those legislations have to be in place before the taxes can be levied." For the year 2013 that is no longer possible but those legislations can be put in place for 2014. Minister Hassink gave indications that the 2013 budget is still not in place therefore the 2014 budget will be late.

Minister Hassink showed reporters a PowerPoint presentation where he said that the 2013 budget that the parliament of St. Maarten approved amounts to 457 million guilders. He said while the budget is balanced on paper, some 23% of it cannot be realized. Government has a known income of 420 million guilders. The Finance Minister said that there is a large group of unidentified people that do not contribute to the tax base and those are people and businesses that are unknown to government. Another percentage of the people that are not contributing are known to government but simply do not pay their taxes. "I intend to hunt these people down and impose fines on them so that they can comply and pay their share." Minister Hassink further explained that he does not believe that the people who did not pay their taxes should be rewarded, therefore he would be taking a closer look at the write off that the former Minister implemented while he was in office earlier this year.

6,500 did not pay their Number Plate Taxes --- Number Plates and Stickers will be back in 2014.

The Finance Minister said also told reporters that some 6,500 persons did not pay their annual vehicle taxes, government usually collects about 8.6 million guilders in vehicle taxes annually but they have only collected 6.6 million guilders so far, 2 million guilders still needs to be collected this year. When SMN News reporter asked the new Finance Minister why he believes vehicle owners did not pay their vehicle taxes since the former Minister simplified the process and made other changes such as eliminating the number plates. The Finance Minister said that because there is no new number plates or stickers it is harder for the controllers and government to identify who paid their vehicle taxes from those that did not pay. He said it is already too late to have number plates re-instated for the year 2013 but he is looking at an alternative way of identifying those vehicle owners who would have to pay and will be fined. The Finance Minister made clear that for the year 2014 either a sticker or new number plates will be available at the Receiver's Office for vehicle owners.

Click here to view the PowerPoint presentation that was presented by Minister of Finance Martin Hassink.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development, and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) hereby informs the general public and motorists that Well Road will be closed off as of July 2 for two weeks for through traffic.

This is to allow for the execution of road works to take place during the aforementioned period.

Residents will have access to and from their homes from both directions of the Well Road.

The section that will be closed off is located between Cork Tree Drive and Belle Tree Drive. No through traffic will be allowed.

The Minister responsible for Ministry VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake apologizes to the residents and other road users for the inconvenience that this may cause, and apologizes with respect to this.

The objective is to carry out the necessary repairs that are needed.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs and the Control Unit will only be open for several hours on Friday.

Staff will be attending the funeral service of a colleague, Voluntary Corps of Sint Maarten Corporal Welton W. Baker.

The Control Unit will close on Friday at 10:00am and the Inspections Department will close from 1:00pm.

For further information you can call telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509.

swescotwilliamsatdrugabusesymposium27062013Encourages Youth to be High on Sports Instead of Drugs

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams officially opened the Repairers of Broken Walls Symposium at the John Larmonie Center on Wednesday. The symposium will be centered on the combating of illegal drug abuse in the community of St. Maarten.

The Prime Minister started her remarks by commending the Repairers of Broken Walls International Community in organizing the important symposium:

"Allow me to commend the Repairers of the Broken Wall International Community for organizing this conference on drug abuse in the community of St. Maarten. I do so recognizing that all of us on the outside of the activities that have been taking place regarding combating drug abuse might have feel that there is not much happening on St. Maarten but there are many organizations centered on raising awareness of the Drug Problem on St. Maarten and we therefore need to offer our continued support in this regard.

"The international theme for today is one of making Health Your New High in Life and Not Drugs. Considering this theme and this topic it is important that we combine health with other activities as we encourage our young people to engage in sports for example, making that the high in life and not drugs. Therefore I would like to encourage all to focus on the various activities and opportunities that are available and to encourage especially our young people to stay away from drugs through engaging in extra curricular activities.

"The Foundation has chosen the theme of drugs in your back yard for this symposium in confronting the dilemma. With only 37 square miles the island itself is our backyard so wherever drug abuse and drug trafficking happens it affects all of us that call St. Maarten home.

"The general Assembly of the United Nations has recognized that despite the efforts of the international community the world drug problem continues to constitute a serious threat of public health, the well-being of humanity. And the national security of states and that it undermines sustainable development and considering this I would like to say to especially our youth that they should focus their attention on being positive role models in the community and not let your spirits and bodies be damaged by drugs," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Acting Secretary General (SG) at the Ministry of Justice Richard Panneflek upon his return from Curacao on Tuesday was given a tour of the Police Holding Cells at the Philipsburg Police Headquarters (HQ).

SG Panneflek was visiting the cells on behalf of Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson who was not able to visit HQ due to being off island, in order to see for himself where the three escaped detainees were being held.

Panneflek also met with Prison Director Rohan and his staff, Solicitor General Taco Stein and the investigating team. The Minister of Justice is being kept informed as the manhunt continues.

Panneflek stated on Wednesday that the Minister of Justice has given the re-capture of these criminals a high priority and would like to ensure the Sint Maarten community that every effort and resource has been made available to catch the three escapees as soon as possible.

The three suspects are considered by law enforcement as armed and extremely dangerous.

The Police Department is seeking the help of the community with any information that they may have that will lead to the apprehension of these three individuals.

Persons who are assisting the three escapees will also be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Anyone with information can call the Police HQ at 542-2222 or 911.

swescotwilliamsatdmfschoolsteelpanrecital27062013Hands Out Rewards and Certificates to Participants

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was part of the enthusiastic audience of teachers, parents and family attending the Dow Musical Foundation's School Steel Pan Recital. The recital featured students of various schools that attend the Foundation's after school steel pan classes.

The Prime Minister thanked all those present for coming out to support the students that ranged from age five to eighteen. "I would like to say thank you to everyone for supporting all of the budding and professional musicians here this evening. It is good that you are here to support our children that are becoming versed in the traditional music of the steel pan. Congratulations are in order for all of the children taking part in the classes and giving us all an excellent performance this evening. I look forward to seeing these musicians continuing to practice and to grow as steel pan players. Also big congratulations to the mighty Dow for the work that the Dow Musical Foundation is doing in keeping Steel Pan Music Alive," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also presented awards and certificates to the students who completed the program and encouraged them to continue keeping the art of steel pan in the community.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Festival Village:--- Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten proudly presents for this year's event their partnership with Ticket River on the online ticketing, and tour operators.
Ticket River, a leader in online ticketing services and printing for over a decade, is dedicated to the excellence of the event and customer satisfaction. Since 1997, Ticket River helped customers set up, manage, and promote over 300,000 events, all with the goal of selling more tickets. Ticket River has 12 years of experience promoting music festivals, black tie galas, sporting events, charity fundraisers, theatrical performances, and every kind of gathering under the sun. According to Mr. Scott Kundert, the Product Management Associate of Ticket River "This will be our first event in the Caribbean, and we are excited to provide the online ticketing service for the second annual Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten". Visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com to purchase on line.
Mr. Greoges Gréaux Jr. owner of Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco said "We are taking Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten 2013 to next level by featuring high caliber artists John Legend and Percy Sledge, and focusing on inbound travel. We are proud and excited to launch in collaboration with Ticket River the first online ticketing service ever on the island. We look forward to work with them on this year's event and in the future. The online ticketing is a major addition to the event. We wanted to give the local and international visitors more flexibility in purchasing their tickets by reservations, local businesses, and now also online via the official Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten website".
As mentioned before, this year there will be two entrance fees; VIP tickets will be US $150 in advance, and US $175 at the door. This includes premium Hennessy drinks and food, with VIP service in the front area that will offer amazing tasting stations and great service. Tickets are also available for those who would like to experience only the concert aspect of the show at US $55 in advance and US $75 at the door. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase. Ticket are on sale now at Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco, Van Dorp (both locations), Fun Miles, 721 Scene, and CD Entertainment.
To create international awareness for the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten event we are focusing this year on inbound travel from the Caribbean, South America, US, Canada and Europe. International tour operators such as Travelocity, Cheap Caribbean, Bookit.com, and Expedia to name a few have special packages with Westin the host hotel.
Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press, and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music. Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco is the official distributor of Hennessy. For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact us at Phone: +1 721 520-7120 / 520-1872 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Press Release from Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten

eholidaycuttingribbontoopenwib26062013Philipsburg:--- Management and staff of the Windward Islands Bank (WIB) opened their new and renovated facility in style on Wednesday afternoon. The invited guests were treated to steel pan music, a bit of dance, and songs from the WIB choral. Some 25 employees of the WIB formed a choir where they sang a song "We Have Reached" in honor of the completion of the new facilities.

Several dignitaries including Governor Eugene Holiday, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, former Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, former Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, and Acting Governor Reynold Groeneveldt were among the Management and Board of Directors of Maduro and Curiel's Bank on Wednesday afternoon for the grand opening and inauguration of the renovated facility and its extended office space.

Governor Holiday praised Maduro and Curiel's for the initiative they took some 53 years ago when they signed the agreement to start the first bank on St. Maarten. Governor Holiday said when that agreement was signed he was not yet born but he learnt that back in those days the people of St. Maarten used to keep their monies under their mattresses. He also praised WIB for the huge investments they made in upgrading their facilities and services in these hard economic times. Governor Holiday further praised the management for their commitment to the island because they are the largest employer on St. Maarten, having on board 212 staff members.

Sharing the same sentiments were Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who was eager to see the upgraded facility that WIB has provided for the people of St. Maarten. The Prime Minister also gave the management of WIB a lot of credit for the training center they incorporated in the bank in order for their employees to grow along with them.

wibsecurityopeningnewbranch26062013CEO and President of Maduro and Curiel's Bank Lionel (Chicu) Capriles II thanked the people of St. Maarten, their clients, and the staff on the island who have committed themselves to work and do business with the Windward Islands Bank. Chicu also gave a lot of credit to outgoing Managing Director Jan Beaujon who will be going on retirement at the end of this week. He said the entire WIB staff will miss Beaujon for his expertise, calmness, and professionalism. He said even though Beaujon will be going on retirement the bank will find a way to keep him around because he is a valuable asset to the growth and management of WIB.

Jan Beaujon pronounced his last speech on Wednesday afternoon as Managing Director of WIB. Beaujon also made sure he gave a word of advice to the incoming Managing Director Derek Downes. "While you have all the technology to work with now, I want you to know that those technologies are also available to captains, but a good captain will always look at the sky, the wind, and what is around them to ensure the safety of their ship." Beaujon also presented two awards one to Assistant Manager of WIB Kenneth Bloyden who spear-headed the entire renovation and extension of the new facility. "I have seen how hard you work and the amount of work you and the contractor placed into building this new facility. When I asked you if the renovation would have been completed before my departure you assured me that it will be done and up to Monday the extended part of the bank was in a mess but by Tuesday morning everything was in place and the colors were bright and shining. The vote of thanks was given by incoming Managing Director Derek Downes.

At the end of the speeches the ribbon cutting to officially open the new facility was done by Governor Eugene Holiday. After that the dignitaries and invited guests were given a tour of the facility while beverages and snacks were also served as they enjoyed the music played by young steel pan players.

Click here to view more photos of the inauguration ceremony on at WIB on Wednesday afternoon.

Address by the Governor of Sint Maarten drs. Eugene B. Holiday on the occasion of the Inauguration of the WIB Banking Center.

Ladies and Gentlemen
Good Afternoon,
And in particular good afternoon to the Management, Board of Supervisory Directors and to all who make up the Windward Island Bank family. Special greetings to Ms. Nicole Henriquez, Mr. Lionel Chicu Capriles, and Mr. Derek Downes. A special good afternoon and thanks to Mr. Jan Beaujon for inviting me to join in the celebration of this Windward Islands Bank milestone.
It is truly an honor for me to participate in this special inauguration ceremony for the Windward Island Bank Family, in particular, and for Sint Maarten, in general. I am thus very pleased to herewith commend and extend my congratulations to the entire WIB Family on the official inauguration of the new, expanded and upgraded Windward Island Bank Banking Center. Congratulations!
Today as we stand in front of this new WIB building for this grand occasion I am very pleased to address you considering the significance of this moment for Sint Maarten. In the first place, because we have gathered to celebrate the renewal of the oldest banking institution on Sint Maarten. In the second place because today's ceremony is testimony of the financial and economic accomplishments of the bank and Sint Maarten. And third, because the inauguration of this building today holds in it a major promise for future opportunities and growth.
Drawing from the significance of this WIB moment, and underscoring that opportunities are created, I will in the next few minutes draw your attention to the importance of and to our responsibility to: "create centers of opportunity for the next generation".
Most of us have no clue or idea of what it must have been like when WIB opened its doors in 1960. In fact it is quite easy to forget that, when the Windward Islands Bank opened its doors in December of 1960, many St. Martiners kept their savings – insofar they had any – under their mattresses. And people were not comfortable going to a bank. Since then a lot has changed. The mattresses have now made way for checking, savings, investments and loan accounts and for the convenience of electronic banking. This thanks to the pioneering work of the founder and pioneers of the Windward Island Bank, Mr. Cyrus Wathey and Mr. Shon Sja Capriles. Their work and vision have been carried forward by past and current members of the Windward Island Bank family. Both men are most likely smiling at the results of their business agreement reached in 1960. Through that 1960 agreement the foundation was laid and the corporate responsibility assumed to create a center of opportunity for generations of Sint Martiners.
As a center of opportunity WIB is one of the largest employers of the island offering quality employment opportunities. That is opportunities in a variety of areas ranging from banking, finance, information technology, accounting, corporate law and security amongst others. Who are the benefactors of these opportunities. Not counting the many persons that have worked for WIB in the past 50-plus years WIB offers work to some 250 persons today. In fact I too had the opportunity to be a benefactor. I can still vividly recall the positive reception I received when as a young economics graduate I approached the former WIB Managing Director the late Mr. Vict Henriquez as well as my positive discussions with Mr. Ron Comez Casseres some 26 years ago about working at WIB. These are the type of options and opportunities our people need.
As a center of opportunity in banking Windward Island Bank is a modern bank offering some of the most sophisticated banking services available. And in doing so creating economic value through the facilitation of personal, corporate and public sector transactions on the island. In that regard WIB, at age 52, is synonymous with the unprecedented economic growth and progress of modern day Sint Maarten. This because WIB has been a major partner for other centers of opportunity on the island providing critical banking services and financing to individuals, businesses and government.
In addition to having WIB as a partner it is my hope that existing businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs would draw from the example of WIB and take up the responsibility to create new or expand into strong centers of opportunity for local workers and investment. Having strong businesses that fulfill the role of centers of opportunity for our people and invest in the overall enhancement of the infrastructure of the island is my hope; that ladies and gentlemen, because it is a prerequisite for the further balanced and sustainable socio economic development of our country.
Today we are here as witnesses of such an investment, that is we are witnesses of the result of the decision of the Windward Island Bank to invest in this new building and thus renew its commitment towards its being and its expansion of its achievements as a center of opportunity on Sint Maarten. A decision which, moreover, was taken during the global financial crises amidst uncertain and fragile economic prospects. And which will contribute to strengthen the economic recovery and future growth of our island.
In closing, I therefore commend the Management of MCB and the Windward Island Bank for taking and carrying through with this decision during challenging economic times. A decision which shows your confidence in the economic future of Sint Maarten.
Looking at what has been accomplished in the past 5 decades I have full confidence that the partnership between the WIB and the Community of Sint Maarten will be one of continued growth and progress; one of fostering the creation of centers of opportunity for future generations. With that I herewith once again congratulate you with the inauguration of the new, expanded and upgraded Windward Island Bank Banking Center. Congratulations!

Thank you, God bless you, and God bless Sint Maarten.

sxmlionsclubdonatestosxmlittleleaguefoundation26062013Philipsburg:--- Sint Maarten Lions Club donated a substantial amount of money to the St. Maarten Little League Foundation which will assist the foundation in hosting the upcoming XXIX Latin American and Caribbean Little League Senior Division Baseball Championships. This round of little league baseball is being held on St. Maarten from July 5th to July 14th at the Little League Stadium. In photo Lion President Richard Boyd (on right) presents a check to Assistant Secretary of the St. Maarten Little League Foundation Maureen Vlaun while the coaches, players, and Lions Club board member Lion Merlyn Schaminee looks on.

sxmlionsclubdonatestosimarc26062013Madame Estate:--- Sint Maarten Lions Club recently donated funds to the SIMARC Foundation, as partial support for participation in the upcoming International Congress for Caribbean Archaeology (IACA) to be hosted this year at San Juan, Puerto Rico. SIMARC will be represented at IACA, by director Dr. Jay Haviser and New York University student Chris Velasquez, as they will be presenting to the IACA Board the official preparations dossier for hosting of the 2015 IACA Congress on St. Maarten-St. Martin. Seen here are Lions President Richard Boyd (on the left) presenting a check to Dr. Jay Haviser and some of the SIMARC students.

cdeweeverdonatestosisterbasiliacenter26062013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever, during a recent visit to the Sister Basilia Center, daycare, residence and guided living facilities donated some puppets to add to their current program for their clients. The puppets are from "The Kids on the Block Inc.-a troupe of educational puppets"
"The Kids on the Block" concept is an internationally acclaimed program that offers programs on disabilities, visual impairment, medical differences; educational differences including learning disabilities and ADHD, and social concerns including sexual abuse prevention, and alternatives to violence.
"These puppets will add an additional twist that will be much enjoyed by the clients of the Sister Basilia Center and I am looking forward to attending their first puppet show," said Minister De Weever.
"We at the Sister Basilia Center are very appreciative of Minister's De Weever's donation. Besides the puppets, the minister also provided an instructional manual and examples of educational performances which we will use for upcoming theater productions. The clients and staff wishes to thank Minister De Weever for his continuous generous support," said Department Manager Carlson Richardson.
The Daycare or School teachers provide care for 35 clients of different levels of function. These clients are then placed in five different groups. At the center emphasis is placed on structuring clients in the following skills: academic, physical, social and self-help. The Minister was given the opportunity to visit all of these areas, such as the Angels, which is the children's group; the Pacesetters, which are children with autism; Climbers, which is the lower level functioning group; Players, which is the mid-level functioning group and last the Smarties, which focuses on the higher-level functioning group.

wibdonatesto5foundations26062013PHILIPSBURG:--- WIB has not only been busy with the inauguration plans for the WIB Banking Center which is scheduled for Wednesday June 26th, 2013, but also found time to thank and make special donations to five foundations that have been essential in helping our community throughout the years. WIB made financial contributions of NAF 5,000.00 each to Voice of our Children, Crystal Home, Philipsburg Jubilee Library, Meals on Wheels, and Safe Haven and wished them much success in their exemplary works. WIB was thanked by each foundation for its generous and continuous support.

WIB, Your Partner in Progress.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, June 28, Soualigan Fyah: Youth Poetry will be collaborating with Readers are Leaders and the Philipsburg Jubilee Library to host a spoken word, open mic session called You(th) Take The Mic.
You(th) Take the Mic, which is a play on words meant to encourage youngsters to step up to the open mic, is scheduled to start promptly at 4:00pm and run through 5:30pm and is open to high school aged youngsters and aims to provide them with a platform from which to perform their poetry and spoken word.
The collaboration of the three entities acknowledges the aim of each to increase of literacy amongst the youth population. Soualigan Fyah is an initiative of the 5 square miles production team. For the past four years 5 square miles has been collaborating with the Imbali Center for Creative Movement to produce Summer Speaks and Winter's Words. Soualigan Fyah is the newest venture and has as its main goal the fostering of a love for poetry and spoken word in St. Maarten's high school population. Readers are Leader, has been in existence since 2010 and has held several open mic sessions throughout those years. The organization promotes literacy through its annual reading competition and other youth related activities. The Philipsburg Jubilee Library remains a critical space for young people to engage with books and reading on the island and has graciously stepped forward to provide space for this event just as it did for Soualigan Fyah's Youth Poetry and Spoken Word Competition held earlier this year.
Youngsters from all across the island are encouraged to not only attend Friday afternoon's session, but also walk with work to read or perform.
"I know for a fact we have a lot of young people out there writing poetry or lyrics and this is most definitely a venue for them to showcase their work with an audience of their peers," Lysanne Charles, founder of 5 square miles said.
She said that along with youngsters some veteran performers would also be there including herself, Sumaiyyah tha Poet and others. A special treat for those in attendance will be the presence of Queen Godis, a Brooklyn-based, international poet and performance artist. Queen Godis is currently on island participating in Nicole De Weever's Art Saves Lives Program. When DeWeever heard about the upcoming poetry and spoken word open mic she saw it as a unique opportunity for the teenagers to connect with a person who has built a career around poetry and spoken word performance.
Charles said that she is thankful to all of the people who came together to collaborate on this event and encourages people, most especially the island's teenagers, to come out and support the venture.
"I'm aiming to start at 4pm sharp and thus far it promises to be a powerful afternoon, we already have confirmations from Soualigan Fyah's Supreme Youth Poet for 2013 Jenice Forbes, along with Andrew Peterson and Atul Pereppadan. Sumaiyahh tha Poet will also perform and of course, the mic will be open for you(th) to take," Charles said.

prisonescapees23062013Philipsburg:--- On Sunday June 23, 2013, three prisoners escaped from the House of Detention located next to the Police Station in Philipsburg. The public is asked to give information that would lead to the apprehension of the escapees and also to give information on how the escape was organized. Information directly leading to arrests of the escapees and to the arrest and conviction of those who helped them will be rewarded! Information can be communicated to the police on the tip line (phone +1 721 9300).
One of the escapees (Sobiesky PARRONDO) is a suspect in a murder investigation; the two others (Carlos RUIZ and Marco SANTANA GUERERO) were detained on an extradition request from the United States pertaining to a large scale drug operation. All originated from the Dominican Republic.
The Office of the Prosecutor has formed an investigative team from members of the Police Force of Sint Maarten and the National Detectives to investigate the matter. This team will be aided by the Forensic Department and experts from the Dutch National Forensic Institute (NFI).
The team has two main objectives: tracing the escapees and returning them into detention and finding out how the escape was organized.
Escape from detention and aiding and abetting such an escape are crimes, carrying a hefty prison sentence with a maximum of ten years.

Press Release from Public Prosecutor's Office

swescotwilliams26062013Philipsburg:--- The newly formed cabinet of the Government of St. Maarten is looking into ways of modifying the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing in order for the other Ministers in the Council to update the people of St. Maarten on the work they are doing in their Ministries.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Council of Ministers is currently brainstorming the changes they intend to make. One possibility might be re-branding Wednesday's press briefing to the "Prime Minister's Press Briefing". While the Council of Ministers is in discussions about the changes that will be made in the future, already another press briefing is planned for Thursday. It is not yet known if the press briefing to be held on Thursday will be aired live and how much more monies this will cost the Government of St. Maarten. When SMN News reporter asked Prime Minister Wescot Williams to shed more light on that since the country is already facing some budget constraints, Wescot Williams said that no final decision has been taken as yet. "One possibility is that instead of having the press briefing every Wednesday it might be every other Wednesday and the other Ministers could hold their press briefings on other days. No definite decision has been taken on whether or not those will be live or not."

In the past, the Ministers from the United People's Party and its leader Theodore Heyliger stayed away from the weekly press briefings for unknown reasons. It appears as though the new cabinet knows that they have approximately one year before elections and it is necessary for the people to hear from them before ballot day reaches.

French and Dutch Governments working on Securing EU Funding.

The Prime Minister also announced that the French and Dutch side are working on a joint project to obtain European funding for projects. Wescot Williams said that the documents are being prepared by the French side but the Dutch side is also participating in the preparation of the documents to send off in order for St. Maarten/St. Martin to obtain EU funding.

Finance Minister working on Documents to Finalize 2013 Budget.

Wescot Williams also announced on Wednesday that the country's budget has the undivided attention of government. The Prime Minister said Minister of Finance Martin Hassink is currently preparing a vision document which will be discussed in the Council of Ministers next Tuesday. Wescot Williams said this document will show how government intends to move forward with the 2013 budget as well as how they will continue with the preparations for the 2014 budget.

Wescot Williams also announced that the government of St. Maarten managed to give the St. Maarten Development Fund a small advance in order for them to assist institutions that need monies. One such institution is Safe Haven.

While the Prime Minister admitted that St. Maarten is facing an economic crisis especially during the low season, government still did not take a final decision on whether or not they will host TEMPO this year. When SMN News asked the Prime Minister if the Government of St. Maarten will give TEMPO the $600,000.00 they asked for the Prime Minister said they still have to decide what to do in order to boost the economy of St. Maarten. Last year, the Government of St. Maarten invested $400,000.00 in TEMPO and it turned out to be a total loss for the country. Wescot Williams said that Government has to make investments, whether its TEMPO or something else because other nations also invested in huge projects and lost in the beginning before it became successful.

SMN News also asked the Prime Minister if the new government, especially the Minister of Education has taken a decision on the report that was submitted by the committee that investigated the Department of Education and if a decision was taken on the advice given by the committee which is to remove the Department Head from her function. Wescot Williams said that while the report was discussed, the removal of the department head was not discussed.

The Prime Minister also announced that the Prime Minister of the Netherlands will be visiting St. Maarten during the month of July. During that visit the Prime Minister of the Netherlands will meet with the Council of Ministers, the President of Parliament, and the faction leaders of Parliament. The Prime Minister of the Netherlands will also visit other sites while on St. Maarten.

rotaractsxmsunrisechangeofboard25062013Simpson Bay:--- Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise held their annual Change of Board Ceremony at the Cabana Beach & Restaurant at Royal Palm Beach Hotel on Sunday June 23, 2013. Norrisa Anatol will be taking over Rotaract Sunrise from President of 2012-2013, Elisia L. Lake.

Before handing over the honorable position, outgoing Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise President Elisia L. Lake mentioned in her farewell speech that the club did an awesome job this year and she had a great time working with all members, built a great friendship with everyone and in the process giving back to the community. Lake will be taking up the position of Assistant Rotaract Representative for 2013-2014 and expressed how happy she is to hand over this responsibility of the presidency to a person that she has grown close to, Ms. Norrisa Anatol. Norrisa Anatol was pinned the President of Rotaract Club Sunrise St. Maarten for 2013-2014 by AG, James C Ferris.
In a press release issued by the club, they high-lighted the incoming President's speech where Anatol stressed that she will continue to recruit young and dedicated members to the club, interrelate and work closely with all Rotary Clubs and Interact Clubs, continue to work and give back to the community, provide further support to the orphanage homes and continue to expose Rotaract Club publically. She concluded by saying that she wish to express her personal thanks to all her fellow members for their dedication and contribution to Rotaract. Anatol concluded her speech by stating that "Rotaract became what it is today thanks to Outgoing President Ms. Elisia Lake for contributing and paving a new path for Rotaract Sunrise in a beautiful way."

The new board members for 2013-2014 are: Norrisa Anatol – PRESIDENT, Elisia Lake – IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT, Tyrone Yates – VICE PRESIDENT, , Keysy Ramirez – SECRETARY, Aswayan Cooks – TREASURER, Kimoya Sinclair – COMMUNITY SERVICE DIRECTOR, Daniela Arrindell- PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, MICHALINE WARNER – CLUB SERVICE DIRECTOR, Micaela Hart – INTERNATIONAL SERVICE DIRECTOR, - Charles Rollan- PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER and Noelani Riley- SARGENT AT ARMS.

civilsocietygroupsdiscussndp25062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In the run-up to Wednesday's National Development Plan (NDP) 'meet and greet' at Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel, Andrea Ortega-Oudhoff, Joeri Arion and Tom Woods, members of the NDP-project team held a brief informative presentation last Sunday, at the Border Point near Belvedere.

Focus of the presentation was the core component of the NDP Project: Community dialogues. The gathering was organized through The Talking Drums Foundation.

The presentation of the NDP project team was followed-up by an extensive round of Q&A with the audience present. The main concerns articulated by the diverse crowd of interested citizens were the experienced gap between society and government.

The project team responded to this concern by stressing the importance of developing a national plan through community engagement: "The NDP is a people's project that is putting institutions in place that not only enable everyone in St. Maarten to come together to build a national development strategy but to have an on-going participation in its implementation".

The Millennium Development Goals (MDG)-report of 2011 has identified poverty and environment as crucial areas to be addressed in the short term planning of National Development.

In line with this point, a number of agriculturalists who were present at the Border Point voiced their concerns about food security and the lack of interest by the St. Maarten government to proactively address the problem of food security and the need to support numerous agricultural initiatives that are trying to tackle these problems.

In response the NDP project team emphasized what distinguishes the NDP from other policy programs: "The NDP is strategic policy. As the project progresses forwards, we're going to be looking at ways to entrench this strategy so it cannot be readily altered by political intrusion.

"This puts NDP on a constitutional level. These issues will be addressed with people participation through the project itself. Governments will have their own four-year term proposals in how to implement their programs in accordance with the NDP, but the actual overarching strategy of the NDP will not be able to be changed by governments themselves. That is what we are looking at here."

The project team indicated that the planning and setting up of the framework for the NDP process has reached the crucial stage where the actual NDP work group will be established.

The persons and agencies stemming from the St. Maarten community, who have shown interest and willingness to have an active role in the project, will gather at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel on Wednesday, June 26, from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.

If there are still organizations and individuals interested to form part of this crucial process, they are welcome to join the event Wednesday evening at Great Bay.

For further information please refer to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and/ or call 542-0897.

gacpresents2012annualreporttogarrindell25062013Philipsburg:--- The annual report 2012 of the General Audit Chamber was presented to the President of Parliament and the Governor during separate ceremonies on Tuesday June 25th 2013. Each year the General Audit Chamber is required by law (National Ordinance for the General Audit Chamber – Landsverordening Algemene Rekenkamer) to present a report of its activities of the preceding year to the Governor and the Parliament.
In addition, the report provides an overview of audits and advisory activities of the preceding year. The conduct of audits is the main task of the General Audit Chamber.
The chairperson of Parliament Ms. Gracita Arrindell met with the chairman of the General Audit Chamber, Mr. Ronald C. Halman and the Secretary-General, Mrs. Joane Dovale-Meit at her offices at the Parliament building early on Tuesday morning. Ms. Arrindell was accompanied by the acting Secretary General Ms. Nancy Joubert.
As a part of the presentation of the report, its contents were briefly reviewed. The Audit Chamber's reports are prepared to support and facilitate Parliament in carrying out its supervisory authorities related to government's budget and public expenditure.
Later on Tuesday morning, the delegation from the General Audit Chamber visited his Excellency, the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday. The Governor received the Chairman and the Secretary General of the Audit Chamber at his offices at Harbour View.
The Annual Report of the General Audit Chamber is required to be presented to the Parliament as well as the Governor prior to July 1st of each year. This report represents the third report of the General Audit Chamber since its establishment on October 10, 2010.
The report is published in both English and Dutch and is available on the website of the General Audit Chamber (www.arsxm.org).

rotaractinducts3newmembers25062013Simpson Bay:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise held their last induction for the term 2013-2014 on Sunday 23rd June 2013 at Cabana Beach & Restaurant at Royal Palm Beach Hotel. Among Rotaractors, Rotarians family and friends; 3 new members were welcomed into the Rotaract family. The new members joining the club are Jahdora Daniel, Alexi Flanders, and Jamal Washington. Special guest at the induction ceremony was ADG James C Ferris who conducted the induction proceeding while all new members were pinned by President Elisia Lake.

President Lake congratulated the 3 new members and encouraged them to be the best they can be and remember to put service above self in anything you think say or do. President Lake continued by congratulating all the current members of the club on the good deeds that they are doing in the community and with 3 new members she expects the club to keep up with the enthusiasm. She concluded by saying that we are a team and together we can make a difference. The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise has increased their membership from 22 members to 25 members. At the beginning of the Rotaract year 2012-2013, Rotaract Sunrise consisted of only 12 members and has inducted 13 members in less than a year.

The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten is a service club where four types of activities take place in varying degrees: professional development, leadership development, service projects and social activities. Together, these four areas ensure a balance program and provide important experience and opportunities for the personal development of each Rotaractor.

The Club encourages persons between the age of 18-30 to become a member of the organization and give back to your community. The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at 7pm at the Holland House Conference Room. The club's next general meeting is scheduled for Saturday 13th October 2012 and young persons are invited to attend. For more information about the club you can visit our Facebook page: "RotaractSunrise St Maarten" or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

prisonescapees23062013Philipsburg:--- The three prisoners that escaped from the prison cells located at the back of the Philipsburg Police Station are still on the loose while the officers of KPSM are in high gear trying to find the three Dominicanos who escaped on Sunday.

Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said in an invited comment on Tuesday evening that the police have intensified the search for the three escapees.

Members of the public are advised to call the police at 1721-54 22222 or 911 if they have any information on the whereabouts of the escapees.

nidaakhoury09012011GREAT BAY:--- The longlist for the Warwick Prize for Writing 2013, includes 12 writers competing for the biennial award worth £25,000, according to the British newspaper The Telegraph.

"I'm happy to share the news with readers and fans that a book published in St. Martin, Book of Sins by Nidaa Khoury, has just been nominated for the coveted Warwick Prize for Writing," said Jacqueline Sample of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

According to Reuters, the prize is "an international, cross-disciplinary award to recognize excellence in the English language in any genre or form."

Book of Sins is the first full English translation of poetry by the Palestinian/Israeli poet. The original Arabic and Hebrew translation are in the same book.

"HNP published the fine poetry of Ms. Khoury in 2011, in ways introducing her to the Caribbean and the Americas. Book of Sins became the first book by an important Middle Eastern author to be published in the Caribbean," said Sample.

The Warwick Prize list of 12 titles pits novelists and poets against non-fiction authors including a theoretical physicist and an academic psychologist. The themes range from the Australian war effort in France to opium sellers in 19th century India, stated Reuters.

"We have here books in every genre, from all around the world. The only difficulty now will be choosing a winner from among them," said one of three judges, Ian Sansom, from Britain's University of Warwick, which founded the prize.

"HNP is very happy for Nidaa Khoury and for St. Martin. Congratulations to the other authors as well. A nomination for a major award such as the Warwick Prize is for winners. It also helps HNP to introduce Book of Sins to new worlds of readers," said Sample. Book of Sins is available at Van Dorp bookstore, Amazon.com, and SPDbooks.org.

The Warwick Prize fiction nominees are British writer Julian Barnes and USA writers Amy Espeseth and Jonathan Franzen. India's Amitav Ghosh, Australian Booker-prize winner Thomas Keneally, and Israeli author Etgar Keret were also nominated.

The non-fiction and poetry nominees are Iraqi-born theoretical physicist Jim Al-Khalili, Canadian Cordelia Fine, British travel writer Robert Macfarlane, Palestinian poet Nidaa Khoury, and Britain's T.S. Eliot prize winner Alice Oswald.

HNP is the only Caribbean publisher among the group of publishers such as Penguin and Faber and Faber whose books were longlisted. The shortlist will be announced in August and the winner in late September. In addition to the monetary award, the winner will receive a short placement at the University of Warwick.

Cay Hill:--- Last week, the Server of the St. Maarten Medical Center malfunctioned due to a failure of one of the hard disks.
The hard disk that crashed contained the user files or so called 'my documents' of our employees. Backup processes of these files did not function according to expectations which resulted in a loss of information of the last year.
The affected hard disk was immediately expedited to the United States to a specialized professional laboratory in an attempt to see what could still be retrieved from the lost data but unfortunately the data could not be recovered.
While this of course represents a set back for our support and administrative departments, it is important to reassure the public at large that all medical information of patients as well as the financial accounting was in no way affected by this failure as these programs and data reside on a separate hard disk, safeguarded by its own backup processes.
No essential information pertinent to patient care has been compromised or lost.
The Minister of Health has been fully informed of the situation as has the Inspectorate of Health Care.
Our Hospital Information System is intact and the St. Maarten Medical Center as always will continue to serve our community as well as the populations of our sister islands Saba and St. Eustatius with the utmost care to the best of our abilities, always striving towards improvement.

The Sint Maarten Medical Center

swescotwilliamsmeetswithtpf24062013PM Continues to Pledge Support for the Plight of the Disabled on St. Maarten

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy call from Mr. Henri Brookson and Mr. Rudy Groman from the Top Promotions Foundation in order to update the PM on the continued Be Able Program sponsoring sports for the disabled.

Mr. Brookson explained that the Be Able Program has been starting to offer disabled tennis lessons to locals as part of its program of encouraging sports for the disabled on St. Maarten. The PM received an update on the various activities and received an invitation to the Be Able Fundraising Dinner at Izzi Restaurant on Saturday at seven. During the event a documentary video on the Wheelchair Tennis Tournament and the activities of the Be Able Program of the Top Promotions Foundation will also be premiered.

The PM also specially mentioned the positive spinoff the activities of the organization will have for the disabled persons in the community of St. Maarten, who will have the opportunity to experience the strength and special talents many disabled persons possess.

"I would like to commend the Top Promotions Foundation on the excellent job which you have been doing with regards to the disabled here on the island. Plight of the disabled is very dear to me due to the memory of two of my siblings who passed away in 2010 and 2011 because of a very rare disease which caused them to be disabled during the last part of their lives. Before they passed they were able to have a good quality of life because of the care of the Sister Basilia Center and the caregivers that work there," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

michelangelosirvania25062013Philipsburg:--- Detectives from the Landsrecherche arrested Major Michelangelo R. Sirvania who returned to work on Monday after being on sick leave for about six months to one year.

Attorney General Taco Stein told SMN News that the cases against Sirvania date back to 2011 but it was not one of the cases the Landsrecherche have on their priority list. Stein said Sirvania committed fraud when he bought at least two sets of airline tickets, while there was another case of assault against officer Sirvania. Stein refused to say where and by what means the officer in question purchased the tickets.

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that the tickets were purchased at Let's Travel with bounced checks to travel to Canada on West Jet Airlines. The source said that Sirvania bought tickets for a group of people with the bounced checks involving another airline.

Stein further explained that the suspected officer forced the Landsrecherche into action on Monday when he showed up for work because they did not want him back on the job. SMN News asked Stein if the officer in question was suspected of committing fraud twice and if there is a pending case of assault against him, why the Landsrecherche did not arrest him while he was on so called sick leave in Curacao. Stein said that the case was not a priority for the investigators who have lots of cases piled up on their desks, therefore they could not act before. "We did not want Sirvania back on the job but when he showed up for work on Monday he forced the Landsrecherche into action." SMN News asked Stein if the police management or former Minister of Justice notified the officer or placed him on suspension since there was a criminal investigation against him. Stein said he could not answer those questions because he does not know what the KPSM management and the former Minister of Justice did on the matter.

Sirvania obtained training with the Miami Dade Police Academy to be one of the community police (CPO) where he graduated but functioned for a very short period as a CPO in the Philipsburg area.

It is understood that when it became clear that Sirvania was a suspect in two sets of crimes he was removed from his position and it was then he took sick leave and left for Curacao. SMN News further learnt that Major Sirvania was trying to secure work in Curacao but for some reason he was not successful. "Sirvania wanted a transfer from KPSM to work for the Korps in Curacao but the system does not work like that. He had to leave his job on St. Maarten and then he could have applied for a job in Curacao." According to a well placed source, Curacao contacted St. Maarten and informed them that Sirvania was seeking employment with them and at no time did St. Maarten notify Curacao that Sirvania was suspected of fraud and assault and they should arrest him.

In an invited comment, Chief of Police Peter de Witte said when the airline filed a complaint against Major Sirvania he asked the Landsrecherche to conduct the investigation. De Witte said that the Landsrecherche is the one that conducted the investigation and he does not know why they did not place much priority on the investigation that involves a police officer. De Witte further stated that as soon as Sirvania was arrested on Monday he was suspended from KPSM.

9newcoastguardofficers24062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Monday afternoon nine trainees were sworn in as officers of the Coast Guard at the Royal Naval Base Parera, Curacao. They will be serving at the Coast Guard Sub Station on Sint Maarten. Representing the Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson at the ceremony was Acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice Richard Panneflek, and Head of the Coast Guard Sub Station Edison Kirindongo.

swescotwilliamsattpdrugfreeparade24062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams took part in the drug free walk organized by the Turning Point Foundation and offered encouraging words to all those present and the general public in keeping active and resisting drugs within the community. "I would like to congratulate the Turning Point Foundation and all of those present here today in coming together to encourage the community to move towards encouraging a drug free society," commented the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister also encouraged the community to stay off of drugs and to lead a healthy lifestyle. The Prime Minister, who was also joined by the Minister of Health and Social Affairs the Hon. Cornelius de Weever and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport the Hon. Patricia D. Lourens in awarding youth sports team members for their achievement in dedicating themselves to sports and staying away from drugs. The PM also congratulated the Cul-de-Sac Padres and St. James Stars Pony League Teams for winning the annual pony league trophy. In the picture Prime Minister Wescot-Williams gives a player of Cul-de-Sac Padres Pony League His Championship Medal as Minister of Eduction, Culture, Youth and Sports looks on.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindell24062013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell agrees with United Nations (UN) Secretary General (SG) Ban Ki-moon statement where countries have been encouraged to focus on the importance of good governance and efficient public administration and to celebrate the contribution of public servants to society's progress.

Ki-moon's message was delivered on Sunday, marking UN Public Service Day.

"Firstly, I fully agree with the remarks made by the UN SG especially when one looks at the political events that transpired during the month of May and the first two weeks of June.

"I agree that inter-linked challenges do require sound, forward-looking public policies and transparent, accountable governance structures. In the case of Country Sint Maarten, I would like to see further constructive debate within the community where electoral reform is concerned. This could be a project for the University of St. Martin to spearhead," President Arrindell said on Monday.

"I would like to take this opportunity to wish public servants of Country Sint Maarten a belated public service day which was observed on June 23. Our public servants have done a great job to date since we achieved country status, but there is still much to be done.

"We recently lost Corporal Welton W. Baker from the Voluntary Corps Sint Maarten, a servant in the truest form, may his soul rest in peace.

"Primary areas of focus that need to be continuously built upon in public governance are prevention of corruption; improving service delivery; promoting innovative mechanisms for citizen participation in policy-making; and advancing knowledge management in government.

"I am very proud of our civil servants! Let us continue to build an inclusive and prosperous and sustainable future for all. I continue to appeal to our nation's youth to pursue careers in the public sector because the building of country Sint Maarten will not be over in four-years or eight years, it is a continuous process of nation building and national development," President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell said on Monday afternoon.

The UN General Assembly recently elected by acclamation John William Ashe, the Permanent Representative of Antigua & Barbuda to the UN as President of its sixty-eighth session for a one-year period.

"I would like to congratulate Ambassador Ashe on this appointment by countries around the world. It is not only an achievement for Antigua & Barbuda, but for Caribbean countries and Small Island Developing States. This is definitely an indication of the UN body's confidence in the ability of Ambassador Ashe to lead the Assembly," President Hon. Gracita Arrindell observed on Monday.

Many Requests for Fire Department to Lend Expertise and Training to Surrounding Islands

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, as Minister of General Affairs tasked with Safety, received an update from the Fire Department regarding the regional activities it has been engaged in. Due to the professionalism of the Fire Department it has been requested by various neighboring islands in the region to lend its expertise. Amongst the various activities completed in the last few weeks by the Fire Department was the teaching of a course to the Fire Department of the British Virgin Islands on removing injured persons from damaged vehicles. The Fire Department also visited Anguilla to be a part of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Safety Fair where Section Head Disaster Management Paul Martens discussed mutual interests and reinforced existing relationships with Anguilla counterparts.

Also currently in preparation is a project for the interning of the Fire Chief of Montserrat on St. Maarten. The Government of Montserrat has requested that its Fire Chief be stationed on St. Maarten in order to experience the operations of the Fire Service here. The Fire Department of St. Maarten has an excellent regional reputation.

I am very pleased to know that the St. Maarten Fire Department is considered on of the most professional and effective Fire Fighting organizations in the region and just the mere fact that our officials have been requested to lend their experience and expertise to other islands and regions is evidence of this," stated the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemgivesbbz10toprizewinnertacianamarten24062013Pond Island:--- Secretary at the Sundial School, Taciana Marten, is the lucky winner of brand new Blackberry Z10 Smatphone courtesy of mobile provider TelCell and extreme party station X104.3

Taciana is one of hundreds of TelCell customers who, each day, have been taking part in an exciting Beyonce SMS Campaign.
The campaign is currently being run by TelCell in collaboration with radio station X104.3.
To enter the contest, TelCell users only have to text "Beyonce" to the short code 1043 and they are automatically registered for a chance to win a Blackberry Z10 and also become a finalist in the contest.
"Our star prize for the finalists in the X104.3 Beyonce Campaign is an all-expenses trip to attend a Beyonce LIVE concert in Miami, Florida, USA, on July 10th," said TelEm Group Marketing and Sales Officer, Cheryl Rismay.
She said the fantastic winning package includes:

  • An all expense paid getaway for (2)
  • Tickets to the "Mrs. Carter World Tour"
  • Hotel stay at the prestigious Fontainebleu
  • $1,043 Cash
  • Blackberry Z10

Cheryl says participants can enter as many times as they like.
"The more SMS's they send, the more chances they have of winning – it's as simple as that," said Cheryl while congratulating the first Blackberry Z10 Winner, Taciana Marten.
"The response from our mobile customers have been great, with hundreds of texts coming in by the hour at times," said the Marketing Officer.
Cheryl says another lucky Blackberry Z10 winner will be selected soon and she is encouraging everyone to send their SMSs in right away.

The TelCell Beyonce SMS campaign ends June 30th, and the name of the package winner will be announced soon after the closing date.

Telem Press Release

unityflaghoisted24062013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- "The St. Martin Unity Flag is flying in the area of the main border monument to salute our ancestors in this 165th year of Emancipation," said Shujah Reiph of the Emancipation Committee.

Only a few feet from the Bellevue/Union Road frontier, drivers, passengers, and pedestrians may glimpse the Unity Flag on the flagpole at the St. Jean Estate.

With the gracious permission of the property owners, the location was selected because of its proximity, further up the hill, to the rockwall over which "26 enslaved Black men, women and children from the Diamond Estate in Cole Bay had escaped from Slavery in the Dutch part of the island," said Reiph.

"Historical records show that the Diamond Estate 26, and others who ran over Marigot Hill and escaped through the freedom pass in Belvedere, took their Freedom in the French-controlled North of the island in 1848," said Reiph.

"In the French territory the Emancipation news had also been hidden from the enslaved people by the European slave owners, government, church and military officials, and other parts of the establishment in Marigot. But the declaration of Freedom couldn't be held back for long after the May 27 Emancipation date because of mounting tension," said Reiph.

According to the book National Symbols of St. Martin, anti-slavery actions by the Diamond Estate 26 and other enslaved ancestors in the Dutch part of the island were also immediately on the rise.

The governor in Philipsburg was forced to declare a process verbal, which de facto ended Slavery in 1848 in the South of St. Martin. This occurred during the same period that Slavery was abolished in the French-controlled North of St. Martin—and 15 years before emancipation was declared in the other Dutch slaveholding colonies in the Caribbean region on July 1, 1863, according to National Symbols of St. Martin.

As the Unity Flag was being hoisted last May 11, Reiph said that author Fabian Badejo conducted a touching libation. "We are honoring you, our ancestors, because of the brave stand you took, to fight against Slavery," said Badejo during the offering.

Once the flag was raised, senior educator Claudette Labega, assistant high school principal Marie Richardson, and primary school student Rajheem Meulens, read from the poem "The National Flag of St. Martin" by Charles Borromeo Hodge.

"The Unity Flag, was unveiled 23 years ago as the 'National Flag' to represent both parts of our island as one nation. It is encouraging to see the flag saluting the 165th Emancipation anniversary," said poet and independentista Lasana M. Sekou.

"The Unity Flag is a concrete symbol of the nation's historic and cultural unity. The Unity Flag is further offered as a visible symbol to keep fostering that unity between all of the St. Martin people, in the North and South. For some of us this unity banner is also in defiance of the French and Dutch colonialism that still divides our island into two territories," said Sekou.

A plaque was unveiled next to the Unity Flag at the St. Jean Estate, bearing the following lines from Hodge's poem: "Fly free, fair standard .../Singing upon the winds, fly proud and free/Uniting Sweet St. Martin's kindred flock—/One Land, one People, and one Destiny!" The complete poem is in Songs & Images of St. Martin (1997).

The ad hoc Emancipation Committee is organizing anniversary activities throughout the year. The 165th anniversary activities are centered around what the committee has identified as an "Emancipation period, which stretches from May 27 to July 1," said Reiph.

Commemorative activities by government officials in both capitals have already taken place in May or are scheduled for July 1 in the North and South respectively. "It is not clear if the official July 1 observation in Great Bay will focus on the independent stand and history made by St. Martiners in 1848, who did not wait for Dutch permission or the 1863 dictate to claim that stage of our Freedom journey," said Sekou.

"Today, our stand of honor and courage as men, women, and children should be to 'Surrender not one day of Freedom won by our Ancestors!'" said Sekou. Private organizations such as Voices Foundation are also hosting cultural activities on July 1.

wibmainbranch24062013Philipsburg:--- Media workers were given a tour of the newly renovated section of the Windward Islands Bank (WIB) and the new building that was built behind WIB on Cannegieter Street on Monday. Assistant Manager Kelvin Bloyden and Marketing Manager Ferdinand Beauperthuy guided a host of media workers inside the newly renovated building which has a number of new facilities and services for their clients. Business persons and persons that do night deposit can purchase a mailbox which is in front of the main branch to collect their mails and night deposit bags. WIB also added their night deposit box and ATMs in front of the building in order to grant their customers more security. Another huge security feature is the fact that the Brinks truck no longer has to park in front of the bank. A drive thru entrance was built in front of the Philipsburg Police Station where Brinks will drive into the bank to do their pick-ups and drop offs in a closed and secured area.

Inside of the new building there is a section called a "man trap" which is also another security feature added to the bank. Tellers are now behind bullet proof windows which are much more secure and comply with international standards. The section for customer service is also much more spacious while customers have comfortable seating space for them to wait for service. A new window was added for the elderly (60+). Entering the newly renovated WIB branch in Philipsburg is like entering a huge garden with lots of flowering plants. The walls are decorated with paintings from the local artists on St. Maarten.

The newly renovated building has four floors, each floor has its own meeting room and other facilities to accommodate the staff. Added to the new facility is a training center for the staff that works at WIB bank. WIB also took advantage of saving energy saving technology and green services as they promote clean energy and the environment. The meeting rooms on each floor have a different colors and are identified by their colors.

The bank has its own IT floor where technicians work around the clock to ensure that their services are up to par or better than what the other banks offer on the island. The contractors and management of WIB even found use for the roof of the building. On the roof they built a huge cistern in which they have water for the toilets, watering of the plants, and other needs. They also have two generators in case of power outages. Another addition to the building on the rooftop is a cafeteria section with a mini bar where WIB can hold all its events. Out there staff members can even have their lunch. A smoking section was also built for the staff in the lunch area on the roof.
Bloyden told reporters that WIB had to hire additional staff and they are still hiring more people because of the additional services they are providing to their customers. He said one of the things the bank believes in is upgrading its staff, therefore they have their training center in house which is also highly technological.

The project that WIB undertook to build more space and upgrade their facilities is a four year project. Bloyden said they are in the third year and most of the construction is completed. He said the only thing that has to be worked out is parking for their customers.

The new and renovated facility will be inaugurated on Wednesday afternoon.

Click here to view more photos of the newly renovated and additional sections of WIB.

Meet and Greet between the Civil society, Private and Public sector

Great Bay:--- In order to establish wide-scale community involvement in the development of the National Development Plan, an NDP Working Group is currently being established to ensure that the process of developing the NDP has as much input from the community as possible. Wednesday June 26th, there will be a 'meet and greet' of the different individuals and organizations from the Civil society and Public and Private sector who have shown their interest in participating in the National Development Program.

The Working Group, which will involve representatives form a wide sector of the population of the island, will have as its central mandate the inclusion of as many community stakeholders in the development of the NDP as possible. Since September 2012, the implementation of the Sint Maarten National Development Plan and Institutional Strengthening started, with a team from the Department of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations (BAK) having been mandated to set a strong foundation, empower stakeholders and strengthen internal capacities to ensure that the NDP is completed with wide-scale social inclusion.

"A work plan was developed in January 2013 and under this work-plan some activities have already taken place. In ensuring that the process of nation building and national development belongs to the people of St Maarten, the project is now at a critical stage to establish some guiding structures. One of such structures is the establishment of a National Development Plan Working Group (NDP-WG). The main purpose of the latter is to guide and coordinate the process of consultations leading to a collective vision and eventually leading to a National Development Plan for Country St. Maarten," read a BAK statement.

The NDP Working Group will be established to ensure that issues coming from the private sector, civil society groups, Government, and the wider community will form a national vision which will lead to a Draft National Development Plan. Once the Working Group has been established, it will jointly map out with the Project Team a clear structure for the community dialogues. These dialogues will be categorized into the four thematic pillars of environment, social/human development, economy and culture. Within those sectors, attention will be focused on ensuring that the views of women, youth, elderly, community leaders, students and all other essential stakeholders from within the community are taken into account. Representatives from the public, private and civil sectors will make up the membership of the NDP Working Group.

In moving forward with the inclusion of the community in the development of the NDP, the results of the recent Community Consultations are already being compiled and included in the processes moving forward. Some of the more pertinent items from the community that emerged as a result of the consultations were centered on the inclusion of as wide a section of the St. Maarten community as possible. Private individuals and representatives from organizations such as the Soualiga Social Movement, SunFed, the SMMTA and the SHTA have called for an inclusive approach in involving the Community in the development of the NDP and to establish a bottoms-up approach in listening to the voice of the public. The NDP Working Group will address specifically this issue as it works to incorporate the views from within the community.
In her statements on the NDP Prime Minister Wescot-Williams has stated that in order to launch and implement the NDP there will need to be the involvement of each and every St. Maartener: "It Does not matter whether you were born here or whether you belong here; in order to craft a vision for St. Maarten we need the input from all in making this island one of the leaders of sound democratic and people oriented governance in the region. We need the input from all sectors of society to plot the course for our economic, social, cultural and environmental development. The development for a Country which we call home, one which we all should love and cherish. I, as Prime Minister of that Country, look forward to working with all of the people of St. Maarten in making that a reality," commented the Prime Minister.
If there are individuals or organizations that are interested who have not been in contact with the TEAM NDP are invited to send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Due to the decision taken by the Inspectorate of Health on June 20th, 2013 to temporarily suspend Dr. A. Arrindell, general practitioner at the Arrindell's Medical Center N.V., SZV would like to inform the clients of Dr. A. Arrindell about the following:

a) In consultation with the Windward Islands Medical Association(WIMA) and the Sint Maarten Medical Association (SMA) from Monday June 24, 2013 until Saturday July 6th, 2013 all clients of Dr. A. Arrindell will be able to visit the following general practitioners for medical consultations without any additional costs:

1. Dr. P. Simmons
2. Dr. R. Raghosing-Sanchit
3. Dr. A.R. Raghosing
4. Dr. F., Bouman
5. Dr. H.P Deketh
6. Dr. G.C. Foeken
7. Dr. J.W.F. Bus
8. Dr. U.P. Tjaden
9. Dr. J.E. Datema
10. Dr. G.J. Spencer
11. Dr. G. van Osch
12. Dr. A. Herles

13. Dr. L. Knol
14. Dr. Zamora-Perez
15. Dr. P.A. Arrindell
16. Dr. M.A. Mercuur
17. Dr. R.A.G. Douglas
18. Dr. M.M.Y. Dennaoui

b) The clients of Dr. A. Arrindell are allowed to, outside of the regular changing period, change to another house doctor as of Tuesday June 25th, 2013. For SZV clients who are insured by ZV/OV we will take in consideration the maximum quota per doctor. For FZOG, Government workers and Government Medical assistance there is no quota.

c) According to SZV regulations it is the responsibility of Dr. A. Arrindell to ensure a proper medical replacement during the period of temporary suspension or finding a permanent solution before Saturday July 6th, 2013.

d) The SZV will keep in close contact with the Inspectorate of Health regarding this situation and will take any additional measures if necessary. This will be communicated to SZV clients before Saturday July 6th, 2013.

e) For questions please call SZV on 1-721-546-6782 or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

SZV Press Release

Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge made his position known in a diplomatic way on Monday morning when he stayed and gave his support to the newly formed Democratic Party, United People's Party, and Laville Government. Illidge said the system was tested for weeks at the expense of the people when the government of St. Maarten fell on May 6th, 2013. He also criticized the 2013 budget which he and the other Members of Parliament voted upon. Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge then expressed his support for the new government when he voted in favor of the newly elected President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell who was elected by nine votes.

Member of Parliament Petrus Leroy De Weever cemented Illidge's behavior when he said that they are nine MPs in Parliament supporting the new Government. "Yes, we know we are eight but we also have the support of MP Illidge," De Weever said. De Weever even wanted the vice chair of Parliament Romaine Laville who chaired Monday's meeting to appoint Patrick Illidge to be part of the committee that was established for the voting. Laville appointed MP Roy Marlin and MP Ruth Douglass as the voting committee but MP De Weever said he wanted Illidge to be added to the committee so it would have been a broad based committee. The chairman then read the rules of order which clearly stipulated that two members must be appointed and not three.

The Members of the National Alliance namely Rodolphe Samuel, George Pantophlet, and Hyacinth Richardson all opposed the meeting claiming that the meeting on Monday was taking place in violation of the rules of order. Samuel said that article 27 of the rules of order clearly states that meetings must be called within 14 days and the request that was submitted surpassed that time frame. Samuel further explained that meetings of Parliament cannot take place if one Member of Parliament opposed, which is clearly stated in article 89 of the rules of order. The three National Alliance Members of Parliament then left the House of Parliament after expressing their views. However, MP Lloyd Richardson who signed in to speak remained in the meeting and he too objected to the meeting going forward based on the same articles. MP Richardson also stated that he will not stall the process but he will not be participating in the meeting that was being held in violation of the rules of order.

It should be noted that what transpired on Monday during the meeting to elect the new chairman of Parliament is to give MP Romaine Laville a clear message that the UP/DP Government does not have to depend on him alone because they have a spare tire in place due to MP Patrick Illidge giving his support to the new coalition.

prisonescapees23062013Philipsburg:--- Attorney General Taco Stein who is currently off island attending justice meetings told SMN News in an invited comment on Monday that an investigation into the escape of three prisoners is now underway. Stein said those conducting the investigation are looking to see if the three prisoners got inside assistance to escape while they were being held at the prison cells located at the back of the Philipsburg Police Station.

Prosecutor Dounia Benammar said the investigation was divided into two parts, the first part is conducted by the Landsrecherche. The second part is conducted by KPSM who is trying to hunt down the escaped prisoners. Benammar also confirmed that their French counterparts were notified about the prison escapees as well as all ports of entry and exits. Up to late Monday afternoon the three prisoners were not found, Benammar confirmed.

It should be noted that the Police Department has no authority over prisoners. All prisoners even those in pre-trial detention fall under the Management of the Prison whose director is Edward Rohan. Ever since Rohan took office last year there have been a number of negative events at the Prison facilities in Pointe Blanche, Simpson Bay, and Philipsburg but each time there are such events Edward Rohan can never be reached by phone or appointment to give accountability as to what is happening under his watch.

Attorney General Taco Stein said at this moment Rohan cannot speak or talk about the case because an investigation is currently taking place.

tacostein11032013Philipsburg:--- Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed on Monday that the detectives working at the Landsrecherche are busy compiling the reports on the ORCA investigation (Bada Bing) that involves Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge. Stein said that he cannot and will not say when they will take action because that would be letting the cat out of the bag. St. Maarten's attorney general also made clear that it is the intention of the Prosecutor's office to prosecute the two suspects namely Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and Jaap van den Heuvel. "All the detectives at Landsrecherche are working on this case. The other cases were placed on the side even though they were there longer. The detectives are working around the clock and we do intend to move forward with this case."

Stein said that the prosecutor was in constant contact with the team on how they will move forward with the case. As for Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge who was seen on tape stuffing what appears to be monies in his pocket given to him as a bribe by Van den Heuvel, the prosecution has to prepare its files on MP Illidge and submit it to the Supreme Court before they can move forward with the part on MP Illidge. He said that does not have to happen for the strip club businessman Van den Heuvel because the businessman is not an elected official. Stein declined to comment on upcoming arrests.

It should be noted that when the alleged bribery scandal broke and the tape with Van den Heuvel and MP Illidge was made public, MP Illidge and Van den Heuvel said that the taping was orchestrated by the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger whose intention was to use the tape to blackmail MP Illidge. While MP Illidge and MP Romaine Laville all levied some serious and criminal accusations against the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger there have been some strange and questionable turn of events since then. The NA/DP/I-3 coalition fell on May 6th, 2013 and the two Members of Parliament who accused the UP leader are now in cahoots with him as they formed a new government. "They made allegations, filed complaints and the way they are acting is as if everything is normal again," one political pundit and legal mind told SMN News on Monday.
Several persons are questioning the new developments, some are even saying that St. Maarten is a "banana republic" and the new Minister of Justice will make the investigations against Illidge, Laville, and Heyliger disappear.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the WITU 40th Anniversary Celebration yesterday. The Prime Minister, accompanied by Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport's the Hon. Patricia Lourens, congratulated the Union and its President and the important work it has done representing teachers in the community.

I was honored to be present at WITU Office in Madame Estate as it celebrated its 40th anniversary. I, of course, would like to congratulate WITU President, Mrs. Claire Elshot, the WITU board and members on this milestone. I would like to encourage you to look back and appreciate the strides made over the years. No denying, education has come a long way, and teachers over the years have experienced many changes to the educational system, and their role as teachers have also become more complex.

"Often times the union and I have sat at opposite sides of the table, however at the end of the day, it is about the community of St. Maarten, because teachers themselves are also parents, children, and spouses. It is therefore that issues that affect the youth, the elderly, the unemployed; issues related to healthcare and other matters, also affect teachers. Hence the role of unions in social dialogue becomes critical for the positive development of our nation," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM wished the Union many more years of representing the interests of teachers on St. Maarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG JUBILEE LIBRARY BOOK SALE
Organized by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Date: Saturday, July 6, 2013
Place: Library Hall
Description: The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be having its book sale. Parents, teachers and caregivers will be able to take advantage of our huge selection of children books in hard and soft cover, to replenish their at-home collection or classroom.
Cost:
15 books $ 5.00 / NAF 8.75
Single hard cover books $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Soft covers $ 0.60 / NAF 1.00
Magazines $ 0.25 / NAF 0.50
Video & DVDS $ 1.00 / NAF 1.75
Support your local library by purchasing your favorite books, magazines, novels (fiction and non-fiction), and videos in several languages.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group's internet service was interrupted for approximately three hours Saturday causing disruption to domestic and business users.
The alarm was raised soon after 4:00pm Saturday during a routine maintenance exercise and the cutover to a new backup Universal Power Supply (UPS).
According to technical staff, key pieces of equipment, which together power the company's internet system, lost configuration when the new UPS was installed and after the older piece of equipment was taken offline.
The problem was resolved at approximately 7:00pm.
A problem remains with the full operation of the new UPS, which reportedly overheated Sunday morning, causing a minor interruption to the internet service which was quickly resolved.
TelEm Group will be liaising with the UPS suppliers overseas at the start of the business day Monday, to continue to troubleshoot the new equipment and to safeguard against any further interruptions of the TelEm Group internet network.
TelEm Group has in the meantime apologized to customers and especially businesses who could not utilize their internet service for business transactions by the close of the business day last Saturday.

Telem Press Release

genesismeyers23062013GREAT BAY:--- The "Summer Storytime with Queen Genesis Meyers" at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library is set for July 6, 2013, at 11 AM, said Nzinga Lake, organizer of the program hosted by the "Little Miss St. Martin" pageant.

Genesis Meyers, the reigning "Little Miss St. Martin," will be the youth celebrity at the free storytelling program, along with another island star, the newly published storybook, Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman.

Genesis, 12, "is busy practicing for her storytelling role, which is one of her duties as the Little Miss St. Martin queen, to promote academic excellence," said Lake.

"One way of boosting our children's learning potential and enjoyment of their island and world environment, is simply by making books an integral part of their lives at a very young age," said Lake.

"When I saw and read Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman, I knew it would be an excellent first choice for the Little Miss St. Martin Queen Genesis Meyers to read at our storytelling program, and as the first book for our planned book club for boys and girls," said Lake.

"Lizzy Lizard is creative and imaginative, it gives the readers and parents an adventurous, historical tour of our island and it has colorful characters," said Lake.

First-time author Robin Boasman will be invited to the reading as a special guest, confirmed her publisher HNP. "We are also encouraging parents, big sisters and brothers to bring their siblings, cousins, and friends to the storytelling event," said Lake.

The benefits of the storytelling program for the pageant queen is for her "to meet and greet her community and library officials; and to be involved in activities where she can express herself and gain valuable communication skills," said Lake.

"Such a program also involves Genesis at a young age with the idea and practice of giving back to her community as a positive role model. At the same time, she gets a chance to serve as an ambassador for her school, peers, family, neighborhood, and St. Maarten/St. Martin as a whole," said Lake. Genesis is a St. Dominic High School student.

prisonescapees23062013Philipsburg:--- Three prisoners that were being held at the prison section of the Philipsburg Police Station escaped on Sunday afternoon. Prosecutor Dounia Benammar confirmed that three prisoners that were in custody escaped on Sunday. Benammar refused to release the names of the escapees claiming that an investigation is underway. Questions are now being raised as to how three prisoners managed to escape from the Prison cells located next to the Philipsburg Police Station. "Was this an inside job, are there people working at the Philipsburg Police Station involved in assisting the escapees to run away and what is the big secret about all of this?" It should be noted that the Minister of Justice Dennis Richardson, Chief of Police Peter de Witte, Attorney General Taco Stein, and General Secretary of Justice Richard Panneflek are all off island attending meetings relating to justice.

Director of the Prisons Edward Rohan could not be reached by phone for a comment on Sunday afternoon.

Three Escape from Philipsburg Police Station Prison Section.

Philipsburg:--- On Sunday June 23rd at around 5:00pm, the Police Central Dispatch received a phone call from the prison section of the Philipsburg Police Station informing them that three prisoners had escaped. The prisoners in question at the time of their escape were locked in the open-air recreational area of the prison. While in that section these prisoners got the opportunity to escape via the roof. The prisoners in question are:

SXM4613 SOBIESKY MANUEL PARRONDO, born in the Dominican Republic on November 4th, 1987 and residing at Rue de Sandy Ground # 8. Suspected of murder.

SXM4632 CARLOS MIQUEL OLIVIER-RUIZ, born in the Dominican Republic on February 1st, 1984, wanted for drug trafficking.

SXM4633 MARCO DAVID SANTANA-GUERERO, born on the Dominican Republic on April 25th, 1984, wanted for drug trafficking

These suspects are considered armed and extremely dangerous.

The House of Detention and Police Department are asking the general public to help in the investigation to recapture these three armed and very dangerous persons. Any one who may have any information that can assist in recapturing of these suspects should call the police department at 54-22222 or 911.

KPSM Police Report

franklinrichardsbriefsvnprepgertverluis23062013Tank, water plant constructions on schedule

SIMPSON BAY:--- At the initiative of the office of the representation of the Netherlands in Philipsburg, Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten) on June 10 last provided an informative tour of its Cay Bay water plant to Mr. Gert Verluis, representative of the Netherlands in Philipsburg.

Seven Seas Water St. Maarten managing director Franklyn Richards, the company's regional operations manager Eric Borgdorff and assistant operations manager, Mr. Lester Bryan, (not in photo) briefed the Dutch government official on, among others, the operations of the plant and the construction of new water tanks in Point Blanche.

Richards said that hosting the visit by Mr. Verluis fits right into the company's efforts to maintain public and private sectors as well as stakeholder third parties informed of the company's initiatives and operations. "Such briefings are essential to additionally show our commitment to the further development of St. Maarten", he added.

Seven Seas Water provides water and waste-water treatment services for municipal, industrial, and private clients throughout the Greater Caribbean and the Americas with a compliment of technologies for desalination, water re-use, and high purity water treatment.

One of the fastest growing privately owned water companies in the market, Seven Seas Water, has formed several successful Private-Public-Partnerships (PPP) through the Build Own Operate Transfer (BOOT) model in the Caribbean. Among these is the partnership with the St. Maarten Government and water and electricity company, GEBE.

Seven Seas Water is looking forward to the addition of two new desalination plants and water tanks to be built in Point Blanche.

Completion of the first plant is foreseen before the end of the year. The second plant will be built in 2016. Each plant is designed for a maximum production of 3700 m3 per day.

Production of drinking water will start once feed water is supplied to the plant. The design of the seawater intake and feed water supply system is in an advanced stage.

In August of last year, a three way agreement between Government, GEBE and Air-Fin /Seven Seas Water was signed specifying detailed arrangements of the supply, installation, commissioning, operation and ownership of two water tanks.

The tanks will serve as reservoir for the water produced by the two new seawater reverse osmosis plants. Both tanks will be integrated in the distribution system of GEBE to supply drinking water to the community. Each tank has a capacity of 3000 m3.

judicialfourpartyconsultationinaruba23062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson joined his colleagues from the Netherlands, Curacao and Aruba in Oranjestad, Aruba for the Judicial Four-Party Consultation last Friday, to discuss judicial matters within the Kingdom such as police cooperation, prison system and the coast guard.

Ministers expect to receive the judicial multi-year policy plan 2014-2017 in December. The Ministers would like to meet with the Dutch Minister of Defense with respect to the Coast Guard's participation in certain aspects of the judicial policy plan.

In matters related to Police Affairs, discussions centered on application requirements to become a police officer; training of police officers; Detective Joint Cooperation Team 2012 Annual Report; Financial Annual Report 2012; Year Plan 2013; 2013 Budget; Prison System; and cooperation in the use of technical investigative methods.

The four Ministers have agreed to have the Attorney Generals carry out a study for joint cooperation in using existing operational methods to fight organized crime. Their findings should be ready mid-November for discussion at the December consultation.

Also discussed during the Friday meeting were: immigration matters; DNA profile cooperation; judicial assistance procedures; Common Court of Justice; Budget 2014; and Public Prosecutors Office of Curacao, Sint Maarten and Caribbean Netherlands.

During the consultation, the ministers acknowledged the excellent cooperation and work carried out by the National Detectives (RST).

The next Judicial Four-Party Consultation is to be held in December 2013 under the chairmanship of Sint Maarten's Minister of Justice.

Representing the Netherlands was Minister of Security and Justice Hon. Ivo Opstelten, Curacao Minister of Justice Hon. Nelson Navarro, and Aruba Minister of Justice Hon. Arthur Dowers.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry of VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says based on an initial assessment during his first week on the job at the Ministry of VROMI, he has requested a thorough overview of decisions taken within the Ministry over a period of three to six months (January to June 2013) as well as an assessment of actions, in order for him to have an idea of the current state of affairs within Ministry.

Minister Lake added that the assessment he has called for does not delay in anyway his action plan that he has implemented since being sworn in to deal with the pertinent infrastructural issues, and moving forward for the mid to long-term improvement in the quality of life of the people of Sint Maarten.

"Certain things have transpired which are very questionable and I need to have an assessment of what instructions were given, by whom, when and why. These instructions should have a legal basis, an advice for example, so when questions pop up they can be measured under the rules of good governance.

"As Minister, I don't want to be caught up into any discrepancy's or illegal acts that have transpired. I have to ensure that the principles of the public good have been adhered too.

"For example, on the day the new council of Ministers was sworn in, in the night of Friday, June 14, it is alleged that 37 truckloads of milled asphalt was transported from property near the airport to locations unknown to the Ministry of VROMI.

"Who gave the instruction within Ministry VROMI to truck the asphalt to places unknown? According to an agreement with the Airport PJIAE, the Ministry of VROMI in collaboration with the Contractor would handle the transportation. The contractor after a preliminary investigation says he wasn't aware that the aforementioned – trucking - took place.

"If the milled asphalt was intended for government use, why was it not trucked to the public works yard? The community is well aware of the scandal involving the trucking of sand from the harbour which was then dumped illegally into the Salt Pond.

"I want transparency with respect to the decision-making process in decisions that were taken during the past three to six months in order to ensure that they can stand up to the principles of good governance should an audit be carried out by one of the Councils of High State," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.

Minister Lake has also asked for an overview of decisions taken regarding government land (location; date of request; date issued; name of recipient of government land; copy of decision signed by former Minister of VROMI allocating the land).

A compilation of all contracts approved by the former Minister of VROMI from January 2013 to June 2013; a list of all persons hired within the Ministry from April 2013 to June 2013 along with positions, salaries and duration of employment; and a list of all appointed board members to public entities.

"I am here for approximately a year and a couple of months. I need transparency on what has been done in order to be able to answer if questioned by a High Council of State or Parliament with respect to what transpired at the Ministry of VROMI.

"The appointment of board members has to go through corporate governance procedures. This is also an area of possible discrepancies. These types of actions damages the integrity of the country and sends a bad message to our young people," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake concluded.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary public session of Parliament is scheduled for June 24 regarding the position of the Chairman of Parliament.

The Plenary Session will be held on Monday, June 24 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting has been requested by Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Sylvia Meyers, Interim Faction Leader of the United People's party, MP Hon. Roy Marlin, Faction Leader of the Democratic Party, and Independent MP Hon. Romain Laville.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

swescotwilliamsatlionsstudentsexcellenceawards23062013Don't be afraid to strive towards excellence

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams honored students of various schools who excelled in their academic career at the 2013 Lions Students Excellence Awards on Thursday Evening. During her message to those present the Prime Minister congratulated the Lions Club on keeping up the tradition of singling out students who excelled in their academics. I would like to thank the Lions Club for showing this appreciation to the student of St. Maarten for the hard work that they have been doing. I would also of course like to congratulate the parents, family and friends for coming out to support the young recipients of the awards. To the students I would like to say that I hope with this recognition that all of your efforts and hard work has paid off and that you should continue doing the excellent work that you do," commented the Prime Minister.

"It is good to see again these students who not only excel in school but who also excel in various other activities. These students not only excel in education but also outside of that. To the parents I would like to thank you; it is about encouraging your children and I know for many parents it is not easy but I am encouraging you to continue in supporting these excellent role models in meaning so much to this community," emphasized the PM

The Prime Minister continued by telling the students that in today's world it is easy to feel like the odd-one. "It is students like yourself which make all of the difference. I know that in today's world you might be sometimes called a nerd or similar names by some of your peers because of your dedication, but I would like to encourage you that you are on the right track and that you should stand up and be what you are and don't be afraid to strive towards excellence. So stay focused and continue to strive towards excellence," ended the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Sucker Garden:--- On Friday June 21 at approximately 4:00am, police patrols were sent in the vicinity of Sucker Garden Road #179 where the caller reported hearing several shots fired. On the scene, the patrols did not encounter anyone or any signs of shots been fired. At around 7:00am, a man with the initials M.C.E.O. called the police informing them that he noticed that there were bullets holes in a window at the side of his home and one on a door of his house. The Detective and Forensic department were mobilized to investigate what had happened. During their investigation two spent bullet shells were found. The detective department is still investigating this case, to find out who is responsible for this shooting and why.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsatpjlevent23062013Philipsburg:--- During a recent event at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams emphasized the importance of reading to the development of both the youth in particular but of St. Maarten in general.

"I remember an event at the library several years ago during which it was emphasized how important reading is. At that event I highlighted the fact that as a young girl growing up on Aruba my mother used to be a cleaner at a very large school and when I used to accompany her I would go into the different classrooms and read through the books in a secluded corner. When my mother went to look for me she would know exactly where to find me and knew exactly what I was doing, being engrossed in various types of books and until today I still have this love of reading, reading for the sake and love of knowledge and that is something that will remain with me.

"It is therefore good to see new developments moving ahead in the access we give to books to especially to our youth, for example with the recent launching of the e-book section of the library. There is now no excuse for reading, whether it is from a physical book or whether it is accessing books through the use of e-readers and I commend the library, our bastion of books if you will, for their contribution to reading on St. Maarten. I would like to encourage our population to read and to gain knowledge and to become critical thinkers with regards to the knowledge that is out there. We are again building our Nation block by block and step by step, and reading and access to knowledge is an important component of this," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Says Plans for Having National Integrity Assessment Carried out by Integrity International For St. Maarten Moving Forward

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented recently that she looked forward to receiving the feedback from the SHTA Annual General Meeting that had as its main topic Electoral Reform and Good Governance. "I was at the beginning part of the SHA meeting and due it starting late I unfortunately had to leave early to attend a prior engagement at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library. Again I was very much looking forward to listening to the discussions and in particular the presentation of Alma Rocio Balcazar from Transparency International as I have been in close contact with that organization in order to have a National Integrity Assessment Carried out for St. Maarten. This assessment can be considered a baseline study in terms of integrity of not only Government but also of the private sector across the board.

"I believe that as country St. Maarten we have ensured as much as possible the necessary checks and balances especially where Government Operations are concerned with the Constitutional Court and the Ombudsman being an integral part of this. There is so much talk out there about corruption and in order for us to address it people need to know they can go somewhere and speak about these things," emphasized the PM.

"A National Integrity System assessment evaluates the principal institutions and actors that form a state, including all branches of government, the media, the public and private sectors, and civil society. The purpose of such a study is to identify the risk factors in a given country that foster corruption as well as medium and long-term solutions to help reduce those risks.

No matter how overt and obvious its consequences are for society, corruption is a crime that prefers to remain covert and concealed. It can take root in many areas of a society, whether in government or law enforcement, or among other actors like the media, business, political parties and so on."

The National Integrity System evaluates key 'pillars' in a country's governance system, both in terms of their internal corruption risks and their contribution to fighting corruption in society at large.

The pillars analyzed in a National Integrity System assessment typically include: the legislative branch of government, the executive branch of government, the Judiciary, the Public sector, Law enforcement, Electoral management body, the Ombudsman, the Audit institution, Anti-corruption agencies, Political parties, the Media, Civil society, and Business.

"We are now working closely with Transparency International to find ways to cover the costs associated with such an assessment as Government can not be involved in that aspect. We are moving forward in those discussions and I look forward to the National Integrity Assessment being carried out.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Budget Primary Priority

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave an explanation to the listening public on her weekly radio show One on One with the PM on Pearl FM regarding the first week of the new Council of Ministers.

"None of the Ministers are new to Government and have a background our expertise in Government and all of them Hit the Ground Running, which is important in terms of continuing Government especially after somewhat of a stagnation due to the political developments of the weeks past," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister explained that several logistical items were discussed during the first Council of Minister's Meeting but that the Financial State of the Country was the foremost agenda point: "We dealt with several logistical issues and a few other matters but the heavy pending items will take place in the next coming weeks, however we did discuss the Budget and Minister of Finance the Honorable Martinus Hassink has been in constant and intense consultation with the CFT regarding going forward with the Budget. It is critical to the functioning of the Ministers and Ministries that the current financial limitations of Government are taken into consideration and discussions surrounding this and receiving updates in this regards are extremely important."

The PM also explained that Parliament has directed some central points for Government to handle including tax reform, the reorganization for the Ministry of Justice; the Social Development of St. Maarten, Electoral Reform and the National Health Insurance. "Especially regarding Electoral Reform and the National Health Insurance much work needs to be done. I would like to see some form of electoral reform in place by the next elections and to see significant steps forward in the National Health Insurance so that everyone on St. Maarten has basic medical coverage," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

shootingfillin11102012French Quarter:--- A national of St. Kitts known in the French Quarter community as David Mathew was shot around 7pm Saturday night in the vicinity of French Quarter Ball Field. The victim was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital in critical condition. According to residents of French Quarter, the victim is no stranger to the community. Some eyewitnesses said that the Gendarmes covered the ball field Saturday evening in search of the bullets that were fired at the victim. Close friends of the victim said the suspect fired three shots at David Mathew but he was hit once and not three times as being speculated. They said the victim walked from the location where he was shot and fell down by the Post Office in French Quarter where he was picked up by the ambulance personnel and taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital.

They said David has a tattoo on his cheek with the words "Fuck The World". Some residents said the young man is known to be troublesome but felt that the shooting among the nationals of St. Kitts residing in French Quarter is becoming too frequent and too much for the community. Some residents who spoke to SMN News on the condition of anonymity said that the shootings started in April over a woman. "Two people were shot one night, one of the victims was a woman and had to be air evacuated for further treatment." The residents who were obviously angry said after that two men, one looking like a Rasta sprayed bullets on a vehicle parked in the Barry's yard while a young man identified as Christophe Mac Quillkin had to run for his life. Two weeks ago a Rasta looking Kittitian identified as Odelmo Williams was shot next to Suki's Supermarket. So far the Gendarmes have not arrested anyone for the shootings that took place recently in French Quarter. Several phone calls made to the Captain and Commandant of the Gendarmerie on Sunday for information regarding the most recent shooting went unanswered. SMN News also tried to contact the French Prosecutor Flavien Noailles but he too could not be reached by telephone.

According to residents and eyewitnesses, the suspect is also well known in French Quarter, he originates from the Dominican Republic and is known to be very quiet. He was identified as "Chino". "We all know Chino, this guy is really quiet and is always playing his music. Nobody understands what happened Saturday night but it's time for the Gendarmes to place some focus and solve crimes in the areas where locals live. Some weeks ago one of their informants was shot when two young men tried to steal his scooter and while he was not killed and the thieves did not manage to steal his scooter, one of the suspects got two years for attempting to steal a scooter while the main suspect that shot at the director of the service Renseignements Generaux Serge Salvado is still at large. Salvado was shot on May 29th, 2013 and already the accomplice is behind bars. We need to know when the Gendarmes will find the gang members or the perpetrators that are shooting each other in French Quarter."

sxmrepsatcsaconferenceingrenada21062013St. George's, GRENADA:--- At the recent 38th annual conference of the Caribbean Studies Association (CSA) in Grenada, Sint Maarten was represented by two officials working on Sint Maarten's development; Arjen Alberts of the Social Economic Council (SER) and Okama Ekpe Brook of the National Development Plan team respectively.
At the conference, entitled "Caribbean Spaces and Institutions: Contesting Paradigms for Development in the 21st Century", running from June 3rd to 7th, the call was unanimous amongst the over 500 participants. Conversations centered around new paradigms for development of Caribbean spaces and institutions. The participants ranged from professors, PhD candidates, deans and faculty, researchers and activists from the public, private and civil society fields. They came from Caribbean, Europe, North and South America, Africa, all to discuss issues relevant to the future development of the Caribbean. Earlier installments of the CSA annual conference took place in Curaçao three times, most recently in 2011, and once in Sint Maarten/Saint Martin in 2001.
The Sint Maarten delegation consisted of Arjen Alberts and Okama Ekpe Brook. Alberts' presentation focused on the nature of the socio-economic development of Sint Maarten compared to that of Aruba over the past three decades, addressing questions of economic growth, immigration and labor productivity respectively. For the future socio-economic development of Sint Maarten, an analysis of labor productivity trends and the question of increasing value added in our most crucial industry is crucial. The comparison to Aruba stems from the fact that both islands, compared to other Dutch and Caribbean territories, are most reliant on tourism in a single-pillar economy, while Aruba started its separate constitutional development roughly 25 years before Sint Maarten. This provided a very useful case for comparative analysis. Alberts' presentation is part of a PhD research project in development studies at the University of Amsterdam facilitated by the Social Economic Council.
Brook chaired a panel on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and also made a presentation. Her presentation focused on measures currently being undertaken by Sint Maarten to provide regional leadership in sustainable development through drafting a National Development Plan. The goal is to use democratic dialogue, a balance between bottom up and top down approach to arrive at a collective national vision and subsequently a plan for Sint Maarten. This model has been successfully applied in other countries by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the past. Sint Maarten is currently the only island in the Dutch Caribbean utilizing this approach to arrive at a national plan. A national development plan is a long term guiding tool that plots the future direction of a country. It provides a framework for all the stakeholders in society to jointly work together to ensure the well-being of a society that seeks a balance between the economic, social, environmental and cultural perspectives. Developing such a plan, as well as its later successful implementation, requires a strong public private partnership between the policy makers, the business and community leaders, academic researchers, media and people with the interest of the country at heart.
Next to the Sint Maarten contributions, of particular interest were experiences garnered from presenters from the Dutch Caribbean region; an Aruban presentation on Alternative Dispute Resolution and Conflict Mediation, and a contribution from Curaçao, with video as a tool for activism. Furthermore, in one of the plenary sessions Francio Guadeloupe, formerly of the University of St. Martin and currently PhD candidate at the University of Amsterdam, lectured on the work of Caribbean author Gordon K. Lewis.
The CSA has been organizing its annual conference since 1975. It is a multi-cultural association that promotes a multi-lingual environment for delegates who participate in its conference hosted annually in different linguistic spaces. For more information: http://www.caribbeanstudiesassociation.org.

caribbeanautoandmotorworldfanpages21062013Cole Bay:--- Caribbean Auto and Motorworld believe in innovation and strive to inform the clients in any way possible.
On both Facebook pages you will be able to acquire information about Motorworld and Caribbean Auto, be intrigued by various specials the companies are offering, learn about the assortment of brands and models and the prestigious awards that they are accumulating, and read about events and sponsorships that the companies participated in. Various specials and coupons will only be offered to customers who LIKE the Facebook pages.
LIKE Caribbean Auto's and Motorworld's Facebook page and be captivated by the information that is offered. https://www.facebook.com/caribbeanautosxm - https://www.facebook.com/mwsxm.
Caribbean Auto is the car dealer for the brands Ford, Volkswagen, Mazda, Land Rover, Mercedes- Benz and Lincoln for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Caribbean Auto showroom which is located on Union road, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tell 1-721-544-5211 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Motorworld was voted "The Best Auto Dealer" on St. Maarten by the public of St. Maarten. Motorworld is the car dealer for the brands Hyundai, Honda, Daihatsu, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Motorworld showroom which is located on Welfare rd #20, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tel 1-721-544-5294 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Motorworld Press Release

swescotwilliamswithgovernmentlawscoursegraduates21062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams presented some two-dozen civil servants with their certificates of completion of the recently completed Government laws course organized by the Department of Legal Affairs. "I was here when the program got started and we all were quite excited that the possibility was there for you to attend this course, bringing you up to speed on the various legal items with regards to Government. I am extremely pleased that you all have completed the course and I want to say congratulations. You all know how I feel about education in general and of civil servants more specifically and I believe that if you continue to pursue your individual goals in terms of education and training you are elevating the entire government apparatus. This is not the end and I ensure that other opportunities will present themselves for further training," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- Based on a thorough evaluation of complaints received, her performance as a GP and indications received with regard to her health, the Inspectorate is of the opinion that it is not longer responsible to have Mrs. Angelica Arrindell continue her practice, established at Madame Estate Health Care Center Rembrandplein Unit 4, as a medical doctor for the time being.
Based on the national ordinance "LV Inspectie (PB 2003 no 8 art. 2 and 11)", the Inspectorate is the authority tasked with the supervision of and enforcement in the health care sector.
The Inspectorate has decided to temporarily suspend all activities as a medical doctor by Mrs. Arrindell as of Monday June 24th, 2013 until further notice. This suspension will be re-evaluated after the Inspectorate has received more information on her health status.
Dr. Arrindell is allowed to make the necessary arrangements with a qualified replacement physician to provide continuity of care to her patients for the duration of the suspension. She has to make this known to her patients by a press release and at her office location.
If she can't arrange for qualified replacement, she must notify the Inspectorate and all health insurance companies immediately. It is then up to the insurance companies to take the necessary steps to ensure continuity of care to their clients.

Press Release from Health Inspectorate

San Pedro, Belize:--- Over 20 senior-level cruise executives traveled to Belize to meet with a congregation of FCCA Platinum Members during the FCCA PAMAC Platinum Event. Taking place from June 19-21, the event featured numerous meetings and functions to foster business relationship building; promotion of members' products and destinations; discussion of industry trends; idea brainstorming; and much more between some of the key decision makers throughout the cruise lines and crucial stakeholders from the destinations.

One of the most important proceedings was the PAMAC Meeting, where the latest developments and issues in the industry or any topic/question offered by the members were discussed by an expert panel in order to stay informed on all of the most recent trends and how to best actualize the knowledge gained.

Also featured were one-on-one meetings with cruise executives selected by the members, which let members promote and pitch their products to cruise executives that decide what to offer onboard and which ports to include for current and future itinerary development. The meetings also offered the executives' insight and any necessary input to make a viable business model that coincides with the cruise industry's standards and requirements.

Receptions and organized dinners further fostered the relationships between the members and executives, while allowing for more opportunities to learn from each other.

The FCCA is proud to offer these events for its members to develop their businesses; cultivate ideas; and establish mutually beneficial relationships with some of the most prominent figures and decision makers throughout the industry.

Philipsburg:--- The University of St. Martin Admissions Office is reminding all current applicants and those interested in applying to the University degree programs of the upcoming July 8 deadline.

Applicants are asked to request transcripts from their high schools before they close for the summer break. Along with the official transcripts, applicants must complete the USM application form, $25 application fee, submit official high school diplomas, exam results, 2 passport pictures, affidavit of financial support, copy of passport and proof of residency.

All applicants entering USM for the first time are required to sit the university placement tests which are scheduled for July 25 & 26.

The University of St. Martin offers the Associate of Arts degrees in Business and General Liberal Arts, Associate of Applied Science degrees in Hospitality & Tourism Management and Business Information Management, Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Bachelor of Arts in International Business and Management Studies, Facility Management and a Bachelor of Applied Electrical Electronic Engineering.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development, and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake will sign the building permit necessary to start construction of 24 senior citizens homes early next week.

All relevant paper work is being prepared by Ministry VROMI. Ground breaking will take place in mid-July and 12 additional senior homes will be built right after.

One of the Minister's top priorities is to start this project for the senior citizens who he considers the backbone of the country. "I have a very special place in my heart for our senior citizens which have worked so hard to make us what we are today as a society.

"I will be working very closely with the other Minister's to see what other services we can offer to our senior citizens," Minister Maurice Lake disclosed on Friday.

Minister Lake's vision for this year is the building of affordable housing for senior citizens in Belvedere as well as homes in Upper Princess Quarter and Foga, therefore also allowing young professionals and single mothers to acquire their first home.
The acquisition of land to build more homes is also on the Minster's priority list.

"These housing priorities are built on the vision of the United People's (UP) party and its leader Theo Heyliger for the further improvement in the quality of life for the people of this country.

"These housing projects will not only have the end results of better living conditions and opportunities for home ownership, but the projects will help to jolt our fledgling economy with the creation of construction jobs, the spin-off of which will be felt throughout the community," Minister of VROMI Hon. Maurice Lake pointed out.

Minister Lake said the housing projects will take into consideration the suggestion of Democratic Party Member of Parliament Hon. Leroy de Weever to introduce soft loans to help our people purchase a home through the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation.

"As Minister, I fully support the 'lease to own program' for homes for the Upper Princess Quarter and Foga Housing projects which will be executed within these coming months," Minister Lake concluded.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The St. Maarten Ambulance Department received a congratulatory message from Worldwide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Leadership Staff organization in connection with EMS Week.

The message reads: "We want to take the time to say Congratulations to all the EMS health providers for all that you do in keeping the island of St. Maarten safe.

"EMS is no easy task and it takes committed individuals to participate in this important lifesaving career. As partners assisting with your educational endeavors, we want to recognize your untiring efforts during this special week," the message read from James Vines Jr., Vice President.

Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson said on Thursday that the department works in partnership with Worldwide EMS Leadership Staff who works in conjunction with Howard University Hospital Outreach Program with respect to the training and upgrading of the credentials of ambulance personnel.

The theme for EMS Week 2013 is "EMS One Mission, One Team."

mauricelakewithtopsicemployees20062013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake on Thursday in St. Peters awarded a trench cleaning project to TOPSIC Company owned by Edwin Hodge. The project entails the cleaning of trenches in the St. Peters area in preparation for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.

swescotwilliamsatwomenwithpurposeglobalsummit20062013Philipsburg:--- During the Women with Purpose Global Summit currently being held on St. Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla, and St. Barths the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams encouraged all women to realize their full potential and to recognize their purpose in life; "You are here with a purpose and that purpose is to contribute both to our own personal growth and that of the community around us," stated the Prime Minister.

The PM also had the opportunity to enlighten the summit of very powerful and influential women on what it means to be involved in a strenuous political career, and how one measures power as a woman; "How do we measure our power as women? With a sharp mind and inner and outer beauty that reflects peace from within. There are women who make a difference and who can improve their surroundings just by showing up and I urge you to be one of those women. There are women who change the world everyday like each and every one of you. Our island has a fascinating history and has been shaped continuously be the efforts of strong women, as can be exemplified by the traditional name for the island Oualichi: Land of Strong Women.

"I was born on St. Maarten to an Anguillan mother who had to travel due to her being a domestic worker. The women of Anguilla and St. Maarten were and are the rock and the pillar of the land and I encourage you to break out that power from within: it is our light and not our darkness that makes us shine.

"My country St. Maarten; a young nation is only being recently exposed to the stages of democracy and we have since 101010. How do you measure power in a broad sphere such as politics? I measure my influence through being true to myself and keeping my feet on the ground. Always remain true to yourselves and what it is that you stand for. We should have the desire and passion to change the world for ourselves," encouraged the PM.

The Women With Purpose Global Summit is a five day gathering of multi-cultural women who represent the accomplished professional who has achieved at the highest levels, the business-savvy woman who is looking for what's next, and women with a passion for professional growth and personal development. At the highest level, this Summit encompasses industry experts, media giants and 300 professional women from various professions from around the globe.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

patricialourensatpjlebooklaunch20062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens was on-hand at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library on Thursday evening for the launch of E-Books.

Minister Lourens said: It must seem odd in this day of iPods and Smartphones to celebrate the book, a technology many people think is already out-of-date. But, the book has been transformed into the E-Book. The electronic access via the E-Book service being launched today is the result of the library staff and board keeping pace with the continuing evolution of library facilities.

swescotwilliamsholdsfitnesswalkandzumbasession20062013Simpson Bay:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a specially organized fitness session for attendants of the Women with Purpose Global Symposium on Thursday Morning. The session included a fitness walk from Mullet Bay to Blue Mall and back followed by a special Zumba event. The Prime Minister has taken the lead in the community in encouraging all to focus on health and fitness through exercise and better eating habits as part of her U 2 Can Move campaign.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

POINT BLANCHE:--- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo congratulates the country's first responders on their Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week of activities under the banner, 'EMS, One Mission One Team'.

"The Port of St. Maarten has in the past called on the services of the EMS to provide lifesaving assistance to cruise passengers, and we recognize them for the dedicated efforts to serve the citizens and our visitors," CEO Mark Mingo pointed out on Thursday.

Mingo said he would also like to see large scale calamity exercises carried out on an annual basis in order to further enhance the response and coordination of first responders in the event of an actual disaster.

"We appreciate the importance of EMS service in our community. When an emergency call is made the Ambulance responds to what may be a life-threatening situation. It is only then that many truly value the skills and training of these professionals and understand their relevant role within our community.

"It is great to know that we are being served by a group who are dedicated to providing the highest level of care," CEO Mark Mingo said on Thursday.

The Port of St. Maarten has developed a strategic partnership with the Police Force of St. Maarten and CEO Mingo is also looking forward to developing a similar relationship with the Ambulance Department.

ydpcustomerserviceworkshopceremony20062013Great Bay:--- Twenty youngsters enrolled in the Youth Development Program (YDP) have completed a customer service training facilitated by the Training and Development Center known as TDC. A certificate ceremony to commemorate the successful completion of the training was held on June 17th, 2013 at the TDC Center.

The workshop consisted of two full day sessions and focused on topics such as communication, telephone skills, presentation and etiquette. The training was instructed by David McGregor of TDC. For successful completion; the students needed to attend all the sessions, interact and actively participate in the sessions as well as complete assignments. Students following the training are enrolled in the YDP main program and are following the Front Desk Representative or Bartender/Restaurant Server course. In order to successfully complete the course, the student must complete a 90 Day traineeship. The customer service workshop aimed to train the students on how to effectively deal with customers which is a vital part of their traineeship.

St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program that aims to train youngsters between the ages of 18 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. The program is executed by the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs and is fully funded by USONA. For further information about the Youth Development Program, please feel free to call 543-0497 or email the team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also visit the SBO Service Center located upstairs Carl and Sons on the Pondfill for more info.

SIMPSON BAY, ST. MAARTEN:--- Island 92 Radio today announced a FREE concert event on Saturday, July 6th, at Mary's Boon Beach Resort, featuring '80's New Wave tribute band "A Flock Of Singulls". The band is headed up by 80's icon "A Flock Of Seagulls" drummer Michael Brahm. The beach party starts at 12 NOON. The concert and will feature all the BIG '80's New Wave hits by groups such as: Duran Duran, Simple Minds, New Order, INXS, Depeche Mode, The Fixx, Tears For Fears, A Flock Of Seagulls, and many more.

The sponsors for this landmark event are: UTS/Chippie, Budweiser, Mary's Boon Beach Resort, U Save Car Rental, Satori Beach Bar & Lounge, Panlaan-Thai on the Bay, and Island 92.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- As part of its annual Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, a motorcade of first responders (fire, police, EMS, Red Cross, Voluntary Korps Sint Maarten) will take place on Friday at 6:00pm.

The theme for EMS Week 2013 is "EMS One Mission, One Team."

According to Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson, the motorcade will start at the Fire and Ambulance Building in Cay Hill and then follow the route: Welgelegen Road; A.J.C. Brouwers Road; Cole Bay Hill; Welfare Road; Simpson Bay Bridge; Airport Road, Maho Round-a-bout; Airport Road; Simpson Bay Bridge; Welfare Road; Cole Bay Hill, Link 2; Welgelegen Road; and ending at the Fire & Ambulance Building in Cay Hill.

The last activity to close off EMS Week 2013 is a Celebration for staff and invited guests on Friday evening at the Ambulance Cay Hill Station. There will be a karaoke show and the recognition of two members of staff.

EMS is an emergency service dedicated to providing out-of-hospital acute medical care to patients with illnesses and injuries which prevent the patient from transporting themselves.

For medical emergencies call 912.

economicaffairsmeetingwithnotaries19062013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication (TEATT) held a meeting with the three notary office regarding the implementation of the new digital filing of business licenses.

The notaries and their office personnel were given a presentation on the proposed online registration of business licenses. In the session, participants gave their responses about the new planned system.

The benefits of the online registration are multiple, from a faster and more efficient application to more transparency and accountability.

The Ministry has had meetings with other stakeholders: such as the Chamber of Commerce, the immigration dept (IND), the tax Department, etc. in order to show the presentation, have discussions so as to improve the registration/application process.

All the above-mentioned entities will have access to the system and it is the intention that they work with the system to speed up the process of processing and issuing business licenses.

drkarenpolsonmeetswithdartreps19062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Dr. Karen Polson, Entomologist/Parasitologist for the Mosquito Control Program of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), on Tuesday met with members of the country's Dengue Action Response Team (DART) at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour conference room.

Integrated Management Strategy for Dengue Prevention and Control and the Memorandum of Understanding between the local government and private agencies to ensure timely response of information, treatment and elimination of breeding sites, was thoroughly discussed.

emslectureatsisterreginaschool19062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Emergency Medical Services (EMS), as part of EMS Week under the, "EMS One Mission One Team," on Wednesday visited the Sister Regina Primary School in Simpson Bay where they gave a 90 minute presentation to the school children who were eagerly to learn more about the emergency medical service.

emcmeeting19062013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- On Monday, June 18, the Economic Monitoring Committee (EMC) held its quarterly meeting to review the current developments in the economy of the first quarter of 2013 and the forecast for 2013.

The presentation covered the latest statistical information on vital economic numbers/indicators, i.e. Gross Domestic Product, Turn Over Tax, Tourism, Government Revenue, Social Development, Tourism marketing analysis, among other relevant factors/topics.

The EMC consists of private and public sectors: the SHTA, Chamber of Commerce, Marine Industry Association, Timeshare Association; and the Departments of Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication, the Labor Affairs, Statistics and Tourism.

markmingowithtropicalshippingmanagement19062013POINT BLANCHE:--- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo attended the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of Tropical Shipping.

The Harbour Group was honored at the reception that took place this week in Miami, Florida. Port CEO Mingo said the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facility will further expand its strategic relationship with partners in the future. Currently Tropical Shipping is one of the biggest shipping companies serving the island.

Festival Village:--- Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten proudly presents their cooperation with American Urban Radio Network (AURN) for this year's event. Urban Radio is the only African-American owned network Radio Company in the United States. It is the largest network reaching urban America, with more than 200 weekly shows; AURN reaches an estimated 20 million listeners.
Urban Radio will be live streaming for three days from August 1st until the 3rd, 2013. On the day of the concert itself Urban Radio will be live streaming from the Festival Village. According to Mr. Gréaux, owner of Caribbean Liquors & Tobacco "We are honored to partner with Urban Radio for this year's and hopefully future events, this is a great opportunity for Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten to be syndicated throughout Urban Radio's 28 network affiliated stations across various cities in America."
Mr. Basil Murrain, the Vice President Promotions of AURN said "We are excited to partner with the great folks of Saint Maarten. This will be the first broadcast from the island for our team, and hopefully not the last. Summertime has always been "our" time! We pride ourselves on giving our listeners access to the best vacation hot spots in the world and spending time at Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a great opportunity. I'm excited that "The Doug Banks Show" will be able to give our many listeners back in the U.S. a glimpse of the Sun and Fun to be had in Saint Maarten."

The Doug Banks Show is an afternoon-drive-time radio show, nationally syndicated by American Urban Radio Networks (AURN). It airs Monday through Friday 2pm - 6pm CST in over 30 markets, including Chicago, Washington DC, Birmingham, Charlotte, Memphis, Tulsa, Pensacola, Savannah, and Albany, GA. Hosts are Doug Banks, Dede McGuire, and Comedian George Wilborn. For more information visit: www.dougbanksradioshow.com.
With only a month away, Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is in full gear for its second annual event to be held on Saturday, August 3rd, 2013, which will feature nine-time Grammy award-winner John Legend and soul performer Percy Sledge. According to Mr. Clarence Derby "This is an event unlike any other in St. Maarten. The St. Maarten Hennessy Artistry event has set the standards for other Hennessy Artistry Events in the world."
Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press, and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music. Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco is the official distributor of Hennessy. For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact us at Phone: +1 721 520-7120 / 520-1872 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Press Release from Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten

blackbeardscaydolphinarium19062013The Bahamas/St. Maarten: --- Well-known businessman Samir Andrawos is making headlines in the Bahamas while the activists and environmentalists on that island have been working overtime to stop Andrawos from constructing a dolphinarium on their island. A group called reEarth penned a letter on June 14th, 2013 to the Prime Minister of Bahamas Perry Gladstone Christie outlining their concerns about the unregulated development taking place at Blackbeard's Cay (Balmoral Island). In the letter to Prime Minister Christie, the activists are asking that the development of the intended dolphin facility be stopped immediately.
reEarth stated in their letter which will be posted below this article that they conducted research which showed that the laws and channels that have to be followed were circumvented, they specified that the planning and subventions act, marine and mammal protection regulations, animal protection and control act as well as the port authority act have been breached by the developers. reEarth outlined all the breaches in their letter to the Prime Minister. They also indicated that no public meetings were held so the citizens of the Bahamas were not heard regarding the development and construction of a dolphin facility in their country. An activist from reEarth told SMN News that they already have three dolphinariums in the Bahamas and developers are talking about constructing two more. reEarth activist explained  to SMN News that reEarth started a petition online and in the Bahamas. reEarth also has a Facebook page condemning the development currently taking place at Blackbeard's Cay involving Samir Andrawos. SMN News learnt that the businessman teamed up with a politician on St. Maarten whose intention is to divert cruise lines to the Bahamas if he does not get back into public office.
St. Maarten was faced with the same situations in 2005 when Dolphin Discovery was keen in constructing a dolphin facility at the A.C. Wathey Cruise facility but the environmentalists on St. Maarten fought head on with government. The environmental and animal foundations held a protest in August 2005 while they also had a petition drive to stop the construction of a dolphin facility on St. Maarten. The tie breaker that assisted those that were not in favor of caging dolphins was an article in the law of the former Netherlands Antilles that only allowed one Dolphinarium in the Netherlands Antilles. At the time Curacao had already attached a dolphinarium to their Sea Aquarium Resort, therefore it was not possible to have one constructed on St. Maarten. Animal lovers and environmentalists on St. Maarten said they are keeping their eyes wide open to see if certain politicians that were behind the construction of a dolphinarium will bring back the idea now that St. Maarten is a country within the Kingdom. It should be noted that certain cruise lines are supporting Andrawos and the politicians that are affiliated with the project.

On June 12th, 2013, the Executive Council in Anguilla had a tie vote in order to shut down the Dolphin Discovery on that island. The Attorney General on Anguilla barred honorable Evan Gumbs from voting on the Dolphin Discovery motion. Ministers Edison Baird who opposed the existence of the Dolphin Discovery was allowed to vote which gave the Governor the edge to close down the facility.
Andrawos is a well-known businessman on St. Maarten who is known for breaking government regulations in order to achieve his goals. One such goal is the construction of the three-storey building in Cay Hill called the BOX which is under the company Orista N.V. Andrawos constructed a third floor on that building which was in violation of the building permit at the time. The court ordered Andrawos to break the third floor down but his connections to politicians led the shrewd businessman to have the Prime Minister's son negotiate the sale of his buildings with the former Minister of Justice in order to construct several justice facilities. That project (the justice park) was put aside by the CFT. The Parliament of St. Maarten also posed several questions about the one hundred million dollar project. It is now left to be seen if construction of the justice park will take place now that the Government of St. Maarten recently changed and a new Minister of Justice was appointed.

Click here to view the letter sent by Bahamian group reEarth contesting the construction of another Dolphin Facility in the Bahamas.

telemroadtocarnivalattantra18042013Pond Island:--- Trendy mobile provider TelCell, is fast becoming an important part of St. Maarten's trendy nightlife scene – especially in the Simpson Bay and Maho areas.

Thanks to a series of pre-carnival "warm-up" parties in the weeks before the actual carnival event this year, TelCell's creative personnel have developed a very popular fan base at many of the popular nightspots with a combination of sponsored events and fun giveaways.

"It's come to a stage now where people expect to see us, and if they don't they are now asking for us," said one of TelCell's event co-ordinators, Suraj Ramdas.

According to Suraj, the pre-carnival parties got the ball rolling earlier in the year when his colleagues organized events at the Soggy Dollar Bar, Bliss Night Club, Tantra and Sunset Beach Bar – and later in the Philipsburg area.

The same venues are now the places to go, for a new series of Summer parties that TelEm Group and mobile provider TelCell will be actively participating in, all the way up to September.

The Summer Program kicked off on June 2, with participation in Sunset Beach Bar's Monthly High Tide Beach Party, complete with Sexiest Bikini Girl and Sexiest Beach Hunk contests.

One week later the creative team was at the Bliss Night Club to welcome on stage Latin Artist Black Jonas Point. This party was filled with throbbing music for St. Maarten's Latin community, who make up a very important part of the company's customer base.

"This is one party that was alive and full of energy from start to finish. The audience knew the lyrics to many of the songs of the artist including his smash hit, "watagatapitusberry". We also raffled two Blackberry handsets in separate impromptu "dance-offs" one of which was hosted by Black Jonas Point himself. It was just a wild, fun night," said Suraj.

And last weekend was also blast at Planet Bliss Glow Party where talented Canadian due DZEKO & TORRES delivered an electro-house music show that will long be remembered.

"What all the parties have had in common so far is that they offer serious party fun to anyone who wants to go out and have a good time with friends they know and new friends they meet. The response to the DJs is great and the response to our presences also makes us feel very proud to be there," said the TelEm Group employee.

He said the party rolls on this weekend (Saturday, June 29) at the Soggy Dollar Bar where DJ/producer brothers "Puresang" will be performing.

"Puresang, who hail from Amsterdam, have quickly built a reputation for high-energy performance and the ability to always deliver a unique experience for guests. They have had gigs in over 15 countries.

Check them out this Saturday and look out for your favorite mobile provider party dudes and dudettes - who will surely be keeping the party rolling for locals and visitors alike.

Telem Press Release

Historically the Moravian Church, Evangelische Broeder Gemeente (EBG), has played an important role in the peaceful implementation of Emancipation in all Dutch territories. Until today the EBG still plays a leading role in organizing observance activities. This year we celebrate 150 years of Emancipation.

On this occasion we, the Moravian Church Immanuel of Sint Maarten, plan to observe this important day by organizing several events between 22 June and 1 July 2013.

We will kick-start the celebration with a workshop to teach people about the head ties scarf from Suriname and to train them in tying and wearing the head tie scarf as is traditionally done. This will take place on Saturday 22nd June 2013 from 9 AM – 2:30 PM at the Immanuel Moravian Church Multipurpose Center, Dominica Road 10, Madame Estate.

The activity will be followed by a lecture on slavery – emancipation – immigration and integration. This will take place on Monday 24th June 2013, from 7 – 9 PM at the Immanuel Moravian Church Multipurpose Center.

On Sunday 30th June 2013, we will be having a special church service on the subject. The service will be led by pastor Rev. Cortroy Jarvis. The time is 10 – 11:30 AM also at the Immanuel Moravian Church Multipurpose Center

On the big day, July 1st 2013, we will join the Department of Culture in their celebration program. We will be participating in the Cultural Parade and the festivities thereafter by offering to the public little bites of traditional Surinamese food.

The Moravian Church Immanuel consists of a mix of members from different countries, predominantly from Suriname and Holland.

For more information (media interview) about the above mentioned activities please contact us at one of the following telephone numbers:

Mr. Joel Pinas +1721- 5229696 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Mrs. Virginia Asin-Oostburg +1721- 5424523 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We look forward to welcoming you at our events.

bbq1018062013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group's mobile provider, TelCell, has launched the sale of Blackberry's redesigned Smartphone the Q10 – just three months after the St. Maarten launch of the first redesigned model – the Z10.

According to TelCell Marketing Officer, Marelva Felix-Jones, Wednesday's launch of the Q10 is much more low key than the previous Smartphone model due to the hype created at the time for Blackberry's complete makeover of the Z10.

"The Q10 offers the same fantastic voice and data features that made the Z10 a "Must have" device – with the added bonus of now having the traditional QWERTY keyboard, which users said they had missed with the touch screen which was built into the Z10," said Marelva.

The Marketing Officer says TelCell is more than pleased with the response to the new devices from customers, who were eagerly awaiting its launch. The keyboard is bigger and better for effortless typing, the screen displays sharp and vibrant images and the device on a whole is made of durable yet lightweight materials

"The data uploads are amazing and there are many Apps available for both the Z10 and Q10," said Marelva.

Testers have been operating the devices on TelCell's 3G network for the past few weeks and have provided very positive reports indicating that the user experience generally will be a good one.

The new device is available from all TelEm Group locations along with special voice and data packages.

Please see today's advertisements in the daily newspapers and online for device and package prices.

Telem Press Release

rotarysxmnames3phf18062013Robert Dubourcq, Rebecca Low, and Claudius Buncamper Recognized

PHILIPSBURG:--- At its Annual Change of Board Gala, held on Saturday, June 8th at Infinity Restaurant at the Oyster Bay Resort, the Rotary Club of St. Maarten recognized three outstanding members of the community as Paul Harris Fellows.

Paul Harris Fellow honorees must meet the high professional and high personal standards of Rotary. This year's honorees are Robert Dubourcq, Rebecca Low and Claudius Buncamper, each being recognized for their specific talents in the arena of community service. For bestowing this honor the Rotary Club of St. Maarten made a contribution of US $3,000 on behalf of the honorees towards the Rotary Foundation, which goes towards the Annual Programs Fund, PolioPlus, or the Humanitarian Grants Program.

Robert Dubourcq is no stranger to community and professional service to the island of St. Maarten. Mr. Dubourcq is a veteran of the Hospitality industry and after a 40-year career in hotel management on St. Maarten; he serves as the Executive Product Manager of St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). The story doesn't stop there; Robert founded the St. Maarten Hotel Association in 1970, which eventually would become the SHTA. He has represented St. Maarten on the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, in 2004 he was named the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year and he served as the President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten in 1983/84.

Rebecca Low hails from Canada and now calls St. Maarten her home. Rebecca would describe herself as a "passionate sailor gal", but anyone who has worked with her knows she is passionate about serving her community. This is evident from her work in her native Canada where she held the position of Senior Advisor and Chief of Staff in the Canadian and Ontario governments. She was a Rotarian in Canada and quickly made the Rotary Club of St. Maarten her own when she moved to the island more than 6 years ago. She has served Rotary in so many capacities including Club Secretary, District Trainer, Vice President, and President to name just a few. Ms. Low is a volunteer with St. Maarten AIDS Foundation and she currently owns a boutique management consulting firm, Compass Consulting, working closely with Elite Properties on St. Maarten.

Claudius Buncamper exemplifies community service. Mr. Buncamper has been a member of St. Maarten Lions Club since 1993. He has held the positions President and Secretary for multiple terms and he has served as a Board Member for 14 consecutive years. He most recently served as District Governor. In addition, Mr. Buncamper has served his island in public service. Claudius served as the Head of Public Works on St. Maarten, in 2007 he was appointed Deputy Director of the Ministry of Spatial Planning and Infrastructure Management and 2009 he was also named Head of New Works and Infrastructure Management. In 2010, with St. Maarten becoming a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, he took on the tasks of Head of Infrastructure Management within the Ministry. Mr. Buncamper has served on numerous charitable foundation Boards as well as the Board of the St. Maarten Telecommunications Company. He was instrumental in establishing a Lions Club/Rotary Club joint protocol in support of Alzheimer's Awareness as District Governor of the Lions Club. Finally, in 2005, Her Majesty the Queen of the Netherlands bestowed on Claudius Buncamper the decoration of "Member in the Order of Orange Nassau".

Robert Judd, the outgoing President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, stated, "Robert Dubourcq, Rebecca Low and Claudius Buncamper have each upheld the high professional, personal and community standards of Rotary. Each has served our community in different ways that have made our sweet St. Maarten just a little bit sweeter. We recognize each of them individually as our newest Paul Harris Fellows". Incoming President Maria Buncamper-Molanus commented on all the honorees as examples of "service above self" and the best that St. Maarten has to offer as evidenced by each of their long standing involvement in our community.

For more information please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., call +17215870506, visit the website www.rotarysxm.org or find us on Facebook.

swescotwilliamsopensonlinelawsarchive18062013Says Next Important Step Is To Have Laws Translated into English

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams officially launched the St. Maarten laws project at an event at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall on Tuesday afternoon. The Prime Minister accompanied by acting lieutenant Governor His Excellency Reynold Groeneveld and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Honorable Patricia Philip-Lourens and supported by the director and staff of the Department of Legal Affairs opened the online archive of the Government laws for St. Maarten.

On October 10th, 2010, when the Island Territory of Sint Maarten became a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the acquisition of this new status brought forth many changes, particularly in the field of legislation. Since 10-10-10 Sint Maarten has inherited the legislation from the former Netherlands Antilles as well as the legislation from the former Island Territory Sint Maarten and it is these particular laws which the public now has access to via the Government website.

"I would like to commend the hard work of the Department of Legal Affairs for the work you have done in making the laws available online as I am sure it was indeed a time consuming process. It is very important, also in terms of transparency, to have the laws available in an online database for us to access. Even in the Council of Ministers I am sure there will be an opportunity to use the database when a law is necessary for us to look at urgently," commented the Prime Minister.

The online database can be accessed by visiting sintmaartengov.org and clicking on the laws section, using the search engine to find the relevant law. Despite most of the laws currently being in Dutch, the Prime Minister in her statement gave her assurances that the next important step will be to get the various laws translated into English. "It is very important that we have the applicable laws translated into our mother tongue so that the population can have the opportunity to read and understand the laws they are looking at. This will be the next step in building Country St. Maarten block by block, step by step," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindell08112012I am appealing to the business community to reach out as soon as possible to save Safe Haven.

It was disheartening to learn that the organization which has the responsibility of providing assistance to battered women and their children has had to discontinue accepting these victims due to a lack of funds in order to carry out the services that it renders to the entire community.

Safe Haven received financial support from AMFO, however the organization hasn't any more funds.

Government has budgeted a sum of Naf. 3 million for the non-governmental community organizations via the St. Maarten Development Funding Agency, and from my understanding, the 2013 country budget, is still at His Excellency the Governor's desk and has yet to be signed; and this has placed many non-governmental organizations that depend mainly on government's subsidy, including Safe Haven, not in a position to carry out their much needed community work.

In recent media reports, it has been stated that the Prime Minister is addressing the issue of lack of funding.

Safe Haven provides a temporary haven for battered women, the shelter is now in need and I appeal to the business community to immediately reach out and assist, especially those who have yet to shoulder their fair share of community support. Now is your chance to make your contribution, no matter the amount.

Some businesses have assisted Safe Haven in the past. Your assistance is needed now more than ever. Safe Haven needs to be able to operate 24/7 for clients who are there for protection and support. They are not there for fun!

Relational violence and its impact on our children, is a huge problem in our community. Just last week, June 11, I attended on behalf of the Peridot Foundation, a meeting of stakeholders convened by Public Prosecutor Hans Mos at his office, with the main agenda to meet Non-governmental organizations that deal with relational violence, and give our input on a directive prepared for the former Netherlands Antilles in 2010, reference to relational violence.

Our input was requested in order to adjust the directive to the local, Sint Maarten situation. Speaking with Community Police Officers, who are confronted regularly with this kind of violence, leaves no room for imagination.

Safe Haven provides an essential service, working to end domestic and sexual violence, to enrich, strengthen and mobilize the lives of individuals, children, families and community.

Institutions of this nature should not be allowed to fall through the cracks, and I am confident with the input of the private and public sectors, Safe Haven will be able to continue to give much needed service to those most vulnerable among us.

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

comfirstweeklytuesdaymeeting18062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The new business cabinet that was sworn in last week Friday had its first weekly cabinet session on Tuesday.

PHOTO CUTLINE: L to R, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Patricia Lourens, Minister of Justice Hon. Dennis Richardson, Minister of Finance Hon. Martin Hassink, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure Hon. Maurice Lake, a member of the Council of Ministers Secretariat, and Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams. (DCOMM Photo)

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The 3rd Youth Health Care (YHC) Vaccination Outreach and Family Planning Session is set for Cole Bay and surrounding communities on June 20.

This is the third of three community outreach and "family planning" lecture sessions. It's an opportunity for residents of Cole Bay and surrounding areas to come out on Thursday, June 20 at the John Hodge Hall Community Center (Methodist Church), Cole Bay from 5.00pm to 7.30pm, to have their children's vaccination status checked, and also receive information about family planning.

YHC is a section of the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children's vaccination status checked on June 20.

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status.

To encourage risk groups such as waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly on Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

Immunization protects children from diphtheria, measles, pertussis (better known as whooping cough), pneumonia, polio, rotavirus diarrhea, rubella, tetanus and others.

smmc23082012Cay Hill:--- Medical personnel including staff and the management team of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) are faced with yet another hurdle. Reliable information reaching SMN News states that all information pertaining to SMMC that was stored on the hospital's computer disappeared. SMN News learnt that management of SMMC learnt of the predicament a few days ago and the chairman of the board was expected to arrive on St. Maarten on Tuesday from Curacao to find a solution for the predicament.

The source said all of SMMC's financial records disappeared and it cannot be ascertained if the computer system at SMMC crashed or what really transpired. Questions are now being raised by personnel and other institutions about the computer hiccup and loss of valuable information. Some persons said they believe that an investigation is warranted because the 2012 financial report showed the hospital has a huge and unexplained deficit. "Their financial records and everything else disappeared. Last year (2012) SMMC suffered a huge financial loss and that was not yet disclosed to government, then suddenly the records disappear. This is indeed questionable and the pertinent authorities need to step in to investigate this matter."

SMN News learnt that SMMC management has been trying to hide the real situation by telling their stakeholders such as SZV and others that they have internet problems. SMN News further learnt that the company that used to do the backups for SMMC is no longer providing that service therefore leaving SMMC in real limbo with regards to its digital information. The source said SMMC stopped backing up their data with a Canadian company some two years ago so if they are to retrieve any information from that company it would be two years old. "The records for 2012 financial transactions will definitely not be retrieved."

SMN News also learnt that SMMC communications officer was forced to resign and she filed court litigation against the medical institution. Members of the board of directors of SMMC could not be reached on Tuesday for a comment. SMN News also tried to reach the former communications officer by telephone and she also could not be reached.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development, and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake announces that the road marking started on the L.B. Scott Road on Monday evening will continue from Wednesday, June 19 at 9:00pm until Thursday, June 20 5:00am.

Motorized traffic movement on the L.B. Scott Road will be partially obstructed due to the application of road markings in connection with the Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Line.

L.B. Scott Road will be partially obstructed from the St. Peters Sol Gas Station to Cake House Supermarket, Minister Lake said on Tuesday.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning says that the possibility or works being carried out also on Friday is probable dependent on weather conditions.

Ministry VROMI is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the works is being executed.

Minister Maurice Lake asks for your patience and understanding for any inconveniences that this will cause.

swescotwilliamsandoralgibbs20052013Says the Plight of the Elderly Has Her Focus

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams appeared on Oral Gibbs Live on Channel 115 Monday night. The Prime Minister discussed various items on the program; primarily the latest political developments and her wish to have Government refocus their attention on the plight of the elderly on St. Maarten.

When reflecting on her long political career, the Prime Minister reflected on her start in the political arena in the early nineteen nineties: "The first time I ran for office was in 1990 during a federal Netherlands Antilles Parliamentarian election. Since then I have been in various situations where there were also changes in Government and a coalitions were changed. During one of which I indeed famously said that I will Be Back.

When asked if she considers herself an inspiration to young women in particular interested in running for politics the Prime Minister stated "It is a fact that we continue to learn and give content to the Governance of Country St. Maarten. As I always say that while most of the matters that Govern our Country we will have to deal with as we go along. A good example of this is the mistake that it has been reported that the Governor refused to sign the approval for Minister Laville. The resolutions needed to appoint Ministers are made up at the end of the trajectory for vetting so it was not as if the Governor refused to sign. MP Laville in speaking to me as formateur said that he would like to have the time to deal with the matter of the report at the Prosecutor's Office and decided his name would not be part of that discussion to approve him as a Minister. We are now looking at a Candidate Minister and that person has to go through that same vetting process and the names are not to be divulged before the process goes through in order to facilitate the vetting process.

"I think critical for Government is that the Ministers individually and collectively will focus on the bigger picture for Country St. Maarten. The formation and educating of all our people is so crucial in the things we want to engage in in order to elevate St. Maarten, and it is up to each and every individual to look at their development as part of a nation and what it means to be a citizen of St. Maarten," commented the PM.

One of the items the Prime Minister stressed has her focus is the plight of the elderly on St. Maarten. "The position of the elderly in our community has my concern and thus the concern of Government. At the beginning of this year we were able to raise our old-age pension by a small amount which is a good step in the right direction and we are now looking to see what type of relief can be given to those elderly that depend only on their pension. Government needs to refocus on how it addresses the plight of the elderly. That is what I will be promoting in the activities of Government the refocusing of our attention on the elderly," emphasized the elderly.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotaractwithseniors18062013St. Johns:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise spent some quality time with the folks at the St. Maarten's Home in St. Johns on Saturday 15th June 2013. This initiative fell under the home's "quality time, care and affection" program. The Rotaract members began their day by attending a church service with the seniors at the home's chapel. Rotaract member Chico Rollan sang a hymn to the congregation and encouraged the senior folks to keep the faith and know that they are not alone. The members then engaged in numerous activities with the seniors such as playing domino games, combing their hair, polishing their nails, reading the newspaper and talking with them on different topics. Papa Umpo paid a special visit to the home and brought some humor to the event by telling some "oldy goldy" stories that all the folks at the home could relate to.
The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise made a special donation of a video camera to the home's representative, Nurse Nancy. The St. Maarten's home expressed the need for a video camera to record memorable moments. Handing over the video camera was President of Rotaract Sunrise, Elisia Lake, who mentioned that the club is here to give the extra support needed to make the citizens at the St. Maarten's Home feel "at home". In addition, Lake stated that as the club's last community service project for the year 2012-2013; "we are thrilled to have spent it with the folks at the home."
Rotaract Sunrise will continue to provide opportunities for young adults to enhance the knowledge and skills that will assist them in personal development, to address the physical and social needs of their communities, and to provide better relations among all people worldwide through a framework of friendship and service. The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at Holland House Conference Room at 7pm.

counciloflawenforcementpresentsreportstodennisrichardson17062013Philipsburg:--- The Council on Law Enforcement on Monday presented two recent investigation reports to St. Maarten's new Minister of Justice, Mr. Dennis Richardson. The presentation of the reports came ahead of the justice minister attending the regular half-yearly consultation meeting held between the ministers of Justice from Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Aruba and the Netherlands, to be held in Aruba.
Mr. Franklyn Richards, chairman of the Council on Law Enforcement presented the two investigation reports, in keeping with the council's practice of duly informing stakeholders in the judicial chain of current developments, which may have a bearing on crime, safety and security issues. One of the reports addresses issues related to the detective department of the Sint Maarten police organization while the other one deals with youth rehabilitation on Sint Maarten.
Minister Richardson expressed appreciation for the briefing made available by the Council on Law Enforcement about recent and ongoing investigations as well as other developments with regards to tasks and competencies of the Council on Law Enforcement.
In the inspection report on the detective department, the Council on Law Enforcement concludes that many positive developments are evident. These developments contribute to the efficiency of the police force in general and to that of investigation procedures, in particular. The introduction of the community police is mentioned as an example of how the visibility of police has been increased while in the area of forensic investigation, house burglaries and robberies, the objectives have been realized and the intended performance achieved.
A significant bottleneck is that any intended progress of the police force is strongly reliant on the Minister of Justice and other third parties. Essential decision-making in key areas can, in such cases, not be taken in a timely manner, leading to a delay before those decisions are reached and implemented.
The Council on Law Enforcement looks forward to working closely with the Minister of Justice and members of the judicial chain of Sint Maarten, in taking fundamental decisions, resulting in the police management team being facilitated in managing and administering the St. Maarten police organization.
A final conclusion of the Council is that the Police Force of Sint Maarten is moving in the right direction and that it has achieved much since the transition period, made necessary with St. Maarten becoming a country. Investigating procedures used by the detective force has visibly increased and it is now a matter of acting vigorously to implement further improvements without delay, notes the report.
In the second report presented to the justice minister and which dealt with youth rehabilitation in Sint Maarten, the Council on Law Enforcement investigated to what extent the government of Sint Maarten implements and executes policies with reference to the rehabilitation of minors who have committed a criminal act.
The report notes that a properly functioning youth rehabilitation system can prevent minors from repeating a criminal offense or even slide into a career of crime activity. Article 40 of the Convention on the rights of the child contains a clear assignment to member states. It obliges signatories to the article to encourage minors to a constructive role in the society after committing a criminal act.
On Sint Maarten, it is the Court of Guardianship which has juvenile rehabilitation among its responsibilities. The report shows that in Sint Maarten the supervision of minors who have come in contact with the law, is still in its early stages. Among the challenges faced is a lack of sufficient and qualified personnel to carry out those tasks by the Court of Guardianship.
The Council on Law Enforcement applauds initiatives taken by the Ministry of Justice to enhance implementation of the juvenile rehabilitation, under the leadership of the Committee Judicial Youth Policy Plan.

swescotwilliamsatemschurchservice17062013"Emergency Medical Services do Critical Work to Improve and Strengthen our Communities."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended a special church service at the New Testament Baptist Church in celebration of EMS Week 2013. The Prime Minister, joined by Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Honorable Patricia Lourens, attended the celebratory mass congratulating the men and women who work in the Emergency Health and Medical Services.

"On Behalf of the Government and the people of St. Maarten allow me to extend gratitude and appreciation to the dedicated men and women in the emergency medical services for the critical work they do to improve and strengthen the health services in our communities," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister concluded by stating that she further wishes to extend her best wishes for a memorable and successful celebration to the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor and to the management and staff of the Emergency Medical Services as well as to the organizers of the EMS Week 2013. "Under the theme of One Mission One Team it is truly exemplified by the hard work of these men and women who ensure that the very necessary emergency medical support is provided at all times to the community of St. Maarten."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

bbz1017062013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group, in collaboration with third party developers, has developed customized mobile applications (APPS) especially for their mobile subscribers.

The development of mobile apps are a brand new undertaking of TelEm Group's Business Development Department, and is aimed at giving added value to the company's mobile voice and data users.

According to Business Development Manager, Mrs. Carmen Lake-Reyes, two applications have been developed in-house with the assistance of third parties, specifically for TelEm Group.

The first App is the SXM + 1721 App which allows mobile subscribers to automatically update their entire address book with the new + 1-721 Country Code for St. Maarten.

"The SXM + 1721 App is a bonus for users who have a huge list of numbers with the old +599 code for the Netherlands Antilles, which has been discontinued," said Mrs. Lake-Reyes.

She said once the application is downloaded and installed, subscribers can opt to update one number or their entire address book with the +1721 area code.

The SXM + 1721 App is developed with the assistance of former TelEm Group Business Development Officer, now software consultant, Mr. Christopher Bourne. He has been working closely with the company's Business Development Officer, Ms. Alice Peterson, to bring the App to market where it is now available for immediate download in the Apple Store, and BlackBerry App Store, Android users can also download the app at www.sxm1721.com said Ms. Peterson.

The second App to be launched is a "Self-Care" App.

Once downloaded and installed, this App allows subscribers to purchase their data services online without the need to send an SMS to activate that service.

According to Apps Project Coordinator, Ms. Alice Peterson, Customers can also check their account balances for voice and data services with the new App.

For now, the new "Self-Care" App is only available for the Blackberry Z10 device and is presently available for download from Blackberry App World using the Search word" TelCell.

"The BB launch of the Self-Care" App is just a first step. Soon it will be available for Android and Apple iOS devices," said Ms. Peterson.

For further information about these exciting new TelEm Group Apps and how to download them, please visit our website at www.Telemgroup.an.

Telem Press Release

owstandaxawomenssoccerteam17062013Heaped Praise Despite Loss

Cay Hill:--- The Oualichi Women's Soccer Team played its first inter-land soccer match in neighboring Anguilla representing St. Maarten, where they faced off against the Anguilla Under Twenty Women's Team. Although Oualichi WST has only been practicing for less than eight months, spectators and the hosts agreed that the ladies played an excellent match against a more stronger and experienced team. "We fought hard and although we lost 5-0 we all had an amazing time and were very proud to be representing the Friendly Island abroad. This is our first real match playing together as a team and we were very happy with the result," read a team statement.

Most valuable player of the match was Oualichi WST goalkeeper Claudia Simms supported by a strong defensive and offensive line. "Much credit goes to our Coach Chris Wever. In a short period of time he has given the team the confidence, training and support we needed to play in another country with a longstanding tradition of women's soccer and hold our own. Much thanks also goes out to the Anguilla Soccer Association who were excellent hosts, providing us with transportation and lunch. We look forward to playing Anguilla and the surrounding islands towards the end of June when we will be representing one St. Maarten, both French and Dutch Sides," concluded a team statement.

The launching of the team in November of last year was a first for St. Maarten, with previously women having to join school teams or train on their own or with Associations not specifically geared towards Women's Soccer. The name of the team is also unique as Oualichi, one of the original Arawak names for the St. Maarten, means Land of Strong Women. The team also has an official Facebook Page and newsletter in order to keep the community abreast of the country's women's soccer team. Those interested in being a part of Oualichi WST are urged to contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or join a training session held every Monday and Wednesday at the Raoul Illidge Sport's Complex from 5:30 to 7:00PM.

cdeweevermeetswithkarenpolson17062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Karen Polson, Entomologist/Parasitologist for the Mosquito Control Program of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), arrived in the country on Monday for a working visit with representatives of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour.

On Monday morning Dr. Polson and representatives from the Ministry paid a courtesy visit to Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever at the Government Administration Building.

nagicoinsurancesagentsconferenceandawardsdinner17062013Dawn Beach:--- "We know where we came from and we have a very clear understanding of where we are going. We know what needs to be done in order to make this company continue to grow, and meet the needs of all agents, brokers and policy holders", said CEO of NAGICO Group of Companies, Imran McSood Amjad during the NAGICO mid-year conference held at Westin Dawn Beach Resort on Friday, June 14th.
Motivational speaker Nicole Bendaly spoke to agents and staff at the conference themed "Engaged" whilst CFO, Justin Woods discussed the financial highlights of the company during the conference.
Later in the evening during the Agents Awards Dinner Mr. McSood-Amjad discussed the plans for the growth of the company. He revealed many goals including plans to open a NAGICO training center by 2020, "where staff and agents will be trained in insurance and other areas that are of importance to the development of NAGICO".
During the dinner NAGICO recognized its agents and brokers for their contributions towards a profitable 2012. Century Insurance (BVI) was honored with the Platinum award for having the highest production figures in 2012, followed by Diamond award winners; Sun Insurance N.V., Northeastern Insurances N.V., Fairplay (Anguilla), Henderson Insurances N.V. and Brysons Insurance Agency (Antigua). A total of 80 awards in various categories were presented to agents and brokers.
Special awards were given to the following; Aruba Insurance Brokers N.V. and CGM Gallagher Ltd. (St. Lucia) who were named Most Improved Agents. Brysons Insurance Agency and Century Insurance were named Agents of the Year. Local Agent of the Year representing St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius was awarded to Sun Insurances Group. Arlene Bermudez was awarded Top Life Producer. NAGICO Trinidad was named Branch Office of the Year. Brysons Insurance Agency was also awarded for being the Most Profitable Agent of the Year. Century Insurance went home with the overall award for being the Most Outstanding Agent of NAGICO Group.
Loyalty Awards were presented to fine agents as a token for representing NAGICO for over 20 years. They were; Quincy Gumbs from Fairplay (Anguilla), Steve Tackling Sr. from Tackling Insurance, Desmond Esdaille from Peoples Insurance, Bernice Stout from Insurance Store (BVI) and Estelle Serrant from Serrant Insurance.
The MC of the evening was King Beau Beau with featured performances by Mischulaikah Richardson, Kayla Gumbs and the band Mosaik. The evening ended with an after party where agents and staff enjoyed music and dancing.

swescotwilliamsatntbc17062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot Williams and the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports the Honorable Patricia Lourens were amongst various civil servants and government officials who received special prayer blessings from Pastor Wycliffe Smith at the New Testaments Baptist Church. Pastor Smith prayed for the Wescot-Williams III Cabinet and wished all much strength.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

pjl2012summercampparticipants17062013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be hosting the second edition of its "Wake Up, Stay Active, Be a Reader" Summer Program, for children ages 7 - 12 from July 16 to July 31.
Activities during the summer camp will include: hiking, puppet shows, sports activities, nature watches, movie nights, face painting, storytelling, dancing and much more.
Registration is required at a cost of only NAF. 50 and will run from Wednesday, June 19 at the library, during opening hours, until space is filled. The library will be accepting 15 applicants for children ages 6 -9 and 15 applicants for children ages 10 – 13. Space is limited so parents and children are required to sign up as early as possible. Once parents complete the registration process they will be given a detailed program along with permission slips for the various activities.
For more information, please contact the library at 542-2970.

murderfillin13082012Grand Case: --- The Gendarmes and other emergency services tried to save the life of a well-known barber in Grand Case early Monday morning when he was shot by one of his former employees. The man was shot around 1:00am.
According to information provided to SMN News shortly after the shooting took place, the barber who is known in the area as "Pablo" was shot by one of his former employees who now owns his own barbershop. An eyewitness told SMN News said that Pablo and the suspect were at loggerheads because the suspect left Pablo's work and opened his own business. It is not yet known if the suspect was caught. Efforts made to reach the Gendarmes by phone proved futile. SMN News will bring you more information later today.

lizzylizardcover16062013GREAT BAY:--- Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman is a "darling contribution to the children's literature of the Caribbean," said Jamie Alleyne, a learning and child development consultant in Dominica.

St. Martin's newest storybook is now available at Shipwreck, Van Dorp, Amazon.com and other bookstores, said Jacqueline Sample of HNP, the book's publisher.

In Lizzy Lizard, little Lizzy leaves her sea grape tree house at the University of St. Martin (USM) because of a busy construction day on campus. Her walk takes her past the salt-pickers monument, atop the Court House, and quickly turns into an adventure in and around Philipsburg, traditionally called Great Bay.

While on her happy trek, Lizzy meets endearing animal personalities such as Suzy Soldier Crab, Iggy Iguana, Missy Mongoose, and Pico Pelican. And "what an absolute delight to get the grand tour of St. Martin with Lizzy Lizard and her new friends!" added Alleyne in her review of the oversize hardcover book.

The colorful photo art illustrations in Lizzy Lizard further convey a sense of magic to places easily identified by boys and girls, ages 4 to 9, said Sample. The main photo plates are from the photography of Robby Cijntje.

Jamaican/Canadian author Garfield Ellis said that Lizzy Lizard's courage and confidence to cross borders and meet others—regardless of size and other differences, represent a certain "Je ne sais quoi" that he experienced among the island's people during the recently concluded St. Martin Book Fair. The award-winning novelist was the guest speaker at the Lizzy Lizard launch, attended by some 200 guests, said Sample.

According to the publisher, Lizzy Lizard will prove popular with confident independent readers; and with families who can spend time reading it together and seeing fascinating animals and places of St. Martin's busiest city.

Author Robin Boasman said that the storybook grew out of an assignment from instructor Rhoda Arrindell while she (Boasman) was pursuing her BA in education at USM. Lizzy Lizard is possibly the first book authored by a USM alumna.

According to Boasman, "it is highly important for children to read, but children will more likely read when they enjoy and can relate to what they are reading. This is how the story of lizzy lizard came about."

Robin Boasman is a mother, and a teacher at Sister Magda Primary School. Lizzy Lizard is her first book. The Rombleys' BEO Studio designed Lizzy Lizard, the second children's book designed for HNP.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development, and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), Department of New Projects Development and Planning, hereby informed the general public that from Monday, June 17 at 9:00pm until Tuesday, June 18 5:00am, motorized traffic movement on the L.B. Scott Road will be partially obstructed due to the application of road markings in connection with the Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Line.

L.B. Scott Road will be partially obstructed from the St. Peters Sol Gas Station to Cake House Supermarket.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the works is being executed.

Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for the inconveniences that this will cause.

cruisepier1constructionagreementsigning16062013POINT BLANCHE:--- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo signed a construction agreement with Windward Roads for Phase 1 re-engineering works of Cruise Pier 1.

Windward Roads presented the best offer for the project. The company has a vast amount of experience as it was involved as a subcontractor with the construction of Pier 1 and Pier 2.

"For the last few years we have been busy with preparing for the re-engineering plan for Cruise Pier 1. At the same time, we have been in discussion with the main contractor who built Cruise Pier 1 Ballast Nedam (BNI), and those discussions continue today with respect to settling issues we had with the design of the pier.

"I am very happy to announce that we have reached to this stage where the contract has been signed and works can start within 30 days. It hasn't been an easy process. We had structural calculations made by two companies, Lievense and Ch2MHill with respect to the re-engineering.

Ch2MHill is considered a global leader in consulting, design, design-build, operations, and program management, and has a vast amount of experience with port developments and the cruise industry.

"Specialized materials have to be imported, and we are also looking at the bollards and fender system. The Port is very much into the era of GREEN THINKING and will continue this trend by adding LED lighting on the piers. This will be a plus for safety and will also reduce electricity costs.

"I am looking forward to this project starting, and would like to use this opportunity to thank everybody who has been involved in this process with respect to the point we have reached with the signing of the contract.

"For those who are interested in working on the project at the Port, you can pick up registration forms at the main Security Booth at the port entrance or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.," CEO Mark Mingo said over the weekend.

Phase 1 of the re-engineering of Cruise Pier 1 has to be completed before the country moves into the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season mid-September. Re-engineering works will take approximately three months for this phase.

Once Phase 1 of Pier 1 has been completed, engineers will carry out an evaluation leading to the further completion of the additional works that need to be executed. Pier 1 will be brought up to the level of Cruise Pier 2.

The additional works will costs US$7 million and is part of the of the investment list which was communicated to the bond holder of the US$150 million loan, the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten.

The Port of St. Maarten has two cruise piers. Cruise Pier 1 has been in use since 2001 and can accommodate four cruise ships simultaneously. The pier has a length of 545 meters while Pier 2 has a length of 445 meters and the latter was opened in 2009.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Karen Polson, Entomologist/Parasitologist for the Mosquito Control Program of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), arrives in the country on Monday for a working visit with representatives of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.

CARPHA is the new single regional public health agency for the Caribbean. It was legally established in July 2011 by an Inter-Governmental Agreement signed by Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States and began operation in January 2013.

The purpose of the working visit by Polson is to assess the country's Mosquito Control Program structure and operation. Some field observations are also planned.

On Tuesday, Polson will meet with Collective Prevention Services (CPS) staff as well as the Dengue Action Response Team (DART). Dr. Polson will also pay a courtesy visit to Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever.

Minister De Weever stated on Sunday that Sint Maarten's cooperation with this new entity – CARPHA – is extremely important where it concerns regional reporting, funding and networking.

Dr. Polson on Tuesday evening will meet with physicians with respect to dengue and chikungunya with respect to diagnosis, treatment, reporting and monitoring.

On Wednesday there will be a Risk Management workshop on dengue and chikungunya and on Thursday field work/assessment.

Polson has a PHD in Zoology from the University of the West Indies. Dr. Polson as a guest researcher has been involved in international fieldwork with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, and with the U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

pjllaunchesebooks16062013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, June 20, The Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be officially launching their Electronic Book (E-Book) service to the public of St. Maarten at 6 pm, in the library's hall.
As the demand for eBooks among library patrons continued to grow and its use slowly becomes common place among readers, it is with these developments in mind that the library decided to diversify its collection, by expanding it to include E-Books.
"As a library, it is important that we keep up with the demands in our quickly evolving, technology advanced world, for the sake of literacy. We strive to continue to be relevant, while promoting literacy, be it from the pages of a book or the screen of an E-Reader", stated Morenika Arrindell, Activity Manager and Public Relations Officer.
The major advantages of using E-Books for library card holders are that they can: borrow books from the comfort of their home, effortlessly change the font size of their selected book at will, and never worry about accumulating late fees because the book will be automatically removed from their computer, tablet, mobile phone or E-Reader after the expiration date.
The current checkout limit is currently set to 3 books, as the library is still building up their E-Book collection. The library will continue to expand the collection according to the wishes of the public. The lending periods are: 7, 14 or 21 days. That choice is solely up to the library card holder.
In addition to E-Books, the library is also going to borrow its E-Readers to the general public ages 18 and older. Currently, the library has 5 Nooks that can be borrowed from the Information Desk. User guides for the website and E-Reader will also be made available on the library's website at www.stmaartenlibrary.org or upon request at the Information Desk.
The general public is invited to attend the launching of their E-book and E-Reader Collection on Thursday, June 20, 2013, where various dignitaries, staff members, senior and young library card holders will be on hand to give their thoughts on how E-Readers are an important part of literacy.
For more information please contact the library at 542-2970.

emsweekchurchservice16062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Emergency Medical Services (EMS), kicked off EMS Week on Sunday June 16th with a Church Service at the New Testament Baptist Church at 11:00am across from Government Administration Building.

First responders were in full attendance to celebrate on Sunday in prayer. The theme for EMS Week is, "EMS One Mission One Team." The objective of the week is to recognize the lifesaving work of the island's emergency medical service professionals working in the pre-hospital care setting, hospital and volunteer EMS organizations.

Laville innocent until proven guilty!
Should not nominate a minister, but rather appeal to Crown

Legal scholars in the Netherlands and locally have sounded the alarm about the governor's performance during the past weeks' constitutional impasse. Many false steps, are being blamed on the governor's deviation from his rules of order. This is mainly attributed to the inexperience of the Governor and the fact that this is the first time the country has experienced the dissolution of Parliament by government.
But sources contacted by SMN news point out that all this could have been easily avoided had the governor followed his rules of order. They point to the case of MP Laville who has been particularly victimized by certain procedural errors committed by the governor. These sources insist that once a LB or Landsbesluit (National Decree) has been submitted to the governor, he can only send it on to King if in his opinion it violated one of five critera listed in Article 21 of the Rules of Order of the Governor of St. Maarten.
The appointment of Laville was done by National Decree. The rules of order are quite clear in this respect. Once the governor determines that he will not sign a National Decree he is duty bound to send it on to the King for a final decision. He may not allow it to lie around or send it back to the Council of Ministers.
The reason for this step legal scholars explained is to guarantee due process. In the case of Laville they point out, once the national decree reached the King, it would have been turned over the Council of State, who would examine the file and advise the King. In order to give a proper advice, a formal hearing would have taken place where Laville would have had a fair chance to present his side. He would also be allowed to be represented by lawyers if he chose to do so. He could for example, have pointed out to the Council, that the governor violated the presumption of innocence. He has not been convicted of any crime by a court of law, and should be therefore considered innocent until proven guilty. Furthermore, St. Maarten has never passed an Ethics in Government law, so that there is no legal basis for denying him the post of Minister. And, finally he was condemned by the governor without having a chance to defend himself. The governor's actions amount to giving him a sentence which he cannot appeal. This act in and of itself can be considered "bad governance".
By not following the rules, Mr. Laville's rights to due process have been violated. The governor, legal experts feel has wrongfully assumed the position of judge jury and executioner in the case of Laville. Asked by SMN news if Mr. Laville has any recourse, they opined that he is free to approach the Council of State, as his rights to due process were violated. It would be then up to the Counci to decide how to proceed. They however stressed that Mr. Laville had nothing to lose, but much to gain, by seeking redress. Laville they concurred, should not nominate a minister to take his place as doing so can create an irreversible situation. He should hold off all action which can jeopardize his position, and appeal to the Crown right away. One issue that might be resolved for the future is the Governor's handling of National Decrees.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Says people of St. Maarten can rest assured that it is the priority of the new Government to take care of the business of the people.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, after about five weeks of discussions regarding the political developments, was sworn in on Friday, the fourteenth of June as the Prime Minister of the Wescot-Williams III Cabinet at the Offices of the Governor.

Despite the sometimes difficult political situation of the past few weeks, the Prime Minister stated that she would indeed like to thank the departed previous Ministers for their contribution in shaping Country St. Maarten.

"I would like to express to the outgoing Council of Minister, from the depths of my heart, my appreciation for their contribution during the last year and a month they have made to the people of St. Maarten. The Political Developments have demanded a change in the Government of St. Maarten, however I know that it is never easy to make the decision to accept the proposal to become a Minister for Country St. Maarten given the fact that we are still in our young stage as a country and that indeed many difficulties are being faced by Government everyday. People deciding to become Ministers need to take into account political changes like we have had since 101010; political changes which in fact occurred not once but twice. So Again I would like to thank the outgoing Ministers, separate from all of the political discussions that have been taking place, for their contribution to this Country St. Maarten under a Wescot-Williams Cabinet.

"Similarly I would like to wish the incoming Ministers all the best. It has not been an easy time for you and some have used this opportunity to, as we would say in St. Maarten, tear you asunder, but the fact that you have accepted to take on this position shows that you are strong and so I wish all of my colleagues the very best.

"As I stated before we got into this particular political development; the stability of a Government, preferably for the full term that the Parliament is elected by the people of St. Maarten, is something that in my opinion we all, as politicians, should work towards. It is not without reason that in the Governor's request to me to act as formateur for the New Government the item of Political Stability and Electoral Reform is mentioned in His Excellency's letter. Myself and my colleague Ministers have made it a critical point to work on the issue of electoral reform. We are too you of a country to have these political changes occurring, political changes that result in a stagnation of Government and there is always too much to be done to entertain a political shift. Matters of Social and Economic Development are too important and need to be addressed and the people of St. Maarten can rest assured that it is the priority of the incoming Government to work on these matters in taking care of the business of the people," concluded Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmandanguillahealthofficials16062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Anguilla health sector representatives from the Ministry of Health and Social Development Lynrod Brooks, Health Planner and Ambrell Richardson, Director of Health Protection, met with officials from Section General Public Health of Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, on Friday, to discuss public health matters.

The closer cooperation in the health field came as a result of the alert issued by Anguilla health authorities last month with respect to Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) after several cases were diagnosed in Anguilla.

Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health officials immediately at that time sought contact with their Anguilla colleagues with respect to gathering information about HFMD.

The meeting materialized based on an extended invitation by Sint Maarten to Anguilla to discuss and exchange information especially with respect to HFMD.

Further deliberations focused on improving skills and competencies and building partnerships as it relates to surveillance and other health programs.

Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever was very pleased with the connection that has been established between Anguilla and Sint Maarten public health officials, and he is looking forward to strengthening this relationship in the public health field to the benefit of the peoples of both islands.

Says one focus should be on youth

Philipsburg:--- During her weekly call-in radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 FM, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams again stressed the need for corporate social responsibility in the community of St. Maarten. Her comments during the radio program echoed the ones the PM made at the Social and Economic Council (SER) Symposium on the 12th of June.

"I was quite pleased by the SER initiative to cover the topic of corporate responsibility and the fact that our advisory councils are organizing these types events is exemplary; they give the population the opportunity to deliberate and engage in the development of their country.

"At a time when Government is looking at ways to continue to move St. Maarten forward, you see businesses participating in many activities. But what should be made clear is that next to the bottom line, what is it that drives businesses and corporations to contribute to the community in which they make their money. If we can come to an understanding regarding where the most emphasis should be put in moving our community forward that would be an important achievement. I therefore highlight the initiative of the National Development Plan in seeking to bring a common vision by any St. Maarten or groups as businesses as to where we want St. Maarten to go. I believe we have laid the groundwork for the businesses to focus on its contribution to society.

The PM continued by stating that, as a society, the public and private sectors should pool all of its resources and discuss areas on which the focus should be placed in bringing corporate social responsibility to the forefront; "For example: our youth is a sector where considerable focus should be placed, both in financial terms as well as reaching out to them. Rehabilitation programs are a real example of this. These are the discussions we should be having with regards to corporations talking about the country of St. Maarten.

"We should spearhead efforts where we produce quality investments that not only assists the corporations in growing and moving forward but the community in general. The private sector is also needing from Government action as well in ensuring that it is being completed," stated the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- St. Maarten's calendar of health observances is to promote particular local or global health issues, and encourage our population to Get Checked. As of Sunday, June 16 and until the end of June, is observed as Men's Health Day. Sunday also represents Father's Day.

In connection with the aforementioned, the Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, is calling on all fathers' to cut salt intake which in turn reduces blood pressure to normal levels.

Hypertension also known as High Blood Pressure is a chronic medical condition that is preventable and treatable. It is possible to develop high blood pressure at any age and anyone can get high blood pressure especially if they have a family history of it. It is the major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the main causes of illness and death in the Caribbean and the Americas.

The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Cornelius De Weever is calling on the St. Maarten populace to 'Get Checked,' and know your risk factors.

Minister De Weever would like to use this opportunity to wish all father's "Happy Father's Day," on Sunday, June 16.

In the "How Healthy is St. Maarten?" study in 1998/1999, hypertension was the second most common chronic disorder and became worst as people grew older. More than twice as many elderly people suffer from high blood pressure compared to younger age groups. Having ones blood pressure checked regularly is very important, especially in light of the fact that 13% of the participants in Sint Maarten reported suffering from high blood pressure.

Although high blood pressure affects some 30 per cent of the adult population, a third of them do not know they have the condition.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, which means adults need to take every opportunity to get their blood pressure checked. The health risks of hypertension are even higher for people who also smoke, are obese or have diabetes.

Hypertension can be prevented by consuming less salt; maintaining a healthy and balanced diet; engaging in regular physical activity; avoiding tobacco use; and avoiding harmful use of alcohol.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary public session of Parliament is scheduled for June 24.

The Plenary Session will be held on Monday, June 24 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the session is the position of the Chairman of Parliament.

This meeting has been requested by Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Sylvia Meyers, Interim Faction Leader of the United People's party, MP Hon. Roy Marlin, Faction Leader of the Democratic Party, and Independent MP Hon. Romain Laville.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

ndpinterministerialmeeting14062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Friday morning the Inter-Ministerial Working Group met for a third time in connection with the National Development Plan (NDP). The purpose of the meeting was to finalize roles, responsibilities and guidelines for the group; set joint priorities for the next three to four months; conclude the calendar of upcoming key events; and set a date for the presentation to the seven Secretary Generals. The aforementioned work group was established on May 17 with the objective of establishing a structure for an efficient and effective Inter-Ministerial Coordination for developing the NDP for the country.

eholidaywithnewministers14062013Philipsburg:--- The Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday swore in the third Government of country St. Maarten on Friday afternoon at his office. Six of the seven Ministers took the oath in front of the Governor while the Minister of TEATT is yet to be vetted and sworn in.
The Ministers that took the oath were: Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who went through the same procedure for the third time since St. Maarten became a country and Cornelius De Weever who is now part of the third government since 2010. The incoming Ministers are former Lt. Governor Dennis Richardson who left his job in the Netherlands to take up the position as Minister of Justice on St. Maarten, Patricia Lourens as Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Maurice Arnell-Lake Minister of VROMI, Martin Hassink Minister of Finance, and Mathias Voges Minister of Plenipotentiary. It is not yet known who will be the Minister of TEATT, the position is still empty because Romaine Laville failed the screening process to become a Minister.

At the swearing in ceremony were the relatives of the six Ministers, MPs Gracita Arrindell, Roy Marlin, and Romaine Laville. Among them was the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger.

The swearing in ceremony came weeks after the country went through its third political crisis when Laville and the two DP Members of Parliament pulled their support from the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government.

The former Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin contested the installation of a third government by submitting a Landsbesluit based on article 59 of the country's constitution to have the Parliament of St. Maarten annulled. The Governor in a letter to Marlin said that he wants Marlin and the other outgoing Ministers to take the LB to the Parliament of St. Maarten for ratification before he signs it. This is in contradiction of the rules of order that governs the governor which gave five reasons that forbids the governor from signing an LB. Article 21 of the rules of order of the governor states that if the governor feels that he has a problem signing an LB then he must send it to the crown for approval.

SMN News learnt that the previous Ministers from the National Alliance faction sent a letter to the Council of State and to the crown pointing out the various constitutional errors that took place throughout the process.

Click here to view more photos of the New Ministers after the swearing-in ceremony.

Appointment and Swearing in of Ministers and Minister Plenipotentiary.

Harbour View:--- On June 14, 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, officiated the appointment and administered the oath of office to the Ministers and the Minister Plenipotentiary of the new cabinet.
All Ministers have met the regulatory requirements and they have been appointed as follows:

  • Mrs. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, Prime Minister, also Minister of General Affairs
  • Mr. Dennis L. Richardson, Minister of Justice, also Deputy Prime Minister
  • Mr. Maurice A. Lake, Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure
  • Mr. Martinus J. Hassink, Minister of Finance
  • Mrs. Patricia D. Lourens-Philip, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports
  • Mr. Van Hugh C. de Weever, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour
  • Mr. Mathias S. Voges, Minister Plenipotentiary

Mrs. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams will also act as Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication temporarily.
In the UP/DP Governing Accord, integrity, transparency, reduction of bureaucracy and efficiency and service have been specified as focal points for the remaining governing term. Together with economic diversification, fiscal reform and simplification, social safety nets, job creation, training, poverty alleviation, community and infrastructural development, legislative focus, electoral, labour and immigration reform, national insurance and the completion of the reorganization of the Justice Ministry as focal issues for Sint Maarten, the governing accord will be executed as agreed upon by the coalition partners United Peoples Party, Democratic Party and the independent Member of Parliament Romain Laville.
During the official ceremony which took place at the Cabinet of the Governor, the Governor stated after the swearing in:
"You have just witnessed the transfer of executive responsibility for the governance of our island Sint Maarten from one team of ministers to a new team of ministers. A new team of ministers that was presented to me thanks to the work of formateur Ms. Wescot Williams following a path which was not without challenges. En route to the transfer, the strength and resolve of our nation has been put to the test. And a new chapter has been written in the constitutional history of our young nation and parliamentary democracy.
Today, six weeks after the start of the political developments that brought us to this point and three and a half weeks since the previous team of ministers made their positions available we have before us a new team of ministers. A lot has transpired in that six weeks period, some of which has given rise to some critical questions and requires that politicians take a good look in the mirror. Developments that have caused me, in my capacity as Governor of Sint Maarten to appeal to all stakeholders to do all that is necessary to maintain and protect the integrity of our constitutional democracy. I did so drawing from the words of the preamble to our constitution, namely:
We, The people of Sint Maarten, in order to record our objectives and convictions agree that the provisions of the constitution shall have the force of law. Today I wish to highlight some of our ideals as recorded:

  • The first ideal being our determination as a people to work with each other;
  • The second ideal being our declaration that we are a people that believe in the principle of democracy, in the rule of law, .... and in the entitlement of all individuals to the fundamental rights and freedoms;
  • And the third ideal being our declaration that we wish to create a constitutional order based on an open and approachable government.

As a result we have no option but to work towards these ideals, as anything else will go against the general interest, that is against the interest of the people of Sint Maarten.
In monitoring recent political developments and looking ahead I am concerned about the increased divisiveness and accusations as well as about the increasing questions about this nations commitment towards mentioned ideals. Let me in that regard say that, I am sure, that is not what the people of Sint Maarten want. I say this, because of my firm belief in the good of the people of Sint Maarten and because I am particularly pleased and encouraged to see the increased level of involvement of and debate among the people of Sint Maarten regarding political developments during the past weeks. I therefore challenge you as the new team of ministers, as you assume your mandate to govern this beautiful country, to make the further building on the realization of our ideals your priority.
Accepting the function of minister through the taking of the oath today, is a solemn expression of your commitment to perform your function with integrity. It is your pledge of allegiance to the King and the Kingdom Charter and it is your individual declaration to always uphold the Constitution of Sint Maarten and to always dedicate yourself to foster the wellbeing of the People of Sint Maarten. In that regard, there rests on you individually as ministers and jointly as Council of Ministers a great responsibility. Through your oath, you have accepted the obligation to serve all the people of Sint Maarten. This based on the principles of democracy, on the rule of law, ...... and on respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of all persons and anchored in our determination as a people to work together.
It is my hope and trust, that as you continue the march where your predecessors left off, that you will, through the application of the principles of good governance, answer the call to unite the people towards the further overall and balanced development of our island nation. This hope and trust comes from my firm belief in the good within and strength of the Sint Maarten people.
Your decisions will have lasting influences on the lives of the people of Sint Maarten. Thus, as you deliberate on taking action on the matters before you during your governing period, I wish you wisdom, individually and jointly, in the conduct of your responsibilities as you seek to meet your constitutional responsibility to the people of Sint Maarten.
With that in mind, I hereby congratulate the people of Sint Maarten with the installation of this new government and similarly congratulate each of you individually and jointly with your appointments as Prime-Minister, Ministers and Minister Plenipotentiary.

Thank you, God Bless you and God Bless Sint Maarten".

Press Release from the Governor's Cabinet

marijuanaplantation14062013Philipsburg:--- The police recently, due to information given by persons within the community, located several marijuana plantations which seemingly have been increasing. On June 1st, a follow up on the investigation of a marijuana plantation in the Middle Region Dutch Quarter area revealed another large marijuana plantation in the hill behind Gibbs drive. During this investigation, a total of 485 marijuana plants and a large amount of farming equipment was found and confiscated.
On Friday June 14th, police investigated a location in the George Town road on the Mount William Hill where a marijuana plantation was located. On the scene the police found and confiscated 32 marijuana plants. No one has been arrested as yet as a suspect in this case.

KPSM Police Report

Philipsburg:--- On Friday June 14th at approximately 4:00am, a well-known lawyer working on Sint Maarten with initials S.J.F. was arrested for insulting and threatening police officers. The incident occurred in front of Golden Eyes Night Club on the Airport Boulevard where police were called to investigate a minor traffic accident between two vehicles, one of which was driven by the lawyer in question. During the investigation the lawyer who according to the investigating officers was under the influence of alcohol was not cooperating and on several occasions insulted the officers using profanity and verbally threatened their lives. Witnesses on the scene stated that they had seen the suspect earlier during the night at two different night clubs and that he had been drinking. The lawyer also told the officers that he knew persons in high positions and that he will have them lose their jobs. The lawyer was then arrested and taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where he remains in custody for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

raisingoftheflag14062013Father Bob during Church Service: "A flag is a very special and powerful symbol for a country. It makes us thrive in the best possible way as St. Maarteners."

Philipsburg:--- On Thursday, the 13th of June, the population of St. Maarten celebrate Flag Day; a day in which the significance, meaning and symbolism of the St. Maarten Flag is commemorated.

The Official Flag Day Ceremony Commenced with the Official Raising of the Flag, attended by the Uniformed Guard of the Police Force and the Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten VKS, invited guests and dignitaries include the Honorable Prime Minister and His Excellency the Governor.

The ceremonies continued with a National Church Service at the Roman Catholic Church on Front Street, where Father Bob gave a stirring homily regarding the meaning of the Flag to the Population and how this is related to matters of Faith: "A flag is a very special and powerful symbol for a country. It makes us thrive in the best possible way as St. Maarteners. The Flag appeals to the deepest core of our beings and appeals to our emotions. When we look to the flag it should bring out the best in our people and everything this flag stands for brings us out of darkness into the lightness of God

"The flag should be a reminder of the good citizens we are called to be. It is Gods will that by doing good you should quell the ignorant foolish talk and by God my St. Maarten people, have we been having some ignorant foolish talk lately in many different ways and on many different days. And it is thus on Flag Day that we are reminded that we have to move beyond that. We are called to love our brothers and sisters, to fear God and to love our Country, and that is what our flag reminds us of and that is what we must follow to be the best we can be as a society," commented Father Bob Johnson.

The Church Service also featured readings by Shirley Sadowski-Verlack, Aida Holaman and Emilia Thomas and was attended by His Excellency the Governor Eugene Holiday, Members of Parliament, Minister Jacobs, Minister Plenipotentiary Mathias Voges and the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, who stated that "A flag is a unifier. It represents a group, a nation, a people. It is a call to unite around a common purpose. This is our flag. It is a symbol that represents us."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sjohnsonsignsusmalumnideed14062013Philipsburg:--- The University of St. Martin (USM) added an alumni foundation to its organizational structure on Thursday afternoon. The USM Elite Alumni Foundation was launched at Speetjens Notary office by the official signing of its deed.
President Stuart Johnson said, "A promise made is a promise kept, as we did when I officially legalized USM's Student Government Association." Johnson signed the official deed in the presence of university official John Zaandam, Manager of Finance and Services as well as USM alumni member Januaira Leonard. The members of the board are: Paula Gordon, Tamara Groeneveldt and Sahcha Eustache. Former USM students are urged to look out for the registration information in regards to the alumni membership, which will be released in a subsequent media announcement.
Johnson said, "this historical milestone is dedicated to USM and our beloved country as we continue to pledge our unconditional support towards higher education." He concluded saying, "I wish to thank everyone who made this opportunity possible and trust the foundation will be embraced by all former students as well as the community itself. Your confidence in me as the alumni's first president and the other board members surely continues to motivate us."

POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is ready for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season. A meeting has already taken place to discuss the plan of action for this season. All stakeholders meet annually to prepare for the season in order to make sure that all necessary actions are taken to protect the Port, one of the pillars of the country's economy.

All efforts are made by the harbour's staff and stakeholders to keep the facility open as long as possible and to open back up as soon as possible. The St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies realize the importance of getting back to business as soon as possible, however, safety is always the primary principle that dictates the actions to be taken.

The port facility is an open harbor, and this means that the effects of waves are felt directly from the open sea. Unfortunately this is why sometimes operations are hampered even when a hurricane passes far away. The waves and swells affect ships trying to stay alongside the pier. The ships roll too much for the cranes to safely offload the cargo, and passengers cannot disembark and embark safely.

The dangers of damage to the ship and piers must also be taken into consideration. Operations must then wait for seas to subside to allow for the ships to berth safely. Ships have to deviate when a hurricane is in their path or route. The effects can be; cargoes being delayed and cruise ships going to other ports. Ships agents have their hands full as the cargo's that are rerouted have to now also be rerouted at times or wait until the next round trip. On the other hand, a hurricane somewhere else may have ships coming to St. Maarten for an unplanned visit.

Depending on severity of a passing hurricane, waves and swell damages can be severe, as water will move earth.

A full assessment is made of the property as soon as weather permits. After the waves and swells subside, which can take some time; it is necessary to survey the seabed for possible debris that can damage a ships bottom or propellers. Underwater structures such as seawalls and pilings are checked for damages in the post-storm period.

The Port receives the input from shops, stevedoring companies, cargo shipping lines as well as the cruise lines, tour operators on land and sea, in preparation for a storm strike. Many man hours are required to prepare the harbour when a hurricane is on track to pass the island.

Depending on the expected winds, sometimes containers have to be moved and placed so as to avoid or try to minimize damage. The ports large mobile cranes have to be moved to a safe location. The crane booms are lowered so that there is the least effect of wind on them.

Properties must be secured such as signage taken down, awnings removed etc. All structures near the water have to be removed. Some of this equipment is large and cumbersome. Storage areas are designated to allow access and for all equipment to be able to be put back in place as soon as possible once the all clear-sign has been given by the Office of Disaster Management.

Great Bay:--- VOICES FOUNDATION is inviting the people of St Maarten/St.Martin to their Cultural Ancestral July 1 Emancipation Day Celebration at the Emilio Wilson Park with the Theme "You are Greatness, you come from Greatness"- Monday, July 1st - 2pm-6pm.

The President of VOICES Ms Nkosazana Esther Illis understands and respects the Greatness of our Ancestors and believes all people of St. Maarten, especially the youth need to come together on this special day to celebrate where we came from as a people." You were born and destined to do Great things....you are Greatness, you come from Greatness" - Ms. Nkosazana Illis.

To show the appreciation of St. Maarten's youth, VOICES will be honoring the most improved student of the various secondary schools for the 2012 - 2013 academic school year.

The program will also be filled with local historians, storytelling, poetry, dance, arts and crafts, and music by the Legendary DJ Wilson. Local St. Maarten traditional food and drinks will also be on sale.

VOICES is encouraging the people of St Maarten to come out and bring their blankets as the event is a picnic style occasion. See you there!

VOICES is a "Grassroots" Foundation which bears the name Victory-Over-Injustice-Consciously-Eliminating-Silence.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithmajorpatrickwokke14062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held an introductory meeting with Marine Detachment Commander Patrick Wokke (opposite PM) at her Cabinet on Wednesday afternoon. Major Wokke was joined by Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hofma (right), commander of the Marine Base Savaneta in Aruba and Lieutenant Colonel S. A Blaas (left), Policy Advisor to the Royal Dutch Marines. As the Minister of General Affairs the Prime Minister is the National Minister responsible for defense matters on a Country level.

The Prime Minister, in previous meetings with the Royal Dutch Marines and with the Former Kingdom Minister of Defense Hillen, has held wide discussions on the establishment for a Marine Base on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister has stated previously that the establishment of such a base in St. Maarten is important consideration when one takes into account the protection and defense mission of the marines. "In cases of disasters St. Maarten previously has had to request the deployment of Marines for assistance to the Minister of Defense in Netherlands via the Governor. Having Marine Base on St. Maarten will assist that procedure and will ensure that we have a faster deployment in the event of a Hurricane for example," continued the Prime Minister.

The PM has also previously stressed that having a Marine Base on St. Maarten will also have an economic impulse by having a contingent of Marine Officer stationed on the island at a location to be determined full time, with rotating groups coming in frequently.

"What is also important is that we could and will have as part of the Marine Base on St. Maarten a social formation program for young local people. The Marines on the island would be instrumental in taking care of the program that would also be an important aspect of the Marine Base here. So if we look at an economic aspect, safety and defense aspect, and a social formation project we are in agreement with the Minister in having such a base come to St. Maarten," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsreceivesoualichiwstjersey14062013PM wishes team success representing St. Maarten/St. Martin in Anguilla.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received an honorary Oualichi Women's Soccer Team Jersey from Oualichi Women's Soccer Team members Danae Daal and Ashanti Van Heyningen during a presentation at the PM's Cabinet on Wednesday. Sixteen ladies from the Oualichi Team will be representing the Friendly Island against the Anguilla National Women's Selection on Saturday. The PM wished the team much success and commended them for their efforts to represent Country St. Maarten playing women's soccer abroad.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

armedrobberyfillin13082012Lowlands:--- On Wednesday June 12th at approximately 9:30pm, several police patrols were directed to Jordan Drive in Lowlands where an armed robbery was reported. On the scene the investigating officers located the victims who were both tied up. According to the victims they were both attacked and seriously beaten by two unknown armed men. The suspects threatened the victims with their weapons while their home was searched. The suspects stole jewelry, cash and the victims' car and then fled the scene. The victims were treated on the scene by paramedics. The Detective Department and Forensic are conducting their investigation.

KPSM Police Report

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- On June 13th , 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, received the final report of formateur S. Wescot-Williams.
The formateur has accepted the commission to form a new government that has a majority in Parliament and that consists of Ministers who are committed to the promotion of the well-being of Sint Maarten and dedicated to jointly execute the UP/DP Governing Declaration, agreed upon by the coalition partners Democratic Party, United People's Party, and independent Member of Parliament Romain Laville.
The formateur has nominated the following persons for appointment as Ministers and Minister Plenipotentiary:

  • Mrs. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, Prime Minister, also Minister of General Affairs
  • Mr. Maurice A. Lake, Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure,
  • Mr. Dennis L. Richardson, Minister of Justice;
  • Mr. Martinus J. Hassink, Minister of Finance;
  • Mrs. Patricia D. Lourens-Philip, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports;
  • Mr. Van Hugh C. de Weever, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour;
  • Mr. Mathias S. Voges, Minister Plenipotentiary

The vetting of the candidate ministers and the candidate Minister Plenipotentiary, based on the pertinent regulations regulating the appointment of ministers has not produced any data that could impede their appointment.
The Governor has scheduled the appointment and swearing in of the Ministers and Minister Plenipotentiary on June 14th, 16:00 hrs, at the Governor's Office. After the ceremony, the Governor and the newly appointed Ministers will have the constituting meeting in the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall.

From the Governor's Cabinet

swescotwilliamsatlugraduation13062013Urges Graduates to be leaders in whatever they choose to do

Belair:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams addressed the Learning Unlimited Graduating class at a filled to capacity Belair Community Center on Wednesday evening.

The Prime Minister stated that although she realized that speeches were often times boring, but wanted to nonetheless offer some words to the Graduating Class.

"Let us be honest here this evening; I know that my remarks here tonight will not be one which you will hang onto every word; your focus is on your plans for later and the very important steps that lie before you. And indeed you are entitled to that; you are entitled to celebrate your high school completion and to share the friendships you have built; you are entitled to show some love for your teachers and parents and all of those who have helped you along the way. But knowing all of that why then would I have you sit through a speech here tonight? It is because I feel that I had to tell you here this evening that you, as Graduating students, should control the bar that you set for yourselves and indeed that is the title of my speech; to control the bar.

"You must control the bar according to the goals you have set for yourselves; according to the standards, or the bar, that you aspire to. Control the achievements you hope to attain. And you should raise that bar in always reaching higher. Do not be apologetic for raising that bar; for putting aside short term enjoyment for your long term goals. I see many leaders here amongst you tonight; leaders in the area of athletics, science, academics and yes, also politics. Be that leader, set your bar using the tools that you have been provided and which allowed you to develop academically, socially and culturally. Now it is up to you to use those tools that you have been given and build on your tomorrow. Congratulations to the Graduating Class, Teachers, Staff and Students. You made it and you deserved it. Go out and make your mark," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

norwegianbreakaway13062013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is looking forward to welcoming another new vessel that will be calling at the destination, namely Norwegian Breakaway in January 2014.

The Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) took delivery of the 146,600 gross tonnage vessel from Meyer Werft a few months ago after a building period of 18 months. The vessel carries 4,000 cruise passengers and 1,600 crew.

Norwegian Breakaway is the first of two Breakaway class ships the Papenburg-based shipyard is building for NCL. The Norwegian Getaway, the sister ship, will launch in Miami in early 2014.

Beginning October 13, Norwegian Breakaway will offer seven-day voyages from New York City to The Bahamas and Florida, as well as two 12-day sailings to the Southern Caribbean.

The new design of the luxury vessels offers guests a multitude of special features and comfort where approximately 75 per cent of the staterooms are outside staterooms, most of them with their own balconies.

The vessel carries the latest engine technology with respect to energy saving and ecological. The diesel-electric pod drive system, improved hydrodynamics as well as effective energy saving, heat recovery or ballast water treatment, guarantees significantly reduced operating costs.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies is looking forward to welcoming another new vessel to the Port of St. Maarten in January 2014.

"I am very pleased to learn about the new innovations that went into constructing this new luxury vessel that is better for the environment and also cuts down on the operating costs for the cruise line. This means that the line can offer cheaper cruises allowing for more people to take a cruise which in turn means more business for the destination.

"NCL has been a strategic partner for the country for many years and we look forward to welcoming this new luxurious vessel come January 2014," CEO Mark Mingo said.

fathersdaycarshow13062013Cole Bay:--- Caribbean Auto held a joint CAR SHOW with Motorworld at its Union Rd. Cole Bay location to celebrate Father's Day. Customers were able to receive up to $3000 cash back on selected models or purchase any other model and receive a free flat screen TV, Laptop, or Apple iPad. RBC Royal Bank was available all day for on the spot bank financing. Many customers came in and enjoyed the live music, free food and drinks, and the amazing display of vehicles.
The Father's Day Car Show Specials have been extended for proformas issued from June 3rd until June 30th 2013.
Caribbean Auto is the car dealer for the brands Ford, Volkswagen, Mazda, Land Rover, Mercedes- Benz, and Lincoln for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Caribbean Auto showroom which is located on Union road, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tel 1-721-544-5211 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Motorworld was voted "The Best Auto Dealer" on St. Maarten by the public of St. Maarten. Motorworld is the car dealer for the brands Hyundai, Honda, Daihatsu, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Motorworld showroom which is located on Welfare rd #20, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tel 1-721-544-5294 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Caribbean Auto Press Release

swescotwilliamsatsersymposium13062013Calls on Corporate Citizens to Contribute to National Development Plan

Oyster Pond:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams delivered the introductory remarks at the Social and Economic Council's Symposium Entitled "Innovate or Deteriorate: Corporate Social Responsibility and the Way Forward for St. Maarten" at the Westin Dawn Beach resort on Wednesday. The main focus of the Prime Minister's address was the inherent social responsibility of Corporate Citizens on St. Maarten and their contribution in moving the development of St. Maarten forward, particularly with regards to the National Development Plan.

"If we study the numbers of the Chamber of Commerce we have no lack of corporations on the island. There are many, big and small, that are active and not so active in the social arena. And so today, as we look at that responsibility of cooperation on St. Maarten, the question I would like to hear addressed would be the one asking specifically what drives the feeling of social responsibility of cooperation right here on St. Maarten. Corporations have indeed the responsibility to contribute to the community in which they find themselves established: the community of St. Maarten. It is important as we look at that responsibility, of corporate citizens on St. Maarten, that we look at it in the bigger picture of the development of St. Maarten and the contribution of everyone to that development.

"Also with regards to development: I encourage the gathering to create the environment that will ensure that corporate citizens will contribute to the National Development Plan for the Country of St. Maarten, thus incorporating social responsibility to fit into this framework. The Private Sector has a very important role to play in the establishment of the National Development Plan. A plan where no one can be left behind and one in which all have a role to play.

The Prime Minister also greeted Keynote Speaker Prof. Dr. Ryan Peterson, highlighting the fact that the renown Academic and UNESCO Research Chair comes from St. Maarten lineage. In a very special way I would like to greet our esteemed guest and Keynote Speaker Dr. Ryan Peterson. If one wonders what our parents and grandparents from St. Maarten did were doing when they moved to the other islands of the Dutch Caribbean, It is my opinion that they were actually preparing to provide those island's with technical assistance using our resources," quipped the PM.

The SER was established in May of 2011 and has as its main goal the advising of government on policies and draft laws in the social and economic field. The Government of St. Maarten requests advice from the SER on matters of a social and economic nature and the SER in turn offers solicited or unsolicited advice to Government on draft laws and policies that fall within its mandate. The Prime Minister initiated the Social Economic Council in May 2011 and conducted the first official meeting of the council at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall that same month.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Emergency Medical Services (EMS), will be kicking off EMS Week on Sunday June 16th with a Church Service at the New Testament Baptist Church at 11:00am across from Government Administration Building.

Ambulance Department Head Cylred Richardson told the Department of Communication (DCOMM) that EMS Week which is being carried out under the theme, "EMS One Mission One Team," is a special time to recognize the lifesaving work of the island's emergency medical service professionals working in the pre-hospital care setting, hospital and volunteer EMS organizations."

Attention also needs to be given to first responders working in the field of law enforcement and fire prevention.

Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor Hon. Cornelius de Weever extends words of congratulation and recognizes the hard work of both career and volunteer EMS agencies on the celebration of EMS week 2013 which is being organized by his ministry.

The Minister encourages the public to use the week as an opportunity to recognize the critical role of EMS responders and agencies.

EMS is uniquely positioned to bring potential parties together to plan for and minimize the impact that disasters have on health.

Disaster response and recovery requires a whole community working together. It's one mission, one team. EMS is a critical part of that team, there when every minute counts.

During the week emphasis will be placed on creating the awareness within the community in general and specifically lifesaving techniques amongst the youth & law enforcement personnel.

A number of radio interviews are planned to bring the awareness of EMS and about the critical role EMS plays within our community.

From June 17-19, there will be lectures in a number of schools on lifesaving techniques, drinking and driving, distracted driving when texting and talking on the phone.

On June 20, there will be lectures and demonstration on Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for law enforcement officers including Community Police and specifically those working in the uniformed division as first responders on the scene.

On June 21, the annual Motorcade Parade will be the highlight for the closure of EMS week 2013. Also planned for that evening is the recognition and appreciation that will be shown to two ambulance personnel followed by a Karaoke Night at the Ambulance Headquarters in Cay Hill.

French Quarter:--- A family from French Quarter found a 12 year old boy on Le Galion Beach around 10pm Tuesday night with marks of violence and what appeared to be a skin disease. According to the family, they were in the bushes on Le Galion Beach looking for crabs when they found the child who was crying, his clothes were wet and he had marks of violence about his face. The family told SMN News that the child told them he lives on the Dutch side of the island and is also attending school on the Dutch side. "The boy told us his name is Anthony, he also told us that his mother beat him very badly and she wanted to kill him. He was not wearing any shoes or slippers when we found him and he was bleeding from his face. The child could not say how he got on the beach. At one point, he said he ran away when his mother began beating him and afterwards he said he did not know how he got to the beach. It took us a long time to get the child to speak to us, he was not responding at first but we insisted that he tell us what he was doing on the beach at that hour of the night alone."

The family said they called the Gendarmes who questioned the child in their presence and then the four gendarmes took him to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. Up to Thursday young Anthony was still a patient at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital.

SMN News reporter went to the hospital to see the child and to gather pertinent information on the parents of the child but the social workers at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital said that they are not allowed to divulge any information on minors who are in their care. They did admit that the child was a patient at the hospital and they were doing their best to care for him.

The social workers said they are doing the best they could to provide treatment and care for the young boy while they already contacted the Court of Guardianship on the Dutch side for assistance. The Social workers referred SMN News to the Gendarmes for more information since they were unable to allow anyone close to the boy or to give out information on his condition.

Captain of the Gendarmerie, Sylvain Jouault confirmed on Thursday morning that a child was found alone on the beach Tuesday night around 10pm. Jouault said the child was taken to the hospital and the Gendarmes opened an investigation to determine why the minor boy was on the beach alone that night and to also determine who ill-treated him. Jouault said that they need to know if the child ran away from home because that is very prevalent on St. Maarten. When SMN News asked Captain Jouault if they contacted the Dutch authorities for assistance he said that they did not because the investigation they opened is not yet completed and when they contact the Dutch authorities they wanted to have a complete report on the case. Jouault further explained later (Thursday afternoon) that the mother of the child was found by the Dutch side Social Services and she was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital on Wednesday morning to explain who ill-treated her son and how he ended up on the beach alone on the French side. Jouault said that the child ran away from home and the family seems to have social problems. The Captain of the Gendarmerie further explained that the child is not a French citizen and he does not live on the French side, therefore the Prosecutor on the French side of the island has sent the files on the investigation they conducted to the Dutch side Prosecutor's Office who would decide whether or not they will prosecute the mother for her actions.

According to Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte the Gendarmes did not ask them for any assistance on the case. De Witte said police on the Dutch side do not even know of the case. He also confirmed that no one filed a complaint with the police for a missing child.

Philipsburg:--- A man was shot sometime on Sunday in the vicinity of Carnival Village. The victim who is from the island of Jamaica was flown off island for further medical treatment, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos.
Mos said a suspect was arrested on Wednesday morning, while another suspect was arrested in the evening and a house search was conducted Wednesday night at the suspect's house located in Sucker Garden.

Two suspects in the shooting incident arrested.

On Wednesday June 12th, two suspects in the shooting incident which took place in the evening hours on Monday June 10th in Rock Salt road on Pond Island were arrested by police. Both arrests took place without incident. The initials of the suspects are M.A.J. (20) and E.R.J (18), both from Sint Maarten. This shooting left the victim K.M.K. from Jamaica seriously injured and had to be flown abroad for further medical treatment. Both suspects remain in custody while the Detective Department and Forensic Department conduct their investigation.

KPSM Police Report

 

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- Considering the current political environment and the ongoing debate His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday considers it important that the population take stock of the situation free from the ongoing political maneuvering. In that regard the Governor wishes to emphasize that political debate is a prerequisite for growth in any democracy. And the Governor stresses that it goes without saying that such should take place peacefully and with mutual respect for the opinions of all sides.
As a result of the political developments leading up to the resignation of the current government on May 22, 2013, the Governor has in keeping with his role as constitutional Governor consulted extensively with the players involved. Depending on the situation the Governor has encouraged and warn parties, always emphasizing that it is imperative that parties adhere to the democratic principles as laid down in the constitution of Sint Maarten.
With regard to the discussions about the authorities of Parliament and of the Council of Ministers, it is essential to note that in our dualistic system of government the authorities of both bodies are separate and independent. This does not mean, however, that within or between the two bodies differences of opinions will not arise from time to time. That is currently the case. In such situations various outcomes are possible: (a) a new government is formed based on early elections for a new parliament (article 59 of the Constitution) or (b) a new government is formed based on a new majority in the sitting Parliament (article 33 of the Constitution). Although politics will always play a role in that process, the actions of political maneuvering of various players on both sides of the debate that took place since May 6, 2013, have given rise to concerns.
Where there is political maneuvering, it is not the role of the Governor to dictate what should or what should not be done politically. As constitutional Governor when actions resulted in such concerns his role is to - and he has warned against such - emphasizing that he will only ratify decisions that are in keeping with the democratic principles as anchored in the rule of law through our constitution aimed at safeguarding good governance.
Part of the political maneuvering was the conflict between the majority in Parliament and the majority in the Council of Ministers. By Wednesday evening, May 22, 2013, all Ministers had made their positions available in view of the political developments and indicated that they are willing to stay on as caretaker ministers until a new government has been appointed. To avoid a vacuum in government, the Governor requested that the ministers continue working until a new government is formed. The cabinet as of that moment, took on a caretaker status. At the same time, there was a conflict between the Chairman of Parliament and the new majority in Parliament. The chairman, in keeping with the democratic principles as laid down in the Constitution, eventually resigned making way for the new majority in Parliament.
Another part of the political maneuvering was the conflict within the Council of Ministers between the prime-minister and the majority of ministers regarding the handling of the majority's May 7, 2013 proposal to dissolve parliament. Four of the six caretaker ministers, in keeping with the democratic principles as laid down in the Constitution, convened an extra-ordinary Council of Ministers' meeting on June 4, 2013. In accordance with the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers, the four ministers were justified to convene that meeting and to put the draft national decree to dissolve Parliament as discussion point on the agenda. In that extra-ordinary meeting they approved the draft national decree to dissolve Parliament and call new elections. As of that moment, that political conflict was resolved by the majority of the Council of Ministers in that, as outlined in the explanatory note to article 39 sub 4 to the Constitution, decisions of the Council of Ministers are taken by the Council of Ministers and not by the prime-minister or the individual ministers.
The draft national decree to dissolve parliament and call new elections, as was decided on in the extra-ordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers, was submitted to the Governor for ratification on June 5, 2013. Taking the caretaker status of the Council of Ministers and considering that the process of forming a new government supported by a majority in Parliament is taking place, the Governor informed the caretaker ministers that they are to send the draft national decree to Parliament for its consent, prior to his signing for ratification. This consent is deemed necessary because dissolving Parliament would mean that directly after an election, a caretaker government could also immediately dissolve the newly formed Parliament again and call new elections if they disagree with the outcome of the elections. And in doing so, the caretaker government could continue to hold the democratic process hostage indefinitely. Moreover, article 33 of the Constitution, states that if Parliament no longer has confidence in ministers they are to make their position available. Noteworthy is that through its motion of May 24, 2013 the majority in Parliament has clearly stated that it no longer supports the caretaker government. In this situation, consent of Parliament to approve its dissolution could be considered part of the system of checks and balances. It should be noted however, that this check would not have been required if the Council of Ministers had not already tendered their resignation,
A final important aspect in the recent political developments, has been the petition by concerned citizens calling for new elections. This matter was brought to the Governor's attention and in keeping with his Constitutional role, the Governor has forwarded the petition to the Council of Ministers for handling and decision making based on which the Governor could act.
In conclusion, it is not the role of the Governor to dictate the result of differences of political opinions. In his constitutional role of Governor, when actions result in concerns, the Governor's role is to warn and emphasize that he will only ratify decisions that are in keeping with the democratic principles as anchored in the rule of law through Sint Maarten's Constitution aimed at safeguarding good governance. With the tendering of the resignation of the entire Council of Ministers on Wednesday evening, May 22, 2013, and considering the motion of Parliament stating that it no longer supports the current government and that it wishes to form a new government, a political choice was made to form a new government supported by a new majority in Parliament.

From the Cabinet of the Governor of St. Maarten

lieutenantcolonelstephenreny12062013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Lieutenant Colonel Timothy Beers relinquished command of the United States Forward Operating Locations (USFOL) in Curacao and Aruba to Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Reny today. The Change of Command is a time-honored military tradition which symbolizes the continuation of leadership and unit identity, despite the change in individual authority. It also allows other airmen to personally witness the command authority passing from one officer to another. Passing the ceremonial flag from the old commander to the new commander physically represents this transfer.
Commander Beers distinguished himself with outstanding service to the United States as Commander, Detachment 2, 612th Theater Operation Group, Headquarters Twelfth Air Force (Air Forces Southern), Forward Operating Locations Curacao and Aruba. During this period, Commander Beers expertly directed over 110 aircraft and 1900 joint and multinational personnel supporting the United States' Southern Command and Joint Interagency Task Force-South's counter-transnational organized crime operations, resulting in 539 counter-drug missions totaling 3,926 flight hours.
He coordinated with two heads of state, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Department of State in a regional effort yielding 349 arrests and the seizure of 140 metric tons in illegal narcotics worth over US $2.6 billion. Additionally, Commander Beers implemented over US $6.4 million in base infrastructure projects in line with directives from the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Staff, including several force protection and energy saving initiatives which enhanced access control point security and will significantly reduce energy consumption. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Commander Beers reflect great credit upon him and the United States Air Force. Commander Beers received a Meritorious Service Medal First Oak Leaf Cluster for his accomplishments.
Lieutenant Colonel Reny received his commission in 1995 through the prestigious United States Air Force Academy. Colonel Reny has served in various wing, squadron, and air force staff assignments prior to taking command in Curacao and Aruba. (full bio attached)
The U.S. FOL, 429th Expeditionary Operations Squadron, supports multi-national aircraft operations that conduct detection, monitoring and tracking missions supporting counter-drug and counter-smuggling efforts in the region. U.S. FOL Curaçao was formed as a part of a
multi-lateral agreement between the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the United States, whereby aircraft and crews deploy to the U.S. FOL on a temporary basis to conduct operations.

valeriebrazier12062013Distinguished Toastmasters Valerie Brazier was elected to the position of Lieutenant Governor Education & Training (LGET), at the recently concluded Toastmasters International District 81 Conference in Guyana. This position goes into effect as of July 1st 2013 and is the second highest ranking position within District 81. Close to two hundred Toastmasters from across the Caribbean and South America came together for yet another successful Toastmasters District 81 Conference. During the Conference, Toastmasters and guests participated in various educational sessions, social gatherings and Business meetings. A delegation of 14 Toastmasters representing the various Clubs on St. Maarten traveled to Guyana and participated actively in the various events. For the past year, Ms. Brazier has functioned in the position of Lieutenant Governor Marketing, where she has been instrumental in accomplishing the following;

  • Expanding District 81 with 3 new territories namely, Antigua, Anguilla, and Dominica bringing the total amount of territories to 20 with 123 Clubs. Upgrading the District 81 website: www.caribbeantoastmasters.com and upholding the Toastmasters International brand refresh.

When asked, Miss. Brazier mentioned that during her upcoming term as Lieutenant Governor Education and Training she intends to work closely with the other District Executive members to implement a 5 year strategic plan. In addition, she will ensure that all district and club officers receive the necessary training and materials needed to help them carry out their roles effectively. She will also coordinate the Toastmasters "Train the Trainers" Program; which will allow for a pool of new presenters and trainers throughout the district.
As LGET it is her responsibility to also guide and work closely with the Conference Planning Committee assisting in planning the two annual District conferences. DTM Valerie Brazier would like to thank all District 81 members for their confidence in allowing her to serve during the 2013-2014 term as LGET.
She encourages individuals who are interested in developing better communication and leadership skills to become a member of the Toastmasters organization by joining one of the many clubs throughout District 81. District 81 comprises the following territories throughout the
Caribbean: Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Barbados, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, Sint Lucia, Dominica, Martinique, Haiti, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten / Saint Martin, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Antigua, Anguilla, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada and Guyana.

silveriajacobs05062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs wishes to extend congratulations to the people of St. Maarten in the commemoration of Flag Day 2013.

The St. Maarten flag stands as one of our National symbols, depicting the courage of our people, our unity and appreciation of our environment.

When we see our flag, it is with pride and joy at being a citizen and resident of this island where many flock to live, work and play.

We are blessed by the bounty and beauty of nature and I urge each and every one of us to hold that pride dear, but to let our actions show in preserving it for generations to come.

Each and every one of us must contribute to preserving our St. Maarten by pledging to keep it clean, by taking care of our nature - trees, beaches, ponds, hills, flora and fauna.

We can also contribute in a great way by looking out for our even more treasured resource, our children and youth.

Taking pride in our country means we are part of the solution to our myriad challenges.

I challenge each and every citizen to step out and be heard, volunteer and/or donate. We can be the difference.

May God bless St. Maarten and its people - Happy Flag Day!!!

Over the past days the Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba (College financieel toezicht Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba - Cft) had conversations with the three Executive Councils of the Public Entities and the Island Council of Bonaire. During the consultations amongst other things the annual reports of 2012, the execution of the 2013 budget and the preparation of the budget for the coming year were discussed.

Cautious financial management as well as the increase of the 'vrije uitkering' and its indexation, caused the financial position of the Public Entities to improve. For 2012, for the first time a positive result was achieved for the three Public Entities. For all the Public Entities the financial management has improved as well. The islands are well on their way to realize the priorities for this year.

Now that a positive result over 2012 is accomplished, it is the right time to focus on building up a resistance capital (weerstandsvermogen). The Board pointed out to the Public Entities how important it is to identify the risks the islands confront, such as natural disasters, and the need to develop a policy focused on the development of resistance capital, to be able to cope with these risks.

In this regard it is relevant that the islands have prepared comprehensive development plans for the coming years. The build-up of resistance capital is even more important when the Public Entities apply for loans for these development plans. The payment cost (aflossingslasten) will increase, whereby the flexibility of the budget may decrease. The surpluses of 2012 could partially be reserved for the development of resistance capital.

All Public Entities set important steps in the progress of their financial management. Saba strives for an approved declaration from the accountant concerning a true and fair view presented in the annual reports for 2012. Sint Eustatius however may be experiencing a delay in the submission of its execution report and annual report, but made remarkable progress in organizing its administration. Bonaire expects to stipulate the annual reports again in a timely manner.

With regard to the financial management the Board has stressed on the stipulated standards (normenkader) and the corresponding management tools to make the account able to evaluate the legitimacy of the accountability. The Public Entities have also set this as a priority. This is important to account for the expenditures of the Executive Councils.

The Public Entities expressed their worries concerning the capacity of their personnel. The Board emphasizes the importance, continuous focus on the capacity is taking place to ensure the improvements accomplished.

CFT Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Parents and guardians as well as others are reminded to attend the 2nd Youth Health Care (YHC) Vaccination Outreach and Family Planning Session to be held in Dutch Quarter on June 13.

It's an opportunity for residents of Dutch Quarter and surrounding areas to come out on Thursday, June 13 at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School from 5:00pm to 7:30pm, to have their children's vaccination status checked, and also receive information about family planning.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children's vaccination status checked on June 13.

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status.

To encourage risk groups such as waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly on Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a section of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, has been alerted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) about an increase in patient visits for influenza-like (flu) illness as well as hospitalizations associated with influenza in countries in the Southern Hemisphere.

The PAHO issued epidemiological alert to Member States pointed out that this time of year is the start of the influenza season in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela.

PAHO has advised Member States to ensure the adequate clinical management of patients, and the strict implementation of prevention and control measures in health care settings, and to reinforce communication to the public on preventative measures.

The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign emphasizes the importance of individuals taking preventive measures. The primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact. Hand washing is the most effective way of reducing transmission.

Persons and families planning a holiday in one of the countries in the Southern Hemisphere (South America), should take preventative measures once they arrive at their holiday destination.

Keeping hands clean through improved hand hygiene is one of the most important steps one can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Washing your hands should take 40 to 60 seconds.

If clean, running water is not accessible, as is common in many parts of the world, use soap and available water. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol to clean hands.

Your hands should be washed before, during, and after preparing food; before eating food; after using the toilet; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Flu viruses also may spread when people touch something with the flu virus on it and then tough their mouth, eyes, or nose. Many other viruses spread these ways too.

Preventive actions entails: try to avoid close contact with sick people; cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; throw the tissue in the trash after you use it; clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

seabournspirit12062013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is working with Seabourn Cruise Line on a long-term home-porting agreement. The Seabourn Spirit has been home porting during the past winter/spring seasons, and because of a successful home-porting experience, a commitment over the long-term is being explored.

The port has the necessary facilities and experience in forming strategic partnerships, and St. Maarten as a cruise destination is in itself a preferred destination for international cruise lines.

Seabourn has already indicated that destination St. Maarten is in alignment with the cruise lines brand.

Seabourn Cruise Line is considered the World's Best Small Ship Cruise Line in surveys by readers of Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure. Seabourn started in 1988 with the 208 passenger Seabourn Pride. Today, the company has six ships with passenger capacity varying between 208 and 450.

In 2009, Seabourn debut the Seabourn Odyssey, which was hailed as a game-changer for the ultra-luxury segment of the cruise market. The vessel is larger than its sister ships with 450 guests.

The Odyssey has since been joined by two identical sisters, Seabourn Sojourn in 2010 and Seabourn Quest in 2011.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies says he is working diligently to secure a long-term strategic partnership with Seabourn where home-porting is concerned.

"So far home-porting has been very successful for the destination. Like I said earlier this year, we do not have the infrastructure and logistics to homeport a vessel with 3,000 passengers and 5,000 pieces of luggage. We can handle comfortably 500 to 1000 passengers.

"We are making strides and have now reached the point of securing a long-term strategic partnership like we have with the larger cruise lines. Seabourn is a high end line which is committed. Between 20 to 30 per cent of those passengers of home-porting take a pre and post vacation on the island besides their cruise.

"Our taxi's and hotels are benefiting from home-porting and we now need to move forward in getting other vessels of a similar nature and size to operate out of the Port of St. Maarten where we as a port and as a destination have a lot to offer. Our goal and mission is to become the home-porting destination of the North Eastern Caribbean," CEO Mingo concluded.

Philipsburg:--- The father of a 17 year old girl remains in pre-trial detention for sexually abusing his underage daughter for long period of time. The father who has been identified as G.H. had his third pre-trial detention extended on Monday for another eight days. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed to SMN News that police arrested the father after a complaint was filed against him. Mos said the Prosecutor got a third extension on Monday and they are looking at having the suspect in custody for a longer period when he re-appears before the Judge of Instruction on Monday next week. Mos said based on the statements of the victim and other persons, the father sexually molested his daughter for a period of time. He said the incidents occurred prior to 2010 and only now the case surfaced.

Police also arrested the victim's aunt who is an employee of a well-known bank on St. Maarten for physically abusing the child. The aunt spent 18 days in pretrial detention and was released by the judge of instruction on Wednesday. Mos said that the judge believes that the woman spent enough time behind bars for the physical abuse she committed against the teenager at the time. Mos said based on the judge's conclusion, the prosecution will not appeal the release of the aunt that was ordered by the Judge of Instruction. "You have to understand that these offenses took place a long time ago and while the victim was questioned, the prosecution has no physical evidence. I am not saying the victim's statement is not credible but if we had physical evidence such as marks of violence the case would have been much stronger."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten (www.hennessyartistrysxm.com) has scheduled the second annual event for Saturday, Aug. 3, 2013 in Festival Village, Philipsburg. Tickets are currently on sale for the show featuring nine-time Grammy® award winner John Legend as well as Percy Sledge, famous for the song "When a Man Loves a Woman," among numerous others.

Hennessy Artistry Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music.

The Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten event is organized by CD Entertainment, one of St. Maarten's premiere event organizations with over 30 years experience in the industry.

"We are honored to host this event and look forward to local enthusiasm and international attendance for this amazing celebration of music," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

This year there will be two ticket options: VIP tickets will be US$150 with advance purchase; US$175 at the door. These tickets include VIP service, premium Hennessy drinks and food.

Tickets are also available for those who would like to experience only the concert aspect of the show for US$55 with advance purchase; US$75 at the door. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa will be the host hotel and is working closely with the marketing and sales team of Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten to finalize vacation packages with tour operators from the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and South America. Westin has arranged for packages for the local market as well.

Percy Sledge's performance will be accompanied by one of St. Maarten's local bands that has been put together by Fred York called "The Musicologists." The band performed for the Bob Marley tribute in February and the Heineken Regatta in March. These 13 highly talented artists will be gracing the stage first that evening with an original performance.

For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact us at Phone: +1 721 520-7120 / 520-1872 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Press Release from Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten

swescotwilliamsatelectoralreformevent11062013"Healthy debate and discussion is an integral part of any democracy."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commended and congratulated two events held over the weekend discussing the issue of electoral reform. The first was held at the Philipsburg Cultural Center and was organized by the New Era Foundation and the Concordia Political Alliance Friday's event asked the question on whether or not a change to the electoral system would help or hinder the electoral process. The second event, attended by the Prime Minister, was a debate organized by the St. Maarten Toastmasters Area Council and discussed whether or not electoral reform is necessary in the political environment of the Country.

"Healthy debate and discussion is an integral part of any democracy and I compliment the organizers of both events in the organization of these two very important items that are extremely important to the political development of our new country. Although I was not able to attend Friday's event I did attend the Toastmaster's debate on Sunday and I am encouraged by the interest that the population is showing in the constitutional development of our young democracy," commented the PM.

The Prime Minister has been a long-term proponent of electoral reform, taking the forefront in calling for changes to St. Maarten's electoral system.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliams11062013Bids on Various Items at Silent Auction

Oyster Bay:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams again expressed her great appreciation and gratitude at being named an honorary member of the Rotary Club on Saturday evening during the Change of Board Dinner at Infinity Restaurant in Oyster Bay on Saturday. The Prime Minister also bid on various items during the silent auction at the dinner, contributing towards the public service organization's various community strengthening initiatives.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sjacobswithwinnersofwaterpolo11062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Friday afternoon, Caretaker Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs was just on time to witness the last few minutes of the Interscholastic Water Polo championship match between Hillside Christian Schools and the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) School at the pool at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex.

Both teams, a mixture of boys and girls in grade 3, competed with heart and soul to be able to claim the 1st place Championship trophy. In the end, the victory was awarded to the Hillside Christian Schools, to the jubilation of students, teachers, staff and parents present.

Though disappointed in their second place finish, the SDA team proved to be troopers who gracefully accepted the 2nd place trophy. Third place had been decided in the previous match which saw the Oranje School team winning over the Marie Genevieve de Weever School which placed 4th.

All winning schools were awarded a trophy while each swimmer received their individual medals. All prizes were donated courtesy of Intermar Shipping, which was represented by Sandra Hazel in the prize giving ceremony.

In congratulating the winners, Minister Jacobs reminded all, especially the adults to continue to encourage competitiveness as well as sportsmanship, and respect for the referees decisions. "Our youth look up to us and learn from us how to behave and react to situations. We must win and lose with pride and graciousness," Minister Jacobs pointed out.

The swimming coaches, teachers, and students were commended for their dedication in making this year's water polo competition an exciting one. Minister Jacobs also thanked the corporate sponsors for their contribution in making the prize giving ceremony possible.

swescotwilliamsandfranstimmermansintroductorymeeting11062013PM: "I do not look at it in terms of Gender. Once you know your stuff you can stand up as a woman, or man for that matter.

Philipsburg:--- During the introductory meeting the Prime Minister the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held with Minister the Honorable Frans Timmermans, the Minister made some remarks regarding the Prime Minister's efforts to ensure gender equality in the Government Apparatus. "You have you gender balanced better than I do and I congratulate you on that. Promoting equality between men and women is one of my priorities and human rights policies and apparently you have a bigger success as far as your delegation is concerned compared to mine," commented Kingdom Foreign Relations Minister Frans Timmermans.

During a question on the PM's weekly radio show a listener asked if the PM has had to face much adversity because she was a woman. "I do not look at it in terms of Gender; politics is exactly that; the realm of politics. Even in the realm of politics there are basic principles to the rules and regulations that are there. Once you know your stuff you can stand up as a woman, or man for that matter, once you know what you are saying," commented Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- Newspapers and certain reporters have been reporting that Romaine Laville failed the screening process because of the complaints that were filed against him by his colleague MP Jules James and Sir Isidore York (Mighty Dow). SMN News also reported that the two complaints that were filed against Laville alleging that he pulled a gun or showed his gun to the two St. Maarten citizens played a role in his screening. However, when the national security conducted the screening on the credentials of MP Laville they took several other things into consideration other than the two complaints that were filed against him.

Reliable information reaching SMN News states those that conducted the screening placed a lot of focus on the complaint Romaine Laville filed against the Leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger where he accused the UP leader of offering him huge sums of monies as bribes to go back with the United People's Party in order for Heyliger to return to office. Shortly after Laville filed the complaint against Heyliger, he went back to the UP camp where he decided to throw down the NA/DP/I-3 coalition. "The so called deal made by MP Laville to give up his seat as a Member of Parliament in order for Heyliger to become a Member of Parliament and Heyliger supporting Laville to become a Minister gave the impression that a deal was indeed made, and probably a sizable sum of money was passed in order for Laville to retreat to Heyliger's camp." Another aspect that the screeners looked at is Laville's affiliation with a convicted criminal "Koiman" who was a former police officer on St. Maarten, this raised several questions in the minds of the National Security members who conducted the screening. "Questions such as why Laville needed to hire a criminal as a bodyguard while he fooled several persons including the NA members and civil servants working both at the Government Administration Building and at the House of Parliament saying that since he left the United People's Party he has special security by the Dutch secret services. Laville once told SMN News reporter that he has to inform the Dutch secret services every hour of his location and whereabouts because he was provided with special security when the UP/DP/Illidge coalition fell last year.

SMN News further learnt that Laville has a consultancy contract with former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. The draft contract Laville agreed on would have gone into effect when the new government takes office. The consultancy contract was for Duncan to represent Laville or check all documents for him because he is not literate in the Dutch language. SMN News was provided with the figures of that contract which states that Duncan would have been paid $15,000.00 for consultancy work, $5,000.00 for the use of his office, and $500.00 per day for each day Duncan travels on behalf of Laville. The former Minister of Justice said several times before that he was ready to serve his country and that he would work as a consultant for government or any of the Ministers because he owns a law firm. Now that Laville is through the door, so is the draft contract he made with the former Minister of Justice.

Who will be the Minister of VROMI?

Questions are also being raised on who exactly will be the Minister of VROMI. It has been reported that the former executive assistant Maurice Lake is the person that was vetted to become the Minister. However, Maurice Lake's identity has come into question because he is allegedly registered as Maurice Arnell married to Marla Shermont on the French side of the island while on the Dutch side he is registered as Maurice Lake who is divorced. This of course raises questions on the identity of the future Minister. Another issue that is now broiling is the allegations raised by St. Peters activist Rene Koto Wilson who said on several occasions that Lake and other members of the St. Peters Community Council embezzled monies belonging to the foundation. SMN News learnt that Wilson has moved one step further and filed a complaint with the National Detectives against Lake, the future Minister of VROMI.

Proposed Minister of Education co-responsible for CKC financial scandal --- Will she become Minister?

SMN News also learnt that the proposed Minister of Education Patricia Lourens is also under the microscope because her husband Freaky Lourens was a member of the now bankrupt Christian Kingdom Cooperative (CKC) that had a huge financial impact on many persons on St. Maarten. According to information provided to SMN News, Patricia Lourens is co-responsible for what happened to the CKC members while her husband was a member on the board.

SMN News also learnt that the proposed Minister of Finance Martin Hassink has problems with his screening because he allegedly has pending tax problems that have to be regulated before the Governor of St. Maarten signs off on the new Ministers Landsbesluit.

The Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday said via a press release that he granted the Prime Minister of St. Maarten (formateur) until Wednesday to submit her report to him but nowhere did the Governor say why the formateur needed more time.

It is believed that the Prime Minister is busy cleaning up the report to see if the Governor will pen his signature to approve these persons to become Ministers in country St. Maarten. So far the Governor did not make an announcement on what he would do with the decision taken by the majority in the Council of Ministers to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten.

oualichiwstandu15soccerteams11062013Plays Under Fifteen Boys Selection In Friendly in Preparation For Anguilla Match

Cay Hill:--- The Oualichi Women's Soccer Team, St. Maarten's National Women's Soccer Team, is gearing up for their first international match representing both sides of the island in a friendly against neighboring Anguilla. The sixteen ladies will be traveling to Anguilla on Saturday morning, with the first match to be played at two in the afternoon.

In a practice friendly the girls played a game against the U-15 boys at the Raoul Illidge Sport's Complex on Wednesday. "This is the first time we played completely as a team against another team," said team manager Danae Daal. "Before this we played against each other but now it felt great to play against another team with all of us playing together.

Although the match was an exciting one, with a goal scored by forward Dagmar Daal, the ladies admit that they have a tough game ahead. "We know we may have a tough team ahead, but we look forward to representing St. Maarten and promoting female soccer on all of the islands.

The launching of the team in November of last year was a first for St. Maarten, with previously women having to join school teams or train on their own or with Associations not specifically geared towards Women's Soccer. The name of the team is also unique as Oualichi, one of the original Arawak names for the St. Maarten, means Land of Strong Women. The team also has an official Facebook Page and newsletter in order to keep the community abreast of the country's women's soccer team. For more information please join the Oualichi Soccer Team's Facebook Page and download the newsletter. Persons interested in having their girls join the free soccer clinic are urged to contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

sxmflag08062012Raising of National Flag on Thursday Followed by National Church Service

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams again encourages the community o St. Maarten to hang the St. Maarten flag from their homes, offices and other buildings on Flag Day, June 13th in order to show pride in Country St. Maarten.

"A flag is a unifier. It represents a group, a nation, a people. It is a call to unite around a common purpose. This is our flag. It is a symbol that represents us," commented the PM.

The National Flag Day Ceremony will start at 08:30 at the Government Administration Building at the Clem Labega Square with the hoisting of the National Flag. The commemoration of the National Flag Day will continue with a church service at the Roman Catholic Church at noon (12:00 PM) with a national service commemorating the National of St. Maarten in general and the importance of the national flag more specifically.

Based on the Island Decree there is a right and wrong way to display the flag. Some of these regulations include that the flying of the flag should only be from sunrise to sunset and the flag should be risen briskly in the morning and slowly in the evening; the flag should not be flown at night while unlit; the flag should not be flown in the rain or in inclement weather; the flag should never touch the ground and when a flag is old or worn out or damaged it should be retired and old flags should be burned or buried but never thrown in the trash.

The Prime Minister further commented that our National Flag is one of our most important symbols and should be given all the necessary respect it deserves, "The St. Maarten flag should be held in the highest esteem as it represents the St. Maarten Nation and those who gave their lives for St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

footworm10062013Recently, there have been numerous complaints of parasitic infections that affect beach-goers. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has been informed that it has progressed to the extent that a few people have had to visit the hospital in order to extract these worms. A type of worm enters the body from the bottom of the foot and most likely originates from dog or other animal feces. This infection presents red, raised, itchy irritation of the skin in track-like patterns that may migrate day-to-day as the parasite travels beneath the skin's surface. According to an article from Discovery Communications, hookworm eggs found in animal feces hatch and form the larvae that cause cutaneous larva migrans (CLM). "The larvae live in warm, moist, sandy soil and are determined, sturdy parasites that can penetrate human skin, even through something as seemingly protective as a beach towel." (Discovery Health)

Simpson Bay beach is where the majority of these illnesses have occurred. St. Maarten Nature Foundation strongly recommends pet-owners to clean up after their dogs or cats and ensure that there are no exposed feces left on the shores of the beach.

Unfortunately, due to the great number of stray dogs and cats on the island, it is impossible that every animal is picked up after on Simpson Bay beach. For this reason, the Foundation suggests the island have a dog shelter for those strays that are first, unfed, and second, that contaminate the cleanliness of our beaches.

This problem is not only detrimental to the health of the St. Maarteners, but further to maintaining the positive connotations of Simpson Bay beach for tourists. This issue must be targeted to prevent further issues and threats to the health of our beach-goers. More importantly, those who are most at risk are children, sunbathers, or workers; it is therefore key to ensure the least exposure to feces possible for these people.
Preventative measures from contracting the parasite include, wearing shoes or sandals to keep hookworm larvae from penetrating into feet, sit on two or more beach towels, or, better yet, a lounge chair, and lastly, stay away from moist, shady, sandy areas because they are the most likely places for parasites to gather. (Discovery Health)

sxmgolfassociationdonatestoasl10062013~Art Saves Lives Program will be held June 24-30 on St. Maarten~

Philipsburg:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives received a US$ 4000 donation from the St. Maarten Golf Association in support of Art Saves Lives Summer Project. The upcoming Art Saves Lives summer intensive program will feature 16 artists from the United States who in addition to teaching classes will perform community service as part of their contribution to St. Maarten.

Ms. De Weever, founder and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation offered the assistance of some of the summer program's participants to assist the SGA during their tournament which was held from April 5th through 7th at the Mullet Bay Golf Course.
ASLP continues to raise funds to bring this project to fruition to serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- Operation Clean Sweep is a joint action consisting of the Immigration and Border Protection Service (IBP), VKS, Marechaussee (Kmar), Inspectorate VSA, Labor Department, Police Department, and SZV.
During February and March 2013 Operation Clean Sweep conducted a number of random controls throughout various areas on the island. During these controls several restaurants, bars, hotels, security companies, supermarkets and casinos were inspected.
The established controlled were advised on regulations, some were issued written warnings and others fined dependent upon the violation.
A total of 19 establishments were inspected including supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, bars, security companies, and casinos.
16 Fines were issued for not complying with the Labor laws.

Immigration:
51 persons were brought in by the Immigration Mobile Control Unit. 6 persons were given a six week period to leave the island. Before leaving they were required to report every other week to the Immigration office. This measure was given due to the lack of holding cells.
30 persons were naturalized Dutch whom, at the time of inspection were not in possession of their documents.
15 persons were in possession of incorrect work permit (working for a different company). They were fined for this infraction.

Inspectorate VSA, Labor Department
One business had 1 person who was not insured, 5 business were not registered,12 businesses did not have a visible work schedule for employees and labor inspectors, 8 businesses did not have a personnel list, 3 businesses did not had an overtime list, 1 business did not have a general provision regarding working hours and rest periods, 1 business did not pay overtime to their employees.

Safety:
2 business were fined for unsanitary and insufficient urinals.
2 businesses did not take measures to prevent irritating vapors, gases or dust in their establishment.
2 businesses did not take measures to prevent accidents or have in place the standard procedures necessary to provide assistance in case of accidents.
1 business did not comply with clean drinking water regulations (must be available to employees free of charge).
These actions will continue this week.
We are hereby advising all businesses to have all of their documents in order, such as business register, a personnel list, overtime register, labor registration list, accident insurance, work schedule, insurance, and working hours list.
All persons should walk with valid identification and residence/work permits.

And for safety compliance:
For all businesses, changes to be made if not present should include:
• Cleanliness
• procedures in case of accidents
• clean drinking water for employees
• sufficient daylight and efficient artificial lighting
• sufficient ventilation

Press Release from Immigration and Border Protection Service St. Maarten

shootingfillin11102012Cay Hill:--- On Monday June 6th at approximately 1:25am, a Philipsburg Police Patrol was sent to the Sint Maarten Medical Center to investigate a case concerning a man that was brought in for medical attention after being involved in a shooting incident. At the hospital, the investigating officer spoke to the man with initials K.M.K. from Jamaica (32) and living on Pond Island. The victim stated that he was attacked in his neighbourhood by two men who tried to rob him and during the robbery he was shot by one of the men. He ran towards his home and was followed by the same two men where he was shot at again. The victim was wounded to his neck, nevertheless he was in a stable condition. The Forensic Department and Detective Department are busy investigating to determine exactly what happened, why and who the persons are that are responsible for this act. The detective later learnt that the victim was flown abroad for further medical attention.

KPSM Police Report

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament meeting that was scheduled for June 12 with the Board of Financial Supervision (CFT) has been cancelled.

The parliamentary secretariat was informed by the CFT that they had to cancel the meeting with the Central Committee until further notice.

The Central Committee was scheduled for Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg in an in camera session.

Members of Parliament (MPs) were to discuss with the CFT the financial management of the country. MPs were also to receive a presentation with respect to the findings documented in the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) Report which is an inventory of the financial management of the country.

swescotwilliamsshowsfranstimmermansoysterpondborder10062013Oyster Pond:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, joined by her delegation, climbed the Towers at Oyster Bay in order to show Kingdom Minister for Foreign Relations Frans Timmermans the much-contended border between French and Dutch St. Maarten that runs through Oyster Pond. In his comments Minister Timmermans stated that he believed that the border issue is one that needs solving. The Prime Minister gave an explanation on the geography and background of the issue. Accompanying the Prime Minister was acting Secretary General for the Ministry of General Affairs Erno Labega and Acting Head of the department for Foreign Affairs Khalilah Peters.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

gracitaarrindell08112012I fully support the idea that was presented by Dutch Socialist Party (SP) Member of Parliament Hon. Ronald van Raak to have the Ministers Plenipotentiary of the various countries in the Kingdom share their views on different topics to the Dutch Parliament's Permanent Committee for Kingdom Relations.

I believe this avenue will create further constructive and factual dialogue between the two countries, and would be a healthy way to further improve relations within the Dutch Kingdom.

Our people read all the negative comments coming out of Holland in our papers, and not much good comments. Much of this is based on the lack of factual information that the Dutch MPs don't have and is more of political rhetoric of appeasement.

Rather than focusing more on the negatives, the focus and emphasis should also be placed on the positives. There are a lot of positive things going on and happening within our communities.

The more information that is provided, the better the understanding between the countries of the issues and challenges that is faced by small island developing nations.

Even though the Dutch Parliament is not a Kingdom Parliament and serves the interests of The Netherlands, there is room for improving the information flow with facts about developments and the first step should be taken by Sint Maarten.

Our Minister Plenipotentiary could contact the Chair of the Dutch Permanent Committee for Kingdom Relations and ask what issues the members of the committee would like to receive additional information or clarification.

This is our Kingdom, Country Sint Maarten is an integral part and we have a role to play.

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

20132014rotaryboard10062013~ Maria Buncamper-Molanus takes Helm as Rotary President, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams Inducted as Honorary Member ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday evening, June 8th, Maria Buncamper-Molanus officially accepted the role of President of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, effective July 1, 2013 in the Infinity Restaurant at Oyster Bay Resort. Mrs. Buncamper-Molanus addressed the audience, "becoming a member of Rotary 11 years ago was special for me, and becoming president brings additional sentiments as my father, some 41 years ago on March 17, 1972 became a charter member of this very same club". In her speech, Maria illustrated her plans to take the Rotary International theme of "Engage Rotary and Change Lives" and bring it closer to home. She went on to say, "If we are truly going to engage Rotary and change lives here on St. Maarten, we must address the challenges that exist in our community with respect to poverty and children who have special needs, like Autism and Attention Deficit Disorder, or any other challenge that causes them to learn differently. We do not simply write checks, we get involved and make a difference".

Outgoing President Robert Judd only had great things to say about Maria Buncamper-Molanus. Mr. Judd thanked Mrs. Buncamper-Molanus for her tireless efforts as Secretary and President-Elect for the past year. He also thanked all of the members of the outgoing Board for their hard work and dedication.

One highlight of the evening was the induction of the Prime Minister, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams, as an Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Mrs. Wescot-Williams graciously accepted the honor and was pinned by Maria Buncamper. In her short address to the audience, the Prime Minister said, "Thank you for this great honor. Through cooperation and working together, service clubs, like Rotary, can do so much. St. Maarten is better off today than many years ago because of this type of cooperation. St. Maarten is blessed".

For the new Rotary year, which begins on July 1, Mrs. Buncamper-Molanus has lined up a team of seasoned philanthropists to serve on her Board of Directors and Committee Chairpersons. The new team is Robert Judd (Immediate Past President), Pierre Decelles (Vice President), Deepak (Danny) Ramchandani (Secretary and President-Elect) and Frederick Fleming (Treasurer). Further expanding the ranks, the Club Administration Committee will be chaired by Valda Woodley-Hazel, the Membership Committee will be chaired by Henna Budhrani, the Public Relations Committee will be chaired by Jeffrey Sochrin, the Service Projects Committee will be chaired by Marc Groeneveld, the Rotary Foundation Committee will be chaired by Rik Bergman and Max Pandt, and Franklyn Maynard will serve as Sergeant at Arms. Finally, the Strategic Planning Committee will consist of Maria Buncamper-Molanus, Rebecca Low, Danny Ramchandani and Jeffrey Sochrin.

The evening continued with a silent auction and energetic entertainment from King Beau Beau and the Beaubettes.

For more information please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Press Officer at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit the website www.rotarysxm.org.

imranmcsoodamjad10062013PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad & Tobago:--- Things got better in Trinidad and Tobago on Friday, May 24, 2013. This day symbolized a major milestone for NAGICO Insurances when the company officially launched the brand at the newly renovated head office in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The launch event was the climax of preparations since the acquisition of GTM Insurances in October, 2011. "We are here to stay, we are here to achieve great results." remarked Mr. McSood Amjad, Group CEO. The event signaled the "great results" that both customers and staff can expect from NAGICO.
With the exception of the Tobago branch, all branch locations were closed half day for the special occasion. Specially invited guests, including executives from the Central Bank, Agents, Brokers, the media and staff experienced a warm welcome to the refurbished head office. On entrance, they were treated to a "welcome drink" and the colors of the NAGICO brand – green, yellow and gold – were the theme colors of the decor throughout the building. The National Anthem, sung by NAGICO's Account Executive, Ms. Erica Pascall, kicked off the launch promptly at 3:35 pm. Blessings were bestowed on the refurbished building, customers and staff by Ms. Gainder Maharaj, Corporate Services Manager.
Following this dedication, Mr. Christopher Henriques, General Manager, welcomed guests and said "good bye" to GTM Insurances as he formally took the baton to lead NAGICO in Trinidad and Tobago.
Executive Marketing Manager, Mr. Paul Dijkhoffz, commended the Trinidad team for the great job in the transformation of the head office. His presentation of before and after the renovation works testified the company's vision to become "the most trusted insurance company in T&T."
Group CEO, Mr. Imran McSood Amjad, reiterated his commitment to the new territory as he shared the story of its humble beginnings to its present asset base of approximately TT$ 1 billion. He spoke proudly of the transformation since NAGICO purchased GTM. "I promised the staff that we would change the circumstances under which they operated", he said. On that promise, he committed to the investment of over TT$ 6 million on the renovations and promised that an additional TT$ 3 million will be spent in renovations at the San Fernando branch. Mr. Amjad also said that he is counting on the T&T staff to help achieve annual targets and identified staff training and development as key to making the company more competitive in the mature market of T&T.
A token of appreciation to Mrs. Irene Brizan who at 101 years, is the company's oldest customer, demonstrated the company's commitment to customer service. "Insurance is about service and buying trust that if something goes wrong, the company will be there for you." said Mr. McSood. "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Ms. Brizan said after receiving her gift of a bouquet of flowers and one year free insurance from Mr. Henriques. The T&T team also took the opportunity to show their appreciation for the renovations and the guidance and support of Mr. McSood with a gift of a brass carving of a cricketer, in recognition of his passion of the sport.
The ribbon and cake cutting in the customer service area ended the formal proceedings, at the same time, signaling the official birth of NAGICO Insurances in T&T. At the end of the program, guests and media toured the refurbished offices and everyone enjoyed the rest of the evening, mingling and dining to make history together – the NAGICO way.

franstimmermansandswescotwilliams10062013"The Dutch Government, through our work, is now allowing the Caribbean Countries more involvement and more say in what we like to see our foreign policy to be."

Philipsburg:--- On her weekly radio Program on 98.1 Pearl FM, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave an outline on the foreign relations framework for Country St. Maarten. During the radio show, which was held in advance of the meeting the Prime Minister was to have with Kingdom Minister of Foreign Affairs the Hon. Frans Timmermans, explanation was given by the PM on St. Maarten's role in the international sphere.

"The Dutch Minister for Foreign Affairs is oftentimes referred to as one of the few Ministers, if not the only one, for the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Why? Because Foreign Relations is one of the three tasks that have remained Kingdom Tasks, the others being Nationality and Defense," explained the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also explained to listeners that, despite them being Kingdom tasks, Foreign Relations is an item that the separate countries within the Kingdom have a certain responsibility for and it is therefore that St. Maarten has a Department of Foreign Relations, which is a part of the Ministry of General Affairs.

"Interesting is the fact that mention has been made of Minister Timmermans' visit to Venezuela before he came to St. Maarten, the purpose of which was to sign off on a Kingdom Memorandum on Cooperation with Venezuela. All countries, especially the Dutch Caribbean Countries of Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten, see this as an important step towards the development of relations with the Venezuelan Republic. The Prime Minister of Aruba and Curacao both signed off on the MOU but due to the fact that there were pressing issues here at home I requested the Dutch Kingdom Ambassador to Venezuela sign off on my behalf," commented the PM.

"St. Maarten is still in the same sphere of which Venezuela is a part, namely the Caribbean and Central and South American Region. Of course Aruba and Curacao are much more so in that sphere because Venezuela is a close neighbor of theirs but St. Maarten is as well, especially given the fact that as a country we are further developing our relations with Latin America from an economic point of view, so it is therefore important that we reach out to these different countries.

"There have been many developments and evolutions in the process with regards to St. Maarten's International Relations. Since 101010 we have been seeking to have more involvement and decision making as far as International Relations and cooperation is concerned, which for us is extremely important. We are an integral part of what is decided on with regards to International Relations in the Kingdom because it naturally also affects us. For example the matter of international treaties: the Kingdom cannot approve treaties that directly affect St. Maarten unless we give our approval to be a part of that treaty.

"As St. Maarten seeks to develop our International Relations we want some maneuvering space, especially when looking at the wider Caribbean region. The Dutch Government, through our work, is now allowing the Caribbean Countries more involvement and more say in what we like to see our foreign policy to be. For example the functional cooperation between the various countries is extremely important for St. Maarten, more so than the other countries in Kingdom," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

garbage07022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Section General Health Care (SGHC) of the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, would like to express and commend the different groups, companies and volunteers who are involved in a number of district clean-up campaigns in preparation for the hurricane season.

This activity is twofold in that as the garbage is removed it also contributes to the elimination of mosquito breeding sites and therefore impacting the mosquito population. If there are no containers with water for mosquitoes to lay the larvae there will be no adult mosquitoes.

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

Even after you have cleaned-up your yard and surroundings, it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings after every rain event to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

SHGC is calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases.

Make use of the clean-up efforts to get rid of possible breeding sites keeping your environment mosquito free. This calls for a district effort and team work. This approach should be realized in all districts by the people for the people and with the people for a mosquito free environment.

Persons are recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

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

Harbour View:--- On June 10, 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, discussed the draft report of the current formation process, which he received Friday June 7th, with formateur Sarah Wescot-Williams. Based on the evaluation of the report by the Governor, the formateur requested an extension until Wednesday June 12th to finalize her report.
After completion of the formation report a date will be established for the appointment and swearing-in of the new kabinet.

From the Governor's Cabinet

Every year Employers are required to pay the cessantia or severance premiums to SZV. Cesssantia or severance is a social system put in place for former employees that entitle them to a one-time severance payment. If a former employee is not unemployed by choice then he or she is entitled to this payment.
To fund this it is absolutely necessary that employers pay their severance premium to the SZV. The cessantia or severance premium should be paid before Friday, June 28th, 2013 at SZV's Cashier. The Employer is required to pay Fls. 40 toward severance for each employee who was employed on December 1, 2012. The Employer must fill in and submit the cessantia declaration payment form indicating the number of employees for which the cessantia premium is being paid.
The declaration form Cessantia payments is available at the SZV Cashier in building 1 on level 1 B or online via www.uszv.org. The Cashier is open Monday- Thursday from 7:30 - 12:00 p.m. and again from 1:00 - 3:30 p.m. Fridays until 3:00 p.m.
SZV intends to take strict measures against companies that have not or have only partially paid their Cessantia premium.
SZV is located at Harbour View, Sparrow Road 4 in Philipsburg.

wakeforcourtneygibson09062013~At The Daily Herald~

The condolences book for the late Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Herald Courtney E. Gibson will remain open at the Daily Herald on Bush Road this week.

The book can be signed between the hours of 8:30am to 4:00pm from today, Monday, June 10 to Friday, June 14, 2013. The book will be presented to Gibson's family once closed.

Gibson was President and founding member of the St. Maarten Guyanese Foundation; a member of the Anti Trafficking In Persons Windward Islands Foundation ATIP and a member of the Anglican Church on Back Street. He passed away among his family members in Tampa, Florida late on Sunday June 2 after a period of illness.

His funeral service was held in New York on Saturday and his body will be cremated today, Monday. Memorial services will be held in Guyana on June 15 and in St. Maarten at the Anglican Church on Back Street on Friday, June 21.

Gibson's passing has deeply touched many persons who remember him as a professional, kind-hearted person with high ethical standards and integrity. The Guyanese community in St. Maarten extends condolences to his wife Liz, his mother, children, grandchildren, his colleagues everyone who is affected by his loss.

The Guyanese community urges everyone who knew Courtney to sign his condolence book.

franstimmermansandmarkmingo09062013POINT BLANCHE:--- Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies on Friday mapped out to Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Frans Timmermans the concerns of the port authority regarding European Union (EU) funding, interdependence and possible competition from within.

Mingo brought forward the important issue of EU funding and how the mechanism works for Country St. Maarten. "The Minister was very interested in infrastructure and how funding is sourced. You can't have where the French side of the Island develops with EU funding and the Dutch Side of the Island can only get funding based on commercial loans after feasibility studies have been carried out. Both sides are interdependent, but we have to be realistic when it comes to the development of the main pillars of the Island's cruise and stay-over tourism sectors.

Mingo told Minister Timmermans that the Harbour needs support and assistance from the Dutch Government Representatives. "I have been asking for years already to look at this situation with EU funding. As Harbor we are basically fighting our competition on an open market which is normal, but when you see neighboring islands including the French side possibly getting EU funding and not getting the same conditions as our US$150 million commercial loan, you ask yourself how is this possible?.

"We don't want to hold back any developments on the French side, but you can't talk about interdependence and you want to compete with the developments on the Dutch side. If the French side would get EU funding for a port development project, it is fair to say the Dutch Port should also be able to receive the same funding; we can't hide behind the technicalities of this process. We need the support of the Dutch Government Representatives here. I am pleased that Minster Timmermans promised he would look into this issue. At the end of the day, the developments on both sides of the Island should complement each other and not compete, which will increase the value of destination St. Maarten/St. Martin," Port CEO Mark Mingo pointed out.

CEO Mark Mingo also informed the Minister in a detail presentation about a number of other matters such as the ports contribution to national development, corporate governance, how it is dealing with threats to the cruise sector, partnerships and the strengthening of ties with the BES islands.

Corporate governance is a key area of port affairs. Information was provided on the state of affairs in which included the checks and balances of its financing/audits and business development (plans) which falls under the "Audit umbrella". A clear explanation was given on topics such as the shareholders return and the annual concession fee of Naf. 5.2 million paid to government.

Mingo further stated that if government is having issues with balancing budgets, the other government own companies should contribute in such a way as well towards the shareholder which is Government in the interests of national development of the country.

The harbor CEO also called for a joint strategic plan with all stakeholders involved to tackle potential threats which can harm "our only product, Tourism." Security and Safety was a point of concern for Minister Timmermans and wanted to know how the safety of cruise passengers is handled. The destination receives over two million tourists annually and from a security perspective it all depends on the spread of the tourists. Mingo outlined in detail the port's strategic working relationship with the Police, and he would like to see the successful formula used at the Captain Hodge Substation also expanded to the Maho Reef and Cupecoy tourist areas.

Mingo also explained that the Harbour Group of Companies has a strategic partnership with a Dutch Software firm IT Partners to sell its Harbour Software to interested parties in the Caribbean and South America. "In addition to what we do best here, we are also looking for partnerships. IT partner is a company which was a spinoff from UNIPORT, which is a section of the Port of Rotterdam," Mingo explained to Minister Timmermans.

With respect to the BES islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba), Port Executive Mingo said that the Harbour also looks at the links with the BES islands which is still part of the port's strategic plans to strengthen ties when it comes to connecting via SEA links and enhancing commerce to the BES Islands. Mingo was very contented and happy that Minister Timmermans had a listening ear. "The competition is killing and I need all the support from my Kingdom Partners in the Netherlands," the harbour's CEO Mark Mingo concluded.

courtneygibsonfuneral09062013Brooklyn, New York:--- The late Editor in Chief of the Daily Herald Courtney Emanuel Gibson who passed away last week Friday in Tampa, Florida was given a hero's send off at the St. Gabriel's Church in Brooklyn, New York on Saturday.
The church was packed with relatives and close friends who attended the funeral service of the well known veteran journalist who worked in his native country Guyana, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and St. Maarten. Among those at the service were Member of Parliament Gracita Arrindell, Cleveland Beresford, and SMN News reporter Bibi Hodge Shaw.
A memorial service will be held in Guyana on Saturday June 15th, 2013 at the St. Sidwells Church while a third memorial service will be held on St. Maarten for the late Courtney Gibson.

rlaville08052013Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament Romaine Laville who wanted to become the Minister of TEATT got what was predicted by many persons when he announced that he withdrew his support from the NA/DP/I-3 coalition to become a Minister to form the third Government in a period of three years since St. Maarten obtained its country status.
SMN News learnt that the Laville failed the screening because Member of Parliament Jules James filed a complaint against him for threatening him with a gun in the House of Parliament. A second complaint of the same nature was filed by Isidore York (Mighty Dow) last year when Laville allegedly threatened him with a gun inside the Government Administration Building while arguing over the Tempo Turns 7 show that was sponsored by the Government of St. Maarten. Another concern for those that conducted the screening and those in the justice system is the allegations Laville made against the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger whom he said offered bribes to him twice.
SMN News learnt that Laville already removed the sign from his office door in the House of Parliament since last week as he was certain that he would become a Minister. Others said Laville is busy negotiating with the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger because Heyliger is desperate to get back in office. The question now is whether or not Laville will go back around the table to negotiate the price of his seat or if he will remain as a Member of Parliament.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams submitted her final formation report to the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday late on Friday afternoon. Earlier Friday the Prime Minister explained that she had received from the Governor the formation request that His Excellency had indicated that by the seventh of June he would have liked to have the Prime Minister's response.

"The task of the Formateur is based on a National Decree that has been publicized and as Formateur I need to receive reports by the Prosecutor General and one from the National Security Service of St. Maarten on the incoming Ministers and their Administrations. In addition to that the respective candidates need to sign off to be prepared to live up to the requirements of being a Minister, such as not having another job, not being involved in a business and if they are they would have to allow the Formateur to decide how they will distance themselves from those activities.

"The Candidate Ministers also need to fill out a questionnaire and, with the above mentioned reports this is what will form part of my report to the Governor," commented the Prime Minister.

The Caretaker Ministers Marlin, Tuitt, Jacobs, and Pantophlet submitted their letters of resignation to the Governor His Excellency Eugene Holiday on the 21st of May.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

I would like to use this opportunity on behalf of the UP parliamentary faction in parliament to commend the Middle Region and Defiance Community Councils in taking the initiative of having their own community day on June 23.

The UP thinks this is a great initiative in bringing communities closer together. The wish of togetherness and belonging leads to create a community as a whole. A sense of community is important to establish peace and harmony among the society.

The feeling of association, togetherness, and cooperation helps to establish a healthy atmosphere filled with unity, harmony and friendship. This is very important for every district community to harness the resources of its people in connection with nation building.

The Councils would like to organize a number of activities on that day and therefore have requested certain streets to be closed from 9:00am to 8:00pm. Some of the activities planned are the selection of the fastest man and woman, egg and spoon race, wheelbarrow race and a sack race. The highlight of the day will be the annual basketball knockout for junior and senior players of Middle Region and Defiance.

There will be food and drinks on sale entertained by music from various DJs.

This activity will be a family day event and I encourage all residents of those areas to come out and I also encourage visitors and residents from the other districts to come out to the Middle Region/Defiance Day on June 23.

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

"Personally I think it was a bluff; they wanted to see how far they would have gotten with this but I am sure that they also full well knew that what they were doing was not correct nor was it right and had no basis in the law."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Friday made brief but strong comments regarding the so-called emergency meeting which was held by the four Caretaker Ministers on Tuesday afternoon. The Prime Minister, Without going into allegations that the meeting was akin to committing an illegal act, decided to explain some of the facts surrounding the much contended and discussed meeting.

"What we have with that particular meeting; the meeting that was apparently again called to dissolve parliament; was in fact a transgression of every rule in the book, especially the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers. You simply cannot have the Deputy PM calling a meeting of the Council of Ministers; that is the prerogative of the Prime Minister. Again the issue came up with a majority of Ministers to so-called dissolve Parliament. However, all processes and Rules of Order were overruled during the meeting. I used the word that the way that this came about was nothing short of insanity.

"Personally I think it was a bluff; they wanted to see how far they would have gotten with this but I am sure that they also full well knew that what they were doing was not correct nor was it right and had no basis in the law. For example: who took the notes during this meeting? It is the Secretary General who records the meeting but this was not the case. I also do not know where the meeting took place; I received a letter by the Caretaker Minister that it would have taken place in the AC Wathey Legislative Hall but I was in a prior scheduled meeting with a Rotary Club delegation at the time when the meeting was to take place so I am not sure when or if a meeting actually occurred.

"I have also not received any documentation from the meeting and again; it is the Prime Minister who schedules the meetings, makes sure that the Rules of Order are adhered to, sends documents to the Governor and I was not involved in any of that so yes, in my opinion that meeting was indeed a bluff," concluded Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

The Caretaker Ministers Marlin, Tuitt, Jacobs and Pantophlet submitted their letters of resignation to the Governor His Excellency Eugene Holiday on the 21st of May.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented recently that she sees the mentoring of young persons to be involved in the field of politics as one of her main priorities as a Prime Minister and as a leader of a political party.

"Within our own political environment, that of the political party that I lead, we have been recognizing the importance of not only for persons to know about the machinations of Government or Politics, but also at looking at future generations to take up leadership positions in the community in general and in government specifically. But in order to do this you need to know what the political reality is.

"Growing up the teaching profession was always my first desire: to be a teacher. In terms of political awareness I think it is so important, and not in the least, that our young people are made aware of how politics and governing works. So many of our people get involved in politics and become totally disillusioned by the reality. People come in with grand aspiration and ambitions and realize that you need to have not a sole individual agenda no matter how well intended, but that we all need to have the need of the people in mind. It should never be about a personal agenda but about the business of the people. And that is our main focus going forward in mentoring the youth of this island who have political aspirations," commented the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet June 12 with the Board of Financial Supervision (CFT) in a not for public session of the House.

The Central Committee will meet on Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg in an in camera session.

Members of Parliament (MPs) will discuss with the VFT the financial management of the country. MPs will also receive a presentation with respect to the findings documented in the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) Report which is an inventory of the financial management of the country.

PEFA was founded in 2001 and originates from the aid effectiveness agenda as a multi-door partnership between seven donor agencies and international financial institutions to assess the condition of country public expenditures, procurement and financial accountability systems, and develop a practical sequence for reform and capacity-building actions.

The CFT is geared towards the realization of the common goal of all governments in the Dutch Kingdom having a durable public financial administration.

The key values of the CFT are independence, professionalism and transparency. The CFT endeavors to give a positive contribution to good public governance, prosperity and welfare of the inhabitants of Curacao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

GREAT BAY:--- The United Volleyball Foundation (UVF) will hold its first pajamathon at the Melford Hazel Complex in Sucker Garden, on Friday, July 5, said UVF secretary Keishan Huggins.

The fundraising volleyball tournament will aid the UVF youth members travel to Orlando, Florida, to attend a Summer training camp this year, said Rhoda Arrindell, UVF founder and program coordinator.

"A unique part of the pajamathon is that the participants are required to wear pajamas to play in the tournament," said Huggins.

Initially scheduled for June 7, teams representing businesses, organizations, schools, and groups of individuals can now register for the July 5 volleyball competition by June 28, said Huggins.

Interested persons and organizations can register by contacting Keishan Huggins at 550-3435 or Rhoda Arrindell at 520-1136 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

danielgibbsandmrsfleming07062013On June 1st, the deputy of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin awarded Mrs. Fleming with the medal of the National Assembly. She received Mr. Gibbs in the presence of her relatives.

"It is with a sincere emotion that I stand before you this morning. For the young Member of Parliament that I am, a medal ceremony is always a special moment - solemn certainly - but also a moment during which many emotions comes to surface, including the opportunity to recall the personal journey of the concerned. And your journey, Madam, invites to the greatest humility and to great respect," said Daniel Gibbs. The MP of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin was accompanied by 2 elected from Union for Democracy in the persons of Annette Philips and Maud Ascent-Gibs. Mrs. Fleming Hodge received them at her home in the presence of her son, the Senator of St. Martin, his children and grandchildren. "Good manners commends to be silent on the age of a lady, but when this makes you today the witness and privileged actor of close to a century of Saint Martin's history, I have to acknowledge the fact: It would take me a great deal of time to retrace your life in all its fullness. Allow me to briefly recall some of its highlights, such as, on a professional level, your energy in the development of representing large companies such as Air France, of course, but also Ford Motor Company or Texaco Caribbean LTD among others on Saint-Martin. On a human level as well, I want to emphasize on your investment for our community, which led you to be founder of the SKAL Club or the Red Cross of French St. Martin, I also have to mention the numerous land donations you made to our Community. "Daniel Gibbs then presented the medal to Mrs. Fleming Hodge.
"The Order of Agricultural Merit, The National Order of Merit, St. Martin Business Wall of Fame ... I will end here the long list of honors and decorations that you have been honoured with, Madam, to pay a tribute to your success as Head of visionary businesses or as a human with a great heart. Permit me to add today my decoration to these honors, thank you very formally on behalf of Saint-Martin and of the Saint-Martin people, for the example, you give us all, thank you for your humility, thank you for all that you have contributed to this Island" concluded the deputy of Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin. An early ceremony that ended with a friendly snack.

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- On Wednesday afternoon June 5, 2013 His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, received a draft national decree from caretaker Vice Prime Minister William Marlin regulating the dissolution of Parliament and the holding of early elections. In addition, Governor Holiday, received the report of the current formation process from formateur Sarah Wescot-Williams on late Friday afternoon June 7, 2013. The Governor has informed Minister Marlin and formateur Wescot-Williams that he will evaluate the draft national decree and the formation report taking the pertinent regulations into account.

From the Cabinet of the Governor of St. Maarten

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The 2nd Youth Health Care (YHC) Vaccination Outreach and Family Planning Session is set for the Dutch Quarter community on June 13.

This is the second of three community outreach and "family planning" lecture sessions. It's an opportunity for residents of Dutch Quarter and surrounding areas to come out on Thursday, June 13 at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School from 5:00pm to 7:30pm, to have their children's vaccination status checked, and also receive information about family planning.

YHC is a section of the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children's vaccination status checked on June 13.

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status.

To encourage risk groups such as waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly on Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

Immunization protects children from diphtheria, measles, pertussis (better known as whooping cough), pneumonia, polio, rotavirus diarrhea, rubella, tetanus and others.

swescotwilliamsatdinnerwithftimmermans07062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten attended a dinner welcoming Foreign Affairs Minister Frans Timmermans at Antoine Restaurant on Thursday Evening. The PM, in the company of His Excellency the Governor Eugene Holiday and President of the Collectivite de St. Martin Madame Aline Hanson, served as an introductory welcome dinner at the popular Front Street restaurant as part of the Foreign Affairs Minister's two day working visit to St. Maarten. Tomorrow the PM will be having a private meeting with Minister Timmermans and will also be conducting a site visit with the Minister at the Towers at Oyster Bay in Oyster Pond.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

wibdonatestoartsaveslives06062013~Art Saves Lives Program will be held June 24-30 on St. Maarten~

Philipsburg:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives received donations from GEBE and Windward Islands Bank in support of Art Saves Lives Summer Project. The upcoming Art Saves Lives summer intensive program will feature 16 artists from the United States who in addition to teaching classes will perform community service as part of their contribution to St. Maarten.

Ms. De Weever, founder and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation thanked the representatives of both companies for their donations and looks forward to providing more programs in the future for the children of St. Maarten.
ALSP continues to raise funds to bring this project to fruition to serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on St. Maarten.

xtratightdonatestopjl06062013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday Saturday June 6, Xtratight Entertainment donated a complete workstation to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
Xtratight, the producers of Carnival 2013's premier event "Night of the Hit Makers" pledged to support an institution that was effecting positive change in St. Maarten.
"I made a promise to myself that I would do something good for a positive organization, if my event went well so I made a conscious decision to make a contribution to the library. This contribution, in my opinion, is a contribution to the public of our island. This workstation is specifically for the younger kids, who I find should be familiar with technology as our community continues to become more technologically advanced", stated Bertaux 'Mr Rude' Fleming, CEO and Founder of Xtratight Entertainment.
Managing Directors, Ecedro Richardson and Adolphus Richardson Jr. of Adolphus Office Supplies and Technology, made the donation of the workstation, complete with a desk, scanner, copy machine, printer and mouse possible, by offering them at a discounted price to Xtratight, in support of this worthy cause.
The Philipsburg Jubilee Library expressed their sincerest gratitude to Xtratight for contributing the workstation to the library's Youth Section.
"Every week we have hundreds of youngsters making use of the public computers at our library. A lot of these children do not have access to computers, printers and internet at home. Sometimes we do not have enough computers to serve all of these youngsters. We intend to make good use of this workstation in the Youth Section of our library and encourage other business to follow suit, as we continue to provide quality service to the young growing youth of St. Maarten", remarked Monique Alberts, Director of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.

Partners with Divi Little Bay Resort to host the event

Great Bay:--- The Youth Development Program in collaboration with Divi Little Bay Resort is hosting its annual Bartender Mix Off competition this Friday June 7th 2013 from 3 pm to 6 pm at the upper pool side at the Divi Little Bay Resort.

Five aspiring bartenders/restaurant servers will compete in a friendly competition which will showcase their bartending and restaurant serving skills. The competition is divided in two segments. The first segment is the formal restaurant setting section in which students will have to set up a formal dining setting in maximum four minutes. This year, the students will also be judged on how they can break down the formal dining setting in maximum 4 minutes. The second segment of the show is the bartending section where students will have to create two of their own drinks (maximum 5 minutes each) which will be judged on creativity, taste and presentation. Each participant will be required to create and uniquely name their two drinks.

The five aspiring bartenders who will be competing in the bartender mix off are Claudine Touissaint, Lisa Ernest, Jericha Matilda, Valon Joseph, and Juan Marte Reyes. The drink ingredients that will be used for the bartending section is sponsored by International Liquors and Tobacco Trading N.V. The judge panel will consist of representatives from Divi Little Bay Resort, International Liquors and Plantation Restaurant.

St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program that aims to train youngsters between the ages of 18 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. The goal of the program is to provide these youngsters with start qualifications so that they can enter the labor market or further their education at the SBO/ASVE. The program is executed by the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs and is fully funded by USONA. For further information about the Youth Development Program, please feel free to contact us at either 543-0497 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also visit us at the SBO Service Center upstairs Carl and Sons on the Pondfill.

Philipsburg:--- The Division for Educational Innovation is happy to announce that all is in place to start with another Post HBO Management Training for new and incoming school managers and other persons in management at all government subsidized school(s).

In 2009 our Division organized a two year Post HBO Management Training for school managers of all government subsidized schools. The training was executed by NA-CSI, a Curacao based consultancy firm and was funded by USONA through the Innovation in Education Project.

The training started with (24) participants of which (20) successfully completed the training and received their diploma in December 2012.
The remaining (4) participants recently completed the program in May 2013 and are scheduled to receive their diplomas on Monday June 10th, 2013.

At the request of Minister Silveria Jacobs, the Minister of Education of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Affairs, and the cooperation of USONA, another Post HBO Management training has been organized to train new School Managers in Educational Management, which is required by the Law for Education "Ondwerwijswetgeving – Funderend, voortgezet en secundair beroepsonderwijs"- 2009.

The upcoming Post HBO Management training will be financed partially by USONA through Innovation in Education Project and partially by the Government of St. Maarten.

Presently there are a total of (23) candidates registered for the above mentioned training.
The candidates are all in possession of the required Bachelor Degree in Education.

The training will start on Tuesday June 12th and June 13th 2013 with the first module of -Introduction, Study Guide and Strategic and Integral Management.
The training will be held at the USM and from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

royalprincess06062013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten will receive calls from the 3,600 passenger Royal Princess Cruise ship for the 2013-2014 cruise season starting in November. The Royal Princess is the first of two new-generation ships for Princess Cruises which are being built by Fincantieri at their Italy shipyard.

Royal Princess arrives in Southhampton, UK on Friday, June 7. The new vessel will start a two three-day preview cruise sailing roundtrip from Southhampton, on June 10 and 13 before embarking on its inaugural program of a 12-day Grand Mediterranean cruise between Barcelona and Venice beginning on June 23, but before that, the Royal Princess will sail on her inaugural voyage, a seven-day Iberia cruise from Southhampton to Barcelona departing June 16.

A Port of St. Maarten delegation comprising of Richard van der Mark, Senior Project Manager and Humphrey Mezas, Supervisory Board member, will represent the port and country on the three-day preview cruise.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge will name Royal Princess, in a ceremony on June 13, and this will be the highlight of week-long inaugural celebrations to welcome the vessel into service.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies is looking forward to welcoming another new vessel to the Port of St. Maarten in November.

"St. Maarten/St. Martin continues to be the destination of choice, and because of this, Princess Cruise Lines and the port have a great partnership which makes it a win-win for both. We look forward to continuing working with our partners in order to maintain our preferred cruise destination status," CEO Mark Mingo said.

ssmandndp06062013PHILIPSBURG:--- Wednesday June 5, seven members of the Soualiga Social Movement met at the department of BAK (Dept. of the Interior and Kingdom relation) with representatives of the Team for National Development Andrea Ortega-Oudhoff and Joeri Arion to give feedback on the development of the NDP working group.

The Team for National Development has been inviting foundations and different sectors of the society to the table to get their feedback on how to best engage them in a dialogue process which would be directly used to create the National Vision and Development Plan (NDP). Soon a workgroup of committed individuals will be trained and then given the task to strategize and execute the gathering of the data while presenting their findings to a steering committee. The steering committee will be made up of representatives of the public, private and civil sector and will be responsible to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the National Development Plan. The steering committee has to ensure that the National Development Plan becomes a plan that all subsequent governments must consider when executing any other plans in the future of this nation.

After a short introduction, members of the SSM got right to work, suggesting that the NDP Work Group needs to market to the public what the NDP is about and encourage the entire community to get involved. It was also made clear that holding general public meetings is highly likely to be attended by the same 20-40 people each time, as some people in our society do not have transportation to travel at night and people tend to not show interest in projects unless it is going on in their backyard. Both parties agreed that ensuring that the people of St. Maarten develop a sense of ownership of this National Development Plan, would be imperative and in so doing the plan will be taken to the people.

The SSM suggested that the NDP Work Group would have to go into each community and hold several meetings to gather data from the people on the four focus areas which are divided as Economy, Infrastructure and Environment, Culture and Social and Human Development. Modern technological gateways should also be created to accept dialogue from the community on their views about certain subjects, asking questions like how do you see St. Maarten developing, how would you want it to be developed in different areas?

Just about all members of the Soualiga Social Movement are interested in joining the NDP workgroup and would like to encourage all Foundations and the general public to get involved and have their voice heard when the opportunity presents itself. To find out how you can participate in the National Development Plan work group please contact the Team for National Development by email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call +1721 542 08 97.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Head of the Infrastructure Management Department of the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Claudius Buncamper, Emergency Support Function (ESF-3) says that his department is working on several fronts in preparation for the Atlantic hurricane season.

Two out of three of the storm water management pumps in Philipsburg are fully operational. The third smaller pump has a hydraulic leak and technicians are working to repair it.

Lowering water levels in the ponds are on-going and has been taking place from 7:00pm to 3:00am. Every effort will be made not to open the Great Bay Channel this season especially now with the storm pumps in place and fully operational.

The pumps have the capacity to lower the water levels in the ponds by six inches per day running 24 hours. Buncamper added that the Ministry has an excellent working relationship with the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) where they receive additional weather related reports/advisories especially where it concerns anticipated heavy and consistent rainfall.

"Once the Ministry receives a lead time of 72 hours that inclement weather is expected, we are able to turn on the pumps and lower water levels within a relatively short period of time in anticipation of the additional rainfall," Buncamper pointed out.

The Ministry has also embarked upon a pre-clean-up exercise in the districts of Beacon Hill, Simpson Bay and Cole Bay, and other districts will follow. The schedule of the clean-up is published in the Government Information Page in both daily newspapers. Residents should take note of the dates and check their yards and surroundings and clean-up in preparation for what is expected to be a busy hurricane season.

With respect to waterways, trenches and drains, these are being readied. Buncamper says that hard-surfacing of the main drains are currently taking place and is an on-going affair.

Civil works is continuing on the Coralita Road with crews working 12 hours a day seven days a week to complete a 400 meter stretch by the end of July.

Work on trenches will start soon and all trench cleaning would be completed prior to the beginning of the busiest part of the hurricane season at the end of July.

The landfill is not an issue and contractors are already in place to carry out post-storm clean-up operations.

Buncamper reminds the populace that the hurricane season has begun and the first named storm of the season is currently impacting the U.S. State of Florida, which is a vehement reminder that you have to be prepared and to finalize preparations in the coming weeks in the event of a hurricane strike. Remember, it only takes one hurricane strike to make it a bad season.

ESF-3 is part of the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) that forms the country's disaster management system. The ESFs are the first response team in the event of a national disaster.

The remaining storm names for the 2013 season are: Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van, and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- School Busing and Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs would like to inform school bus owners and drivers that school bus inspections are scheduled to start July 8 through July 10 known as early inspections and regular inspections from July 22 through July 25.

School bus owners and drivers are hereby advised to take note of the dates.

School bus owners/drivers are requested to call the department to make an appointment.

The key objective is to continue to provide safe, reliable and comfortable transportation services for school children.

For further information about services rendered by the Inspection Section, call telephone number 542-4511 or 542-4509.

wmarlinandangeladekker05062013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday, June 5th Minister with responsibility for Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, The Honorable William Marlin signed an agreement with funding agency USONA, represented by Ms. Angela Dekker. USONA has agreed to contribute an amount of NAf. 115 000.00 guilders while the Government of Sint Maarten will finance an additional NAf. 131 500.00 Guilders to the continued upgrading of the Sewage Treatment Plant Project at the A Th. Illidge Road.

silveriajacobs05062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Subsequent to recent inquiries regarding the implementation date for the New Dutch examination requirements, the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs hereby informs the general public that the implementation of the new Dutch examination requirements has been postponed and will not go into effect this year as had been planned.

The new implementation date for the new examination requirements will take place in the school year 2015-2016. By this date all HAVO and VWO schools within the Kingdom will have to be in compliance with the new requirements in order to be guaranteed acceptance to the college and universities in the Netherlands.

As the PSVE schools will also have to comply with this new requirement, additional measures in the form of sharpened examination trainings which also applies to the HAVO and VWO education levels will have to be devised in order to accommodate this change.

Effective August 1, 2015 the new regulations will go into effect for St. Maarten, which is the same date that they are scheduled to be implemented on the other islands within the Kingdom. As a result of this extension school boards will have the opportunity to further develop, execute and evaluate action plans geared towards improving the passing rate among our students in close collaboration with the Inspectorate of Education which is charged with monitoring the quality of education.

The Ministry believes that our students deserve the same chances as others within the Dutch Caribbean. We must use this opportunity as school boards, management, teachers, students and parents to raise the bar of our own expectations and show the world that we too can achieve at higher than average rates.

The Democratic Party, United People's (UP) Party, and Independent Member of Parliament Hon. Romain Laville condemn the actions of the four caretaker Ministers who are now in a lame duck status until a new Council of Ministers have been appointed.

The DP/UP/Laville new parliamentary majority took note of what the caretaker Minister William Marlin said with respect to calling an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers with William Marlin as the Chairman in which a decision would be taken to dissolve parliament.

These actions are clearly meant to confuse the public and force elections.

The National Alliance for the past weeks has been on a smoke and mirrors campaign to fool the people into thinking that what they said is really true.

These new actions by William Marlin and his three Ministers are now placing the integrity of the country on the line.

This is sending a bad message to the Caribbean region, and to the international community as well as to investors and visitors that the rule of law cannot be taken seriously and brings the investment credibility of the entire country into a serious consequence.

While caretaker Minister William Marlin may consider this whole matter as an entire political joke, the majority of the people of this country do not, and William Marlin should stop playing his political games.

The facts are that a new parliamentary majority came together and withdrew its support from the National Alliance led Government. A motion of no confidence was passed against five of those Ministers in the Council. The Prime Minister submitted the Council of Ministers resignation to the Governor after the remaining four Ministers tendered their resignations.

The National Alliance Leader William Marlin is now making a mockery of our constitutional parliamentary democracy by making such statements and attempting such ploys. William Marlin is continuing to polarize the country with his political games and therefore he and his National Alliance are hurting the image of the country as well as in the long run the people of this country.

Press Release by New Parliamentary Majority
Democratic Party, United People's Party, and Independent MP Romain Laville

swescotwilliamswithrotarygsegroup05062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams hosted the Rotary Clubs of St. Maarten Group Study Exchange GSE 5910 Team 2013 on Wednesday. The Rotary Foundation's Group Study Exchange (GSE) program is a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for businesspeople and professionals between the ages of 25 and 40 who are in the early stages of their careers. The program provides travel grants for teams to exchange visits in paired areas of different countries. For four to six weeks, team members experience the host country's culture and institutions, observe how their vocations are practiced abroad, develop personal and professional relationships, and exchange ideas. The Prime Minister welcomed the participants to the island and discussed various matters with the GSE participants, including matters related to the Constitutional Changes of 101010 and the challenges associated with it.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

This is the article published in the newspaper "Midi-Libre" which sparked things off. Guy Durand, the Mayor of the town of Millau in the southwest of France is concerned about the presence in the downtown area of a community of young Antilleans coming for the most part from Saint-Martin, that he says he has difficulty to integrate. Therefore these statements prompted the reaction of the regional councilor of French Guiana, who sent a letter to the Overseas Minister and the Senate.

This article published in "Midi Libre" attracted the attention of the UMP regional councilor of French Guiana, Christiane Ichoung Thoe Finance, who is concerned about such stigmatization of these young Saint-Martiners living in Millau, This elected politician who had already reacted on the occasion of the Vialatte case, alerted the Overseas Minister Victorin Lurel and reported this situation to the president of the Overseas Department intergroup of the senate, Georges Patient.

In her letter sent to the Overseas Minister, who was present in Saint-Martin no later than Monday, Christiane Ichoung-Thoe-Finance, is concerned "about the stigmatization and communitarianism which these overseas French young people are victims within institutional agencies such as the CLSPD". [Local Council of Security and Prevention of Delinquency] "In my capacity as an Overseas elected representative of the Region of French Guiana, she continued, I request from your Ministry to have a special look at understanding exactly why these French youths are stigmatized and communitarized in this commune, and why their presence or stay on the commune territory is creating a problem".

The article published last week by Midi-Libre referred to an inquiry carried out into the community and disclosed at the meeting of the CLSPD. "The dismantling of an important traffic of cocaine from the French Antilles (Midi Libre of 21 and 22 May) managed to deteriorate even further the image of young Antilleans established in the downtown area in the eyes of the local population", the newspaper explained, adding that the inquiry focused on young adults and minors originating from the Overseas departments and territories and arriving in Millau without any adult representatives". According to the mayor Guy Durand, 54 youths have been listed, all involved in the Local Mission [State association in charge of the professional and social integration of young people from 16 to 25 years old]. "The first Saint-Martiners arrived a few years ago in order to follow training at the vocational High School. And then visibly there was a message about a "Millau Eldorado" and many other youths came. But now, it has slowed down", he added.

A MESSAGE FOR THE AUTHORITIES IN SAINT-MARTIN

The working group in charge of the file intends to work with the authorities of origin in order to sensitize the families with the youth's difficulties in France. The town of Millau is in crisis, and cannot welcome youths without training, a population that has difficulty to integrate. That is the message that we want to send to the authorities in Saint-Martin. This community, not more than the others, can make their own law", Guy Durand indicated in the Midi-Libre newspaper.

The elected representatives of Saint-Martin have not yet been contacted by the mayor of Millau, who forgets that Saint-Martin is France and that young Saint-Martiners are totally free to live in the French region of their choice, including Aveyron. The territorial collectivity of S isn'it itself Saint-Martin a welcoming laplace for many French people from France. NL

Original French article in St. Martin's Week N° 1453 bis, Wednesday, June 5, 2013

sjacobswithunicefdelegation05062013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Education, Sports, Youth, and Cultural Affairs Silveria Jacobs and the delegation that went to the Netherlands to debate the report put together by UNICEF Netherlands on the situation of children and adolescents on St. Maarten shared information with the media on Wednesday.

Shermina Powel Richardson represented the Minister in the Netherlands because Minister Jacobs could not have left the island due to the political saga on St. Maarten. The delegation said that UNICEF Netherlands, a non-governmental foundation, did research on St. Maarten and other islands and they compiled the report without even verifying the information they received. Angela Dekker who also formed part of the non-governmental foundations on St. Maarten said that she has been defending the rights of the child since 2004 and St. Maarten has come a long way. Dekker said that the first year the Netherlands did not want the Antilles to submit their reports separately but because she contested it the Antilles managed to get that done in 2008. She further explained that a lot of the information UNICEF collected is incorrect information and they could have contacted the various departments to verify their information but that was not done. She said the researchers took the information they gathered, made a report, and presented it as factual. Another flaw in the report is that UNICEF only interviewed 15 children on St. Maarten and they made a report that portrayed a catastrophic situation in certain areas for the entire island.

Minister Jacobs said that one of the suggestions from UNICEF is that a school be built for children that need special education. Minister Jacobs explained that the government of St. Maarten already designated the school that is built in Belvedere for that. Minister Jacobs said that some schools are offering breakfast to students that go to school hungry but one of the hiccups the schools have is that some parents feel that their rights are being infringed upon. "You have parents who feel that children have rights but parents/adults do not have any rights because children are allowed to take the problems they face at home on the streets." The Minister said another suggestion that was made by UNICEF is for St. Maarten to provide early childhood education (day-care) for children on the island. They also feel that St. Maarten should conduct its own research and compile a report of its own.

The delegation and the Minister made clear that some parts of the report are positive and showed that St. Maarten is in a far better position than the other islands. They said that since the implementation of compulsory education on St. Maarten there are far less students in privatized schools. "We are urging parents to come forward and register their children in the regular schools because their immigration status has nothing to do with the registration of students to attend school and obtain an education."

 

Philipsburg:--- Several persons, including the editors of newspapers on St. Maarten, are misleading and misguiding the population of St. Maarten even though both newspapers have legal experts in their back pockets. On May 6th, 2013 three politicians (Members of Parliament) created political instability on St. Maarten when they threw down the current coalition government in order to form a new one.
Three Governments in three years for a young country definitely places us on the records if not the Guinness Book of Records. It is known that politicians never will come out of the political ring because for them being in office is about politics and not about law and order.
Several persons are asking why this has happened and what the politicians will gain by jumping ship every year while putting the island and its people in total disorder. It is even more appalling to read the unfounded news articles in the newspapers while both newspapers have legal experts at the tip of their fingers. SMN News has been breaking down the Constitution of St. Maarten almost on a daily basis in order to educate the people of this great nation. One of the positive things that will come out of this political mess is that the people of St. Maarten are now reading their constitution. The students in our schools are now asking where they can find a copy of the constitution even though the English version is very much misleading to say the least. In order to further educate our readers and even the haters, we have decided to put some more facts on how the system should function. Since the fall of government and drama on a day to day basis continues, all eyes are placed on the Governor of St. Maarten. It is true that the Governor is the one that has to ratify or countersign the National Decree (Landsbesluit) to dissolve Parliament and call for fresh elections, which was submitted to him by the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers can be considered the same as the majority as the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers (article 20 to be exact) states that decisions are made by the majority. The governor is guided in his work by the "Reglement van de Gouverneur" or the rules of order of the Governor.
Article 21 of these rules of order gives five reasons why the governor may refuse to sign such a Landsbesluit. These reasons are restrictive meaning these are the only reasons why he may refuse to sign. He has no leeway, but can only use the five reasons listed.
Artikel 21.
De Gouverneur stelt een landsverordening en een hem voorgedragen landsbesluit niet vast, wanneer hij de verordening of het besluit in strijd acht met het Statuut, een internationale regeling, een rijkswet of een algemene maatregel van rijksbestuur, dan wel met belangen, waarvan de verzorging of waarborging aangelegenheid van het Koninkrijk is. Hij geeft hiervan terstond kennis aan de Koning als hoofd van de regering van het Koninkrijk. Wanneer bij koninklijk besluit, de Raad van State van het Koninkrijk gehoord, wordt beslist dat zodanige strijd niet aanwezig is, stelt de Gouverneur de landsverordening of het landsbesluit alsnog vast. Het koninklijk besluit, waarbij wordt beslist dat zodanige strijd wel aanwezig is, wordt in het officiële publicatieblad bekend gemaakt.

  • Conflict with the Kingdom Charter (Statuut),
  • An international Regulation, a Kingdom Law
  • A General Measure of Kingdom Governance (Algemene Maatregel van Rijksbestuur),
  • A matter whose protection is a matter for the Kingdom Government. If the governor believes that signing would violate any of those five grounds,
  • He sends the legislation to the King, as head of the Dutch government. The King will then consult with his State Council (Raad van State) and make a decision.

If the Governor therefore fails to sign a Landsverordening or Landsbesluit that does not violate any of the five refusal grounds, Parliament, in the case of a Landsverordening, and the Council of Ministers in the case of a Landsbesluit, can file a complaint against him with the King for dereliction of duty. Fortunately, this has never happened before, and no Governor should wish to make history in this negative way. There is an unwritten rule, that the Governor always follows the wishes of the Ministers. He is after all, above the fray, and may never be held accountable politically. It is the Ministers who bear political responsibilities therefore the Governor stays clear from political decisions.
Finally, the Governor is also aware that a constitutional right is of the highest order. No lower laws, such as the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers, or the Prime Minister or the Governor can block any branch of government from exercising their constitutional right.

Click here to read the article that guides the Governor in his function.

swescotwilliams05062013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams is furious about the extra ordinary meeting that was called by the majority to dissolve the parliament of St. Maarten on Tuesday. Wescot Williams told reporters at the Council of Ministers' press briefing on Wednesday that she stated before that she would not be part of any ploy that serves to damage the reputation of country St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said she remains adamant about the stance she took. Wescot Williams explained that what transpired on Tuesday afternoon is nothing short of "insanity". While the Prime Minister said she refused to discuss the matter further, she ended up speaking more about the meeting and the steps that were followed more than anything else during the weekly press briefing. "Every rule in the book has been trampled upon, and if this is accepted as the so called growing pains then God help us all. It is sad to see the level we are seemingly sinking to, I say so because whatever is the outcome we the people of St. Maarten would have to live with it. I expect the Parliament of St. Maarten to come out strongly against the insanity that was committed on Tuesday." The Prime Minister claimed that she was threatened by letter on Monday that if she did not put the disbanding of Parliament on the agenda Tuesday morning then a separate meeting would be called in the afternoon and the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers would be usurped by the Deputy Chairman. "I could not believe what I was told in the letter and so when I received the invitation for the meeting I just placed it aside." Wescot Williams said it is not fair to compromise the position of the governor and she will not participate in the anarchy.

The Prime Minister was quizzed by reporters about the political developments on St. Maarten so she could shed light on the situation. SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister to explain the rules of law that were broken on Tuesday when the extra ordinary meeting was called and how she would describe her actions pertaining to the letter of May 16th, 2013 that was sent to her and carbon copied to the Council of Ministers.

SMN News reporter also asked the Prime Minister to share a copy of the previously mentioned letter that will show when she booked the letter in with the secretariat. Wescot Williams said that the letter was addressed to her and she cannot understand how it is possible that it ended up on the internet, she felt that should be investigated. Wescot Williams said she will not provide a copy of the letter because she will not perpetrate such practices by divulging or sharing government documents with the media. It should be noted that up to last Friday that letter was not submitted to the secretariat. Wescot Williams said that she took her personal letter she received and distributed it to the Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister said she placed the letter on the agenda as incoming documents on Tuesday. When she was asked by SMN News if the letter was discussed and if the Ministers were given an opportunity to vote on the document. The Prime Minister said that is not how the procedures work and she felt that the rules are being trampled upon.

Reporters also asked the Prime Minister if she received a letter from the governor regarding the petition drive and if she dealt with it as was requested by the Governor. The Prime Minister said that she received two letters one for her consideration and a second letter which is for the consideration of the Council of Ministers. Wescot Williams said that she will soon be sending a response to the governor on the petition. The Prime Minister further stated that the right to petition is also in the constitution.

bluehavenmarina05062013Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands:--- IGY Marinas proudly announces the official opening of Blue Haven Resort & Marina, located on the leeward side of the island of Providenciales. With a draft restriction of 8 feet (at mean low tide), the marina caters to yachts up to 220 feet with no beam limitations. As part of the Blue Haven Resort, marina guests have access to a wide selection of amenities the resort and marina have to offer including a 34-condominium hotel with an infinity pool, private beach and gym.

The marina also offers its guests the use of a conference room with complimentary WIFI, showers, work stations, a volley ball and horse shoe court, and is also located only minutes away from Provo Golf Course, one of the leading golf courses in the Caribbean. Surrounded by the 3rd largest barrier reef in the world, Turks and Caicos offers water sports enthusiasts some of the best diving and fishing grounds in the region. Blue Haven Marina is located on the northeastern tip of Providenciales providing easy access to bottom and flats fishing, diving and day-tripping to uninhabited cays.

As the ideal summer getaway, Blue Haven Resort & Marina is just 575 nautical miles from Florida and is perfectly positioned as the gateway to the Caribbean. Customized itineraries for both on and off shore activities are created upon request, together with the resort and marina concierge. SALT, a brand new crew bar and grill at the marina has recently opened, and an elegant dining experience, is set to welcome diners later this year at the resort.

The marina is currently running The IGY Million Dollar Sportfish Challenge, where vying anglers compete to break the IGFA all-tackle world record, fishing the island's Atlantic waters from May through October 2013 for Wahoo, Dolphin fish and Atlantic Blue Marlin. For more information, see http://www.igymarinas.com/news-events/million-dollar-sportfish-challenge/.

The current dockage offer at Blue Haven is for 2 free nights when you book seven or more. To take advantage of this limited time special offer, contact the marina.

Philipsburg:--- The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle hosted the Group Study Exchange (GSE) members from Texas at the club's dinner meeting last Tuesday.

GSE is a Rotary Foundation sponsored program, providing educational experiences for young business and professional men and women. The team from Texas will be visiting various organizations on St. Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla and St. Barths in the field of Law, Police, Nursing and Marine Biology. They will also be visiting government officials and all the Rotary Clubs on the islands, including recreational activities.

The team's leader is Jennifer Bergman, an Attorney and a member of the Rotary Club of Cleveland, Texas. The other members are Nicole Yeats who is in the field of Nursing, Kristopher Benson is a Marine Resource Specialist, Lameka Trahan also an Attorney and Brandy Norris who is an Assistant Chief of Police. Their presentation to the Mid Isle Club included information on their personal and professional life's back in Texas, and some of their experiences on the other islands of Rotary District 7020 which they recently visited.

One of the attractive features of the Group Study Exchange program, which started in 1965, is the opportunity for team members to meet, talk and live with Rotarians and their families in a warm spirit of friendship and hospitality. In addition to learning about another country as the team visits farms, schools, industrial plants, professional offices and governmental establishments, the GSE teams serve as ambassadors of goodwill. They interpret their home nation to host Rotarians and others in the communities in which they visit. Many of the personal contacts blossom into lasting friendships. The Group Study Exchange program has provided Rotarians with one of its most enjoyable, practical and meaningful ways to promote world understanding.

courtneygibson04062013~Condolences book open at The Daily Herald today~

The Guyanese community in St. Maarten will be holding a wake for the late Editor-in-Chief of The Daily Herald Courtney E. Gibson this Friday at Quality Snacks on the Walter Nisbeth Road (Pondfill) from 7:00pm.

A condolences book will also open at The Daily Herald on Bush Road as of 11:00am today, Wednesday. The condolences book will also be open on Thursday and Friday at The Daily Herald from 8:30am to 4:00pm. The book will be available at the wake for signing.

Gibson was President and founding member of the St. Maarten Guyanese Foundation; a member of the Anti Trafficking In Persons Windward Islands Foundation ATIP and a member of the Anglican Church on Back Street. He passed away among his family members in Tampa, Florida late Sunday evening after a period of illness.

His passing has deeply touched many persons who remembers him as a professional, kind-hearted person with high ethical standards and integrity. The Guyanese community in St. Maarten extends condolences to his wife Liz, his mother, children, grandchildren, his colleagues everyone who is affected by his loss.

The Guyanese community urges everyone who knew Courtney to sign his condolence book and to come out to his wake.

Additional information can be obtained from Neville Mars at Tel: 527-9221; Winston McLean Tel: 553-2951 or Vanessa Fraser at Tel: 586-9455.

telemgiveswedshirttopridevolunteer04062013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is joining environmentalists all over the world in celebration of World Environment Day today – June 5th.

The theme for World Environment Day 2013 is "Think. Eat. Save." to bring attention to food waste and encourage people around the world to educate themselves and improve global food conditions.

In accordance with the theme, TelEm Group is supporting the St. Maarten Pride Foundation and a group of schoolchildren on an agricultural trek to the Reward Estate where they aim to find out all about planting and growing food on St. Maarten.

The visit, with local agriculturist, Joselyn Richardson, is the initiative of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation, who earlier this year collaborated with TelEm Group on a coloring contest with World Environment Day as its focus.

According to TelEm Group Marketing and Sales Officer, Ms. Cheryl Rismay, an art coloring contest was held earlier in the year with a promise that the winning entry would be placed on a T-shirt to mark World Environment Day 2013.

TelEm Group kept its promise Tuesday when the company presented the St. Maarten Pride Foundation with 150 of the specially printed T-shirts for distribution to the public and/or use in a future fundraising drive.

The art coloring contest winner was named as: MAC school student, Noshavyah Winfield,aged 11-years, whose entry was printed on the T-shirt. First Runner-up was Fancia Adamus, aged, 12, and Second Runner-up was Alincia Brooks Ferdinand, aged six-years. Both are from St. Dominic Primary School.

The three winners will be presented with a surprise gift for their efforts at the TelEm Group Building today to once again focus on World Environment Day.

"Congratulations to our winners and to everyone who took part in the coloring contest and also congratulations to the St. Maarten PRIDE Foundation for once again bringing public attention to environmental awareness," said Cheryl.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams chose to dictate for the Council of Ministers by not recognizing the wishes of the council and the advice given to her by the Governor of St. Maarten on May 16th, 2013.

SMN News learnt that Wescot Williams did add the letter sent to her by the governor as an incoming document but chose to close the meeting before she reached that point on the agenda. The sole purpose of doing so was to avoid letting the other four members of the Council of Ministers vote on the matter, which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. At some point, the meeting of Tuesday was adjourned but since the Prime Minister did not deal with the topic that would address the political situation on St. Maarten, the majority in the Council of Ministers immediately sent out a convocation to all the Ministers including the Prime Minister calling for an emergency meeting. SMN News learnt that meeting was held at 3pm Tuesday afternoon and the sole agenda point was the political situation on St. Maarten.

Majority called Urgent Meeting.

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that the majority in the Council of Ministers decided to call an extra-ordinary meeting on Tuesday afternoon where every member of the council was invited. Sources within the Government apparatus said that the sole agenda point that was discussed during the extra-ordinary meeting was the "Dissolution of Parliament". SMN News learnt that based certain articles of the rules of order, the meeting was held despite the Prime Minister's presence since she chose not to attend the urgent meeting that was called by the Members of the Council of Ministers.

The Ministers that attended the meeting voted to have the Council of Ministers discuss the decision they took since May 7th, 2013 to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. A second vote was taken by the majority in the council in which they decided that the Parliament of St. Maarten must be dissolved and early elections be called within a period of three months.

A third vote by the majority was also taken and a resolution was also drafted to give the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin the power to sign off on the Landsbesluit to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Up to press time, none of the Ministers that attended meeting and voted on the dissolution of Parliament could be reached for comment.

garrindellwithmpcstudents04062013Three students from HAVO 4 at the Milton Peters College (MPC) recently visited my office to discuss a project as part of one of their exam assignments.

The topic was, understanding our governmental structures including Parliament, their roles, tasks, responsibilities as they relate to one another.

The students were very excited and eager to receive and understand practical background information about these new institutions of Government and governance, as well about our electoral system, and the function of these institutions and systems under our new status, especially as they relate to our Constitution.

I encouraged them to study the Constitution as well, as they prepared for their school assignment. The Constitution is the blueprint of our country and must be held sacred

I shared their enthusiasm as my office is always open to any student, who is eager to learn, understand and make their own informed opinion about our democratically established institutions under our new 'Country' status.

It is very important that our youth fully understand and comprehend our Constitution and other pertinent laws of the land that allow us to operate as a civilized society.

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

swescotwilliamsatfirstniarecital04062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended an afternoon of dance and music at the National Art Institute's first recital on Sunday. The recital, held at the L.B. Scot Sports Auditorium, featured performances by children and adults. "It was very good to see the expression of art from especially the young people who did their performances with so much pride and passion. I am happy to see this first recital of the National Art Institute and I look forward to its ongoing growth as the institute responsible for the cultivation of art on St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The Social Economic Council (SER) of Sint Maarten will host its first annual symposium on Wednesday morning, June 12 at the Westin Dawn Beach Spa & Resort. The theme of the symposium will be "Innovate or deteriorate; Corporate Social Responsibility as the Way Forward for Sint Maarten". The event will start at 8 am and will be concluded at 1 pm.
The SER is proud to present Professor Ryan Peterson as the keynote speaker of the conference. Professor Peterson's field of specialization is Innovation Economics. He holds the 'Economics Research Chair on Sustainable Islands' at the University of Aruba.
A panel discussion with representatives of the public and private sectors and the SER itself will further explore the central theme of innovation through 'Corporate Social Responsibility', addressing the question of the best way for businesses to be involved in, and accept responsibility for, the social challenges of our country.
Corporate social responsibility or 'CSR' nowadays is a widely discussed topic in the Caribbean and worldwide. Private enterprises can show corporate social responsibility at different levels; by donating money to charities, by stressing compliance with rules and regulations, or by being pro-actively involved in education, social causes, care for the environment and other long-term social goals.

Organization of the symposium is covered by Dutch development funds managed by USONA.

Further information on the SER and its activities is available at www.sersxm.org.

sjacobsatsmsefinterscholasticsoccertournament04062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- "I'd like to extend my congratulations to the SMSEF, it's corporate sponsors, the participating schools including teachers, coaches, parents, and especially the student athletes who put their all into this school tournament. It was an intense and successful endeavor which holds great meaning to the community," Caretaker Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs said after the results on the final day of SMSEF Interscholastic Soccer Tournament 2013 which was played on June 1 at the Johan Cruijff Court in Belvedere.

The SMSEF Interscholastic soccer tournament came to a close today June 1, 2013 after 14 weeks of Saturday games. The Interscholastic soccer tournament started on January 26, 2013 with 43 teams representing 16 schools in seven categories: 7 and under, 9 and under, 11 and under, 13 and under, 15 and under, Girls and Champions League.

Prizes for the winners are: first prize winners NAf. 1.000,-, second place winners NAf. 500,- and third place winner NAf. 250,-. This wonderful gift in honor of the organization's 20th anniversary, which is intended to keep on giving to others, was made possible by the generous donations by: PJIA, Telem, Shipwreck Shops, International Liquor and Tobacco Trading N.V., WTN TV, Nagico, The Daily Herald, GEBE, Harbour Group of Companies and Kidsworld-SXM.

"I want to commend the foundation for promoting gender equality for many years in offering our girls the opportunity to compete against each other as well as with the boys. It is also a great achievement for us to also have an adult female team which I hope will grow to be more in numbers so that our young girls can continue to compete as they grow.

"Congratulations to the champions in all age groups. The Sr. Magda School emerged as the biggest winners, while the Leonard Conner School showed the greatest improvement with finalist in every category. I am extremely proud of our student athletes and all who support them in achieving their dreams.

"Congratulations to all teams and continue to strive to be the best that you can be. I have to also commend the foundation for giving back to the schools by awarding monetary prizes to the winning schools to go towards their football programs.

"This will go a long way in promoting the sport at the ground level and thus make for better prepared athletes as they grow towards regional and international competition," Minister Hon. Silveria Jacobs said on Monday.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour in observance of World Environment Day WED), 5 June, is appealing to the nation from all walks of life to come together to ensure a cleaner, greener and brighter outlook for themselves and future generations.

WED is an annual event that aims to be the biggest and most widely celebrated global day for positive environmental action. WED activities take place all year round but climax on 5 June every year.

The global theme is "Think.Eat.Save." The theme is an anti-food waste and food loss campaign that encourages individuals to reduce your footprint.

According to the United Nations (UN) Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), every year 1.3 billion tonnes of food is wasted. This is equivalent to the same amount produced in the whole of sub-Saharan Africa.

At the same time, one in every seven people in the world go to bed hungry and more than 20,000 children under the age of five die daily from hunger.

The global WED theme is in line with Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour's Hon. Cornelius de Weever's "Get Checked" campaign.

"Take a step back, and reflect upon the theme Think.Eat.Save. Become more aware of the environmental impact of the food choices you make and empower yourself to make informed decisions.

"One way is to choose to buy locally grown foods which means foods are not flown in and therefore limits emissions. Locally grown also means healthier foods with no preservatives or chemicals," Minister De Weever pointed out.

The FAO estimates that a third of global food production is either wasted or lost. Food waste is an enormous drain on natural resources and a contributor to negative environmental impacts.

Due to the enormous imbalance in lifestyles and the resultant devastating effects on the environment, the plant is struggling to provide us with enough resources to sustain its seven billion people – growing to nine billion by 2050.

WED celebration began in 1972 and has grown to become one of the main vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and encourages political attention and action.

usm04062013PHILIPSBURG:--- As a result of extensive meetings held between the University of the Dutch Caribbean (UDC) and the University of St.Martin (USM) a new NVAO accredited bachelor program will start in August 2013 providing sufficient enrollment.

The program gives St. Maarten students access to Nederlands-Vlaams Accreditatie Organisatie (NVAO) accredited bachelor in applied science in electrical and electronic engineering program which was put together by the Saxion Hogeschool in the Netherlands. Following are some subjects that form part of the curriculum; Mathematics, Analog Technology, Digital Technology, Engineering Programming, Automation, Renewable Energy and Social skills.

To qualify for admittance students must be in possession of either an MBO or SBO level diploma or equivalent and be employed in a technical enterprise (certain waivers will apply depending on technical experience).

The duration of the program is 4 years and internship must be at place of employment.
The total cost for the program is at US $ 8,000 per year, including textbooks and examination fees.
The applied science program is for to those who have working experience, have entered middle management, and want to develop their technical knowledge and skills.

With this UDC-USM bachelor in applied Electrical Electronic Engineering, St. Maarten students are able to earn their BAEEE in four years, including their final thesis without leaving the island.
Additional information is available at the USM Student Service Center at tel: 542-5171 ext. 1000.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education and Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs last Friday attended the opening of the 11th annual St. Martin Book Fair which was held at the Chamber of Commerce building at Spring Concordia. The fair featured words of welcome from President Shujah Reiph and a most riveting Keynote address by bestselling author, Foreign Policy Advocate Professor Randal Robinson.

Dr. Robinson brought key thoughts forward of promoting reading and inspiring this generation and the next to raise the bar on literacy. He spoke of us as a people learning about ourselves, our history and our ancestors as a stepping stone to paving the way to the future. His address brought forth memories of the Minister's first real lesson of the Caribbean in literature such as "From Columbus for Castro" which was required reading in her Literature class at the University of the Virgin Islands.

The evening was also featured a poetic recital by internationally acclaimed artist Mischu Laikah, one of our own, who is currently on St. Maarten on her "Back to my Roots" Tour. The songstress read and sang one of her poems and showed the links between the poetry she has always written which has evolved into lyrics she now pens as an expression of her deepest feeling.

Minister Jacobs was deeply inspired by the entire program, including the featured book launch "Where I see the Sun – Contemporary Poetry in St. Martin, which features 25 poets and spoken word artists.

"This launch must be commended as artists of every age, some as young as sixteen, had the opportunity to be published by this most prestigious House of Nehesi publishing house. Congratulations to Lasana Sekou (editor) and the House of Nehesi on this great achievement, which forms part and parcel of St. Martin cultural development," Minister Silveria Jacobs said on Monday.

The Minister Jacobs would also like to congratulate and commend Robin Boasman, elementary teacher and now author, on the launch of her children's book Lizzy Lizard which was also launched during this 11th Annual St. Martin Book Fair.

"This is a proud moment for Boasman and the entire teaching core, who I believe should be inspired to follow suit. Many teachers have created big books for their students to enjoy, and it would be a great accomplishment for us a country to produce even more literature at all levels, where we can identify ourselves in the stories and poems," Minister Jacobs pointed out.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs was honored to be the guest at the 1st Annual NIA Dance Recital entitled "NIA in Wonderland" on Saturday evening.

The joining of forces of the Motiance Dance School and Imbali Center for Creative Movement and the Arts signals a growth in the mindset of the creative directors as well as bigger and better opportunities for the all art lovers of St. Maarten, as the institute offers classes in dance, music, drama and art, Minister Jacobs stated on Monday.

The Minister commends especially Clara Reyes and Arlene Halley for the vision and initiative to embark on this very unique journey for the further development of the Arts on St. Maarten.

The performance of the students during the Recital was awe inspiring, as the different genres of dance and the varying ages of the dancers brought joy to the hearts of the spectators.

Minister Jacobs wishes NIA much success in its quest to offer more to the youth and adults of St. Maarten who see the arts as a vehicle for the expression of creativity.

swescotwilliamsdonatestobtc03062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams presented a personal check to Erika Cannegieter of the Be the Change Foundation in Support of the Art Saves Live program. The Prime Minister, in presenting the check, again commended the organizations and encouraged businesses and individuals to contribute to the Be the Change Foundation as they raise funds for many worthwhile organizations on St. Maarten.

Also in support of the Be The Change Foundation, the Prime Minister attended the Foundation's Fundraising Event and Membership Drive on Sunday evening at the Red Piano Bar.

Be The Change's mission is to encourage the St. Maarten community to actively contribute to various non-profit organizations and local causes. This will be done by way of igniting a social philanthropic movement, hence making a united effort to change and improve life on the island.

Art Saves Lives Program (ASLP) is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change. This collaborative project will select renowned artists from around the world who use the arts to introduce participants to global and local traditions and empower them with the life skills necessary to effectively deal with the demands and challenges of everyday life. The project will also provide guidance for young artists with aspirations in pursuing a career in the arts.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mischulaikah03062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education and Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs on Saturday night was in attendance at the Maho Theater to witness a concert featuring local and regional artists in the Mischu Laikah tour Back to my Roots.

The concert was a cultural blend of genres from soca, calypso, reggae, rock, rhythm and blues and soulful notes of the headliner Mischu herself. Minister Jacobs said: It was awesome to witness the talent displayed by all the artist performing at this concert.

What made this concert special is the humble, passionate and positive spirit of Mischu and the fact that she collaborated with the many guests to remix her songs as well as theirs in a vibe that touched the audience.

Minister Jacobs wishes to congratulate all of the guest artists, Showtime from St. Eustatius, British Dependency from Anguilla, local artist Ambassodor Junior Lion, King Verse/Versatwizy, and Clau Peterson for their individual and collaborative efforts in making this concert a success.

Minister Jacobs would also like to commend the artist Mischu Laikah for the initiative, passion and drive she has displayed in order to reach this dream of coming back to her roots, St. Maarten, for this tour.

"This young lady not only wanted to share her music with her St. Maarten people, she strived to share her vision and her experiences in the music industry with our young artists. She hosted a free workshop which included various local artists to bring the real challenges forward to our aspiring artists in an effort to better prepare them to follow their own dreams. Mischu also collaborated with sponsors to be able to offer the youth a free concert which was held on Sunday, where she allowed them to join her on stage as well.

"This young lady is destined for stardom, not just because of her hauntingly beautiful voice and lyrics which speak to the hearts and soul of all who hear them, but because of her amazingly beautiful spirit and her need to give back, share and help others achieve their goals. Congratulations Mischu Laikah Richardson, a woman of the soil to be reckoned with - a role model for our times," Minister Silveria Jacobs said on Monday.

victorinlureleholidayandswescotwilliamsatlunch03062013Hope Estate:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams and the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday attended a luncheon with French Minister of Overseas France the Honorable Victorin Lurel at Bacchus restaurant in Hope Estate on Monday. Minister Laurel is on a working visit to St. Martin and St. Barths this week and took the opportunity to discuss various items with both the Prime Minister and Governor Holiday.

rotarymidisledonateswaterfountaintosmttf03062013Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Table Tennis Federation (SMTTF) received a drinking water fountain from the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle, to alleviate the thirst of the children who are practicing at the L.B. Scot Sports Auditorium. The Rotary Club used the funds that were generated from the Rotary Youth Table Tennis Tournament (RYTTT), which was held in March, to purchase the water fountain and filters. The installation was provided by Tony's Air Conditioning at no cost. The previous fountain was out of order for two years, and coach Radjouki often had to purchase water bottles for the children. Radjouki thanked the members of Rotary Mid Isle for this much needed equipment, which will provide the children with clean filtered drinking water. Earlier this year, the Rotary Club also helped with the traveling expenses of the SMTTF children who participated in a tournament in Trinidad & Tobago, which saw the Sint Maarten team advance to the second round, but was unfortunately eliminated by the Dominican Republic. The experience gathered from participating in such international tournaments has helped tremendously in improving the level of the table tennis players on St. Maarten, and Rotary Mid Isle feels proud to have played a role in this.

rotarymidisledonatestorotaract03062013Philipsburg:--- Last Tuesday, the Rotary Club of St. Maarten-Mid Isle presented the Rotaract Club of Saint Martin Nord and the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise each with a donation, to help their members with traveling expenses to the District 7020 Rotaract Conference in the Cayman Islands. The Presidents of both Rotaract clubs were on hand to receive the contribution, and spoke briefly about the numerous community projects and fellowship activities that their clubs were able to execute during the 2012-2013 Rotaract Year. Mid Isle President Jon Hart congratulated both Rotaract Clubs on a successful year, and urged both presidents to continue the good work of Rotaract. At the Rotaract Conference, there will be training seminars and discussions of new ideas, that will help the Rotaract Clubs to effectively carry out their humanitarian works in their respective communities. Rotaractors from various islands in the Caribbean will be attending the Conference, making use of the opportunity to meet new friends, while participating in excursions and parties after the seminars. The Mid Isle Club is happy to contribute to the Rotaractors, as they are widely considered to be the "Future of Rotary".

brigittecartywinshyundaii1003062013Sandy Ground:--- The drawing for Cadisco's 15th anniversary grand prize, the 2013 i10 sponsored by Motorworld, was held Friday May 31st, 2013 at the Cadisco gas station in Sandy Ground. Brigitte Carty was the pleased winner out of thousands of participants. The raffle for the i10 began May 20th, 2013 until June 31st, 2013. Scratch cards were given out to customers who came for gasoline. Up to the last minute people were still bringing in their scratch cards in order to have a chance in winning the i10 sponsored by Motorworld. Other participants also got the opportunity to win free gas, free drinks, and many other enjoyable prizes.
Motorworld was voted "The Best Auto Dealer" on St. Maarten by the public of St. Maarten. Motorworld is the car dealer for the brands Hyundai, Honda, Daihatsu, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Chrysler, for St. Maarten and neighboring islands. For more information visit the Motorworld showroom which is located on Welfare rd #20, Cole Bay, St. Maarten. Tel 1721- 5294 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

hyundaitucson03062013Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Lions Club is finalizing plans for the annual Car Raffle which will be drawn next week Wednesday June 12th, live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 115 (TV15) at 9pm sharp. The first prize for this fundraising raffle is 2013 Hyundai Tucson. Second prize is a 42 inch flat screen TV and third prize is an iPhone 4S.

Each raffle ticket is $10 and is available from any Lions member, this coming weekend on Saturday & Sunday at Le Grand Marche Cul De Sac. Tickets are also available during this week and next week up to the raffle date at the Lions Den at the Upper Princess Quarter Center on the Sucker Garden Road (next to SOL Gas Station) between 8am to 5:30pm. The Lions Club urges the general public buy their raffle tickets as soon as possible as their are a limited amount of tickets available before the raffle date.

The winning tickets will be drawn from a tombola and the St. Maarten Lions Club will attempt to call the winner of Hyundai Tucson live on the air. All income from the St. Maarten Lions Club raffle go to fund various community projects on the island of St. Maarten.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Section General Health Care (SGHC) that falls under Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is advising persons traveling to the Middle East to be on alert and to take preventive measures to protect their health in connection with Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which includes viruses that may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Viruses of this family also cause a number of animal diseases, however the NCoV itself has not yet been found in an animal.

Travelers who return with symptoms from areas affected by the virus should call their family physician immediately. This is in connection with the Minister of Public Health's 'Get Checked' campaign in order to protect public health.

Globally, from September 2012 to date, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been informed of a total of 53 laboratory-confirmed cases of infection with MERS-CoV, including 30 deaths. The Ministry of Health in Italy, through the European Union's Early Warning Response System has notified WHO of an additional two laboratory-confirmed cases, a two-year-old girl and a 42-year-old woman who had recently traveled to Jordan.

Countries that have reported laboratory-confirmed cases to date are: Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Tunisia and France.

In France, Italy, Tunisia and the United Kingdom, there has been limited local transmission among patients who had not been to the Middle East but had been in close contact with the laboratory-confirmed or probable cases.

Common symptoms have been acute, serious respiratory illness with fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. The infection generally presents as pneumonia. It has caused kidney failure and death in some cases.

To prevent catching any respiratory illness, avoid close contact, when possible, with anyone who shows symptoms of illness (coughing and sneezing), and to maintain good hand hygiene.

Health care providers have been called to be vigilant in monitoring for severe acute respiratory infections and the systematic implementation of infection prevention and control.

Health care facilities are reminded of the importance of systematic implementation of infection prevention and control. The WHO continues to closely monitor the situation.

gracitaarrindell08112012The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has carried out a study as it relates to the rights of children and adolescents in the country. This study was presented to the Minister of Youth Affairs last month where according to reports; the overall situation of children and adolescents in St. Maarten is good.

The plus points according to media reports for the country based on the report are, there is almost universal access to health care and education while mechanisms are in place for those who are in need of protection; however there are some issues that require continued attention by the government and stakeholders.

Some of the areas that require attention are high teen pregnancy rate, an increase in obesity among children, challenges in accessing health care for migrant children and that health data was not easily accessible.

In the area of education, the school curriculum should be adapted to needs of local students so that they could be able to learn about local culture; other challenges noted were class size, teachers, school materials and limited interaction between school and parents; limited after-school care opportunities.

The report also found that there was a high level of violence against children at home, in schools and elsewhere. It also found challenges relating to the coordination among actors in the child protection system.

Parliament needs a copy of this report, and the House needs to debate the content of the report and look into the areas that require additional attention.

Our young people are our most precious resource. As a country, we must do all in our power to ensure that their rights are respected. The Convention on the Rights of the Child was adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1989.

The Convention lists internationally acknowledged rights of children. The aim of the adoption of the convention was to emphasize that a child is a human together with all the rights a parent has. The rights of a child are human rights.

I am looking forward to calling a parliamentary meeting shortly and prior to the upcoming parliamentary summer recess.

The report was compiled based on research that was carried out by an independent organization. As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, St. Maarten has a responsibility to report on a regular basis to the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC).

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

paulmartensandwinstonsalomon03062013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Some of the reports received from the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) at last week's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) meeting about the country's disaster management system reveals that more than a majority of preparations are in place for the passing of a hurricane.

The Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) ESF-10 will be issuing for the first time tropical storm/hurricane watches and warnings without any assistance from the Curacao Met Services.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, and Transportation & Telecommunications (ESF-10) is busy compiling a list of food items – price freeze - in order to prevent price gouging prior and after a hurricane strike.

The Department of Communication (DCOMM) (ESF-8) which is responsible for public information and media is also ready for the season. DCOMM currently has an on-going public awareness campaign to remind residents about being prepared for what is forecast to be an extremely busy season.

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour (ESF-6) has been mobilized and will be meeting with a number of stakeholders this week with respect to their preparations for the season.

The Fire Department (ESF-4) is prepared and ready to roll out to assist in an emergency situation.

The Power Utility Company GEBE (ESF-1) reported that they are prepared for the season. Major generator overhauls have been completed no major preventative maintenance is necessary during the season.

Any open trenches where work is being carried out by the company will be closed in the event of the passing of a hurricane.

GEBE will do everything to keep the electricity on, however, if conditions reach a certain level, for the safety of the equipment and if there are downed power lines, the plant will be shut down.

The Department of Social Services (ESF-7) is in the process with several other government agencies to carry out an assessment of hurricane shelters for the season. The department will also commence shortly with an information campaign with respect to the shelter usage and what you can take to a shelter.

The Police Force (ESF-5) is assessing their buildings and already has in place a traffic circulation plan.

Also present during the EOC/ESF meeting last week Thursday was the Adjudant to the Governor's Cabinet and a representative from the Cabinet of the Prime Minister (ESF-9).

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams yesterday expressed her sympathy and heartfelt condolences at the recent passing of Daily Herald Editor-In-Chief Courtney Gibson. "It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Mr. Gibson in the United States. I would like to express my deepest condolences to his family, friends, acquaintances, his colleagues at the Daily Herald and the Guyanese Community. He was known for his professionalism and dedication to the journalistic field and his absence will be missed by his colleagues in the media as well as by all of those who knew him," stated the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- Several civil servants found themselves in a predicament late last week when they found out that SZV sent a letter to the St. Maarten Medical Center, doctors, and pharmacies informing them that they will not be issuing anymore extensions on the expired government doctor cards.
A few civil servants told SMN News that their doctor cards expired since December 31st, 2012 and to date they have not received their new cards for the year 2013. SMN News has been reliably informed that the management of SZV has been sending emails and other correspondences to government informing them that they will stop the extensions on the old doctor cards because they are of the opinion that all civil servants working for government should now be in possession of their new card.

A source close to the personnel department of government said that the personnel department never responded to the correspondences SZV has been sending them over the past six months, but now that SZV took the necessary actions an email was sent to SZV informing them that there are still a number of civil servants without doctor a card. The source said the personnel department and SZV management are expected to meet on Tuesday to work on a solution. Efforts made by SMN News to reach the interim Director of SZV Reginald Willemsberg by telephone proved futile on Monday.

victorinlurelarrivesinstmartin03062013Grand Case:--- Préfet Philippe Chopin and Préfet of Guadeloupe Marcelle Pierrot escorted French Minister of Overseas Territories Victorin Lurel to a waiting car shortly after his arrival at Grand Case Airport Monday morning for his official visit. He was greeted by elected officials and a welcoming committee from the Socialist Party on St. Martin. The Minister met with President Aline Hanson and the Territorial Council before visiting the new media library and other projects during the day. He is due to visit St. Barths on Tuesday.

newelectionpetitionersatgovernorsoffice03062013Harbor View:--- A small group of people gathered at the Governor's office on Monday morning seeking an audience with Governor drs. Eugene Holiday to get answers from him regarding the petitions they submitted to him to call for new elections. Lisa Alexander, the main organizer of the petition drive, was the only person who was invited inside to speak with Governor Holiday.

Alexander told her supporters after meeting with Governor Holiday that Governor Holiday gave her a letter acknowledging receipt of the petitions that were submitted to him on May 17th and May 24th, 2013. Governor Holiday also stated in his letter that was addressed to Lisa Alexander that he reviewed the petitions that were sent to him and referred them to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams for her attention and further handling by the Council of Ministers.

Alexander then went to the Government Administration Building where she hand delivered a copy of the letter the Governor gave her to each of the Ministers that were in office on Monday.

Rene "Koto" Wilson told reporters at the Government Administration Building that he noticed that the Ministers accepted the letters with grace but he wants them to know that if his democratic rights are exploited and if the rules of law are not followed then he will be taking a trip to the Netherlands with his lawyer to represent himself. "If it comes to that then I will be bringing down the fire and brimstone on St. Maarten because what I will expose in Holland no politician in St. Maarten will like. I am giving the politicians until the end of this month to deal with the political crisis on St. Maarten and the wishes of the people and if that does not happen by the end of this month then I will do what I have to do in the Kingdom Council of Ministers."

newelectionpetitionerswithwmarlin03062013In an invited comment, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin said that he wrote a letter to the Governor of St. Maarten and he does not intend to give up the fight. Marlin said that the Prime Minister intended to place the Governor's letter that was sent on May 16th and his requests to have the political situation discussed on the agenda of June 4th, 2013. Marlin said that on Tuesday June 4th, 2013 the majority intends to take a step further to ensure that the will of the majority in the Council of Ministers is dealt with and the petitions that were sent to the Governor.

Marlin said that the Prime Minister has been adamant with her position which is not to place the matter on the agenda, the Prime Minister even in her letter stated that now that the cabinet resigned that has strengthened her position. Marlin further stated that the Prime Minister's approach is incorrect because even a caretaker cabinet can make use of article 59 of the constitution to dissolve parliament. Marlin said since May 7th, 2013 they have been trying to exercise their democratic right based on the constitution but the Prime Minister has been abusing her power and blocking them from executing a decision taken by the majority in the Council of Ministers.

Marlin said the letter dated May 16th that was sent by the Governor to the Prime Minister clearly stated that the majority must be allowed to exercise their right, and failure to do that will be tampering with the constitutional process. Marlin said the majority of the Council of Ministers intends to ensure that the decision they took on May 7th, 2013 is dealt with on Tuesday June 4th, 2013.

Click here to view more photos of the small group of protestors that are demanding that early elections be called.

courtneygibson03062013Philipsburg:--- Media workers are in shock, some were at a loss for words on Monday morning when they learned that their colleague and friend Courtney Gibson passed away. Gibson was 62 at the time of his death.

Gibson, a veteran journalist, was working as the Editor in Chief for the Daily Herald Newspaper for quite some years now. Those who knew "Courtney" could tell that he was one journalist that believed in integrity and ethics when it came to reporting news. While Courtney was a friendly, kind, and staunch Christian, he maintained his professionalism as a journalist even when he was placed in situations where he had to stand strong on his beliefs.
Gibson worked as the Bureau Chief for the Caribbean News Agency now known as the Caribbean Media Corporation in his native country Guyana. He was also the Editor in Chief for the Guyana Chronicle for a number of years. Gibson also worked in the Turks and Caicos Islands prior to taking up his position at the Daily Herald in St. Maarten.

Courtney Gibson was the President of the Guyanese Foundation on St. Maarten, he was also a member of the Anti Trafficking in Persons of the Windward Islands Foundation (ATIP).

Courtney Gibson took ill some months ago with a rare medical condition; he sought medical treatment in St. Maarten, Guadeloupe, and Colombia. Some two weeks ago Gibson left the island to continue his medical treatment in Tampa Florida where he passed away late Sunday night.

Courtney leaves to mourn his wife Liz, his mother, three children, four grandchildren, his close friend Neville Mars and the members of the Anglican Church on Back Street Philipsburg. SMN News team wishes the family of late Courtney Gibson much strength in their time of bereavement.

Marigot:--- It is now public knowledge that not only the Gendarmes, the lawyer and his clients located at Orient Beach (AW33) Elisa Cohen and Philippe Just felt that the AOT (Authorization Occupation Temporaire) issued by the Collectivity of St. Martin to Sindextour (Norbert Luftman) was illegal but the Prefet Delegue of St. Martin Philippe Chopin shared the same views. According to information provided to SMN News, Prefet Chopin contested the decision taken by the Collectivity of St. Martin because he felt renewing the AOT for SINDEXTOUR was illegal. Chopin penned a letter on September 26th, 2012 to the former President of the COM Alain Richardson requesting that he review the decision the COM took when they issued the AOT to Norbert Luftman Managing Director of SINDEXTOUR. In that letter the Prefet made clear that in his view the issuance of the contested AOT was illegal and unlawful.
However, the former President did not respond to the Prefet's letter immediately, he did so on November 16th, 2012. The President wrote the Prefet telling him that the Territorial Council considered their decision to be lawful and he also provided a number of arguments including documents to support the decision taken by the COM. Despite the arguments by the former President, the Prefet was not moved by the explanation he was given for the issuance of the AOT to SINDEXTOUR.
SMN News got confirmation that the Prefet Delegue of St. Martin Philippe Chopin submitted an application to the Administrative Courts on January 3rd, 2013 requesting that the court annul the decision of the AOT marked (no 2012-03 of September 14th, 2012). The Prefet also confirmed to the court that on April 17th, 2012, just over two weeks after the RRR Government took office they deliberated on the issuance of the AOT and took a decision to grant it to SINDEXTOUR. He further submitted the decision taken again on September 4th, 2012 by the Executive Council and the decision taken by the Territorial Council on September 14th, 2012.
The operators of Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach also submitted a request to the Administrative Courts asking that the AOT given to SINDEXTOUR be annulled.
In the meantime, several persons including elected officials were arrested, placed in garde à vue, and are now before the criminal courts for the issuance of the AOT to Sindextour. The case was first called on March 21st, 2013 and  postponed to September 19th, 2013.

carlylerogersreceiveslmodiploma02062013Philipsburg:--- On Friday May 31st, 2013 in the presence of Acting Minister of Justice Roland Tuitt, Chief of Police Peter de Witte, and other colleagues, five police inspectors namely, Inspectors Lucy Gachette, Benjamin Gout, Delano Baptist, Carlyle Rogers, and Quinten Rogers received their diplomas for successfully passing their L.M.O. exams (course on managerial level). During a short speech by the acting Minister of Justice he stated to all present that investing in people in any organization, especially in an organization like the police department, is the key to the motivation of its personnel and success of the organization. He then congratulated the inspectors and wished them much success in their future endeavors.

KPSM Press Release

Philipsburg:--- On Friday May 31st, 2013, Chief of Police Peter de Witte awarded certificates to the participants who successfully followed the training in Financial Investigation. Sixteen investigators of the Police Force followed a one week course where skills were taught by experienced teachers of Forensic Services in Curacao, regarding money laundering detection and control, as well as the deprivation of illegally obtained assets.

This brings the Police Force to the level where it meets the development requirements it has set for itself and where the CFATF (Caribbean Financial Action Task Force) insists the Police Department should be. In the near future, the Specialist will follow a three week advanced training in Financial Investigation.

KPSM Press Release

swescotwilliamsatbookfair02062013Belair:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the launching of the Children's Book Lizzy Lizard by young St. Maarten Author Robin Boasman at the Closing Ceremony and Book Launch Party of the eleventh annual St. Maarten's Book Fair on Saturday. The Prime Minister purchased a copy of the newly released children's book at the event at the Belair Community College and was honored with a signature by the young writer. "It is really good to see the St. Maarten Book Fair grow in what it is today, being one of the primary literature events in the North Eastern Caribbean," commented the PM. "And it is also very good to see a young and upcoming writer like Robin publish a children's book that covers many important themes. With her book we can introduce our children to the love of reading from a very early age with a book that is set in our beloved country, and that is very, very important," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

giovannisprottpromotedtoinspector02062013Philipsburg:--- On Friday May 31st, 2013, Police Major Giovanni Sprott received his long awaited promotion to police inspector. Sprott was given his Landsbesluit (decree) by the Honorable Acting Minister of Justice Roland Tuitt in the presence of the Chief of Police and other colleagues during a ceremony held on that day at the Philipsburg Police Station. Inspector Sprott was congratulated by the minister and encouraged to continue doing the fine job he has been doing.

KPSM Press Release

rtuittandtconstant02062013Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday May 29th, 2013, a short swearing-in ceremony was held at the Philipsburg Police Station in the presence of the Chief of Police Peter de Witte and other colleagues. During this ceremony Mrs. Tishandra Constant was officially sworn in by the Honorable Acting Minister of Justice Roland Tuitt as a Forensic Specialist/Special Investigator with the Sint Maarten Police and attached to the Forensic Department. Mrs. Constant was congratulated by all present and wished much success.

KPSM Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Mental health is fundamental to health. This is reflected by the definition of health in the World Health Organization (WHO) Constitution as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour in collaboration with the WHO and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), have organized a workshop for stakeholders to introduce a new assessment instrument for mental health systems.

A representative from PAHO will be leading the workshop on Tuesday at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel & Casino with respect to 'Assessment Instrument Mental Health Systems (AIMS).'

Besides local stakeholders such as the St. Maarten Medical Center, Mental Health Foundation, Alzheimer's Foundation, more than 30 organizations and institutions have signed up to participate in the workshop. There will also be representatives from various organizations from Curacao, Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius in attendance.

The AIMS tool will be utilized in St. Maarten in the very near future and will look at our mental health care system. It is not an evaluation but solely an assessment after which recommendations will be given to improve and or maintain standards.

WHO aims to provide health planners, policy-makers, and donors with a set of clear and coherent activities and programmes for scaling up care for mental, neurological and substance use disorders through the 'Mental Health Gap Action Programme'.

Mental health is paramount to personal well-being, family relationships, and successful contributions to society. It is related to the development of societies and countries.

Mental ill-health and poverty interact in a negative cycle: mental ill-health impedes people's ability to learn and to engage productively in their economies, and poverty in turn increases the risk for developing mental disorders, and reduces people's ability to gain access to health services.

The workshop related to mental health also falls within the parameters of the Minister of Public Health's Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign. Minister De Weever says in order for the country to have a comprehensive approach in dealing with mental health, the country has to 'get checked' first by having the necessary information at its disposal in order to develop the ideal programs and interventions for the people of the country.

AIMS have been carried out on different islands in the Caribbean.

It was used to collect information on the mental health system in Anguilla.

The information collected and gathered on Anguilla would enable the authorities to develop information-based mental health plans with clear base-line information and targets.

It would be useful to monitor progress in implementing reform policies, providing community services, and involving users, families and other stakeholders in mental health promotion, prevention, care, and rehabilitation.

swescotwilliamsatpjlhealthylifestylecornerlaunch02062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams urged the community to practice a healthy lifestyle, in particular the avoiding of cigarettes and tobacco related products at the opening of the Healthy Lifestyle Corner at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library last week. "I want to start with congratulate the Collective Service of the Ministry of Public Health as well as the Philipsburg Jubilee Library with the initiative of launching an outreach project that is centered on promoting a healthy lifestyle for the community. I think it is important that we share the available information that is available with regards to encouraging a healthy lifestyle, and of course not smoking is an integral part of living that healthy lifestyle.

"When we look at legislation as complimentary to having people understand that they need to change their lifestyle and habits in order to not only to save themselves but to do the entire community a favor we can see Government's commitment to ensure the health of the people. We have to continue to repeat the message of living healthily as often as we can and I am glad that, with this initiative, St. Maarten is catching up to bringing the message across with regards to living a healthy lifestyle and not entering and eventually quitting bad habits, including smoking. So in the words of this project "Be Smart, Don't Start; Want to Quit, Do it.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsatprayerwalk02062013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams urged the community over the weekend to be vigilant and be prepared for the coming 2013 Hurricane Season, one that is predicted to be one of the busiest season's in years.

"I cannot stress enough how important it is for us not let our guard down as far as hurricane preparedness is concerned. We have been spared for quite some time a direct hit of a major hurricane for which we are extremely grateful to the almighty, but at the same time we need to realize that, as the saying goes, it only takes one. A very busy season is projected so I am urging the community at the beginning of the season to be prepared and to take the necessary precautions," emphasized the Prime Minister.

"We as government will be repeating the message of preparedness as we go along. The Emergency Operations Center has had its first meeting and from a Government perspective we will be looking at, for example, the readiness of the shelters and what needs to be done to ensure the safety of the People. And ensuring that all the essential organizations and entities will do their part to ensure that we are prepared in the event of a hurricane.

The Prime Minister also attended the yearly Prayer Walk, where participants from various denominations offered prayers for the safe passage of the Hurricane Season; "It is good to also recognize that we should recognize that whatever happens it eventually is in the hand of God and as a Country we should indeed offer our prayers for a safe hurricane season," stated the Prime Minister after the walk on Saturday evening.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever, commends the collaboration between NAGICO Insurances and the Police Force of St. Maarten with respect to promoting road safety.

According to a recent World Health Organization (WHO) status report on road safety, 1.24 million people still die in road traffic crashes each year; 53 per cent of them are car drivers or car passengers, and 33 per cent pedestrians.

More than 23,500 pedestrians were killed on the roads in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2010, making pedestrians the most vulnerable group of road users in the region.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, says the road safety initiative also falls within the scope of public health and calls on the community as part of his 'Get Checked' campaign especially motorists to check your speed and be observant of pedestrians, bike/bicycle riders (by adults and children) and other road users, and remember life before speed.

People walk on a daily basis which is good for one's health and the environment, therefore walking should be a safe option for people everywhere.

Globally, more than 270,000 pedestrians lose their lives on the world's roads each year, according to a WHO report.

The public-private sector collaboration entails erecting six road-side signs at strategic locations promoting road safety such as wearing your seatbelts and helmets, warning of the dangers of speeding and cell phone usage, and avoid drinking and driving.

In the Americas, pedestrians account for 23 per cent of all traffic fatalities region-wide, but the proportion varies across sub-regions, for example, 27 per cent in the Caribbean.

In addition to deaths, millions more pedestrians suffer injuries, which can require long hospital stays and lengthy rehabilitation or be permanently disabling. Given the high costs of care, these injuries can throw victims and their families into poverty and add to the burden of already fragile healthcare systems.

positive31052013Philipsburg:--- The momentous three day event, SXM Weekend of P.O.W.E.R. hosted by G.I.F.T.E.D. Foundation kicks off this Friday, May 31st and continues through to June 2nd at locations across Sint Maarten. The POWER cast has several local and overseas gospel ministers, including God's Chosen, Piper Laundry, Bless, Omalie of Dominica, Curtis Jordan, Keron Ramsey and Positive of Trinidad, and Kevin Smith and Prodigal Son of Jamaica.

Already, things have started with NRG Youth Praise Party, hosted at the New Testament Baptist Church in Philipsburg. The DJ for the night, Joshua DRJ Ferrol, launched the dynamic DRJ Sounds and brought much attention and energy to the GLOW-spirited gospel praise. Many youth groups were in attendance. To the patrons' pleasure, the artiste Positive gave a taste of his latest album, "Forever My King", amidst several other performances from local talents and game activities. From an early age, Positive displayed a strong passion for music, especially acoustic styles, such that he cultivated his life into it. The rhythmic accents on the off-beat by the guitar led him to identify with reggae, which became his love. He intends to touch the hearts of people and show them the way to God.

Saturday morning, June 1st will begin at 9 am to 12 noon with the "Livin' Worship" workshop at the Christian Faith Ministries International in Dutch Quarter, led by International recording gospel R&B artiste, Curtis Jordan from Trinidad & Tobago. Jordan is a worship minister, who is well-known for hits such as "Trust Me" and "Alive", will be accompanied by Keron Ramsey of Trinidad and Tobago as well as Apostle Alicia Liverpool of the David Company, Sint Maarten. This workshop caters to all Worship Teams, Choirs, Musicians, singers, and ministry dancers. The evening will be a worship experience at the Christian Fellowship Church in Cole Bay, starting at 7pm.
On Sunday, June 2nd, the P.O.W.E.R. Concert will be held at the Belair Community Centre starting at 6:30pm. This is a paid concert giving more than a deal for the money. The POWER team has the full line up of Keron Ramsey, Omalie Durand, Curtis Jordan, Positive, Kevin Smith and Prodigal Son. The event promises to be energizing and electrifying.
Visit the GIFTED Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/GIFTEDLIGHT and click "Like" to keep up-to-date with GIFTED activities and for more information.

The Police Department is informing the general public that in connection with the yearly Sint Maarten Triathlon which will be held this year on Sunday June 1st, 2013, temporary road closures will take place between 7:00am and 10:30am. The W.G. Buncamper road and all side streets that are connected to the Walter Nisbeth road including Voges Street, D.A. Peterson Street in the vicinity of the salt Pickers Round- a bout, Cornelius Vlaun street, Hensy Boujon Street, Tamarinde Steeg, Percy Labega Street, Long wall Road, and the A. Th. Illidge road at the Prince Bernard Bridge, Bush road and those street connected to the A.J.C. Brouwers road including Welgelegen road, Panter road, Tiger road, Mozart road and the A.J.C. Brouwers road up to the Osborne Kruythoff Round-a-bout. The public is asked to take serious notice of these traffic measures to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience.

KPSM Public Notice

confiscatedmoney31052013Philipsburg:--- Police arrested five foreign nationals who were busy skimming ATM machines belonging to the Windward Islands Bank (WIB) Thursday evening. The five suspects all of whom are foreign nationals were caught in the act.

Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte said the five suspects were arrested due to cooperation with the WIB Bank who worked closely with police to apprehend the culprits when they were in action. De Witte said police also confiscated a large amount of monies. The top cop said no precise figure can be placed on the cash they confiscated because police is still busy counting the monies. De Witte said the officers also confiscated the equipments that were used to skim the monies from the ATMs, two vehicles, and a number of ATM cards that were being used by the suspects. As for the nationalities of the suspects, De Witte said they are all foreign nationals but their nationalities could not yet be confirmed because police has to verify their documents.
It should be noted that several banks including the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and the FirstCaribbean Bank have reported that their ATM machines were being skimmed and a large number of their clients were being affected.

Five men arrested by police for skimming ATM-machines.

On Thursday May 30th at approximately 08:00pm, several police patrols from the Simpson Bay and Philipsburg districts were alerted that several men were identified as suspects in the fraudulent act of skimming monies from ATM machines. Descriptions of the vehicles the suspects were using to go to the ATM machines were given and an investigation to locate these suspects was initiated. With the assistance and cooperation of bank security personnel, a total of five men were arrested in this case. The investigation showed that these men had been busy skimming monies from all ATM machines at same time at different locations on the island. During their arrest and a search of their hotel room a substantial amount of U.S. currency and numerous electronic cards (used to manipulate the ATM-machine) were found and confiscated for further investigation. All suspects are from Canada and Lebanese descent. All suspects remain in custody for further investigation.

In addition, the police department has been receiving numerous reports of persons using false credit cards to purchase very expensive items such as jewelry and electronic items. The Police Department is warning everyone and in particular all businesses to take good notice of this information and inform the police anytime they encounter someone committing this type of illegal act.

KPSM Police Report

telemgroupcellsite02052013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group has written to the Bureau of Telecommunication and Post, St. Maarten, thanking the regulator and its staff for their prompt assistance in identifying recent interference to the company's 3G mobile voice and data network.
TelEm Group says it's thanks to the Bureau's technical staff, who, along with the Technical and Engineering staff of the company, quickly identified the source of the interference.
"We are also most grateful to the regulator for granting us the use of a new frequency so quickly after our official request was made, allowing us to quickly adjust our operating frequency and alleviating the effects of the interference," said Chief Financial Officer, TelEm Group, Mrs. Helma Etnel.
She said the value of having a local regulator for St. Maarten has shown its worth because of the quickness with which the Bureau was able to respond to the company's need.
Mrs. Etnel said reports from the Technical Department says 3G signals in the CupeCoy, Cole Bay and Simpson Bay areas are "vastly improved" now that the interference to these specific areas have been alleviated.
"The technicians and engineers are reporting some issues that remain in the St. Peter's Hill area, which may or may not be related to the interference problem, and they expect to have that issue cleared up very soon also," said Mrs. Etnel.
The CFO said work is continuing with the local regulator to minimize frequency interference in the future. In that regard, TelEm Group has invited an outside radio frequency planner to monitor the company's network and make recommendations as necessary to management.
She said based on the expert's findings, management will take whatever actions are required to safeguard customers against unwanted signal interference.

With June 1 marking the official start of the Hurricane Season in the Caribbean, Dutch marines from the 32 Infantry Company in Aruba maintain a permanent readiness to respond to natural disasters in the Dutch Caribbean. The Royal Netherlands Navy and Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard are vigilant, as experts expect a severe Hurricane Season this year.

Hurricane and disaster relief rank amongst the Dutch Navy's core tasks in the Caribbean. In recent history, Dutch Navy ships and marines came to the aid of Nicaragua after hurricane Felix struck in 2007. In 2008 Dutch marines were deployed to St. Maarten in the wake of hurricane Omar. And in 2010 after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, a relief detachment of Dutch military and local militia from Aruba was formed to provide aid and assistance.

Watchful eye
During the hurricane season, from June 1st till December 1st, the Operations centre of the Commander Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean in Curaçao keeps a watchful eye on depressions forming over the Atlantic. Stormy weather patterns are carefully monitored based on accurate projections. Island authorities can request military assistance if a strike is imminent. Together with local emergency services, a crisis team comprised of Navy, Marine and Coast Guard personnel will put robust contingency plans into action.

Keeping the peace
Prior to a hurricane strike, the Dutch Navy deploys to the likely affected areas to help with final preparations. Building are boarded up and shelters are provided with adequate water and food supplies. During the strike, Dutch marines protect shelters and other critical infrastructure. Afterwards, civil affairs specialists survey affected areas and determine the need for first aid and medical assistance. Dutch marines keep the peace by patrolling the affected areas, to prevent looting of ruined shops and buildings. In the unlikely event of a catastrophic hurricane strike, the Dutch Navy is able to fall back on additional relief detachments on board HNLMS Pelikaan and the West Indian Guard Ship. Even the help from disaster relief specialists from The Netherlands can be solicited.

daeaircrafts28052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- After reviewing the financial figures of Dutch Antilles Express (DAE) and its 2012/2013 Business Plan and after performing all required mandatory SAFETY inspection on DAE's current fleet, the Curacao Civil Aviation Authority (CCAA) has authorized all DAE's new destination' requests up to this moment and granted DAE the following destinations this week:

Curacao – Cali – Curacao
Curacao – Cucuta – Curacao
Curacao – Bogota – Curacao
Curacao – Cartagena – Curacao
Curacao – Bucaramanga – Curacao
Curacao – Barbados – Curacao
Curacao – Port of Spain – Curacao
Curacao – Montego Bay – Curacao
Curacao – Port au Prince – Curacao

"On behalf of our DAE family, we appreciate and express our gratitude to the CCAA for this trust, which commits us to continue working for Curacao. By granting us these designations, CCAA confirms our financial stability and ability to expand our operations and that DAE complies with all requirements and has a Safe Operations," Ramiz attested.

"DAE will start operating to Bogota and Cartagena by June 30. We will announce the day as soon as the flights are in our system," Ramiz indicated.

"Haiti will be for July 15. The rest of Colombia e.g. Cali, Cucuta and Bucaramanga as well as Montego Bay, Port of Spain and Barbados will be announced on a later date but it will be after the summer and definitely before the fourth quarter of this year," Ramiz stated.

"This summer we will also have different charter programs of 2 weekly flights to Manaus, Brazil and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic starting July till September of this year. With these charter flights to Manaus we will feed Orlando, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, Bonaire and Aruba. Additional weekly flights to other destinations are being negotiated with local travel agencies and groups in Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Panama and Havana. We will adjust our schedule after June 15. We will change Suriname and make it an overnight in Paramaribo, so we can connect Suriname with our HUB to other destinations." Ramiz said.

"We will operate this summer with one MD-83 and one Fokker -100 as back ups and the rest of our aircrafts will be operating the routes that we have. Additional aircrafts will have to be added later on this year," Ramiz concluded.

usmstudentsattend7thbiennialcaroaconference30052013Maho:--- Between May 6th and May 9th, 2013, two University of St. Martin (USM) students and Ambassadors Rajiv Besant and Nikhil Punjabi, were sponsored by the Ombudsman St. Maarten to attend the 7th Biennial CAROA Conference at Maho Beach Resort. Both students were privileged to participate in and observe the panel discussions, which included public service ethics, the pursuit of human rights, Ombudsman investigative methods and the privatization of public services, amongst a number of Ombudsmen of the Caribbean, Ontario, Europe and New Zealand. The students were also made aware that the Ombudsman seeks to restore human rights and investigate maladministration. The University of St. Martin warmly is very appreciate of the invitation to it students and looks forward to working with the Ombudsman St. Maarten.

USM Press Release

idadfoundation30052013"Any man can be a father but it takes someone special to be a dad."

As men, we are made in the image of God and innately possess the raw materials of masculinity. However, we are not born with the knowledge of how to use those materials. As with any trade or skill we have to be taught how to be a man. What guy ever picked up a power tool and instinctively knew how to hang drywall, or picked up a guitar and just knew how to play it? In the same way, we can't expect a young man to know how to deal with adversity or to pursue a woman's heart well unless he has been taught how to navigate such uncharted waters. Granted some men are self-taught, but that is and should be the exception, not the norm.

Today, father absence is among the most pervasive social problems challenging families. But the presence of a responsible father improves a variety of outcomes for children and serves as a protective factor against problem behaviors including teen drug use, pregnancy, truancy, and criminal activity. Thus, supporting and encouraging fathers to become more present and actively involved in their children's lives is our number one goal.

Billy Graham said: "A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society."

The recently formed iDAD foundation has been active in the community since its first march for "Fathers to be active" on December 16th, 2012.

The iDAD foundation serves to awaken men into taking responsibility and being active in the life of their children, and extended into their community.

Our mission is for the fathers of St. Maarten to come together to work in becoming greater fathers and significant male role models through personal involvement, resulting in outcomes which are positive. One of our aims is to successfully building relationships between children, parents, schools and the communities at large.

We have been working closely with the Community Police Officers to assist with the troubled youth in our schools: working along with school management and counselors. We have also been able to visit the homes that house youths and the seniors home.

These are some of the activities that the iDad foundation had organized:

  • We've had an iDad beach day with Royal kids Club.
  • Weekend visits to the elderly home (the Dads along with their kids helped with the serving of the meals and after just spend some time talking or playing games with the elderly).
  • Visit to the iCan Foundation, where we (the Dads) cooked for the kids.
  • Visit to the Chrystal home, where we did games and talked to them about the importance of someone knowing where they are at all times. (We the Dads) also cooked for them)
  • We had an iDad movie day where dads were encouraged to take their kids to the movie.
  • We had a Movie day where the Dads were invited with their kids to come and watch a movie.

Our next event is when we celebrate our first annual Father's Day Dinner Dance on Saturday, June 15th, 2013 at THE ROCKHOUSE - PORT DE PLAISANCE from 7:00pm UNTIL. Dress code is formal. Entrance price is $40 per person or $70 per couple. Entertainment for the night includes: Live entertainment, DJ RICHY D & DJ TOOLS & GUEST DJ's. Come and support the cause that acknowledges fathers in our community and encourages them to be the best to their children, family and community. Not forgetting those who took the father figure responsibility upon themselves to be role models to the youths that lacks a parental male figure in their lives. Proceeds from this event will be used to provide breakfast and school supplies for the upcoming school Year 2013/2014 for less fortune children.

We urge the community and in particular fathers to be role models to the youth of St. Maarten. So that the ills in our society will gradually decrease, allowing our judicial system to be less strained as Fathers play a major role in their children's life. Fathers do not tell his children to live, he lives; and let his children watch him and follow. We cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection.

As a dad there are lots of opportunities for you to get involved in your child's life. From helping chaperone the school trip, to reading together, to coaching the Little League team, take advantage of the time you can spend together!

Becoming more involved in your child's life can take a lot of different forms. At every stage your children can benefit from your involvement. Read with young children. Join the elementary school parent teacher organization. Chaperone a school event.

Volunteer as a coach, or ask your child's coach in what way he could use your help. Take time to be a positive and supporting part of your child's life.

"The situations of our youths are not mysterious. Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them. They must, they have no other models."

Interested parties may contact us for further information about our activities and what we together can accomplish for our country St. Maarten. Our contact information: Telephone: 581-5649 / 580-4445; Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/page/IDAD/439085889486922

swescotwilliamsmeetswithbgnaa30052013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy call from representatives of the Pensioner's Organization of the Former Netherlands Antilles and Aruba BGNAA. The group, representing pensioners from the former Antilles, met with the respective Prime Ministers of the islands of the former Netherland's Antilles and Aruba in order to inform their members of the changes which effect them since the constitutional changes of 101010. The Group thanked the Prime Minister in her assistance in resolving matters, which were complicated by the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles, and the changes in the pension structure.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island's Office of Disaster Management, would like to commend the clean-up initiative that was undertaken by the Community Police and Jazz G and O.C.C.O. of the Cole Bay district in preparation for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season that opens on Saturday, June 1.

The first clean-up took place on May 18. Another clean-up is planned for Saturday, June 8 along Welfare Road, Windsor Road, and Cay Bay Road from 6:30am to 2:30pm.

The final clean-up will be on Saturday, June 15 on Welfare Road, Corner Road and Bill Folly Road. Those persons interested in volunteering their time to help with the community district clean-up should call 588-4035 or 550-7747. The removal of garbage is being carried out by Leonard Enterprises.

"These types of initiatives are very much welcome, and I am calling on all the districts to mobilize and clean-up. We need to see similar initiatives in the other residential districts. We need all stakeholders working together," Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon said on Wednesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the United States Department of Commerce (NOAA) released its forecast for the upcoming six-month hurricane season, and the forecast calls for an active or extremely active season this year.

The NOAA forecast says there is a likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms, of which seven to 11 could become hurricanes, including three to six major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5) with winds of 111 miles per hour or higher.

"I am once more appealing to the Sint Maarten community to prepare for the hurricane season. We do this every year and more than the majority of the country knows exactly what they have to do before the hurricane season starts.

"The Office of Disaster Management always prepare for every season regardless of the forecast, because we all must remember that all it takes is one storm to make it a bad season," Disaster Coordinator Salomon said on Wednesday.

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs through November 30.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithalinehanson29052013Discuss Way Forward on Matters Related to Matters of Cooperation

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams met with the President of the Collectivite Madame Aline Hanson and members of her administration on Wednesday in order to discuss the ongoing cooperation between the two sides of the island. The Prime Minister, joined by the Secretary General of the Council of Ministers Ms., Cassandra Jansen and Interim Director of the Department of Foreign Relations discussed the way forward on various maters concerning the cooperation and mutual understanding between the administrations of Dutch St. Maarten and that of French St. Maarten. "We are picking back up the matters of cooperation, the various committees, and the technical working groups so we can move forward with matters of cooperation," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

shtameetswithssm29052013Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, met with a delegation of the Soualiga Social Movement (SSM), led by its president and co-founder Alston Lourens, treasurer and co-founder Sjaoel Richardson, board member Paul Bell, and Paul Henriquez, to discuss common grounds.
The SSM are firm believers of the concept "teach a man how to fish", the foundation focuses on being involved in the planning and facilitation of social projects, allowing the participants in the community to be directly involved with the execution of the planned projects which creates a sense ownership in the community of the activity and that usually guarantees it's success. The project at the forefront of this is the Social Summit "Get Together to Work Together". A planned conference for a group of active NGO's and other types of organizations, to come together at the table to work together on common goals and issues. This is something that the SSM and the SHTA have agreed to work together on.
Both association have agreed to jointly approach areas of common interest such as educating the public on issues, electoral reform, good governance, transparency, fiscal discipline, employment, improving economic activities on the island, increasing diversification, and especially the need for all, including NGO's, to work together toward these common goals among others.
People need to understand that they themselves are part of the governing procedure, that's how a democracy works. They contribute to the government financially (through taxes) and need to have more interest in how that contribution is being used. To gain an understanding of what procedures exists and why? Too many stand on the side lines complaining about government and the way things are, without understanding the real issues at hand, this is not ever going solve our problems. There are so many issues on such a small island, in order to make a change more people need to understand and exercise their rights by speaking up and actively participating in their communities.

The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

eholidayandpchopin29052013Harbour View/Fort Louis:--- On Tuesday May 28, 2013, Mr. Philippe Chopin, Préfet for St. Martin and St. Barthelemy, paid a working visit to Sint Maarten and met with His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday at his office at Falcon Drive 3 in Philipsburg.
During the meeting, the Governor and the Préfet discussed several matters of mutual interest for St. Maarten en St. Martin. Topics discussed included cooperation between Sint Maarten/Saint Martin, immigration controls, law enforcement and travel documents. The productive meeting underscored the friendly relationships and provided an opportunity for the Governor and the Préfet to reinforce the importance of the cooperation between Saint-Martin and Sint-Maarten.

tamaraleonardandnicoledeweever29052013~Art Saves Lives Program will be held June 24-30 on St. Maarten~

Cupecoy:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives received a donation from Tamara Leonard last week in support of Art Saves Lives Summer Project. The upcoming Art Saves Lives summer intensive program will feature 16 artists from the United States who in addition to teaching classes will perform community service as part of their contribution to St. Maarten.

Ms. De Weever expressed her thanks to Ms. Leonard for her support of the project.
ALSP continues to raise funds to bring this project to fruition to serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on the St. Maarten.

whereiseethesun29052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- Where I See The Sun – Contemporary Poetry in St. Martin, is a new book of poems by 25 poets and spoken word artists from both parts of the island, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

HNP will release the book on Thursday, May 30, at 8 pm, at the opening ceremony of the St. Martin Book Fair, at the Chamber of Commerce Building, Spring Concordia, Marigot.

"We are happy to see that the mostly new and young writers in this anthology are motivated and inviting their family and friends to come out Thursday evening and celebrate with them. The book fair organizers are also inviting all culture lovers to 'the book fair for the entire family,' as our guests and to welcome our visiting authors from abroad in that special St. Martin way," said Sample.

Where I See The Sun, edited by author Lasana M. Sekou, is the nation's first poetry anthology in 30 years. The poets and spoken word artists reflect varied backgrounds – senior published poets, a former labor leader, a teacher, a lawyer, but mainly young poets that have been very active reciting, slamming, and rapping at public recitals at Axum Café and in Simpson Bay and Marigot over the last 10 years.

Among the writers in Where I See The Sun, most of whom have never been published in a book before, are: Raymond Helligar, Drisana Deborah Jack, Changa Hickinson, Mariela Xue, Tamara Groeneveldt, Roland and Laura Richardson, Georges Cocks, Faizah Tabasamu (Rochelle Ward), Tadzio Bervoets, Lysanne Charles, Marianne Tefft, Fulbert Marcellin, Elehandro Fleming, Morena Ignacio, Jay B. Haviser, Patricia Chance-Duzant, Sjorensly Valies, Lucinda "La Rich" Audain, Jenice Forbes, Glenda York, Kimasha P. Williams, and Terry Daniel.

The soulful singer Mischu Laikah will represent her fellow poets by singing one of her poems from Where I See The Sun at the opening ceremony. With over 60 poems, the book also includes a cover photo and brief profile of each writer, a glossary of St. Martin words or writer-specific terms, a critical blurb by literary giant Kamau Brathwaite, and a comment by leading Bajan spoken word artist Adrian Green. In his introduction to the book Sekou explains why and how the collection was put together, said Sample.

The St. Martin Book Fair, from May 30 to June 1, 2013, "is the perfect place to launch such a book of creative writing by some of the best young poets on the scene today in St. Martin," said Shujah Reiph, book fair founder and coordinator.

The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau is the strategic partner of the literary festival. The University of St. Martin, the St. Martin Tourist Office, and the Collectivity of St. Martin (COM) are sponsors of the 11th edition of the St. Martin Book Fair. Award-winning graphic designer Prof. Carole Mauge-Lewis and Pasanggrahan Royal Guest House are contributors to book fair 2013, said Sample. HNP is a book fair co-organizer.

markyokoyama29052013Philipsburg:--- May 29, 2013 At this year's St. Martin Book Fair, author and naturalist Mark Yokoyama will be presenting a workshop entitled "Wildlife Beats: The Rhythms of Nature on St. Martin." This special workshop is designed to complement this year's Book Fair theme "Drum Beats." The book fair is taking place at various locations on St. Martin from May 30th to June 1st. The Wildlife Beats workshop will be at 11am on Saturday, June 1st at University of St. Martin. Like all of the book fair events it is free and open to the public.

"The St. Martin Book Fair brings together so many different aspects of the St. Martin experience," says Yokoyama, "and that is one of the things that makes it so special. Whether it is literature, poetry, history or cooking, the books each tell a piece of the St. Martin story." He added, "I'm honored to have the chance to add the wildlife piece to that puzzle."

During the workshop, Yokoyama will explore the various rhythmic cycles that influence wildlife on St. Martin. Some are as short as a day, like the changing of the guard between daytime and nocturnal wildlife, while other cycles repeat over years, decades or even longer. Together, these "beats" form a song that is unique to the island. A slideshow of wildlife photos illustrates the various cycles and their impact on wildlife.

The St. Martin Book Fair, now in its 11th year, is a "book fair for the entire family" and showcases local and international authors. In addition to the workshops, there are readings, panel discussions and book launch events. For more information about the book fair, visit: http://www.houseofnehesipublish.com

Mark Yokoyama is the author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin, a guide featuring hundreds of animal species from St. Martin. An updated second edition of his book will be launched this summer. He also gives wildlife presentations and nature walks for schools and the general public. For more information about the workshop, visit http://www.sxmwildlife.com or look up Saint Martin wildlife on Facebook.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Presidium of Parliament met on Wednesday in the House where a number of issues were discussed.

The meeting which was chaired by 1st Vice President of Parliament Hon. Romain Laville was to handle four agenda points, however two were handled on Wednesday and the other two will be dealt with on Thursday.

The first agenda point was related to the working visit of the 1st Acting Secretary General of Parliament; the second agenda point was the appointment of a Webmaster/Media Operator.

The two agenda points to be dealt with on Thursday are an evaluation of the personnel working with the Secretariat of Parliament; and the application Expat law to the Secretary General.

Also present in the presidium meeting was the 2nd Vice President of Parliament Hon. Petrus de Weever, and the Secretary Generals.

isaiahhaakmat29052013Two students artwork were chosen to represent St. Maarten at the 2013 Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Children's Environmental Poster Competition.

Sidney De Weever (9 years) from the Methodist Agogic Centre – Browlia Maillard Campus in the junior category and Isaiah Haakmat (16 years) from the Learning Unlimited preparatory School in the Senior category are St. Maarten's Finalists. 30 entries were received from the various schools and were judged by local artist, Ruby Bute.

The FCCA Children's Environmental Poster Competition is an annual event coordinated by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in collaboration with the FCCA. Students from the Primary and Secondary schools were invited to participate in the poster competition.

The posters must depict at the least three ways in which the destination can make a difference in preserving the environment along with the title of each poster. De Weever and Haakmat posters were forwarded to the FCCA Selection Committee for further judging to determine the overall winner amongst the FCCA member countries.

A First, Second and Third place winner from both categories will be chosen and the winners will be awarded cash scholarships.

The 1st place winner will receive US$ 3,000.

The 2nd place winner will receive US$ 1,500.

The 3rd place winner will receive US$ 1,000.

The winning schools will also receive matching cash amounts.

St. Maarten has participated in the FCCA for several years.

In 2012, Emilie van der Waals from Learning Unlimited Preparatory School placed 3rd in the Senior Category.

The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau wishes the two finalists the best of luck in the Regional judging.

shootingfillin11102012Marigot:--- The director of the service Renseignements Generaux Serge Salvado was shot twice around 2pm on Wednesday. Information reaching SMN News states that the victim was at Le Butcherie restaurant in Concordia where the shooting took place.

The French consul located on the Dutch side of the island Stanislas Grair witnessed the attack on Salavdo who was leaving the restaurant at the time when he was attacked by two boys that were riding a scooter. Grair said that Salvado was at the restaurant eating with two persons and as soon as he exited the restaurant to get on his motorcycle, the pedal rider on a scooter that was riding pass him attacked Salvado. Grair said Salvado who is also a sportsman defended himself against his attacker and that person fell down. He said when the rider of the scooter saw that his accomplice was losing he pulled out a pistol and fired two shots at Salvado. Grair said the first shot was fired close to the victims head and the second in his stomach. Grair said that something has to be done regarding crime on St. Martin because at the time of the shooting two State representatives were at the restaurant. He said he was there and Salvado who is another State representative was attacked. Also at the restaurant at the time of the shooting was a well known French Television producer.

SMN News learnt Salvado was transported to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. His exact medical condition is not yet known. Efforts made by SMN News to reach the Commandant of the Gendarmerie for a comment proved futile.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Philipsburg:--- During Wednesday's Council of Minister's Press Briefing the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams emphasized that the Government of St. Maarten is moving forward on essential items, including the formation of a new Council of Ministers. "It is unfortunate that the Outgoing Minister uses his position as Minister and not once, but three or four times goes live on National Television and Radio to espouse purely political messages without anyone even batting an eye. Do I constantly want to be rehashing these things? Of course not, but without there being some voice of reason we will be continuously involved in an ongoing polemic. Government is moving forward on essential items"

"Yes I wrote to the Governor and we had subsequent correspondences during which my position regarding the dissolution of Parliament had not changed. The letter from the Governor could not and did not change that, so the 'Smoking Gun Letter' as we have come to know it, is exactly that; smoke. That the caretaker Ministers refuse to attend Council of Ministers Meetings because I maintained the position I took from day one is something that they will have to live with and makes it more pressing that we get out of this period as quickly as possible. And that is the instruction that I have received from the Governor.

"I guess until then everything that I write to the Caretaker Ministers will remain on the online blogs, social media sites, radio shows, what have you," lamented the PM.

The Prime Minister confirmed that she has started the process of forming the new Government, including that of vetting the new candidate Ministers, "I have been asked by the Governor to form the next Government and I have started the next process which includes the vetting of the candidate Ministers. I have been asked to report to the Governor no later than June 7th and it is my intention to have the process completed before that time. The Governor has also stated specifically in one of his directives that speedy completion of the process be done in order to give completion to the process needed to establish the 2013 Budget for 2013, and to initiate measures aimed at stabilizing the political process, that is what the Governor is expecting as a priority of the next Cabinet.

"In the meantime I want to move things away from the downward spiral we have been in even if it means biting my lip. How can we ask our people to at least be decent to one another even behind the anonymity of social media or on radio. We need to set the right example and not instigate matter further," emphasized the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams appeared on the daily radio talk show Viewpoint with Lloyd Richardson on Wednesday afternoon.

The Prime Minister started out by emphasizing that the current debate on matters that effect the citizens of St. Maarten is healthy and that she is indeed pleased that persons are starting to discuss matters regarding the Constitution. "I believe that the current debate is healthy and necessary, however as politicians we need to make sure that we keep to a certain standard, simply because we have a leadership role to play in the community and are examples to persons out there.

The Prime Minister by explaining the various roles and responsibilities of the individual Ministers as it pertains to the ongoing political developments during the program. "Based on the Rules of Order outlined in the Constitution, the Prime Minister has a certain responsibility just as every Minister has their own responsibilities. My responsibilities are centered on the upholding of the democratic state etc. No one can act in within the responsibility of the Minister of General Affairs except the Minister of General Affairs, in this case the Prime Minister. And similarly I cannot decide on matters related to the responsibilities of the other Ministers that fall within their portfolio."

"Hide a letter? I realized that after I heard what was being put on the blogs it took a complete different turn; accusing me of fraud etc. As politicians we need to raise the bar.

"I must also add that I am not going to put the Office of the Governor in this kind of polemic. Again if we don't raise the bar we cannot expect the members of the community to reach out higher. Debate is fine but let us remain civil. I do not care if people make comments in favor of me or against me. But we need to show a difference. I know what my responsibilities as the Prime Minister are. Not everyone is pleased by my actions but let us keep it on a level," stated the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also took the time to also answer questions, some of them quite tough, regarding not only the issues of the past few weeks but also regarding electoral reform and additional constitutional matters.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Common Court of Justice overturns judge of instruction's decision to release suspects

Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday, the Common Court of Justice ruled on the appeal of the Public Prosecutor against the April 18th, 2013 decision of the judge of instruction in which he ordered the immediate release of both suspects in the Middle Region stabbing incident in which Kimberly Illidge was killed.
The Common Court did, as it says in the decision, what the judge of instruction should have done, namely "order for the further pretrial detention" (gevangenhouding) of the 17 year old female suspect S.A.B. This means that the suspect has to return in pretrial detention.
The judge of instruction had released both suspects, based on his conclusion that the imposed day program for minors in the temporary youth facility in the Philipsburg Police station had not been strictly met. He therefore lifted the pretrial detention order and ordered for the immediate release of both suspects.
The Public Prosecutor immediately appealed that decision first leading to a decision in the case against 17 year old suspect E.J.J. by the Common Court of Justice on May 8th, 2013, overturning the judge of instruction's decision and subsequently on Wednesday in the case against S.A.B., overturning that same decision with the same result: the suspect has to go back to jail.
The Common Court of Justice ruled that, taken all circumstances into account, the current detention situation of minors is not to be considered in violation of the Sint Maarten Constitution nor the UN Convention on the rights of the child.
On Wednesday afternoon the suspect came to the Police station voluntarily and was put back in detention.
The first hearing in this case is scheduled for July 3rd, 2013.

Press Release from the Prosecutor's Office

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, on Tuesday alerted local family physicians to look out for symptoms of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) after several cases were diagnosed in Anguilla.

Ministry of Public Health officials have been in contact with their Anguilla colleagues with respect to gathering information about HFDM.

HFMD is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children who are 10-years of age or younger. It can sometimes occur in adults. There is no vaccine to protect against the viruses that cause hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Symptoms of HFMD include cold-like conditions, fever, mouth sores, loss of appetite, cough, and a skin rash; a non-itchy red rah that develops on the hand and the feet, and sometimes the rash can develop into painful blisters; painful mouth ulcers.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is spread from person to person through nose and throat secretions (such as saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus), blister fluid, or stool of infected persons.

If your child or you have any of these symptoms, according to the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked' campaign, visit your family physician.

To lower your risk of being infected with hand, foot and mouth disease, wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers and using the toilet; disinfecting dirty surfaces and soiled items, including toys. First wash the items with soap and water, and then disinfect them with a solution of chlorine bleach; and avoiding close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing eating utensils or cups with infected persons.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is not the same as foot and mouth disease, which affects cattle, sheep and pigs. The two infections are unrelated, and you cannot catch hand, foot and mouth disease from animals.

For further information you can call 542-2078 or 542-3003.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication (EVT) produces on a quarterly basis the MacroMonitor, which is a publication that gives an overview of the macro-economic developments of the country.

The MacroMonitor is now available on the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "MacroMonitor Year End 2012 Report" for download.

For 2013 economic growth is expected, but at a slower pace than in 2012. This assumption is based on a flat export growth for 2013, while imports are increasing. The current account as a percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to further deteriorate. However, the season is still young, thus the External sector can pick up. The Department of EVT will continue to monitor the developments of the various sectors and update the estimates during 2013 on a quarterly basis.

This 2012 year-end report highlights the development of the main key sectors of Sint Maarten's economy and the policies and projections of the various target markets of the international sector. Sectors include; International, External, Fiscal and the Monetary sector.

At production time of the 2012 year end MacroMonitor report, data on some indicators for the last quarter of 2012 were still unavailable. These included the banking totals and balance of payment figures.

Therefore, the figures presented in the report could slightly change based on realized figures. These indicators will give the possible trends for 2013.

A brief overview of the findings for 2012 includes; GDP growth projected at approximately four per cent. This growth is fueled by the exceptional performance in the External sector, namely; cruise arrivals with six per cent increase, stay-over with eight per cent increase and occupancy rate (of both timeshare and hotels combined), increasing by six per cent, when compared to 2011.

From the Fiscal sector, both revenues and expenditures increased five per cent and 18% respectively, when compared to 2011. With the proportion increase in expenditures more than revenues, this can have adverse effects on the deficit. However, the increase in expenditures through Government consumption, investment in infrastructure and wages, also contributed to the economic growth for 2012. In small economies increase in Government expenditures serves as an engine towards economic growth and at the same time lead to a decrease in foreign reserve stock.

In the Monetary sector, inflation was reduced to four per cent, down 0.6 per cent when compared to 2011. Major contributing factors were the easing inflation recorded in the expenditure categories of Housing and Transport and Communication, both locally and globally.

Analysis of the International sector presents a bright outlook for 2013. The selected economies of the various regions show signs of growth and recovery. Therefore, assuming that the spending power of these regions increase with the projected growth, there lies an opportunity for Sint Maarten to capitalize on attracting more tourist to the Island. This however, will depend on efficient marketing strategies by the Sint Maarten Tourism Bureau.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Youth Health Care, a section of the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is reminding parents and guardians to attend the community outreach vaccination session and lecture on Wednesday, May 29 in St. Peters.

The outreach and lecture on family planning is being held at the Rupert I. Maynard Youth Community Center in St. Peters from 5:00pm to 7:30pm.

Parents with children age 0 thru 17 years are invited. Children in (pre) exam class are advised to check their vaccination status. Please bring along your child's vaccination record/card. All others seeking information on vaccination and family planning, come out on May 29.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children checked to see if they are up to date with their vaccinations, and this can be done on Wednesday.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status. To encourage risk groups such as health care providers, waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

Vaccines protect against vaccine preventable and against certain life-threatening diseases.

Minister De Weever is also appealing to the various risk groups and health care providers to get checked to see if they are up to date with their vaccinations especially those identified by CPS, by visiting the community outreach session on Wednesday in St. Peters.

For further information you can call YHC at 542-2078 or 542-3003.

idoltuesdayswinnerstephenjosephreceiveschequefromtelem28052013Pond Island:--- Congratulations to the 2013 Idol Tuesdays contest winner, Stephen Joseph.
Stephen's dulcet tones, and powerful renditions caught the attention – but most of all the ear - of the Idol Tuesdays judges during the Grand Finals of the contest at the Hard Rock Café, on the Boardwalk, Saturday.
According to the judges, Stephen's performance was "consistent throughout the entire show."
"He had great vocals, a wonderful stage personality and he was an original performer all round," said one judge after the winner was named.
All contestants on the night had to perform three categories: Judge's song, John Legend song and their own ballad.
Also named on the night was "Most Popular" contestant, Rosalina Fiacques, as voted for by TelCell customers via the mobile provider's SMS service. Ms. Fiacques was presented with a Samsung Galaxy Note tablet with data service as a winning prize provided by TelCell. .
"It was a fun night for all the contestants and their supporters who turned out to cheer them on," said TelEm Group Marketing Representative Ms. Marelva Felix-Jones.
Marelva thanked Grisha Marten of Montage NV, coordinator of Idol Tuesdays for all the effort put into the preliminary rounds of the competition and also for making the Final's night a very special one for everyone.
"We are very happy to be associated with an event such as this that spotlights the wealth of talent amongst our youth," said the Marketing Representative.
As well as the $3,000 cash prize, courtesy of TelEm Group, the Idol Tuesdays winner also took home an all-expense paid trip for two, courtesy of Hard Rock Café, St. Maarten to see the Hard Rock Calling concert in London, England in June. The winner has also won tickets for two to see the Hennessy Artistry show on St. Maarten in August, featuring John Legend and Percy Sledge.
The top five contestants have also been presented with Samsung Galaxy smartphones, courtesy of mobile provider TelCell; bottles of Hennessy, courtesy of Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco and Gift Bags, courtesy of Hard Rock Café, St. Maarten.

Telem Press Release

sxmnfmeetingondutchcaribbeanbiodiversitydatabase28052013The St. Maarten Nature Foundation in collaboration with the Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance held an informative meeting on the Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Database with Dutch Nature Database Scientists Stephan Hennekens and Peter Verweij of the Alterra Institute of Wageningen University. A presentation was given to various private conservation practitioners, Non-Governmental Organizations and representatives from the St. Maarten Government Department of Statistics and the VROMI Ministry on how the Nature Foundation and Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, other conservation organizations and practitioners in the Windward islands can fine-tune and upload their information regarding the environment into the Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Database. The goal of the Dutch Caribbean Biodiversity Database is to guarantee the long-term availability of information resources, maps, research and monitoring data for everyone involved in nature conservation in the Dutch Caribbean and thereby to support nature management and assist in the fulfillment of international reporting obligations.

On St. Maarten the team worked with the Nature Foundation on data sets which included monitoring data on sea turtles, Brown Pelicans, lionfish, sharks, coral reefs, water quality and marine mammals. Volunteer data collectors and government employees from the Departments of Statistics and Infrastructure and Environment enthusiastically joined the discussions.

The team is now on Saba where the focus is on monitoring data for the Red-billed Tropic birds, fisheries and marine mammals as well as archiving a wealth of information from the Saba Conservation Foundation archives. The team heads to St. Eustatius on Tuesday where the focus will again be on monitoring data for marine mammals, Red-billed tropic birds, sea turtles and lionfish, as well as Statia's data sets on butterflies, terrestrial birds, conch, and lobster.

uscgsprucesupaceschool28052013Cadets and officer candidates from the United States Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle spent their time in St. Maarten productively on Saturday when they came out in full force to help spruce up the recently acquired Tzu Chi Foundation building, which will be occupied by the All Children's Education (ACE) Foundation school as of the new academic year.

The volunteer activity was coordinated by Jack Stevens of the Navy League with assistance from the Harbour Group of Companies. A group of about 50 cadets and officer candidates from the Eagle helped to paint the interior and exterior of the building, clean the yard; remove debris and fix the fence among other voluntary work.

They worked arduously and enthusiastically and were very happy to have been able to do something positive while in St. Maarten.

Their assistance has helped Tzu Chi Foundation make strides in its efforts to get the property ready to be occupied by ACE students at the start of the upcoming academic year. Foundation volunteers usually visit the property on weekends and work alongside professionals to help get the building ready.

The Foundation has also received assistance from a number of other businesses and individuals in the community such as the Sonesta Maho Group of Companies.

A lot of work still needs to be done and many more items are still needed, but the foundation is working arduously on this education mission in its efforts to do its part to help mold young minds in a positive, clean and comfortable setting.

The US Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle for its 2013 sailing schedule is traveling to the Caribbean, along the Eastern Seaboard, and to Canada with cadets and officer candidates, teaching them practical seamanship skills while indoctrinating them in the Coast Guard's floating leadership laboratory.

The Eagle was built at the Blohm + Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany in 1936, and commissioned as Horst Wessel. The Eagle became one of three sail-training ships operated by the pre-World War II German Navy.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung said the Foundation is extremely grateful for all those who are supporting this initiative in whatever way they can. She also thanked Jack Stevens and the cadets and officer candidates from the Eagle who were kind enough to spend their spare time in the interest of education.

uscgrepaintsbuildingforschool28052013Philipsburg:--- Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle assisted in renovating a building set to become a school for undocumented children located in Philipsburg, Saturday, May 25, 2013.
In coordination with the St. Maarten Chapter of the United States Navy League, more than 40 Coast Guard Cutter Eagle crew members and Coast Guard Academy cadets helped with painting, repair and cleaning for a planned school building and property located on the corner of L.B. Scott Road and Red Rose Road in Philipsburg.
Eagle, conducting its cadet summer training deployment, arrived in Philipsburg Friday for a port call lasting through the weekend.
"It was an honor to have the opportunity to participate in this event. I'd like to thank the people of St. Maarten for their warm hospitality and for sharing their beautiful island with us," said Captain Wes Pulver, Commanding Officer of Eagle. At 295 feet in length, the Eagle is the largest tall ship flying the stars and stripes and the only active square-rigger in U.S. government service.
Eagle has served as a classroom at sea to future Coast Guard officers since 1946, offering an at-sea leadership and professional development experience. Currently, there are 145 cadets from the Coast Guard Academy embarked. The summer deployment spans 11-weeks, stopping at nine port calls in five countries, with four different groups of cadets training onboard.

To follow the Eagle's summer cruise, visit the ship's Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/CoastGuardCutterEagle

daeaircrafts28052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Regardless of Venezuela 's unilateral sanctions to the Curaçao airline, the airline will continue with its expansion plans to Manaus, Bogota, Cartagena, Punta Cana and other gate ways in United States.

"Venezuela is an important market and due to the commercial aviation crisis in that country, where 64% of the Venezuelan fleet is grounded due to lack of maintenance and spare parts and with the oldest fleet in South America, it can't serve the demand of passengers forcing travelers, wanting to travel abroad, to seek other countries to get to their destinations, specially to the united state who's TSA (transportation security agency) has declared a status quo for all Venezuelan airports so no new entrant airlines can serve those airports with flights to and from USA," Ramiz assert. "So airlines in Curaçao, Bogota, Panama and Aruba feed from this deficiency in the air service of Venezuela and becomes an important part of any airline market. The problem arises when these international airlines need to repatriate their sales income in Venezuela. Some airlines find themselves waiting about 6 to 8 months and the business becomes less lucrative. So while we will continue serving Venezuelan cities of Caracas, Valencia and return soon to Maracaibo, we will not expand seat capacity or gateways to that country.

"DAE made its decision last year to grow away from Venezuela and expand its business to more stable countries like USA, where the other local airline is unable to grow and where Curacao has become very well known, and Colombia where we are requesting authorities to operate to Medellin, Cali, Bucaramanga (where we will link with Easy fly to serve other cities via code-sharing) and Cucuta," Ramiz explained.

"DAE will grow its participation of the USA tourist market eager to come to Curaçao and to neighboring islands. Our efforts have been concentrated in the USA passenger market for the past year through our Miami sales office where DAE has hired experience ex AA executives and sales and marketing staff. The Dutch Caribbean has a great potential to grow and DAE is the only airline in Curaçao able to benefit from this growth and we will expand our operation in USA both in frequency of flights and gateways in these lucrative and hard currency market. We added 3 MD-83 to DAE fleet to operate to and from USA. Additional aircrafts are readily available from our sister company Falcon, if we need to expand to other gateways or add additional flights or as back up if the need should arise," Ramiz informed.

"Our fleet for the rest of the summer will remain with 9 aircrafts, the 3 MD-83, 3 ATR 42/72 and the 3 Fokker- 100 and we will continue our project for the A-319 for DAE and the A-320 Falcon/DAE for next year. The employees, its lessors, banks and investors remain fully committed to DAE and to Curaçao.

While others have made this incident with Venezuela a circus by talking about what they have no clue and spreading unfounded rumors, We at DAE are united, committed, focused and busy working even harder with our minds towards a sustainable future," Ramiz concluded.

scalesofjustice28052013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams refused to comply with request submitted by Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin which is to place an additional agenda point on the meeting scheduled for Tuesday May 28th which would have allowed the majority in the Council of Ministers to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. In a letter Prime Minister Wescot Williams addressed to the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin she stated that she already gave her reasons why she will not comply with their request. Wescot Williams said her position has been strengthened because the entire Wescot Williams II cabinet has submitted their resignation.

The political crisis took a new twist late last week when Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin and the other Ministers found out that the Governor of St. Maarten sent a letter to the Prime Minister on May 16th, 2013 informing her that the Council of Ministers has a right to exercise article 59 of the constitution and that she should give the majority in the Council of Ministers space to exercise their right based on the country's constitution. SMN News published the letter Governor Eugene Holiday sent to the Prime Minister on Sunday in its entirety.

On Monday Marlin told reporters at a national press conference that even though the Prime Minister received the letter dated May 16th, 2013, up to May 24th, 2013 the Council of Ministers and the secretariat had no knowledge of the Governor's letter because the Prime Minister hid the letter from the Council of Ministers. Marlin made clear that such a document was supposed to be booked in at the secretariat as an incoming document but the Prime Minister did not book the letter in. Marlin said that when he consulted with the Secretariat (Cassandra Janssen) to retrieve a copy of the letter he was informed that the secretariat had not seen such a letter. Marlin said the Prime Minister's actions have amounted to fraud and that she discredited her office as Prime Minister solely for political power. Marlin said what the Prime Minister did was not slick or a laughing matter because she violated the trust of her office and moreover committed a shameful and disgraceful act.

It should be noted that while the Governor of St. Maarten issued an advice and admonished the Prime Minister in his letter of May 16th, 2013, he should have sent the letter to the Deputy Prime Minister since he was fully aware that the Prime Minister and the other Ministers were at loggerheads for weeks concerning the dissolution of Parliament. Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin even sent an LB to the Governor on behalf of the majority in the Council of Ministers because the Prime Minister refused to allow them to exercise their constitutional and democratic rights in the Council of Ministers. But the Governor said he could not honor Marlin's request and he sent it back so that it could be handled in the Council of Ministers. Several persons cast some of the blame on the Governor saying that he is charged with ensuring that the process and the will of the people are respected.

Another concern several legal experts have raised is that while the Governor advised the Prime Minister on the country's constitution and made reference to the rights of the Council of Ministers based on article 59 of the constitution, the Governor himself erred in the procedure because the current political process has several steps which must be followed. An Attorney that is certified in constitutional law broke down the steps that have to be followed for SMN News.

  • The Parliament of St. Maarten expressed that the Wescot Williams II Cabinet no longer enjoys their support.
  • The right for the Council of Ministers to vote based on article 59, which to date has not taken place because the Prime Minister refused to respect the wishes of the majority and heed the advice given to her by the Governor of St. Maarten.
  • Formation of a new cabinet.

The attorney said that while step one has taken place, the Governor skipped step two even though he advised the Prime Minister correctly and he then jumped to step three which is to appoint Wescot Williams as formateur to form a new cabinet. "This is the one sided and biased to say the least, right now I am wondering what was done for the Governor to take sides in this political crisis. The Governor has to remain impartial but it appears as though he too is taking sides with those that have been disrespecting the country's constitution, its people, and the majority in the Council of Ministers."

"As the governor pointed out in his by now famous letter of May 16th, not allowing the majority in the Council of Ministers to vote on the matter of dissolving Parliament "does not do justice to our constitutional process."

In this crisis the steps to be followed are clearly outlined in our constitution.

  1. Parliament invokes a vote of no confidence according to article 33 of the constitution.
  2. Government has the right to respond according to article 59 by dissolving Parliament The governor points this out in his letter, as the "autonomous constitutional right of government".
  3. The formation of an new cabinet or interim cabinet follows.

"As the government was not given the chance to respond to the vote of no confidence because of obstruction by the Prime Minister, the governor cannot skip this step and go to step #3. By doing so he himself would be violating the constitutional process. He therefore should not appoint a "formateur", but wait until such a time that he has a clear indication from government whether they will dissolve Parliament or not. The fact that the ministers have resigned does not change this fact. The normal procedure is that they resign and dissolve Parliament at the same time. This was what Schotte did in Curacao. The only reason, why the Council of Ministers on St. Maarten did not get to pass the resolution to dissolve Parliament as we all know by now, is because the Prime Minister keeps blocking the vote.

The governor should by all means stay out of this fray. It is not his position to become involved. The Governor should now stand his ground and refuse to go on to step three until step two has been followed. He has sworn to keep and maintain the constitution. Skipping step two can be seen as acting contrary to the constitution. The question then arises, how long should he wait? As long as it takes to allow government to exercise its autonomous constitutional right. In the meantime, he would be well advised to stop the formation process until such a time as the Council of Ministers is allowed to vote according to article 59 of the constitution.

Failure to follow these steps might result in the formation of a government that rests on a flawed constitutional process. Such a government would lack legitimacy and the authority needed to carry out its tasks."

The attorney said based on these developments the Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the National Alliance who has the majority in the Council of Ministers can now protest against the actions of the Governor by sending the Governor a written letter to stop the formation process until step two is completed. "Marlin can use the letter the Governor wrote to the Prime Minister which confirmed what he "Marlin" was saying from day one and stop the procedure to form a new government. Another option the Governor could take is to call for early elections based on the current impasse and have a professional cabinet installed until elections are called."

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that this is an option the majority of Ministers are looking at while they will also inform their Kingdom partners not to recognize the government that is now being formed because the constitutional process was not followed.

Click here to view the letter Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams sent to Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin.

ssmmeetswithichsi27052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The board of the Soualiga Social Movement met with the founder of ICSHI, Mr. Roel Haakmat to discuss how the two foundations can work together on some projects. The Institute for Community Health and Social Issues (ICHSI) is a newly formed foundation who encourages awareness on Community Health, Education, Political issues, Cultural issues, Environmental Issues, Innovation, National Security and Youth Matters.
Both foundations sat at the table to discuss how the SSM could assist the ICSHI with its first project called 'de Klussenbus'. The Klussenbus project aims at equipping young unemployed, challenged adults with the necessary tools to provide handyman and domestic services to the community. These young adults will be taught by a coach while the team will be given the necessary tools and a van to execute their tasks. Services such as cleaning, painting, design and construction of gardens, yard work and general maintenance will be provided to the community at a very reasonable price. The ICHSI would also like to take the initiative and develop a special micro credit fund and the creation of a knowledge center. The funds should support young talented entrepreneurs in setting up their own businesses while the knowledge center seeks to encourage and motivate young adults to be innovative when coming up with new ideas to start businesses that can be self-sufficient, encouraging our young adults to play an integral part in developing our young country.
Board members of the SSM will be assisting ICSHI with financial planning, event planning and marketing while getting other organizations involved in this project.

swescotwilliamsatmassinmarigot27052013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined a specially organized Roman Catholic Church Service at the Catholic Church in Marigot focused on offering prayers for St. Maarten during the turbulent times both sides of the island are experiencing. The special mass included President of the Collectivite Mrs. Aline Hanson, Senator Louis Constant Fleming as well as various other dignitaries who joined in offering prayers in this turbulent time. Father Samson stated in his sermon that authorities of both sides of the island needed to not only pray but also have prayers done on their behalf for strength and guidance during turbulent political and social times. "We are one island under God and we must pray for guidance for our leaders so that they may be able to help us out of these trying times, whether it is trying political times or with regards to the crime that is plaguing our island," stated father Hanson. Last week Wednesday the PM also attended a specially held meeting with Political Leaders organized by the St. Maarten United Ministerial Foundation where she gave an explanation to various pastors on he way forward with the island.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is commending the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) for their three day safety and health training this week.
"The initiative taken by SHTA for getting businesses involved with Occupational Safety and Health and the importance of prevention as well as reporting on the job accidents to the Inspectorate, the SZV in order for the labor policy department to report to ILO amongst other things must be commended," said Minister De Weever.
Convention 187 of the International Labor Organization (ILO) to which the Kingdom is a signatory to states that "A national preventative safety and health culture refers to a culture in which the right to a safe and healthy working environment is respected at all levels, where government, employers and workers actively participate in securing a safe and healthy working environment through a system of defined rights, responsibilities and duties, and where the principle of prevention is accorded the highest priority."
This tripartite setting is ideal for all parties to contribute to solving the unreported or under-reported cases of on the job accidents and to propose a one stop reporting which could begin at the SMMC and ultimately end at ILO. Secondly, use this opportunity to encourage employers and workers representatives to implement an HIV/AIDS workplace policy as well. These are the two challenges that I have assigned the stakeholders and I am looking forward to their solutions.

george21082009Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament George Pantophlet says that the wishes of the people of this country St. Maarten must be respected. There is a signature drive that is ongoing and reports are that some have already been sent to Parliament and then on to The Governor. The total amount is said to be some 3000 and these are signatures from eligible voters. The recent political developments have created division frustration dismay and confusion among the people on St. Maarten and those living overseas. Many of eligible voters are crying out for early elections and have stated that under no circumstances will they agree to another government being formed without their input. The old saying three strikes and you are out should be applied here. The people want to and deserve the right to have their say as to who they want their representatives to be. This the reason why they are making use of their rights in accordance with article 24 of the Constitution of St. Maarten to petition Parliament to be dissolved and to make way for early elections. I have said on more than one occasion that mass is power. We the politicians should not stand in the way of the people whom we claim to represent. We need politicians who are not double minded. Because a double minded person is unstable in all his ways. No country can afford individuals who are fickle, unstable and tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine but ones who are focus and committed to the people. What we have at this present moment is, 8 members of Parliament of the DP/UP and independents Leroy de Weever and Roy Marlin overruling some 3000 eligible persons. I am sure that after the final tally of signatures we will bypass the previously mentioned amount. I see this as a sort of a referendum. If this turns out to be the case, will the majority of 8 still press ahead with the appointing of new Ministers and go back to the way it was after the August 2010 elections where the party with the most amount of votes and seats were left out of the coalition, or give the people the opportunity to once again choose their representatives? Article 21(3) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states and I quote: "the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures" end of quote. Let me emphasize on the first line of the Article "the will of the people shall be basis of the authority of government". In other words the foundation for the government has to be determined by the will of the people. This is definitely not the case with the group of 8. We must do what the people want.

The outgoing president of the Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Club TM Linette Gibs, was elated to accompany five of her members, namely Alexandra den Ouden, Denise Vijber, Reginald (Rick) Martina, Cylred Richardson, and Leona Romeo Marlin to the Guyana 2013 conference, held from May 17th to May 19th. These civil servants attended workshops that will benefit the organization;
Workshops such as:

  1. Parliamentary Procedures: Is it Necessary
  2. Customer Service; The Lifeblood of an organization
  3. Rough Stone to Glittering Gem - Polishing Your Words
  4. Keys to Motivational Speaking
  5. Principles of Leadership
  6. Say it Like you mean it: Presenting your best self

Workshops like the aforementioned build on one's leadership and communication skills, vital elements that can be passed on to the civil core.
TM Linette Gibs was proud to have two of her members participate in the conference, Denise Vijber as a contestant in the Table Topics Contest. She represented the club and the island well. Leona Romeo Marlin, was a judge for both the Table Topics and the International Speech competitions.
The delegation of Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Club gained profound new knowledge that will be passed on to the new elected board members, the rest of the membership and the government organization.

williammarlin27052013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the National Alliance William Marlin told reporters on Monday afternoon at a national press conference that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams committed fraud when she hid a letter that was sent by the Governor of St. Maarten informing her that she has to respect the wishes of the majority in the Council of Ministers. Marlin said he did not decide on a way forward as how he and the other members of the Council of Ministers would handle the matter. He said right now the ball is in Governor's court as well as those in the Kingdom Council of Ministers. Marlin further explained that had he or the other Ministers known that the Governor of St. Maarten sent a letter to the Prime Minister which was also carbon copied to the Council of Ministers they would have held on and not turn in their resignation last week. Marlin said each time he tried to get the Prime Minister to do the honorable thing by honoring the decision taken by five members of the Council of Ministers on May 7th, 2013 and the Prime Minister did not comply he informed the Governor. Marlin said when he realized that the Governor was not taking a strong enough stand he decided to end the political crisis because the chairman of Parliament could not have continued stalling the meeting of Parliament that was called to discuss the political situation neither could he allow the polarization in the community to continue.

Marlin further explained that he informed the Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday that he wanted three things to take place knowing what has happened during the past year, and that was to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for early elections, dismiss the Council of Ministers, and to install a cabinet that would take care of the country's business pending the new elections. Marlin said the Governor did not even have to dismiss the Wescot Williams II Cabinet because the five Ministers were willing to submit their resignations pending early elections. Marlin also clarified to reporters on Monday afternoon that he did not commit any crime as alleged by the Prime Minister. He said when he sent his letter and LB to the Governor he did not impersonate the Prime Minister or the Council of Ministers. He said he sent the LB and letter informing the Governor that since the Prime Minister is refusing to deal with the matter in the Council of Ministers he had no choice but to submit the document to him.

Marlin also indicated that he submitted another request on Monday to see if the Prime Minister would honor the letter sent to her by the Governor of St. Maarten which is to respect the wishes of the majority in the Council of Ministers according to article 59 of the country's constitution.

The leader of the National Alliance said that the Prime Minister tarnished the image of her office, her actions were despicable and shameful, yet the Governor of St. Maarten rewarded her by nominating her formateur to form a new government. Marlin said that what the Prime Minister did is unacceptable and he wants to make clear that even though the letter is carbon copied to the members of the Council of Ministers that document is an incoming document and it had to be booked into the administration, which was not done up to Friday May 24th, 2013 when he checked with the secretariat.

Several members from the Council of Ministers believe that Marlin should now take a step further and file a complaint with the Prosecutor's Office or even with the Kingdom Council because the Prime Minister committed an illegal act.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013To The People of St. Maarten,

It is unfortunate that some media outlets are being used to propagate a particular political agenda, but no, neither in this case is there a "smoking gun".

It is unfortunate how the office of the Governor is being discredited, by a letter from his hand to the Prime Minister being put in the public domain, against all ethical standards.

However allow me to clarify some indisputable facts:

By letter of May 16th, the Governor responds to the letter from the Prime Minister dated May 10th, regarding what transpired on May in the Council's meeting of May 7th. The letter of the Governor was received on Friday, May 17th. This letter was cc'd to the Council of Ministers by the Governor himself, as all letters to the Council of Ministers are!

By letter of May 17th, Minister Marlin requests AGAIN that the dissolution of Parliament be put on the agenda of the Council of Ministers of May 21st.

On that day, before we could get to the incoming documents, a standard agenda point where mention is made of all incoming documents, minister Marlin asks about his request. The Prime Minister presented the advices she received pertaining to this request. The advices became a topic of discussion. The Prime Minister mentioned receipt of a letter from the Governor, but that the contents in her opinion did not change the position she has taken.

By not having the dissolution of Parliament placed on the agenda, the four ministers abandoned the meeting of May 21st and the meeting was closed.

On Friday, May 24th, the Secretary General of the Council of Ministers approached the Prime Minister, indicating Minister Marlin requested a copy of the letter from the Governor. Prime Minister's subsequent response was it would be put as an incoming document on the agenda. That same day, Minister Marlin requested and got a copy from the cabinet of the Governor. By that same evening -it is alleged-, the letter was published online.

How could a formal letter, Cc'd to the Council of Ministers, be hidden? And why would it be? The position of the Prime Minister is and remains what she has always said it to be.

In fact, the letter in question was the counter balance to the letter sent by the Governor to the Deputy Prime Minister Marlin regarding his actions following the May 7th meeting. Was this one published?

Using this letter now, Minister Marlin again attempts to put the dissolution of Parliament on the agenda of the Council of Ministers. And what will the position of the Prime Minister be? The advices as received on May 12th and May 17th are still applicable, in fact these are strengthened by recent developments, which have made the current Cabinet of Ministers a caretaker one.

Follow Up Comments from the Prime Minister concerning caretaker Prime Minister Marlin.

"I am surely not being sarcastic when I state that I tip my hat off to DPM Marlin. That he could take a non-issue and turn it into a frenzy deserves that.

Let's us play along with Marlin's game for a moment.

"Eureka, I have discovered the sinister plot of the Prime Minister."

What is the plot, Minister Marlin?

I discovered on May 24th that there is a letter written by the Governor of St. Maarten on May 16th to the Prime Minister advising her that the right to dissolve Parliament is one granted to the Council of Ministers by the constitution.

But wait. The Prime Minister agrees with that. She herself has stated such.

Oh, but the letter of the Governor also states that in the Council of Ministers, the majority must be respected.

But the Prime Minister does not disagree with that either. She has also stated that, but also stated that it will be done on the basis of the rules of order and the Prime Minister's responsibility for such.

On May, 10th, the PM informed the Governor what had transpired in the council's meeting of May 7th. That is the letter the Governor responded to. The PM had copied her letter to the Council of Ministers by cc'ing the council.

When the Governor wrote back TO THE PRIME MINISTER on May 16th, he did the same thing, copied it to the Council of Ministers, by cc'ing the letter to the Council.

You can check that in his letter, which went viral.

On May 24th, Marlin said he had not seen the letter. He indirectly asked the PM to forward him a copy. The PM replied, " sure, I'll take my copy, blank out my comments which I wrote on MY LETTER and send him a copy."

Marlin, convinced he had found the "smoking gun", proceeded to ask the Governor for a copy of the letter, which he received, because after all, the letter was CC'D TO THE COUNCIL OF MINISTERS

As a member of the Council, Marlin was entitled to a copy, right?

Marlin hardly had the letter in his hand before it went viral, in other words, it was on the net, not quoted, but the entire letter itself.

Marlin triumphantly informed the NA membership the following day: "I got her".

Wow, a master plot unveiled. "The Prime Minister hid a letter he had to get."

Wrong, Mr. Marlin.

My assessment? Marlin wants to read the contentious letter as instructions by the Governor to dissolve Parliament. Wrong, Mister Marlin. The Governor cannot instruct that.

Marlin is sorry that he tendered his resignation. Maybe he can use the letter to rescind the resignations? Wrong again, Mr. Marlin.

Sorry, but the Prime Minister refuses to play along with the childish games.

"Democracy will always prevail over trickery."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- Members of Parliament Frans Richardson and Louie Laveist issued a call to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams to do the honorable thing and vacate her office since she abused the power given to her when she hid a letter the Governor sent to her basically informing her that she has to follow the constitution. The Members of Parliament made their feelings known on the radio program "View Point" on Monday. The letter that was sent to the Prime Minister by the governor clearly stated that she has to allow the majority in the Council of Ministers to use the rights given to them in article 59 of the country's constitution. That letter which was sent since May 16th, 2013 was hidden from the members of the Council of Ministers and the secretariat. SMN News published the letter and its translation on Sunday evening.

Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin said that the actions by the Prime Minister are shameful and disgraceful. Marlin said the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams stooped to the lowest level possible to remain in her seat as Prime Minister of St. Maarten. He said that what is taking place right now will not benefit the people of St. Maarten instead it will only benefit a handful of politicians, some of whom are under investigation. Marlin again stated that the Ministers that were appointed by the National Alliance have no interest in remaining in office but they have decided to call for early elections because of all that has surfaced during the past year involving elected representatives of the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Marlin also clarified that the Prime Minister accused him of committing a crime when he sent an LB on behalf of the majority in the Council of Ministers after they failed to get the Prime Minister to deal with their decision to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. Marlin made clear that if the Prime Minister feels that he committed a crime then she should not hesitate to file a complaint with the Prosecutor's office. Marlin said that the LB he sent to the Governor was not behalf of the Prime Minister or the Council of Ministers but it was on behalf of the majority in the Council of Ministers. He said along with that LB he wrote a letter to the Governor explaining him that he had no choice but to take the decisions he took because the Prime Minister has refused to honor their request to deal with their decision taken on May 7th, 2013 to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten.

The leader of the National Alliance said the Prime Minister did not share the letter she received from the Governor neither did she give it to the secretariat even though the letter was carbon copied to the Council of Ministers. He said he was made aware of the letter last Thursday when he met with the Governor and was informed by the Governor that he reacted to the Prime Minister in writing and that letter was supposed to be given to the members of the Council of Ministers. Marlin said when he was informed of the letter he contacted the secretariat and he was told that they did not have it and when the secretariat consulted with the Prime Minister she said that letter will come up for handling on June 4th, 2013. Marlin said he submitted an urgent request to have the Prime Minister place their request on the agenda for Tuesday morning (May 28th, 2013). Marlin said he submitted a copy of the letter that was sent by the Governor with his request also the letter the Governor sent him informing him that he needed to take the LB he sent to him back to the Council of Ministers for handling.

Marlin further explained that while the current cabinet is a caretaker cabinet they still have the right to take a decision to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. Marlin further stated that there are a number of people that are bent on misleading the people of St. Maarten but his advice to the nation is to get their hands on a copy of the country's constitution and read it.

Member of Parliament Louie Laviest said on the radio program "View Point" that the actions of the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams are impeachable and she should do the honorable thing and vacate her office because she abused her power and the trust of her office. Laveist said that the National Alliance faction will call a meeting of Parliament to discuss this matter.

MP Frans Richardson who was the first guest on View Point said that MP Roy Marlin took several letters that were sent to the Prime Minister and he read it out in Parliament but somehow the MP forgot the most important letter that they now have in their hands.

Many persons from the community including those who are are commenting on SMN News have said they have lost total confidence in Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and they believe that she should remove herself from public office because she cannot be trusted.

cptedcourseparticipants26052013Cole Bay:--- The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) organized its second C.P.T.E.D. course for its members along with other partners within the community. The course which was held in the conference room of Carl and Sons in Orange Grove dured from Monday May 20th through Friday May 24th. Approximately 45 participants took part in this course. C.P.T.E.D. stands for Crime Prevention through Environmental Design and was given by Mr. Arthur S. Hushen who is the President of National Crime Institute of Crime Prevention Inc. This course is primarily to educate all members of society how to better protect themselves against crime by applying the C.P.T.E.D concept.
Sint Maarten is the first country in the Caribbean to have so many persons follow this course. The island of Barbados thus far has four (4) persons that have followed this course. So far Sint Maarten has over 80 persons that have followed this course. Sint Maarten also made it possible for persons from our sister islands of Anguilla and the BES island to follow this course. In doing this the Sint Maarten Police Force and its partners have reached another mile stone and intends to continue expanding on the knowledge it has acquired.
In the coming months the Sint Maarten Police Force will have its Community Police Officers follow advanced C.P.T.E.D. courses and this will make the Sint Maarten Police Force eligible for an international nomination.
At the end of the course all participants received a certificate of participation as a C.P.T.E.D specialist.

KPSM Press Release

marijuanaplants26052013Middle Region:--- On Saturday May 25th, 2013 at approximately 9:00am, police assisted by members of the V.K.S, conducted a sting operation in hills of Margaret Bruce's Drive in Middle Region to locate a major drug operation and arrest those responsible for that operation. When police arrived in the area many persons most of whom were possibly "undocumented" took off running in different directions leaving their homes open. A search of the area lead the investigating officers to several marijuana plantations and numerous potted marijuana plants. Many full grown marijuana plants were put out to dry and prepared for distribution. Over two hundred marijuana plants along with many other items used to operate this type of business were confiscated.
During the search of the area, a brewery of what is called "Weed wine" was located. This wine or substance is produced with use of marijuana (cannabis) and sold for consumption to the public. The police department strongly warns the entire community, that the production of this so called "wine" is not only illegal but it can be very hazardous to ones health, especially to youngsters. The Forensic Department has been called in to investigate what is used to produce this so called "Weed wine".
Several persons who reside illegally on the island were brought in and turned over to the Immigration and Naturalization Department. No suspects have been arrested in this case thus far as the investigation continues.
The Police Department wants to thank all partners in the community who assisted them with information for carrying out this operation. The Police Department also wants to encourage the entire community to form a partnership with them and provide information that will help with this or any other investigation.

KPSM Police Report

POINT BLANCHE:--- The visit of the U.S. Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle's visit has been considered a huge success. The open house attracted many visitors on Saturday despite the overcast conditions on that day. There was a lot of interests and enthusiasm for the tall ship.

The liberty visit of the Eagle has resulted in an economic spinoff for the country. Several groups of family members were on the pier when the vessel arrived at the port on Friday. The family members came down from the U.S. to spend the Memorial Day weekend with their family members who are on the training vessel. This resulted in them renting hotel rooms, renting cars and enjoying the shopping and dining experiences the country has to offer visitors.

The cadets on-board from speaking with port officials also said they had a wonderful experience. They were very pleased with the destination and very much enjoyed what the island has to offer visitors, and are looking forward to coming back someday.

Port management would like to thank all those who have contributed in one way or the other on making the visit of the U.S. CG Eagle a success. A thank you is also extended to the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams for the kind words that she delivered at the reception.

The Chief Executive Officer Mark Mingo will continue to work closely with Jack Stevens from the President of the Caribbean and Latin American Region Navy League of the United States to further explore opportunities leading to additional liberty visits. Additional meetings will be held with strategic partners in order to make this happen.

The U.S. Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle for its 2013 sailing schedule is traveling to the Caribbean, along the Eastern Seaboard, and to Canada with cadets and officer candidates, teaching them practical seamanship skills while indoctrinating them in the Coast Guard's floating leadership laboratory.

The Eagle was built at the Blohm + Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany in 1936, and commissioned as Horst Wessel. The Eagle became one of three sail-training ships operated by the pre-World War II German Navy.

At the close of the war, the ship was taken as a war reparation by the U.S., re-commissioned as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle and sailed to New London, Connecticut, which has been its homeport ever since.

The hull of the Eagle is steel, four-tenths of an inch thick. There are two full-length steel decks with a platform deck below. Under full sail in the open ocean, the Eagle can reach speeds up to 17 knots.

The U.S. Coast Guard Eagle Tall Ship departs the Port of St. Maarten on Monday.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health is busy making preparations to observe World No Tobacco Day which is observed on May 31. The schedule will be released later this week.

The global theme is "Ban Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship." However, Sint Maarten has chosen the slogan of, "Be Smart, Don't Start. Want to Quit, Do it."

The aforementioned local slogan is in line with Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour's Hon. Cornelius de Weever's "Get Checked" campaign where the emphasis is on prevention.

The Minister is of the opinion if you don't start smoking your health will be better than if you were a smoker, and therefore keeping you away from a host of diseases caused by smoking.

World No Tobacco Day is part of CPS calendar of observances. The aim is to promote health related issues and topics during a designated time of the year.

May 31 is observed around the world to highlight the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco is seen as a global epidemic which kills six million people each year, of which more than 600,000 are non-smokers dying from breathing second hand smoke.

The WHO added that this epidemic will kill more than eight million people every year by 2030 if countries decide to do nothing.

WHO estimates that more than 80 per cent of these preventable deaths will be among people living in low and middle income countries.

Philipsburg:--- The Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday in response to a letter sent to him about the political crisis by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten pointed out various inadequacies to Prime Minister Wescot Williams in a letter dated May 16th, 2013. The letter was also carbon copied to the Council of Ministers but the Prime Minister hid the letter from the council and the secretariat.

The letter was hidden from the Council of Ministers even though five of the seven Ministers from the Council of Ministers submitted a counter proposal to the advice of the Prime Minister requesting that the Wescot Williams II Cabinet resign based on two letters that was sent to her stating that three MPs withdrew their support from the Wescot Williams II Cabinet. Governor Holiday informed the Prime Minister that she must abide by the rules of order that governs Parliament because unless Parliament pronounced a decision based on the rules then notes or letters sent by Members of Parliament are not decisions of Parliament. Governor Holiday also indicated to the Prime Minister that she stated in her letter to him that the situation in 2013 is the same as to what took place in 2012 when she submitted the resignation of the Wescot Williams I Cabinet. Governor Holiday in his letter said that the Members of the Wescot Williams II Cabinet did not give her the permission to submit their resignations. Furthermore, Governor Holiday in his letter said that the constitution of St. Maarten provides checks and balances and therefore he advised the Prime Minister to allow the majority in the Council of Ministers to exercise the right given to them in article 59 of the constitution which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten.

The Governor also denied the Prime Minister her request that he should meet the leaders of the various factions in order to determine if there was a majority to form the III cabinet.

SMN News managed to obtain a copy of the letter that was sent by Governor Holiday to Prime Minister Wescot Williams on May 16th, 2013 which was never submitted to the members of the Council of Ministers. Below is a verbatim translation of the Governor's letter while the official letter in the Dutch language is linked beneath this article.

SMN News further learnt that because the five Ministers were not aware of the actions taken by the Governor, they submitted their resignations because of the threats that many of them and their relatives received from persons supporting the eight Members of Parliament.

In connection with your letter of May 10, 2013 with respect to the political situation that has arisen in our country I inform you as follows:

In your letter you state that you are of the opinion that the present cabinet no longer enjoys the support of the majority in Parliament, and each individual minister is legally bound to tender their resignation. You support your letter based on the opinion that article 33 paragraph two of the Constitution of Sint Maarten, should oblige the cabinet to resign in connection with the present situation namely the letter of 3 MP's wherein they have withdrawn their support from the present cabinet, and the letter of eight MP's in which they declare that they are prepared to form a new cabinet. Article 33, paragraph two, as well as the explanatory notes envision the act of the individual minister concerned in connection with a clear pronouncement of Parliament as such. In this case, at the time of your writing, neither one , the individual act of a Minister, nor the other, a pronouncement by Parliament as such, was the case. In that regard it is important to recognize that there is an important difference between a pronouncement of Parliament as such and a letter from a number of MP's ( whether the majority or not). One can amongst others refer to stipulations in the Constitution and the Rules of Order of Parliament which regulate how Parliament goes about its tasks, such as, that meetings are public and the fact that, and the manner in which deliberations are held, and voting takes place. These stipulations must be closely followed and serve as a guideline in situations where parties cannot reach an agreement.

In your letter you refer along these lines to the procedure followed by you last year around this time with respect to the resignation of your then cabinet. I draw your attention to the following sentence fragment in the decision page of the Council of Ministers (MR070513) which states: " However, the same resignation procedure will be followed by the Prime Minister as was used last year". In this regard I, draw your attention to your letter of May 8, 2012 in which you tendered the resignation of your then cabinet. In that letter you expressly stated that each minister had separately decided to make his position available and that the Council of Ministers had authorized you to do so. In the present situation this is absolutely not the case.

From the above decision page it appears, and you also indicate so in your letter, that a request by five (5) ministers, a majority in the council of Ministers, to handle a proposal to dissolve Parliament by the council of Ministers, according to article 59 of the Constitution, has been deposited, which is being considered by you, the chairperson. At the same time you are of the opinion that the current situation does not justify dissolving Parliament. In this regard it is important to point out that the right to dissolve parliament by Country Decree is a constitutional and autonomous right of government. This right can be seen as the flip side of the no confidence rule.

In the framework of the above I will like to underline that for an adequate functioning of our democratic process it is necessary that space be given to the majority position in the Council of Ministers. Otherwise justice will not be done to the constitutional process.

You end your letter by requesting me to explore, by means of a round of talks with all fractions in Parliament, whether the present composition of Parliament offers the possibility to form a majority, as stated in the letter to the MP's. Taking into consideration the situation which has arisen in the past week I have not been able to follow this request.

Click here to view the letter that was sent to the Prime Minister on May 16th, 2013.

Has Concerns Regarding 2013 Budget: "The Budget is Government's Number One Priority".

Philipsburg:--- During her weekly radio program One on One, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams explained the way forward on various essential actions of Government after the political impasse of the last two weeks, including her concerns on the implementation of the 2013 Budget.

"When on May 6th the Majority in Parliament submitted a new proposal for working together, one of the first items arrived at was to come with an action plan for the essential items that need to be handled in the interest of the people; when they need to be handled and where the financing needs to come from in order to handle them," explained the Prime Minister.

"I think that at this juncture that is one of the main things that the people of St. Maarten need to know; what Government's stance is on the various issues facing the population and how we will tackle these issues? While we can write a one-year governing program I think that we need to take concrete actions so that people do not have to wait until they find out from the media to know what Government is doing. I think it is critical to be clear in terms of what are some of the things which we are going to do in the coming months," commented the PM

The Prime Minister emphasized during her weekly live call-in show that the 2013 Budget is the most critical issue facing the Government and people of St. Maarten. "The Budget is now Government's Number One Priority and it must be understood that this is very critical. Many persons feel that the Budget 2013, having been passed by Parliament, is now in place and that Government can now do its work on the basis of that. However, that is not the case; the Budget 2013 has indeed been passed by Parliament but now needs to go through the finalization procedure.

"The Budget has been balanced on the premise of certain new income sources. However the laws which need to be in place in order to make it possible to secure these income sources have not been provided for yet by the responsible entities and I am gravely concerned that the CFT will give a negative opinion on both the fact that we are already in the fifth month of the year and that those laws are not yet in place.

"I am now very concerned that so many organizations, foundations and individuals that rely on a passed Budget are now being brought into jeopardy. School boards and any other institutions receiving support from Government, the payment of salaries of our civil servants; these are all of these things are a part of our Budget 2013. That is why the matter of the transition of a new Government needs to happen as soon as possible; we cannot have a void which was exacerbated by the political impasse of the last few weeks continue, a void which has now brought the Budget into jeopardy," emphasized the Prime Minister.

The PM also explained that other priorities which are currently being worked on are the matter of the National Health Insurance, the changes in the National Tax System and the social development of St. Maarten. "Government needs to now make sure that we are able to reach the people and to ensure that there is a social net where people can go to with their various issues and receive the necessary support they need. Government needs to be more accessible in reaching the people and that will be our focus going forward," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

pjiaerepswithmvogesandpgeerlingsinholland26052013SIMPSON BAY:--- Following the recent high-powered Dutch trade mission to Brazil, and the subsequent announcement by Aruba of an upcoming air bridge between São Paulo and that island, the cabinet of St. Maarten's Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague has begun talks with Aruba to explore a joint effort that would target the Brazilian market.
This was disclosed by Minister Plenipotentiary, Mathias Voges, and the director of his cabinet, Perry Geerlings during discussions with the managing director of the Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, Regina LaBega when she paid a courtesy call on the St. Maarten House in The Hague, Friday. LaBega was accompanied by Corporate Communications Specialist, Kalifa Hickinson.
LaBega had indicated that Copa airlines was considering increasing its flights to St. Maarten to four times weekly once again. In expressing their satisfaction with this possibility, Voges and Geerlings noted that apart from the other parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Brazil market has a lot to offer St. Maarten also.
A São Paulo – Aruba – St. Maarten flight and vice versa would be a win-win situation for both Caribbean destinations, Geerlings said.
LaBega gave a brief synopsis of the recent air service maintenance and development forum hosted by SXM Airport, in which stakeholders discussed ways to maintain and increase existing airlift as well as desired markets they would like to jointly pursue.
She disclosed that a committee to be spearheaded by SXM Airport will soon be formed consisting of the stakeholders, including hub clients such as St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, etc.
The committee will be made up of mainly decision-makers in the industry. Members will make monetary contributions to a joint fund based on traffic forecasts to the respective destinations. LaBega said SXM will continue to keep the minister's cabinet abreast of the committee's vision and direction, and Geerlings expressed interest in continuing the discussions on his next working visit to the island.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary public session of Parliament regarding the position of the chairman that was scheduled for May 27 has been cancelled by the Vice Chairman of Parliament Hon. Romain Laville.

The agenda point was handled in the plenary session on Friday, May 24.

The plenary public meeting was scheduled for Monday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting was requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. Petrus de Weever, Hon. Romaine Laville, Hon. Gracita Arrindell, Hon. Sylvia Meyers, Hon. Jules James, Hon. Janchie Leonard, Hon. Dr. Ruth Douglass, and Hon. Roy Marlin. The request for the plenary session was dated May 16, 2013.

swescotwilliamswelcomesuscgeaglecrew26052013We are small but nevertheless we are the gem in this Caribbean region and we are proud to welcome you here

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams welcomed the officers and crew of the Coast Guard training ship The Eagle at a special reception at the Chippie Café on Friday. During the reception Mr. Mark Mingo, CEO of the St. Maarten Harbor Group of Companies, thanked the PM for ensuring that the proper conditions existed both politically and socially on St. Maarten for the Coast Guard vessel to be able to visit the island.

At the reception Mr. Jack Stevens of the US Navy League and is spouse Asha Stevens announced the cooperation between the harbor Group of Companies and the Tzu-Chi Foundation in renovating schools of St. Maarten with volunteers who make up the crew of the Coast Guard vessel.

The Prime Minister congratulated the island in attracting the vessel and wished the crew a safe and enjoyable sojourn on St. Maarten: "To those who have helped bring the Eagle to St. Maarten but in a very special way I would like to thank all of you who have come to St. Maarten I would like to commend you for your efforts. To Captain Raymond 'Wes' Pulver and his Crew I would like to welcome you to St. Maarten and I am sure that although this visit is very brief it will be the best visit you have had in a very long time. For those of you who have been here before you will know what I am talking about and I hope that you will return in the very near future and rest assured that the Government and people of St. Maarten stand ready to welcome you. We are small but nevertheless we are the gem in this Caribbean region and we are proud to welcome you here. So finally welcome and enjoy St. Maarten and we look forward in welcoming you again on these shores in the very near future," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotarymidislecelebratessuccessfulyear26052013During the past Rotary Year 2012-2013, the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten-Mid Isle received various prestigious awards at the recently held District 7020 Conference in Tortola.
The Club received the District Governor's Silver Award For Club Excellence for their numerous community projects and donations, substantial contributions to the Rotary Foundation, involvements with Interact, Rotaract and RYLA, and hosting over 20 Rotarians and their spouses from the Santiago Monumental Rotary Club from the Dominican Republic.
For their involvement in the Annual Seven Seas Spelling Bee Competition, Essay Contest and support of the Sunrise Rotaract's "Give a Child a Chance" project, the Rotary Club received the District Literacy Award. The Zone 34 Public Image Citation was also awarded to the Mid Isle Club for making the community aware of the Club's projects in newspapers, radio, television, and also streaming the Spelling Bee's semi-final and finals live on the internet. For their annual contributions to the St. Maarten Diabetes Foundation for purchasing of testing materials, the Rotary Club achieved the Health and Hunger Award.
President Jon Hart thanked the Club and Board Members of Rotary-Mid Isle for their hard work and dedication in achieving these awards. A special "Thank You" also goes out to the businesses and supporters who made the Spelling Bee, the Rotary Youth Soccer Competition and the Rotary Youth Table Tennis Tournament a resounding success. Some projects are already in the planning for the Rotary Year 2013-2014 in which Sanjay Surtani will be president. The members of Rotary Mid Isle are looking forward to continue with their worthwhile contributions in our community and the world through Rotary.

mvogesandrlabega26052013SIMPSON BAY:--- Departure fee charged to passengers bound for Saba and St. Eustatius, the hub role of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) for these islands and the landing of emergency helicopters from both BES islands were among issues SXM Airport managing director Regina LaBega discussed with St. Maarten Minister Plenipotentiary in The Hague, Mathias Voges when she paid a courtesy call on him Friday, following her trip to Madrid, Spain where she received the International Transport Award on behalf of the airport. LaBega traveled with her Corporate Communications Specialist, Kalifa Hickinson.
Voges, who was accompanied at the meeting by the director of his cabinet, Perry Geerlings and Carol Voges also of the St. Maarten House in The Hague, explained the functions of the Minister Plenipotentiary and briefed LaBega on the recent talks the St. Maarten representatives have been having with the Dutch government, including transport.
As she had done when she received the Representative of the Netherlands (VNP) in St. Maarten, Mr. Gert Versluis in March, LaBega explained that SXM Airport had already given consideration to the fact that the BES islands enjoyed a "domestic" rate prior to the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles, hence the reason why passengers that fly to the BES islands from SXM actually pay less in departure fee ($20) than passengers traveling internationally ($35). This is unlike the case with Aruba where they pay the same departure fee as international passengers.
Moreover, she said, although SXM Airport also serves as hub for St. Barths and Anguilla, passengers to those islands still pay the international rate in departure fee, in other words, US$35 or 75% more than the BES islands.
Concerning the misconception of emergency helicopters being unable to land or take off at SXM, another topic of concern for the Dutch, LaBega confirmed that if the helicopter does not indicate that it was on an emergency flight, then it would have to wait in queue to take off or land. However, once the relevant personnel are notified of its emergency status, that helicopter would undoubtedly have priority.
After briefly discussing the good working relationship between WINAIR and SXM Airport, the subject of KLM's current rates to St. Maarten in comparison to its rates to Curacao (even though it stops in St. Maarten first) came up. All present agreed that in order to facilitate travel to Saba and St. Eustatius, the rates offered by KLM – the national carrier of the Netherlands – need to be more affordable.
Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the Dutch government to ensure affordable transportation to its constituent entities. Geerlings, however, disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Dutch authorities in hopes that some type of protocol could eventually be signed on this matter.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health is calling on the community to take immediate measures to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes after rain events.

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

Based on the aforementioned it is recommended for persons to walk around their surroundings within seven days to eliminate all possible breeding sites.

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

CPS is calling on the community especially homeowners to be proactive in implementing mosquito preventive measures on their own property in order to prevent vector borne diseases.

Persons are recommended to keep their homes, yards, neighborhoods and work environment free from mosquito breeding sites.

Actively destroy or dispose of tin cans, old tires, buckets, unused plastic swimming pools or other containers that collect and hold water. Do not allow water to accumulate in the saucers of flowerpots, cemetery urns or in pet dishes for more than two days. Throw out the water and turn them over every time it collects water.

Clean debris from rain gutters and remove any standing water under or around structures, or on flat roofs. Check around faucets and air conditioner units and repair leaks or eliminate puddles that remain for several days.

Change the water in birdbaths and wading pools at least once a week. The treatment of ornamental pools should be discussed with the experts. Fill or drain puddles, ditches and swampy areas, and/or remove, drain or fill tree holes and stumps with mortar and regularly treat and monitor.

Eliminate seepage from cisterns, cesspools, and septic tanks. Eliminate standing water around animal watering troughs. Flush livestock water troughs twice a week.

Check for trapped water in plastic or canvas tarps used to cover boats, pools, plastic bags, foam dishes or even plastic cups strewn on the road side.

Clean the dead leaves from banana and coconut trees. Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation.

Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly.

Check around construction sites or do-it-yourself improvements to ensure that proper backfilling and grading is realized to prevent drainage problems which can be a source for standing water.

Irrigate lawns and gardens carefully to prevent water from standing for several days. If ditches do not flow and contain stagnant water for one week or longer, they can produce large numbers of mosquitoes. Report such conditions to the respective government agency.

Mosquitoes can be kept out of the home by keeping windows, doors and porches tightly screened (16-18 mesh). Those insects that do get into structures can be eliminated with a fly swatter or an aerosol space spray containing synergized pyrethrum.

Adult mosquitoes prefer to rest on weeds and other vegetation. Homeowners can reduce the number of areas where adult mosquitoes can find shelter by cutting down weeds adjacent to the house foundation and in their yards, and mowing the lawn regularly. To further reduce adult mosquitoes harboring in vegetation, insecticides may be applied to the lower limbs of shade trees, shrubs and other vegetation.

The aforementioned measures should also be taken in and around the workplace, social gatherings and living quarters to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

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

sxmweekendofpowerbanner24052013Philipsburg:--- The G.I.F.T.E.D. Foundation has teamed up with Curtis Jordan Ministries and Glow Media Entertainment to present an event called "SXM Weekend of P.O.W.E.R." from May 31 to June 2, 2013. This is a Gospel event packed with the Praises Of Worshipers Empowered to Rule with international recording artistes Prodigal Son of Jamaica, Curtis Jordan, Positive, and Keron Ramsey of Trinidad and Tobago, Omalie Durand of Dominica, amongst several local artistes including God's Chosen.
The first session is a praise party, similar to the GLOW Party series, with the theme "N.R.G. – New Radical Generation" on May 31st at the courtyard of the New Testament Baptist Church in Philipsburg at 7pm. Local gospel DJ, Joshua "DRJ" Ferrol, will be the DJ for the night, along with multiple talented live performances from youths across the country. All youth groups are invited to come out to the free event.
The Saturday morning, June 1st will begin at 9 am with the "Livin' Worship" workshop at the Christian Faith Ministries International in Dutch Quarter, spearheaded by International recording gospel R&B artiste, Curtis Jordan from Trinidad & Tobago. Jordan is a worship minister, who is well-known for hits such as "Trust Me" and "Alive", will be accompanied by Keron Ramsey of Trinidad and Tobago as well as Apostle Alicia Liverpool of the David Company, Sint Maarten. This workshop caters to all Worship Teams, Choirs, Musicians, singers, and ministry dancers.
All are invited to this free 3-hour workshop as we discuss topics concerning "Living a lifestyle of worship" and "Using Our Talents in Worship". Attendees will get the opportunity to ask questions to the panel of Gospel artistes and ministers, and more. The evening will bring a worship experience at the Christian Fellowship Church in Cole Bay, starting at 7pm.
On Sunday, June 2nd, the P.O.W.E.R. Concert will be held at the Belair Community Centre starting at 6:30pm. This is a paid concert giving more than a deal for the money. The POWER team has the full line up of Keron Ramsey, Omalie Durand, Curtis Jordan, Positive, and Prodigal Son. The event promises to be energizing and electrifying.
Visit the GIFTED Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/GIFTEDLIGHT and click "Like" to keep up-to-date with GIFTED activities and for more information.

Philipsburg:--- A shooting that took place in the parking lot of the Bliss Night Club early Friday morning left one person injured. SMN News learnt that a tourist was shot in the face by someone. The victim was not critically injured and taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment. Police are busy investigating the case. So far no one has been arrested.

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- On May 24, 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, requested Sarah Wescot-Williams to form a new government as formateur.
The Governor considering the expressed willingness of the United People's Party, Democratic Party, and independent member of Parliament Mr. Romaine Laville and based on the results of two days of consultations, met with Sarah Wescot-Williams today. He requested her to form a new government, based on a majority in Parliament, and consisting of ministers who are committed to the promotion of the well-being of Sint Maarten and dedicated to jointly execute a governing accord, to be agreed upon by the coalition partners Democratic Party, United People's Party, and independent member of Parliament Mr. Romaine Laville. The Governor requested the formateur to give priority to the completion of the process towards the establishment of the budget for 2013, to initiate measures aimed at stabilizing the political process, and at making the execution of the electoral ordinance possible. In addition, the Governor emphasized the importance of the strict observance of the regulatory requirements including the screening criteria, applicable to the appointment for candidate-ministers.
The formateur took the commission into consideration and will inform the Governor regularly during the formation process. The Governor requested Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams to present him a final report of the formation process ultimately June 7th, 2013.

From the Cabinet of the Governor

shootingfillin05052013French Quarter:--- A man was shot in the head with a firearm at Choice Supermarket Thursday night around 9:00pm hours, confirmed Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille.

Betaille said the victim was taken to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital for treatment. Betaille explained that the victim was very lucky because he was not severely injured by the bullet that hit him in the head. The victim was treated and released from the hospital Thursday night. Betaille said the Brigades de Recherches is busy with the investigation and no one has been arrested for the crime.

In the meantime, the Gendarmes conducted a huge operation Thursday night in Grand Case in search of suspects that sell illegal drugs in the area and persons that are suspected of committing armed robberies against tourists and other persons.

A host of Gendarmes along with a helicopter and other surveillance units were used in the operation Thursday night. Residents of Grand Case told SMN News that they were forbidden to leave the street while the control was taking place. Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille confirmed that the operation was to search for persons who committed crimes such as snatching of handbags, selling of illicit drugs, and other infractions.

ssparepsandsxmtouristbureauofficials24052013Great Bay:--- St. Maarten Small Properties Association Executive Board meet with the Director of Tourism Mr. Edward Dest and Ms Betty Jean -Baptiste of the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau to establish an amicable and future working relationship. The Association discussed future joint efforts between both organizations.
'Our aim is to establish a long lasting partnership with the private and public sectors on St. Maarten. By having this meeting today, we just covered one of our initial objectives. We would like to thank Mr. Dest and Ms. Jean- Baptiste for a very informative meeting and for their pledge of support during this initial year of existence".
"The St. Maarten Small Properties Association objective was establish through joint efforts of the Government of St. Maarten, The St. Maarten Chamber and the association members to provide the best possible networking and industry forum for its members, to assist them with improving the standards and quality of goods and services to be offered by particularly the small properties stated Ms. Nzinga Lake, President of S.S.P.A.
The Director of Tourism, Mr. Dest informed the Association Executive Board how they can provide their members with opportunities to market their products more effectively to both the Caribbean and the international tourism marketplaces and how S.S.P.A. can promote their members by advertising and promotions.
"In the near future, we would like to be members of Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA) and various key organizations on St. Maarten and abroad. As a member, our Association can benefit by meeting and networking with Caribbean tourism's top executives and policy makers including: Ministers, Commissioners and Directors of Tourism, Leading executives and trend influencers from tour operators, hotels, media, airlines, cruise lines, and travel companies and showcase our products and services at targeted events". added Ms. Lake.
"Last month, S.S.P.A. Executive Board also had the opportunity to meet with the President of the St. Maarten Carnival Foundation, Mr. Michael Granger, the board discussed the positive effect that Carnival has on our occupancy rates of the small properties and agreed to meet to further discuss means and ways how both organizations can partner together to market our small hoteliers regionally, internationally and the destination for the upcoming 45th Carnival Celebrations," said Ms. Lake.

rodolphesamuel03012013Philipsburg:--- The President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel submitted his resignation on Thursday. Samuel announced last week Sunday that he would have submitted his resignation on Monday morning but held back until Thursday when all the Ministers from the National Alliance faction submitted their resignation. It is expected that the former President of Parliament Gracita Arrindell would be reappointed as President of Parliament.

In the meantime, SMN News has been reliably informed that the griffier of Parliament was invited to a meeting with the new majority who allegedly threatened him if he did not do what they wanted him to do on Friday when the meeting of Parliament was rescheduled. It is not yet known if the griffier Josef Semeleer filed an official complaint with the justice authorities about what took place in the House of Parliament.

Click here to view President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel's Letter of Resignation.

cdeweeveratlandfillfire24052013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever visited the landfill fire on the day the fire began to assess the situation and has expressed his concerns, and stresses the importance of garbage separation. Any burning of garbage at the landfill has serious consequences for the health of our community and the health of the environment.
It is known that when plastic bags burn, the composition of the bag mixed with the heat produces a highly toxic chemical called dioxin. Burning any type of plastic releases toxic and potentially cancer causing chemicals into the air, where they can be inhaled by humans and animals and deposited in soil and surface water and on plants. If plastics are burned with other materials, additional toxic chemicals may be created from the interaction of the different substances. Unburned portions of the plastic become litter on the ground. As it disintegrates, animals may eat the plastic and get sick. Larger pieces of plastic can become a breeding ground for diseases, such as by trapping water that provides habitat for mosquitoes.
"We should be able to separate our garbage into different categories, and encourage recycling as this minimizes health risks and protects the environment by keeping harmful chemicals out of the air," said Minister De Weever.
Minister De Weever is asking the community to introduce the 3Rs into their lives, which is Recycle, Reuse, and Reduce.

The University of St. Martin is proud to present its final lecture as part of the Spring 2013 lecture series. In collaboration with the Human Rights Plaform of the Government of St. Maarten, the lecture will be held on the topic United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).
The lecture is scheduled for Monday May 27th, 2013 at 6:30 – 8:30pm in the USM lecture hall.
The presentation will give an overview of the general human rights treaties process and procedure, provisions of CEDAW and CEDAW reporting procedure for NGOs and Government. The Prime Minister of Sint. Maarten, Sarah Wescot Williams and the Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs and Labor will be addressing the crowd on this topic.

CEDAW was adopted in 1979 by the UN General Assembly. It consists of a preamble and 30 articles, defining what constitutes discrimination against women and setting up an agenda for national action to end such discrimination. By ratifying the Convention, countries commit themselves to undertake a series of measures to end discrimination against women in all forms, including:

  • to incorporate the principle of equality of men and women in their legal system, abolish all discriminatory laws and adopt appropriate ones prohibiting discrimination against women;
  • to establish public institutions to ensure the effective protection of women against discrimination; and
  • to ensure elimination of all acts of discrimination against women by persons, organizations or enterprises.

Countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands (Aruba, Curacao ,Sint Maarten and the Netherlands ) are party to the Convention and therefore legally bound to put its provisions into practice. The Kingdom also committed to submit national reports on measures the Countries have taken to comply with the treaty obligations. NGOs have the opportunity to monitor their respective Countries' performance in implementing CEDAW by submitting shadow reports.

As per 10-10-10, St. Maarten has to undertake the responsibility to adopt all necessary measures at the national level aimed at achieving the full realization of the rights recognized in the present Convention. For this reason , the country is required to submit its first report that will form part of the wider report of the Kingdom of the Netherlands by January, 2014.

pjiaerepsatgtlcinspain24052013Simpson Bay:--- Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) became the first Caribbean airport to receive the International Transport Award given by the Global Trade Leaders' Club (GTLC) since the award was established 15 years ago. It was also the only airport to receive the award this year out of a total of 15 awardees.

Receiving the award on Monday, May 20, 2013 in Madrid, Spain, was managing director of the airport, Regina LaBega, who was accompanied by Corporate Communications Specialist, Kalifa Hickinson.

At the awards ceremony, Ricardo Roso Lopez, Secretary General and CEO of GTLC, introduced each CEO receiving the award and gave him/her the opportunity to introduce his/her company, the country where it is located and an overview of the main services the company provides.

In her address to a full hall of CEOs, government officials, and other dignitaries, LaBega proudly represented not only SXM Airport, but also St. Maarten as a destination and the hub islands it serves.

"I bring you greetings from the Friendly Island of St. Maarten, a 37-square-mile slice of Paradise which, in many respects, can be called the capital of the Caribbean, with non-stop gaming as intoxicating as in Las Vegas; with a gastronomy that is as delightfully varied as in Madrid or Paris; with beaches that are a sublime stretch of golden sands, washed by a turquoise blue sea ... St. Maarten is an island where the sun smiles all year round and where you can speak English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Papiamentu, Creole and be understood at the marketplace as well as at government offices!" LaBega said.

She continued: "Our airport is not only the gateway to this side of Paradise, it is a major regional hub servicing neighboring islands like St. Barths, Anguilla, Saba, and St. Eustatius."

"Coming from just being voted the 'World's Most Stunning Approach'," she said, "you cannot imagine how thrilled we at Princess Juliana International Airport are with this award, especially given that we are celebrating our 70th anniversary this year. As a matter of fact, the entire island ... is excited at this recognition."

LaBega concluded by inviting the organization to consider St. Maarten as a possible host of the awards ceremony in future, "in consonance with your global outlook."

SXM Airport was recognized for "the quality and excellence" of its services, according to GTLC. SXM Airport was presented with a golden trophy that reads: "International Transport Award, Madrid 2013 Spain, Princess Juliana International Airport." The airport also received stickers for promotional use, an exclusive membership database, a DVD of the ceremony as well as posters of the award that will be placed in the terminal building.

As a thank you, SXM Airport provided branded tokens of appreciation to the organizers that included an HD video of the airport and its facilities.

At the ceremony, SXM Airport was a clear favorite. Delegates were eager to learn more about St. Maarten and the SXM Airport facilities, and some even vowed to visit the destination in the near future with their families.

The 14 other companies receiving the International Transport Award hail from Nigeria, Mexico, Ghana, Indonesia, Benin, Togo, Tunisia, Portugal, Romania, Guinea Conakry, and Uganda, and represent various types of transport companies including logistics and mass transit companies, as well as the Uganda civil aviation authority.

In a letter to the awardees, Lopez described the 35 year old Global Trade Leaders' Club as "the first club of its kind that has been created exclusively for the promotion of trade relation among businessmen from all over the world and who are linked by the fact that they have all been awarded with GTLC trophies for being leaders of trade or industry within their respective countries."

Member companies recommend other companies (whether they are member companies or not) annually for the International Transport Award. Once the same company receives nominations from at least three different member companies, that company becomes eligible for the award.

SXM Airport, as a recipient of the International Transport award, will now become a member of the Global Trade Leaders' Club, which boasts membership of over 7,500 companies worldwide.

Philipsburg:--- The Inspector of Taxes hereby makes known that the issue date for the 2012 Income Tax Return Form is April 5th, 2013. Consequently based on article 7 section 1 of the General Ordinance on Federal Taxes the tax return in question has to be submitted to the Inspector of Taxes within 2 months after the date of issue, therefore before June 5th, 2013.

A request for extension must be submitted before June 5th, 2013 and should state a valid reason.

This year the Income Tax Return Form is made available to the tax payer via the online services of the Government of St. Maarten: http://onlineservices.sintmaartengov.org

PLEASE TAKE GOOD NOTICE OF THE FACT THAT THE INCOME TAX RETURN 2012 WILL NOT BE SENT IN THE MAIL.

The Management of the Tax Administration

Thursday, May 30 – Saturday, June 1

11th Annual St. Martin Book Fair

May 30: Opening Ceremony, 8pm, keynote speaker, Randall Robinson, author, foreign policy advocate, int'l human rights activist. Chamber of Commerce Bldg., Spring Concordia, Marigot.

May 31: Poetry & fiction readings by visiting & St. Martin poets, novelists; Drum and Dance Interlude, 8pm, Martini Restaurant, Grand Case Blvd. 63, Grand Case.

June 1: Presidents Forum – 21st Century Challenge: Reparations, by Randall Robinson, 2 pm, University of St. Martin, Rm 202, Philipsburg. Comments/Q&A/discussion format.

June 1: Main Book Fair day, 9 am – 4 pm, University of St. Martin: Free admission to book sales, signings by authors, workshops, and symposium for all ages.

June 1: Main Book Launch & Closing Ceremony, 8 pm, Belair Community Center, Cay Hill. New book launch: Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman, a children's adventure story.

Contact: (590) 690.30.73.66, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., houseofnehesipublish.com.

Organized by Conscious Lyrics Foundation and House of Nehesi Publishers in collaboration with St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the University of St. Martin.

sjacobsatsportsdayevent24052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs last week Friday visited the after school program and sports day activities held at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex in Cay Hill.

The Minister enjoyed watching the island's youth partake in various activities. The facility is about to undergo upgrading of the track, soccer fields, the public stands as well as lighting structures. (DCOMM Photo)

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated the Guyanese Community on St. Maarten and on Guyana on 47 years of being an independent country. On the 26th of May the people of Guyana will celebrate their 47th Independence anniversary. "To the residents of St. Maarten hailing from Guyana and to all Guyanese I would like to extend my personal congratulations and that of the Government of St. Maarten on the celebration of your 47th year of Independence from British rule. On the 26th of May 1966 Guyana gained its independence and on that day in your yearly calendar you should reflect on the sacrifices the citizens of Guyana have made to in order to arrive at this great achievement," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister in her message also thanked the Guyanese community for their contribution to the Country of St. Maarten and encouraged all Guyanese to spend their celebration in the company of family and friends. "As you celebrate the achievement your forefathers have made in creating the Independent Nation of Guyana I also urge you to reflect on the opportunities which you have had and the contributions you have made to you adopted home of St. Maarten. Once again congratulations are in order," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

pjiaeaistraining24052013Simpson Bay:--- Five Flight Information Officers of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) began a six-week training course this week in Aeronautical Information Service and Aerodrome Flight Information Service. The course is scheduled to end on June 28, 2013.

At the completion of the course, the five Flight Information Officers will become certified Aeronautical Information Officers and will qualify to assume the responsibilities of a full AIS office. At present St. Maarten does not have such an office whose tasks are currently being handled by the one in Curacao on a service level agreement.

The training is being conducted by three recently qualified St. Maarten ATS instructors under the guidance of Gabriel Virlan, a qualified and experienced ICAO instructor who was contracted by SXM Airport because it is a requirement for new instructors to conduct their first complete official training course under the supervision of a more experienced one.

The curriculum covers a major part of the Basic Air Traffic Controller's course and will be credited to candidates who go on to become Air Traffic Controllers.

Subsequent to the course, instructors will be able to conduct the training on their own with the approval of the St. Maarten Civil Aviation Authority. Once this is achieved, the intention is to provide the training to Flight Information Officers of Saba and St. Eustatius within the year. Negotiations are ongoing in this regard.

Providing the course to external entities will offset the cost of the training for SXM Airport and is a step toward the establishment of SXM's ICAO certified training academy. This will result in significant financial benefits for the airport in terms not only of air traffic related training but also in all aviation-related training in St. Maarten and internationally as well as in reducing the operational cost of Air Traffic Services.

sswdonatestopjl24052013Philipsburg:--- Franklyn Richards, Managing Director of Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten) presented a $1,000 check to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Director, Monique Alberts on May 23. This financial contribution will assist with the publication of a commemorative picture book in celebration of the library's 90th anniversary on November 23. The book will feature historical and present day images of our island, with the sole purpose of cultivating awareness on St. Maarten's rich cultural heritage among our younger generations.

amerijetboeing767-200insxm23052013Simpson Bay:--- Almost unheralded, Amerijet International touched down with its Boeing 767-200 cargo jet at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) Wednesday, May 22, 2013, about 10 minutes ahead of a scheduled noon arrival.

It was the maiden flight of the cargo aircraft, one of five in Amerijet International's fleet of 767-200 freighter aircraft. The company had before now been servicing the destination with its 727-200 cargo planes. The 767s will allow the carrier to increase capacity on its scheduled service routes, and expand its charter availability.

The flight began in its hub at the Miami International Airport and made a stop in Port of Spain, Trinidad before arriving at SXM Airport. From here it was scheduled to depart for St. Kitts and later St. Thomas and another Caribbean stop before heading back to base in Miami.

According to an official of the ground handlers, the huge cargo plane delivered drilling equipment and other cargo to Trinidad but brought mainly perishable goods for the hospitality sector in St. Maarten.

The official could not confirm if the 767 cargo plane would henceforth be making regular deliveries to St. Maarten.

Amerijet started operations in 1974 and has since provided cargo transportation services to more than 550 destinations worldwide.

Commenting on the 767 flight, managing director of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), Regina LaBega said she welcomed the use of this large cargo plane as a larger capacity aircraft to adequately service the St. Maarten market.

"It also falls within our strategic plan of making SXM Airport a major cargo handling hub for the sub-region," she added.

Philipsburg:--- Despite more than 10 years of lobbying for the creation of the STA, the St. Maarten Tourism Authority, this public-private partnership remains elusive. While other tourism dependent islands like Aruba, Bahamas, and Curaçao have managed to incorporate similar structures, St. Maarten still hasn't managed to complete the process. Such authority's goals focus on sustainable marketing strategies, independent of political structures.
The STA would bring continuity to the tourism industry of St. Maarten, regardless of what takes place in the political arena. Consequently, the business of promoting St. Maarten and bringing in tourists in, thus generating revenue for our country would continue uninterrupted. Had the STA been in place at present, a proper review of the funding of a promotional project such as Tempo, would not have to wait for the appointment of a new minister for tourism.
In the wake of a very successful SMART, the St. Maarten/St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow, the time is ripe to capitalize on the momentum. This is the moment to reinforce old partnerships and to build on new relationships. However, in this time of turmoil and uncertainty, stakeholders have understandably adopted a "wait and see approach".
For an island that depends heavily on tourism, this is not the way to manage our country's main industry, the one that generates the lion share of the income for the island. Not having the STA in place has been hampering our island's marketing efforts i.e. our economic productivity. We need to continuously and consistently promote St. Maarten's brand and image, not just the upcoming high season. Out of sight, out of mind!

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, wonders why the Government of St. Maarten is considering sponsoring yet another Tempo event, let alone allowing them to also be involved in some of St. Maarten's signature events like the Heineken Regatta, Carnival and St. Maarten's Day. We would be wiser to spend our already reduced marketing budget on creating additional airlift, supporting our travel partners and developing new markets. The SHTA urges Government to carefully consider all aspects of this proposal especially when the contract would remain in place for a period of 5 years, which means we would actually be committing to USD $3,000,000 (three million dollars) of St. Maarten's marketing funds, if not more.

Last year's USD$ 400,000, excluding the USD$ 50,000 the Harbour and Telem gave, was already at the time, considered to be an excessive amount for events that drew very small crowds, lacked organization and were of no proven substantial benefit to the island. Increasing the amount this year to USD$600,000, while the Heineken Regatta and the SCDF only received a marketing contribution of NAf. 500,000 (around USD$275.000), is beyond our comprehension.

When considering a third party to handle a large part of our country's marketing budget, we should look at their track record, not just a 20-page report. If last year's "Tempo Turns 7" is anything to go by, we could all be in for another rude awakening as the return on our investment left much to be desired. Any agreement, no matter how small, or in this case how big, needs to be carefully evaluated by all parties involved. In addition, the Government should consult the major stakeholders, look at other options and not rush a decision. The timing of these Tempo events during high season does not create any real additional inflow of tourism to the island as opposed to off season and/or shoulder season, when there is a surplus of rooms and businesses could use the additional volume.

Tempo's claims about the huge media exposure obtained because of its marketing machine can to date not be substantiated. Even without statistics from the hopefully soon to be operational TSIS, the Tourism Statistical Information System, it is safe to say that the promises made by Frederick A. Morton, Jr., Founder and CEO of Tempo Network, in his page long address to his fellow St. Maarteners last year, did not materialize. So let's not make the same mistake twice!

rotaractsxmsunriseplantstreesathighschools23052013Philipsburg:--- In recognition of Green Wave Day, The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise planted coconut trees at 7 high schools on the island on Wednesday 22nd May 2013.
The Green Wave is a worldwide ongoing global biodiversity-education project that encourages people to make a difference in conserving the basis for life on Earth. Through action-oriented learning, The Green Wave, celebrated annually on May 22nd, demonstrates that learning about biodiversity can be fun and that persons can contribute to a global movement of people who care for the planet.
The high schools that benefited from this initiative were, Milton Peters College, St. Maarten Academy, St. Maarten Academy PSVE, St. Dominic, Sundial, Learning Unlimited and Caribbean International Academy. Members of the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise planted the coconut trees with the help of students and personnel of the schools. In addition, members briefly informed the students about the importance of preserving and restoring our biodiversity.
The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise would like to thank Mr. Jerry Speetjens for contributing to this Green Wave project by donating the coconut trees to the club.

williammarlin23052013Philipsburg:--- During the week from 20 May to May 23, the Ministry of VROMI with responsibility for Environment held meetings with four prospective bidders for the Waste to Energy plant. The bidders were the ones selected for what is considered Invitation II or the Dialogue Phase and were expected to give verbal presentations and request clarifications from the Steering Committee if necessary.
The four companies that were invited are Synergy Renewables, who is proposing a bubbling bed gasification process, Matrix Befesa, who is proposing incineration, Covanta Energy, who is proposing CleerGas Gasification process and Electrawinds / Babcock & Wilcox Volund, who is proposing mass burn incineration process.
The St. Maarten team consisted of Secretary General VROMI, Mr. Louis Brown, Head of Infrastructure Mr. Claudius 'Toontje' Buncamper, Consultants from DMV KEMA Mr. Frans Lamers and Mr. Roel Verlaan, Steering Committee Member Sipke De Haan and Adviser to the Minister Kendall Dupersoy. Also attending the dialogue phase was two GEBE representatives, Mr. Ray Carty Special Projects and Mr. Rudelso Henry Planning Department.
GEBE, through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) will purchase electricity from the eventual winner of the bidding process which will contribute to the financing of the plant. The contractors can also produce other products for the local and overseas market through high tech processes and recycling. There is also the opportunity for additional employment and residual business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Minister Marlin expects the Kwh cost of the WTE plant to be lower than the current combined GEBE cost of power plus fuel cost. The Minister explained that in essence the general public should see a small reduction in electricity cost if all goes as planned.
All four bidders presented a full explanation of their technology and the financing options. Minister William Marlin's concept with the WTE plant is for the plant to have no financial impact on the people of St. Maarten, unlike in the past when Government was negotiating a solution that would cost the tax payers initially some 120 Million dollars and 20 Million a year to run.
Minister Marlin is happy that soon a project to reduce the eyesore of the landfill, commonly called the dump, will soon be finalized. Just a few days ago we experienced a fire on the landfill and burned all day covering the entire surrounding area with possibly toxic smoke not to mention the smell. With the commission of the WTE plant, all of our waste will be converted to energy in a clean environmentally safe way. After some years, the hill of some 28 meters will be reduced to land viable for residential and commercial use.

Press Release from Ministry of VROMI

I would like to commend our students in Holland who are getting involved in other non-curriculum activities to help the communities that they are currently apart of, but also still contributing in one way or the other to the development of organizations and institutions on the island.

I believe that it is very important for our students studying abroad to get involved in different community-oriented organizations and causes as it contributes to their overall social development as a young person and at the same time they get experience in the non-governmental field.

Stichting USC has partnered with fitness movement Team Don't Quit, a group of Sint Maarteners to launch "Run For A Cause."

The groups have observed the popularity of outdoor fitness challenges and have decided to participate in the Strong Viking Run, in Wijchen on June 8 in the Netherlands.

The funds raised from this event by the Sint Maarten groups will be split equally between the St. Maarten Medical Center Children's Ward and the Beatrix Kinderkliniek at UMC Groningin, and will be used for toys and books.

According to information that I read, persons in Sint Maarten can also donate towards the cause and can do so by making a direct deposit to RBC account 40352226 US$.

Exercise, sports, community and volunteer work embraced by these students and other participants in this great project shows once more as Albert Schweitzer famously stated, "Example is not the main thing in influencing others. It is the only thing."

I commend the Sint Maarten students and young adults on their initiatives and encourage them to continue, and I also wish them much success with the Run For A Cause.

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

swescotwilliamsatsxmheartandstrokefoundationlaunch23052013Belair:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the official launching of the St. Maarten Heart and Stroke Foundation at the Belair Community Center. The Heart and Health Foundation was officially launched when Notary Marlene Mingo of MF Mingo BV officially notarized the Foundation. The Prime Minister joined Minister of Health the Hon. Cornelius De Weever in the launch, supporting the Heart and Stroke Foundation's aim of being a volunteer based health charity aiming to eliminate heart disease and stroke through the promotion of healthy living, an initiative which is always supported by the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

smmc23082012PHILIPSBURG:--- On May 20th the Court of First Instance ruled in favor of the SMMC in the appeal of the SMMC against the demands the Inspectorate for Public Health had imposed on the hospital on October 12th 2012. On October 12, 2012 the Inspectorate imposed 13 measures upon the SMMC to ensure that good basic quality of care is rendered in SMMC and as such within the only hospital on St. Maarten. These measures were imposed after the Inspectorate established in its latest report from September 7th 2012, following an extensive investigation that the care rendered was sub-optimal/sub-standard.
The Inspectorate is pleased to see that the Court of First Instance upheld its authority and the rights to be able to conduct also governance-related-supervision on health care institutions, where under the SMMC, despite the fact that SMMC has always strongly contested this supervision right by the Inspectorate. The Inspectorate acknowledges the efforts made by SMMC, notwithstanding the suspension of the demands imposed by the Inspectorate by the Court of First Instance in November 2012, to this date to comply with the demands imposed.
Fact of the matter is that several of the demands have meanwhile been fulfilled. Also the communication and relation between SMMC and the Inspectorate has improved measurably, in the past five months. There is however still much to do.
A proficient and efficient working Inspectorate requires continues accessing and determining by medical experts in the service of the Inspectorate, whether or not care providers are abiding to the law and providing the requisite level of medical care. The reported findings by the Inspectorate on the situation that existed in SMMC were the result of almost 9 months of extensive investigation and several conducted inspections. Still, the Court of First Instance regretfully ruled that the findings and 13 demands imposed by the Inspectorate premised on these findings were not sufficiently motivated and/or could not be established. This part of the ruling by the Court of First Instance is both factually and judicially incorrect. It moreover jeopardizes the rights and effective capability of the Inspectorate to be able to in any given situation establish possible shortcomings and more importantly act decisively to remedy same. In essence it makes it impossible and in any case very challenging for the Inspectorate to fulfill its legal obligation to ensure that proper quality of care is rendered.
The quality of care and well-being of the St. Maarten citizens is what is at stake. The Inspectorate as such will submit the contested parts of the ruling to adjudication with the Court of Appeals."

jerrygilpin23052013PHILIPSBURG:--- Arthur Lugisse, Director of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation Inc. (TLH-SXMF) and St.Maarten Government Liaison in Florida for Trade-Tourism Economic Development, Infrastructure and Social Development, will be accompanying Florida Business Executive Jerry Gilpin to several meetings this week with local business sector representatives to explore trade possibilities and opportunities between the US State of Florida and St. Maarten. Gilpin arrived in the country on Tuesday evening.

Lugisse drafted a report several months ago that outlined the opportunity for local businesses to be able to set up joint ventures with Florida companies and also options for financing for local businesses to get goods and services out of Florida.

The follow-up to the report are one-on-one business meetings between local entrepreneurs and Florida business executive Jerry Gilpin during the next few days. Gilpin will be meeting with the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry on Wednesday morning followed by a meeting with members of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation.

Florida being one of the main export cities in America, and its close proximity to St. Maarten, makes a lot of sense to pursue, strengthen and expand business relations with the Orange State.

Florida-origin exports in 2012 were US$66.4 billion. International business makes up 18 per cent of Florida's economy.

"There will be opportunities for Food and Beverage supply, Green Houses, Heavy Equipment, Building Materials, Freight options, St. Maarten Air Ambulance, Shoes, Clothes, Appliance, Technology, Solar Lighting, New and used vehicles, road construction equipment, opportunity for manufacturing and packaging out of St. Maarten," Arthur Lugisse pointed out.

International business impacts many Florida industries and communities. Currently more than 58,000 Florida businesses, 96 per cent of which are small or medium sized, export products and services; Florida exported more than US$4 billion of agricultural commodities in 2012; international companies employ more than 223,500 Floridians, and Florida has more companies that export than any other state besides California.

Gilpin has a wealth of experience since 1973 being involved in the import/export business between the US and the Caribbean. The business executive is currently busy in the import/export of agricultural produce, seafood, telecommunications equipment, water systems and restaurant/tourism industry equipment between the United States, the Caribbean and Latin America.

Jerry Gilpin also works closely with Florida Export Finance Corporation that establishes lines of credit for local exporters and foreign buyers under the EX-IM Bank programs.

Gilpin is the international representative of Foods & Beverages/Financing of Family & Son Inc. out of Miami, Florida.

uscgtheeagle17052013The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle is scheduled to arrive at Clipper Pier, Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on Friday morning as part of their 2013 cadet summer training deployment.
The Eagle will be open for free public tours on Saturday, May 25 from 10 am to 5 pm.
At 295 feet in length, the Eagle is the largest tall ship flying the stars and stripes and the only active square-rigger in U.S. government service. You are invited to tour this historic ship on Saturday. School and community groups welcome.
Constructed in 1936 by the Blohm and Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany, and originally commissioned as the Horst Wessel by the German Navy, the Eagle was taken by the United States as a war reparation following World War II.
With more than 23,500 square feet of sail and six miles of rigging, the Eagle has served as a classroom at sea to future Coast Guard officers since 1946, offering an at-sea leadership and professional development experience. Currently, there are 145 cadets from the Coast Guard Academy embarked. The summer deployment spans 11-weeks, stopping at nine port calls in five countries, with four different groups of cadets training onboard.
To follow the Eagle's summer cruise, visit the ship's Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/CoastGuardCutterEagle

PHILIPSBURG:--- The first agenda point regarding recent political developments has been removed from the agenda by the President of Parliament as per the request of Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson in their letter dated May 23, 2013, with respect to the plenary public session of parliament for May 24.

The agenda point for the meet remains the vote of no confidence against certain members of the Council of Ministers.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Friday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The main agenda point for the plenary session based on correspondence dated May 7 and May 9, 2013 from MPs Hon. Roy Marlin (DP), Hon. Petrus L. de Weever (DP), Hon. Janchie Leonard (UP), and Hon. Gracita Arrindell (UP): Establishing that Minister W. Marlin, Minister R. Tuitt, Minister R. Duncan, Minister R. Pantophlet and Minister S. Jacobs no longer enjoy majority support from the Parliament of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

Philipsburg:--- Over the past weeks St. Maarten became the centerpiece of the world for the second time this year because politicians on St. Maarten decided to put themselves first instead of the county, its people, and the integrity of the nation.

Earlier this year St. Maarten was the talk of the world when the Bada Bing videotape was released, politicians in the Netherlands criticized government especially the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge who was seen stuffing his pockets with what appeared to be monies from a businessman. When the Dutch businessman claimed that the leader of a political party orchestrated the taping to use as blackmail, another politician was brought into the Bada Bing investigation. A complaint filed by Member of Parliament Romaine Laville against the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger was the icing on the cake for those Dutch politicians that have been screaming that St. Maarten is a corrupt country with politicians that abuse their power while nepotism is the way of governing.

While many would agree that the Dutch politicians made their statements based on what was printed or leaked to them by people living on the island, one must also agree that since October 10th, 2010 to May 21st, 2012 there were only a few people that were being taken care of by government. Contracts were awarded to either spouses or close relatives to those in charge while close to two hundred people lost their jobs because a legislator (Member of Parliament) chose to fire the workers of SBRMC. Even though there was a change in government, most of the Pelican (SBRMC) workers are still out in the cold while government did nothing but make empty promises. A few of the Pelican workers got bus and taxi licenses but the true story behind the licenses that were granted to mostly foreigners is yet to be told.

On May 6th, 2013, St. Maarten became the centerpiece of the world when the NA/ DP/I-3 coalition fell apart because three politicians felt they got what they wanted within the one year period and so it was time for them to go back to their respective camps. Member of Parliament Romaine Laville ensured that his father got contracts at the habour, long lease land from government, and monies for TEMPO while the Sucker Garden Boyz still have to give account for the monies they were awarded to clean trenches.

Besides the self enrichment schemes by these politicians who have chosen to mislead the people of St. Maarten simply because most of the people of this great nation are not fluent in the Dutch language, there are still a few scholars that are able to tell you that the English translation of constitution is misleading to say the least and that the constitution of St. Maarten is not used the way it ought to be used.

The people of St. Maarten are told that the Parliament of St. Maarten is the "boss" and what they say goes. Several politicians that have spoken thus far based their argument on article 33 of the constitution, while they forgot that the constitution of St. Maarten also has article 59 which gives the Council of Ministers certain powers to ensure that checks and balances are in place in order to safeguard democracy and the country.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten said that article 59 can only be used if there is no majority in Parliament to form a government. While the rules of order that govern the Council of Ministers states that the Prime Minister is the one that chairs meetings, makes up the agenda for the meetings, and determines if a document is ready for handling, those stipulations are for regular administrative business that governs the day to day running of the country.

When it comes to the application of article 59 of the constitution, the decision has to be taken by the Council of Ministers and be done by a Landsbesluit (LB) and not a Ministerial decree. This is where the confusion of the day comes because the English translation of the constitution states that this can be done by an ordinance. Again the interpretations as to who has the power and the authority to decide if Parliament must be dissolved are misleading to say the least. If it was the Prime Minister who had that power then the constitution would have stated that it could be done by a Ministerial decree and not a LB. The constitution is clear when it states that the decision has to be taken by the majority in the Council of Ministers and a LB has to be prepared for this to take place.

The electoral law states that the Prime Minister has the authority to organize elections but nowhere does it state that she/he is the only one that could decide whether or not Parliament must be dissolved.

Literature on the constitution states that article 59 gives the Council of Ministers a right in any situation that they believe would serve in the best interest of the country. The literature did not show any type of limitations or restrictions as to when the Council of Ministers can apply the use of Article 59 of the constitution which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. Beneath this article readers can read the literature on article 59 and the dissolving of Parliament.

The Governor has to Ensure that the laws and Constitution is Respected.

Several citizens and legal experts have expressed their concerns about the amount of time the Governor of St. Maarten took to bring an end to the instability in the country. It is clear that one set of politicians (majority) in the Council of Ministers exhausted themselves to apply the legal right given to them in article 59 of the constitution but they had to throw in the towel and call on the people when they realized that the Governor of St. Maarten was not ready to admonish the Prime Minister to ensure that the expression of the majority in the Council of Ministers is respected. While the necessary consultations on the formation of a government is currently taking place, it is left to be seen if the Governor of St. Maarten will use the power vested in him by the Kingdom to ensure that democracy prevails in this ongoing political saga. It is clear that the Governor cannot enter into politics, he has to remain independent when it comes to politics and whatever he does and says to the politicians remains behind closed doors.

Considering that the former UP/DP/Illidge Government only had nine seats in the parliament they could not function optimally because they needed a two third majority to pass a law, something they did not have. The NA/DP/I-3 coalition had ten seats, they were in a position to draft laws and pass them without a doubt based on the country's constitution. Because of the abuse of power and self interest, the country was destabilized for almost three weeks because eight members of Parliament believe they are the majority and they have the right to determine when a government goes home. Rightly so, the majority in parliament rules but the same applies in the Council of Ministers.

It is the opinion of several legal experts that the Governor should take into consideration, that should one of the eight persons (MPs) fall ill and there is need for an urgent meeting of parliament, that would not take place because a simple quorum they would not have to convene a meeting, notwithstanding that if the constitution and democracy does not prevail now then the opportunity for checks and balances between parliament and government will be lost. On page 231 of Professor van Rijn's text book "Staatsrecht van de Nederlandse Antillen" it states:

"The governor as head of state does not possess any independent authority. His task can be described as the right to be consulted, to encourage, and to admonish. He may form an independent opinion about government matters, but in the case of a conflict the opinion of the ministers is always decisive. This is a given since the van der Meer affair in 1955. How this all works out in the relationship between the governor and the ministers remains behind closed doors."

His main tasks are to ratify all Landsverordeningen (Country Laws) and National decrees and send them on to the Kingdom government in Holland. He will not ratify them if in his opinion they are in conflict with a Kingdom regulation, an international regulation, or the interests of the Kingdom.

This also would give the Kingdom Council of Ministers enough reason to say that the Governor of St. Maarten did not bring about justice and democracy and it's time for them to march in and take control of what goes on St. Maarten.

Click here to view part of the literature on the Constitution especially Article 59.

Project continues strategic alliance between two cruise industry leaders.

MIAMI, Florida:--- The Florida-­-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has chosen to tell the story of the first 20 years of the FCCA Conference and Trade show in partnership with Onboard Media. The two companies will publish a commemorative book for release at the FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show in Cartagena, Colombia, September 30 to October 4, 2013.

Every attendee at the conference will receive a copy, along with special editions for each cruise line CEO. The book will highlight the organization and all it does for the cruising industry and Caribbean destinations.

The publication is the latest of several projects on which the FCCA and Onboard Media have collaborated. Most recently, Onboard Media provided key media coverage tracking the FCCA's happenings at Cruise Shipping Miami through photos, video and
social updates.

Sarah Beth Reno, president of Onboard Media, said, "We are proud to partner with the FCCA to publish this book - we've worked closely with the organization over the past few years and are delighted that they chose Onboard Media to work on such an exciting project."

Michele M. Paige, president of the FCCA, said, "As Platinum Members of the FCCA, it's honorable that we can continue our strong strategic relationship with Onboard. The FCCA continues to build relationships with our destination partners within the cruise industry, and this project emphasizes the importance of our conferences year after year."

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has issued a strong reaction to statements attributed to outgoing Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin regarding the political situation on St. Maarten. "It is quite unfortunate to read, not only in the national press but also in the international press that "there are daily protests on the streets, that there is a culture of fear on St. Maarten, that the President of Parliament is threatened and that there is total chaos on the island." Also attributed to Minister Marlin is the statement that the only redress available now is the Kingdom Government.

Not to mention the outlandish report by the Minister that the Prime Minister of the country is "holding democracy hostage".

I would like to emphasize that on our small island democracy is alive and well established. Still, like in other democracies, we will have our disagreements, but to portray St. Maarten in essence as a "banana republic" is sad and reprehensible.

"Our numbers, such as the number of members of Parliament are small, but are represented by the same principles, a majority of Parliament must be respected and the minority must be heard.

A majority in Parliament passed a motion of no confidence which, according to the Constitution means that mentioned Ministers no longer enjoy the confidence of a majority, with the result that their resignation is necessary.

"The records show that every action which I have conducted during the political impasse of the last two weeks were all within the laws that govern our Country. Laws, which I must add, the outgoing Minister has disregarded in order for him and his colleagues to take part in what the Minister himself described as a "Mexican Standoff".

"The Minister in question, using his position as Deputy Prime Minister sought to undermine the position of the Chair of the Council of Ministers (the Prime Minister) by sending a letter to the Governor on behalf of the Council, which he was not authorized to do. This is an illegal act, an act which the outgoing Minister has admitted to doing in the national press of St. Maarten.

"By admission of the President of Parliament himself, who was willing to accept the political reality of the day and resign from his position, he was coerced by Minister Marlin not to do so, further perpetrating the "Mexican stand-off".

"But the most disturbing action conducted by the Minister whose responsibility it is to act not only in accordance with the laws but in the interest of the people of St. Maarten, is making false claims regarding the political situation. This information has traveled like wild fire throughout the Kingdom and beyond and created images of a St. Maarten burdened and out of control due to civil unrest or strife.

"Let me again state: claims that there was civil unrest on St. Maarten are erroneous, irresponsible and false. Yes, indeed there was a peaceful march, with emphasis on peaceful, of citizens exercising their right to voice their opinion.

"A petition was circulated and has since been submitted, totally legal in our democratic system, where the rights of petition and assembly are enshrined in our constitution.

"For outgoing Minister Marlin to allege that there was violence, fear and intimidation, is simply wrong and only serves to incite fear and mistrust in our community, long hailed for its peacefulness and all "getting along".

"Additionally, the outgoing Minister claims that parliamentarians and politicians were intimidated and threatened. This is very, very sad.

Minister Marlin has never substantiated his allegations that anyone was threatened. Up until yesterday parliamentarians and ministers were walking freely in Philipsburg without security and without anyone bothering them.

"In fact, as often seen, outside the halls of Parliament, these politicians remain civil towards one another, not always in agreement, but surely recognizing that we all want to continue living together on our beautiful island and that indeed we can have difference of opinion, political or otherwise.

The exiting Minister has contradicted himself by stating in the local press that statements made by the UP Party that the political situation will scare off investors to the island, is akin to fear mongering, while in the same breath goes out and tells those outside of St. Maarten that there is a "culture of fear" on the island.

It is upsetting to see that events which are part of the growing pains of a new democracy have been turned into, as the outgoing Minister has termed it, a 'Mexican Standoff'.

Finally, the fact remains that, despite the tactics employed by the outgoing Minister, he and his Ministers have sent their letters of resignation to the Governor of St. Maarten.

Why? Because the laws that govern this young but wonderful country of ours

Gave him no other choice.

To the people of St. Maarten, "We have overcome this hurdle as I have said we would".

It's the first major one, testing our resolve as a young country to solve our own issues, within the laws of the land and respect for one another and each other's opinion.

Let us also resolve that the loopholes which have become apparent during this debacle, be closed, so that we avoid situations like this in the future. Let us now ensure that there will be truly the possibility for fresh ideas and input into the governing of this country. Let us work together to effect the change we would like to see on our island," concluded the Honorable Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Harbour View:--- On Wednesday May 22, 2013 Prime Minister Wescot-Williams in view of the political developments presented His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, with a letter dated May 22, 2013, making the portfolios of the Ministers and the Minister Plenipotentiary available and tendering the resignation of her entire cabinet.
The Governor informed the Prime Minister that he will consider her request and that he is calling on the Ministers and the Minister Plenipotentiary to continue their duties in the interest of Sint Maarten and to continue working with him until a decision has been taken concerning the request for resignation.
In view of the resignation of the cabinet, the Governor will start the consultation round in order to arrive at the formation of a new cabinet. The consultations will take place with the Deputy Chairperson of the Advisory Council, the President of Parliament, and the leaders of all the political parties who have a seat in Parliament. The consultations will take place as of Thursday May 23, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary public session of Parliament regarding the position of the chairman is scheduled for May 27.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Monday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting was requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. Petrus de Weever, Hon. Romaine Laville, Hon. Gracita Arrindell, Hon. Sylvia Meyers, Hon. Jules James, Hon. Janchie Leonard, Hon. Dr. Ruth Douglass, and Hon. Roy Marlin. The request for the plenary session was dated May 16, 2013.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

rclquantumoftheseas22052013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten will receive six calls from the newest Royal Caribbean Lines (RCL) vessel Quantum of the Seas for the 2014-2015 cruise tourism season. The Quantum of the Seas sets sail on its inaugural voyage November 23, 2014.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies is looking forward to welcoming this new vessel adding that the new RCL vessel signifies the close partnership that exist between the port and RCL, and the confidence the cruise line has in the destination making St. Maarten a premier destination.

Quantum of the Seas will debut in fall 2014 followed by her sister ship Anthem of the Seas in Spring 2015. The Quantum series span 16 decks, encompass 167,800 gross registered tons, carry 4,180 guests at double occupancy and features 2,090 staterooms.

RCL is known for introducing signature features onboard their ships such as the rock-climbing wall, ice-skating rink, FlowRider surf simulator, Central Park and Aqua Theater. Quantum of the Seas will have 18 Caribbean sailings, ranging from seven to 12-nights.

The groundbreaking new ship will sail roundtrip from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey to the most popular Caribbean destinations through April 2015. Vacationers can choose from seven and eight-night Bahamas, eight to 11-night Eastern Caribbean, and 11 to 12-night Southern Caribbean itineraries.

The Eastern Caribbean cruises include ports of call among Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, and St. Maarten.

Guests on the Southern Caribbean cruises will call at Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Martinique, Barbados and St. Kitts.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group technicians and engineers today reported that the company's 3G mobile voice and data network is now free of interference from neighboring Anguilla. The network is now fully operational under a different frequency.
"With immediate effect, customers in the affected areas of Cupe Coy, Cole Bay and Simpson Bay will notice a vast improvement in their 3G voice and data service with less dropped calls and less interruptions while accessing data on the internet," said TelEm Group Public Relations Officer, Joe Dominique.
Mr. Dominique said engineers and technicians carried out some emergency maintenance work on the 3G network Tuesday night which resulted in the complete elimination of the interference on the network.
"We were able to work with the Bureau of Telecommunications and Post, St. Maarten, and also with technicians in Anguilla to identify and eliminate the problem altogether with some fine-tuning on a new temporary frequency Tuesday night," continued Mr. Dominique.
He said previous instructions from the technical staff for customers to take their mobile devices and smartphones "OFF" AUTO, has now been reversed.
"We are now advising 3G customers to reset their devices and handsets to AUTO to best utilize their voice and data service," said Mr. Dominique.
He said the company sincerely apologizes for the interruption in service caused by the interference to the 3G network and assured that this was out of the company's control.
"As a result of this incident we will be bringing in some frequency experts from overseas within short to analyze the network. We want to determine how we can best protect against something similar happening in the future.
"It is also the intention of the technical and engineering staff to further optimize the 3G voice and data network in the coming days and weeks to improve the capacity and efficiency of the network to the benefit of our mobile voice and data users." added Mr. Dominique.

Telem Press Release

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Youth Health Care, a division of the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, planned community outreach vaccination sessions and lectures, has as its objective to reach all children with life-saving vaccines and health information for adults.

The first of three community outreach and "family planning" lecture sessions is set for St. Peters, next week Wednesday, May 29 at the Rupert I. Maynard Youth Community Center from 5:00pm to 7:30pm.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children checked on May 29 to see if they are up to date with their vaccinations.

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status.

To encourage risk groups such as waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly on Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

An estimated 22 million children in developing countries are still not protected from dangerous diseases with basic vaccines, according to the publication "Vaccine".

Immunization averts an estimated two-three million deaths every year, protecting children from diphtheria, measles, pertussis (better known as whooping cough), pneumonia, polio, rotavirus diarrhea, rubella, tetanus and others.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island's Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), will be chairing a meeting of the 10 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) next week in preparation for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season that starts on June 1st.

Salomon also uses this opportunity reminding the nation to continue to make preparations for the upcoming hurricane season and to do so in a timely manner. Forecasters have predicted a busy hurricane season ahead, and Disaster Coordinator Salomon points out that it only takes one hurricane to hit the country to make it a bad season.

Some of the key preparations are Family Plan which should be based on your vulnerability to Hurricane Hazards that could affect your family such as storm surge or flooding. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.

Every home should have a Disaster Supply Kit which would contain certain items you need to have regardless of where you ride out a hurricane.

Family Disaster Plan

Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard; Determine escape routes from your home as certain areas could be inundated by flooding and storm surge especially low lying areas and along the coasts; Make a plan now on what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate; Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call; Check your insurance coverage; Stock non-perishable emergency supplies.

Disaster Supply Kit

Water, at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days; Food, at least enough for three to seven days, non-perishable packaged or canned/juices, foods for infants or the elderly, snack foods, non-electric opener, cooking tools/fuel, paper plates/plastic utensils; Blankets/Pillows; Clothing (rain coat, sturdy shoes); First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs; Special items for babies and the elderly; Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture wipes; Flashlight and batteries; Battery operated radio; Fully charged cell phone with an extra battery; Cash/Credit Cards; Toys/Books/Games; Important documents should be put in a waterproof container; Tools; Vehicle fuel tanks should be filled a few days before a hurricane strike; Pet care items (medication, amply supply of food and water, a carrier or cage, a muzzle and leash).

Storm names for the 2013 season are: Andrea, Barry, Chantal, Dorian, Erin, Fernand, Gabrielle, Humberto, Ingrid, Jerry, Karen, Lorenzo, Melissa, Nestor, Olga, Pablo, Rebekah, Sebastien, Tanya, Van and Wendy.

The 2013 hurricane season runs through November 30.

Conference Will Address Issues of Transborder Crime and Migration

Philipsburg:--- The Government of St. Maarten is moving forward with its planning of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regional seminar to be held from the ninth to the eleventh of July.

ICAO, with the support of the Government of Sint Maarten, will hold a Regional Seminar on Machine Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs), Biometrics and Identification Management in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, West Indies, from 9 to 11 July 2013.

The MRTD Regional Seminar will assist Member States in North American, Central American and Caribbean Regions in implementing ICAO machine-readable travel document specifications and related ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. The Seminar will specifically address the needs of States to further enhance the integrity of the passport issuance process and ensure robust identification management in order to maximize border security and facilitation benefits.

In particular, the Sint Maarten MRTD Regional Seminar will focus on the very foundation of travel document and border security: a robust national identification management system. Seminar presentations and discussions will explore in depth key components of identification management, including the role of civil registries, evidence of identification (EoI), social footprint and investigative methods of confirming it, manufacturing and personalization of national ID cards, data sharing between national agencies involved in identification management, and much more.

An industry exhibition will complement the Seminar with a broad range of products and services related to MRTDs, biometric identification, travel document security applications and border inspection systems. Seminar participants will have an opportunity to interact with ICAO industry partners and experts to discuss the latest available MRTD technologies.

The Americas and Caribbean have a long history of cross-border migration and, in many instances, weaknesses in border control and identity management. For the past decade population mobility and effective border controls have become a matter of even greater concern for governments in the Caribbean and Central America, due largely to the rise of irregular migration and trans-border crime. In addition, the linkages between national (and regional) security and border controls have prompted governments to factor international organized crime and terrorism threats into their efforts to strengthen their migration and identity management capabilities. Indeed, the need for enhanced comprehensive border and identity capacity-building strategies has emerged as a priority for both individual governments and regional bodies.

A particular challenge that will be addressed during the meeting is related to the Caribbean region containing a considerable number of Dutch, British and French overseas territories. While not part of major regional cooperation frameworks (e.g., the Caricom), those islands are nevertheless part of the overall illegal migration and trans-border crime dynamics in the Caribbean and face common security challenges along with other Caribbean States. The proposed ICAO MRTD Regional Seminar in Sint Maarten presents a step forward in addressing those challenges in a coordinated regional manner in the spirit of inclusion and cooperation.

Invitations have been sent the Immigration, Customs, Civil Registry, the Princess Juliana International Airport, The Harbour, the Ministry of Justice, the Police department, Customs and the Counterparts of the various Organizations from French St. Martin. The Cabinet of the Prime Minister urges early registration to ensure places at the prestigious conference. For more information attendants are urged to send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mischulaikah22052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- One of three books published by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) in time for the St. Martin Book Fair is the French translation of the critical essays, Haiti and Trans-Caribbean Literary Identity.

The new French edition, Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne by Emilio Jorge Rodríguez, comes complete with photos of distinguished Haitian authors, said HNP president Jacqueline Sample.

The book is available for the book fair's opening ceremony at the Chamber of Commerce Building, in Spring Concordia, Marigot on May 30, 2013, at 8 PM.

"Rodríguez's collection of essays is of strategic importance because it uncovers key exchanges... and, in ways, translate works through linguistic and cultural divides, to find common ground," said award-winning novelist Myriam J.A. Chancy.

Furthermore, the translation is "a remarkable collection of essays," said Maximilien Laroche, noted scholar from the Université Laval in Canada.

Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne, just like its previous English/Spanish edition, "is a missing link for most in building our fuller knowledge and experiences of Caribbean literature and culture, of how we think and why we live as we do in this region," said St. Martin author Lasana M. Sekou.

The 144-page book is beautifully designed with a Keith Mallet painting and it is already available at Amazon.com and Arnia's bookstore at Bush Road/Zagersgut Road.

The book fair's opening ceremony will also feature Mischu Laikah, the Netherlands-based singer from St. Martin. "The fine rising star sensation will wax poetic with her soulful voice at the literary festival," said Sekou, who is also projects director at HNP, a book fair co-organizer with Conscious Lyrics (CLF).

Laikah's connection to the festival is not just for celebrity attraction. The singer writes poetry. She is one of 25 mainly young poets and spoken word artists in the new book, Where I See The Sun – Contemporary Poetry in St. Martin, said Sample.

The singer/songwriter has performed with Eros Ramaz­zotti, Mojo Morgan, Orange Grove, and is currently on her first music tour in the Caribbean. Mischu Laikah's debut album, Life.Music.Love, will be available at the book fair (the St. Martin leg of her concert tour happens during the book fair weekend).

According to Lai­kah, "My poetry appears in my music." And it's exactly that blend which "we think will thrill the book fair audience when Mischu Laikah recites one of her poems from Where I See The Sun to musical accompaniment," said Sekou. The anthology will be introduced at the festival's opening night as well.

wmarlin21052013Philipsburg:--- Leader of the National Alliance and Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten William Marlin announced on Wednesday that four Ministers namely Roland Tuitt, Silveria Jacobs, Romeo Pantophlet, and William Marlin have submitted their resignation to the Governor of St. Maarten on Tuesday evening. Marlin said the Ministers took the decision prior to him speaking to the nation on Tuesday but they only submitted their resignation on Tuesday evening. The NA leader said that they have not given up the fight but have chosen not to continue with the polarizing of the island and not to incite violence.

On Wednesday morning the Governor drs. Eugene Holiday sent out a press release stating that the four Ministers representing the National Alliance submitted their resignation. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan already submitted his resignation and has since been discharged from office. It is not yet known if the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and Minister Cornelius de Weever submitted their resignations or if the Governor asked the Prime Minister to submit their resignations since it's the Wescot Williams II Cabinet that had to resign. The Prime Minister was called to the Governor's office on Wednesday morning but up to press time she did not make any statements.

Marlin told reporters on Wednesday afternoon that while the four Ministers submitted their resignations they remain steadfast on the decision the five Ministers of the Council of Ministers took on May 7th, 2013 which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for early elections. Marlin said the constitution of St. Maarten has several articles and right now the Prime Minister who is the chairman of the Council of Ministers is misusing her position by refusing to execute a decision taken by several Ministers. Marlin made clear that no Minister is above another which includes the Prime Minister. He said that while they have submitted their resignation that does not mean that they have given up the fight. However, the fight now remains with the people of St. Maarten who are the ones that elected politicians to office. "You the people have a right to sign the petitions and to make your voices be heard in order to get your wishes. As the leader of the National Alliance I can say we have done our part to get the Prime Minister to respect the constitution of St. Maarten and to carry out the decisions taken by the majority Ministers in the Council of Ministers. We have all taken an oath or made a promise to uphold the constitution of St. Maarten and no Minister is above any other Minister."

Marlin said in 2009 when St. Maarten fell in a political crisis he formed a coalition government with the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger and he worked very hard to ensure that the people of St. Maarten got what they voted for in the year 2000 to become a country within the Kingdom. Marlin said Heyliger left the coalition he formed with him and went on the campaign trail while he and his team remained in office and worked for the people of St. Maarten. He said in 2010 the people of St. Maarten place their confidence in the National Alliance when they gave them three seats in the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles and seven seats in the elections in September 2010, but those that received less votes and seats decided to form a government and excluded the National Alliance. Marlin said in 2010 he did not say anything because he believes in democracy but one year later the UP/DP/Illidge coalition failed. He stepped in and formed a coalition in order to work for the people of St. Maarten. During the formation of that government (NA/DP/I-3) the Democratic Party demanded that they get the seat of the Prime Minister. He said for him it was not about the seat he holds but it was about working for the people of St. Maarten and clearly the Prime Minister who got a vote of no confidence twice from the people of St. Maarten in 2010 decided that she will misuse her power and the trust the coalition partners vested in her.

The National Alliance leader said that at that time St. Maarten was a young country and what has happened now is far different from what took place in 2012. "Today we have the Bada Bing tape, the allegations made by Independent Member Romaine Laville that the leader of the UP tried to bribe him twice, the complaints filed by MP Jules James against MP Laville, and the statements made by the strip club owner Jaap van den Huevel who said that Heyliger asked him to make the tapes in order to blackmail Illidge. Because of these developments the majority Ministers believe that it would be in the best interest of the people of St. Maarten to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for early elections.

Marlin even referred to the statements made by Dutch MP Ronald van Raak who did not want St. Maarten to attain its country status because the Dutch are of the opinion that St. Maarten politicians were corrupt, there was too much nepotism and the abuse of power by politicians on St. Maarten. He said he stood up to the Dutch (van Raak) and defended St. Maarten and its people in order to obtain what the people voted for in 2000 during the referendum.

Marlin said that during the past two weeks St. Maarten was turned upside down with the political crisis. He further explained that someone from the community even suggested that the three political leaders should go before the constitutional court for them to arbitrate on the constitutional issues at hand in order to end the political crisis on the island. Marlin said when the person made the suggestion to him he immediately agreed to do that, but the leaders of the United People's Party and the Democratic Party turned the option down.

While there are talks and many believe that now that five of the seven Ministers have resigned that would pave the way for the eight members of parliament to take over and to install a new cabinet. The governor of St. Maarten still has to make the final call on whether or not he will accept what the Prime Minister did in the Council of Ministers regarding the decision taken by the five Ministers. So far the Governor of St. Maarten has not given any directives except to ask the politicians to follow the rules and constitution of St. Maarten.

Four Ministers Resign.


Harbour View:--- On May 21, 2013, the Ministers Mr. W. Marlin, Mr. R. Tuitt, Mrs. S. Jacobs, and Mr. R. Pantophlet submitted their letters of resignation to His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, as a result of the current political situation. The Governor has presented these letters to Prime Minister Mrs. S. Wescot Williams for further handling.

From the Governor's Cabinet

Politics we are told, is the art of the possible. It St. Maarten politicians have made that into the art of the near impossible. One need look no further than the furious attempts to fashion a government with a one seat parliamentary majority currently taking place. This will create eight chiefs and zero Indians. Each MP can hold the other seven hostage. After all, if he or she withdraws their support, the whole house of cards comes tumbling down. A government with such a slim majority in Parliament is a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at any moment, and at the slightest provocation. One of the oddest pairings is the alliance of Theodore Heyliger and Romaine Laville. This is the weakest link in the alliance. The chain always breaks at the weakest link. The history of animosity between these two is so deep, that each will have to keep a close eye on the other. This is not a marriage based on trust, but on convenience. Even stranger is the spectacle of Jules James fighting tooth and nail to form a government so that he can help make Romaine Laville, a Minister of State! Sad, however, is to watch the once proud Democratic Party lie down to become a political harlot, blithely hopping into bed with the highest bidder for her services. Gone are ideology, pride and self-respect. The voters will do well to put this sorry shambles of a party into an early grave.
In this hodge podge, Romaine Laville remains the volatile element, the wild card, the one wielding the monkey wrench that can and eventually will cause the whole thing to explode. The center will not hold. Things will fall apart, for this odd alliance has no center of gravity to pull it together. The centrifugal forces of disparate egos clashing are bound to tear it apart.
A shot gun marriage of the worst sort, born of desperation and poor calculations by all parties involved. Setting the ship of state to sea in such a creaky and unseaworthy vessel is a hazardous undertaking. One will be well advised to keep on one's life vest close at hand at all times.
Voters are left to figure out what combination of bribes and threats could have been brandished to induce Laville to jump into Theo's arms. Poor William Marlin is left scratching his head wondering how Laville could have been snatched out of his arms, after Laville had assured him over and over of his undying love and devotion. Politics does indeed strange bedfellows make.

fireonthedump21052013Philipsburg:--- Residents on the Pondfill and several businesses had a bad day on Tuesday when a fire of unknown origin started on the Landfill. Several firefighters were seen on the location trying to control the fire and thick smoke. On several occasions there were explosions on the dump causing the fire to become bigger and the smoke thicker. Up to late Monday evening the Department of VROMI could not be reached for a comment on the cause of the fire.

Simpson Bay:--- On Saturday May 18, Mr. Igor Sher proposed to his bride Mrs. Nela Rohovska planeside at Winair. Mr. Sher advised Winair and requested a sign be placed on our aircraft, much to the surprise of the future Mrs. Sher, Winair staff prepared the sign and a bottle of champagne was given to the happy couple. Mrs. Rohovska was completely surprised and said YES to the marriage proposal! The happy couple then flew to St.Barths to celebrate their engagement. Winair staff was in on the surprise and were on hand to share in the moment and wish the couple well.

WINAIR Press Release

uscgeagle21052013POINT BLANCHE:--- There will be an open house on Saturday, May 25 for the general public on-board the U.S. Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle which will be in port from May 24 to the 27. The Open House is from 10:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday.

Visitors should pay attention to signage that will direct you to a safe and secure designated parking area, which is the open lot before you reach the entrance to the port if you are driving from the direction of Chesterfields. There will be a shuttle trolley that will take visitors back and forth to the USCG Eagle throughout the day.

The Port of St. Maarten has been working closely with Dr. Jack Stevens, President of the Navy League's Caribbean and Latin American Region, since last year to bring more U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels to St. Maarten for rest and relaxation. A port delegation which also included Stevens traveled to Seatrade in March where they met with various representatives of the United States Navy in order to promote liberty visits to the island.

Jack Stevens further explained that the four factors that determine where a ship makes a liberty visit are (1) the needs of the country or service, (2) the safety and security of the ship and the crew members, (3) costs associated with the visit, and (4) last, but certainly not least, the wishes of the crew.

Chief Executive Officer of the Port of St. Maarten Mark Mingo said that we can promote future business for our Country St. Maarten by making all visitors feel safe and secure, keep our prices competitive with other ports, and by helping every visitor have a great time on our friendly island.

The U.S. Coast Guard Tall Ship Eagle for its 2013 sailing schedule is traveling to the Caribbean, along the Eastern Seaboard, and to Canada with cadets and officer candidates, teaching them practical seamanship skills while indoctrinating them in the Coast Guard's floating leadership laboratory.

The Eagle was built at the Blohm + Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany in 1936, and commissioned as Horst Wessel. The Eagle became one of three sail-training ships operated by the pre-World War II German Navy.

At the close of the war, the ship was taken as a war reparation by the U.S., re-commissioned as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle and sailed to New London, Connecticut, which has been its homeport ever since.

Eagle has offered generations of Coast Guard Academy cadets, and more recently officer candidates, an unparalleled leadership experience at sea. The Eagle offers the opportunity to put into practice the navigation, engineering, and other professional theory future officers have previously leaned in the classroom.

The hull of the Eagle is steel, four-tenths of an inch thick. There are two full-length steel decks with a platform deck below. Under full sail in the open ocean, the Eagle can reach speeds up to 17 knots.

Great Bay:--- The Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior and Perception of Sex, Sexuality and Family Planning (KABP) research among the age groups 18-59 years old will start this month and end in June 2013. This research is spearheaded by the Department of Social Development in collaboration with the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team and Collective Preventive Services with the aim of attaining an indication of the knowledge, attitude, behavior and perception of sexual practices within the age groups 18-59 years old, while measuring their usage and non-usage of family planning methods..
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is encouraging the entire community to assist with this research as surveys and focus groups will be used to conduct the research, therefore cooperation from the community is important.
The questionnaire will last approximately 40 minutes, and the information obtained will be treated with the highest degree of confidentiality. The information obtained from the survey will be used to determine the country's level of HIV/AIDS knowledge awareness; gain clearer perceptions about sex, sexuality and family planning; communicate to the public the practice of risky behaviors that result in the spread of STI's/STD's and unwanted pregnancies, and lastly provide products and services that are comfortable to use while practicing safe sex.
"I would like to thank the community in advance for assisting us in this research, and more information regarding the research will be forthcoming," said Minister De Weever.

telemgroupcellsite02052013Pond Island:--- Interference to TelEm Group's 3G network continues to be affected by interference from a source in Anguilla – despite the company's move to a new frequency last week.
TelEm Group continues to work closely with the Bureau of Telecommunication and Post (BTP), St. Maarten, and the source of the interference in Anguilla to identify and eliminate the interference.
Last week the BTP authorized TelEm Group's use of a new temporary mobile frequency as a first step towards eliminating the problem, however, upon configuration of network equipment and software, the change to the new frequency did not achieve the expected improvement in the voice and data network.
"We continue to experience interference from neighboring Anguilla, and equipment being operated by Digicel on Anguilla," said TelEm Group Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa.
Mr. Louisa said TelEm Group technicians are working with their counterparts at Digicel Anguilla to eliminate the problem as quickly as possible while continuing to work with the local Regulator.
Last night the technicians conducted an Emergency Maintenance exercise also aimed at minimizing interference on the company's 3G network.
He said TelEm Group will call in outside help if necessary should any additional steps need to be taken.
"We want this matter resolved as quickly as possible in the interest of our customers who are affected by the interference to our 3G voice and data network," said Mr. Louisa.
Mr. Louisa said he understands that the current interference must be very frustrating to customers in the worst affected areas, however he wants to assure these customers that the matter is being dealt with as a matter of priority.
"We are adjusting equipments as best we can to improve the quality of signals in the worst affected areas, but the interference is a limiting factor because we have to operate with live equipment at all times," said the Chief Technical Officer.
Mr. Louisa is continuing to advise customers who are experience problems with the TelEm Group 3G network to take their handsets and smartphones off AUTO to "push" their service onto the company's 2G network until they are informed otherwise.

Telem Press Release

St. Maarten Pride Foundation is very much concerned about the human health and environmental consequences of fires at the landfill, such as the fire which took place on Tuesday May 21st, 2013.

Pride informs Government that landfill fires release fine ash and potentially cancer-causing substances and therefore pose both immediate and long-term health risks to those exposed to the smoke, gases and toxic fumes. The hazard and level of toxicity of landfill fires depends on the length of exposure to them and on the type of material that is burning.

Landfill fires generally release high levels of Carbon Monoxide (CO) which is harmful when inhaled as it displaces oxygen in the lungs thereby depriving the brain, heart and other vital organs of oxygen which can cause permanent damage and illness.

Another extremely serious concern during landfill fires is the emission of dioxins. Exposure to dioxins is a major concern due to their highly toxic potential and their persistence as organic pollutants. International studies have revealed that dioxins adversely affect a number of vital organs.

Even very low levels of dioxin emissions can have negative effects on the environment and on human health, in particular on the most vulnerable groups like infants and young children. Symptoms of short-term exposure of humans to high levels of dioxins include asthma, skin rashes, and liver problems. Long-term and or repeated exposure to high levels of dioxins may lead to impairment of the immune system, cause nerve damage (particularly with infants), reproductive and developmental problems and an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.

The management of St. Maarten's solid waste and by extension thereof the dump which government chooses to refer to as the "sanitary landfill" is a longstanding issue. St. Maarten Pride Foundation reminds Government of its duty to safeguard the health and overall well-being of the island's residents and its visitors. The landfill fire are is serious health concern and therefore deserves Government's undivided attention.

St. Maarten Pride Foundation advises the general public to safeguard their health by taking precautionary measures to avoid inhalation and exposure to toxic fumes and particles during landfill fires.

Press Release from St. Maarten Pride Foundation

Windward Islands Airways NV "WINAIR" is pleased to inform its clients that it has launched "On-Line Check-In Facilities". Clients can now from home or anywhere with an internet connection, check in on their flight starting 24 hours before departure up and till 2 hours. Passengers with no luggage and checked in online, can proceed to Winair departure gate at least 45 minutes before departure. Passenger with baggage can proceed at least 60 minutes before departure to our special "Baggage Drop Counter".
Winair in its efforts continues to enhance our customer experience with this latest feature. Please check our website for special deals including various special package prices which includes Air, Free Car Rental, Hotel, and diving packages.
For any questions, please contact our call center at +1 721 5454237 option 1 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

rolandduncan21052013Philipsburg:--- Former Minister of Justice and Attorney at Law Roland Duncan in an interview with SMN News on Tuesday said he maintains his view that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams has been abusing the power vested in her as Prime Minister and Chairman of the Council of Ministers. Duncan also stated that the Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday is failing in his duties as the Head of State on St. Maarten. Duncan said it has been two weeks now that St. Maarten is in a political crisis and the Governor has to step in as the representative of the State to bring about order. "So far, the Governor has not yet done so, by now the Governor should have at least given the Prime Minister an instruction to place the request of the majority of the Ministers on the agenda. Here, the Governor is taking a very impartial position which surprises me because he is very active on smaller matters. I would like to know why the Governor has not taken the decision to write an instruction in this case. The Dutch was very quick to do that in the case of the Justice Park which was just a plan. I am not saying it's the responsibility of the Governor but at a certain stage he has to take an impartial decision such as telling the Chairman of Parliament to allow the meeting to take place and he will also have to tell the Prime Minister to allow the majority to vote. Even if the MPs vote a motion of non-confidence against the Ministers, they still have the right to send Parliament home. I am looking forward for the Governor to do what he needs to do or else the Kingdom would have to step in because there is an impasse. The statements made by the Prime Minister claiming that the Deputy Prime Minister committed a crime is pure non-sense because anyone can send a letter to the Governor."

Duncan said that everyone is blaming the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel for postponing the meetings of Parliament but the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams is just as guilty by refusing to execute the request of the majority in the Council of Ministers. Duncan said since May 7th, 2013 he was very vocal in the Council of Ministers' meeting when he told the Prime Minister that she was abusing her power. Duncan said five of the seven Ministers in the Council of Ministers proposed to dissolve Parliament based on article 59 of the country's constitution and instead of the Prime Minister dealing with the request of the majority, she chose to say she needed legal advice. "The Prime Minister thinks she is in the Island Council but those days are over." Duncan said that the Prime Minister also brought an advice to the Council and she too did not follow proper procedures. He said that while the chairman is mandated to make up the agenda she does not have the right to cancel or postpone the request of the majority forever. Duncan said on May 7th when the chairman of the Council of Ministers chose not to deal with the proposal of the majority a written request was sent to her requesting that she place a meeting to discuss the political situation on St. Maarten. Duncan said the Prime Minister (Chairperson of the Council of Ministers) has two days in which she has scheduled this meeting. When asked by SMN News if that is written somewhere in the rules of order, Duncan said he believes it is in article 13 of the rules of order but he was not 100% sure if that was the correct article since he did not have the rules of order in front of him at the time the interview was conducted.

"The Prime Minister is stalling the handling of the matter, it is not her appointment and she does not have extra powers that other Ministers don't have. The only thing is she is the Chairman of the Council of Ministers. Not putting the point on the agenda is an abuse of her power, its undemocratic, and its also dictatorial." Duncan also said that the dissolution has nothing to do with the majority in Parliament.

Duncan said that the Prime Minister referred to his letter of resignation where he cited the letter from those that indicated that they form the new majority. Duncan explained that he consulted with everyone involved and when he realized that he did not have the support as a Minister he resigned. "I, Roland Duncan was appointed by MP Patrick Illidge and when I realized that my support was not there I left, the Prime Minister should not include me in what she believes and how she thinks Ministers should resign."

Duncan said what is currently taking place on St. Maarten shows immaturity on all sides, particularly when it comes to the Prime Minister and her actions. In mature politics, Parliament would send the Ministers home and the Ministers on the other hand could dissolve Parliament and call for new elections.

Duncan said right now the minority party in government is running the show (Democratic Party), the two bigger parties, the UP and NA are being held hostage by the minority the Democratic Party. "I hope with what is playing out today that the bigger party leaders will not give their Prime Minister seat to any smaller party in the future so that they can hold them hostage. If you look at what has happened the UP was in Government and they got kicked out, the NA got in and now they are being kicked out while the Democratic Party that has the least amount of seats remains in government. They will not like me for what I am saying but this is not democratic because the smaller party should not be in a position to hold the larger parties hostage. If they want to do electoral reform they should change it and allow the majority to take decisions on levels, in Government and in Parliament."

They should not try to control the Independents, the law provides immunity for Parliamentarians because MPs must have their freedom to speak and take decisions that they believe in.

When SMN News asked the former Minister if there is any truth to what is said in the community that he will be serving as an advisor to MP Romaine Laville if he makes it to become the Minister of TEATT, Duncan said he will serve his country but so far he did not make any agreement with anyone. Duncan said that he has a law firm and if anyone decides to hire his services he will provide that service if the price is right. "If Government consulted me for my services I have the right to consider whether or not I will grant the services, especially if the price is right."

wmarlin21052013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin issued a strong call to the people of St. Maarten on Tuesday afternoon asking them to remain calm and to hold a level head as the political situation on St. Maarten becomes more intense. Marlin made the call on Tuesday afternoon at national press conference when he informed the people of St. Maarten that the political situation on St. Maarten is not moving forward and that politicians are now at an impasse because the Prime Minister of St. Maarten has refused to deal with the decision taken by five members of the Council of Ministers on May 7th, 2013 which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for early elections. Marlin said right now two things could happen which is either the Governor of St. Maarten would intervene or the Kingdom Council of Ministers would have to intervene and send an instruction to St. Maarten, but so far neither of the two has happened. The Deputy Prime Minister also stated that Members of Parliament and Ministers are becoming fearful because the situation on St. Maarten is becoming more tense by the day.

Marlin indicated that the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel has been receiving threats and that unscrupulous persons have been visiting Samuel's place of business. Marlin did not divulge details of the threats even when he was asked to do so. He said he has been a politician for close to 20 years and his 18 year old son has become fearful of the situation on St. Maarten. Marlin also explained again on Tuesday afternoon what exactly transpired in the Council of Ministers' meeting on May 7th, 2013 when the Prime Minister presented an advice for the Wescot Williams II Cabinet to resign.

Marlin said after exhausting all his efforts to get the Prime Minister to respect the desires of the majority members in the Council of Ministers, he took it upon himself to write the Governor a letter and to also send him a Landsbesluit in order to move the process forward but the Governor indicated to him that he could not have dealt with the LB unless it passes through the Council of Ministers' meeting. He said he attempted to do that again on Tuesday and the Prime Minister refused to adhere to his request which was also based on a written advice he received from the Governor of St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- The political crisis on St. Maarten is becoming more confusing by the day and it appears as though no one seems to know what is legal from what is illegal. On Tuesday afternoon, the Vice Chairman of Parliament Romaine Laville sent out an invitation to all Members of Parliament inviting them to a Parliamentary meeting that will take place at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall on Thursday at 10am. The invitation which was sent through Roddy Heyliger and not the griffier of Parliament states that the meeting "no. 6" that was postponed for the third time on Monday will reconvene to discuss the political situation on St. Maarten.

On the invitation the Vice Chairman of Parliament has two agenda points, the first being the one requested by MPs George Pantophlet, Frans Richardson, and Louie Laveist, while the second agenda point is the motion of non-confidence to be brought against four Ministers, namely William Marlin, Roland Tuitt, Silvera Jacobs, and Romeo Pantophlet.

What makes the entire political crisis confusing is that the Governor of St. Maarten in a press release on May 15th called on politicians to follow the rules of order and the constitution in order to resolve the political crisis on St. Maarten.
While the Vice Chairman sent out an invitation to all Members of Parliament and has taken the liberty to advance a meeting that was adjourned by the President of Parliament to Friday. On Tuesday afternoon, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten dispatched a letter to the Chairman of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel informing him that the decision and motion that was passed by the eight members of Parliament on May 13th, 2013 is binding. The Prime Minister in her letter said that based on advice she received from the Department of Legal Affairs the meeting is binding and the members of the Council of Ministers who no longer enjoy the support of Parliament have to submit their resignation.

Click here to view the invitation sent to the Members of Parliament by Vice Chairman of Parliament Romaine Laville.

Click here to view the letter sent to the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams.

"New web application gives food services the tools needed to facilitate online orders."

Philipsburg:--- Soon local restaurants will be able to offer customers a new service, online ordering. iLandgrub.com is a new web application designed to help hungry tech-savvy consumers discover restaurants that deliver to their homes via their PC, Tablet and mobile devices. iLandGrub.com also offers order management & online menu building solutions for restaurants who want to reach their customers online using their own dedicated Order Management Solutions (OMS) web application.

Grub OMS Basic is expected to be the first product the company will launch near the end of July as a restaurant solution for processing online orders. It comes packed with menu building, customer management, promotion and advanced reporting tools. "One of our core features is mobility" said start-up company founder, Duane Meade. " The time is right for restaurant owners to take advantage of the increasing developments in mobile connectivity on the island, their customers are already online - they should be too." With the use of Grub OMS, restaurant owners will be able to monitor and control online orders on the go, from any device. Restaurants can also provide their customers the option of online payment through their own online menu. Online payments are secured and made possible through full integration of PayPal payment gateways.

"We have partnered with ASAP Delivery Experts who offer tailored delivery solutions for restaurants who do not currently offer delivery." said Meade. "Not only would this increase our users offerings when searching for food but it would also give smaller restaurants a better position competitively, as the food services market on the island continue to face increasing market saturation."

ilandGrub aims to change the way we find and order food on St. Maarten and neighboring Caribbean islands by using available technology to enhance and personalize customer experiences.

Grub OMS will be available to restaurants starting August 2013 on an invite only basis and will launch as a Free service until the 2nd quarter of 2014. iLandGrub.com restaurant discovery app will launch and remain free for users on August 2013. Interested parties are urged to register today for an invite by visiting www.ilandgrub.com.

Philipsburg:--- During an interview with SMN News on Tuesday, former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan brought more clarity on how the negotiations for the Justice Park took place and what exactly transpired before he sent the letter of intent to the Prime Minister for approval.

The former Minister of Justice who was in the hot seat because of the Justice Park he wanted to construct explained that the negotiations started in November 2011 when the UP/DP/Illidge Government was in office. He said he started to negotiate with Sameer Andrwos to rent the BOX in order to create more cell space for prisoners. He said on November 26th, 2011 a plan was drafted where Andrwos would have reconstructed the BOX and turn it into a prison facility. "At that time, the words "Justice Park" were nowhere in the picture, Andrwos would have constructed 40 cells within four months while payments for the BOX would have started one year after but Andrwos never lived up to the contract which stated that he had to start the construction of the prison cells within a four months time frame. The plan was presented to the Council of Ministers and the council had no objections including the Prime Minister." Duncan said in 2012 as he was confronted with more issues regarding prison space and other prison facilities and the idea came up for the Justice Park. He said Andrwos was again contacted for the two unfinished buildings he had in Cay Hill, one being the BOX and the other six story building.

Duncan said he took all the plans he started back to the Council of Ministers and again it was approved. He said the Prime Minister also approved his ideas and at no time did she recuse herself from the decision making even though she knew the negotiators were members of her family. Duncan made clear that the Prime Minister who is the chairman of the Council of Ministers knew that her relatives were involved in the negotiations and he did not have to tell her how to act or what to do.

He said the Deputy Prime Minister at the time Theodore Heyliger was very vocal and supportive of the project because one of his ideas was to move the Court House from Front Street and put it in Cay Hill. Duncan said while it is estimated that the Justice Park would cost $100,000,000.00 no actual figure was finalized.

Duncan also addressed the email and discussion the Prime Minister brought up about the controls and inspections that were conducted by the Department of VSA, Inspectorate of Health, Labor, and Immigration. Duncan said that the Prime Minister's concerns were about the time the controls were being conducted, another point she raised is amount of time it takes for business people to obtain a business license. He said while he agrees that government has to speed up the process, that does not give anyone the right to open up shop and start a business without a business license.

SMN News asked Duncan if he ever stopped or interfered in the judicial process in order to protect politicians because there are numerous cases involving politicians that are sitting on the desks of the Landrecherche and they are not being investigated or prosecuted. Duncan said at no time did he interfere with the judicial process and since he has been in office, the only report he received from the Landsrecherche is the case of the Tortola Boat mishap that claimed the lives of nine persons. Duncan said on the contrary he cooperated in every sense of way when it came to the departments of Justice. He said when requests reached his desk he would sign them off the same day if possible.

theyliger04032012The people of the country would like the impasse created by the National Alliance to be over and governance returned to the country! There is a crystal clear parliamentary majority in place! The Governor needs to take his decision based on this.

I can fully understand the frustrations of some of the people with respect to the political events that have transpired during the last two weeks.

Those who created an unnecessary standoff have therefore once again tarnished the good name of the country.

The Leader of the National Alliance described the current situation to the Dutch as becoming intense and explosive. This is total nonsense! It is far from the truth, and it sends the wrong message once again to the outside world, especially the foreign investor and the visitor to the island.

These reckless comments and unprofessional behaviour can have a negative impact on the credit rating of the country. It can also lead to negative travel advisories being issued by the United States, Canada and European Governments with respect to the travel of their citizens to the country thereby impacting our tourism oriented economy.

Is it the intention of the National Alliance to create an explosive situation that would endanger the employment of the people of Sint Maarten?

I fully concur with His Excellency the Governor's statement released by his Cabinet for all stakeholders to do all that is necessary to maintain and protect the integrity of our constitutional democracy, and to foster actions in keeping with our constitution.

The appointment of a new President of Parliament will be forthcoming followed by a new Council of Ministers to work in the interests of the people and the country. Constitutionally due elections are approximately 12-months away.

The longer this impasse goes on leads to more speculation that something is amiss. A parliamentary majority is in place and this should be respected by the Council of Ministers, in particular the National Alliance members and Independent appointed Minister R. Pantophlet who no longer enjoy the support of the majority in Parliament, the highest elected body of the people of this country.

The parliamentary majority has presented its case to the Governor. The Governor now has to act.

There is no difference than what transpired last April/May 2012 compared to now! Tell me what is the difference? Elections held within the next couple of months will not change anything. You will still be in the same situation as before where Members of Parliament can leave a party and become an independent member of parliament, and withdraw their support and form a government with another party. That is the political reality that we live in today based on the current electoral laws of our country.

Changing the aforementioned can only be dealt with by Members of Parliament revising the electoral laws.

The National Alliance Leader has admitted that he and his Ministers are frustrating the authority of Parliament. Last April/May 2012, there was also an UP majority in the Council of Ministers that saw majority support in Parliament withdrawn. We saw the writing on the wall and resigned according to the laws of the land.

We respected our Constitution and parliamentary democracy and left without creating an impasse. We respected the parliamentary majority. Today, we have a National Alliance standoff where William Marlin is not respecting the majority in parliament, and that is damaging the image of our country.

Voters are coming to me every day telling me why doesn't the National Alliance respect the wishes of parliament? Democracy must prevail and there is a majority in parliament.

What we have is a Dictator who has taken over the Council of Ministers. He has not followed the procedure and has submitted a decree to the Governor with his name as Deputy Prime Minister to dissolve parliament. He cannot do this with the Prime Minister present. This is an illegal act and goes against the Constitution of Country Sint Maarten. The proper procedures were not followed with respect to this process. The Prime Minister cannot allow bad governance to prevail and has to act accordingly. The Prime Minister is protecting our democracy from the dictatorial procedures of William Marlin.

On Monday again, the Parliament of our country, the peoples Parliament, was hijacked for a third time by the President of Parliament. These people say they are working in the interests of the country, but if that is the case, and then you would let democracy prevail where the majority in parliament prevails. The people of this country are not stupid and they see the difference between the UP respecting our Constitution and democracy while the National Alliance actions in parliament and at the Council of Ministers level leaves a lot to be desired. William and Samuel are hell bent on sabotaging the democratic processes of the country and their actions speak louder than words. We are heading down a dark track in the young life of our country.

And with respect to the repeated political rhetoric being spewed by William Marlin of the National Alliance and cohorts, I have not attempted to bribe anybody or attempted to blackmail anybody for anything. Let Justice take its course.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United People's (UP) Party

swescotwilliamsandoralgibbs20052013"If there are new elections our satisfaction would be short-lived. We will come out of this together stronger."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams took the opportunity to address the people of St. Maarten regarding the political developments on Oral Gibbes live on Monday. The Prime Minister gave an explanation on the political discussion and answered numerous questions from a significant amount of callers. "I think that what the people of St Maarten need to understand is that we once again have a situation where St Maarten needs to rise to the occasion and solve what we are experiencing now and set the example for the people. I realize, and we must all realize, that this too will come to pass and will serve as a lesson for all of us. At the end of it we will have become stronger and review the laws which we have. At the end of this we will see changes and amendments to rules and regulations so that we can stop this situation from happening again," commented the PM.

"I have taken distance from all statements regarding anything related to a Mexican Standoff. This statement sends the wrong message not only internationally but especially to the people of St. Maarten. When politicians start talking about Mexican Standoff; meaning that no one will budge on their position without thinking what that will do to St. Maarten and our young Democracy. They are putting their own political aspirations above those of the people. I will not entertain this and I think it is very unfortunate that those statements have been made. Regardless of the situation we are in we, as leaders in this Country, need to give direction as to how we act, do or say and we need to be very conscious of our statements."

The Prime Minister also explained that a very dangerous precedent is being set. "The dangerous and unfortunate part of this whole situation is that if those that are continuing this stalemate this are allowed to do so this situation can basically go on for ever. I have understood that the President of Parliament adjourned the Parliamentary Meeting today for Friday. However, there is no guarantee that on Friday the same thing will not transpire; that the President will adjourn again. Our parliamentarians need to see now how we can ensure how that is going to continue.

"The proposals from politicians and governing need to be clear to the people of St. Maarten. Elections on their own will not stop happening what is happening now. No one is able to foretell what a person will do when they get into Parliament. That is why we need electoral reform; we need to come to a system that will make it much clearer to the people of St. Maarten to understand to what politicians and political parties stand for. How can politicians be held accountable for the things they sold at elections and during campaigns? I believe that for elections to gain the turn around for what people are clamoring for we need electoral reform. If there are new elections our satisfaction would be short-lived realizing that elections did not help at all.

"I am a firm believer that there are many person of good will on St. Maarten and we will fix this matter. I have a moral and professional responsibility to lift this country. Let us ban together and fix this situation in the long run. We will come out of this together this stronger than when we entered into this situation," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotaryseniorcitizenscruise20052013Simpson Bay:--- The smiles on the faces said it all, on the annual Rotary Senior Citizens Cruise held recently. Over 150 Seniors were treated to lunch, a cruise through the lagoon and entertainment by DJ Ruby and not to forget a taste of Guavaberry.

The Rotary Club of St. Maarten started with this project more than 25 years ago whereby restaurants donated the lunch for the seniors and the fundraising dinner and dance that would be held the same evening covered the other expenses. Some things have changed since it started, but this humanitarian project focused on our seniors has proven to be an event supported by the community and enjoyed by the seniors alike.
The Rotary Club of St. Maarten would like to thank the community of St. Maarten for its continuous support which makes projects like this possible. Special recognition must be given to nurses and volunteers of the St. Maarten Home, Home Away from Home, Golden Age Foundation and individuals, Russell Bell and Bobby Keough, who ensure that our senior citizens are able to attend these activities and have a good time. Many persons and companies contributed and Rotarians, their partners, Rotaractors and Interactors continue to be encouraged to carry out community service projects that bring smiles to faces and make a positive impact on peoples lives.

cdeweeveratthinktanksession20052013Philipsburg:--- In an effort to increase awareness on HIV/AIDS, STIs, as well as healthy lifestyle choices, the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team (PMT) in collaboration with the Department of Communication (DCOMM) and Collective Prevention Services (CPS) have began to develop a monthly TV Show. This TV Show will be aired on St. Maarten Cable TV, www.sintmaartengov.org, YouTube, and Facebook later on this year. This initiative aims at engaging, educating, and encouraging participation of the youth in the development and execution of youth friendly HIV, STI, and general health awareness

In order to develop the format and content for the TV Show, a Think Tank session was held on Thursday, May 17th at the University of St. Maarten with students between the ages of 16-20 from various secondary schools on the Dutch Side. At this event the students acted as the experts and gave their ideas on what kind of show would be entertaining for them and their peers to watch. They engaged in a discussion on what shows are popular amongst teenagers now; what information do they think their peers need to know about HIV, STI and healthy lifestyle choices such as getting tested for HIV, relationships, sexting, abortions, depression, and dieting among many others; who would be a good host and why; and most important what format would be most appealing (game show, reality series, investigative reporting, etc).

"The students were extremely creative and produced very interesting ideas that will definitely be used to guide the development of the TV Show. They are eager to continue contributing to making this exciting opportunity for St. Maarten a success and we will continue to work closely with these dynamic group of students as well as others who are interested. Based on the information we gathered there will be another think tank session, and then we will begin developing and executing the episodes," says Alissa Rios, Communication Officer for the PMT.

Minister Cornelius de Weever, the PMT, DCOMM, and CPS would like to give a special thank you to all the students that were involved - Natalie Richardson & Alexander Watkins (Sundial School); Naomie Mazzola & Gila Parisot (Caribbean International Academy); Sahar Thomson & Heavenest St.Cyr (St. Dominica High); Shanikwa Jno-Baptiste (MPC); Riddhi Samtani & Isaiah Haakmat (Learning Unlimited); Jeffeny Fidel & Rholdyne Lake (St. Maarten Academy), the coordinators/teachers from the various schools, the facilitators who helped guide the discussion (Jorge Solano, Peter Arndell, Shameda Delaney, and Rodney Richardson), and the University of St. Maarten. Stay Tuned, New TV Show in the making!

leonaromeomarlin20052013The Toastmasters Clubs of Sint Maarten will be hosting an Area Debate with the theme "Electoral Reform; Is there a need for change?". This event will be debated by experienced Toastmasters and will bring to the forefront the pros and cons on one of the most talked about issues within the community of Sint Maarten. "The debate will be one of the first held in a very long time by the organization", said Area Governor Leona Romeo-Marlin. As Area Governor, "I believe that it is essential that as Toastmasters we fervently continue to educate not only our selves but the community". Funds raised from this debate will be used for purchasing of educational and administrative materials for the Toastmasters Clubs on the Island.

Toastmasters International offers a program of communication and leadership projects designed to help people learn the art of speaking, listening, and thinking.
The debate will give spectators the opportunity to view Toastmasters display quick responses, present coherent arguments and make a clear presentation of their views. Teams will get the opportunity to present their affirmative or negative case and each team will get a chance to rebuttal. Team one consists of Joy Arnell, Denise Vijber, Georges Richardson, and Ashanti van Heyningen. Team two consists of Danae Daal, Malcolm Jacques, Alexandra den Ouden and Juan Richardson.
"The subject chosen by the planning committee may be considered a 'hot topic' however to reiterate what I stated it's about educating the community. I encourage the community of St. Maarten to take advantage of this opportunity and attend this event", concluded Area Governor Leona Romeo-Marlin.
The debate is scheduled for June 9th, 2013 at the Belair Community Center, starting at 4.30 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door for $8 p.p.

cdeweeveratpointeblanchewaterplant20052013Great Bay:--- The good news of the arrival of the second stage and the main pump of the first Seawater Reverse Osmosis Desalination Plant was reason for Minister Cornelius De Weever, responsible for production and distribution of water to visit, the Yellow Building at the Harbor Cargo where the Pointe Blanche water plant will be housed.

Two new Desalination Plants will be built in the Yellow Building. Construction of the first new plant will start as soon as most of the equipment is on the island. The second stage, first to arrive on the Island, is an essential part of the new drinking water Plant as it will further desalinate the product water from the first stage to produce drinking water, well within the quality specifications. The first stage and other essential filtering equipment will be shipped soon and completion of the plant is foreseen in August 2013. The second plant will be built in 2016.

Production of drinking water will start once feed water is supplied to the plant. The design of the seawater intake and feed water supply system is in an advanced stage. The construction time for the feed water system may take may take longer than the actual time to build the plant. The decision to choose for the alternative open sea intake was necessary as deep wells near the building cannot produce the required volume of feed water.

The plants are built by Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water as described in the Water Supply Agreement Addendum II signed in December 2012 by Government and Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water. The plants are for the production of desalinated water which will be further distributed as drinking water by GEBE. Each Plant is designed for a maximum production of 3700 m3 per day. To compare: One typical household consumes half of a cubic meter per day.
The construction of the two water storage tanks, uphill in Pointe Blanche, reported on last week, are also included in this agreement.

fishermancatcheslionfish20052013The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has continued to work with local fishermen in battling the Lionfish Invasion. Fisherman Stanley Hosford (and daughter Sabrina) are pictured here with a large lionfish specimen caught using Fish Pots donated by the Nature Foundation. "Fishermen are very important in controlling the invasion; staff members and divers eradicating Lionfish can only do so within safe Scuba Diving Limits while fishermen are able to trap for Lionfish in much deeper waters," read a Nature Foundation statement. Mr. Hosford was donated a fish trap which was confiscated because placed illegally within the Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area and was never collected by its owners. "By recycling fishing traps we are able to continue the tradition of fishing in a sustainable manner on St. Maarten while simultaneously working to eradicate the Invasive Lionfish."

Lionfish are an invasive venomous fish that can inflict a painful and sometimes fatal sting. Lionfish are usually found in the Indian and Pacific Oceans but were introduced into the Atlantic thru the aquarium trade. Native fish species don't recognize the Lionfish as a threat so they are unable to defend themselves against it. In other places were lionfish were spotted there are hardly any snappers and grouper left because those are the type of fish the lionfish likes to eat.

The Nature Foundation encourages fishermen, divers and all those who may have captured or sighted lionfish to report their catch or sightings to the Nature Foundation through calling 5270490 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

teamfcsoualiga20052013FC Soualiga is a women's soccer team established on Sint Maarten in April of 2013 under the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation. The team is being coached by David Forsythe, who has over 30 years of experience coaching soccer teams of all ages. Currently the team is practicing for its first match on Saturday May 25th 2013, and a tournament planned for June. In addition to the planned matches, FC Soualiga will be holding a summer camp for all women interested in developing their soccer skills. If persons are interested in joining the team, FC Soualiga is still looking for energetic and fun ladies to join the team as well as the summer camp. The FC Soualiga team has been growing steadily in numbers and popularity and has ascertained a sponsorship by one of the biggest companies on the island. The new sponsor will officially be revealed during the match of May 25th, 12.00 pm at Johan Cruijff Court Belvedere. All are welcome to come support and inquire about joining.

For those interested in joining: FC Soualiga soccer practices takes place every Tuesday and Thursday at the Asha Stevens Campus of the Hillside Christian School in Cay Hill from 6pm. Membership is free and uniforms and gear will be provided. Interest in joining the team and inquiries can be e-mailed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., via the Facebook page: FC Soualiga, or come visit during practice!

"It is unfortunate that political games are being played while we are striving to ensure that governing continues."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams issued a statement on Monday dismissing allegations made on a news website regarding her sending a letter to Minister of Economic Affairs Romeo Pantophlet on the apparent inspection of an establishment reputed to be owned by a relative. "It is unfortunate that political games are being played at the moment while we are striving to ensure that governing continues. The attempts at manipulation, resulting in misinformation being distributed throughout the community, is contrary to ensuring that the people's business is taken care of. However, taking into consideration that I have always centered my administration on transparency and integrity, I would like to clarify the matter," commented the Prime Minister.

In the online article it is alleged that the PM penned a letter to the Minister of Economic Affairs regarding Labor and Immigration Controls that were executed at the beginning of the year. The Prime Minister confirmed that she did indeed write an email to the Minister of Economic Affairs, but that this was centered on permitting and the issuing of licenses and the difficulty businesses have in receiving licenses and permits on time. In the letter the Prime Minister stated that businesses are being fined despite the fact that their permits are still being processed: "Without these licenses, no request for employment permits can be made...Given this climate out there, should you (Minister Pantophlet) not issue a general decree, summoning all businesses whose licenses (business a/o operational) are not yet completed to close shop until such are issued? I ask this, knowing full well that this is impossible, because a large percentage of the businesses will have to close due to the lack of one license or another; businesses where St. Maarteners and other locals are also employed. Is it fair to fine a business that after waiting for months on a decision on their license, decided –at their wits end and with leases to pay- to start operations?" stated the Prime Minister in her correspondence to Minister Pantophlet.

"This was a desperate salvo of Minister Duncan. Sometimes you could tell a lie by not telling the whole truth and by making this particular remark the Minister suggested that the Prime Minister Issued a directive or more regarding the controls that have been taken place on St. Maarten. In fact, the email, not the letter which was erroneously reported, that the Prime Minister sent to several Ministers following a discussion by several Ministers in the Council of Ministers on the topic is there for anyone who wishes to read it," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliams20052013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams tried to distance herself from the much contested Justice Park which her son and son in law have been negotiating with the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. During a spontaneous live press conference, the Prime Minister said that she wants to make clear that the letter of intent that was sent to the Council of Ministers on the Justice Park was sent for judicial and financial advice. Wescot Williams said that she received the advice and later forwarded it to the Minister of Justice and to date there has been no response from the former Minister of Justice Roland Duncan.

The Prime Minister also commented on the email she sent to the Ministers regarding the controls and inspections that were being conducted by Immigration and the Inspectorate of Health and Labour. SMN News questioned the former Minister of Justice about these controls when we were informed that a control was conducted at the Brasserie New York which belongs to the Prime Minister's son Andy Wescot. According to Duncan, the inspectors found several health violations and illegal workers at the business establishment.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed to SMN News that the Department of VSA sent a process verbal to the Prosecutor's Office and his office is yet to take a decision on the matter. Mos said to date he has not received a process verbal from the Immigration Department headed by Udo Aron. Wescot Williams told reporters on Monday that she sent the email after discussing the issue with the Council of Ministers.

"I will do what is necessary to resolve the Political Crisis --- Deputy Prime Minister committed a Punishable Act."

updprlavillesupporters20052013The press conference the Prime Minister called on Monday was to deal with the political crisis on St. Maarten. Wescot Williams read the letter and Landsbesluit that the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin sent to the Governor of St. Maarten last Monday informing him that the majority members of the Council of Ministers had taken a decision to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said the only person that is authorized to send such letters or Landsbesluits (decree) to the Governor is her in the capacity of the Prime Minister, she further explained that the letter and LB sent to the Governor last week does not reflect the truth because the Council of Ministers has not taken any decision on the dissolving of Parliament. Wescot Williams said the actions taken by the Deputy Prime Minister is punishable by law. However, she could not tell SMN News what the punishments are for the actions taken by the Deputy Prime Minister. Another statement Wescot Williams made was that there is nothing like a "Deputy Prime Minister" that function does not exist she said. Wescot Williams said when she is absent or off island the "deputy" then acts as Prime Minister.

Wescot Williams said that the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan resigned from his position which is now public information. She said the former Justice Minister Roland Duncan used the same letter that is now being contested by politicians as the basis for his resignation.

In addressing the political situation, the Prime Minister repeated what she told reporters on Wednesday on how she handled the letters she received from the three Members of Parliament who stated that they have pulled their support from the Wescot Williams II Cabinet. She also spoke about the proposal that was submitted by the five Ministers namely, William Marlin, Roland Duncan, Roland Tuitt, Silveria Jacobs, and Romeo Pantophlet which was signed and stated that they do not agree with the advice submitted by the Prime Minister and they have taken the decision to dissolve Parliament and call for early election.

Wescot Williams then walked reporters through the process of what she wrote to the Governor and her opinion on when Parliament can be dissolved.
Last week, the Prime Minister was asked if she and Minister Cornelius de Weever submitted their resignations and she responded in the negative. On Monday, SMN News asked the Prime Minister if she and Minister De Weever submitted their resignation because she said based on the letters she received that was the right thing to do and again on Monday she said they did not because the advice she submitted was voted down. Wescot Williams said she will take her political and moral responsibility and do what is in the best interest of St. Maarten but she failed to say what she is about to do on Tuesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly meeting.

SMN News asked the Prime Minister if she got any advice from the Department of Legal Affairs regarding the meeting that was held by the eight Members of Parliament when they passed a motion to dismiss four Ministers, Wescot Williams said that she did get two advices from the Department of Legal Affairs. SMN News managed to obtain a copy of an email correspondence between the Department of Legal Affairs and the Griffier of Parliament, that correspondence is beneath this article for your viewing.
While Prime Minister was giving her public press briefing, the tribune of the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall was filled with UP/DP/Laville supporters and the Members of Parliament that want to form the Wescot Williams Cabinet III.

Click here to view the correspondence between Parliament and the Department of Legal Affairs.

National Press Conference Prime Minister of St. Maarten May 20th, 2013.

A very good afternoon to the People of St. Maarten,

Allow me to thank the media and all for coming to this extra-ordinary press briefing.

While most things can be left to the regular Council of Minister's Press Briefing, and as much as I will stick to the rules of the confidentiality of what is handled in the Council of Ministers meetings, I believe that these are extra-ordinary times and the people deserve to hear from me as Prime Minister, especially when we have seen what we have seen during the last couple of days with the Prime Minister of this Country being attacked as not upholding the Constitution of St. Maarten.

As I have mentioned in several occasions, meetings of the Council of Ministers are confidential in accordance with the Rules of Order unless dispensation is given or if the execution of decisions or circumstances of these decisions warrants such. Then you can issue a dispensation of the confidentiality rule that governs decisions of the Council of Ministers.

Before I go in to actually what I want to, which is to give an elucidation regarding the political developments I wanted to react, also taking into consideration the confidentiality rule, to what I refer to as Minister Duncan's last and desperate salvo with reference taken by the Council of Ministers with respect to the Justice Park. The Minister is quoted as stating that this particular project was approved twice by the Council of Ministers and, not wanting to overshadow the next point I want to come to, I would like to be brief, and also indicate that the records will show, that finally after discussions back and forth in the Council of Ministers the lease or the acquisition for this particular project it is a recorded fact that the letter of the Minister of April the 6th for the Council's Approval for the letter of intent of the Justice Park, was sent back by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten for Judicial and Financial Advice. That advice came in on the 18th and was sent to the Minister of Justice and has to this day not come back to the Council of Ministers.

Another desperate salvo of Minister Duncan was pertaining to a letter sent by the Prime Minister to amongst others himself and several other Ministers regarding the Controls that are taken place on St. Maarten at different businesses. Sometimes you could tell a lie by not telling the whole truth and by making this particular Remark the Minister suggested that the Prime Minister Issued a directive or more regarding the controls that have been taken place on St. Maarten. In fact, the email, not the letter which was erroneously reported, that the Prime Minister sent to several Ministers following a discussion by several Ministers in the Council of Ministers on the topic is there for anyone who wishes to read it.

Speaking of the matter at hand; the resignation of Minister Roland Duncan has become public and the point that I would like to make with respect to his resignation is that, at the basis for the Minister's resignation as he put it in his letter, is the same contested letter of the Eight Majority Members of Parliament pulling their support and I would like to emphasize that; in Minister Duncan's Letter for his resignation he outlined that the reason why he resigned is the pulling of support from the Parliamentary majority.

Going forward I would like to go over to the occurrences since May 6th, the date the two letters by firstly the three and then eight members of Parliament were received. These letters were received on May 6th and, like I did before in receiving official letters and this is the way I am required to handle, I presented an Advice to the Council of Minister on the seventh of May. According to the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers, advices submitted to the Council of Ministers need to be done via a certain format. This advice which I presented to the Council of Ministers was that we have these two letters dated May 6th by a Majority of Parliament and the conclusion for me to those two letters would be to tender the resignation of the Cabinet of Ministers.

I submitted that Advice on the 7th of May during the meeting of the Council of Ministers. The response by five of the Ministers was that they do not agree with submitting their resignation on the basis of these letters. It is for this reason that I signaled out Minister Duncan's Resignation because eventually it was on the basis of that same letter that he resigned.

Nevertheless, rather than give their support or agree to us tending our resignation, the five members of the Council of Ministers came with a proposal which reads that the Ministers bring forth a proposal for the decision of the Council of Ministers. The proposal continues to ask that this decision be taken up in that decision list in the meeting of May 7th and charged the Prime Minister with the execution of this particular proposal. According to the Rules of Order proposals or advises coming to the Council of Ministers must be in accordance with a particular format.

The Rules of Order is a Public Document and one would understand what the procedures are for handling something by the Council of Ministers. On the Basis of this Document I indicated that this is not a reaction to my proposal, this is a proposal that is not ready to be handled by the Council of Ministers and I, in my capacity like I did with amongst other things the Justice Park, will send that proposal for legal advice. This was the recorded discussion on May 7th. The decision of the Council on May 7th reads as follows; the decision of the Council of Ministers reads that one; on the advice of the Prime Minister to have the Cabinet submit its resignation, five Ministers are not in agreement with submitting their resignation. It also reads that with respect to a proposal that was not ready for handling in the meeting yet to dissolve Parliament the Prime Minister indicated that she would be seeking legal advice and would be indicating when it would be ready to be placed on the agenda of the Council of Ministers. This was on the Tuesday before Ascension Day. So on the same Tuesday I received a request for a meeting of the Council of Ministers to deal with that matter. I now therefore ask that if the decision was taken to dissolve Parliament on May 7th, why would I have received a request for a meeting to handle the proposal to dissolve Parliament? I understand that for the public of St. Maarten these are a lot of procedures and rules and regulations but the fact remains that I did not receive the legal advice regarding that proposal that was put to the meeting until the twelfth of May, which was a Sunday.

Looking at the entire affaire the legal advice that I received read that I should await the outcome of the meeting of Parliament on May 13th. On Monday we all know what transpired as far as the meeting of Parliament was concerned.

Now low and behold: on Tuesday I am made aware of a letter sent to the Governor by the Deputy Prime Minister, who is only supposed to act as Prime Minister in my absence as there is no function of Deputy Prime Minister, on a letterhead of the Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten if you please, which function does not even exist if I am on-island, submits to his Excellency the Governor a resolution to dissolve Parliament. And stating in the meeting of May 7th a decision was taken to dissolve Parliament, and then says that as proof of that decision attached is a copy of the Decision taken and recorded on May the 7th. Along with that letter, the Deputy Prime Minister sends in a National Decree to the Governor.

The one responsible according to the Rules of Order to Submit a Letter or a Decree to the Governor would be the Prime Minister of St. Maarten. Not only that, but the draft of this National Decree to the Governor was sent in along with the letter of the Deputy Prime Minister and mentions amongst other things the dissolution of Parliament is to go into effect on the 15th of August, that the new Parliament will first convene on the 15th of August, that the date for elections will be established on the 26th of July and that the postulation for elections would be on the 14th of June. This is the resolution which was sent by the Deputy Prime Minister to the Governor of St. Maarten under the mum of a decision taken on May 7th. That decision clearly states what the state of that proposal was, namely that legal advice would be had on it and I have indicated what that legal advice entailed.

Subsequently, now that the meeting of the 13th of May by Parliament went the way it went, legal advice was again sought as to what now, and the legal advice clearly indicates that the responsibilities of the Prime Minister are clearly outlined in the Rules of Order.

Furthermore, the electoral law of this country establishes who decides on the date for election and more importantly on what needs to happen before this country can be thrown into elections. So to hear how both the Deputy Prime Minister and the Chairperson of Parliament now take this whole thing and turn the focus on the decision of the Prime Minister I will indicate what I indicated in the Council of Ministers; if there is any indication that this Prime Minister acted against any law, or is misusing her power then the place to take that is to the Parliament of St. Maarten and I would be expected to be called by Parliament to give account for what I have done. Many persons have asked me what the sanction is against the deliberate attempt by the Deputy Prime Minister to circumvent the laws of this Land and using the position of Deputy Prime Minister to usurp the responsibilities as the law puts down for the Prime Minister, and then have the heart to go out and tell the Public of St. Maarten that the Prime Minister is thwarting the process of the Council of Ministers. Although I listened to many statements being made, when it came down to this fact I had to hold this Press briefing today to explain that.

There are some stipulations in our Constitution and there are no two ways about it. There are articles in our Constitution that say that Parliament can be dissolved by National Decree. A National Decree is a decision by the Government of St. Maarten. That is not in dispute here, the dispute comes in the regards that what needs to be done in order to have that decision taken. In my letter to the Governor I have indicated to him that it is my firm belief that when you have a situation like that it is the Parliament of the Country where we need to seek redress and where we go with this matter. So to take and cover up the actions of this letter by the Deputy Prime Minister to the Governor of St. Maarten by falsely stating that it is the Prime Minister that is holding back the process of dissolving the Parliament I would like to say a couple of things to the people of St. Maarten: I often look back at my political career since 101010 and often ask myself how could it be that given the outcome of the elections in 2010 I was appointed Prime Minister. When in 2012 the Government changed and again I was in the position of Prime Minister I again asked myself the same question. And recently the answer to that question is becoming very very clear; I was put here for a reason. I was put here because at some point in time the people of St. Maarten would have been facing what we are facing today and I would be called in the position of Prime Minister to give a judgment. I want you and the people of St. Maarten to know: yes I have a responsibility to the people of St. Maarten as Prime Minister clearly outlined in the Rules of Order, where the emphasis was put on the Prime Minister in making sure that the rules and regulations are carried out accordingly. That has become very clear.

After having made that point extremely clear, persons have asked me the sanctions which exist for an action whereby the Deputy Prime Minister without consulting the Prime Minister and putting himself in the position of Prime Minister could indicate to the Governor that a decision was taken to dissolve Parliament. And then when I react then of course I am thwarting the process. Well you know what? This Prime Minister, and because there are penal sanctions that can be issued against any Minister putting his or her signature to a decision that is not in keeping with the rules and regulations, is going to be even more keen on deciding what, how and if decisions are taken in the Council of Ministers in St. Maarten. And for that I will carry full responsibility.

Rather however than telling the people of St. Maarten that this is a Mexican standoff, rather than informing persons outside of St. Maarten that basically the situation is explosive, it is explosive because politicians are instigating our people to make calls for things for which the ultimate end is not yet known and not yet understood. In fact the dates mentioned in the draft resolution which was sent to the Governor are in conflict with the electoral law of St. Maarten. I repeat that the dates are in conflict with the electoral law of the Country of St. Maarten and I challenge to be challenged on that point. My call to the People of St. Maarten is the following; I will not entertain even the semblance of a Mexican Standoff because my political and moral responsibility to the People of St. Maarten is to make sure that this issue which is hot, and which is intense, is brought to the solution in the benefit of only the people of St. Maarten. I am not entertaining the notion of Mexican standoff, I will not instigate the people and I will not send a message outside of St. Maarten reflecting a message that does not exist on St. Maarten and if it does exist it is instigated by politicians and I will not be a part of that. What I will do is take my political and moral responsibility and the extra responsibility given by the Constitution of St. Maarten and by the Rules of Order of St. Maarten and seek to solve this matter in the Interest of the people of St. Maarten. Everything that I have stated and read is on the record. I wish our Country well and give the people of St. Maarten my assurance that while some would seek a Mexican Standoff and hoping to see this situation grow into something none of us want, I am going to do the opposite and give whatever it takes to ensure that St. Maarten comes out of this wiser, better and more prepared to move forward. Thank you.

updprlavillepressconference20052013Philipsburg:--- On Monday shortly after the Parliamentary meeting was adjourned by the Chairman of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel, a press conference was held by the Members of Parliament that form the majority. During the press conference the majority raised several concerns, Member of Parliament Roy Marlin said that the chairman said that he sought legal advice on the meeting that was held and decision that was taken on May 13th, 2013 in the House of Parliament. Marlin said that the Chairman of Parliament claimed he received that advice and the meeting of May 13th, 2013 was an illegal meeting and so was the decision taken during that meeting. Marlin said if the chairman sought advice and received it, he is compelled to share the advice with the Members of Parliament. Besides that, the MPs from the UP/DP/Laville majority said what took place in the House of Parliament on Friday last week and Monday was undemocratic.

Marlin accused Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin of committing fraud when he sent a Landsbesluit to the Governor of St. Maarten stating that the Council of Ministers decided on May 7th to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections. He said he is of the opinion that the Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten wants the political crisis on St. Maarten to get out of hand. He said that the police officers that are present in the House of Parliament are there to protect them and when the Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of Parliament say there is no need to have police officers at the House of Parliament in his opinion they are looking for the political situation to get out of hand and are looking for problems. He said the longer this matter drags on it will become more heated. Marlin further explained that the Chairman of Parliament muzzled the Members of Parliament on Friday and on Monday. Marlin said they will take the necessary legal actions to resolve the political crisis. He assured that the political crisis on St. Maarten will not prolong. He said they will not do as the National Alliance who is trying to incite people, instead they are civilized and will use the legal tools at their disposal to resolve the matter.

Another accusation Marlin levied during the press conference is that the Acting Governor of St. Maarten, Attorney at Law Reynold Groeneveldt is acting in conflict of interest. Marlin said as Acting Governor of St. Maarten he is advising the National Alliance and that is in conflict with his role as Acting Governor. MP Marlin further explained that as soon as they (the new majority) get into office they will champion the removal of Groeneveldt from his position. When Marlin was asked if he has proof to substantiate the statements he made, Marlin said that he stood by his statements. MP Jules James also claimed that Groeneveldt is acting in conflict of interest because he saw the acting governor visiting the Chairman of Parliament to provide him with advice.

MP Romaine Laville in his statements said that the Chairman of Parliament has not been following the rules of order and he will ensure that the current standoff ends because he is the Vice Chairman of the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Member of Parliament Sylvia Meyers in her short statement said what is currently taking place in the House of Parliament is hinging on the democracy. She said that what took place in the House of Parliament does not reflect democracy. She said she is stressing on the importance of democracy. MP Meyers further stated that there might be people who were in the tribune that are happy but she wants to know where St. Maarten is heading since it became a country in 2010. She said she wants to know if St. Maarten is heading towards socialism or if its becoming a dictatorship country.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments and the vote of no confidence against certain members of the Council of Ministers was postponed on Monday, May 17 and has been reconvened for May 24.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Friday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting for May 24 was initially requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson regarding recent political developments (agenda point 1). The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. William Marlin was invited to parliament to be present for agenda point one and he was present for the plenary session on May 20. This request was made by MPs Hon. G. Pantophlet, Hon. L. Laveist, and Hon. F. Richardson in a letter of May 16, 2013 to the President of Parliament.

An additional agenda point had also been added to the plenary session based on correspondence dated May 7 and May 9, 2013 from MPs Hon. Roy Marlin (DP), Hon. Petrus L. de Weever (DP), Hon. Janchie Leonard (UP), and Hon. Gracita Arrindell (UP): Establishing that Minister W. Marlin, Minister R. Tuitt, Minister R. Duncan, Minister R. Pantophlet and Minister S. Jacobs no longer enjoy majority support from the Parliament of Sint Maarten. This agenda point is slated to be handled in the May 24 plenary session.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

updpmpsandrlaville20052013Philipsburg:--- Members of the United People's Party, Democratic Party, and Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville created an uproar in the House of Parliament on Monday when the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel convened the meeting and was making his address to the Members of Parliament and the general public. Also present at that meeting was the Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin.

On several occasions the Members of Parliament who form the new majority chose to call for a point of order and each time the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel kept on telling them "you do not have the word." While the commotion was taking place, the House of Parliament was filled to its capacity with citizens from the community. There were several detectives sitting inside the chambers where the meeting was taking place keeping a close eye on the proceedings.

MP Jules James told Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin on several occasions that he is the one responsible for how the Chairman of Parliament is handling the meeting because Marlin in his first press conference said that St. Maarten will be having a "Mexican standoff" because the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams chose not on to deal with their request to discuss the political situation and dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Samuel told the people of St. Maarten on Sunday on the Lloyd Richardson Show that he would have tendered his resignation on Monday, but while addressing Parliament he said when he took his oath of office he swore to uphold the constitution and if he resigns from his position now then he would not be carrying out the duties which he swore to do. "I know today is a special day in country St. Maarten. On Friday, I adjourned the meeting because I wanted to seek legal advice on the gathering that took place in the House of Parliament on May 13th, 2013 when eight Members of Parliament passed a motion to dismiss four ministers. Today, I got the advice and that meeting of May 13th, 2013 was not a meeting of Parliament and the motion that was passed by the eight members and sent to the Governor and Prime Minister has no legal basis." Just after making that statement MP Roy Marlin called for a point of order and he was told he does not have the word. The Chairman of Parliament continued with his statements by stating that St. Maarten has a constitution which is the Bible of St. Maarten and it must be respected.

Samuel further stated that right now there is a controversy regarding articles 33 and 59, the President of Parliament was then disturbed by MP Jules James who asked for a point of order and he too was told that he did not have the word. MP James tried to continue speaking but the Chairman maintained his instructions to the MP by telling him he did not have the word. MP James proceeded and stated that the Chairman of Parliament was not following the rules of order. Samuel then proceeded to explain that the Prime Minister and other Ministers are appointed by national ordinance. "If a Minister no longer enjoys the confidence of Parliament he or she shall surrender his office based on article 33 sub one and sub two." At that point, MP Johan Janchi Leonard then asked for a point of order and he too was told he did not have the word. MP Gracita Arrindell who was the former Chairman of Parliament also interupted Samuel calling for a point of order, then MP Ruth Douglass.

At one point, MP Petrus Leroy De Weever slammed his fists on his desk and stated that they needed to stop the nonsense. MP Jules James told the chairman that the rules of order state that they can interrupt a speaker but Samuel quickly told him that the rules of order also states that an MP could only speak when he is given the word and up to that point none of them had the word except the chair. MP Roy Marlin then stood up and began to speak with several other MPs who form the majority trying to impose on the authority of the chair when they each called for a point of order.
Samuel then proceeded to explain what article 59 of the country's constitution states and he said thus far the Prime Minister has refused to sign the decree to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for new elections.

MP Roy Marlin then insisted to speak even though he was told on several occasions that he did not have the word, Marlin asked the chairman if he was going to share copies of the advice he received on the meeting of May 13th and he also told Samuel that he should not lie on the Prime Minister when he stated publicly that she refused to sign the decree to dissolve Parliament. Samuel told MP Marlin on numerous occasions that he did not have the word but he refused to take his seat or stop speaking. At some point, MP Johan Janchi Leonard was seen telling his colleagues that they were creating confusion and commotion and they should stop speaking and take their seats because there were police officers in the House of Parliament.

Samuel said that he has to find a solution to the political crisis currently taking place and he is busy searching for answers and solutions, therefore he adjourns the meeting to Friday.

When Samuel made the announcement, the MPs from the UP and DP factions began shouting in the House of Parliament claiming that the Chairman of Parliament is muzzling Parliament. The MPs also shouted that there is dictatorship in the House of Parliament while MP Jules James shouted out that William Marlin is getting the "Mexican standoff" he spoke about.

Son of Prime Minister went After MP Richardson.

andywescot20052013As the MPs shouted and expressed their dissatisfaction as they left the Chamber of Parliament, the son of the Prime Minister Andy Wescot who was also in the chamber went after Member of Parliament Frans Richardson accusing him of stealing from the Harbour Group of Companies. "Its going to come out, it will be made public" were the words of Andy Wescot as he approached MP Richardson who was standing in the corridor of Parliament House speaking with his friends. Christopher Emmanuel and the President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier had to restrain Wescot because he was about to throw punches at MP Richardson.

Wescot was taken to the press room and then outside of Parliament to cool off. SMN News learnt that Andy Wescot then rushed over to the Government Administration Building and informed his mother of his behavior. A source from the Prime Minister's cabinet said the Prime Minister was in a state of shock when her son told her that he lost it and reacted the way he did.

Another concern for persons attending the Parliamentary meetings including police officers is the presence of a convicted ex police officer who was hired by MP Romaine Laville. Several persons told SMN News that they are very concerned for their safety because the former convicted police officer was involved in some gruesome crimes in Curacao, St. Maarten, and Aruba and it is despicable for a Member of Parliament to hire such a person as their bodyguard and take him in the House of Parliament when there are public meetings. SMN News further learnt that this matter was raised inside the Government Administration Building and security at the Government Administration Building took the necessary measures by preventing the bodyguard of the MP from entering the Government Administration Building but that is yet to take place at the House of Parliament.

Click here to view more photos of Monday's Parliamentary meeting.

cdeweever19082012Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever would like to congratulate the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) on their recent acquisition of an additional pediatrician and a general surgeon at the institution.
"I welcome this initiative taken by the St. Maarten Medical Center, as it is long overdue, and I am looking forward to the other specialists that will be appointed as a means of offering our community better service," said Minister De Weever.
Based on the Inspectorate's Report, the St. Maarten Medical Center has to bring the formation of specialists up to par. This was one of the demands handed down to the institution. There are still more specialist that the institution needs, such as two internists. The Inspectorate communicates on a daily basis with the St. Maarten Medical Center as they are both working together on pending issues. The SMMC currently has two radiologists on staff, working around the clock to give the necessary service.
"I am happy that the communication with SMMC and the Inspectorate has also improved with the ultimate goal of improving our only hospital," said Minister De Weever.

smeyersolivacce12072012On behalf of the UP party, we would like to congratulate the staff and management of the Princess Juliana International Airport and all stakeholders that form part of the airport community with respect to the International Transport Award that the airport has been bestowed upon from the Global Trade Leaders' Club.

The award from this prestigious group of global business leaders was created to reward goods and passenger transport companies and related industries that are distinguished for the quality of their services.

The Global Trade Leaders' Club is an organization of businessmen and women that brings together more than 7,000 members from 95 countries worldwide, which are considered leaders of big and medium-size companies in all sectors and activities that utilize transport and related companies.

Congratulations once more on behalf of the UP family to the island's airport community on this major recognition of all the hard work and service that is given on a daily basis to users and travellers at one of our main ports of entry.

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

williammarlin28122012Philipsburg:--- National Alliance leader, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin said on Sunday night that he had spoken for quite some time with Dutch Minister of Kingdom Relations, Minister Plasterk regarding the ongoing political developments on St. Maarten.
Minister Marlin said he wanted to make it very clear again to the people of St. Maarten that it is not his intention, nor that of any other Minister to frustrate the authority of the Parliament of St. Maarten. There is a new majority in Parliament on the one hand, but there is also a majority in the Council of Ministers on the other hand.
The majority in Parliament want to dismiss the Council of Ministers or pass a motion of No Confidence in 4 ministers, while the Council of Ministers has already taken a decision to dissolve the Parliament in the meeting of Tuesday May 7th. And that is where the problem lies. The Prime Minister, Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams is refusing the carry out a decision of the majority, while trying to buy time for the new majority in Parliament to pass a motion of no confidence against the Ministers.
Marlin said, that is the reason why he decided to write to the Governor explaining the situation and also drafting a National Decree to dissolve Parliament and hold early elections in July. The Governor didn't sign the draft National Ordinance but referred it back to the Council of Ministers for handling. Marlin said that on Friday last he wrote the Prime Minister a letter asking her to place the matter on the agenda for handling. According to Minister Marlin the General Secretary to the Council of Ministers said that the Prime Minister told her that the agenda was already closed off.
The Deputy Prime Minister said that the public of St. Maarten needs to realize that it is the Prime Minister who is refusing to uphold the Constitution of St. Maarten. We have all taken the oath to do so.
The focus of the problem is on the Chairman of Parliament because Parliament convenes in a public session. But the Prime Minister has been getting away since the Council of Ministers meet behind closed doors and the public is not aware of decisions that have been taken.
It is wrong for the Prime Minister to abuse and misuse her power and authority just to stay in power. Marlin said what he would want to see is the decision of the majority of the Council of Ministers carried out, which is to dissolve Parliament and hold early elections.
With such a decision carried out, all of the Ministers will tender their resignation and if the new majority wants to appoint new Ministers, they have his blessings, which of course is their good right. But we cannot measure with two dipsticks, one for the Prime Minister, who is allowed to act in conflict with the constitution and the other one for the Chairman of Parliament. Even if he acts in accordance with the Constitution and the Rules of Order, it is not good enough for the new majority, that wants to take over the Government at all costs.
Minister Marlin said he pointed all this out to Minister Plasterk, and told him that the situation on St. Maarten is becoming tense and explosive. Marlin said as the most senior politician on St. Maarten, having spent 26 years uninterrupted in the Island Council and Executive Council of St. Maarten and also 9 years in the Parliament of St. Maarten, he has never felt threatened like now.
I have never sat in a meeting with that many police officers present. This is not like St. Maarten. And before matters get out of hands, he is calling on the authorities to act before it is too late. Up till now, all we have is the following: In letters three Members of Parliament have indicated that they had withdrawn their support for the present Government, while 8 Members of Parliament have further indicated that they are prepared to support a new Government.
But what we also have is that ever since the 7th May, 5 Ministers have taken a decision in the Council of Ministers to dissolve Parliament and hold early elections.
The situation as is cannot continue, Marlin said. We cannot simply ignore some of the issues surrounding key players in the formation of a new government. We have the manager of Bada Bing publicly stating that it is the leader of the UP Party who instructed him to make a tape in order to blackmail a Member of Parliament (which is punishable by law). We also have the Independent Member of Parliament who has publicly stated that he was offered a bribe by the leader of the UP Party of first 250.000 Dollars and then $350.000. and some three weeks after he was questioned by the Prosecutor about this, he has suddenly made a right about turn and is now all sweet again with the leader of the UP Party. They have now struck a deal: The Independent Member of Parliament will resign from Parliament so that the UP leader will get back a seat in Parliament and the Independent Member will become a Minister.
The public is not happy with these developments either and throughout the communities people are asking for early elections, instead of patching things up in order to have the third Wescot-Williams cabinet in three years!
Marlin said that he has again spoken to the Governor Drs. Eugene Holiday and to Dutch Minister of Kingdom Relations, Minister Plasterk.
In his opinion, the best solution is to dissolve Parliament and hold early elections and dismiss the present Council of Ministers and replace them with a caretaker cabinet until a new Government takes over after the early elections in July.
Marlin said the people need to be given an opportunity to speak out in new elections, the people need to give a new mandate as to who they want to run this new country of ours.
In view of the discussions, particularly with Minister Plasterk, Marlin said that he has asked the Chairman of Parliament, Drs. Rodolphe Samuel, not to resign on Monday as he had indicated during a radio interview with Lloyd Richardson on PJD-2 on Sunday morning.
Marlin also confirmed that all the National Alliance Ministers and Minister Pantophlet have signed letters of resignation and will hand them in to Governor Eugene Holiday as soon as a decision is taken to dissolve Parliament and hold early elections.

Press Release from Deputy Prime Minister's Office

PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten will be receiving another Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) that will be promoting health. On Tuesday, a group of community minded persons will be coming together to launch the St. Maarten Heart & Stroke Foundation.

The Heart & Stroke Foundation is a volunteer-based health charity and the primary objective of eliminating heart disease and stroke and reducing their impact through the promotion of health living.

The launch of the foundation will take place at the Belair Community Center on Tuesday, May 21 from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. During the launch evening board members will be recruiting members and volunteers.

Guest speaker for the evening will be Cardiologist Dr. Meredith Sedney.

An estimated 17 million people die of particularly heart attacks and strokes, every year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). A substantial number of these deaths can be attributed to tobacco smoking, which increases the risk of dying from coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease two-three fold.

Physical inactivity and unhealthy diet are other main risk factors which increase individual risks to cardiovascular diseases.

One of the strategies to respond to the challenges to population health and well-being due to the global epidemic of heart attack and stroke is to provide actionable information for development and implementation of appropriate policies.

The St. Maarten Heart and Stroke Foundation will do all in its power to create awareness and work with other NGOs with respect to healthy living on St. Maarten.

The foundation has support groups who are willing to assist care takers of a family who has had a stroke or suffers from heart disease.

Philipsburg:--- The Saint Martin United Ministerial Foundation (SMUMF) is very much concerned about the current political and governmental upheaval in our nation.

Churches are calling on our politicians, government and parliament to resolve the issues as soon as possible in a peaceful, orderly and professional manner and to uphold and respect the laws of the country. Our people are uncertain, confused and upset about what is going on in government and parliament. Without clarity and a willingness of those concerned, this instability can lead to unnecessary unrest in our nation.

SMUMF therefore is appealing to our leaders to let reason, fairness and integrity prevail and to put the interest for the people and country above all self-interest. We are asking our leaders to conduct themselves properly, orderly and to be transparent and follow the laws of the land.

We believe that the sooner we break the current impasse the better it will be for our people, our government, our parliament and the nation. SMUMF is willing to assist in mediating between parties, if necessary, in order to bring about a solution to the current impasse.

May God bless and protect our beloved country, Sint Maarten!

rodolphesamuel03012013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Parliament of St. Maarten Rodolphe Samuel announced on Sunday morning on the Lloyd Richardson Talk Show that he will be tendering his resignation on Monday. Samuel did not give details as to how he intends to make his position available to the Parliament of St. Maarten.

The President of Parliament also gave another overview on how he handled every letter that was sent to him by the eight members of Parliament who said they form the majority of the Wescot-Williams III Cabinet. Samuel also explained to the people of St. Maarten for the third time why the meeting that was called by three MPs Louie Laveist, George Pantophlet, and Independent Member Frans Richardson was rescheduled and why he could not have chaired the meeting on Monday which was rescheduled to Friday May 17th. Samuel further explained that he had to bring clarity to the people of St. Maarten and that is what he did on Friday when he convened the meeting but did not deal with the two agenda points. He said the current political crisis has shed a very bad image of St. Maarten especially since the members of the highest legislative body are not following the rules of order that guides the functioning of Parliament.

St. Maarten's President of Parliament also clarified that what took place in Curacao was legally correct because the President of Curacao's Parliament was refusing to call a meeting. However, that is not the case on St. Maarten he said the letter that was sent by four MPs from the new majority had a mistake to which they admitted when he wrote them and asked them for clarification and then they requested that he placed their request as an agenda point of the meeting requested by the three MPs Laviest, Pantophlet, and Richardson. Samuel said that there are two articles of the constitution of St. Maarten that the people of St. Maarten will never forget which are articles 33 where Parliament can dismiss Ministers and article 59 where the Council of Ministers can dismiss Parliament. The only media outlet that has been bringing out the checks and balances of government through the constitution of St. Maarten is SMN News. SMN News posted many pages of A.B. van Rijn's book where he defines the constitution.

The current political crisis which seems to be never ending is being delayed because the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams has refused to deal with a request and expression of the majority members of the Council of Ministers which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten, Samuel told the radio listeners on Sunday morning.

President of the Democratic Party Michael Ferrier called in on the program and shared his views on the ongoing political saga. One of Ferrier's concerns was which article of the constitution came first and for him he wanted to know the real reason Samuel did not convene the meeting on Monday. On the radio program Samuel made clear that he received a letter from the MPs that requested the meeting to reschedule the meeting because one of them had left the island to attend the funeral of slain MP Helmin Wiels.

Deputy Prime Minister of St. Maarten William Marlin also called in on the program to clarify the true reasons for the political crisis on St. Maarten. Marlin made clear that the meetings of Parliament are public but the Council of Ministers' meetings that are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays are held behind closed doors. He said one of the callers were on the mark when they questioned what really worked for MP Romaine Laville who told the people of St. Maarten and the public prosecutor that the leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger offered him bribes twice to return to UP party so that he Heyliger can remain in government.
Several persons who normally listen to the weekly program also called in and expressed their views on the behavior of the elected officials. One of the callers gave MP Laville a public advice which is to hold on to what he was paid by the leader of the UP Party to throw down the Government because if the Leader of the UP does not get into power he will be asking for a refund.

Another caller said that she wants to know why MP Romaine Laville is given the chance to destabilize the government of St. Maarten twice, she is of the opinion that if Laville gets the chance to throw the government down a third time he will.

A meeting of Parliament is scheduled for Monday morning while several of the persons who took part in the march on Friday promised to protest at the House of Parliament on Monday morning.

Philipsburg:--- The Saint Martin United Ministerial Foundation (SMUMF) declares Wednesday, May 22nd 2013 as a national day of prayer on Sint Maarten. The political and governmental upheavals over the past weeks have escalated to a very troubling level, one which not only calls for concern but also for all spiritual leaders and Christians to pray about.

The entire population of Sint Maarten is kindly requested to take some time on Wednesday during the day or night to pray for our nation. You can pray privately in your home, in your car, or even when you go to the bathroom on your job.

The New Testament Baptist Church will be opened on Wednesday between 12 noon and 1:00pm to the general public for collective prayer. Concerned citizens, whose lunch hour or work break is from 12 noon to 1:00pm can join the prayer vigil. The New Testament Baptist Church is located amidst the three pillars of Government, namely Parliament, Government and the Judicial branch. In light of the continued political and governmental uncertainty, the SMUMF believes that the time is now for us to rise up and collectively intercede for and on behalf of our country.

SMUMF is asking all Church leaders not only to set aside this day for special prayers, but to also ask your congregants to meet on Wednesday evening for a time of intercessory prayer. Below we have outlined nine prayer points which we hope will help to guide your time of individual and or corporate prayer.

Pray for: (1) God's divine intervention into the affairs of the Government of Sint Maarten. (2) God's wisdom to prevail in all areas of governmental decision making. (3) God's restoration of integrity to those who are set in place to rule and exercise authority. (4) God's will to be done in Government and in the nation. (5) The fear of God (reverential respect) to be established in Government and the nation at large. (6) God's peace to prevail in Government and in the nation.

Pray against: (7) The spirit of unrest in our nation. (8) The spirit of confusion and violence in the nation. (9) The spirit of selfishness and greed in the nation.

Let us join our hands, hearts, and spirits together as we obey the Word of God to pray for those in authority. May God bless and protect our beloved country, Sint Maarten.

swescotwilliamsataucgraduation19052013"I expect you to never forget the time you have spent here. This island will remain with you forever and is a part of what you are and what you will become as individuals and as practitioners in the medical field."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was one of the honored guests at the Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2013 of the American University of the Caribbean on Saturday. The Ceremony, which celebrated the largest group of graduating students since the establishment of the Medical University, was held at the Sonesta Maho resort and featured guests from around the region, including representatives from the DeVry Group of Companies.

During her remarks at the Graduation Ceremony the Prime Minister stated that on behalf of the Government of St Maarten it was again her pleasure to be able to attend the ceremony. "Since the establishment of the AUC I have attended many celebratory events at the school as it continued and continues to grow from strength to strength. But it is always an extra pleasure to be at the Commencement Ceremonies, which for the students it is a crowning event of their career here on the island. It is a sign of confidence for the Country of St. Maarten and for the AUC that you, the students, have chosen St Maarten for your place of study. I am convinced that as you leave our shores you will not only have left with your degree but also with many fond experiences that you have had while on the island. I wanted to, in a special way, also well welcome the parents and loved ones who have joined you for this occasion. This is St. Maarten, the place where you as graduate have decided to come to and study and as St. Maarteners we are very proud of the Graduates Congratulations are also in order for the faculty and staff for continuing to build this school so that every year we can have these ceremonies. Thank you for making this island the permanent residence of UAC and look how far you have come since 1995. The Government of St. Maarten congratulates you in bringing the school to where it is today.

"To the students we say as you embark on your medical career, no matter how hectic your career may become, I expect you to never forget the time you have spent here. This island will remain with you forever and is a part of what you are and what you will become as individuals and as practitioners in the medical field. Thank you for choosing St. Maarten and also for the interaction you have had with the community of St. Maarten and for making it a household name on this island. We hope you may come back quickly and often and I look forward to seeing you soon. God bless you, stay strong and remain faithful to your calling and God Bless the Nation of St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister

The American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine was founded in 1978, upon a belief in the need for visionary, skilled, compassionate doctors. The AUC was originally chartered by the Government of Montserrat in the British West Indies, however, In 1995 Montserrat's Soufrière Hills Volcano caused the school to be relocated to St. Maarten. In 1998, the School of Medicine completed a new multi-million-dollar teaching and learning facility and in 2002, AUC's modern one and two-bedroom student dormitory was constructed.

The AUC Medical School in Collaboration with the University of St. Maarten provides the opportunity for locals to become future physicians through the provision of scholarships worth up to $ 30.000. The AUC also collaborates very closely with the St. Maarten Medical Center in providing health care to the people of St. Maarten and logistical support through various programs.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments and the vote of no confidence against certain members of the Council of Ministers was postponed on Friday, May 17 and has been reconvened for May 20.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Monday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting for May 17 was initially requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson regarding recent political developments (agenda point 1).

The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013 and the meeting was scheduled for May 13 but was cancelled – reconvened for May 17 - in connection with certain MPs wanting to travel for the funeral of Curacao MP H. Wiels that took place on Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. William Marlin was invited to parliament to be present for agenda point one and he was present for the plenary session on May 17. This request was made by MPs Hon. G. Pantophlet, Hon. L. Laveist, and Hon. F. Richardson in a letter of May 16, 2013 to the President of Parliament.

An additional agenda point had also been added to the 13 May plenary session based on correspondence dated May 7 and May 9, 2013 from MPs Hon. Roy Marlin (DP), Hon. Petrus L. de Weever (DP), Hon. Janchie Leonard (UP), and Hon. Gracita Arrindell (UP): Establishing that Minister W. Marlin, Minister R. Tuitt, Minister R. Duncan, Minister R. Pantophlet and Minister S. Jacobs no longer enjoy majority support from the Parliament of Sint Maarten. This agenda point is slated to be handled in the May 20 plenary session.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

newelectionmarchers17052013Philipsburg:--- Close to two hundred persons took part in a peaceful march that started off at Le Grand Marche's parking lot on Friday afternoon as they called on the Parliament of St. Maarten to respect the wishes of the people and call for new elections. Several persons stood alongside the road while many drivers stopped and looked at the marchers who shouted from the top of the voices telling those that were on the sidelines to join the march because the change starts with the people.

The crowd which was expected to be much larger was hampered by the time it started because most people said they were working and preferred if the march had taken place much later in the evening. Another hindrance to the turnout Friday afternoon was that the unions chose to call a general membership meeting at 3pm Friday afternoon to inform their membership of the outcome of the meeting they held with the Prime Minister regarding the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) payments. President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union Claire Elshot told SMN News on Thursday that her members would have joined the march because they did not get any satisfactory answer from the Prime Minister when she met with them earlier in the day but the WITU members did not participate in the march.

Despite the turn out, the marchers were carrying placards throughout the walk from Le Grand Marche to the Government Administration Building and they kept chanting "Enough is Enough, the change starts with us, know your rights to petition and march," as they demanded that new elections be called as soon as possible to end the current political crisis on St. Maarten. The peaceful march was organized by Lisa Alexander who began gathering signatures about a week ago demanding that new elections be called and the rights of the people on St. Maarten be respected. Radio personality and talk show host Mercedes Wyatt (ELECTRA) also participated in the march as one of the lead persons chanting and walking alongside the organizers Lisa Alexander and Rene "Koto" Wilson.

Rene "Koto" Wilson who was organizing a separate march joined Alexander in the march she organized since both marches were for the same cause. Wilson said that several persons called them and told them that they would have liked to participate in the march but it was taking place during their working hours. He said they are satisfied with the turn out because Friday was the beginning of the fight that will continue throughout next week. Wilson further explained that the protesters intend to continue their fight throughout next week until the Members of Parliament understand that it is the people that elected them and they need to listen to the electorate.

marchersatgovernmentbuilding17052013Wilson said that St. Maarten is the only country that has a convicted criminal in front of their Government Administration Building. The well known activist was referring to the statue of the late Claude Wathey that is erected in front of the Government Administration Building. Wilson said nowhere else in the world this happens but on St. Maarten. "The late Claude Wathey was convicted for embezzlement and Government chose to place a statue of a convict in front of the Administration Building because all of the politicians that reined under the late Wathey are also guilty of embezzlement." He said one of the things he intends to do is to get the Kingdom Prosecutor to conduct an investigation on the functioning of the Landsrecherche on St. Maarten because there are too many cases related to government officials that are not being investigated. "Right now, the politicians in the Netherlands and the Kingdom Prosecutors want to know why the Landsrecherche on St. Maarten cannot get its job done. I will be pressing for them to send St. Maarten's Attorney General Taco Stein home because he is not working in St. Maarten's interest. Stein was here before and he knows exactly what takes place on the island when it comes to corruption. So far, Taco Stein cannot say why cases that are over three years old cannot be completed."

The protestors and the organizers have decided that they will go to the Parliament of St. Maarten on Monday morning when the continuation meeting convenes to express their concerns and protest while the intention is to turn in all the signatures they collected during the petition drive. The organizers were still busy collecting signatures at Le Grand Marche's parking lot prior to starting the march and they did the same in front of the Government Administration Building. It was expected that Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, the spokesperson for the Council of Ministers, would have come outside and greeted the marchers but the Prime Minister did not show her face. The only Ministers who were among the people were Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever and Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet. Minister Silveria Jacobs was seen standing with a group of people while the protesters were walking down the Pondfill road. At the Government Administration Building, Member of Parliament Frans Richardson was seen speaking to some of his friends and supporters.

Click here to view more photos of Friday's peaceful march.

Harbour View:--- On Friday May 17, 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, received and signed-off the national decree regulating the honorable discharge of Minister of Justice R.E. Duncan according to his request of May 10, 2013. The decree takes effect immediately.

civilregistrydeptatashastevensprimaryschool17052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Civil Registry Department, restarted its "Identify Me Campaign", and has ensured that those schools that were unable to take part in the campaign last year were able to receive this extra service in 2013.

Over 120 students from the Charlotte Brookson Academy and the Asha Stevens Campus received their identification cards. Certain teachers took the opportunity to renew their cards as the need to physically come to the office was no longer needed.

The department will continue to target the schools on an annual basis as each person from the age of 12 and above is obliged to have an identification card according to the law.

jackothebaboon17052013The St. Maarten Zoo lost its oldest inhabitant this week. Our male baboon, Jacko, died quietly in his sleep.
We are not sure of his age but we believe him to be at least 25 years of age.
Baboons in captivity have been known to live up to 45 years, while in the wild their life expectancy is about 25 - 30 years.

Jacko was brought to the island as an adult baboon by Mr. Max Phelipa. The Zoo in Aruba donated Jacko to Mr. Phelipa's small zoo which he had in his yard on Front Street.
Jacko was a year and a half at the time.
Jacko lived there for about a year or so until the St. Maarten Zoo was opened in 1991.
Then Jacko and his family moved into a large comfortable enclosure at the new zoo.
They enjoyed many years of comfort there.
Over the years the other baboons died, and Jacko was left alone in his exhibit.
We know he was lonely and missed his family, but we are glad Jacko had so many years with us at the Zoo.
We know many people on the island remember going to the Zoo as children and seeing Jacko there.
We are sad to lose him but we are grateful he lived to such a good age.
Rest in Peace Jacko!

usfolcleansstjorisbay17052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On 15 May 2013, volunteers from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) and the local wind surfing community spent the morning picking-up trash and debris at Koraal Tabak on Sint Jorisbay. By noon, a half-ton of trash had been collected and sent to the island dump for disposal. Each month, around 3,000 people visit the area for recreation including at-risk youth who receive mentoring and free kite boarding lessons from Fundashon Sint Joris Baai, a non-profit organization. The USFOL regularly donates time to community projects as a way of saying "Thank You" for all that the Curacao people have given them.

civilregistrydeptdonatestoicanfoundation17052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Civil Registry employees gathered non-perishable food as part of their social activities, and donated the goods to the St. Martin's Home and the I Can Foundation. This gesture was a way of giving back to the community and was well appreciated by the recipients.

Great Bay -The Department of Youth Affairs has announced that the application period for students to apply for the Business Outreach and Placement Program has been extended to May 24th, 2013.

Said program, coordinated by the Department of Youth Affairs, is dedicated to placing pre-exam and exam students aged 16 and older of secondary schools as well as students in tertiary level education in temporary employ during the months of July and August. The main objective of the BOPP is to provide a work experience based on the students' possible career ambition.

All students entering the program will gain knowledge through the training that is provided prior to being placed and ultimately gain an invaluable work experience. By spending four to six weeks working in various government departments and in the private sector, the gap between the academic and business world is bridged. The employer will benefit from the competent and often times innovative perspective that students can offer.

This year, the BOPP program is scheduled to run from July 1st through August 9th, 2013 and will mark its 15th anniversary in existence.
The program will consist of the usual application period, training, pre-selection for interviews and final selection for a summer job.

Students wishing to apply for a summer job can still do so by visiting their school guidance counselor's office for an application form or pass by the Department of Youth and Sports Affairs. Student applications must be submitted to the Department of Youth and Sports located in the Vlaun Building, across from the Post Office no later than Friday, May 24th 2013.

Business owners are also encouraged to participate in the program and support the youth as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility to the community. Businesses that are willing to participate or seek more information can contact the department of Youth and Sports Affairs for further information at telephone number: 542-2056/ 5423873 or via fax: 54-20643 or send an e-mail to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

uscgtheeagle17052013POINT BLANCHE:--- The Port of St. Maarten is working closely with Dr. Jack Stevens, President of the Navy League's Caribbean and Latin American Region, to bring more U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels to St. Maarten for rest and relaxation.

St. Maarten/St. Martin was the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard's top-rated liberty port in the Caribbean from the early 1990's until the shutdown of the Navy's Puerto Rico Training Area, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and real competition from other Caribbean ports that recognized the economic benefits of Navy and Coast Guard port visits. This all caused a drastic decline in U.S. Navy and Coast Guard visits to our friendly island.

As U.S. forces are reduced in many parts of the world and the U.S. again begins to recognize the importance of its Caribbean and Latin American neighbors, U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ship visits to our region are expected to increase significantly in the months and years ahead. And, St. Maarten/St. Martin has a second chance to become the U.S. forces liberty port of choice in the Caribbean.

On Friday, May 24 (less than two weeks from now), the U.S. Coast Guard Training Ship EAGLE will arrive in Great Bay Harbour for a three-day visit to our friendly island.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo of the St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies said the EAGLE visit is very important to St. Maarten for several reasons. First, because the EAGLE is considered "America's Tall Ship" and the oldest (77 years old) active ship in the U.S. fleet, it is recognized all over the world.

Second, the young cadets and officer candidates aboard this ship as well as the training officers aboard the ship will spread the word about their experiences on our friendly island. Finally, Mingo said, this very high visibility visit can help to reestablish destination St. Maarten as the ideal liberty port in the Caribbean not only for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard but also for naval vessels of other friendly nations.

Harbour CEO Mingo added, "While most St. Maarteners recognize the positive contribution that cruise ships and mega yachts make to our economy, not as many recognize that visits of U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels can give an additional boost to our economy.

Jack Stevens thanked Mingo and his team at the Harbour Group of Companies for their support of the Navy League which has played a key role in promoting ship visits in the past. Stevens said that there was no guarantee of large Navy ship visits in the future but that we can greatly improve the possibility of future ship visits by making sure that the crew of the EAGLE has a pleasant and successful visit to our island.

Jack Stevens further explained that the four factors that determine where a ship makes a liberty visit are (1) the needs of the country or service, (2) the safety and security of the ship and the crew members, (3) costs associated with the visit, and (4) last, but certainly not least, the wishes of the crew.

Mingo said that we can promote future business for our Country St. Maarten by making all visitors feel safe and secure, keep our prices competitive with other ports, and by helping every visitor have a great time on our friendly island.

telemgroupcellsite02052013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group technicians and engineers last night switched over to the use of a new 3G network frequency to remove network interference issues that are coming from neighbouring Anguilla.
The frequency was granted to TelEm Group by the Bureau of Telecommunications and Post (BTP), St. Maarten, following a request from the company.
"We are thankful to the Bureau of Telecommunications for responding so quickly to our request for the temporary use of a new frequency. It will greatly improve on the quality of the signal being received by our mobile voice and data customers on the 3G network," said TelEm Group Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa.
Mr. Louisa said it was also thanks to the BTP, working along with the company's Manager Network Operations, Mr. Julien Lake, and the coordinating technicians and engineers, that the source of the interruption was traced to equipment being used by Digicel in Anguilla. That equipment was also being operated on the same frequency as TelEm Group's 3G network equipment.
"Once we identified the source were able to take the necessary steps to deal with the interference as a matter of priority," stated Mr. Louisa.
He said a team of technicians and engineers had the task late last night, of shutting down the 3G network and reconfiguring hardware and software with the new frequency requirements, before activating the 3G network once more.
As a result of interference issues during the past three weeks, 3G mobile voice and data users who were experiencing problems with the TelEm Group 3G network were requested to take their handsets and smartphones off AUTO to "push" their service onto the company's 2G network.
Mr. Louisa explained at the time that mobile handsets and smartphones that are set to automatically select the most suitable network will jump from the 2G network to the 3G network depending of what signal is available.
"That is why we advised users to put their mobile handset and smartphones to AUTO," said the Chief Technical Officer.
He said once the new frequency is fully in use and the 3G network is once again regularized, TelEm Group will provide the public with additional information about the resetting of mobile and voice and data devices for optimal service on the 3G network.
Meantime the Chief Technical Officer has apologized to TelEm Group mobile voice and data customers for the interruption on network service which was caused by third parties and was not under the control of the company.

judithuyterlinde17052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- Bestselling author Judith Uyterlinde, one the Netherlands' most translated new generation writers, is headed for the St. Martin Book Fair, May 30 - June 1, 2013, said Shujah Reiph, book fair coordinator.

Uyterlinde's novel, Cette femme qui dit être ma mere, the French edition of The Woman Who Says She is My Mother, was published just in time for the May 30 book fair opening at the Chamber of Commerce Building, Spring Concordia, Marigot.

The first book by Uyterlinde, The Baby Void – My Quest for Motherhood, was an international bestseller, with translation rights sold in 20 countries. Her Dutch and English language titles will be available at the three-day St. Martin literary festival.

"The engineer-turned novelist Garfield Ellis, is also one of our important guest authors and he's coming in from Canada," said Reiph, who is also president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

A two-time winner of the Una Marson prize for adult literature, Ellis is the author of five novels and short story collections: Flaming Hearts, Wake Rasta, Such As I Have, For Nothing at All, and Till I'm Laid To Rest.

Both writers will be among the visiting and St. Martin authors touring schools throughout the island. They will read from their new books at the Literary Evening in Grand Case at Blue Martini Restaurant; and conduct free workshops on Saturday, June 1, the main book fair day at the University of St. Martin campus, said Reiph.

Uyterlinde is packing something else in her literary luggage. The Woman Who Says She is My Mother has been made into a documentary for Dutch TV. A graphic novel of the book will be published in Dutch and English in 2013, said the author. "This is the reason why we asked Ms. Uyterlinde to conduct the multimedia workshop called 'The life of a book after it's a book'," said Jacqueline Sample of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP), co-organizer of the book fair.

People at the 'life of a book' workshop will receive expert, hands-on product and marketing ideas and practices of how "translations; film or video documentary; and producing a graphic novel" can be "creative ways to reach new audiences," said Uyterlinde.

Garfiled Ellis will conduct the Creative Writing Workshop, a practical workshop for writers, aspiring writers, young writers, and people thinking about writing poetry, a play, a novel, short stories, children's books, or their life's story, said Reiph.

Ellis, originally from Jamaica, is also a recipient of the University of Miami's prestigious James Michener Fellow and the Heinemann/Lifestyle short story award.

The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the University of St. Martin are partners in the 11th annual St. Martin Book Fair, organized by CLF and HNP.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, continues to monitor developments with respect to a new strain of influenza A (H7H9) that has been observed in China in order to ensure that public health is safeguarded.

The standard advice to travelers to China is to follow good hand hygiene and food safety practices and to avoid contact with animals. While in China, avoid touching animals whether they are alive or dead and to avoid live bird or poultry markets and to only eat food that is fully cooked. Similar advice has also been issued by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Persons traveling to China are advised to remain vigilant and observe measures recommended by local Chinese health authorities. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not advise against travel to China at this point in time, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus.

Influenza A (H7N9) is known to affect wild birds and poultry. The cases in China are the first known cases of H7N9 infection in humans. As of May 8, China reported a total of 131 laboratory confirmed cases of human infection, including 32 deaths in the provinces of Fujian, Henan, Hunan, Jiangxi, Shandong, Anhui, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and the municipalities of Shanghai and Beijing. One case was reported by the Taipei Centers for Disease Control.

Age range is two to 91 years old with 54 per cent of cases registered in persons of 60 years or older. Of the total cases reported, 38 are among females and 88 are among males.

Returning travelers from affected areas in China should look out for signs and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever and cough, and seek early medical attention if they are will with such symptoms.

The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign emphasizes the importance of individuals informing their doctors of their travel history, should they develop these symptoms after returning to Sint Maarten.

Travelers to China should practice the following: avoid direct contact with poultry, birds or their droppings, and if contact is made, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water; Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating; Wash hands frequently with soap and water (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirtied by respiratory secretion after coughing or sneezing).

Also while in China avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever, and wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or are feeling unwell.

swescotwilliamsandjrollocks17052013Philipsburg:--- Chaos and confusion erupted in the House of Parliament on Friday morning when the Chairman of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel lectured the fourteen Members of Parliament that attended the meeting before adjourning the meeting until Monday claiming that he needed legal advice.
The head of the Legal Affairs Department sent an advice to the Prime Minister expressing doubt regarding the legality of the motion of non-confidence that was passed against four Ministers on Monday by eight MPs from the UP/DP Laville coalition. The legal affairs department informed the Prime Minister that there were several procedural errors when the motion was tabled and passed by the eight Members of Parliament on Monday. The Department of Legal Affairs even contacted the griffier of Parliament to furnish them with information on how the meeting took place in order for them to complete their advice and after receiving a response from the griffier of Parliament they concluded that they could not submit a coherent legal advice to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten.

The House of Parliament was filled to its capacity with several detectives that were there to ensure that safety and security was at its best.

While fourteen Members of Parliament attended the meeting many of them from the UP/DP/Laville faction signed the speakers list, but they did not sign in to form a quorum for the meeting to precede. Therefore, the meeting that was scheduled to begin at 10am began closer to 10:30am. Samuel in his address to Parliament explained that he could not start the meeting because several MPs took their seat but did not sign in for the meeting. He said the rules of order clearly states that if there is no quorum then a meeting of Parliament cannot be convened.

Samuel lamented that he is the President of the Parliament of St. Maarten and the only way he can be removed from his chair is if the majority Members of Parliament vote a motion of non-confidence against him. He said that could only take place in the House of Parliament and not by anyone sending him a letter. Samuel further explained that he already said that whenever he does not enjoy the majority in Parliament he will willingly resign from his position. While the Chairman of Parliament was making his statements, MP Leroy de Weever said he had a point of order but the chairman quickly told him that he did not have the floor to speak. At the time, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin attended the meeting so he could have given his side of the story had the meeting took place.

updpandrlavillecoalition17052013The President of Parliament told the MPs that they needed to follow the rules of order that governed the House of Parliament since they are the highest legislative body on St. Maarten. Samuel said that the gathering that was held Monday where the eight Members of Parliament voted a motion of non-confidence against four Ministers has created confusion in the community and therefore there needs to be clarity on the matter. Samuel said that the people of St. Maarten need an explanation on the political situation. He said that even though eight MPs do form the majority of Parliament if those MPs does not follow the rules then St. Maarten has a huge problem.

When Samuel ended his statements, he referred to the advice that was sent to the Prime Minister by the Department of Legal Affairs. He said based on that he too is now seeking legal advice to determine whether the four Ministers namely William Marlin, Roland Tuitt, Silveria Jacobs, and Romeo Pantophlet were legally sent home or if they will be sent home twice. When Samuel announced that the meeting is adjourned until Monday, MPs from the UP faction, DP faction, and Laville started shouting, claiming that MP De Weever had a point of order. UP MP Johan Janchi Leonard seemed breathless when he jumped out of his seat and told the Chairman that MP De Weever had a point of order. MP Roy Marlin, MP Gracita Arrindell, and MP Laville all began to shout saying that they have to get the opportunity to speak but Samuel informed them that they did not have the floor then he slammed the hammer and said the meeting is adjourned.

MP Jules James was overheard yelling that this is the "Mexican standoff" the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin was referring to when he gave his first press conference. "William, the Chairman of Parliament is carrying out your orders. He learned from you," MP Jules James said out of frustration.

As the commotion continued after the meeting, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams rushed over to the House of Parliament to meet with the MPs who said that  they are now the majority that would form the Wescot Williams III Cabinet. The outcome of Monday's meeting left many members of the community confused, many of them were calling for the Dutch to intervene because the Prime Minister is refusing to execute her duties and now there is a stand off in Parliament.

Click here to view more photos of the commotion at the House of Parliament on Friday morning.

flaviennoaillespaulbetailleandregisbloret16052013Marigot:--- Vice Prosecutor of St. Martin Flavien Noailles, Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille, and an agent of the Brigade de recherches Regis Bloret told reporters on Thursday evening that one person they consider to be the suspect that shot Johnathan Freedom five times last Sunday evening during the Fish Day manifestation has been arrested and charged with murder. The Gendarmes also arrested two other persons but they were released and are cooperating with the investigation.

Prosecutor Noailles identified the suspect as Job JN Marie, 22 years old from St. Martin he was arrested on Tuesday. The suspect was transferred to Guadeloupe where he will appear before the judge of instruction. Job JN Marie is no stranger to the justice system, he was convicted for robbery sometime ago and is also charged with attempted murder which took place before the 2013 Fish Day shootout.

Prosecutor Noailles said the investigation and evidence they collected thus far showed that the victim Johnathan Freedom (17) years old is the one who started the shooting spree and injured seven persons. One of the seven persons that were injured is the brother of the suspect that is charged with the murder of Johnathan Freedom. Prosecutor Noailles explained that the victim Johnathan Freedom shot Job JN Marie's brother "Jean Marc Vignerol" in his neck. He said it was after the suspect's brother was shot in the neck he reacted by shooting Johnathan five times killing him on the spot. The investigators found the weapon Johnathan Freedom used in the shootout in his hand on the crime scene. Noailles said the gun that was used to shoot Freedom was not recovered but the investigators found lots of ammunition that belonged to a 9mm gun.

When SMN News reporter asked Noailles how many guns were used in the Fish Day shootout, Prosecutor Noailles said that they know for sure two guns were used but there is a possibility that a third weapon was fired. SMN News also asked Noailles what sparked the shootout on Fish Day by these youngsters that are affiliated with gangs from Cheveries and Concordia. Noailles said that there was a stabbing in Concordia on May 2nd, 2013 by a group consisting of four people.

As for the victims that were injured, Noailles said six of them were released from the hospital while the seventh victim remains in hospital. He confirmed that the victim lost an eye and she is also pregnant. Noailles said the victim is in stable condition.

sjacobswith24studentcarecoordinators16052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Some 24 Student Care Coordinators (SCCs) were awarded certificates of participation on Wednesday morning for a recent training that was conducted by Student Support Services Division (SSSD) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports.

The training ran from August to December 2012 and was financed by USONA. Participants received theoretical instruction and in groups they worked on how to apply the skills presented.

Minister of Education Hon. Silveria Jacobs, being a former teacher, SCC and school manager before becoming Minister of Education, encouraged SCCs to continue to upgrade themselves and in so doing have an impact on education.

Minister Jacobs, Acting Secretary General Quincy Harrigan (M.A.Ed.), and Head of Student Support Services Division Olga Mussington-Service (M.S.) presented the awards to the participants.

The award ceremony also included remarks by SSSD Head Olga Mussington-Service (M.S.), facilitator drs. Eveline John-Roberts, and class spokesperson Karen Wattley. During this event the speakers stressed the importance of the objectives of the training being carried over to the practical situations and thanked the award recipients while encouraging them to be consistent in their efforts.

The objectives of the training were for SCCs to understand their roles and position in the care system; roles as support to teachers, students and parents; the need for accurate tracking of students; the responsibility for proper documentation of student performance and referral; the need for accountability towards management, parents; using regular reporting and capacity building.

The award recipients included Adelicia Mossel, Agnes Brookson, Amorette Hodge, Anna Halley, Arlene Gumbs, Aster Allen, Bill Rattiger, Candyta Richardson, Christopher Wever, Daphne King, Estella Matinburgh, Hilda Brown-Carty, Jacklene Joedoleksono-Gumbs, Jamila Javois-Arrindell, Joanne A.R. Reiph, Karen Wattley, Laureen Prince, Michael Teixeira, Miranda Morris-Carty, Myrna Richardson, Richard White, Rozella Groeneveldt, Samantha Beaton, and Shaina Fernandes-Carneiro.

Awards of appreciation were also presented to the persons facilitating the training for the Student Care Coordinators. These persons included drs. Eveline John-Roberts, drs. Janique Kolfin-Baly, Morela Hodge-Holtermann, drs. Xiomara Balentina, Olga Mussington-Service (M.S.)and Denise Johnson (M.A.).

The Student Support Services Division also presented all school managers of elementary schools with a "Teacher Resource Manual" for their resource room.

Olga Mussington-Service stated that much of the resources of SSSD has been spent on capacity building at the elementary school level and that the books contains various interventions for problems that students present with. Mussington-Service further stated that the manual can be a great source for teachers and SCCs as we work together in the best interest of our students.

In closing of the ceremony it was stressed that the participation and completion of the training was not an end in itself, but a beginning to remain focused in the execution of the role of the SCC.

Le Grand Marche to Clem LaBega Square (Government Administration Building)

Road Closures

From 04.00 P.M.: A.J.C. Brouwers road closed at Welgelegen road. No more traffic towards Church Hill roundabout. Zagersgut rd. closed at the Coralita rd. No more traffic towards Bush rd. Bush rd. closed at the Zagersgut
road. No more traffic in the direction of Church Hill roundabout

From 04.00 P.M.: Walter A. Nisbeth road closed at the Prince Bernard Bridge. No more traffic toward Bush road.

From 04:30 P.M.: Walter A. Nisbeth road closede at the W. Percy M. Labega street. No more traffic toward Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 04:45 P.M.: Manzanilla steeg closed at WA Nisbeth road. No more traffic direction W. A. Nisbeth road. Tamarind steeg closed at the W. A. Nisbeth road. No more traffic in the direction of W. A. Nisbeth road. J.Richardson road closed at the W. A. Nisbeth road. No more traffic in the direction W. A. Nisbeth road.

From 05.00 P.M.: W.A.Nisbeth road closed at H. Beaujon street. No more traffic towards Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 05:15 P.M.: C.W.Vlaun street closed. No more traffic towards W.A.Nisbeth road. W.A.Nisbeth road closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic towards Prince Bernard bridge.

From 05:30 P.M.: Peterson street closed at the Cannegieter street. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout. W.A .Nisbeth road closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic towards Peterson street.

KPSM Public Notice

silveriajacobs16052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports expressed her elation at being able to assist the Lions Club Sporting Club Foundation in hosting the very successful 30th Annual ABCS Softball Tournament held May 9th through May 13th 2013 at the Jose lake Senior Ball Park.

The ABCS softball Tournament is held annually by rotation on the partnering islands of Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao and St. Maarten. This year St. Maarten had the privilege of hosting the tournament endorsed by the St. Maarten Softball Association. The ABCS Softball tournament has a long history of promoting and also raising the competitive level of the sport of softball on the islands and in particular on St. Maarten.

Thirteen teams of 25 persons each from Aruba (3), Bonaire (3), Curacao (3) and St. Maarten (4) as well as many fans traveling with their respective teams and large group of local softball fans enjoyed a very successful tournament.

The success of the tournament is a testament to the fact that ABCS Softball Tournament continues to foster friendships between the people of the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles.

"The tournament is a prime example of Sports Tourism bringing a boost to the Hotel rooms, restaurants, caterers, wholesalers and retailers who catered to the traveling teams and their entourages," the Minister said.

Minister Jacobs commended the coordination of Steven Constance, his team of volunteers, and the Softball Association for an exceptional and competitive weekend which was enjoyed by all.

The Minister also congratulated all the stakeholders, sponsors and volunteers for making this event such a rousing success. The St. Maarten Softball Association is recommended to include fast pitch player for the male competition so that our local teams are better prepared to take the ABCS championship next time around.

diver16052013The St. Maarten Nature Foundation, in an effort to expand its activities and its operations while simultaneously involving the community in its work, will be launching a structured volunteer program. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation is the Management Authority for the Man of War Shoal Marine Park and manages environmental and conservation projects in the terrestrial, marine and wetland environments. Despite its wide mandate the small organization consists of only three people and therefore is taking steps to initiate a structured volunteer program.

The First group of volunteers the Foundation is looking to recruit is centred on experienced divers to assist with activities in the Marine Park. Divers with an advanced/ rescue diver level certification with their own equipment and who are interested in volunteering are encouraged to do so. The Nature Foundation carries out a wide arrange of activities within the Marine Park and territorial waters; these include in water monitoring of sharks and turtles, marine mammal monitoring, coral reef research and coral transplanting and the maintenance of dive mooring installations. Volunteers will be given training on the various techniques and methods and will then be asked to help out once or twice a month depending on the scheduled activities.

With a core volunteer group of dedicated and interested individuals the Nature Foundation hopes to increase its work capacity inside of the Marine Park and territorial waters of St. Maarten. Subsequent calls for volunteers will involve mangrove transplanting, invasive animal control and water quality monitoring. Those interested in volunteering with the Nature Foundation are asked to email the Nature Foundation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. in order to request a registration and waiver form.

worldtelecommunicationandinformationsocietydayad16052013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is promoting the safe use of mobile handsets and smartphones by motorists on St. Maarten as part of its observance of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) today (Friday).

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is an important part of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) calendar for telecommunication companies worldwide.

It is celebrated each year on 17, May and helps raise public awareness about the possibilities of using the Internet and other Information and communication technologies (ICTs) to the benefit of societies and economies.

The theme chosen for this year's observance is: "ICT's and improving road safety.

In observance of the telecommunication day today TelEm Group will be presenting 10 randomly-selected customers with hands-free mobile accessories to promote the responsible use of mobile phones in vehicles .

"The best practice is not to be distracted at all by using a mobile devise while in your vehicle and while driving, but if you must and can operate the devise with voice-activated commands or remotely, then a hands-free device is legal and also your safest option," TelEm Group will be informing the recipients during the presentation of the hands-free devices.

The company wants the recipients of the gifts to make use of them and provide the company with feedback on their use so that they can further inform other customers and members of the public to make them in turn, more aware of the role ITC can play in road safety practices.

TelEm Group endorses this year's message from ITU Secretary General, Dr. Hamadoun I. Toure, that road safety should be a global concern and will be doing its part to continue to promote the theme for the balance of the year.

The company traditionally marks the day locally with a motivational message to personnel and a small customer-appreciation ceremony.

This year TelEm Group is also promoting the ITU young Innovators Competition amongst St. Maarten schools and youth, in collaboration with the ITU and the Caribbean Association of National Telecommunication Organizations (CANTO) (see advertisements in the print media).

proselytedivesitereopened16052013The Nature Foundation on Wednesday re-opened the Proselyte Dive Site when it sank a recycled sailboat keel as a mooring block on Wednesday. Through the Generous donation and assistance of Seatrek Helmet Divers, the Bobby's Marina Group of Companies and Aquatic Solutions the in excess of one ton keel was sank as a mooring close to the Island's most sought after diving location. The previous Proselyte Reef Mooring was attached to pins which were drilled into the bottom, but because the bottom at the location is made out of a clay-like substance and the pins were not holding it was decided to sink the keel instead. The Foundation had to wait for a few months to ensure that the weather conditions were optimal for the project to be concluded successfully.

Because the Marine Park in General and Proselyte Reef more specifically is an important aspect of St. Maarten's tourism product due to the significant amount of dive tourists that visit there, moorings are installed so that dive boats can tie unto them instead of illegally using their anchors, which damages coral.

The Man of War Shoal Marine Protected Area, which includes the Proselyte Dive Site, includes the island's most ecologically and economical important marine habitat, including extensive coral reef areas and seagrass beds and has a high intrinsic ecological, economic and cultural value. The Man of War Shoal Marine Park is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species. It is an area with a relatively healthy population of marine mammals including migratory whales and dolphins, numerous species of shark, sea turtles and numerous fish species. Studies conducted by the St. Maarten Nature Foundation have shown that biodiversity in this area, particularly coral reef density, is high and the economic goods and services which the ecosystem provides are in excess of fifty million dollars annually.

The Nature Foundation would like to thank Seatrek for the donation of the keel, Bobby's Marina Group of Companies for assisting with moving the keel using their heavy equipment and Aquatic Solutions very graciously taking the keel to the dive site and sinking at location.

reginalabega26092012Simpson Bay:--- Managing Director of the Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company NV (PJIAE), Regina LaBega heads for Madrid, Spain, Friday, where she will be receiving the "International Transport Award" on behalf of her company. She will be accompanied by Kalifa Hickinson, the company's Corporate Communications Specialist.

In a letter announcing the award by the Secretary General and CEO of the Global Trade Leaders' Club, Ricardo Roso Lopez, it was explained that "This prize was created to reward goods and passenger transport companies and related industries that are distinguished for the quality of their services."

"This is very good news for us and for the entire island," said LaBega "because it is an award granted by consumers of our service, many of whom we may not even know."

"It could not have come at a better time as we are celebrating the 70th Anniversary of our airport this year," she added.

The award will be given at a luncheon at the prestigious Hotel Melia Castilla in Madrid on May 20, which will be attended by the city's authorities and diplomatic representatives accredited in Madrid.

The Global Trade Leaders' Club is an organization of businessmen and women that brings together over 7,000 members from 95 countries worldwide who, according to Lopez, "are leaders of big and medium sized companies in all sectors and activities all of whom are main users of transport and related companies."

pjlsolarenergyinfosession04042013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday May 18, at 11:00am, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library will continue its series of educational presentations with Peter Mazereeuw, Director of Archyon Integrated Solutions N.V., on LED lighting possibilities and how it relates to solar energy.
Since the 48 panels were installed on the Library's roof in March, by Anthony Prall of Caribbean Energy Store and configured in collaboration with Archyon, there has been a considerable reduction in its electricity bills. This system has already produced over 4,300 kWh of free electrical energy to date and continuous to save money for the Library.
The general public is invited to come to the Library to learn about the huge saving possibilities of using LEDs and see the actual evidence of the solar system causing the library's electricity meter to run backwards during daytime. Peter and Anthony will be available to answer solar, LED, and other energy questions from 10:30am – 12:30 pm.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments and the vote of no confidence against certain members of the Council of Ministers is scheduled for May 17.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Friday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting for May 13 was initially requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson regarding recent political developments (agenda point 1).

The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013 and the meeting was scheduled for May 13 but was cancelled in connection with certain MPs wanting to travel for the funeral of Curacao MP H. Wiels that took place on Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister Hon. William Marlin has been invited to parliament to be present for agenda point one. This request was made by MPs Hon. G. Pantophlet, Hon. L. Laveist, and Hon. F. Richardson in a letter of May 16, 2013 to the President of Parliament.

An additional agenda point had also been added to the 13 May plenary session based on correspondence dated May 7 and May 9, 2013 from MPs Hon. Roy Marlin (DP), Hon. Petrus L. de Weever (DP), Hon. Janchie Leonard (UP), and Hon. Gracita Arrindell (UP): Establishing that Minister W. Marlin, Minister R. Tuitt, Minister R. Duncan, Minister R. Pantophlet and Minister S. Jacobs no longer enjoy majority support from the Parliament of Sint Maarten. This agenda point is to be handled in the May 17 plenary session.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

epicbirdwalk16052013Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) invites the public to join a bird watching walk this coming Saturday May 18th, at Happy Bay to celebrate the 12th annual regional Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival. The walk will be led by knowledgeable guides Ronald Pieters and Mark Yokoyama, author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin. Participants will meet in the parking lot of the post office in Grand Case at 9 a.m.

The 2013 Caribbean Endemic Bird festival CEBF theme is "Life Cycles of Birds" and focuses on increasing awareness of the diversity of birds and their life cycles, as well as the urgent need for conservation. Natalia Collier, President of EPIC explained "It is important that we protect not just nesting areas, but also feeding and resting areas as well as flight paths, covering all bird life cycles."

The Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival runs annually from Earth Day 22 April through to International Biodiversity Day on 22 May. The festival is sponsored by the Society for the Conservation and Study of Caribbean Birds (SCSCB), the largest single organization devoted to wildlife conservation within the Caribbean. The festival is the largest and oldest established grass-roots wildlife education program in the Caribbean. More than 100,000 Caribbean students and teachers are expected to participate in this year's festivities through-out the Caribbean.

Every year it gets harder and harder for birds to survive. For birds that use more than one habitat type or geographical area, the loss or disturbance of even one step in the chain of habitats that they use during their life cycle can lead to death or nesting failure.

The Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival promotes a wide range of activities to bring people to birds and their habitats and increase support for conservation.

Students and teachers interested in developing activities for CEBF should contact EPIC at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.facebook.com/epicislands for more information, materials and suggestions.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- St. Maarten's calendar of health observances is to promote particular local or global health issues, and encourage our population to Get Checked. World Hypertension Day, Friday, May 17th, is one of the listed opportunities.

In 2013, World Hypertension Day is dedicated to the theme, "Healthy Blood Pressure – Healthy Heart Beat."

To commemorate the day, the Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour has joined forces with the Diabetes Foundation on Saturday, May 18 at Le Grande Marche on the Bush road from 10.00am to 12.00pm. Individuals will have the opportunity to measure blood pressure and give tips to the general public on reading labels when shopping, especially with respect to the intake of salt.

Hypertension also known as High Blood Pressure is a chronic medical condition that is preventable and treatable. It is possible to develop high blood pressure at any age and anyone can get high blood pressure especially if they have a family history of it. It is the major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the main causes of illness and death in the Caribbean and the Americas.

Hypertension is sometimes called the 'silent killer', because most people with high blood pressure have no symptoms and don't know that they have it. More people worldwide are affected by hypertension than by HIV or AIDS.

The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Cornelius De Weever is calling on the St. Maarten populace to 'Get Checked,' and know your risk factors.

Preventing or reducing high blood pressure through greater awareness and encouraging healthy behaviors is a collective responsibility.

St. Maarten Joins with the World Hypertension League in commemorating World Hypertension Day 2013.

In the "How Healthy is St. Maarten?" study in 1998/1999, hypertension was the second most common chronic disorder and became worst as people grew older. More than twice as many elderly people suffer from high blood pressure compared to younger age groups. Having ones blood pressure checked regularly is very important, especially in light of the fact that 13% of the participants in Sint Maarten reported suffering from high blood pressure.

The study also showed that the population of Sint Maarten leads a sedentary lifestyle with only 24% of all participants practicing any kind of physical activity or sport regularly (at least once a week).

In addition, the eating habits left much to be desired. Almost one third does not have breakfast daily, even though it is the most important meal of the day. Two thirds of the population does not have fruits and vegetables daily, 15% does not consider 'Use little salt' important and 19% add extra salt to prepared food. 17% of the participants do not consider 'Use little sugar or products containing sugar' important and 34% add extra sugar to prepared drinks.

When we look at the weight the results are alarming, the study showed that among both sexes more than 50% of the participants are overweight or obese.

High blood pressure, equal to or above 140/90 mmHg, increases one's risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.

Hypertension is both preventable and treatable. Although high blood pressure affects some 30 per cent of the adult population, a third of them do not know they have the condition.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, which means adults need to take every opportunity to get their blood pressure checked. The health risks of hypertension are even higher for people who also smoke, are obese or have diabetes.

Hypertension can be prevented by consuming less salt; maintaining a healthy and balanced diet; engaging in regular physical activity; avoiding tobacco use; and avoiding harmful use of alcohol.

Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor , Cornelius de Weever visited the Public Service Center ( PSC) – Simpson Bay earlier this week, together with the Head of Labor Affairs / Acting Head Social Services – Peggy-Ann Dros-Richardson. The PSC recently opened, and houses several departments from various Ministries, including two critical execution agencies of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, namely Labor Affairs Department and Social Services.
Minister de Weever took time out of his busy schedule to visit and interact with staff members, querying the customer service levels, and if the departments are indeed fulfilling the expectations as set forth for the PSC. Currently, services and products being offered under Labor Affairs Department and Social Services include, Job Placement, Labor Registration, Employment Registration, Financial Aid Application, and Medical Aid Application. Indications have shown a desire from the business community to also have the services of work permit applications done at the PSC, an aspect that the Ministry will investigate.
Minister De Weever is encouraging the community to also make use of the facilities outside of Philipsburg that offer these services.
Efforts are on-going to deal consciously with the high unemployment, and as such Minister de Weever announced that Job Placement Officers at the PSC will focus on the business communities spanning from Port de Plaisance to Porto Cupecoy, imploring them to partner with the Ministry in the placement of suitable candidates.
The focus for this Ministry remains the same, 'people-first' and ensuring that the customer service remains at a platinum level thru the continued application of systems of accountability and technological innovations.

Philipsburg:--- Members of the Youth Link Foundation is calling on all elected or appointment Government officials to support their call for campaign finance reform.

President of the foundation, Stuart Johnson said, "In light of the ongoing political developments and against the backdrop of our initial call, now more than ever this reform must be formalized before any upcoming election which is to take place on St. Maarten."

Campaign finance reform will put a cap on the unending limits of campaign budgets of politicians and political parties. "It cannot be business as usual as the electorate should be voting on the issues with realistic solutions by capable and educated individuals," Johnson added.

Johnson made his belief clear by stating, "If we don't put the right laws in place now, we will continue to see many wrongful acts continue to take place and surely our people deserve better than that."

Once the political developments of our country stabilizes, the foundation will be submitting letters to Parliament, the Council of Ministers, and the Governor of St. Maarten.

"This issue surely needs to be addressed ahead of any election taking place on St. Maarten. Otherwise, we will continue to have more of the same," Johnson concluded.

The foundation will be joining with other organizations to ensure this issue is addressed by the relevant stakeholders.

PM to touch on various items Regarding Political Developments

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams will be a special guest on PJD 2 Radio's new on air show "It Is What It Is" this Thursday the 15th of May. The show, which is hosted by Joseph Ray, will feature an interview session and information segments by the Prime Minister regarding the on-going political developments. The PM will be on air from six to seven pm. "I would like to urge all listeners to tune into this new radio program where I will be explaining various items and also answering questions by the host Mr. Ray," commented the Prime Minister. "It Is What It Is" airs every Monday to Friday from six to seven in the evening on PJD 2 Radio.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The present confusion on St. Maarten caused by the row between Government and Parliament can be largely blamed on the lack of knowledge of how constitutional law works. The major players all displayed an alarming ignorance about the respective rights of the two branches of government involved in the conflict, Parliament and Government or the Council of Ministers.
William Marlin created the conflict by not understanding government's right to dissolve Parliament. His refusal to resign when it became clear that his government no longer enjoyed majority support in Parliament rightfully inflamed the UPP fraction. Our constitution is clear on this matter. The explanatory notes, which Marlin perhaps did not study, clearly state that Ministers must resign when they receive a clear message that they no longer have support in Parliament. The letter from the eight MP's stating that they no longer supported his government was a clear indication. The vote of no confidence was not necessary. He should have resigned forthwith. This is exactly what Schotte did in Curacao when he got wind that he no longer enjoyed majority support in Parliament. By the time Parliament got around to the no confidence vote, the governor already had received his cabinet's resignation along with the resolution (LB) dissolving Parliament and calling for new elections. The vote of no confidence that followed was an empty shell. Marlin could have avoided all the drama and confusion by understanding the constitution and following the steps Schotte took.
Because William Marlin did not know or understand that he also had the right to resign and dissolve Parliament (Just like Schotte), he chose the unconstitutional route of refusing to resign. What he should have done, was to obey the wishes of the majority and resign, then use the authority granted to him under the constitution, dissolve Parliament and call new elections. The UPP/DP majority in Parliament might not have liked that turn of events, but Parliament has no say in the matter. The right to dissolve Parliament belongs to government and government alone. It is their tool in the battle of wills between both.
Sarah Wescot Williams is perhaps the biggest culprit in all this. She displayed her ignorance of Constitutional Law when she tried to prevent the majority of the Council of Ministers from dissolving Parliament. First of all, she should have known that one of the responses to losing the majority in Parliament is for Government to in turn dissolve Parliament and call new elections. She is part of government and the Prime Minister to booth. She should have known better. Her refusal to table the agenda point to dissolve Parliament was not only wrongheaded, but unconstitutional as well. By doing so, she abandoned the constitutional order, and entered uncharted territory. A very unwise and poorly thought through decision. After all, she knows what article 20 of the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers state: Decisions are made by the majority in the council of Ministers.
The UP faction's mistake was double; regret that when the shoe was on the other foot, through ignorance of constitutional law they meekly caved in to the opposition's demands and resigned, but did not dissolve Parliament and call new elections. They are now compounded that error by wrongfully arguing that Parliament should not be dissolved because after all, there is a majority ready to support the new government. They overlooked the fact that in our constitutional order, there is a separation of powers. Government cannot tell Parliament when, or when not to hold a vote of no confidence. That right belongs to Parliament and Parliament alone. Parliament on the other hand cannot tell government when or when not to dissolve government. That right belongs to government and government alone. Their letter to the governor urging him not to consider the LB dissolving Parliament is therefore laughable in its ignorance.
Governor Holiday is now faced with a fait accompli. He has an LB to dissolve Parliament along with the resignation of the Council of Ministers. One understands Sarah's plight. She has been sacked against her will. But, that possibility is always there, the right to pass the resolution to dissolve Parliament belongs to the Majority in the Council of Ministers. There will be new elections in July as stated in the LB.
St. Maarten is a young country and hopefully this experience has served as a lesson. Both Parliament and Government now better understand their respective spheres of influence a little better. Jumping ship has now become a risky move. Everyone now knows that government can dissolve Parliament and call new elections any time it loses majority support. Ship Jumpers will then have to face the wrath of the voters.

pjiaeairservicedevforum15052013Simpson Bay:--- What is the way forward in maintaining and further developing airlift to St. Maarten? That was the key question addressed by stakeholders and management of Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) at a 4-hour forum held Tuesday, May 14, 2013, at the boardroom of the airport.

Welcoming the stakeholders to the meeting, managing director of the airport, Regina LaBega recalled that the last air service maintenance and development plan was done in 2004 and pointed out that a new one was therefore overdue. To this end, SXM Airport has commissioned El Perial Management Services to carry out the study.

LaBega gave a brief overview of SXM's air travel market, revealing that of the 1.6 million passenger movement recorded last year, 85% of this consisted of visitors while the remaining 15% was made up of residents. According to her, 49% of passengers traveled within the key five months from December to April, with scheduled air service making up 95% of the total airlift to the island.

The SXM managing director further disclosed that a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for pre-clearance of passengers bound for Anguilla and St. Barths is currently under discussion, while SXM personnel attended a training session last week in Aruba in connection with sharing immigration information with SITA.

In his presentation, Ian Bertram, principal of El Perial Management Services, stated that his company would be looking at where SXM Airport is at present, its competitive positioning against selected airports, and the potential direction for air service development over the next five years.

He further remarked that SXM could serve as hub airport for Dominica, Nevis and even Tortola. The hub partners, he stressed, should see SXM as their airport, arguing that it was much more cost effective for them to do so, rather than the alternative of embarking on developing an international airport that could carry a minimum price tag of US$60 million, without any guarantee that they could maintain it or attract enough passengers to make it a viable proposition.

The consultant made a strong plea for regional airport integration, pointing out that Antigua and St. Kitts need not be competitors for SXM. "We need to stop thinking of ourselves in terms of our colonial heritage and start seeing ourselves in terms of our geographic location," Bertram stressed.

Calling for an open sky policy throughout the region, Bertram emphasized that a hub airport thrives in an open sky environment. "A whole lot of policy implications is involved in this," he noted.

Louis Halley, head of the Department of Civil Aviation & Shipping & Maritime Affairs, disclosed that at present St. Maarten has open skies agreements with Canada, the USA, and Antigua, however, similar agreements are not in place with other regions such as South America.

The island's and regional airlines at the Tuesday meeting, namely WINAIR and LIAT, stated that they are definitely in favor of open skies as long as there is a level playing field in that regulations they must follow, must also be adhered to by the carriers of other nations. Their main concern was about cabotage. According to Bertram, open skies agreements would allow for more opportunities with the rest of the eastern Caribbean, which would facilitate SXM's hub function.

Saro Spadaro, President of the Maho/Sonesta Group, emphasized that in his opinion, the key to an effective hub is not only open skies, but open (free) movement of people and goods.

In his own contribution, SHTA President, Emile Lee, questioned whether there is a point where the improved hub function could become detrimental to Dutch SXM, expressing the concern that St. Maarten might not benefit much from being a hub if most of the passengers passing through it are headed for St. Barths and Anguilla, for example. He said he hoped SXM's goal was to develop the market by increasing airlift at the lowest possible cost. SXM managing director, Regina LaBega explained that precisely to achieve that, SXM is seeking to lower aeronautical fees while reasonably increasing its non-aeronautical revenues.

The forum ended on a very positive note with participants agreeing to the establishment of an Air Service Committee to be formed by senior personnel of the airport authorities of the hub clients as well as St. Maarten and regional stakeholders. SXM Airport will take the lead in this regard.

Philipsburg:--- Travel agency, Let's Travel, partners with financial expert, Emilio Kalmera, to organize the budgeting courses it announced last week Friday as part of its empowerment initiatives launched under its SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER and LET'S SAVE programmes in observance of the travel agency's plans to celebrate its 25 years in business. Let's Travel is a renown travel agency specializing in airline tickets, cruises, packages, tours, charters and more since 1988.

The "Let's Save" budgeting courses is to be held during the month of June. In this introduction to managing money participants in the course will learn how to budget their income and expenditures. This budgeting course will allow participants to learn the different ways of effectively saving money and growing their money to pay for such things as a college education, buying a home, vacation travel, luxury items and last, but not least, saving for their old age pension.

The regular price of the budget course is $290 US Dollars, but as Let's Travel is the main sponsor, a special price of $250 will be on offer and an introductory 'early bird' price of $215 per person will be promoted for fast decision-makers. Participants will get all course materials in digital format, such as the budgeting tool, budgeting booklet, syllabus, theoretical booklet, PowerPoint presentation files and other digital articles for general knowledge purposes on money management.

From the price participants pay for the budgeting course, a percentage will be deposited in a fund as part of the "Let's Save" programme. The fund will be used to offer qualified graduating participants micro-loans. The management of Let's Travel and the course trainer, Emilio Kalmera, have already agreed to match the initial funds deposited in the "Let's Save" fund.

The budgeting course will last four weeks with weekly classes of 2 hours each. Participants have to complete the course with a working and balanced budget and with a theoretical written exam. Participants, who pass the course with a minimum score of 70%, can qualify to get a loan from the"Let's Save" fund.

Financial expert, Emilio Kalmera, was asked to lead this budgeting course not only for his theoretical knowledge and expertise but also because of his impressive resume and track record in the area of financial management. Emilio Kalmera has a Bachelor's degree in Finance & Accounting and has had a number of jobs in the financial and banking sector with such companies as KPMG and RBTT Bank. Emilio Kalmera, who is presently working for the St. Maarten Government as a Senior Financial Policy Advisor in the Finance Department, has been for the past year assisting the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation and the St. Maarten Housing Finance Foundation as a financial manager. Emilio Kalmera has completed various training courses in management, wage tax, budgeting, policy development, and cooperation funding. Emilio has also given various courses and lectures on investment management, improving profitability, marketing, money management and wealth.

For more information and registration, clients can visit the Let's Travel office, call 523-3564 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

mariabuncampermolanustoberotarypresident15052013Maria Buncamper to be Inducted as New President

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotary Club of St. Maarten announced today its annual Change of Board Ceremony and Gala Dinner. On June 8, 2013 Maria Buncamper-Molanus, will take the helm of St. Maarten's oldest Rotary Club at a formal Gala Dinner at Infinity Restaurant in the Oyster Bay Resort at 7 PM. Tickets are US $95.

Mrs. Buncamper is no stranger to community service. She served as the first woman president of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as a board member of the Children First Foundation, the John Larmonie Center, the Philipsburg Cultural Center and most recently as Secretary and President-elect of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten. Professionally, Maria has been an exemplary public servant, holding positions of State Secretary, Member of Parliament, Island Council Member and Minister of Public Health, Labour and Social Affairs. Mrs. Buncamper holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of the Netherlands Antilles in Business Administration.

When asked about her goals for the Rotary Club once she becomes President, Maria stated, "I really want to emphasize the theme of "engage rotary, save lives". Engaging Rotary in the widest sense of the word is to become more involved with humanitarian work that we commit to do when we become part of the Rotary family. This means working with other Rotary Clubs and other community service organizations both locally and around the world. The results of engaging Rotary go far beyond its members or the local community, you will see us engaging rotary across our entire community, making our community and the world just a little bit better than when we started. I encourage everyone to join us June 8th at Infinity Restaurant for an evening of fun, food, laughter and friendship".

When asked about Maria, outgoing Rotary President Robert Judd said, "The Rotary Club of St. Maarten's leadership and its goal of serving the community is in good hands. Maria will ensure that each member is engaged in the club activities as well as living our motto of "service above self ".

Please see any Rotary Club of St. Maarten member for tickets or more information, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.rotarysxm.org or find us on Facebook.

Global Missions church youth training and counseling program is inviting all youth groups to attend their second in three (2/3) series of anger management workshop under the Theme: "Bridging the Gap"

Our Objective is: "He will go before the Lord in spirit and power like Elijah. He will make peace between parents and their children and will bring those who are not obeying God back to the right way of thinking, to make a people ready for the coming of the Lord." St.Luke 1:17 (NCV)

Question: How do we deal with anger at home, church, school, the workplace, in Government and the community at large?

Come on out! a special invitation is going out to all youths.

Facilitator for this second session is: Minister Jeannette Harrigan, and others to be announced.

Daniella Jeffrey will be the main presenter at the workshop.

Venue: Cultural Center Backstreet Philipsburg.

Date: Friday May 17th, 2013

Time: 7:30pm

Please make a special effort to attend! And bring along an offering in aid of our Youth training and counseling Program.

Music: Several Youth groups will be performing

Light refreshments will be on sale.

We would like to thank our sponsors in part for their contribution Over the years towards our Youth training and counseling Program and Poverty alleviation program: Seven seas water, FkG Riggings, Pineapple Pete, Out Island Charters, North Eastern Insurances, Wathey Realty , Zee Best, Alpha Jewels, SintAcc, TEES By The SEAS, Sea trek, Ace home Center, Mc Donald, Nagico, Liccom, Sxm Solutions, Perfume & Co., Windward electrical Company, Geogina's Nails, Advanced Innovations, Royal Carribean Jewelers, Sothermyers, Joyce's Collections, PJD2, Lazer 101, Boolchands, Sint. Maarten First, Sint Maarten's Best, Kwik Bargains, Sun INsurances, Sheer Restaurant, Winair, Bobby's Marina, Intermar Shipping, Drywall Systems, Prime Distributors, and others to be announced during our upcoming projects this year God willing!
Contact Pastor Esmond Flemming at: +1721-587-5271 / +1721-527-4614 or any member of our Team.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Clarifies Various Matters regarding Misinformation disseminated to the Public

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was again the only Minister at the Council of Minister's Press briefing early on Wednesday. During the weekly press conference the PM again highlighted matters concerning the ongoing political developments facing St. Maarten, and stated that while it was not her intention to join the avalanche of press statements from various sources, she realizes that in the last couple of days misinformation pertaining to the Council of Ministers have been widely circulated. "As you know there is a confidentiality clause when it comes to matters and deliberations handled in the Council of Ministers and I believe it is important while respecting that to nevertheless put matters in the right perspective," stated the Prime Minister.

Responsibilities as Prime Minister

Wescot-Williams firstly discussed the question regarding whether or not a Prime Minister can call a Minister or Ministers to order. "People have asked me 'but can't you put your foot down with these Ministers?' Yes I can. However not to the extent that people believe that I can. Or I should be able to. We do not have a presidential system, a system where someone is in charge of appointing his or her Cabinet and then subsequently being in charge of that Cabinet. What do I do? I try to persuade, to talk to the Ministers. I can try to exercise good judgment, but at the end of the day it is about the individual Ministers' political responsibility to Parliament. One can then ask the other question on whether or not I not have any real powers as Prime Minister; of course I do and these are derived from my responsibility as Chairperson of the Council of Ministers. According to the Rules of Order I am the spokesperson of the Council of Ministers: I establish the Agenda, I can lift the Confidentiality Clause, I can bring matters to the Council of Minister that the relevant Minister has failed to table, I can decide who the Primary Minister is in a case, I decide on the rules if the Rules of Order do not provide for just to name a few. These are in addition to my own Ministerial responsibilities under which falls the upholding of the Democratic State, which falls under the Ministry of General Affairs. Thus I am responsible for the Internal Affairs of the Country," clarified the PM.

Takes Serious Incorrect letter Sent to Governor by Deputy Prime Minister.

"Having stated all of that I wanted to clarify a few issues in this context: one; and this is an item which has been widely publicized, that of the general Democratic Rules and Principles in a Parliamentary System is that if the Parliament expresses no confidence in one or more Ministers those Ministers have to tender his or her resignation: immediately. I am quite aware of the discussion that ensued after the letter of May 6th from a Majority from the Members of Parliament that they have no confidence in several Ministers of this Cabinet, and whether or not such a letter is sufficient for Ministers to draw their conclusion. Or whether or not one really needs an official meeting of Parliament to formalize that expression. That discussion is one for Parliament, however, the political reality is that eight Members of Parliament, a majority, have affixed their signature to that letter. That is the political reality. On the basis thereof I submitted, according to the rules of order, an advice to the Council of Ministers to be handled last week Tuesday and motivated that the members of the Cabinet make their position available. All necessary attachments where attached to the advice. I add this because last night I was asked by a member of the media about a draft letter by me that was not signed and the person wanted to know if it was authentic. I replied that it was indeed a draft letter, emphasizing on the word draft.

"As is now widely known as well some Ministers objected to making their positions available and decided that they want to table a proposal to dissolve Parliament. I explained to those tabling the proposal that that is not the way you deal with a matter in the Council of Ministers. The same Ministers then requested to have a meeting to discuss that matter of loosing Parliamentary support and that is there on paper; on Black and White. On Monday I took note of a letter, without even awaiting for Tuesday's ratification of the minutes of last week's Council of Minister's Meeting, by the Deputy Prime Minister to His Excellency the Governor referring to a decision of the Council of Ministers indicating that a decision was taken by the Majority of the Council of Ministers to dissolve Parliament, and seeking to have the minutes of last week read differently than they read on the basis that this was a decision taken on the proposal of the resignation instead of just a proposal. Any logically thinking person would ask; if that was the decision that was taken on Tuesday last why then call for a meeting to discuss for the dissolution of Parliament? Why then have an in writing request to call for a meeting dissolving Parliament. So that particular act by the Deputy Prime Minister I Take very seriously. The Prime Minister was, and is, in office; the Prime Minister had recorded the deliberations of Tuesday May 7th, and then, outside of that process a letter on behalf of the Prime Minister was sent to the Governor giving a totally different account of the proceedings of May 7th? That is a clear violation of the Rules of Order of the Council of Ministers; sending a letter on my behalf on something that was not discussed.

Council of Ministers has no Factions, only Parliament. Council of Ministers is supported by Parliament. No support, no Council of Ministers.

"That being the case after Tuesday's meeting I did direct a letter to the Governor explaining exactly what happened, what advice I proposed to the Council of Ministers, what transpired, what position was taken by the Council of Ministers, decisions which were recorded. I need you to realize that when it comes to the Council of Ministers there is no DP Minister; it is a cabinet of seven Ministers nominated and supported by the Parliament carrying out the business of the people. One is not a part of the Council of Ministers as a faction. That type of a situation is one of Parliament not in the Council of Ministers. We are a combination of a persons supported by Parliament conducting the business of the people. As I stated before I take the matter of the letter very seriously because it is a distortion of the facts. The records are there to prove this. There is no function of the Deputy Prime Minister. There is a function of Prime Minister, and in the absence of the Prime Minister the Deputy Prime Minister acts on behalf of the Prime Minister; that is the function. The authority vested in me has dictated how we have moved forward; that was the case last year and this is again the case this year. There is no faction in the Council of Ministers. So I duly informed the Governor of the fact that the Deputy Prime Minister sent a letter to the Governor on behalf of the Council of Ministers with a draft Decree. It is unfortunate that I have to go into details regarding a closed meeting of the Council of Ministers but I cannot allow half-truths to be out there and to not set the records straight. The rules of order of the Council of Ministers is a public Document that anyone can peruse.


Elections

"There is a lot of buzz in regarding elections; elections yes, elections no, elections this year, elections last year, elections next year. The issue at hand is not elections; elections are a consequence of a Constitutional Clause that states that Parliament can be dissolved by Government Decree. The same Clause states that if that happens, then elections must be written out and a new Parliament must be able to take seat within three months after the dissolution. The issue here is not elections but the dissolution of Parliament; when, how and by whom. The question is also who takes the initiative to dissolve Parliament and that is where things went haywire as far as the Council of Ministers are concerned. It is no secret how I feel regarding the Parliament and Government relying on that support and again whether we like the actors or not a majority in Parliament is a majority and I would like to repeat that the Confidence Clause Cannot be circumvented by going over to such a heavy instrument such as dissolving Parliament. Another Constitutional Clause is the fact that Parliaments are elected for four years and only in very extreme circumstances should any attempt be made to thwart that.


Ministers are at the Mercy of a Parliamentary Majority.

"Pertaining to elections I have heard two arguments coming from two different angles: the first coming from political parties or individuals who want elections. Again remember, for good or for bad the term of Parliament is four years and exceptions should be made in very very rare cases. The second argument that I have heard is that the system that elections produce is counter productive in that the people do not control what happens in the four years, who does or does not do what in those four years. The way it currently occurs is that there are elections which results in fifteen individuals being chosen and these individuals decide on the composition of Government; so the Composition of the Council of Ministers. These seven individuals who are proposed as Ministers can be taken from Parliament, can be taken from lists, from outside of Parliament or any political list. Cases in point: Sarah Wescot-Williams was an elected Parliamentarian, or an elected representative of the people; Minister Sylveria Jacobs was a Candidate on a Political List not elected and Minister Tuitt was a Candidate not elected nor was he on a Political List during the last elections. This shows that the Ministers can be taken from within Parliament Ministers who then they have to give up their seat; they can be someone who ran on a political list or never ran on a political list at all. So these Ministers are there at the mercy of the Parliamentary Majority. Politicians who have given up their seats in Parliament in order to become Ministers will surely push for elections, even if they end up out of Parliament or out of Government. Looking back at my political career I have faced many similar incidents including possible motions of no confidence; I never made it come to that because I drew my own conclusions but even to those that tabled the notions I stated that I would be back and back I was, for many years. So to a certain degree it is understandable that if you give up your position in Parliament to take on a Ministerial Position and then something happens in Parliament you are then at the mercy of your faction to get back in Parliament or otherwise you are on the outside. Considering this the desperate call for elections is normal. It must be a hard pill to follow for any politicians, however that is the system we have today and that is how it remains today and elections at this time will not change that; individuals being able once in Parliament to decide what they do, how they do it, where they go and where they do not go.

"The second call for elections are from some persons who are disgusted by the reality that you elect candidates for four years and for four years these representatives of Parliament and the persons they nominate as Ministers basically do as they please. Those that are clamoring for elections now will continue to play those musical chairs in Parliament.


Important Issues of the People Being Put Aside by Those Playing Politics.

"This Country has too many important and necessary issues facing us to be diverted by elections, elections that would give us a momentary adrenaline rush while nothing changes fundamentally unless we change the system, and that is the reality. Whether we have elections now or next year the results will remain the same; the possibility of those elected to Parliament to do what has happened recently will remain the same. The issues of the Budget, our economic development, preparations for the 2015 County Status Evaluation, Health and Pension Systems and tax reform are only a few of the items being held up instead of moving forward. Elections will only delay the attention given to these issues in the name of politics. We must therefore change the system," emphasized the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

"Do not let yourselves be used, or your objective be used for political reasons."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten recently condemned the practice currently being carried out by individuals of harassing parents going to school to collect their children or speak to teachers being harassed by individuals seeking signatures for petition drives. "I have received many complaints, and I condemn the practice, regarding that at some schools parents collecting their children are underhandedly presented with petition forms or signature drives or whatever it is for elections at schools. I think that is wrong; parents, whether they come to pick up their children or see teachers should not be faced with these situations; that is not what school is for. While I am heartened by the interest, especially by the young people, in the Governance of our country, do not loose sight of the real issues here and do not let yourselves be used, or your objective be used for political reasons," emphasized the Prime Minister. She requested the practice of harassment at schools be put to an immediate stop.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Simpson Bay:--- If the "wish list" of stakeholders attending the kick off forum to discuss a new air service development plan for St. Maarten were to be granted, SXM Airport will be serviced by non-stop flights from Houston/Dallas, London, Sao Paulo, Berlin, Moscow, Stockholm, Bogota and Quito.

The stakeholders attending the 4-hour forum at SXM Airport Tuesday were asked to identify what they perceived to be the most viable markets for SXM to pursue in terms of increasing airlift. Given that 48% of flights to SXM from the USA, the island's major source market, are via connections, with Charlotte (CLT), Atlanta (ATL) and Miami (MIA) as the main gateways for these connections, the stakeholders were asked to indicate their wishes for cities around the world where they would like to see direct flights to SXM.

Acting head of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Edward Dest, disclosed that based on discussions, he expects charter service to/from Stockholm to begin early as next year.

Saro Spadaro, President of Sonesta-Maho Group, revealed that he is having discussions with tour operators regarding direct service from Houston in the summer.

However, Ian Bertram of El Perial Management Service, the firm commissioned to undertake the study, said based on preliminary analysis, some new cities SXM may want to pursue could include Hartford, Baltimore, Houston, Minneapolis, (all in the US) and London, Frankfurt, Milan, Bogota as well as Lima. He mentioned possible service to/from Georgetown's Ogle airport as well as service to Paramaribo via Suriname Airways.

Bertram stressed that to achieve the core objective of increasing passenger movement to SXM, the synergistic impact between international and regional airlines must be taken into account.

"St. Maarten by itself will not be able to go it alone," he said, referring to the combination of hub possibilities, tourism product, and airport costs and services, which he described as key. "It requires a partnership with the hub partners," he added.

Attending the meeting were officials from the tourist boards of Anguilla, St. Barths, and Saint-Martin as well as the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce, and the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA). Also participating in the meeting were officials of the Department of Civil Aviation & Shipping & Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, and representatives of WINAIR and LIAT.

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday has been carefully monitoring the current political situation developed as a result of the decision of three members of Parliament, the DP fraction members, Mr. Roy Marlin and Mr. Leroy De Weever and independent member Mr. Romaine Laville withdrawing their support from the current NA/DP/I-3 coalition by letter of May 6, 2013 and the declaration of eight (8) members of Parliament, comprised of five (5) members of the UP fraction and the three (3) abovementioned members, expressing their willingness to form a new government, on the one hand, and the position taken by four (4) ministers in the council of ministers that Parliament should be dissolved and new elections called, on the other hand.
Immediately following the meeting held by the eight (8) members of Parliament from the fractions of the UP, DP and independent member Mr. Laville on Monday May 13, 2013, Governor Holiday met with the Chairman of Parliament drs. R. Samuel and received an outline of the proceedings leading up to the meeting held by the eight members of Parliament.
The Governor subsequently met with and discussed the developments with Prime Minister, Mrs. Wescot-Williams.
On same date Governor Holiday on request of member of Parliament Mr. Roy Marlin met him, and members of Parliament, Mr. R. Laville, Mrs. S. Meyers-Olivacce and Mrs. G. Arrindell. During the meeting the Governor also received an outline of the proceedings leading up to the meeting and was presented with various documents including the motion of no confidence accepted in the meeting which declares that effective immediately the Ministers Marlin, Jacobs, Pantophlet and Tuitt no longer enjoy the confidence of Parliament.
Later that afternoon, Governor Holiday met with the Vice Prime Minister and was presented with a draft resolution to dissolve Parliament and call new elections.
On Tuesday May 14, 2013, Governor Holiday received a letter from the Chairman of Parliament containing a chronological report of occurrences leading up to the events of Monday, May 13, 2013, and stating that the meeting held by the eight members of Parliament is not an official meeting.
In addition Governor Holiday also received a letter on May 14, 2013 from the eight members of Parliament requesting that he ensures that the four (4) ministers mentioned in their motion do not take measures that could compromise the Government and/or Parliament of Country St. Maarten as well as expressing that they do not agree with attempts to dissolve Parliament.
Following a review of the documentation received and discussions held on Monday with the Vice Chairlady of the Council of Advice, on Tuesday with the Vice Prime-minister and today Wednesday May 15, 2013, with the four members of Parliament that presented the motion passed in the meeting held by the eight members of Parliament, the Chairman of Parliament and the Prime-Minister, Governor Holiday is herewith appealing to all stakeholders to do all that is necessary to maintain and protect the integrity of our constitutional democracy and to foster actions in keeping with our constitution based on the rule of law.

From the Governor's Cabinet

Philipsburg:--- A group of people that have started the petition drive calling for new elections will be holding a peaceful march on Friday afternoon starting at 4pm from the Le Grand Marche. The main organizer of the event Lisa Alexander told SMN News that the march will begin at 4pm at Le Grand Marche and goes to the Clem Labega Square in front of the Government Administration Building.

Alexander said that shuttles will be available for persons that are interested in taking part in the march. Persons can park their vehicles on the Pondfill and they will be taken by shuttle to Le Grand Marche where the march will commence.

Alexander said that the march will be based on article 2, 4 – 23, and 24 of the Constitution of St. Maarten where people have a democratic right to vote and petition. Alexander began gathering signatures from registered voters on St. Maarten sometime last week when the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government fell apart. The march slated for Friday afternoon is for all people that are residing and contributing to the economy of St. Maarten.

Rene "Cotto" Wilson also announced that he and his supporters will be joining the march that is organized by Alexander because it makes no sense to have two marches on that same day for the same cause. Wilson, a well-known activist in the St. Peters area said that he will be calling on his supporters to come out in large numbers to march for what he said is a rightful cause.

Parliament Officially Notified of Petition Drive.

Lisa Alexander also told SMN News on Wednesday evening that she submitted an official letter to the Parliament of St. Maarten to notify them that there is a signature drive taking place on the island where the people of St. Maarten are demanding that their democratic rights be respected and a new and fresh election must be called. Alexander said when she submitted the letter she presented Parliament with some of the forms that were signed by eligible voters on St. Maarten and she intends to submit the final set of documents to Parliament on Monday May 20th, 2013.

swescotwilliams15052013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams tried to explain the decisions she took not to entertain the dissolving of the Parliament of St. Maarten that was proposed by the majority of Ministers that were appointed by the National Alliance last week Tuesday.

The Prime Minister made several clarifications on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing. Those clarifications regard what exactly took place in the Council of Ministers' meetings last week Tuesday when she submitted an advice to dissolve the Wescot Williams II Cabinet and what happened this past Tuesday during the Council of Ministers' meeting. Wescot Williams said that whatever transpired in the Council of Ministers' meeting is supposed to remain private but since there is information regarding these meetings in public domain she believes that she has to set things in its right perspective.

Prime Minister Wescot Williams said the letter that was sent to the President of the Parliament and to her clearly states that the Wescot Williams II Cabinet no longer enjoys the support of majority members of Parliament, based on that letter she drafted an advice to have the Ministers of the Wescot Williams II Cabinet tender their resignation but that advice was voted down by the majority. While the eight Members of Parliament in their letter said that the Government of St. Maarten no longer has the majority support, the same eight Members of Parliament held an illegal meeting on Monday and passed a motion of no confidence against four of the seven Ministers, namely William Marlin, Roland Tuitt, Silveria Jacobs, and Romeo Pantophlet, they did not state their opinion of the two other Ministers which are the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and Minister Cornelius de Weever who also form part of the Wescot Williams II Cabinet. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan has tendered his resignation since last week Friday and while the Prime Minister voted in favor of the Ministers tendering their resignation, she herself has not tendered her resignation neither did Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever. It should be noted that the Prime Minister and Minister De Weever were appointed by the two Members of the Democratic Party in Parliament.

The Prime Minister is also very peeved at the statements made by Member of Parliament Frans Richardson who spoke about her Zumba "U 2 Can Move". Wescot Williams said that she takes offense to the statements about Zumba because in her opinion those statement are disrespectful towards women who have to exercise and diet in order to maintain good health. She said there are a number people on St. Maarten with hypertension, diabetes, and other grave illnesses and while she is not a medical doctor she is fully aware that women in particular have to take care of themselves by moving.

The Prime Minister is also very much annoyed that the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin drafted a Landsbesluit and sent it to the Governor expressing the decision of the majority of the Council of Ministers. She said she is the only one that has the authority to speak on behalf of the Council of Ministers, she further stated that there is no such thing as a Deputy Prime Minister.
When SMN News asked the Prime Minister to express her opinion about the illegal meeting held by the eight Members of Parliament while the President of Parliament and the Griffier were present, Wescot Williams did not want to give a clear cut opinion on what transpired on Monday in Parliament neither did she say whether or not the meeting that was held by eight MPs was in keeping with the rules of order.
Wescot Williams said right now the focus is not on election, instead it is about the dissolving of Parliament and how the majority of the Council wants it done. Furthermore, Wescot Williams also did not want to share her opinion on the integrity of the eight MPs who have accused each other of various crimes and while being implicated in the Bada Bing video tape which is now being investigated.

Prime Minister to Politicians Criticizing Zumba, U2 Can Move: "You who are ridiculing this move join me and say to the women of St. Maarten that it is about you first so that they can live a healthy lifestyle."

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams invited politicians, especially those in Parliament, to stop criticizing her U 2 Can Move Health Campaign, where the PM encourages especially women to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and to join in in her call encouraging women to take better care of themselves. "I want to make a call to especially the politicians who criticize my Zumba activities: it is not about Zumba, it is about encouraging and empowering especially women, and this is where I would want the politicians to join my call, in motivating women to take care of themselves first and to look after their health. Zumba is part of the U 2 Can Move Campaign, a campaign that is so important considering the statics of hypertension and diabetes on our island, statistics of amputees on our island. And then to have some politicians who use the fact that I am saying to especially women and mothers to look after your health as if that is the worst thing imaginable. I am not a medical doctor but I know a few basic things: diet and excersice make a difference and it is about the realization that we need to keep moving, that we need to stay active. So rather than making fun of the fact that I believe that exercise and diet can also include Zumba, I encourage Politicians and Parliamentarians who are ridiculing this move to join me and say to the women of St. Maarten that it is about you first so that you can meet your responsibilities within the community. That is what I would like to see happen. Women too often try to be everything for everybody except to herself. We encourage and support women to ensure that as far it is in their power that they act healthy and remain fit," concluded the PM.

The Prime Minister has stated previously that the Zumba sessions and other events are a part of a larger fitness campaign where she encourages Civil Servants and the community in general to take their health and fitness seriously. "There is much we can do for ourselves as individuals and as a country as far as good health is concerned. Information, diet and exercise are the basic ABC's to good health and are valuable in any situation. I want to encourage our health institutions, practitioners and NGO's in this field to focus on educating our community on aspects of health and I call on all, especially our women, to take responsibility for their health, regular check-ups, and to heed warning signs such as aches and pains," the Prime Minister said.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister



Political tension and instability created by the National Alliance led Government is bad for business confidence and can negatively impact the sovereign credit rating of the country. Moody's Credit rating agency says that political instability is credit negative for a country.

The current new parliamentary majority has brought stability back to the country at the parliamentary level. The current National Alliance led Government should do the honourable thing and resign. A National Alliance standoff by refusing to accept political reality in a parliamentary democracy is detrimental to investor confidence and could force a credit rating downgrade for country Sint Maarten.

We are hoping that Country Sint Maarten does not find itself on Moody's Weekly Credit Outlook due to the current National Alliance standoff. Political risks are one of the key factors that are taken into account when rating a country.

The parliamentary majority has taken steps to bring order to the governance of the country and bring back stability. A new Council of Ministers is to be appointed within short which will complete the governance process.

Article 33.2 of the Constitution of Sint Maarten says: If a minister no longer enjoys the confidence of the Parliament, he shall surrender his office.

The UP-led Government from October 2010 to May2012 was successful in building the country's economy to a level at that point in time which led to Moody's assigning the country a first time Baa1 rating with a stable outlook six months after the UP lost its majority support.

Our International Airport also has a favourable rating resulting in a credit rating of Baa2 with an outlook of stable.

The current political climate being created by the irresponsible actions of the National Alliance and its Independent coalition partners are doing more harm to the country than good. A down grade makes it harder for Sint Maarten to borrow on the international market and decreases foreign investor confidence in the economy.

The country can be rest assured that the current parliamentary majority will bring order and restore confidence due to the irresponsible actions of the National Alliance/Independents standoff.

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

claudiusbuncamperwithbeverly14052013Lion's District Governor Claudius "Toontje" Buncamper MJF will be the special guest on the Prime Time with Beverly television program on Wednesday night at 8:30pm & Sunday at 7:30pm. The interview with the District Governor of area 60B will highlight his year as Governor and he will also discuss the positive progress Lions & Leos have been making with their work in the community on St. Maarten and around the region. The television program airs on St. Maarten Cable TV/TV15 on channel 115.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithocta14052013Discuss Common Ground on Economic and Environmental Development

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams hosted a meeting with the Chairman of the Overseas Countries and Territories Association (OCTA) and President of the Territorial Council of St. Pierre and Miquelon Mr. Stéphane Artano. Interim Head of the Department of Foreign Relations Ms. Khalilah Peters; Mr. Olivier Gaston, EU representative; Veronica Jansen-Webster from the Department of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations BAK and Emilia Thomas, Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister also attended the meeting.

The meeting was aimed foremost at familiarizing the Chairman with St. Maarten and to build a common understanding of OCTA challenges among OCT leaders amongst which the Prime Minister. This also included discussions on the way forward with steps to improve the OCTs political representation in Brussels and the preparation of the next OCT-EU forum focusing on innovation in economic and environmental policies. Discussions were also had on the OCTs needs to facilitate European Development Fund programming through the exploration of providing training, technical assistance and procedure simplifications. Additional topics discussed also included the syncing of economic and environmental policies, further building on the previous OCTA Chairman's theme of Green Growth and Competitiveness.

OCTA is an important and essential voice in the European Union for St. Maarten and other Overseas Countries and Territories. In September of last year a St. Maarten delegation headed by the Minister Plenipotentiary the Hon. Mathias Voges attended a high level OCTA meeting in Ilulissat, Greenland seeking common ground on various issues unique to the OCTs.

"It was an fruitful meeting. One where various items of much importance to St. Maarten's role in the OCT framework were discussed. Finding common ground on issues related to European assistance in economic, developmental and environmental issues facing OCT islands," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon, Head of the Island's Disaster Emergency Management Organization, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), is calling on the Sint Maarten community to begin to prepare timely for the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season, and to have the necessary plans in place by June 1st, the start of the season.

Colorado State University hurricane team Phil Klotzbach and William Gray have forecasted in their early April report enhanced activity for the hurricane season with 18 named storms, of which nine will become hurricanes, and four of those will become major hurricanes with over 111 miles per hour winds.

Even though the official start of the season is over two weeks away, Salomon is urging residents to use this period to prepare themselves adequately by reviewing their annual hurricane season preparatory list.

The Disaster Coordinator added that the country's disaster preparedness and emergency management mechanism are expected to be ready to deal with any eventuality arising during the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season.

"As we do for every hurricane season, preparing for a storm strike is necessary. Remember it only takes one to make it a bad hurricane season. I am calling on the nation to begin to prepare now, so as to mitigate the effects of a possible hurricane disaster. We have the time now to prepare our homes, businesses and other structures adequately in the event of a hurricane strike.

"Check your disaster plan and review your disaster supply kit. Prepare early and avoid being caught unprepared. Minimize your dependence on government, family or friends. Preparedness starts with every one of us within our communities," Disaster Coordinator Winston Salomon said on Tuesday.

Some of the preparations that should be carried out now are checking hurricane shutters and the roof of your home or business, and to make sure windows and shutters close securely.

Persons living along coastal areas as well as those in flood prone areas should start looking at what measures they would take in the event of a hurricane which could cause flood challenges.

The 2013 hurricane season officially runs through November 30 and begins June 1st.

tuttifruttihealthystepperscarnivaltroupe14052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Youth Health Care, a division of the Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, will be embarking upon three community outreach vaccination sessions and lectures.

The theme for the vaccination campaign this year is "A Shared Responsibility."

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever 'Get Checked' campaign is in line with the efforts of CPS and therefore Minister De Weever is appealing to guardians and parents to get their children checked to see if they are up to date with their vaccinations.

To celebrate the 11th Vaccination Week of the Americas (VWA) and the second World Vaccination Week (WVW), last month YHC partnered with Rotary Club St. Maarten Sunrise to form a children's Carnival troupe. VWA/WVW is held in the last week of April.

At the children's parade the emphasis was placed on depicting healthy nutrition through the childrens costumes. The name of the troupe was "Tutti Frutti Healthy Steppers." The costumes represented items from the five food groups namely, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat and grain.

CPS will continue the VWA/WVW commemoration with three community outreach sessions and lectures. The first one is scheduled to take place on May 29 (St. Peters), followed by June 13 (Dutch Quarter) and the final one on June 20 (Cole Bay).

The objectives of the campaign are to stimulate parents to have their child(ren) vaccinated; to bring about awareness as it relates to vaccinations and to encourage parents and the community at large to take responsibility by ensuring updated vaccination records for the children in their care.

In addition the campaign aims to provide the public with general vaccination information; to encourage others such as, health care workers, pregnant women and pre-and exam class students to update their vaccination status. To encourage risk groups such as waste/garbage handlers, the Police, hotel and restaurant workers, and others to verify and update their vaccination status, particularly Hepatitis B and Tetanus.

Minister De Weever is also appealing to the various risk groups and health care providers to get checked to see if they are up to date with their vaccinations especially those identified by CPS.

cdeweeverandhubertlopez14052013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor with responsibility for the production and distribution of drinking water, Cornelius De Weever on Monday May 13, 2013 visited the construction site in Pointe Blanche where two tanks for storage of drinking water will be built. The site is located uphill on the road to Monte Vista. A solid foundation with an impressive amount of reinforcing steel and concrete is being completed for the first tank. The retaining wall is already in place. The works for the construction of the foundation have been contracted out by GEBE to Liccom NV.

Once completed the erection of the first tank will start which is a responsibility of Air-Fin /Seven Seas Water. The tanks will serve as reservoir for the water produced by two new seawater reverse osmosis plants to be built in the "Yellow Building" on the Harbour Cargo premises. Both tanks will be integrated in the distribution system of GEBE to supply drinking water to the community. Each tank has a capacity of 3000 m3.

"My proactive approach is to avoid reaching a potential water shortage situation as was the case that I met. The goal and planning that we have in place now is to ensure that we have enough water produced and distributed for years to come, taking into account the increase in population and following increase in demand of water. We are still looking at the water loss/leakage challenge and will be addressing this in the very near future," said Minister De Weever.

In August 2012. a three way agreement between Government, GEBE and Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water was signed specifying detailed arrangements of the supply, installation, commissioning, operation and ownership of two water tanks. The 3 way agreement is a sub agreement of the Water Supply (Production) Agreement between Government and Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water for 2008-2018.

The supply of drinking water is principally a Government responsibility with distribution tasks outsourced to GEBE and production to Air-Fin; Minister De Weever mentioned the importance of having the necessary infrastructure in place for the supply of drinking water to the general public, essential to guarantee public health.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS) that falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, has been informed the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) to continue surveillance with respect to novel coronavirus infection (NCoV).

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which includes viruses that may cause a range of illnesses in humans, from the common cold and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Viruses of this family also cause a number of animal diseases, however the NCoV itself has not yet been found in an animal.

This particular strain Novel Coronavirus has not been previously identified in humans.

Health care providers are advised to be vigilant among recent travelers returning from areas affected by the virus who develop severe SARS. Countries that have reported the novel coronavirus are: Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and France.

Common symptoms have been acute, serious respiratory illness with fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. The infection generally presents as pneumonia. It has caused kidney failure and death in some cases.

To prevent catching any respiratory illness, avoid close contact, when possible, with anyone who shows symptoms of illness (coughing and sneezing), and to maintain good hand hygiene.

Most patients are male and range in age from 24 to 94 years. Most patients presented with severe acute respiratory diseases required hospitalization and eventually required mechanical ventilation or other advanced respiratory support.

The Jordanian outbreak illustrated the potential of this virus to spread through health care facilities and the United Kingdom outbreak confirmed the potential of the virus to transmit between humans with close contact. In neither instance did transmission appear to go beyond the immediate outbreak into the community.

From September 2012 to date, the WHO has been informed of a global total of 34 laboratory confirmed cases of human infection with NCoV, including 18 deaths.

In Saudi Arabia, an investigation is ongoing into an outbreak in a health care facility, where 15 patients, including seven deaths have been confirmed.

The French Ministry of Social Affairs and Health has informed WHO of an additional laboratory-confirmed case with infection of NCoV.

Great Bay:--- In order to keep the public informed regarding the ongoing developments, and in particular what transpired during the Parliamentary Meeting on the morning of Monday, May 13th, the Majority in Parliament has decided to inform the public regarding Monday Morning's meeting.

In a released statement the Parliamentary Majority comprising of the DP, UP and Independent Laville explained that last week the Majority Coalition Members of Parliament requested an urgent meeting to be held last week in order to discuss the Motion of No Confidence by the Parliamentary Majority against the Ministers Marlin, Jacobs, Pantophlet and Tuitt. This letter requesting the urgent meeting for the end of last week was submitted by letter beforehand using all of the proper channels. The Chairman of Parliament the Hon. Rodolphe Samuel completely ignored the request, other than pointing out a minor and insignificant technicality.

Considering the fact that the request was completely ignored, the Majority Coalition subsequently requested that their agenda point be added to a duly convened meeting of Parliament which was scheduled for Monday, May 13th, a meeting which was requested by the NA Faction and Independent Member Frans Richardson. This request was granted and the agenda point of the Majority Coalition the Motion of No Confidence Against the four Ministers, was also duly added.

Anticipating that the Chairman Rodolphe Samuel would either cancel the meeting or adjourn before the coalition's agenda point, (the Motion of No Confidence) was reached, the two deputy-chairs of Parliament, who together with the president form the Presidium, requested a meeting of the Presidium before the public meeting of Parliament to discuss proceedings. The President of Parliament agreed to only talk informally with the two Deputy-Chairs of Parliament, resulting in the fact that no formal conclusions could be arrived at in the Presidium.

"The rules of order of Parliament are clear, especially where it concerns: 'where it is not established by the Rules of Order of Parliament, the Parliament, so a Parliamentary Majority, decides'. This is stated very clearly in the Rules of Order. The flaunting of these rules is a continuation of the so-called standoff mentality of the Parliamentary minority."

The statement goes on to say that it is further not established in the Rules of Order what Parliament does if the Chair and or Clerk of Parliament refuse to carry out his or her function and willfully obstructs Parliament. This was clearly evident, as all was done in order to avoid the agenda point of the Majority of Parliament being arrived at and thus avoiding the Motion of no Confidence. Taking this into consideration the Parliamentary Majority decided to have the meeting continue and to subsequently appoint an ad-hoc recorder in the person of Mr. E. Gumbs.

The statement ends by reminding the population that all actions which were conducted on the morning of the 13th of May were within the law and the Rules of Order of Parliament. "It is upsetting and disconcerting to know that both the President of Parliament and the Clerk of Parliament obstructed an Agenda Point which was scheduled. It is also unfortunate that misinformation was distributed providing falsities to the people, such as the Parliament being 'Hijacked' for example. The only thing hijacked was the democratic process in the interest of continuing the unfortunate policy of "Mexican Stand-offing" instead of Governing.

Joint Press Release By Parliamentary Majority

Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin announced on the radio program "View Point" on Tuesday that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams has refused to ratify the minutes of agenda point 18 that was discussed in the Council of Ministers' meeting last week Tuesday. Marlin spoke out shortly after the weekly Council of Ministers' meeting ended on Tuesday. Marlin said what the Prime Minister presented to the Council for ratification is not what transpired in the meeting last week, therefore no decision was taken on the agenda point.

In the meantime, Marlin made up the Landsbesluit (decree) for the decision which was taken by the majority of the Ministers to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections which should be held sometime in July 2013. That Landsbesluit and other documents to support the decree were sent to the Governor of St. Maarten for him to sign off and to also take a decision to end the political saga the island is facing.

Marlin also spoke about the illegal meeting that was held in the Parliament of St. Maarten on Monday and the motion of non-confidence the eight Members of Parliament passed and sent to the Governor of St. Maarten.

Marlin condemned the way those members that claimed to have formed the new majority behaved. He said based on all what was said by Member of Parliament Romaine Laville in public and the fact that he filed complaint against the UP leader and other complaints that were filed by MP Jules James, Laville has raised many questions in the minds of the people. Marlin said ever since the release of the Bada Bing tape several things transpired behind closed doors and he believes that if Members of Parliament have lost confidence in him and other Ministers then they have to tell him and the people of St. Maarten what he is accused of. He made clear the actions (fight) he putting up against those in Parliament that are swinging deals from one end to the next is not about him wanting to hold on to power but to ensure that democracy prevails on St. Maarten. Marlin and the host of the radio program called on the people of St. Maarten that have been voicing their concerns to sign the petition that is now circulating on St. Maarten demanding that new elections be called within the specified period of time.

One salutary effect of the present brouhaha in Parliament and Government is that is has focused laser sharp attention on the right of Parliament to dismiss government via a vote of no confidence and government's right in turn to dissolve Parliament and trigger new elections.
Article 33 of St. Maarten's Constitution states that a Minister must surrender his seat when he no longer enjoys the confidence of Parliament. Parliament makes this clear by a vote of no confidence against the Minister.
Article 59 of our constitution gives government the right to dissolve Parliament. At present the dispute is whether Government should dissolve parliament. Regardless to how one feels about the issue, one cannot dispute the fact that if government passes a resolution (Landsbesluit or LB) to dissolve Parliament there is little anyone, much less the governor can do. The right to dissolve Parliament is an inherent right of government. All that is left for the governor to do is ask Parliament whether they wish to maintain the government in office for the three months leading up to the election or whether Parliament wishes to appoint an interim cabinet to prepare the elections.
This is part of the system of "checks and balances" found in most constitutions. No one has absolute power. Each branch of government has limits to its exercise of power. Parliament's right to dismiss government is counterbalanced by government's right to dissolve Parliament. This is what separates a democracy from a dictatorship. In a dictatorship, the leader has absolute power. This is what makes living under such systems so loathsome. There are no "checks and balances" to the exercise of power, and that eventually leads to abuse of power.
Many have expressed frustration at the spectacle of MPs "Jumping Ship". Many have proposed all sorts of complicated schemes and amendments to our constitution to stop the practice. But drastic changes may not be necessary. Once it sinks into MP's minds that government can dissolve Parliament thus triggering new elections in ninety days, MPs will be much more careful about jumping ship. If they try to form a new government, and use article 33 to hold a vote of confidence against government, or withdraw their support from government, they are now aware that government can launch its own poison pill, and dissolve Parliament. Ship jumpers will then have to face the voters and run the risk of losing their seat before the normal four year Parliamentary term is up. Viewed from this perspective, and used judiciously, government's right to dissolve Parliament can act as a brake on the ambitions of opportunistic MPs, and lead to a much more stable government.

sjacobsatspeedyplusinternationaltrackandfieldmeet13052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The 2nd edition of the Speedy Plus International Track and Field Meet, held on May 11th, 2013 at the Alberic Richards Stadium in Sandy Ground, was another opportunity to unite the island in yet another development program around sports.

Though the meet was held on the French of the island, it should be noted that the 2nd edition was hosted by the Dutch Side of St. Maarten due to the upgrading of the facilities. This meet gave both sides of the island the opportunity to display their commitment to the signed "Declaration of Intent of Cooperation" between the Government of the Republic of France, The Government of St. Maarten and the Territorial Council of St. Martin.

This partnership highlights the cooperation between the North and the South where it takes into consideration the Memorandum of Understanding concerning cross border cooperation signed on November 11th, 2006.

From the inception of the International Track and Field Meet in 2012, the Territorial Collectivity and Country St. Maarten had decided to collaborate with the Foundation for Limitless Cooperation and Speedy Plus to host this major event.

The meet was also designed to showcase our tourist and sporting assets where 133 local and regional athletes while approximately 50 international athletes competed. With the lineup of Regional and International athletes, this International Track & Field Meet gave the athletes of St. Maarten/St. Martin the opportunity to evaluate their performances against other top athletes in the world; whilst at the same time, the opportunity to experience the perspective of an event on their own home ground of an international caliber.

"As the world is in full transformation and today sports are a vector for positive change, it educates, revitalizes and inspires. It is truly a driving force for local, economic and social development and for communication. With this in mind, Speedy Plus has demonstrated with its athletes that everything is possible," Minister Jacobs said.

The vision of Speedy Plus to shine at all events they participate in; to promote the island; to prepare coaches for top level; to contribute to the integration of our young people and to ensure the school success of our young sports people has been endorsed by the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports.

"It is important for us to do everything within our power to take the lead and develop the reputation of our island via top-level sportsmen and sports women, so that they can be role models. Let us give our young people the possibility to develop their full potential through sports," Minister of Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs pointed out.

Gratitude and appreciation goes out to the organizing committee of the event namely, President of the Speedy Plus Club Calvin Bryan and Leona Marlin of the Foundation for Limitless Cooperation, their affiliate on the Dutch side of the Island.

A heartfelt 'Thank you' also goes out to the many other persons who have been instrumental in making this possible; along with TelEm, Guavaberry, and Nagico. Thanks also go out to all the athletes, international, regional and local. They showcased a high caliber of athleticism and sportsman like behavior, Minister Silveria Jacobs said on Monday.

managersintegrityworkshop13052013Philipsburg:--- In the week of April 22nd to April 25th 2013 the department of Interior and Kingdom Relations successfully organized a specialized integrity workshop for the managers of the Public Service of Sint Maarten. Prior to this workshop civil servants had recently been given a general training in dealing with Integrity Dilemma's, morals and values. They focused on behavior and mindset.

The execution of the Integrity program has been a journey which begun in 2010. Thus far it has included internal research, gathering all Integrity stakeholders to come with a proposal for an Integrity vision, which was approved by the Council of Ministers. There has also been a focus on Integrity awareness by means of newsletters, promotional materials and Integrity training. An official Integrity definition and slogan have been established: Integrity @ work it starts with me. Signifying that Integrity is important in our daily lives and work and therefore also is a work in progress. The Council of Ministers has agreed to establish an Integrity Bureau for Sint Maarten and we are at the point in that process where work is ongoing towards achieving a Draft Ordinance (Landsverodening Bureau Integriteit).

The workshop for managers was done in the form of a management simulation designed to guide managers through a process of looking at internal vulnerabilities related to Integrity and the internal integrity system. The aim of the exercises was to formulate recommendations related to the government Integrity system and present these to the Council of Ministers. Bureau Integriteit Amsterdam was invited to guide the managers through this process and got an opportunity on Thursday April 25th 2013 to present the recommendations to the Council of Ministers.

After reviewing the evaluation of the training, Mrs. Richardson the Integrity Program Manager at the Department of the Interior and Kingdom is very satisfied with the results. The recommendations are for the most part consistent with the Integrity Vision already being executed by above mentioned department. As part of the Integrity program for The Government of Sint Maarten and the Integrity project funded by means of Dutch Development Funds via USONA, the project will continue with the appointment of Persons of Confidence in each Ministry and the establishment of an Integrity Bureau etc.

The National Institute of Arts

announces

Open audition for the new National Youth Choir of St. Maarten
Date: Thursday May 16, 2013
Time: 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Ages: 8-15 years
Place: John Larmonie Center, Long wall Rd #20, Philipsburg

The audition will be under the direction of LaVaune Henry and Hans Minnaert.

Choir rehearsals will be twice a week, a general basic music formation will be imparted inclusive of solvège under the direction of Ms. Henry.

Pre-registration is recommended due to the high volume of requests.
Please email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 543-0600

Your punctual attendance will be appreciated.

swescotwilliamsattendspowerfulwomenworkshop13052013Oyster Pond:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams took time out of her currently hectic schedule to attend and support the Powerful Women's Workshop at the Oyster Bay Resort on Saturday. The Workshop was centered on the empowerment of women in the community and to develop their potential. "The two traditional names for St. Maarten are Oualichi, the Land of Strong Women and Soualiga, Land of Salt. I believe that that is exactly what we are as women here on St. Maarten; strong women that are the salt of the land," commented the Prime Minister. In Photo are attendants of the Powerful Women's Workshop with the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

fransrichardson13052013Philipsburg:--- Independent Member of Parliament Frans Richardson told reporters on Monday afternoon that he cannot and will not condone the current political developments on St. Maarten. MP Richardson said last year he wholeheartedly supported the NA led coalition government "Working for the People". MP Richardson said he did that simply because the UP/DP/I-1 government failed to address several pressing issues that were plaguing the people of St. Maarten and necessary for improving the quality of life for the people of St. Maarten and restore the economy on St. Maarten. MP Richardson said he is just as surprised as many of the people on St. Maarten who are now confronted with the latest development where they are being asked to support the same coalition (UP/DP) that were thrown out of government last year. Richardson said he is of the opinion that the UP/DP coalition was never interested in serving the needs of the people. He further explained that the NA led coalition government was about to put meaningful policies in place that would have restored confidence in the country's economy before the Members of the UP/DP chose to break the NA led coalition government.

The Independent Member of Parliament said this is done under the false pretense that the NA led coalition lacked cohesion and professionalism. Richardson said this is just an excuse to justify their personal motives and lawless agendas. MP Richardson made clear that he cannot condone such irresponsible and reckless action. He said that St. Maarten's democracy cannot continue to support or maintain politicians that are hell bent on ignoring the needs of the people for their narrow self interest.
Richardson said that if the members of the UP/DP Members of Parliament want to be true to the electorate then they need tell them the real reason why they want to return to power for the remaining term.

MP Richardson said that it is time for the people (electorate) to put an end to the negative political cycle by calling for an early election to guarantee everyone a meaningful say on how this country's government is administered. "This is no time for playing musical chairs because there are politicians who do not know how to put the people first in their government program. For the sake of clarity let me make clear that I cannot support such an unsteady coalition since I am known for being a serious representative of the people and one that listens to you the people of St. Maarten and I am committed to do everything possible to ensure that you the people can have a better life on St. Maarten, while I will ensure that St. Maarten would remain an ideal place for investors to invest. Working for the people of St. Maarten is my only priority and ensure that your interest are taken care of. In order to do so then the Parliament of St. Maarten must be dissolved and call for new elections that would restore confidence in government." MP Richardson said whatever shortcomings exists in the administrative and legislative levels of Government can be resolved with serious and transparent debating. The priority is supposed to be serving the general interest of the people of St. Maarten, restoring confidence in the people and the political system, and uplifting the fragile economy.

MP Richardson said disrupting the functioning of government with a simple majority is once again gambling with the people's trust, with uncertainty and political instability. Richardson said that the current political developments are the last thing St. Maarten needs especially with the negative consequences that will come along with it. He said if the people of St. Maarten want to remain true to the country's constitution then the people should have the final word on what is currently taking place in the political arena. Therefore, the only solution to resolve the current impasse is a fresh election to return government to normalcy.

MP Richardson said he listened to the eight Members of Parliament who stated the lack of cohesion and professionalism is the reason they pulled their support from the government. He said he had to express his feelings about the statements made by the new set of MPs who claims to have formed the majority. He said that these are the same people that formed part of the government two years ago and their Prime Minister has the Government Administration Building in her portfolio and those members that are supporting their Prime Minister never raised any issues about the unfinished Government Building. MP Richardson said the most important building of the country is sitting for eight years and it is still unfinished and no one that is supporting the Prime Minister is attempting to fix the problems of the Government Building. Richardson said another controversy that was brought forward is the post office. "These very two Members of the Democratic Party made an issue about the functioning of the Post Office, vehicles and furniture was removed from the Post Office and the two DP MPs said nothing. It has been three years now that electoral reform has been plaguing St. Maarten and absolutely nothing is done about it. The only thing we are seeing is lip service upon lip service and when it's not lip service its Zumba that is taking place on St. Maarten. Enough is enough and the people of St. Maarten has had enough with what is transpiring on St. Maarten where the same leader with a minority seats but holds the portfolio of Prime Minister is trying to be the Prime Minister for the third time."

Richardson said what transpired in Parliament on Monday is very disgraceful and democracy was trampled upon because Members of Parliament made their own Parliamentary procedures when they conducted an illegal meeting. Richardson said what took place in Parliament is Kangaroo Court of Parliament or better yet a coup by eight members of Parliament. He said that those MPs highjacked the meeting they requested and did what they wanted. Richardson said that one of the biggest issues that were being discussed is the justice park and he presented the motion on the continuation of the justice park during the budget debate even though he had nothing to do with the justice park. MP Richardson said if the MPs had a problem with Minister of Justice Roland Duncan they could have brought a motion of non-confidence against him and let him go home, but the justice park did not start with the NA led coalition, it started with the UP/DP coalition. He said politicians need to stop playing games with the people and begin to get serious because the excuses they made were flimsy. Richardson said what took place on Monday is that seasoned politicians led the younger politicians that do not have the experience down the drain.

When SMN News asked MP Richardson if he was aware that there were issues or grievances with Member of Parliament Romaine Laville, Richardson said at no time MP Laville mention he was unhappy. He said the MP presented several motions and it was all passed during the budget debate but days later he left the government and went with the same people whom he criticized. MP Richardson also confirmed that MP Laville got everything he asked for. "He wanted bus and taxi licenses for his people and the Minister TEATT granted them to him while his leader and government "UP" denied him. He wanted $400,000.00 for TEMPO last year and that too he got. MP Laville also got a contract from the Ministry of VROMI for the Garden Boyz. Laville got more than anyone in the NA led Government got or even requested." MP Richardson also confirmed that TEMPO submitted a request for $600,000.00 for the 2013 TEMPO show but that has not yet been dealt with.

FREEPORT, The Bahamas:--- GAT CARAIBES, a group of transportation companies in Martinique, will present its strategic plan to the 12th Annual Caribbean Shipping Executives Conference (CSEC XII), which opened today at the Grand Lucayan Beach and Golf Resort on Grand Bahama Island.

Hosted by the Caribbean Shipping Association (CSA) from May 13 to 15, shipping industry executives from Europe and North America are joining their counterparts from the Caribbean and Latin America for three days of discussions and presentations on a wide range of issues and trends in the maritime sector.

Martinique's newly formed cluster "GAT CARAIBES Logistique et Transports", along with other national shipping associations of the Caribbean, are presenting their plans as part of a wider regional contribution to the development of the region's shipping sector.

The port of Fort-de-France is undergoing a massive expansion and renovation to handle Post-Panamax vessels and to prepare Martinique to become a major Caribbean hub and a gateway to Europe.

GAT CARAIBES, comprising members from both the public and private sector of Martinique, plays a major part in the design, modelling and dissemination of solutions for transport and logistics, sustainable development, not only for Martinique but for the rest of the Caribbean.

Annual objectives include a freight exchange solution for the Caribbean (in the Americas and to Europe), the development of ICT solutions for transport and logistics, business tools to improve logistics performance, and the use of "intermodality" for both freight and passenger transport.

Conference presentations cover international trade and corruption, the readiness of marine pilots for the opening of the expanded Panama Canal, and the passage of massive ships and their demands on regional ports.

Alternative energy, the economics of ocean cargo and the competitiveness of regional ports will also come under expert scrutiny.

Several owners of shipping lines and participants will also be exposed to the latest trends and technological developments planned for wide deployment in marine terminals of the future.

Representatives of GAT CARAIBES are looking forward to forging agreements with other clusters in the region and creating synergies for transportation and logistics in the Americas.

Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament Louie Laveist has asked the President of Parliament Rodophe Samuel to draft a report and send it to the Prosecutor's Office for them to determine if the eight members of Parliament committed a crime when they highjacked parliament, its equipment, and employee on Monday to hold an illegal meeting. Laveist said several illegal acts were committed in Parliament, even where the UP/DP and MP Laville hired the services of someone from the street to perform parliamentary duties while this person was not even screened or hired by the Parliament of St. Maarten.

Laveist said that in his view what took place in Parliament has some criminal consequences and a report should be sent to the Prosecutor's Office in order for them to draw their conclusions and take the necessary actions against those that violated the highest legislative body of country St. Maarten.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The business sector and vital organizations have less than two weeks to apply for a Mobility Passes for the 2013 Hurricane Season.

The pass allows the aforementioned to assess possible damage to their property. Potential applicants have until May 25 to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a Mobility Pass.

For the 2013 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the tab link "Hurricane Information" followed by the "Hurricane Passes" tab.

Passes are issued to the following categories: government personnel, personnel of essential companies or organizations, (sub) contractors for the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), transportation passes for hotel staff, business owners and members of vital organizations to assess possible damage to their property.

The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.

The Office of Disaster Management is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill before May 25, 2013, with all necessary documents attached between office hours, Monday – Friday, 9:00AM – 4:00PM.

rlaville13052013Philipsburg:--- Eight Members of Parliament representing the United People's Party, Democratic Party, and Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville made history for St. Maarten's Parliament Monday morning when they convened an illegal meeting and presented and passed a motion of non-confidence against four of the Ministers in the Council of Ministers, namely Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs, and Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet. The eight Members of Parliament did not even take the time to vote on the motion they presented which in their view is legal. During the illegal meeting the tribune of Parliament was filled with supporters of the UP and DP including the Leader of the United People's Party, Theodore Heyliger.

It should be noted that while the scene played out in the Parliament of St. Maarten is illegal and will not be registered as an official meeting, the four Ministers who form the majority in the Council of Ministers can still pursue with dissolving the Parliament of St. Maarten. This procedure is still ongoing.

updpsupporters13052013What was seen in the Parliament of St. Maarten on Monday in the presence of the Leader of the United People's Party Leader Theodore Heyliger and supporters of the Democratic Party and UP has never taken place anywhere else in the Kingdom. Vice Chairman of Parliament Romaine Laville conducted the meeting without a griffier while the eight members of Parliament appointed Edward Gumbs to act as their recorder. Edward Gumbs who claimed to know the rules of Parliament made sure he did not sit in the seat reserved for the griffier, instead he sat in one of the seats that are reserved for Ministers or other invited guests that are invited to Parliament to provide answers to Parliament.

Another unusual action that was taken by three Members of Parliament namely Petrus Leroy de Weever, MP Roy Marlin, and MP Jules James was when they instructed the media recorder of Parliament Alvin Prescod to broadcast their meeting live on air. At some point, the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel ordered Prescod to take the meeting off the air because it was not an official meeting of Parliament. When Prescod complied with the President's orders, Members of Parliament Roy Marlin and Jules James went into the media room of Parliament and bullied Prescod. SMN News reporter heard Prescod telling the President of Parliament that he was ordered by Member of Parliament Petrus Leroy de Weever to air the meeting live and at some point MPs Roy Marlin and Jules James ordered him out of the press room. SMN News reporter also witnessed MP Jules James arguing with Prescod in the media room while the illegal meeting was in process.

President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel told Reporters that he rescheduled the Meeting for Friday.

aprescodwithjjames13052013President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel and the Griffier of Parliament Alstain Bell who witnessed that what transpired in Parliament on Monday morning said the actions of the eight Members of Parliament were undemocratic and uncalled for because they did everything that had to be done based on the rules of order. Samuel gave members of the media copies of the letters that were sent to him showing where he responded the same day to the various factions. He said despite him working based on the rules of order, he was accused by The Daily Herald of not treating the Members of Parliament fairly. The President of Parliament called on The Daily Herald to make a retraction based on the evidence he provided to each reporter including the reporter of The Daily Herald.

President Samuel said on May 6th, 2013 he received a letter which stated that the undersigned Members of Parliament that has formed the majority in Parliament informs him that the following Ministers no longer enjoys their support. "Those Ministers are Minister William Marlin, Minister Roland Tuitt, Minister Romeo Pantophlet, Minister Silveria Jacobs, and Minister Roland Duncan. Samuel said that he wants to make clear that the letter is addressed to the President of Parliament while it is copied to the Council of Ministers and the Governor of St. Maarten. Samuel said so far that letter has not yet been handled in a meeting of Parliament. He explained that on May 7th, 2013 he received a second letter requesting that he convene an urgent meeting on May 10th, 2013. Samuel said only four Members of Parliament signed that letter and he was obliged to write a letter to the MPs asking them for clarification.

rsamuelandabell13052013Samuel said that on the same day he responded to the letter and asked those that signed the letter to clarify what they asked of him in their letter. All of the letters are posted below this article for our readers to view. He said in response to his letter, the Members of Parliament who claims to have formed the majority then wrote him a letter and asked him to then add an agenda point to the meeting that was requested by two Members of the National Alliance George Pantophlet, Louie Laviest and Independent Member of Parliament Frans Richardson which was to be held on Monday May 13th, 2013. Samuel further explained that he received a follow up letter from those that requested the meeting for Monday May 13th, 2013 asking that he reschedule the meeting because some of the Members who requested the meeting left the island to attend the funeral of slain MP of Curacao Helmin Wiels. Samuel said that he postponed the meeting to Friday May 17th, 2013 and he notified all the Members of Parliament that the meeting was rescheduled. He made clear that all Members of Parliament were informed, yet the eight members from the UP/DP/Laville decided to proceed with the meeting while he and the griffier were present in the building when the illegal meeting took place. He further stated that the Vice Chair of Parliament Romaine Laville could not preside over a meeting while the President is in the house and more important he could not have done so without a recorder. Samuel made clear that he did his work in accordance with the law/constitution and the rules of order. Samuel said what took place in the house of Parliament on Monday is very much unusual. Samuel further said that he does not know how to describe what took place in the House of Parliament on Monday because there was no convocation sent out for the meeting. This he said is laid down in the rules of order. He said the agenda point that was dealt with was not a separate meeting and what happened on Monday does not have his blessings and he knows that it was also terribly wrong. Samuel concluded by saying he will discuss the matter with the Governor of St. Maarten.

Click here to view more photos of the Illegal Meeting of Parliament on Monday May 13th, 2013.
Click here to view the motion presented and passed by the UP/DP MPs and MP Laville on Monday.
Click here to view the various letters that were sent to the President of Parliament and his responses.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments and the vote of no confidence against certain members of the Council of Ministers has been cancelled and rescheduled for May 17.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Friday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting for May 13 was initially requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson. The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013.

The aforementioned three MPs in a letter to the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel on May 13 requested that the meeting be rescheduled due to the funeral of Curacao MP H. Wiels which is scheduled for Tuesday. The three MPs indicated that they would like to attend the funeral.

An additional agenda point had also been added to the 13 May plenary session based on correspondence dated May 7 and May 9, 2013 from MPs Hon. Roy Marlin (DP), Hon. Petrus L. de Weever (DP), Hon. Janchie Leonard (UP), and Hon. Gracita Arrindell (UP): Establishing that Minister W. Marlin, Minister R. Tuitt, Minister R. Duncan, Minister R. Pantophlet and Minister S. Jacobs no longer enjoy majority support from the Parliament of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

chickfilaleadercast12052013Philipsburg:--- Participants who attended the Chick-fil-A Leadercast at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort on Friday May 10th, left motivated and inspired to "Simply Lead;" the theme of the conference. Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® is a one-day leader development event broadcast live from Atlanta, Georgia to hundreds of sites throughout the world. St. Maarten became one of the sites for the first time this year, thanks to the foresight of Victorious Living Foundation which purposes to enlighten, empower and reconcile communities.
The attendees at Friday's event were drawn from a wide cross-section of society including business, the clergy, education, health care and Government, among other sectors. Participants followed the presentations of world-renown speakers on leadership streamed live and projected on a large screen in one of the conference rooms at Sonesta Great Bay Resort.
Among the star-studded Leadercast were: Andy Stanley, Best Selling leadership author and communicator; Jack Welch, former Chairman and CEO of General Electric; Mike Krzyzewski, Head men's basketball coach, Duke University and Team USA, John Maxwell, bestselling author and leadership expert, Dr. Henry Cloud, best-selling author and leadership consultant, LCDR Rorke Denver, Navy SEAL and star of the 2012 movie Act of Valor; Sanya Richards-Ross, 2012 London Olympic gold medallist, track & field; David Allen, Best-selling author of Getting Things Done and productivity expert, and Dr. Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State (2005-2009), via exclusive Simply Lead video interview.
In his powerful presentation, Andy Stanley shared and elaborated on three pivotal questions that each leader should ask in order to be effective: "What am I doing?" "Why am doing it?" and, "How do I fit in?" His presentation was the first for the leadercast and was well received by the gathering. David Allen highlighted the importance of maintaining calm in the midst of chaos as a key trait to leadership. Mike Krzyzewski used his experiences as head coach of Team USA dealing with superstar basketball players as lessons that can be applied in leadership in any organisation.
Sanya Richards-Ross was interviewed by veteran sports anchor Linda Cohn of ESPN. She spoke mainly on how to be successful in the midst of distractions; the challenges she faced as a professional athlete on the road to success, the support of her family and the need to have a vision board: setting goals and working assiduously in achieving them. Most of the participants seemed impressed with the presentation of John Maxwell, who spoke on the topic "Simplicity in leadership."
The Leadercast was not just about the overseas speakers. Representatives of the St. Maarten Youth parliament were given the opportunity to present their 30 year vision for St. Maarten. The group highlighted some of the issues as they see it that are paramount to St. Maarten including having more and improved recreational facilities; hypocrisy among social leaders; more accountability from politicians; more support for entrepreneurs; and leadership among employees. They also presented their views of St. Maarten currently which include political instability, a booming economy and the environment under threat.
President of the St. Maarten Youth Parliament Rochana Richardson, after the Leadercast, said the event was very informative and useful and believes principles learnt can be applied to leadership of the Youth Parliament. The Youth Parliament's presentations were well received with rousing applause from the audience. The attendees also concurred with some of the issues raised by the youth and expressed concern that their findings were seemingly ignored by the current St. Maarten parliamentarians.
Okama Brook, from the Department of General Affairs gave a brief presentation on the National Plan for St. Maarten. "An exercise we have embarked on in the last two months is actually developing a framework; a methodology that we can use to capture your feedback of what the priorities should be that should go into a national vision—a national vision that would transform into a long term plan," Ms. Brooks told the Leadercast gathering.
Visionary of the Victorious Living Foundation, Dr. Nicole Erna Mae Francis was pleased with the outcome of the Chick-Fil-A- Leadercast, despite the challenges endured in the planning phase. "The response was phenomenal. I have been promoting quite a bit for the past two and half months and to some extent I didn't really know what to expect. I went on pure faith and trust that it was the right thing to do at the right time," Francis said. She noted that the event proved to be appropriate in addressing the leadership challenges in St. Maarten, considering the current political situation in St. Maarten.
She also believes that the leadership transformation necessary for St. Maarten has begun with the successful staging of this event. "I sat back many times during the session and observed the faces of the people who have come from a wide cross section of the community. I looked at their faces and saw the transformation that was taking place. I saw what was happening internally and all the hassle and the entire struggle that I had to go through to make it happen, was fulfilling for me at that juncture," explained Francis. She assured that the event will be held next year and already participants have indicated their intentions to support when held again on May 9th, 2014.
Representatives of the contributors to the event were also present with display tables, namely: the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce, A Platinum contributor and Dartam N.V., a silver contributor. Dartam N.V. operates several companies and provides a myriad of services, including customer service. Representatives of the company found the Leadercast very useful as they see leadership as a vital tool in customer service.
Victorious Living is grateful to all of its contributors, especially to its main contributor to the event, the Government of St. Maarten under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism & Economic Affairs. Thanks are also extended to UTS for providing the streaming, WTN, Cable TV, Sonesta Great Bay, PJD2, Sheer Restaurant, Li'l Man Productions, and all others who supported in one way or the other. Persons interested in learning more about Victorious Living may call them at 1721-524-8731 or visit them at www.victoriouslivingsxm.org.

rochelleward12052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- St. Martin's first natural hair group and hair care product line, "Don't Break the Comb," will launch at the St. Martin Book Fair on June 1, 2013, at 11 am, at the University of St. Martin, said biologist Taymer Mason.

Don't Break the Comb is the brainchild of founders Taymer Mason and Rochelle Ward (Faizah Tabasamu), both writers on the island as well.

From its Facebook and other digital media responses, it appears that the hair care products and the workshop introducing the line, are "highly anticipated," said Ward, a teacher at the St. Maarten Academy high school.

The workshop is entitled "Natural Hair Mixology: Make your own homemade hair products." "We will show attendees how to make quick, safe, easy and natural recipes to combat several hair issues like dryness and breakage," said Mason.

"The workshop is for naturals and anyone interested in using natural products in their hair care regimen. Parents of children who proudly wear their natural hair are all invited," said Mason.

The attendees will get recipe cards, an information booklet to take home, and exciting giveaways and surprises. But the special treatment won't end there. "The hair care workshop guests will get to network with each other and we hope they realize that they are not alone in taking care of their natural hair," said Mason.

Mason and Ward want their guests to leave the workshop "armed with hair care knowledge, homemade hair treatments, product samples, and even a full belly if they choose to," said Mason, who is a vegan cookbook author.

Last year Mason hosted the highly successful cooking workshop at the St. Martin Book Fair. That was followed by the tremendous turnout for her Caribbean food demo at the annual vegetarian festival in Toronto.

This year Taymer Mason is offering tasty eats along with the treatment for beautiful hair at the Friendly Island's book fair. "We will offer optional $20 VIP gourmet box lunches, so go to http://dontbreakthecomb.eventbrite.com/ and register for our free workshop and sign up for a hearty lunch," said Mason.

And talking of networking for success, "Our group was conceived because of the St. Martin Book Fair 2012, where we met for the first time, each person eyeing the other's proudly-worn natural hair," said Ward.

"Although we met at the Vegan cooking workshop where Taymer was the speaker, I eventually ended up talking about hair care, styles, and the YouTube natural hair mines. It took off then. Bit by bit we are learning about natural hair groups on other islands. It's great. Just the other day we got followers from Cameroon. Go St. Martin!" Ward said with glee.

The two beauties, who have been wearing natural hair styles for a few years, want women to feel empowered with the upcoming workshop and their other hair-related activities – such as the St. Martin Natural Hair Expo slated for later in 2013.

"For the women of St. Martin, we want to give them back themselves. We want to give them space to network and conquer fears and problems they might have about their hair and their history with it," said Ward.

Showing a new generation of women home treatments for their hair does actually have a history-based reason for the founders of Don't Break The Comb. In the Caribbean, "so much information is being lost as it pertains to natural hair care with the advent of the hot iron, relaxers and weaves. We need to salvage this information before it becomes lost forever," said Mason.

What about teamwork at the beauty works company? If Mason is the scientist, then Ward is the one dealing not only with marketing but also giving "aesthetic feedback" when Mason makes the products.

"During product development I also document recipes and get my hands messy. It is riveting to decide on final colors and the aromas of our creations," said Ward.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments is scheduled for May 13.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Monday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting was requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson. The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

Dr. A.B. van Rijn, Professor of Administrative and Constitutional Law at the (former) University of the Netherlands Antilles (UNA) discusses "The Right of Government (The Council of Ministers) to dissolve Parliament".
On page 216 of his excellent textbook entitled "Constitutional Law of the Netherlands Antilles" (Staatsrecht van De Nederlandse Antillen), which appeared in 1999 professor van Rijn offers an in depth explanation of exactly what the right to dissolve Parliament is, and how it works in practice when used in cases where Parliament sends home the government by means of a vote of no confidence.
THE CONFLICT RULE: THE MIRROR IMAGE OF PARLIAMENT'S RIGHT TO DISMISS GOVERNMENT.
Professor van Rijn defines the right to dissolve Parliament as the "Conflict Rule". In the former Netherlands Antilles this right was regulated in Art. 88 of the Country Regulations of the Netherlands Antilles. In country St. Maarten in is regulated in article 59 of the Constitution of Country St. Maarten.
"The right to dissolve Parliament", van Rijn writes, " is passed by means of a Landsbesluit or Country Resolution. This right can be seen as the mirror image of the "confidence rule". (n.b. the confidence rule, which is found in the explanatory notes to the constitution of Country Sint Maarten, states that ministers must resign when Parliament passes a vote of" No Confidence" against them).
This right is not subject to any restrictions. It is however a violation of the principle that elections are held every four years, and should therefore be used only in exceptional cases. The right to dissolve Parliament is the instrument of government in the power play between government and Parliament. It arose as a means to resolve conflicts between government and Parliament. If there is an unbridgeable difference of opinion between both, Parliament can dismiss the government by means of a vote of no confidence. Government in turn can dissolve Parliament in order to let the voters have their say. The existence of that right, means that Parliament has to be careful. If Parliament forces the issue, it runs the risk of ending up holding the short end of the stick," according to Dr. van Rijn.

WHAT THE PRIME MINISTER DID NOT SAY:
Article 20 of the rules of order of the Council of Ministers of Sint Maarten state that decisions are made by the majority. There are at present seven Ministers in the Council. Therefore, it takes four ministers to pass the resolution to dissolve Parliament. Article 13 states, that the council meets whenever two or more ministers request a meeting. The Prime Minster was therefore wrong when she suggested that government should not dissolve Parliament and obstructed the Council of Ministers from voting on the matter. This is a right of government, and it was meant to be used precisely in a situation in which we presently find ourselves, with government facing a vote of confidence by Parliament. Finally, it is not her decision, but a decision as taken by the majority in the Council of Ministers that counts. She will, in the final analysis, be forced to submit to the will of the majority in the Council of Ministers. That's just the way it is, has been, and always will be, in a Democratic State.

Click here to read a short excerpt of Staatsrecht van De Nederlandse Antillen by Dr. A.B. van Rijn.

POINT BLANCHE:--- The cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea, the largest ship ever to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon Sunday evening departure has been postponed until Monday, May 13 starting at 5:45pm – 6:30pm. The transit from the Lagoon into the Simpson Bay should take approximately 30 minutes which means the Simpson Bay Bridge will be open for that amount of time.

The Sunday evening departure from the Lagoon into Simpson Bay was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

The Marietje Andrea entered the Lagoon on May 3 to deliver the Swing Bridge for the Causeway.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) vessel is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon was the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Causeway Swing Bridge left Hollandia Shipyard in the Netherlands on April 19 for Sint Maarten and arrived May 3. The Swing Bridge is 220 feet long and weighs 450 tons. The Causeway has a total length of 2493 feet and features a two-lane motorway, a bicycle track and footpaths.

Construction of the Causeway started early 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by December 2013. Construction is being carried out by Volker Stevin Construction Europe BV.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

utsdonatesphonestowomensdesk12052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In light of a new project headed by Women's Desk, the United Telecommunications Services (UTS) has donated five (5) Alcatel One Touch 813D phones to the Network and Support Group for Women.

The Network and Support Group for Women is a new initiative that aims to provide women with mutual support and coping skills in a comfortable and low-threshold environment.

It also aims at strengthening collaboration between different entities so that together they will be more effective in addressing the needs of the community.

Women's Desk teamed up with four organizations to provide support groups for women in relationships, single mothers, women battling substance abuse, mentors and foster parents, cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones.

In recognizing the need for support and empowerment of women and by virtue that of the community at large, UTS not only provided each support group with a phone, but also made a commitment to continuously provide call credit.

Moreover, the telecom provider is in the process of negotiating reduced calling rates for (Chippie) callers. With this generous donation the support groups can reach out to more people and provide assistance 24/7.

The numbers for the support groups are as follows:

  • Support Group for Cancer patients, survivors and their families: 554-8023
  • Support Group for Women in Relationships: 581-2899
  • Support Group for Substance abusers and their family: 554-6670
  • Support Group for Single mothers: 554-6553
  • Support Group for Mentors and foster parents: 554-8058

nagicoplaygroundofficiallyopened12052013Belvedere:--- The "NAGICO Playground" was officially opened in Belvedere on Friday morning during a small private ceremony held between representatives of the company and the stakeholders; St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF).

The playground which is located close to the entrance of the housing project is fully fenced in with colorful slides, two covered gazebos and a large play area. Managing Director of the Housing Foundation, Henry Lynch was pleased to see the project officially completed and thanked NAGICO for their support.

"This project has been in the pipeline for a while and we have had a few setbacks, but on behalf of the foundation I want to thank NAGICO not only for their monetary support but also for their assistance with this project," Lynch said.

He also explained that while the project was officially inaugurated today, the playground has been open to the community of Belvedere and is being enjoyed by the children living in and around the area. NAGICO Insurances was represented by their two Marketing Assistants; Lisa Brown-McKay and Derin Kucuk, who have been working with the SMHDF on this project.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Says the best thing for everyone is to move forward in the interest of the people; "Governing has to continue"

Philipsburg:--- During a special edition of her weekly radio broadcast on 98.1 Pearl FM, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams answered questions and gave thorough explanation on the current political developments currently being experienced by the Country. The Prime Minister explained various items related to the dissolution of Parliament, her role as Prime Minister and the role of the Governor in the current political environment. One of the main points made by the Prime Minister is that Ministers cannot move to dissolve Parliament in order to keep from being fired.

"What we are seeing again on St. Maarten is similar to what we saw last year where you had a shift in terms of the Parliamentary Coalitions or the Parliamentary combinations. While there are several things that are up for discussion, the main fact remains that the Majority of the Parliament of St. Maarten has taken a position that they no longer support the Government of St. Maarten as is and that the eight members that form the Parliamentary Majority have found a common ground to issue a declaration stating that they can work together with another government or a new government.

"We must remember that the fundamentals of our democracy is that Parliament of St. Maarten is the supreme body and that the last word rests with them. What has become a topic of debate because of that Central Democratic Principle is whether that statement as signed off by a majority of Parliament, the eight members we have been referring to, can suffice to have a change towards a government with which Parliament can work. The fact remains that the political reality is that a Majority of Parliament, whether you agree with the actors involved or not, or whether you agree with the actors involved in 2012 or not, no longer supports the Government and certain Ministers. Once this happens then the processes as outlined in the law need to be allowed to take their course," stated the PM.

"I, like I did as Prime Minister in 2012, have as my job that as soon as the signal has been given that there is no longer majority support of Government in Parliament, and correspondences to that effect have been sent to the Government, to Parliament and to the Governor, it is then upon me to tender the resignation of my Cabinet and the Cabinet Ministers. It must be understood that it is clearly outlined in the law that this cannot be twisted nor be turned; if Parliament declares that it does not have confidence in one or more Ministers, that Minister or those Ministers will then have to make their position available. No Ifs, No Buts, No Whens or No Hows. This is what the law states and we must adhere to this or else we would be in reality breaking the law."

During the hour long radio broadcast the Prime Minister also explained that indeed Parliament can be dissolved by Government given certain circumstances as outlined in the Constitution through a Decree, but that this must occur in consideration of various factors: "The issue here is how and in what instance would Government dissolve Parliament. The dissolution of Parliament can never be a result of Parliament saying that they have no more confidence in Government. That would, like I mentioned in previous statements, turn things on its head. Imagine a scenario where a Majority of Parliament decides they do not have any confidence in the Ministers. Imagine now that then the Ministers can then quickly run and dissolve Parliament to save their seat. Or to put it in other words dissolve Parliament in order to not get fired. We will then have a situation that Government will be able to decide on the fate of Parliament, which is not up to the Government to do. However you can, for example, have a situation that there is an impasse in Parliament where there is no cooperation or majority. In that case there would be no effective Government resulting in a political crises. In a case like that then yes, Government can step in and dissolve Parliament which has as a secondary result new elections, but not when a Minister tries to save his or her position by trying to dissolve Parliament. That is the cardinal issue at play here. Imagine it was customary that every time Parliament speaks its mind about a Minister or Ministers and they feel a vote of no confidence will be tabled they run to dissolve Parliament in order to keep from being fired; that would result in an erosion of our democratic system," emphasized Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

The Prime Minister did confirm that certain Members of Government have explored the possibility of invoking the article necessary for dissolution in order to avoid a motion of no confidence, and have made a proposal for the Council of Ministers to take that decision. "If and when that does occur I will do what I have to do as Prime Minister, what I will do in any case when a proposal is tabled no matter what that proposal is, and that is to make sure that it is ready, advised upon and has the legal context before it is put to Council for debate in order for a decision to be taken on it."

The Prime Minister did stress that once Parliament decides through the majority that they have no confidence in the Ministers, those Ministers are required by law to immediately make their position available. "When this happens the dismissal will have to be done by a decree of Government and new Ministers will be appointed also by Decree of Government. Of course incoming Ministers will be screened in accordance to the law to ensure that they are fit to be Ministers," stated the PM.

The Prime Minister also explained the formal role of the Governor; "The Governor is actually the head of the Government, however he has no political responsibility. So when decisions are taken or a decree is sent to him for signature the Governor cannot reject that. However what the Governor does have the authority to do is that if a Decree or decision is sent to him taken by Ministers or the Council of Ministers, and if he believes that that Decree is in conflict with a law or in the general interest of the Kingdom, the Governor has the possibility to seek an annulment of that decision depending on the relationship between the Governor and the Ministers or Council of Ministers," explained the Prime Minister.

Wescot-Williams also answered various questions posed by listeners to the program, one of which was centered on the issue of governing being relegated to second place when Political Events such as the recent one takes place. The Prime Minister answered that indeed, during any event marked by political change, debate or anything of that nature there is an impact on the functioning of Government. "Right now we have seen that people are starting to wonder about what is going to happen. What will happen to ongoing projects or complaints or contacts with a particular Ministry or Ministries. It must be clear that these types of issues and circumstances have an impact on Government. But it must also be clear that Government will continue and Ministers will continue to work until they are replaced. The best thing in situations like this is that there is clarity and that it is clarity as soon as possible because the lack thereof significantly slows things down. The best thing for everyone at this moment, and something which I would like to emphasize, is that decisions are taken quickly and that we move forward as quickly as possible in the interest of the people," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rduncanwithgraduatingpolicecadets10052013Philipsburg:--- Several cadets graduated at the Police Academy on Friday afternoon. The cadets started off their profession as BAVPOLERS. On Friday, they were handed their certificates after fully completing the course making them full-fledged officers. Most of the officers that graduated on Friday were from the Department of Customs, Immigration, Prison Guards, VKS off Control unit officers, and Police Officers. The graduates also had to participate in an EMS course which was 100% compulsory, instructor of the Police Academy told the attendees. He said that if any of the officers had missed one of the EMS courses then they could not have graduated.

The certificates were presented to the cadets by Minister of Justice Roland Duncan while EMS identifications were also presented to them. Several Department Heads including Chief of Police Peter de Witte, Head of Customs Anthony Doran, Wilfred Williams from the Prison Facility, and Head of the Department of Licensing Martha Thewet attended the short ceremony.

Click here to view more photos of the Graduation Ceremony.

eholiday14122012Harbour View:--- On May 6, 2013, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. E.B. Holiday, was presented with a letter by Prime Minister Mrs. S. Wescot-Williams from three members of Parliament, Mr. P. de Weever, Mr. R. Laville and Mr. R. Marlin, in which they informed the Governor that they withdrew their support from the present coalition government consisting of the NA/DP and independent members of Parliament Mr. P. Illidge, Mr. F. Richardson and Mr. R. Laville. On May 6, 2013, Governor Holiday also received a separate letter from Prime-Minister Wescot-Williams signed by the 5 members of the UP-fraction, the 2 members of the DP-fraction and Independent Member Laville in Parliament in which they informed him of their willingness to form the next government of Sint Maarten. The letter included an attached Governing declaration signed by the leader of the UP, the leader of the DP and above mentioned 8 members of Parliament.
Today May 10, 2013, the Minister of Justice, Mr. R. Duncan submitted his letter of resignation to Governor Holiday as a result of the declarations of the 8 members of Parliament.
Governor Holiday following various discussions received a letter dated May 10, 2013, from Prime Minister Wescot-Williams with an overview and her observations of the current political situation for his considerations.


From the Governor's Cabinet

rolandduncan08032013Dutch Quarter:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan announced at the graduation ceremony at the Police Academy that he tendered his resignation at 4pm on Friday afternoon due to the current political situation on St. Maarten. In an interview with SMN News, Minister Duncan said that even though he tendered his resignation on Friday, his position remains the same as of Tuesday where he indicated that he will not support the Prime Minister with her dictator attitude when she proposed that the Wescot Williams II Cabinet resign based on a letter that was sent to the President of Parliament. "Prime Minister Wescot Williams jumped the gun and I made it clear to her that what she is doing is unconstitutional. The constitution states in article 33 -2 that the individual Ministers have to make their position available when they lose the support of Parliament. What I have a problem with is the fact that the Prime Minister is trying to manipulate the constitution which in my view is dictatorship. The constitution states that the Government and the Governor are the ones that have to take the decision to dissolve Parliament and not the Prime Minister alone. This is in the Dutch Constitution since 1848, over 200 years ago.

The Minister of Justice who is still functioning until there is a replacement said that the reason he submitted his resignation on Friday is to let everyone know that he is not in need of a job. Furthermore, the letter that was signed by eight Members of Parliament to say they are forming a new government does not bear the signature of the Member of Parliament who appointed him as Minister (referring to Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge). "That means my term is up and that is enough reason for me to leave office. Those Members of Parliament who signed the letter formed a majority in Parliament and they clearly indicated that they do not have confidence in me so I did the honorable thing and tendered my resignation when I wanted to and not when the Prime Minister wanted me to do so because that is not within the constitution."

Prime Minister penned Letter to Minister of Economic Affairs on Labour and Immigration Control after her son's Restaurant was Inspected.

SMN News learnt some weeks ago that inspectors from the Inspectorate of Health, Labour, and Immigration conducted an inspection in the Simpson Bay/Cupe Coy area and one of the businesses that were inspected is Brasserie New York in Cupe Coy, that business establishment is owned by the son of the Prime Minister Andy Wescot. According to information provided to SMN News, the inspectors found a number of illegal workers and other health violations. SMN News further learnt that the owner of the restaurant insulted the inspectors and even asked them if they knew who he was. Several business persons in the Simpson Bay/Cupe Coy area told SMN News that they are extremely dissatisfied with the way government dealt with the matter because even though the restaurant was found with several violations including health violations, the restaurant was never shut down or fined by the inspectors. "If it was one of us, they would have shut us down and we would have been taken to court and issued with a huge fine despite the economic situation on St. Maarten."

On Friday, SMN News asked Minister of Justice Roland Duncan if the information SMN News received has any truth to it and if he could comment on the matter. Minister Duncan confirmed that an inspection was conducted at the establishment "Brasserie New York" and the inspectors found a number of violations. When SMN News reporter asked if the process verbal was made up and sent to the Prosecutor's Office, Duncan said that it was being worked on. He said he could not remember if it was six or seven persons found working at the establishment illegally but he does know that illegal workers were found along with other health violations. Minister Duncan further explained that the Public Prosecutor informed him that they are in the process of preparing the process verbal in order to prosecute the businessman but he could not say how far they are with the process.

Minister Duncan also confirmed that the Prime Minister sent a letter to the Minister of Economic Affairs (TEATT) Romeo Pantophlet which was also copied to him. The Prime Minister expressed some concerns that she has about the raids. The Minister of Justice said he did not respond to the Prime Minister's letter which was sent after her son's restaurant was raided.

williammarlin10052013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin told reporters on Friday afternoon during a press conference that there will be a "Mexican Stand Off" on St. Maarten due to the current political situation. Marlin said the National Alliance Ministers will be not resigning based on a letter that was signed by eight members of Parliament. Marlin also announed that Minister of Justice Roland Duncan tendered his resignation on Friday but his position remains the same where he believes that the Parliament of St. Maarten must be dissolved and new elections be called.

Since the news broke on Sunday that Member of Parliament Romaine Laville and the two Members of Parliament from the Democratic Party faction namely Petrus Leroy De Weever and Roy Marlin are no longer supporting the NA/DP/I-3 coalition, Friday afternoon was the first time Marlin spoke out on the ongoing political saga on St. Maarten.

Marlin explained to reporters that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams told him about the letter that was sent to her by the three members of Parliament on Sunday during the Fish Day Festivity. He said at no time did Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams or anyone give him a copy of the letter but on Tuesday the during the regular Council of Ministers' weekly meetings, the Prime Minister came to the meeting with one extra document and just before the meeting started the staff of the secretariat distributed copies of a proposal of the Prime Minister referred to as "The Resignation of Wescot Williams II Cabinet". Marlin further explained that in her elucidation she mentioned that she received a letter signed by three Members of Parliament stating that they no longer support the current NA/DP/I-3 coalition government and that there were eight signatures from Members of Parliament who stated that they are ready to form a new government. Marlin said that letter is not a decision and even if the letter was signed by all fifteen members of Parliament, the letter would still not have been in conformity with the law since that letter would not have been a decision of Parliament.

Marlin said that even though he never saw the letter up to Tuesday morning, he went with a prepared document where five of the seven Ministers of the Council of Ministers stated their position and took a decision which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for new elections based on article 59-2 of the country's constitution. He said had the Prime Minister accepted the document they presented to her then she would have had to draft up the decree and send it to the Governor for him to sign. After that, the Prime Minister would then have to organize the election which would have had to be by August 10th, 2013. However, the Prime Minister decided that she would not entertain the discussion neither would she put it to a vote. "The Prime Minister made clear that the only thing she was discussing in that Council of Ministers' meeting was the dissolving of the Wescot Williams II cabinet which she would have put forward to the Governor of St. Maarten. Because of the Prime Minister's attitude, a huge argument started between Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and the Prime Minister. Marlin said the other Ministers could not have gotten between them but the other Ministers including himself made their position clear to the Prime Minister, they were not resigning and their position was that they want the Parliament of St. Maarten to be dissolved and new elections be called based on the current situation on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister is creating the impression that the only person to table a decision to dissolve Parliament is the "The Prime Minister." Marlin described the statements of the Prime Minster to be ludicrous because the constitution of St. Maarten clearly states that the Council of Ministers could dissolve Parliament and not the Prime Minister.

nafaction10052013The Deputy Prime Minister said that the reason his party took this stance is not because they want to stay in office or hold on to power but he as the leader of a political party will not allow the political party (DP) that has the least seats in Parliament to give the people of St. Maarten three governments "Wescot Williams III" in three years. "This should not have happened in 2010 and it should not have happened in 2012 but when the negotiations took place last year, the DP Members of Parliament insisted that they wanted Wescot Williams to remain as Prime Minister." This is the political party that won two of the fifteen seats and they are presenting a third Wescot Williams' Cabinet in three years.

He said because of the developments in recent months, they have to dissolve Parliament. MP Romaine Laville filed a complaint against the Leader of the United People's Party on at least two occasions claiming that Heyliger tried to bribe him twice. "Once Laville said his party leader offered him $250,000.00 and then $350,000.00 and he said it did not work because he did not accept it. The question we have now is what amount worked and what changed from the budget debate where Laville voted in favor of the budget and tabled several motions all of which were passed. Laville did not only make these statements to the Public Prosecutor but he also made it publicly on radio programs and other places."

Marlin further explained that the same people who could not work together from 2010 to 2012 are the ones that want to come back now and they are busy seeking out people in the community to create the impression that they are putting together a business cabinet. Marlin said the reason for this is because the former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto cannot return to office because of the Piranha investigation neither can the former Deputy Prime Minister because of several investigations especially the ORCA investigation where his name was called by those in the tape who said that the person behind the taping is Heyliger because he wanted to use those tapes as blackmail to get back in government. Therefore, they are creating a smoke screen to fool the people of St. Maarten.

Marlin said that under no circumstances will the National Alliance Ministers resign and he assured the people of St. Maarten that even though the eight Members of Parliament think that they will bring a motion of non-confidence against the Ministers representing the National Alliance on Monday during the meeting that was called by two members of the National Alliance and Independent Member Frans Richardson that will not happen. Marlin indicated that there are people on St. Maarten that have been expressing themselves on the radio, blog sites, and in the public domain regarding what they think should happen. Marlin further explained that some persons on St. Maarten have put together a petition where they are collecting signatures and asking that the General Representative Bodies act now and call a new election. Below this article is a copy of the petition that is circulating on St. Maarten.

Click here to view the petition that is circulating on St. Maarten.

hilliarduinpresentsbookstopjl10052013Philipsburg:--- Children's book author Hili Arduin, presented 2 of her most recent award winning books, "Ik Neem Je Mee" and "Aboikoni", to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library Director, Monique Alberts on May 7, 2013. Both books use stories and poetry to chronicle the lives of children, who although born in slavery are in pursuit of freedom and a future beyond their chains.

sarahwescotwilliams24092012Dear Fellow St. Maarteners and Fellow St. Maarten Mothers,

As Prime Minister of St. Maarten, and as a daughter, mother and grandmother, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all mothers and grandmothers of our wonderful nation a very happy and healthy Mother's Day.

Mother's Day is a day in our celebratory calendar where we take the time out to reflect on the central role that mothers play in the development of our children; the important role that all mothers have in contributing to our society as a nation.

Mothers are the ones who nurture and instill in us a sense of right from wrong, a sense of morality and ethics and who make us aware of our place as human beings in this journey which we call life. Mothers prepare us for what lies ahead and give us the advice necessary to meet the challenges that life sometimes gives head on. Mothers instill in us a love of God and a love of humanity which is crucial in meeting life's challenges with bravery and confidence.

Considering this it must be very clear that all the mothers of our nation, regardless of social or economic background, are united by a common thread; you are all united by the fact that you are mothers, you are united by the sanctity of maternity. Mothers are the mainstay of our society, whether you form a unit with your husband or partner, or whether you are a single mother, the role that you play in shaping this nation through the nurturing of your family is one which is indispensible. You are shaping a new generation, or have shaped the current generation, into what it is now and what it means for us as a Nation. You have worked hard in order to provide for your children while still maintaining the grace that mothers have in instilling a sense of morality and belonging in your children.

Know then that you are a part of History, a history that is signified by that ancient name for St. Maarten Oualichi, Land of Strong Women. And I daresay, Land of Strong Mothers. You have defined and are defining a nation, and know that on a day like Mother's Day the selfless sacrifices you have made for your children are being recognized and applauded.

It has always been my priority to strive hard to make the necessary changes with regards to the empowerment of mothers through providing the proper social services and support necessary. We are working on improving maternal health for example, and are striving hard to make St. Maarten a forerunner in providing quality maternal health care in the region.

Recently I witnessed the signing of a project to train selected members from a Core Group of the Network and Support Group for Women to become support group facilitators, to ultimately establish support groups for women in general and mothers more specifically, to tackle the various social issues that mothers and all women face. The objective of this group will be to train participants to set-up support groups, to guide participants in developing a provisional business plan, to establish support groups for women and mothers in particular, and to establish a network structure for women to support each other and network with relevant stakeholders

And so today we honor each and every Mother on this island. Women who raise children, sometimes by themselves, while still working and contributing to our society. Women who are the cornerstone of their homes, their families, their community and their country.

I encourage the community to recognize and to celebrate the mothers and grandmothers in our Country who have made our Sweet St. Maarten Land what it is. So Happy Mother's Day to all mothers and may God bless you and God Bless St. Maarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

creyeswithponumdancers10052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- The New York firm Milestone Architecture PLLC recently filmed rehearsals of the Ponum, St. Martin's only "national dance," said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

Milestone plans to use the video footage to develop the illustrations for the Ponum book based on the scientific "dance notation" method called labanotation. www.milestonearchitecturepllc.com.

Clara Reyes, a leading choreographer and author of the upcoming Ponum history book, coordinated the Ponum dance, song, and music rehearsals that were filmed, said Sample.

The Ponum master's thesis of Reyes was accepted last year by HNP for publication in book form. The publisher has since been in preliminary discussions about the book's illustrations and design with Milestone president Margaret Matz, said Sample.

"With Margaret and her team's input, the idea has evolved toward designing a book that would be an authoritative history text and a dance choreography manual of St. Martin's only surviving folk dance. The Ponum is arguably at least between 165 and 200 years old," said Lasana M. Sekou, HNP's projects director.

The filming of the Ponum Dance steps is the second of two recently concluded pre-activities of the St. Martin Book Fair, which is speeding along to its set date of May 30 – June 1.

Sample said that Book Fair 2013 has made it possible to bring the Milestone team of Matz, Martha Luciano (administration), and Joe Flinder (videographer) to the island to work with Reyes, dancers Rudy Davis, Dashaun Prince, and Clifford Henry; master drummer Hellier Coquillas and fellow musicians Albert Pierre and Claudine Dessert; and videographer Eric Boyer.

The videography and photo-shoots of the Ponum, and a Reyes interview, took place between April 22-26, just as Carnival was heating up, said Sample. The cultural project venues included John Larmonie Center, Laser 101 FM radio, and outdoors at the property next to the historic Diamond Estate on the Union Road/Bellevue Road.

"HNP would also like to thank Francis Carty and his Laser 101 personnel, Phyllis Meit and Darin "Versatwizy" Hodge; the Honorable L.C. Fleming; Denis Glisa-Vandepul; and book fair coordinator Shujah Reiph, for contributing to this part of a cultural project that we think will make the people of our island very proud," said Sample.

Conscious Lyrics Foundation and HNP are organizing the 11th annual St. Martin Book Fair in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the University of St. Martin.

Philipsburg:--- Locally owned travel agency, Let's Travel, is announcing a new programme for its clients called "SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER" in observance of the fact that it is almost a year now that the travel agency
is under new management and the locally owned agency is looking to give back to its clients in the community of St. Maarten.

Let's Travel will be celebrating 25 years in existence this year and the agency's management will be implementing a number of initiatives and programmes to thank its customers for the years of support and to give back to the community in a number of empowerment ways, including organizing a budgeting course in cooperation with a local budgeting expert.

More information on this budgeting course, wherein heads of households will learn how to budget their income and expenditures, will be forthcoming next week. People participating in this budgeting course will learn the different ways of saving money under the "Let's Save" programme the company will be stimulating. Once students learn how to effectively save money, they will also be taught how to invest via investment clubs and how to do marketing research, write a business plan and start a business in future courses as well. Students completing these courses successfully will qualify for funding from the aforementioned investment clubs set up under the "Let's Invest" programme.

Under its SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER programme that has started today, clients of Let's Travel can save for their future travel plans at the travel agency and earn significant discounts for committing early to their travel plans with this SAVE NOW, TRAVEL LATER programme.

For more information, clients can visit the Let's Travel office, call 523-3564 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Let's Travel was acquired last year on June 1st, 2012, by local internet entrepreneur, Terrance Rey, who owns several e-commerce businesses, including virtual airline, AirStMaarten. Terrance Rey, who is a former Policy Advisor to the Parliament of St. Maarten, is currently the Deputy Secretary of the Progress Committee set up by Kingdom decree to monitor the progress in the ministeries of General Affairs, VROMI and Justice based on agreements made prior to St. Maarten obtaining country status on 10-10-10.

~ Bamboo Banks can be returned ~

The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation is inviting the public to its triple celebration of Mother's Day, Tzu Chi's 47th anniversary and Buddha's (Teacher's Day) at the local Tzu Chi Office at #18 L.B. Scot Road this Sunday, May 12 from 5:00pm.

This triple event is to celebrate the important role of mothers in our lives; to commemorate 47 years of Tzu Chi compassion, charity and benevolence around the world and to express and inspire appreciation and reverence for Buddha's spirit.

Tzu Chi holds this celebration annually to inspire and motivate. An enlightening, entertaining and educational programme has been put together for this auspicious occasion. Guests will learn more about Tzu Chi and its various missions as well as get a chance to voluntarily participate in a special ceremony planned for the evening.

The event will also feature the Bamboo Bank (Tzu Chi donation boxes) Return ceremony. For this ceremony, persons who have Tzu Chi donation boxes at their businesses or other locations can return their boxes and empty them. This is a special ceremony usually performed by Tzu Chi branches around the world at functions such as these.

Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung is urging persons with Bamboo Banks to attend the ceremony so that they can get a chance to be part of this ceremony.

Tzu Chi's charity will also be displayed, with donations of relief items to a number of families in the community. Drinks and a healthy vegetarian snack will be offered.

The event will be held from 5:00pm to 7:15pm. Please feel free to wear something white to celebrate the good work of the foundation, the love of mothers and Buddha's reverence.

For more information please contact Sandra Cheung at Tel: 586-3019 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

"It is through young, dedicated and driven young persons that we can build this country"

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams yesterday expressed her congratulations to former student of St. Maarten Academy and St. Dominic High School Olayinka Badejo, who graduated last Saturday with double Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Operations Research from the Florida Institute of Technology, in Melbourne, Florida, USA.

"I would sincerely like to congratulate Yinka and of course her mom Linda Richardson and her father Fabian Badejo on this very important achievement. The fact, Yinka, that you have achieved your two degrees in what I am sure were sometimes challenging times not only makes me as Prime Minister proud, but also makes the people of St. Maarten proud. As I said in my recent congratulatory message to Tracy Blijden who won a very important culinary competition recently: our young people are continuing to shine in their chosen fields, and I look forward to having you return home to build your country and to secure our St. Maarten for the future. It is only through young, dedicated and driven young persons like yourselves that we can make this a reality," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rlaville08052013Philipsburg:--- Member of Parliament Romaine Laville tried very hard to convince reporters that the only reason he decided to go back to "his" party (the United People's Party) was because he wants to work for the people of St. Maarten and the NA/DP/I-3 Ministers are not working in the interest of St. Maarten and its people. Laville made a very passionate statement on Wednesday afternoon when he tried his best to convince members of the media that there was no financial gain in his decision. "I want to put some of the myths to rest, and what has been discussed in the media, on the blocks and in homes, and I want to make clear that there has not been any financial gain when I took the decision to pull my support from the NA/DP/I-3 coalition," said Laville on Wednesday.

In doing some research, SMN News found out a few things that Laville did during the one year period he gave his support to the coalition government. He said he was tired of knocking on the Ministers' doors and begging them to work and assist the St. Maarten people. A free breakfast program and free education were some of the things Laville said he wanted government to implement despite the budget cuts.

Laville claimed that the fallout from his party came when the former Minister of Economic Affairs refused to grant some of the Pelican workers taxis and bus licenses because some of these workers were his friends and supporters.

SMN News learned that as soon as Laville formed part of the NA/DP/I-3 government and was attached to the Ministry of TEATT, Laville managed to get the Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet to grant his friends and the persons whom he promised to help with taxis and bus licenses, one of the things "his" party refused to do for him. Laville also mentioned that he wanted to get the boys off the blocks because he felt that St. Maarten youngsters must get work. Last year, the Minister of VROMI awarded Naf. 150,000.00 to Garden Boyz for them to clean drains and waterways. According to the information divulged during the signing off of the project which Laville attended, the intention back then was for the Garden Boyz to purchase weed cutters and work half a day every day so that they would have a steady income which could be as much as the minimum wage every month. SMN News learnt that instead of Garden Boyz executing the plan that was agreed upon, the Garden Boyz contracted MNO Vervat and paid them some Naf. 15,000.00 for the use of their excavator to clean the drains that were supposed to be cleaned. What happened to the rest of the money? Only Laville and Garden Boyz could tell the people of St. Maarten.

Another project Laville worked on that was highly criticized by the UP faction was TEMPO Turns 7 and $400,000.00 that was paid by the government of St. Maarten. Reporters were told by TEMPO organizers that TEMPO Turns 7 would have done St. Maarten great and the $400,000.00 would have been made back with ticket sales. Well what we found out is that TEMPO Turns 7 was a loss and government did not get back its monies. As if that was not a good lesson for Member of Parliament Romaine Laville, he approached the Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet and told him he wanted $600,000.00 this year for TEMPO. SMN News learnt that when Laville was told that the Ministry no longer handles the marketing budget for Tourism, he threw a tantrum.

The United People's Party mentioned once that Joe's Construction N.V. which belongs to MP Laville's father got contracts from the harbor and he was one of the directors of the Company. Laville admitted to SMN News that he is a director of his father's company in an earlier interview because he is his father's only child. He explained back then that his name was placed as the company director ever since he was a child. When SMN News researched the information the UP faction released, we were told that Joe's Construction N.V. was not given a contract but they were sub-contracted by the main contractor and already earned over one million dollars since they began working at the Harbor Group of Companies.

On September 1st, 2012, Member of Parliament Romaine Laville approached the Minister of VROMI William Marlin and told him that he wanted a piece of land for his father, the owner of Joe's Construction N.V. where MP Romaine Laville is one of the company's directors. Laville told Marlin that he needed the land space for his father to store construction material and to build a car wash. Exactly two weeks later, MP Laville's request was honored because the Minister of VROMI William Marlin signed off on the resolution for MP Laville and Joe's Construction N.V. on September 17th, 2012 granting Joe's Construction N.V. 1200 square meters of land in the FOGA Sucker Garden. The resolution is beneath this article for viewing.

It now leaves SMN News to challenge MP Laville to tell us and the people of St. Maarten if he was really knocking on Ministers' doors for the people of St. Maarten "the single parents" or for his own self interest and that of his family.

SMN News will also call on the Member of Parliament to tell the people of St. Maarten the true reason why he pulled his support from the NA/DP/I-3 coalition because it is rumoured that Laville was shown video footage by a businessman that supports the UP party. A source said that embattled Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was also involved in the break-up because he does not want his friend and colleague in Parliament to face the same dilemma he is facing since the Bada Bing scandal broke. If any of the information that is printed in this article is incorrect then we urge the Member or Members of Parliament to come forward and to tell the true story because the National Alliance will be releasing information on what transpired during the one year they took office sometime soon.

Click here to view the resolution that was signed off by Minister of VROMI William Marlin for Joe's Construction N.V.

Click here to view the signing of Garden Boyz Contract.

kingfamily09052013Airport:--- The relatives of slain Americans Michael and Thelma King had nothing but praise for the Police Department (KPSM) for apprehending the three suspects that murdered Michael and Thelma King in their Cupe Coy Condominium on September 19th, 2012. Todd King who spoke to SMN News on Thursday on behalf of the family said that the detectives (officers of KPSM) showed their professionalism when they assured them that those involved in murdering their loved ones will be apprehended and brought to justice.

Todd King said he is still wondering how the police department knew they were coming to St. Maarten the day after the murders took place. He said the family did not inform anyone that they were coming to the island. Todd King said he visited St. Maarten before but when they left their country to come and deal with the horrific deaths of their loved ones they were fearful of the island and did not know how they would have been treated. "I just don't know how the police knew we were coming but when I reached immigration and I gave my passport, suddenly I saw a hand waived and immediately after we were introduced to detective Dientje Muller who drove us straight to the police station where we met over 40 officers who all assured us that the killers will be found. We saw a police force that acted with professionalism and officers who felt our pain and sorrow." Todd King further explained that shortly after that they met with the Prosecutors who did a very good job in explaining to them the difference in the American law and the Dutch law and what they should expect at the trial. One of the things the Kings said they asked the Prosecution to do was to demand a life sentence for Johnson, the man who admitted to murdering Michael and Thelma King on several occasions.

"We read those statements and I want to state that the suspects told a different story in their statements to police when they were first apprehended and did not have contact with each other. But when they appeared in court on April 10th, 2013 they changed some of their statements. Johnson gave police five detailed statements prior to the trial and he gave police the gruesome details of the robberies and killings but in court on April 10th, 2013 he suddenly got amnesia. Another conflicting statement that was told to the court is that Jeremiah Chevon Mills and Jamal Jefferson Woolford claimed they were not inside the house when the murders took place. In the statements to police they admitted to being inside the house when Johnson killed Michael King. Jamal Jefferson Woolford told the court that he was not inside the villa when Michael King was killed but in his statements to police he gave details on how Mike was killed because he was inside the villa. We read the statements and we compared them and what the defense attorney told the court on April 10th was not reflective of what really transpired. We thought from the inception that if the judge read the statements we read then justice would have been served." Todd King said the entire family was convinced that the three murderers would not have gotten away.

When SMN News asked the Kings how they felt when they heard of the mistakes that were made by the prosecution, they said they discussed it but would prefer not to comment on that. They also said that the main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson smiled when he was leaving the courtroom on Wednesday even though he was given a lifetime sentence. They said they heard what Jeremiah Mills said to the police officer but they did not see when he smirked at them, but for them Johnson had a big smile on his face throughout the sentencing and when he left the courtroom.

Killings and Trial took a toll on Michael King's mother.

The siblings said that their mother could not return to St. Maarten to witness the outcome and the decision the judge rendered because after the trial she got really sick. "All of this took a lot out of our mother because when she went back to the United States after the trial she ended up being sick for a few weeks." When SMN News reporter asked how she reacted when she heard of the court decision, the siblings said their mother reacted very emotionally.

Who were Michael and Thelma King?

For the first time the King family decided to give information on Michael and Thelma King whose lives were snatched away by three greedy young men who were trying to get quick money. The King family said Michael and Thelma King dated from the time they were very young. They broke off their relationship when Michael moved away to Texas and went to study. When he returned to the home town after school he was a broke young man who went to live with his brother and his wife (Todd and Paula King). Not long after he returned home he met Thelma and they started back dating and finally they got married. Thelma King was five years older than Michael but they were a very happy couple. Thelma King was working in a major US bank.

Todd further explained that Mike's best friend Brad had an insurance agency and his friend hired him. Todd said within a period of time his brother did really well and he was promoted to a district manager and at some point he convinced his brother Todd to go and work with him and he too became a district manager. Sometime later, Michael was promoted to General Manager and that was when they moved to Charleston where he met David Kennedy. Todd said about ten years ago Michael and Thelma King visited St. Maarten with their friend David Kennedy. He said at some point his brother got out of the insurance business and got into business with David Kennedy in a labeling company. Todd said that Michael and David developed that company and that too became very successful. Some four to five years ago his brother sold that company and decided that he was going to further invest in St. Maarten. Todd said Michael and Thelma King were frequent visitors of St. Maarten and they invested in seven properties on the island. Their latest venture was to invest their monies in a rum factory. The King family described the couple as very friendly and they were people that everyone wanted to be around.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin and all members of the Caribbean Ombudsman Association (CAROA) with the celebration of their 15th anniversary. Thank you for choosing Sint Maarten to host this conference.

Congratulations to all keynote speakers for making their invaluable contribution towards making more aware to our citizens the critically important role of the institution of the Ombudsman in our community.

Without a doubt the conference created an arena for thought and for sharing experiences between the visiting Ombudsmen. I too share the view that the role of the Ombudsman's will become more and more important in a diverse and complex society.

The Ombudsman has to focus on various forms of complaints; however, its primary focus is first and foremost on the protection of such values as accountability, equality and fairness.

The Ombudsman first originated in Sweden with the Parliamentary Ombudsman instituted in 1809 to safeguard the rights of citizens by establishing a supervisory agency independent of the executive branch. The word Ombudsman is not gender specific.

The concept of the Ombudsman as an independent person who can investigate and resolve disputes between citizens and government has spread to cover 120 countries and is seen to be an essential accountability mechanism in democratic societies.

I am proud to see a vision I had since 2004 as an Island Council member became a reality under our new status since 10-10-10 and anchored in our Constitution.

I wish all participants a safe trip from Sint Maarten to wherever their final destination may be.

MP Arrindell would also like to congratulate Curacao's Ombudsman Alba Martijn who has been appointed the next President of the CAROA.

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

marietjeandreaarrivinginsxm09052013POINT BLANCHE:--- The cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea, the largest ship ever to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon on May 3 to deliver the Swing Bridge for the Causeway, is tentatively set to leave the Lagoon on Sunday evening at 7:00pm. The transit from the Lagoon into the Simpson Bay should take approximately 30 minutes which means the Simpson Bay Bridge will be open for that amount of time.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) vessel is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon was the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Causeway Swing Bridge left Hollandia Shipyard in the Netherlands on April 19 for Sint Maarten and arrived May 3. The Swing Bridge is 220 feet long and weighs 450 tons. The Causeway has a total length of 2493 feet and features a two-lane motorway, a bicycle track and footpaths.

Several milestones have been reached within the past few weeks St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo said, such as the arrival of the Swing Bridge and the installation of the aforementioned on May 6. Mingo expresses gratitude to all those who have contributed to the project to date.

Construction of the Causeway started early 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by December 2013. Construction is being carried out by Volker Stevin Construction Europe BV.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithgacreps09052013Discuss various matters related to the Institution

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams met with the Chairman of the General Audit Chamber R.C. Halman and the Secretary General of the General Audit Chamber J. Dovale-Meit at the Prime Minister's Cabinet on Wednesday afternoon in order to discuss various items as it relates the tasks of the institution as it relates to its function as a body within the High Councils of State.

The General Audit Chamber checks that government spends public funds and conducts the various policies as intended.

The General Audit Chamber is required by law to execute audits, in particular financial audits and performance audits.
The General Audit Chamber also can make arrangements regarding collaboration and support with the Courts of Audit of the Netherlands, Curaçao, and Aruba.

The General Audit Chamber was established by law in order to formally commence operations on October 10, 2010 and consists of a three-person board; specifically a chairman and two members.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsu2canmove09052013Encourages community to also take part in the free Zumba classes

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams will continue the U 2 Can Move fitness campaign this Friday with a special Mother's Day Zumba Edition. "This Friday's Zumba session is especially dedicated to all Mothers. I would like to see to all mothers out there that Friday will be your chance to work off of all of the Johnny cakes and chicken that I am sure you enjoyed in the village during Carnival and to get fit for your Mother's Day on Sunday. Also I would like to say that yes the initial idea was to encourage civil servants to take part in these fitness programs but I would also like to encourage the wider community to come out and participate," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister has stated previously that the Zumba sessions and other events are a part of a larger fitness campaign where she encourages Civil Servants and the community in general to take their health and fitness seriously. "There is much we can do for ourselves as individuals and as a country as far as good health is concerned. Information, diet and exercise are the basic ABC's to good health and are valuable in any situation. I want to encourage our health institutions, practitioners and NGO's in this field to focus on educating our community on aspects of health and I call on all, especially our women, to take responsibility for their health, regular check-ups, and to heed warning signs such as aches and pains," the Prime Minister said.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

civilservantscompleteintegritydilemmatraining09052013Philipsburg:--- On Friday afternoon, April 19th 2013, The department of Interior and Kingdom Relations successfully concluded the Follow-up Integrity Dilemma Training for the civil servants of Sint Maarten. The training was officially opened by the Prime Minister on April 8th and the Goal of the training was to measurably accelerate the success of the civil servants through:
Increasing their personal credibility, living in harmony with their deepest values and beliefs, having courage to stand for principles, being able to make integrity based decisions and getting results in a way that inspires trust and integrity. The focus of the training was on morals, values, mindset and behavior. The participants counted over 700 civil servants and included all levels, like Secretary Generals, Department heads, policy workers, clerks, cleaners etc.

On Tuesday April 23rd 2013, the Council of Ministers had the opportunity to invite Mr. Ralston Eric Bennett of Life Transformimg Institute, (LTI), the trainer of the follow-up training, for a special session during the Council of Ministers meeting. Ministers were briefed on the training and got to share in this learning experience themselves.

After reviewing the evaluation of the training, Mrs. Tammy Richardson the Integrity Program Manager at the Department of the Interior and Kingdom is very satisfied with the outcome. As part of the Integrity program for The Government of Sint Maarten and the Integrity project funded by means of Dutch Development Funds via USONA, there are plans to continue with the intensification of the current Integrity awareness campaign and to establish of an Integrity Bureau.

olayinkabadejo09052013Melbourne, Florida/Great Bay, St. Maarten:--- Former student of St. Maarten Academy and St. Dominic High, Olayinka Badejo, graduated last Saturday with a double Master of Science degrees in Systems Engineering and Operations Research from the Florida Institute of Technology, in Melbourne, Florida, USA.
Yinka, as friends and family call her, is the daughter of former Minister of Education of the Netherlands Antilles, drs. Linda Andrea Richardson and well-known media practitioner and cultural worker, Fabian Badejo.
"I am glad it is all over," she said, obviously relieved at the end of the commencement ceremony.
Surrounded by family, friends and other well-wishers, Yinka Badejo, said she was grateful first to God and to all those who made her graduation possible.
"She made us all proud; she's made St. Maarten proud," said her mother.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Reports continue to reach the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour that individuals have been observed picking up or catching fish from the Salt Pond for possible human consumption.

The Salt Pond fish could be poisonous and residents should refrain from eating fish from the Salt Pond.

Fish poisoning symptoms can occur anywhere from two to 12 hours after eating fish. They include: abdominal cramps, diarrhea (severe and watery), nausea and vomiting.

Secondly, due to a lack of circulation of the water in the Salt Pond near an area where work is being carried out, a large number of fish have died due to the lack of oxygen.

Residents and other persons are strongly advised to leave the fish, do not take them home to cook as the fish are not fit for human consumption. The Ministry of Public Health continues to receive reports of individuals fishing in the area.

pneumococcalvaccineforchildrenunder2yrs08052013Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday, May 8th at the Council of Ministers' press briefing, Minister Cornelius de Weever announced the introduction of a new immune boosting vaccine called the Pneumococcal vaccine (pronounced noo-muh-kok-uhl). This new vaccine will help protect children under the age of 2 from bacteria called Streptococcus pneumonia (pneumococcus) which can cause Pneumococcal disease, such as pneumococcal pneumonia, bacteremia, meningitis and otitis media. Pneumococcus (a type of bacteria) is in the nose and throat of many people and is spread by coughing, sneeze
ng, or contact with respiratory secretions which can be very dangerous for children under the age of 2 and elderly adults.

Vaccines have been used to prevent pneumococcal disease for more than 30 years. Currently, there are 2 different types of pneumococcal vaccines on the market: (1) a 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) available since the early 1980s and (2) 2 conjugate vaccines available since 2009, one 10-valent (PCV10) the other 13-valent (PCV13). The 7-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV7) is gradually being removed from the market. The vaccine that is new to St. Maarten which we are now introducing is the 13-valent vaccine.

Currently available PCVs are safe, effective and the increased number of serotypes present in these vaccines, compared to the first licensed PCV7, represent significant progress in the fight against pneumococcal morbidity and mortality. The use of pneumococcal vaccine is complementary to the use of other pneumonia control measures, such as appropriate case management, promotion of exclusive breastfeeding for first 6 months of life, and the reduction of known risk factors, such as indoor pollutants and tobacco smoke.

In the event that children started the series of pneumococcal vaccination with a different vaccine type (PCV 7 or PCV 10) and they are under the age of 24 months, the schedule can be completed with the PCV 13 vaccine. Registration for the vaccination will take place on the yellow vaccination card in the field "others", in the child's chart and in the baby book.

As of May 12th 2013, the Baby Clinic next to the Yogesh Building will begin administrating the Pneumococcal Vaccine to all children under the age of 2. You may also contact your family doctor or pediatrician for more information.

swescotwilliamsduringoneononewithpm07042013PM to Discuss Political Developments; Urges Listeners to Call in or Email their Questions Regarding Recent Issues

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams is urging the population to listen to her radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on Friday the 10th of May at nine in the morning. This week's radio show will be dedicated to the recent and ongoing political developments and will allow listeners to call in with their questions.

"With all that has been happening I again would like to encourage the community to listen into the program and have your questions on the topics we will be discussing from beforehand. If you feel uncomfortable calling in you can email your questions in and I will make sure to answer them. As I mentioned in my recent statement concerning whether or not we will be having elections I would like to reiterate that what we need direly on all levels and even in the broader community is dialogue, communication and participation. Yes it was a politically tumultuous week and therefore I think it is very important for the population to listen in this Friday as we discuss the issues and to ensure that we have that dialogue, that communication and indeed that participation," commented the Prime Minister.

The weekly program will allow listeners the opportunity to do exactly what the title of the show suggests; to go One on One with the Prime Minister on various pertinent topics within the community and government, allowing the listener to ask questions. The show airs weekly every Friday from nine to ten on 98.1 Pearl FM and callers can call in on 5430462 or via sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sarahwescotwilliams05052013Follows is the statement by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams as was read during the Council of Ministers' Press Briefing on Wednesday, May 8th 2013.

Elections or a new Cabinet:

"I have heard many queries and opinions regarding calling elections, or not calling for elections considering the current political developments; why not call elections now?

Elections in this context is not the main constitutional act. The main constitutional act is the dissolution of the Parliament; the "disbanding" of Parliament if you wish, which CAN be done. As a consequence of that, the law dictates that elections must be held in such a case. The question is then when should they be held?

The law does not state such. The law does state however that once it is decided to dissolve Parliament, elections must follow and a new Parliament must take seat within three months."

So that brings us to the crucial question. By whom is Parliament dissolved?

To understand the logic behind that answer, you need to first ask: who appoints the Ministers?

"If you say Parliament, you are both right and wrong. Ministers are nominated by a Parliamentary majority. This can be done informally and this can be done via the official formation process. This means that Parliament, -and with that we mean a Parliamentary majority- can decide a Minister does not enjoy its confidence. When that is clearly stated, the Minister MUST make his or her position available. This so-called confidence rule is part of the bedrock of our Parliamentary system. The possibility is also in the constitution for the Parliament to legislate how this confidence rule can further be executed. That however has not happened yet, so basically, it states that the Minister who does not enjoy parliamentary support makes his/her position available.

Nominating a successor for the Minister is a political interaction, but again the appointing of that Minister only becomes a fact with a government decree.

What we call an LB."

"In addition, for any LB to become effective it must be signed by the Governor and one or more Ministers.

In the case of appointment or dismissals of Ministers, the Prime Minister is the "co-signee", along with the Governor.

So this brings us back to the question regarding the dissolution of Parliament.

How does this occur? Through a Government Decree (LB).

That is a product (decision) of the Council of Ministers. A decision that only goes into effect when it is formulated in an LB, signed off by the Governor and one or more Ministers."

When can or should Parliament be dissolved?

"Parliament can never be dissolved when Parliament invokes the confidence rule against one or more Ministers or the whole Cabinet. If this occurs we are turning things on their head.

Imagine this scenario. Parliament (a majority) decides they have no confidence in a Minister or in the Council of Ministers. These council members say, 'Aha, you think you are going to get rid of me? No, I am going to preempt you and dissolve you, Parliament.

Again if this occurs then we're turning the roles around and throwing the whole system on its head.

If the Parliament decides they no longer have confidence in the Ministers and Parliament cannot get its act together to agree on "nominating" Ministers for appointment or agree on a way forward for the governance of the country, then you have what is termed an impasse.

But there could never be an impasse between Parliament and the Government, because imagine if Parliament ( a majority) decides they have no confidence in Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams for example, and I turn the rules around and say I am not going anywhere and instead I decide that what I will dissolve parliament. If that argument is upheld, this Country will be facing some turbulent times when all Parliamentary rules of engagement will be thrown to the wind."

"It is important for the population to not think for a moment that in 2012 I was not equally challenged to call elections, when there was a Parliamentary shift which lead to a new Government Constellation. I was challenged by the coalition partners at that time to "call for elections" and I was criticized by some for not doing so. The same circumstances that applied then apply now. Regardless of who the actors were, a majority in Parliament decided they had no confidence in the members of Government, and they (the current coalition partners, which is a majority) decided they could and would work together for a new cabinet.

There was no vacuum in terms of parties not being able to find common ground and/or the Government not knowing whether they had majority support. That vacuum did not exist in 2012 and it does not exist now."

"So what has really transpired the last week. I came back from the Netherlands, still impressed by the abdication and the inauguration of the monarchs, and was faced with these facts: a new majority in Parliament and mind you, a majority is a majority, it is not qualified in terms of size, color, or make-up. The majority decided they are willing to work together and those of that majority who supported the current coalition, withdrew their support for this coalition.

"With that expression by a majority of Parliament, the constitutional thing to do is tender the resignation of my cabinet.. To whom do I tender my resignation? To the Governor. Followed by the starting of preparations to discharge of the Ministers. Then consultations start or continue between the factions and the Governor.

"However, you can't discharge a Cabinet, this is done individually and if you have Ministers who say, 'I am not resigning', then you are challenging the constitution.

Objections were raised last year in May by former Ministers, and objections are being raised by Ministers now. But if we feel the system is not working, let's change it, not bend it to suit us.

"The answer I gave last year when government changed (to what it is today), to the question: 'Why no elections?' is again valid today; the possibility to dissolve Parliament can't be used to circumvent one of the most principled rules of a Parliamentary Democracy, namely that the Government must have the support of the representatives of the people. What demonstrates that support? A majority of Parliament.

"I could not close off this point without again stressing the need to effectuate electoral reform to bring our systems more in line with what fits our young democracy. We have adjusted somewhat from what we had as an island territory, but in my humble opinion, more needs to be done to ensure that a Parliament, elected by the people and a Government supported by that Parliament can truly together work in the people's best interest, and be judged on the basis of that work upon completion of the term by the people who elected them.

"Yes, I know Parliament has also unanimously adopted a motion for reform, which by the way I support, but that is more campaign reform, which I believe should also happen, but as a part of overall electoral reform.

Only then can we truly motivate and guide young people to prepare themselves and seek to take over the leadership of this country in the future and do so for all the right reasons.

"I viewed with concern some of the developments within coalition circles, not only in the council of ministers, where I have also had my challenges, mind you. But I consider those challenges a part of our new system and new found authorities, which is the delicate balance between a common vision and the individual political responsibility of each Minister; the dualistic system we have introduced, which again is necessary, but which takes getting accustomed to and for us to understand its workings.

What we need direly though on all levels and even in the broader community are dialogue, communication, participation."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

updpandrlaville08052013Philipsburg:--- Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville came out from his hiding place and attended a joint press conference that was held by the three factions United Peoples Party (UP), Democratic Party (DP), and Independent Member of Parliament Romaine Laville on Wednesday afternoon at the House of Parliament.

Laville told reporters at the press conference that he wants to make clear that his actions did not have any monetary gain, instead he is doing what he believes in and has gone as far as sacrificing a secure position as a Member of Parliament and will become the Minister of TEATT. Laville said that he knows the consequences of his actions because the same Members of Parliament he is supporting now can bring a motion of non-confidence against him before the remaining term is over. He said despite all of that he is making a personal sacrifice in order to work for the people of St. Maarten. Laville said that ever since he entered the political arena in 2010 he has made sacrifices such as giving up his job at the harbor to become a full time Member of Parliament. He said that he did so in order to work for the people of St. Maarten. Another point Laville raised as he defended his actions was the fact that he was very vocal and spoke out against his party "UP" during the Pelican layoff. He said he has not changed his position ever since he entered politics because he has one objective which is to serve and work in the interest of the people of St. Maarten. "I am tired of leaving the House of Parliament to go over to the Government Administration Building and knock on the doors of the Ministers and beg them to work for the people of St. Maarten. I am really tired of doing this therefore I had no choice but to withdraw my support from the current coalition because there has not been any change in government. When I saw that nothing has changed then I was left with asking myself why I really left my party. I also had to look and see if the unresolved issues I have with MP Jules James is more important to me or the affairs of the people. The same goes for the unresolved issues I have with my party leader Theodore Heyliger. My hope is that one day I will be able to resolve these issues and move on."

Laville said that some of the things he wanted to see implemented by the current government are a "breakfast program" for students that are going to school hungry, free education on St. Maarten, and to ensure that prisoners who are released from prison get a job. He said that government needs to structure its organization because there are qualified St. Maarteners that have returned to the island and they are unable to find jobs in the fields in which they have studied. He said that right now the people do not understand his actions but he believes that someday everyone will understand when the dust settles. He also said he is regretful of what is happening with the constant change of government. However, he believes that the people of St. Maarten need to take stock on what they really want for their country. He said the people would constantly say they want change but they are not willing to do what is necessary like making sacrifices and the brunt to achieve the change. Laville said that he tried to put several things in place such as putting what is necessary for the elderly but it never happened, he said that what is happening on St. Maarten is that the voters are failing to call the politicians to order when they are not doing what they have to do for the people that elected them.

rlaville08052013Laville further said that if he has to be the sacrificial lamb in order to achieve the change they need then so let it be. He said he heard all sorts of things during the past days, even those that are telling him to look at what happened in Curacao with MP Helmin Wiels. He said if that has to happen then let it be because he intends to stand on his principles and beliefs.

Member of Parliament from the Democratic Party Petrus Leroy De Weever said in his presentation that this is a sad day for St. Maarten because he is not at all happy with the decisions he was forced to take. De Weever said that he has a very good relationship with the Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin and others. He said what has happened now derived from what took place during the budget meetings and they that are supporting the current coalition have lost confidence in the government. De Weever called on the Ministers from the National Alliance Faction to do the right thing and resign because they do not want to get to the point where they would have to put a motion of non-confidence against these Ministers. He said the Ministers and Parliament have certain rules that they need to follow and there should be trust between the Ministers and those that support them in Parliament. De Weever said he was peeved during the budget meeting when he learned of the new taxes that will be imposed on the people and the Minister did not consult with Parliament prior to taking these decisions. He said that matters that were tabled and suggestions made by the Democratic Party were not considered when these new taxes were imposed. Secondly, he said they have asked many questions about the harbour and to date they have not received any answers from those in charge and that has clearly breached the trust that was placed in the government. MP Roy Marlin said to date St. Maarten does not have a budget because the budget is not yet signed off by the governor. Marlin said just prior to the budget debate St. Maarten was facing an instruction from their Kingdom partners, especially regarding the justice park and the budget. He said that even though they are changing guard, St. Maarten still faces the instruction from the Kingdom because of the budget, one of the main reasons why he voted against the project. Marlin said that he asked if this project could have been done in phases but he did not receive the answers. When asked by SMN News if the new coalition considered the additional expenses that will be added to the budget because they would have to pay more Ministers if they are able to get into office. Marlin said they did not consider that but in his opinion the additional salaries will not have dire consequences for St. Maarten. Marlin further explained that the National Alliance Council of Ministers is putting the horse behind the cart when they tried to send the Members of Parliament home. He said it is the Parliament of St. Maarten that sends the Council of Ministers home and not vice versa. Marlin further explained that the only one that can call for new elections is the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams and no one else.

Member of Parliament Gracita Arrindell also spoke at the press conference, she said that the UP faction members have been raising a number of issues for the past year and have been highlighting the inadequacies of the government.

mjohnsonjmillsandjwoolford08052013Philipsburg:--- Judge Tamara Thyhius sent a strong message to the three suspects that were found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt of murdering American citizens Michael and Thelma King on September 19th, 2012 and also for robbing the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant earlier that same evening. The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson, a national of Jamaica, was sentenced to life imprisonment. Judge Thyhuis told Johnson that his actions on the evening of September 19th, 2012 were intentional and premeditated, while he acted out of greed when he robbed and murdered the Kings. Judge Thyhuis further told Johnson that his demeanor in the courtroom during the trial did not give her reason to believe that he is remorseful for his actions, especially towards the King family and the community of St. Maarten. Judge Thyhuis said the murder of the Kings basically destroyed the community of St. Maarten and affected the island's economy and tourism industry. The arguments presented by Johnson's lawyer Brenda Brooks were not considered especially when she asked the court to deem the prosecutor's case inadmissible. Judge Thyhuis said that there is no decision by any court that would show that the court or the prosecution infringed on Johnson's rights when they served him two summons on the same day. She said that the court found it legally and convincingly proven that Johnson robbed the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant and he also robbed the Kings and took their lives. Judge Thyhuis said the murders were intentional and premeditated, therefore the court found Johnson guilty of murdering both Michael and Thelma King and the punishment for this crime can only be a life sentence, especially since Johnson can ask for clemency. Johnson was convicted on all the charges presented by the prosecution on April 10th, 2013.
The second suspect Jeremiah Chevon Mills was sentenced to 28 years imprisonment for the role he played in the brutal murders and robbery of the Kings and the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant. The court acquitted Mills for the murder of the Kings but found that he was indeed an accomplice to the killings that rocked St. Maarten. Judge Thyhuis said Mills is guilty of kidnapping Thelma King by using what looked like a gun to hold her hostage, tie her to a chair, and blindfold and gag her while he was also found guilty of giving Johnson a second knife to murder the Kings. Mills was also found guilty of laundering the monies and goods he gained from the robberies of Happy Star and the Kings.

Judge Thyhuis told Mills that she considered his age when deciding on his punishment as well as his criminal record. She told Mills that he did not show remorse for his actions during the trial and neither did he show any remorse towards the family of the Kings who are suffering the loss of their loved ones. As soon as Judge Tamara Thyhuis pronounced the 28 years sentence for Mills, he immediately asked for some water. But when leaving the courtroom, Mills looked at the King family all of whom attended the trial and smirked at them. He even told the police officer that was escorting him from the courtroom not to hold him. Judge Tamara Thyhuis sentenced the third suspect Jamal Jefferson Woolford to 22 years imprisonment for the robbery committed at the Happy Star Restaurant and the use of violence by cranking what appeared to be a gun. Woolford was acquitted for the murder of the Kings but he was also found guilty as an accomplice to the murders since he participated in kidnapping Thelma King, under threat he tied her to a chair and gagged and blindfolded her. Judge Thyhuis also found Woolford guilty on the charge of money laundering because he used the monies he gained from the two robberies along with the other two suspects on prostitutes and alcohol. She also found that Woolford did not show sufficient remorse for his actions and since the crimes he committed are serious, the court found that he should be put away for a very long period of time so that there is no recurrence of such crimes on St. Maarten.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos who was present when the decision of the court was pronounced told SMN News that he is very happy with the decision of the court. Mos said he is extremely satisfied because the judge followed almost all of their demands during the trial.

After the decision of the court was pronounced the King family that attended the trial began weeping and hugging each other as they consoled one another. They asked reporters that were present not to take their pictures. The Kings also promised to make a statement on the court decision sometime on Thursday.

lionfish07052013The United States Federal Government recently issued a warning regarding lionfish carrying Ciguatera Fish Poisoning. The warning, issued by the American Food and Drug Administration, echoes a previous Nature Foundation recommendation suggesting that St. Maarten residents not eat lionfish due to the risk of being poisoned by the toxin.

The Nature Foundation is recommending that the Invasive Lionfish not be eaten or consumed based on a study where flesh samples which were taken of larger lionfish caught in St. Maarten waters showed levels of the poisonous ciguatoxin which causes Ciguatera poisoning. Ciguatera poisoning is caused by naturally occurring toxins, called ciguatoxins, which are produced by microscopic plants - gambierdiscus toxicus - that live on seaweed and other surfaces within coral reef communities. When fish eat seaweed or algae they consume the organisms and the ciguatoxins build up in the fish's flesh. The toxin is stored in the fishes' body and not excreted - so it builds up as it goes up the food chain. The bigger fish eat the little fish and the toxin gets passed on until it is consumed by humans. Predators at the top of the food chain - like barracuda and lionfish - can end up with large amounts of the toxin in their flesh. No test can be done to determine if the fish is poisoned and cooking and preparation have no affect on the toxin. The toxin is unrelated to the venom found in the spines of the Lionfish.
Ciguatoxin is the same toxin which is present in the flesh of Barracudas, large Jacks and large Snapper, which are traditionally also not eaten if caught in our waters. Various countries and territories in the Caribbean have been promoting lionfish as edible. However these areas usually do not have a high level of ciguatoxin in their larger reef fish. The North Eastern Caribbean from Guadeloupe to the Virgin Islands, including St. Maarten, have a higher level of ciguatoxin than most other areas in the Caribbean. So to be absolutely safe rather than sorry, the Nature Foundation can not recommend the eating of lionfish as a method for controlling them.
Ciguatera poisoning or fish poisoning as it is also known causes nausea or vomiting, diarrhoea, electric-shock-like or painful sensations, reversal of hot and cold sensations, intense itching or tingling fingers and toes, slowed heart rate and a drop in blood pressure, weakness or fatigue, muscle or joint pain, depression, and headaches. There is no effective treatment or antidote for ciguatera poisoning and the mainstay of treatment is supportive care.
The lionfish is an invasive species which was introduced into the Caribbean through the aquarium trade. The fish is a threat to local fisheries because they have the potential to destroy local fishing grounds and the economies which depend on them. The lionfish is also a venomous species which can inflict a dangerous sting; therefore the Nature Foundation requests that if a lionfish is spotted to please contact the Foundation at 5444267 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

swescotwilliamsatremembrancedayceremony07052013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined with numerous dignitaries and uniformed officials in commemorating National Remembrance Day 2013 last Saturday afternoon remembering fallen soldiers who fought during the Second World War.

The Prime Minister was joined by His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday, Deputy Prime Minister the Hon. William Marlin, President of Parliament the Hon. Rodolphe Samuel, Police Chief Commissioner Peter De Witte and NA Faction Leader Member of Parliament the hon. George Pantophlet, representatives of government and uniformed officials attended the commemoration and wreath-laying ceremony which took place at the Captain Hodge's Wharf in Philipsburg.

The Prime Minister and His Excellency the Governor inspected the Honor Guard followed by a wreath laying ceremony. Two minutes of silence were also observed in honor of those who gave their lives during the Second World War, which started in 1939 and ended in 1945. Approximately 50 to 70 million people lost their lives making it the deadliest conflict in human history.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmyouthcouncilparliamentmeetsrodolphesamuel25012013Great Bay:--- Residents and visitors on St. Maarten are poised to be enlightened, empowered and equipped with powerful professional leadership development tools from nine internationally renowned leaders and authors. Among this star-studded group of persons are John Maxwell, best-selling author and leadership expert; Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State in the United States (2005-2009), Sanya Richards-Ross, 2012 London Olympic gold medalist in track and field; Jack Welch, former Chairman and CEO of General Electric; Andy Stanley, best-selling leadership author and communicator; and David Allen, bestselling author of Getting Things Done and a productivity expert.
No leadership is truly effective or impacting without leaving a legacy for our youth to navigate life and be prepared to take their place in the community. Consequently, the St. Maarten Youth Parliament has been invited to present their vision for leadership on St. Maarten over the next five to thirty years. So what can we expect from the dynamic youth parliamentarians at the Chick-fil-A -Leadercast? "Those in attendance can expect to hear the hard-core truth from our perspective, representing how we as youth experience life on St. Maarten, and what we recognize need to be changed in order for St. Maarten to move forward," stated YMP Kamilah Gumbs.
Registrants will receive certification in 5.25 hours of professional leadership development from Chick-fil-A Leadercast. Participants already registered are filled with anticipation of what promises to be a powerful event and a transformational experience.
With the growing interest expressed by the public to be a part of this dynamic event, Victorious Living has extended the deadline for receiving registrations until today Wednesday from 2:30-5:00 p.m. at the Victorious Living Foundation's office at 158 B. Back Street, Philipsburg. Persons may reserve their space by visiting www.victoriouslivingsxm.org and e-mail Victorious Living; send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and/or call 721-524-8731.

wibvacationexpoposter07052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) will be hosting "WIB's Vacation Expo" on Saturday, May 11th 2013 at WIB's Personal Loans and Mortgage Center (PLM), Le Grand Marche, Bush Road. The Expo starts at 9:30am and ends at 5pm.

WIB will be offering you the opportunity to benefit from the best Vacation Loans, Vacation Package Discounts, Travel Cards, Travel Insurance, Travel Tools & Tips and much more. Besides vacation loans, the PLM department will also open for personal, vehicle, and mortgage loans.

This event will bring all travel related options to you in one place. Our Business Partners who will be displaying vacation packages, travel related items, information and other specials they have to offer include; Carib-A-Travel, Intermar Travel, Insel Air, Sel Maduro Travel, Travel Planners, Windward Islands Airways, Super Bikes, Ruby Bute, Office World, and Rolling Systems.

WIB representatives will also be available to provide everyone with information on other products and services the bank offers.

WIB invites the community of St. Maarten to join them and their business partners at the "WIB Vacation Expo".

It's always more relaxing with your partner in progress.

It was a memorable moment for the Directors, the Board and Artistic Advisor Hans Minnaert of N.I.A. when the statues of the foundation were signed in the office of notary public Meredith Boekhoudt.
This is a dream come through for the two institutions, Imbali and Motiance dance schools, which have been working on this merger for the past months.

The National Institute of Arts will be accessible to the community at large, kids through adults. We are excited to announce our inauguration to SXM with extensive community participation on October 10, 2013.

N.I.A. will also feature a professional stream in which professionals in the field will train, coach and guide the career minded talents.
NIA will initiate immediately the three following departments: dance, music and drama to be followed by visual arts, literature, art history, media, cirque nouveau and community arts later on in the year. The start of these classes will cement the foundation for collaboration with "CODARTS Hoge School voor de Kunsten" in Rotterdam.

At this time a Classical Ballet audition for the Selection class has already taken place. The audition was open to the general public (ages 8-13 years). The audition panel consisted of a professional team inclusive of a physical therapist and musicologist.

Directors Arlene Halley, Clara Reyes and their staff are making great advancements in the intensive training from artistic advisor Hans Minnaert. N.I.A. is most thankful for the support of the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds in this project.

Fish Day is an event organized annually by the North side of the island to recognize the fishermen for their endeavours to make a living off the sea. This has been carried out by our ancestors for decades and continues today by a much smaller number.

The day's events were attended by thousands of people including visitors to our island destination who enjoyed themselves and were able to sample local cuisine offered by many vendors, unfortunately the day closed off with a senseless act of violence that left one dead and seven injured.

On behalf of the UP parliamentary faction, we express our deepest sympathy to the family of the victim who died in this senseless violence.

The UP parliamentary faction also wishes a speedy recovery to those who were injured. We also offer our prayers to the victim who had to be flown out to Guadeloupe due to the serious nature of that persons injuries.

The UP faction offers its prayers and strength to the President of the Collectivite Aline Hanson and members of the Territorial Council with respect to the cowardly acts of violence that took place on Sunday evening. We stand in unity with our colleagues of the North.

The UP faction has already indicated that the legislative branch should meet with the Territorial Council of the North side of the island, and one of the issues of mutual concern for discussion would be how to address senseless acts of violence whether gang related or not.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United People's (UP) Party

telemgroupcellsite02052013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group technicians have identified equipment being used in neighbouring Anguilla as the possible source of interference to the company's 3G mobile network in recent weeks.

The interference has been plaguing TelEm Group's mobile voice and data customers by causing calls and internet connections to drop suddenly without warning.
TelEm Group Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa said after reporting the interference to the local telecommunication regulator, the Bureau of Telecommunications, St. Maarten, last week, a team of company technicians and engineers were ordered to carry out their own series of tests and scans to locate the source of the interference.
He said this was especially important to make a strong case for a new temporary frequency from the regulator, to better serve TelEm Group mobile customers until the problem is permanently fixed.
"We have been able to identify the source of the interference as coming from the neighbouring island of Anguilla," said Mr. Louisa.
He said the findings and readings from his technical staff have been reported to the local regulator whose own technical expert has since confirmed.
"We have requested immediate action on the part of the regulator to contact those causing this interference. It is affecting the quality of mobile service we are offering to our customers. We have now officially requested the use of a new frequency on a temporary basis in the interest of our mobile customers," said Mr. Louisa.
Mr. Louisa is advising customers who are experience problems with the TelEm Group 3G network to take their handsets and smartphones off AUTO to "push" their service onto the company's 2G network.
"Mobile handsets and smartphones that are set to automatically select the most suitable network will jump from the 2G network to the 3G network depending of what signal is available. We are advising users who have their phones set for 3G use only, or for AUTO use, to reset their handset or smartphone to the 2G network as a temporary fix. They should only do this if they are having difficulty with the 3G voice and data service," advised the Chief Technical Officer.
At present, customers operating their devices in the areas of Cole Bay, Simpson Bay, Maho, Cupecoy, Lowlands, and South Reward are most affected.

Telem Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Cabinet of the Minister of Justice announced on Tuesday that as of May 1, 2013, the National Ordinances to establish the judicial paternity and the joint custody of minor children went into effect.

As per article 207 of the ordinance, "the paternity of a man can be established though he may be deceased, based on the grounds that he is the procreator of said child, or the man, as the life partner of the mother, has agreed upon the act that has resulted in the procreation of a child".

A request for paternity can be expressed by the mother; if the child is less than twelve years old; by the child; or by the court of guardianship on behalf of the child, with the mother's consent.

The National Ordinance on Joint Custody states that having custody of a child obligates parents to care and provide for that child. This includes taking care of the child's physical, spiritual and safety needs.

During a marriage, parents enjoy the privilege of joint custody of their children. Upon dissolution of a marriage, other than death, parents will enjoy the same privilege. However; article 251a states that, based on the request of one or both parents, a judge can grant sole custody to one parent if he/she finds that a change of care is in the best interest of the child.

In the past, joint custody had to be requested by one or both parents. The judge would then determine if custody should be granted solely to one parent based on the best interest of the child.

According to the amendment of article 253a, this states that in case of a dispute between parents who have joint custody, said dispute may be submitted to the judge of the Court of First Instance upon the request of either parent or both parents.

Article, 253a further states, the judge may, upon the request of either parent or both, establish an arrangement concerning joint custody.

Based on the competence of either the father or mother, he or she can petition the judge to grant them sole or joint custody of the minor child or children. Provisions have also been made as stated in articles 377a & e, that custody of a child can be granted to someone other than a parent, such as the grandparents or someone close to the child.

ssmmeetswithsfinthenetherlands07052013The Hague – Last week, during the brief holidays the locally based Soualiga Social Movement met with the Soualiga Foundation based in the Netherlands to discuss how the two foundations could work together. President of the Soualiga Foundation Perry Geerlings and three other board members met with co-founder and Treasurer of Soualiga Social Movement Sjaoel Richardson and after a brief introduction of the aims and goals of each organization the foundations got down to business.

The Soualiga Foundation, based in the Netherlands aims to increase social, cultural awareness and participation amongst St. Maarteners in the Netherlands. While across the Atlantic the Soualiga Social Movement aims on promoting social awareness while encouraging participation and inclusion of the people of St. Maarten, for the progressive development of the island. Recognizing these overlapping areas of awareness and participation to social issues the groups have agreed to work together on several projects.

The main reason for the meeting was the co-development of a few mutually progressive projects in targeting students returning from the Netherlands or leaving the island to study. Mentioned, was a workshop on personal finance for students leaving the island to study as most students living alone for the first time are often surprised to find themselves in financial problems which subsequently becomes a distraction to their studies. The Soualiga Foundation spoke on how they can engage groups of young St. Maarteners in the Netherlands to be active in community projects there, allowing them to gain experience and project expertise, which they can apply to St. Maarten when they return. Also, discussed was a project aimed at job placement for returning students, where the Soualiga Social Movement can approach the private sector through other organizations, about these students who are returning with new insight and knowledge in different industries.

The two foundations will continue to correspond on several mutual interests and hope to execute these projects in the near future.

pjiaedelegationatairportcitiesworldconferenceandexhibition07052013Simpson Bay:--- A high-powered delegation of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), led by managing director Regina LaBega returned to the island last week after attending the 11th annual Airport Cities World Conference & Exhibition held recently in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The SXM delegation included Mirto Breell, Director of Technical Division, Anastacio Baker, Manager of Quality Assurance, and Kalifa Hickinson, Head of Corporate Communications. It was the first time the conference would be held on African soil.

Over 700 delegates from 45 countries representing more than 100 airports or airport authorities attended the three-day conference, which featured a jam-packed program that began with a foundation level and advanced level master class, conducted by Conference Chair, Professor John Kasarda, Director of the Center for Air Commerce at the University of North Carolina.

The SXM delegation attended each master class, which provided a full overview of airport city or "aerotropolis" development as well as the processes and strategic guidelines for planning, designing and developing a successful airport city.

LaBega had articulated the vision of transforming SXM into an airport city at the beginning of her tenure and the South Africa conference, hosted by the city of Ekurhuleni (home of Oliver R. Tambo International Airport, recently voted among the best three airports in Africa), confirmed that this was in line with world trends in airport development.

"Airports are not just transportation infrastructure. They are multimodal, multifunctional enterprises generating considerable commercial development. Airports are now cities themselves," stressed Prof. Kasarda. He added: "airport planning must include just as much emphasis on commercial strategies as aeronautical strategies. There should be synergies between the two."

"This is in fact the direction we have embarked on at SXM," explained LaBega. "It was most gratifying to note at this world conference that we are indeed on the right track with our new strategy of developing non-aeronautical revenues, focusing on the hub function of our airport and looking ahead to the next level of making SXM an airport city or aerotropolis to use the term revived by Prof. Kasarda."

An "aerotropolis" is simply defined as an airport based economic region – a scenario where the global meets the local – with the airport city as the core of the aerotropolis.

The general idea of the airport city/aerotropolis is to foster an environment where one can shop, eat, do business and be entertained all within no more than 15 minutes from the terminal building.

Airports are indeed becoming business centers as evidenced by KPMG moving its European headquarters from London to Frankfurt Airport just because the new location provided a mere 6-minute walk to the international check-in counters.

One recurrent theme at the conference was connectivity as the engine of economic growth. Prof. Kasarda called air travel a "Physical Internet" with over 53,000 routes worldwide. According to him, airports are the routers of this physical internet. He said on a global level, "hub airports, as such, are business magnets and regional economic advancers."

In his own presentation, the Mayor of Denver, Michael B. Hancock, stressed the importance of global connectivity and global competitiveness. "Connectivity is the engine of progress," he said. Denver International Airport (DIA), though only 18 years old, is now the 13th busiest in the world and fifth busiest in the US.

But the grandfather of airport cities is Schiphol, which was just voted the third best airport in the world. It was an airport city even before the term was coined.

Schiphol features shopping arcades, Internet cafes, theme restaurants, businesses such as Unilever, Microsoft, Solomon Brothers, etc. "Though SXM is small in comparison, there is much we can learn from what airports are doing globally that can further solidify SXM's position as a leading, world class international airport in the Caribbean region," LaBega said.

Airports are now destinations in and of themselves, as the South Africa conference revealed. Airports are now taking on their own brands, and developing a unique "brand image." SXM just a few months ago unveiled its new brand. "This shows we are progressive, forward-thinking and right on the mark," remarked Kalifa Hickinson.

Non-aeronautical revenue is very important for the competitiveness of an airport, the conference stressed. Airports should keep aeronautical costs down and grow non-aeronautical revenue to provide funding for expansions, etc. "This is exactly what we have embarked on at SXM with our new retail strategy, which is expected to be implemented by the fourth quarter of 2013," Hickinson said.

According to Prof. Kasarda, "Airlines service a market, not an airport." Airlines are most concerned with making a profit by filling their seats.

However, airlines, airports and the region are all functionally interdependent stakeholders of an aerotropolis. Cities don't compete against one another; regions do, Prof. Kasarda said. "We must compete as a region on a global stage," he added.

Cooperation, collaboration and communication with all our stakeholders were emphasized at the conference. "This is the goal we have been pursuing and will continue to pursue at SXM," LaBega said.

The next conference will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia next year when for the first time, the "Airport Cities Excellence Awards" will be granted to recognize industry leaders and acknowledge those successful airport cities that have changed the face of aviation across the globe.

artsaveslivesfundraiserbyfredgrigsby07052013~Art Saves Lives Program will be held June 24-30 on St. Maarten~

Cupecoy:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever of Art Saves Lives and Erika Cannegieter of the Be the Change Foundation, were the invited guests of Mr. Fred Grigsby and Ms. Carol Pope at a fundraising event held on April 23rd last. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Minister of Culture Silveria Jacobs and Minister of Health and Labor Cornelius De Weever were among the invited guests. Ms. De Weever and Ms. Cannegieter provided the gathering with information on their foundations, and information was distributed about the upcoming Art Saves Lives summer intensive program scheduled to be held in June.
Ms. De Weever expressed her thanks to Be The Change Foundation that was instrumental in putting the event together with Mr. Grigsby and Ms. Pope and for their support of the project.
ASLP continues to raise funds to bring this project to fruition to serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on St. Maarten.

shootingfillin05052013Marigot:--- Gang members went to the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital Monday night in two vehicles and fired shots in the parking lot of the hospital signaling that they are going after one of the victims that is receiving treatment at the LCF Hospital. SMN News learnt that the incident occurred around 8pm Monday night. The hospital security told reporters who went to the scene that after the shots were fired the two vehicles took off at high speed. According to well placed sources, two of the victims that were shot are brothers, one of them was shot in the neck area while the other was shot in the stomach.

According to information reaching SMN News, the gang members are very upset because one of the victims that are currently in the hospital had a gun on him on Sunday when the shooting took place at the Cul de Sac Bay. SMN News was told that this person (a male) reacted by firing shots at the attackers and the bullets that were fired from the victim injured some of the victims and they (gang members) are blamed for the entire shooting incident that left one person dead on Sunday and seven injured.

SMN News also received unconfirmed reports that a second victim succumbed to her injuries. The person who passed away was six months pregnant and she was shot in her throat. Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault told SMN News on Monday that one of the victims was airlifted to Guadeloupe for further treatment, that person is a 21 year old young woman who was an employee of Corilita Real Estate which is located in Marigot. SMN News learned that the young woman received severe injuries to her face and that she lost an eye while she also suffered serious injuries to her nose. The Prefecture of St. Martin confirmed that the victim that was airlifted to Guadeloupe received severe injuries to her face but no further details on the injuries were released.

SMN News tried to get confirmation on the incident that occurred Monday night at the LCF Hospital and also to confirm if a second person passed away but we were unable to get confirmation from authorities. When SMN News contacted Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault on Tuesday afternoon for confirmation on the information we received, Jouault said that he was extremely busy and unable to speak to reporters.

Philipsburg:--- Five of the seven members of the Council of Ministers voted down a proposal presented by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams during the Council of Ministers' meeting on Tuesday. Wescot Williams presented a motion to the council asking that the NA/DP/I-3 cabinet resign by the end of this week so that the Ministers that will form the third government of this governing period could take over.

Those that voted against the motion presented by Wescot Williams are, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs, Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet, and Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. Minister of Health and Labour Cornelius de Weever entered the meeting late so he did not vote on the proposal that was presented by his party leader while Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams voted in favor of the motion.

Another turn of events during the Council of Ministers' meeting on Tuesday was that Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who has the minority seats in the Council of Ministers refused to deal with an agenda point that was added by the other Members of the Council of Ministers. The National Alliance Ministers added an agenda point to Tuesday's meeting based on article 59 of the country's constitution where they proposed a motion to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten and call for early elections. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News in an exclusive interview after the Council of Ministers' meeting that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten is acting as a dictator since she thinks she is the one who would decide for the Council of Ministers. Minister Duncan said that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams cannot decide for the cabinet because she only has two seats, besides that she is the spokesperson for the cabinet and not the decision maker.

rduncan17072012Minister Duncan said that the Prime Minister is stating that it is her prerogative whether or not to call for new elections. He said does not know where the Prime Minister got that information from. Duncan said that the Prime Minister told them that she was legally advised and she will not deal with the matter unless she is properly advised. Duncan further explained that the Prime Minister gave them the indication that she will submit the resignation of the current cabinet even though they voted it against it. He further explained that he and the other Ministers representing the National Alliance informed the Prime Minister that they will not resign unless they see a resolution from the Parliament of St. Maarten. The Minister of Justice said that the constitution is very clear and its states that Parliament has to send Ministers or a cabinet home not some Members of Parliament. Minister Duncan said the Prime Minister then referred to what transpired last year, he said it is true that letters were sent to the Prime Minister and he and the Prime Minister immediately submitted their resignation but the other Ministers from the United People's Party faction submitted their resignation three weeks later. Duncan said he has 38 years of experience as a lawyer and he taught the Prime Minister constitutional law. Minister Duncan said the Prime Minister could stall the process but she cannot hold back or stop a decision from going through which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. He further explained that Parliament can be dissolved by a "Landsbesuluit" but nowhere in the constitution it states who has to sign the Landsbesluit.

Due to the fact that Wescot Williams refused to deal with the agenda point presented by the National Alliance Ministers, on Tuesday an official letter was sent to Prime Minister Wescot Williams by the other five members of the Council of Ministers requesting that she call an official meeting to deal with the agenda point which is to dissolve the Parliament of St. Maarten. Prime Minister Wescot Williams has two days in which to call this meeting but since Thursday is a holiday then the meeting has to be called on Friday.

The Minister of Justice went as far as saying that it is time for the people of St. Maarten to speak out on whether or not they want new elections. He said he does not know what the Prime Minister and Leader of the Democratic Party is afraid of when it comes to having a new election. Duncan said that the two letters state that the Government no longer enjoys the support of Parliament which also includes her.


Prime Minister acts in Conflict of Interest when she voted twice on Justice Park --- Son and Son in Law are negotiating for Sameer Andrwos and American Company.

While a lot of attention is being placed on the Independent Members of Parliament especially Romain Laville and Patrick Illidge who is now under investigation for allegedly accepting a bribe and causing the fall of Government, it should be noted that the Democratic Party is playing a major role in the political instability on St. Maarten even though they only have two seats.

SMN News reported before that the two persons that are negotiating the Justice Park project with the Minister of Justice is the son of the Prime Minister, Andy Wescot and her son in law Gary Master. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan confirmed on Tuesday that he has been dealing with the two persons mentioned. Duncan said he will not make a judgment on the conflict of interest because he never dealt with her personally but he has been negotiating with her son Andy Wescot on behalf of Sameer Andrwos and her son in law on behalf of the Americans. It should be noted that article 35 of the country's constitution clearly stipulates when a Minister has to recuse his or herself from voting on projects or any matter that relates to Government. The Minister of Justice said that both Council of Ministers that the Prime Minister was part of voted in favor of the Justice Park and on both occasions Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams voted.

The main company that is offering financing for the Justice Park is WPK Carey and Company Limited who uses subsidiary companies to do business for them on St. Maarten. In the case of the Justice Park, the company Global 17 Limited is operating for WPK Carey and Company Limited. Minister Duncan said that Gary Master is representing these companies while Andy Wescot is representing Ourista N.V. which belongs to Sameer Andrawos.

Minister Duncan in explaining the Justice Park said that Ourista N.V. would have sold the BOX and the six story unfinished building that Andrawos owned in Cay Hill to Global 17 Limited for 25 million dollars and Global 17 would have completed and even built other buildings to lease to government for a period of 30 years after which the Government of St. Maarten owns these properties. He said that he has no signed document with these companies, the only thing he has is a letter of intent. He said that the project now stands at 85 million because he adjusted some parts of the project.


Heyliger ditched to Parliament to Avoid Screening --- Four Investigations against Heyliger could to hinder Heyliger from becoming Minister.

According to the rumors that have taken over St. Maarten, the Leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger will not be a Minister in the third government, instead he will take up a seat in the Parliament of St. Maarten. For Heyliger to become a Member of Parliament it means one of the UP MPs would have to resign. Also based on rumors, it is said that MP Romaine Laville will be the next Minister of TEATT, if that is so then Laville would have to resign and he cannot appoint anyone to his seat in Parliament because the seat then goes back to the UP. The press release that was sent by the three factions on Monday said that the UP/DP and Independent Member Romain Laville is forming the new government which means that Laville becoming a Minister has been ruled out. Unless the negotiations are still ongoing and Laville will give the UP back their seat in exchange for the Ministerial seat after a decision has been taken on whether or not there will be a third government or if the call for new elections on St. Maarten will go ahead.

Another indication that could lead Heyliger to take a seat in Parliament and not in the Council of Ministers is that he risks failing the screening process because currently there are at least four investigations against Heyliger. Those four investigations are the famous Election Fraud Case that the Prosecutor's Office has for almost three years now, his involvement in the Bada Bing scandal, the complaint filed by Member of Parliament Romain Laville who claimed that Heyliger offered him a $350,000.00 bribe, and the guns that MP Patrick Illidge claimed that he bought from two UP Ministers. It should be noted that at least one person did not pass the screening process when the Democratic Party submitted his name to become the Minister of Plenipotentiary because that person was part of an ongoing investigation.

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that Member of Parliament Dr. Ruth Douglass will soon be leaving her seat in Parliament to take up a job in Curacao since she has been hired as the Director of the Adventist Health Institute in Curacao. Recently, MP Douglass has not been attending all the Parliamentary and Central Committee meetings because she has been focusing on placing her patients under other doctors. Should MP Douglass resign then the door is open for Heyliger to return to Parliament. SMN News tried to reach MP Douglass for a comment on this issue but she could not be reached.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Police on Curacao conducted two searches at the home and office of assassinated Member of Parliament, Helmin Wiels. The first search took place on Sunday evening around 10pm just hours after Wiels was shot to death by a lone gunman. Radio Direct reporter Richeron Balentien said that the first search took place on May 5th, 2013 around 10pm at the home of Helmin Wiels while the second search was done the following day May 6th, 2013 at the office of the slain Member of Parliament and Leader of the Pueblo Soberano (PS).

Balentien said that the detectives that are investigating the murder were looking for documents that the late PS leader said he has in possession that would send certain persons to prison. According to Balentien, the late PS leader announced last Friday that he had documents that would implicate the Director of UTS. During the two searches the police seized computers and documents as they continue the investigation. The slain Member of Parliament also dispatched a letter to the Government of Curacao with some 31 questions regarding UTS and Robbie's Lottery.

The letter was sent on behalf of the PS faction of the Parliament of Curacao. The slain MP wanted to know if United Telecommunications Service (UTS) has a permit to sell lottery via mobile phones. He also asked if UTS has authority to use its data system to sell lottery numbers. He further asked if there is any truth to UTS selling numbers through its mobile phone services locally (Curacao) and also on an international level by using the Smartplay number game and the Daily number game.

Helmin Wiels outlined in his letter which is posted beneath this article that persons or companies that are selling lotteries must abide by the laws of Curacao, therefore he wants to know if UTS is acting in accordance with the law and if they were granted a tax exemption from the sale of lottery numbers through mobile phones.

Besides the investigation that is in high gear, Balentien said that the people of Curacao remain in shock and the members of Pueblo Soberano (PS) have been calling on the population to remain calm.

So far police in Curacao have not arrested anyone for the assassination of Helmin Wiels.

Click here to view the letter the late PS Leader Helmin Wiels sent to the Government of Curacao regarding the operations of UTS and Robbie's Lottery.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The U.S. Consulate General in Curacao condemns the murder of Helmin Wiels in the strongest terms possible. A passionate advocate for the disadvantaged and unemployed, Wiels bravely fought against corruption and to expand education opportunities for Curacao's youth. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.
We hope that those responsible will be swiftly brought to justice, and encourage anyone with information to contact the police at 911, 866-6124 or the anonymous 108 line.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria E. Jacobs expressed her sadness at the events that transpired at the Fish day on Sunday May 7th 2013.

The Fish day was a shining example of harmonious socialization of St. Maarten's people. The organizers did a tremendous job in bringing this event to the level that it enjoyed. It is a serious dilemma that individuals chose this opportunity to mar a fête rich in culture, history and community to settle vendettas.

This is not St. Maarten's Way. The Minister expressed her condolences to the families of those injured and killed during the fish day.

Minister Jacobs also expressed her shock and sadness at the murder of Member of Parliament (MP) Helmin Wiels of Curacao. "This is truly a sad day and I express my sincerest condolences to the family and the people of Curacao" Minister Jacobs said on Tuesday.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs commends the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) for a well-organized and an almost incident free Carnival 2013.

The Minister also thanked the SCDF for bringing back cultural aspects that were clearly visible in the shows that were hosted.

Both Local and international shows garnered the support of many who turned out in full force. Though the SCDF made valiant efforts to incorporate cultural aspects into the carnival calendar of events, there is still much left to be desired with regards to this aspect.

The minister would like to see the cultural wear and speech segments of the Queen shows brought back to the village so that more persons can benefit from the rich cultural heritage displayed and the presentations of the participating young ladies.

All stakeholders put in the 100% + and should be commended for their commitment to making St. Maarten Carnival the best in the Caribbean. A lot of time, effort and creativity and enthusiasm was put into offering locals and visitors culinary delicacies in the various booths, troupe leaders who dedicated themselves to making the parade livelier and more colorful as well the musicians and bands who entertained both the local and international public. Without their support, we wouldn't have experienced such a successful Carnival, the Minister pointed out.

Special commendations also go out to the security personnel and police force during the events as they delivered exceptional service during the festivities. "It was great to experience a carnival in an atmosphere of safety," the Minister said.

We look forward to Carnival 2014 which will mark 45 years of Carnival on St. Maarten. Many are already marking their calendars and reserving their spaces for what promises to be an even greater opportunity to 'Come Experience Life'.

sxmzooboard06052013The Board of the St. Maarten Zoological and Botanical Foundation met recently and held new Board elections.
Pictured left to right are:
Melanie Choisy: elected Assistant Secretary
Amy Arrindell: elected Vice-President
Barbara Cannegieter: Public Relations Officer
Fons O'Connor: Treasurer
Martin Holtermann: elected Board member
Tina Arents: Secretary
Rob Heil: President

The existing Board of the Foundation which has worked together many years, welcomes these new members and looks forward to being able to implement new direction for the Zoo.
Although the Zoo currently is managed by an N.V. operation, this arrangement will terminate in a few months and the Board will once again take over the running of the Zoo.
We will be announcing new initiatives for the Zoo and hope with the help of the community, to be able to make many new improvements there.

cdeweeveratconferenceonhivmedscostreduction07052013Maho:--- On May 7th and 8th a large group of experts from various Caribbean islands and European countries will be attending a conference on St. Maarten at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort. The main objective of the consultation is to discuss how Sint Maarten can reduce the prices on HIV/AIDS medicine (anti-retrovirals - ARVs). The option that is being explored and will be discussed at the meeting involves opening access to generic anti-retroviral drugs and intellectual property rights. Current challenges that this meeting will seek to overcome is the fact that under St. Maarten's constitutional structure we are not allowed to purchase generic versions of ARV drugs due to intellectual property rights and various treaties St. Maarten is associated with.

Therefore, at the two day conference participants will review the challenges St. Maarten is facing when it comes to getting access to affordable treatment in St. Maarten, gain an understanding of the various Dutch Laws that affects the access to affordable medicines (ARVS) in St. Maarten, and ultimately identify appropriate strategies that will support access to affordable medicines (ARVs) in St. Maarten. Currently, St. Maarten does have access to treatment for everybody who is diagnosed, however compared to other countries in the region our prices are much more expensive.

The conference is being hosted by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat/Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP), in collaboration with the German International Cooperation (GIZ), EPOS Health Management and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Financial support for the implementation of this activity is provided by the German International Cooperation (GIZ) together with the EU under the project "Strengthening the Integration of the British and Dutch Overseas Territories in the Regional Response to HIV/AIDS through PANCAP."

carnivalqueensreceivecars06052013Cole Bay:--- Signed, sealed, delivered! Senior Carnival Queen Davinia Brooks (below left) and Mature Carnival Queen Paula Gordon (below right) took home their brand new cars on Saturday, the main prizes for winning their respective pageants for Carnival 2013. Motorworld and the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) teamed up to offer the winning prizes. Motorworld was also a title sponsor for both pageants. Managing Director of Motorworld Reza Amjad (first on the left above) and General Manager Ronald Elferink were present for the presentations. The queens thanked Motorworld and the SCDF for the vehicles which they termed as "incredible prizes".

causewayswingbridgebeingputintoplace06052013POINT BLANCHE:--- St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo announced on Monday that the Causeway Swing Bridge is in place. Mingo expresses gratitude to all those who have contributed to the project especially this particular part.

The Swing Bridge is 220 feet long and weighs 450 tons. The Causeway has a total length of 2493 feet and features a two-lane motorway, a bicycle track and footpaths.

On Sunday, a critical stage was reached in the installation of the Swing Bridge. After removal of some sea fastening devices, preparation of skidding equipment, and the trimming of the Marietje Andrea, the operation started on Sunday at 2:00pm and was completed around 6:00pm the same day.

Monday, the last critical step was the lowering of the Swing Bridge onto its bearing.

April 17 the Swing Bridge was loaded out from a shipyard in the Netherlands onto the transport cargo vessel Marietje Andrea which departed the Netherlands on April 19 for the cross-Atlantic voyage. The vessel arrived on May 03 and transited into the Simpson Bay Lagoon on the same day.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway falls under the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation. The Lagoon Authority aims to ensure that Sint Maarten remains a top yachting destination in the Caribbean while ensuring a safe, secure, pollution free and environmentally sustainable Simpson Bay Lagoon. The Causeway is just one of several initiatives leading to the aforementioned.

Construction of the Causeway started early 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by December 2013. Construction is being carried out by Volker Stevin Construction Europe BV.

The Causeway will improve accessibility to Simpson Bay, the airport and Cole Bay. It will become even more important when the existing Simpson Bay Bridge is open or temporarily out of operation.

The new Causeway will have two round-a-bouts at the Airport Road near the end of the runway and at Union Road near the border. There will be two protected sidewalks for pedestrians and a bicycle track.

The swing bridge is the only element of the Causeway that had to be constructed in the Netherlands. There will be two navigating channels for boats to pass through simultaneously when the swing bridge is open. Large mega yachts will also be able to pass through.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

eholiday14122012Distinguished delegates, ladies, and gentlemen,

Good evening,
It is a pleasure for me to address you for the opening of your seventh Biennial Caribbean Ombudsman Association Conference here on Sint Maarten. I extend a special welcome to our guests from abroad and in particular to the president of CAROA Mr. Valton Bend. Sint Maarten is honoured to host this CAROA-conference and I invite you all to enjoy the warm hospitality of our friendly island.
As I deliberated on the topics of the program for this conference and the objectives of CAROA it became increasingly apparent that this conference is a celebration of our continued quest for freedom from injustice through the promotion of democracy and the rule of law. Namely, freedom from injustice is fundamentally what it is all about when speaking about promoting good governance to protect the rights of the people.
Our continued quest for freedom from injustice has deep roots in the history of mankind. Justice is not and has never been automatic. Major developments in history going back to the bible, the 400 years enslavement of Africans, the prosecution of the Jews in the second World War and countless other wars including several ongoing conflicts, are testimony to the threats to our freedoms and rights.
As you know following the devastation of the Second World War a new world order was established with the creation of the United Nations and regional international organizations like the Council of Europe, which placed the promotion of human rights and good governance high on the global agenda. The International Treaty on Civil and Political Rights, the International Treaty of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the European Convention for the protection of human rights are important results of this development.
On a national level, in most countries around the world and in the Caribbean, institutions have been created that play a role, in establishing checks and balances and good governance, and in the promotion of democracy and the rule of law. Institutions that support and help in the perfecting of the principles of freedom, equality, solidarity, accountability, transparency and justice. Principles upon which our young Sint Maarten nation was founded, as anchored in our constitution. According to Abraham Lincoln, I quote: "The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but cannot do at all, or can not, so well do, for themselves—in their separate, and individual capacities." . Unquote. Abraham Lincoln's statement depicts the fundamental role of government in society and by extension underscores the importance of "good governance" in any community. From experience we know that the practice of good governance is not without challenges.
It is therefore essential to establish checks and balances through institutions that help to foster properness, effectiveness and adherence to human rights in and by government. One of these institutions is the Ombudsman. Although the Ombudsman is a very old institution that was founded in Sweden in the 19th Century, the rest of the world has only come to know this phenomenon more recently. I am therefore looking forward to the presentation of the keynote speaker Mrs. Marianne von der Esch, the international representative of the Ombudsman of Sweden, who will speak on the topic "The Evolution of the Ombudsman concept as started in Sweden and its worldwide status today.
In Sint Maarten the Ombudsman only exists just over two and a half years. The Ombudsman can and investigates the behavior of government towards the people to assess the degree of properness of government actions. Here in Sint Maarten the decisions of the Ombudsman are not legally binding and time will tell as to what extent, advices will be followed by Government. Because of that it is expected that the effectiveness of the work of the Ombudsman will more so depend on the quality as well as on the weight and confidence the public places in the Ombudsman as guardian of the public cause. Establishing and securing a solid place for the Ombudsman as a relevant actor in the promotion and realization of good governance is thus essential. I say this because every injustice that remains unresolved is a threat to our collective freedoms and rights.
It is therefore imperative for all Ombudsmen to participate in international frameworks like the CAROA to continue to strengthen and promote the development of Ombudsman institutions throughout the region and the world.
Ladies and gentlemen,
In closing, I hope you find some time, during your discussions regarding the noble quest for freedom from injustice, to enjoy our friendly island and I wish you all success in your deliberations.
And with that I now declare the seventh Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Ombudsman Association open.

Thank you.

Festival Village:--- With three months away, Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is in full gear for the second annual event on Saturday August 3rd. 2013 and tickets are on sale now. This year featuring 9 time Grammy award winner John Legend and Percy Sledge famous for numerous songs one of them being "When a man loves a woman".
The Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten event is organized by CD Entertainment, one of St. Maarten's premiere event organizations with over 30 years experience in the industry. According to Mr. Clarence Derby "This is an event unlike any other in St. Maarten". "The St.Maarten Hennessy Artistry event has set the standards for other Hennessy Artistry Events in the world".
This year there will be two entrance fees; VIP tickets will be US $150 in advance, and US $175 at the door. This includes premium Hennessy drinks and food, with VIP service in the front area that will offer amazing tasting stations and great service. Tickets are also available for those who would like to experience only the concert aspect of the show at US $55 in advance and US $75 at the door. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase. According to the organizers, requests for especially VIP tickets are already pouring in, and so it is important to get tickets early. Tickets are available at Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco in Philipsburg, both van Dorp Locations, Mr.Clarence Derby phone: 520-1872 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and 721 Scene Lounge at Puerta del Sol upper floor (former Mooi). Other locations will be announced shortly.
Westin Resort St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa will be the host hotel and is working closely with the marketing and sales team of Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten to finalize the vacation packages with various tour operators from various regions such as the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and South America. Westin has arranged for the local market as well packages that can be booked at Travel planners. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a nice weekend unwinding and staying at the resort the artists will be accommodated.
Percy Sledge performance will be accompanied by one of our own local band that has been put together by Fred York called: "The Musicologists". They have performed for the Bob Marley tribute back in February and the Heineken Regatta in March. These 13 highly talented artists will be gracing the stage that evening with their own performance first.
Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press, and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music. Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco is the official distributor of Hennessy. For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact us at Phone: +1 721 520-7120 / 520-1872 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten Press Release

"It is with profound shock and sadness that I learned of the senseless killing of Curacao's politician, Pueblo Soberano's (PS) leader, Mr. Helmin Wiels. Firstly I would like to express my deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Helmin and the PS membership and wish them much strength and courage in these most trying of times.

To the people of Curacao, I would also like to extend my condolences and wish you courage, strength and God's wisdom. Although we are no longer part of the same country, our culture and history are so entwined that I indeed speak for the people of St. Maarten in saying that we are all deeply shocked and affected by this tragic and horrible event.

I would like to echo what has already been said by colleagues in Curacao in saying that I too am praying for calm and reflection. Although I know the people of Curacao are momentarily grieving, I urge you to come together in your grief and uphold the principles we all hold so dear; the principles of an open democracy and the right of freedom of speech.

We should now let justice take its course, and trust that those responsible for this heinous act, will be brought to justice. Let us uphold the memory of Helmin Wiels and what he stood for. Let us remember him for the man that he was. Let us all come together, as Caribbean neighbors and support the people of Curacao in this most trying and difficult time."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

I am very pleased that the Council on Law Enforcement in its latest report has strongly advised for the establishment of an Office for Victim Support. It was in 2011 that the Government decided upon establishing such an office, but two-years later, nothing has come out of it.

The amendment of the Code of Criminal Procedure has to also be executed.

I fully support the conclusions of the Council that the society of St. Maarten in general and the victims of crime in particular deserve such an office.

As a Member of Parliament, I would seek an audience with the Council of Law Enforcement within short in order to discuss how from Parliament's point of view society can be assured of such an office can assist victims in the best possible manner.

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

helminwiels06052013Another king

just crowned in the kingdom

of blood, a coronation of bullets wheezing death

in a hail of the assassin's contract of hate

circling to puncture through

the riddled breastbone of the nation

to still&rent the sovereign heart from beating true

but we are who we are even when we fear to be

tula.karpata.mercier.wakao.sablika.doktor.paapa.

and "E Politico mas grandi di Curacao

diadomingo pasa di 5:15 atardi

a yega pa cumpra cuminda na ..."

this day, de doden de doden dem walk

victorious, from liberty park to mari pampun

to carry him away, the fallen son, Home

but for the living,

aki, yunan

lucha no kaba.

© by Lasana M. Sekou 2013.

theyliger04032012I was in shock when I heard the news. It is a senseless murder of a representative of the people. Never in the political history of the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles have you heard about a Member of Parliament being murdered.

On behalf of the United People's (UP) Party, I would like to express our deepest sympathy to the family of the Honourable Member of Parliament Helmin Wiels and to the people of Curacao.

This is a sad day in the political history of not only Curacao, but also for the other islands in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. We hear from time to time government officials being killed in other countries where there is civil strife. We don't expect to hear it here in the Caribbean especially on one of the former islands of the Netherlands Antilles that we have an affinity with.

I am confident that the perpetrators of this crime will be apprehended by the authorities within short.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United People's (UP) Party

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams released a statement yesterday expressing her sympathy and well wishes to those effected by the shooting at the Fish Day in Cul-de-Sac on Sunday. The Prime Minister stated that she would firstly like to extend her condolences to the family and friends of the victim who lost his life during the shooting and wished those hurt in the incident a quick recovery.

"When I received the news that there was a shooting at the Fish Day event on Sunday evening I was indeed very upset and saddened. Saddened firstly by the loss of life and that innocent bystanders were injured and secondly at the fact that a day in which many people, including families with young children, elderly persons, and various groups within the community of both sides of the island came out to celebrate our fishing heritage, was marred by such a horrible incident.

"When I left French Cul-de-Sac I left it with a warm feeling of togetherness in the community and it is indeed tragic that this has happened. I am praying for the family and friends of the individual that lost his life and for the quick recovery for those injured in the incident. My thoughts are with you all. I would also like to wish the authorities on the Northern Half of our island much strength and courage in bringing the perpetrators to justice," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel on behalf of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, expresses his heartfelt condolences to the people and Parliament of Curacao with respect to the murder of Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Helmin Wiels.

MP Wiels was the Leader of the Curacao coalition party Pueblo Soberano (PS).

President expressed shock of hearing about the murder and said that the people of Sint Maarten were also in a similar state as well.

"Our prayers and thoughts are with the family, friends, colleague MPs on Curacao and the people. This is a senseless murder.

"This type of violence regarding a Member of Parliament is unacceptable in a democratic peaceful society. On behalf of the parliament and people of Sint Maarten, we wish the people of Curacao and its leaders much strength as they try to come to grips with what has happened within their society," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Monday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding recent political developments is scheduled for May 13.

The plenary public meeting will be held on Monday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting was requested by Members of Parliament (MPs) Hon. George Pantophlet, and MP Hon. Louie Laveist of the National Alliance (NA) faction, and Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson. The request for the plenary session was dated May 6, 2013.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the parliamentary session.

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

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

hermanwiels05052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Authorities in Curacao have taken major action since the assassination of Pueblo Soberano (PS) Leader Helmin Wiels on Sunday. Radio Direct reporter Richeron Balentien told SMN News on Monday that Wiels was shot in Marie Pompoen around 4:45pm on Sunday while he was hanging out with some of his friends. Balentien said based on reports he received in Curacao, Wiels was at a certain location with some of his friends for about an hour. At some point he asked his friends if they wanted something to drink then he left and went to the bar next door and purchased four Heinekens, one Amstel Malta, and a bottle of water. Balentien further explained that while Wiels was walking back to his friends with the items he purchased a lone gunman that was driving a small gold color KIA stopped, exited the vehicle and fired several shots at Wiels from the back.

The Radio Direct reporter said that based on information they received from police, the gunman was wearing a mask and he was alone in the vehicle at the time of the shooting.

Police in Curacao has elevated their security and surveillance in Curacao by having helicopters flying around Curacao to ensure that no suspicious person or persons leaves the island by boat, the same security measures were taken at the airport in Curacao.

Balentien said that the authorities who are investigating the assassination of the most outspoken politician on Curacao said they are not ruling out any possibility and they have also taken note of the contents of what the late Wiels said on his radio program on Saturday where he said that Robbie's Lottery and United Telecommunications Services (UTS) is involved in some sort of racket with the SMS lottery that are sold via UTS. According to the late PS Leader, the monies that are derived from the sale of the lottery via UTS mobile phones are placed in an account in St. Maarten and it is then transferred to another account in the Bahamas. Wiels claimed during his radio program that Robbie's Lottery is not paying any taxes on the sale of the SMS lottery in Curacao and as such the country is losing approximately 37 million guilders per year. The late PS leader Helmin Wiels also called for an investigation into the alleged scam.

When asked by SMN News how the assassination of Helmin Wiels has affected the people of Curacao, Balentien said that everyone is in total shock because this kind of thing is not known in the Dutch Caribbean. The last radio program that Helmin Wiels broadcasted can be heard on the PS website under their live streaming. The PS has since put in place a condolence book for persons who wish to express condolences to sign at the PS headquarters.

Click here to view MP Helmin Wiels' last Radio Broadcast.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The application process for Mobility Passes for the 2013 Hurricane Season started on April 22, and business sector and vital organizations, have less than three weeks before the process comes to a close.

The pass allows the aforementioned to assess possible damage to their property. Potential applicants have until May 25 to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a Mobility Pass.

For the 2013 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the tab link "Hurricane Information" followed by the "Hurricane Passes" tab.

Passes are issued to the following categories: government personnel, personnel of essential companies or organizations, (sub) contractors for the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), transportation passes for hotel staff, business owners and members of vital organizations to assess possible damage to their property.

The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.

The Office of Disaster Management is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill before May 25, 2013, with all necessary documents attached between office hours, Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Philipsburg:--- Three Members of Parliament namely George Pantophlet, Frans Richardson, and Louie Laveist submitted a letter to the Chairman of Parliament dated May 6th, 2013 requesting that he call a meeting to discuss the current political situation on St. Maarten and the reason for the break up of the NA/DP/I-3 Coalition Government. SMN News obtained a copy of the letter that was sent to the President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel, that letter can be viewed beneath this article.

On Sunday, SMN News reported that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten notified the Leader of the National Alliance who is also the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin that the two Members of Parliament representing the Democratic Party Faction in Parliament and Independent Member of Parliament Romain Laville have withdrawn their support from the current government. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams informed Marlin on Sunday at the Fish Day celebration on the French side of the island.

On Monday, the Cabinet of the Prime Minister announced in a press release that the Prime Minister confirms receipt of a letter from the three Members of Parliament indicating that they have withdrawn their support from the current government. Wescot Williams also indicated in her press statement that she also received a letter that is "supporting a government based on Items Outlined in a draft declaration." That declaration was not sent to the media.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams also indicated that the Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday got the same letters and she is expected to meet with the Governor on Monday afternoon on the installation of the third government for the governing period 2010 to 2014.

Below is the press statement from the Cabinet of the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams.

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams Confirms Receipt of Letter Withdrawing Support From Current Government --- Also Confirms Receipt of Letter Supporting a Government Based on Items Outlined in Draft Declaration.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams issued a statement yesterday informing the population of the current political developments. The Prime Minister confirmed the receipt of two letters, one confirming that the Government of St. Maarten no longer has political support in Parliament and the second regarding the supporting of the formation of a new Government based on several principles outlined in a draft declaration.

"I hereby confirm receipt of two letters: one by three Members of Parliament, namely by the two Parliamentarians of the DP Faction and Independent Laville expressing the fact that they no longer support the current Council of Ministers. This has as a consequence that the Government, so the Council of Ministers, no longer enjoys Majority Support in Parliament. Secondly, I also acknowledge that I have received a letter by the now majority of eight Members of Parliament consisting of the five members of the UP Faction, two members of the DP Faction and Independent Laville supporting a Government based on certain agreements and principles as outlined in a Draft Declaration. The aforementioned letter was also signed by the two member DP Faction and Independent Laville," stated the Prime Minister.

The PM also confirmed that the Governor His Excellency Eugene Holiday has also received the same correspondence and that on Monday afternoon she would be meeting with the Governor regarding the ongoing political developments."

SMN News learned that the political parties that are planning to take over the leadership of St. Maarten will announce the names of the persons that will form the next cabinet sometime on Monday afternoon.

Population Enraged at Laville --- Radio Listeners described Laville as a spoiled child that cannot be trusted.

Several persons within the community of St. Maarten expressed outrage on Monday during the Lloyd Richardson radio program "View Point". Several persons said that St. Maarten politicians especially Romain Laville cannot be trusted and that if he is part of the formation of another government that government will also not last long because according to one of the callers Laville is a spoiled child. "This Member of Parliament cannot be trusted and when he does not get what he wants or his way he will throw down the government. This foreigner is not looking out for St. Maarten's interest he is looking at his own interest and how much he can benefit." Another caller said that St. Maarten should have laws that would prevent naturalized citizens to be on political lists, she said that it is high time for St. Maarteners to elect its own people and not the foreigners that postulate themselves on political lists.

Other persons that called in on the daily radio program felt that it is time that St. Maarten calls for a new election since it is clear that coalition governments are not working in the interest of St. Maarten and its people. Another well known caller on the radio program said St. Maarten needs to change its electoral laws especially when it comes to campaign funding because only then people would be able to vote by their conscience and not be paid to vote for any particular political party. The caller said that the politicians that are now in government cannot be trusted and the only way new blood can take over is if there are specific laws that would control campaign funds.

SMN News reporter spoke to several persons even Members of Parliament that embraced Laville when he left the United Peoples Party. Some of the MPs said they are in total shock with Laville's action. "We simply cannot trust Laville, this "boy" said so much horrible things about the UP Leader and he went as far as filing a complaint against Theodore Heyliger claiming that Heyliger offered him $350,000.00 as bribe to stay with his party and two weeks later he puts the UP back into government. It is clear that the UP leader has something on Laville because it is impossible for him to say one thing today and do another thing the next day." SMN News learnt that a well known businessman on St. Maarten showed Romaine Laville a video they (UP) have on him and if he rock and roll then that video would be made public just like the famous Bada Bing video.

Political pundits in Philipsburg said that the people of St. Maarten are suffering tremendously especially the pensioners and yet politicians find it fitting to change government every year. "Within a period of four years St. Maarten would have to continue paying members of three cabinets. The government of St. Maarten is still paying the UP/DP Ministers who served for a period of 18 months, and should this government be kicked out of office then the salaries of the outgoing Ministers and the incoming Ministers will be added to the payroll. What is happening to St. Maarten is a bunch of power hungry and greedy people looking for their own interest and not the interest and economical situation of the island."

SMN News will bring you more updates on the political situation on St. Maarten as it unfolds.

Press Release from the UPP Faction, the DP Faction, and Independent Member R. Laville.

The eight members of Parliament who currently hold the majority issued a press statement yesterday explaining the current development in Government. The eight members consisting of the DP Faction, UP Faction, and Independent Member Laville said in a joint statement that the difficult decision that was made to withdraw their support was based on the functioning of the Council of Ministers and some Ministries in particular.

"Regretfully there is a divergence of opinion in the Parliament of St. Maarten regarding how the Council of Ministers operates, and specifically in the way in which some Ministries operate in particular. After brief but intense consultations, it became apparent and clear that there is an understanding in principle between the members of the DP Faction, UP Faction, and Independent Laville, and thus the majority of Parliament, on the direction the country should take in the coming months. This understanding in principle is formulated in a Declaration as presented to the Governor and the Prime Minister on Monday, May 6th 2013. This Declaration, and the contents thereof, will be made public in the coming days," read a statement from the DP/ UP/ Independent Laville Parliament.

The statement continues by explaining that the approach of the previous Government lacked cohesion and professionalism especially when it came to the operation of some Ministries. "In essence it is the feeling of DP/UP/Independent Laville Members of Parliament that there must be a much more cohesive approach coming from the Government of St. Maarten. Policies and plans must be aligned as individual Ministers work on further development of the Country. A cohesive and professional approach towards the myriad of issues confronting our young country is the most pressing concern facing us today," concluded the statement.

Click here to view the request submitted by National Alliance and MP Frans Richardson to Discuss Recent Political Developments.

shootingfillin11102012Marigot:--- The Gendarmes are in high gear as they investigate the shooting that left one person dead and seven injured at the Cul de Sac Bay on Sunday afternoon where the annual Fish Day event was taking place.

Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault told SMN News on Monday afternoon that no one was arrested in the shootout but the gendarmes heard one person as a witness. Jouault said he wants to make clear that no one was arrested as it has been circulating on Blackberry messages. "One person was heard but we cannot release the details on what was said and who we heard as a witness." Jouault further explained that one person was shot to death in the shootout while seven persons were injured, of the seven injured one of the victims were air evacuated to Guadeloupe for further medical treatment while the other six persons are currently receiving treatment at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital in Marigot. Dead is 20 year old Johanthan Freedom from French St. Martin.

SMN News learnt that the person that opened fire at the Cul de Sac Bay was after another youngster known in the Concordia area as Jamal. A source who was at the Cul de Sac Bay said that Jamal ran for his life when he saw the gunman whom he knew was after him. It is further understood that the shooting sparked from two gangs that reside in the Concordia area. Sunday's shooting has sent shock waves throughout the community of St. Martin/St. Maarten leaving many persons in fear. Some persons who would normally attend the annual event said that the event pulls people from all over and they believe that tighter security measures ought to be in place when such huge events are held.

shootingfillin05052013French Cul de Sac:--- A shooting that took place at the Cul de Sac Bay where the annual Fish Day Event is held has left some five people injured. SMN News learnt that two of the victims died as a result of their wounds but that could not be confirmed by authorities.

Currently, ambulance personnel and the Gendarmes are at the scene investigating while persons from both sides of the island that are at the Cul de Sac Bay are scrambling to leave the location in fear for their lives. Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault confirmed to SMN News that a shooting has taken place at the Cul de Sac Bay where the Fish Day Event is held. Captain Jouault said he did not have details on the shooting as he and other law enforcement were on their way to the scene.

SMN News learnt that one of the victims is a man that sells natural juices around the island. The natural juice vendor SMN News understands lives in Agrement while another victim is a younger person from Chevries in French St. Martin, a third victim is said to be a Caucasian female whom it is understood was shot in her throat.

Deputy of French St. Martin Daniel Gibbs told SMN News that he was on the Bay when the shooting occurred. Deputy Gibbs said he was on the bay during the morning hours when the official ceremony took place. He said he left the bay and went home but returned later in the afternoon to enjoy the evening when the shooting took place. Gibbs said he did not see what transpired because his main objective was to get out of the area and to get home.

A resident of Cul de Sac said the 2013 Fish Day was the largest event ever. The resident who preferred to remain anonymous said there were about 20,000 people in attendance including several government officials from the Dutch side of the island. SMN News could not reach the Commandant or Captain of the Gendarmerie for further update Sunday evening. SMN News will bring you more information when it becomes available.\

Below is a Press Release from the Gendarmerie.

On 5 May, 2013 19:45, several shots were fired at the site of the "Fish Day" in Cul de Sac. A twenty year old was killed while 7 people were injured by gunshots in varying degrees, the prognosis is not limited to these seven people. The motivations of these shots are still to be determined as part of the investigation by the Gendarmerie. Anyone who can provide useful information in the investigation is asked to contact the research brigade of the Gendarmerie of St. Martin:

  • By calling "17" or "05 90 52 30"
  • Or in person at the police barracks in Savannah.

The identity of witnesses wishing anonymity will be preserved.

Gendarmes Press Release

randallrobinson05052013GREAT BAY/MARIGOT:--- The St. Martin Book Fair will be an interesting mix of new, famous and senior authors for its 11th edition on May 30 - June 1, 2013, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

Randall Robinson, who the Huffington Post calls an "internationally respected foreign policy advocate," will deliver the keynote address at the St. Martin Book Fair. The author/attorney is also well known for the self-imposed exile from his native USA, followed by his emigration to St. Kitts-Nevis.

The opening ceremony of the literary festival, which alternates between both capitals of the island, will take place at the Chamber of Commerce Bldg., Spring Concordia, Marigot.

The theme of the 2013 book fair is "Drum Beats." "It's thrilling just to think of how a towering intellect, dedicated novelist, and internationally-respected human rights champion will interpret the theme and set the pace for our 'book fair for the entire family'," said Sample.

"I think the links that Mr. Robinson will make between the traditional or ancient meaning and uses of the drum and the very modern communication messages and devices that we use will be a 21st-century stimulation for book fair-goers," said Sample.

Robinson, founder and first director of TransAfrica, the influential Washington, DC-based lobby group – is the author of An Unbroken Agony: Haiti, From Revolution to the Kidnapping of a President, The Reckoning: What Blacks Owe to Each Other, the novel Makeda, and other books.

And what's new for the home-front at the literary festival? "The author Robin Boasman will represent the St. Martin writers in 2013," said Shujah Reiph, book fair coordinator.

A teacher at the Sister Magda Primary School, "Robin is completely new to the scene but what a wonderful story she's coming with in her first children's book, Lizzy Lizard," said Reiph following a Book Fair Committee meeting on Saturday.

robinboasman05052013The Boasman adventure story will be launched as the "main book" of the St. Martin Book Fair on June 1, at Belair Community Center, Cay Hill, said Sample. Lizzy Lizard will be one of three HNP titles released during the festival.

There's more. Award-winning author and fine literary critic Dr. Chika Unigwe (Nigeria/Belgium), engineer-turned successful novelist Garfield Ellis (Canada/Jamaica), and one of the most-translated new generation Dutch authors Judith Uyterlinde (Netherlands), are all packing their bags for the Friendly Island this year, said Sample.

Also on the book fair agenda is the Literary Evening of fiction, prose, and poetry readings, set for Grand Case on May 31, and apparently on its own "internal" tour. "The idea has always been to take parts of the book fair to different villages and districts every year – just like we do with the schools on the Friday morning," said Reiph.

"In 2011, we were in Maho with Derek Walcott for the Literary Evening. Last year on the Marigot Waterfront we had writers from all over the world and from the nation, reading from their own works to a full house. We plan to circle the island year by year, so yes, it looks like a tour," laughed Reiph.

Throughout the "main book fair day" on June 1, the festival's workshops, the Children's Room, and other activities will be hosted at the University of St. Martin, Soualiga Blvd., Philipsburg.

Conscious Lyrics Foundation and HNP are organizing the 11th annual St. Martin Book Fair in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the University of St. Martin.

swescotwilliamsatfishday05052013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined residents and dignitaries from all over St. Maarten and the neighboring islands in celebrating the island's fishing heritage at the eleventh annual Fish Day Celebrations in French Cul De Sac. The PM also joined the President of the Collectivite Mrs. Aline Hanson in laying a wreath in the waters just off of Pinel Island in remembrance of the hard work and dedication fisherman have provided in feeding the population. "It is good to be here and to be a part of this traditional event celebrating our fishing heritage. It is a good moment, in this celebratory atmosphere to remember the hard work and dedication of our fisherman and our fishing ancestors have shown in going to sea to face the elements in order to feed our population," commented the Prime Minister.

hermanwiels05052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Three men who were in a moving vehicle shot Member of Parliament of Curacao Herman Wiels to death on Sunday afternoon. SMN News learned that Wiels was shot next to the Breeze Hotel in Marie Pompoen around 4:45pm on Sunday. Reporters from Radio Direct told SMN News that Wiels was wearing a bullet proof vest at the time he was shot, but he received between seven to ten gunshot wounds. They said that the Member of Parliament was taken to the St. Elizabeth Hospital in critical condition. MP Herman Wiels was the leader of Pueblo Soberano. However, other reporters told SMN News that Wiels died on the spot where he was shot. They said police already found about sixteen catridges that were fired apparently from a machine gun.

According to reliable sources, speculations are that the shooters could have been related to the Dos Santos families due to a radio program that was broadcasted on Saturday. Other sources in Curacao said that Herman Wiels has been very radical and forceful with some of the measures he has been implementing in Curacao. SMN News further learnt that Wiels broke loose when he discovered that UTS and Robbie's Lottery allegedly has some secret bank account on St. Maarten with millions of guilders. So far, no official report from Curacao law enforcement has been released.

romeopantophlet24092012PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, would like to congratulate the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) and Carnival participants for making Carnival 2013 one of the best festivities the country has ever seen.

"The organization was done in a professional manner making the 44th St. Maarten Carnival a huge success. The Carnival participants are the ones who made the country's premier cultural event the best ever.

"Without their support, we wouldn't have experienced such a great cultural event. I would also like to thank the visitors from abroad as well as the visiting troupes that came from Curacao and Antigua.

"Thank you to the troupes and all their participants. A lot of time, effort and creativity were put into making each troupe the best in their own right. Everybody is already looking at Carnival 2014 and making that one even better than this one. Once again congratulations to everybody who made Carnival 2013 a huge success," Minister Hon. Romeo Pantophlet said on Sunday.

Philipsburg:--- What was dubbed as a constant rumor since Friday; that the present NA/DP/I-3 coalition government has fallen apparently became a reality on Sunday when the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams informed the leader of the National Alliance William Marlin that the two Members of Parliament representing the Democratic Party and Independent Member of Parliament Romain Laville has withdrawn their support from the current government. Marlin could not be reached on Sunday for a comment on the news he received about the fall of government where he holds the majority seats.

SMN News learnt that Marlin was informed verbally while attending the Fish Day celebrations on the French side of the island but nothing was presented to him in writing. A source close to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten said that Prime Minister Sarah Wescot William did not even know that her two Members of Parliament withdrew their support from the current coalition government prior to Sunday. However, rumors have it that the DP and Laville are in discussion with the United Peoples Party to form a new government. Names of several persons were mentioned claiming these persons will become Ministers in the third government for this governing period.

SMN News was also reliably informed that Member of Parliament Romaine Laville joined forces with the Democratic Party Members of Parliament because he has been a part of the Democratic Party Youth wing for a number of years now. The source said that Laville wants to become a Minister because he feels he can do more work for the people of St. Maarten than those currently holding Ministerial positions. One of the portfolios the source said Laville wanted is Education because his dream is to send St. Maarten students to Dominica to further their education rather than the USA and the Netherlands. SMN News contacted Laville on Friday evening for a comment on the rumors and he was asked if he pulled his support from the current coalition. Laville said that he will always remain an Independent Member of Parliament. Laville also said that the present political situation is affecting his parents because his name is always called in scandals. However, MP Laville never denied pulling his support from the current coalition government and while his name is called constantly during the past days he cannot be reached by phone for a comment. Laville did not confirm any of the above statements when he was asked about them.

The only thing MP Laville said is that he is the only child for his parents and the political situation is affecting them, since then Laville could not be reached for further comments.
SMN News also learnt that Laville is constantly at rift with the Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin because he is constantly demanding that certain things be done the way he sees fit. One of the things Laville demanded was that the Government of St. Maarten invest $400,000.00 in TEMPO which turned out to be a loss for the country.

SMN News further learnt that the politicians are now discussing different strategies since one of the options for the island is to call for early elections. Certain politicians contacted persons on the French side of the island that has dual nationalities to see if they were interested in going on a list.

SMN News dispatched an email to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten on Sunday requesting that she provide information on the rumors but up to the time this article is published the Prime Minister did not respond to the email.

Below is the email that was sent to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams on Sunday. SMN News will bring you an update as soon as more information becomes available.

Dear Madame Prime Minister Wescot-Williams,

During the past days the island and its people are bombarded with rumours and Blackberry messages claiming that the current coalition government namely NA/DP/I-3 have fallen and negotiations are currently taking place between the DP/UP with MP Laville.

I have heard that Laville has decided to join the DP camp since he was part of the Democratic Party Youth wing. I personally contacted MP Laville on Friday and he said his name is always being called. He also stated that he will always remain an Independent MP ever since then Laville cannot be reached even though his name is called constantly. MP Patrick Illidge denied having anything to do with any discussions taking place now and so did MP Frans Richardson.

Since the DP was part of the former coalition and also part of this coalition I am contacting you for a statement as Leader of the Democratic Party and also as Prime Minister of St. Maarten. The constant rumours has caused some sort of instability within the community therefore I think it is only fitting for the Prime Minister who is the Leader of the DP to say whether or not her party is currently involved in any type of political discussions to form a new government.

If this is the case can you also explain the reasons behind the possible break up of this government? And if the former coalition was doing a better job why was it broken in the first place a year ago?

Can St. Maarten afford to damage its credibility with having 3 governments in one governing period? Would this not place St. Maarten in a awkward position and allow possible higher supervision or an instruction be given to the island by the Dutch?

Can St. Maarten afford to pay 3 sets of Ministers now when the island is in an economical crisis especially knowing that the CFT is not too pleased with the 2013 budget and the amount of cuts that had to be made before they approved the 2013 budget?
During the budget debate two weeks ago it was clear that the DP MPs were having problems with the budget and it took a long time for you to get your MPs to vote in favour of the 2013 budget while MP Roy Marlin voted against the Justice Park... A project that was approved by the former Council of Ministers and this Council of Ministers. It is clear since last November that the DP, MPs are having some problems with the coalition. This could be seen during the Parliamentary and Central Committee meetings. Therefore, if my assumption is incorrect I am asking that you make some clarifications.

I took the time to send you all this information while formulating my questions to you in order for you to send me a response as soon as possible.

sarahwescotwilliams05052013"On behalf of the people and Government of St. Maarten I would like to say thank you for your care."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated all nurses and health care professionals for international Nurses Week celebrated from the sixth to 13th of May. This year the celebrations will occur under the theme of "Delivering Quality and Innovation in Patient Care," and the Prime Minister emphasizes that the nurses and caregivers of country St. Maarten continuously strive to deliver quality health care to patients. "Our Nurses on St. Maarten oftentimes go far beyond what their job description entails; providing care for our sick and infirm and ensuring that those amongst us who are most vulnerable receive their much needed care. I must also commend our nurses for continually innovating to enhance the quality of patient care provided here on St. Maarten, whether improving conditions for one patient or solving a problem for many, their work is indispensable.

"Patients island-wide are benefiting from nurses' leadership role in improving quality health care and in using their knowledge, compassion, and skills in helping patients maintain and improve their health, educate them about their treatment, and care for their bodies and minds throughout their lives. So once again to all nurses and on behalf of the people and Government of St. Maarten I would like to say thank you," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams Congratulates Culinary Student, encourages all studying abroad to excel in chosen fields

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams congratulated St. Maarten Johnson and Wale University (JWU) Student Tracy Blijden on winning first place at the Seafood Competition at the JWU North Miami Campus. Ms. Blijden tied first place with Jaquille Edgecombe for the top spot at the prestigious Culinary Institute's seafood competition. "I would like to congratulate Tracy for this very important milestone. We all know that St. Maarten has some of the best restaurants in the region but now the region knows that St. Maarten also produces the best chefs. I am very happy to hear of Tracy's achievement and I look forward to sampling some of her seafood creations in the future," congratulated the Prime Minister. Tracy, who is studying Culinary Arts at JWU's North Miami Campus, will present her winning dish at the ninth annual Deering Seafood Festival on Sunday at the historic Deering Estate in Palmetto Bay, Florida. The cooking demonstrations are one of the most popular events at the festival and in the past have had standing-room-only attendance. Tracy will present her dish at 4 p.m. "I encourage Tracy and all students to continue to represent St. Maarten in your chosen fields. Know that you make us proud," concluded the PM.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

omarsmithnelson20032011Pointe Blanche:--- A prison riot that began early Saturday morning has left Omar Smith Nelson better known as Chucky with either his hand or fingers severed. SMN News learned that Nelson was seriously injured on his arms and legs. At least two ambulances and a number of police vehicles were seen racing to the Point Blanche House of Detention shortly after 9am on Saturday morning. A reliable source from the prison said that Chucky was severely injured during the prison fracas that involved several prisoners. The source said that the other prisoners severed either the arm or some of Chucky's fingers. He was said to be in serious but stable condition at the St. Maarten Medical Center. SMN News has been informed that the Police Department is currently investigating.

Omar Smith Nelson (Chucky) is a well known prisoner who is currently serving an 18 year prison sentence for the murder of Wouter Romejn. Chucky Nelson escaped from the Pointe Blanche House of Detention in March 2011. He was recaptured on August 29th, 2011 in an apartment on Nazarette Drive, Dutch Quarter. Chucky was later charged and convicted for escaping from the Prison, two armed robberies, and a kidnapping.

Prison Director Edward Rohan could not be reached on Saturday morning for a comment. SMN News also could not reach Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for a comment on the incident that occurred Saturday morning leaving one prisoner injured.

SMN News learnt that the police and Minister of Justice could not reach the Prison Director Edward Rohan when the fight broke out. Later Rohan showed up at the Prison Facility where the fight and investigation took place.
Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte told SMN News in an invited comment that police were called to the prison facility to provide assistance because of a fight. De Witte said based on their preliminary investigation it appears as though several prisoners were involved in the fight leaving one of them severely injured in his hand and legs. The top cop said that the victim has been seriously injured but his hand or fingers were not severed. "At first those that attended to the victim felt that his fingers were cut off because of the amount of blood but that is not the case." De Witte also confirmed that police arrested one prisoner (suspect) that was involved in the fight while the injured prisoner Omar Nelson better known as Chucky is now a patient at the St. Maarten Medical Center.
De Witte said that it is possible that other prisoners that were involved in the early morning fracas will be arrested as they progress with the investigations. "Presently the detectives are interrogating the suspect and the Prison Guards that were on duty when the fight broke out on Saturday morning."
Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte made clear that the Police Management is not in charge of the prison facilities including the holding cells at the Philipsburg Police Station. "The persons that have to give information about the Prison are the Director of the Prison Facility or the Chief Prosecutor that oversees the prison. The only reason the police is involved in this case is because a crime has been committed inside the prison."

rolandduncanreceivesreportonvictimsassistance03052013Philipsburg:--- On Tuesday April 23, 2013, member of the Council on Law Enforcement, Mr. Franklin Richards presented a copy of a completed report to Minister of Justice, Mr. Roland Duncan. The report entitled "Victims Assistance in St. Maarten" looked at the "methods employed by the criminal justice system for helping the victims of crime".
The council stated that in May 2012, the parliament of St. Maarten adopted a new criminal code known as the Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP), which is "currently being reformed". These amendments have improved the legal position of victims in many ways. However, the Council claimed that these laws "fall short of the level of protection for victims of crime as recommended by the United Nations.
The report further stated that "much to its satisfaction, it has found that within the criminal justice system, the position of victims has gained considerable attention lately'. The Minister of Justice, in deciding that an Office for Victim Support must be established in St. Maarten, has taken an important step". It is the Council's opinion that such an office could very well raise the support and assistance for victims to a new level.
As its starting point, the Council used recommendations as stated in the United Nations declaration, "Basic Principles of the Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power", on the fundamental rights of victims of crime. These recommendations were also compared to other "relevant statutory laws of St. Maarten. According to the report, the Council has also used these recommendations as a standard to assess procedures for victim support
"The Council hopes that the establishment of the Office for Victim Support and the amendment of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CCP) will be effected without delay and that the government of St. Maarten will provide proper funding, as these are of the utmost importance. The Council is of the opinion that the society of St. Maarten in general and the victims of crime in particular deserve this"

Click here to view the Council on Law Enforcement Report on Victims Assistance.

From the Cabinet of the Minister of Justice

swescotwilliamsatcausewaybridgearrival03052013Simpson Bay:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined a large crowd of onlookers and invited dignitaries to witness the arrival of the swing bridge section of the Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway. The Prime Minister, who had just arrived from the Netherlands where she attended the inauguration ceremony of His Royal Highness King Willem Alexander, joined in the excitement in seeing the ship carrying the bridge the "Marietje Andrea" pass through the Simpson Bay Bridge. "This is an important milestone for the island in completing this major project. I commend all of those who were involved today in making this happen, no small feat considering the large size of the ship, the largest to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor Hon. Cornelius de Weever extends words of congratulation and thanks to management and staff of the Ambulance Department for doing an exceptional job in medical safety during the Carnival Season.

The Ambulance Department is the responsible agency for providing medical assistance on the whole and specifically during the yearly premier large scale event like Carnival.

"Once again it has been demonstrated that proper coordination & teamwork with our two voluntary organizations WIEMS & Red Cross paid off to be able to guarantee continued timely, effective and efficient medical response and assistance during this period.

"As Minister of Public Health, I would also publicly like to thank these two voluntary organizations and the entire staff of the Ambulance Department on their professionalism and for a job well done," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor Hon. Cornelius de Weever said on Friday.

"When every second counts it is important that during large scale events that we have medical teams at strategic locations as was demonstrated to administer emergency care in order for them to save our lives," Minister De Weever added.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Preparations are being finalized for National Remembrance Day 2013 on Saturday afternoon. Government will again remember the victims who fought during the Second World War.

The commemoration and wreath-laying ceremony will take place on May 4 at 5:30pm at the Captain Hodge's Wharf in Philipsburg.

His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday, President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel, Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams, representatives of government and uniformed officials will be in attendance.

HE Governor Holiday will inspect the honor guard followed by his line-up next to the President of Parliament and the Prime Minister.

At 5:50pm the flag of the Netherlands and of Sint Maarten will be hoisted and flown at half-mast and saluted by the honor guard. This will be followed by an invocation by a representative of the Council of Churches, theme freedom.

Two minutes of silence will be observed in memory of those who died during the war.

At 6:02pm the wreath-laying will take place by HE Governor Holiday, the Prime Minister and the President of Parliament.

The Second World War was a global war that started in 1939 and ended in 1945. It has been described as the most widespread war in history, where more than 100 million people served their countries in military groups.

Approximately 50 to 70 million people lost their lives making it the deadliest conflict in human history.

cedricpeterson03052013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Department of Communication (DCOMM) Broadcaster Cedric Peterson is current in Curacao attending a Caribbean Media Summit workshop that is being held on Curacao from May 3 to 5.

United Nations Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport, Government of Curacao, Curacao Media Organization, Association of Caribbean Media Workers, Caribbean Media Workers, Caribbean Broadcasting Union, Caribbean Media and Communication Institute and Curacao National Commission for UNESCO, celebrated on Friday, May 3 World Press Freedom Day followed by the summit.

The world theme of this year's World Press Freedom Day is "Safe to Speak: Securing Freedom of Expression in All Media."

The two-day Caribbean Media Summit is featuring among other things three capacity building workshops targeted for journalists/media professionals. The workshops are: reporting elections; reporting disaster; and reporting sustainable development.

The key note speech will be delivered by Alison Bethel McKenzie, Director of the International Press Institute about Safety of Journalists and Criminal Defamation.

Some of the other topics to be addressed are: Safety of Journalists in the Caribbean: Where we are and what should be done?

Decriminalizing of Defamation; Voices against impunity; Online safety for journalists; Community media and sustainable livelihood in the Caribbean; Towards quality journalism education in Caribbean: Are you doing enough?

The summit will conclude on Sunday with a final session on Gender Sensitive Indicators for Media.

The summit is taking place at the Renaissance Hotel.

causewayswingbridgearrivesinsxm03052013POINT BLANCHE:--- The extended bridge opening for Friday, May 3 lasted less than half an hour as the longest vessel ever to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon, the Marietje Andrea transited without any hitches to the applause of many onlookers on both sides of the Simpson Bay Bridge.

Minister of Harbour Affairs Hon. Romeo Pantophlet and St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo were on-board the vessel for the transit through the bridge.

The operation started a little after 1:00pm and by 1:25pm, the vessel had safely cleared the draw bridge and moved through the lagoon to the causeway where it positioned itself for the later transfer of the swing bridge unto its mount on the causeway.

After the safe transit was completed, Minister of Harbour Affairs Hon. Romeo Pantophlet presented a token of appreciation to the Captain of the Marietje Andrea Henk Danser in the presence of members of the Harbour Supervisory Board of Directors, its CEO and Mrs. Danser.

romeopantophletpresentstokentocapthenkdanser03052013The Minister thanked Captain Danser for his professional seamanship with the North Atlantic Ocean crossing to Sint Maarten and with the seamless transit of the vessel into the lagoon without incident.

Minister Pantophlet also thanked all harbour personnel who played a role in the preparations leading up to the transit of the vessel into the lagoon, as well as the emergency services (Ambulance, Fire Department and Police), public works, contractors and others who in one way or the other played a role.

The Minister also thanked stakeholders for their cooperation in informing their employees and hotel guests, about the bridge opening.

Observations were made that it was a perfect day for the transit to take place as the wind was nearly non-existent.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon is the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

philipsburgpioneerpathfindersandsxmnaturefoundationguanabaybeachcleanup02052013Guana Bay:--- The Philipsburg Pioneer Pathfinders and the St. Maarten Nature Foundation held an impromptu cleanup of Guana Bay Beach last Tuesday. Nature Foundation Turtle Watch Volunteer Marco Brouwers and some two dozen young volunteers cleaned the beach of approximately twenty bags of Garbage and numerous ropes, fishing nets and plastic debris. "This spontaneous activity was a great success. We managed to get the Guana Bay Beach clean especially for the nesting sea turtles and managed to clear some large fishing nets which were washed ashore. This is especially important and we would sincerely like to thank the Philipsburg Pioneer Pathfinders for their effort," read a Nature Foundation statement. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation actively manages the sea turtle population on St. Maarten, particularly during the nesting season. The Foundation conducts various activities with regards to sea turtle nesting including beach surveys, nest excavations, tagging activities and nest success research. This research is done through beach patrols by staff, volunteer checks and dedicated research activities conducted on a daily basis during nesting season. The Foundation urges the community to call its offices on 5444267 if they notice sea turtles nesting or if they notice illegal activities on any of the island's beaches.

sxmrepsmeetwiththomascook02052013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Minister Romeo Pantophlet, representatives of the Sint Maarten Tourist Bureau, Department of Civil Aviation and L'Office du Tourisme de Saint Martin, met with Tour Operator Thomas Cook Northern Europe last week to discuss the possibility of starting a service from Stockholm, Sweden to Sint Maarten for the 2014-2015 tourist season.

Representatives of Thomas Cook Northern Europe were on the island for a familiarization trip in order to see if Sint Maarten/Saint Martin has the type of hotel accommodations as well as activities required to attract the Swedish/ Scandinavian traveler.

Large hotels on both the Dutch and French sides of the island were visited as well as a day trip to St. Barths was made in order to show the unique position this island is in and the advantage for travelers to be able to island-hop, thus maximizing their Caribbean vacation - experience.

During the discussions, the representatives of Thomas Cook Northern Europe indicated that the hotel rates on the island are 20-30% higher than most other destinations they service. However, they will await proposals from the hotels visited on this trip with the rates for the 2014-2015 season.

"Securing this agreement with Thomas Cook will be significant for the island. Based on the travel behavior of the Scandinavian travelers, the airline will be flying to Sint Maarten every two weeks, which means that the visitors will be on island for two weeks as opposed to the present average length of stay of four days. This means better occupancy figures for the hotels and a greater impact on the economy. I trust that the hotels will be more than cooperative in securing this venture by lowering their rates," Honorable Minister Romeo Pantophlet pointed out.

Thomas Cook Northern Europe will utilize an Airbus 330 aircraft with a capacity of 325 seats. The representatives informed the Minister that they will have a final decision by October 2013 on whether or not they will start service to the destination.

telemgroupcellsite02052013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is busy working with the Bureau of Telecommunications on St. Maarten to identify a source of interference that is affecting the company's 3G mobile customers.
According to Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Mr. Eldert Louisa, the interference is a total mystery and it is causing mobile voice and data customers to drop calls and lose internet connections without warning.
He said the problem was reported to the Bureau of Telecommunications as soon as it was determined that the interference was not caused by faulty hardware of software from TelEm Group's own 3G mobile voice and data network.
"We have reported the matter to the Bureau and we have requested a different frequency for our customers until we can find the source of the interference and shut it down," said Mr. Louisa.
He cannot say at this stage if the interference is deliberate and malicious, but says it is certainly affecting regular 3G voice and data services to TelEm Group mobile customers.
Customers who are experience problems with the TelEm Group 3G network are advised to take their handsets off AUTO and "push" their service onto the company's 2G network until the new 3G frequency request to the Bureau of Telecommunications is granted.
Using AUTO will cause the handset to toggle between 3G and 2G. This is not desired. At present customers in the affected areas should keep their phones on 2G only. The affected areas areCole Bay, Simpson Bay, Maho, Cupecoy and South Reward
"Mobile handsets and smartphones that are set to automatically select the most suitable network will jump from the 2G network to the 3G network depending of what signal is available. We are advising users who have their phones set for 3G use only, or for AUTO use, to reset their handset to the 2G network as a temporary fix if they are having difficulty at this time with the 3G voice and data service," advised the Chief Technical Officer.
According to Mr. Louisa a team of engineers and technicians along with Manager, Network Operations, Mr. Julien Lake, are diligently working on the problem of locating the source of the present inference and at the same time are preparing the network for any new frequency configurations that may be deployed.
"Customers can rest assured that we are doing all that we can to resolve a matter which is not totally within our control," Mr. Louisa added.
TelEm Group management has meantime apologized to customers for interference to their regular 3G voice and data mobile service.

Telem Press Release

usfolrepairsnoswelitaseniorcitizenshomeroof02052013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On 26 April 2013, members from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) attended the grand opening of Nos Welita Senior Citizen's Home. Over the past year, USFOL organized 7 events in which 54 volunteers donated 190 hours to do painting and roof work.
For their contributions to the facility, the USFOL was honored by having its name placed on the "Wall of Sponsors" located at the front of the building. The corresponding picture is from one of the roof installation projects held last summer.
The men and women of the U.S. FOL frequently volunteer in the local community in an effort to build friendship with the citizens of Curacao.

swescotwilliamsatkingsinaugurationceremony02052013AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams (sixth from left) paused for a group photo with public officials from throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands on Tuesday morning, right before the Signing Ceremony for the inauguration of King Willem-Alexander at the Royal Palace on Dam Square in Amsterdam. Also joining the Prime Minister in the photograph were His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday (third from right, rear row), President of Parliament the Honorable Rodolphe Samuel (fourth from left) and the Minister Plenipotentiary the Honorable Matthias Voges (sixth from right). "We are excited for the Kingdom, for the new royal couple and look forward to visit our island St. Maarten," commented the Prime Minister prior to the Inauguration.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

POINT BLANCHE:--- The extended bridge opening for Friday, May 3 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm, could be less than two hours St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Management said on Thursday.

The extended opening could be less than two hours on Friday and every effort will be made to keep the bridge opening as short as possible. Emergency service vehicles (Ambulance, Fire Department and Police) have been given permission by the French authorities to use French territory in order to reach the Western side of the country via the Cupecoy/Low Lands route in the event of an emergency.

All stakeholders should have informed their employees and hotel guests, about the bridge opening. The extended bridge opening is in connection with the arrival and transit through the draw bridge by the cargo vessel Marietje Andrea carrying the Causeway Swing Bridge.

Notification Boards have already been placed at strategic points notifying motorists about the extended bridge opening on May 3.

Night-time transition of the cargo vessel into the Lagoon is not feasible for a number of reasons. Firstly, during the day time its high tide and this would contribute to the safe transit of the vessel into the Lagoon; secondly, from a safety perspective, daylight allows for all coordinators to have a bird's eye view when the vessel moves through the draw bridge which leaves very little room for error because there will only be 80 centimetres of clearance between the vessel and both sides of the bridge.

Management of the Harbour Group of Companies regrets any inconvenience that this extended bridge opening will cause and expresses its apologies to all stakeholders. At the same time, the harbour group would like to thank all those to date who are playing a critical role in making this transit safe and incident free.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon is the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Philipsburg:--- The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports would like to inform the general public that the Carnival, Queens Birthday, and Labour Day vacation for schools ended on Wednesday May 1st, 2013. Regular classes resumed on Thursday May 2nd, 2013. There has been no approved changes to the 2012 -2013 vacation schedule. Therefore all parents are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure that their children report to school.

No decision was taken by the Minister of Education to close schools on May 2nd, 2012. Any such decision would have been communicated formally through the media. Parents are encouraged to ensure that their children report to school and are asked not to take heed of messages forwarded via smart phone or other means of communication that reports school closures other than that communicated through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports.

In addition, persons issuing statements regarding school closures without formal directives from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports are strongly urged to refrain from such behavior as it misinforms the public and could adversely affect children and their education.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel on behalf of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, would like to congratulate the newly appointed President of the Collectivite Hon. Aline Hanson.

President Samuel said he is looking forward to working with President Hon. Hanson during her tenure.

President Samuel added that he was also looking forward toward the Parliament of Sint Maarten establishing a working relationship with the Territorial Council of the Collectivite.

Hanson first served as Vice President before taking on her new post.

telemcarnivalrevelers01052013Pond Island:--- An old time brass band, a majorette group and non-stop public participation contributed to a "memorable" carnival 2013 experience for St. Maarten's premier telecommunication provider, TelEm Group.
The company's team of volunteers were out in force during the Carnival Grand Parade Tuesday whipping up the carnival crowds with dance routines and a loud brass ensemble.
"We wanted to bring some of the "Old School" feel back to carnival. Judging by the response from the crowds, we were very well received," said TelEm Group Marketing Officer, Marelva Felix-Jones.
She says TelEm Group customers have come to expect something different from their favour telecommunication provider on big occasions such as these and all efforts were made not to disappoint.
"Our customers and friends can expect us to continue to be different and put new twists on other events for the rest of the year," continued the Marketing Officer.
She said the company's involvement in this year's carnival began weeks before the opening of carnival on April 18, with some pre-carnival roadshow parties.
It continued with sponsorship of several carnival events including the opening night of Carnival, two hugely successful beauty pageants and a Youth Extravaganza concert.
"We could not have done any of it without the help and participation of the public, especially TelEm Group customers and friends who have been with us from the start of our campaign right to the final parade," continued Marelva.
She thanked the group's costume designers, sponsors, helpers, band participants, the majorettes, coordinators and especially TelEm Group personnel who worked tirelessly to make the event a fun one for everyone concerned.
On behalf of the team, Marelva has also thanked TelEm Group management for supporting the company's Carnival Core Team Carnival program 2013.

Telem Press Release

steelbridgeforcausewayleavingholland21042013POINT BLANCHE:--- The extended two-hour bridge opening is tentatively set for Friday, May 3 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm, St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Management said on Wednesday.

All stakeholders are reminded to inform employees and hotel guests, while others are requested to take note, airlines, travelers (day visitors), employees, car rentals, taxis and others, of the extended bridge opening that will take place in connection with the arrival and transit through the draw bridge by the cargo vessel Marietje Andrea carrying the Causeway Swing Bridge.

Notification Boards have already been placed at strategic points notifying motorists about the extended bridge opening on May 3.

Prior to the transition of the longest vessel ever to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon, the wind conditions at the Simpson Bay Bridge must also be at an acceptable safe level to have an incident free transit.

Night-time transition of the cargo vessel into the Lagoon is not feasible for a number of reasons. Firstly, during the day time its high tide and this would contribute to the safe transit of the vessel into the Lagoon; secondly, from a safety perspective, daylight allows for all coordinators to have a bird's eye view when the vessel moves through the draw bridge which leaves very little room for error because there will only be 80 centimetres of clearance between the vessel and both sides of the bridge.

Management of the Harbour Group of Companies regrets any inconvenience that this extended bridge opening will cause and expresses its apologies to all stakeholders. At the same time, the harbour group would like to thank all those to date who are playing a critical role in making this transit safe and incident free.

Everything will be in place for a smooth transition of the vessel through the lagoon, and provisions are also in place for emergency services. Police, Fire and Ambulance contingencies, are in place. Protocol arrangements are being made with French government officials for Dutch side emergency vehicles to use the French road network to access the Western and Eastern sections of the Dutch side during the two hour bridge opening in the event of an emergency.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon is the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

arthurlugisse13082010PHILIPSBURG:--- April 1-3 was International Day in Tallahassee Florida which was attended by Arthur Lugisse, Director of the Tallahassee-St. Maarten Foundation Inc. (TLH-SXMF) and St.Maarten Government Liaison in Florida for Trade-Tourism Economic Development, Infrastructure and Social Development etc.

His report indicates the opportunity for local businesses to be able to set up joint ventures with Florida companies and also options for financing for local businesses to get goods and services out of Florida.

Minister Hon. Romeo Pantophlet and the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce will have an informative meeting for local businesses soon, and Lugisse is calling on the business sector to pay attention for the information when and where it will be held.

"There will be opportunities for Food and Beverage supply, Green Houses, Heavy Equipment, Building Materials, Freight options, St. Maarten Air Ambulance, Shoes, Clothes, Appliance, Technology, Solar Lighting, New and used vehicles, road construction equipment, opportunity for manufacturing and packaging out of St. Maarten," Arthur Lugisse pointed out.

Jerry Gilpin for Agriculture and food supplies, Floridian Companies will be coming to St. Maarten on a trade mission within short. Florida being one of the main export cities in America and its close proximity to St. Maarten makes a lot of sense to pursue this initiative.

At the event that Lugisse attended, he met with the Ambassador to Brazil Mauro Vieira, the Florida Chamber President, Steve Fancher, President & CEO of FEFC, Manny Mencia, Ken Detzner, Secretary of State, and Governor of Florida Rick Scott.

"The consensus at the International Days event was tremendous. All principals and members were very much up beat on Florida being the export City of America. International trade was the main focus. I am currently working on a trade mission to and from Florida for the near future," Lugisse added.

The Executive Director of the St. Maarten Chamber Claret Corner recently welcomed and gave a tour to one of Florida Chamber of Commerce executives Leslie Snyder with two other Tallahasseeians who had many pleasant things to report about St. Maarten and its hospitality.

Arthur Lugisse said it's also an opportunity for the St. Maarten Chamber to be affiliated with the Florida Chamber who has been planning many international trips with other countries and St. Maarten can be part of this effort. If business thrives then these can offer better prices to our Community, St. Maarten will also be business friendly and become a distribution centre to the rest of the Caribbean.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 marked a historic moment in the constitutional history of the Kingdom of the Netherlands as many people witnessed in person or via the media the changing of the sceptre as our beloved Queen Beatrix signed over the reins to her son Prince Willem-Alexander.

The UP Party once again takes this opportunity to congratulate the House of Orange.

The UP parliamentary faction extends heartfelt congratulations as they accept the new responsibilities and task bestowed upon them, thereby signalling the end of the one era and the start of a new one.

May God give them strength, wisdom and patience as they carry out their duties as Head of State.

We are looking forward, together with the people of Sint Maarten to enthusiastically welcome the Royal family on our soil in November 2013.

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

soniatondureceivesrecognitionawardfromcdeweever01052013Philipsburg:--- The Ministry of Labour in collaboration with the Tripartite Committee organized a church service which was held at the Philipsburg Methodist Church in commemoration of Labour Day (May 1st). Among those that attended the service were Minister of Labour Cornelius de Weever, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, Ombudsman Nilda Arduin Lynch, Chairman of the Council of Advice Mavis Brooks and several persons from the Department of Labour such as Policy Advisor Raphael Boasman and Head of the Labour Department Peggy Ann Dros-Richardson. Also among the invited guests were President of WITU and Vice President of the WICLU Claire Elshot and President of the WICSU/PSU Deri Leonard.

At the Sheer Restaurant, the invited guests including the three honorees were recognized for the efforts they placed in the labour movement on St. Maarten. The late Alrett Peters was considered the father of the labour movement. Relatives of the late Mr. Peters, including his son Sixto Peters and other family members accepted the recognition award for their father.

Head of the Policy Department and Chairman of the Tripartite Committee Raphael Boasman said Peters was the founder and President of the first labour union, General Workers Union of the Windward Islands in 1966 that was formed on St. Maarten. Peters was the first unionist that led a strike on St. Maarten in 1968 and also the first to sign a Collective Labour Agreement on the island, while he was also the first to organize Labour Day celebrations on the island in 1967. The late Alrett Peters represented workers from GEBE, Little Bay Hotel and Casino, and Harbour Corporation N.V. All of this was done under one union. During the 1960's when Peters established the first union he had approximately 500 members. He was the one that introduced the 40-hour work week for workers on St. Maarten, the family medical plan for workers, and extra pay for workers who worked on holidays. He also established that St. Maarten's Day (November 11th) be recognized as national holiday (working holiday).

The second honoree Willy Haize did not attend the service neither his son since both of them are overseas due to medical reasons. Haize was described as a man that is fearless, aggressive and has a style of militancy, some things that workers deemed necessary to deal with what they saw as ruthless corruption and exploitative businessmen and politicians. Willy Haize represented the workers of GEBE when he was contacted by the workers of that company. In 1973, Haize formed the United Federation Union (UFA) of the Windward Islands. His dress code back then was the living symbol of the UFA. His militant attitude and his talks made employers uneasy. Joy Arnell said just mentioning Haize's name would make some of the most ruthless employers hesitant and nervous. Haize's status skyrocketed overnight from being a magician to a messiah. Workers on St. Maarten admired Haize after he began to deliver victory upon victory for workers. The UFA had the power to close down trade since they represented workers at the Harbour, St. Maarten Aviation Services, and GEBE. The UFA could have shut off electricity and water in no time in St. Maarten, Saba, and Statia, the movement basically was in a position to cripple activities on the island.

The third honoree Sonia Tondu, worked behind scenes for workers. She has been a lifelong member of trade unionism. Tondu worked for ABN bank when she returned to St. Maarten and was part of the union "BEBA" that represented workers of ABN in the early 1980's. She later worked for the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and became a member of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union/Private Sector Union (WICSU/PSU). In the 1990's Tondu joined the Government civil core in the Department of Finance. To date Tondu under the WICSU/PSU banner represents workers of the prison and casinos and has taken part in a number of negotiations on behalf of these workers with the government of St. Maarten. While still working for the Government of St. Maarten, Tondu remains a member of the GOA and continues to negotiate the benefits of workers with government.

Click here to view more photos of Labour Day activities.

It is Official. Imbali and Motiance Dance School have merged to become NATIONAL INSTITIUTE OF ARTS.
As one of the first activities to embrace the new vision, we are organizing a special audition to create a selection class in classical ballet...
We hereby invite all students of dance, to audition for this class. This is a first, in a series of upgrading of our dance curriculum.

WE know many of you are still in Carnival mode, but this is a wonderful opportunity for many of you, who are dedicated to your dance arts.

We are inviting a special panel of judges that include, a physical therapist as well as musicologist. Of course your teachers, will be there to lend you their support...

This is an open audition. All lovers of dance are welcome. You need not only be a Motiance or Imbali student. Tell a friend. This class is created with you in mind. Please call us for more information.

Audition National Institute of Arts
"Selection Class" Classical Ballet

On May 3, 2013 in the John Larmonie Center at 4:30 pm.
The N.I.A. will host an audition for classical ballet for youth ages 8 to 13 with at least 2 years of classical ballet training.

The audition panel will consist of a professional team inclusive of a physical therapist and musicologist.
Attire: leotard, tights, ballet slipper, dance skirt allowed.
Interviews will be conducted at the end of the audition.

Address: John Larmonie Center, Long Wall Road #20, and Philipsburg
Time: 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm

'Discover Card' a main sponsor for SMART 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Well known card credit brand – Discover Card – has signed on as the main sponsor for St. Maarten/St. Martin's Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) set for May 15-17. The card company will officially launch its campaign for the North Eastern Caribbean at the tradeshow slated for the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort &Casino.
SMART is the biggest marketing effort of the North Eastern Caribbean sub-region for which Princess Juliana International Airport functions as a hub. This is the twelfth year of the tradeshow that draws hoteliers and activities providers from St. Maarten/St. Martin and numerous surrounding islands.
Forty wholesale travel company representatives from South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Panama, Peru, Colombia, and Uruguay, will spend a week here for site and activities inspections and to attend SMART. This is a new initiative to boast the region and, in particular, St. Maarten/St. Martin's presence in South America by St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, in cooperation with the French side Tourist Office, the Anguilla Tourism Authority and COPA Airlines.
Invitations have also been sent to wholesalers in Europe. This has resulted in 11 wholesalers registering for SMART from Sweden and 2 from the Netherlands. This will triple the wholesale/buyer attendance for the first time.
Another new feature is the presence of a number of merchants promoting their products and services adjacent to the selling floor.
Hoteliers from surrounding Islands are encouraged by SMART organizers to register immediately to still be able to be part of this unique tradeshow.
The Welcome Party will take place at Sky Beach at Sonesta Maho on May 15 and the Farewell Party will be at the elegant La Samanna Hotel on May 16.
To register online, go to www.shta.com and click on SMART or send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Time is running out. Be SMART, attend SMART 2013!

SHTA Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Head of the Ambulance Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour Cylred Richardson, announced that an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team will be stationed at the Simpson Bay Police Sub Station during the approximately two-hour passage of the Swing Bridge into the Simpson Bay Lagoon tentatively scheduled for Friday, May 3 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.

Any emergency's that take place within the two hour period while the draw bridge is open, the ambulance and emergency medical technicians will be able to respond immediately.

Protocol arrangements are also being made by the relevant authorities with French side government officials to allow the ambulance to transport a medical emergency through French territory to the Dutch side during the two-hour bridge opening.

sarahwescotwilliams24092012Urges Community to Take Heed of Drought Warnings

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams expressed her gratitude and admiration for the St. Maarten Fire Department for their effective response to Saturday's and Sunday's Bush Fires on the Mary's Fancy Hill and the A.Th Illidge Road area.

"Although I was in the Netherlands attending the inauguration of King Willem Alexander I received continuous updates on how the situation was progressing up to late at night. I therefore understood that it was through the hard work, professionalism and dedication of our brave firefighters that homes and lives were saved. Therefore I would like to express, on behalf of all the people of St. Maarten and of the residents whose livelihoods were threatened, a very big thank you to the Fire Department of St. Maarten for their response to what could have been a very different situation," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM also stated that the public should take heed the warnings of the Fire Department concerning best practices in this time of drought. "As Minister whose responsibilities the Fire Department fall under I would like to encourage the population to pay close attention to the instructions from the Fire Department. Let us avoid situations where people's lives and livelihoods are put at risk," ended Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

grandcarnivalparade30042013Philipsburg:--- A large number of troops and bands lit the streets of St. Maarten on Tuesday during the Grand Carnival Parade 2013. A Grand Parade named Chippie's Grand Parade pulled a number of businesses who participated in one way or another. The largest troop that lit the streets up was Brenda Wathey's troop, "Wild Indians". One of the things Wathey depicted in her troop was a number of small toy guns and one would be curious as to why Brenda Wathey chose to use weapons such as guns in an activity she participated in year after year. Other toy weapons that were carried by some of the revelers were hatchets. Former Minister Franklin Meyers, his brother Toochi Meyers, UP Leader Theodore Heyliger, Marcel Gumbs, Michael Ferrier, and Judge Rene van Veen formed part of the Brenda Wathey Troop.

Chippie UTS, Motorworld, GEBE, Sheer Restaurant and several other businesses including Alberto Brooks from French St. Martin all had astounding troops that started off at St. Johns. The revelers jammed from St. Johns Estate through L.B. Scot Road on to Bush Road, then turning by Vlaun & Sons towards Front Street to Emmaplein then back to the Pondfill before they headed towards the Festival Village. Police Officers were seen in numbers trying to control the thousands of onlookers that flocked the streets to get a glimpse of the revelers and the troops. The Grand Carnival Parade began just after 10am and by 6:30pm all the troops were in the Festival Village where the official judging took place.

Click here to view more photos of the 2013 Grand Carnival Parade.

toasttokingwillemalexander30042013Philipsburg:--- A small ceremony was held on Tuesday April 30th, 2013 at the Holland House Hotel in honor of the Abdication of Queen Beatrix now Princess Beatrix and the official crowning of King Willem Alexander and Princess Maxima.

Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin and Acting Governor Reynold Groenveldt addressed the small gathering that also got to see the official abdication and crowning of King Willem Alexander via a pre-recorded video. Governor Eugene Holiday and Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams also left a pre-recorded message which was shown for the historic occasion within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Those that attended the ceremony were Member of Parliament Dr. Ruth Douglass, Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet, Ombudsman Nilda Arduin Lynch, and Members of the Councils of State. A toast was also held in honor of King Willem Alexander whose rein as King of the Kingdom began on April 30th, 2013.

All the speakers including Governor Holiday who is currently in the Netherlands attending the abdication and crowning ceremony and those that spoke here locally praised the Princess Beatrix for the 33 years of her life she dedicated to public service.

After the official speeches they invited the gathering to the balcony to witness the cannon salute shots which were done aboard the Royal Navy ship "Friesland."

 

Message of Appreciation and Congratulations

on the Occasion of the

Abdication by Queen Beatrix & Inauguration of King Willem Alexander

by H.E. Governor Eugene B. Holiday

Today April 30, 2013, we celebrate the dawning of a new day as Her Majesty Queen Beatrix abdicates the throne in favor of her son His Majesty King Willem-Alexander.

This momentous day gives rise to a new era and comes as the people of the Kingdom of the Netherlands prepare to commemorate its bicentennial at the end of this year. During the last thirty three of those 200 years we have been privileged to have Her Majesty Beatrix as our Queen offering continuity and stability thanks to her strength, her wisdom and her dedication to the people throughout the Kingdom.

Reflecting on the three plus decades of her reign I draw from the fond collective memories of the people of Sint Maarten in recalling the memorable visits of Queen Beatrix to our island. From her first official visit in 1980 directly after becoming Queen to her last three visits immediately after the passing of hurricane Lenny in 1999, her official inauguration of the new terminal building of the Princess Juliana International Airport in 2006 and her first visit to Sint Maarten as a country within the Kingdom in 2011, Queen Beatrix through her sharing and caring nature, has nurtured and embodied a special and warm bond with the people of Sint Maarten.

Today the people of Sint Maarten therefore join with our brothers and sisters in the Kingdom to pay homage to Queen Beatrix as we reflect on her reign. In Sint Maarten's rich linguistic tradition I, in paying tribute, take this opportunity to say: Terugblikkend op deze periode is het mij een bijzonder genoegen, mede namens de bevolking van Sint Maarten en mijn vrouw, mijn diepe dank en bewondering te betuigen voor de manier waarop u zich steeds ten behoeve van onze bevolking met toewijding heeft ingezet. Yes as we take leave from you as our Queen I am on behalf of the people of Sint Maarten pleased and honored to express sincerest appreciation to you for your thirty three years of exceptional service as our Queen. Additionally I hereby express my deepest gratitude to Queen Beatrix for the opportunity and privilege to represent her as Governor of Sint Maarten.

Voorts is het mij, mede namens de bevolking van Sint Maarten en mijn vrouw, een groot genoegen om onze nieuwe Koning, Zijne Majesteit Koning Willem Alexander en zijn vrouw Hare Majesteit Koningin Maxima hartelijk te mogen begroeten en feliciteren met de inhuldiging op deze voor hen en ons Koninkrijk bijzondere dag. On this historic day as I welcome and congratulate our new King we join His Majesty King Willem Alexander in celebrating his inauguration and the dawn of a new era for our Kingdom under his reign as King. We therefore wish him strength and wisdom as he leads our Kingdom into the start of its third centennial.

Thank you,

God Bless Sint Maarten, and God Bless the King.

Inauguration Message from the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams.

"On this auspicious occasion in the history of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, on behalf of the people of St. Maarten I would like to express my gratitude to Her Majesty Queen Beatrix for having served as the reigning Monarch for more than thirty years. I look back fondly on the reign of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix through the years as she visited the Netherlands Antilles and subsequently also country St. Maarten in 2011.

I wish her Majesty well in the coming years and we hope to see her back on our island very soon. Queen Beatrix has always considered all the citizens of the Kingdom of the Netherlands her constituents and has shown this time and time again through her warm and sincere interest and concern for the people of the Dutch Caribbean. My sincere gratitude goes out to the Mother Queen Beatrix as I wish her many more years of good health and enjoyment.

Having said that I would like to congratulate His Royal Highness King Willem Alexander on his inauguration and I look forward to his reign as Monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. King Willem Alexander is no stranger to our islands and I am sure he will, just as his mother did before him, have the best interest and a warm heart for the residents of the Kingdom in the Caribbean.

He has grown up accustomed to visiting this part of the Kingdom, sharing with us many moments of great joy as well as moments of tragedy and shown the same caring and compassion, his Queen mother has shown.

The people of St. Maarten are proud to be part of this historic event. The last inauguration of a monarch of the Kingdom was 33 years ago. Outside of the Kingdom this is also a historically significant event as it has been decades since the world has seen the inauguration of a new monarch.

The people of St. Maarten came out in force to celebrate as well as with all members of the Dutch Kingdom to celebrate this occasion that was marked with various activities in which our young people participated. We are excited for the Kingdom, for the new royal couple and look forward to visit our island St. Maarten. We hope that God will continue to bless the Royal Couple as they take on this important task as leading the Dutch Kingdom and all of the people within it. God bless the Royal Couple, the Dutch Kingdom and the Nation and People of St. Maarten."

Click here to view more photos of the ceremony held on Tuesday at Holland House.

The President of the Collectivité, Aline Hanson, is informing you that from May 2, 2013, the construction of the road will continue from Rue de Hollande and Doigt de Gant up to the City Snack Restaurant.
This will be for the period of 6 months.
We thank for your understanding.

carnivalcalypsowinnerswithcheques29042013Philipsburg:--- Most of the ten participants including the reigning King Fish "the Mega Boss" took the Bada Bing alleged bribery investigation as their topic for the 2013 NAGICO Calypso Finals held Sunday night at the Festival Village. The idea seemed a bit too monotonous and it appeared as though calypsonians did not look very hard for more pressing issues that are affecting the community or the small man to use as inspiration to send their messages across to the persons they elected to office.

Roxxy (Roxanne Webster) hit home with her second song when she challenged the judges and those involved in the Calypso Finals to be fair when judging and to give the youths and upcoming singers a chance to move up the ladder. Roxxy brought on stage a number of youths to depict how much the youths of the island are left behind while winners are selected based on who they know or what connections they may have with the judges or those in charge of the show.

The ten participants including the reigning King who was defending his title all jumped on the Bada Bing scandal in one way or another. King Beau Beau depicted what was shown on tape involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge (Willy Bounce) when he brought a painted white man on stage on a desk with his laptop and gave the now embattled MP a number of fake hundred dollar bills. Even though King Beau placed a lot of effort in depicting corruption, he did not score enough to be one of the winners. He said Patrick Illidge (Willy Bounce) is his friend but he was there to tell the truth. Beau Beau said even though the Bada Bing recordings were done since 2012 it was kept in the dark just in time for carnival so he could sing about it since the I-3 Member of Parliament took the stage last year when he sang his song and vowed to make a change.

Another Member of Parliament that was mimicked Sunday night was MP Romain Laville who is accused of threatening MP Jules James with a gun. A strange performance during the 2013 Calypso Finals were a number of Police Officers (mostly Bavpolers) were used by the calypsonians to get their messages across. These officers were fully dressed in their uniforms.

At the end of the show which lasted until 3am, supporters and onlookers were judging among themselves as they waited for the judges' decision. It was clear that Roxxy's message created a stir among the crowd. Some people said she made their blood boil as she was singing. Her words were clear and the message was based on what has been taking place on St. Maarten for years. Among those that were discussing were veteran singers and culture icons who said that if the judges cheat or crowned someone else as the champion Sunday night it would show favoritism.

Just before 4am the judges delivered their scores and the thoughts of crowd became a reality when Roxxy was declared first runner up. The judges awarded Roxxy with 820 points for her overall performance. She was awarded with a check of $3,500 from the main sponsor NAGICO Insurances and a trophy. The Mighty Brat came in second with 807 points, he received a check of $1,500 and a trophy.

Fish the Mega Boss retained his title when he was declared the 2013 Calypso Monarch. He received a check of $10,000.00 from the main sponsors of the show and a trophy. Mega Boss in his first song said he was not singing for a crown, instead he was focusing on the issues affecting the people of St. Martin while the Government claimed they were going to work for the people. His second song "Don't Lock Them Up" focused on the Bada Bing scandal. This time he had a judge and two persons, one depicted Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and the other Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin whom he said promised to work for the people and to make laws but thus far that has not yet been done. Instead of locking up the politicians Mega Boss said put them to work since they are already paid by the tax payers. Sarah was given a saw, while William was given a hammer and their job was to assemble a broken cabinet while Mega Boss sang his song. At the end of the song, the judge began dancing with Fish and as he opened his black robe for the crowd to see there were dollar bills clipped inside and "Bada Bing" written on his t-shirt. The judge ended off with dancing with Sarah before leaving the stage.

The SCDF also honored four persons during the Calypso finals for their contribution to carnival over the years, they were Don Hughes, Celeste Beauperthuy, Fernando Arrindell, and Rene Wilson Jr. (COTO). The awards were presented to the honorees by the reigning Junior and Senior Carnival Queens while President of the SCDF Micheal Granger looked on.

Click here to view more photos of the 2013 Calypso Finals held in Festival Village Sunday night.

Philipsburg:--- Traffic backed up on Bush Road and A.T. Illidge Road on Saturday evening as firefighters tried to access a bush fire in the hills of Saunders and A.T. Illidge Road. Firefighter Silvanico Pauletta told SMN News that someone shot a flare in the hills causing a bush fire which he said spread very quickly.

Some 14 firemen worked up until 2am Sunday morning to bring the fire under control. Pauletta said that two fire trucks were used to fight the fire. He explained that the firemen had to divert their attention at one point to secure three homes and a cabin when the fire got very close to those homes. Pauletta said the firemen managed to contain the fire and no homes were damaged. A third fire truck positioned itself on A.T. Illidge Road causing a diversion of traffic. Pauletta said that they had to dispatch a fire truck to A.T. Illidge road to monitor the fire in order to ensure that the bush fire did not spread and or damage homes on the A.T. Illidge Road hillside. The firefighter said that even though they brought the fire under control early Sunday morning the area was still being monitored on Sunday throughout the day because of the dry weather.

It is not clear if the Police Department is conducting an investigation to determine who shot the flare and what was the reason for the person's actions.

Philipsburg:--- As the 2013 carnival season is approaching its end which is scheduled for May 2nd, 2013, the SCDF is now faced with a possible court litigation which will be filed by TELEM Group of Companies with whom SCDF has signed a sponsorship agreement and has given the company certain exclusive rights.

TELEM through its lawyers sent SCDF a letter on April 17th, 2013 pointing out some of their concerns and the infringements on the part of SCDF which they claimed has tremendously affected their commercial department. TELEM also dispatched a letter to the Department of New Works which is headed by Kurt Ruan informing him that its tenant SCDF has breached its agreement by allowing Chippie to sell SIM cards, provide WIFI services, and to also run adverts beside the stage on April 22nd when they were promoting the launch of the BBZ10.

The letter that was sent to Ruan dated April 26th, 2013 states that SCDF has left them no choice but to take legal action. TELEM pointed out in its letter to Ruan that SCDF allows Chippie (UTS) to sell telecom services at booth 79 which also includes top-ups. The company asked Ruan to summon the President of SCDF Michael Granger to refrain from performing activities that would infringe on their rights and breach the SOG agreement TELEM entered in 2007 as a corporate investor and sponsor to the Festival Village. According to information provide to SMN News, TELEM has an agreement with New Works for the stage they built inside the Festival Village to the tune of $1.2 million United States Dollars. However, that agreement it is understood has affected Festival Village tremendously because other sponsors have refused to use the Festival Village while TELEM's banner is hanging on the stage. According to information provided to SMN News, anyone who desires to use the Festival Village and wants the TELEM banner down for a one night event has to pay the company $20,000.00 due to the fact that TELEM has an agreement to have its banner hanging on the stage at all times. SMN News tried contacting Ruan on Sunday for a comment but he could not be reached by telephone.

TELEM Group also dispatched a letter to the President of SCDF Michael Granger on April 26th, 2013 informing him of their dissatisfaction on the breach of their Sponsorship Agreement. The four page letter pointed out a number of areas of the agreement that SCDF breached. In that letter, TELEM claims that SCDF gave them exclusive rights for several events and or locations. They stated that SCDF neglected TELEM exclusive Telecom rights for services in the Festival Village.

TELEM further claims that SCDF infringed the sponsorship agreement with their direct competitor Chippie. Below this article the letters that were sent to Ruan and Granger are linked.

While TELEM claims that SCDF gave them exclusive rights for certain events and locations, on March 26th, 2013 Chippie issued a press release indicating that they have partnered with SCDF whom they dubbed as the largest contributor to carnival in recent years. The press release stated that Chippie contributed $50,000.00 to the 2013 carnival season. The grand parade to be held on April 30th is to be dubbed the Chippie Grand Carnival Parade. Below is the link with the press release that was published by SMN News on behalf of SCDF. President of the SCDF Michael Granger could not be reached for a comment on Sunday.

Click here to view the letters sent by TELEM to Kurt Ruan and SCDF President Michael Granger.

Click here to view the press release by Chippie on March 26, 2013.

swescotwilliamsopenskingsgames26042013Belvedere:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams welcomed the students and attendants at the opening of the King's Games soccer tournament celebrating the inauguration of King Willem Alexander at the Johan Cruyf Field in Belvedere on Friday. The Prime Minister addressed especially the young participants in the crowd and made them aware why the activity was such an important one: "I welcome the coaches, teachers, volunteers and especially our students at this important event here this morning. I would like to explain our youth that are here today that this is a very special event: you are joining millions of young people across the Kingdom in observing the inauguration of a new King for the Kingdom of the Netherlands on the 30th of April. Prince Willem Alexander will become King of the House of Orange and that is why we are sporting the orange color here today. On St. Maarten we have organized this soccer tournament as one of the events to show that St. Maarten too is celebrating the inauguration of a new king. So I wish you all good luck as we celebrate in our way," said the Prime Minister to the eager crowd.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsatsmbelieversconnectionconvention26042013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Thursday evening attended the 7th annual St. Martin Believers' Connection Convention opening at the L.B Scott Sports Auditorium. The Convention is being presented by the Saint Martin United Ministerial Conference under the theme of Let the Stones Arise and Build. The Prime Minister stated that she felt honored as always to be able to join in the Celebrations with the faithful and wished the attendants a very successful convention.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

telemteamsupwith4mbandforgrandparade26042013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group has kitted out carnival band 4M with their own t-shirts for the big carnival Grand Parade on Tuesday. The 4M band is TelEm Group's carnival band for this year and will be sporting the company's rebranded colour – Red. The t-shirts were presented to band member Stuart Johnson during a short ceremony at the TelEm Group building, Pond Island, Wednesday.

sjacobsopeningkingsgames26042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs on Friday gave an opening speech at the King's Games at the Jose Lake Ball Park and kick-off at the Soccer Tournament in Belvedere. The activities have been organized to mark the succession to the throne of Prince of Orange Willem-Alexander on Tuesday, April 30 where he becomes King.

indpersonnelwithcertificates26042013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Department of Immigration and Naturalization Service personnel were awarded a certificate by Head of the Border & Mobile Control Geronimo Juliet for taking part in a course that dealt with document falsification provided by the Canadian Border Agency. The course is recognized internationally. Juliet said that the 11 participants have now updated their skill level to detect false documents.

List of participants in the course:

Monica Mathew
Leroy Brooks
Esther Christian (not in picture)
Albert Thomas
Chantal da Cunha
Bernice Richardson
Naomi Lammar
Rignalda Stefania
Loraine Brooks
Sharon Richinsin
Claudette Richards

tasseldrivecleanup26042013Zagersgut:--- On Saturday April 20, the Community Police Officers District 5 that falls under the responsibility of Officer Arcella Lennard organized a clean-up campaign at Tassel Drive, Zagersgut where all the residents from the area came out to assist.

This was the first project that CPO District 5 embarked upon and we must say that it was a great success because of all the following entities that we would like to thank, which includes Heavenly Water, Caribbean Aggregates, Meadowlands, Firgos, Mr. Walton Holiday, Domino Pizza, Tassel Drive residents and last but not least Officer Arcella Lennard and the board and members of CPO District 5.

The above sponsors were all from District 5 which includes: Zagersgut, Cul-de-Sac, Mary's Fancy, Saunders, Illidge Road, Over the Pond, St. John's, and Betty's Estate. We are appealing that whenever we embark on another project that other businesses in the area would also join those that contributed in our first Project which was a success. Also take special note that our next project will be a Safety Plan Presentation which we are busy organizing. Date, time, and place would be announced in a subsequent broadcast. If there are any information you would like to be informed of you can give Officer Lennard a call on 588-4037.

Board and Members of CPO District 5

The Police Traffic Department and the Sint Maarten Harbor Group of Companies are making an appeal to all stakeholders and general public, that in connection with the arrival of the Causeway swing bridge due to arrive on May 2nd, to pay keen attention to all traffic diversions that will take place. On May 3rd between 1:30pm and 3:30pm the Simpson bay bridge will be opened to allow the cargo vessel carrying the swing bridge to come through the channel. Traffic coming from and going towards the airport will be diverted through the French side of the island. Everyone is asked to cooperate as much as possible with this temporary traffic diversion.

Jouvert Morning Jump-Up

From 03:00 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at Hensley Beaujon str. No traffic leading Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 03:00 a.m.: Suckergarden rd. closed at the Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic leading to the Nisbet rd.

From 03:00 a.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at the Salt Rock Dr. No more traffic leading to the Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 03:00 a.m.: Peterson str. closed at the E.C.Richardson str. No traffic leading to the Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 03:30 a.m.: Buncamper rd. closed at the Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic leading to the Freedom Fighters roundabout.

From 04:00 a.m.: Suckergarden rd. closed at the Guana bay rd. No traffic leading to the Freedom Fighters roundabout.

From 04:00 a.m.: Suckergarden rd. closed at the Arch rd. No traffic leading to the Guana bay rd.

From 04:30 a.m.: Arch rd. closed at the Soualiga blvd. No traffic leading to the Suckergarden rd.

From 04:30 a.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at the Pendant Cactus rd. No more traffic leading to the Arch rd.

From 05:00 a.m.: Arch rd. closed at the Guadeloupe rd. No traffic leading to the Sucker Garden rd.

From 05:30 a.m.: Arch rd. closed at the A. Th. Illidge rd. No traffic leading to the Sucker Garden rd.

From 06:00 a.m.: A. Th. Illidge rd. closed at the Sol gas station. No more traffic leading to the Zagersgut rd.

From 06:00 a.m.: A. Th. Illidge rd. closed at the Cottage roundabout (Eddie's Auto Supply). No more traffic leading to the Arch rd.

From 06:30 a.m.: Zagersgut rd. closed at the Cottage roundabout. No more traffic leading to the A.Th. Illidge rd.

From 06:30 a.m.: A. Th.Illidge rd. closed at the Prince Bernard Bridge. No more traffic direction Cottage roundabout.

From 07:30 a.m.: Longwall rd. at the Prince Bernard Bridge. No more traffic leading to the Nisbet rd.

From 07:30 am.: Bush rd. closed at the Prince Bernard Bridge. No more traffic leading to the Nisbet rd.

From 07:30 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at Percey Labega str. No more traffic direction Prins Bernard Bridge.

From 08:30 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at the Tamarind st. No more traffic towards Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 09:30 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at the Beaujon Hensley str. No more traffic direction Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 10:00 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic direction Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 10:00 a.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at the Salt Rock Dr focus No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 10:00 a.m.: Nisbet rd. at the Voges str. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

Grand parade Tuesday, April 30th 2013

From 09:00 a.m.: Intersection L.B. Scott road - Gladiola road. No more traffic in the direction St.Peters Intersection L.B.Scott road - Arbutus road. No more traffic towards Church Hill roundabout.

From 09:30 a.m.: Intersection Gladiola road - Coralita road. No more traffic in the direction of L.B.Scott road. L.B. Scott road at the Church Hill roundabout. No more traffic in the direction of St.Peters.

From 10:15 a.m.: Intersection AJCBrouwers road – Welgelegen road. No more traffic towards Church Hill roundabout. Intersection Bush road Zagersgut road. No more traffic toward Church Hill roundabout.

From 10:40 a.m.: Intersection Zagersgut road - Bush road. No more traffic towards Bush road. Prince Bernard Bridge closed. No more traffic toward Bush road.

From 11:20 a.m.: Intersection A.Th.Illidge road and the wall Long road closed at the Prince Bernard bridge. No more traffic towards W. A. Nisbeth road. Intersection W. A. Nisbeth road - W. Percy M. Labega street. No traffic more toward Prince Bernard Bridge.

From 12:00 p.m.: Intersection Longwall rd. - Percey Labega str. No more traffic direction Kerkhofsteeg.

From 12:00 p.m.: Intersection Cannegieter street - Manzanilla. No more traffic direction Percey Labega str.

From 12:00 p.m.: Little Bay rd. closed at the Fort William rd . No more traffic direction Kerkhofsteeg and Front Street.

From 12:00 p.m.: Intersection Back str. - Manzanilla steeg. No more traffic direction Kerkhofsteeg.

From 04:00 p.m.: Yuancho Yrausquin blvd closed at Prosperity bridge. No traffic direction Buncamper rd.

From 04:00 p.m.: Buncamper rd. - Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic direction Yuancho Yrausquin blvd.

From 04:20 p.m.: Suckergarden rd. - Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic direction Nisbet rd.

From 04:20 p.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No traffic direction Freedom Fighters roundabout.

From 04:20 p.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at the Salt Rock Dr. No traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 04:20 p.m.: Peterson str. closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 04:30 p.m.: Intersection Nisbet rd. - Codville Webster rd. No traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

2nd day Junior & Grand Carnival Parade

From 06:00 a.m.: Front Street and all streets leading to Front Street will be closed.

From 10:00 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic direction Prins Bernard Bridge.

From 10:00 a.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at Rocksalt drive. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 10:00 a.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at Hensley Beaujon str. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 12:00 p.m.: Voges str. will be closed between Cannegieter str. and the Front str. for traffic and only open for emergency vehicles and pedestrians.

From 12:00 p.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at Percey Labega str. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 12:30 p.m.: Cannegieter street closed Manzanilla steeg. No more traffic direction Percey Labega street.

From 12:30 p.m.: Longwall rd. closed at Percey Labega str. No more traffic direction Kerkhof Steeg.

From 12:30 p.m.: Little Bay rd. closed at the Fort William rd. No more traffic direction Kerkhof Steeg and Front Street.

From 12:30 p.m.: Back str. closed at Manzanilla Steeg. No more traffic direction Kerkhof Steeg.

From 04.20 p.m.: Yuancho Yrausquin blvd closed at Welvaart brug. No more traffic direction Buncamper rd.

From 04.20 p.m.: Buncamper rd - Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic direction Yuancho Yrausquin blvd.

From 04.40 p.m.: Suckergarden rd. - Freedom Fighters roundabout. No traffic direction Nisbet rd.

From 04.40 p.m.: Nisbet rd. closed at the Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic direction Freedom Fighters roundabout.

From 04.40 p.m.: Soualiga blvd. closed at the Salt Rock Dr. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 04:40 p.m.: Peterson str. - Salt Pickers roundabout. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

From 04:40 p.m.: Intersection Nisbet rd - Codville Webster rd. No more traffic direction Salt Pickers roundabout.

gspdeadfish26042013In order to be proactive in the approach to addressing fish die off or hypoxic or events and in order to warn the community of the possibility of another fish die-off event such as the one that was experienced in March 2013, the Nature Foundation conducted water quality tests in order to determine quality levels in the Great Salt Pond. Based on the executed field tests there is an increased probability, close to 65%, of another fish die off occurring if water levels and oxygen levels do not change in the Great Salt Pond. This information will be forwarded to the necessary departments and consultations will be conducted.

There have already been fish reported as having died in the Great Salt Pond, especially on the 25th and 26th of April. Tilapia are an introduced species in St. Maarten, having established themselves over the last ten to fifteen years in the Great Salt and Fresh Ponds. The presence of Tilapia has to be closely studies for the effects on the Native Fish population, however the die-offs of a tolerant species such as Tilapia has to raise concerns about the water quality of St. Maarten.

Since January 2013 the island has been experiencing very little rainfall and hot and on occasion calm weather. This, together with land reclamation activities in the Great Salt and Fresh Ponds has resulted in poor water circulation and a drop in dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the ponds. The Drop in DO has resulted in oxygen depleted water (a DO level close to 1 part per million is essential oxygen depleted compared to a normal level of 7 ppm) which in turn results in fish die offs. The worry is that Tilapia will be the first species to die, followed by Tarpon, Mullets and other native fish species.

The Nature Foundation would like to echo Government's previous advice not to eat the fish; doing so might have some significant health consequences.

The Nature Foundation recommends that the levels of the ponds be continuously managed in order to reflect meteorological conditions in order to avoid further die offs.

The Nature Foundation will monitor the situation closely as it continues.

eholiday14122012Esteemed Guests,

Good evening and welcome to this historic Queens Birthday celebration, so beautifully opened with the Wilhelmus and the Sint Maarten Song as rendered by the Majestic Voices of La Vaune Henry and Benjamin Bell. The celebration is historic because it comes on the eve of the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and the inauguration of His Majesty King Willem Alexander on April 30th, meaning that as of next year we will be celebrating King's Day and not Queens Birthday. As a result I have decided to dedicate this evening's celebration as a: Tribute to Her Majesty Queen Beatrix.
Our gathering tonight at Fort Amsterdam to celebrate the last Queens Birthday of the reign of Queen Beatrix is Symbolic, Significant and Historic. Symbolic because the abdication of Queen Beatrix and inauguration of King Willem Alexander on April 30th will take place in Amsterdam. Significant because this 17th century fort, named Fort Amsterdam, underscores the long standing bond between Sint Maarten and the Netherlands. And Historic because it is the last of Queen Beatrix's thirty three years reign and the last of 123 successive years of Queens Birthday Celebrations.
One year ago standing at this same location I stated and I quote: "This location has been chosen because of its beautiful scenic view, because of its historic significance and because of what it teaches us about the importance of Heritage Preservation, with a view of sharing with and passing on to future generations." As such what better place is there to gather for and celebrate this significant, historic and symbolic Queens Birthday than on this unique part of Sint Maarten's Historic Heritage, Fort Amsterdam.
The choice to celebrate here tonight is intended to pay a fitting tribute to her Majesty. We shall as a result focus on the bond with the royal family through Queen Beatrix

  • by reflecting through images on her visits to Sint Maarten;
  • by honoring her with an artistic expose of poetry, song and dance; and
  • through the awarding of royal decorations to several of our residents.

Noteworthy is that tonight we stand at the eve of the birthday of our future King Willem Alexander. As such we have double reason to highlight the historic ties of our community with the Royal Family through the granting of Royal Decorations this evening.
Ladies and gentlemen, over the years several of our residents have been placed in the spotlight by bestowing on them the honor of a Royal Decoration in recognition of their outstanding service to our community. The persons selected to be awarded a Royal Decoration here this evening are part of the last group of persons to receive a Royal Decoration Decree signed by Her Majesty Queen Beatrix. This evening's ceremony will highlight the contributions and achievements of the nine (9) persons who will receive Royal Decorations and as such join the Order of Oranje Nassau name after the House of Oranje. What better time to do so than during this evening's event organized each year to Celebrate Queen's Birthday, a celebration which is held throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands underscoring Her Majesty's status as the symbol and personification of unity within the Kingdom.
Of the nine (9) persons who have been awarded a Royal Decoration, three (3) Mrs. Drs. Angela Dekker, Ms. Mary Eileen Healy, and Mr. Clarence Dalyrimple Richardson were decorated as Knight in the Order of Oranje Nassau and six (6) Mr. Gabriel Felix Brown, Mrs. Nadia Irenia Brown-Satornilia, Mr Franklyn Gustavus Carty, Ms. Monique Muriel Gumbs, Mrs. Judith Mary Halley-Williams, and Mrs. Elvira Felecita Lewis were decorated as member in the Order of Oranje Nassau.
The nine (9) persons nominated have distinguished themselves in a variety of fields, namely:

  • the spiritual development and wellbeing of our people;
  • the educational and physical development of our youth;
  • the care for our elderly;
  • the care for our mentally challenged;
  • the preservation of our traditions; and
  • the fostering and improvement of industrial relations.

Within the variety of fields in which they standout they all have dedicated a significant part of their life and talents towards the improvement and development of the lives of others and our community. Such sustained commitment is commendable and serves as an example for all of us.
In a few minutes the nine (9) nominated persons will receive a Royal Decoration for their exemplary service to our community. It is an honor and special distinction to be awarded a Royal Decoration and I thus hereby, take this opportunity - to in advance - convey my congratulations to each of the honorees individually and to their family and friends.
Moreover in closing, I wish to express special words of appreciation to my staff for their tireless work to make this evening possible. And speaking about commitment I herewith extend a very special thanks to Ms. Clara Reyes and Ms. Nicole De Weever, and all those who will be performing under their direction, for their extraordinary efforts in putting the artistic part of this evening together in poetry, song and dance in Tribute to Her Majesty Queen Beatrix.
Thus as we Honor Queen Beatrix with this last Queen's Birthday Celebration, at least for some time to come, I extend a warm welcome to you and I wish you an enjoyable evening.

Thank you and God bless Sint Maarten.

cdeweeverwithhivaidsprogrammemanagementteam26042013Philipsburg:--- In an effort to increase condom use and ultimately reduce the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, sexually transmitted infections (STI) and unwanted pregnancies, Minister Cornelius de Weever and the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team (PMT) in collaboration with Red Cross and the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation has developed a condom distribution plan for the Carnival Season. The distribution plan is targeted to the general population of St. Maarten and the strategy is to give the condoms out for free making it available to all and thus encouraging condom use.
The condoms will be packaged in a box which has a catchphrase that promotes safe sex and HIV testing at the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation in Cole Bay across from Tropicana. The boxes will help protect the condom from getting damaged when in a bag or a pocket and are sturdy enough to be reused. Printing of the design was done by TRAXX Designs and are being distributed by Red Cross volunteers at the Festival Village's evening events. Make sure to get yours in order to "Cum Safely" and enjoy Carnival 2013 "Fully Protected". The PMT along with Collective Preventive Services (CPS) are busy working on a more comprehensive distribution strategy that will launch by the end of this year.
Unfortunately, we would like to apologize for the typo on the condom box concerning the contact information for St. Maarten AIDS Foundation where anyone can call to schedule an appointment for HIV testing. The correct contact information is 553-2626/588-4636.

swescotwilliamsatpwawalkathon26042013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined in the Walk-A-Thon and Bike-A-Thon celebrating the inauguration of Prince Willem Alexander as King of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Prime Minister, dressed in orange and customarily leading the group, encouraged the participants in a festive and celebratory manner as they were accompanied by a drum band. The group of some seventy attendants, including volunteers and school kids, ended in the Jose Lake Ball Field.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- With the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and the succession to the throne of His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange just days away, a number of activities have been organized.

Church bells throughout the country will toll at 8:00am on Tuesday, April 30.

A one-hour Special produced by the Department of Communication will be aired on April 30 on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120 at 12:00pm to 1:00pm. It will show activities leading up to the inauguration of the King as well as welcome message from His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday and Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams.

The Special will also air interviews with Orange Bow Awardees and highlight other activities.

The Special can also be seen on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 115 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm on the same day and can also be seen on WTN Channel 10 (check channel for broadcast times).

For those using social media and would like to show solidarity and welcome the new King, you can add the "Flag for the King" to your Twitter or Facebook profile picture. Visit the official website below that is coordinating this activity: http://twibbon.com/support/vlaggen-voor-de-koning

For more information about the Royal Family, you can visit the Government website and download the inauguration booklet. The link is: www.sintmaartengov.org/government/specialcampaigns/pages/default.aspx

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- With the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and the succession to the throne of His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange approximately five days away, the Prince will have to resign from official positions.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange is resigning from his official positions, with due regard for the terms of office and procedures of the organizations concerned.

In the year ahead Her Majesty the Queen and the Prince of Orange will decide as to the continuation of their honorary posts and their patronage of organizations.

In principle Princess Maxima will continue as Queen to hold her current honorary and other posts.

The Prince has asked the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to immediately relieve of his duties as an IOC member in the Netherlands. Under the Olympic Charter, this means that the Prince's resignation must be approved at the IOC's next session in Buenos Aires in September 2013 and will take effect at the end of 2013.

His resignation as Chairman of the United Nations Secretary General's Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation (UNSGAB) will take place in consultation with the Secretary-General. He will also be resigning as Chairperson of the Water Advisory Committee, in consultation with the Minister of Infrastructure and the Environment.

In the process of creating awareness about the role of members of the Royal Family, the Sint Maarten Organizing Committee Inauguration (OCI) has been highlighting the changes that will take place.

For more information about the Royal Family, you can visit the Government website and download the inauguration booklet. The link is: www.sintmaartengov.org/government/specialcampaigns/pages/default.aspx

telemsponsorswaterstops25042013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is urging carnival revelers to have a safe and enjoyable Carnival 2013 and most of all – to drink plenty of water while winding along this year's carnival Grand Parade route.
To ensure revelers and members of the public take the necessary water breaks, the company has once again teamed up with local supplier, Heavenly water, to provide free TelEm Group-sponsored water along the route.

"It's very easy to become de-hydrated without realizing, so these water stops are very important to us to ensure people have an enjoyable, safe and fun carnival," said water stop coordinator, Marelva Felix-Jones.


Telem Press Release

Registrations keep rolling in as we get closer to SMART 2013. This year, the tradeshow will be held at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Spa, and promises to be an appointment filled one and a half days. We are counting 50 Travel Wholesalers from South America and Europe, tripling any other year.
The Welcome party is scheduled to be held on May 15 at 7:30pm at Sky Beach located in the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Spa vicinity. While, the Farewell party will be held at the 5-star resort, La Samanna, on May 16 at 7:30pm.
If you haven't registered, please contact the SHTA at 542-0108 or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

renderingofcausewaybridge25042013POINT BLANCHE:--- St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Management is advising all stakeholders including hotels, airlines, travelers, employees, car rentals, taxis and others, to take note of the extended bridge opening that will take place in connection with the arrival and transit through the bridge by the vessel carrying the Causeway Swing Bridge.

Tentatively either Thursday, May 2 from 11.30am to 1.30pm or Friday, May 3 from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, the Simpson Bay Bridge is expected to be open up to approximately two (2) hours.

The exact date and time of the arrival of the cargo vessel Marietje Andrea carrying the swing bridge, cannot be ascertained at this point in time due to the possible influence of the weather as it makes its way through the North Atlantic Ocean en-route to St. Maarten.

Prior to the transition of the longest vessel ever to enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon, the wind conditions at the Simpson Bay Bridge must also be at a certain level in order to have an incident free transit.

All stakeholders will be kept informed as the date's approach with respect to which day the actual operation will take place. The general public will be updated via the print, online and broadcast media.

The Management of the Harbour Group of Companies regrets any inconvenience that this extended bridge opening will cause and expresses its apologies.

Everything will be in place for a smooth transition of the vessel through the lagoon and provisions are also in place for emergency services.

The 126 meter long (413 feet) cargo transport vessel Marietje Andrea is 15 meters wide (49 feet) and has a gross tonnage of 5418. The longest vessel to ever enter the Simpson Bay Lagoon is the 96 meter (316 feet) mega yacht Limitless. The Andrea is almost 100 feet longer than the Limitless.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The following information is for all vendors handling and selling food. The objective of Collective Prevention Services (CPS) and the Inspectorate is keeping food safe and protect the consumer against foodborne disease.

There are all kinds of risks when handling food. Whether you're selling food from permanent food premises (canteen or kiosk), or temporary or mobile premises (food van or stall), food must be prepared and stored properly in the interest of public health.

Food Safety - Health requirements

If you are ill or have an infection you can easily transfer harmful bacteria or viruses to food.

Do not handle food if:

  • you are ill with vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or sore throat with fever; or
  • your doctor has diagnosed that you have or carry a foodborne illness.

If you have volunteered for an event and then become ill with any of the above symptoms, let the event organiser know that you can no longer work. This is very important, no matter how short-staffed the event may be. Food handlers who are ill can easily make food unsafe. Not only is it against the law, it is not worth the risk. If you start to feel unwell while you are at an event, stop handling food and let the event organizer know immediately.

If you have:

  • infected sores on your hands, arm or face; or
  • any discharges from your ear, nose or eyes (such as a cold)

You can continue to handle food provided you take extra precautions to prevent food being contaminated. For example, cover the skin sore or take medication to dry up the discharge.

Hygiene requirements
General hygiene

Each food handler must take all precautions to ensure that food or surfaces that come in contact with food are not contaminated by his or her body or anything he or she is wearing. This includes hair, saliva, mucus, sweat, blood, fingernails, clothes, jewellery or bandages.

You are required to:

  • avoid handling ready-to-eat food such as salads and cooked food use tongs or other implements instead;
  • wear clean outer clothing;
  • make sure bandages and dressings on exposed parts of your body (such as the hands, arms or face) are covered with waterproof coverings;
  • not eat over uncovered food or equipment and utensils;
  • not sneeze, blow or cough over uncovered food or equipment and utensils; and
  • not spit, smoke or chew tobacco where food is handled.

Hand washing
The most important measure to protect food from contamination is proper hand washing because clean and dry hands limit the transfer of harmful organisms to food. The Food Safety Standards require food handlers to wash their hands whenever hands are likely to be a source of contamination of food, including. Avoid cross contamination of food e.g. using the same utensil to handle fish and chicken. Keep the preparation area and the respective surrounding clean and germ free.

There are five steps that should be followed when washing hands. These are:

  • wet hands under warm running water;
  • soap hands, lathering well;
  • rub thoroughly, including the wrists and between the fingers;
  • rinse in clean water; and
  • dry thoroughly on paper towel, leaving no moisture on the hands.

Food Safety Workshop

It is recommended to follow the food safety workshop as to be certified as a food handler where you acquire information on food preparation and safety:

  • before handling food;
  • between handling raw food and food that is ready to eat, such as cooked food and salads;
  • after using the toilet;
  • after smoking, coughing, sneezing, blowing the nose, eating or drinking;
  • after touching hair, scalp, mouth, nose or ear canal, and
  • after handling rubbish and other waste.

Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday April 24th at approximately 3:15pm, a Police Bike Patrol was sent to the Walter Plantz Pier on the Boardwalk to investigate a Jet Ski accident. On the scene the investigating officers spoke to a witness who stated that a female Jet Ski rider collided into the Walter Plantz Pier at very high speed injuring herself. The victim with the initials A.K. from the Soviet Union (25) visiting the island on board of the cruise vessel Ruby Princess suffered a fractured left arm and right leg and bruises to her body. She was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.
The Jet Ski was totally destroyed and confiscated for further investigation by the Maritime Police.

KPSM Police Report

Pointe Blanche:--- On Monday April 22nd at approximately 7:00pm, members of the Police Bike Patrol were sent to the A.C. Wathey Cruise Facilities to investigate a report of a missing male tourist who came to the island on board of the cruise vessel "Explorer of the Seas". This ship which was in port was to depart the island that same evening at 9:00pm. On the scene the investigating officers learnt that an 82 year old American tourist with the initials L.J.R. who suffers from Alzheimer's disease had been missing since about 5:00pm that evening. A search of the area was done at that time, however he was not located. A second search was initiated by the Bike Patrol and shortly after the victim was found lying on the ground next to an excavator on an enclosed lot of land of the Cruise facilities. The victim was quite dehydrated and treated on the scene by medical personnel of the cruise line after boarding the ship.

KPSM Police Report

Philipsburg/Hague:--- The Minister of Interior and Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk gave the Parliament of the Netherlands misleading information on the Tortola boat mishap that claimed the lives on nine people on December 6th, 2010. The ill-fated 26 feet boat left St. Maarten with over 20 Haitian nationals, nine of those persons perished in the accident which occurred somewhere in the vicinity of Parquita Bay, Tortola B.V.I.

The Haitian captain and one of his crew members were arrested and sentenced in Tortola while five people were also arrested and convicted for human smuggling and money laundering on St. Maarten.

The Attorney General of Countries St. Maarten, Curacao, and the BES islands Dick Piar already issued an advice to the Minister of Justice of St. Maarten and the Prosecutor's Office since the case was investigated by the Landsrecherche. SMN News learnt that the investigation showed that the Coast Guard did not act properly neither did they intercept the boat when it left St. Maarten. The Coast Guard monitored the boat and its occupants from the time they boarded the boat and left St. Maarten and while they had several opportunities to act and apprehend those on the boat which might have saved the lives of the nine people including three children they did not.

SMN News already submitted a request for the report that was submitted to St. Maarten's Minister of Justice but we were informed that the report is not yet finalized. The Attorney General sent an advice to the Minister of Justice with its findings so that the Minister and Prosecutor could react but that process has not yet been completed.

jvandenheuvelandpillidge25042013Philipsburg:--- The owner of Bada Bing strip club Jaap van den Heuvel was questioned by the detectives of the Landsrecherche on Thursday confirmed Attorney General Taco Stein. Stein said van den Heuvel was heard as a witness (suspect) and he was not detained by the detectives. Stein did not rule out the possibility that van den Heuvel will be arrested at a later date.

The strip club owner came under the radar when De Telegraaf of the Netherlands released a news article on March 7th, 2013 claiming that he (van den Heuvel) bribed Independent Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge which he recorded. The tape was subsequently released by a local newspaper showing van den Heuvel giving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge $15,000.00. Later van den Heuvel told his lawyer Cor Merx via an email which was forwarded to Illidge that he was paying back a loan to Illidge which he borrowed during his divorce procedures in 2010. That email was made available to SMN News. Van den Heuvel also told Merx in the same email that the leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger asked him to tape Patrick Illidge whenever he was repaying him so that he (Heyliger) could use the tape as blackmail to break the current coalition government. While the tape and the news articles only surfaced in March 2013 at least one former Minister who was appointed by the United Peoples Party spoke about the tape late last year on a radio program. It is also alleged that other politicians including the Prime Minister knew of the tape prior to its release in the media.

So far the detectives have questioned a number of people including Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet, and former Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger.

SMN News also learned that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was also heard as a witness on Thursday, Stein at first confirmed Illidge was also heard as a witness but he quickly changed his statements and said that it was only van den Heuvel that was heard and not MP Illidge. SMN News managed to confirm that MP Patrick Illidge was also interrogated on Thursday in the ongoing ORCA investigation. While the main focus of the investigation is about the alleged bribe van den Heuvel paid MP Illidge for favors such as extending working permits for prostitutes and another business license, the illegal and unlicensed firearm that was found in the MPs house is also part of the investigation.
The investigators are also trying to obtain information as to who sold Illidge the firearm and how the illegal weapon was shipped from Miami to St. Maarten.

On Friday morning the Spokesman for the Attorney General Norman Serphos sent an email to the various media houses stating that:

"A press release was issued Thursday evening by the Public Prosecutor's Office Sint Maarten. Due to problems with the e-mail server this might have not reached you."

The content of the press release which was also sent by Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on Friday morning reads:

JAAP VAN DEN HEUVEL QUESTIONED IN 'ORCA' INVESTIGATION

On Thursday, Bada Bing's Jaap van den Heuvel was questioned by the National Detective's Agency.
Van den Heuvel was questioned as a suspect in relation to the footage on which van den Heuvel was seen handing over money to member of Parliament Patrick Illidge.
Van den Heuvel was given the opportunity to give his side of the story. He was not arrested.
The investigation continues.

Press Release from Prosecutor's Office

Mos ended his email by saying that in the interest of the investigation no more information will be released at this time.

Prosecutor's Office issued second press release in the ORCA investigation. The press release which was issued by Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp states that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was heard on Friday as a suspect in the ongoing investigation. The press release reads as follows:

MP PATRICK ILLIDGE QUESTIONED IN 'ORCA' INVESTIGATION.

On Friday, member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was questioned by the National Detective's Agency.
MP Illidge, like Jaap van den Heuvel yesterday, was questioned as a suspect in relation to the footage on which van den Heuvel was seen handing over money to him.
After van den Heuvel gave his statement on the facts that were visible on the video footage, today Patrick Illidge was given the opportunity to give his side of the story. Like van den Heuvel he was not arrested.
Both statements, after comparison, give sufficient grounds for further investigation.
The investigation continues.

Press Release from Prosecutor's Office

swescotwilliamswithbtcandasl24042013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined fellow minister the Hon. Silveria Jacobs and the Hon. Cornelius De Weever and invited guests at a fundraising event for the Art Saves Lives and the Be the Change Foundations on Tuesday evening. Be The Change's mission is to encourage the St. Maarten community to actively contribute to various non-profit organizations and local causes through the igniting of a social philanthropic movement. The Art Saves Lives Program (ASLP) is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change. The collaborative project will select renowned artists from around the world who use the arts to introduce participants to global and local traditions and empower them with the life skills necessary to effectively deal with the demands and challenges of everyday life.

The Prime Minister stated in her brief remarks at the event how very proud she was of both Nicole De Weever and Erika Cannegieter of the Art Saves Lives and Be the Change Foundations Respectively. "I am so very proud of Nicole and Erika and I know that Minister Jacobs and Minister de Weever share that sentiment for what you have done in the past and for what you have been doing right now. I told these two ladies when they were in my office recently that I know that they would be able to accomplish what they are aiming for. There simply cannot be this much passion and compassion in two young ladies without something not coming out of it. And so tonight I would like to thank everyone for their support and the motivation for these ladies to do what they have set out to do. To Nicole and Erika I say that I support and encourage you in whichever way. There are so many wonderful persons that do great work representing great foundations that work tirelessly for their causes. So as Prime Minister of St. Maarten I would like to also extend my thanks to those organizations in making St. Maarten a better place. I remain committed to the belief that young people with drive will make a huge difference in the community. One person can make a difference but many people together can be the change," commented Prime Minister Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

wibpreparesforblockparty24042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) is ready to keep the Carnival festivities going with WIB's Block Party on April 26th from 5:30PM until 12AM. Join us for live entertainment, food, drinks, and lots of FUN! Get into the groove with music provided by two bands, including a DJ. District Band and Heartbeat Band will be bringing energy and talent to WIB's Block Party event. Cool down or warm up with soup, snacks, hot or cold beverages, and much more.

The WIB staff will all be sporting one of three colorful flavors: lime green, daisy, and heliconia for WIB's Block Party. The Carnival themed t-shirts highlight WIB's Easy Charge (cellphone - SMS recharge) and Online Banking products on the front and back. Recharge your cell today with WIB's Easy Charge. It's the way to recharge your cellphone today and bank online from anywhere at anytime, it's banking made easy.

So come on down to the WIB branch on the Pondfill and celebrate with us. WIB invites the community of St. Maarten to have a good time at WIB's Block Party on April 26th from 5:30PM until 12AM. We look forward to seeing you there.

It's always more fun with your partner in progress.

WIB Press Release

ashastevenshillsidechristianschoolpresentsplaquetoharbour24042013POINT BLANCHE:--- St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Commercial Department representatives were present at the Christian Hillside School on Wednesday to receive from the General Director of the Foundation for Protestant Christian Education Asha Stevens-Mohabier a Certificate of Appreciation from the Asha Stevens Hillside Christian School in recognition of the invaluable contribution and participation in the leadership walk 2013 under the theme "I walk for education."

French Quarter:--- The Gendarmes arrested several persons on Tuesday and Wednesday that are currently in garde à vue, confirmed Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault on Wednesday. Jouault said he could not release any information on the investigation which started on Tuesday. Up to late Wednesday evening, several witnesses and the owners of the home where the shooting took place were being heard by the gendarmes.

SMN News learnt that someone went into a yard opposite the Miracle Revival Church in French Quarter and began spraying bullets on a red car that was parked in the yard. Christophe Mac Quilkin told SMN News that shortly before 9am on Wednesday morning he was riding a motorcycle on French Quarter main road (RN7) when two men, one of them looking like a "Rasta", in blue or grayish Nissan blocked him on the road. Mac Quilkin said that when the car stopped the person sitting in the passenger side of vehicle opened the vehicle door and pointed a gun at him. "When I saw that I rode away at high speed to save my life. I kept riding straight along the main road as I tried to escape the attackers who were closely behind me. I then turned into a dirt road next to the Barry's residence as I ran for my life."

The owner of the home said they were at home when they heard several gunshots, she said when she heard the shots she did not know it was gunshots, she thought it was something happened to Mac Quilkin who is always in her yard fixing motorcycles with her son. The home owner said she was inside her kitchen when she heard the noise so she decided to go outside to inquire. "When I looked outside I saw a Rasta looking man with a shotgun in his hand and he had already fired a number of shots at my son's car, a red Getz that was parked inside the yard. I heard him saying something that the person/persons thought they would get away. I was so confused because I did not know what was going on and why this person chose to fire shots at my son's car. At the time my son was still sleeping," the woman explained. At the time of the shooting, there was also an elderly woman who lives in one of the homes nearby washing clothes in the back of the yard. The elderly woman told SMN News that she did not even know what was going on in front of her yard, she said she could have been shot by stray bullets but luckily no one in her family was injured.
Several gendarmes and officers from the forensic department visited the scene to investigate what appeared to be a continuation of a shooting that took place Monday night leaving two persons injured. "It appears as though relatives of the two injured persons are taking revenge," said one resident.

SMN News reported on Tuesday that two persons, a male and female, were shot inside their apartment by a lone gunman. The two injured persons were air evacuated to Martinique for further medical treatment. Residents of French Quarter who spoke to SMN News reporter on the condition of anonymity said that the shooting sparked from a drug deal that did not end well. However, law enforcement has refused to comment on the case. After the shooting Monday night, someone followed the attacker who they believe shot the couple and he too got injured while his vehicle was set alight.

On Wednesday evening, residents in French Quarter said that some people living "Around the Pond" attacked a young man known in the area as "Six" and the attacker shot him in his leg and then they burnt his car which is a red Toyota Corolla.

swescotwilliams24042013Philipsburg:--- The Minister of General Affairs and Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the placement of civil servants has been finalized. Wescot Williams said 102 persons had contested their placement and they were each heard. Wescot Williams said the government of St. Maarten received the final report on the placements which was reviewed by the committee that was installed to review the complaints that were filed. Wescot Williams said of the 102 cases only three of the objections were sustained. The Minister responsible for General Affairs said the process took some time but now it has been finalized.

Discussions to start on COLA Payments and Solutions.

Wescot Williams said now that the 2013 budget has been approved she will resume discussions with the GOA on the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) that is still outstanding. Wescot Williams said that for the year 2011, government has to index the civil servants salaries by 4.6% but government only budgeted half of that which will be paid out this year. Instead of the 4.6%, government will be paying 2.3% but that will be done after negotiations are completed with the GOA. Wescot Williams said the 2.3% will be paid as a lump sum payment. She said she intends to send a letter to the GOA to inform them of the first trajectory and then they will discuss the second trajectory which is to find a better solution on the indexation of salaries because the government of St. Maarten simply cannot afford to maintain the current procedure that is being used to calculate the COLA.

When SMN News asked the Prime Minister if she has been making inconsistent statements regarding St. Maarten's financial status, Wescot Williams said she does not know what statement the WICLU Vice President was referring to. Regarding the letter sent by the unions and the ultimatum on the payment, Wescot Williams said that government has to restructure the indexation because some years they are not able to make the payments.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that authorities on the Dutch side will be seeking further information on what is required by French authorities for Dutch citizens/residents to circulate on the French side.

Wescot Williams said that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was signed by the leaders of both sides stipulates that three levels of government would have met to further discuss matters relating to cooperation. The three parties that had to meet were representatives from the Collectivity of St. Martin, the Prefect Delegue, and the Council of Ministers from the Dutch side. Wescot Williams said while the work group consisting of technicians has been meeting, the meeting involving elected officials and the representative of the State is yet to take place.

Wescot Williams said the last meeting which was held on April 10th, 2013 involved several persons. She said there were representatives from the department of foreign relations, representatives from the secretariat of the Council of Ministers, and the Ministry of Justice while the French side had representatives from the COM and a representative of the State who were all part of the meeting. The Prime Minister said that during these meetings police and other justice related matters are being discussed. She said after taking note of the incident that took place that involved someone that resides on the Dutch side and was circulating on the French side, she would need to further look into the matter in order to get more information and clarity. The Prime Minister said she is threading carefully on what she is saying because she did not have all the information as to what the person had on them when it comes to legal documents. The Prime Minister said that the Director of the Immigration Services (IND) intends to seek further clarification on the issue which will also be discussed by the technocrats that have been meeting constantly to work on cooperation.

She said recently discussions were held about the cooperation between the two sides as to the operations at the Princess Juliana International Airport, especially regarding documents for entry into St. Maarten. One of the things the Dutch side Immigration officials will be looking to verify is whether or not the French side Identification cards are now accepted as a travel document to enter St. Maarten. Another issue that has to be further discussed is the Oyster Pond border, the police treaty, the points of entry such as the Sandy Ground Bridge, and how authorities will deal with criminals that flee from one side to the other when they commit crimes. The Prime Minister said while those matters were discussed on a technical level the Dutch side will have to get a clear picture (understanding) as to what is required of the Dutch side for its people to circulate on the French side. "Maybe this is a storm in a teacup because I really don't have all the details on what exactly took place. I don't know what the person had in their possession and we would like to know what exactly the requirements are, this will be discussed among the technocrats and only if necessary then the matter will be discussed among government (elected officials and the State)." Wescot Williams also confirmed that the Franco Dutch Treaty is now being implemented at the PJIAE when she was asked by SMN News reporter.

Philipsburg:--- At least two former Ministers from the United People's Party would have to give an explanation to investigators that are currently busy with the ORCA (Bada Bing) alleged bribery investigation that involves Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge. SMN News has been reliably informed that when investigators searched the home of Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge on Saturday March 9th, 2013 while the MP was in the Netherlands they found an un-licensed and unregistered firearm in the former Minister who is now a Member of Parliament's house.

The brand new firearm and its bullets were confiscated and to date investigators have not returned the firearm to the MP. SMN News learnt that when Illidge bought the firearm he was not given a receipt, therefore investigators have to conduct the necessary tracing to find out the origin, who bought the firearm, and how it reached St. Maarten. It should be noted that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge has the right to carry a firearm since he was a Minister in the former Netherlands Antilles, that right extends up to four years after the Minister's term ended but in the case of Illidge he did not own or carry a firearm while he was a Minister in the Netherlands Antilles. According to reliable sources, Illidge secured a firearm when he declared himself an Independent Member of Parliament to support the United People's Party. "Two of the UP Ministers, bought the firearm for Patrick Illidge who later tried to register the firearm but that too was never done." SMN News learnt that the person that is heading the Narcotics and Firearms Department at KPSM never responded to MP Illidge's request to register the firearm.

SMN News learnt from well placed sources that MP Illidge claims to have purchased the weapon from a former UP Minister whom he said brought in weapons from Miami. The source said that the two UP Ministers also bought firearms for themselves and placed them on containers that brought in goods to the island. According to one source, the firearms owned by the former Ministers were not registered even though that is required.

Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein confirmed to SMN News on Wednesday that a firearm was found in MP Illidge's home and that the investigators are also investigating the origin of the firearm. Stein said the investigators are busy with the ORCA investigation but right now there is no new development that would interest the media. When SMN News reporter asked Stein if the person (former Minister) who allegedly sold MP Illidge the firearm had a license to import and sell firearms, Stein said he could not comment further but rest assure all aspects of the case are being investigated. Stein said everyone that is involved in the case will be questioned and the necessary actions will be taken when that time comes.

While the community of St. Maarten was shocked when they saw the Bada Bing alleged bribery tape, it appears that there are more crimes that were being committed by persons that held public office than meets the eye of the ordinary man on the street.

gendarmesremovingdeadtouristfromgrandcasebeach24042013Grand Case:--- A male tourist lost his life Tuesday evening in Grand Case. According to information provided to SMN News by an eyewitness, the male tourist was snorkeling in Grand Case and at some point he died. The eyewitness said persons in the immediate area who witnessed the death of the visitor believed that he must have hit his head. However, Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault said that the doctor who pronounced the man dead on the scene said the victim was ill. Jouault said that the victim took ill while he was in the water.

Several Gendarmes reported to the scene to investigate how the man died. At the time, the male tourist was in the area with his wife who also witnessed her husband's demise.

cpofelixrichardsatstpetersbasketballcourt23042013St. Peters:--- The Sint Peters Basketball Court which for some time was painted with all type of negative graffiti and without lights that were functioning has been repainted and the lights have been repaired. The CPO for the Sint Peters area Major Felix Richards got together with youngsters of the community and painted the court after receiving the paint as a donation from Kooyman N.V. Richards also got in contact with the "Samenwerkingsfonds" and requested assistance in having the lights of the basketball court repaired. The request was approved and the lights for the court were ordered through the electrical company "Electec". The labor to have the lights repaired was donated by Payless. Words of appreciation on behalf of the CPO Richards go out to all the organizations that have contributed in having the Sint Peters Basketball Court completely functional once again.


KPSM Police Report

celshot23042013Philipsburg:--- The Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) along with the tripartite committee has decided to recognize three persons within the community for their contributions towards labour related matters or affairs on Labour Day. Vice President of the WICLU Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday at WICLU's weekly press briefing that the three persons that were selected will be honored. Those that were selected to receive their awards are the relatives of the late Alred Peters, a former Taxi Driver who headed the Taxis Union in Cole Bay. Elshot said that Peters is no longer alive but his contributions to unionism could never be forgotten. She said Peters started off the Taxis Union under the tamarind tree in Cole Bay where the Ace Mega Store is located. Elshot further explained that Peters was nominated as historic member of the unions. The second person that will be recognized for his years of contribution and dedication to unionism is Willy Haize, the former President and now advisor of the UFA. Elshot said Haize made a huge impact on labor since he was very dynamic and outspoken when he was the President of the UFA. She said even though Haize is no longer the President of UFA he still remains active in unionism by being the advisor to the UFA. "Because of this, the tripartite had to be honest in recognizing Haize for the contributions he made to unionism. Haize was also a member of the SER where his voice was always heard. I think the voice of Mr. Haize really made an impact both in the former Netherlands Antilles and St. Maarten." The third person that will be honored for her contributions to unionism is Sonia Tondu, Tondu is a civil servant and member of the GOA who works behind the scenes to ensure that workers rights within the civil core as well as those that are working in the private sector are not violated since she was also a member of the WICSU/PSU. Elshot said Tondu has been working for years on the rights of workers and she is already available when she is called upon.

Elshot said the day's activities will kick off with a church service which will be held at the Philipsburg Methodist Church. The venue for the awards ceremony and official speeches is yet to be announced. However, on May 1st, the second day of the Carnival parade, workers on St. Maarten including the various unions will be leading the parade with a troupe depicting the importance of workers.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister are making conflicting statements --- Elshot.

The President of the WITU also told members of the media that to date they have not received any response from government regarding the ultimatum that was sent to them on the payment of the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). She said on April 30th, 2013 if government does not react the unions are prepared to take the necessary actions to ensure that workers get what is due to them. Besides that, Elshot said that the Minister of Finance in his statements said that the country's finances are in good shape while the Prime Minister (Minister of General Affairs) said otherwise in a statement she made.

Elshot also made clear that she will be leaving the island to attend a conference in Jamaica but she will be back on St. Maarten for April 30th to see what government has to say or will do on that day regarding the COLA payments.

Unemployment Rate Rising --- Unions Concerned.

Elshot also told reporters on Tuesday that the unemployment rate on St. Maarten is escalating and something has to be done to curb the situation. She said in the early 1980's St. Maarten was the only island within the Netherlands Antilles who could have boasted of a 0% unemployment rate but today there is a 26% youth unemployment rate while there is between 8% to 13% unemployment rate among persons ranging from 35 years to 50 years.

French Quarter:--- A young couple was transported to Martinique for treatment after they sustained serious injuries from gunshots Monday night. SMN News learnt from residents of French Quarter that the couple was attacked at their home by a lone gun man who fired several shots at them. One of the residents said the female victim was shot in her forehead while the male victim received gunshot wounds in the chest area. SMN News learnt that relatives of the male victim retaliated and they injured the attacker and also burnt the vehicle that was used by the gunman. The badly damaged vehicle was also recovered somewhere in French Quarter Monday night. It appears as though the car was burnt to elude law enforcement officers from finding traces or evidence that would incriminate the gunman and the victims.

SMN News learnt that the couple allegedly took a quantity of marijuana from the gunman to resell and they did not pay the drug dealer for the drugs they took from him.

SMN News made several attempts to obtain a comment from the Commandant or Captain of the Gendarmerie but they refused to take the phone calls claiming they are very busy. SMN News also tried to obtain a comment from Prosecutor Flavien Noailles but he also could not be reached by telephone for comment.

danielgibbsandtcmembersrepresentingtdg23042013Marigot:--- St. Martin's Deputy and Territorial Councilor Daniel Gibbs that is sitting on the opposition benches told reporters on Tuesday at a press conference that he met with the newly elected President of the Collectivity, Aline Hanson and she has renewed her promise to work closely with the opposition.

Gibbs said that even though the RRR majority was given the mandate to make a change in the management of the peoples affairs, the newly elected President told him that the change the people are looking for will begin with her.

Gibbs also updated reporters on a number of projects he defended on the state level on behalf of St. Martin and St. Barths. He said another project he will begin discussing on May 6th, 2013 is the status that St. Martin should choose. Gibbs said very soon St. Martin would have to decide whether or not they will change their status from the UPT to OCT. However, before that is done he believes that the people of St. Martin should engage in a discussion which would take place on May 6th, 2013 at the Chamber of Commerce.

williamwarno23042013Oyster Pond:--- William Warno, popularly known as "Willy the Iguana Man", passed away in the Dominican Republic on Tuesday. SMN News learnt that Warno was not feeling well and he went to the Dominican Republic for medical treatment where he died early Tuesday morning.

Willy was well known for cattle farming and raising cocks and other animals in Oyster Pond. His open farm attracted tourists on a daily basis because he reared iguana on his farm. SMN News visited Willy the Iguana Man on several occasions to see how his iguanas would respond to his whistle when he would call them. Willy used to feed his iguanas bread, corn, and other fruits that he gathered from supermarkets around the island. Several members of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation also took students and trainees to Willy's farm to experience his charm with the iguanas he raised in the same pond with ducks and other poultry.

PM: "Administrative Professionals essential to the proper functioning and working of various departments and ministries."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten announced yesterday that based on her recommendations the Council of Ministers has decided to grant all Administrative Professionals in the Civil Service a half day off in observance of Administrative Professionals day. Administrative Professionals' Day (also known as Secretaries Day or Admin Day) is an unofficial secular holiday observed in several countries to recognize the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionists, and other administrative support professionals. In North America and including on St. Maarten, it is celebrated on the Wednesday of the last full week of April (April 24 in 2013).

Over the years, Administrative Professionals Week has become one of the largest workplace observances. The event is celebrated worldwide through community events, social gatherings and individual corporate activities recognizing support staff with gifts.

"It is important that we acknowledge the importance that Administrative Professionals have in our professional workforce. These professionals are essential to the proper functioning and working of various departments and ministries and therefore it was decided that we would acknowledge the importance of our Administrative Pool and grant a half work day in order to show our gratitude," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

BAIE-MAHAULT, Guadeloupe:--- Haitian-American author Edwige Danticat was honoured by fellow writers for her book "Create Dangerously" published by Editions Grasset.

The pan-Caribbean awards panel, convened at the third International Congress of Caribbean Writers held in French-speaking Guadeloupe earlier this month, awarded Danticat its literary prize.

The literary luminaries on the panel included Roger Toumson, President of the Association of Caribbean Writers, and Ernest Pépin both of Guadeloupe; Alexandre Alaric of Martinique, Elisabeth Wilson of Jamaica, Chiqui Vicioso of the Dominican Republic, Dominique Battraville of Haiti, and Emilio Jorge Rodriguez of Cuba.

According to Toumson, chair of the panel, "Create Dangerously" is an extraordinary book that confirms the quality of the novelist: "The art of the description, the narrative that she displays in her work provides a sublime report of her journey back to her native land that has suffered from a terrible earthquake, which has marked her deeply."

She not only expresses her emotions and thoughts that she witnessed, he added, but she also questions her responsibilities as a writer and artist.

"At the same time, she has been able to describe the enigmatic beauty of Haitian paintings, which according to her, contain the secrets of a capacity to rebound in life, to resist misfortunes," he observed.

Toumson added that Haitian literature makes an important contribution to the wealth of world heritage and provided hope to all people.

Special mentions were also extended to two authors for their work written in English and Spanish respectively: "Light Falling on Bamboo" by Lawrence Scott of Trinidad and Tobago, and "Nécropolis" by Santiago Gamboa of Colombia.

The Regional Council of Guadeloupe expressed gratitude to all participants and supporters of the congress which has become an important event on the region's cultural calendar.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithclaudiusbuncamper22042013Philipsburg:--- A delegation from the St. Maarten Lions Club met with the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams at her Cabinet on Monday. During the meeting Lions District Governor Claudius Anthony "Toontje" Buncamper gave an update on the activities of the Lions Club on St. Maarten and the PM thanked the group for their contributions to the country. Mr. Buncamper is the District Governor for area 60B and is responsible for the activities of the Lions Club in the Caribbean Region from the Cayman Islands to St. Lucia.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

mhfsqlapiustrainingsession22042013Cay Hill:--- On Friday April 19, 2013, a training session took place at MHF for Saba, St. Eustatius and psychiatrists and psychologists of St. Maarten who also work on Saba and Statia.
SQlapius is an agenda and care plan all-in-one linking patient's appointments to their dossier. This is a digitalized system that gives all involved insight in the progress of the patient but also flags the insurance and referral expiration dates.

The great advantage of this system is, the patient is informed on time when to renew his/her insurance card or referral. The multidisciplinary care team has insight in the agreements made with the patient by other disciplines, psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, case manager or group leader. All have access with their own password and cannot change colleagues notes, they can only enter their own notes.

The system saves lots of paper, walking up and down for information and has proven to MHF to be very efficient and patients satisfactory. MHF has been working with the system for one year now and since last year Bonaire and now Saba and Statia will also implement it.

Participants in the session were; Caros Zacharias of MHF, Dr. Jurgensen en Dr. Ferero psychiatrists, Joep Goringsen and Joyce Korsten, Social Psychiatric Nurses of Saba and Statia, Miranda Obispa-Roosberg also a nurse from Statia and Carmencita Chemont visiting psychologist for Saba and Statia.
Presenters of the session were Kenny Patterson and Twan Vermetten of SQlapius.

swescotwilliamswithlustudents22042013Cay Hill:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams took time out of her busy schedule to pay a surprise visit to the Grade Two of the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School on Monday. The PM's visit was part of the class' special project on Caribbean Leaders. Students were given the opportunity to ask the PM questions on her function, how her daily life looks like, on how she handles a busy lifestyle and how she is still able to spend time with her family. Before she left many of the students overcame their shyness and gave the PM words of encouragement and wished her luck in her job. "We are oftentimes so busy that it is difficult for us to take a minute and listen to the thoughts and wishes of even our youngest St. Maarteners. It was therefore heartening to see and hear the students and their questions and wishes expressed in this setting. It was a pleasure to have been there," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Feedback from the Community Essential for the Development of the NDP

Great Bay:--- In an effort to bring the process of the development of the National development Plan (NDP) for St. Maarten closer to the community, the NDP Team over the weekend urged the public of St. Maarten to like its Facebook/ National Development Plan page and to email their comments and wishes regarding the NDP to the dedicated email address at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. More information about the presentations, frequently asked questions, etc, are available on www.sintmaartengov.org/specialcampaigns/NDP. "The participation of the community is a central component of the development of the National Development Plan for Country St. Maarten and we would like to urge the community to be as involved in the process as possible.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams has remarked earlier that the development of the Plan is essential in charting as new course and direction St. Maarten is about to embark on. "We are momentarily at a crossroads of a strengthened nation. It is through this process that we will define collectively our common vision of what kind of St. Maarten we want for our children, grandchildren and future generations. We need to define what kinds of rights and obligations would bind our citizens and indeed what kind of relationships and responsibility Government should have towards the citizens," emphasized the PM.

In the coming weeks the NDP Working Group will be formed with members from the private sector, civil society organizations and government. The NDP Coordinating Team and the Working Group will focus on collating and compiling a report on the information session, lecture and open forum and Stakeholder meetings which were held during the last few months, taking into considerations the feedback, comments and ideas of the community expressed during the events. "The next step with regards to the NDP will be to distribute a preliminary report to all stakeholders on the feedback that we have received from the community which we will use to move forward in developing the NDP vision and later on the draft NDP," read a Working Group statement.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

repaintedmlkjrschool22042013Dutch Quarter:--- On Saturday April 20, 2013, The Rotary club of St. Martin Sunrise with a team of over a hundred and fifteen (115) volunteers from different groups from St. Maarten and Anguilla came together in Dutch Quarter to give the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School a much needed facelift, which consisted of the painting of all buildings located on the premises.
The volunteers who assisted the members of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise with the execution of the painting of the entire school included: the Rotary Club of Anguilla, UTS, AUC School of Medicine, the Youth Parliamentarians, the Interactors from St. Dominic High, Learning Unlimited, and St. Maarten Academy Academic schools, the members and parents of the P.T.A of the school, and some teachers of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Primary School. The painting which started at 7:30am on Saturday ended approximately 3pm in the afternoon.
Since 2012, the club has completed various projects at the school in collaboration with our main sponsor UTS, including the cleanup and beautification of the premises, donation of 300 school bags at the beginning of the school and the community center nearby, and initiating a breakfast program where students are served breakfast every morning.
A similar project was done with the Rotary Club of Anguilla and the Interact Club of Anguilla, where the Sunrise Rotary Club travelled to Anguilla in August 2012 to assist in the painting of the Valley Primary School and the Buffong Dental Clinic.
The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise would like to thank the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Ms. Silveria Jacobs for her presence and all volunteers who came out to donate their time, A & A Supply, and the professional painter Mr. Brown, who oversaw the painting.
Our club is committed in improving the lives of our children in the community and would like to do similar projects at other schools on the island. Businesses interested in becoming a sponsor or to make a donation can contact our President Marcellia Henry at # 553.1912 or Secretary Angela Gordon at # 520.0432.
The club meets at Air Lekkerbek Restaurant every Tuesday mornings at 7:00am for fellowship and breakfast. For more information on the club visit us at sxmsunrise.org or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., we are also on Facebook: Rotary Club of Saint Martin Sunrise.

claudiusbuncampervisitseholiday22042013Philipsburg:--- His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday received Lions District Governor for area 60B Claudius Buncamper MJF with his delegation on Tuesday, April 16th, 2013. The District Governor began his official tour of Sint Maarten over the weekend that ended with the Sint Maarten Lions Club audit last Tuesday evening. Governor Holiday was updated on what the various Lions Clubs are doing locally as well as regionally.

mvogesteacherrecruitmentcontinues22042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten is currently in Holland to recruit teachers for the upcoming school year 2013/2014.

These teachers will form part of the schools with Dutch as the language of instruction. A total of 12 teachers are needed.

Some of the new teachers have already signed their contracts at the St. Maarten's House in The Hague last week Friday.

The delegation of the School Board also visited several schools in Holland to get acquainted with the new innovations in education.

One very intriguing school was Wittering.nl which carries the motto "Onderwijs Gewoon Doen!". The representatives experienced firsthand the quality of education and the benefits for all involved of a fully implemented and successful Foundation Based Education (FBE).

The representatives of the Catholic School Board are very happy that the concept of F.B.E. has been introduced in St. Maarten and that all parties involved are working towards the improvement of quality education for the students of St. Maarten.

coastguardreceives2ndbostonwhaler22042013Simpson Bay:--- The staff of the Dutch Caribbean Coastguard on St. Maarten accepted with great enthusiasm and pride the second Boston Whaler Justice 20 last Friday. The Hr. Ms. Pelikaan, delivered the vessel on the Coastguard station in Simpson Bay. With this additional vessel, the Coastguard fulfills the express request of the Judicial authorities for more recognizable and locally deployable units in St. Maarten.

The Boston Whaler Justice 20 has a length of 20 feet (6.25 meters) and a depth of 38 cm. The Justice 20 has an outboard motor of 150 hp.

These vessels are used primarily in the bays and have a more friendly public appearance than the heavily armed super-RHIBs. St. Maarten had a need for such a vessel for a long time in Simpson Bay. With this second boat, the Coastguard can patrol more frequently and also carry out more controls.

telembbz10launch22042013Philipsburg:--- Prior to the official launching of BBZ10 on St. Maarten which began one minute after midnight on Monday, officials of TELEM group of companies told reporters that the latest BlackBerry device comes with all the added applications. The device's keyboard is far more sensitive that the regular Blackberries and it also adapts to the users style of writing and way of typing. Owners of the new BBZ10 would have to deal with two or three weeks inconvenience as they try to learn all the added features of the BBZ10. However, by that time the mobile device will also fully recognize its owners and the services that are offered with BBZ10 will be far more technological since the new phone also has video services added to the BBM chat.

The device which has a very sensitive touch screen has the same copyright issues when it comes to downloading music and videos. Roberto Beretto channel manager of BBM RIM told reporters that the company is still negotiating with the copyright owners to see if it will be possible for BBZ10 users to download their favorite music and or video via their mobile device in the future. Baretto introduced reporters to some of the added features the latest BlackBerry smart phone has, he said it can do almost anything including video chat via the BBM chat service. Another cool service with BBZ10 is that BBM contacts can see what their friend or business partner has on their screen without having to download a file.

TELEM Group of Companies is urging BBM users to use their services for the BBZ10 because according to Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) Brian Mingo the device works better with 3G which only available at TELEM. Persons that are interested in postpaid services can obtain a BBZ10 free of cost and get six months of 3G data service free if they sign a two year contract while prepaid users would have to pay $649.00 for the device plus but two months of 3G data service and they will obtain one month free data service.

At the press conference held at Festival Village on Monday afternoon, TELEM raffled one of the BBZ10 among media workers. The lucky winner of device was Pearl Radio. TELEM will make three BBZ10 available to media workers for a three day period so that reporters could experience the tools available with the BBZ10 then they would have to return the telephone to TELEM. The idea behind lending the new device to media workers is for media workers to further promote the sale of BBZ10 at TELEM.

Network Manager of TELEM Julian Lake said that TELEM has added more cell sites to their network to ensure that their customers get island wide services. Lake did not say how many more sites were added but he assured reporters that smart phone users will get better service.

Emile van der Weerd said that right now because of the free chatting on BBM, TELEM has 40% of its customers that are using the BlackBerry services. He explained that TELEM finds this to be profitable since Blackberry was only launched in 2009 on St. Maarten.

Gives Explanation on Motions and Financial Considerations

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams explained the Budget Process, the submitting of motions and the next steps with regards to the Budget on her weekly radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on Friday. "Considering that the Budget has now been approved and there is mention in the media concerning Motions I thought it important to highlight this and to explain what is happening so that the Community can have a better grasp on the process," commented the Prime Minister while live on air.

"I look back the Budget Debate feeling confident that it was handled correctly. I would also like to mention that the Parliament of St. Maarten has had a considerable amount of time to examine and discuss the Budget. Despite the fact that Government submitted a draft budget on October 2012, I believe that Parliament has had a sufficient amount of time this year to carry the Budget through the approval process. Budget approval is one of the most important tasks of parliament and is one of the basic and principle rights of Parliament as the representative of the people, especially considering that on of the central mandates of Parliament is to approve and pass the Budget. This, in addition to the right of initiative, or the right to propose a draft law is what is referred to as a constitutional right of parliament. Many also feel that the right to legislate is also one of those rights enshrined in constitutional law, however, when it comes to national ordinances Parliament has a shared responsibility with Government in that regard. Both need to go through a particular process that goes through the Council of Advice, if needed the Social Economic Council, and the handling by Parliament so for this reason legislation is looked at as a shared responsibility," disclosed the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also clarified the Motions which were submitted by the various factions during the Plenary Session of Parliament discussing the Budget: "Members of Parliament can submit a Motion which is an expression or statement that is expressed and which is subsequently put into what is called a motion, which is another constitutional term.

"A motion is an expression or a wish or a feeling or a standpoint so to speak which one or more MP's can submit. The expression is then supported and carried either with a majority or unanimously if that motion is to be passed. Members of Parliament can submit motions on any topic which they deem important. Usually motions are drafted starting with considerations and an elucidation and then are subsequently carried in a motion. Motions can be carried in Parliament at anytime and need not necessarily need to occur during Budget Deliberations as was the case recently. The Prime Minister stated that there were sixteen motions submitted last week. Most of the motions were passed and accepted while some were rejected," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM further highlighted that the Budget, as approved by Parliament, now needs to go to the CFT to ascertain whether it still complies with the requirements of the laws that Governs Financial Supervision: "This is important because, as I mentioned earlier, Parliament has the Budget right and could have amended the Budget or could have changed it as such. The Budget will now go to CFT to look if Parliament stayed within the context of the law and also to see if any decisions taken by Parliament are contradictory to having a balanced budget. I was indicating that to parliament taking this into consideration. Going back to the Motions issue I have expressed the hope that the passed Motions that have a financial nature are not seen as changes to the Budget, which would have as a result the Budget being delayed. This is extremely important; if the CFT would now look at the Budget and see that changes were made which would have an effect we would have to go through the whole process once again. Right now I am keeping my fingers crossed that we do not get that recommendation from the CFT."

The Prime Minister concluded by stating that Government and Parliament will be cooperating closely to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in order to ensure that the motions are carried out while still operating within the 2012 Budget as submitted by Parliament.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

utsbbz10go10logo22042013Philipsburg:--- The United Telecommunication Services (UTS) is launching its BBZ10 at 12:01am Tuesday morning at Festival Village since St. Maarten can only begin selling the new mobile devices on April 23rd, 2013. Chief Commercial Officer Christina Sprock told SMN News on Monday that UTS wants to make sure that its customers get professional guidance in using the newest smart phone, therefore Chippie staff and BB RIM Channel Manager Roberto Baretto will be in the Chippie booth to assist customers by teaching them how to use the new device on the spot in Festival Village when the sale of the BBZ10 is launched. Sprock told SMN News that persons looking for the newest Blackberry phones can check with the Chippie booth inside Festival Village just one minute after midnight Monday. Persons interested in the prepaid services can buy their BBZ10 for $645.00 while postpaid customers will be dealt with depending on various packages that are offered by UTS Chippeland which also includes a $0 package. The BBZ10 that are sold at UTS (Chippie) will function without roaming charges due to the Chippieland services that are offered by UTS islandwide.
Chief Operations Officer, Leonardo Juan Pedro said UTS is busy installing 17 additional cell sites to accommodate its customers and to provide better data services, increasing coverage and capacity for the BBZ10 and other smart phone users.
Already additional cell sites were installed in the Belvedere area, Sucker Garden, and Dutch Quarter while technicians working for UTS are still busy installing more cell sites around the island.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- With the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and the succession to the throne of His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange less than two weeks away, changes will also be made to the Presidency of the Council of State and the Royal Household.

In the process of creating awareness about the role of members of the Royal Family, the Sint Maarten Organizing Committee Inauguration (OCI) says that the abdication of Her Majesty (HM) Queen Beatrix will have changes for the presidency of the Council of State.

The presidency will automatically pass from HM Queen Beatrix to His Majesty the King, who is President of the Council under article 74 of the Dutch Constitution.

On reaching the age of majority the Prince of Orange was automatically granted a seat in the Advisory Division of the Council of State. Her Royal Highness Princess Maxima of the Netherlands was granted a seat in the Advisory Division of the Council of State on 1, October, 2004. Princess Catharina-Amalia, the eldest daughter of Prince Willem Alexander and Princess Maxima will be granted her seat in the Advisory Division of the Council of State when she reaches the age of 18.

When a new monarch ascends to the throne, it is customary for certain Officers of the Royal Household to resign their posts, to enable the new monarch to exercise his constitutional right to organize his Household, taking due account of the public interest.

The Officers in question include the Grand Master of the Royal Household, the Chief of the Military Household, the Principal Secretary to the Queen, the Treasurer, the Master of Ceremonies, the Marshal of the Court, the Comptroller of the Royal Palaces, the Crown Equerry, and Director of the Royal Archives and the Director of Human Resources.

For more information about the Royal Family, you can visit the Government website and download the inauguration booklet. The link is: www.sintmaartengov.org/government/specialcampaigns/pages/default.aspx

rotaractsxmsunrisecleansaroundfreshwaterpond21042013Zagersgut:--- In celebration of World Earth Day, the Rotaract Club of St. Marten Sunrise conducted a cleanup around the Fresh Water Pond in Zagersgut on Saturday 20th April 2013. The cleanup started at 6:00am and ending at 8:00am with over 30 garbage bags filled with trash lying around the shores of the fresh water pond collected. World Earth Day is April 22nd 2013 and this initiative was done through the advice and recommendation of the St. Maarten Pride Foundation who encouraged Rotaractors we pay close attention to the ponds around the island and not just the beaches.

After visiting the Fresh Water Pond prior to the cleanup, members of Rotaract Sunrise were astonished by the amount of garbage that has been washed ashore. Trash such as, bottles, shopping carts, steering wheels, food containers, household fans and car tire caps were among the rubbish collected at Saturday's cleanup. Rotaract Sunrise would like to remind everyone that Earth Day was created to remind us that we all share the same planet. Sharing Earth means taking responsibility for what we use and how we use it. It is a day to think of the environmental challenges we face and how to solve them. President of Rotaract Sunrise Elisia Lake stated that "people have to become more aware of the role that the environment plays in helping sustain life in this fragile world of ours and that we need to take an active role in protecting the Earth and not polluting it".

The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise urges the citizens of St. Maarten to celebrate Earth Day and conserve natural resources for future use. Earth supports life, and we should be happy about it. In addition, the members of Rotaract would like to encourage the general public to dispose their garbage in the right way and to make use of the various garbage bins that are placed around the island because protecting Earth is every person's and every country's responsibility.

george21082009Member of Parliament George Pantophlet would like to know if anyone is paying attention to the Dutch Budget of 2013 and their economy. He has learnt that they have a deficit of some 16.7 billion euros or some 2.7% of their Gross Domestic Product. The European Union members have agreed to 3%. It is believed however that it is more like 4.5% and if no new policies are implemented this deficit can grow more in 2014 and 2015 for that matter. The following is a quote: "The Dutch Financial sector has worsened since 2007" end of quote. But fortunately for them they are allowed to have a deficit while St. Maarten is not allowed to have a deficit. And this is the per capita the 5th richest country in Europe. With regards to our Budget he knows we signed an agreement to have the Kingdom Law for Financial Supervision established (afspraak is afspraak). And article 100.2 of our constitution states; "The annual Budget and the long-term budget shall be balanced". And goes on to explain when departure from such might be necessary. On the matter of the Dutch's deficit I will not be able to say whether they are including investments overseas and assets they have in many countries around the world. He would not be surprised if some of the monies not circulating are somewhere in a safe haven where many other vibrant millionaires hide their money from which no taxes have been paid. But what's new. According to reports 30 to 40% of the world's money is in these accounts. Maybe if some of the millionaires in the Netherlands would bring these monies back and pay their fare share of taxes it would turn the deficit into a surplus. Let us look at the issue of many homeowners in the Netherlands and the value of their homes. According to The Central Bureau for Statistics of the Netherlands, in 2011 a quarter of the homes were worth less than their mortgage, approximately 1 million homes. The report continues to mention that since 2008 a share of these households with a lower value than their mortgage have doubled from 13 to 25 percent. It is an average of 13 thousand euro's per household. This amount differs tremendously per age category. Almost 60% of these persons are younger than 40. And the homeowners of whom the breadwinner is between the ages of 25 to 30, it stands at three quarter or 75% of the ones who's mortgages are worth more than their homes. Those who entered during the peak of the market, not only are most of their homes undervalued but on average they suffer the most, almost 30 thousand euro's. So he understands why some Dutch politicians are taking the focus from what is happening in the Netherlands and placing it on St. Maarten. In other words take the heat off them. They as their people are saying have mismanaged their funds. Pensioners have lost part of their pension because of bad investments. With the ongoing negative developments the Dutch are looking at a 10% decrease in purchasing power. That should make a good front page story on St. Maarten? Please don't blame me for this quote it is from Mandela's Book "Long walk to freedom". I am sure there are many who will not like it but he was writing about his experience in South Africa during the Apartheid Regime period so I don't know who had access to the written media at that time but here goes and I quote:"Although I read a variety of newspapers from around the country, newspapers are only a poor shadow of reality; their information is important to a freedom fighter not because it reveals the truth, but because it discloses the biases and perceptions of both those who produce the paper and those who read it" end of quote.

Member of Parliament, George Pantophlet

wibdonatestosmlla21042013Philipsburg:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) was very pleased to provide a donation to assist the Sint Maarten Little League Association. These funds will be used to help host the Latin American and Caribbean Little League Senior Division Championship, which will be held in St. Maarten from July 5th - 14th, 2013. There will be over 315 junior athletes from fifteen Regional and Latin American countries, participating in this prestigious championship. WIB wishes the best of success to all the teams attending, especially St. Maarten's team and urges our community to support the games.

The donation was made to Mr. Alfonso Blijden and Ms. Maureen Vlaun, Secretary and board member of the Association. Presenting the cheque on behalf of WIB is Mr. Derek Downes, Deputy Managing Director.

swescotwilliamsatkingsdaycrowncarousel21042013Sucker Garden:--- The Prime Minister attended the No Kidding with our Kids After School Activities King's Day Crown Carousel at the Lion's Den in Sucker Garden on Friday. The event, which was organized as part of the inauguration of King Willem Alexander next week, featured various activities all centered around the theme of the inauguration. The Prime Minister enjoyed presentations on the activities centered on the Dutch Flag, the Throne Ganzenbord, a Match the Words game, Decorative Snack making, Take a Bite Game, the decorating of the children's own crown, Can Throwing, Sjoelen, a Balloon Dance, a Sack Race, Egg Race and Bowling. The Prime Minister also took the time to take part in a few of the games. "It is so heartening to see these youngsters all dressed in orange engaged in activities centered on the inauguration. I again would like to congratulate the No Kidding with our Kids Foundation in this activity and in receiving the Orange Bow Award earlier this week," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmacademyreceivesappreciationgiftfrombfc21042013ST. PETERS:--- On Friday, the St. Maarten Academy received copies of The Angel Horn by Shake Keane, for each student of its Form 4 and 5 literary classes, said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

The poetry appreciation and HNP reading/writing motivation gift came from the St. Martin Book Fair, which is gearing up for its 11th annual edition from May 30-June 1, 2013.

"As principal of the St. Maarten Academy, we are thankful to the Book Fair Committee for choosing our institution this year to do its pre-Book Fair presentation in the form of books, but mostly thankful to have the author Max Rippon among us today," said Shareed Hussain, principal of the St. Maarten Academy.

Well-known Guadeloupean author, Max Rippon flew in from Marie Galante and took part in the presentation, which he and youngest Book Fair Committee (BFC) member, Akilah Meulens, made to principal Hussain. A favorite book fair returnee writer, Rippon's novels are studied in primary schools in the North of the island.

The Angel Horn is the most comprehensive poetry collection by Keane, one of the fathers of modern Caribbean literature, an educator and a famously innovative jazz trumpeter from St. Vincent, said Sample.

"Young readers can quickly get into many of Shake Keane's poems," said Sample. "We also want youngsters to see, touch, share and enjoy a book of this quality that was published on their home island," said Sample about the 194-page title, published by HNP in 2005.

About 20 students were gathered in the Academy classroom for the presentation. "When one lives on an island the fastest and easiest way to travel the world is through books. You can tour the world by reading books. You are the future and reading will make your future much brighter," said Rippon to the high schoolers.

Pre- and post-Book fair activities have over the years involved schools, senior citizens homes, and libraries on both parts of St. Martin, and the prison in Pointe Blanche, said book fair coordinator Shujah Reiph.

Conscious Lyrics Foundation and HNP are organizing the St. Martin Book Fair 2013 in collaboration with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and the University of St. Martin.

cdeweeverwith2013vwacommittee21042013Great Bay:--- On Wednesday morning, members of the organizing committee for the Vaccination Week of the Americas(VWA) 2013 of the Collective Preventive Services handed over promotional items to Minister of Health, Cornelius De Weever.
Minister De Weever was handed by the Chair Anuska Gibbs, a t-shirt with a photo of fruits and vegetables to the front and back of the t-shirt along with the slogan Take the challenge "Eat Healthy St. Maarten." The Minister was also given a hat with fruits affixed to it, reiterating the importance of eating healthy and to signify the name of the carnival troupe "Tutti Frutti Healthy Steppers."
Minister De Weever stated that it is important as a nation for us to pay attention to our health and most importantly eat healthy. "I am inviting the community of St. Maarten to come out to the Children's Carnival Parade on Sunday, and see a beautiful display of various fruits and vegetables in costume form."
Vaccination Week of the Americas runs from April 20-27, 2013, it is an extraordinary effort led by countries and territories of the region to advance equity and access to vaccination. VWA activities strengthen the national immunization programs in the Americas by reaching out to populations with little access to regular health services. Since its inception in 2003, more than 410 million individuals of all ages have been vaccinated during campaigns conducted under the framework of VWA.

steelbridgeforcausewayleavingholland21042013POINT BLANCHE:--- St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies (SMHG) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo is pleased to announce that the Causeway Swing Bridge left Hollandia Shipyard in the Netherlands on Friday for Sint Maarten, and will arrive early May.

The Swing Bridge is 220 feet long and weighs 450 tons. The Causeway has a total length of 2493 feet and features a two-lane motorway, a bicycle track and footpaths.

On April 17 the load out of the swing bridge from shipyard to the transport vessel took place. Other preparations for the voyage took place on April 18 for the cross-Atlantic voyage.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Causeway falls under the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation. The Lagoon Authority aims to ensure that Sint Maarten remains a top yachting destination in the Caribbean while ensuring a safe, secure, pollution free and environmentally sustainable Simpson Bay Lagoon. The Causeway is just one of several initiatives leading to the aforementioned.

Construction of the Causeway started early 2012 and is scheduled to be completed by December 2013. Construction is being carried out by Volker Stevin Construction Europe BV.

The Causeway will improve accessibility to Simpson Bay, the airport and Cole Bay. It will become even more important when the existing Simpson Bay Bridge is open or temporarily out of operation.

The new Causeway will have two round-a-bouts at the Airport Road near the end of the runway and at Union Road near the border. There will be two protected sidewalks for pedestrians and a bicycle track.

The swing bridge is the only element of the Causeway that had to be constructed in the Netherlands. There will be two navigating channels for boats to pass through simultaneously when the swing bridge is open. Large mega yachts will also be able to pass through.

The Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority Corporation, is a subsidiary of SMHG, and has an advisory role with respect to Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

To receive statements online via WIB@Home

PHILIPSBURG:--- On April 23rd, International Earth Day, The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) will start a campaign with the slogan "Click and Go GREEN!" for clients who select to receive online-only statements via WIB@Home.

In celebration of 'Earth Day' and for a period of 3 months, starting on April 23rd until July 31st, WIB customers can change to receive their monthly account statements online and have a chance to win one of three Kompa Leon Money cards valued at Naf 500.00 each. All statements are accessible online for a minimum of 2 years. It's easier than you think. Log on to your WIB@Home account and make your green contribution by activating the 'online-only statement' option.

Don't have WIB Online Banking? Well this is the time to get it. WIB Online Banking enables customers to perform their banking needs from a personal computer or other mobile devices anywhere, anytime with any one of our convenient services: WIB@Home (for personal accounts), WIB Direct Business (for small & medium sized businesses) and WIB Direct Corporate (for larger sized companies). Sign up, click and activate to receive 'online-only statement' and WIN!

Other 'green' products WIB has to offer are:
Energy Alternative Loans, Easy Charge (Cell Phone recharge) SMS to recharge your prepaid cellphone.

Do something good for yourself and your environment and click to activate and receive your online-only statement today. For more information, visit the WIB website at www.wib-bank.net, visit your nearest WIB branch or call your Partner in Progress at 546-2880 or 546-8881. WIB supports "Going Green"! Come and join us.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM) – The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs: The carnival season is upon us again. One of our largest and most flamboyant cultural traditions, Carnival brings a unique opportunity for St. Maarten's creative and performance artists to display their many skills and talents and for its population to relax, have fun and enjoy the fruits thereof.

Over the years carnival has gone through many seasons of change. With each new generation the reveling, parades and shows have gotten bigger, bolder and have acquired an international flair. Carnival also serves to family and friends together during a time of fete and enjoyment. From all over the Caribbean and the world people travel to experience the magic that is unique to St. Maarten's Carnival.

Designers and creative artists will spend countless hours conceptualizing ads, costumes, banners, backdrops, cultural outfits and floats, while seamstresses, craftsmen and -women will bring these designs to life. Musical and theatrical artists will compose witty and catchy lyrics, melodies and beats to awaken the nation or help them to "free up they self".

Crowds will gather together in the 'Village' to listen, laugh and cheer as the Calyspo gives voice to the thoughts of the people while the Roadmarch makes them want to jam. Young and old competing, going up for queen or vying for the title of Calyspo King or Roadmarch Queen. Talent, confidence and skills will be on display for all to see, experience and enjoy. Local and international talent showcased every night in the party that doesn't stop for two weeks.

The smell of BBQ chicken and ribs and smoke rising to the sky; conch soup, whelk soup, oyster soup and goat water, Johnny cake, fry fish, grill fish, stew this and that, conch and dumpling ... all foods that reflect our intangible cultural heritage.

Carnival 2013 will wind down to the Jouvert jump up and parades, when even the spectators form part of the scene. Some of these traditions have made our carnival famous and well loved. Many travel from near and far to celebrate with us. Today it is one of the grandest in the Caribbean, something we can all be proud of.

Contrary to popular belief carnival is not about being scantily clothed or displaying lewd and lascivious behavior. Rather, the season is about celebrating St. Maarten's culture and enjoying the festivities with family and friends. Families are encouraged to take the time to spend with one another enjoying the many events designed for togetherness.

The celebrations have already started with pre-jump ups, and junior calypso and queen shows. Our teens and seniors have already displayed their skills, creativity and style in their cultural wear and speech competition.

I encourage my fellow St. Maarteners and visitors alike to get together, have fun, live, laugh and love, but to do so responsibly. Keep your children close, as this is not a time for a lack of parental control or supervision. Remember who you are, a proud citizen of St. Maarten. Let your actions reflect your true character. Alcohol affects our actions negatively when overdone, I implore you to drink responsibly and not to drink and drive.

In addition, this is not a time to 'settle a score' with someone or to disrespect one another. Let us continue to uphold our earned title as the 'Friendly Island'. I thank our Police force, VKS and Security Officers who maintain safety, especially during this time.

This carnival season, I look forward to great entertainment, inspired creativity, enticing cuisine and all around togetherness and fun. I encourage all carnival lovers, spectators and participants to be safe and to enjoy the festivities responsibly.

Come Experience Life! Have a safe and enjoyable Carnival 2013!

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The application process for Mobility Passes for the 2013 Hurricane Season which starts from June 1 to November 30, starts as of April 22 only for the business sector and vital organizations.

The pass allows the aforementioned to assess possible damage to their property in the event that a hurricane can caused damage to parts of the country.

Potential applicants have until May 25 to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a Mobility Pass.

For the 2013 season, the application form as well as information sheet can be downloaded from the Fire Department's website www.brandweersxm.net under the tab link "Hurricane Information" followed by the "Hurricane Passes" tab.

Passes are issued to the following categories: government personnel, personnel of essential companies or organizations, (sub) contractors for the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), transportation passes for hotel staff, business owners and members of vital organizations to assess possible damage to their property.

The hurricane pass application procedure is only intended for businesses and vital organizations with respect to their key personnel receiving an exemption to a curfew.

The Office of Disaster Management is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.

The hurricane mobility pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations. The Prime Minister assesses the damage after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.

After a disaster has struck, and a curfew has been imposed, the public roads can only be accessed by emergency crews. The Prime Minister will ensure that the curfew is limited to the essential time that is needed to execute emergency and disaster relief and recovery efforts.

The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5, Cay Hill before May 25, 2013, with all necessary documents attached.

Applicants will be informed by email or telephone when to pick up the pass at the aforementioned address between office hours, Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00PM.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A series of five preparatory workshops are being organized by the Student Support Services Division (SSSD) for all students who applied for study financing via the Study Financing Division (SF) of the Ministry of Education to pursue their studies in Holland.

These interactive and themed workshops, which are slated to start on April 22, 2013 and run until June, are designed to address many of the issues that our students face while pursuing their studies in Holland and to equip them to be successful.

The titles and objectives of the five workshops include:

  1. Preparing for my Holland experience
    Objective: Assessing and adjusting expectations: focus on reality.
  2. Social/Cultural and personal issues and adjusting to life in Holland.
    Objective: Familiarization with new environment: What to expect.
  3. Educational Success I
    Objective: To provide information which can assist in educational success
  4. Educational Success II
    Objective: To provide more information which can assist in educational success
  5. Integrating into society in Holland.
    Objective: Provide information about maintaining a sense of wellbeing in integration without letting go who you are.

Some of the topics that will be covered in these workshops include expectations about Holland, day to day living, dealing with home sickness or feeling overwhelmed, learning styles, study skills, time management, importance of Dutch language skills, group interaction, handling procrastination, increasing motivation, dealing with prejudices, cultural differences, coping strategies, and the importance of friends and networks.

According to SSSD officials, these workshops are an initiative of the Minister of Education and all the workshops will be held in the evening hours from 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at the University of St. Martin. They added that attendance to the workshops is mandatory and participants will be required to sign in and out at the workshops.

Once the workshops conclude, there will be a general session for the students where officials from the Ministry of Education are slated to address the students. In addition to this, there will also be a session for the parents of these students, where parental involvement in the students' lives will be stressed. It is mandatory for at least one parent of the student to be present at this session.

All Holland study financing applicants are urged to attend all of the sessions on the respective dates. The Division of Study Financing sent an email to each applicant informing them about the workshops and the dates they have to attend and followed up the email with a phone call.

Head of the Student Support Services Division and acting head of the Division of Study Financing, Olga Mussington-Service, stated that the Ministry strives to do all that it can do to ensure that our students are prepared as they continue their educational journey.

"The content of the sessions were derived at based on feedback from students in Holland regarding their preparedness and the bottlenecks that they face while pursuing their studies and the findings in the 2012 report of the Stichting Soualiga Foundation", Mussington-Service said.

Mussington-Service further stated that the staff of the Division of Study Financing is actively engaged in the preparations for the departure of our students and these workshops are part of a joint program to be executed by SF and SSSD.

Should you have any questions about the workshops, you can contact Michel Chance at the Student Support Services Division at Tel: 543-1235.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet April 24 with respect to official travel to Parlatino.

The central committee will meet on Wednesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Central Committee will be requested to approve the travel of the President of Parliament to Panama to attend a meeting of the Junta Directiva (board) of Parlatino that is scheduled for May 10.

Parlatino is the Latin American Parliament, a regional permanent organization composed by the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Parlatino was created in 1964. The purpose of Parlatino is to promote, human rights, economic and social development; to maintain and foster relations with other geographic parliaments, as well as international organizations; and to promote self-determination and defense against imperialism and colonialism.

The Parliament of Sint Maarten became a member of Parlatino in the latter quarter of 2010.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations.

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

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

kassavpressconference20042013Marigot:--- The legendary Zouk band Kassav has arrived on St. Martin and checked in to Beach Plaza hotel in Marigot.

A press conference was held at the Beach Plaza hotel attended by local and regional media houses.

Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest featuring Kassav - Carimi - Asa Banton is slated for Saturday, April 20th LIVE at the festival village; one show you cannot miss!

Promoters are reminding the public that the ticket office at the festival village will be open from 10 am this morning so you can avoid the long lines later tonight by getting your tickets early.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinic from the Collective Prevention Service (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, will be closed on Monday, April 22 and Tuesday, April 23. Services will resume on Wednesday, April 24.

Cul de Sac:--- This coming Sunday April 21st the Final of the Ford Big Bash T20 cricket tournament will be held at the Caribe Lumber Ballpark, starting at 2pm. The final is a clash between the two top teams of St. Maarten,
NAGICO Cricket Club takes on WINAIR Conquerors. Both teams are star studded with many local talented stars such as Stephen Evans, Romain Doodnauth, and Lerry Baptiste. Overseas stars such as Shane Burton, Merlin Liburd, and Adelvin Phillips will also be showing off their talents. All with the ultimate goal, to become the first Ford Big Bash T20 Cricket Champions, a tournament sponsored by Caribbean Auto.
Six teams participated and 23 matches were played in this well organized tournament sponsored by Caribbean Auto. The Ford Big Bash T20 cricket tournament was a great success not only because of the numbers of teams and talented players participating, but also because of the standard of the games played. The games were very well led by the members of the corps of umpires of the St. Maarten Umpires Association. The local top teams dearly wanted to win this first spectacular Ford Big Bash T20 tournament and some teams secured the participation of overseas talents to increase their chances of success.
NAGICO Cricket Clubs was the only undefeated team, and for many they are the favorites to win the Ford Big Bash T20 tournament. The others competing teams pushed the NAGICO team continuously and they needed to call on all their talents to ensure victory each time. WINAIR Concorerors reached the final by beating MNO Spartanz last week Sunday and are certainly motivated to prove everyone wrong by beating NAGICO in this Sunday's final.
All the action takes place on Sunday 21st April at the Caribe Lumber Ballpark at 2pm, The Final of the Ford Big Bash T20 cricket tournament sponsored by Caribbean Auto.

kimberlyillidge24032013Middle Region:--- Relatives and friends of slain Kimberly Illidge went after the suspects that stabbed her to death on March 24th, 2013. The two suspects were released on Thursday afternoon because the prison guards did not respect the conditions set by the judge of instruction when he extended their pre-trial detention. Several persons in the area went after "Eric" with a baseball bat to ensure they got justice for the death of the play school teacher. It is understood that Eric lives directly opposite the home of slain Kimberly Illidge and although Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos spoke to the family at length on Thursday when the judge of instruction ordered the release of the suspects, a huge commotion erupted Friday night and police were called to the scene.

It should be noted that while the two suspects Shaniska Brooks and one Eric of Jamaican decent were held at the Philipsburg holding cells, the detention and protection of suspects fall under the Director of the Prisons Edward Rohan and not the Police Management. SMN News learnt that one of the suspects was denied the educational classes that are set down by the judge of instruction. According to information reaching SMN News, the officer that was assigned to ensure that the suspect got his/her classes was busy with one of the two suspects at the time. Attorney General Taco Stein told SMN News that a decision was taken by his office and the Prosecutor's Office to appeal the decision of the Judge of Instruction. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos told SMN News on Saturday that he filed the appeal on Friday because his office only has three days in which they could have appealed the decision of the judge of instruction. "Even though I know I could have done it on Monday I submitted the appeal on Friday and the arguments under which the Prosecution has appealed will be submitted to the court on Monday." Mos further explained that while the Prosecution can appeal the decision of the Judge of Instruction, they cannot appeal the conditions that were set by the judge of instruction when he ordered that they be placed in pre-trial detention.

Mos said that even though the two suspects were released, the Prosecution went one step further and asked the court to have the two suspects monitored by the Court of Guardianship which was granted. "Even though these suspects are out of jail for now, they still have to abide by the rules set down by the Court of Guardianship." SMN News asked Mos if he knew when the appeal would be heard, he said he could not say but the Attorney General has to convince the Common Court of Justice on Monday of the urgency of the case and what could be the possible outcome now that the suspects have been released. Mos said the two suspects have to follow a school program, a preacher visits them at least twice a week for their social and moral well-being, and they are also transported to the Pointe Blanche Prison facility for their recreation.
It should also be noted that one of the suspects is a flight risk because he is not from St. Maarten and while the Prosecution has filed an appeal there is nothing they can do until the outcome of the appeal is pronounced.

stabbingfillin24102012Bush Road:--- On Thursday April 18th, while the Opening Jump-up Parade for the Carnival Season 2013 was on the Bush road heading towards the Festival Village, a confrontation involving three young men took place during which one man was stabbed with a knife. A police officer saw the disturbance taking place and immediately took action to bring it to an end. The officer noticed that one of the young men had quite an amount of blood on his shirt and when they checked him they realized he had been stabbed on the left side of his stomach. The victim with initials K.R. pointed out a man with initials A.C.J. (18) from Sint Maarten as the person who stabbed him. This suspect was arrested on the spot. A scissors was found in one of his pockets and a kitchen knife which was used to commit this act was found on the ground close to this suspect. A second suspect with the initials R.A.H.P. (17) from Sint Maarten was also arrested in this case and a container of "Pepper spray" was found in his possession. All weapons were confiscated for further investigation. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The victim whose situation was quite serious was immediately operated on and then admitted to hospital for further observation. Both suspects were taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where they remain in custody for further investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

pjiaedonatestoartsaveslives18042013~Regina Labega enthusiastically supports Art Saves Lives Foundation~

Simpson Bay:--- Local Award winning dancer and President of Art Saves Lives Foundation, Nicole C. De Weever recently received a donation from Ms. Regina Labega, Managing Director of the Princess Juliana International Airport for the upcoming workshops which will be held from June 24th -June 28th 2013 on St. Maarten.
Sixteen artists from the United States will be traveling to St. Maarten to take part in the week long series of twelve workshops on African Dance, Yoga, Pilates, Voice/Vocal Performance, Modern Dance, Tap, Jewelry Design, Ballet, Spoken Word, Hip-Hop, Art of Alignment and Djembe drumming.
The donated funds will help ALSP bring this project to fruition, serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on the St. Maarten.

telemroadtocarnivalattantra18042013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group's fifth and final "Road to Carnival" event came to a thrilling end at the Tantra Nigh Club Wednesday night.
This Tantra night is billed each week as "Ladies Night" but for this week only, all attention was on TelEm Group's pre-carnival promotions which took place at the height of the evening.
"We've come to the end of the road as far as creating public awareness about the carnival event which is now here," said one of the event co-ordinators, Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas.
He said TelEm Group made lots of friends and attracted many new customers while on the road taking in – Soggy Dollar, Bliss Night Club; The Boardwalk and Sheika's Bistro in Philipsburg.
"It was definitely a big plus for us and also for the Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) who collaborated with us on this project," continued Mr. Ramdas.
He thanked all the volunteers from TelEm Group who gave up their time during many evenings to ensure the pre-carnival parties went smoothly and especially the team set up within the company to plan and execute the Road to Carnival events.
Mr. Ramdas said the work of the team is far from over.
"Now that the pre-carnival show is over and everyone is warmed up – It's time for Carnival!" he says.

Telem Press Release

metofficerepsfromdutchkingdom18042013During the past two weeks the National Meteorological Services of North and Central America and the Caribbean met in Curaçao to discuss matters of common interest, including preparation for the upcoming hurricane season.

Since the last restructuring of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, there are now four meteorological organizations responsible for rendering services on weather, climate and seismology in the Dutch Caribbean islands. These are the Meteorological Department Aruba, the Meteorological Department Curaçao, the Meteorological Department Sint Maarten and the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (in relation to the islands of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba).

The four directors of these organizations seized this opportunity to have their first joint meeting since 10-10-10, to explore opportunities for mutual support and capacity building. These include common training of staff, regional modeling for weather forecasting and joint research on climate change.

The meeting was conducted in a cordial atmosphere and all participants were satisfied with the outcome of the meeting. It was decided that the interaction between the four organizations should continue on a regular basis, in order to improve the services to the general public in the Dutch Caribbean islands.

financeministryandgactraining18042013Philipsburg:--- The staff of the Ministry of Finance and General Audit Chamber was given intense 3 day training from 9am to 5pm by the "Rijksacademie Nederland", by Professor Jeroen Wingerde.

The name of the Course being given is: Basic Accounting Controls. The idea is to enable various Departments (Staff Buro, FBBB and F.A.) within the Ministry of Finance to gain knowledge within the scope of their respective daily tasks but also to learn from The General Audit Chamber their experiences as a Higher College of State and the Controls they apply when auditing the Annual Accounts of Country Sint Maarten for which the Ministry of Finance specifically the Department of F.A. is responsible for.

Another reason the General Audit Chamber was invited to attend was to continue to have transparency between all Government Agencies in St. Maarten. The course Basic Accounting Controls were given as part of the upgrading process of civil servants, our most valuable asset. Continued professional education is an important tool that is used to equip our civil servants to become more efficient and effective thereby providing a better service to the general public.

usfolpaintsmilitarygraves18042013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Volunteers from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) continue to serve various community organizations on Curacao. On 11 April 2013, USFOL personnel spent the morning putting fresh coats of paint on the graves at the Dutch Military Cemetery located in Otrabanda.
This project was done in partnership with the Military Heritage Foundation, in preparation for the Fourth of May remembrance of the fallen service men and women at the cemetery. The USFOL's Community Relations (COMREL) projects are led by the Chapel Team, in order to reciprocate the hospitality that they have received from the citizens of Curacao.

scdfandbayside18042013Philipsburg:--- SXM clothing line, BaySide Clothing Company, has struck a deal with the Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) to sell their exclusive line of limited Carnival Tees through the Foundation's new carnival store.

The store was officially opened Thursday as a major commercial project and revenue-earner for the SCDF, offering a host of Carnival branded items to a carnival-loving public.

"With SCDF it's all about carnival and supporting all local effort to promote our carnival product locally and to an international audience," said SCDF Michael Granger.

He said he was impressed when the founders of Bayside, Lee and Rae Dominique, offered their Island Love T-shirt concept for promotion of Carnival 2013 as well as promotion of St. Maarten.

"I have personally know the founders of BaySide Clothing Company for many years. I have followed their development as teen performers on St. Maarten, and now as entrepreneurs in the hip-hop and urban culture on St. Maarten and wider-afield," said the SCDF president.

He wished Bayside well in the sale of their Tees and said the SCDF store would do its best to promote the special edition BaySide Tees throughout the carnival season.

BaySide founders Lee and Rae Dominique have meantime thanked Mr. Granger and the rest of the SCDF staffers and board for their support in carrying the locally developed brand in their new Carnival store – the first of its kind for the SCDF.

They say the agreement with the SCDF is that the Tees will be made available only at the SCDF store for an exclusive price of $19.99 to lovers of carnival and our island of St. Maarten, but at a higher retail price at other outlets.

The BaySide limited edition carnival Tees are also available online to global fans of BaySide.

utsmaineventwinners18042013Philipsburg:--- Chippie confirmed the first group of 41 winners with their tickets to The Main Event by Chippie. The Chippie customers sent an SMS to 2337 and won a ticket to the Chippie sponsored show. More winners will be selected in the coming days, so Chippie customers that haven't won yet can still keep SMSing to win a ticket!

As we celebrate an historic event of the Inauguration of the King, different activities within the Kingdom will be organized. On Friday, April 26 across the Netherlands and within the Caribbean countries of the Kingdom, King's Games will be organized. The games and other sporting activities will include a Soccer Tournament, a Walk-a-thon & Bike-A-Thon.
The King's Games will be a fun and enjoyable day for all children in our primary schools. During the King's Games a healthy, but above all festive King's Breakfast will served to the all primary school participants who will also be honored with a special T-shirt and certificate.
For persons who would like to volunteer and for those who have already signed up to volunteer a meeting will be held on Monday, April 22nd 2013 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm at the Claude Wathey Legislative Hall of the Government Administration Building, Philipsburg.
The King's Games are being organized by a special committee within the Department of Sports. To ensure a successful event, volunteers are needed to assist with the organizing of these Games. Assistance is needed from 7:30am until 2:30pm.
If you are interested in being part of this historical event, commemorating the Inauguration of King Willem Alexander, please contact the Organizing Committee Inauguration at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or the Department of Sport at telephone nr. at 542-2056 for more information.

etiennelakesetsmonkeytrap18042013Animals damage Prison Farm

Pointe Blanche:--- Management of the Pointe Blanche Prison recently contacted the St. Maarten Nature Foundation regarding issues it had with the feral monkey population affecting various districts on the island. Prison authorities reported that monkeys had ravaged the agriculture project at the prison, eating and damaging various crops which were planted and which were also almost ready to be harvested. Nature Foundation Chief Ranger Etienne Lake placed Monkey Traps within the prison in the hope of controlling the negative effects of the animals and bringing them to another location.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has been conducting baseline surveys in order to determine the abundance and level of threat posed by invasive and exotic animals on the island. "We have increasingly been receiving complaints and reports of various animals, but monkeys and raccoons in particular, causing problems for residents in various districts. Before we can make recommendations as to what can be done to control the population we first have to see how many of them are out there and what types of threats they pose to the health and safety of the general public," read a Nature Foundation Statement
.
Many residents have been contacting the Nature Foundation regarding large groups of monkeys, possibly vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), acting aggressively towards residents and pets. The Nature Foundation has also received calls concerning raccoons overturning garbage bins in numerous districts. "We urge residents to not approach these animals and contact the Nature Foundation so we can record them. If a monkey, raccoon or any other unusual animal is observed contact the Nature Foundation at 5270490 or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.," Concluded the Foundation. The Nature Foundation assures that the animals will not be harmed.

tadziobervoetsatamnhinnyc18042013Economic Development and Nature Conservation Go Hand in Hand

Tadzio Bervoets, representing the St. Maarten Nature Foundation, recently gave a guest presentation and formed part of a panel discussion at the Small Island's Conservation Symposium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Bervoets gave a presentation on how Economic Development of a developing small island nation like St. Maarten and Nature Conservation go hand in hand and are essential in promoting both a sustainable economy and conserving the important and unique wildlife habitat remaining on St. Maarten.

American president Barack Obama also recently released a plan aimed at conserving and protecting various ocean habitats while simultaneously safeguarding businesses associated with the ecosystems. "It has long been thought that conservation impedes economic development and vice versa but this is very far from the truth. It is our belief that these systems are in fact interconnected and very much dependant on each other. For example research has shown that St. Maarten's Coral Reefs and Mullet Pond for example contribute almost 60 million dollars to the economy of the island combined," commented Bervoets.

During the symposium there was much interest from participants from around the world regarding the various issues, both positive and negative, regarding the environment of St. Maarten and the Dutch Caribbean in General.

ministryofhealthtraininginnewlifesavingequipment18042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A number of first responders including nurses from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Emergency Room (ER) Nurses of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) were trained in the use of the AutoPulse Chest Compression Support Pumps that will be available onboard the nation's ambulances. The Auto Pulse is an automated, portable device with an easy-to-use, load-distributing Life Band that squeezes the entire chest, improving blood flow to the heart and brain during sudden cardiac arrest. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) nurses and ambulance assistants recently received training and instructions on the use of the lifesaving equipment. Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said: "When every second counts it is important we have the right equipment and trained staff to administer emergency care in order for them to save our lives."

governmentofficialsatusm18042013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport Affairs the Honorable in opening the Language Lab at the University of St. Martin on Wednesday. Also at the opening were the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday, Minister of Finance the Honorable Roland Tuitt and the Minister of Health and Social Affairs the Honorable Cornelius De Weever. The Prime Minister applauded the University in the realization of this important step in the development of language on St. Maarten. "I would like to congratulate and applaud USM for this very important achievement. St. Maarten, despite having its official language, is a country where many different languages and dialects are spoken and this is indeed a very important step in the research of what language means to this country. So once again I would like to applaud and congratulate the University of St. Maarten with this very important milestone," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

shaniskabrooks24032013Philipsburg:--- The judge of instruction of the Court of First Instance released the two suspects that murdered 20 year old Kimberly Illidge on March 24th in Middle Region. According to information provided to SMN News on Thursday evening, Judge Luicks released the two suspects that were being held at the Pointe Blanche Prison claiming that the prison facilities did not provide the two minor suspects with the necessary recreational programs. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed on Thursday night that the two suspects were released by the Judge of Instruction, Mos said reporters should contact the judge for an explanation because he was unable to provide the judge's reasoning for releasing two suspects who admitted to killing someone.

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News Thursday that the people of St. Maarten will soon understand what he is being faced with on a day to day basis because St. Maarten lacks certain facilities. Minister Duncan said the Prosecutor's Office is expected to appeal the decision rendered by Judge Luicks on Thursday afternoon.

Duncan said that politicians and certain parliamentarians including the CFT do not understand why he needs to move forward in building the Justice Park which will create more space and a juvenile detention center. He said the two suspects that were released Thursday, one is a male and the other is a female, both of them are 17 years old and they cannot be held in the same area, neither can these two suspects be held with prisoners that are over 18 years of age. The Minister of Justice said that currently there are two female prisoners at Pointe Blanche that are over the age of 30 years and the 17 year old female suspect cannot be in the same holding area as these two suspects, neither can she follow the same recreational program as the two adults. Duncan said the same thing applies for the male 17 year old who was also involved in the murder of 20 year old Kimberly Illidge.

Marigot:--- Over the past two weeks SMN News has been monitoring the various radio programs and we also took the time out to listen to the people of St. Martin (voters) that elected those that are in power and on the opposition benches to office. After listening to several persons, it is clear that the people of St. Martin are disgusted with the level of politics that is being displayed by those that postulated themselves for the 2012 elections.

Several St. Martiners found that politicians have gone to the lowest level when they either try to justify what they have done wrong or cast the blame on others. Some of the people that we have spoken to felt they were being used and misled when they were called upon to defend the former President who was ousted from his seat. "Even the name of God and the church was brought into the political arena to benefit someone who refused to accept he committed an error," one St. Martiner told SMN News reporter.

While those that were not elected in the last election used the opportunity given to them by the State Council to cast more blame and to insult the former President.

It is logical that the leader of the RRR and former President knows that he committed an error when he broke the rules of the electoral law. The former President ran in several elections before and he did not open more than one bank account before because he stuck to the law. The biggest question now is why he did what he did in 2012 and why he chose not to take responsibility for what was done rather than blaming everyone else.

Mr. Leopold James clearly expressed this sentiment in his interview with DJ Air Supply on the program 'One-on-One', on Thursday, April 18, 2013, when he accused the president of blaming everyone else and looking for excuses, rather than being a man and accepting full responsibility for his own actions.

Now that the episode of the former President is almost over, and there is a new President sitting at the helm, it is of utmost importance that the politicians, not only those that were elected but also those sitting on the sidelines get involved in a positive way by providing their ideas and solutions to the various problems St. Martin is faced with. After all, each and every one of the political parties that postulated in 2012 told the people of St. Martin that they love their country and its people. If that is indeed so then this is time to show the people how much they care and really get involved.

The Territorial Council should also put in place a committee where people from the community could voice their opinion and provide ideas on the projects they intend to work on. After all there will be no harm committed if there are more ideas and opinions on the table even though the final decision would rest with the elected. It has been said over and over that "all hands" should be placed on the deck to assist and work in the interest for St. Martin; therefore the Collectivity and its elected officials need to find a way to get all the hands on the deck in the interest of St. Martin.

The media became the target for the mistakes and ill will of those that ran for office, while media workers are performing their duties by informing the people of the day to day happenings, they are being crucified by politicians who did not get their way. Some of us were called unprofessional and told that we do not do our jobs. As a media operative, SMN News wants to remind politicians and elected officials that the French were the second nation to eradicate slavery in the year 1848 and it is time that the slave and dictatorship mentality be placed where it belongs since slavery in the French state was abolished just ten years after the British abolished slavery between 1833 to 1838. Therefore, SMN News will not allow anyone to dictate to us and treat us as if we are slaves. The news articles published will be supported by facts because on several occasions we attached documents to our articles as evidence.

Because of the recent trend and the concerns expressed by the people of this island, SMN News felt it necessary to inform the politicians on St. Martin to put their selfish desires aside and come together as one to work in the interest of the country they all said they love.

Protocol needs to be Observed --- Assist the COM with Protocol.

It should also be noted that while the French side did what had to be done by electing a new President in record time, even though they had one month to do so. Proper protocol was not followed during the election of the first female President (leader) of French St. Martin. As a media operative, we noticed that the extra-ordinary Territorial Council meeting had no chairman to officially open the meeting that would have established that Jean Philippe Richardson is the person that took the seat that was made available in the Territorial Council through the State Council, and to officially establish the election committee for the election of the President. What we saw on Wednesday afternoon is that the oldest and youngest member of the TC opened this meeting and proceeded with the election of the president. Another observation is that former President Alain Richardson who was sanctioned by the State Council and removed from his seat chose to intervene in the meeting and place the "Echarpe" around the neck of the newly elected President, it is now left to be seen how the State will accept the intervention of the former president. However, what we at SMN News believe is that someone with knowledge of protocol should step in and offer their services and or advice to those that are supposed to be representing St. Martin. Let us not be put to shame once more.

wibdonatestoscdf18042013PHILIPSBURG:--- On April 16, 2013, the Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) was very pleased to provide a donation to assist the Sint Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) with this year's carnival celebrations. The cheque was presented by Mr. Kelvin Bloyden (Assistant Managing Director) to the President of SCDF, Mr. Michael Granger who was very appreciative of the donation. WIB has long been an SCDF contributor and continues to provide support to St. Maarten's Carnival. WIB realizes the positive impact Carnival has on the economy, community, and culture of the island and wants to make sure that St. Maarten continues to enjoy the development of its Carnival.

In addition to WIB's monetary donation to SCDF, WIB also extended the use of its company vans to SCDF for both parade days.

WIB also encouraged the general public to join them for the WIB Block Party on April 26th from 5:30PM until 12AM, which will be held in Clem Labega Square. There will be live entertainment, food, drinks, prizes to be won, and lots of fun.

It's always more fun with your partner in progress.

WIB Press Release

taxofficeworkers25thanniversary18042013Philipsburg:--- On Friday, April 12th, 2013, a special celebration was held to honor five colleagues from the Tax Administration celebrating their 25 year anniversary in Office. In his speech the Head of the Tax Administration drs. Geert Bergsma mentioned in his speech that the 5 co-workers together have 125 years work experience within the Tax Administration. "With your broad experience, you are an example for the younger colleagues, and a source of information for your leadership. We thank you for that." Minister of Finance, the honorable Mr. Tuitt, handed out special certificates to Mrs. Ruth Nedd, Mrs. Gloria Brown, Mrs. Joan Peterson, Mrs. Anna Philips and Mrs. Joyceline Carty-Lake. "It was a good tradition within the Government of the Netherlands Antilles that on the occasion of a jubilee a special certificate was given. I find this a nice gesture and I want to present on behalf of the Ministry of Finance this special certificate to you."

French Quarter:--- SMN News team noticed over the past months that there have been some people who strive on making horrible, if not very degrading comments under the articles that are published on SMN News. Almost everyone is being attacked by a few people that we at SMN News already pinpointed. It should be noted that IP addresses can be traced through various ISPs on St. Maarten/St. Martin even if users try to hide or reroute their IP addresses through other countries. SMN News has the tools in place and professionals to conduct the necessary traces. In order to protect the readers of this website we have decided not to display the IP addresses so that law enforcement would have to travel the legal route to obtain the IP addresses of comments they feel can assist them in solving crimes.

The main idea of the comment section was to allow readers to voice their opinion in a constructive way which would assist in building St. Maarten/St. Martin as a country and nation. The owner of this website was attacked on several occasions but as usual the SMN News team believes everyone has a right to their opinion even if what they are thinking and writing is pure trash.

Therefore, we are appealing to our readers to use the comment section of this website in a more constructive way. Let your voices be heard, be more objective and instead of finding faults and criticizing everyone provide possible solutions to the problem this country is facing.

While this article is meant to be an advice and warning to our readers, everyone making comments should think twice before they do so because those affected can approach us if they feel their character was assassinated and they want to take action via the court system.

telemcarnivalpromotionteam18042013Pond Island:--- Carnival Corporate sponsor, TelEm Group, has delivered on its promise to become an active partner in the promotion of St. Maarten's premier event – Carnival 2013.
With the official launch of carnival yesterday and tonight's Night of the Hit Makers concert hosted by TelEm Group, the company is satisfied that it has played its part in raising awareness about Carnival this year.
According to TelEm Group Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Brian Mingo, the company has delivered as a main sponsor for Carnival this year and may even have redefined the tone of Corporate Carnival sponsorship on St. Maarten.
"It's not only about the thousands that we donate each year, but also about getting people moving and talking about Carnival and what it means to the economy, to the culture of the island and how you get the people of St. Maarten and visitors alike involved," said Mr. Brian Mingo.
He said this year, on top of a large financial donation to carnival, an entire program was put together by a volunteer team of TelEm Group personnel to get into the community and raise awareness about this year's carnival event – and all at a cost to St. Maarten premier telecommunication provider.
The group's activities has included a Road to Carnival series of parties at various nightspots around the island each week and for several weeks leading up to the opening of carnival.
It has also included:

  • Sponsorship of the opening night of carnival.
  • Official sponsor of the Miss Mature Pageant, Teen Pageant and Senior Pageant contests on April 22 and April, 24 respectively.
  • Title sponsor of the Youth Extravaganza on April 25.

TelEm Group will also be making a special showing during this year's carnival parade to keep carnival fever rolling right through to the end.
The company will also have a VIP section at the Festival Village and other areas which will promote TelEm Group's products and services.

"Our relationship with Carnival and our confidence in the importance of the annual event really took off a few years ago with our $1.2 Million investment in the construction of the Festival Village stage," said the Commercial Director.
He said at the time TelEm Group believed in what the Festival Village would have to offer St. Maarten in general and the island's carnival-loving followers in particular.
"Today you will see TelEm Group's name on the stage as a testament to that confidence and our continue relationship with carnival on St. Maarten," said Mr. Mingo.
The Commercial Director says a closer working relationship with the carnival organizers, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF), still needs to be developed in order to continue with new methods of corporate sponsorship for the annual event by TelEm Group.
"By getting out into the community ourselves as a partner in carnival we are supporting SCDF's efforts to give us the best carnival event the island can give each year and in this way we can say we are truly redefining the way corporate sponsorship of such a major event should work," said Mr. Mingo.

cbuncamperandrichardboyd18042013Philipsburg:--- Lion District Governor for the area 60B, Lion Claudius Buncamper MJF audited the Sint Maarten Lions Club earlier this week in a meeting at the Oasis Lounge on A.T. Illidge Road. The meeting which is held every year by hosting a visiting District Governor was extra special as the District Governor was from Sint Maarten and the Sint Maarten Lions Club was the home club.
During the meeting, Sint Maarten Lions Club President Richard Boyd outlined the four sustainable projects that the club does for the year such as the Nelson vd Linde Senior Citizen Party, Lion Rudy Hoeve Health & Wellness Fair, Lions Quest program and the ongoing support of the Sint Maarten Leo Club. The club president also outlined the many donations that it gives out which could only be done due to the healthy fundraising efforts by members throughout the year. These events are the Christmas Bingo Spectacular and the upcoming Grand Car Raffle which is schedule for June 12th.
Lion District Governor Buncamper said that financial payments of the club to the District and to Lions International were in good order but he wanted the Sint Maarten Lions Club to work on improving the membership experience as outlined in the five year plan that the district was carrying out of which he was a co-author. "Lionism is about serving the community and the membership has to be personally happy to come to meetings and feel that they are playing a role in the ongoing projects of the individual club" said the District Governor.
The audit meeting was followed by a dinner meeting after which the District Governor's official song was sung and danced by all members. The next main event for District Governor and the Sint Maarten Lions Club is the yearly multiple district convention which is scheduled for May at the St. Kitts Marriot Resort and Casino.

sarahwescotwilliams24092012Although regrets unfortunate circumstances, PM looks forward to continued close working relationship between North and South

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams yesterday congratulated Former Vice-President Aline Hanson on becoming president of the Collectivite of St. Martin. "I would like to congratulate President Hanson on becoming the new President of the Collectivite and I very much look forward to a continued close working relationship between St. Maarten South and St. Martin North. I would also like to congratulate President Hanson in being the first female president of the Collectivite and wish her the best of luck in her new function. Although I regret the circumstances that have affected our Neighbors to the North I do believe the new president of the Collectivity is up to the task and I look forward to working with her for the common good of the people of St. Maarten/ St. Martin" commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

willemalexander18042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A book of thanks and congratulations is still available for members of the community to sign in connection with the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and the succession to the throne of His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange.

When the Prince of Orange succeeds his mother, he will become King Willem-Alexander. Princess Maxima will become Queen Maxima.

The Sint Maarten Organizing Committee Inauguration says anyone wishing to thank the Queen or congratulate the Prince and Princess can leave a digital message in the book of thanks and congratulations which can be found at the following website: www.koninklijkhuis.nl.

According to the Netherlands Government Information Service (RVD), a selection of the messages will be published on the website.

carnivalzoukkompasbouyonfestphoto01042013Philipsburg:--- Zaya Records and OMC Music, organizers of the Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest are reminding the public that today, Thursday April 18th, will be the last and final day for purchasing tickets for the ZKB Fest for the price of usd $35. So take advantage of this price and get your tickets today!

Tickets will then be $45 on Friday, Saturday and at the gate. Patrons can also purchase tickets from the Carnival Village ticket office on Saturday April 20th from 10 am until.

The"Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest" carded for Saturday April 20th will feature an impressive line-up of headliners in three genres of music: the legendary complete Zouk band Kassav, the definitive kings of Konpas CARIMI and the undisputed Prince of Bouyon music, young sensation Asa Banton.

Also scheduled to perform are Youthwaves, "Ilismo", Mixmaster Dj Pauly, Ronald Lebeau and Ricky Da Phox !

Promoters are encouraging the public to come out on time as the event will kick off at 8pm sharp !

The show is definitely a must-do during this year's Carnival season, they say. "The three acts are sure to bring an explosive night of musical entertainment."

Keynote Speakers Include CNN, CBS, OWN Personalities

PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten has been selected to host the first ever Women With Purpose Global Summit - Mind, Body & Soul taking place June 18-22, 2013.The invitation-only event will bring together multi-cultural, business-savvy women with a passion for professional growth and personal development for a five-day conference being held at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino.

Summit attendees will include industry experts and 300 professional women from around the globe, including keynote speakers Soledad O'Brien, CNN news anchor, Carmen Wong Ulrich, financial contributor to CBS This Morning, and Iyanla Vanzant, OWN Network life coach, among others.

This unprecedented gathering will offer women direct personalized business-to-business meetings, pre-summit introductions, cutting-edge seminars, workshops, roundtable discussions, spa pampering in Anguilla and a day of high-end shopping on St. Barths.

Speakers include Dr. Michelle Garcia, associate dean at Johnson & Wales University; Dr. Winifred Scott, assistant professor at Dubai Zayed University; Patricia Harris, global diversity officer, McDonald's Corporation; and Pamela Ravare Browne, chief operating officer of the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance & Accounting. Roundtable topics range from media and tourism to diversity, philanthropy and more.

The Women with Purpose Global Summit - Mind, Body & Soul is created and produced by Amethyst Entertainment. For more details on the Summit and the full program, visit www.womenwithpurposeglobalsummit.com, call 754-300-7594 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For more information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

Carnival is an integral part of our culture and therefore I encourage all to be a part of this festive season

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten, the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams took time out to wish the community of St. Maarten a Happy and Safe Carnival 2013. "I would like to take this opportunity to wish the population of St. Maarten a happy and safe Carnival 2013. Carnival is an integral part of our culture and therefore I encourage all to be a part of this festive season. Enjoy the Carnival Village, the shows and of course the parades and realize that this is part of our culture," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM also took the opportunity to thank the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation for organizing an exciting and impressive carnival lineup. "I would like to commend and thank the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation for organizing an excellent and exciting Carnival 2013. Additionally I would like to thank the business community for their support of this most important item on our cultural agenda," continued the Prime Minister.

"I would like to stress that even as we celebrate carnival , we do so in a safe and respectful manner. As usual safety is priority number one. Once this is observed the good times and celebrations that come with the carnival season can freely flow. So having said that, "enjoy the celebrations, the food, the music, the costumes and the revelry". Have a safe and excellent Carnival 2013.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rduncanwithisidoreyork17042013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan met with Mighty Dow and retired Police Commissioner Hildo Martina along with the President and secretary of Curacao Music Association Manfred Gomes and Giovanni Atalita who are on the island to assist St. Maarten musicians to establish a foundation (Association) in order to protect the local music industry, artists, and culture. The four members also met with other Ministers prior to meeting with Minister Duncan on Wednesday. York said they met with Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and Minister of Culture Silveria Jacobs. He said they also met with some of the local musicians to inform them of the endeavors they are undertaking at the moment.

Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in a short introduction speech said the aim of the soon to be association is to regulate the entrance of foreign bands to St. Maarten. Minister Duncan said based on the information he received from the group is that the two associations will be working together to accomplish their mission and he as Minister of Justice will do what is necessary to assist them legally within his Ministry. Minister Duncan said that the Minister of Justice is responsible for the entrance of foreign bands and musicians and he will be assisting the group by executing the regulations. He said the association will make proposals to the Ministry and his job is to execute as quickly as possible.

Isidore York said that his foundation Dow's Musical Foundation and Divi Resort assisted with the sponsorship by hosting the two people that came to St. Maarten from Curacao to assist him and Martina who is also a musician. York said the association has not yet been established but they already chose a name for the association which will be St. Maarten Music and Artists Association. York said they are trying to break Aruba's record who took six months to form their music association and their aim is to complete the process within three months.

The President of Curacao Musician Association Manfred Gomes said that he is enlightened at the fact that the government of St. Maarten especially the Minister of Justice is willing to take the necessary steps to preserve the local musicians and artists. Gomes said just recently a huge function was held at PJIAE and two foreign bands performed there while the local musicians and bands were completely left out. "This does not happen anywhere else in the world. Curacao has a law that permits the music association to have their input when it comes to having foreign bands going to Curacao to perform. I am sure after the discussions held with the various Ministers on St. Maarten they will assist in realizing such a law in order to protect the local musicians and the culture of St. Maarten."

 

wiblaunchesannualreport17042013Philipsburg:--- The Windward Islands Bank (WIB) managing director Jan Beaujon and his marketing staff held a small cocktail reception at the Windward Islands Bank on Wednesday to honor and present their annual report to the various artists who submitted their drawings that were used in the 2012 Annual Report 2012. Beaujon told reporters that the intention was to personally thank the various artists that were present and whose art work were used in the 2012 Annual Report.

Some of the artists that attended the cocktail were Roland Richardson, Youmain Dormoy, Ruby Bute, and Max Philipa. The handbook can be picked up at the Windward Islands Bank or viewed on the WIB website.


Click here to view WIB's 2012 Annual Report.

swescotwilliamsreceivesbbz1017042013Philipsburg:--- UTS CEO Eastern Caribbean, Glen Carty presented the first BlackBerry Z10 device to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams. The device is the first in a shipment of this new model of BlackBerry devices that will become available to the Latin American region as of April 23rd, 2013. The Prime Minister accepted the device in her capacity as Chairlady of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) of Country St. Maarten. UTS' mobile brand, Chippie, offered the device to the Prime Minister to allow her to stay in closer contact with emergency service providers, her operating staff and to allow her to receive and send pertinent information on approaching weather systems and other possible crisis situations. Through the Chippieland concept, Chippie mobile service will allow the Prime Minister full voice and data connectivity on both sides of our island as well as in Curacao, on all BES territories and even Surinam and other islands in the region. The new BlackBerry Z10 device will be commercially available at UTS from April 23rd, when the devices are officially allowed to be sold by authorized BlackBerry sanctioned mobile providers. Devices sold locally thus far have reached the island through various unauthorized sales channels and are not eligible for warranty claims or service from BlackBerry.

UTS Press Release

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Recently several newspapers in St. Maarten wrote that the most recent semiannual report of the Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht Curaçao en Sint Maarten - Cft), offers a misinterpretation of facts. The Board considers it of importance to set the record straight by means of this press release.
Twice a year the Board of financial supervision submits a written report of its activities to the Kingdom Council of Ministers. This report, the so called semiannual report, is forwarded to the governments and parliaments of the respective countries.
On March 28th Sint Maarten newspapers reported that Cft erroneously stating that no financial statement were drafted by the government of Sint Maarten. The Board informs however on page 15 of the semiannual report, that it on October 31st it received the draft financial statements for the extended year 2010/2011; thus the draft financial statements over the period starting on October 10th, 2010 until December 31st, 2011. On the same page it is mentioned that the SOAB and the General Audit Chamber would report about these draft financial statements not earlier than 2013. Up until now this reaction has not been received. It is furthermore stated on page 22 that the financial statements are only available in draft and have not yet been adopted by the Parliament.
On December 7th, the General Audit Chamber submitted its report on the financial statements of the former island territory of Sint Maarten to Parliament. This concerns thus financial statements over the period up to October 10th, 2010 and not over the period after October 10th, 2010. This report was shown to the media during a press conference of the Minister of Finance and was also published on the website of the General Audit Chamber. The financial statements from October 10th, 2010 to December 31th, 2011 have not been submitted to the General Audit Chamber as yet.
For the sake of completeness, the Board stated in its press release of March 25th, that 'up till now none of the two countries have an audited annual report to present to Parliament to account for the use of tax money since October 10th, 2010.' This statement is correct. No audited financial statement was presented to the parliament of the period since October 10th, 2010. For the Board of financial supervision it is of great value that financial statements are timely drawn up and that accountability if given to Parliament, reason why this subject was explicitly brought forward in the semiannual report.
The Cft cannot but conclude that the facts given in the semiannual report are correct. To avoid errors, it is a good practice that the Cft confers with the Ministry of Finance before it submits its semiannual report to the Kingdom Council of Ministers. The Ministry however did not detect any factual inaccuracies during the two weeks that it had, to provide comments on the draft semiannual report.

CFT Press Release

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs on Tuesday issued on the eve of World Heritage Day her message entitled, "The Heritage of Education".

World Heritage Day also commonly known as International Day for Monuments and Sites is celebrated every year on April 18 celebrating the world's built cultural heritage.

UNESCO established April 18 as the International Day for Monuments and Sites in 1983. It aims to raise public awareness about the diversity and vulnerability of the world's built monuments and heritage sites and the efforts required to protect and conserve them. Each year has a different theme which is selected and this year's theme is "The Heritage of Education".

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in one of its communiqués recognizes that although it is possible to find several definitions of education, all of them refer to a form of learning knowledge, skills and habits in which of a group of people are transferred from one generation to the next through teaching, training or research. Education also means the transmission of beliefs and values and can therefore be considered as one of the main means for constructing the future.

In ancient civilizations, adults trained the young of their society in the knowledge and skills they would need to master. The evolution of culture and human beings as a species depended on this practice of transmitting knowledge. In pre-literate societies this was achieved orally and through imitation; story-telling continued from one generation to the next. Oral language developed into written symbols and letters. The depth and breadth of knowledge that could be preserved and passed on soon increased exponentially. When cultures began to extend their knowledge beyond the basic skills of communicating, trading, gathering food, religious practices, etc., formal education, and schooling, eventually followed. Schooling in this sense was already in place in Egypt between 3000 and 500 BP.

Throughout history and in different geo-cultural contexts, education was practiced in a wide range of places or buildings. Open spaces, agora or the protective shadow of a tree could be useful for the transmission of knowledge, but also specific institutional buildings such as schools, universities, madrasas, academies, libraries, monasteries, etc. Many of those buildings, groups of buildings or sites are recognized as bearing not only social or institutional values but also historic or artistic ones, and have therefore become a significant part of our cultural heritage. The protection and conservation of the heritage of education not only implies preserving cultural assets but also, at the same time, celebrating education as one of the fundamental human tasks.

Several heritage properties on our beloved "Souahliga" Land of Salt linked to education have reached national recognition and are about to reach international recognition and hopefully soon will be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List: the sites of the Methodist Church, Brick Building, Methodist Manse, Catholic Convent, Fort Amsterdam and not forgetting the Sand Box Tree all have several things in common: they were institutions of imparting knowledge in St. Maarten's early development.

The Methodist Church served as the first institution to educate enslaved Africans, Catholic Convent/ St. Joseph school with the Nuns were instrumental in educating a number of prominent persons in our community, PJD2 in its early beginnings housed at Fort Amsterdam was the institution that prepared many local and regional journalists who have become recognized internationally as journalist of outstanding capabilities on the world stage and the Sand Box tree which has re-emerged as a local gathering area for communicating the concerns of national importance that are not discussed in the main stream media for whatever reasons.

All of the aforementioned cultural properties linked to education and bearing historic, artistic or social values enjoy proper protection and recognition with the exception of the Sand Box Tree which has to be elevated into a category of trees worthwhile of being listed to be protected on the monument list.

In closing on this year's World Heritage Day I am urging every citizen of my beloved St. Maarten to reflect and ask the question: Am I properly interpreting the values of those cultural properties and presenting them accordingly to the younger generation of our society? It boils down to two simple proposition and obligation which are:

Each generation is obligated to teach the future generation of the past and as Jomo Kenyatta stated "Our children may learn about the heroes of the past. Our task is to make ourselves the architects of the future."

Happy World Heritage Day.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Vacationers looking to escape to a locale highlighted by idyllic white sand beaches, world-renowned cuisine and vivacious nightlife are in luck with an abundance of spring travel deals from properties throughout the "friendly island" of St. Maarten (www.VacationStMaarten.com). Visitors to the island can take advantage of spring deal discounts from the participating hotels listed below, all located on the Dutch side of the island. Rates are reduced by as much as 50%, with value-added resort credits and savings also included.

Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino and Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino are offering vacationers the "Fun in the Sun" package, with 35% off all-inclusive stays on reservations with a three-night minimum. Travelers booking five nights or longer will also receive $200 in resort credits to be used towards spa treatments, apparel, a three-course dinner and more. This offer is valid on new reservations made by April 30, 2013 for travel through Aug. 31, 2013. Reduced rates start at $135 at Great Bay and $139 at Maho, per person, per night, based on double occupancy. Additional information can be found by visiting www.sonesta.com/greatbay or www.sonesta.com/mahobeach.

Flamingo Beach Resort and Royal Palm Beach Resort are offering travelers every third night free this springon new reservations booked by June 28, 2013, for travel through June 30, 2013. Rates start at $199 for Flamingo and $299 for Royal Palm, per room, per night, based on maximum occupancy. For additional information or to book, visit https://www.diamondresortsandhotels.com/?MKC=KTCPR or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Westin St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa is affording guests a 40% discount for every second night when the first night is paid at the regular rate. Offer is valid on stays of two or more nights through Dec. 18, 2013 for arrivals Tuesdays through Thursdays. Nightly rates start at $189 during the summer season and $452 during the winter season. Rates quoted are per room. Each discounted second night starts at $113 during the summer season and $271 in the winter season. For additional information, visit www.westinstmaarten.com or call 866-716-8108 and mention rate plan ZB4.

Oyster Bay Beach Resort is giving travelers the chance to save up to 50% off regular room rates this spring with rates starting at $128 per room, per night, based on double occupancy. Discounts vary from 10 - 50% by room category for travel through May 4, 2013. Additionally, travelers can save 10% on all room categories at the property for travel May 5 - Dec. 19, 2013. A 20% tax and service charge applies to all rates and room categories. For additional information visit, www.oysterbaybeachresort.com.

For more information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

telemprojectmanagementtraining17042013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group engineers and personnel from the Technical Department began a three day training in Project Management at the TDC Center in Philipsburg, Monday.

The training is being given by visiting Project Management specialist Ms. Sharon Kjellquist.
During the introductory session to introduce the trainer and the TelEm Group personnel, Chief Technical Director, Mr. Eldert Louisa, explained that this training and other training to follow, is part of the restructuring process that TelEm Group has recently completed.
"With this type of training, you will be well prepared if you are called on to oversee or manage an important project," said Mr. Louisa.
He told the participants that all training is useful and he urged them to take advantage of what is being offered as a useful addition to the knowledge they already possess.
Also attending Monday's opening session was Manager, Planning and Engineering, Mr. René Visser, and Manager, Human Resources and Development, Mrs. Shadira Lont-Richardson.
Coordinator of the Technical Operations Project Management Training Program, Ms. Marjolein van Engelen, says two groups from Technical Operations will in fact be attending the project management course.
"The participants have been divided into two groups so that there will be continuity with the daily operations of the company," said Marjolein.
She said the first training session began Monday and will continue on Wednesday and Friday of this week while the second training session will begin during the week of May 13.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- The Chairman of the General Audit Chamber, Mr. Ronald Halman, presented the final report 'Pensions Sint Maarten 2011' to the chairman of Parliament, Mr. Rodolphe Samuel, on Tuesday 16th of April.
The major finding contained in the report is that 55% of civil servants were not registered at the pension fund - het Algemeen Pensioenfonds Sint Maarten (APS) - in 2011. Relevant governmental organizations such as the Ministry of General Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, as well as the Pension Fund (APS), recognize the findings of the General Audit Chamber, although none of these entities were able to provide sufficient information regarding the scope of the potential financial impact. The magnitude of the financial effect therefore remains unclear for Sint Maarten and, in the opinion of the General Audit Chamber, requires immediate action from Parliament.
In August 2012, the General Audit Chamber announced, in the final report 'Lawfulness of Personnel Expenditure Sint Maarten 2011', that they would instigate a follow up investigation regarding the registration of civil servants at the pension fund. Mr. Halman stated, "in the first audit, the personnel files provided no proof of the registration at the pension fund for a significant number of civil servants. We were not sure of the exact reason for the lack of registration at the pension fund. That uncertainty led to the execution of a follow up investigation". The results of the follow up investigation demonstrate that 45% of civil servants were registered in 2011 at APS (55% were not registered).
Relevant governmental organizations, as well as APS, during the consultation phase of the investigation, acknowledged the finding of the General Audit Chamber. In fact, a provision of ANG 46 million was taken up in the financial statements 2010 of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten, for pensions. However, the General Audit Chamber did not receive any substantiation for this provision Mr. Halman stated. As a result, the General Audit Chamber was not able to determine if the provision is sufficient. Should the provision prove to be insufficient, there will be a direct financial impact on the budget(s) of the Country Sint Maarten. "We find this to be worrisome because the magnitude of the financial impact is still unknown", according to Halman.
The General Audit Chamber is able to state that the legal consequences for civil servants are likely to be minimal. Each civil servant has the right to pension. However, the General Audit Chamber did not investigate the possible practical consequences resulting from the absence of a registration of an employed civil servant. In terms of impact, the effects can vary by individual. "An employment decree from Country Sint Maarten provides a civil servant with the right to claim a pension. This is a comforting fact for current as well as future civil servants", according to Mr. Halman.
As part of the report, the General Audit Chamber issued a number of recommendations focused primarily on gaining insight into the magnitude of the financial risk. Halman cautioned that "the General Audit Chamber is an advisory body and supports Parliament in terms of its supervisory task". As such, Halman recommends that Parliament debate the findings, conclusions and recommendations contained in the report. Only Parliament can decide if an assignment, if any, is given to the Council of Ministers in regard to the issue of pensions.
The investigation and printing of the report was – in part - made possible through funding from USONA.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services' (CPS) calendar of health observances, focuses on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) during the month of April, and wishes to remind the community about preventing STIs, and making a healthy choice.

Based on the department's 2011 surveillance report, the following STIs were reported from the laboratory and sentinel physicians: two cases of Genital Discharge Syndrome (GDS); 41 laboratory positive tests for chlamydia; six cases of gonorrhea; nine Herpes Simplex Virus-2; 54 laboratory positive tests for trichomonas; and 70 laboratory positive tests for syphilis.

These numbers do not depict the true burden of disease in our society but gives a signal that sexual transmitted awareness is needed to prevent STIs. Just as important is ensuring that accumulation the data is captured.

STI Surveillance is one of Section General Health Care's task and, locally STIs falls within the category of laboratory-based surveillance. Reporting on the local STI situation is dependent on receiving the relevant data and information from the laboratory and healthcare professionals.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever as part of his "Get Checked' campaign, is calling on the populace to get checked, adding that Sexually Transmitted Infections are real, they are here, and they do not discriminate. The Minister added that persons should also be well informed in order to make wise choices.

Always make informed decisions even during the Carnival Season.

The Calendar of Health Observances' objectives is to bring about awareness as it relates to STIs; to encourage individuals to be more responsible for their own health and their partner's health; and to provide the public with general information.

STIs are infections that are spread primarily through person-to-person sexual contact. STIs are infections that are likely to be transmitted while having unprotected sex. Transmitted means passed on from one place to another, in this case it means passed on from one person to another.

There are more than 30 different sexually transmissible bacteria, viruses and parasites.

In making a decision to be sexually active, the most important thing is to get the facts. Getting the basic information on STIs is a positive step in making an informed decision on whether to be sexually active or not.

Protect yourself and your sexual partner. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider to test you for STIs. Asking is the only way to know. Many STIs can be easily diagnosed and treated.

Effective strategies for reducing STI risk include: abstinence, vaccination, mutual monogamy, reduced number of sex partners, condoms and put yourself to the test.

The most common conditions STIs cause are: cancer, gonorrhea, chlamydial infection, syphilis, trichomoniasis, chancroid, genital herpes, genital warts, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and hepatitis B infection.

For (awareness) basic STI information you can also contact your local Family Physician, The AIDS Foundation, Red Cross Foundation, and/or the Section General Health Care at Tel. 542-3003.

alinehansonwithterritorialcouncil17042013Marigot:--- The majority members of the Territorial Council representing the RRR political party along with independent member of the Territorial Council Jules Charville voted in favor of first Vice President Aline Hanson to become the first female President (Leader) on French St. Martin on Wednesday at an extra-ordinary Territorial Council meeting. President elect Aline Hanson has been in the political arena since 1977 under the leadership of Mayor Elie Fleming and continued her political career with Mayor Albert Fleming who was the leader of Solidarity St. Martinoise. Hanson then joined the RRR team when St. Martin became a Collectivity in 2007 and ran on the RRR slate on both elections since then.

Shortly after the votes were counted and Hanson was declared President elect, former President of the Collectivity and leader of the RRR Alain Richardson who was present for the voting (extra-ordinary meeting) stood up and placed the "Echarpe" around her neck (passing the mantle over to the new president). Richardson then congratulated the new president who will carry the torch for the RRR for their remaining term. President Hanson will be replaced by First Vice President Guillaume Arnell when she is not on the island. Jean Phillipe Richardson filled the vacant seat for the RRR since Sophie Jaboin did not take the seat appointed to her.

The RRR majority nominated Hanson as their candidate while the opposition chose to respect the wishes of the population who elected the RRR political party to office. Territorial Councilor and Deputy of St. Martin Daniel Gibbs in his presentation on Wednesday during the extra-ordinary meeting that was called to elect a new president since the State Council ousted Alain Richardson from his seat for breaching electoral rules said that the opposition would respect the people's wishes by allowing the RRR to nominate and elect the new president. Gibbs further explained that his team will not participate in the election of the new president but promised to work together with the majority in the interest of St. Martin. He told reporters shortly after that it was kind of emotional for him because the President elect Aline Hanson was his teacher, therefore contesting her candidacy would have been difficult for him.

In her election speech President Hanson thanked the Territorial Council for the confidence they placed in her when they elected her to the top position. She promised to continue the work the RRR team started under the leadership of Alain Richardson in 2012. President Hanson said that when St. Martin (RRR) was hit with the news that their president had to leave office they quickly got together and maintained the unity they have had from the beginning and that is the main reason all of the council members from the RRR team voted for her. President Hanson said that the ousting of their leader from his seat was probably meant to cause political destabilization but they managed to get together and re-establish their orientation which they will continue with. She said there is crisis in Paris (over there) and this is time for St. Martin to work in partnership in the interest of St. Martin and its people. President Hanson then called on the members of the Territorial Council to work with her because she will be depending on them for their cooperation. She also made clear to her former student and now Deputy of St. Martin Daniel Gibbs that her doors will remain open to him when it comes to defending the interests of the people.

alinehansonandalainrichardson17042013President Hanson called on Gibbs and Senator Louis Constant Fleming to work on the State level so that St. Martin can implement the road taxes in order to build better roads. She also called on the citizens and the people of St. Martin to make their contributions via the taxes that are implemented in order for St. Martin to achieve its goals. President Hanson said that the Collectivity has taken up its responsibilities and are doing what needs to be done, however the State needs to take up their responsibility and do what they need to do for St. Martin. She said since the RRR took office they elevated the financial situation of the Collectivity and they are now counting on the State of France to do what they need to do for St. Martin.

The Territorial Council also elected a new executive council. The new members of the Executive Council are President Aline Hanson, first vice president Guillaume Arnell, second vice president Ramona Connor, third vice president Wendell Cocks, fourth vice president Rosette Gumbs-Lake, fifth vice president Jeanne Rogers-Vanterpool, while Christophe Henocq is a member of the executive council representing Team Daniel Gibbs (TDG).

The council then proceeded to vote on the delegation given to the President (Delegation donne au President), election of the members of the bidding committee (Election des members de la commission d'appel d'offres), election des members de la commission d'ouverture des pils, and the designation of elected officials on the commission of public establishments (designation des elus dans les commissions et establissements publics de la Collectivite).

Jeanne Rogers Vanterpool has been elected President of the Office du Tourisme. However, the members of the SEMSAMAR board will be assigned at a later date.

Deputy Daniel Gibbs and leader of TDG said he felt bad that St. Martin had to go through another election which was not on the program until another five years, but since they had to do it there was no choice. He said he preferred if this did not happen because it created another bad image for St. Martin because the same thing happened in 2008. "This is a sad situation because the image of St. Martin has been tarnished once again." He said he is happy with the announcement made by President Hanson who said she will implement new policies. Gibbs said his team as opposition will wait and see what will happen but vowed that they will remain active and vigilante as they were from the very beginning.

Click here to view the Program for the extra-ordinary Territorial Council meeting held on Wednesday.

Click here to view more photos of the Territorial Council Meeting held on Wednesday.

teamsxmatunescoworkshopinaruba17042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On April 16 'Team St. Maarten' consisting of Melanie Choisy, Clara Reyes, Marcellia Henry and Neville York travelled to Aruba to attend a workshop on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention.

The three main goals of the workshop were:

  1. To make sustainable, concrete cooperative agreements referencing the implementation of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the areas of:
    - Establishing knowledge networks
    - Establishing one or more inventories
  2. To make an action plan on how to realize the agreements made;
  3. To draft a capacity building program for the Caribbean region of the Kingdom and Suriname, financed by UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund which was made possible through the financial contribution of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Netherlands.

The Country report of St. Maarten started with a unique introduction of Clara Reyes in song touching on all the information that has been passed on to her as an example of how fragile our precious intangible heritage is resting in the soul and body of usually one person in the community and the need for that knowledge to be imparted and made accessible to the general public in order for it to continue surviving.

This approach and style drew a huge round of applause. At the end of her introduction Clara smoothly transitioned into introducing Melanie Choisy who captured the minds and hearts of the audience with her in depth knowledge and youth on the subject of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Melanie explained in that St. Maarten Intangible Cultural Heritage was much alive; however been threatened by the rapid growth and tourism development on the island. She showed examples of photos of practitioners performing the Porum Dance, Steel Pan, String Band Music, Culinary Arts, and Making of Fish Pots etc.

A number of activities were mentioned such as the launching of the "Decade of Revitalizing our Natural and Cultural Heritage 2013-2023" with the Cultural Calendar, Diamond 26 Run for Freedom, DOW's Pan in Paradise, and the Commemorative walk for the Treaty of Concordia, Celebrating St. Maarten's Traditions in summer camp of 2012 etc.

She further pointed out that laws ought to be enacted to protect and safeguard the Intangible Cultural Heritage and not the contrary in reference to serenading where the laws have threatened to kill such an important part of our heritage of going house to house and door to door serenading during the Christmas season.

The use of modern technology was also brought forward to illustrate the need to engage the youth however not necessarily through the conventional traditional ways and means but to use modern technology such as Facebook, Twitter, BlackBerry Messenger, instant messaging, blogs, etc. which are all free to interface tradition with modernity and the youth.

In closing she pointed out to all persons attending not to be afraid of change because Culture is always evolving. "So, from a youth perspective, I'd like to put a stop to the lamenting of those who say "the dance hall music is overshadowing the calypso so that's why the art form is dying in our country". NO! We are living in a globalized world inundated with flashy images causing the youth to have a very short attention span for things that they may not consider fun or interesting from the offset. We need to be able to communicate with the youth in their own language in order to alter their perspectives and attitudes. We need to be able to pick these eggs up off of our backs and put them in a place for the future benefit of our countries". She was referring to the SANKOFA BIRD.

The audience had many questions for her at the end of her presentation which she was able to answer and York, Henry and Reyes intervened and assisted when the questions went beyond her being able to answer. This is a clear example and the vision Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs wants implemented throughout the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs.

In an invited comment after hearing how well received St. Maarten Report was received at the workshop in Aruba, Minister Jacobs with a very content smile said: "St. Maarten and the Ministry is on the right track by supporting the youth and making them active participants of the future. After all they are our future".

To top the entire presentation off St. Maarten had its own Camera man to ensure what took place in Aruba will be shared with the St. Maarten community at home thanks to Dwight Barran who currently resides in Aruba.

Minister Jacobs alluded that it is all about engaging persons of St. Maarten home and abroad who have St. Maarten at heart and harnessing our energies and talents in a positive direction in the benefit of country".

fccasxm2014group16042013POINT BLANCHE:--- Preparations are in full swing for the 21st Annual Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Cruise Conference and Trade Show that will be hosted by St. Maarten in the latter half of 2014. On Tuesday morning, President of the FCCA Michele Paige and Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs Hon. Romeo Pantophlet attended the kick-off meeting at the Cruise Terminal Building.

The Steering Committee which is chaired by Minister Pantophlet with St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Co-Chair held by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Mingo, provided an update to a four-member delegation from the FCCA headed by its President Michele Paige. Next year will be 10 years since the destination hosted its first FCCA conference and trade show, and CEO Mingo is looking forward to another successful event where the country can be showcased to cruise executives.

The FCCA's mandate is to foster a better understanding of the cruise industry and to develop cooperative relationships with destination partners at both the public and private sector levels in order to create a win-win situation for all.

The conference benefits are a real opportunity for all stakeholders involved in the cruise sector. Some of the benefits are an increase in cruise industry contact base from cruise executives, operations, purchasing, marketing and shore excursions; and gaining insight on what cruise lines look for in shore excursions, products, and services.

The premier cruise industry event of the year will bring together over 1000 cruise industry partners and approximately 100 cruise executives to the island in September/October 2014.

Michele Paige stated at the meeting that the conference is an opportunity where all decision-makers of the industry will be present and private sector stakeholders will be able to have direct conversations with cruise line CEOs. Paige added that St. Maarten is growing in every way, but that new tours will need to be added annually, tours that educate and entertain cruise passengers.

The Steering Committee members include the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), the Tourist Bureau, the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Princess Juliana International Airport, and Branding and Marketing Destination. The Harbour Sub Committee has representatives from the Commercial Department, Safety & Security, Cargo & Terminal, Senior Manager and Maintenance.

Mingo says that he would like to have all conference and trade show organizational logistics completed by January 2014.

"Private sector involvement is essential in making the 21st Annual FCC Cruise Conference & Trade Show a success. I see this as a big opportunity for our private sector especially where it comes to deliberations and exchange of ideas and views with cruise executives. Our destination has to think outside of the box. Tour and destination development are key areas that we have to focus on for continued future success of our cruise sector," Harbour CEO Mark Mingo said on Tuesday.

queenshowcontestantswithrobertbrown16042013Simpson Bay:--- When Carnival royalty calls, the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) can only respond by rolling out the red carpet of support. And so it was with five contestants for the Teen, Senior and Mature Queen Pageants who are the recipients of SXM sponsorship.

"On behalf of the board of the SCDF allow me to express gratitude for the way SXM Airport has stepped up to assist our contestants again this year. Their preparations are costly affairs and any amount from corporate sponsors will go a long way. Thank you for being a dedicated partner of Carnival," stated president of the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF), Michael Granger.

"That partnership is an expression of our corporate policy of supporting whenever possible activities that reflect the cultural enhancement of St. Maarten, especially during this year of the celebration of our 70th anniversary," said Regina LaBega, managing director of SXM.

"We are happy to once again team up with the SCDF in making Carnival the major event it has become on our cultural calendar," LaBega added. "We also wish all the participants in the various pageants the best of luck as they continue to showcase the very best in our womanhood."

The Police Force of Sint Maarten is without any doubt doing its utmost, to protect you, your family and your property, in combating crime and criminals. The Public Relation Office of the Sint Maarten Police Force is therefore offering the entire community, the following safety tips, to help them prepare against crime.
Remember the 3 A's of Crime Prevention

  1. Be Aware of your surroundings at all times.
  2. Be Alert to suspicious people and vehicles.
  3. Avoid dangerous situations.

If you are out for the evening:

  • Turn on lights, radio or television so that it looks like some-one is at home.
  • Lock all doors and windows well, even if you are just leaving for a few minutes.
  • Don't display items where they can be seen from the outside.
  • Park your car in a well-lit area and make sure all windows and doors are locked.
  • Avoid carrying a large amount of cash. Don't flash cash around and carry it in a safe place on you.
  • If you have to use the ATM-machine, pay close attention to suspicious persons hanging around the machine. If that's the case pass up that machine and find another.
  • Carry all wallets in the front pockets and carry purses close to your body.
  • Keep your children close to you while attending any activities and don't let them get separated from you.
  • Pay attention to persons walking in front and behind you. (Especially in crowded places favorable for pickpockets)
  • When returning to your vehicle or your home, have your keys in your hands ready to open the door.
  • Before entering your vehicle, check front and rear and seats for any one that may be hiding there. Lock doors immediately after entering.
  • Ask your neighbor to keep a watchful eye out for you.
  • Drinking and driving is a danger to everyone. Remember that the risks of drinking and driving are not worth it. If you choose to drink, don't drive.

Make use of a designated driver or public transportation (taxi or bus).
Make sure that you know where your kids are at all times and that they are safe.

Most of all on behalf of the Police force of Sint Maarten, through the Public Relation Office, "We wish the entire community of Sint Maarten and it's visitors a very safe and meaningful Carnival Season."

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentary deliberations in the plenary session of Parliament regarding the draft 2013 country budget will continue on April 17.

The plenary public meeting was postponed early Tuesday evening and will be reconvened on Wednesday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the national deliberations with respect to the country's draft budget.

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

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

PM Urges community to Visit Facebook and Government Website

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams announced yesterday that there is a new Government website dedicated to the upcoming inauguration of King Willem Alexander. The PM commented that the website, which was developed and launched by the Department of Communications on Tuesday, was part of the National Organizing Committees communication package geared towards keeping the public informed on the activities surrounding the inauguration of the new King of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. "This website, together with the existing Facebook page and the press releases which will be issued form part of the general information available to the community regarding the inauguration of the new King of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. I encourage the public to visit both the website and the Facebook page in order to keep abreast on activities centered on the inauguration", commented the Prime Minister.

Members of the Public can visit the website on http://www.sintmaartengov.org/Government/specialCampaigns/Pages/default.aspx and the Facebook page on http://www.facebook.com/pages/StMaartens-Page-for-the-Inauguration-of-King-Willem-Alexander.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday April 17, 2013, Minister of Education Ms. Silveria Jacobs will be cutting the ribbon at the Grand Opening of the USM Inlingua Language Lab.
The reception will take place at 5:00pm at the University of St. Martin (USM).

USM has been working on establishing its language lab since 2009. The realization of the USM Regional Project, which became the USM inlingua Language Lab (UiLL), was made possible through a grant made available by the Social Economic Initiative (SEI) USONA in the realm of Economy, Education/Development and Economic Diversification of the department of Interior and Kingdom Affairs (BAK) of the Ministry of General Affairs. The project will be handed over to the University of St. Martin as having complied with all the financial and administrative protocols.

Recently, USM signed a license agreement with inlingua international (inlingua) to operate its language lab under the inlingua umbrella and to use the inlingua method for its language training. inlingua operates a worldwide network of independent language service centers covering the fields of language, communications and intercultural services in over 350 locations worldwide.
One of the goals of the language lab for USM, which is now also known by the acronym UiLL, is to improve the chances of students to achieve the right level of language proficiency needed for their course of study. The USM inlingua Language Lab will cater to the linguistic needs of prospective students as well as fortify their language skills and offer language training, practical communication solutions for government and businesses on St. Maarten as well as the region.
USM is confident that the USM inlingua Language Lab will also contribute to the economic diversification as well by attracting tourists and visitors to St. Maarten.
USM Inlingua Language Lab will train professionals to communicate across borders with custom language-training programs designed around any schedule or budget. Whether you want to learn French over a six months period, or your company wants to train 10 engineers to speak Spanish in 30 days, the USM inlingua Language lab will have a program for you.
The USM inlingua Language Lab will assess current skills and plan the most effective language-training strategy to meet one's goals. If you require business, financial or technical vocabulary, the course will be tailored to include special terminology and relevant occupational material. The programs include the three items you will need to succeed: 1. the inlingua method, 2. native-speaking teachers and 3. inlingua's exclusive training materials.
The inlingua method will have the student thinking in the target or new language before they know it. Students will begin speaking a new language at the first lesson and continue to speak it at least 60% of the time throughout the course. The lessons will progress using structured building blocks that create real fluency. It is a faster way to learn any new language.

The programs at the USM inlingua Language Lab are built around the student and private, semi-private and group programs will be provided. Class lengths will vary from an hour and half to a full day. The USM inlingua Language Lab will design language-training programs with the student's schedule and goals in mind!

robertbrownhoistingthesxmflag16042013Simpson Bay:--- Flags representing the different countries or territories serviced by the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) were flying again proudly along the final approach of the Airport Boulevard to the Terminal Building.

The 33 flags were first mounted at the end of 2011 on light poles that arch around the lagoon-side road leading to the airport, starting with the St. Maarten flag in the area of WINAIR offices, and moving on up to the poles opposite the FBO facilities.

The flags represent islands of the now defunct Netherlands Antilles (St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), the hub islands of Anguilla, and St. Barths, as well as other Caribbean islands.

Destinations in Central and South America (e.g. Panama, Brazil, Argentina), the USA and Canada as well as Europe, are also represented.

"The flags are not a mere decoration," said Regina LaBega, managing director of the airport, "but a visual reminder of the international character of the airport and the diverse origins of the people that use it."

Wear and tear made it necessary to remove the previous flags and replace them with larger and more weather-resistant ones.

"As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, it is important that we acknowledge the destinations we serve through the symbol of their flags," LaBega added.

Great Bay:--- The Department of Youth and Sports is pleased to announce that application forms for the Business Outreach and Placement Program (BOPP) 2013 are available to students at the various High Schools on St. Maarten.

Said program, coordinated by the Department of Youth and Sports Affairs, is dedicated to placing pre-exam and exam students aged 16 and older of secondary schools as well as students in tertiary level education in temporary employ during the months of July and August. The main objective of the BOPP is to provide a work experience based on the students' possible career ambition.

All students entering the program will gain knowledge through the training that is provided and ultimately gain an invaluable work experience. By spending four to six weeks working in various government departments and in the private sector, the gap between the academic and business world is bridged. The employer will benefit from the competent and often times innovative perspective that students can offer.

This year, the BOPP program is scheduled to run from July 1st through August 9th, 2013 and will mark its 15th anniversary in existence.
The program will consist of the usual application period, training, pre-selection for interviews and final selection for a summer job.

Students wishing to apply for a summer job can do so by visiting their school guidance counselor's office for an application form or pass by the Department of Youth and Sports Affairs. Student applications must be submitted to the Department of Youth and Sports located in the Vlaun Building, across from the Post Office no later than Friday, May 17th, 2013.

Business owners are encouraged to participate in the program and support the youth as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility to the community. Businesses that are willing to participate or seek more information can contact the department of Youth and Sports Affairs for further information at telephone number: 542-2056/ 5423873 or via fax: 54-20643 or send an e-mail to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- An active 2013 hurricane season has been predicted. Last week Colorado State University's Tropical Meteorology Project's hurricane forecast for the 30th year calls for a higher than normal tropical storm activity during the hurricane season.

Prior to the release of the forecasts, the Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) took the initiative to update its database of contractors on Sint Maarten.

The Ministry is inviting all general contractors and heavy equipment owners interested in participating in any upcoming clean-up projects to an informative meeting on Friday, April 19 at the Ministry VROMI, Savance Building (next to Carl's & Sons on the Pondfill), starting at 10:00am.

Information will be provided about preparations for the 2013 Hurricane Season.

Contractors and heavy equipment owners are requested to bring along their equipment list with valid insurance, crib number of their company, updated registration form from the Chamber of Commerce & Industry, car insurance to the tune of Naf. 250 as well as contact information. The information is very important in the event Ministry VROMI needs to call on contractors before or after a storm.

Ministry VROMI Operations Manager Eldemiro Jansen and Project Manager Hensley Kwidama will be present for the meeting.

For those who need additional information, you can call Eldemiro Jansen at Tel. 542-4289 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

celshotandtthompson16042013Philipsburg:--- The President and Vice President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) at their press conference on Tuesday said that their intention is not to criticize the government of St. Maarten. WITU President Claire Elshot told reporters that their members are very pleased with the information they get via the weekly press conferences that are held by the WICLU. The main objective the President and Vice President of WICLU said is to bring more awareness and information to their membership through the media.

Elshot said the intention of the unions is to stress heavily on the importance of Labour Day (May 1st) which will be celebrated on St. Maarten in the next two weeks. Elshot also commended the President of the Youth Parliament for her comments regarding the level of the Parliamentary meetings currently taking place. Elshot further lamented that the youths on St. Maarten are looking for role models and information which they are in dire need of in order for them to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Elshot said the meetings held in Parliament are not educational, therefore the WICSU and the WITU are doing their best in providing information every week in order to create better awareness.

Elshot also gave an outline on some of the activities that are planned for Labour Day 2013. Some of those activities are a church service and the ceremonial activity. At the latter ceremony, three persons will be receiving awards. One of the awards are for the historic leadership in trade unionism, contributions given to trade unionism, while the third category will be the 'spirit of labour' which will be given to someone that works for the unions behind the scenes or in the background. The unions also intend to create a booklet with information in order to inform workers about Labour Day and its historical values.

The WITU is also very pleased with the cultural calendar that was prepared by the Minister of Education, but they felt that the Minister (government) should go further by having a booklet made with information for the general public.

Elshot said that by the end of this week the survey on violence will be completed. She said that a number of schools already send back the survey forms that were distributed to them but the final collection will take place this week. Another project the WITU has completed is their newsletter which will be distributed shortly to teachers on St. Maarten. The newsletter will serve as an informative tool on the plans of action of the unions.

Regarding the motion submitted to the Minister of Education on the increase of salary scales, Elshot said to date the Minister of Education has not responded to their letter. The union she said intends to send the Minister a reminder on the motion which had over 400 signatures.

Elshot said the unions are following the budget debate that is currently taking place Parliament. She said despite the information that was released during the Parliamentary meetings, the union and the members do not fully understand what government intends to do regarding the payment of the COLA.

Marigot:--- The Territorial Council of the Collectivity of St. Martin will be holding a Territorial Council meeting on Wednesday April 17th, 2013 to elect the new members of the Territorial Council. The meeting on Wednesday is to elect a new President and to also include another member to the territorial council. In the decision of April 13th, 2012, the State Council sanctioned Alain Richardson by removing him from his seat and deemed him in-illegible for a period of 18 months. The State Council also nominated the 18th candidate on the RRR list Mme. Sophie Jaboin to take her seat in the Territorial Council.

According to supporters of the RRR majority, first Vice President Aline Hanson will be nominated on behalf of the RRR to take up the President's seat which was vacated on Friday when the State Council issued its decision and forced the leader of the RRR political party and President of the Collectivity Alain Richardson to vacate his seat.

Alain Arnell, brother of the third vice president Guillaume Arnell said on a radio program on Tuesday and to SMN News that the first vice president Aline Hanson will receive full support from him, his family, and those that spearheaded the election campaign for the RRR in 2012. Arnell said he is of the opinion that the first vice president is capable of doing the job therefore she will get their full support.

The Territorial Council will elect the new members of the executive council, and the members that will take up various positions that were held by the former President Alain Richardson. The Territorial Council will also be nominating other council members to take up positions that the first vice president held. One of the positions that has to be filled is the one vacated by Hanson on the SEMSAMAR board.

eholidayatorangebowawardceremony15042013Good Morning and welcome to this "Orange Bow" award ceremony.

On January 28, 2013, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix announced that she had decided to abdicate the throne in favor of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Willem-Alexander, who will be inaugurated as the New King on April 30 upcoming.

As a result the Dutch Government decided to install the "Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging" to coordinate certain festivities surrounding the inauguration throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Similarly the Government of Sint Maarten installed the Organizing Committee for the Inauguration (OCI) to coordinate all activities related to the inauguration of the New King on Sint Maarten as well as to synchronize activities with the "Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging".
To officially recognize persons and organizations for their work to mark the inauguration of the New King, the "Nationaal Comité Inhuldiging" designed an Orange Bow. To qualify for an orange bow activities organized by persons, associations and/or organizations must meet the following requirements:

  1. The activity must be original, positive and authentic;
  2. It must speak to a wide audience; and
  3. The activity must fit within the theme "My dream for our country, inspiration for our King"

The Orange Bow is a logo representing a special distinction, which recipients may use at their activities or when announcing their activities via posters, brochures or on their website.
To award Orange Bows to candidates I requested the Organizing Committee for the Inauguration to accept and evaluate applications from eligible candidates. A total of 6 applications were received and reviewed against the requirements.
Today we are here to grant this special Orange Bow award to three of those six organizations in recognition of their valued community activities and their contributions to the events to celebrate the inauguration of King Willem Alexander on April 30, 2013.

Ladies and gentlemen,
Having reviewed the applications and the recommendations by the OCI I have on behalf of the "Nationaal Comite Inhuldiging" decided to grant Orange Bows to the following organizations:

  1. The first organization is: the No Kidding With Our Kids Foundation for its "ASA King day/Crown Carousel", an activity aimed at introducing some 150 children to the topic, and planned to take place on April 15 and 19;
  2. The second organization is: the Sint Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation for its "primary school soccer tournament" being organized as part of the King's Games on April 26, 2013;
  3. And the third organization is: the SIMARC Foundation for its project "Our dream of a more heritage conscious Sint Maarten" in which students will be repainting and repairing the information signs at Fort Amsterdam on April 27, on the birthday of Crown Prince Willem-Alexander.

I hereby applaud each of you for your efforts in celebrating the inauguration and for your positive and educational work towards our future by involving our youths.
In a few minutes each of you will in recognition for these activities be called forward to receive your Orange Bow Award and I thus hereby, in closing, congratulate each of you and your organizations with your special distinction and wish you success with the execution of your respective activities now and in the future.

Thank You

daybreakfoundationjoinsriddimboxandchippie15042013Philipsburg:--- The organizers of DayBreak, St. Maarten's first breakfast fete have joined forces with RiddimBox productions and mutual partner, Chippie, to bring the public a package offer that will give carnival lovers more bang for their buck. The package will allow carnival goers to attend the Main Event by Chippie on April 27 and then go on to DayBreak at the Emilio Wilson Park to continue the party. The $45 package will include a ticket to both events plus $30 prepaid Chippie credit and is available from all UTS store locations and the Chippie booth in the Festival Village.

UTS Press Release

swescotwilliamspresentsorangebowawards15042013"Heartened by focus on Youth"

Harbour View:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams joined the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday in his presentation of the Orange Bow Awards to three organizations for their work in the community to mark the inauguration of King Willem Alexander. Orange Bows were awarded to the No Kidding with Our Kids Foundation for the Crown Carousel After School Activity, the St. Maarten Soccer Educational Foundation for the youth soccer tournament as part of the King's Games, and SIMARC for the project "Dream of a more Heritage Conscious St. Maarten, where youngsters will repaint the information signs at Fort Amsterdam. The Prime Minister joined the Governor in presenting the Orange Bows to the organizations and offered warm congratulations. "I would like to express warm congratulations to all of you for your work and especially in your participation in this once in a lifetime project. It is heartwarming to see that the focus of all of these activities is on the youth of St. Maarten and it is encouraging to know that these projects all invest in the youth of St. Maarten and therefore also in our future. I again would like to congratulate you and look forward to seeing your projects in the days and weeks to come," commented the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

chiquiviciosoandshujahreiph15042013GREAT BAY:--- A young generation writer, Georges Cocks, represented St. Martin at the 3rd Caribbean Writers Congress, organized by the Association of Caribbean Writers (ACW) and the Regional Council of Guadeloupe, from April 10-13, 2013.

The 51 authors registered for the conference from throughout the Caribbean, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana, and the USA, included Ambassador Chiqui Vicioso (Dominican Rep.), Marion Bethel (The Bahamas), and Emilio Jorge Rodriquez (Cuba), said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

"We try to keep up with our writers and let readers in St. Martin and throughout the region know about their professional movements, achievements, and the performance of their books that are published in St. Martin," said Sample.

"Getting samples of the HNP titles authored by Chiqui, Marion, and Emilio to the congress was one of the publisher's tasks, especially the bilingual and trilingual books by Emilio and Chiqui," said Sample.

"Our new French edition by Emilio on Haitian literature, Haïti et l'identité littéraire trans-caribéenne, was given a soft introduction at the conference through the hard working folks at Jasor bookstore," said Sample.

Bridging language zones or gaps between Caribbean people through their writers and books was a major point made by Josette Borel-Lincertin, President of the Region of Guadeloupe.

"The world-honored literature of the Caribbean needs to overcome language barriers and geographical boundaries to try to build a common literary space," said President Borel-Lincertin. She was speaking about the importance of the bi-annual discussion and planning meeting of the ACW members as a common literary space.

Cocks, soon to be published in an anthology of 25 St. Martin writers, stood ready to provide fraternal assistance to the HNP authors in Guadeloupe. He was also instrumental in getting book samples to Jasor for exhibition at the conference and invitations to promote the upcoming St. Martin Book Fair.

"Writers feel good when they can see or know that their books are accessible at a conference for fellow writers, reviewers, and audience guests," said Sample.

The Guadeloupe-based Cocks hails from French Quarter. "Some of his poems reflect an aspect of a St. Martin diaspora, the desire to reconnect, a somewhat unique element in writings from or about St. Martin," said Lasana M. Sekou, editor of the upcoming book of mostly young poets from both parts of the island.

Participating in the St. Martin Book Fair by Cocks over the last few years has boosted his appearance as a writer in Guadeloupe and made more people on both islands aware of his seminal print-on-demand novels and poetry collections.

Edwidge Danticat wins ACW Grand Literary Prize 2013 in Guadeloupe

The US writer Russell Banks was the guest of honor at the ACW congress, which had as its theme: "A collective epic, fighting for freedom; historical truth and fiction in Caribbean literature."

According to Borel-Lincertin, the Regional Council recognizes "the importance of cultural development, including literature" in its partnership with ACW to organize the 3rd Congress of Writers of the Caribbean (Congrès des Ecrivains de la Caraïbe).

The ACW awarded its Grand Literary Prize [Grand Prix Littéraire] this year to novelist Edwidge Danticat, for her most recent work Create Dangerously. The prize is one of the financially richest of four important and increasingly coveted Caribbean literary prizes.

guanabayaccessrestricted15042013People driving ATV's or Four Wheelers on Guana Bay Beach Major Threat to Sea Turtles

The Department of Public Works from the VROMI Ministry and Windward Roads assisted the St. Maarten Nature Foundation in the placement of boulders along Guana Bay Beach in order to block access to vehicles from driving on the beach. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently carried out a wide scale assessment of the threats to St. Maarten's Native Sea Turtle population which mostly nests at Guana Bay Beach. Over the last two months there have been various activities that have been occurring on Guana Bay which has caused the Nature Foundation to express grave concern on the safety of one of the island's most important sea turtle nesting beaches. People driving vehicles on the beach, especially quads or 'four wheelers' as they are known, was one of the most serious negative activities affecting nesting sea turtles.

Each year between March and November, female sea turtles return to lay their eggs on the island. There are three sea turtles which nest on St. Maarten beaches: the Hawksbill Sea Turtle, the Green Sea Turtle and the largest sea turtle species, the Leatherback. Guana Bay Beach is the most important nesting site, with in 2012 42% of all sea turtles having nested on just that one particular beach.

"We would like to express our thanks and gratitude to Mr. Claudius Buncamper of the Public Works Department, Mr. Jos De Nijs of Windward Roads and the Guana Bay Property Owners Association for the help in keeping vehicles off of the beach," read a Nature Foundation statement. Windward roads placed some thirty large scale boulders along the beach and Guana Bay Resident Jerry Speetjens planted coconut palms in between the boulders further restricting access and beautifying the project.

The Nature Foundation stated that female leatherback sea turtles have already lain two nests on Simpson Bay Beach and that staff and volunteers patrol regularly on Guana Bay Beach to look for Leatherback nests which are expected any time now.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation actively manages the sea turtle population on St. Maarten, particularly during the nesting season. The Foundation conducts various activities with regards to sea turtle nesting including beach surveys, nest excavations, tagging activities and nest success research. This research is done through beach patrols by staff, volunteer checks and dedicated research activities conducted on a daily basis during nesting season.

The Foundation urges the community to call its offices on 5444267 if they notice sea turtles nesting or if they notice illegal activities on any of the island's beaches.

sjacobsmeetswithrepsfromsteustatiusmedicalschool15042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs met with representatives from the St. Eustatius School of Medicine where she was updated on the progress of establishing the medical school on Sint Maarten.

The St. Eustatius school of Medicine will be offering freshman and sophomore college courses starting September 2013 and will be making use of the classrooms at USM. In addition the school will be offering pre-med classes.

vwaorganizingcommittee15042013Great Bay:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Section Collective Prevention Services is currently working hard on costumes for the debut of their carnival troupe "Tutti Frutti Healthy Steppers" as they will be taking part in the Children's Carnival Parade on Sunday April 21, 2013. The carnival troupe is part of the Vaccination Week of the Americas 2013 activities.
"Children between the ages of 3-11 years old will make up the troupe from family and friends of the department. It is important to note that the costumes are being made from recycled products, so we are inviting the community to come out and support the Children's parade, as it will be a surprise," said Anuska Gibbs, Chair of the organizing committee.
The Baby Clinic has been turned into a mass camp in the afternoon hours, to allow staff the time to construct the costumes. Approximately 30-35 children will be displaying costumes during the Children's Carnival Parade depicting various fruits and vegetables as a means of bringing awareness about the importance of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that it is a great initiative of the Department of Collective Preventive Services to have our young people showing the importance of fruits and vegetables through carnival costumes, while part taking in one of the islands biggest cultural events.
"It is also very important to note that the costumes are being made from recycled products, recycling generally shows us how the life of an item can be extended and used again, instead of throwing it away," said Minister De Weever.
As part of Vaccination Week of the Americas, which runs April 20-27, the organizing committee of this year's activities decided to come out with a carnival troupe and to have community outreach in the various districts on the island. Stay tuned for more information regarding the community outreach program.

claudiusbuncamperwithsxmlionsclubatchurch15042013Philipsburg:--- The District Governor for District 60b Lion Claudius Buncamper MJF has begun his official visit on St. Maarten on Sunday with the St. Maarten Lions Club by attending a Thanksgiving Service at the Saint Maartie of Tours Roman Catholic Church in Philipsburg. The service was led by Father Johannes.
The morning service which was attended by members of the St. Maarten Lions Club and their families was the first official function with regards to the District Governors visit. Members of the club took part in various activities of the service such the singing of the Catholic Liturgy, presenting of the offertory gifts and assisting with the church collections from the congregation.
District Governor Claudius Buncamper gave a short speech on behalf of Lions International whereby he urged the congregation to support the St. Maarten Lions Club whenever they have fundraising functions as these funds go back to the St. Maarten community in various ways. Father Bob concluded the service by offering a special prayer for god's guidance on the excellent work the club does in the community.
The visit of the District Governor continues on Tuesday with various media interviews, courtesy visits to His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday and Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams along with the Club Audit and Dinner Meeting on Tuesday evening.

swescotwilliamsopenspublicservicecenterinsimpsonbay15042013With the New Public Service Center in Simpson Bay we answer people's cry for Government Services in the Districts

Simpson Bay:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams on Saturday opened the Country's first Public Service Center at the Simpson Bay Fish Market, an important step in her Government's plans to increase the service of Government in the Various Districts. "In 2010 a project plan was approved to implement the new Public Service Center (PSC). The goal of the project was to set up a PSC where all public services, government information and government products would be delivered in a client oriented fashion, based on an integrated approach. In this manner public service delivery would take place more efficiently," stated the Prime Minister.

"The concept of this Public Service Center is centered on the premise of improving Government's services efficiently using modern technology. Now residents living "over the hill" can have the opportunity to make use o five government services at this location; the Civil Registry, the Receiver's Office, the Tax Department, the Department of Social Services, Labor Affairs and the Customer Care Information Center, which is a part of the Department of General Affairs. This has been a long journey but now we have the opportunity where residents have the possibility to have the services of Government in their own district," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM also reiterated that the Public Service Center will also serve as an economic boost to that area of Simpson Bay, where the businesses and in particular the restaurants of the Fish Market will receive an extra boost. "Additionally this important and beautiful location will get an extra boost with increased visitation. It is good to see how all of the various departments have come together and cooperated on realizing this very important first step."

"It has taken a while and it has naturally taken a lot of work and cooperation but I am happy to see that we are here at this point and we are now ready to start and to move on into the other districts. For a long time the cry of the Cole Bay/ Simpson Bay districts has been for a service area in order for people to not have to travel to Town. We also know how it is where some of the queues and lines are concerned and so I am truly exited about this particular start of the public service centers," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Pembroke Pines, FL:--- The historic city of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia will set the stage for the 20th annual Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Cruise Conference & Trade Show, taking place September 30 - October 4, 2013.

Cruise industry partners and stakeholders will join cruise executives from the FCCA Member Lines to share ideas and discuss industry trends throughout a series of tailored events, functions, meetings and more.

Workshops will be available, where executives from the FCCA Member Lines will participate in a series of roundtable discussions in the areas of marketing, shore excursions and operations to teach participants about the latest trends/developments and help them learn how to maximize cruise tourism's benefit.

To guarantee attendees' opportunity for individual attention from the executives, the FCCA will pre-set one-on-one meetings with select cruise executives for pre-registered delegates registered and paid before August 15.

Increased concentration on the trade show floor will provide a steady flow of attendees and gain the attention of the cruise executives and industry stakeholders. With an expanded number of booths and special destination pavilion options, this will be the perfect way to showcase a destination and its product as a team-from vendors and tour operators getting their product(s) onboard to destination ministries and port operators increasing their calls. This is the best way to make the greatest impact and most impressive showing at the FCCA Trade Show.

Choosing to fly with Avianca or Taca, the official airlines of the 20th annual FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, will allow you to enjoy premium services on land and onboard. Access discounts from 15% to 20% for flights within Colombia and discounts from 10% to 20% on international flights. These discounts are only available on applicable fares on flights operated by Avianca or Taca.

For more information on the FCCA Conference & Trade Show, please visit our website, www.f-cca.com, or contact Terri Cannici at +1 954 441 8881.

alainrichardson30032013

Paris/St. Martin:--- The State Council, Commission national des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques (CNCCFP) in its decision rendered on April 12th, 2013 quoted articles L. 52-4 to L. 52-18 where they stated that political campaign accounts are rejected on two basis. One being if the political party showed willful intentions to commit fraud or if they deliberately broke the rules on campaign accounting.
In the case of the RRR political party, the CNCCFP found absolutely no trace of fraud committed by the RRR Political Party and its leader. However, the CNCCFP found enough reasons to reject the RRR accounts on the second part of the law which states that the RRR breached (broke) the rules when the political party opened two bank accounts for its political campaign for the March 18th and March 25th, 2012 elections.
SMN News apologized to President Richardson and the RRR party for the error published earlier. "We want to make clear that SMN News had no willful or bad intentions when we did not break down the law completely in the English language for our readers. SMN News also called President Richardson to apologize to him personally for the misinterpretations but he said he was busy.
A Territorial Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon where the new President of the COM will be elected by the majority vote of the council.

 A copy of the decision rendered by the State Council can be viewed beneath this article. A breakdown of the decision follows:

Excerpts from the decision of the STATE COUNCIL

N° 364071

Session of 27 March 2013

Reading of 12 April 2013

1. Considering that ... the provisions of title 1 of book 1 of the electoral code dedicated to the provisions, which are common to the election of members of parliament, general councilors and municipal councilors, are automatically applicable to the elections of territorial councilors of the overseas collectivity of Saint-Martin for everything that is not contrary to the special provisions pertaining to them; that the provisions relative to the financing and ceiling of the electoral expenses mentioned in articles L. 52-4 to L. 52-18 of this code are therefore applicable; that the second paragraph of article L. 52-6 of the same code especially provides that the financial representative designated by the candidate is under the obligation to open a single bank or postal account tracking the entirety of his/her financial operations; that in application of the third paragraph of article L. 118-3 of the same code, the judge of the election pronounces the ineligibility of the candidate, whose campaign account has fairly been rejected in a case of willful fraud or especially serious breach of the rules relative to the financing of electoral campaigns; that the fourth paragraph of the same article indicates precisely that this ineligibility is pronounced for a maximum period of three years and applies to all elections;

2.

3.

4.

5. Considering, however, that if the creation of a new territorial collectivity within the Republic made it necessary to adopt a new and specific legislative and regulatory system, the provisions of the electoral code applicable for the elections of territorial councilors of this new collectivity, basically taken from the provisions applicable to elections in France, are not ambiguous and do not give rise to any difficulty of interpretation; that the opening of a single postal or bank account denominated in euro in no way obstructed the payment of expenses made in a foreign currency during the electoral campaign; that, in this way, Mr. Richardson, a chartered accountant by profession, an experienced politician, a territorial councilor of Saint-Martin elected in 2007, must be considered as having deliberately neglected a very important rule of the financing of electoral campaign; that consequently he has committed a particularly serious breach of the rules of the financing of electoral campaign;

6.

7.

8.

COM Mum on Decision --- First Vice President to move up to President's spot.

While the State Council rendered its decisions on Friday April 12th, 2013 and the RRR majority is aware of the sanctions taken by the State Council, so far President Richardson who has been ousted from his seat is still to make an official announcement. SMN News learnt that the RRR majority met in a closed door meeting on Saturday at the Collectivity of St. Martin to discuss who will be replacing Richardson.

SMN News learnt that first Vice President Aline Hanson will be taking her position as President of the Collectivity since she is the first vice president of the RRR majority. Sources close to the political party said that the RRR was looking at holding a territorial council meeting later this week where the new president will be elected by the majority vote of the Territorial Council. However, that does not seem likely because first Vice President Aline Hanson has to first resign from her position as school principal and from the SEMSAMAR board since the positions she currently hold are not compatible with her new position.

Click here to view the Decision rendered by the State Council.

Cole Bay:--- On Friday April 12th at approximately 9:45pm, the gas attendant at Sol Gas station on the Union road was robbed at gunpoint by an unknown man dressed in black. During this robbery, the money the attendant had in his possession was stolen. On Saturday April 13th at approximately 9:30pm, the gas attendant of the Texaco gas station on the Welfare road was robbed by an unknown man wearing dark clothing with a machete. The money that attendant had in his possession at the time was also stolen.

KPSM Police Report

St. Peters:--- On Friday April 12th at approximately 12:30am, a police patrol was directed to the L.B. Scot road at the entrance of Sint Peters road to meet the witness of a threat and kidnapping case. On the scene, the witness explained the investigating officers that she and a friend of hers with the initials M.P. were standing at the bus stop when suddenly a white Toyota Yaris pulled up next to them. She further explained that the ex-boyfriend of her friend with the initials A.M.D. jumped out of the car with a knife in his hand. He grabbed M.P., put the knife to her throat and forced her into the car and drove off in the direction of South Reward. After about an hour of searching the vehicle was located at a home in the Sint Peters area. The suspect and the victim were located sitting in the car. The suspect with the initials A.M.D. from Sint Maarten, was arrested on the spot and taken into custody. The weapon and vehicle used in this case were confiscated for further investigation. This case is under investigation by the Detective Department.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsmeetswithkingfamily14042013"I was honored to spend a few hours with the family"

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams met with the Family of Michael and Thelma King at Holland House on Thursday. The family members traveled to St. Maarten to attend the murder trial which have shocked the island.

The Prime Minister had lunch with the family and showed her support on behalf of the people of St. Maarten to the family of the murdered couple. "I was honored and humbled to spend a few hours with the family of Michael and Thelma King and support them in this difficult moment. Despite their loss the family is one that is strong and this is a source of much admiration for me. Numerous family members have even encouraged friends and family to visit St. Maarten and have issued strong support for the island despite the tragedy which happened. The whole island was shocked at what happened and every single person was relieved to see that the perpetrators of this horrible act were apprehended," commented Prime Minister Wescot-Williams. (DCOMM Photo)

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sjacobspresentsculturalcalendarstoschoolmanagers14042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs presented the recently launched Cultural Calendar to School Managers during a press conference on Thursday. The Cultural Calendar was first launched at Fort Amsterdam on March 10th as part of the "Decade of Revitilization of our Cultural and Natural Heritage 2013-2023" All children, teachers and staff of the schools on St. Maarten will receive a copy of the calendar. School mangers who were unable to attend were invited to pick up their copy at the Culture Department.

The calendar highlights places and persons of worth in our history. It contains a vast amount of historical and cultural information. The Minister hopes that it will serve as a research tool for children and that it will educate and encourage our children and community to preserve and maintain our cultural and natural heritage. "This calendar gives our children the opportunity to learn something about St. Maarten each month," the Minister said.

The Culture department has also been assigned the task of creating booklets containing the information. This booklet will be available for the schools, general public and visitors alike, "With the creation of this booklet we can proudly say that we have created literature that everyone can read and enjoy," Minister Jacobs said.

The calendar represents the first step in the Ministry' goals for the Decade of Revitilization of our Cultural and Natural Heritage 2013-2023." The Ministry is also working towards achieving a stakeholder's summit to gather information and input as to where the focus should be during the coming 10 years. "Many of the stakeholders have already been doing the work, with sometimes limited financial means and low input from government in keeping our culture and natural heritage alive. "Revitalization of our heritage cannot be done without the valuable input of these stakeholders," said Minster Jacobs. The Ministry will also be working on establishing the National Cultural and Natural Archives as part of its long term goals.

A letter of protests will be filed on Monday morning by the UP Faction to the President of Parliament.

The UP would like to refer the President of Parliament to the objection by MP Jules James during the end of the second round not to move to end the meeting due to the absence of the Minister of Health, Social Development and Labour to actively take part in the budget deliberation.

We heard the Minister wasn't feeling well at the time of the continuation of the Central Committee meeting. If this is the case, then the Minister of Health should have authorized his Secretary General to come to the House to provide answers to questions posed or the President of Parliament should have postponed the meeting to a later date.

The Minister of Health we were informed sent some answers to questions at 1.30am on Saturday, but the document was not signed and wasn't addressed to the honourable Members of Parliament. You do not treat the highest elected legislative body in that manner. Anybody could have written those answers, and this is unacceptable.

The key point is that MPs were not able to ask the Minister of Health clarification on their questions posed. Rather than postponing the meeting as in the case of both Minister of Finance Tuitt and Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs Pantophlet who needed more time to respond to the many questions posed in the first round, the President of Parliament insisted to close off the second round, not acknowledging the objection.

The Constitution makes provisions for how this should be handled.

Seeing that none of the above actions were taken by the President of Parliament, the UP faction is serving official notice on Monday morning to the President of Parliament and the Government, that should this objection not be heeded, the UP faction will use all legal means available at its disposal to take this matter further.

The UP faction is giving the President of Parliament an opportunity to correct this matter before proceeding to the plenary session on Monday morning at 10:00am.

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

Great Bay:--- Minister de Weever stated, in reaction to the statements made by Minister of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations Mr. R. Plasterk in the Daily Herald last Saturday, with regards to Governance issues at SMMC that ended the specialist cooperation that he is fully aware thereof. This matter has my full attention. Great efforts have been and are still continuously being made by both my Ministry and the Inspectorate of Health to address these issues. These efforts have resulted in the placement by the Health Inspectorate of SMMC under intensified supervision and the subsequent issuance of 14 orders by the Heath Inspectorate to SMMC, to address amongst others several governance matters, or else pay significant fines. One of these measures was the much discussed measure to either terminate the contract with Dr. Scot, or terminate the contract with his consultancy firm ANG Consulting N.V. Although SMMC is still opposing all the imposed measures through litigation, it has meanwhile complied with some of them. There has consequently been some improvement. There is however still much work to do and I can only hope that, with the appointment of a new interim director of SMMC recently, the era of constant opposition and litigation by SMMC, will be replaced with the much needed collaboration, dialogue and decisive actions, so that our combined efforts can promptly resolve the existing issues. The cooperation with AMC and VUmc is important for both St. Maarten and our sister islands Saba and St. Eustatius. Conditions must be set for the prompt realization hereof.

Will Await Operational Audit on Central Bank and Move Forward From There

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot Williams explained the recent discussions in the community centered on dollarization. The Prime Minister explained on her weekly radio show One on One with the Prime Minister that the unsolicited advice that the Social Economic Council gave regarding dollarization has reignited the talk of dollarization for the Country. "The Social and Economic Council recently gave an unsolicited advice on the monetary union between Curacao and St Maarten, which of course was an agreement which was made coming into 101010. It was decided by the two countries of Curacao and St. Maarten that we will share a central bank and then because of that will de facto have a monetary union. However, when you take into consideration the issue of the appointment of board members to the Central Bank and what that took and is taking to get done both countries have questioned the effectiveness of that union," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister reiterated that she still believes in the monetary union and a Central Bank between the two countries. "Two autonomous countries within the Kingdom have decided that there is strength in numbers, especially in monetary matters and thus we agreed to work together on a monetary union on the basis of equality. However, it has not worked like that in practice and so we had so many issues, again in particular with regards to the appointment of board members. Coupled to that was the question of what currency this union would have and what currency St. Maarten would have. As agreed to in 101010 there would be a Dutch Caribbean guilder for this monetary union for Curacao and St. Maarten. No attempts for a monetary union have yet been made particularly due to those issues. The presidency of the Central Bank was also a matter of much discussion and criticism. Finally we have now agreed that an operational audit will be conducted of the bank, with some two weeks ago the agreement being arrived at on who would execute the operational audit," continued the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also explained that St. Maarten's economy is in practice a dollarized economy, despite the country having an official, stable Netherlands Antillean guilder. "The Dutch Caribbean Guilder would be another name for the Antillean guilder pegged to the us dollar. As long as our currency remains how it is any currency vis a vis the dollar should not be an issue. However, the Social and Economic Council did come up with the un asked for advice which has become public and advised that St. Maarten get out of the union. Where do we stand at this moment? Before May 2012 there was a clear preference for dollarization, however that issue was never taken to the point of a decision support by legislation in parliament but that Government was leaning in that direction. Currently we are waiting on the operational audit of the joint monetary union to make the decision whether we will continue cooperation or would be looking at our own agency. If we do that will we then go over to formal dollarization. But up to this point both Governments have indicated that they will be awaiting the result of the union," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

pjlandusm2011puppetshow15042013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, April 17, at 5:30pm, students of the University of St. Martin (USM) in collaboration with the Philipsburg Jubillee Library (PJL) will put on a special free Puppet Show for all ages.
Twelve students enrolled in the Teacher Education Program at USM will perform approximately 4 puppet shows. Their performances will fulfill a major requirement for their Children's Literature course, as they works towards obtaining their Bachelors Degree in Education.
This collaborative effort between USM students and the library was spearheaded by Maryland Powell, PJL's Junior Children's Librarian and the instructor of the Children's Literature course, Pattie Maier. The pair have collaborated on many events such as the Anansi Storytelling Festival and countless other puppet shows and festivals, that foster learning through storytelling.
"Puppet shows tantalize the imagination and bring written stories to life. They show that written stories can be acted out using voices and props", remarked education Instructor Maier.
Children attending the puppet show display can expect to see stories like "We're Going on a Bear Hunt", "Cleaning Mr. Crocodile's Teeth, "The Three Billy Goats' Gruff" and many more interactive, exciting stories.
Parents and children are invited to attend this educational, yet fun puppet show display at the library, put on by the students of USM.

wmarlinwithnewgarbagebins14042013Philipsburg:--- With the distribution of new 65 gallon garbage bins that started during the weekend, it is expected that within a few weeks the island will be noticeably cleaner. William Marlin the Deputy Prime Minister with responsibility for VROMI was very happy with the arrival and he mentioned that these new bins would be a welcome addition to his overall get St. Maarten clean efforts. Along with the other projects coming down the stream and the possibility of an awareness campaign, the Minister is confident that these will lead to a healthier population. The Minister added that we are all affected by pollution in any form and we must all pitch in to make St. Maarten the cleanest island in the region.
A partial amount of some 2000 bins have already arrived on the island with more to come in the next few weeks. The bins will be distributed by the contractors who are now tasked with garbage pickup. The bins are numbered and residents will be required to sign for receipt of the bin.

shtameetswithsxmgrassrootsmovement14042013Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, met on Tuesday April 2, 2013 with a delegation of the St. Martin Grassroots People Movement, led by its president and founder, Leopold James. The other members of the delegation were the board-member of the grassroots organization, Albert ('Jesse') Adams, and independent concerned citizen and observer, Mr. Freddy Richardson.
James explained that the term Grassroots St. Martin People Movement, is the colloquial name, indicating both the St. Martin Nation Building Movement (SNBF) and its ('French'-) counterpart, the Association L' Esprit de Concordia.

In his opening remarks, James clarified the metaphor "Bush-tea", representing the St. Martin Cultural heritage and its very embodiment - the native, indigenous St. Martin people.
"These are the very people, whose culture of hospitality was why the island got the brand name, the Friendly Island, which in return attracted hundreds of thousands of people and allowed for many businesses to flourish" James explained. He noted that, there have been numerous indications, that finally, there is a recognition, on various levels, that there can be no sustainable development on the island without "bush-tea", - meaningful input and participation from the indigenous people of St. Martin.
The Executive Board of the SHTA and the Grassroots SXM People Movement met to discuss common grounds. While both entities might have different starting-points based on their specific interests, they have many common concerns about issues the country is currently facing. The parties agreed to establish a structural setting for consultation, based on focusing on these common concerns and the betterment thereof.
Concerns were shared about transparency and electoral reform, the way in which decisions are being made by Government, the lack of stakeholder involvement in the various decisions and some of these decisions not being in the best interest of the people, the economy and the island as a whole. We all have a stake in St. Martin so we should all work towards a harmonious society, it is a process that may not always be easy, but it concerns the future of everybody. We have no right to saddle the next generation with the problems that we are reluctant to deal with.
James, thanked and commended the SHTA, in particular its president, Emil Lee for having the courage to invite his group in order to find common grounds and for creating the right conditions, conducive for developing a structural consultation format intended to bring parties together to that end.

The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Martin by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

Philipsburg:--- The Ombudsman, Dr. Nilda Arduin, herewith informs the public that the7th Biennial CAROA Conference will be hosted by the Ombudsman of Sint Maarten from May 5-9 2013 at Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Casino.

Being host of this event gives the Ombudsman the opportunity to expose not only the CAROA members, but also the local guests to topics of general concern presented by renown speakers and experienced and dynamic regional and international Ombudsmen.

At the Opening Ceremony His Excellency, the Governor, drs. E. Holiday, the President of Parliament drs. R. Samuel, as well as the president of CAROA Mr. Valton Bend will address the audience. The key note speaker of this event is the International representative of the Ombudsman of Sweden , Mrs. Marianne von der Esch; the topic of her presentation is: "The Evolution of the Ombudsman concept as started in Sweden and its worldwide status today."

Block registration is open to non-members of CAROA. The topics that will be addressed at the various sessions are the following:

  1. "Maximizing the Ombudsman's influence, impact and effectiveness ensuring ethics in public administration." by Mrs. Mr. Alba Martijn, Ombudsman Curacao
  2. "Transparency and freedom of information in a difficult and constantly changing environment." by Mrs. Lynette Stephenson, Ombudsman of Trinidad and Tobago
  3. "Traditions in setting standards of good administration; the role of legality in Ombudsman's decisions." by Mr. Gert Bergman, Attorney at Law
  4. "Delivering more with less" by Nicola Williams, Ombudsman Cayman Islands
  5. "Holding leaders to account: A summary of experience." by Ulco van de Pol, Ombudsman Amsterdam
  6. "Human Rights as Public Service Ethics-Issues, Challenges and Prospects." by Victor Ayeni,Director Governance & Magement Services International
  7. "Enhancing the role of Ombudsman institutions in the protection and promotion of human rights." by Arlene Brock, Ombudsman of Bermuda
  8. "Protection of vulnerable groups (children, disabled, elderly) in society" by Florence Elie, Ombudsman Haiti
  9. "Caribbean Ombudsman and the Human Rights Function a re-assessment." by Professor Victor Ayeni: Director Governance & Management Services International
  10. "Equal rights without discrimination! The European Court on Human Rights and the protection of Human Rights in the Dutch Caribbean" by Prof. Arjen van Rijn: Constitutional Law
  11. Workshop "Sharpen Your Teeth "(SYT ) Investigative Training by the founder of this investigative method , Mr. André Marin, Ombudsman Ontario Canada.
  12. "The growing trend of privatization of public services: consequences for the Ombudsman" by Dame Beverley Wakem, President IOI the Ombudsman.
  13. "Ombudsman and the changing face of public services" by Marianne von der Esch, International representative the Ombudsman Sweden
  14. "Public Sector accountability and the public service landscape." by Mr. Miguel Alexander, Civil Notary
  15. Workshop: "Dealing with modern technology." by André Marin, Ombudsman Ontario
  16. "Ensuring procedural fairness and administrative justice for all citizens at a time when entities, governance and administration arrangements worldwide are undergoing fundamental changes." by Beverley Wakem, Ombudsman/President International Ombudsman Institute (keynote speaker at the Closing Ceremony).

Each Session will end with a panel discussion.

Invitation has been extended to government entities and other supervisory boards. The Ombudsman is urging all persons who have been invited to this conference to please register at the website mentioned in the email of Artemia, the event planner of this event.

A productive, informative and exciting Conference is guaranteed to equip each CAROA member with renewed vigor to bridge the following two years and will provide the non-members with more information about the Ombudsman Institution.

stolenpendant12042013Philipsburg:--- With the arrest of a person suspected of snatching a chain, the police found this pendant in his possession. The police is therefore requesting the assistance of the public to find the rightful owner of the pendant.

KPSM Police Report

Global Missions church youth training and counseling program is inviting the general public to attend their first in three (3) series of anger management under the Theme: "Bridging the Gap".

Our Objective is: "He will go before the Lord in spirit and power like Elijah. He will make peace between parents and their children and will bring those who are not obeying God back to the right way of thinking, to make a people ready for the coming of the Lord." St. Luke 1:17 (NCV)

Question: How do we deal with anger at home, church, school, the workplace, in Government and the community at large?

Come on out! A special invitation is going out to all youths and their parents.

Facilitator for this first session is: Minister Jenneth Harrigan,

Venue: #16 Coralita Road.

Date: Wednesday April 17th, 2013

Time: 7:30am

Please make a special effort to attend! And bring along an offering!

Music will be played by Scotty.

Light refreshments will be on sale.

We would like to thank our sponsors in part for their contribution Over the years towards our Youth training and counseling Program and Poverty alleviation program: Seven Seas Water, FkG Riggings, Pineapple Pete, Sunset Beach Bar, Zee Best, Alpha Jewels, Rays Jewellery Int., Trident Jewelers, Mayfair, Mr. Tablecloth, Caribbean Gems, Linen Galore, Napa, Prestige Value Car Rentals, United Car Rentals, Juliana int. Airport, SaintAcc, TEES By The SEAS, Drywall Systems, Prime Distributors, and others to be announced during our upcoming projects this year God willing!

Contact Pastor Esmond Flemming at: +1721-587-5271 / +1721-527-4614

telemsheikasbistroblockparty12042013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group will be holding a 15-15-15 ticket sale at the company's main office on Pond Island on Monday upcoming, to promote Carnival's opening night show - "Night of the Hitmakers."

The ticket sale will take place on Monday (15)th at (15):00 hours and at a discounted price of $(15) - Hence the publicized 15-15-15 promotion.
"We will be opening the main branch for only one hour for the pre-ticket sale promotion which will be handled exclusively by the promoters of the show, Xtratight Entertainment," said promotion coordinator and TelEm Group Marketing and Sales Officer, Cheryl Rismay.

Ms. Rismay is advising anyone who wants tickets for the show at the greatly reduced price to come to the main branch location during the special hour of the promotion to avoid disappointment.
The first 15 to arrive for the promotion will also receive a $5.00 calling card as an added bonus.
The Night of the Hitmakers is being billed as a party dance night on the "biggest dance floor ever constructed for a public St. Maarten event."
Getting the party going will be hit bands, Burning Flames and Onyan , along with Gio Fuertisimo, Le Groove, Oswald and Control Band.
"The entire Festival Village will be our dance floor. There will be no spectators on the night, only dancing," said Xtratight Entertainment show promoter, Bertaux "Mr. Rude" Fleming.
The promoter has meantime thanked TelEm Group for Monday's promotion and for opening the company doors to the island's music and carnival show lovers.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and Finance Minister Roland Tuitt are outraged at an article that appeared in one of the local newspapers on Friday where they copied a story from De Telegraaf in the Netherlands who claimed that St. Maarten is not paying its fair share to the Coast Guard bills who are providing services to the Dutch Caribbean nations. The Minister of Justice provided reporters on St. Maarten with copies of the payment receipts that were wire transferred to the Coast Guard accounts. The latest payment was made in March 2013. De Telegraaf in their article published on Thursday stated that St. Maarten is a "corrupt island" and has been ducking its responsibilities when it comes to paying its share for the operations of the Coast Guard.

Below are copies of some of the receipts that show when the Government of St. Maarten made the payments via wire transfer from the Windward Islands Bank to an account in Curacao.

Click here to view the payment receipts to the Coast Guard's account.

Philipsburg:--- The board of the CFT (College financieel toezicht) seems to be peeved by the statements made by Finance Minister Roland Tuitt who told reporters two weeks ago at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the CFT was wrong with their statements when they said that so far country St. Maarten did not submit its financial statements for the year "October 2010 to December 2011". Tuitt showed reporters a report book which stated that the statements were inside of that book. In a one on one meeting with members of the press, the secretary of the CFT Erik van Engelen said that they were not speaking about the time when St. Maarten was part of the Netherlands Antilles. "The statements for the Netherlands Antilles were submitted but they were referring to the financial statements from the time St. Maarten became a country. Van Engelen said that the CFT was told that the financial statements are by the SOAB and when it is finished it has to go to the General Audit Chamber and Parliament before it reaches them. They said the deadline for those statements already passed and they spoke to the Minister of Finance of St. Maarten and clarified what statements they were referring to. It appeared as though the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt was supposed to clarify or apologize for his statements regarding the announcement he made at the Council of Ministers' press briefing but he never did so.

One of the issues the CFT has with the 2013 budget which is currently being discussed in Parliament is the Justice Park that Minister of Justice Roland Duncan wants to construct. They said they are of the opinion that St. Maarten should put the project on hold because they believe that the Minister of Justice will be building this project via loan which will have an 8% interest rate on it. According to the CFT, St. Maarten should seek to obtain this loan from the Netherlands where they will pay a mere 2.5% interest rate and they can also borrow more monies to upgrade all the Ministries that are lacking monies.

As for the 2013 budget, the CFT said that this budget is already late because only now it is being discussed in the Central Committee and next week it will be discussed in Parliament. The 2013 budget might reach the CFT by June this year, by then St. Maarten still has to buckle up to prepare the 2014 budget.

The government of St. Maarten promised the CFT and it is also included in the budget of 2013 that St. Maarten will increase its tax compliance in order to fullfill the target of its budget. They also intend to levy taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and other items and that should have been implemented by April 1, 2013.

daniellajeffryspeakingatusm12042013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- At the University of St. Maarten, the 2-day conference on the National Development Plan organized by the National Development Team from the Department of Interior & Kingdom Affairs (BAK) came to an end.

The first day consisted of two lectures, while the 2nd day was mainly discussions about what the issues were in reference to the NDP.

The goal of the NDP, a multi-annual development plan, is to guide the strategic development of St. Maarten—a vision of the people—with all sectors from St Maarten stakeholders (i.e. NGOs, grass root organizations, private organizations, foundations, social groups, academia, and others) involved and engaged via participatory dialogue.

This conference consisted of lecturers giving presentations relating to the National Development Plan, meant to increase awareness of the topic and to stimulate the participatory process with stakeholders,

The first presenter was Jens-Ulrich Poppen, Program Manager of Democratic Governance (UNDP), whose presentation was on the UN experiences in engaging the Community on Nation Building Projects.

Poppen spoke about how "Nation building must be understood as an ongoing and continuous effort particularly in countries in which state-building (institutions) took place before nation-building (identity, norms, values)" and the reasons for its importance, which ranged from the "building of an integrated national community is important in the building of a state and its institutions, social and economic development is a pre-requisite for the building of such an integrated national community" to the "socio- economic development through local(ized) leadership."

He went on to emphasize the importance of the bottom-up approach to nation building by emphasizing local knowledge. Poppen said, "empower[ing] and active[ing] citizenship is a critical part of social capital and is an end in itself besides being essential for inclusive growth and national ownership."

The second speaker was Daniella Jeffry, historian and writer, who provided insight into the cultural history of St. Maarten.

Jeffry spoke about the Treaty of Concordia, its importance, the impact of the 1848/1863 Abolition of Slavery, Culture and Identity, the Frontier monument, St. Maarten/St Martin Day, Effects of the political separation of the island, and reunification of the people.

Jeffry said that the Treaty of Concordia can be summed up in three words, namely: "UNITY – LIBERTY – FRIENDSHIP" and that the "1648 Treaty established the rules for a peaceful and friendly cohabitation of two nations sharing the ownership of the land. What is unique about this cohabitation is that the people who settled on the island were not necessarily Dutch on one side or French on the other side. Therefore, the terms of the 1648 Treaty initiated a special and unique cohabitation."

Jeffry added that the "native St. Martiners must regain their unified way of life for the preservation of their heritage and the fulfillment of their common destiny: that is the foundation we have to thrive to consolidate. It is the 'sine qua non' condition in which to engage in the process of integration and inclusion. This natural human process has given substance to our St. Martin culture throughout the years."

On the second day, there were 6 short presentations by stakeholders, dealing with the issues of how their organization can contribute to the national development plan. There were advocates or representatives from the indigenous group, the USM president, Sunfed (funding agency), the marine sector, and Secretary Generals of the Government of St. Maarten.

Several important issues were brought forward about the St. Maarten society from these stakeholders, contributions that sparked agreements and or disagreements.

In the near future, more events will be held to get the input from the community.

From the answers of the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt to parliamentary questions on the future of the monetary union, it might be inferred that the recent SER advice on the monetary union contained criticism of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS).
The Social Economic Council wishes to correct any possible impression of criticism on its part towards the Central Bank as an institution or its role in safeguarding our monetary stability.
The SER advice "Sint Maarten stepping out of the monetary union" does not pertain in any way that the Central Bank would be dysfunctional or "broken" as Minister Tuitt phrased it. In the view of the SER, the Central Bank is a highly professional, well-functioning institution. Information provided by the Central Bank contributed greatly to this SER advice and others. Furthermore, beefing up the Sint Maarten branch of the Central Bank is a desirable development, whatever the future of the monetary union may be. If it would come to dissolving the monetary union, Sint Maarten will at the very least need a regulatory body for supervision of the banking sector, and certainly a research and statistics division to monitor the new financial system.
What is broken, according to the SER advice, or at least at great risk, is the monetary union, the situation of Curaçao and Sint Maarten sharing the same currency.
Our common currency is underpinned by a common foreign exchange reserve, that is the amount of dollars and other foreign currency the central bank keeps ensuring that a Netherlands Antilles guilder at all times can be exchanged for a dollar at the official rate of Naf. 1.79 to the dollar, even if we temporarily spend more dollars than we earn as a country. The foreign exchange reserve is permanently fed by the dollars we earn from export and our tourism sector and other earnings, while it is at almost the same rate depleted by our imports and other dollar spending.
According to the IMF and other expert organizations, the structural problem between Sint Maarten and Curaçao is that our economies do not operate at the same wavelength. On balance, Sint Maarten consistently adds to the foreign exchange reserve, while Curaçao tends to draw from it. It is the worrisome financial situation in Curaçao that undermines our monetary union, as government budget deficits tend to lead to balance of payments or foreign exchange deficits as well. If the foreign exchange reserve consistently runs low, the Central Bank, however well-functioning and well-equipped, in the long run will not be able to maintain our pegged rate to the dollar and the value of our currency would be at risk.
This negative trend in the foreign exchange reserve has been camouflaged for years by debt relief and by Dutch aid monies flowing in. The Dutch aid has come to an end while debt relief was a one-time windfall.
Compounding the problem of unbalance between both countries is that our economies are of unequal size. This makes the risk of unfavorable financial policies on Curaçao far greater than the other way around. Simply put, Curaçao is able to drag Sint Maarten down monetarily, but we would not easily be able to put Curaçao at risk.
The minimum safe level for the foreign exchange reserve is internationally recognized as the sum needed for three month of imports. This level has been safely maintained for decades. However, in 2012, for the first time in many years, the foreign exchange reserves dipped below this level. This and other factors prompted the SER to initiate an unsolicited advice on the future of the monetary union.
The SER concluded that maintaining the monetary union would be too risky. Once it is decided to dissolve the union, the next choice would be between either creating a "Sint Maarten dollar" for the 30% of our economy that is not dollarized yet, or to introduce the US dollar as the sole legal tender. For practical reasons, the majority of the SER advised to generally introduce the dollar.
The view of the finance minister Mr. Tuitt that "no country in the world that has dollarized has been successful" must be refuted, as our next door neighbors the British Virgin Islands (Tortola) introduced the US dollar in 1959 without a glitch since, while many Latin American countries used temporary or permanent circulation of the US dollar as a means to successfully combat hyperinflation. Sint Maarten however, if dollarizing, would not do so from a position of weakness, but from strength, as our country – taken separately from Curaçao - does not have structural balance of payment problems, and it is already 70% dollarized.
The SER wishes to support the view of Finance Minister Tuitt that any individual in the community can give advice to the government, and certainly encourages every citizen to do so. At the same time, the SER has a specific advisory obligation anchored in the law, and provides advice from the tripartite background of business, labor and independent experts.
A SER advice is the reflection of a broad array of social economic partners in civil society who bring forward joint advice, often unanimous and always with majority support among members. It is noteworthy however that contrary to the essence of the role of the SER in our constitutional framework, so far no official reply or feedback was given by government on any of the advices – solicited or unsolicited - brought forward by the SER.
The SER advice "Sint Maarten stepping out of the monetary union" can be downloaded at any time from www.sersxm.org.

SER Press Release

alainrichardson14062012Marigot:--- The State Council (Conseil d'État) rendered its decision on the in-illegibility of President Alain Richardson on Friday morning. The State Council in its decision said President Alain Richardson must resign from his position as President of the Collectivity of St. Martin and he has been deemed in-illegible for a period of 18 months. The file number on the decision taken against President Richardson is No:364-071.

Based on the decision rendered by the State Council, President Richardson cannot postulate himself as a candidate for the senate seat which will become available in September 2014.
The State Council, Commission national des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques (CNCCFP) on March 27th, 2013 examined the campaign accounts for the RRR Party and rejected the RRR campaign accounts based on a decision of November 21st, 2012.
The Prefecture of St. Martin confirmed to SMN News on Friday that a copy of the decision was sent to them, but they do not have the power to release the document to the media. However, the Cabinet of the Prefet Phillipe Chopin confirmed that President Richardson has to resign from his seat and he received 18 months of in-illegibility.

On Saturday March 30th, 2013, President Richardson told reporters at a special press conference that he was notified of the decision on March 27th, 2013 and that the Conseil d'État would give its final decision within one month. SMN News reported on March 29th, 2013 that the State Council would have rendered its decision within two weeks.

While President Richardson is not the first President who had to leave his seat because of his campaign accounts not meeting State regulations, he is the first one to have received such harsh punishment.

The leader of Union pour les Progres Louis Constant Fleming was sanctioned twice during his career as a politician. Once when he lead the United St. Martin Movement (USM) and when he led the UPP list. On both occasions L.C. Fleming was given a one year sanction of in-illegibility but L.C. Fleming still managed to get himself elected as senator after the one year sanction was up. It appears as though the State Council decided to increase its sanction against President Richardson to ensure that he does not postulate for the senate seat next year.

During the press conference on Saturday March 30th, 2013, President Richardson said the State Council rejected his campaign accounts because he had two accounts for the RRR political campaign. One of those accounts he said was a USD account and his lawyer argued that the Conseil d'État needs to consider the specifities and or realities of St. Martin because the island is the only French territory that shares an open border with another country while US dollars are widely used on the French side. President Richardson also said that the two accounts were open at the same bank on the French side of the island and most importantly the accounts were not used simultaneously.

When SMN News reporter asked President Richardson if he ever opened two accounts for his political campaign when he campaigned before he was finally elected in 2012, President Richardson said this was the first time he opened two accounts, even though he knew that the CNCCFP is looking for one account to audit campaign funding.

With this sanction the RRR party will not get back the Euros 22,000.00 they spent on their election campaign in 2012.

cposwithsxmacademystudents11042013Philipsburg:--- On Thursday April 10th four students from the Sint Maarten Academy namely James Brooks, Brandon Blake, Nathan Clifford, and O'Heny Lorendent under the guidance of the school counselor Mrs. Lisa Peynado visited the Philipsburg Police Station to give a presentation they prepared. This presentation was the result of a challenge made by the Community Police Officer Major Felix Richards during a presentation he had given to these students approximately 2 weeks ago concerning Community Development and male Self-empowerment. Some of the topics that were discussed by these students during the presentation were taxes and the environment. The presentation was a well put together PowerPoint presentation during which each student got the opportunity to explain what they would do if they were the leaders of country Sint Maarten by diminishing taxes and cleaning up the island. The officers present during this presentation were quite impressed and encouraged the students to continue with their great work.

KPSM Police Report

sjacobswithkeirinfranklyn11042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The St. Maarten Volleyball Association SIMVA brought the curtain down on yet another successful Secondary School Volleyball Tournament. This is the fourth year and each year the level of the games has improved tremendously.

Once again the St. Maarten Academy School girls retained the championship for the fourth year consecutively. The defending champions Milton Peters College boys also retained their title for a second year.

Minister of Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs was on hand to address the crowd and helped with the handing out of the awards at the ceremony, which was held on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at the Roof Top Bar and Grill.

At this ceremony awards were handed out for the recently concluded school tournament and the annual senior championship which concluded in December of 2012.

In the Minister's address, she congratulated the winners and encouraged the others to work hard to be at the top next time.

Minister Jacobs spoke directly to the youths at the gathering and commended them on their show of sportsmanship. The Minister was able to witness a limited amount of the games and was impressed to see the improved level of the play.

SIMVA President, Raymond Jacobs, thanked the sponsors who for the last four years have helped in making the school tournament a success. These sponsors are: GEBE NV, Windward Islands Bank. ORCO Bank, Bank of Nova Scotia, Paradise Inn, Builders Paradise, Travel Planners, Intermar Shipping, Divico and A&A Supply.

He also made mention of the media houses that were very instrumental in getting the games and the scores out to the public such as Rodney Richardson of Soualiga Sports, Gordon St. Luce of the Score, SXMislandtimes and a very special commendation to Steven C of PJD2 radio.

In closing, President Jacobs mentioned some of the events that SIMVA has planned for the rest of the 2013 season. The next event up-coming is the Business Tournament which is scheduled for May 3, 2013 to June 1, 2013 and will be played every Friday and Saturday during this period.

Jacobs also mentioned the visit of Coach Caffe from Brazil. This is the second visit by Coach Caffe to our island. Coach Caffe will be working closely with the local coaches and will assist them in preparing National Teams for the up-coming Junior and Youth tournaments which are scheduled to be held between July to September of this year. Also on this year's calendar is the election for a new President and the senior tournament which is scheduled for September.

Female Division

1st place: St. Maarten Academy

2nd place: Milton Peters College

3rd place: Learning Unlimited

MPV of the girls : Keirin Franklyn – St. Maarten Academy

Male Division

1st place: Milton Peters College

2nd place: Academy

3rd place: Sundial

MVP of the boys: Adonis Jacobs -- Milton Peters College

Female Division

1st place: Shush

2nd place: Nagico Nitro

3rd place: Go For It

MVP Renata Haques -- Shush

Male Division

1st place: Reptiles

2nd place: Guess What

3rd place: Go For It

MVP Rotillo Richardson -- Reptiles

ilovesxmcarnivaltees11042013Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten's very own BaySide Clothing Company has released a new limited edition "SXM Island Love" Tees especially for fans of St. Maarten's premier tourist event - Carnival 2013.

The Tees are coming out in some playful new color & material combinations that certainly will not go unnoticed.

The Tees will be retailed from $19.99 for male and female customers who want to be well dressed for carnival while sending a strong message about the love of their country and the premier carnival event.

Company founders and Directors Lee and Rae Dominique say since they could not attend this year's carnival celebrations due to business commitments in the United Kingdom, they were however able to design and release this new limited line of Tees to make their own brand impression on the St. Maarten carnival.

"We could not resist the big buzz that's going around for carnival this year, it's going to be HUGE," says Rae.

He said both he and his brother Lee are very excited about the new line of Tees and the hard work that has gone into producing them in time for the opening of carnival.

Both have thanked the owner of Galaxy Fashions in Philipsburg for supplying the usual high quality Tees and Front Street printing company, Bling It for their excellent printing and attention to detail.

"The fact that we can get such good work produced locally is an amazing bonus for our company. It cuts down on shipping costs from the UK or from the US", said the brothers.

They say since announcing the launch of their clothing line last year they have officially registered their company We Are BaySide Ltd., in the UK and have taken on the services of an accountant and business adviser to help grow their new enterprise.

And since the company launch on St. Maarten last year, BaySide has attracted the attention of one well-known retail store in the UK who are exploring the possibility of adding to their own urban line of clothing to attract a younger customer base.

"Negotiations with the retailer are still at a very early stage but BaySide Clothing Co. is hopeful that this will be their first big entry into the competitive UK market.

"People are taking note of what we are doing online and are now looking to us for guidance and advice on how we can take the next step in our business venture," said Lee.

"As usual the challenge is doing what you can with limited resources, especially the resources needed to market your brand and maintain that online presence in a market as wide as the UK," continued Rae.

rotaryrecognizesimportanceofautismawareness11042013President of Love of Kids Foundation Mrs. Heather Mercuur made a presentation during the club's meeting at Divi Little Bay on Wednesday April 10th. The subject of Autism has received more attention this month considering that April 2nd was World Autism Day.
World Autism Day was agreed by the United Nations in 2007. It is intended to bring the world's attention to autism, a pervasive disorder that affects tens of millions, by encouraging member states to take measures to raise awareness about autism throughout society and to encourage early diagnosis and early intervention.
According to president of the Love of Kids Foundation there are a growing number of children who may be autistic or have another form of learning challenges, but whose condition is not properly diagnosed by a professional and therefore adequate steps are often not taken. There is still allot unknown about autism, but research continues to take place.

President Robert Judd of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten presented a donation on behalf the members in order to assist the Love of Kids Foundation with two of several information events that the foundation will be hosting throughout the year.
The community is encouraged to attend these information sessions and to visit www.loveofkids.net; "the child you may be helping may be your own".

carnivalzoukkompasbouyonfestbanner05042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The organizers of the "Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest" stated we're teaming up with Sunny Foods on Illidge Road for a super ticket promo. The hottest zouk event of this year is scheduled for Saturday April 20th in Festival Village and the organizers are granting the public One last opportunity to get their tickets at super price of US$ 20.

"We're doing this for one day only and only for the limited amount of tickets. These tickets will be made available via our partnership with Sunny Foods," the organizers have announced.
The promo will be held on Saturday April 13th only at St. Maarten's favorite supermarket, Sunny Food. "Tickets are in limited supply, so first come, first served. When they are sold that's it," the organizers said.

"We're pretty sure that that these tickets will go in a matter of a few hours, so come early and get yours"

The "Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest" will feature an impressive line-up of headliners in three genres of music: the legendary complete Zouk band Kassav, the definitive kings of Konpas CARIMI and the undisputed Prince of Bouyon music, young sensation Asa Banton.

The show is definitely a must-do during this year's Carnival season, they say. "The three acts are sure to bring an explosive night of musical entertainment."

Formed in 1979, Kassav' was the leading band to emerge from the formative years of zouk. Most authors credit Décimus, his brother Georges, the band's bassist and Desvarieux as its inventors. Their first album, Love and Ka Dance (1980), established the new sound of zouk, a Parisian concoction unlike anything else, island-based or otherwise to come onto the global scene. The band gained popularity in their much-heralded live performances in Paris's Club Zenith and toured widely.
Kassav' continued to gain popularity both as a group and by several members' solo recordings, eventually peaking in 1985 with Yélélé, which featured the international hit "Zouk la sé sèl médikaman nou ni" (meaning "Zouk is the only medicine we have" in French Antillean Creole).

Receiving accolades from the International music scene, including Best Album Of The Year, Carimi has risen to the top of the charts across Billboards best in Haiti, Guadeloupe, Paris, French Guyana, Canada and parts of Europe.
The music industry is now ready to acknowledge the world's best Haitian Kompa band to ever come out of Haiti and has been openly welcomed by music lovers even those who do not like much Kompa genre. After 10 years, Carimi Band is not just popular but have become a music icon in the country of Haiti representing the Kompas genre of music throughout the world.

Asa Banton is blowing up all over the world and fast becoming the Prince of Bouyon music. ASA first appeared with Jah Crew from grand Bay Dominica. The "tell it like it is" child of Grandbay exploded in 2009 with the hit "Grandbay", following up with many other hits like "Spray D Bagon Kill D Cockroach."

Philipsburg:--- The owner of a Chinese grocery store is now a patient at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital nursing wounds he sustained Wednesday morning in Concordia. Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault said the victim's life is not in danger but he was seriously injured on the head. Jouault said a man of unsound mind attacked the businessman with a sword. The suspect was arrested and placed in garde à vue. He was then transported to Guadeloupe pending his trial.

Cay Hill:--- Nine persons were injured Thursday afternoon in a head on collision which occurred after 5pm on Belair road in the vicinity of the One Tete Lockay statue.

Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said all the injured persons were taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center for treatment. The police spokesman further explained that the accident was a head on collision involving a car (Kia) and a mini-van. It appeared as though the accident was caused due to high speed because one of the vehicles tried to overtake a number of cars that were backed up in traffic. The fire department was called to the scene to assist with the rescuing of the injured victims.

Philipsburg:--- A female passenger traveling on Insel Air on Thursday morning from Curacao to the Dominican Republic passed away while the aircraft was on its way to St. Maarten. Insel Air normally makes an in transit stop at the PJIAE before taking off to its final destination.

Prosecutor Dounia Benammar confirmed to SMN News on Thursday that a female passenger passed away on the aircraft while it was on its way to St. Maarten. Benammar said that the woman was not traveling alone and her final destination was the Dominican Republic. The police doctor pronounced the woman dead when the aircraft landed on St. Maarten and also determined that she died of natural causes.

mvogesandnarduin10042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ombudsman Hon. Dr. Nilda Arduin visited Sint Maarten House in The Hague. The Ombudsman is currently in The Netherlands for a number of meetings before leaving for Vienna, Austria, to attend the Second Board of Director's meeting of the International Ombudsman.

Ombudsman Hon. Dr. Nilda Arduin, after visiting the Dutch Bureau of the National Ombudsman, paid a courtesy visit to Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges where she was briefed about current activities of the Sint Maarten House in the Netherlands. Minister Voges accompanied Dr. Arduin during her visit to S4 where she met with the Board.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht - Cft) is of the opinion that the budget of 2013 for Curaçao currently complies with the norms as stipulated in the Kingdom Act on financial supervision Curaçao and Sint Maarten. In its evaluation Cft has taken a number of factors into account, including the instruction. The Cft concludes that the instruction has significantly, but not yet completely, been complied with. Four of the six sections have been met. An agreement is reached with the government on the coverage of deficits of the previous years, and the vacancy stop will be upheld. Meanwhile sufficient trust has been built up to allow for the government in principal to take out loans again for investment purposes, provided that the measures included in the budget are in fact implemented.
The Board of financial supervision has given a positive advice concerning the adopted budget for 2013. Herewith Cft expresses its appreciation for the drive and the direction the government has applied in the past months to take measures to get the out of control public finances back on track. The Board of financial supervision is of the opinion that with the adopted budget for 2013, four of the six sections of the instruction have been met.
Two sections of the instruction are still applicable for the Cft. Primarily this implies maintaining the vacancy stop. The intentions of the government to come to a smaller and more determined administration and the additional package that is being prepared to absorb possible setbacks, show that the original considerations to initiate a vacancy stop are still current. This part of the instruction therefore will remain applicable, with the exception of the so called critical functions. These may still be filled, as has been agreed on last September by the Cft and Curaçao.
The second section is that it is still required to compensate the deficits of the past years completely and in a timely manner. The Cft and Curaçao do not agree on the height of the designated reserve, which has been formed on 10-10-'10 out of the BRK funds, and that Curaçao amongst others wants to use for this purpose. In good consultation with the government it was agreed to wait on the reports of the accountant and the General Audit Chamber (Algemene Rekenkamer) on the financial statements.
Considering that the Cft has given positive advice on the adopted budget 2013, in principal Curaçao may take out loans for investment purposes. With this the policy included by the government in the budget to stimulate the economy, such as major maintenance of school buildings and infrastructure, can be executed. The moment a concrete petition for a loan is submitted, the Cft will evaluate this petition according to the current guidelines in the Kingdom Act. This means that the measures that are included in the budget but that have not been taken as yet, particularly the tax measures, have to be implemented by then, just as possible losses and deficits have to be compensated. For a possible loan for a new hospital, in addition there has to be a balanced business case, including the execution of the measures that are necessary for a responsible exploitation of the hospital.

CFT Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (www.VacationStMaarten.com) has partnered with PIX11 to award one lucky Morning Show fan with a five-night stay for two at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in St. Maarten, including roundtrip airfare. For a chance to win, viewers must tune-in to the PIX11 Morning Show from now through April 28, 2013 to listen for special code words and enter online at www.pix11.com/rewards.

"We encourage everyone eligible to enter in order to have a chance to win this prize trip through the PIX11 Morning Show. Come and experience how truly unique and beautiful St. Maarten really is," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "Thousands of visitors are welcomed to our island each day to indulge in St. Maarten's idyllic white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, lively nightlife, duty-free shopping and world-renowned cuisine. There is truly something for everyone in our Caribbean paradise and our friendly residents go above and beyond to make travelers feel at home," he added.

The winner of the prize trip will receive a six-day/five-night trip to Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino for two including breakfast and roundtrip airfare from a New York City-area airport provided by the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. Blackout dates apply. The winner will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries received and will be notified by email.

For more information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

toddking10042013Philipsburg:--- The brother of murder victim Michael King told reporters on Wednesday at the Court of First Instance that he wanted to put some of the rumors to rest regarding his brother and the Dabouls. Todd King said that his brother and his wife Thelma did not sign any business contract with the Dabouls (Toppers) prior to their death. He said parties were discussing the possibility of starting a business but no contract was signed at the time. Todd said he and his brother met that whole weekend at the beach and he outlined the plans he had for the company and how the operating agreement would have been written up. Todd further explained that he was helping his brother with the preparation of that agreement.

King said after his brother died he contacted the Dabouls and asked them what had changed in the agreement and they assured him that nothing had changed and only recently the King families signed a business agreement with the Dabouls. Todd King said what people are saying are pure speculations but he confirmed to SMN News that discussions were taking place between his brother and the Dabouls.

Melanie Daboul who was also present during the proceedings also said they have been doing business with Michael and Thelma King for quite some time and there was absolutely no contract signed for the rum factory prior to the death of the Kings.
Another clarification the Kings made was concerning the drugs Jeremiah Chevon Mills told the court that he took from the King's safe on September 19th, 2012 when he went to their condominium and robbed them. Todd said his brother and his wife never did drugs. "Inside that bag they stole had all Thelma's jewelry that valued about $70,000.00." Todd King said the package Mills described could not fit in the safe because the safe is very small. He further explained that if Mills had found drugs in the safe and sold it he would have shared that money with the other suspects. When SMN News asked Todd what kind of work his late brother did to earn his living prior to coming to St. Maarten, he said Michael and Thelma owned a labeling company which they sold. Todd said Michael King was on retirement and he was planning to invest his monies in a rum factory on St. Maarten.

Melanie Daboul said when she was informed by Todd that one of the suspects Jamal Jefferson Woolford worked for Toppers Restaurant she was shocked because in her mind that was not the case. Melanie said she then checked with her administrators and it turned out that Woolford did work for them in February 2012 at Toppers by the Sea. She said that she never met Woolford and did not know him because during that same period of time she had given birth to her baby and she was not working. She further explained that her husband Topper Daboul also did not know the suspect Jamal Jefferson Woolford because the young man worked at nights. She further explained that Woolford only worked 12 shifts in the course of six weeks. She said Woolford was given a three month contract but left for another job.

Michael King's mother Sally Gripkey told SMN News that what has happened to her son is like a nightmare for her, to her it is like a dream and she still thinks that she would wake up one day and her son and daughter in law would be there. When asked by SMN News how the trial on Tuesday affected her she said they knew about the case for a while now and none of it was a surprise to her. At the two day hearing, two of Michael King's brothers, his mother, and a sister of Thelma King were among those that came to St. Maarten to witness the proceedings.

corneliusdeweever03102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In an effort to continue to further professionalize the operations of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and to equip ambulances and expand the level of care in the area of Advance Cardiac Life Support, the Department of EMS has purchased two (2) Auto Pulse equipment that are made by ZOLL Medical Corporation.

The Auto Pulse is an automated, portable device with an easy-to-use, load-distributing Life Band that squeezes the entire chest, improving blood flow to the heart and brain during sudden cardiac arrest.

It has been documented and proven through case studies that this device delivers high-quality, uninterrupted chest compressions to maintain myocardial and cerebral perfusion even when moving patients, and/or traveling in an ambulance.

Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said: "When every second counts it is important we have the right equipment and trained staff to administer emergency care in order for them to save our lives."

Pelegrina Equipment Corp in Puerto Rico is the official representative for Zoll in the Caribbean and Norberto Rodriquez will be conducting training for the operational staff of the Ambulance Department on April 10th – April 11th 2013 including practical training with the use of this innovative and vital equipment.

This piece of equipment cost US$ 15,950,00 each. The training will take place at the Ambulance Department headquarters at the Fire & Ambulance Building located at Jackal Road # 5 in Cay Hill.

It has also been proven that the device may offer a significant advantage over manual CPR, moving blood more consistently than human providers. It also offers the benefit of freeing up the ambulance nurse to focus on other life-saving interventions while keeping both patients and themselves safe in the back of a moving ambulance.

Furthermore, an abrupt disruption of the heart's function which causes a lack of blood flow to vital organs claims many lives (-/+ 325.000 lives) each year in the United States of America and is the leading cause of unexpected death that strikes without warning. Therefore improvement in resuscitation practices such as is the case with Auto Pulse could save as many as half of these lives.

The revolutionary ZOLL Auto Pulse provides a better choice for top-quality CPR on the move and therefore is the only device of its kind that is a non-invasive cardiac support pump that moves more blood, more consistently than is possible with human hands.

This device sets a new standard of care for effective and easy-to-use non-invasive cardiac support during resuscitation. It even delivers excellent and consistent blood flow during all patient movement operations, even when ambulance teams are going down stairs, rushing to and from the ambulance or navigating traffic at high speeds.

This investment would be an added value and will certainly enhance and bring the level of care to a much higher standard and ambulances would be fully equipped to deal or handle any type of emergency situation in the pre-hospital care setting.

scaleofjustice21112012Philipsburg:--- The Prosecutor's Office used a strange but very beneficial strategy on Tuesday and Wednesday when they presented the case they have against the suspects that are accused of slaughtering US citizens Michael and Thelma King. It is the first time the Prosecutor's Office chose to present their case in the English language so that the family and friends of the Kings who came from the USA to witness the trial could understand the proceedings. One of the good things about this new strategy is that it worked for SMN News reporter who does not speak the Dutch language. It was also beneficial to the two US reporters who traveled to St. Maarten to cover the trial.

However, it behoves the staff of the court house and the people of St. Maarten to ask the Prosecutor's Office why they never used this strategy in other high profile cases. Their actions on Tuesday and Wednesday showed that the Prosecutors that are working on St. Maarten are multi-lingual and they can speak the English language if they want to in order to benefit the local suspects and families of victims who also suffered the loss of loved ones at the hands of criminals. Almost 90% of the population including elected officials that were prosecuted could not speak the Dutch language fluently, yet the Prosecutor's Office did not even attempt to facilitate the people of the country who are writing out their pay checks every month. Another strange behaviour SMN News reporter noticed is that the presiding Judge made every attempt to ensure that the relatives of the Kings that were present understood the proceedings. The court house is equipped with a legal translator and microphones, but this is the first time that a microphone was assigned to the court translator. On several occasions, Judge Tamara Tyghuis called on the court translator to speak into the microphone so that those sitting the tribune could hear what she was translating when the Judge Tyghuis spoke in Dutch or when the Prosecutors were using the Dutch language to transmit technical terms of the law to the court.

One case in point where the Prosecutor's Office did not make use of this strategy was during the Regatta murder trial where a number of people were killed, one of them was French national. In the eyes of SMN News reporter, the Regatta killings were equally bad for St. Maarten because a number of people that were residing on St. Maarten were killed innocently, yet their relatives did not get preferential treatment, neither did the families of the French nationals that were killed on the Dutch side of the island. As we stated in the beginning of this article, the new strategy is beneficial to St. Maarten and its people, even though it appears as though the Prosecutor's Office made special efforts for the Kings' families because they know they made mistakes that can have fatal consequences even though each of the suspects admitted their roles in the robberies and killing of the Kings.

The constitution of St. Maarten states that the official languages in country St. Maarten are Dutch and English, therefore the new strategy used for the Kings murder trial should be maintained on a daily basis. It will make life much easier for the people of St. Maarten, victims, and suspects alike.

Another point that has to be made is that no one (including reporters) is allowed to use computers or any other digital devices during court proceedings. In December 2012, the Netherlands adopted a new law which was enacted on March 1, 2013 where they will allow all courtroom procedures to be filmed. Cameras and other recording devices can also be used just as it is in the United States. But the Court of First Instance has decided that they will not adopt this new law because for them this is St. Maarten and not the Netherlands.

The world is changing by the day through technology and it is imperative that the lawyers on St. Maarten or the Parliament of St. Maarten take the necessary actions to have the Court of First Instance do whatever is necessary to catch up with the rest of the world. It is no longer acceptable for courtroom cases to remain a public secret and the people of this nation have to depend on some of the twisted reporters who do not report the actual facts of what transpired in the courtroom but choose to write commentaries and opinions on court cases.

The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan is fully aware of the new law in the Netherlands, he has some authority in giving instructions to the people he is paying in the Justice Ministry and it is our hope that the Minister does whatever is in his power to ensure that the people of St. Maarten receive equal and fair treatment when they have to appear before the courts.

cupecoymurdersuspects09042013Philipsburg:--- The three defense lawyers representing the three suspects that are involved in the murder of US citizens Michael and Thelma King poked several holes in the case presented by the Prosecution on Tuesday against the three suspects, Meyshane Kemar Johnson, Jeremiah Chevon Mills, and Jamal Jefferson Woolford. Even though all three of the lawyers that are representing the suspects are from different law firms, they all had the same view on the case presented by the prosecution. All of the lawyers stated in their pleadings that the prosecution did not prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt for the types of sentences they are asking for the suspects.
The second day of proceedings began with Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks who is representing the main suspect in the brutal slaying of the Kings.

Brooks is representing Meyshane Kemar Johnson who admitted to slashing the throats of both victims. In presenting her defense, Brooks called on the court to look at what transpired during the pro-forma hearing and she pointed out the amount of mistakes that were made by the prosecution. Attorney Brooks made sure she informed the court that despite the outcome of the case, she intends to appeal the decision because of the mistakes made by the prosecution and more seriously because they concealed that information and did not submit it to the court and the defense. She said based on the mistakes made the judge should deem the case inadmissible. "The prosecution considers this case to be of a serious nature and I agree with them because two people lost their lives, however, I cannot see how the prosecution would intentionally make so many mistakes and then try to cover it up by concealing it from the court and the defense. Your honor I want to make clear that every place in the world has procedures that have to be followed and that also applies to the United States, where the victims are from. Our law gives us the opportunity to correct mistakes that we make but instead of using the time the prosecution had to correct their mistakes they made more mistakes when issuing two summons to the main suspect on January 17th, 2013. The mistakes made by the prosecution can be fatal to this case in the long run because I will go to the highest court to show what takes place here on St Maarten. I want to know how you would feel your honor that we go through the legal system and this case is thrown out because of the mistakes made by the prosecution. Therefore, from now I am asking you to deem the case inadmissible." Brooks said she only found out about the second summons when she spoke to the prison guard that delivered the third summons to Johnson and she is the one who informed the court of that second summons. "This is not acceptable, all of us in here studied the same law and we need to follow procedures. I can only conclude that the prosecution did sloppy work, this is even beyond sloppy work." The Prosecution, she said served her client with three summons, one on January 7th, 2013 to appear in Court on January 10th, 2013, just three days prior to the hearing. She told the court that her client refused to waive his rights on the seven (eight) days notification period, therefore he did not attend the trial on January 10th, 2013. That led the judge (Judge Tyghuis) to deem the summons null and void but the judge did not release Johnson. Brooks went on to explain that she appealed that decision and the Appeals Court upheld the decision given by judge of the Court of First Instance but they did not rule on the other two summons that were issued to her client on January 17th, 2013 because that is not yet before them. Brooks used several case laws from Curacao and the Netherlands to prove to the court that because of the same mistakes the higher court had to release suspects who committed worse crimes than the three suspects that were in court on Tuesday.

Another point Brooks raised before dealing with the six charges her client is facing is the way her client was arrested on September 23rd, 2012. Brooks said when Johnson was arrested the Police Arrest Team used excessive force which amounts to police brutality. She said Johnson had to be taken to the hospital where he received treatment such as stitches in his head. Brooks provided the court with photographs of the injuries Johnson sustained, she said that the police knows when they brutalize suspects they end up being released by judge of instruction because the law does not condone police brutality. Attorney Brooks said that the A Team consisted of several men and it was not necessary for them to use excessive force to arrest one man who was hiding under a bed. "In St. Maarten we do not condone crimes that are committed against our visitors and locals, neither do we condone police brutality. The police's behavior will have consequences on the decision when it is taken." She asked the court to consider the amount of force used by the police when judge is rendering her verdict on the case on May 8th, 2013.

As for the first charge, the prosecutor charged Johnson as one of the suspects and perpetrators of the armed robbery at the Happy Star Chinese restaurant. She asked the judge to acquit her client of that charge because Johnson did not participate in that robbery. "My client drove the car, which he admitted to but he did not commit the robbery at Happy Star. Brooks referred to a case that the Appeals Court overturned recently when the driver of a getaway car was convicted for a robbery two other persons committed." She said the owner of Happy Star Chinese Restaurant knows Johnson because he was a regular client of the restaurant. "Johnson was still in his uniform and he did not have a mask or anything to commit the robbery."

Brooks then moved to the fourth and fifth charge which is the murder/ manslaughter of Michael and Thelma King. She asked the court to acquit Johnson on the murder charge because the prosecution did not provide evidence and they did not prove their case beyond reasonable doubt to show that Johnson had committed pre-mediated murder when he killed Michael and Thelma King. "My client confessed to killing the Kings and he gave several statements some of which has details of what transpired that night. The court also has the psychiatric report on Johnson who was institutionalized twice for psychotic and delusional behavior. Apart from that Brooks told the court that Johnson does not remember anything that happened that night because of his condition and he was also intoxicated. "This is not only frustrating for the court but it is also frustrating for me because I cannot get the information and details I need from him. You heard him yesterday telling this court that he does not remember anything. This is no fairy tale, the psychiatric report has the information in it." Attorney Brooks said that the case that is before the court amounts to manslaughter, therefore she asked the court to convict Johnson for manslaughter for the killing both Michael and Thelma King. She said the suspects gave the police statements and they all told the police and this court that they did not have a plan to rob or kill people on the night of September 19th, 2012. The prosecution has the responsibility to prove that the suspects had a plan to rob and murder the Kings and all three of the suspects said there was no plan they just chose the King's house randomly. Brooks told the court that she is convinced that something is wrong and therefore the court should convict Johnson on the manslaughter charge. Attorney Brooks did not contest the sixth charge which is the laundering of money and goods because she considered that the charge has been sufficiently proven by the prosecution. Brooks also pleaded with the court to grant her client reduced punishment for his actions because he is a first time offender. She said her client has children in his country and while people are saying that there is no lifetime sentence within the Dutch law she said that lifetime is lifetime and nothing less.

The second Attorney that presented her defense on Wednesday was Attorney at Law Shaira Bommel on behalf of Jeremiah Chevon Mills. Bommel presented her defense in the Dutch language because she said she was only going to deal with the technical aspect of the case. Bommel said that while her client is facing six charges, some of them he confessed to and the others he did not confess to them simply because he did not commit those crimes. She told the court that her client Jeremiah Chevon Mills gave more than one statement to the police and she urged the court to consider those statements to be truthful. As for the first charge which is the robbery that was committed at Happy Star Chinese Restaurant, Mills confessed to it so I will not contest that charge.

However, the robbery and killing of the Kings in Cupe Coy is a different story according to Bommel and Mills. Bommel said the prosecution wants the court to believe that her client was an accomplice or accessory to the killing of Michael and Thelma King. However, they did not prove that in this courtroom beyond a reasonable doubt. The law clearly states that to be considered an accomplice of a crime there has to be a plan, the prosecution must show pre-meditation and they also has to show that Mills actually assisted with the killing of the Kings. "I don't see anything in the file the prosecution presented to you that showed Mills actually assisted or participated in the killings. We also have the statements from all of the suspects, as for the man who actually killed the Kings he cannot remember anything that happened that night. What I deduced from the file is both Mills and Woolford were taken by surprise when they learnt that the Kings were murdered. They were shocked when they heard of this via the newspapers. I see no correlation in the file and therefore I have to say that Mills were not involved in the Kings slayings." Bommel said her client did not even see Johnson was in possession of a knife (weapon). Therefore, she pleaded with the court to acquit Mills on the charge of being an accomplice or accessory to the murders of the Kings. He did commit a robbery at the Kings' home and he did not use any violence against them, therefore I am asking this court to punish him for the crimes he committed and those that were proven by the prosecution. Bommel said that the prosecution is trying to send three people to jail based on guess work and not evidence. There is nothing in the file that shows a second knife was used. Mills and Woolford gave statements to the police separately and their stories are the same, they went to the Kings house to commit a robbery, there was no intention to kill or harm anyone. Bommel further told the court that the prosecution told this court that Johnson stayed seven (7) minutes in the house alone because the two other suspects, Mills and Woolford had already left the scene. "Your honor a lot could have happened in (7) minutes while Johnson was alone in the house. Mills and Woolford left with what they came for, monies and valuable items. They did not envision that Johnson would have killed an innocent woman who was bound to a chair, gagged and blindfolded." Bommel said because of the lack of evidence she is pleading with the court to acquit her client on the charges that are levied against him as an accomplice or accessory to the brutal killing of the Kings. Bommel said her client had stolen from the Kings and he also helped in tying Thelma King to a chair therefore he should be punished for that, she further explained that Mills and Woolford promised Thelma King that they would not hurt or harm her and when they went upstairs to get the monies and the grey bag from the safe. They did not use any violence towards her and they did not hurt her. "Even when they asked Thelma King to sit in the chair so they could tie, gag, and blind fold her they did not use violence, because none of that is in the file that is before this court. The file does not even show that the robbery committed that night at the Kings home would have left two people dead. Attorney Bommel said even though the death of the Kings are tragic to say the least, the blame cannot be thrown on Mills because he did not do it, therefore she pleaded with the court to acquit Mills on the charges relating to the death of the Kings but hold him accountable for the robbery and unlawful restraint of Thelma King. Bommel further explained that Mills fully cooperated with the investigation and what he told law enforcement is exactly the role he played that night.

Attorney at Law Safira Ibrahim also tried to convince the court that her client Jamal Jefferson Woolford was not an accessory or accomplice to the killing of the Kings. Attorney Ibrahim told the court that Woolford stayed where he lived in Cay Hill most of the day on September 19th, 2012. However, he had financial difficulties because he could not pay his rent and support his pregnant girlfriend who is due to give birth next month. Ibrahim said that Woolford was working for Island Charters located at Bobby's Marina and the slow tourist season had affected his income therefore he could not pay his bills. She said Woolford began working since he was 12 years old. As for the robbery that was committed on the night of September 19th, 2012 at Happy Star Chinese Restaurant, Ibrahim asked the court to acquit her client on one part of the charge because the prosecution claimed that Woolford held a pellet gun at the head of one of the clients in the restaurant and while the prosecution spoke about the statement given by the owner of Happy Star who said she heard when Woolford cranked the gun, the client who had the gun to his head did not say that. Another argument Ibrahim used was based on how the owner of Happy Star was positioned she could not have seen or heard if a gun was cranked. Besides that, she told the court that the pellet gun was not loaded and it was not cranked. She asked the court to convict Woolford on the robbery, she also pleaded with the court to take Woolford's financial standing into consideration, the fact that he is a first time offender, and to look at his academic achievements. Ibrahim said Woolford has several diplomas and he worked hard for his living, besides all of those facts, he gave the investigators his full cooperation during the investigation.

As for the killing of Michael and Thelma King, Ibrahim said it is funny how the prosecutor used the statement Woolford made to the investigators when he saw Johnson made a sudden move to slash Michael King's throat and he said he told Johnson not to do it. Ibrahim said that Woolford was standing by the sliding door, he wanted to leave, he got what he went there for, and when he saw the sudden movement by Johnson who was holding Micheal King in a headlock with a knife to this throat he yelled out at Johnson and told him not to do that. Apart from that, Woolford then left the home with the monies, iPhone, and laptop. "When my client left that house both Michael and Thelma King were alive. The prosecution used his statement against Johnson and then they turned around and used it against him saying he did not do anything to try and stop Johnson from killing Michael and Thelma King." Ibrahim insisted that Woolford was not in close proximity of Johnson and the only reason he assisted in tying up Thelma King was because he wanted to make sure they got away safely. Ibrahim told the court that the statements the suspects gave police are consistent when they said they did not plan to kill anyone and they did not know the Kings. She said the Kings house was chosen randomly while the three suspects were walking along the beach. "The Kings home had on light and the sliding door was open, my client had no intention to hurt or kill anyone. When the suspects entered the house, Johnson went and held Michael King by headlock he held a knife to his throat while Woolford and Mills went upstairs in search of monies. When Woolford, Mills, and Thelma King came downstairs Micheal King was still alive, Woolford and Mills had no idea that Johnson would have killed the victims, he was alone with Micheal King and he did not do it then. Ibrahim asked the court to acquit her client on the accessory charge to the murder/manslaughter of the Kings and to hold him accountable for the robbery and illegal restraining of Thelma King.

After the lawyers presented their defense, Prosecutor Dounia Benammar admitted to the court that they made mistakes and she apologized for the mistakes they made. However, Benammar said the law allows them to issue as much as 20 summons if they want, especially if a suspect is living several places. She said that it is absurd for Attorney Brooks to ask the court to deem the case inadmissible because of their mistakes and the police brutality. In no time Attorney Brooks responded in her rebuttal and asked the Prosecutors if they read her pleadings because she did not ask the court to deem the case inadmissible because of the police brutality. She said she asked the court to consider the police brutality when it is making its decisions. Brooks also told the court that the prosecution should not mislead the court or the public when they said that the first lifetime sentences were handed down in the Regatta cases which were eventually overturned. Brooks said there is a prisoner right now in Pointe Blanche Prison serving a lifetime sentence for the murder of Bobby Velasquez's daughter. Brooks said this sentence was handed down when she was just a child and the last time she saw that convict was on Monday when she visited the house of detention.

Meyshane Kemar Johnson in his address to the court said that he is being charged with a crime he committed and cannot remember. He said that he has been working and assisting in the prison facilities because he cannot see himself sitting in prison for lifetime. Johnson then went on and apologized to the King families. He said he hopes that the Kings could forgive him and he can come to the point of forgiving himself for his deeds. "I just don't know if I can live with myself with what I have done to those people."

Jeremiah Chevon Mills in his statement said that he wants to apologize for his actions but he does not know if the Kings will accept his apology. "I will still ask you for your forgiveness, if I could go back in time and undo what I did on September 19th, 2012 I would have done so and stop Johnson from killing your loved ones. I rob people, use drugs but I will never physically hurt anyone. I understand how you are feeling and I am sorry I ever went to the Kings' home. I hope you will accept my apology."

Jamal Jefferson Woolford also apologized to the King families he said had no intention to hurt anyone. "All I am asking for is a second chance so that I can make good with my life."

The judge Tamara Tyghuis said because of the upcoming Carnival holidays and the Queen's Birthday at the end of April she cannot close the criminal proceedings on Wednesday because then she would have to render her decision three weeks later and during that period the court will be closed due to the holidays. Judge Tyghuis said that she will resume the case on May 8th, 2013 where she will officially close case and shortly after that she will render her decision.

lionsclubinducts5newmembers09042013Philipsburg:--- At a very impressive Induction ceremony held recently at the Holland House Beach Hotel, the St. Maarten Lions Club inducted five new members into the fold. The new members are Selma Baker, Imelda Joseph, Cris'tel Larmonie, Jasmine Mathani and Carolyn Longhorn.
The induction ceremony was conducted by Lion District Governor Claudius Buncamper, MJF who presides over District 60B of which St. Maarten falls under.
Before taking the oath of membership and new members were given a thorough orientation session where they received much information about the International Association, the Multiple and Sub Districts and the service given on Cub level. District Governor Buncamper put the emphasis on the added value which new members are expected to bring to the Club.
In keeping with District Governor Buncamper's wish to bring in as much former Leos to the Lions fold the club yet again welcomed former charter member of the St. Maarten Leo Club to the Lions fold in the person of Cris'tel Larmonie who is also the daughter of Past District Governor Maxime Larmonie, MJF.

labordept09042013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- In an effort to improve services for the general public and all stakeholders the Department of Labor Affairs has successfully acquired and implemented further resources in the form of additional Job Placement Officers, Job Coaches and Social Workers as of January 1, 2013 in Section Labor Market. The section serves as a focal point for many of the services offered by the department such as business and labor registration, unemployment and vacancy registration job placement and dismissal.

The Job Placement team now has additional Job Placement Officers equipped with techniques to assist persons with finding suitable employment and assisting the business community in fulfilling the employment needs of the labor market.

Labor Affairs has gone beyond extra Job Placement Officers to include services provided by a Job Coach and Social Worker in close consultation with the Job Placement team. The core objective of the Job Coach is to prepare, coach and mentor candidates for placement by utilizing career path methods.

In some cases, candidates will be referred to a Social worker for assessment and additional services according to the needs of the person. The role of the Social worker, in general, is to address social concerns that may be affecting the candidate both personally and/or professionally.

The various officers tasked with executing such responsibilities have a comprehensive and holistic approach and work closely with each other to improve overall success and service for the clients who visit and utilize the diverse amenities.

The Ministry of Labor and by extension the Department of Labor Affairs continues to support and promote sustainable employment through programs such as the Employability through Training Project (ETTP) which offers the opportunity for further social development, specialized training and certification to persons within the community.

The department continues to strive for innovation and improved service for the community in the form of a newly implemented complaint service now available at all sections, services in various districts via the Integrated Neighborhood Development Program (INDP) and access to varied amenities in the Public Service Center coming soon in Simpson Bay. Section Labor Market continues to have remarkable success by increasing placement in the labor market by strategically improving private and public partnerships in the form of viable job opportunities.

For further information concerning any of the services and programs at the department, contact us by visiting and speaking with the available officers or calling 542-3561/543-7509 or emailing us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- Certain Members of Parliament behave as if commenting on the budget is an earned right and that if organizations or individuals don't meet certain randomly set criteria, then they don't have the right to comment on the budget. Instead of having a discussion about the contents of SHTA's comments, some members of parliament have chosen to attack the messenger, sending a clear message to many in the community to be careful when speaking out.
The SHTA was simply following the recommendations of the Prime Minister and the President of Parliament made at SHTA's Membership Mixer last February, about the dual layer of government, that we study the budget and use it as a basis for commenting on the plans and priorities of government. To make unsubstantiated accusations, against an organization that offers a differing point of view is simply contrary to the principles of democratic governance.
The SHTA, the largest private business representative on the island whose members cover a broad range of industries including amongst others: the hotel, restaurant, catering and entertainment industry, wholesalers, retailers, real estate, marine trade, financial and legal services, taxi associations, car rentals, construction companies, and environmental organizations, has been objective and open to dialogue with all of the governments, past and present. Nevertheless, in representing our members, we are sometimes critical of any present government. However, contrary to what certain members of parliament may have suggested, SHTA has always been objective and has never shown any favoritism towards any politician or his family members.
The SHTA has always strongly encouraged its members and the community at large to abide by the Law. It is however not the SHTA's role to audit or police its members to guarantee compliance to legislation. It is the role of Government to ensure, through the drafting and implementation of policy and legislation that rules and regulations are properly adhered to by all. The SHTA has always refrained from commenting on specific cases which is why SHTA has not commented on the ORCA investigation, MP Laveist's conviction, the Pelican issue, etc. If the Members of Parliament believe SHTA should police its own members, perhaps the Members of Parliament would do well to lead by example.
According to a member of parliament, the waiving of collecting of taxes prior to the year 2006, is already relief for SHTA's members. SHTA has never condoned the waiving of tax obligations for individual companies. It's understanding was that government ledgers were and are clogged with unrealistic and erroneous assessments and that the Department of Finance was going to waive taxes from before 2006 because they were either uncollectable or inaccurate. The waiving of real tax obligations is unfair to those companies that have indeed complied with all of their tax obligations. If real tax obligations are being forgiven as mentioned above, this only reinforces the perception that if you comply with the law you are punished and if you break the law you are rewarded. The SHTA has always advocated for the fair and uniform application of laws and that sporadic and selective enforcement of the laws is unfair.
The SHTA has commented on several occasions that the current tax system should shift from direct taxation to indirect taxation improving compliance, advocating that by broadening of the tax base, the overall tax burden could be reduced. The SHTA has repeatedly criticized the Turnover Tax as it is damaging to our economy due to its cumulative nature. In 2010, 2011, and 2012, SHTA warned about the possible ramifications an increase in the Turnover Tax could have. We refer to numerous press releases in 2010, 2011, and 2012, featured in both the Today and the Daily Herald newspapers, including the SHTA's response to the increase from 3% to 5%.
Last September when there were rumors of yet another increase in the turnover tax, the SHTA was assured by the Minister of Finance that there would be no increase in TOT, see article in The Today of September 13, 2012 "Tuitt No Hike in TOT".
With regard to tax compliance, SHTA has, as previously stated, always encouraged its members to comply with all laws and regulations. If the Members of Parliament are aware of businesses that aren't complying with the law, they should deal with this matter accordingly. Again, the SHTA believes that broadening of the tax base and improved compliance should allow the overall tax burden to be reduced.
The SHTA urges the Members of Parliament to get back to the business at hand of discussing the draft 2013 budget. These discussions should have taken place last September, not six months later. We, the SHTA, just like all the voters and taxpayers on St. Maarten, feel that we have the right to know and should have a say in how the Government of St. Maarten will be spending our hard-earned money, as all policy seems to be lacking from this budget.
Last but not least, and this may be the most important issue the SHTA has with this budget, is the fact that the 2013 draft budget currently being discussed is not based on the actual financial statements of 2012. As far as the SHTA has been informed and we hoped that this information is incorrect, that to date, the actual financial information for 2011 and 2010 has not even been finalized. A budget should, according to general accounting practices, be based on actual financial information of the previous year, not on merely the budget of the previous year. Especially, a 2012 budget of which no one knows as yet how it compares to real expenditures and income. Thus this raises the question whether this draft should even be considered or whether we should maybe continue to use the 2012 budget and then make sure we have all the necessary figures in order to compile the 2014 budget, in a manner that is in the best interest of our country.
The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

Philipsburg:--- The Court of First Instance was busy on Tuesday morning. On the upper floor of the Court House the murder trial of the Kings was taking place, but downstairs several persons attended court for civil procedures. One of those persons who appeared in court on Tuesday morning is former secretary to several Lt. Governors on the island who was convicted last year in the BTA scandal, Evelyn Hodge.

SMN News learnt that Attorney at Law Cor Merx filed a civil case against Evelyn Hodge for nonpayment of legal fees. Hodge was arrested in 2011 during the BTA investigation. She spent 15 days behind bar and was later convicted in May 2012 for forgery and fraud.

According to information reaching SMN News, Cor Merx presented Hodge with a bill exceeding $13,000.00 for representing her while she was arrested and for representation during the criminal proceedings in 2012. SMN News learnt from reliable sources that Hodge paid part of the bill because she could not pay the entire sum. A source said Hodge made clear to Merx that she could not pay that amount of monies for legal fees but Merx kept adding more monies to the bill claiming he worked hard on the case even though Hodge was convicted.

While the civil case was filed by Attorney at Law Cor Merx, Attorney at Law Edwin Maduru represented Merx on Tuesday. The case has been postponed to 15th May 2013. The judge took the files from both parties. Hodge represented herself on Tuesday.

cupecoymurdersuspects09042013Philipsburg:--- The Court of First Instance was packed to its capacity on Tuesday with relatives including the mother and siblings of Michael King as well as friends of the couple when the prosecution presented its case against the three suspects who were arrested shortly after Michael and Thelma King were brutally murdered in their Cupe Coy condominium. Among the bereaved relatives in the court room on Monday morning were the mother and uncle of Jamal Jefferson Woolford; however, Woolford's mother and uncle left the courtroom shortly after the proceedings started.

The three suspects are Meyshane Kemar Johnson, a national of Jamaica, his first cousin Jeremiah Chevon Mills, born on St. Maarten with Jamaican and Grenadian parentage, and Jamal Jefferson Woolford of Guyana, the trio is facing six charges, which are murder/manslaughter, armed robbery, laundering of goods they obtained from the robberies, and unlawful detention of the victims. The prosecution asked the court to sentence Meyshane Kemar Johnson to life imprisonment because he is the one who killed the Kings. As for Jeremiah Chevon Mills who was 17 years old when he committed the crimes, the prosecution believes that they have enough evidence to ask the court to sentence Mills to life imprisonment especially because he was convicted twice before and he was the one that orchestrated the robberies but because of his age the prosecution asked that Mills be sentenced to 28 years imprisonment. Jamal Jefferson Woolford does not have any criminal record prior to this murder but considering the magnitude of the crimes he committed, the prosecution asked that he be sentenced to 24 years imprisonment. Prosecutor Dounia Benammar and George van der Eshof told the court that they believe that they have sufficient evidence to prove all the charges beyond reasonable doubt.

Based on the evidence the prosecution provided to the court which consists of video images, the three suspects robbed Happy Star Restaurant and even though police fired several shots at them, one of which hit the back of the getaway car, they went to Maho and Mills went into a casino probably to see if they could have robbed the casino. They then went to the Cupe Coy later that night and robbed and killed the Kings. Among some of the items stolen from the Kings were an iPhone, laptops, stacks of money, and a grey bag that was taken from a safe that contained items that are unknown to the police and a credit card belonging to Micheal King.. After all of that, the suspects then went to Casa Blanca where they continued to drink and have fun with prostitutes.

The suspects told the court they needed monies, yet they choose to spend the loot on prostitutes and alcohol. The laptop stolen from the Kings home the suspects claimed they threw it away on the French side, while Jeremiah Mills kept Thelma King's iPhone. It is through wire tap police managed to locate Johnson and Mills shortly after the crime was committed. Woolford was arrested 10 days later when he escaped to the US Virgin Islands but was brought back to St. Maarten shortly after he landed there.

kingsrelatives09042013The Prosecution asked the Court to sentence Johnson to life imprisonment for the cold blooded murder of Micheal and Thelma King as well as the other crimes associated with the robbery of the Happy Star Restaurant and the robbery committed at the homes of the Kings prior to them being murdered by Meyshane Kemar Johnson. The Prosecution said Woolford and Mills tied Thelma King to a chair and blind folded her after she opened the safe and gave them the monies they had in a safe and a grey bag containing jewelry. Johnson headlocked Micheal King whom they found sleeping on a sofa and held a sharp knife to his neck while Mills and Woolford looked for valuables, they found the iPhone and laptop on a table inside the house but that was not enough so they poked Micheal King twice to wake him up and asked him to hand over all the monies he had. The prosecution said that Micheal told the suspects that his wife was upstairs sleeping and that there were monies in the safe. According to the statements given by the suspects, Thelma King panicked when she was awakened by Mills and Woolford but she managed to open the safe after several attempts. Mills told the court that Thelma King begged him not to hurt her and he promised her that he would not have done so if she cooperated and gave them what they wanted. After taking the monies and a grey bag they brought Thelma King downstairs where Johnson was holding her husband at knife point.

The session started off with Judge Tamara Tyghuis reading the suspects their rights then she posed several questions to the suspects on their role in the robbery of the Happy Star Restaurant on Cannegieter Street and the brutal killing of the Kings later that same night. Judge Tyghuis asked Johnson several questions as to what he did that night but Johnson kept saying he could not remember anything despite giving the police a detailed statement on the robbery of Happy Star Restaurant and the robbery and murder of Micheal and Thelma King on September 19th, 2012. Johnson made his statement to police on October 2nd, 2012 when he told police that he was at the Happy Star Restaurant earlier that day with Mills drinking, later he left the restaurant when his friend Peter Hunt called him to repair his car. Johnson later returned to the Happy Star Restaurant and then left with Mills to pick up Woolford at his home. The trio then returned and robbed the Happy Star Restaurant. During the robbery at Happy Star Restaurant, Johnson stayed in the car while Mills and Woolford robbed the business establishment.

Despite the statements given by the three suspects where they each confessed their roles in the two robberies and killing of the Kings; on Monday during the trial they all changed their stories. Meyshane Kemar Johnson told Judge repeatedly that he could not remember anything because he consumed a lot of alcohol that day. During the questioning, Attorney Brenda Brooks asked the judge for a brief recess so she could speak with her client Meyshane Kemar Johnson. Even when responding to the questions Brooks posed to Johnson he said he could not remember.

Background information on Meyshane Kemar Johnson.

Meyshane Kemar Johnson, the oldest of the three suspects was born in Jamaica where he attended school but left early to work so that he could assist his family financially. He worked in the construction field, as a mechanic, and also did agriculture in his homeland. Johnson then migrated to St. Maarten where he did odd jobs as a mechanic. In 2007, Johnson had a run in with the police due to his psychiatric and delusional condition and he was deported back to Jamaica but Johnson returned to St. Maarten that same year. In 2011, he began working at Checkmate Security as a security guard until the time of his arrest.

The psychiatric report issued by Dr. Gaudutrag of the Mental Health Foundation and a statement from Johnson's mother states that Johnson began consuming alcohol at a very young age (10 to 12 years old). Johnson also had two episodes of psychotic and delusional illness, once when he was in Jamaica and once in St. Maarten. On both occasions, Johnson was admitted to an institution in Jamaica where he received treatment. The report further stated that Johnson abused the use of alcohol but even though he drank heavily on September 19th, 2012, he knew exactly what he was doing when he went to pick up Woolford so that he and Jeremiah Mills could rob Happy Star Restaurant. Johnson is the father of three children all of whom are residing in Jamaica. He told the court he regretted his actions, he said that if he was conscious of his actions he would not have been in court charged with the crimes he committed. One of his wishes is to be able to see and care for his children. He also wants to know how long he has to remain in prison because his intention is to work while in prison.

Jeremiah Chevon Mills --- A Youngster with a monstrous record.

Jeremiah Chevon Mills (18) was convicted twice for robbery. In 2010, Mills was convicted for robbery and at that time he was sentenced to serve community service, but that did not work because in 2011 Mills was arrested again for theft. He was sentenced to 18 months, 15 months suspended sentence and two years probation but Mills still did not understand the consequences of his actions because by September 2012 he was back in prison for the armed robbery that was committed at the Happy Star Restaurant and the brutal murder of the Kings. Mills did not seem to be afraid of the justice system because of the way he answered some of the questions. At one point, he said that just by looking at the Kings house he knew they had money. He also told the court he wanted a "blow job" and the prostitute in Casa Blanca did not give it to him. Yet he stayed there from 12 to 2am when they left to take Woolford home and went back to the house of prostitution for more fun and pleasure.

Mills told the court that on the day he committed the robberies at Happy Star and at the Kings residence he was stoned. "I was popping pills, smoking marijuana, and drinking alcohol all day." When he was asked by the judge if he was ever at Happy Star Restaurant he told the court he did not even know where Happy Star Restaurant is located, but his cousin Meyshane Kemar Johnson told the court that both he and Mills were at Happy Star drinking on September 19th, 2012.

The Prosecution believes that the two suspects went to Happy Star to scout and plan the robbery they committed later that evening. Mills told Judge Tyhuis that the grey bag he took from the Kings' safe had one kilo of cocaine inside and he sold it for several thousand dollars, but he could not remember exactly how much money he sold the drugs for. He also told the court and police that he buried the monies in his yard but that money was never found. Mills even attacked the forensic evidence gathered by police which showed that there were no drugs in the safe. "If the forensic people did their job correctly they would have seen that drugs were inside that safe." Prosecutor Dounia Benammar asked Mills if he knew how much is one kilo of cocaine, he responded in the affirmative saying he knew because he sells it and the prosecutor should know that drugs can be compressed and she should not be fooled by the size of the safe.

The court was told that Jeremiah Mills had a rocky childhood because at age five his mother sent him to Jamaica to live with her sister because she was working two jobs. This according to the prosecution affected Jeremiah, his mother brought him back to St. Maarten when she learnt he was using marijuana but when his mother could not control him she sent him to his father who is living in Grenada. "That was the first time Jeremiah saw his father and the two could not get along so he returned to St. Maarten but the relationship between Jeremiah and his mother never got better."

Mills told the court that he went to Cupe Coy Beach prior to September 19th because he sells drugs there but maintained he did not know the Kings and the robbery and killings they committed that night were not planned. He said they went into the Kings house because a light was on and the shutters were not closed therefore they had easy access to the home.

Jamal Jefferson Woolford --- An Independent young man.

The court was told that Woolford was born in Guyana, he never knew his biological father but he said that he did not lack anything. He received his elementary education in Guyana and his secondary education on St. Maarten. Woolford worked at Bobby's Marina for two years. The prosecution told the court that they interviewed Woolford's mother and up to now his mother cannot understand how her son got himself into trouble, especially a case of such magnitude. Woolford was an independent young man who went to live on his own when he made 18 years old. He also told the court that he had lots of debts like paying his rent and having a pregnant girlfriend and that is what led him to commit the crimes even though he did not know what Johnson and Mills picked him up for that evening. It should be noted that Woolford worked for Topper's Restaurant but maintained that he did not know the victims. He told the court that he worked at the restaurant on the beach and he did not pay keen attention to the patrons or friends of Toppers. It should be noted that Toppers and the Kings had signed a business deal two days prior to their brutal murder. They intended to open a rum factory on St. Maarten.

Prosecutor Dounia Benammar told the court that the three suspects acted out of greed all because they wanted quick money. The killing of the Kings left the entire community in shock; the relatives of the Kings still cannot understand why the suspects killed Micheal and Thelma King because they got the monies and other valuable items they went to look for. Prosecutor Benammar and Judge Tyhuis asked the suspects why killed them, and why they did not leave when they got the monies and the grey bag they took out of the Kings safe. Woolford told the police and the court that he told the Jamaican (Johnson) not to kill them, he said he saw what Johnson wanted to do so he left the house and went on the porch and then to the beach. Mills said he did not participate in the killings but Johnson said that Mills gave him a second knife because when he (Johnson) cut Michael's throat he was suffering and he wanted to make his death easy so he stabbed him in his back and the knife blade broke inside of the victim. "At that point he asked for another knife and Mills took a second knife from the kitchen and gave it to Johnson. Johnson used that knife to inflict a few more stab wounds on Michael. By then Mills had left the house and Johnson then decided to kill Thelma when she called out for her husband. Johnson told police that he killed Thelma because he did not want her to suffer because he had killed her husband, the other thing he feared is that Thelma would have alerted the security and police so to cover up their crimes he stayed in the house and slashed Thelma King throat twice, cutting her wind pipe and main arteries causing her death almost instantly. The trial continues on Wednesday at 8:30 am. Judge Tyhuis told the court that Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks will start the proceedings on Wednesday morning. Three lawyers will be defending their clients on Wednesday then the Prosecution will begin with rebuttals. The last word she said will end with the three suspects.

Click here to view more photos of the Kings Murder Trail on Tuesday.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs extends her best wishes and encouragement to the students who will be sitting the Foundation Based Education (FBE) Exit Exams.

During the next four days students will be tested in General Knowledge, Math, English and Dutch. Contrary to the previous years, students will not have to sit separate entrance exams for the various secondary schools as the FBE exit exam is a comprehensive one which reflects the FBE curriculum.

The scores achieved in the exam as well as the Educational report, which includes grades of the last two years will determine which type of secondary school the students will be qualified to attend.

The criteria and norms for the exit exam for entrance into the different types of high schools were set by a committee which consisted of representatives of the School boards and was facilitated by the Ministry.

The Minister commends the parents, teachers, school managers and staff for all their hard work in preparing the students for their exams.

Minister Jacobs also thanks the Division Exams and all others involved whose collaborative efforts and hard work contributed to the preparation of these exams.

Minister Hon. Silveria Jacobs encourages all students sitting the exams to stay focused, remain calm and to do their best, "Your teachers have prepared you to the best of their abilities and now it is time to put all your acquired knowledge to the test. Your hard work will definitely bring success for you. All the best on your exams!"

fortamsterdambarredoff09042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs attempted to meet with the management of the Divi Little Bay Hotel to clear up issues pertaining to placement of gates at the entrance to Fort Amsterdam with signage claiming that it was a restricted area and that visitors would require written permission from the hotel to enter.

However no such meeting was forthcoming, although a press release was promised by the North Carolina based headquarters.

The Minister was shocked to learn of this development early Monday morning. The general public has been quite vocal in supporting the government's quest to revitalize our cultural heritage.

Many feel that the attention now being paid to this the only area zoned and protected as a monument is long overdue. In this respect the Department of Culture is actively working towards getting the site recognized globally as a World Heritage Site. This would bring much needed funds for the restoration of the area and give residents and visitors alike the opportunity to learn more of our country's history.

Public access to this heritage site is part of the agreement which has to be honored by the resort as stipulated by the court.

There are already two security checkpoints that visitors must pass in order to walk up to the historical Fort Amsterdam ruins. As such Minister Jacobs considers this latest move totally unnecessary and unacceptable and strongly urges the Divi Little Bay Resort to rectify this situation immediately.

wibdonatestoscoutgroup09042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) made a financial contribution to Scouting Antiano, Mohican Scout Group I to attend the 13th Caribbean Cuboree. The event will be held on July 21st until July 28th, 2013 in Surinam.

The Caribbean Cuboree is a gathering for cub scouts to come together from various Caribbean countries and is held every four years. The purpose of a Cuboree is to provide an opportunity for boys and girls ages seven to eleven to interact, experience different cultures, foster lasting friendships, and experience the full meaning of scouting. These are all tools that can last a lifetime.

WIB supports Scouting Antiano, Mohican Scout Group I to attend the 13th Caribbean Cuboree and wishes them much success, growth and knowledge in Suriname and for the rest of their lives.

Always, Your Partner in Progress.

svpcnandmhfvisitlouisconstantfleminghospital09042013Marigot:--- The Louis Constant Fleming hospital on the French side of St. Martin recently opened a brand new wing for psychiatric care. The SVP-CN (Stichting Verslavingszorg en Psychiatrie Caribisch Nederland) for the BES Islands has a care agreement for psychiatric care with the Mental Health Foundation on St. Maarten and in relation to that the initiative was taken to meet and discuss cooperation opportunities.

Dr. Roland Toussaint Director of the Hospital and Psychiatrist Grau-Espel Françoise explained how they work on the French side to Eric Jansen director SVP-CN, Kenneth Cuvalay Social Psychiatric Nurse for Saba and St. Eustatius as well as to the Psychiatrist Sachin Gandotra and Jatinder Kaur, including the Director of MHF Eileen Healy.

Possibilities such as EEG (Electro Encephalogram) and other tests can be done in the hospital.

Agreed is that the group would maintain contact with each other and further develop cooperation options. The group toured the impressive new facilities and met with the staff of the psychiatric ward of the hospital.

MHF Press Release

swescotwilliamsinspectsfiredept09042013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams inspected the ranks of the Fire Department on Friday as part of Fireman's week. After the inspection of the ranks the members of the Fire Department held a march through Philipsburg accompanied by the VKS Drum Band.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

PHILIPSBURG:--- Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Development and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), is in the process of updating their database of contractors on Sint Maarten.

The Ministry is inviting all general contractors and heavy equipment owners interested in participating in any upcoming clean-up projects to an informative meeting on Friday, April 19 at the Ministry VROMI, Savance Building (next to Carl's & Sons on the Pondfill), starting at 9:00am.

Information will be provided about preparations for the 2013 Hurricane Season.

Contractors and heavy equipment owners are requested to bring along their equipment list, crib number of their company as well as contact information. The information is very important in the event Ministry VROMI needs to call on contractors before or after a storm.

Ministry VROMI Operations Manager Eldemiro Jansen and Project Manager Hensley Kwidama will be present for the meeting.

For those who need additional information, you can call Eldemiro Jansen at Tel. 542-4289 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is monitoring developments with respect to a new strain of influenza A (H7H9) that has been observed in China in order to ensure that public health is safeguarded.

Last week the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert calling on Member States to maintain the capacity to detect any unusual health event, including those that may be associated with a new subtype of influenza A.

PAHO also advised states to update and implement the relevant components of multi-risk plans for preparedness and response to public health events.

Persons traveling to China are advised to remain vigilant and observe measures recommended by local Chinese health authorities. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not advise against travel to China at this point in time, as there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission of the virus.

Influenza A (H7N9) is known to affect wild birds and poultry. The cases in China are the first known cases of H7N9 infection in humans. China reported a total of 16 cases of human infections, including six deaths up to April 5 in Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu and Zhejiang.

To date, the current cases of human infection in China appear to be sporadic and isolated.

Returning travelers from affected areas in China should look out for signs and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever and cough, and seek early medical attention if they are will with such symptoms.

The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign emphasizes the importance of individuals informing their doctors of their travel history, should they develop these symptoms after returning to Sint Maarten.

Travelers to China should observe the following measures: avoid direct contact with poultry, birds or their droppings, and if contact is made, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water; Cook poultry and eggs thoroughly before eating; Wash hands frequently with soap and water (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to the toilet, or when hands are dirtied by respiratory secretion after coughing or sneezing).

Also while in China avoid crowded places and contact with sick people with fever, and wear a mask when you have respiratory symptoms or are feeling unwell.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A plenary session of Parliament regarding the draft 2013 country budget is scheduled for April 15.

The plenary public meeting will be on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the national deliberations with respect to the country's draft budget.

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

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

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports (Ministry ECYS) Inspection Division is inviting School Bus Owners and Drivers to a meeting on Thursday, April 11.

School Bus Owners and Drivers at the meeting will be informed about certain changes that have taken place. As of April 1, 2013, the Ministry ECYS has taken over the financial administration of the school bus transportation system.

During the Thursday evening meeting which will take place at the Brooks Tower, Suite #3, Harbour View, Philipsburg from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, school bus owners and drivers will be introduced to the team at the Inspectorate Division who will be directly involved in collecting and processing data.

The Inspectorate Division is looking forward to meeting with the School Bus Owners and Drivers on Thursday evening, and towards an informative and productive meeting.

Those requiring additional information can call the Inspectorate at 542-3479 or 542-3182.

telemfamilyfunday08042013Pond Island:--- Organizers of Saturday's Fun Park event wish to thank the entire St. Maarten community, along with a stream of volunteers, for helping to make the TelEm Group event a runaway success.
Despite some anxious moments the night before, the weather held up and turned the Fun Park into a magical wonderland for thousands of visitors.

"We could not have done it without the help we received from our team of volunteers and the thousands of boys and girls who came along to see Mickey, Dora and just plain out take part in some fun activities," said one of the co-organizers, Angel Richardson.
Angel says one measure of the success of the event was the selling out of all food and drinks. Another was the decision to keep the show rolling for an extra two hours so that, especially the younger boys and girls, could take part in all the activities.
She said an unexpected large turnout meant long lines of visitors waited to be served with tickets or to take their turn on an activity, however extra time was allowed so that there would be few disappointments.
"The face-painting was very popular and the cartoon characters were the hit of the day," said Angel.
Talks have already started with TelEm Group management to have a repeat of the Family Fun Park event before the end of the year based on the positive response from visitors to the first Fun Park event.
"Parents were extremely pleased that there was something fun, different and safe that they could take part in with their children. The whole event had a magical Disney feel about it which visitors really appreciated," continued Angel on behalf of TelEm Group.

Telem Press Release

anuskagibbsreceivesvwadocs08042013Great Bay:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor section Collective Preventive Services are making preparations for the eleventh celebration of Vaccination Week of the Americas(VWA), which runs from April 20-27, 2013. Various activities, such as a carnival troupe and community outreach will be the activities to bring about awareness regarding the importance of immunization and to keep the topic on the forefront of political agendas.

Last year an open house was kept at the Festival Village, and a team chaired by Anita Priest took care of the organization of the activity. This year there is a new chair to head the activities for 2013, which is Anuska Gibbs.

Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that it is very important for each country to adhere to the required immunization requirements and for parents to ensure that their children are immunized. "On government's end we are offering all school-going children the opportunity to get vaccinated through the school vaccination program."

VWA is an extraordinary effort led by countries and territories of the region to advance equity and access to vaccination. VWA activities strengthen the national immunization programs in the Americas by reaching out to populations with little access to regular health services. Since its inception in 2003, more than 410 million individuals of all ages have been vaccinated during campaigns conducted under the framework of VWA.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Women's Desk proudly announces the starting of the following support groups for women effective April 8.

The following organizations are providing support group activities/sessions for women, Women of Destiny, P2R, Cancer Foundation and Prominent Women.

Women of Destiny support group for single mothers meets every 2nd Monday of the month at Community Help Desk (CHD) Dutch Quarter at 7pm. The next meeting will be on May 13th.

P2R support CHD group for women battling drugs meets every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at Hope Estate at 7pm. The next session will be on April 15th.

The Cancer support group meets every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month at CHD Hope Estate at 7pm. The next session will be on April 19th.

Prominent women support group for married women meets every 2nd and 4th Wednesday at CHD Dutch Quarter 7pm.

More information can be found on the government information page, or interested persons can contact Women's Desk at Tel. 542-79 40.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL:--- IGY Marinas has recently appointed Lee Hicks, the former dockmaster from Yacht Haven Grande Marina in St. Thomas as the new general manager of American Yacht Harbor located on the east end of the island.

A former captain and co-pilot, Lee Hicks' strengths lie in customer service, staff management and berthing occupancy, making him the ideal candidate for the Red Hook-based property. American Yacht Harbor has 126 slips for yachts up to 110 feet. As the premier sportfish destination in the region, the marina plays host to 4 USVI tournaments and is the most centrally located marina to the North Drop. Popular species include Atlantic blue marlin, white marlin, yellowfin tuna, dolphin, wahoo and more. Additionally, the marina is home to many sportfish charters. Amenities at American Yacht Harbor include an array of retail shops, bars and restaurants, adding the conveniences of entertainment, dining and shopping right on property.

"We are very excited to once again promote from within our company; this is something we take great pride in. Our exceptional staff and management work extremely hard to bring customers the best service the industry has to offer and IGY recognizes and rewards its employees for their efforts," said Kenny Jones MBE, CMM and Executive Vice President of Operations for IGY.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten/St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) continues to get smarter and attract more travel wholesalers keen on offering the best of the Northeastern Caribbean to discerning travelers.

SMART 2013 is set to take place at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino from May 15-17. Registrations from both suppliers (e.g. hotels, activities and events) and buyers (wholesalers and travel partners) are flowing in on a daily basis.

"We will have buyers from the tip of South America to the open spaces of North America and the highlands of Europe. People from all of these places are looking for a Caribbean paradise vacation and SMART will showcase the best there is" said organizers St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, L'Office du Tourisme de St. Martin, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, and L'Association des Hoteliers de St. Martin.

Over a dozen international travel wholesalers have already committed to attend SMART and their representatives are eager to meet with the hotel and activities officials from St. Maarten/St. Martin and surrounding islands. Buyers are coming from the Caribbean's main market of North America, the growing European market and the again budding South American market.

The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, in cooperation with its South American representatives and Copa Airlines, have invited a select group of South American travel wholesalers to visit the island for site inspections prior and following SMART, starting on May 12 and ending May 19, 2013.The group will also attend SMART 2013 to cement contacts with travel accommodation suppliers.

Our Tourist Office representative in The Netherlands - Island Reps – has encouraged a number of European travel wholesalers to cross the Atlantic Ocean to attend SMART. Wholesalers from The Netherlands, Sweden and even Poland have been showing increased interest in coming to the "Friendly Island".

"The number of travel wholesalers/partners at SMART 2013 will be double or even triple the number of past years, a reason for those hoteliers that have not registered as yet, from St. Maarten and from surrounding islands, to do so as soon as possible in order to ensure a booth at the trade show as space is limited" said organizers.

Another incentive for hoteliers and guesthouse operators in the region to be part of SMART is the increased interest and registration of hotel supply companies. They will be displaying their product lines and offering hoteliers attractive buying options and cost effective products.

Are you a hotel, a guesthouse, or an offshore activities company and have not as yet registered for SMART? Then please contact us right away! Registration information and forms are available on our website at www.shta.com, click on "SMART", or just e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

The Middle Region Defiance Community Council is organizing a Candle light Silent March in honor of the two young lives that were sadly taken away through an act of violence. The recent passing of Kimberly Illidge who was only 17 years old and Mark Reid Jr. at a tender age of 2 months old, both took place in the district of Middle Region. We as a community are very saddened by these tragedies and would like to join with each other to support the families of the deceased. We would also like to provide the rest of the community the opportunity to join forces with us because we feel that not only our community but the whole island was affected by these losses. This March will not be a platform to cry for justice on the culprits or promote any hate, but rather to show the family and friends that we care.
Ms. Annelies van den Assem, who is a resident of Defiance, said that she was deeply touched when she read the news of what transpired with these two young souls. She felt the immediate need to mourn this loss not only to the community of Middle Region and Defiance, but also as St. Maarten as a whole. As she has grown to know and appreciate the community of St. Maarten as a community that has a tradition of caring for each other, of paying respect in such grieving moments she felt compelled to approach the Community Council Middle Region Defiance. The Community Council as she learned was already brainstorming on an event, which has led to initiative of holding a "Silent March".

The March will be held on Wednesday April 10, commencing at 7:00pm at the AT. Illidge Road and Middle Region junction under the Tamarind tree. The general public is urged to come out with a lit candle.

The Middle Region Defiance Community Council announces that in compliance with traffic regulations, persons attending the Silent March honoring Kimberly Illidge and Mark Reid Jr. scheduled for April 10th, 2013 are asked to not park their vehicles alongside the road at the AT Illidge Road/ Middle Region junction.

Parking will be available at the March ending point (parking lot in front Calabash Lounge Bar and Restaurant). A shuttle bus will be provided to transport persons from the parking lot to the commencement point.
We are seeking your cooperation and understanding.

cupecoymurderssuspects19022013Philipsburg:--- The three suspects that were arrested early October 2012 for the brutal slayings of American citizens Michael and Thelma King who were brutally murdered in their Cupe Coy condominium on September 19th, 2012 will be having their day in the Court of First Instance on Tuesday and Wednesday (April 9th and 10th, 2013).

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed that there are about 20 relatives of the Kings who are already on the island to witness the two day proceedings. Charged with the brutal slaying of the Kings is Meyshane Kemar Johnson (29), a national of Jamaica who was residing and working on the island illegally. Johnson already confessed to police while in pre-trail detention that he stabbed the Kings to death while attempting to rob their home. The second suspect is a Dutch national of Jamaican parentage Jeremiah Chevon Mills (17), while the third suspect is Guyanese national Jamal Jefferson Woolford (20). Woolford was arrested by the FBI in St. Thomas when he tried to escape from St. Maarten. The three suspects are also charged with robbing the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant located on Cannegieter Street, Philipsburg.

Police managed to track down the Kings' killers because they shot at the vehicle the three suspects used to rob Happy Star Chinese Restaurant before they slaughtered the Kings. When Police recovered the vehicle they shot at they found credit cards and a cellular phone belonging to the Kings. However, the bodies of the Kings were found two days later on September 21st, 2012 when their friend and business partner could not reach them by phone.

While the official trial starts on Tuesday, this is not the first time the suspects have appeared in the Court of First Instance. The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson appeared several times and even before the Appeals Court fighting for his freedom because the Prosecutor's Office made several blunders when they served him with at least three summons to appear in front of the judge in the pro-forma hearing.

The suspects also attended a closed door session when Police and the judge in the case conducted a re-enactment of the killings at the home of the Kings.

While the Prosecution has already dotted the I's and crossed the T's on the case they intend to bring before the court on Tuesday, Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said that his office still had to take a decision on what amount of time they will ask the court to impose on the three suspects. Mos said that decision will be taken on Monday afternoon. Mos further stated that the death penalty has not yet been ruled out.

marijuanafarm08042013Philipsburg:--- Residents of Brill's Drive, Middle Region were shocked and amazed at the huge marijuana plantation they discovered on Brill's Drive on Sunday. According to a resident of Brill's Drive, his girlfriend saw a man running from the area and became afraid because of a false BlackBerry message that is circulating claiming that an HIV positive criminal had escaped from the prison in Curacao and is currently on St. Maarten hiding out. Despite the fear, the woman and other residents of the area went towards the area where they saw the man running from and it was then they discovered a huge marijuana plantation among the bushes. They said the plantation is guarded by four heavily built pit bull dogs.
According to the residents of Middle Region, they called the police and alerted them of their find and the police told them to leave the farm untouched since they have plans to raid the area on Monday.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Monday that the police was aware of the marijuana plantation and they are busy organizing the raid. However, Henson wanted to know how SMN News reporter got the information instead of saying when the police would excute the raid they promised the residents of Brill's Drive, Middle Region. It should be noted that Inspector Ricardo Henson is also the acting head of the Philipsburg Surveillance Divsion which is also supervised by Commissioner of Police Carl John.
Shortly after SMN News released this news item, several police officers raced to Brill's Drive to conduct the raid. A resident of the area said that even though police raced to the scene in large numbers, they did not manage to apprehend the marijuana cultivators who were sitting not far away. "All the guys run away and the police did not even catch one of them, the officers then decided to uproot all the plants. While I was there they already had over 10 large garbage bags filled with marijuana trees."


MARIJUANA PLANTATION RAIDED.

On Monday April 8th, 2013 at approximately 12:30pm, the Police Department conducted a raid in the thick bushes on the hill between Brills Drive in Middle Region and Gibbs Drive in Dutch Quarter after receiving information of a large marijuana plantation that was located in that area. The police not being acquainted with area had to take time to plan the raid and not go into the area not knowing what to expect. Going blindly into any type of raid without a plan and the necessary equipment, the chances are that the officers are confronted with the unexpected and could even end up getting injured. Approximately 20 police officers participated in the operation which took approximately four and a half hours. At the site, the investigating officers located several plots of the land that were prepared for planting and several plots of land on which a very large amount of marijuana plants were already growing. The entire plantation was quite large and was well taken care of on a daily basis. The caretakers would spend the whole day working, cooking, and sleeping on the plantation. On the arrival of the officers the caretakers had already left the scene. Several fully grown pit-bull dogs were used to protect the plantation; however a police dog handler dealt with them during the operation and they posed no threat. The garden hoses lead the investigating officers to an apartment building on Gibb's Drive in Dutch Quarter where one man with the initials Z.D.A. from Jamaica was arrested as a suspect in this case. A wooden structure located in the vicinity of Romeo Drive on that same property was searched, a shotgun and bullets were found and confiscated. Over 3000 marijuana plants, garden hoses, fertilizer, and other garden equipment were also confiscated.
This case is under investigation by the Narcotics Department.

KPSM Police Report

 

swescotwilliamsduringoneononewithpm07042013Radio Show One on One with the Prime Minister to Continue to Inform the Public

Philipsburg:--- Last Friday the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams launched the first installment of her radio program One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 Pearl FM. The program, hosted by Cedric Peterson, is specifically geared towards bringing over information from the Prime Minister on matters concerning her Cabinet and Government in general to the People of St. Maarten.

During the show the Prime Minister discussed various topics related to pertinent matters in the community and made herself available to the public for questions they may have for the Prime Minister in General or with regards to Government more specifically.

The PM started the program by outlining her role both as Prime Minister and as Minister of General Affairs; "The Prime Minister is responsible for the overall responsibilities with regards to Government. These responsibilities are related but not limited to the overall unity and functioning of Government and the execution of Government Policies," explained the PM. Prime Minister Wescot-Williams stated that often times the role of the Prime Minister and her function was not clear to the community and that was one of the reasons why she thought it important to explain what those roles, and that of Minister of General Affairs, really are. " The Prime Minister, assisted by the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, is responsible for the follow-up and execution of the decisions taken by the Council of Ministers. In addition, if there is a matter that concerns another Minister, and which should be brought to the attention of the Council of Ministers, and if this is not done by the responsible Minister it is then my task as Prime Minister to propose and table these matters to the Council of Ministers."

The PM also explained that she is also responsible for matters pertaining to government on which there is not yet political agreement. "The Minister in charge of the responsibilities and executions of the Council of Ministers is the Prime Minister who also has the task of chairing the Council of Ministers meetings."

The Prime Minister also gave an explanation on her function as the Minister of General Affairs; "Several Governmental Departments as well as execution agencies fall under the auspices of the Minister of General Affairs. The Fire Department for example, as an executing department, falls under my Ministry as the Minister of General Affairs. This also applies to the Census Office, the Department of Communication, and Technology etc., which also all fall under the Minister of General Affairs. Additionally Internal Matters and Kingdom Relations, Foreign Affairs and Legal Matters also all fall under the auspices of the Minister of General Affairs. I am therefore also responsible for disaster matters, defense and the matters of national security," explained the PM.

The weekly program will continue this Friday and will allow listeners the opportunity to do exactly what the title of the show suggests; to go One on One with the Prime Minister on various pertinent topics within the community and government and allows the listener to ask questions. The show will air weekly ever Friday from nine to ten on 98.1 Pearl FM and callers can call in on 5430462 or via sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with their questions.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Philipsburg:--- During her weekly radio show, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented on the ongoing ORCA Investigation, or the Bada Bing case as it is widely known, and the steps Government has undertaken to ensure integrity across the board for all institutions on the island. The Prime Minister also commented on the contact that was established with the Global Anti Corruption Organization Transparency International (TI) with regards to the Development of a National Integrity System. "The contact that has been established by myself with TI, while I think that it is a good thing that that announcement was made recently, has not been done because of the investigations which are currently taking place. The contact with TI is part of the Integrity Program with Government that has been ongoing since even before we became a country. The contact was to establish the feasibility of TI as the agency which can do an assessment of the National Integrity System of St Maarten," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister stressed that the Integrity Program initiated by her Government is focused on the totality of matters that deal with integrity across the board; "This does not only apply to government but also to all the systems that St Maarten has in place. There have been some voices within the community since the ORCA Investigation asking of the Prime Minister and other members of Government to say more than has been stated until now. But I have always placed the focus on the fact that yes, there are allegations, yes we have seen the images, and so it is now up to the judicial authorities and the legal system to deal with these allegations and that has been and will be my statement. As far as I am concerned and as far as the promotion of Good Governance is concerned the actions of this Government speaks louder than words. We have been on a trajectory since before and since 101010 to ensure that the checks and balances are in place to ensure that our young democracy can function and that the integrity of our systems are guaranteed. Integrity is about combating corruption, illegal practices, abuse of power and so on. The integrity program that we have since started encompasses creating the awareness about integrity and starting in every level of government. Wherever you have power it needs to be checked. Those that exercise power need to give account to the people. In our system you see several of these types of regulatory agencies such as the Ombudsman, the Council of Advice etcetera that give this balance.

"I am going to focus on the areas of integrity within Government and will leave the legal system do its work with regards to corruption allegations. We will continue to solidify the basis of this country which is one of integrity and checks and balances." Concluded the PM. The Prime Minister will be opening a new series of Integrity Workshops for Government Agencies this Monday at the University of St. Maarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Cuts made across the Board to Ensure a Clear and Balanced Budget Taking into Considerations Plans of Approach

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams commented recently on the various budget reductions, in particular within the Ministry of Justice as it relates to the plans of approach for Government Ministries.

During her weekly radio show One on One with the Prime Minister, the Honorable Wescot-Williams addressed the criticisms which has been reaching her from the community with regards to these budget cuts; "There has been some criticism regarding some cuts in the Ministry of Justice budget. Some have taken it so far in saying that these cuts will result in the judicial authorities not being able to execute their tasks. Some persons have questions whether the cuts have been done deliberately to thwart the current ongoing ORCA Investigations. Amongst other agencies whose budgets have been cut was the office of the Public Prosecutor and this has raised some questions in the community," commented the Prime Minister.

With regards to these questions the Prime Minister explained that the budgetary process always starts with the various Ministries submitting their budgetary desires and the associated costs. "This can be quite a significant amount when you take all Ministries together for a particular year. The next step would be to look at the income of Government for that particular year as well. After this the process starts of basically cutting and trimming the budget in order to arrive at a balanced budget which is a requirement and an agreed to item between the Government of St. Maarten and the partners in the Kingdom in accordance to the Kingdom laws with regards to financial supervision. Additionally you have the CFT which is the monitoring agency to look at the Budget and give its opinion on the various expectations. Taking all of this into consideration all Ministries needed to make some cuts in their budgets this year to bring it to where it is today where a balanced budget taking the CFT recommendations into consideration has been submitted to Parliament.

The Prime Minister explained that the Ministry of Justice is one of the bigger Ministries and therefore the cuts seem larger. "As part of the agreement when St Maarten became a country that Government needed extra support with regards to things which needed to be done. In the case of the Justice Ministry there was a significant plan of approach which needed to be developed which was quite expensive. These plans of approach were an agreed to approach to meet certain targets to reach to the level where we need to get to as a country. There is a monitoring committee created as a law between the government of St. Maarten and the Kingdom Government with St Maarten has a member. The Kingdom Government and St. Maarten receives the reports from the Ministries in terms of how they have been able to meet the targets set. These reports are submitted to the Minister of Kingdom Relations and Interior Affairs and the Prime Minister of the respective country which in this case is the Prime Minister of Country St. Maarten. We then meet and look at those reports to see whether those things are on track. Based on that report we come up with administrative decisions which are crucial and necessary. In the case of the justice ministry it required a lot of money to do the things within the time frame to do the things set from them. That money comes from the budget of St. Maarten. For example it takes a lot to get the police force up to the level where it should be at in terms of manpower. Clearly when we became country our police force was not up to par and we have worked hard to bring that force up to the level where it should be. And therefore we had to make the cuts necessary to present a balanced budget, as we had to do with all Ministries," commented the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister will be in Parliament on Monday for the Budget deliberations.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

armedrobberyfillin13082012Philipsburg:--- On Saturday April 6th at approximately 8:00pm, a phone call came into the Central Police Dispatch informing them, that three armed masked men had stormed into the Golden Alley Bar and restaurant located in Philipsburg and robbed the establishment. After committing this act, the suspects fled the scene on foot. Immediately all patrols on the streets were informed of what had taken place and started to search for the suspects. Shortly after, two of the suspects were spotted based on the description that was given through the Central Dispatch. The suspects took off running in different directions through the dark alleys and streets and jumping fences when they noticed they were chased by the police. During this chase two shots were fired. One suspect with the initials D.L. (25) was caught on the Cannegieter Street. In his possession the suspect had a substantial amount of cash, numerous pre-paid phone cards, a back-pack containing several cellular telephones, and another back-pack containing a pistol and a pair of gloves. The suspect was arrested on the spot and all items found in his possession were confiscated for further investigation. He was taken to the Philipsburg Police Station where he was turned over to the Special Robbery Unit for further investigation. The two other suspects however were not arrested. The investigation is ongoing.

KPSM Police Report

confiscatedhandgun07042013Philipsburg:--- On Saturday April 6th at approximately 1:00pm, a man with initials N.F. (26) born in Haiti was arrested suspected of ill-treatment with a weapon, threats, and possession of an illegal fire-arm. During a search of his home, a 9 millimeter Mini Glock was found and confiscated. The suspect was turned over to the Detective Department and remains in custody for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, has serious questions about the cut in the Draft Tourism Budget. Cutting the expenditures of the Tourism Office by NAf. 2.4 million (20.9% reduction from last year) can only be seen as a totally inappropriate effort to balance the 2013 budget. Our island depends on tourism, it is our main source of income, without tourism the inflow of monies to our island will be severely reduced, having an unavoidable impact on all sectors.
The SHTA cannot imagine that these cuts have been run through the Macro Economic Model developed by USONA, to see what impact it would have on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). SHTA's quick and rough calculations show a 5% drop in the stay-over arrivals at PJIA will result in a 3% drop in hotel occupancy equivalent to a loss of 104,000 room nights a year. Due to the domino effect, this would impact the GDP by about 1% which comes to about NAf. 20 million of which NAf. 3 million alone in direct and indirect taxes. Were the marketing effort to be lowered by the 20.9% mentioned in the draft budget, we can only hope that tourism does not decline at a similar rate.

So, what would it take to make up for the 5% drop in stay-over tourism as mentioned above? It will take most likely 2 charters per week, carrying tourists destined for resorts on St. Maarten.

Unfortunately, the Tourism industry on St Maarten has seen its high seasons get shorter and its low seasons get longer and deeper, consequently because of its interdependency, the whole economy follows the same trajectory. Adding to this, the current situation in Europe and the United States of America, where most of our tourists come from, the SHTA fears that these budget cuts are going to create an even larger deficit and further weaken the economy of the island. It will take combined public – private sector efforts, the necessary marketing fund and a dedication from the government of St. Maarten to attract more tourists to the island. The SHTA would like to urge the Ministry of Finance to revisit the current budget cuts and make the necessary changes so that we do not kill the goose that lays the golden eggs. Instead of cutting the tourism budget we should really be looking at increasing and optimizing our marketing efforts in order to generate the necessary influx of monies. Stakeholders should be consulted in these matters and decisions of government should not only look at short term planning but also, envision what is best for St. Maarten in the mid and long term and what we want for our children and their children.

The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

SHTA Press Release

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Baby Wellness Clinic from the Collective Prevention Service (CPS), a Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, hereby informs its clients that the Clinic will be closed during the afternoon hours as of April 8 for the next two weeks.

The afternoon hour closure will run up until and including April 19. The Baby Wellness Clinic will remain open during the morning hours of 8:00am to 2:00pm. There will be an extra nurse available during this period to help clients who were scheduled during the afternoon hours.

The Youth Health Care (YHC) physician will not be available between April 8th to the 12th due to a training session.

YHC services for children age four (4) and up will continue according to the regular schedule with the opening hours for the public in the afternoon. Nurses will also be visiting school during the morning hours according to their schedules.

The closure of the Baby Wellness Clinic during the afternoon hours is in connection with preparations for the upcoming Vaccination Week of the Americas (VWA).

Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign emphasizes the importance of having children immunized, and Minister De Weever calls on parents and guardians to ensure that their children are vaccinated.

VWA runs from April 20-27. Various activities are being planned, such as a carnival troupe and community outreach in order to bring about additional awareness concerning the importance of immunization.

carnivalzoukkompasbouyonfestbanner05042013Philipsburg:--- Zaya Records & OMC Music are pleased to announce to the public that tickets for the Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest are now available at all ticket outlets from Saturday April 6th to April 18th for USD $35.

"We are also happy to say that Sunny Food has come onboard our great event as a partner. We will be selling tickets at Sunny Food on Saturday April 6th and Sunday April 7th. So meet us at Sunny Food this Saturday and Sunday and you could probably win yourself a complimentary ticket while you do your shopping.

Promoters are also reminding the public about their ongoing Facebook Promo; log on to Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest for more details.

Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest; featuring Kassav - Carimi - Asa Banton on Saturday April 20th Live at 8pm sharp. Be on time or you will miss the show.

Ticket outlets:

Dutch side: Van Dorp (both locations), DVD Express, Vernon's Hang Out Spot, Fun Miles, Sol/Tackling Cole Bay.

French side: Eye Light (Bellevue), Urban Vibez (St.James), Music Caraibes, FaxInfo, MSR Cable TV, Nayah's Boutique (across from Rainbow Restaurant in Grand Case).

Infoline: +1 721 5263047/0690 882090

jeanjamesbriefscom05042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Member of the Settlement Committee Jean James was invited by the Council of Ministers (COM) to give an update on the activities of the committee. This was done on Thursday where COM was appraised about current as well as outstanding matters.

The Committee was established in accordance with Article 38 of the Charter of the Kingdom of the Netherlands via a mutual regulation of which Article 7 specifies the different aspects of the Settlement Committee.

The Committee consists of four members among which an independent chairperson Faroe Betry, and representatives of each country, supported administratively by Robert Cornax.

Jean James represents Sint Maarten. The members have been appointed for a three year period and their term will end on January 1, 2014.

The main goal of the commission is to streamline the process of the liquidation of all remaining assets and inventories, claims and liquid assets of the former Netherlands Antilles between the countries Curacao, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands which represents the BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba).

The committee meets every two months.

telemboardwalkroadtocarnivalevent05042013Pond Island:--- The Boardwalk "Road to Carnival" event was a big hit Thursday evening as TelEm Group and St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) continued to hype up the 2013 pre-carnival buzz.

According to our "on-the-road reveller" Jesus Richardson, the carnival extravaganza was held at the St. Rose Arcade on the Boardwalk with many carnival fans and members of the public present along with Senior Carnival Queen and Miss Mature contestants.

Jesus writes: - "The MC for the evening was King Beau Beau with entertainment by the Impakt band and later by the Mighty Dow, ensuring a festive and fun evening," said Jesus.

"The highlight of the evening was an "Orange Dance" contest in which winner Ursel Biabiany (pictured above) won a 3G phone package. Other prizes of a Carnival 2013 season pass, sponsored by the SCDF and a one week stay in a US resort, courtesy of SDI Tours, were won by other prize-winners," said Jesus.

Jesus says the Road to Carnival event continues tonight (Friday April 5th) with a block party at Shieka's Bistro on Backstreet.

He says all party-goers and carnival lovers are welcome.

Telem Press Release

rlaville07052012Philipsburg:--- Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed on Friday that his office did receive a complaint that Member of Parliament Romain Laville filed against the leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger. Last week when SMN News asked Stein about the complaint filed by Laville, Stein said everyone has a right to file complaint and he would not comment on it. Stein also maintained his position that Heyliger was not questioned a second time neither was he questioned on the complaint that Member of Parliament Romain Laville filed with the National Detectives.

When asked by SMN News if the complaint Romain Laville filed against the UP leader and former Deputy Prime Minister would become part of the ORCA (Bada Bing) investigation, Stein said the National Detectives are busy studying the contents of the complaint and they are yet to decide if the complaint would warrant a criminal investigation against the UP Leader. Stein made clear that the complaint filed by MP Laville has nothing to do with the ORCA investigation which is ongoing. Laville has said several times that the UP Leader Theodore Heyliger offered him a $350,000.00 bribe to stay with the UP party and he refused the money. Laville was at loggerheads with the UP leader and MP Jules James who was the manager of two companies at Pelican Resort. MP James, a legislator and pastor, also fired 183 permanent workers of the Pelican Resort, something Member of Parliament Romain Laville openly criticized and gave his support to the workers who are still jobless despite several court battles.

The National Detectives also have the Election Fraud case sitting on their desk involving the UP and some police officers who received bribes from Heyliger in exchange for their votes in 2010.

Marigot:--- The owners of Bikini Beach and Kontiki Beach are still waiting on a response from the Collectivity of St. Martin regarding a letter their lawyer send to Territorial Council of St. Martin on April 2nd, 2013 asking that the council intervene and stop the owner of SINDEXTOUR from evicting them from their business place situated on AW33 Orient Bay. Bikini Beach has been operating on Orient Beach for the past 20 years while Kontiki Beach has been operating at the location for 7 years, the open letter states.

The court of commerce in Basse Terre, Guadeloupe ruled in favor of SINDEXTOUR who filed an injunction requesting that the court grant him permission to evict the two businesses from the parcel of land that the Collectivity of St. Martin granted an AOT to SINDEXTOUR for while refusing to recognize and treat the request that was submitted by Bikini and Kontiki Beach.

The two business persons filed a complaint against the Collectivity of St. Martin and the owner of SINDEXTOUR who are now before the Criminal Courts of St. Martin regarding the AOT that was granted to Norbert Luftman, owner of SINDEXTOUR.

It should also be noted that while three persons namely Third Vice President Guillaume Arnel, Jose Carti (Former Head of Urban Planning), and the owner of SINDEXTOUR are scheduled to appear before the criminal courts on September 19th, 2013 regarding the AOT that was granted to SINDEXTOUR, the heirs of Daniel Beauperthuy, the legitimate owner of AW33, are also contesting the courts for the property that was given to the State while the property belongs to the Beauperthuy families. It is not yet clear when the Supreme Court in France will render its verdict on the Beauperthuy's claim.

Click here to view the Open letter sent to the COM.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- World Health Day 2013 will be observed globally on Sunday, April 7 and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) urges individuals to "know your numbers" and health providers to take every opportunity to measure patients' blood pressure.

The Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign emphasizes the importance of individuals 'knowing their numbers' (blood pressure) by visiting their family physician regularly to ensure that all is well.

In the "How Healthy is St. Maarten?" study in 1998/1999, hypertension was the second most common chronic disorder and became worse as people grew older. More than twice as many elderly people suffer from high blood pressure compared to younger age groups. Having ones blood pressure checked regularly is very important, especially in light of the fact that 13% of the participants in Sint Maarten reported suffering from high blood pressure.

The study also showed that the population of Sint Maarten leads a sedentary lifestyle with only 24% of all participants practicing any kind of physical activity or sport regularly (at least once a week).

In addition, the eating habits left much to be desired. Almost one third does not have breakfast daily, even though it is the most important meal of the day. Two thirds of the population does not have fruits and vegetables daily, 15% does not consider 'Use little salt' important and 19% add extra salt to prepared food. 17% of the participants do not consider 'Use little sugar or products containing sugar' important and 34% add extra sugar to prepared drinks.

When we look at the weight the results are alarming, the study showed that among both sexes more than 50% of the participants are overweight or obese.

High blood pressure, equal to or above 140/90 mmHg, increases one's risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.

Hypertension is both preventable and treatable. Although high blood pressure affects some 30 per cent of the adult population, a third of them do not know they have the condition.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, which means adults need to take every opportunity to get their blood pressure checked. The health risks of hypertension are even higher for people who also smoke, are obese or have diabetes.

Hypertension can be prevented by consuming less salt; maintaining a healthy and balanced diet; engaging in regular physical activity; avoiding tobacco use; and avoiding harmful use of alcohol.

com05042013Marigot:--- The Territorial Council of St. Martin that is led by the RRR Party submitted an undated motion to the Senator of St. Martin Louis Constant Fleming who will be presenting the motion against the law for same sex marriage which will be discussed in the senate next week.

SMN News managed to obtain a copy of the motion which has been highly motivated by the Members of the Territorial Council. However, some of the council members such as Rosette Gumbs-Lake, Maude Ascent Gibbs, Dominque Aubert, and the Deputy of St. Martin Daniel Gibbs did not sign the motion that was sent to Senator Fleming. There is a clear indication that Members of the Territorial Council of St. Martin are not in agreement with the new law that will affect everyone living in France and its overseas territories.

The law on same sex marriage (Mariage pour tous) was proposed by the Minister of Justice, Mme. Christaine Taubira.

The Members of the Territorial Council of St. Martin in their motion which is strongly against the adoption of same sex marriage states several factors which they believe that Senate must consider. The first argument states that the Minister of Justice Mme. Christaine Taubira formulated the law without having any discussion with the Minister of Social Affairs, Minister of Education, Minister representing women's affairs, Minister in charge of reforms, the Minister of Sports, Youths, and Associative life of the population. Furthermore, the Minister of Justice did not discuss the proposed law with the Minister of Overseas Affairs.

The TC of St. Martin also states in their motion that the French civil code already has three types of marriages, one of which they believe should be modified. A copy of the motion can be viewed beneath this article.

The TC said same sex marriages will affect several dimensions of life such as religious, physiologic, ethics, and social morals.

Another argument is that such marriages will affect children who will be raised by the same sex couples. Children raised by such families will have a problem distinguishing who is their mother and who is their father. Another argument brought forward by the TC of St. Martin is that there are social and cultural differences in the Antilles (Overseas Territories). They also mentioned that when the same sex law was presented in the National Assembly on February 12th, 2013 which consists of 26 deputies of the overseas Territories only the 10 deputies from the left that forms part of the majority voted in favor of this law.

The enactment of the same sex marriage was discussed in the Senate, Senator Louis Constant Fleming UMP will submit the motion presented by the Territorial Council St. Martin who strongly opposes to the application of this text to St Martin.

The Motion was filed with the Chairman of the UMP Senator Christian Baudin, the President of the Senate Mr. Jean Pierre Bel, Attorney Ms. Christiane Taubira and rapporteur Senator Jean-Pierre Michel. In his letter accompanying the Motion of the Territorial Council of St. Martin, Senator Louis Constant Fleming stated that "Overseas Territories, although of course, part of the national territory and, as such, subject to the varying degrees to the national legislation, have different customs related to their specific geographical, historical, and cultural attributes." Senator Fleming also referred to the second paragraph of Article 4a of the bill, which plans to allow the Government to take measures by ordinance to make the necessary adjustments regarding the Overseas Collectivities. Senator Louis Constant Fleming requested that it be made ​​a present to St. Martin.
Senator Louis Constant Fleming, intends to vote against this bill from his UMP party but also the co-seven amendments to the 200 presented by the UMP group.

Click here to view the motion Against Same Sex Marriage.

teacherssigningcontractsatsxmhouseinthehague05042013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Seven newly recruited teachers from the Netherlands recently signed their contracts at the Sint Maarten House, The Hague, in the presence of the Executive Director of SVOBE Drs. Joseph Rogers and the General Director of Milton Peters College (MPC) and Sundial School Wim de Visser. Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges was also present for the signing.

Minister Voges gave a short history about Sint Maarten and encouraged the teachers to get involved in youth community projects on the island during their tenure.

Rogers and Visser traveled to the Netherlands in search of teachers for MPC and Sundial School for the subjects M&M, Dutch, English, French, and Cultural Arts. They carried out a number of interviews in the Soualiga Room at the Sint Maarten House, a service rendered by Minister Plenipotentiary to Government institutions and Sint Maarten Non-Governmental Organizations.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports (Ministry ECYS) Inspection Division is inviting School Bus Owners and Drivers to a meeting on Friday, April 5.

School Bus Owners and Drivers at the meeting will be informed about certain changes that have taken place. As of April 1, 2013, the Ministry ECYS has taken over the financial administration of the school bus transportation system.

During the Friday afternoon meeting which will take place at the Brooks Tower, Suite #3, Harbour View, Philipsburg from 3:00pm to 4:00pm, school bus owners and drivers will be introduced to the team at the Inspectorate Division who will be directly involved in collecting and processing data.

The Inspectorate Division is looking forward to meeting with the School Bus Owners and Drivers on Friday afternoon, and towards an informative and productive meeting.

Those requiring additional information can call the Inspectorate at 542-3479 or 542-3182.

Philipsburg:--- The National Detectives that are working on the ORCA investigation, famously known as the Bada Bing corruption case are currently reviewing documents they received from various banks.

Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein said in an invited comment on Thursday that the investigation picked up speed on Tuesday when the detectives returned to work after the Easter Holidays and they are now studying the documents they recovered during the house and office searches that were conducted while they are also reviewing documents they received from several of the banks on the island. Stein said the national detectives requested documents from several of the banks and those documents were turned over to them and they are now reviewing all the documents they received before they can take a decision on how to move forward.

When SMN News asked Stein if anymore witnesses were heard just prior to the Easter holidays and the earlier part of this week, Stein said that no more witnesses were heard. He said that he held a discussion with the National Detectives on Thursday afternoon and they concluded that there is no more information that can be released now to the media, but assured that the investigation is moving forward.

It should be noted that while the ORCA investigation has become the talk of the Kingdom and its overseas countries, the National Detectives chose to delay the investigation during the Easter Holidays. Stein also confirmed to SMN News that all the other investigations including the Piranha Investigation which involves the former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto are now placed on the back burner because the ORCA investigation has taken priority.

The ORCA investigation started some weeks ago when a videotape surfaced showing the owner of the Bada Bing strip club Jaap van den Heuvel giving what looks like a bribe to Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge. Since the revelation of the videotape, the owner of Bada Bing claimed he taped MP Illidge while he was paying back a loan he borrowed from Illidge during his divorce procedures in 2011. Van den Heuvel also claimed that the leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger asked him to make the videotape in order for Heyliger to blackmail MP Illidge.

boathitssandygroundbridge04042013Sandy Ground:--- Traffic backed up on both sides of Sandy Ground Bridge Thursday afternoon when a boat that was going through the bridge struck it and caused some damages to the bridge. Vehicle owners lined up on both sides of the bridge waiting patiently for the workmen and operators of the bridge to fix the damage so that the bridge could be brought down for repairs. Up to press time, no information on the status of the bridge was made available.

pjlsolarenergyinfosession04042013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday April 6, at 10:00am, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library will continue its series of educational presentations and information sessions around its Solar Energy Project in the library hall.
Experts from Caribbean Energy Store and Archyon Integrated Solutions will be available to explain the details of the libraries solar system as well as the advantages of solar energy. During these sessions, the solar energy experts will answer any questions you may have about implementing solar energy at your home or business.
At 11:00 am, a presentation will be given about the sun and its capabilities to create electrical power. Also up for discussion this Saturday will be the possibilities of the so-called micro inverters for small installations.
The libraries next scheduled session will be held on Saturday, April 20 with "Lighting Facts" as the main discussion point. The general public is invited to attend these very informative solar energy sessions.

utspartnerswithriddimbox04042013Philipsburg:--- Chippie and RiddimBox Entertainment announce their strategic marketing alliance in presenting an international carnival show on the premiere night of the 2013 carnival season. The show will be dubbed The Main Event and is presented by RiddimBox and strategic partner Chippie. The international show, scheduled at the Festival Village on Saturday, April 27 will feature a host of high-profile international performers, ranging from Dancehall to Soca to Hip-Hop. Dancehall sensation RDX and veteran performer Lady Saw will be representing the Dancehall portion of the evening, bringing both old and new hits to the table to entertain the reggae-dancehall lovers. The Soca representation for the evening will be Teri Lyons, Nadia Batson & Tallpree; All seasoned performers with a string of high energy soca hits to their credit. Headlining the show will be international Hip-Hop super-star Busta Rhymes. The multi-talented hip hop performer is guaranteed to deliver a performance that is just as fast-paced and action-packed as his lyrics. "We are thrilled to be working with RiddimBox again," says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. "We have worked together on a string of projects in the past, with our most recent collaboration being only a few months ago bringing Dancehall artist Konshens to the island. We look forward to working with this team of professionals again whom have shown us they have what it takes to work with us in putting together a premium night of entertainment. We will also be doing our part in making it easier for the general public to attend The Main Event by offering a number of ways to obtain tickets. Whether its by winning tickets or receiving tickets as part of a package, combined with Chippie or CaribServe products and services. So keep an eye out for our various offers that may just be your ticket to this power-house of a show," Lambert continued. RiddimBox representative Randy Piper states: "As usual we promise the people a night packed with entertainment which will definitely be the hottest night of the 2013 carnival season. Please buy your tickets early and be at the Festival Village on time, because it will be hit after hit of explosive talents on-stage. We have a packed line-up and the show promises to be epic. As usual, we like to take things to another level and will be bringing in a surprise guest artist to top it all off," Piper continued. The Main Event is scheduled for Saturday, April 27th in the Festival Village. Tickets will be on sale starting next week Tuesday for $30 at all three UTS store locations in Philipsburg, Cole Bay and Marigot and will sell for $40 at the gate.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In the night of Saturday April 6th to Sunday April 7th, Fun Miles will upgrade to a new data system. This is a huge step forward for the Caribbean's biggest customer reward program. With advanced new possibilities in the area of mobile and online technology, the system will make Fun Miles even better, safer and more fun. During the night of the upgrade the system will be offline between 10.30PM Saturday until 06.00am Sunday. Fun Miles wants to apologize for possible inconvenience.

STAYING AHEAD OF THE PACK
This year, Fun Miles is celebrating its fifteenth anniversary. From the start, the system has been running on its current computer system, which has long been considered highly advanced, even by global standards. Cardholders could directly save and redeem Fun Miles with their magnetic swipe card, but they could also, for example, request their balance via SMS and Internet. The system has always provided a solid and enjoyable user experience to the many cardholders and partners on different islands. During the last few years, however, technology has leaped forward at a dazzling rate. To stay ahead of the pack, Fun Miles has developed a brand new system, in cooperation with cutting-edge companies such as Intersolve, m-wise, Mobilem and Thought Focus.

NEW POSSIBILITIES
The new system is even more safe and fun to work with than the previous one. In addition, it offers highly futuristic possibilities in the areas of mobile technology, Internet, market research and a personalized user experience. During the coming period, cardholders will discover many exciting new advantages and possibilities. With regard to the upgrade in the night of 6 to 7 April, there is no action required on their part. They can continue enjoying Fun Miles like they are used to. The new dimension of fun presented by the upgraded system will gradually manifest itself.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The general public are reminded that a Central Committee of Parliament meeting is scheduled for April 08 about the draft 2013 country budget.

The central committee will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend the national deliberations with respect to the country's draft budget.

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

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

funexpo04042013PHILIPSBURG:--- During the penultimate weekend of March, Fun Miles, its partners, and hundreds of visitors enjoyed St. Maarten's first Fun Expo held at Kooyman Megastore. The Fun Expo – part of Fun Miles' 15th anniversary celebrations – was a three-day event where the public had the opportunity to experience the full potential of Fun Miles all in one place. There were booths, freebies, specials, exciting showcases, a kids' corner, food, drinks, and many happy prizewinners. The organization looks back on a successful, fun gathering with a turnout that exceeded all expectations. Fun Miles is the Caribbean's most popular customer reward program.

ABOUT THE FUN EXPO
More and more consumers own a Fun Miles card. The Fun Expo offered them a bird's-eye view of all the exciting things that they can enjoy by using it. Many partner companies were present to display and explain their regular Fun Miles offers, as well as some unique Fun Expo specials, which included giveaways and prizes. The Fun Miles Partners in attendance were Budget Marine, Divico Cash & Carry, DVD Express, ENNIA, Indulgence by the Sea Spa, International Liquors and Tobacco, Keijzer Computer Systems, KFC, Pizza Hut, Kooyman, OMNI, Penny's Department Store, St. Maarten Building Supplies, St. Maarten Veterinary Clinic, Sunny Foods, The Windward Island Bank, Travel Planners, TropiGas and UTS.

PLENTY OF PRESENTS AND PRIZES
As one visitor described it, the Fun Expo was "paradise if you like free stuff!" Keijzer Computers gave away vouchers for triple Fun Miles, as well as 2 prizes of 5,000 Fun Miles each to Michael Atmopawiro and Cornelis Huisintveld. The Windward Island Bank and Travel Planners generously gave out Bonus Miles. UTS had a number of popular offers that involved free scratch cards, free OneNet minutes, free Bonus Miles, and several devices for low amounts of Fun Miles. SXM Vet Clinic raffled off prizes ranging from a free pet bath to no less than 20,000 Fun Miles, which were won by Everard John Peter. ENNIA stunted with a prize of no less than 25,000 Fun Miles, picked up by Venacio Saunders, and Budget Marine treated its winners Jeff Oliver, Wilbert Ambrosina, and Fitzroy Silcott to 5000 Fun Miles each. Travel Planners made two winners happy with travel vouchers, and Kooyman gave away sixteen parasols as door prizes. The lucky ones were: Velma Winderfelde, Edna Rijkaard, Henri Lobato, Cheryl Rismay, Suresh Alwani, Aruska Marlin Bell, Maria Cox, Kirti Babani, Leopold Mathew, Jacqueline Evers, Margriet Richardson, Silvia Carty, and Cherisma Rismay. In addition, tickets to the Antillean and Zouk Carnival Nights on April 19 and 20, were sold which will feature performances by such greats as Le Groove, Carimi and Kassav. These tickets are still available at the Fun Miles office for low amounts of Fun Miles (while supplies last).

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUN MILES?
Please contact Fun Miles customer service at tel. 543-3301 or visit funmiles.net or facebook.com/funmiles.

48rfpssubmittedtopjiae04042013Simpson Bay:--- A combined total of 48 entries were received as the deadline for the submission of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for the new concessions at SXM Airport closed at 4 PM, Monday, March 25, 2013.

Assisting with the opening of all bids were Civil Law Notary Marlene Mingo, and Charlise Philips, both of the Notary firm Gijsbertha.

Among the selection evaluation criteria are: Height of concession percentage (per category); Business plan: financials. Investment, forecast, NPV; Degree of local employment/involvement; and Store, category and logistics plan.

Other evaluation criteria include: Marketing plan; Management /Human resource plan and Sense of place/design/brand and appearance.

The entire process of evaluation has begun and will continue through this week.

The Request For Proposal (RFP) course of action originally began on January 8, 2013 with the Expression of Interest process. A Site Tour and Information Presentation was held for all the companies/concessionaires who were short-listed after submitting their Expression of Interest Documents on February 26, 2013.

There are 24 concession packages, one for each individual concession, including a 1,000sq. meter large walk-through duty-free store.

Further information related to the process can be obtained from the following members of the Core Team at SXM: Robert Brown, at 546-7555 or 520-7721, or Suzy Kartokromo, at 546-7544 or 520-3044.

sarahwescotwilliams24092012PM to Discuss Topics Ranging from Integrity in Government to the Justice System

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams will be covering topics ranging from transparency and integrity within Government, the ongoing discussion regarding dollarization and items elated to Justice and the plans of approach as it relates to the budget on One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 Pearl FM starting this Friday at Nine in the morning.

"With all that has been happening I again would like to encourage the community to listen into the program and have your questions on the topics we will be discussing from beforehand. If you feel uncomfortable calling in you can email your questions in and I will make sure to answer them," commented the Prime Minister.

The weekly program will allow listeners to opportunity to do exactly what the title of the show suggests; to go One on One with the Prime Minister on various pertinent topics within the community and government and allows the listener to ask questions. The show will air weekly ever Friday from nine to ten on 98.1 Pearl FM and callers can call in on 5430462 or via sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The elected RRR majority members learn with amazement the very severe ruling of the reporter to the State Council against President Alain Richardson, who had been unanimously elected by the territorial council of Saint-Martin on April 1, 2012. The State
Council, which was called to attention by the National Commission of campaign accounts which had rejected the RRR Campaign accounts, met on March 27, 2013, and has put its decision under advisement in one month's period of time.

It is neither the sincerity of accounts, nor the completeness or the traceability of incomings and expenditure of the campaign, nor compliance with the maximum, nor a failure or delay in the filing of the campaign accounts which are put in question, but only the fact that the financial agent has opened, at the same time and in the same bank, two dedicated and fungible accounts one in Euros and the other in Dollars. The Commission considered this contrary to the texts in force, without taking into account the monetary, financial, banking and economic reality of St-Martin, on the one hand, or the constant jurisprudence of the State Council and the Constitutional Council, on the other hand.

The sub-account in Dollars has worked as alternately to the euro account, and this for the single settlement of two bills which the net pay was denominated in Dollars, the primary supplier having wished to be paid in that currency.

Neither the campaign accounts Commission nor even the Reporter of the State Council blame President Alain Richardson for some fraudulent intent.
It should be recalled that Saint-Martin is the only community of France to be located both in the Euro and in the Dollar zone and that most banking and financial institutions locally systematically offer their customers accounts in Euros and in Dollars, to take into account the economic interdependence of the Franco-Dutch island of Saint-Martin, which specificities are totally ignored by a vast majority of the central services of the State.

The elected representatives which form the majority of the territorial Council have confidence in Justice and lend all their support to their President Alain Richardson in this new challenge. They are calmly waiting and looking forward to the conclusions of the State Council in this case, hoping that these conclusions will align on the constant jurisprudence, and this for the proper functioning of our institutions and the general interest of the development of our community.

The Elected RRH representatives of the Territorial Council of Saint-Martin

ralawardsceremony04042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library in collaboration with the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise held their annual award ceremony on March 27, 2013 at 6pm at the library in recognition of its outstanding "Readers are Leaders" participants.
The goal of "Readers are Leaders" is to promote literacy specifically among high school students and to encourage readers to express their thoughts, feelings and ideas through writing. The participants are challenged to read a number of books and submit reports about the books they read.
This year, a large number of students participated in the challenge to read at least 2 books per month, either individually at the Library or through their advisors for "Readers are Leaders" program at St. Maarten Academy (PSVE and Academic Sections), Sundial School and the St. Maarten Vocational Training School. The board of the reading club recently organized other events such as their annual black history month cultural event and poetry evening.
As an added incentive to encourage participants to continue reading, special prizes are awarded to the most avid readers. This year's winners were: Suekishana Bera of St. Maarten Academy PSVE (1st prize winner); Tiffany Seebaran and Windey Charles of St. Maarten Vocational Training School (tied for 2nd place); Mayra Raphaela of St. Dominic High (3rd place) and Shamar Wallace of St. Marten Academy PSVE (4th place). During the Award Ceremony at the Library, the top 3 winners were presented with tablets, while the 3rd and 4th place winners were given $50 gift certificates. The library also donated free computer hours to each winner in the reading competition.
All participants were rewarded with goodie bags and pizza to close off the evening (thanks to the contributions of DHL, Western Union, Nagico Insurances, RBC Royal Bank, Pretty Good T-Shirts and Domino's Pizza).
The Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Sunrise wishes to acknowledge the contributions of the following business and high school representatives, who were instrumental to the success of this project: Mr. Kenny Parwani of Pretty Good Wholesale and Retail, Big Sale, Jewelry Avenue, Seven Seas, Michelle Richardson-Artsen, Zeynep Sabahoglu, and Lavern Nelson (St. Maarten Academy PSVE), Yadira Pierre-Boston (St. Maarten Vocational Training School), Jacky Morrison (Sundial)and Susan van Mierloo (St. Maarten Academy Academic).

Trip Giveaways, Prizes and Raffles for Attendees

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau will be conducting a product launch at the Palm Courtyard of the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown, Barbados from April 11-12, 2013 to highlight the unique attributes and offerings of the island, with hotel stays, giveaways, prizes and more, making it a must-see event.

Nine hoteliers and several Tourist Board representatives from both the Dutch and French sides of St. Maarten will be on hand to meet and network with members of the tourism and travel trade industry in Barbados, as well as the general public.

The product launch will kick-off with a marketplace event on Thursday, April 11 geared toward the travel and trade industry, with a cocktail reception for the trade and industry partners in the evening at the roof garden at the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre. The show will continue on Friday, April 12 with a focus on consumers, however industry contacts are welcome if they were unable to attend the day prior.

For more information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

swescotwilliams03042013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot-Williams told reporters on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Ministers and Parliamentarians in the Kingdom can scream until doomsday regarding the Bada Bing Investigation. Wescot Williams said that the Kingdom Council of Ministers' meetings are normally confidential (closed door) meetings and since some Ministers from the Kingdom chose to speak about a meeting they held on March 28th, 2013 where the law and order on St. Maarten was discussed and the Dutch Ministers expressed concerns regarding Bada Bing investigation. Wescot Williams said that St. Maarten's Minister of Plenipotentiary Mathias Voges had updated her on what was discussed in the Kingdom Council of Ministers' meeting. She said Minister Voges told her that some Ministers expressed their concerns especially regarding the Bada Bing investigation. "Prior to this meeting being held, I had informed the Minister of Plenipotentiary of the general information I got from the Prosecutor's Office regarding the Bada Bing investigation (ORCA). That general information is that the investigation was progressing." Wescot Williams said unless she received other information which contradicts what she was told, due course will be followed and the justice systems are working notwithstanding what is being said by the Dutch politicians. Wescot Williams said that the information she received and passed on to St. Maarten's Minister of Plenipotentiary was conveyed to the Kingdom Council of Ministers.

Minister of Justice Position Remains in Tact.

The Prime Minister said with regards to the position of the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, discussions were held and she in particular held discussions regarding the allegations (rumors) against the Minister of Justice which state that the Minister of Justice has other activities than the position he holds as Minister of Justice. "Until the Minister of Justice indicates to me that there is some truth to the allegations (rumors) regarding his other activities only then I will hold discussions with the Minister of Justice regarding his other activities and what we will do about these other activities. I do not have that information and I will leave it up to the Minister of Justice to divulge any other information if he feels it is necessary. As Prime Minister, I do not have any other information that would make it necessary for me and the Minister of Justice to hold any discussion on any other activity or side activity."

Wescot Williams said that the Kingdom Council of Ministers can discuss matters relating to St. Maarten, Aruba, or Curacao. "I want to inform the Members of the Kingdom Council of Ministers who feel that things on St. Maarten are going hay-wire, it is not the case and they need to allow the system to do its work. The Judicial authorities have indicated that these particular allegations are being investigated and they need to let the investigation take its course. There is a Government of St. Maarten, The Parliament of St. Maarten, and the Judicial System. "Democracy is based on the separation of powers. Government should not be doing Parliament work and vise versa, neither can government do judicial work. In other words, I cannot wear the cap of the Prosecutor and the Prosecutor cannot sit on Government seat or Parliament. Unless these systems begin to crisscross then the system would have to continue doing its work."

The Prime Minister made clear that no one will put undue pressure on the Government of St. Maarten to do things that are not their responsibility. Wescot Williams said that she is not generalizing the Dutch but there are Dutch politicians that were against St. Maarten becoming a country, therefore every opportunity to undermine St. Maarten is being used by some Dutch politicians. Wescot Williams said that good and bad things happen all over the world including in the Dutch Government.

wibpromotessxmcarnivalwithkompaleon03042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) intends to bring more awareness to St. Maarten's Carnival, via a cross-island initiative with its parent bank Maduro & Curiel's Bank N.V. (MCB) in Curacao. This initiative involves inserting a specially designed carnival card stuffer in 16,500 Kompa Leon credit card statements of MCB's credit card customers. WIB will also offer one lucky winner visiting from Curacao, the opportunity to win NAF. 1,000.00 for making purchases in St. Maarten, using their Kompa Leon credit card during Carnival season. The campaign begins on April 6th and ends on May 2nd, 2013.

The card stuffers welcome guests on one side with images of places to go and things to do in St. Maarten in Papiamentu. It also displays all business areas where Kompa Leon is accepted and the opportunity to win NAF. 1,000.00 with Kompa Leon. Information on events and images of Carnival, including Carnival merchandise like t-shirts and mugs, which are provided by St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation, are displayed on the reverse side of the statement.

Kompa Leon Credit Card is the only locally owned card throughout the Dutch Caribbean that offers 1% cash back on all purchases where Kompa Leon is accepted. Don't forget to visit the WIB ATM located in the Festival Village or any of our conveniently located ATM. Most major businesses are powered by WIB's merchant terminals for safe and secure payments.

WIB welcomes all visitors to St. Maarten for Carnival to "WIB's Kompa Leon for SXM Carnival". Jump-start Carnival by joining us on April 26th for WIB's Block Party.

carnivalzoukkompasbouyonfestphoto01042013Printing of our tickets got delayed over the Easter weekend; they are expected to be on island by Thursday/Friday of this week; we will update the public via the general media as soon as the tickets have arrived!

Ticket outlets will be: Van Dorp (Both Locations), DVD Express (Yogesh Building), SOL/Tackling Cole Bay, Vernon's Hang Out Spot (Orange Grove), and Fun Miles.

French side: Eye Light (Bellevue), Urban Vibez (St.James), MSR Cable TV (all locations), Faxinfo and Music Caraibes (both are across from the Marigot Ballfield), and Nayah's Boutique (located in Grand Case across from Rainbow Restaurant).

Ticket prices will be $35 until April 15th!

V.I.P seating is also available

For more infos: FB : Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest

Infolines: 721 5263047 - 0690 882090

Pond Island:--- Organizers of the TelEm Group's Fun Park event that was postponed Easter Sunday due to inclement weather, have announced a new date for the event to be staged.
The Fun Park will now open as planned on Saturday, April 6 at the same venue – The TelEm Group parking lot - starting at 12:00 noon.
Unfortunately, due to last Sunday's postponement, some of the jugglers and fun performers from abroad had to leave the island to perform in other shows and will not be appearing this Saturday, however the organizers are busy finding replacement acts to add to the host of fun activities.
"We are happy to announce that our cartoon characters, Spongebob Squarepants, Dora and Mickey will still be joining in the fun Saturday upcoming along with some additional characters, " said event coordinator, Angel Richardson.
She says all the characters are looking forward to meeting with and entertaining St. Maarten's boys and girls.
Ms. Richardson said a search to find some novel new entertainers for Saturday's event is going well and assured that advertised activities at the Fun Park, such as rock climbing, face painting, bungee jumping and spray painting will take place as planned.

Also, the art contest, being held in collaboration with the Sint Maarten PRIDE Foundation, will also take place Saturday upcoming.
"We are very disappointed and would like to apologize to the public for postponing the Family Fun Park event on Sunday due to bad weather the previous night and a waterlogged grounds," said Ms. Richardson.
She said in the end considerations of safety were a priority and the organizers decided to postpone the event to a later date.
Since the event was planned to be held around the Easter holiday break, and has Easter as its theme, the organizers say it would not be practical to hold it any later than the weekend upcoming – hence Saturday's date.

Telem Press Release

BAIE-MAHAULT, Guadeloupe:--- The third International Congress of Caribbean Writers will take place at the Langley Resort Fort Royal in Deshaies, Guadeloupe, French West Indies, from April 10 to 13, 2013.

Held under the theme "Our Fight for Freedom, A Collective Epic", the prestigious event takes places every two years under the auspices of the Regional Council of Guadeloupe and the Association of Caribbean Writers.

The meeting attracts numerous renowned writers from the French, English, Dutch and Spanish speaking Caribbean. Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, French Guyana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Jamaica, Panama, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela will have representatives.

With participants drawn from so many countries in the Caribbean and Latin America organizers welcome an extraordinary diversity of cultural heritage on display, comprising the backbone of the common Caribbean existence.

Following appearances by St. Lucia's Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott for the first edition, and noted writer Marcio Veloz Maggliolo of the Dominican Republic for the second, American novelist, short story writer and poet, Russell Banks will be the guest of honour at the third meeting this month. A committed man of letters, Banks is a prolific, award-winning writer of fiction and lectures in contemporary literature at Princeton University in New Jersey.

Banks will also lead the opening session on Thursday, April 11, with a debate about 'The historic truth or romantic fiction of Caribbean literature'.

Over the four days of the writers congress, in addition to the intensive writing workshops, author meeting exchanges with the public, including school children, will take place.

The main objectives of the event include increasing the awareness and adding channels for the distribution of Caribbean literature across language barriers, within and beyond the region.

"The spirit of the Congress of Caribbean Writers is that the greater sharing of our experiences and our cultural heritage remains the best way of communicating with the world. We also believe that the presentations of literary work and strengthening of the Caribbean writers network will contribute to economic development within the region and the cultural sector in particular," the organizers report.

CAY HILL:--- The Supervisory Council of St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is pleased to announce that Mrs. Yvonne van Ameijden has been appointed as the Interim Financial Director and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of SMMC as of April 1, 2013.
Mrs. Van Ameijden holds a masters degree in Strategic Business Administration. She has a vast experience in top management positions in various health care organizations including a nurse care and home care organization with over 1200 employees and being the operations manager for the laboratories and pharmacy division of the university hospital of Utrecht in the Netherlands as well as holding a position as interim manager at ADC in Curacao from 2002 to 2003. As interim manager she has assisted diverse organizations with the development of quality improvements, cost reductions and development and implementation of strategic policy measures.
"After executing an extensive interview process with several candidates we believe that Mrs. van Ameijden is a good fit for the interim position at the SMMC and we are very pleased that she has accepted," said dr. Izzy Gerstenbluth Chairman of the Supervisor Council of SMMC.
The review of the organizational structure is one of the priorities of the St. Maarten Medical Center. Mid last year, SMMC has commissioned an independent agency to conduct an organizational scan of the hospital. Based on that the Supervisory Council has decided to fill the Board of Directors with two positions: a Financial Director and a Medical Director.
Currently the open recruitment process to fill said position in the Board of Directors for the long term is ongoing. This is a separate process that is not connected to the interim position.
St. Maarten Medical Center will continue as usual, to work towards improving the level and quality of care for the benefit of all the residents of St. Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius and surrounding islands. We look forward to doing so in collaboration with our stakeholders.

The Supervisory Council of the SMMC

Philipsburg:--- A Guyanese national identified as Nandrai Avinash Singh is now in police custody as he is accused of stealing tools from Bobby's Marina Boatyard on Thursday. Robert Velasquez told SMN News that Singh was working for him in the boatyard for quite some years now. The businessman said it's been some time now that they have been missing tools from the boatyard and while they suspected two of the workers they had no solid proof until last Thursday. Velasquez said that on Thursday he and two of his managers caught Singh red-handed when he tried to remove a bag that had a number of tools belonging to the boatyard. "I personally screamed out at Singh when I saw him putting the bag over a fence. When Singh realized that I saw he began running and two of my managers Eric Koning (Yard Manager) and Frans Niewenhoven (General Manager) started to run behind Singh so that they could have stopped him." Velasquez said at some point Singh got into a car and he tried to run over Eric Knoning. "I fired Singh on the spot because everything is on tape which was turned over to the police on Thursday, the police visited my business place shortly after the incident and viewed the tape."

The businessman is more upset because he assisted Singh when he was locked up by police when his seven year old son shot his baby daughter with a flare gun and killed her two years ago. "I paid the lawyer's fee and assisted Singh's wife when they were having problems after the death of his daughter and he chose to repay me by stealing all my tools which he is working with in Anguilla after hours. Recently, Singh has been reporting sick almost two days a week because he is going over to Anguilla to work." The businessman further explained that another employee whom he fired about two weeks ago is also involved in stealing from his business place.

SMN News learnt that Singh was arrested on Tuesday when he went to the police station to file report against his employers.

Prosecutor Dounia Benammar confirmed that suspect was arrested on Tuesday on the suspicion of theft.

Pond Island:--- Following the Easter holiday break, TelEm Group technicians will be resuming emergency repair work on a main line cable in the Pelican area, Thursday, April 4th, 2013.
Two sections of the main cable were successfully repaired before the Easter holiday break and this has already improved communication to some parts of Pelican.
Another major section of the cable will be disconnected, repaired and reconnected to residential and business clients between 6:00 am and 12:00 noon, Thursday.
As a result of the repair works there will be no telecommunication services to business and residential clients in the Pelican area between the aforementioned hours.
TelEm Group management apologizes to customers in the Pelican area for any inconvenience caused while these very important emergency repair works are being carried out.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA), the largest private business representative on the island, representing a broad range of companies including amongst others: the hotel, restaurant, catering and entertainment industry, wholesalers, retailers, real estate, marine trade, financial and legal services, taxi associations, car rentals, construction companies, and environmental organizations; would like to recognize and appreciate that the wheels of Justice in St. Maarten are turning slowly but deliberately with regards to the recent investigation into a potential bribery incident. This demonstrates that St. Maarten has a fully functioning and independent justice system which is critical to any democracy. While it is important that the investigation completes its process, the SHTA believes that there is an even more critical and fundamental issue which should be the creation of a political system which is transparent and serves the people.

Regardless of the outcome of the investigation, the ultimate goal should be to have a political system that is less susceptible to manipulation by individuals. When individual gain becomes the measure by which decisions are made, the interests of the country and the people that live here become secondary, or worse, irrelevant. Every decision made for personal gain, means that there was one less decision made based on merits.

According to www.transparency.org "CORRUPTION IS THE ABUSE OF ENTRUSTED POWER FOR PRIVATE GAIN. IT HURTS EVERYONE WHO DEPENDS ON THE INTEGRITY OF PEOPLE IN A POSITION OF AUTHORITY".

It is under this light that the SHTA reiterates its position that the debate on Electoral Reform is critical for country St. Maarten to develop a culture of transparency and good governance that will allow the island to prosper. Some may consider Electoral Reform idealistic and naïve. Others will claim that expecting the beneficiaries of a system susceptible to corruption, to change that system, is unrealistic. Ultimately, it is up to the people of St. Maarten to determine the environment in which they choose to live. According to Alexis de Toqueville (a French political thinker and historian best known for his work Democracy in America), "In a democracy, people get the government they deserve."

SHTA's suggestions for debate on Electoral Reform:

  1. Campaign Finance Reform

    Individuals that are campaigning should be required to make public certain information as it pertains to the election process, including sources and amounts of campaign donations in cash, services and in kind. Candidates should make public their business interests and either take positions that don't have conflicts of interest or dissociate from those investments prior to taking office. Candidates should declare after the election how the money was spent.

  2. Delegate Authority

    In order to prevent the use of contracts, agreements and permits of all kinds as currency to encourage political supporters, the authority to issue individual licenses, work permits, building permits, bus licenses, taxi licenses, contracts for services, scholarships, land, and housing should be delegated to civil servants under strict guidelines and systems of checks and balances. Elected officials should be focused on developing criteria, transparency, policy, legislation, and oversight instead of actually approving or rejecting individual permits. Appeals could still be handled by elected officials, which would still give them possibilities to intervene when special attention is required. Additionally, this would create a feedback loop whereby policies could be adjusted when necessary.

Citizens interested in voicing their opinions directly to Parliament should do so via their website http://www.sxmparliament.org and go to the contact section or directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. All emails are officially logged by parliament as incoming mail. Please feel free to copy the SHTA at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The SHTA is dedicated to bringing quality to all aspects of life on St. Maarten by promoting sustainable economic development for its members in cooperation with the social partners and the creation of a fair marketplace. For more information please contact our offices at 542-0108 or visit our website at www.shta.com.

Great Bay:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor section Collective Preventive Services are making preparations for the eleventh celebration of Vaccination Week of the Americas(VWA), which runs from April 20-27, 2013. Various activities, such as a carnival troupe and community outreach will be the activities to bring about awareness regarding the importance of immunization and to keep the topic on the forefront of political agendas.
Last year an open house was kept at the Festival Village, and a team chaired by Anita Priest took care of the organization of the activity. This year there is a new chair to head the activities for 2013, which is Anuska Gibbs.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that it is very important for each country to adhere to the required immunization requirements and for parents to ensure that their children are immunized. "On government's end we are offering all school-going children the opportunity to get vaccinated through the school vaccination program."
VWA is an extraordinary effort led by countries and territories of the region to advance equity and access to vaccination. VWA activities strengthen the national immunization programs in the Americas by reaching out to populations with little access to regular health services. Since its inception in 2003, more than 410 million individuals of all ages have been vaccinated during campaigns conducted under the framework of VWA.

markreid03042013Philipsburg:--- The murder of two months old baby Mark Reid of Middle Region has left the entire community in shock and despair. Residents of Middle Region told SMN News that they do not know how to describe the murder of baby Reid because the accident involving the main murder suspect Dalton Le Blanc took place a good distance from where the Reids live. According to information reaching SMN News, the suspect Dalton Le Blanc was involved in an accident not far away from Wing Li Supermarket on Middle Region main road. Le Blanc then left the scene of the accident and went behind Wing Li Supermarket where the Reids live and broke into their home which is located on the lower flat of a two storey house. Based on the information provided to SMN News, Le Blanc broke a glass window next to the main entrance door and entered the apartment where baby Reid and his mother were sleeping. At the time of the incident, the woman and her baby were alone at home since her partner was at work. SMN News learnt that the baby's mother woke up and saw the man inside her house and she left the apartment in order to seek help to get Le Blanc out of her home but by the time she returned to the apartment Le Blanc had already snatched the baby who was asleep and killed him on the main road not far from the accident scene. It is reported that the suspect (Le Blanc) was at the Defiance Heaven Night Club where he had an altercation. However, management of Defiance Haven Night Club said in an invited comment that the man (Le Blanc) broke the back gate of the establishment and went inside the club and stayed for about two to three minutes. According to the camera surveillance system and a security guard at Defiance Heaven, Le Blanc broke the padlock and entered the property at 11:12 pm. The man did not have on any shirt when he entered the property and it appeared as though he was running from someone. A member of the management team said that the man already had a black eye; he did not have on a shirt when he entered the club and his skin was untidy. "When the man was leaving, the security guard at Defiance Heaven Night Club approached the man and asked him what he was doing there and he ran to his car and drove off at high speed. It appears as though Le Blanc was running from someone or he fought with someone because it is also rumored that he was at the L' Esperansa Bar in Middle Region."
SMN News reporter visited the home of the Reids on Wednesday and saw the broken window where the suspect gained entry to the home but the parents of baby Reid were not home to comment on the gruesome murder of their child.
It is believed that Le Blanc must have flipped or lost his mind Tuesday night but that could not be ascertained.


Murder Suspect has no Mental Illness Background --- Reliable Sources.

daltonleblanc03042013The man who killed baby Reid around midnight Tuesday has been identified as Dalton Le Blanc, a St. Maartener with Dominican parentage who works as a security guard for Sheriff Security for the past seven years. SMN News has been reliably informed that Le Blanc was stationed at the Simpson Bay Yacht Club for a long period of time because the management of the Yacht Club requested that he be placed there permanently due to his good performance. Sources close to Sheriff Security said that Le Blanc is known to be a quiet and respectable worker and has never shown any signs of violence or erratic behavior. "His actions have left the entire community of St. Maarten, especially his co-workers and those at Simpson Bay Yacht Club in severe shock. No one seems to understand what happened to Le Blanc."
While it is widely reported that the suspect might be suffering from some sort of mental disease, SMN News learnt that Le Blanc went through a series a physiological and psychiatric tests in the Dominican Republic so that he could obtain custody of his child that was living in that country.
On Wednesday afternoon, the Police Department in conjunction with the Prosecutor's Office issued the following press release.


Man arrested in connection with the death of a baby.

On Tuesday April 2nd at approximately 11:30pm, several police patrols were sent to Basseterre Drive for a home break-in. On the scene the investigating officers were informed that the suspect had fled the scene possibly in a vehicle.
While on the scene, the officers heard a very loud sound coming from the Middle region road. They immediately went to Middle Region road where the loud sound came from and encountered a white Toyota vehicle that had struck and destroyed the concrete wall of a house on that road next to a Supermarket.
During the investigation of the traffic accident, the police saw a man approaching them who was possibly the driver of the vehicle. The officers noticed also that this man was carrying something in his hand but because of the darkness they could not identify what this object was. The object turned out to be a baby. The baby at that moment was not giving any sign of life.
Immediately the officers struggled with this man to subdue him. The Police Central Dispatch was informed of the situation and the Paramedics were immediately sent to treat the infant who was already not showing any sign of life. The suspect with initials D. Le B. from the island of Dominica (26) was arrested on the scene and taken to the police department in Philipsburg. The Detective Department and Forensic Department were informed of the situation and immediately came to the scene and started to collect evidence on the scene. Dr. Douglas who arrived shortly after pronounced the death of the victim. The body of the infant victim with initials M.A.R. Jr., two months old was confiscated for further investigation.
This case is still in its preliminary stages and is being investigated by the Detective Department who along with the Forensic Department are putting the pieces together. At this time we cannot give any more information and when it becomes available the media will be informed.

KPSM Police Report

"It is Important that you get a first hand account so you can form own opinion."

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams reminds the general public to tune into One on One with the Prime Minister on 98.1 Pearl FM starting this Friday at Nine in the morning.

"I encourage the community to tune into this important radio program where you can not only get information about my function within Government but also regarding current affairs and information. It is important that you get a first hand account and information so you can form your own informed opinion," commented the Prime Minister.

The Radio Program will also feature a call-in segment where the population can call in with questions. There is also a website available for those who prefer to email their questions instead of call in on air. The email address is This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sswdonatestomealsonwheels02042013SIMPSON BAY:--- Meals on Wheels Foundation is the latest recipient of a donation made by Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten).

The donation was made to Mrs. Mary Bryson, who is president of the foundation which was founded in the aftermath of devastating hurricane Luis in 1995.

Presenting the cheque was Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten) managing director Franklyn Richards, who remarked that the company is "happy to bridge the gap between the needy and those that are in a position to contribute, by recognizing that any contribution can do much to really make a difference in the lives of others".

He added that "our senior citizens and our children are, sometimes, vulnerable groups in society and the target groups serviced by the foundation. For this reason alone, Seven Seas Water is honored to support this organization's poverty program".

The Meals on Wheels Foundation president expressed gratitude for the gesture and indicated that the contribution would be used to pay for the Meals on Wheels booth which provides hot nutritional meals on a daily basis.

To identify risk factors that foster corruption and identify medium and long term solutions to help reduce risks

While St. Maarten was celebrating the Easter Holidays this past weekend, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams revealed that contact has been made with international transparency and anti-corruption body Transparency International regarding conducting a National Integrity System (NIS) assessment.

Initial contact was made about 2 weeks ago and follow up is expected to take place this week.

Prime minister Wescot is responsible for the workings of government, the so-called Internal Affairs, under which the Integrity program falls.

During last year's budget handling in Parliament, the Prime Minister already announced that a NIS would be conducted as part of the Integrity Program.

"A National Integrity System assessment evaluates the principal institutions and actors that form a state, including all branches of government, the media, the public and private sectors, and civil society. The purpose of such a study is to identify the risk factors in a given country that foster corruption as well as medium and long-term solutions to help reduce those risks.

No matter how overt and obvious its consequences are for society, corruption is a crime that prefers to remain covert and concealed. It can take root in many areas of a society, whether in government or law enforcement, or among other actors like the media, business, political parties and so on.

Transparency International developed the National Integrity System approach as a comprehensive means of assessing a country's anti-corruption efficacy sector by sector. It allows a nuanced analysis of national efforts to stamp out corruption.

PILLARS OF NATIONAL INTEGRITY

The National Integrity System evaluates key 'pillars' in a country's governance system, both in terms of their internal corruption risks and their contribution to fighting corruption in society at large.

When all the pillars in a National Integrity System are functioning well, corruption remains in check. If some or all of the pillars wobble, these weaknesses can allow corruption to thrive and damage a society.

The pillars analyzed in a National Integrity System assessment typically include: the legislative branch of government, the executive branch of government, the Judiciary, the Public sector, Law enforcement, Electoral management body, the Ombudsman, the Audit institution, Anti-corruption agencies, Political parties, the Media, Civil society, and Business.

NATIONAL INTEGRITY SYSTEM ASSESSMENTS

A National Integrity System assessment examines both the formal framework of each pillar and the actual institutional practice. The analysis highlights discrepancies between the formal provisions and reality on the ground, making it clear where there is room for improvement.

The analysis is undertaken via a consultative approach, involving the key anti-corruption agents in government, civil society, the business community and other sectors.

Conclusions are drawn together in a comprehensive national report to build momentum, political will and civic pressure for relevant reform initiatives.

According to the TI site the program will ultimately result in a strengthening the National Integrity System promotes better governance across all aspects of a society and contributes to a more just society overall.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

acehoodposter02042013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Youth Extravaganza for Carnival 2013 just got a little bigger. Already one of Carnival's largest local nights, the event will be headlined by hip hop star Ace Hood for Carnival 2013.

The format of the Youth Extravaganza will include local youth showcasing their various talents followed by Ace Hood who will close off the night performing hits like Hustle Hard and his latest single Bugatti which is tearing up the Hip Hop charts.

The promoter and SCDf will announce ticket prices and promo specials later this week. Both parties are excited about putting one of the up and coming hip hop stars on stage for Carnival.

Born Antoine McColister in Port St. Lucie, Florida, Ace Hood was raised by his mother in Deerfield Beach, twenty miles north of Miami. Rap music became his full-time obsession after he suffered a football injury in the tenth grade, effectively putting the kibosh on any professional sports career.

By age 17, he was recording tracks for local imprint Dollaz & Dealz and had a few street singles put out. In November of the following year, Ace maneuvered his way into meeting DJ Khaled at local radio station 99 Jamz and handed the Miami mixtape DJ his demo.

Within a matter of weeks, DJ Khaled signed Ace, then 19 years old, as the first artist to his newly formed We the Best Music, which obtained distribution through Def Jam a few weeks after that. Ace's Def Jam debut single, the Runners-produced "Cash Flow," featuring Rick Ross and ubiquitous hook singer T-Pain, arrived in early 2008 and turned out to be a smash hit on South Florida radio.

A few mixtapes and guest appearances later, he released his first full-length, Gutta, in summer 2008. Ruthless followed the next year and, like its predecessor, peaked at number five on Billboard's R&B albums chart. Two years would pass before the ambitious Blood Sweat & Tears arrived, featuring some of Hood's best work to date.

Seminar Will Address Issues of Transborder Crime and Migration

The Website for the International Civil Aviation Organization Regional Seminar to be held on St. Maarten from the ninth until eleventh of July. The website link is http://www.icao.int/Meetings/mrtd-SintMaarten2013 and offers stakeholders important information on the important Civil Aviation Seminar to be held on St. Maarten. The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a first planning session with the Ad-Hoc Committee established to organize the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regional seminar in early March. The Ad Hoc committee includes representatives from the Department of General Affairs, the Justice Ministry, the Cabinet of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Tourism and Transportation and from PJIAE. The main goal of the seminar will be to assist States in the region with challenges related to cross border immigration within the Caribbean Region.

The Government of St. Maarten and the ICAO will host the Regional Seminar in conjunction with the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (UN CTED), the INTERPOL to build on, and contribute to, the ongoing efforts and to emphasize the importance of promoting travel document security, particularly in regard to insuring the integrity of the systems through which these documents are issued and the inspection, verification and examination of such documents. Different aspects of travel document security will be covered as outlined below, with the objective of identifying existing gaps, outlining the use of tools such as biometrics, best practices using national programs to exemplify, and when identifying vulnerabilities, taking measures to effect improvements.

A particular challenge that will be addressed during the meeting is related to the Caribbean region containing a considerable number of Dutch, British and French overseas territories. While not part of major regional cooperation frameworks (e.g., the Caricom), those islands are nevertheless part of the overall illegal migration and trans-border crime dynamics in the Caribbean and face common security challenges along with other Caribbean States. The proposed ICAO MRTD Regional Seminar in Sint Maarten presents a step forward in addressing those challenges in a coordinated regional manner in the spirit of inclusion and cooperation.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The National Committee Inauguration designed an orange bow as the official recognition for festive activities throughout the Kingdom. As part of the activities marking the inauguration of King Willem Alexander, five persons, associations and/or organizations locally will be rewarded with an orange bow to recognize their activities to mark this historical event. Each country within the Kingdom will be recognizing five initiatives. His Excellency, the Governor of St. Maarten Drs. Eugene Holiday will bestow this special recognition to the respective persons, associations and/or organizations.
To qualify for an orange bow persons, associations and/or organizations must meet the following requirements:

  1. The activity must be original, positive, and authentic
  2. It must speak to a wide audience
  3. The activity must fit within the theme "My dream for our country, inspiration for our King."

If your association qualifies for the recognition of an "orange bow", or if you want to submit the name of an association that meets the criteria, kindly submit your activity to the following email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Friday, April 5, 2013, under the subject "Orange Bow".
Please state:

  1. Name of organization
  2. Name of activity
  3. Description of activity
  4. Why your activity qualifies for an orange bow
  5. Your contact information

Qualifying associations will be informed by April 17, 2013. Selected organizations may use the logo in their publications to display their support to the National Committee Inauguration in their festive activities. The logo however may not be used for commercial purposes.
For more ideas and suggestions, visit the website: http://www.mijndroomvooronsland.nl/nl-NL/4/oranje-strik.

PHILIPSBURG:--- During a number of controls that have been carried out by Police and officials from the Ministry of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI), it was noticed that the management of a number of businesses (bars and restaurants) have placed objects, such as plants (flower pots), benches, chairs, umbrellas, signs etc., out in front of their businesses along the public roads.

The Police would like to point out to everyone that this is not permitted without the written consent of the Minister in charge of Ministry VROMI.

The aforementioned is a breach of Article 8 (a) of the "Algemene Politie Keur Sint Maarten".

It is stated in the abovementioned article that it is prohibited, without the permission of the Minister of VROMI, to plant, place, extend, hang, fasten, expand, store, dry, ventilate and or drag absolutely anything, in, on or over the public road.

It is also advised that besides the fact that these actions are prohibited by law, this can also lead to dangerous situations. For example, bars and restaurants are placing chairs and tables within one (1) meter of the roadside where traffic is passing at high speed.

It has also been observed that umbrellas are placed too close along the road and with a gust of wind; they could land on the public road.

This can cause a serious threat not only to motorists and pedestrians, but to the clients of these establishments as well.

It is for that reason, that the police in collaboration with the Ministry of VROMI will take action against these situations by enforcement of the legislation.

To start off, offenders will receive a written notice in which instructions are given to remove objects along the public roads within seven (7) days of the notice. Failure to do so within the given timeframe will result in the objects being removed at owner's expense.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Finance informs the community that the Tax Administration Sint Maarten Inspectorate Department will have the 2012 Income Tax Return Form available as of April 5, 2013.

Based on Article 7, Section 1 of the General Ordinance on Federal taxes, the tax return has to be submitted to the Inspector of Taxes within two months after the April 5, 2013 date of issue which falls on June 5, 2013.

A request for extension must be submitted before June 5, 2013, and a valid reason should be stated in the request.

This year the Income Tax Return Form is also available via the online services of the Government of St. Maarten: http://onlineservices.sintmaartengov.org. Persons should also note that the 2012 Income Tax Return Form cannot be filed online.

Persons who do not have access to the internet can pass at the Tax Administration, Vineyard Building for assistance in obtaining the 2012 Income Tax Return Form.

An information session with respect to the procedure to request an E-login and how to download the Income Tax Return form, will take place on Thursday, April 4 at the Belair Community Center, Cay Hill, from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Additional sessions will be held.

You are requested to apply for an E-login as follow:

1) Go to http://onlineservices.sintmaartengov.org,

2) Select the E-login request in the upper right hand corner,

3) Complete the E-login request: For the field, select your account type, you have to select "person".

After which you will fill in the remaining fields. The * will indicate the required fields.

4) After the request is completed, press "Submit Request",

5) If the request was successfully submitted, you will see the following message: "You have successfully submitted your request for an e-login, you will receive an mail in order to enable your account". The email which you will receive will be from the Public Service Center and will be sent to the email address which you have stated in the E-login request.

How to download the 2012 Income Tax Return Form:

1) In the email you will receive your username and password.

2) Click on "click here" where it is stated in the email in order to complete the registration.

This takes you to the login screen.

3) Type in your password and press "Log in now".

4) Select: Download declaration forms.

5) Fill in CRIB nr. and Surname; Select year (which is 2012) ; Select: Income Tax and press "Search" .

6) Press on the "pdf file" and download form.

The form will be downloaded with your name and CRIB nr.

Those who would like additional information can call: 520-4643 or 520-4640.

A new community service program developed in part by students at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC) aims to promote good health for residents of Sint Maarten.

Project HELP (Health Education Literacy and Prevention) was started by physicians-in-training Nimish Sudan and Malary Mani, in collaboration with the Sint Maarten Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor. Project HELP plans to hold monthly health events throughout Sint Maarten, where AUC students will gain valuable hands-on experience assisting local physicians with screenings for heart health and blood pressure, as well as eye and ear checks and educational workshops on diet and exercise. These health checks will also provide the Department of Public Health with a more informed view of the health of the Sint Maarten population and promote health awareness.

"The study of medicine is a great privilege with an accompanying social responsibility to patient-centered research, public health and community service," said Dr. Ronald Testa, AUC dean of medical sciences. "In its goal to educate uninsured and underserved residents about health risks and indicators, as well as prevention of illness, Project HELP exemplifies AUC's core mission."

The first Project HELP event will be held on Saturday, April 6, 10:00am - 1:00pm at the Dutch Quarter Clinic - Community Help Desk in the Dutch Quarter. Screenings are complimentary.

garrindelllecturesatkpsm01042013PHILIPSBURG:--- As part of the efforts to upgrade and improve the professionalism of the Police Department in dealing with situations concerning "Relational and Domestic Violence", a request by the Police Management was made to the Peridot Foundation to have a lecture given to all its workers concerning this issue. Seeing the necessity to have this lecture given to the Police Department which is confronted with these types of situations on a daily basis, the President and Founder of the Peridot Foundation Drs. Gracita Arrindell, Honorable Member of Parliament, has provided the department with four dates during the month of March on which she gave these lectures. All lectures were attended to capacity and many issues were brought forward and discussed. Topics such as: revised legislation, cooperation between stakeholders and information to employees, a sound process description through new legislation and policies by the Public Prosecutor's Office, an efficient Management and Information System, relational and domestic violence hidden within the organization, prevention internally and externally, training of employees, establishing a victim assistance agency and a social worker or psychiatrist available to the police were discussed.
These lectures were very informative for the workers of the Police Department and gave them a better insight on this topic and how to better deal with these type of situations.
At the end of the last lecture Drs. Gracita Arrindell was presented with a small token and certificate of appreciation. The workers of the police force expressed their gratitude.

carnivalzoukkompasbouyonfestphoto01042013PHILIPSBURG:--- Zaya Records & OMC Music, the organizers of the "Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest" that is expected to rip open Carnival Village on Saturday April 20th, have made it easy for a few internet savvy Zouk lovers to attend their show. "Like our Facebook page (Zouk Kompas Bouyon fest) post a picture of yourself with your ticket and you might win your ticket money back," the promoters said. Not a big gamble, they figure, because everybody is on Facebook.

The "Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest" will feature an impressive line-up of headliners in three genres of music: the legendary complete Zouk band Kassav, the definitive kings of Kompas CARIMI, and the undisputed Prince of Bouyon music, young sensation Asa Banton.

"We're excited about this and we're sure the public is too. We thought, why not make it interesting," said the organizers. "Practically everybody has a Facebook page today. It will be interesting to see if people are paying attention."

The inventive raffle enables people who have already secured their entree at one of the ticket points, to post a photo of themselves online with, with the ticket clearly displayed. Every week, until the 18th, three pictures will be chosen and the winners announced on our Facebook page and in the local media. "We also suggest that people keep their eyes on our page, because we might come up with some other possibilities for them to attend this show for free," the promoters said.

The show is definitely a must-do during this year's Carnival season, they say. "The three acts are sure to bring an explosive night of musical entertainment."

Promoters are reaffirming to the general public that Kassav band will be here for the show with all members on stage that night.

"Our $20 ticket promo was very successful and regular tickets will go on sale sometime this week; we will inform the public via the press when that is done. See our Facebook page (Zouk Kompas Bouyon fest) for more details". "Beginning this week tickets will be USD $35 until April 15th."

Formed in 1979, Kassav' was the leading band to emerge from the formative years of zouk. Most authors credit Décimus, his brother Georges, the band's bassist and Desvarieux as its inventors. Their first album, Love and Ka Dance (1980), established the new sound of zouk, a Parisian concoction unlike anything else, island-based or otherwise to come onto the global scene. The band gained popularity in their much-heralded live performances in Paris's Club Zenith and toured widely.
Kassav' continued to gain popularity both as a group and by several members' solo recordings, eventually peaking in 1985 with Yélélé, which featured the international hit "Zouk la sé sèl médikaman nou ni" (meaning "Zouk is the only medicine we have" in French Antillean Creole).

Receiving accolades from the International music scene, including Best Album Of The Year, Carimi has risen to the top of the charts across Billboards best in Haiti, Guadeloupe, Paris, French Guyana, Canada, and parts of Europe.
The music industry is now ready to acknowledge the world's best Haitian Kompa band to ever come out of Haiti and has been openly welcomed by music lovers even those who do not like much Kompa genre. After 10 years, Carimi Band is not just popular but have become a music icon in the country of Haiti representing the Kompas genre of music throughout the world.

Asa Banton is blowing up all over the world and fast becoming the Prince of Bouyon music. Asa first appeared with Jah Crew from grand Bay Dominica. The "tell it like it is" child of Grandbay exploded in 2009 with the hit "Grandbay", following up with many other hits like "Spray D Bagon Kill D Cockroach".
Working with Le Vadore Concept out of Guadeloupe Asa has collaborated with Suppa and R.E.C. (Red Eye Crew) and have done numerous shows in Guadeloupe and France. One of his latest hits is the single "I know people that know people".

gertversluisvisitspjiae01042013Capital Improvement Projects, Departure Fee to BES islands

Simpson Bay:--- The Representative of the Netherlands (VNP) in St. Maarten, Gert Versluis, last Thursday paid a courtesy visit to SXM Airport Managing Director, Regina LaBega. It was his first official visit to the airport. SXM Airport Marketing Manager, Kalifa Hickinson sat in at the meeting.

LaBega briefed the Dutch Representative about the several ongoing Capital Development Projects the airport has embarked on, including the Runway Rehabilitation Project, the new retail strategy, acquisition of properties and other strategic initiatives aimed at expanding the facilities and services of the airport and to maintain its all-important hub function.

The meeting, which lasted about an hour was, according to LaBega, "cordial and pleasant."

"It was quite interesting to note that Mr. Versluis has had some experience in the industry," she said. "This made the discussions even more focused and meaningful."

Regarding the runway, LaBega disclosed that the rehabilitation project is now in progress and is scheduled to be completed in the first week of October 2013.

She also indicated that the implementation of the new retail strategy is in full swing, the objective being to increase non-aeronautical revenue and boost earnings for the concessionaires at the same time, while improving passenger experience.

Versluis mentioned that at Schiphol, non-aeronautical revenue is more than revenue derived from aeronautical sources. In actual fact, it represents some 70% of total revenue. For SXM, the goal is to raise non-aeronautical revenue to about 28% of its total income.

The Dutch Representative then brought up the issue of the airport departure fees (ADF) for the BES islands, particularly Saba and St. Eustatius, which he termed "unreasonable."

LaBega strongly contested this, pointing out with facts and figures that not only are they reasonable but that Saba and St. Eustatius are still treated preferentially compared to the departure tax paid by passengers to St. Barths and Anguilla.

With the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, what used to be considered "domestic" flights ceased to exist. However, the former "domestic" passengers pay a departure tax of US$20 compared to US$35 paid by those bound for St. Barths and Anguilla even though the latter two destinations combined make up about 15% of the total passenger movement at SXM, while passengers to Saba and St. Eustatius account for less than a quarter of one percent.

Stressing the hub function of SXM, LaBega said the airport strives to serve its clients optimally, while maintaining and even expanding market share, which are defined by financial performance and customer satisfaction.

The need to maintain market share is underlined by the recent loss of Fixed Base Operation (FBO) business to St. Kitts due to inadequate parking space for private jets at SXM as well as challenges in the supply of fuel. LaBega explained that the planned relocation of the current FBO building and of the fuel farm is aimed also at ameliorating the situation.

She further discussed the acquisition of new property, indicating that an environmental impact study was conducted to determine the opportunity to further acquire property, given that like most airports, improvements and expansion are critical for which additional property is often required.

For his part, Versluis earlier congratulated the airport for its recent bond issue, which would facilitate all these projects. He indicated also that while at Schiphol, he had experience with Schiphol Self Service Passport Control. This allows passengers holding a biometric passport to process their immigration control themselves.

SXM is interested in making this possible, LaBega stated, in collaboration with the tourism and justice ministries "as it is innovations like these that will enable airports to provide passengers with a relaxed and enjoyable travel experience."

"Quality time and experience at airports are important. Passengers today want to be their own travel managers," LaBega noted.

thebeastinaction30032013Six spectacular shots will be on exhibition at SXM Airport soon
by Fabian Badejo

Flights. Cameras. Action!

As the "big birds" (and not so big ones) emerged from the clouds, spreading their metallic wings over the small Maho beach, casting a friendly shadow over the excited crowd that had come out to welcome them with clicking shutters, 26 photographers from various vantage points also sprung into action, shooting away with their cameras, hoping that one of their shots would capture the minds and hearts of three judges who were to select one of them as the overall winner of the Toppix 2013 Aviation Photo Contest!

As one of the major events of the Princess Juliana International Airport's (SXM) 70th Anniversary celebrations, the competition, the brainchild of ace photographer Robby Cijntje, emphasized why SXM Airport was recently chosen as the "World's Most Stunning Landing" by travel fans all over the world who participated in a survey on PrivateFly.com. As if to reflect this, the theme of the Toppix Aviation Photo Contest was: "Sint Maarten, Aircraft Spotters Paradise." Fittingly, the international member of the panel of judges was Chris Kilroy, owner and managing director of the world's largest aircraft spotting website, jetphotos.net.

For about two hours, according to veteran photographer Peter Gunn, one of the judges on the panel of three, including Chermaine Petit-Booi, the judges poured over the 75 photographs submitted by the participants and selected six they considered the best of the bunch to be exhibited for four months at SXM.

The overall winning photo was a marvelous shot by Bernie Verhoeven, which won the hearts of not only the judges but wowed everyone who has seen it. However, she almost did not submit it. "Somehow, I didn't think it was good enough," she said. But she followed her instinct and the advice of close friends. The idea for her as a photographer was ultimately to "kill her sweetheart," meaning to set aside emotions and go for it.

Bernie was ecstatic about her win, which she received with genuine disbelief. "I'm very, very surprised," she said. "I still can't believe it."

"I had fun," she continued. "I didn't feel intimidated that there were so many other professional photographers participating. I made many friends and was happy that I could talk shop with them."

Bernie received a cash prize of US$2,500 from SXM for her efforts. Of course, she was already thinking of investing this in new equipment.

"The Beast"

One of the most state-of-the-art photographic equipment at the competition is called "The Beast," worth US$17,800 according to Robby Cijntje. Bernie might have to win the contest six times in a row to be able to purchase this combination of a Canon EOS 1DX camera coupled to a huge 800mm lens. A demonstration of "The Beast" was given by Canon representative Sergio Velasquez with a little help from international judge, Chris Kilroy.

"As far as I know, physically no equipment was sold but I'm sure some piggy banks will be slaughtered after the demos by Canon and Nikon," commented Cijntje.

"I feel quite relieved," he added, referring to all the work that went into organizing the event. "It was the first time something like this was done in the Caribbean. And I really feel great getting the attention from both camera manufacturers (i.e. Canon and Nikon)."

Bill Fortney, the representative of Nikon Latin America/USA, who was also here to conduct one-on-one demos with the participants, received a loud round of applause when he announced at the briefing session that he had brought his wife along to celebrate their anniversary in St. Maarten.

Both Canon and Nikon were the favorite cameras among all the participants almost equally. Three of the six nominated photos were shot with a Nikon, including the winning shot of a KLM B-747 aircraft shot on arrival over the Maho beach on March 15, 2013 at 12:39 by Bernie Verhoeven, using a Nikon D 700 camera.

Nevertheless, Alain Duzant, the only photographer to have two out of his three entries among the best six, used a Pentax K-r camera for both shots, one of a Delta B-737 aircraft arriving over the beach and the other of an American Airlines B-757 also arriving over the beach. Jan Severijns, who traveled the farthest from Belgium to come to participate in the contest, (and won himself a 4-night/5-day stay at Oyster Pond Beach Resort) used a Canon 1DX camera to capture the arrival of an Air France A-340 aircraft. Both Bea Moedt and Dennis McBriarty used Nikon D700 cameras to photograph the arrival respectively of an AA B-757 aircraft and a WINAIR Twin Otter.

Although only six photos were selected for the exhibition, the exhibition, according to Cijntje, may turn into three or four large screens being installed in the Arrival Hall. "In that case," he said, "we can choose more photos since they will be rotating on the screens. In case of a 'hanging expo' only the six will be printed and hung."

Cijntje explained that the participants have agreed to give the publication rights of the photos to SXM and the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. However, he confirmed, the photographers still have the copyrights to their works and therefore can do with them as they please.

Some of the photographs may very well end up on jetphotos.net, the world's largest online photo database featuring more than two million photos of jetliners, general aviation aircraft, business and cargo planes, as well as military aircraft.

Although owner of the website, Chris Kilroy said he had handed out his business cards to the participants to facilitate this, Cijntje is of the view that perhaps only three photographs out of the six finalists would qualify to be uploaded on the site.

"The screeners at Chris' website, www.jetphotos.net are quite precise," he said. "They will really dissect the photos before approving them to be added to the website. In my view, so far only three of the six nominated photos will make that level. The reason for that is that the screeners will also look at color correction and sharpness which, in normal life, nobody would see or even care about."

For Lisa Noel of the Tourist Bureau, co-sponsors of the event, Bernie Verhoeven's victory was a triumph for women. "I'm glad a woman won," she said, while Kalifa Hickinson, Marketing Manager at SXM concurred.

But for Regina LaBega, Managing Director of the airport, all the participants are winners, "and that is no cliché."

"If only cameras could have hindsight, I'm sure they would consider this event a great vision to project our airport and destination as unique not only in the Caribbean but in the world," LaBega said. "We at SXM Airport are surely committed to building on the success of this first edition in the future."

Cijntje could not agree more. Speaking about preparations for the Toppix 2014, he said, "I think that together with the airport, we will settle for a March 2014 date sometime soon so we can start with the necessary promotion in Europe. We will need to start work now as the iron is hot, hot!"

dcnaboardmeetingonsxm30032013The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA) held its 18th biannual Board meeting last week where representatives from Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Maarten took stock in regional conservation activities and outlined new strategies in order to meet their goals.
Joining DCNA Board members Tadzio Bervoets of the St. Maarten Nature Foundation and Rueben Thompson of the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation was His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday of St. Maarten, a DCNA Honorary Patron. At the meeting Governor Holiday voiced his support for nature conservation, "The work you are doing is great for the islands. I encourage you to keep up the good work. You can count on my support." St. Maarten special guests Fluer Hermanides of the Department of Public Health, Jadira Veen of the Emilio Wilson Estate Foundation Board and Claire Hooft Graafland of the Department of Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure also participated in the meeting.
DCNA, which is made up of the parks and conservation organizations of the Dutch Caribbean, came to existence in 2005 when the St. Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA) ran out of money and was forced suddenly to close its doors. That shocking moment galvanized conservationists across the six islands. Overcoming their differences, the parks created DCNA, a unified regional network with an unparalleled approach and a purpose that didn't stop at any island's shoreline.
"We have made invaluable progress towards reaching our goals, but we still have big issues to overcome – the parks are still underfunded and often struggle to maintain the critical activities that protect our fragile nature areas and species," explained Kalli De Meyer, DCNA's Executive Director. "This meeting provided an opportunity to examine our activities and chart a path for the future of our organization."
Since 2005 DCNA has worked to:

  • Develop a trust fund for conservation – a dedicated Trust Fund account has been established which, once capitalized will support the operational costs of one terrestrial and one marine park on each of the six islands.
  • Promote the islands nationally and internationally – one highlight of the meeting was the launch of a new nature and conservation website and blog at www.dcnanature.org.
  • Build local capacity to undertake nature management – DCNA has run over 50 trainings and workshops on topics as broad-ranging as bird monitoring, nature education, sea turtle conservation, social media, coral reef monitoring and accounting.

Tadzio Bervoets, who has been on the DCNA Board for three years stated after the meeting, "DCNA is breaking barriers – with the government, between islands, and among organizations – to lay the stepping stones for a unified approach to nature conservation. By sharing resources, skills and experience, engaging park staff in joint projects, through lobbying, and fundraising, DCNA works to make sure that resources never again get in the way of our staff doing their job."

pjiaedonatestofigfff30032013Simpson Bay:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is backing the annual Fireman's Ball of the Friends of the Island Government Firefighters Foundation (FIGFFF). The group is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

To this end, the Firefighters Foundation will be organizing events throughout the year. The contribution given by SXM will go toward the biggest event planned for the anniversary year, the Fireman's Ball.

This contribution is in keeping with the Airport's policy of encouraging and assisting where possible, meaningful community initiatives.

Besides, the airport's Rescue and Fire Fighting Department has a good working relationship with its counterpart at the Government Fire Department. SXM Airport's firefighters will be attending many of the events planned in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of FIGFFF, said Kalifa Hickinson, Marketing Manager at SXM.

"We also thought it a good idea to partner with FIGFFF for its largest event since we are also celebrating our 70th anniversary this year," she added.

Cole Bay:--- Monday the 25th Minister Silveria Jacobs officially opened a conference for Advanced Vocational Education at Port de Plaissance.
The conference was held from Monday the 25th till Wednesday the 27th and focused on strengthening the cooperation in Advanced Vocational Education (SBO) between St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius and Bonaire.

Stakeholders from all islands compared their present programs to ensure that students who wish to do so can stream smoothly from one program into a higher level program on another island. To ensure broad recognition for all programs was also an important discussion point. Several work-groups have been formed that will work out proposals for a structured dissemination of information and sharing of ideas.

The conference has been financed through a small grant of the Dutch Ministry of Education OCW, administered by USONA, in order to foster cooperation between the Caribbean Dutch islands and St Maarten in the area of on advanced vocational education.

St. Maarten will have its own Advanced Vocational Institute within soon. The construction of the building will be completed Mid May 2013 and the new board for the AVE institute has had its first meeting on Friday March the 22nd. New AVE courses can be offered in school year 2013-2014. Besides AVE programs the institute will also provide adult education in the future.

sjacobsatmanandbiosphereconference30032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A press conference was the culmination of the conference where Ministers of Jamaica, St. Kitts, Antigua St. Maarten and Dominica updated the public on the two day "Man and the Biosphere Conference" (MAB) which yielded a Small Island States Action Plan for the next three years which would ensure that at least one MAB reserve would be established in each country through cooperation within the Caribbean region and with UNESCO.

The objectives of the action plan are to create a network of Biosphere reserves in the Caribbean Small Islands States and the promotion of Biosphere Reserves as tools for innovative projects bringing added value to the local socio-economical activities.

The St. Kitts & Nevis Declaration was also agreed upon by all ministers, UNESCO representatives and experts to that effect. Including empowering UNESCO to identify and secure extra-budgetary funds to facilitate the Caribbean island states to execute the action plan.

utssponsorslatinnight30032013Philipsburg:--- Heineken, Chippie, Johnnie Walker Black, and Cuchi's Promotions have teamed up to bring Latin Night 2013 to St. Maarten Carnival. These brands are supporters of carnival in many ways and have now also signed on to support Latin Night, which is organized this year by Cuchi's promotions.

This years show will bring headlining artist Daddy Yankee to perform in the Festival Village on Friday, April 26th. Carnival goers will be also be entertained by Bachata artist Teodoro Reyes, who has the somewhat unusual distinction of being blind. In addition, the Dreams Band will be performing, making the evening a night of star-powered performances.

"We are proud to team up to bring Daddy Yankee to the island. His performance we know will be one of the Highlights of a truly Spectacular Carnival." says John Leone, commercial Director of International Liquors and
Tobacco, local distributor of Heineken and Johnnie Walker. "Look out for supermarket offers for Latin Night in the weeks leading carnival. They will offer reduced ticket rates combined with great product offers" Leone added.

"Visitors to the show can expect a great performance from all of the artists. They are thorough professionals and also are fresh performers to the island in the sense that that none of the artists has performed on St.
Maarten before!" said Francois 'Cuchi" Hunt of Cuchi's Promotions. "We are proud to bring top-of-the-line artists to Latin Night this year and are proud to have these premium sponsors on board as partners. Tickets will be in high demand, so I urge the public to buy their ticket early because they are expected to sell out early" Hunt continues. Tickets will go on sale later this week and are available at both Cuchi's Barber Shop locations, all 3 UTS stores and are also available at Van Dorp.

"We're thrilled to be on-board again for this years Latin Night. It promises to be an unforgettable night which is guaranteed to bring out quite a crowd, both local and visitors from abroad." says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer Ivy Lambert " We are also going to be bringing special offers for Latin Night in combination with Chippie products and services in the coming Weeks. Just as with the regular tickets, supplies are limited, so we cannot emphasize enough that anyone wanting to make use of our offers should do so as soon as they are available." Lambert continues.

Latin Night is on the carnival schedule for Friday, April 26th at the Festival Village and will feature Dreams Band, Teodoro Reyes and Daddy Yankee.

armedrobberyfillin13082012Philipsburg:--- Police and other law enforcement officers are busy hunting for some men who stormed the Gold Finger Jewelry Store on Front Street shortly after midday on Saturday and stole a lot of items most of which are wrist watches.

Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said that a few men entered Gold Finger Jewelry, the bandits pushed the security guard inside and held the workers and owners hostage while they bagged a number of items. The police spokesman said that the thieves got away on motorcycles.

rrrparty30032013Marigot:--- Members of the RRR party that are members of the Territorial Council surrounded President Alain Richardson on Saturday morning as he explained the members of the media at an extra-ordinary press conference, the reasons why the Commission nationale des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques (CNCCFP) rejected his political campaign accounts. President Richardson said he was called on March 27th, 2013 where he was informed of the decisions taken by CNCCFP. However, the State Council will take a final decision within 30 days. He said the CNCCFP has taken severe actions by the proposal they made to the State Council who has to take the final decision.

President Richardson said that the RRR group had two accounts for their 2012 political campaign; one of the accounts is a USD account and the other is a Euros account. Both of accounts were opened at one of the French banks and they were not working simultaneously. President Richardson said that the USD account was used to pay two bills amounting to $6,900.

The law clearly states that political parties can only have one account for political campaign funding to be audited. President Richardson said that based on the law of 2011, the council did not identify any fraud committed by his political party; he said his lawyers argued that the CNCCFP refused to consider the reality and economic situation of St. Martin where both currencies are accepted and French Banks allow businesses, citizens, and political parties to open USD accounts on the French side. Another argument the RRR attorneys presented is that the council did not consider the jurisprudence based on the law of 2011. The CNCCFP gave the State Council three punishments for the RRR President, the first is that the President must resign from his position as President of the Collectivity, the monies the RRR spent on the 2012 election campaign will not be refunded by the State, and the State Council must also impose a 15 months punishment where the President is deemed ineligible during that period of time. The State Council will pronounce its final decision within 30 days, President Richardson told media workers during the press conference.

alainrichardson30032013President Richardson in his remarks also stated that St. Martin is under the attack and its time that the people reunite. He said if the State Council refused to accept the reality of St. Martin where both the dollars and Euros are accepted then all persons, including businesses that opened the USD accounts in the French banks are acting illegally.

President Richardson said that the RRR submitted its accounts on time, they followed all the rules and regulations set by the State. Political parties can spend up to Euros 25,000.00 and the RRR submitted its expenses amounting to Euros 22,000.00. According to President Richardson, RRR was transparent with its spending therefore in his view they have not broken any rules. The only thing that CNCCFFP is using to reject the RRR financial account is fact that the RRR had two accounts for his political campaign one of which was a USD account.

The only thing is that the RRR had two accounts instead of one account. One of those accounts was a dollar account that is considered as a sub-account was opened at the same time at the same French bank. "Those accounts were opened in February when the RRR announced their candidacy for the 2012 elections." President Richardson in his explanations said that the Euro account was used in February and March 2012 during the entire election campaign, while on April 10th, 2012 the USD was used to pay two bills while the last bill was paid in the beginning of May 2012 from the Euro account. President Richardson insisted that the CNCCFP refuses to accept the monetary, economic, and financial realities of St. Martin. The CNCCFP also refuses to accept that St. Martin is the only territory that uses both currencies on a daily basis.

SMN News asked President Richardson if this is the first time he opened two accounts for his political campaign, President Richardson responded in the affirmative.

Click here to view the decision of the CNCCFP.

rsamuelreceives2013budgetfromrtuitt29032013PHILIPSBURG:--- For the first time ever, President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel has made available for public perusal the country 2013 draft budget via the parliament's website.

Persons can visit the parliament's website at www.sxmparliament.org and go to the link "Draft Budget 2013 Document," which is available to review online or download.

President Samuel took the initiative to have the draft budget placed online in order to give the public the opportunity to review the draft budget which is also being done by Members of Parliament in preparation for the Central Committee meeting that will be held in April.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on April 08 about the draft 2013 country budget.

The central committee will meet on Monday, April 08 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

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

alainrichardson14062012Marigot:--- The President of the Collectivity of St. Martin, Alain Richardson is now facing another problem which will most likely cost him his seat in the Territorial and Executive Council. The State Council, Commission nationale des comptes de campagne et des financements politiques (CNCCFP ) on March 27th, 2013 examined the campaign accounts for the RRR Government and rejected the RRR campaign accounts based on a decision of November 21st, 2012. The information can be viewed on the State website which will be linked beneath this article. The council will pronounce its decision on the sanctions they will take against the RRR President in two weeks.

President Richardson has called a press conference on Saturday where he will explain what has happened with the RRR campaign accounts and why it was rejected. While this is not new for St. Martin, it is more than an embarrassment for President Richardson who is a certified accountant by profession.

President Richardson is not the first President who would have to step down when the state council rejects political campaign accounts. Leader of the Union pour les Progres, Louis Constant Fleming lost his seat twice while the former President of the COM, Frantz Gumbs' election process was also dismissed in 2007. However, Gumbs was re-elected President of the COM in August that same year.

Since the installation of President Richardson on April 1st, 2012 he has had a number of hurdles, the first being the speech that he pronounced when he was installed as President of the COM which was plagiarized and then the AOT that was granted to SINDEXTOUR shortly after his government took office. One year after the installation of the RRR Government, three persons are now in front of the criminal courts while the President may have to say goodbye to the people for now.

The full article can be read on the website below:
http://www.comptes-publics.fr/2013/03/27/saint-martin-le-conseil-detat-examine-le-compte-de-campagne-dalain-richardson/

garbagebinsonmulletbaybeach19022013St. Maarten Pride Foundation is urging residents, visitors and organizations to dispose of their garbage responsibly during and after all beach visits throughout Holy Week, Good Friday and the Easter holidays. In recent years the Foundation has noticed a trend whereby many of the island's beaches are left covered in garbage, especially after Christmas and the Easter holidays.

Eighteen garbage bins have recently been placed on Mullet Bay Beach and four on Kim Sha Beach in partnership with the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC), St. Maarten Pride Foundation, St Maarten Timeshare Association and The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure.

Pride calls on the public at large to please make proper use of the garbage bins. Small waste items from beach parties, barbecues etc. should be disposed of in the nearest garbage bin which isn't yet full or put in the large garbage containers such as the one placed on the Mullet Bay Beach parking-lot.

Odd-sized, large garbage items and full garbage bags should not be placed, in, on, next to or around the small garbage bins nor anywhere else on the beach. These items should be disposed of in the aforementioned large garbage containers or taken back home if no containers are available in the immediate area.

St. Maarten Pride Foundation wishes everyone a blessed and safe Good Friday and Easter weekend.

smeyersolivacce12072012The UP faction would like to take this opportunity to wish the people of this country a very Happy Easter. We send out warm wishes to the families on the island.

The Easter holiday weekend should be used to spend time with family. Family is a key building block of any society. As a society we need strong Sint Maarten families in order to build and maintain a strong and vibrant country.

The UP faction wishes everyone a very happy, safe and reflective Easter.


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

cdeweevermeetswithsteflogix29032013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor Cornelius de Weever met with Michael Somersall, the General Manager of Steflogix, currently providing certified food safety workshops for staff and managers in the restaurant and food industry on St. Maarten.

Minister de Weever was updated on the latest developments in the food industry and some of the challenges that are being faced in the market. "We want to work together with the food industry in providing useful and necessary training in the areas of food handling and the cooking of food. That is why we are doing these food safety workshops. We are dealing with such issues as: safe food preparation, cross contamination, temperature control, receiving and storing food, cleaning and sanitation, among other topics.

"Once food handlers, cooks, chefs, and other follow these instructions, there will be no need to worry when the health inspectors visit the establishment. But we have to be on the safe side. We have to handle food properly," Minister de Weever continued.

The courses, for both staff and management, specifically tailored to each, are authorized by the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor.

During the meeting, Mr. Somersall, a former civil server, went over the curriculum of the food safety course for staff and managers, the certification process, overview of the first 6 months, the challenges and recommended solutions.

In the near future, there will be the introduction of the Food Safety Card, of which the Minister was the first to receive an example of (see photo). This card will identify workers and managers as having completed and passed the food safety course.

All food handlers on St. Maarten must possess a valid Food Handlers Certificate or Food Safety Manager Certificate. As an operator of a food establishment, it is required to ensure that workers possess a valid Food Handler Certificate and maintain a copy of their certificate on-site. The certificates are valid for two years.

Besides persons mentioned, present at the meeting were: Dr. Earl Best, Inspector General and Dr. Virginia Asin-Oostburg – Head Collective Prevention Services—both of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor.

deadporcupinefish29032013A concerned citizen informed Nature Foundation staff that three men were illegally spearfishing in the waters close to the GEBE plant. On St. Maarten it is illegal to possess or use a spear gun without the necessary permits. The men in question shot a porcupine fish and started to skim it while it was still alive. Porcupinefish are fish of the family Diodontidae, and are also commonly called blowfish. Porcupinefish are medium to large sized fish, and are found in shallow temperate and tropical seas worldwide and have the ability to inflate their body by swallowing water or air, thereby becoming rounder. This increase in size (almost double vertically) reduces the range of potential predators to those with much bigger mouths. A second defense mechanism is provided by the sharp spines, which radiate outwards when the fish is inflated.
Of particular concern regarding this species is that they are extremely poisonous, having a tetrodotoxin in their internal organs such as the ovaries and liver. This neurotoxin is at least 1200 times more potent than cyanide. The poison is produced by several types of bacteria that are obtained via the fish's diet. The toxin is known to kill within hours.
The Nature Foundation urges all to respect laws regarding spearfishing and to be informed regarding the fish which they take. The Foundation is following up with the authorities on this and other incidents of illegal spearfishing which occurred over the weekend.

Great Bay:--- Minister De Weever is currently negotiating better follow-up care for our patients and scholarships for our medical staff here on the island. The minister recently met with the COOMEVA Medical Group, where the issue of follow-up medical care and scholarships were discussed.
Minister De Weever stated that patients who traveled to Colombia for medical care will soon be able to follow-up with their doctor via TeleMed, instead of having to travel back to Colombia. The possibility is also being looked at to have a specialist from Colombia visit the island to screen patients who have to travel to Colombia and also have follow-up care with patients. The specialist will be determined by the need.
In addition, the minister has been able to secure two nursing scholarships for four years, whereby nurses will be able to work in the international section of the hospital in Colombia. Internships for nurses for four to six months in specialized areas, such as the ICU, Neonatal/Pediatric care, mental health/psychiatric nursing and also other specialties and sub specialties are being negotiated.
"Continuous education and upgrades is of utter importance for each professional field, and the medical field is no exception, we have a very strong and professional nursing staff here on the island and giving them various learning opportunities will only elevate the service being offered to our patients," said Minister De Weever.

summerspongebobsquarepants29032013Pond Island:--- Spongebob Squarepants, Dora the Explorer and Walt Disney's Mickey Mouse are coming to St. Maarten Easter Sunday to meet with St. Maarten kids and the young at heart.

The venue for the visit will be TelEm Group's parking lot on Pond Island.
Dora will be coming with her inseparable friend "Boots", Spongebob has promised to bring his swim trunks to take a trip to the beach while on St. Maarten, and Mickey plans to shake hands with all of St. Maarten's youngsters.
The colourful characters are known the world over for the fun time they have entertaining children of all ages and from many different countries.
Organizers of the TelEm Group event expect Spongebob, Dora and Mickey to be smash hit on Sunday. So much so, they are now urging visitors to the fun park to turn out early so that they can meet and spend time with their favorite cartoon characters.
The TelEm Group Fun Park will be open for all from 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm, Sunday, March 31.
It will also feature a host of activities for children including:

  • Rock Climbing
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Caricature Drawing
  • Clowns and Jugglers
  • Spray Painted T-Shirts

Fun Park project coordinator, Angel Richardson says Sunday's event is TelEm Group's way of giving back to the youth in the community and giving children the chance to take part in some fun activities during their Easter break from school.

"Everyone should come out and meet these amazing characters and have some good clean fun with their children," said Angel.

Parents are asked to pass on the word about the Fun Park to other families and friends to ensure a bumper turnout.

To allow for a smooth flow of pedestrian traffic to the TelEm Group building, parents will be asked to park in the parking lot next to the new Government building on Pond Island. This will also ease traffic congestion.

For security reasons, parents will also be asked to accompany their children to the event activities at all times.

Telem Press Release

mantaray29032013St. Maarten Mentioned as Forerunner in Legal Protection of Endangered Shark and Ray Species

Nearly two years after a historic decision to legally protect sharks and rays in St. Maarten's territorial waters, sharks and rays have now received international protection, becoming the latest additions to the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The Foundation has also been mentioned for its work to protect the species on St. Maarten. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation was not only the catalyst for ensuring legal shark and ray protection on the island, but they are also now spearheading a project to learn more about shark and ray behavior in the marine park and near coastal waters. The Foundation is also the Scientific Authority on CITES for St. Maarten.
The World's Wildlife Conference closed on the 15th of March with historic decisions and measures to protect not only sharks and rays, but also elephants, rhinos, big cats and precious timber. "170 governments have turned to CITES to ensure the legal, sustainable and traceable trade in, amongst others, five shark species and manta rays. The CITES Secretary-General, John E. Scanlon, said: 'This is a big day for CITES and for the world's wildlife. It takes enormous effort to negotiate treaties and then make them work. The international community has today decided to make best use of this pragmatic and effective agreement to help it along the path to sustainability in our oceans and forests'.
The practice of intentionally fishing for sharks on St. Maarten has been forbidden since October 12th 2011, when the Ministry TEATT banned the practice of intentionally poaching sharks in the territorial waters of St. Maarten. The act of trying to catch by tracking, stalking, baiting, chasing, trapping, hooking, netting, shooting or otherwise hunting - sharks, rays and skates is prohibited and therefore the animals may not be wounded, caught, landed, or killed. Violators may be punished with jail and a considerable fine may be issued. If Sharks are accidentally caught all steps should be taken to release the animal with as little harm as possible.
The Nature Foundation Report is part of a wider Shark Research Project being conducted on St. Maarten which, based on surveys of dive operators and tourist divers, has shown that a single live shark is worth up to USD $884,000 to the economy of the island, as is opposed to just a few dollars dead. "The majority of divers who come to the island pay top dollar to see sharks in their Natural Environment. These divers also rent cars, stay in hotels, eat at restaurants and drink in bars. Taking all of that into account and based on research conducted by the Nature Foundation a single live shark contributes $884,000 to the economy of St. Maarten annually. Sharks are an apex predator and are essential to the health of local coral reefs. If we do not have sharks we will lose our coral reef ecosystem. Sharks keep the reefs clean of unhealthy fish which in turn keeps the ecosystem in balance," said a Statement from the Nature Foundation.
The Nature Foundation and Dive Operators have also been introducing the invasive Lionfish to sharks in the hope that the animals will control the poisonous fish. "The reputation of sharks as blood thirsty creatures is largely exaggerated by sensationalist reports. Countries all over the world have recognized the importance of these animals and here on St. Maarten we will continue to put Shark Conservation as a top priority," concluded the Nature Foundation Report.

Philipsburg:--- Members of Parliament of St. Maarten ripped each other apart when they were discussing and approving the travel expenses of the President of Parliament Rudolph Samuel and his partner to travel to the Netherlands to attend a dinner based on an invitation that was extended to the President of Parliament and his partner to attend a dinner for the crowning of the King. The invitation was sent to the President of Parliament by Queen Beatrix.

Member of Parliament Johan Janchi Leonard in his statements said that he does not think that St. Maarten politicians should travel to the Netherlands at this time because every politician on St. Maarten is being looked at as corrupt. Leonard said that if he is paid twice to go to the Netherlands he will not go because he is not a corrupt politician. Even though a copy of the invitation sent to the President of Parliament was given out, MP Leonard said he wants to know where the "partner" come in and why Parliament had to pay the cost of the President's wife to attend the dinner. "In this Parliament, we have a convicted Parliamentarian and one who might soon get convicted, allegedly." Leonard made his statements after Member of Parliament Sylvia Meyers tried to add one more point to the second agenda point by asking that the Parliament of St. Maarten allow more people to travel to the Netherlands to witness the crowning of King Willem Alexander. However, MP Meyers withdrew her statements when she realized that it was not proper to add anything to the agenda point. MP Gracita Arrindell in her statements said that they discussed this matter behind closed doors and they all know what took place. Independent Member of Parliament Frans Richardson let the cat out of the bag when he said that the UP faction wanted MP Gracita Arrindell to be part of the delegation even though the invitation to Parliament was very specific. MP Richardson who was obviously disgusted with the statements said that the game playing from the UP faction needs to stop now because every time the UP gets the opportunity they want members from their faction to travel and the MP from that faction is always MP Gracita Arrindell. "This game playing has to stop and it must stop now, those who have the experience need to teach their colleagues and other members of their faction how to behave and how to add addendums to agenda points. I think the public has to be aware of this. I will call a press conference to shed light on some of the issues that are happening in Parliament because we simply don't need this kind of thing. This meeting today is about an invitation that came from the Kingdom to you Mr. Chairman and your other half to travel for the occasion. We are here talking about your spouse, where is the respect. How low are we going to go, the reason we are being blacklisted is because of the behavior of some of the MPs. One of the members who was Chairman of Parliament is now sitting among them and refuses to teach and educate the other members of their faction. Instead, they continue to embarrass Parliament day by day. They make their outburst and then run through the door and make the smoke screen about the "Dutch". MP Richardson said the agenda point that was discussed was to approve the travel expenses for the Chairman of Parliament and his spouse to travel based on an invitation from the Kingdom. The three persons from Parliament is the Chairman Rudolph Samuel, his wife along with the griffier of Parliament. MP Louis Laviest said that the show in Parliament on Thursday was simply because their members are not allowed to travel. Laveist said that the UP Leader and his members think they can do what they want. Laveist said that everyone knows he was convicted and he talks about it openly but the MP that tried to smear him should remember that he has children and grandchildren and those that are without sin should cast the first stone. Laveist said that every one of them knows who want to go to the Netherlands at the expense of Parliament but that person is using the rookies in their faction to do the dirty work for them. "It's like throwing stones and they are hiding your hands." Laveist said he will speak out about the issues at a press conference and they will inform the people exactly who is embarrassing the Parliament of St. Maarten. "I support the agenda point, I approve it. The UP faction did not get an invitation and I don't see anyone of them in here married to you, the invitation is for you and your wife and if they cannot accept that then tough luck."

The Parliament of St. Maarten also approved the travelling expenses of three Members of Parliament to attend the funeral of former Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles, Miguel Pourier. The three persons from Parliament to attend the funeral of former PM Miguel Pourier are the Chairman Rudolph Samuel, MP Romain LaVille, and MP Gracita Arrindell.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On behalf of the Members of Parliament (MPs), we would like to send best wishes to all families and friends that will come together this Easter Holiday weekend, President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Friday.

"Easter is a very important period in the Christian calendar due to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. While we come together during this holiday season, let it be a time to reflect on the many blessings that fill our lives as a people of our nation.

"As we come together, let us all give thanks to the Almighty who made us in His image. Let us rejoice in Christ's rising and draw strength and inspiration to move on as a people.

"On behalf of the MPs of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, and our families, we extend our best wishes to everyone here in Sint Maarten, and across the world, at this special time of the year," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Friday.

Philipsburg:--- The leader of the United People's Party Theodore Heyliger was allegedly grilled again by the national detectives on Thursday. SMN News learned from well placed sources that Heyliger was questioned sometime after a complaint was filed by Member of Parliament Romain Laville. MP Laville was elected on the slate of the United People's Party in 2010. However, the MP was always at loggerheads with his party leader, Theodore Heyliger whom he said on several occasions acts more like a dictator. Due to the constant bickering, Laville decided to leave the UP Party and became an Independent Member of Parliament and he along with the two other Independent Members of Parliament Frans Richardson and Patrick Illidge formed the second coalition government in April 2012 with the National Alliance.

SMN News learnt that Laville said he was going to take actions against the UP leader and MP Jules James who are constantly harassing him and even filed a complaint with the national detectives against him claiming that he threatened his life. SMN News further learnt that Laville and some other politicians indicated while they were in Miami two weeks ago that they were going to take actions against the UP leader and members who they believe trapped MP Patrick Illidge when he was taped taking monies from the owner of Bada Bing. Shorty after the tape was made public, the strip club owner said that the UP leader is the one who asked him to tape Illidge while he was paying back a so-called loan he took from Illidge sometime in 2011.

The source said that Laville informed the detectives that are investigating Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge for accepting what looks like a bribe from the owner of Bada Bing strip club Jaap van der Heuvel that Heyliger offered him as much as $350,000.00 to return to the UP party so that he Heyliger and the Democratic Party could maintain the coalition government they formed in October 2010.

SMN News contacted Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein twice on Thursday while Heyliger was allegedly being questioned on the new information they have and Stein said that the leader of the UP Party was not detained neither was he questioned again. SMN News then contacted spokesperson for the Attorney General Norman Serphos who said he was informed that St. Maarten will issue a press release on Thursday evening but he Serphos said he did not know what the contents of that press release would be. Serphos promised to make contact with Stein but said he could not reach Stein by phone and Stein did not respond to the email he sent him on Thursday. On Thursday evening, SMN News called Stein again to ask for confirmation for the third time and instead of Stein answering the question, the phone went dead. SMN News then contacted Prosecutor Dounia Benammar to inquire if she had any information on the matter. Benammar said she did not have information but she also contacted Stein and he promised to get back to SMN News with a statement. Later on Thursday evening, Stein called SMN News reporter and maintained his statements that Heyliger was not questioned again on Thursday, when SMN News asked Stein if Laville had filed a complaint against Heyliger, Stein said he did not know and even if he had known he would not release the information because everyone has a right to file a complaint.

One of the things SMN News could not ascertain on Thursday is if Heyliger was indeed questioned and where the interrogation took place because last week Tuesday Heyliger was questioned at his home in Guana Bay while two other Ministers including the Minister of Justice were interrogated at the office of the national detectives.

swescotwilliamswithakeemadams27032013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams attended the Budding Artist Exhibition at the Emilio Wilson Plantation last week. The Exhibition, which was opened by the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs, featured paintings, pottery and verse by some of St. Maarten's most promising and influential artists. A highlight of the event was the announcement that this year's Top Promotions Art Competition will center on painting a portrait of the Honorable Prime Minister. In the photo the PM is receiving explanation by featured young artists Akeem Adams on his paintings.

swescotwilliamsmeetswithpietdonner27032013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit from Kingdom Council of State Vice President Pet Hein Donner and supporting members last week. Mr. Donner, who is no stranger to the Caribbean due to his former role as Minister of Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations. The Prime Minister and Mr. Donner discussed various items as it relates to the Kingdom Council of State and its counterpart the St. Maarten Council of State. The Council of State is a constitutionally established advisory body to the government that consists of members of the royal family and Crown-appointed members generally having political, commercial, diplomatic, or military experience. The Council of State must be consulted by the cabinet on proposed legislation before a law is submitted to the parliament. The Council of State Administrative Law section also serves as a court of appeal for citizens against executive branch decisions. The King or Queen is President of the Council of State but she seldom chairs meetings. The Vice-President of the Council of State chairs meetings in their absence. Under Dutch Constitutional Law the Vice-President of the Council is acting Head of State when there is no Monarch; for example if the Royal Family were to become extinct. It was founded in 1531, making it one of the oldest, still active, governmental organizations in the world.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

markyokoyamadonateswildlifeguidetopjl27032013Grand Case:--- Local author and naturalist Mark Yokoyama has an ambitious plan to bring wildlife education to a whole generation of young St. Martiners. In conjunction with the release of an all-new second edition of his book, The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin, he is planning donations of books to schools and libraries, and a series of presentations and other events for schools and the general public.

"What if we gave the children of St. Martin the tools and guidance to learn how to study the wildlife around them? What if dozens of them developed a lifelong interest in local wildlife? What if a handful went on to get university degrees in biology and returned to study the wildlife of our island? How much would our knowledge of local wildlife improve in five, ten or twenty years?" asks Mark Yokoyama. "I want to find out."

Yokoyama is funding this project with contributions from individuals from the island and around the world, but the majority of funding is coming from local businesses. "The project is still not fully funded," says Yokoyama, "but I am optimistic because I know there are enough local businesses that understand promoting science and education makes the island a better place."

Businesses on both sides of the island have signed on to be key sponsors, including Hotel L'Esplanade, IGY and Delta Petroleum. "As a local business and as parents, we are excited and proud to support
Mark's amazing project," explains Kristin Petrelluzzi, Owner of the Hotel L'Esplanade. "For the past three years we've watched Mark do wonderful things for this island from helping raise money for the
clean up of the lagoon, attending every beach clean up, educating the youth, doing workshops at the schools, etc... Helping Mark take his passion to the next level was an absolute no brainer for us!"

Yokoyama also received a warm reception from the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, where he recently gave a talk about the unique wildlife of the island and his project.

Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) has also partnered with Yokoyama on this project, offering technical guidance and securing an in-kind donation from Merchant's Export Inc.to cover the cost of shipping books to the island. EPIC's U.S. organization has also partnered to accept donations for the project, giving donors from the U.S. the option to make tax-deductible charitable contributions to the project. Donations made through EPIC must be labeled as "SXM Wildlife Book Project" and can be made online or by check, with more information at http://www.epicislands.org.

All key sponsors who sign on to the project before the book goes to print April 1st will be recognized for their support of science and education, and their logo will appear in the book. To participate, contact author Mark Yokoyama at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0690-88-56-42.

The website for the guide is at http://www.sxmwildlife.com. The entire first edition of the guide can be downloaded on the site for free. Site visitors can also learn more about the fundraising projects and how to participate.

Philipsburg (DCOMM)—The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication herewith makes the following known:

Good Friday, which falls on Friday, March 29, 2013, is an official holiday.

In keeping with the Law on Shop Closure (Publication sheet 1969, nr. 58), all business establishments must be closed on the aforementioned date.

In accordance with Article 3 of the Law on Shop Closure, the aforementioned is not applicable to the following businesses:

  • Pharmacies, as far as it concerns the sale of medicine and medical products;
  • Bars and restaurants;
  • Hotels and guesthouses;
  • Stores located in hotels and on airport and harbor premises;
  • Funeral parlors;
  • Gas stations;
  • Bakeries selling pastries, milk, and milk products.

No relaxation of the laws will be granted to other types of stores to be opened on Good Friday, March 29, 2013.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 28 about the President of Parliament traveling to Curacao to represent the country at the funeral of former Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles Miguel Pourier.

The central committee will meet on Thursday, March 28 at 11:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The second agenda point is for the Central Committee to approve the attendance by the President of Parliament and his spouse to a dinner at the Rijksmuseum on Monday, April 29, 2013 in the Netherlands.

The invitation came from Her Majesty Queen Beatrix.

President Samuel extends the condolences of members of the Parliament of Sint Maarten to the family of the late Prime Minister of the former Netherlands Antilles Miguel Pourier, and to the people of Curacao, his friends and admirers on the islands that once formed the Netherlands Antilles.

The former Prime Minister passed away on Sunday in Curacao at the age of 74. He was originally from Bonaire and founded the 'Partido Antia Restruktura' (PAR) on Curacao.

Pourier will be remembered for the role that he played with respect to bringing order to the financial house of the former Central Government of the Netherlands Antilles, as well as his role in trying to restructure the Antilles.

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

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the 2013 budget debate will begin in the House of Parliament on April 8th, 2013. Tuitt said the budget is already at Parliament and there are certain procedures they are trying to reach an agreement on so that the process can be simplified and without hiccups. Tuitt said that the Parliament of St. Maarten placed the budget on the internet so that the people of St. Maarten can have access to it.

Philipsburg:--- Finance Minister Roland Tuitt in response to questions posed by SMN News regarding the TAXAND Investigation said that the only thing he can say for now is that his Ministry is moving forward with the process regarding TAXAND. SMN News asked the Minister of Finance why he did not turn over the SOAB report that was given to him on TAXAND to the authorities for investigation. Tuitt said he has some people reviewing the file. These persons he said asked for two weeks and that will be up next week. The Finance Minister who broke the TAXAND scandal which is now living a life of its own, said that he should have more information next week. This is the same answer the Minister gave last week when he was asked for information on the TAXAND investigation. Last week Wednesday, Tuitt said since a Minister is involved as well as civil servants, the procedure is a bit more tedious.
The Minister said that when SOAB conducted their investigation he asked them to list all the procedures that were not followed and that was done by the SOAB. Some of the procedures not followed includes; no terms of reference was prepared for the project, the project was not placed on bid, no contract was signed with the parties involved while the Minister of Finance did not get the approval from the Governor to proceed with TAXAND project by signing of the contract and neither was there a landsbesluit in place for the project.

swescotwilliams27032013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday gave a breakdown of the monies that were secured for the Government Administration Building on Pond Island. Wescot Williams said while personnel are not using the building, government is using the property for archiving at this time.
Responding to questions posed by SMN News regarding furniture and when personnel of the government will move over to the building, Wescot Williams said that the last time they discussed furniture for the building was in 2007 and the government of St. Maarten still has to secure funding for the furniture while they have no set date as to when they will begin using the building. The Prime Minister said that the way the offices were built in the new building it is not possible for government to pick up the furniture it has in the current building and move over.

rtuitt27032013Philipsburg:--- Finance Minister Roland Tuitt told reporters on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that some monies have been allocated by Government in the 2013 budget for the COLA payments. The Finance Minister was responding to questions posed by reporters since the unions on St. Maarten have decided that they will send a letter to Government giving them a deadline for the 2011 and 2012 COLA payments. The Finance Minister also said that he has no problem meeting with the unions to discuss the COLA issue but he prefers to do so when he gets the report from the study that will be conducted next month. "I want to enter into conducive discussions and not just meet with people to talk for the sake of talking. When the study is conducted and we have the report before us, both the union and government will have a document to work with. At that point, we can take decisions based on the advice that is given to government." Tuitt further explained that the Government and unions will have to come to some kind of agreement with the 2011 and 2012 COLA payments because the Government of St. Maarten simply does not have 20 million guilders to pay out. He said Government's intention is to deal with the two back log years after discussing with the unions and the new structure will go into effect as of 2013.
The Finance Minister said that the Government of St. Maarten is also looking into bringing down the cost of living which would also put monies into people's pocket. Tuitt further explained that paying out the COLA is not the only way to put monies in the pockets of the people of St. Maarten. He said that when he took office last year he did what was necessary to make the payments that the previous government did not pay out even though they had a commitment with the unions. Tuitt said when the former Government was in office the unions did not think it wise to write letters and set deadlines for the COLA payments, therefore he finds it unfair that the unions will attack the government who actually did make a payment last year. The Finance Minister stressed that the COLA structure currently in place is outdated and no longer used by any other country. He said that there are organizations such as ILO that held forums that can lead to other ways of assisting workers. Tuitt said he believes the unions should look into these avenues so when they get around the table for discussion all avenues can be discussed.


CFT lied, Annual Statements for St. Maarten were done --- says Tuitt.

The Finance Minister also showed reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' press briefing the audit report of the General Audit Chamber of St. Maarten that has in the 2010 and 2011 financial statements that were audited by the SOAB. Tuitt said what he has to check and see is if those reports were sent to Parliament so that they could be graded. He said the CFT said in their bi-annual report that St. Maarten and Curacao did not have their financial statements for 2010 and 2011. "I can tell you the CFT is wrong because here is the first report the audit chamber issued on the financial statements of the government of country St. Maarten."

pointblachepprison31012011Philipsburg:--- A female administrative worker of the Pointe Blanche Prison was arrested on Tuesday morning for having illegal drugs in her possession. According to well-placed sources, the woman identified as Mercedes Wilson was arrested when the illegal substance was found on her. The source said that prison employee had marijuana hidden at the back of her body. SMN News learnt that Wilson had a large amount of marijuana strapped to her back. According to the information provided to SMN News, Wilson had been working for the prison for 17 years as a financial assistant. SMN News understands that when Wilson passed through the scanner two times it beeped and she was scanned again with the hand scanner which also went off. At that point, the prison worker was strip searched and a good quantity of marijuana was found taped on her back.
Several attempts to reach the Prison Director Edward Rohan on Tuesday and Wednesday for confirmation comment proved futile.
SMN News also could not reach Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for a comment Tuesday evening. However, Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed that a prison worker was arrested for having an amount of marijuana in her possession while going into work. Stein could not confirm the person's identity on Tuesday night neither could he confirm the amount of marijuana that was found on the long-time prison worker.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Board of financial supervision Curaçao and Sint Maarten (Cft) observes that the second half of 2012 has brought more insight in the challenges for the public finance of both countries. This demanded diligence in taking drastic yet necessary measures in both countries. The eighth semiannual report also shows that the financial management still needs major improvement. Up till now none of the two countries have an audited annual report to present to Parliament to account for the use of tax money since October 10th, 2010.
Amongst others the instruction and the resolution of the Dutch First Chamber (Raad van State) on the objection presented by Curaçao, resulted in more transparency on issues concerning the real financial challenges Curaçao is facing. Since the Kingdom Council of Ministers had to be informed on a monthly basis through the Cft concerning the financial situation, it has become clear how the substantial problems on the different management areas are in reality.
Based on the instruction, Curaçao also had to provide insight in the financial positions of its governmental entities. This made it clear that also in that area the problems are considerable and that this represents a real risk for the public budget. Cft is of the opinion that the Curaçao government has made efforts to comply with the stipulations in the instruction. An important points still remaining is the actual implementation of the proposed structural measures to sustainably correct the budget finances and compensate for the deficits of the past. Cft will closely monitor how the government complies with these sections of the instruction.
The process of setting up a new structure for the new countries Curaçao and Sint Maarten as well as the organization behind them, seems to be a great challenge. For both countries it is important that clear decisions are being made in order to cope with this problem and that more means will be made available for appropriate financial accountability.
Curaçao and Sint Maarten have started 2013 without a budget adopted by Parliament. Also the annual reports of 2010 and 2011 have not yet been approved and are only available in draft. This underlines the necessity for improvement of the financial management. Without the adopted budgets and annual reports within the stipulated terms, adequate policy execution will be troublesome. Moreover, these are essential documents for Parliament to be able to exercise its role as controller. Reason enough for Cft to actively carry out its supervising role, not only to bring about better provision of information, but also to improve the quality of the financial management.

CFT Press Release

Philipsburg:--- The two suspects that are currently in pre-trial detention for the murder that took place in Middle Region last Saturday night appeared before the judge of instruction on Tuesday for an extension of their pre-trial detention. The two 17 year old suspects were transported separately to the Court of First Instance. The first suspect Shaniska Brooks who will be represented by Attorney at Law Shaira Bommel had her pre-trial detention extended by eight more days. The male suspect identified only as Eric also has to spend another eight days behind bars as the detectives try to piece together what took place Saturday night that led to the stabbing that claimed the life of play school teacher Kimberly Illidge.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos could not be reached Tuesday evening for a comment on the extension of the suspects' pre-trial detention.

telemprovidesbroadbandtoparliament26032013Philipsburg:--- TelEm Group has announced that the company will be expanding broadband services to the Parliament Building on Frontstreet - on the initiative of President of Parliament, Mr. Rudolph Samuel.

An agreement to expand the services was officially signed at the Parliament Building, Friday, March 15, 2013, with representatives of both, Parliament and TelEm Group present.

The agreement makes provision to improve live broadcasts to the general public, provide video-conferencing options with other Kingdom partners and speed up communication links between parliamentarians, journalists and employees working within the building.

President of Parliament, Mr. Rudolph Samuel says parliament is supporting government-owned telecommunication provider, TelEm Group 100%, in delivering on its promise to improve broadband services to parliament utilizing today's fibre optic technology.

"We have been experiencing numerous problems with constant falling out of internet connections and unreliable video-conference, necessitating the installation of a fibre optic solution to improve on bandwidth," said Mr. Samuel.

"With the help of TelEm Group we will remedy these problems and better equip the highest legislative body of Country Sint Maarten with the latest technology and improved service to members of parliament and the general public," continued the president of parliament.

He said the new installation is yet another step forward for St. Maarten's young Parliament and for Country St. Maarten, generally.

TelEm Group Marketing & Sales Manager, Mr. Emile van der Weerd has meantime congratulated the President of Parliament, Mr. Samuel, for his initiative and for his confidence in TelEm Group to upgrade broadband services in the Parliament building.

"Our in-depth knowledge about fibre data network design and implementation will provide the benefit of high bandwidth speeds and better global connections," said Mr. van der Weerd.

He said once the project is completed, parliament will also have a fully operational Wireless (Wi-Fi) network providing wireless data sessions to parliamentary employees and officials throughout the building.

The TelEm Group manager thanked his sales team of Cherrelyn Jermain and Lucrecia Lynch, for securing the contract agreement, and also TelEm Group Network Engineer, Mr. Jed Carty, and Planning Department Technician, Mr. Edsel Martina, for technical support.

"I am most grateful to the sales team, Mr. Carty, Mr. Martina and all TelEm Group employees who were directly or indirectly involved in landing this prestigious project," said Mr. van der Weerd.

katierileywithsisterreginaschoolstudents26032013Foundation bids farewell to Ms. Katie Riley

Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC) brought its Environmental Education program for the School Year 2012- 2013 to a close with an excursion to and clean-up at Little Bay Pond with pupils of the Sister Regina Primary School this past Friday.

The Foundation's annual Environmental Education program offers free educational presentations for schools, clubs and community groups. Presentations cover a number of topics which include St. Maarten's forests, ocean pollution, the environmental challenges St. Maarten faces and the wildlife and ecology of St. Maarten's wetlands.

This year's program ran from January 15th, 2013 through March 25th 2013, visiting environmental education specialist Ms. Katie Riley and EPIC's project manager Rueben J. Thompson provided presentations, interactive learning experiences and field trips to pupils at a dozen participating primary schools and a number of secondary schools. EPIC's project manager Rueben J. Thompson stated that this year's program was very successful and enjoyable. According to Thompson the Foundation had the pleasure of providing classes to and carrying-out activities with hundreds of young residents. The Foundation extends its gratitude to Mr. Richard Ortega of Windward Roads who coordinated and led field trips at the Landfill, Ms. Nicole Piper and Mr. Anthony Le Fur who provided field trips at the waste sorting facility in Galisbay and Mrs. Jadira Veen of St. Maarten Pride Foundation who assisted with coordinating field trips and cleanups.

The Foundation regrets the fact that there are several schools which have not yet participated in any environmental education programs and do not respond to annual public announcements or other invitations to participate. Thompson encourages Teachers and Principals of Schools which have not yet signed up for EPIC's annual environmental education program to please consider doing so and email the Foundation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., the education program will resume in October of this year.

EPIC extends its gratitude to Ms. Katie Riley, an Environmental Educator from the United States, who volunteered over two months of her time and provided most of this year's classes and activities. "Ms. Riley has a wealth of experience in Environmental Education which was put to good use in St. Maarten. The Foundation is appreciative of Ms. Riley's hard work and dedication and wishes her safe travels and much success in her future endeavors".

EPIC Press Release

telemgrouptaeboworkoutatlionshealthfair26032013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is thanking all visitors to last Saturday's Rudy Hoeve Health and Wellness Fair who joined company staff and friends to a fun Taebo workout given by former world kick-boxing champion, Marco London.
The workout is the first public duty for Marco, who is the new Outside Plant Manager at TelEm Group.
"The sun was already hot at that time of the morning and everyone got into the spirit of the workout to improve their health," said Marco after the grueling session.
On behalf of TelEm Group, Marco expressed his thanks to everyone who took part in the workout and the Lions Club for their continued focus on keeping the wider community healthy and well.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- Several persons contacted SMN News on Tuesday and said that there is higher supervision looming over St. Maarten due to the amount of corruption cases that are pending and being investigated on St. Maarten. However, in an invited comment former Lt. Governor Denis Richardson who is currently in the Netherlands said that right now no one can impose higher supervision on St. Maarten because there are no grounds at the moment for that. Richardson said the only time the Kingdom can intervene or impose higher supervision on St. Maarten is when the judicial system on the island fails to execute its duties.

Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein also shared the same sentiments, Stein said that he has been following the statements made by Bosman and that definitely cannot happen now because justice system on St. Maarten is taking its course.

However, some politicians feel that even though the judicial system is doing what it has to do in order to avoid higher supervision it appears more than likely that the Dutch Kingdom will find away to interfere with the daily operations on St. Maarten.

tacostein11032013Philipsburg:--- The Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein denies the allegation made by several persons including politicians that the leader of the United Peoples Party and Former Deputy Prime Minister Theodore Heyliger was given preferential treatment by the national detectives that are investigating the alleged bribery involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and Bada Bing strip club owner Jaap van den Heuvel.
According to information provided to SMN News, the detectives working under the helm of Ademar Doran chose to interrogate Heyliger at his home because they did not want the media to get the word that they had spoken to Heyliger on Tuesday. When SMN News confronted Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein for an explanation on where the interrogation took place, Stein said that the national detectives tried to reach Heyliger by phone and he was not responding to their calls. He said they got word from Parliament that Heyliger was off island and they were also tipped off when he returned to the island but when the detectives called his phone Heyliger still did not respond. Stein said that the detectives then decided to go to Heyliger's home in Guana Bay and they found the UP leader at home and decided that since both parties were there they would interrogate him at his home because it was convenient for both parties.

When SMN News asked the Deputy Attorney General why his office or the office of the Prosecutor chose to withhold the information from the media and the public in general for two days after they questioned Heyliger, Stein said they do not see the need to inform the media or the people of St. Maarten as to who they speak to on the case, and where these interviews took place. He said a press release was issued two days later when several other witnesses were also heard.

When SMN News asked Stein where was the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet, and others were questioned, Stein said both Ministers were questioned at the Office of the National Detectives.

The Deputy Attorney General said that at no time they chose to give Heyliger preferential treatment. "The only reason the interview was done at Heyliger's house was because he was not responding to the phone calls made to his phone, secondly we needed to speak to him so we went to his home and he was there and the interview was conducted there."

SMN News also learnt that some focus is being placed on the leader of the National Alliance because according to comments made on SMN News and what was told to the detectives by Heyliger, all politicians including the Prime Minister knew of the tape and the only person who would have benefited if Illidge is taken out of Parliament is the National Alliance since the seat MP Patrick Illidge holds will return to the National Alliance.

It should be noted that the National Detectives is also tasked with investigating the election fraud case which is sitting on their desk for the past two and half years. When asked if Heyliger was questioned on that case, Stein said that the detectives only dealt with the Bada Bing Investigation.

celshot26032013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) told reporters on Tuesday at the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) weekly press conference that the other members of the WICLU (meaning the NAPB and WICSU/PSU) are now endorsing the letter she intended to send to government regarding the cost of living adjustment payments (COLA). Elshot said when she made the announcement last week after meeting with the board of the WITU, the other unions contacted her and informed her that they wanted to endorse the letter she is sending to government because they all share the same opinion on the COLA payments. Elshot said the Minister of Finance announced that he is bringing in a consultant from the Netherlands to conduct a study on St. Maarten regarding the COLA payments. However, the unions want the Minister of Finance and the consultant to know that civil servants, mainly teachers are paid far less than teachers in the Netherlands and the BES Islands. She said she hopes that the Minister of Finance and the consultants will take these points into consideration.

Elshot lambasted the Finance Minister who said he made the COLA payments last year when he took office even though the promise was made by another government. She said that Government has to understand that while the study is being conducted, the 2011 COLA payments are due and it should be made now with the structure that is in place. The WITU President said that the unions made it clear that while the government is looking for a future sustainable solution the COLA that is currently due has to be paid. Elshot said that this new study and probable solution would have to be for the future payments and not retroactive. "We are in 2013, so we are supposed to get 2011 and 2012 COLA payments." Elshot further explained that the NAPB is already on board while WICSU and the others will finalize the letter that she sent to them so that it can be sent to the Government of St. Maarten in the very near future.

When asked if the unions did not have to take actions in 2010 before they were paid, Elshot confirmed in the affirmative and said that the unions even went as far as giving Government a few percentage during the negotiations they held prior to the actions that were taken in 2010.

Another issue that has WITU's attention is the letter that government has to give pensioners so that they can obtain their pension fund. Elshot said when pensioners reach the age of 60, Government has to give them an honorable letter of discharge in order for the pension fund to begin their payments. She said that several persons contacted the union complaining that they are not able to obtain this letter even after their salaries stopped. She said even if some of the pensioners decide to work on contract after they reach the pensionable age that does not stop them from receiving their pension dues if the documents are submitted to pension fund.

The WITU also expressed condolences to the people and Government of Curacao on the passing of its former Prime Minister Miguel Pourier.

scdfandutsreps25032013Philipsburg:--- Chippie, mobile brand of UTS, has once again pledged its financial support to the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) for the 2013 carnival season. As the largest contributor in recent years, the company has again increased its financial contribution to the carnival foundation, compared to previous years. This year the company is supporting the carnival foundation to the tune of $50.000. With its contribution the company intends on supporting the carnival foundation in its endeavors to make this years carnival festivities even bigger and better. The Grand Carnival parade will be dubbed the Chippie Grand Carnival parade and this parade will feature the traditional staple to carnival festivities: live Steel Pan performance. The return of steel pan during the parades was a goal of the carnival foundation for many years, so they are happy to be able to bring this back to the festivities, thanks to the support of Chippie. In addition to participation and support during the grand carnival parade,Chippie will also have it's Chippie booth in the festival village offering various promotions further commemorating its 10 year anniversary. "We believe its important to support our local carnival foundation in its endeavors to make every year of carnival a bigger success than the previous year. We applaud them for broadening the scope of the promotion beyond our borders by more proactively attracting visitors to our island from abroad." says UTS Marketing & Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. "Aside from supporting the foundation in achieving its goals, we have also been doing our part every year in increasing exposure abroad, such as bringing sister-company TeleCuracao to the island to broadcast and promote the festivities in the region. We also support other successful formula's that bring visitors to our island, such as the CaribServe Video X Games. We will once again be the title sponsor of that event also" Lambert continues. "Our country is dependent on our tourism product and as such we feel we need to do our part in contributing to a healthy local economy. Every visitor arriving at our shores comes here with the intention to fully enjoy everything St. Maarten has to offer." says Lambert. In addition to its financial support, UTS is also supporting the carnival foundation with its technologies. The company provides the carnival foundation with internet connections through its WiMax broadband service offered by internet provider CaribServe.

To all readers of SMN News, our team wants to assure you that SMN News was not hacked. The hosting company we are dealing with in the USA has been having issues since last Friday. We have been trying to work with them in order for them to regulate their hardware problems but it seems like the wait is a bit too long. Therefore, we are asking for your patience as we resolve this matter in the next day or two.

rbmparticipants25032013Cole Bay:--- On Friday, March 22nd, stakeholders involved in St. Maarten's national HIV/AIDS response completed a 3-day training workshop on Results-based Management (RBM) at Carl's Unique Inna & Conference Facilities. The training was organized by the HIV/AIDS Programme Management Team in light of the EU funded project "Strengthening the Integration of British and Dutch OCTs in the Regional Response to HIV/AIDS through PANCAP".

Participants included personnel from the Department of Education and Youth Affairs, Department of Statistics, Department of Economic Affairs, Department of Social Development, Department of Labour and Labour Affairs, Finance Department, Department of Community Development, Interior Affairs and Kingdom Relations, the Police Korps, the Victorious Living Foundation, St. Maarten's Youth Council, and the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation.

The training introduced RBM theory and followed up with practical assignments in which the participants played different roles in various scenarios in order to acquire a practical understanding of how RBM can be incorporated into their daily work and behavior. Mr. Pyt D. Lucas, course instructor and consultant at For A Change N.V., explained RBM as a management strategy that focuses on 'results' rather than 'activities'. RBM helps organizations to better articulate their vision and support for expected results and to better monitor progress and impact that a given programme or project is having on the local population.

Attendees found the information very useful and have already began using the new information throughout their daily work. At the end of the training, everyone was enthused about their newly acquired knowledge.

cdeweevermeetswithcoomeva25032013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is currently working with the COOMEVA Medical Group out of Columbia and SZV to make the patient experience abroad a less tedious one.
Minister De Weever recently met with the COOMEVA group, where a number of issues were discussed. The main topic was providing a Health Charter Flights Program. Currently patients referred by SZV to travel to Colombia for medical care make use of the commercial flights, which at times can become an uncomfortable experience for patients, due to flight availability, delays and cost. Unwanted delays are usually caused for patients that must travel immediately for medical treatment, and once the treatment has ended in Colombia, the delays caused by unavailability of flights generates extra cost in accommodation, transportation and other expenses the patient incurs.
Minister De Weever mentioned that he will be working diligently with SZV and COOMEVA on the logistics of this program, with the aim of making the patient experience as pleasant as possible. "As Minister, I am here to serve the people of St. Maarten and to ensure that all their medical priorities are taken care of in a professional and attentive manner, I believe that this program will be a great help to all medical referrals to Colombia."
Once all the logistics are worked out for the inbound and outbound charter flight program the process for the patient will become faster and smoother. The proposed program will have a significant impact on the medical referral procedure in terms of better quality, timeliness, logistics and cost. The program will provide an opportunity for patients that seek immediate medical treatment, especially for those complex medical conditions that must be transferred to Colombia promptly.

All flights will be executed in an exclusive charter flight with a capacity for 18 people from St. Maarten directly to Colombia. A professional nurse will be on all inbound/outbound flights. "We will also collaborate with Saba and St. Eustatius to ensure we have a full flight each time," said Minister De Weever.

sxminaugurationorganizingcommittee25032013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- On April 30th 2013, her Majesty Queen Beatrix will abdicate the throne followed by the swearing-in of Willem Alexander as King in an Inauguration Ceremony in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Sint Maarten as Country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands will take part in the celebrations of this historical occasion. By National decree approved by the Council of Ministers and signed by the Governor of Sint Maarten the Organizing Committee Inauguration (OCI) has been installed to organize and execute the activities surrounding this event. The Committee consists of Chairlady - Anenda Zaandam, Secretary - Emilia Thomas, Liaison Council of Ministers - Cassandra Janssen, Liaison Cabinet of the Governor André Hoeneveld, and Public Relations - Rodney Richardson.
On Friday March 22nd, the first meeting of the Organizing Committee Inauguration was convened at the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten by of Governor Eugene Holiday together with Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams officially kicking-off the work of the committee.
The Committee began its work immediately with a meeting with workgroups as the various activities are to take place within a short time span. The public will be kept abreast on these activities leading up to the commemoration of this historical event.

rsamuelmeetswithpietdonner25032013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel met with the Council of State Vice President Piet Hein Donner and his delegation at the House of Parliament.

The two main issues discussed during the meeting was the perceived relationship between Holland and Sint Maarten especially with respect to comments made by Opposition members of the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament. President Samuel is of the opinion that the Dutch coalition needs to address the matter by stating that the statements made by the Dutch opposition MPs are not the opinion of the Dutch Government.

The other issue discussed is the suggestion of an Identification Card for the residents of Curacao, Aruba, Sint Maarten and the BES islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba) that would facilitate travel without any hindrance between the islands similar to travel when the islands were part of the the former Netherlands Antilles. This topic was discussed in the last IPOK parliamentary conference several weeks ago.

cpsyhcvaccinationboothatlionshealthandwellnessfair25032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Service (CPS) Department, Section Youth Health Care (YHC), has determined that its participation at the 5th Annual Lions Rudy Hoeve Health & Wellness Fair held on Saturday at the Festival Village, was a success.

CPS Section YHC had a Vaccination Booth manned by staff from YHC and CPS. Based on preliminary results, the vaccination status of 42 children was checked. Eight were under the age of four. The vaccination outreach at this civil society organization event is part of the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign, which emphasizes the importance of having the country's children immunized.

pjlandsxmrotaractsunriseeasteregghunt25032013Philipsburg:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) in collaboration with the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise will be hosting a free Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 4-10 year old at, the Library on Saturday, March 30, from 10:00-1:00pm.
Children attending this event will be engaged in fun activities such as: face painting, storytelling, and a grand Easter egg hunt, where hundreds of eggs will be hidden on the grounds of the library. There will be special prizes awarded to the children who find the most eggs. This entire event is free of charge. Face painting will be done for registered participants by the Easter bunnies, who will be making a special visit to the library, from 10:00am-11:00am.
Rotaract Sunrise set aside the month of March to promote literacy, which is also at the core of PJL's goals. It is with these merged goals in mind, that an interactive storytelling time will be held from 11:00am – 11:30am.
To participate in this event, please register at the library from Monday, March 25 to Friday, March 29. Space is limited so children are urged to register as early as possible to secure their spot.
Children taking part in this event will be provided with refreshments and a special "goody" bag, along with all the Easter eggs they have collected. Parents are encouraged to bring their children to this fun-filled family event.
For more information on this event please call the library at 542-2970.

greatbaybeach25032013PHILIPSBURG:--- With 37 square miles of pristine shorelines along its coast, St. Maarten (www.VacationStMaarten.com) has been featured by CNN.com as one of the top five destinations in the world for beach goers in the website's list of "17 Beaches We'd Like To Be Lounging On."

While other contenders on the list were highlighted with individual beaches within a destination, St. Maarten as a whole was chosen by CNN.com readers as a best spot for beach lovers to lounge and relax on.

"We are incredibly proud to have our beaches highlighted as some of the best in the world by a distinguished outlet such as CNN.com," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "Our island's picturesque shorelines and diversity of beaches help make St. Maarten a favorite destination of travelers around the world."

With 37 beaches, one for every square mile of the island, travelers can take comfort in knowing there is a perfect beach for each visitor. From clothing-optional beaches on the French side of the island, to the Dutch side's popular Maho Beach (one of the few places in the world where aircrafts can be viewed in their flight path just outside the end of the runway), there is an ideal lounging area for everybody.

Philipsburg--- Upon invitation of the Minister of VROMI, the Honorable Mr. William Marlin on March 19th, 2013 the Ombudsman Dr. Nilda Arduin met with the Minister, to discuss the findings and recommendations of her report regarding the operations at the Kadaster & Mortgage Registry ("Stichting Kadaster & Hypotheekwezen"). Present at the meeting were also: Ms. Patricia Philips, Secretary General and the Legal Advisor of Bureau Ombudsman, Mr. M. Hart, and the Legal Advisor to the Minister, Mr. Alex Schoormans van Houten.

In December 2010 the Ombudsman started an investigation (on her own initiative) as a result of concerns about two excerpts about a property registered at the Kadaster widely discussed by the public. When the preliminary findings of the investigation communicated to the Supervisory Board of the Foundation Kadaster & Mortgage Registry yielded no action from the Supervisory Board, the Ombudsman continued the investigation, resulting in a report with recommendations to the Minister of VROMI, to whom the Supervisory Board is obligated to give account pursuant to the law.

The issues signaled and addressed by the Ombudsman, were among others: the manner in which the registration and control of the public registry at the Kadaster is being maintained; the link between the application system "Kadsys" and the registration of information in the Public Registers as provided for by law, lack of clarity whether the system meets the requirements stated in article 3:16 of the Civil Code and the National Ordinance Public Registers; lack of cooperation by the Kadaster to provide documents outlining work procedures and control mechanism of its operations; the application of the regulations of the Corporate Governance Code.

The Minister was requested to inform the Ombudsman what measures are taken in the interest of the citizens to ensure that Kadaster carries out its tasks given by law accurately, and the control thereof is guaranteed. Further, the Ombudsman recommends that an investigation is carried out as soon as possible on the fairness of the tariffs and reimbursement system of the Kadaster. Finally the Minister was recommended to initiate actions to fill any "gaps" in the law regarding the Public Registers.

It was established that a delay in the follow up on this matter has been partly the result of parties involved not being fully aware of the scope of authority of the Ombudsman, which is a new institution provided for in the Constitution, as well as legal advice being delayed on the report.

The outcome of the discussions is that the Minister will inform the Ombudsman within two (2) weeks in writing, what his position and conclusions are with regard to the recommendations provided in the Kadaster Report.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams expressed her condolences to the family and friends of the late Antillean Statesman, Member of the PAR party and former Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles Mr. Miguel Pourier. "I have had the honor of working closely with Mr. Pourier for a number of years and I am saddened to learn of his passing. Mr. Pourier became Prime Minister of the Netherlands Antilles during a crucial time in all of our history and his contribution to that common history which all of us in the former Netherlands Antilles share is undeniable," commented the Prime Minister. Miguel Arcangel Pourier was born in Rincon, Bonaire on the 29th of September 1938 and passed away on Curaçao after a serious illness on the 23rd of March. He was 74 years old.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamsiwdcelebration25032013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams surprised four women she honored at her International Women's Day Celebration on the 8th of March at Sheer Restaurant. The women were unable to attend due to professional and personal obligations and the Prime Minister decided to take the time out of her busy schedule to surprise them with a token of her appreciation at their workplaces. "These women, teachers, businesswomen, public servants; are all role models to women on this island and I daresay some men as well. You have stood out because of your contribution to society and I thought it only fitting to come to your workplace and surprise you here today," commented the Prime Minister. Clockwise from top left are recipients Zaida Vlaun at Travel Planners, Ludwina Hodge of the Prosecutors Office, Maritza James at the Court of First Instance and Magdalene Barry at St. Joseph School.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliams25032013One Island in the Spirit of Unity Exemplified by the Treaty of Concordia

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams delivered a stirring speech on the cooperation between the Dutch and French Sides of the island at a Symposium commemorating the 365th Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Concordia at the Chamber of Commerce Building in Concordia on Saturday. The Symposium, which centered on the realities and constraints of cross border cooperation featured various speakers, with the Prime Minister and President of the Collectivity Alain Richardson.

The Prime Minister began her presentation by stating that it is commonly held that 365 years ago on March 23rd the treaty of Concordia was signed. "Despite it being widely recorded about what that treaty contains, there has been some discussion about the Treaty of Concordia itself. Some people feel it has not been written by St. Maarten people but for St. Maarten people, but whatever the case may be and regardless of who signed it it represents still today the aspirations of a people who share such a small landmass and who are basically one people. Today it is right to observe the signing of the treaty of Concordia and recognize what it means for us; protecting our common land and taking care of ourselves as one people.

Between 1648 and 1948 many things took place which affected St. Maarten but which not necessarily happened on St. Maarten. It is only in the early 1950's for example the island territory of St. Maarten was regulated as such, formalized as a part of the Netherlands Antilles. So today it is not more than appropriate to recognize the foresight of the persons who in 1948 recognized the border monument and the importance of the agreements which were made in the spirit of the unity between our people. The spirit of the island, its oneness and its unity, was exemplary even then without any regulation having been put in place to officially do so.

I am one of those persons who have no problem being criticized for giving talks and luncheons and speeches on St. Maarten's Day. Why do I not have a problem with it? During everyday of my work I think of cooperation and I think on making that cooperation between two sides of the same island actually work. So when the critics are speaking they are not speaking to me, as I believe that cooperation, especially on the day of celebrating our island, is of paramount importance," commented the Prime Minister.

The PM continued by explaining that in the quest to come to a good working cooperation between the two sides of the island, an MOU was drafted and approved by both Paris and Willemstad. "However it became clear that the practical aspects of working together continued, but the level of competency between the two sides was not equal, even then. And so with the 2006 MOU we realized that the state responsibilities on French St. Martin could not be sufficiently addressed. In 2007 a new constitutional reality for St Martin and in 2010 a new constitutional reality for St. Maarten was brought about which considerably changed the dynamic.

"In especially the matter of Foreign Affairs we believe that as a country we realized that we needed some kind of say in how our country is represented internationally, especially when it comes to regional partnerships. So in 2010 discussions picked up again regarding the formalization of cooperation which eventually led to the Letter of Intent of 2012 where all parties came to understand the particulars of that cooperation.

The PM also recognized the workers of the Department of Foreign Relations of St. Maarten for their work on the preparations which were developed for consultations centered on cooperation. "I received an email from the Department of Foreign Relations in The Hague about requesting to be involved in a meeting. I immediately addressed that issue, going so far as saying that the meeting will not go ahead unless I am clear who will be present. I had to inform everyone that unfortunately The Hague could not be part of that meeting, despite the misunderstanding by France that the Dutch should be present. We have come so far in our evolution as an island that we definitely can't go back now. No one can represent St. Maarten as St. Maarteners can so that is why that particular meeting did not take place. I therefore had to explain how things work with regards to St. Maarten and how cooperation should look like. This, like many things, was a learning process. You may think that on a personal level we can just continue cooperation but we do need to have a formal framework put in place. And now it is a matter of evolution and we will come to the right structure of cooperation on behalf of the people of St. Maarten. We remain connected much like Siamese twins; two souls sharing one body. I believe in moving forward while simultaneously knowing how far we have come and indeed I believe we have come very, very far," concluded the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister then continued to answer questions from the large audience regarding her views on cooperation with the northern side of the island. The PM explained the possibilities of a gradual move towards independence, the particulars of the treaty of Concordia and representation of both French and Dutch St. Maarten within the European Union.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

internationalhealthregulationsmeetings25032013Great Bay:--- The Ministries of Public Health of the Netherlands, Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten just wrapped up their two day meetings at DIVI Little Bay Resort, where representatives met to discuss International Health Regulations (IHR). Chairperson of the meetings was former Governor of the Netherlands Antilles Frits Goedgedrag.
The two-day meeting concluded with the decision being that a draft covenant will be signed between the four countries, whereby they will agree to set-up a sub-focal for International Health Regulations. A project leader will be appointed to work with all countries on IHR and this must all be in place by June 2014.
IHR require World Health Organization member states, of which the Netherlands represents the Kingdom partners and the BES islands, to strengthen core surveillance and response capacities at primary, intermediate and national level, as well as at designated international ports, airports and ground crossings.

toppixaviationphotocontestwinningphoto24032013Simpson Bay:--- And the winner is ... Bernie Verhoeven!

"I can't believe it!" she exclaimed, shocked that her photo had been chosen as the winner of the first Toppix Aviation Photo Contest out of a total of 75 entries submitted, at final count, by 26 participants.

Verhoeven's photo depicts the underbelly of an Air France jet zooming in with the clouds almost as a shroud around it and people on the beach snapping away as if in a choreographed action to catch the big bird as it descends on the runway at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM).

It was obviously a very popular choice as everyone at the prize-giving ceremony held Saturday evening at the airport, was full of praise for it.

"It was the 'wow' factor that did it; that was very important," Milton Peters, ace photographer of Today newspaper who also took part in the competition, said.

The theme of the contest was "Sint Maarten, Aircraft Spotters Paradise," and participants were allowed to interpret this as they wish, however, their entries should not only depict an aircraft, but should also include a landscape of St. Maarten in it.

According to Peter Gunn, one of the three judges, there was no doubts at all in the minds of the judges as to which photo won. "When we saw the photo by Bernie, we immediately put it aside," he said. "It was simply fantastic."

Chris Kilroy, also on the panel of three judges, concurred. "Judging was partially difficult, but we kept within the rules of the competition," he said. "The decision on the winner was unanimous." However, he added that the quality of the photos submitted by the participants was such that about "85% of them are good enough to be hung around the airport."

Verhoeven received a cheque of US$ 2,500 from SXM, main sponsor of the event for her winning photograph, while the final six nominated photos will be exhibited at the airport, although there is talk of a larger exhibition given the quality of the photos.

Alain Duzant, one of the 17 participating St. Maarten photographers, had two of his three entries in the final six selected by the judges. "I'm thrilled to have participated in the competition and I'm looking forward to next year," he said.

Jan Severijns of Belgium received a special prize of a complementary stay of 4 nights/5 days at the Oyster Bay Resort, courtesy of the resort.

Managing Director of Princess Juliana International Airport, Regina La Bega, praised the organizers, particularly Robby Cijntje, who she called "the brain behind this event" for a job well done. Cijntje, himself obviously overwhelmed with joy, thanked all the sponsors, including the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB), judges and participants for making it such a successful event.

compresentationaboutcompetitionactandauthority24032013PHILIPSBURG:--- Based on the outcome of a Feasibility Study, the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (MinTEZVT) has commissioned the Social Economic Research Institute (SEO) affiliated with the University of Amsterdam in The Netherlands, to develop a Competition Act, as well as a Competition Authority Policy and an Implementation Plan in order to legalize the Competition Authority.

This project is structured into two phases: phase 1 is to develop the Competition Authority Policy (deadline April/May 2013) and phase 2 is development of draft legislation and implementation Plan (deadline July 2013).

More and more countries are implementing Competition Act's and establishing a Competition Authority. In addition to large countries such as the United States of America and European countries, there are more and more small (island) economies that have established a Competition Authority. Examples in the Caribbean region are Jamaica and Barbados, as well as Curacao and Aruba who are in the process of developing Competition Authority legislation.

On Thursday, a presentation was provided to the Council of Ministers on the topic of Competition Authority by the Ministry of TEZVT and SEO consultants drs Koert van Buiren and drs Cees van Gent.

During the week of March 18 to 21, SEO were on island to conduct consultation rounds with all relevant internal and external stakeholders in order to gather the necessary information and feedback on the development of such a Competition Authority for the country.

In 2011, a Feasibility Study –which was funded by USONA and carried out by SEO - on St. Maarten demonstrates that the island is confronted with significant distortions to competition in several markets. These distortions to competition increase the cost of living in St. Maarten, decreases purchasing power, pushes up the cost of doing business and affects St. Maarten's international competitive position (in particular for international investors) negatively.

The goal of the Sint Maarten Competition Authority is to function as an independent regulatory and monitoring oversight authority for all business mergers, cartel formation as well as consumer protection on the island.

The Authority should oversee (i) the prohibition of cartel agreements, (ii) the prohibition of abuse of a dominant position, and (iii) merger control regulation, and (iiii) consumer protection.

In addition, in light of the spiraling high cost of living, due to the high prices on the island, Government also commissioned Stichting Overheidsaccountant Bureau (SOAB) to review the margins of the 'basket of necessities' and review the existing price regulation system. SOAB should complete this in May 2013.

Both projects are geared to come with feasible solutions for the Government of St Maarten to provide relief to the population of St Maarten, by increasing overall competition on the island and ultimately decreasing the cost of living.

Attendees from Ministry of TEZVT in the COM meeting on Thursday were: Secretary General TEZVT, Miguel de Weever, Acting Head EVT Erika Radjouki and Statistical Analyst from STAT, Saskia Thomas-Salomons.

Sandy Ground:--- A motorbike rider identified as Alie Irish is now dead while two persons, his girlfriend identified as Delphine Lake and a young child, were critically injured. According to information reaching SMN News, Irish was riding his motorcycle in Sandy Ground with his girlfriend as the pedal rider. At some point, Irish struck a little girl that was crossing the street, leaving her and his girlfriend in critical condition.

Residents of Sandy Ground said the young man was riding his bike at high speed when the accident occurred Friday evening around 8:40pm. Commandant of the Gendarmerie, Paul Betaille confirmed that an accident occurred around 8:40pm in Sandy Ground leaving a 30 year old man dead and two persons severely injured. Betaille said so far the two persons that are now nursing severe injuries at the Louis Constant Fleming Hospital are in stable condition.

kimberlyillidge24032013Middle Region:--- A 20 year old girl was stabbed to death shortly after 9pm on Saturday night. Head of the Detective Department Denise Jacobs confirmed to SMN News while she was at the crime scene Saturday night that a young woman (20) years old died from a stabbing. Jacobs said the victim died on the spot in Valley Drive, Middle Region. Jacobs further explained that based on the information she gathered at the scene, two women were fighting and one of them got killed.

The Head of the Detectives Department said both the victim and the suspect are from St. Maarten. The victim has been identified as K.S.I. 20 years old of St. Maarten.
SMN News learnt that the victim is Kimberly Illidge who was a teacher at Kids Light House Play School, she is a former student of the St. Maarten Vocational School. According to reliable sources, the killer is a young woman identified as Shaniska Brooks who turned herself in at the Philipsburg Police Station late Saturday night.
Acting Police Spokesman Giovanni Sprott told SMN News Sunday morning that the suspect is a 17 year old St. Maartener identified as D.A.B. Sprott said a second suspect is also in police custody assisting with the investigation. The second suspect has been identified as E.J.J. and he is a 17 year old male.

Middle Region Residents Blamed Victim's Mother for Daughter's Slaying.

shaniskabrooks24032013Residents of the Valley Drive, Middle Region are very upset and angry about the fatal stabbing that took place in their neighborhood Saturday night. Several of the residents told SMN News that the victim (Kimberly Illidge) is the one that caused her death while her mother did nothing to stop her daughter from attacking and threatening the younger girl (suspect). "All day Saturday Kimberly was cursing and threatening young Brooks, and her mother (Cindy) looked at her behavior and at no time tried to stop her from attacking the younger girl. At noon on Saturday, Kimberly went to Brooks' aunt and told her she will beat up her niece and she will also end her life. The witnesses said the aunt pleaded with Kimberly to stop because she is much bigger in size than her niece and also older. "When all of this was happening Kimberly's mother Cindy stood by and did nothing to stop her daughter's rage against a younger girl." One of the witnesses said Kimberly is the one who came out of her house after 9pm and attacked Brooks and at that time Brooks stabbed her with a knife she was walking around with because of the threats all day. The handle of the knife they said was found on the street while the blade broke off in her chest. Another witness said when Kimberly fell on the road someone lifted her up and took her in her house and she died in her mother's arm. One of the men who saw what happened all day screamed out to the mother and told her that she brought the death of her daughter. The residents who are obviously upset said that they have no compassion for Cindy because had she intervened and stopped her daughter from attacking the younger victim, her daughter would have been alive today.
They said police arrested Eric claiming that Eric gave the suspect the knife but they find that to be impossible. The suspect was walking with that knife to protect herself she was threatened all day and Kimberly told her aunt she will kill her so that is why she had a knife on her.

The residents also said that the two females had some sort of bickering going on but Saturday it escalated and clearly Kimberly was the aggressor. Apart from this incident they said Kimberly was one of those teenagers in the neighborhood that seemed focused on her school and even work. They said they are trying to figure out what happened on Saturday that caused her to be so aggressive against a 17 year old who looks more like a 13 year old girl.

 

20 Year Old Dies From Stabbing in Middle Region.

On Saturday March 23rd around 9:20pm, a police patrol from the uniform department and an ambulance were dispatched to the district of Middle region in the area of Gumbs drive for a fight where someone was stabbed and injured.

Upon arrival of the first patrol it was indeed confirmed that a fight had taken place and that a young lady was stabbed in her chest by another young lady whom in the mean time had already fled the scene of the crime.

Information was gathered from bystanders who directed the police patrol to a home where the victim had collapsed. The patrol then found the victim cradled by an elderly person.

Upon checking the victim it was noticed that her vital signs was weakening.

In the mean time, the ambulance personnel had arrived on the scene and after rendering the victim some medical assistance they noticed that the victim was no longer responding and did not have a pulse anymore. The police doctor Miss Douglas pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The scene of the crime was cordoned off in order for the Police Forensic Department to gather their evidence.
Later that evening around midnight the suspect with initials D.A.B. from St. Maarten and 17 years of age turned in herself to the police department.

About 15 minutes after, a second suspect with the initials E.J.J. from St. Maarten and 17 years of age was arrested in this same case.

The detective department is investigating this case further, both suspects will remain in custody pending further investigation.

The Police Department would like thank the community of St. Maarten for their assistance in this case and would also like to extend its deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.

KPSM Police Report

swescotwilliamsatlusciencefair23032013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams Congratulated Learning Unlimited Students on Saturday at the school's annual Science Fair. The PM visited various stalls and expressed her interest in the projects of the students and in particular was interested in the fact that the majority of the projects were centered on an environmental theme.

harbourcranepersonnelupgradeskills23032013POINT BLANCHE:--- St. Maarten Harbour Crane NV, part of St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies, hired over the last nine months three new Crane Operators and a Crane Maintenance Manager.

This expanded the existing team of three Crane Operators, a mechanic assistant and an admin support to a total of nine employees.

The trainer Achilles Van Cauwenbergh of Global Port Training (GPT) based in Antwerp, Belguim, gave a refreshment training to the three existing crane operators and full training to the three new up-comers and the Crane Maintenance Manager between February 6 and March 18.

GPT handles all certification training on behalf of Gottwald and offers tailor made solutions.

GPT specializes in launching new maritime activities and/or companies. The company also delivers a full concept in which the link is established between academic knowledge and daily practice.

On Monday, March 18, all new crane operators and the Crane Maintenance Manager received their certificates after successfully completing their training and the three exciting operators a renewal of their certification obtained in 2009.

A number of developments are taking place with the cargo sector including the expansion of the Panama Canal which is slated to open in 2015. In order for the country to be able to attract new business and retain that new business, personnel must be able to provide services in an efficient and professional manner, and therefore the importance of having the right expertise in-house.

swescotwilliams23032013The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams was part of the opening panel at the first day of the Cervical Cancer Advocacy Capacity Building Workshop which was held at the Sonesta Great Bay Hotel on Thursday morning. The Workshop featured delegates from several Caribbean Cancer Societies and Foundations and was organized by the Government of St. Maarten and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition.

In her opening remarks the Prime Minister stated she expected that during the next two days the discussions at the conference and workshops will provide the Foundations and Advocates with the kind of information necessary for them to continue their work in cancer awareness, prevention, advocacy and treatment. The Prime Minister thanked all the organizations for the work they have been doing in creating cancer awareness. "It is constantly a battle to have cancer awareness set on the forefront of the national governments. I commend the NGO's for the work that they have been doing in achieving this goal. In making it a priority of Governments to address the issue of cancer and especially cervical cancer.

"On behalf of the many women throughout the Caribbean I thank you, I thank you on behalf of those who are suffering or whose families are suffering and who do not have the time to tell their story of those, of those who might not have the means to be able to access treatment. Cervical Cancer is preventable, and yet it is the second leading cause of death amongst women in the Caribbean. And as you make the important efforts to bring that message across I urge you to use the resources made available to you, especially at this conference, to get that message across and to stop this unnecessary trend," stated the Prime Minister.

The PM concluded by stating that she hoped that the two-day conference will contribute to a region where women will have the access to information and care throughout the Caribbean region regardless of their financial standing or stature; "Finances should not be a prohibiting factor to women being able to access treatment or support and this conference is a good start in that direction. Throughout the Caribbean our women should be able to receive the care and treatment necessary to lead productive lives," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

rotaractsxmsunrisedonateswatertoprimaryschools23032013Philipsburg:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise recognized Word Water Day on March 22nd 2013 by distributing cases of bottled water to the 1st graders in all 20 primary schools on the island of St. Maarten. International World Water Day is held annually on March 22nd as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. Rotaract Sunrise presented the cases of water to management, 1st grade teachers and students at the primary schools between the hours of 7:30am-1pm. The members presenting the water, spoke about the importance of clean water and encouraged the students to spread the word of its importance to their family and friends.

The primary schools that received cases of water were; Charles Leopold-Bell, Leonard Connor, Montessori, Seven Day Adventist, Sister Regina, Learning Unlimited, Asha Stevens Hillside Christian, Oranje, Sister Borgia, St. Joseph, Marie Genevieve de Weever, Marie Laurence, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Helmich Snijders Hillside Christian, St. Dominic, Sister Magda, Prins Wilhem Alexander, Ruby Labega, MAC-John A. Gumbs Campus, and MAC Browlia F. Maillard Campus.

sjacobsattreeplantingceremonyforseniors23032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the Tree Planting Ceremony at the Senior Citizen Recreational Center in Hope Estate which was organized by St. Dominic High School IB students.

The idea of the tree planting project was introduced to the faculty of the institution, St. Dominic High School. The aim of this project is to bring awareness to why trees are important to the community. This was done in collaboration with Joslyn Richardson, agriculturalist.

The students used National Tree Day to complete their project. So on this National Tree Day the IB student planted trees at two locations on the island, namely the Senior Citizen Recreational Center and the St. Maarten Medical Center.

In her address to the students present, Minister Jacobs applauds them on their initiatives to do something positive for the environment and the reconnection with nature.

The Minister also expressed that it was her mission to ensure agriculture is established as an important part of the school curriculum, and is pleased to work together with Joslyn Richardson and other stakeholders in this area to see this become a reality.

cdeweevermeetswithdrmariosolares23032013Great Bay:--- On Wednesday afternoon, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever met with Dr. Mario Solares of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); Dr. Virginia Asin, Head of Collective Preventive Services; Maria Henry, Section Head Preventive Health and Joy Arnell, Head of Social Development to discuss the development of the National Adolescent Reproductive Health Programme for St. Maarten.
Dr. Solares is currently on the island to conduct a three day session with staff of the ministry and other local stakeholders. The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor requested assistance from UNFPA to provide technical support to develop the National Adolescent Reproductive Health Programme for the country. The final product of this endeavor will contribute to the final outcome of the cooperation with St. Maarten, which is the development of the draft National Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Programme document, which will be presented to the ministry when completed.
Dr. Mario Aguilar Solares is a medical doctor with a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. He has been working with the UNFPA for the past 16 years. Presently he is the regional advisor in sexual and reproductive health in the UNFPA sub-regional office in the Caribbean in Jamaica.

sxmtouristbureauatturtradeshow23032013Gotheborg, Sweden:--- St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and The Office du Tourisme de St. Martin are currently participating in the 30th TUR Tourism event in Sweden that lasts through Sunday, March 24, 2013.

The outbound travel pattern of Swedish travelers is changing as many Swedish travelers are shifting their vacations from the Asian Market to the Caribbean. Characteristics of Swedish travelers is that their longhaul vacations are for 2 weeks and they are keen on beaches and quality hotels.

Seen in the picture discussing marketing opportunities as well as having 10 tour operators from the Scandinavia market attending the SMART tradeshow on St, Maarten in the St. Martin/St. Maarten booth are Edward Dest, Interim Director for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Olivier Louis, European promotion manager for the Office du Tourisme de St. Martin, Gérald Amoudruz and Cecilia Lindberg of Air France KLM Northern Europe and Bart Schüller of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Benelux Office.

swescotwilliamsmeetingwithseo23032013Price Control Priority for PM

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams held an introductory meeting with consultants from SEO (Social Economic Research) who are currently on island to conduct interviews with various stakeholders in the economic sector. During the meeting the Competition Authority and Legislation for St Maarten and the findings of the Competition Authority Feasibility study was presented to the PM. The project has linkages with the Maximum Price control project, something which the Prime Minister has always had as a priority.

In 2011, a Feasibility funded by USONA and executed by SEO, demonstrated that the island is continuously being confronted with market distortions related to the increase the cost of living and the decrease in purchasing power which in turn pushes up the cost of doing business, affecting St. Maarten's international competitive negatively.

More and more countries are implementing Competition Act's and establish a Competition Authority and the goal of a Sint Maarten Competition Authority would be to function as an independent regulatory and monitoring oversight authority for all business mergers, cartel formation as well as consumer protection on the island, including the issuance of penalties.

The Prime Minister noted that the matter of Price Control and the establishment of a competition act was one that was part of the constitutional discussions which later became a Social and Economic Initiative project. The consultants will be making a presentation to the Council of Ministers tomorrow.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

swescotwilliamschairscbimeeting23032013Caribbean Basin Initiative and Caricom Explored

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams recently chaired a meeting between the Ministries of General and Economic Affairs concerning the synchronizing of St. Maarten's position on the participation in regional and other organizations and analyzing the obligations and benefits that could be derived from the country's participation.

There have been ongoing discussions regarding the application for associate membership in Caricom as well as the current plans for participation in the Caribbean Basin Initiative. Especially in the case of the latter, participants are required to show their commitment and adherence to international treaties on integrity and anti-corruption and procedures regarding procurement and competition and copy-right laws. "We also need to have a common position on possible bilateral agreements with other countries. What are our objectives in this regard? What cooperation should be required of Kingdom embassies on St. Maarten's behalf? These questions are what the technocrats will be analyzing in the coming weeks as we continue to articulate our foreign policy positions," commented the Prime Minister.

Upon attaining its constitutional status as a constituent part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, St. Maarten expressed interest in becoming an Associate member to CARICOM. The Assistant Secretary General of the Caribbean Community responded to St. Maarten's expression of interest in a letter dated October 29th, 2012 in which he explained that the Community Council of CARICOM established a Technical Working Group (TWG) to develop criteria for Associate Membership of the Community and to review the status of participation of Associate Members. In order to advance its work, the TWG called on the Secretariat to engage the relevant authorities in St. Maarten to determine St. Maarten's areas of interest in CARICOM. In order to effectively fulfill this task, the Government of Sint Maarten is required to designate a Focal Point to assist the Secretariat which will be put into motion soon. "The Government of St. Maarten attaches great importance to regional cooperation as it is viewed as a tool to assist Caribbean countries in coping with these challenges. To this end, Government has taken up and considers membership in regional organizations that will help with institutional building, provide opportunities for social and economic progress, facilitate transfer of knowledge and best practices, offer technical / financial assistance in specialized areas, and serve domestic goals such as migration, social development, justice and diversification," explained the Prime Minister.

Since 10-10-10, Sint Maarten has requested preferential trade benefits available with the United States based on agreements that were formerly had with the Netherlands Antilles, specifically as it relates to the Caribbean Basin Initiative. The Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) trade preference programs are vital elements in U.S. economic relations with its neighbors in Central America and in the Caribbean. The CBI is intended to facilitate the economic development and export diversification of the Caribbean Basin economies. Initially launched in 1983, through the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA), and substantially expanded in 2000 through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA), the CBI currently provides beneficiary countries with duty-free access to the U.S. market for most goods. The CBTPA was signed into law in May 2000 and was implemented by Presidential Proclamation in October 2000. It expires on September 30, 2020, or the date, if sooner, on which a free trade agreement as described in legislation enters into force between the United States and a CBTPA beneficiary country. There are currently 17 CBERA beneficiary countries, eight of which are also beneficiaries under CBTPA and St. Maarten is currently applying for membership.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The Government of St. Maarten represented by the Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning would like to hereby make known that the following project remedial works will take place on Saturday, March 23rd, 2013:

Main Sewage Line: Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road, Phase 2

The execution of this project will result in:

ROAD OBSTRUCTION AT ZAEGERSGUT ROAD

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is hereby informing the general public that:

Zaegersgut Road will be partially obstructed from the Zaegersgut Road Bridge at the People's Supermarket to the Cottage Roundabout (Eddie's Auto Supply) on Saturday, March 23rd, 2013 from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Traffic that normally utilizes this route will be delayed and is therefore advised to utilize alternative routes to their destinations.

In ALL cases, access will be provided for emergency services and persons residing adjacent to the works and detours.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay keen attention to the traffic signs and alternate routes for the duration of the works, to ensure a smooth and safe transition while the remedial works for Main Sewage Line Ebenezer – A.T. Illidge Road Phase 2, is completed. Furthermore, the Government of St. Maarten asks for your patience and understanding for the inconveniences that this will cause.

newfirearmpresentation22032013Philipsburg:--- On Friday March 22nd, 2013 around 10:00am, the new fire-arm for the Ministry of Justice that was advised by the Committee for New Police Weapons (CNV) in which Commissioner of Police Mr. Carl John represents the police for of St. Maarten was presented to the Minister of Justice. The Chief Commissioner of Police Mr. Peter De Witte was also present in a small ceremony that officially handed over the new police fire arms to the honorable Minister of Justice Mr. Roland Duncan.
The Police IBT instructor Mr. Hans Huijting is presently giving lessons of the new weapons to the fire-arms instructors from the police and prison.
The new fire-arms which are from an Italian made company are the Berretta model PX4 Storm that is a semi automatic caliber 9mm handgun. This weapon also carries more ammunition that the existing police fire-arm that is presently being used.
The honorable Minister gave his blessings and is looking forward to seeing these new weapons on the hips of the officers within his ministry in a very short time.
After this introduction and short ceremony, the IBT instructor Mr. Huijtings took the other instructors to the shooting range.

KPSM Police Report

marinaserrant22032013Philipsburg:--- The well known driver of the Minister of Justice Marina Serrant who arrested in the Brooks Tower 2 investigation and recently sent on vacation by the Minister of Justice was one of the two people the Landsrecherche interrogated on Friday. According to well placed sources, Serrant was questioned just after 2pm Friday afternoon. It is not yet clear what role Serrant plays in the Bada Bing investigation. But the detectives at the Landsrecherche probably got indications that Serrant must have information that can assist them in the ORCA (Bada Bing alledged bribery) investigation. The Prosecutor's Office issued a press release after SMN News made two calls to the Attorney General to inquire if the Minister of Justice's driver was one of the persons they interrogated on Friday. The press release which is beneath this article states that the other person that was also interrogated was the Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet.


MINISTER ROMEO PANTOPHLET INTERVIEWED.


romeopantophlet24092012On Friday afternoon the Minister of Economic affairs Romeo Pantophlet was interviewed as a witness in the ORCA-investigation into the alleged Bada Bing corruption case.
The Minister was asked about the permits of Bada Bing and the possible involvement of MP Patrick Illidge in obtaining those. The interview lasted 4 hours.
This afternoon the former driver of Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, Marina Serrant, was interviewed as well.
During the days to come more interviews of witnesses are planned.

Press Release from the Prosecutor's Office

.
Former Manager of Bada Bing said club owner tapes everyone, especially politicians to keep them in check.


A former manager of the Bada Bing strip club who is currently living off island told SMN News in two Skype interviews between Thursday and Friday that Jaap van den Heuvel is known for taping people entering his strip club.
The former manager said that Bada Bing owner used to tape politicians and other high ranking officials who went to his place of business for special (sexual) entertainment while he was not licensed to operate a house of prostitution. "Several politicians had special privileges because they were allowed to go to the top floor with the girls. What I am telling you is that I saw several persons, I do not want to mention their names because I don't want to smear their images in society, go on the third floor and inside the girls' rooms for sexual favors. Most of this Jaap taped and he kept these tapes to keep politicians in check.
The man said he also witnessed huge arguments between Van den Heuvel and politicians all of which were taped because the cameras inside the establishment are always rolling. "I am a bit ashamed now that I am bringing this to light because several times these politicians and high ranking officials would ask me if those cameras were rolling and I told them "no" because I did not want to blow the whistle on my boss."
When SMN News asked the former manager if he ever witnessed Van Heuvel bribing politicians, he said while he never witnessed such he would not rule it out because on St. Maarten you have to pay for what you want. "Ever since I know myself as a businessman living on St. Maarten you have to pay under the table to get what you want, this is not going on today. Bribery and getting what you want started with the late Claude Wathey so it was something everyone knew on the island, especially investors." When SMN News reporter asked the former manager if he ever saw former Minister of VROMI and UP Leader Theo Heyliger at Bada Bing strip club, the former manager said I never saw him with my two eyes but I know he was there several times. "You know, Theo did not get liver problems just like that, he was drinking and in clubs all the time. Theo began consuming alcohol since he was a teenager and he was allowed in clubs because of his family ties on St. Maarten." SMN News went further and asked the former manager if knew where Jaap van den Heuvel was keeping the tapes that he kept to keep the politicians in check, he said that no one can find those except Jaap. "No one don't even know where Jaap lives, he is a very secretive and slick man. One day he lives here and the other day another place." SMN News also learnt that the police don't even know for sure where the businessman lived, but they searched a location somewhere next to Mary's Boom in Simpson Bay.

confiscatedmarijuana22032013Philipsburg:--- On Thursday March 21st, 2013 during the evening and into the early morning hours, the "Zero Tolerance Team" were very busy with different controls in various districts. They were mainly checking the "blocks" where the community was complaining of illegal activities taking place.
During these controls/checks, several small packages containing small quantities of marijuana were found hidden in trees and other uncommon areas. These packages were confiscated and brought over to the narcotics department. Persons also not in the possession of proper I.D. were also brought in for control and after their ID was confirmed they were set free.
These controls will continue and neighborhoods that are encountering any type of disturbances or illegal activities can call the police department and this will be investigated.


Three Injured in Jet Ski Incident.

On Thursday March 21st, 2013 around 2:50pm, a police patrol was directed to the Boardwalk in Philipsburg in the vicinity of the Fire House Restaurant where a Jet ski had suddenly burst into flames in the water and persons were injured.
Upon arrival of the patrol it was confirmed that three persons on board a Jet Ski had been injured when for unknown reasons it burst into flames.
A mother with the initials N.Z. from Israel and her two children that are staying on board the Royal Caribbean cruise liner had received some minor injuries.
They were attended to by the personnel of the Ambulance Department and later brought to their ship by the police patrol.
The police Maritime Division was on the scene and took over the investigation.

 

stabbingfillin24102012Soualiga Road:--- On Wednesday March 20th, 2013 around 8:30pm, a police patrol unit was directed to the Melford Hazel Sports Complex on the Soualiga road regarding a stabbing incident.
Upon arrival of the patrol, it was confirmed that indeed a young man had been stabbed by an unknown person.
The victim who is a minor living at Over The Bank with the initials R.R. stated that while he was walking on the above mentioned road he was suddenly attacked by an unknown male person that tried to snatch his cellphone from him. When he resisted his attacker he was stabbed several times around his body by his assailant.
After committing this cowardly act, the assailant fled the scene of the crime. The victim was attended to by personnel of the Ambulance Department and taken to the SMMC for further medical attention. The detective department is investigating this crime further.


KPSM Warns Residents about Lighting Bush Fires close to homes.

On Wednesday March 20th, 2013 around 11:30am a police patrol from the uniform division saw a big dark cloud of smoke in the area of AJC Brouwers road.
Not knowing what was taking place and seeing that there are a lot of private homes in that area, the patrol immediately started to investigate and it was confirmed that there was indeed a fire but not a home.
Upon further investigation the patrol found that the fire was that of some bush that was cleared off a parcel of land that had gotten out of control.
The fire however was extinguished by neighbors and those whom had been clearing the parcel of land.
The parties in question were spoken to and advised to take better precautions when lighting bush fires that are very close to homes.

KPSM Police Report

telemroadtocarnivaleventatbliss20032013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group has announced a change in schedule for their increasingly popular "Road to Carnival" pre-carnival road show. The event planned for Prive this Saturday, will now take place at a later date.
TelEm Group organizers have announced that their fun parties will continue on April 4 when TelEm Group of Companies and the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) will present the third "Road to Carnival" party event.
This time, the road will lead to the Great Bay Beach Promenade, popularly known as the Boardwalk, as part of the St. Maarten Boardwalk Carnival Extravaganza.
The night will feature a live band, dancers and other attraction as a Carnival atmosphere will be brought to Philipsburg.
TelEm Group and SCDF will stay in the Philipsburg area for the fourth Road to Carnival event which will be held on April 5 at the popular Sheika's eatery located at the Cultural Center on Back Street. Here too a live band will be featured and a Carnival Block Party atmosphere will be created.
"Each week our road trip followers get larger and larger in size," said coordinator and Lead Customer Service Representative at TelEm Group, Suraj Ramdas.
"The center of all Carnival festivities is Carnival Village located in Philipsburg. Though we are not ready to move into Carnival Village, we thought it appropriate to bring our lead up parties to the general Philipsburg area. Both the Boardwalk Extravaganza and Sheika's are extremely popular hang-out spots. We intend to add a little Carnival to the mix," President of SCDF Mike Granger said.
The first two Road to Carnival events were held at Soggy Dollar Bar and Bliss Night Club.

Coordinators of the much-anticipated 2013-2014 VOOC/Hype School Agendas are currently finalizing plans for the full-color glossy publication, which will focus on, among other things, depicting cultures represented in St. Maarten in their pictures.

Coordinators are trying to get in touch with representatives of several cultural associations or individuals on the island to assist in providing cultural outfits to be worn by male and female high school students to be depicted in the Agendas. Outfits will be returned once photos have been taken.

Several cultural groups have already committed to this. The team is urging representatives of the various associations to get in touch with Voice of our children or Hype as soon as possible: Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Suriname and the Netherlands.

Representatives of these Associations or individuals willing to provide cultural wear from their respective communities can contact Project Leader Zulayka Peterson at email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Tel: 520-1941.

Posters will be placed at the various secondary schools in the coming days inviting students interested in being depicted in cultural wear in the agendas to sign up either via the respective hype representative at their school, or on Pete's Photo Facebook page.

Other cultures that will be featured in the agenda are St. Maarten, India, China, Saba and Statia.

The agendas are being produced by Voice Of Our Children Foundation (VOOC) in collaboration with Hype and will be distributed among high schools and students by the end of the current academic year.

The educational agendas will contain a range of interesting and fun reading material including profiles of outstanding high school students, teachers and role models in the community as well as useful information for students preparing to pursue tertiary studies abroad.

Great Bay:--- On Saturday, March 23, 2013 the Fifth annual Rudy Hoeve Lion's Club Wellness Fair will be held at the Festival Village, where the community of St. Maarten is invited to come out for the various screenings and health information.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is encouraging the community of St. Maarten to go out to the Rudy Hoeve Lion's Club Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, to "Get Checked." "Take advantage of this opportunity and get the necessary screenings done for your cholesterol, blood pressure and more free of charge," said Minister De Weever.
The public will be given the opportunity to do a variety of tests, such as for breast cancer, diabetes, HIV, vaccinations for children, physical exercises and the availability of pharmaceutical information. Stakeholders that will be on hand are as follows: St. Maarten AIDS Foundation; Mental Health Foundation; Diabetes Foundation; Ministry of Health; WIEMS; White & Yellow Cross; NAGICO Insurances; Alpha Health Store; St. Maarten Pensioners Foundation; Art of Living Foundation; Windward Islands Optical; Manrique Capriles; Prime Distributors; St. Maarten Medical Center amongst others.

mdslogo22032013World Meteorological Day is observed every year on March 23rd by all members of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). It is a day that marks the establishment of WMO on that date in 1950. In regards to this day, the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) would like to shed some light on what this day signifies, although it is not a public holiday.
This year, the theme is "Watching the weather to protect life and property".

Throughout the year, meteorologists (also known as forecasters) across the world work together in national weather, water and climate agencies to collect, analyze, and share information including reliable and timely weather forecasts.

Weather and climate does not recognize political borders, therefore countries of the United Nations adopted a Convention to create an intergovernmental organization known as the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Today, the WMO is the United Nations authoritative voice in weather, climate and water. WMO sets global standards and facilitates the exchange of information between the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of its 189 Member States and Territories. The Meteorological Service of St. Maarten and Curacao are members of the WMO.

The International Meteorological Organization was established at the first International Meteorological Congress in Vienna, Austria, in 1873. The International Meteorological Organization became the World Meteorological Organization on March 23, 1950. It became the UN's specialized agency for meteorology, operational hydrology and related geophysical sciences in 1951.

The World Meteorological Organization plays a crucial role in contributing to people's safety and welfare. Its work is important in providing food security, water resources and transport. World Meteorological Day has been observed on March 23 each year since 1961.

The Meteorological Department of St. Maarten would also like to remind the public to visit their website www.meteosxm.com for further weather information, such as daily forecasts, severe weather alerts, etc.

Basse Terre:--- The General Assizes of Basse Terre pronounced the verdict for the mother and daughter who stabbed Cecilia Henry to death late Friday evening. The jury found Imelda Relus guilty of assassination and sentenced her to eight (8) years imprisonment. While Karell Marcellin was found guilty of murder and was sentenced to five (5) years imprisonment. It is clear that the court considered what the mother and daughter suffered at the hands of victim and the suspects actions on that fatal day was simply to defend themselves because authorities did not try to stop Henry from attacking Marcellin.

The two suspects can clearly say that the judicial system worked in their favor and considered the amount of times Karell Marcellin was attacked by Henry. Based on the decision of the General Assizes, Karell Marcellin can approach the court within six months and ask that she be released from prison conditionally since she already spent two years behind bars. As for the mother, she would have to stay much longer in prison before she could submit a plea for her liberation before the courts.

Karell Marcellin in her statements to the court on Wednesday made clear that she had a difficult life growing up, she also told the court that in her mind she would have always been a victim of Cecilia Henry because she ended up twice in hospital because of the injuries she suffered each time Henry attacked her. She told the court she wanted to be a good person, a policeman, gendarme or even a lawyer but her families' financial circumstances prevented her from continuing her education in Martinique. Marcellin even told the court she found work on the Dutch side and was quickly promoted.

Regarding the exact circumstances on October 3rd, 2011 when Cecilia Henry was killed Marcellin told the court she just could not remember the details and how she ended up on the other side of the street.

On Friday morning the Attorney General told the Court of Assizes in his remarks that he does not consider the murder of Cecilia Henry as an assassination or premeditated murder as concluded by the Judge of Instruction. The Attorney General considered the killing of Cecilia Henry by Karell Marcellin and her mother Imelda Relus as "murder". Therefore, he asked the jury to convict the main suspect Karell Marcellin to eight (8) years imprisonment while her mother Imelda Relus received ten (10) years imprisonment for the brutal slaying of Cecilia Henry.
Victims lawyer Maitre Jan Marc Ferly told SMN News that the Attorney General has taken the liberty to give people on St. Martin the authority to kill each other when they have a problem that cannot be easily be resolved. Maitre Ferly said the conclusion of the Attorney General is very bad sign for the people of St. Martin. Maitre Ferly said most of the evidence that is in the file was ignored by the Attorney General.
In August 2012, the judge of instruction in Pointe Pitre; Brice Haansmaan determined that the two suspects Karell Marcelin and her mother Imelda Relus would have to stand trial for the premeditated murder of Cecilia Henry. Judge Haansman referred the case to the General Assizes after determining that there was sufficient evidence to show that the mother and daughter were guilty of the premeditated murder and assassination of Cecilia Henry.
The court determined after reviewing all the evidence provided to them that the case is classified as assassination under articles 132-72, 132-75,221-1, 221-3, 221-8, 221-9, and 221-11 of the penal code.

rotarysxmdonateswaterfountains21032013Rotary Donates 12 water fountains

According to water.org every 20 seconds, a child dies from a water-related illness, women spend 200 million hours a day collecting water, more than three times more people lack water than live in the United States, the majority of illness is caused by fecal matter, more people have a mobile than a toilet and lack of community involvement causes 50% of other projects to fail.

Rotary Clubs around the world observe World water day. In CROSSVILLE — The Fairfield Glade Rotary Club and the three Rotary Clubs in Oak Ridge have collaborated to expand on a pilot program to provide biosand water filters for rural Haitian families that started in Leogane, Haiti.
"The pilot project produced and installed 103 water filters. The expanded project will add 630 more filters," according to Pete Peterson, president of the Oak Ridge Breakfast Rotary Club.
Villages in four regions of Ghana are being equipped with ventilated pit latrines, showers, and boreholes featuring hand pumps and mechanized pipes through the efforts of dozens of Rotary clubs in Latin America, North America, and Ghana.
The effort is part of the The International H2O Collaboration, an alliance between Rotary International and USAID, a centerpiece of Rotary's emphasis on water and sanitation issues. Launched in 2009, the alliance works to implement long-term, sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene projects in the developing world. The first phase of the partnership has focused on three countries: Ghana, the Philippines, and the Dominican Republic. Source: www.orbrc.org/CleanWaterProjects.cfm
The Sisters of St. Francis of Sylvania, Ohio, recently received a grant for $4,680 from the Toledo Rotary Club Foundation to purchase portable water-purification devices for residents of Haiti in the mountains where the Catholic sisters minister.
Clean drinking water is an ongoing problem for the people of Haiti and is a major cause of death of children under the age of 5. This grant will allow the sisters to purchase 100 water-purification units for residents in five villages above Pestel, 90 miles west of Port-au-Prince, where they have served since 2000.
And so on St. Maarten while we are fortunate that this basic commodity is not as scarce as it is in many countries, The Rotary Club of St. Maarten continues to observes this day and the fact that we too on St. Maarten can give content to this subject by providing water fountains to schools. As such as a result of a collaborated effort between the Ace/Liteline and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten will be distributing and connecting 12 water coolers in several primary schools on the island.

kingyentaekwondopuertoricotournamentgrouppic21032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten King Yen Tae Kwon Do School took third place at the 20th Puerto Rico International Tae Kwon Do Championships "Los Gallitos Olimpicos 2013," held early March. This time the team was also extended with athletes from the Seniors/Master Division. The delegation was represented by Jeroen Veen, Sonny Wongsonadi and Carlo Talkami.

The King Yen athletes brought home 21 Gold, 13 Silver, and three Bronze, and also won the Grand Champ Trophy and was recognized as the 3th Best International Team after partaking in several sparring as well the poomsee (patterns or forms) divisions.

The tournament took place at the Arquelio Torres Coliseum of San German. This is the 7th time that the King Yen School has taken part in this yearly tournament.

The team competed against 768 athletes from Brazil, Venezuela, Dominican Republic, U.S.A (New York, Florida, Georgia), U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Croix, St. Barths, Columbia, St. Kitts & Nevis and Puerto Rico.

The delegation leader and head coach, Theo Liu says the competition was tough but that his athletes did very well especially against the athletes from Puerto Rico whereby some judges had as usual had an attitude of their country first.

"We have received a number of invitations from all the participating countries," King Yen Tae Kwon Do School Grand Master Theo Liu said.

A great number of parents traveled along with the athletes. Liu says he is very appreciative for their support and help with the youngsters.

The schools delegation was the biggest ever, 53 persons and the delegation leader and Head Coach Liu was strongly supported by:

Charlene Craig: Team coordinator & Coach;

Joel Rombley: Coach

Marcel Loor: Coach

Paulien Vuijst: Medical – Sports Therapist & Chaperone;

John Gumbs: Photographer/Camera

Liu added that he is very thankful to the various sponsors who have made the trip possible to this international tournament, namely Oriental Caribbean Insurances (OCI), Euro Caribbean Linkup N.V., Green Fingers N.V., Gulf Insurances, Sheriff Security, Fatum N.V., Henderson Insurances N.V., SKEEDO PESS N.V., GEBE, Lexwell Attorneys, Sunny Food, Staff Helmut Schneider Christian Hillside School, Bloem Attorneys N.V., Intermar, The Daily Herald, UTS N.V., and parents, family members and many others not mentioned.

The tournament took place at the Arquelio Torres Coliseum of San German.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Wednesday various Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) from the national disaster management system Office of Disaster Management took part in a regional virtual bi-annual CaribeWave 13 tsunami exercise.

The exercise was simultaneously held in 40 countries and territories in or bordering the Caribbean Sea.

The purpose of the exercise was to assist tsunami preparedness efforts in the Caribbean and adjacent regions, including the U.S., Canadian East coasts, the Gulf of Mexico and Bermuda.

The CaribeWave/Lantex13 tsunami scenario simulated a tsunami generated by an 8.5 earthquake originating 57 miles North of Oranjestad, Aruba in the Caribbean Sea.

The virtual exercise served to test the communication channels among the ESFs on Sint Maarten.

Recent events, such as the 2004 Indian Ocean, 2009 Samoa, 2010 Haiti and Chile, and 2011 Japan earthquakes and tsunamis, attest to the importance of proper planning for tsunami response.

Historical tsunami records from sources such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) show that over 75 tsunamis with validity greater than one have been observed in the Caribbean over the past 500 years. These represent approximately 7-10 per cent of the world's oceanic tsunamis.

Earthquake, landslide, and volcanic tsunami sources have all impacted the region. Since 1842 at least 3,510 people have lost their lives to tsunamis in the Caribbean.

The exercise was organized by the UNESCO IOC Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Tsunami and other Coastal Hazards Warning System for the Caribbean Sea and Adjacent Region, the US National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program Warning Coordination Subcommittee.

In 2011 Sint Maarten participated for the first time in CarbWave. A workshop was held for ESF-coordinators and other stakeholders.

In the last workshop the agreement was made between ESF-3 (Ministry VROMI) and ESF-5 (Police) to start working on indicating safe zones and evacuation routes.

According to Section Head of the Office of Disaster Management, Paul Martens, the latter is awaiting the storm surge and tsunami models from UNESCO-IHE. It is expected that these should be finished soon. Once this is done and the safe zones and evacuation routes are identified, the public can be duly informed.

A public awareness campaign will then be prepared. This would be the task of ESF-8 (Department of Communication) in collaboration with most Emergency Operations Center (EOC) members.

pjlsolarenergyprojecttoast21032013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday March 23, at 10:30am, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be hosting an information session about the technical and financial aspects of solar energy.
During the sessions, participants will be able to see how the solar energy system, recently installed at the library, works in practice. Attendants will also receive information about the ins and outs of installing solar energy panels at their private house or business.
The sessions will be conducted by experts from Caribbean Energy Store NV and Archyon Integrated Solutions in the hall of the library.
The general public is invited to attend to learn how they can save on their energy bill and help the environment, by using solar energy.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is transforming the grounds of its Pond Island property into a Fun Park - for children to enjoy some Easter activities. The TelEm Group Fun Park will be open for all from 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm, Sunday, March 31. It will feature a host of activities for children including:

  • Rock Climbing
  • Bungee Jumping
  • Caricature Drawing
  • Clowns and Jugglers
  • Spray Painted T-Shirts
  • Life-size animated characters

There will be a wide array of prizes for all visitors and participants on the day, along with lots of Easter goodies for the kids and the young-at-heart to snack on.

"Parents don't have to worry about filling hungry bellies at the TelEm Group Fun Park because there will be lots for everyone," said project coordinator, Angel Richardson.

She said the initiative is TelEm Group's way of giving back to the youth in the community and giving children the chance to take part in some fun activities during their Easter break from school.

"Our Fun Park will be unlike anything we have seen before at our TelEm Group building," continued Angel, who is now urging parents to turn out with their children themselves, and to pass on word about the Fun Park to other families and friends to ensure a bumper turnout.

To allow for a smooth flow of pedestrian traffic to the TelEm Group building, parents will be asked to park in the parking lot next to the new Government building on Pond Island. This will also ease traffic congestion. For security reasons, parents will also be asked to accompany their children to the event activities at all times.

Telem Press Release

Philipburg:--- The 5th annual Lion Rudy Hoeve Health & Wellness Fair is scheduled for this coming Saturday with a variety of stakeholders available for the public to do testing and receive important information about their Health & Wellness.
The general public will be able to do a variety of tests for Breast Cancer, Diabetes, HIV, Vaccination, Physical Exercises and Pharmaceutical Awareness. Stakeholders that will be on location are the St. Maarten Aids, Mental Health and Diabetes Foundations, WIEMS, Collective Prevention Services White and Yellow Cross Foundation, Sector Public Health, NAGICO Insurances, Alpha Health Store, St. Maarten Pensioners Foundation, Art of Living Foundation, Windward Islands Optical, Manrique Capriles, Prime Distributors, St. Maarten Medical Center, The Lab Sport Academy, Nature Health Club and Divico Distributors, among others.
Food and drinks will be on sale and a kiddy's corner will be set up for parents wishing to bring their children along. Basically, the event is a family affair, as Health & Wellness awareness is for the young and old alike and is one of primary focus points for the St. Maarten Lions Club yearly community projects.
The 5th annual Lion Rudy Hoeve Health and Wellness Fair is scheduled for this Saturday, March 23rd starting from 9am to 4pm at the Festival Village in Philipsburg.

Philipsburg:--- On Wednesday March 20th, 2013 there was a break and entry in one of the jewelry stores in the Philipsburg area where an undisclosed amount of items were stolen. This occurred around 2:50am.
The Police Department is asking the general public to be alert and aware of anyone that may approach you with any kind of jewelry and to please contact the police.
We are also asking the community to assist us with any information that may lead to the arrest of these unknown suspects.

KPSM Police Report

Just as last year the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association (SMSPA) will once again participate in the Health and Wellness Fair in the Festival Village on Saturday coming, March 23, 2012. The SMSPA wants to discuss with all visitors how they feel and think about the well-being of seniors and pensioners in Sint Maarten.
All families are invited to visit our booth and share with our association members their thoughts about the well-being and the health situation of their family members here in Sint Maarten.
The SMSPA CONSTITUTION stipulates that the SMSPA is against all forms of discrimination and in favour of the realization of all human rights for the seniors and their family members on an equal footing in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
We want to hear from you what we have to do to improve the income and pension situation of the seniors from today and from tomorrow. Also we want to hear your recommendations about how to improve health care quality in Sint Maarten. We are very much interested in your experiences and grievances with the social security system and the health care system in Sint Maarten.
The younger generation especially the youth is also welcome to tell us if they want to be in the same situation tomorrow when they are a senior. We are very much interested in the thoughts of the youth about the situation of their senior parents or grandparents, and what they think we can do to change the situation so that tomorrow they don't end up in the same situation as we the seniors in Dutch Sint Maarten are now.
Board members will inform those interested about our mission, vision, capabilities and endeavors. You can get information about tasks and activities undertaken during its nearly two years of existence, to improve the health and the well-being of the seniors on Sint Maarten. For those who wish to join the SMSPA, application forms to sign up and become a member of the association will be available.
So let us share with you, our seniors from today and the seniors from tomorrow, Saturday coming at the health and wellness fair in the booth of the Sint Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association.

Philipsburg:--- The police is requesting everyone over the age of 12 years old to have their identification cards or passport with them at all times when making use of the public roads or when visiting public entities because such is required by law (Identification Law).

When summoned by a police officer or auxiliary police officer to provide identification one has to adhere to this. If not, whether you are a national or non national you will be brought to the police station until such can be arranged. Please carry proper identification to avoid such inconvenience.

KPSM Police Report

kadasterpresentationtompcstudents21032013Philipsburg:--- The Kadaster is currently looking for qualified youngsters to train them for taking positions within the organization in the coming period. Within a time range of 10-20 years the current staff will retire and therefore it is important to start in time with bringing in young people to secure the continuation. The new spirit and ideas combined with the existing experience must accumulate into a blend to improve and extend the Kadaster service. A period of 10-20 years may look long but is not as long as it seems to be and that makes it important to start now with the training of a new generation staffers. The focus is on the mid-level positions, with outstanding individuals advancing to the management positions. In the past little attention was paid to the training and upgrading of the educational level of the staff but the Office is now striving to have a future staff of fully qualified surveyors and registration assistants. For that purpose a training/learning programme is being developed in which students will have a combination of job training and classes. The programme is meant to give the selected local youth the opportunity to further their education on the Island while providing the opportunity for local future professionals to fill in all vacating positions in the future. The Kadaster is looking into different options and one is an idea that was advocated by Perry Geerlings during his term in the Supervisory Board, to give scholarships to students for specialized studies. Another option is to support students in their further study and in both options they have a job guarantee upon return. The main objective however is to have the Kadaster positions completely filled by St. Maarten people on the long run, because the potential is available, but we have to find ways to utilize it. On Monday and Tuesday March 11 and 12 Mr. Clemens Roos and Mr. Jonathan Charles from the Kadaster had information sessions with students from Milton Peters College, the only school that showed interest in this initiative. During these sessions the students were informed about what the function of the Kadaster is, why this initiative is taken, what the Kadaster is aiming at and what the requirements are to participate. Out of these information sessions the Kadaster hopes to get enough qualified applicants to realise this initiative. With the realization of this initiative, an idea that was brought forward long ago by the former chair of the Supervisor Board, Perry Geerlings is being realized. The current Board with Chair Mrs. Sandiford, is also in full support of this initiative ever since the idea was brought forward by Mr. Geerlings.
The Kadaster management hopes that this initiative will be followed by other entities on the Island, especially by governmental offices, in order to give the local youth perspectives for the future. We are taking the first step and we hope to be followed by others, so that in the end we can design a comprehensive program in which different disciplines will participate, giving more options to the attendees.

Basse Terre:--- The judge and jury of the General Assizes in Basse Terre heard from the mother of the main murder suspect who killed Cecilia Henry on October 3rd, 2011. When the trial resumed on Wednesday Imelda Relus was interviewed but her statements to the court seems to cause more confusion since it appeared as though Relus tried to minimize her role in the brutal killing of Cecilia Henry. Relus told the court when she threw a stone at Henry her intention was not to hit her but to make her aware of her presence at the scene where the fight between Karell Marcellin and Cecilia Henry was taking place. Relus told the court she wanted to stop the constant fights between her daughter and Henry, yet she is the one that bought the two weapons that were used to inflict 60 stab wounds on the young woman they described as a terror in the French Quarter community.

Relus also did the same as her daughter when it came down to the actual acts of stabbing and chopping Henry by claiming she could not remember how it all happened.

The trial continued with a video conference of two witnesses from St. Martin. The first was the director of the investigation who confirmed to the court that there were several fights (brawls) between the main suspect Karell Marcellin and the victim Cecila Henry prior to October 3rd, 2011 when the brutal murder took place. The lead investigator said from the inception when they began the investigation the two suspects tried to manipulate the investigators especially when answering questions based on the evidence that they had in their possession. The first day of the trial ended with the hearing of a second witness who saw what took place on that fatal day October 3rd, 2011.

On the second day of the trial both suspects mother and daughter accused the late Cecilia Henry of causing the incident that took her life. The pathologist told the court that Henry's body bore 39 wounds caused by a knife, but there were many injuries and scratches that were throughout the body of the victim. There were wounds from head to foot, through her chest, and even on her buttocks.

The pathologist concluded that the suspects used force when they attacked Henry; some of the wounds were so deep that they caused bone damage and fractures. The tip of the knife was found in the victim's right ear.
Attorney at law Jan Marc Ferly had a lively exchange in the court with one of the defense lawyers when he tried to convince the court that the victim was under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident. Maitre Ferly asked the defense and the suspects show some respect for the dead. The trial continues on Friday.

Marigot:--- The Palais de Justice in Marigot was packed on Thursday morning as several persons from within the community and workers from the Collectivity of St. Martin, including fourth Vice President Wendell Cocks showed up at the Court House to witness the criminal proceedings brought against third Vice President Guillaume Arnell, former head of Urbanism Josi Carti, and the owner of Sindextour Norbert Luftman. Thursday's criminal hearing was placed on the docket after an investigation into the issuance of the AOT that the Collectivity of Saint Martin issued to the owner of Sindextour Norbert Luftman while denying the request that was submitted by the owner of Bikini Beach Elisa Cohen and Phillipe Just of Kontiki Beach. Cohen and Just filed a complaint against the Collectivity when they learned that the COM had issued an Autorisation d'Occupation Temporaire (AOT) to Norbert Luftman even though he submitted his request a month and days after Cohen and Just.

Cohen and Just are contesting what they view as the illegal issuing of an AOT renewal to Luftman's company Sindextour for the parcel AW33 by the COM on April 17, 2012 while their own AOT applications that were submitted in February 2012 were ignored and refused without explanation.

Several members of the Arnell family were in court giving support to third Vice President Guilaume Arnell who was neatly dressed in a white shirt and black pants. The second suspect Josi Carti who no longer works for the Collectivity was sporting in a brown tee shirt and a blue jeans pants. The businessman Norbert Luftman did not appear in court on Thursday even though he was summoned to appear for the hearing.

Thursday's proceedings were short but hot. The lawyer who represented third Vice President Guillaume Arnell asked for a postponement because his lawyer who is from France was unable to appear on Thursday. Attorney at Law Herbert Jabot represented Arnell in the absence of his lawyer Maitre Jean-Yves Le Borgne.

Third Vice President Guillaume Arnell addressed the court asking the judge to lift the judicial control that has been imposed on him. Arnell told the court that he is an elected official and an upstanding citizen who has to travel on behalf of his work and other family related matters. Arnell tried to convince the judge that he is not a person that poses any risk and therefore he sees no need for him to be restricted. Besides that, he told the court that the judicial control limits the obligations he has as the third vice president of the Collectivity. Arnell further stated that it is impossible for him to carry out his duties as an elected official.

The Prosecutor Flavien Noailles insisted that the judicial control be maintained to show good functioning of the judicial system. Noailles also insisted that the three parties must not communicate with each other.

The lawyer that is representing the victims (civil parties) Elisa Cohen and Philippe Just, Stephen Montravers argued against the request of Arnell and Carti claiming that these persons will harass his clients. Montravers also told the court that on February 14th when the court lifted part of the judicial control for Norbert Luftman the civil parties were not given a chance to contest Luftman's request. Montravers told the court that his clients have been harassed by Luftman and his employees ever since the Collectivity of St. Martin issued the AOT to him for AW33 on Orient Bay. On February 14th, 2013 the court dropped the 300,000 Euros the Gendarmes placed as bond to 10,000 Euros while the Court also returned Luftman's passport which was also confiscated by the Gendarmes for medical reasons.

After a brief recess the court decided to lift part of the judicial control, meaning that Arnell and Carti do not have to go every two weeks to the Gendarmerie, and they can now travel if need be. However, Arnell, Carti, and Luftman cannot make contact with each other, neither can they contact or go to the civil parties place of business located on Orient Beach. The President of the Court also precised in his ruling that September 19th, 2012 will be reserved only for the handling of the AOT case since a number of witnesses has to be heard on the day of the trial.

Another twist to the AOT saga and the Orient Beach affair which has been making headlines is that Norbert Luftman filed a criminal lawsuit against Attorney at Law Stephen Montravers who also appeared in court on Thursday. The judge postponed the case of Luftman against Montravers to November 14th, 2013, which is after the criminal hearing now scheduled for September 19th, 2013.

theyliger04032012Philipsburg:--- The detectives from the Landsrecherche interrogated the Leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger and a top civil servant Shervin Fredericks who was working for the Ministry of Economic Affairs during the UP/DP/Illidge coalition government. Deputy Attorney General Taco Stein confirmed to SMN News on Thursday that both Heyliger and Fredericks were heard as witnesses in the bribery investigation involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and the owner of Bada Bing strip club Jaap van den Heuvel.

The investigation into the alleged bribery started some three weeks ago when De Telegraaf in the Netherlands and the Daily Herald published articles concerning a videotape showing Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge taking monies from van den Heuvel and stuffing it in his pockets. In that videotape, Illidge called the names Fredericks and Martha Thewet when the businessman was asking him about a business license.

Heyliger was brought into the picture, when van den Heuvel told his lawyer via an email that the Leader of the United Peoples Party set him up to tape MP Illidge. Van den Heuvel claims that he was repaying Illidge monies he borrowed from him during his divorce procedure.

The email which was sent to MP Patrick Illidge is below this article where the businessman apologized to MP Illidge whom he said is a long time friend and the only reason he did what Heyliger asked him to do was to get the UP leader back in government.

It should be noted that when the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan was questioned last week with the Head of Immigration Udo Aron the Prosecutor's office sent out a press release almost immediately after the interrogation with the Minister of Justice was concluded. The actions by the Prosecutor's Office and the Office of the Attorney General seem to be biased when it comes to releasing information on the ongoing investigation involving elected officials on St. Maarten. SMN News contacted Attorney General Taco Stein on Wednesday twice for confirmation on the interrogation of the Former Minister and civil servant Shervin Fredericks and on both occasions Stein said he did not know because the head of the Landsrecherché Ademar Doran did not inform him even though they spoke on Wednesday.

Below is the press release issued by the Prosecutor's Office after SMN News released this news item.


FORMER MINISTER THEO HEYLIGER INTERVIEWED.

In the last few days several witnesses were interviewed in the ORCA-investigation into the alleged Bada Bing corruption case.
On Tuesday March 19, 2013, former Minister of VROMI Theodore Heyliger was interviewed by the National Detectives Office. Heyliger was asked about his knowledge on the footage recorded in Bada Bing. Heyliger told his version of how he knew about the footage.
Also on Tuesday a former civil servant of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, S. Frederick, was interviewed as well.
On Wednesday two members of the management of Bada Bing were interviewed and on Thursday the Chief editor of The Daily Herald, Mr. Paul de Windt was interviewed on the footage.
During the days to come more interviews of witnesses are planned.

Press Release by Prosecutor's Office

Click here to view the email sent by Jaap van den Heuvel to MP Illidge.

usmassessmentcampaign21032013Philipsburg:--- USM in its endeavour to avail St. Maarten of quality education courses has embarked on an assessment campaign to pulse the reality in terms of what is actually needed on St. Maarten. To that end, 2 experts in the respective domains, Ms. Tamara Hughes for Instructional Technology (IT) and Ms. Jose Sommers for Physical Education (PE) were approached and contracted to conduct an assessment on the need of IT and PE on St. Maarten.
The needs assessment presentation for Physical Education and Instructional technology was presented today at USM by Jose Sommers and Tamara Hughes. Present were Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs as well as other educational stake holders. The data from the needs assessment was presented along with recommendations for USM and government as well as description of created certificate programs for the said areas. Minister Jacobs said she supported the initiatives 100 percent. USM is excited to move forward with the support of the Ministry of Education as well as the school boards to provide further education in areas deemed necessary by the ministry, USM, and island schools officials.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group is inviting staff and members of the general public to join in a fun Taebo workout at the Lion's Health Fair Saturday morning.
During the same Health Fair last year, TelEm Group had scores of visitors sweating to a rousing Zumba exercise workout, during which Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams was an enthusiastic participant.
This time around, TelEm Group will be highlighting the benefits of a Taebo workout – made popular the world over by Taebo champ, Billy Blank.
"We have our own Billy Blank in the form of our new Outside Plant Manager, Marco London who will get the Taebo session rolling at the Lion's Health Fair Saturday", said coordinators Angel Richardson and Cheryl Rismay.
Marco is a former St. Maarten kick-boxing champion with many moves (under his belt) to raise cardio levels and get visitors to the health on the road to healthy exercise practices.
"It was great fun last year and we expect it to be a Taebo blast this time," said Cheryl.

This year's event is also special to TelEm Group because it is being renamed the Rudy Hoeve Health Fair after the late TelEm Group Supervisory Board Chairman, Mr. Rudy Hoeve.
The Taebo class begins at 10:00 am sharp and TelEm Group has once again invited the Prime Minister to attend the exercise session if her time permits.
A limited number of T-shirts are available for those who turn out early for the class, otherwise participants are requested to turn out in RED – ready to Taebo.

Telem Press Release

wmarlinatlusciencefair21032013Cay Hill:--- On Wednesday 20 March 2013 the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School held its annual science fair. Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin was invited to be one of the Judges to the event. The Deputy Prime Minister was very excited to attend the fair as he was intrigued to know how the young people of the island envisioned the future.
Minister Marlin mentioned that he was not disappointed with the presentations and was very happy that many of the presentations dealt with environmental issues. He explained that the Ministry is currently busy with several projects that will have a positive effect on our environment.
The presentations were not only on environmental issues, other aspects were also presented by the LU students. The Minister walked around the venue and was able to judge some 7 projects.
The Minister took special note of several projects, The Waste to Energy Presentation, as the Ministry is currently busy with the negotiations with several companies to place an environmentally safe waste processing system on Pond Island, that will generate electricity. The water footprint, a project to limit the usage of plastic bottles and the Island Longevity project advocating turning St. Maarten in to a 'Blue Zone'.

swescotwilliamswithmacstudents21032013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave a presentation to students of the Methodist Agogic Center on topics related to the ins and out of Government recently. The PM received the students at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall where she explained the working of Government to the excited students.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

~ Also at Fun Miles expo this weekend ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Zaya Records & OMC Music, producers of the Zouk Kompas Bouyon Fest to be held on Saturday April 20 at the Carnival Village for Carnival 2013, have organized for one week only a "Hot Ticket Promo".

Tickets went on sale from Monday, March 18 for US $20. This special price will last until March 26. The regular price for the show is US $35.00 in advance until April 15. The price will go up again after that at the gate.

Tickets are available at the following locations: Music Caraibes (across from the Marigot Ballfield), MSR Cable TV (Sandy Ground, Agrement, French Quarter), SOL (Tackling Cole Bay), and Van Dorp (Madame Estate and Simspon Bay).

Tickets for US $20 will also be available at the Fun Miles expo on Saturday and Sunday upcoming at Kooyman.

The concert will feature for the very first time on one stage together the legendary complete Zouk band Kassav, the definitive kings of Kompas Carimi and the undisputed Prince of Bouyon music, young sensation Asa Banton.

Zaya Records & OMC Music stressed on the fact that all members of Kassav will be here for this event, assuring the public of a full band performance from the group that night.

swescotwilliams20032013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said she does not know who the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan is negotiating with on behalf of Sameer Andrawos and his company for the Justice Park project. Members of the UP faction told reporters on Monday afternoon that they heard that the Minister of Justice gave a top government official kick-backs in order for the $100M project to move forward. According to well placed sources, the son of the Prime Minister Andy Wescot and her son in law Gary Matser are the ones negotiating with the Minister of Justice to move the project along.

SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister if she knew who the negotiators are and if they are related to her and she said she had no idea who the negotiators are, she also said she has no knowledge of kick-backs that were given to anyone.

Wescot Williams said that the UP members know exactly what they need to do if they are aware or got certain information of this kind.

SMN News also asked the Prime Minister to further elaborate on the laws in the constitution which deals with the removal of Ministers and Members of Parliament when they are suspected of a crime, because it appears as though the Members of Parliament does not know what is in their constitution when they called on Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge to resign now that he is under investigation and also the Minister of Justice because he was questioned by the National Detectives on the ongoing investigation.

While it might be morally correct for MP Illidge to resign pending the investigation especially since he was seen on tape collecting monies and stuffing it in his pocket, no one can force the MP to do so except the Supreme Court when the file is presented to them.

SMN News contacted the Minister of Justice for queries on the allegation made by Members of Parliament of the UP faction. Minister Duncan said he does not know where people are getting this kind of information from because he has no money to give kick-backs to anyone. Minister Duncan said that the company he is negotiating with will be building the Justice Park and Government would then rent the buildings. He said he has before him a condemnation from the Court of First Instance because a minor was locked up with adults even though St. Maarten does not have a juvenile delinquency center. The Minister of Justice said that if the Members of Parliament who have all the information on his project want him to pull back the project because they will not be getting the credit for it he will do so and in the end St. Maarten will be the one that will get hurt. When SMN News asked the Minister if Andy Wescot and Gary Matser are representing Sameer Andrawos and his company, the Minister of Justice said even if those two persons are representing the businessman that does not mean they got any kick-backs.

Basse Terre:--- The main murder suspect Karell Marcellin in the murder of Cecilia Henry appeared in the Criminal Assizes on Wednesday to answer to charges of premeditated murder and assassination. Marcellin had the opportunity to tell the court about her life as a young girl and how she was brought up. She appeared calm and almost serene at times when she explained the difficulties of her life as young girl who was brought up by a single parent (her mother). She told the court that the most difficult part of her life was when her status as a homosexual (lesbian) was revealed. At that moment she said "I always wanted to be a good person. In fact I wanted to be a policeman, gendarme or a lawyer because I love law. It's been very difficult for me to achieve my dreams or goals and to study because there was not enough money to get me in a boarding school in Martinique." Marcellin told the court she eventually found work on the Dutch side of the island and her employers saw her abilities quite early because she was even promoted.

There were times when Marcellin would cry and then begin to grin when she spoke of her childhood. Despite the poverty, she said she missed nothing. Marcellin seemed sincere and honest when she made her statements to the court, even though the facts of the case were not discussed. Although her statements were clear, she looked confused as she sat in the prisoner's box but she also showed a lust for life. She ended her statements by saying that she will remain positive.

When the trail resumed after a lunch, Marcellin was questioned about the facts of the case. She seemed attached or afraid of the victim because in her mind she was always going to be attacked by the victim Cecilia Henry. The reason for this according to her was because the Gendarmes did not take appropriate actions against Henry who assaulted her more than once. She said the gendarmes refused to even mediate or intervene in the ongoing fights. She told the court that her cry for help was denied even though she knew she was in danger at the hands of Cecilia Henry. Marcellin said if the Gendarmes had done their job this (murder) would not have happened. She tried her best to convince the jury that an offender (Cecilia Henry) was terrorizing almost everyone in the community. The main facts as to how the murder took place and multiple stabs she inflicted on Cecilia were not told to the court. She said she does not know how she ended up on the other side of the street neither could she recall when she pulled out the knife she was carrying in her bag. The gendarmes told the court that Cecilia Henry received almost 60 stab wounds in one minute and 22 seconds.

The hearing had to be suspended but quickly resumed because the defense lawyer Harry Durimel was not given an opportunity to ask the questions he wanted without being interrupted by the bench. Durimel is the defense for Imelda Relus, the mother of Karelle Marcellin. The trial of continues throughout the week.

rtuitt20032013Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he met with the Chief of Police Peter de Witte and made an agreement with the Police Chief where the controls on vehicles will begin on April 1st, 2013. Tuitt said the deadline for the payment of road tax passed on February 28th, 2013 but Government has decided to give those persons who have not yet paid their road tax a one month grace period in order for them to pay their road taxes.

Tuitt said that Naf. 2,728,000.00 was collected in January 2012 while in January 2013 Naf. 995,000.00 was collected. In the month of February 2012, Naf. 3,780,000.00 was collected while in February 2013, Naf. 3,071.000.00 was collected. Tuitt said in 2012 in the months of January to February 2013 Naf 6,508,000.00 was collected while in 2013 January and February Naf. 4,066,000.00 was collected. Tuitt said based on these figures so far there is a shortfall of Naf. 2.5 million guilders.

The Finance Minister said in 2012, 28,080 number plates were issued while in 2013 16,811 number plates were issued. Tuitt said there are 11,269 vehicle number plates that were not paid as of the end of February. The Finance Minister said right now we are in the middle of March and he believes that a number of people made their payments because people like to make their payments late.

Budget sent to Governor --- Booklet already at Parliament.

The Finance Minister also announced on Wednesday that his Ministry already sent the 2013 budget to the Governor of St. Maarten and he (the Governor) will then send on the documents to the Parliament of St. Maarten. Tuitt said while the actual budget documents were sent to the Governor, the booklet on the 2013 budget was sent to the Parliament of St. Maarten in order for them to start perusing the budget. Tuitt said a central committee meeting would have to be convened to discuss the budget then a Parliament meeting would have to be scheduled for the approval of the 2013 budget.

COLA Study will begin in April 2013.

Tuitt also responded to statements made by the WICLU on Tuesday regarding the COLA payments. The Finance Minister said that when he took office last year he had to make a budget amendment in order to fulfill the promise of the former government regarding the payment of the 2010 COLA. Tuitt said he made that payment, but government stated on a number of occasions that they are seeking outside expertise in order to modify or come up with a new structure for the COLA payments for the other years.

Minister Tuitt said that just recently when he was in the Netherlands he met with a company who has decided to come to St. Maarten to conduct a study for the government of St. Maarten. Tuitt said the Government of St. Maarten already received a proposal from that company and they are expected to come to St. Maarten in April 2013 to begin the study for the COLA restructuring. This study is expected the cost the government some 20,000 Euros.

romeopantophlet20032013Philipsburg:--- The Parliament of St. Maarten is yet schedule the continuation of a meeting that was called late December 2012 where the Minister responsible for harbor affairs Romeo Pantophlet had to provide parliament with answers on a number of issues regarding the Harbour Group of Companies.

The fourth agenda point of that meeting which was added by Member of Parliament Louis Laveist has to deal with the payments the harbor made to a reporter of the Daily Herald. The reporter, according to the CEO of the Harbour Group of Companies Mark Mingo in an interview with SMN News, was providing freelance work for Harbour Group of Companies and even though the reporter was being paid $6000.00 to $8000.00 each time she submitted an invoice, she was not on the company's payroll. She also did not have a company registered on the Dutch side of the island.

On Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing, SMN News reporter asked the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunication to clarify a number of issues that were raised by the Members of the United Peoples Party faction on Monday at a press conference. The UP faction members said that one of the Members of Parliament who is directly involved with the Ministry of TEATT (or who appointed the Minister) is the director of a construction company that belongs to his father and the Harbour Group of Companies awarded a contract to the company without putting the project on a bid. Minister Pantophlet said he had no knowledge of such and if the Harbour Group of Companies awarded contracts to companies he would not know simply because he is not involved in the day to day operations of Government owned companies. However, SMN News learnt that the company that is owned by the father of Member of Parliament Romain Laville "Joe's Construction Company" is working as a sub-contractor at the harbor under another company that secured a job at the harbor. As for MP Laville being a director of Joe's Construction Company which was established several years ago, SMN News understands that Laville was made director of his father's company way before he entered politics simply because he is the only child for his father.


Daily Herald Reporter Breaking Working Permit Stipulation and possible Tax Evasion might come into play.

SMN News reporter also questioned the Minister of TEATT about the Daily Herald reporter Alita Singh who is working for the harbor while working for the Daily Herald and holding the harbour portfolio at the Daily Herald. SMN News published several press releases that were written by Alita Singh on behalf of the United Peoples Party to which the Daily Herald paid no heed except to say they too received the press releases that had Singh's name in the properties of each document. The Daily Herald in one of its editorials also stated that the reporter did not inform them of the duties she was providing for the Harbor Group of Companies and since they became aware of Singh's side jobs they took away the harbor portfolio from Singh.

However, the work permit that Singh obtained from the government of St. Maarten clearly stipulates that Singh is only supposed to work for the company who signed for her, meaning the Daily Herald. Minister of Labour Cornelius de Weever in an invited comment said that work permits are issued to the employers and based on the LAV legislation if the employee works for another company or person apart from the employer who requested the work permit then they are operating against the law. "Whether or not the person is doing freelance work for another company and is not on their payroll, work is work," another Minister told SMN News on Wednesday.

Therefore, in researching this matter SMN News was told that the government of St. Maarten can revoke Singh's work permit immediately while they could also check to see if the reporter in question has been paying her share of taxes from the extra monies she has been collecting from the Harbour Group of Companies over the years.

The Minister of TEATT in responding to the questions said that the CEO of the Harbour Group of Companies did inform him that the reporter in question was not on the government owned company's payroll and that she was providing freelance work for the harbor. Minister Pantophlet said he was not sure if the reporter was paid directly or if she was paid through a company. After the press conference, Minister Pantophlet said that after checking with the CEO of the harbor he was told that the reporter was paid directly because she would send invoices to the Harbour Group of Companies for the work she provided for them. This was done in order to hide or cover the reporter who is also a strong supporter of the UP Party.

For the sake of clarity on the operations at the Harbour Group of Companies, over the years SMN News interviewed the CEO of the Company Mark Mingo and this is what Mingo told SMN News after we broke the story on Singh and her connections to the harbor. The interview with Mingo is beneath this article.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told reporters in response to a question posed by SMN News regarding the TAXAND investigation that he is busy working on an advice for the Council of Ministers. Tuitt said the TAXAND affair was discussed in the Council of Ministers and he was asked to provide an advice on how the government should move forward on the issue. The Finance Minister said the SOAB report on TAXAND has been completed and he now has the full report in his possession. Tuitt further explained that government is pursuing all the avenues that are to be pursued because in the TAXAND investigation a former Minister is involved and certain rules and regulation that are applied to individuals or civil servants do not apply to a Minister or former Minister. Tuitt said because of that government is checking to see how to take adequate procedures to ensure they follow the necessary steps that have to be followed. The Minister of Finance said he is hoping to have more concrete information for the media on the TAXAND issue by next week.

Philipsburg:--- The St. Maarten Toastmasters Area Council will be hosting, for the first time ever, a public debate by its members to offer a more in-depth look into the most talked about issues in the community as well raise awareness about the organization.
Scheduled for Sunday May 5th, 2013, the debate, set in standard format, will focus on elections under the theme "Electoral Reform: Is there a need for change?" Two teams of debaters will vie for the winning trophy and internal recognition. Judges will also be present representing the general public and during the intermission a special lecture will be given by a guest speaker.
The debate is expected to attract a large group of people including invited guests, local leaders, current and former politicians, community members and toastmasters from the five clubs representing both the Dutch and French sides.
This will also be a great occasion for the public to see what the Toastmasters organization has to offer in terms of providing excellent communication and leadership training and networking opportunities.
More details surrounding the debate will be dispersed at a later date. Interested persons may contact the Area Council for more information at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

iaocseminarmeeting20032013Will Address Issues of Transborder Crime and Migration

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams held a first planning session with the Ad-Hoc Committee established to organize the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regional seminar to be held on St. Maarten from the ninth to the eleventh of July. The Ad Hoc committee includes representatives from the Department of General Affairs, the Justice Ministry, the Cabinet of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Tourism and Transportation and from PJIAE. The main goal of the seminar will be to assist States in the region with challenges related to cross border immigration within the Caribbean Region.

The Americas and Caribbean have a long history of cross-border migration and, in many instances, weaknesses in border control and identity management. For the past decade population mobility and effective border controls have become a matter of even greater concern for governments in the Caribbean and Central America, due largely to the rise of irregular migration and trans-border crime. In addition, the linkages between national (and regional) security and border controls have prompted governments to factor international organized crime and terrorism threats into their efforts to strengthen their migration and identity management capabilities. Indeed, the need for enhanced comprehensive border and identity capacity-building strategies has emerged as a priority for both individual governments and regional bodies.

The Government of St. Maarten and the ICAO will host the Regional Seminar in conjunction with the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (UN CTED), the INTERPOL to build on, and contribute to, the ongoing efforts and to emphasize the importance of promoting travel document security, particularly in regard to insuring the integrity of the systems through which these documents are issued and the inspection, verification and examination of such documents. Different aspects of travel document security will be covered as outlined below, with the objective of identifying existing gaps, outlining the use of tools such as biometrics, best practices using national programs to exemplify, and when identifying vulnerabilities, taking measures to effect improvements.

Border controls and identification management are central to the current global security agenda. While effective border and identification controls cannot eliminate related trans-border crime and terrorism per se, they can reduce the risks dramatically and offer a powerful tool to mitigate and counter such threats. The use of false identities and fraudulent travel documents remains an important modus operandi that tends to be exploited by trans-border criminal networks. The 9/11 and Bali terrorist attacks and the failed terror plot of 25th December 2009, among others, are stark reminders of the importance of travel document security, identity management and intelligence-led passenger processing for preventing and combating such crime.

A particular challenge that will be addressed during the meeting is related to the Caribbean region containing a considerable number of Dutch, British and French overseas territories. While not part of major regional cooperation frameworks (e.g., the Caricom), those islands are nevertheless part of the overall illegal migration and trans-border crime dynamics in the Caribbean and face common security challenges along with other Caribbean States. The proposed ICAO MRTD Regional Seminar in Sint Maarten presents a step forward in addressing those challenges in a coordinated regional manner in the spirit of inclusion and cooperation.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sjacobsandwallyhavertong20032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs was honored to assist the Chuchubi Foundation in handing out awards to their nominees Sir Wally Havertong and Shabba for their contribution to the people of Aruba and St. Maarten.

The minister also spoke to the gathering on the importance of the ties between St. Maarten and Aruba including her own heritage tracing her lineage from St. Maarten via Aruba and now back in St. Maarten.

The Chuchubi Foundation was encouraged to keep up its work.

telemroadtocarnivaleventatbliss20032013Pond Island:--- The pre-carnival tempo was raised another notch last Friday, when the TelEm Group "Road to Carnival" team visited the Bliss Nightclub to host another successful party there.

"Each week our road trip followers get larger and larger in size," said coordinator and Lead Customer Service Representative at TelEm Group, Suraj Ramdas.

He said the party-goes are even looking forward to future upcoming events leading up to the opening of Carnival on April 18.

This Friday the party moves to Prive Sky Lounge in Simpson Bay, where entrance is free and special raffle prizes will be given to those who turn out in the best carnival costumes.

The "Road to Carnival" event is hosted in collaboration with the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- Chippie will be one of many Fun Partners that will be present this weekend at the Fun Expo at Kooyman Megastore. The long-time Fun Miles partner will be offering Fun Miles customers specials created specifically for them. Customers will be able to purchase various mobile devices with Fun Miles on location. These devices will be part of a prepaid package which will include a Chippie prepaid telephone number. Visitors can also purchase a prepaid Chippie SIM card seperately with their Fun Miles. These special SIM cards will include 100 free extra minutes aside from the ANG 20 anytime, anywhere minutes that come standard with a new Chippie prepaid SIM card. There will also be a top-up special on location. "I expect that our top-up special will be especially popular during the weekend," says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. "You get a $5 scratch card for only 500 Fun Miles, and then we throw in another $5 scratch card, good for calls to other Chippie numbers. Supplies are limited though, so we urge people to come out early to make use of our special offers," Lambert continued. The Fun Expo will be held at Kooyman Megastore this Saturday, March 23rd from 8 am to 6 pm and on Sunday, March 24th from 9 am to 1 pm.

UTS Press Release

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (MinVSA) Hon. Cornelius De Weever would like to welcome the participants to the first regional Caribbean Civil Society Cervical Cancer Advocacy Workshop that will take place from March 21-22 at the Sonesta Great bay Beach Resort & Casino in partnership with Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and MinVSA.

The workshop is for representatives of cancer societies and foundations in the Caribbean.

The primary objective of the workshop will be to build advocacy capacity around cervical cancer prevention, control and treatment among Caribbean cancer Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in support of the Regional Strategy and Plan of Action for Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control in Latin America and the Caribbean, approved by the 48th Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO).

Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death in the Caribbean with mortality rates higher than the developed countries such as the USA.

Raising awareness of this cancer and advocating steps to reduce the mortality rates is a priority concern of the HCC which has a key mandate to develop and strengthen the skills and organizational capacity of the various members involved in health throughout the Caribbean. A similar call and recommendation was made during the local Cancer Conference of October 26 and 27.

Activities at the two-day workshop will include presentations, facilitated discussions, breakout group discussions and plenary sessions.

It is expected that the workshop attendees will have significantly strengthened cervical cancer advocacy capacity and take tangible steps towards the establishment of a Caribbean Cancer NGO 'Network'.

Participants will leave better armed to support regional cancer advocacy campaigns and petitions as well as utilize the skills to influence cervical cancer activities in their home territories.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius De Weever also takes this opportunity to recognize the participation of local NGOs such as the St. Maarten Cancer Foundation, Positive Foundation, Kelahah Foundation, and government organizations which will ensure the growth of investing and sharing information that should contribute to improving cancer services within our community, adding that after the October Cancer Conference, the workshop illustrates the country's commitment and continuity to prevention and "..our 'get checked' program."

HCC was formed in 2008. It arose out of a 2007 Declaration of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

The HCC is a regional network of Caribbean health NGOs and civil society organizations who are interested in addressing NCDs. HCC works closely with regional and international leaders in NCD prevention to leverage the power of civil society by strengthening and supporting membership in the implementation of programmes aimed and reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with NCDs.

The two-day workshop is seen as a second positive step in the journey of improving local cancer services while the first step was taken with the Cancer Conference back in October 2012.

trevorhassell14102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- As part of the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour 'Get Checked' campaign, a panel discussion for men in the community will take place on Wednesday, March 20 from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort.

"I am appealing to the men in our community to take charge where it concerns their health. It is important to 'Get Checked' in order to detect possible ailments.

"The panel discussion will provide a wealth of information about Men's Health and I take this opportunity to call on fathers, grandfathers and men in our community to come out and be informed. Take charge of your health," Minister of Public Health Cornelius De Weever said on Tuesday.

The moderator for the panel discussion is Professor Dr. Trevor Hassell, an Adjunct Professor of Medicine, University of the West Indies, Barbados. Hassell is also Honorary Consultant Physician and Cardiologist at the Barbados Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

The Rotary Club of Sint Maarten Sunrise, the Positive Foundation, and Collective Prevention Services from the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, have teamed up and taken the initiative to start a campaign to promote awareness for Men's Health.

The Wednesday evening panel discussion is to increase the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men. The overall campaign which will continue after the panel discussion encourages men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.

When it comes to prevention and early detection, Men's Health often takes a back seat to women's health. Research, however, shows that, compared to women, men are more likely to smoke and drink alcohol and generally lead less healthy lifestyles.

In addition men are more likely to put off routine checkups and also delay seeing a healthcare provider for symptoms of a health problem.

Men in the Americas live five to seven years less than women on average, the leading cause of death being non-communicable diseases, HIV/AIDS, injuries, and violence.

At the end of the panel discussion, attendees should leave with the notion of what they can do to live longer, happier and healthier lives.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Service (CPS) Department at the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour is inviting parents and guardians of children 0-17 years of age to visit the Youth Health Care (YHC) Vaccination Booth at the 5th annual Lions Rudy Hoeve Health & Wellness Fair that will take place on Saturday, March 23 at the Festival Village from 8:00am to 4:00pm.

Participation of CPS Section YHC at the Lions Rudy Hoeve Health & Wellness Fair is part of the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius De Weever 'Get Checked' campaign, which emphasizes the importance of having children immunized.

Parents/guardians are urged to ensure that their children are adequately vaccinated for their age. Immunization guarantees their protection against vaccine-preventable illnesses.

Vaccines have the power not only to save lives, but giving children and adults a chance to age healthy. Vaccinations offer protection to the population.

Children and adults who visit YHC Vaccination Booth at the fair on Saturday should walk with their vaccination booklet/card.

Children and adolescents as well as adults must be vaccinated against the following preventable diseases: small pox, pertussis, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, measles, mumps, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome, haemophilis influenza type B, hepatitis B, and for the at risk population tuberculosis (BCG) vaccine is also provided.

Pond Island:--- TelEm Group technicians will be carrying out major repair work to a main telecommunication cable in the Pelican area Wednesday morning and as a result telecommunication services to residential and business properties will be affected.
Hotels and guesthouses operating in the Pelican area are especially asked to take note of the repair works and to inform their clients and guests.
Repair to the damaged cable will improve telecommunication services for business and residential clients in Pelican.
Workmen will begin work at 6:00 in the morning and expect to complete the repairs by 12:00 noon.
A similar repair operation will also take place on another segment of the same cable on Friday, March 22, during the same work hours. Service will once again be interrupted.
"On completion of this repair we will be going a long way towards improving customer satisfaction with coverage in the Pelican area," said TelEm Group Outside Plant Manager, Mr. Marco London.
He said all attempts will be made to restore all services as soon as possible Tuesday and Friday, once the complicated repair works have been carried out.
Mr. London has meantime apologized to TelEm Group customers in the Pelican area for any inconvenience caused by the interruption in services.

Telem Press Release

Philipsburg:--- On Friday March 15th, 2013 around 11:10am, the police patrol together with the ambulance service responded to a accident with injuries that occurred at the head of Alexis Arnell road. Upon arrival of the 1st patrol it was indeed confirmed that an accident had taken place and that there were persons injured. A car with number plate P-8953 was lying on its right side on the road surface.
Upon further investigation, it was determined that the driver with the initials A.B. a native of Haiti had lost control of the vehicle because the brakes had failed while descending the Alexis Arnell road towards Cole Bay. The driver broke both legs in several places and was taken to the SMMC by ambulance for further examination.
A second ambulance was called in to transport the passenger and three children that had received some cuts and bruised. They were also transported to the SMMC for further examination. The Traffic Department is investigating the accident further.

KPSM Police Report

Philipsburg:--- On Friday March 15th, 2013 around 4:00pm, security personnel from the WIB detected that unknown persons were busy skimming their ATM machines in the Philipsburg area. Upon further investigation, it was indeed confirmed that these unknown persons had set up an electronic device at one of the ATM machines in the Philipsburg Area.
The security personnel immediately observed all movements around the ATMs and the police department was alerted. After approximately 20 minutes, one of the suspects returned to the ATM machine and while conducting his skimming techniques was apprehended by the bank's security personnel on the scene.
The suspect was handed over to the police patrol that responded. The suspect, a male from Bulgarije with the initials G.H., and the electronic skimming device were handed over to the detectives.
The chief security office from the WIB filed an official statement on behalf of the Bank. This case will be further investigated by the detective department.

KPSM Police Report

The St. Dominic High School will have an information evening on the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme on Thursday, March 21 at 7 p.m. Interested students and their parents are invited to learn more about this internationally recognized pre-university programme. Information will be available explaining the subject prerequisites and the application process. St. Dominic High is one of 2,400 schools around the world offering this curriculum, as well as, the first government subsidized school in the Caribbean authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) to offer the Diploma Programme for students aged 16 to 19. The IBO collaborates with schools, governments and international organizations in 144 countries to develop and offer challenging programmes of international education and rigorous assessment in order to achieve its mission of developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Students who are interested in learning more about a challenging curriculum that encourages them to think critically, to become internationally-minded, to reflect on their learning, and to develop research skills are welcome to attend this information evening on Thursday, March 21 in the school's auditorium. During this session, prospective applicants will also have the opportunity to sign up to shadow an IB student for a day at St. Dominic High School.

Philipsburg:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library invites the general public to its Kamishibai Exhibitions in the Baby & Toddler Room from Tuesday, March 19 to Thursday, March 21 at 6:00PM each night, under the leadership of library staffer Aukje de Jong. Toddlers 0-4 years can expect to hear stories using the Japanese Kamishibai. This form of storytelling originated in Japan in the 12th century and is a mixture of oral storytelling and performing drama, illustrated in art. The art is usually displayed within a story box, while a person tells a story dramatizing it through performance. This technique will be conducted by several Day Care Center employees, who completed a workshop with de Jong.

sjacobswithauthorsofsiblingvoicesofsunrisecity19032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Culture Hon. Silveria Jacobs was a guest at the book launch of 'Sibling Voices of Sunrise City' by Tammy and Gregory Richardson.

The authors launched their book of poetry and short stories about growing up in Aruba, its ups, downs and lessons learned in love for family and self as well as the development of an identity that bespeaks a combination of St. Maarten and Aruba.

Their words, videos and pictures evoked memories, sighs and laughter from the audience whom willingly took the trip down memory lane.

Minister Jacobs congratulated the siblings on this cross cultural product which serves as a bit of history which many could identify with, whether they'd actually experienced it or just heard stories as told by parents, as in her case.

Literary works are actually art which will stand the test of time. This book launch was a wonderful culmination of the Chuchubi Foundation's celebration of Aruba day and highlighted its main theme which is "strengthening ties between Aruba and St. Maarten".

toppixaviationphotocontestparticipants19032013Best 6 Photos will be exhibited at SXM Airport for four months, winner takes home $2,500 cash

SIMPSON BAY:--- At least 15 participants, including four women, have so far registered for the ToppiX2013 Aviation Photo Competition, which took off here March 15, 2013.

The participants hail from the USA, Canada, Belgium, Puerto Rico, Curacao, and eight are from St. Maarten, disclosed chief organizer, Robbie Cijntje, following a briefing session held with the participants at Sunset Beach Bar and Restaurant early Monday morning.

In his briefing, Cijntje urged all participants to follow instructions of the Airport Security and the Police and to respect the private properties in the vicinity of the airport. He stressed that "fence riding" was strictly prohibited and could lead to hefty fines and/or arrest, noting jokingly that he is sure nobody wants to spend extra time at the "no-star" hotel for such an infraction.

The theme of the contest is "Sint Maarten, Aircraft Spotters Paradise." Participants may interpret this as they wish, however, their entries should be not only of aircraft, but should include St. Maarten in it.

"The photo that visualizes that theme the best will be the winner," Cijntje said, adding that the six best photos will be selected by the panel of judges, and will be on exhibition at the Arrival Hall of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) for four months. Since the airport is the second busiest in the region, this will guarantee maximum exposure for the photographers, Cijntje explained.

Laying down the rules of the competition, he said, "composite photographs will not be accepted." The photos must be taken in St. Maarten between March 15 and 22, 2013, and must be in possession of the committee by 6 PM, March 22, 2013.

Each participant is allowed to enter a maximum of three photos. Registration remains open until the deadline for submission of entries. This means that interested persons can still register between now and 6 PM of March 22, 2013. A registration fee of US$20 is payable, while the registration card gives the participant a 15% discount at the Sunset Beach Bar and Restaurant during the competition week, up to and including March 23, 2013 – when the prize-giving ceremony will be held at the SXM Terminal Building at 5 PM.

Cijntje had earlier welcomed the group to St. Maarten and introduced members of his organizing committee made up of Larry Donker, Director of Operations, Elsidro St. Jago, Head of Security Guards, Kalifa Hickinson, Manager, Marketing and Communication Department, Audrey Jack, Senior Business Development Officer, all of SXM, and Lisa Noel of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

Judges for the competition are Chris Kilroy of the USA, and Peter Gunn and Chermaine Petit-Booi, both well-known photographers on the island.

Similarly, Bill Fortney, representative of Nikon Latin America/USA and Sergio Velasquez of Canon are on island and will be offering participants a one-on-one demo of their respective equipment by appointment only. The appointments can be arranged via Robbie Cijntje at email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

"The competition is meant to be an enjoyable event for all participants," Cijntje said, warning: "unethical or rude behavior will be reason for exclusion from future Toppix events."

ceciliahenry03102011French Quarter/Basse Terre:--- The two suspects, mother and daughter, who brutally murdered Cecilia Henry on October 3rd, 2011 on French Quarter public road has to appear before the General Assizes on Wednesday and Thursday this week as they are both facing pre-mediated murder charges.

Cecilia Henry who was no stranger to the French Quarter community was stabbed some 40 times by Karelle Marcelin and her mother Imelda Relus. Henry died on the spot after receiving so many stab wounds from the mother and daughter who basically cornered her and attacked her with a machete and knife. The hearing which will begin on Wednesday morning will determine what led the mother and daughter to commit such a horrible act against a young woman whose life was also not perfect.

The relatives of Cecilia Henry have secured the assistance of Attorney at Law Jan Marc Ferly who is specialized in defending victims of murder and assault such as rape victims. Just last week Maitre Ferly represented a rape victim in the General Assizes and the rapist was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment.

In August 2012, the judge of instruction in Pointe Pitre; Brice Hansmaan determined that the two suspects Karelle Marcelin and her mother Imelda Relus would have to stand trial for the premeditated murder of Cecilia Henry. Judge Haansman referred the case to the General Assizes after determining that there was sufficient evidence to show that the mother and daughter were guilty of the premeditated murder and assassination of Cecilia Henry.

The court determined after reviewing all the evidence provided to them that the case is classified as assassination under articles 132-72, 132-75,221-1, 221-3, 221-8, 221-9, and 221-11 of the penal code.

The order was pronounced by the judge of instruction after the relatives of the late Cecilia Henry retained well known victim's lawyer Jan Marc Ferly to defend and seek damages for Henry's death. The judgment was pronounced on July 19, 2012.

Cecilia Henry was brutally murdered by the mother and daughter of Haitian decent in the vicinity of the French Quarter Pharmacy and the Gess Gas Station on October 3rd, 2011.

According to the "Avis Ordonnance Rendue", several witnesses to the brutal murder were heard by the court during a "mise en examen". Karelle Marcelin told the court that she was attacked several times by Cecilia Henry and on at least two occasions she was hospitalized and had to stay away from work for 12 days. Besides the constant attacks that left her traumatized, Marcelin had problems at home because her mother could not accept her homosexuality. Marcelin admitted to the judge that her mother bought a knife for her to take to work so that she could defend herself against any further attack by Henry.

Imelda Relus was described as a violent mother by two of her daughters who told the court that they were forced to leave their mother's home because of her violent behavior. However, Relus had no previous convictions. She is the mother of six children and her only source of income was from the CAF. Karelle Marcelin had a previous conviction in March 2009 for aggression and use of a weapon, she spent 15 days behind bars for that crime. SMN News will bring you more information when the trial is concluded later this week.

claireelshot05032013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) who is also the vice president of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) told reporters on Tuesday that the WITU board met last week Thursday where they discussed the current predicament teachers are faced with regarding violence against teachers.

Elshot said that the WITU prepared a draft document with a number of questions that will be distributed to all schools as they conduct a survey on the amount and types of violence students are using against teachers. Elshot said that the draft document consists of five pages and it does not only focus on violence but through this survey the union would gather more information on other issues affecting teachers. Elshot said that the union plans to hold a number of events, one of which will be a peaceful march.

The WITU President said the union is currently seeking the permit to conduct this march. She said that the WITU will invite teachers from all schools to participate in the march because violence in school is not restricted to one particular school and while a group of teachers broke the silence, there are a number of teachers that are suffering silently. Elshot said the date for the march is not yet set, while they are busy trying to get t-shirts, posters, and stickers for the event. The theme for the march will be "No More Words, Time For Action, Stop the Violence Against Teachers." Elshot said that the board of the WITU has decided to conduct the survey first and when that is completed then they will request a meeting with the Minister of Education. Elshot further explained that after the union addressed the matter in last week's press conference they noticed that the Minister of Education announced the following day that she is busy shaping a discipline policy and care unit to counter the violence in schools. However, Elshot said while the intentions of the Minister is a good one no policy can be put in place without the input of the stakeholders, therefore she hopes the Minister of Education will send them a draft copy of the policy so that they can peruse it prior to it going into effect. As for care units, Elshot said that in all schools there are care units but it is not working effectively. She said if the Minister establishes a care unit that would deal specifically with violence, teachers would definitely appreciate that, especially the younger teachers that are now joining the profession.

On another note, Elshot said the FBE Education legislation booklet that is now used by the schools will have to be updated with regards to certain policies. The WITU President said now that St. Maarten would have SBO schools then the union would have to submit a request to the Minister of Education to have official salary scales for teachers of SBO schools. "So far there is one conflict on this specific issue because there is no salary scales for teachers that are teaching at that school, these teachers are being underpaid because of the scales that are used by Government."

franklinmeyers01122010Marigot/Philipsburg:--- Former Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs Franklin Meyers admitted on SOS radio on Tuesday morning that he knew about the Bada Bing tape via reliable sources and he also saw the tape prior to it being made public two weeks ago. Meyers said when he heard of the tape he did not doubt his sources who told him about the tape and when he saw it and it was made public, for him it was a dark day for St. Maarten. When Meyers was asked by the host of Talking Point if he knew that the tape would have been made public, Meyers said when he heard of the tape he did not know the whereabouts of tape and he did not know what course it would have taken. "When I mentioned it on your radio program I did not see the tape yet and I did not know where it was at that time. However, I am taking responsibility for what I said that day on your radio program."

The former Minister said that he was surprised when the tape was made public and the manner in which it was made public. Meyers said he was also surprised when he learned that De Telegraaf in the Netherlands had gotten hold of the tape before the local media on St. Maarten, or if the local media had the tape and did not publish it. (Editor's note: De Telegraaf never got the tape, the only media house that had possession of the tape was the Daily Herald who claimed it was dropped in their mail box.) Meyers further explained that there are some sources one can count on as being reliable and the person who told him of the tape was one of the persons he counted as one of his reliable sources. He said the source did not only tell him about the tape but they also indicated to him who was on the videotape.

When Meyers was asked if he is happy that the tape has been made public, Meyers said he is not happy that the videotape was made public because it tarnishes St. Maarten as a country and not only the Member of Parliament that is involved. He said in politics they throw punches at each other which he described as part of the political game but the end result is what these kinds of things do to the credibility of St. Maarten. He said just recently an MP in the Netherlands said that MPs on St. Maarten are being paid too much while they are sleeping. Meyers said as an example the Dutch, whom he believes have their motives, spoke across the board about the Parliamentarians and they did not individualize anyone. "This is what the videotape footage has done; St. Maarten is seen as corrupt not just the two persons that are on the tape alone but the entire country is looked at as being corrupt." Meyers said the reason his faction called for a speedy inquiry into this matter is to show the Dutch that St. Maarten has the capabilities to do what she has to do regarding matters such as this because there is no need for the Dutch to step into this matter. "The Dutch looks for every opportunity to slip in through the back door so that they can divide and rule." Meyers said that the Dutch is using these little tactics to impose higher supervision on St. Maarten where they would get to control the governing apparatus of the country. He further stated that when there are situations such as these (meaning the videotape showing an MP accepting what looks like a bribe) then the Dutch gets the opportunity to scrutinize St. Maarten while St. Maarten would not be able to scrutinize them. Meyers said that some years ago there was a big scandal in the Netherlands involving Dutch MPs and St. Maarten could not have said anything because there is no entity on St. Maarten to supervise the Netherlands.

The former Minister said he finds it rather unfair that when one politician is caught on tape committing a crime or any wrong doing that the Dutch would label the entire island as being corrupt.

Meyers refused to comment on the statements made by the owner of Bada Bing; Jaap van den Heuvel who said that the videotaping was orchestrated by the leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger. Meyers said Heyliger was off island and now he is back and he will be speaking for himself.

He said that the only persons in his opinion that would orchestrate such an action is the National Alliance faction because if and when Patrick Illidge loses his seat the seat will return to the National Alliance. Meyers concluded the one hour radio program by saying that even though the names of other persons are being called now, an investigation is underway and the only two persons that would have to answer to authorities for their actions are the two people that were caught on tape, meaning MP Patrick Illidge and Jaap van den Heuvel.

It should be noted that the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and the Head of Immigration Udo Aron were questioned last weekend on what is seen and heard on the Bada Bing videotape.

In an invited comment, Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said that the investigators are busy comparing what they were told when they questioned the Minister of Justice with the documents they confiscated when they conducted the searches. Stein said they are trying to be very prudent in their investigation and definitely more witnesses will be heard during the coming days. Stein also confirmed on Tuesday that to date Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was not questioned and he did not contact the Prosecutor's Office even though he told reporters when he returned to the island two weeks ago that he would have checked with the Prosecutor's Office the next day. Stein also confirmed that they did not question Jaap van den Heuvel as yet because he is not on the island. When asked by SMN News reporter if the investigators have any intention to question the leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger whose name was mentioned by several persons claiming that the UP leader offered them bribes, Stein said all of those persons will be questioned in due time. He said when these people are interrogated his office will make the information known to the public.


Philipsburg:--- The University of St. Martin would like to let the general public know that its GED Tutorial Program will commence on March 25th, 2013. All persons that have signed up for the course are asked to visit the University to confirm their attendance and complete payments. There will be an information session on Friday, March 22nd, 2013 in preparation for the tutorials. If you have any questions please contact USM via telephone at 542-5171 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- A public plenary session of parliament regarding the appointment of members of the Monument Council is set for March 22.

The plenary session of parliament will meet on Friday, March 22 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The first agenda point is incoming documents followed by the second agenda point of the proposal to name the Chair person and members of the Monument Council.

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs will be present for the session.

A Central Committee meeting is scheduled for Friday, afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament.

A presentation will be made by the Sint Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF). The meeting was requested by SCDF President Michael Granger dated January 21, 2013.

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

The first information workshop to introduce the process for the development of Sint Maarten's National Development Plan was recently held at the University of St. Maarten. The National Development Plan, which is like a new Multi Annual Policy Plan will inform the long term vision and strategic direction for the sustainable development of the country. It will be a long term framework arrived at through a participatory process with the citizens and that recognizes the diversity of Sint Maarten's peoples. It is only by defining the long term priorities of the country that a common approach can be adopted to collectively work together between the government and the people, enhance Sint Maarten's glory or future development. It is through a plan that regional alliances can be established and international cooperation strengthened. But charting that course starts in dialogue with the people and the process to kick start the dialogues was introduced during the information workshop.

Present were approximately sixty participants from the NGOs, private sector and government departments. Though we have over 200 stakeholders on our database, a smaller group was chosen for this first session based on a detailed stakeholder analysis and that which will reflect on and give feedback on our ideas and organization structure. We are already planning a follow up session on April 9th that will have broader participation and we look forward to your participation. Mark your calendars and watch this space for details of the upcoming April session. The National Development Team based at the Department of the Interior and Kingdom Relations, Ministry of General Affairs values your active participation in this process and invites you to come prepared to share your insights. For people who attended this first session, kindly share the information with your colleagues, departments, umbrella organizations, community councils, and business networks.

This first workshop was aimed to raise awareness of the project, how it is intended to be executed, and the community's role in it through the Steering Committee and Working Groups to be established. The workshop was organized under the auspices of the project, Building a Nation: Sint Maarten National Development Plan and Institutional Strengthening. This is a partnership program between the government of Sint Maarten through the Department of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) and the United Nations Development Program. The National Development Team is made up of drs. Andrea Ortega, drs. Joeri Arion, drs. Okama Ekpe Brook, drs. Lucrecia Morales and Mr. Tom Woods and they can be reached by email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Many presentations on the project outcomes, structure for implementation, methodology and the first activities with focus on the strength, weaknesses, opportunities and threat as well as the roles and responsibilities of the Working Groups were discussed. The importance of providing trainings and a plan for close coordination and collaboration across the ministries and the private organizations and NGOs was also discussed.

The Ministry of General Affairs, represented through the Department of the Interior and Kingdom Relations believe that active participation is necessary to achieve a common vision for sustainable development of St. Maarten. As a first start, we have created a questionnaire to gather your preliminary feedback. Kindly visit the link: /Government/specialCampaigns/National%20Development%20Plan/Documents/Sint%20Maarten%20SWOT%20%20Questionnaire%20and%20explanatory%20note.pdf and fill out the questionnaire. Upon completion, please send to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by March 29, 2013.

A summary of the questions and answers, the power-point presentations, and the preliminary list of stakeholders is available and can be accessed through this website: www.sintmaartengov.org. Go to Government > Special Campaigns > National Development Plan.

If you are a member of the NGO community, Please join us for the upcoming meeting with the St. Maarten NGO Platform organized by SUNFED.

Where: Belvedere Community Center
When: Wednesday March 20, 2013
Time 7:00-8:30PM

Our office is located at No. 31 Walter Nisbeth Road, Philipsburg, St. Maarten. Tel: 542-0897.

We look forward to hearing from you.

upfaction18032013Philipsburg:--- The five members of the United Peoples Party faction of Parliament told reporters on Monday afternoon that they believe that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and Minister of Justice Roland Duncan should step aside now that they are under investigation for alleged bribery. The UP faction members said they are not forcing anyone to do the right thing but the current development tarnishes the house of Parliament and St. Maarten on the whole on the international front.

While the UP faction members raised several concerns about the current government and the Bada Bing investigation, they did not utter one word about the statements and emails published by SMN News that implicated their party leader Theodore Heyliger. When SMN News asked the UP MP's about that they said that they will not comment on such because their party leader is well capable of defending himself. It should be noted that SMN News contacted the UP Leader twice by email and he did not respond.

Faction leader MP Sylvia Meyers opened the press conference by stating that they are not playing politics but what is currently going on is very serious and as a faction they feel they need to address the matter. Meyers said they did not think it wise to make statements until they got certain things were clarified. MP Meyers said they are very disturbed about the current investigation that involves MP Patrick Illidge and Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. MP Meyers said the current development tarnishes the image of Parliament and its MPs. MP Meyers said the current situation has traumatized the island and its people, therefore it's a very dark moment in the history of St. Maarten. MP Meyers said there needs to be a speedy and thorough investigation into the allegations against MP Illidge. She said MPs are well paid and they do not have to make the choices that are portrayed in the video. The UP faction leader further stated that the integrity of the government is at stake and the people of St. Maarten would very much like to hear the voice of the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister regarding the video and bribery allegation against MP Illidge who is currently supporting the NA/DP /I-3 coalition government. Member of Parliament Gracita Arrindell took the opportunity to read the oath that the Members of Parliament took when they took office. MP Arrindell also lashed out at Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin who said that the Bada Bing saga is looking more like a James Bond movie now that the Leader of the United Peoples Party is implicated. Arrindell said she thinks that the Deputy Prime Minister and Prime Minister of St. Maarten does not understand the seriousness of the matter. Arrindell said that integrity, accountability, and transparency are the three basic principles of good governance and it is also at the heart of the Bada Bing scandal. MP Arrindell said it is clear that the issue has cast a very negative shadow on the Parliament, Government, and the country. Arrindell said no one is perfect and no one far from weaknesses, only God is perfect. She continued by stating that when the elephants fight the grass gets trampled upon. "The grass in this case is the people of St. Maarten, residents and visitors to the island who come to invest or for recreation." Arrindell said the Bada Bing scandal has hit the globe. Arrindell made an open call to Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge and the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan who was questioned as a witness to do the honorable thing and step aside as the wheels of justice turn.

Member of Parliament Ruth Douglass in her short statement said the laws of St. Maarten need to be revised especially when it involves unscrupulous behavior of representatives of the people. MP Douglass said she would like to have a bill of rights in place for parliamentarians that would clarify the code of conduct of these elected officials. MP Douglass said there is a colleague in Parliament who has threatened another colleague, and the way politicians express themselves liberally.

Member of Parliament Johan "Janchi" Leonard said he is not passing judgment on anyone, however, there is a MP that is currently under investigation and they will wait on the outcome of that investigation. MP Leonard said the Minister of Justice was questioned by the National Detectives in connection with the Bada Bing Investigation. Leonard said integrity in Government is one of the pillars of Democracy, the country has been shaken to core of its foundation with respect to the alleged bribery and corruption. Leonard said the process of government should be open and transparent in order to rule out any conflict of interest. Leonard said that they received information that there have been alleged kick-backs of government related projects. Leonard said these allegations are coming from the people of St. Maarten. Leonard said they read in the news that an MP is a director of a company that has been carrying out construction works at the harbour. Leonard said this MP is part of the NA/DP/I-3 coalition government who appointed the Minister for the Harbour Affairs. "Even a blind man can see that this is an outright conflict of interest which still has to be addressed by Parliament."

In addressing the Justice Park, Leonard said he was always against this project because it would cost 100 million dollars and there is a cloud hanging over it. Leonard said their faction got information that kick-backs have been paid to a top government official in order for the project to move forward. Leonard said because of these types of information the country's integrity is at stake. Leonard said it has also been alleged that the bureau of communication is purchasing a building that would cost 7 million dollars and top government officials are to get kick-backs from this business deal. Leonard said he wants to know where are the checks and balances within the Government of St. Maarten. Leonard issued a call to the relevant authorities to dig deeper to see if any of the things they have been hearing has any truth to it. Leonard said where there is smoke there is fire and if the integrity of the country is not addressed then St. Maarten will be like a banana republic.

Member of Parliament Jules James also called on the Minister of Justice and MP Illidge to consider stepping aside while the investigation in the Bada Bing scandal is taking place. James said to date nothing was done by the justice ministry regarding the complaint he filed against Romaine Laville who he claimed threaten his life. He said despite the threats the Minister of Justice issued a gun license to the MP. MP James said the investigation involves one of their ranks and by no means none of them are without sin and they are not passing judgment of guilt or casting the first stone against anyone as they will allow the justice system to take its course.

Bad Joke Got Out of Hand --- Reliable Sources.

SMN News received information that the taping of MP Patrick Illidge is now being described by those who orchestrated the taping as "bad joke" that got out of hand. Sources close to the UP Party said that a reporter of the Daily Herald was given the tape so he could doctor it for next year's election but a former Minister of the UP faction is the one who took the unedited version of the tape and dropped it at the Herald's mailbox. A certain individual within the community who is close to the UP board members said that this is the explanation they were given last week when the scandal broke. However, SMN News was unable to make contact with the persons whose names were called as being part of the scheme to tape MP Illidge while he was collecting monies from the owner of Bada Bing strip club.

Philipsburg:--- At least two Independent Members of Parliament are currently seeking legal advice and exploring their options in taking the Leader of United People's Party Theodore Heyliger to court.

SMN News has been reliably informed that since the tape of MP Patrick Illidge surfaced where Illidge was seen allegedly accepting a bribe from the owner of Bada Bing, the two other independent MPs have decided to take legal action especially since the owner of Bada Bing told reporters that he was asked to tape Illidge and the questions he asked the embattled MP were those that were given to him by the leader of the UP party.

In an invited comment, Member of Parliament Romaine Laville said he will not be commenting on the actions he will take as he is still seeking legal advice but he wants people to know that entrapment and blackmail is a crime and since there is a particular person who is constantly talking about tapes and is now releasing tapes of people that were trapped he is seeking legal advice.

jeniceforbes18032013PHILIPSBURG:--- Jenice Forbes, a student at St. Maarten Academy, became the first ever Soualigan Fyah Supreme Poet on Friday, March 15, after the competition's final event.
Forbes competed against Andrew Peterson, who took 1st place, Atul Pereppadan, who placed 2nd, and her twin Janice Forbes, who took 3rd place. Forbes' won both of the two rounds with her poems entitled "Let me be" and "Your Life". The three runners up all received two books donated by House of Nehesi Publishers and the grand prize winner will be traveling to Tortola to perform at the annual Microphone Messenjah scheduled for October 2013.
Soualigan Fyah, which is a poetry and spoken word competition for teenagers, was organized by Lysanne Charles of 5 square miles productions, in collaboration with Clara Reyes of Imbali Center for Creative Movement. The event ran for five consecutive Fridays between February 15 and March 15 and ended with the final competition between the four youngsters.
Charles said that while the lead up Fridays before the finals had been met with some challenges, including not being able to reach the anticipated number of teenagers, but it had all been worth it in the end.
"Soualigan Fyah was really created as a vehicle to give young St. Maarten poets a chance to express themselves in front of both their peers and veteran, local poets. The competition component was added in order allow them to bring their A games from the inception. Initially I had thought more teens would come out, so that was a little frustrating, but I think things turned out just how they had to and these four young people and the guests poets who read for the finals demonstrated that there is indeed a need for events such as these, so definitely there is more to come," Charles said.
Charles said that as a result of the competition and at the request of some of the older poets such as Somalia 'Sumaiyyah Tha Poet' Peterson, Stephan 'Stretch' Rodney, and Rene Violenus she is working towards establishing a monthly open mic evening for the teenage poets and spoken word artists on the islands. These opening mic sessions will also allow the young poets to interact with veteran poets and more importantly allow them to continue developing their forms of poetry and spoken word, building on different artistic genres.
"We're excited. This is just the start of things to come. For our open mic evenings we are definitely going to continue reaching out to young people from across the island and encouraging them to come and step up to the mic. The Soualigan Fyah Poetry and Spoken Word Competition for Teens is definitely going to be an annual thing and something I look forward to seeing grow in the years to come," Charles said.
She said that she especially wanted to thank the four youngsters who had participated in the finals and also House of Nehesi Publishers for believing in the next generation of St. Maarten poets and donating the six books which were given out as prizes. She encourages all teenage poets to like Soualigan Fyah's Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/SoualiganFyah in order to stay up to date with upcoming events.

cdeweeveratsisterbasiliacenter18032013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever, took a tour recently of the Sister Basilia Center, daycare, residence and guiding living facilities. The tour was guided by Carlson Richardson, Manager of the Sister Basilia Center; Mireya Torrenga-Maria, Activity Coordinator and Erna Mae Francis, Psychologist at the center.
Minister De Weever was given the opportunity to see the center in operation, as the last visit to the center was the official opening, and the clients were not as yet in the facility. The center strives to enable people with disabilities to be recognized as citizens, have equal opportunities to participate in the social, educational, recreational and economic life and to have a warm loving and safe environment.
The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor subsidizes the White & Yellow Cross and many care products offered at the Sister Basilia Center. Minister De Weever is asking the special needs community to take full advantage of all their services.
"I am appealing to those of you in the community that have physically challenged persons at home, to please take advantage of the many services offered at the Sister Basilia Center," said Minister De Weever.
The Daycare or School teachers provides care for 35 clients of different levels of function. These clients are then placed in five different groups. At the center emphasis is placed on structuring clients in the following skills: academic, physical, social and self-help. The Minister was given the opportunity to visit all of these areas, such as the Angels, which is the children's group; the pacesetters, which are children with autism; Climbers, which is the lower level functioning group; Players, which is the mid-level functioning group and last the Smarties, which focuses on the higher-level functioning group.

percysledge18032013Festival Village:--- Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is pleased to announce Percy Sledge as the second artist for this great event.
Percy Sledge, born in Alabama, USA on November 25, 1941, is an American R&B artist and soul performer, who in 1966 became famous with the hit "When a Man Loves a Woman" and many other hits such as: "Take Time to Know Her", "Warm and Tender Love", "It Tears me Up", "Behind Closed Doors", "Try a Little Tenderness", "My Special Prayer", "Cover me", and "I Have Been Loving you Too Long". Sledge is also known for his emotional soul ballads, and was one of the first artists to mix country with soul, he covered songs from his inspirations e.g. Kris Krisrofferson and Elkie Brooks. After his number 1 hit "When a Man Loves a Woman" Sledge released "I'll Be Your Everything" and "Ain't No Sunshine", and became an international concert favorite throughout the world, especially in the Netherlands, Germany, the African continent and South Africa. Sledge placed fourteen singles on the pop charts from 1966-1974 and hit the R&B charts thirteen times during the same period.
As announced by Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten earlier, the highlight of this year's event is 9th time Grammy winner John Legend. "After Doing some market research, we felt that Percy Sledge was the perfect artist to bring to this year's Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten concert". "It blends the old school with the new school, in an effort to expand the demographics by attracting different age groups" says Clarence Derby, CEO of CD Entertainment.
The marketing department has come up with new sales and marketing activities such as: On line ticket sales, photo contest for the Hennessy Ambassador program, which will be managed by Romadesignz, local pre Hennessy Artistry concert and events, vacation packages with Westin Resort St. Maarten Dawn Beach Resort & Spa which tour operators from various regions such as the Caribbean, North America, Europe, and South America will be selling. This year there will be two entrance fees; VIP tickets will be US$ 150 in advance and US$ 175 at the door. This include premium Hennessy drinks and food, with VIP service in the front area that will offer amazing tasting stations and great service. Tickets are also available for those who would like to experience only the concert aspect of the show at US$ 55 in advance and US$ 75 at the door, Food and beverage will also be available for purchase. Request for especially VIP tickets are already pouring in and so it is important to get tickets early. Tickets will be available soon.
Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten is a flexible music communication program blending talents from different genres. It gives the brand a voice to consumer, press, and music industry leaders about Hennessy's long-standing legitimate link to music. Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco is the official distributor of Hennessy. For more information on the Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten visit www.hennessyartistrysxm.com or contact us at Phone: +1 721 520-7120 or e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Hennessy Artistry St. Maarten Press Release

charlenecraig18032013Philipsburg:--- Charlene Craig, an employee of A Team Security who was accused by the owner of the company Willem van Barren of stealing some $45,000.00 denounced the accusations on Monday in an interview with SMN News. Craig said that she worked for Willem van Barren for about six months making his payroll and invoices from his apartment because the company had no office and vehicles for its operations. "I want to make clear that I never collected checks from the clients, and I never had any contact with his lawyer, on the contrary a lawyer from Stomp law firm called me to ask me when were the employees going to get paid and at that point I informed the lawyer that she herself was not paid and that the lawyer should wonder if she will be paid for her services." Craig said she acted more like a mediator between van Barren and his employees and clients because van Barren cannot speak proper English and he would insult and scream at his workers. "I always had to intervene to bring peace but I never did all those things he said I did for him. Another thing I want to make clear is that van Barren and his brother were planning this whole affair where he would skip the island without paying his bills. Van Barren's brother "Mr. Plomb" came to St. Maarten from the Netherlands and van Barren transferred everything to his brother's name. Even his car he transferred to his brother." Craig said van Barren's brother contacted her and asked her to write a letter for him stating he had nothing to do with the company and she told him she could not at the time because she was leaving for Puerto Rico for a few days. "At no point did van Barren call me or email me to inquire about anything. I did not even know he left the island. I found out that day when he already boarded the plane and left."

Craig further explained that van Barren fled the island when he received a letter from Maho Group of Companies informing him that they are concerned about the way he treats his workers, especially not paying them on time. Craig said van Barren does not have any security company in the USA, according to what he told her, he was going to the USA to sell K-9 dogs. She said the man even asked her and partner Marcel Loor to join him in his business venture and they refused. Craig said that van Barren even asked Loor for advice on how to run his security company which Loor gave him free of charge for a period of time. She said van Barren told her that he never intended to keep the A Team for himself instead he wanted to sell the company for 600,000 Euros. Craig said van Barren even asked her and Loor to invest in the company but they declined because she saw how irresponsible van Barren is when it comes to spending money. Van Barren was spending over $10,000 on his own expenses and these monies were taken out of the company's account, he also spent monies on his brother and forgot that he has an obligation to his workers.

Craig said van Barren traveled numerous times to the USA as he was busy setting up his new business there. She said that the workers did not even have uniforms, or belts because van Barren was not investing in his company and workers. "In January, van Barren bought some uniforms in the USA and the workers cannot use them because the uniforms have no logos on them.

"That man had his daughter home for two years, and she was not attending school because van Barren was sending his daughter to CIA in St. Maarten and he gave the owner of the school a dog in exchange for the school fees and that did not work out. I am the one that ran around and went to the Education Department and got his daughter in at the St. Maarten Academy and the girl left the school because she claimed she did not like the school."

Craig further explained that Willem van Barren's landlord had to place a lien on his account for non-payment of rent. She described van Barren as irresponsible and a scammer because the man was not paying his bills. SZV she said placed a lien on his account of non-payment, his taxes were not paid, while he owes several car rental companies on the French side. "Van Barren used to rent cars from the French side and when the employees took the vehicles back it's only then they have to deal with the unpaid bills." The delinquent businessman Craig said even bought a generator from the French side and he did not pay for it and the store on the French side just recently took a lawyer to deal with that case.

When she was asked if her partner Marcel Loor was made General Manager of the company, Craig said that was also untrue, she said van Barren asked Loor to help manage the company and Loor (her partner) told him that he gave him free advice for quite some time and if he has to do so now then he would have to pay him. Mr. Loor did not even send van Barren an invoice as yet for his services. When asked about the check that van Barren said Loor picked up from Great Bay Hotel, Craig said that the check was picked up by one of the workers. When she was asked if Loor signed the check, Craig said she did not know but if Loor did that it was because he was authorized by van Barren to do so even though there is no written contract to say Marcel Loor is the Managing Director of the company. Craig admitted to having van Barren's computer but she said she will not hand over the computer to anyone unless she is paid. She said van Barren paid her half of her salaries for January and she is still to be paid for February like all the other employees. Craig said there are about 70 workers in the A Team predicament.

Craig said that van Barren made deductions from his employees salaries who had loans at Island Finance and even though the deductions were paid and it is on the employees pay-slips, van Barren never paid Island Finance the monies he deducted on behalf of his employees. "I fought with him almost every day because he was abusing his workers, they were working overtime and not being paid. When they needed doctor cards or anything I have to deal with it for them because they would call me for assistance. Van Barren and his brother knew that all the workers would be filing a complaint against him and so he ran away and decided to blame someone else for his irresponsible behavior."

While the interview SMN News conducted with Charlene Craig was taped, Craig said she did not want the tape to be aired because her lawyer advised her not to allow the tape to be used online or on radio.

smeyersolivacce12072012Congratulations to the Catholic Community on the Inauguration of Pope Francis.

The newly elected Pope Francis will be inaugurated on Tuesday, March 19 during a papal inauguration ceremony at St. Peter's Square, Rome, Italy.

Thousands are expected to attend along with world leaders and heads of state from around the world.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all Catholics around the world and here on Sint Maarten.

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio who hails from Argentina was elected Pope last week and took the name Pope Francis on his assumption of the papacy.

The Catholic community of Sint Maarten and around the world have high hopes for the new Pope, and he has already made his mark with respect to his simplicity and humility, and his emphasis on helping the poor.

His Holiness shares many common goals with respect to social justice, human rights, the promotion of peace and the eradication of poverty and hunger.

On Tuesday, as His Holiness Pope Francis is inaugurated, let us all say a prayer for him with respect to the responsibility that he has on his shoulder, and may the Almighty God give him the strength to fulfill his agenda and promote his vision.

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

wibeasycharge18032013PHILIPSBURG:--- Visit The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. (WIB) representatives at their expo booth on March 23rd and 24th for the Fun Miles Expo at Kooyman Megastore. The event starts on Saturday from 8am until 6pm and on Sunday from 9am until 1:00pm. WIB representatives will be available to provide customers with information on WIB's Online Banking, Easy Charge (cell phone recharge), Bankomatiko Smartcard registrations and Personal Loans services.

Exclusively at the Expo, WIB will give walk-in customers the opportunity to earn 25 Fun Miles points for signing up for our Easy Charge (cell phone recharge) or Online Banking services. That means that you can already earn 50 Fun Miles points by signing up for both services at the expo. With Fun Miles points you can pay for goods and services at selected Fun Miles merchants.

Reward yourself by getting started on earning your Fun Miles points by signing up for Easy Charge (25 points) or Online Banking (25 points) at the WIB Expo Booth. We are looking forward to seeing you there.

It's always more fun with your partner in progress.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt will be in a Central Committee meeting on Tuesday, March 19.

This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session on January 25 and is scheduled for 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Minister of Finance will continue to answer questions posed in the first round by Members of Parliament with respect to the financial situation of the country.

The initial meeting was requested by the Minister in a letter dated October 17, 2012.

The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 20 and 21 about the Marine Industry and the Monument Council.

The central committee will meet on Wednesday, March 20 at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is related to the survival and growth of the marine industry in Sint Maarten. This meeting was requested by M.F. Ferrier on behalf of the Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA).

The central committee will meet on Thursday, March 21 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber.

The agenda point for this meeting is the proposal to name the Chair persons and member of the Monument Council. Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs will be present for the session.

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

Great Bay:--- Twenty three youngsters received their computer training certificates in MS XP 2007 and MS Word Beginner/Intermediate level on Saturday February 23rd 2013 at the certificate ceremony held at the Harborview Restaurant in Philipsburg. The students excelled in the computer training course and achieved final grades that ranged from 75 percentile to 100 percentile. Shaquille Boddie, Claudine Touissaint, Sanjae Stephenson and Shawn Forrest were honored for doing exceptionally well in their final exams. The Computer Training was facilitated by Joan Adult Advancement Program and classes were taught by Mrs. Joan Hanson.

The students are currently enrolled in the preparatory phase of the YDP Hospitality program. In the preparatory phase of the program (which lasts for 18 weeks); the students follow courses such as the AHLEI START (General introduction to Hospitality), Career preparation, Social Skills, English Business writing and computer training in MS XP 2007 and MS Word Beginner/intermediate level. After completion of the preparatory program, these students will follow training to become Front Desk Agents, Bartenders, Restaurant Servers or Maintenance employees.

St. Maarten Youth Development Program is a second chance educational program that aims to train youngsters between the ages of 18 and 24 years who were unable to complete secondary education. The goal of the program is to provide these youngsters with start qualifications so that they can enter the labor market or further their education at the SBO/ASVE. The program is executed by the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI) of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs and fully funded by Usona.

For further information about the Youth Development Program, please feel free to contact us at either 543-0497 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You can also visit us at the SBO Service Center upstairs Carl and Sons on the Pondfill.

sjacobsatrotarytabletennistournament18032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs opened the Rotary Club Table Tennis Tournament on Saturday March 16th, 2013 at the Sports Auditorium.

Table tennis athletes from St. Maarten under the guidance of coach Radjouki and athletes from Anguilla participated in the tournament. In her address to the athletes the Minister commended the athletes for their hard work and training that has resulted in their participation in the tournament.

"It is good to know that these young athletes will not be negatively exposed, but will be positively highlighted because of their commitment and that of their coaches and the Rotary Club" the Minister said.

Coach Radjouki was congratulated for his tireless effort and dedication to the sport and the youth of St. Maarten. In conclusion Minister Jacobs encouraged the athletes to play their best while observing sportsmanship. "May the best team win."

Minster Jacobs officially opened the tournament by playing a friendly 'best of three serves' match which she won.

utsintroducesnewxtremekiosks18032013Philipsburg:--- UTS has installed a number of state-of-the-art top up terminals that will allow customers to perform a number of advanced functions using an intiutive touch-screen technology. The devices run on a software platform developed specifically for the devices by UTS business partner, Xtreme Business Concepts. Customers will be able to load money directly to their prepaid mobile accounts using various methods on these terminals. In addition to the traditional methods, customers may also swipe and load credit to a reloadable top-up card. The credit can then be transferred to the actual prepaid account at a later time. "These kiosks are one of a number of innovations we are introducing for added convenience for our customers," said UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. "There are a number of added features these kiosks offer and we are seeking to expand the additional functionality even further to meet the needs of our customers," Lambert continued.

During 2013 Cruise Shipping Miami, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) offered numerous additional opportunities for cruise industry executives and stakeholders to renew or create business partnerships, cultivate ideas and tackle crucial issues.

As with everything in which the FCCA participates, one of the FCCA's main goals is to positively impact the working relationship between its Member Cruise Lines and industry stakeholders, especially its Platinum Members. To foster these engagements during Cruise Shipping Miami and actualize its resources and attendees, the FCCA programmed a block of functions coinciding with the event. These gatherings and features ensured that Platinum Members always had a direct line to the FCCA Member Cruise Line executives and each other, while presenting opportunities for all stakeholders to gain access to the FCCA's valuable resources.

The FCCA booth itself hosted many of these opportunities. Besides serving as a one-stop shop for all attendees to learn more about the FCCA and what it offers, the booth also acted as an event organizer, with Proexport Colombia and the Port of St. Maarten sponsoring cocktail receptions to promote their destinations and companies while bringing together the Platinum Members and cruise executives in a private atmosphere. Additionally, many of the same executives and members cycled in and out of the booth for meetings arranged by the FCCA.

There were also the annual FCCA events that have become synonymous with CSM for many cruise executives and members. The annual pre-event barbeque took place at FCCA President Michele Paige's residence to offer Platinum Members and cruise executives an intimate affair (along with delectable fare and libations) so they could reacquaint and prepare for the long days ahead.

The FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza offered a chance for any attendee to spend the evening with a cruise executive hosting tables for an unforgettable evening and cause. In its 19th year and made possible by Port Everglades and Port Miami, the 2013 FCCA Gala sprang to life with a 90-minute cocktail reception and silent art auction-composed of a magnificent collection donated by Park West Galleries-to engage the entire audience and allow plenty of networking. However, the Gala dinner stole the show, seating attendees at tables headed by the cruise line executive of their choice, all representing Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Member Lines and valuable prospects for business and relationship building.

Taking place at LIV-the hottest nightclub in Miami-for a second consecutive year, the FCCA Official Cruise Shipping Miami Party served as a perfect closing to CSM. This long-awaited reprieve after a week of meetings, receptions and business dinners provided a chance for the tired, sore and overworked attendees to loosen their ties, let down their hair and put on their dancing shoes for a fun night with some of the cruise industry's most important decision makers.

Indeed, 2013 Cruise Shipping Miami offered plenty to its participants with its success-proven formula combined with many new features by UBM, but it is the FCCA that offered backstage passes to the real rock stars. It is through these interactions that relationships are born, which provide the best way to get your foot in the door or create a doorway in the first place. This is also just part of the reason why FCCA Platinum Membership is a vital resource for any entity doing or desiring business with the cruise industry. Working directly with the key decision makers is simply the best way to reach your goal and save time and money. The FCCA prides itself on offering these opportunities, as growth in any sector of the cruise industry means progress for the entire industry.

sjacobsatrotaractsxmsunrisereadingprogram17032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the Rotaract Club St. Maarten Sunrise reading program on Saturday March 16th 2013 at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.

The reading program, which includes the launch of the Kamishibai reading project, is an initiative of the Rotaract Club and the Philipsburg Jubilee library. The goal of the program is to get children enthusiastic about reading from an early age. The focus this month is on books by Dr. Seuss.

Minister Jacobs was invited to say a few words about reading and to read a story to the attending children. In her short address the Minister spoke of her love of reading which started at an early age when her mother would take her and her siblings to the library on backstreet for bi-weekly visits. She attributed the library for being instrumental in giving her the opportunity to experience the world through reading and the expansion of her vocabulary.

The Minister also encouraged parents to read to and with their children from an early age. In conclusion the minister read the first story of the Dr. Seuss book 'The big book of beginner book'.

Aukje de Jong introduced the kamishibai reading program to the attending guests. Kamishibai is a form of storytelling that originated in Japan. Most Kaminishibai stories consist of 12 or 16 large sturdy, beautifully illustrated cards. The stories are housed in an illustrated wooden 'suitcase' De Jong started the project with 20 daycare teachers to encourage children to start reading. Several Kamishibai 'suitcases' are on display at the library till the end of the week.

george21082009Member of Parliament George Pantophlet is calling on the people not to lose focus. Don't allow the happenings of late to be a distraction. One has to understand the purpose and the reasons behind the pressure being put on St. Maarten. Just a little bit of history. When we decided that we wanted separate status, we were told that we were too small. Then we were told that we cannot have separate status like Aruba and then we were told that we have to get our Administration, Finances, and Legal system in place. Today just some almost 3 years after obtaining our separate status St. Maarten to the surprise of those who said we could not do it, St. Maarten is holding her ground. They wanted us to crumble and we did not, they thought we would tell them take over because we can't handle it but we did not. The recent developments only served as a tool for them to use against us. The Netherlands is facing some serious financial challenges. Unemployment is on the rise, businesses are closing down and they are forced to make some serious budget cuts. I learnt while I was in the Netherlands that there are pensioners who will be receiving somewhere in the range of 380 Euros per month less than they are supposed to. And this is the result of mismanagement and bad investments (not my words but that of its citizens). I was told that gasoline increased twice in February in the Netherlands. The citizens in the Netherlands are upset with their politicians so the best thing for people like van Raak, Bosman, Platserk and others who are involved but unknown to us to do is to divert attention to St. Maarten. The pressure started quite some time ago. Do you remember the letter from Minister Plasterk regarding the fiber optic cable, the turnover tax, and so on? Why don't they eliminate their general sales tax that is levied on goods imported by Saba and St Eustatia? (Saba and St. Eustatia are now asking for the turnover tax to be reinstituted). Then we had the Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT) telling us that we had to cut 25 million guilders from the 2013 Budget because they felt that the budgeted revenues were not realistic. Do you know what this means for our social institutions as there isn't any more USONA funding available. The recent cutting off of the ITC system where we had no information on police matters, immigration and boarder control? The intention for the Dutch is for us to become one of the BES islands with all controls in The Hague and in the hands of Dutch (Holland) civil servants who don't know us. What should be broadcasted is the fact that St. Maarten will now be given information beforehand on trade missions that the Netherlands normally attend so call on our behalf. We will then determine base on the agenda whether we want to attend such a trade mission or not. This information is accessible to the Dutch Embassies. This was not the case before. As a matter of fact there is a conference organized between Aruba and the Netherlands to be held May 4 through May 8, 2013 entitled Europe meets the Americas. Furthermore while giving us a tour of his office to paraphrase the Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands he said St. Maarten has the potential to become a tremendous beneficial economical hub between Europe (Netherlands) and Latin America because of her geographical location. There is much more I can say but I believe my point is clear. I have nothing against the Dutch politicians (Netherlands) but they should manage their country and let us manage ours. They have their challenges and we have ours. They have 500 years, we have 2 years and 3 months. To the people of St. Maarten I say, "Let us not fall victim to the divide and rule phenomenon. Don't lose focus."

Member of Parliament George Pantophlet

sjacobsatrotarywalkathon17032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Hon. Silveria Jacobs participated in the Rotary Walk-a-thon on Saturday March 16th 2013. The walk-a-thon is a collaborative effort between the business community and Parents Teachers Associations (PTA) of the various schools to raise funds. The Minister pledged her support in the fundraising efforts.

The UP faction is concerned about the welfare of approximately 70 A-Team Security Officers and approximately 150-200 family members.

According to media reports, the security officers have not been paid their February salaries from their employer and the owner of the company is allegedly off island.

The UP faction is calling on the Government to take the appropriate measures to assist the workers before this situation becomes a catastrophe for them and the 150-200 family members. These persons have responsibilities and obligations to meet on a monthly basis.

At the same time, the UP faction would like to commend the Maho Group of Companies for coming to the immediate aide of the 70 security officers by providing them with some financial assistance.

The A-Team Security Officers have also demonstrated their service of duty to the Maho Group with respect to remaining on the job despite their predicament.

They know how important it is to continue to provide service to the Maho Group of Companies which is one of the major hotels on the island where it concerns safety and security of hotel guests.

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

willemvanbarren17032013Philipsburg:--- The owner of A Team Security Willem van Barren in a telephone interview with SMN News on Sunday said that he was hospitalized last week when he heard that his workers were not paid. Van Barren said that he hired Charlene Craig, the wife of convicted head of immigration Marcel Loor, to do his administration. The A Team owner said that Craig has been working for him for the past six months and she is the one that did his payroll and had communication with his clients, workers, and even his lawyer when he has labour disputes with his workers.

Van Barren said he owns a Security Company in the United States and he was forced to return to the USA because his daughter who was running his company had to leave in order to continue her education. Van Barren said his intention to leave the island was made known to Craig and she even brought in her husband Marcel Loor whom he made Managing Director of his company in his absence. The A Team owner said that Charlene Craig suggested to him that he make Loor a director since he did not have anyone in senior positions that could take decision while he is off island. Van Barren said Loor was made managing director two months ago and instead of working for the company Loor began investigating his company and met with some of his workers and clients and was also investigating them. Van Barren said his intention was to live in the USA to manage his company there but he had intended to travel to St. Maarten once per month to do the payroll but Craig and Loor told him that they could manage the company for him and he did not have to return to St. Maarten on a monthly basis. "They told me they could handle everything and that they would send me the remainder of the money every month." Van Barren said just prior to him leaving the island he had to arrange several things. He said when they are short he either leaves cash or checks for his workers. He said for February Maho and Great Bay Resort were all late with their payments. Van Barren said prior to him leaving the island he left $45,000.00 to pay his workers and Loor and Craig had to pick up at least three checks from companies that paid late for him to complete the February payroll but now he does not know where the money went and neither can he make contact with Craig and Loor. marcelloor17032013Van Barren said Loor picked up a check from Great Bay and he signed the check at the back even though he (Loor) knows that he cannot deposit checks with his signature on it. "I don't know what Marcel Loor was trying to do but my accountant found the check at some store and managed to deposit the check." Van Barren said Charlene Craig paid a visit to his lawyer and informed him that she does not want to work for him anymore. When asked by SMN News reporter if he believes that Craig and Loor are behind his clients and company, Van Barren said he is of the opinion that these people are trying to steal his company and even his lawyer who worked for him for years no longer wants to work for him. Van Barren said he really does not know what is going on but his friend and former owner of A Team along with his accountant are busy working on the matter and when they gather enough information on the recent developments with Craig and Loor he will travel to St. Maarten.

"They are not responding to my phone calls and emails, even my clients I am not hearing from, the Maho Group where most of my workers work. Maho Group has monies for me dating back to three months and they too refused to respond to my emails. I am told Craig and Loor went to Puerto Rico but I don't know if that is true." Van Barren said Craig did not want to hand over his company's information but just recently his accountant managed to get some information from Craig but she refused to turn over the computer that has all his company's information. Van Barren said Craig and Loor just recently moved his company's head office to the ice cream parlour they rented on the Boardwalk in January 2013.

Van Barren said that one of his senior Supervisors got an unexpected visit from Craig and Loor and she decided that she will not work for A Team anymore.

SMN News attempted to confirm the story of Van Barren by looking for proof that shows that Charlene Craig is involved with A Team Security and we managed to find that proof on LinkedIn where Craig is listed as the Assistant General Manager at Security A Team: http://www.linkedin.com/in/charlenecraig. SMN News also found on the same site where Loor is registered as the Managing Director and Security Consultant at Secadex International Ltd: http://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelloor.

In the meantime both Loor and Craig were condemned to pay almost Naf. 900,000.00 but they recently appealed the verdict.

wmarlinwithcaptainmassimomarino17032013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin went onboard the Carnival Dream on Sunday morning once again, this time to bid farewell to Captain Massimo Marino and his crew who had been stranded on St. Maarten since Thursday.

Marlin was accompanied by several employees of the Harbour Group of Companies and Mr. Benjamin Ortega presented the Captain with a basket on behalf of the Harbour Team.

Deputy Prime Minister Marlin told the Captain that the adversity of the Carnival Dream created opportunities for Team St. Maarten. St. Maarten was able to demonstrate its ability to step up to the plate and ensure that everything ran smoothly. The positive publicity St. Maarten got from the support provided to the stranded passengers has been unimaginable.

Captain Marino expressed thanks to all who helped in making sure that their stay on St. Maarten was a positive experience. He was particularly happy with the water that was provided and the removal of the grey sewage water from the ship by several septic trucks. The grey water was further treated and processed at our own sewage treatment plant. Captain Massimo Marino also appreciated very much the police escort provided to the passengers on their way to the airport.

At 12:23 Sunday afternoon the Carnival Dream pulled out of St. Maarten with 1382 crew on board. The last passengers left to the airport on Sunday morning and a few passengers who could not take a flight back home were transferred to another cruise ship.

Marlin was full of praise for the manner in which St. Maarten responded to the call. Though the Managing Directors of the Harbour and the Airport were both off island, those left in charge did a fabulous job.

Marlin said he had to personally thank and congratulate Mr. Richard v/d Mark, Mr. Roberto Levenstone, and Mr. Benjamin Ortega of the Harbour Group of Companies and Miss. Olivia Lake of his Ministry for a job well done.

The list of other persons and companies is very long, but everybody who has contributed in some way or the other must be thanked and should be proud of their contribution in making the past  few days a resounding success.

wmarlinandcarnivaldreamcrew17032013The public in general was full of praise also for the manner in which our police force provided escort all through the day on Friday and Saturday and also on Sunday morning. The transportation of the passengers to the airport went smoothly and was very much appreciated by Captain Marino and the passengers.

On Thursday evening Sir Mighty Dow and his steel pan players and dancers provided entertainment for the stranded passengers at the harbour.

The royal welcome they received at the airport and the manner in which airport management and staff assisted the passengers left a lasting impression on them and will surely contribute to a wave of positive news being disseminated about St. Maarten.

The Deputy Prime Minister extended a big thank you on Sunday afternoon on behalf of the government and people of St. Maarten to the following persons and businesses and government departments and companies for being part of Team St. Maarten.

The Harbour Group of Companies, Maritime and Shipping Affairs, the St. Maarten Police, Ministry of VROMI, in particular Olivia Lake MSc, the Sewage Plant Operators, the Septic Truck owners, NV Gebe for providing water and electricity, the management and staff of the Princess Juliana Airport and all vendors and shops and persons working at the airport, the Agent Maduro and Sons, Tour Bus Companies, Clean St. Maarten, and Checkmate Security.

Head of Border Control said Extra Manpower was needed for smooth process.

The Head of the Border Control management Geronimo Juliet in a press release said that the management of the Immigration and Border Mobile Control would like to bring the following to your attention:

During the Carnival Dream saga where 4164 tourist and 1328 crew members on board of this cruise ship were stranded on Sint Maarten, the immigration was obliged to put extra man power to make sure that all the passengers were checked out in a smooth way at the Princess Juliana International airport. The immigration personnel whom are accustom of dealing with this magnitude of passengers, did their best to make sure that everything ran in good order. The passengers were divided in three groups. 1945 passengers left on Friday 15th of March, 1470 passengers left on Saturday 16th of March and the last group left on Sunday 17th of March, 2013. All of them left with the Delta airline. The ship (Carnival Dream) departed Sint Maarten's port at 12:23pm on Sunday with 1328 Crew members on board. The ship left to Port Canaveral Florida and will arrive on 19th of March 2013.

The Immigration department would like to thank all who were involved in making the passengers feel at ease on our lovely island during this saga. Especially the Police Personnel, Personnel Arrindell Aviation, Security Airport/ Harbor and the entire staff Harbor and Airport, also the Sint Maarten motorists for their understanding and cooperation when all those big buses were traveling on the road on their way to the airport.

Again I would like to stress, together we are strong divided we are weak. Not only in this kind of event we have to demonstrate that we care but also during the whole year. Sint Maarten is our homeland and we have to learn to protect it. Let this be a lesson for all of us that we have to respect each other and work together through good communication.

soundpollutiongovernmentagencyreps17032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Acting Head of the Department of Inspections Martha Thewet said on Sunday that her department and other relevant government agencies met last Friday in the Dr. A.C. Wathey Hall at the Government Administration Building with representatives from entertainment establishments (Snacks, Restaurants, and Night Clubs) with respect to sound pollution.

The objective of the meeting according to Thewet was to inform the aforementioned about sound pollution and what is allowed and what is not allowed when having entertainment functions in the form of DJ's and Karaoke.

Extensive controls on noise will be carried out in the various districts with respect to establishments that are causing a nuisance and noise in residential and commercial areas.

The Department of Inspections has started a campaign with respect to noise pollution. This campaign was launched two-years ago and is now being re-launched.

The department has received a number of complaints from the community about loud music in different districts where Bars and Snack bars are located, and the department will be controlling these establishments to make sure that they adhere to current ordinances that regulate sound in accordance with the licenses issued to these types of establishments.

Not all businesses are allowed music of more than 60 DB. This is also mentioned in the license and in various types of permits that allow music. The requirements and provisions go along with the type of business operation and this information will be outlined in informational pamphlets when the campaign kicks off.

A sound meter will be used to measure the level. As a practical indicator for maximum music level, it is not allowed to travel more than three meters away from the adjacent property or public space.

Those who do not comply, the existing laws and ordinances will be enforced for violators.

"As a community, we are all trying to create a balance society where citizens can live peacefully and businesses can operate and therefore all stakeholders are happy. Community harmony is the key," Thewet pointed out.

Meetings have already been held with the Public Prosecutor's Office and the Police Department. Community Police Officers will also be assisting with the Sound pollution Campaign throughout the districts.

"I would like to thank the businesses that were present at the meeting last week Friday for taking the time to come out to learn more about the campaign to be embarked upon," Thewet said on Sunday.

The government agencies represented at the meeting was Supervisor Controllers, Section Heads of Economic Controllers, Acting Department Head of Economic Affairs J. Webster, Secretary General Miguel De Weever, and Community Police Officer Richards.

Anyone who has a complaint about noise pollution can contact the department by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of Parliament (MPs) on Monday will be given a tour of the GEBE Power Plant in Cay Bay.

The tour has been organized upon the initiative of President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel who would like MPs to get a first-hand look at the country's power generation production facilities prior to a follow-up parliamentary meeting with GEBE management.

The Central Committee of Parliament met on February 19 with respect to the current situation at GEBE utility company.

The agenda point included future plans of GEBE utility company.

The February 19 meeting was requested by Independent Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson, Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

rotaractsxmsunrisedonatestocrystalhome17032013South Reward:--- The month of March marks "Literacy Month" for Rotaractors around the world and the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise took the initiative of encouraging Literacy among the youngsters living at the Crystal Home on March 15th 2013. The members of Rotaract Sunrise visited the Crystal Home and presented ample amount of school supplies to Miss Eva Williams; head person in charge of the Home. In addition to school supplies, the Rotaract members donated educational games, cases of poultry and clothing to the children staying at the Crystal Home.

Elisia Lake; President of the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise, encouraged Ms. Williams to contact the club whenever she needs assistance as the members of the Rotaract Club are here to help. The members of Rotaract had pep talks with the youngsters on the importance of education and encouraged them to strive to excel in life. The children at the Crystal Home shared with the members of Rotaract their future aspirations and thanked the members of the club for their continuous contributions to the Crystal Home.

smeyersolivacce12072012I would like to take this opportunity to commend all those public and private sector agencies that were involved in Operation Carnival Dream. From the personnel of Carnival Cruise lines, the management and staff of the Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA), the vendors at PJIA, Police, Tour Bus Operators, private Taxis, the St. Maarten Port Authority, and government agencies, for a job well done in taking care of the Carnival Dream cruise passengers and crew from when the cruise ship developed problems early Thursday morning.

The public and private sectors rallied to the cause when the Carnival Dream had developed a technical issue with the ship's back-up emergency diesel generator.

Cruise passengers were flown out on Friday, Saturday and Sunday back to the US, and from reports that I have received, the entire operation went well.

Over a period of four days the country has received tremendous media coverage and this should lead to additional visitors to the island over the mid to long-term.

Cruise passengers have indicated that they will come back as a stay-over visitor as well, so all in all, what appeared to be a very bleak negative situation has turned out to be a positive opportunity for the country's tourism sector.

Congratulations to the people of Sint Maarten for stepping up to the plate once again.

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

toppixaviationphotographyjudges15032013Organizers see Carnival Dream passenger evacuation as extraordinary photo ops.

Simpson Bay:--- With over 20 extra flights due to touch down at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), this weekend to shuttle out over 4,400 stranded passengers of the Carnival Dream cruise ship, which stalled Wednesday at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities as a result of a generator malfunction, organizers of the ToppiX 2013 Aviation Photo Competition have decided to modify the rules of the competition slightly.

"We have decided that photos taken from March 15, 2013 through March 17, 2013 can also qualify for the ToppiX2013 Aviation Photo Competition," said Robbie Cijntje, organizer of the competition.

Recognizing that there will be what he termed an "extraordinarily large amount of charter flights into Sint Maarten this weekend from Friday, March 15 through March 17, 2013," Cijntje said this will present "very, very rare and extraordinary photo opportunities."

"Our information shows a minimum of 20 extra flights ranging from B-737 through B-767 aircraft.

"Seeing the obviously heavy traffic into and around the airport, we have decided to cancel
the planned cocktail party on Sunday, March 17, 2013. However our briefing on Monday 18, 2013 at 08 AM at the Sunset Beach Bar will continue as planned," he added.

SXM is one of the major sponsors of the competition, the first of its kind in the Caribbean, offering a cash prize of US$2,500 to the overall winner. The competition, organized under the theme, "St. Maarten: Aircraft Spotters' Paradise" was originally scheduled to be held here from March 17 – 22, 2013.

The best six photographs chosen by a panel of judges who are professionals in the field, will be on display at the airport for four months. The winners will be announced at a prize-giving ceremony on March 23, 2013, and the overall winner or his or her legal representative must be present at this ceremony to claim the prize.

ministersunveilingsolarpanel15032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports hon. Silveria Jacobs said she was very excited to see the Philipsburg Jubilee Library be fitted out with solar panels that would lower the monthly costs of electricity. Jacobs said she is looking forward to schools and other service oriented institutions having the same opportunity. "I congratulate Deputy Prime Minister Hon. William Marlin and Ministry VROMI as well as the Philipsburg Jubilee Library for all it has done in collaboration to realize this project.

hnlmsfriesland15032013A maritime historical event takes place next Sunday March 17th in the harbor of Philipsburg, St. Maarten. HNLMS Friesland, one of the newest ships of the Royal Navy, is welcomed for the first time by the Governor of Sint Maarten, Eugene Holiday.

From 08:45 am to 09:15 am the new patrol vessel is entering the harbor of Philipsburg and is passing Fort Amsterdam. This goes together with the traditional salute firing to the Flag of The Kingdom of the Netherlands and to the Governor of Sint Maarten.

The HNLMS Friesland is sailing for several weeks now as the support ship for the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and has proven its worth in a variety of areas. Last week the ship intercepted nearly 1,500 kilograms of cocaine and last weekend the crew prevented illegal fishing near the Saba bank.

All in all the ceremonial arrival is an impressive navy tradition. This time it's even more special by a historical fact. In 2013 the Royal Navy celebrates its 525 anniversary. The theme of this celebration is innovation. This theme is once again highlighted by the ceremonial arrival of the newest navy ship in Philipsburg.

robertvanembdenvisitsswescotwilliams15032013Discuss topics regarding Colombians Residing on Island

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams received a courtesy visit from the Kingdom Ambassador the Netherlands His Excellency Robert van Embden at her Cabinet on Thursday. Mr. van Embden, who is being accompanied by Mrs. Van Embden, introduced himself and his function to the Prime Minister and discussed various topics with regards to Colombians living in St. Maarten and the other kingdom entities in the Caribbean. His Excellency's visit comes just a few weeks after the Prime Minister the Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams met with the Consul of Colombia the Hon. Alfonso De Jesus Velez Rivas at a meeting at the AC Wathey Legislative Hall on Friday the 14th of February.

His Excellency Robert van Embden previously held the diplomatic as Kingdom Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Kinshasa. During his official visit to St. Maarten His Excellency van Embden was escorted by Treaties Officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DBB) Ms. Dane Daal.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nagicotonagicocyclists15032013MARIGOT:--- Friday, 15 March 2013 - The excitement is beginning to kick in for the 1st Annual NAGICO to NAGICO Cycling Race taking place this weekend Saturday March 16th and Sunday March 17th. The main event is on Sunday at 8am, with the 'Start' at the NAGICO Office in Philipsburg and the 'Finish' at NAGICO Assurance in Marigot.

The event which is planned in two phases will have the time trials on Saturday at the Post Office in Grand Case and ending at the NAGICO office in Marigot. It promises to be an exciting race as professional riders from France and Guadeloupe have arrived on the island to participate in this event. These professional riders include: Ludovic Turpin from France, who is the official 2012 winner of Tour Guadeloupe, Champion of France, Tour de France, Italy and Spain. Nicolas Dumont; the 2009 winner of Tour Guadeloupe is also among the delegation with other professional riders like Damien Maroni, Steeve Chaider and Christian Thibois.

Well known local riders from St. Martin, like Jean Maire Poyo and Edward Benitez will be racing in this event. NAGICO extends an invitation to entire community to come out and witness this milestone event. NAGICO Insurances is a proud sponsor of this event and hopes to make this NAGICO to NAGICO Cycling Race and annual event.

nicoledeweeverreceivingdonationfromorcobank15032013Program will be held June 24-30 on St. Maarten

Philipsburg:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever recently received donations from ORCO Bank, The Daily Herald and Mercuur Medical for the summer project-Art Saves Lives. Donations were also received from the Bardfield family, Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten and Mrs. Merle Solomons. Ms. De Weever was very grateful for the donations and looked forward to bringing a range of artists from the United States and St. Maarten to conduct an intensive 12 hour 1 week program promoting careers in the arts.

Ms. De Weever was especially grateful to the Bardfield Family, Bureau Telecommunications and Post St. Maarten and Mrs. Mercuur who were the first to support the project.

The donated funds will help ALSP bring this project to fruition, serve local youth who are interested in a career in the arts and strengthen the performing arts on the St. Maarten.

carnivaldreampassengersgoingtodeltaplane15032013Simpson Bay:--- Over 1,000 stranded passengers of the Carnival Dream cruise ship were airlifted out of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on Friday on charter flights operated by Delta Airlines.

According to the Director of Operations at SXM, Larry Donker, everything went "very well" given the circumstances.

Donker expressed appreciation for the cooperation between SXM and representatives of Delta Airlines to ensure a smooth evacuation of the passengers. Carnival Cruise Lines also had several personnel at the Terminal Building throughout the day to assist passengers with the check-in process.

"At SXM, we had all hands on deck to ensure that the whole operation was seamless," Donker said.

He confirmed that an additional 1,400 passengers are expected to be shuttled out of SXM on seven Delta Airlines charter flights Saturday, March 16, 2013.

Throughout the day, reporters from US news organizations such as NBC, CBS, and ABC were seen in the Terminal Building interviewing passengers.

Overall, the passengers seemed upbeat and in high spirits. They were offered complimentary treats at the airport courtesy of SXM and all of the affected Carnival Dream passengers received a 10% discount on all purchases at the airport's retail and Food and Beverage outlets.

"This was an emergency situation and we had to put our best foot forward to ensure that the passengers had an experience that would move them to consider returning to our island in future for a more relaxed and enjoyable vacation," said PJIAE Managing Director Regina LaBega.

"I must express my heartfelt appreciation to all the management and staff of PJIAE and all the other agencies that collaborated in making this first day of the evacuation such a huge success," LaBega said, adding, "We will ensure that these efforts continue until the last passenger is departed safely to his or her home."

wmarlinwithmacstudents15032013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin on Friday 15 March, 2013 hosted some 30 pupils from the Methodist Agogic Center, Campus One. The students were on a field trip to learn more about Government.
The Deputy Prime Minister explained the structure of the new government and the functioning thereof. The students asked several questions of the Minister ranging from his age to what his responsibilities are in government.
He compared the responsibility of government as the responsibility parents, teachers and the principle of a school have for the children at the school.
The students asked questions about taxes and how government functions financially. The Minister used the example of a building permit that was on his desk for signing. He explained that Government collects a fee for processing the building permit which then goes into the government coffers as part of the budget revenue. This way government collects monies to take care of its responsibilities towards the people, the St. Maarten family.
All of the pupils and the teachers received a business card from the Minister and were treated to some fruit punch.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- After the just concluded primary school Olympiad organized by the Ministry of Sports and to continue with the trend and the interest showed by the students in the different sports.

The board of the St. Maarten Volleyball Association SIMVA saw the need to start an Elementary School League. SIMVA has for the past four years hosted a Secondary School Tournament which has been very successful to date. We are now hopeful to start a similar tournament for Elementary Schools.

Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs supports the intentions of SIMVA to start an Elementary School League.

This coming Saturday March 16th SIMVA will start practice sessions for Elementary schools students from ages 8 to 12 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the L. B. Scott Sports Auditorium.

The goal of SIMVA is to start an Elementary School Tournament to be held every 2nd Saturday in the months of April, May, June and July.

SIMVA approached the Elementary schools and some schools have already shown interest in participating

In an effort to assist the schools and encourage interest SIMVA delivered 3 youth volleyballs to each Elementary school.

SIMVA is appealing to their membership to volunteer to assist with these practice sessions. SIMVA would also like the parents and teachers to show interest in our kids by getting them to and from the Auditorium.

For more information please contact SIMVA President Raymond Jacobs telephone 520-1444 or SIMVA Youth coordinator Joyce Baly telephone 580-7922.

SIMVA also runs an open practice session for all ages both gender every Saturday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Philipsburg:--- On Friday, the head of the National Detectives office, a senior detective and the Chief Public Prosecutor interviewed Minister Roland E. Duncan as a witness in the alleged Bada Bing bribery investigation. Simultaneously the head of the IND, Udo Aron, was also interviewed as a witness by detectives of the National Detectives office.
Focus in the interview was on the video-footage in which both Minister Duncan and Udo Aron were mentioned.
Both witnesses were fully cooperative during the interviews. The Minister's interview took over 4 ½ hours.
During the days to come the investigation will proceed with interviewing witnesses and the research of documents that were seized.

Press Release from the Public Prosecutor's Office

norberthijmans15032013Philipsburg:--- Police arrested a lawyer from VanEps Kunneman VanDoorne law firm identified as Norbert Hijmans on Thursday for driving under the influence of alcohol and allegedly fighting with a police officer. According to information reaching SMN News, the suspect was held on a single charge of "Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (DUI)" as the officer in question did not file an official complaint against the suspect. SMN News learnt that Hijmans gave police police a blood sample voluntarily and it turned out that the alcohol level in his blood was almost four times over the legal limit in the Netherlands and Aruba. That legal limit is 0.5 while Norbert Hijmans had an alcohol level between 1.8 to 1.9
Head of the Detectives Department Denise Jacobs confirmed to SMN News on Friday that a suspect was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. When SMN News asked the head of the detectives department if the suspect had a fight or argument with a police officer, Jacobs said so far an official complaint of such has not been filed. The head of the detective department said that the suspect resisted arrest and voilence was used against the arresting officer. "I read the report I saw that inside and I thought it best to make that clear.". Based on the current laws on St. Maarten, a drunk driver when caught can be arrested and locked up for up to six hours so that he can sober up. After that police still have another six hours to question the suspect on his behavior. SMN News also learnt that if an officer was assaulted by the drunken driver then that will be part of the report against the suspect.
Jacobs further explained that the suspect was still in custody up to Friday morning. It is not clear if the Prosecutor's Office had any influence on the charges and release of Hijmans because his wife is well known Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp.
While Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said that St. Maarten does not have the necessary legislation in place to prosecute drunk drivers, Article 6 (a) of the traffic ordinance deals specifically on how drunk drivers can be prosecuted.
Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos when contacted for a comment on the arrest of Attorney at Law Norbert Hijmans said that his office has chosen not to comment on the case because they have not yet received the files from the police. Mos said his office also decided to have the office of Attorney General Dick Piar deal with the case and reporters on St. Maarten should contact the spokesman of the Attorney General Norman Serphos later on Friday for a comment. SMN News contacted Serphos on Friday afternoon and he confirmed that the Attorney at law Norbert Hijmans was arrested Thursday night while driving under the influence of alcohol and he also resisted arrest. The spokesman for the Attorney General said Hijmans was released around noon on Friday. Serphos said the officer who arrested Norbert Hijmans did not file an official complaint and it is likely that there will be two charges against Hijmans when he is prosecuted. Serphos further explained that the Attorney General has decided that the case will be handled by a public prosecutor of Curacao because the suspect has close connections in the Prosecutor's Office on St. Maarten. Serphos declined to say exactly what amount of alcohol was found in the blood of Norbert Hijmans. However, he did say that it was way too high for him to drive. Serphos further stated that the process verbal in the case has not yet been made up but as soon as that is completed it will be dealt with by a Public Prosecutor from Curacao.
Some two weeks ago a drunk driver killed a woman on L.B. Scot Road and the driver was arrested but released subsequently because of sloppy police work. At the time Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said the man had 1.6 Alcohol level in his blood which was three times over the legal limit but that man was not placed on remand even though a 49 year old woman lost her life.

sarahwescotwilliams24092012Looks forward to new Papacy of His Holiness Pope Francis

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten wished the Catholic Community on St. Maarten and Catholics around the world best wishes and warm congratulations on the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis on Wednesday. "On behalf of the Government and people of St. Maarten, I would like to wish the Catholic Community and Pope Francis warm congratulations and offer our heartfelt prayers for the new Holy Father. The Catholic Community on St. Maarten is a strong one and I am sure that they join me in welcoming His Holiness and embracing his vision for the worldwide Catholic Community," commented the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also said that she shared in the region's sense of pride in having a pope elected from the Americas; "It is indeed a great step that for the first time in history a Pope is elected from the South and Central American Region. I look forward to the new Papacy, overseen by the Holy Father who has made it his life long commitment to put the plight of the poor and dispossessed at the center of his ministry. I join all of the members of the Catholic Community both here on St. Maarten and abroad in offering prayers for the Holy Father, Pope Francis in confronting the herculean task he faces in this new role within the Church, and I urge the community of St. Maarten to join us in these prayers," concluded the Prime Minister.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

nicoledeweeveratmlkjrschool14032013DUTCH QUARTER:--- Local Award winning dancer Nicole C. De Weever visited the students of Martin Luther King school in Dutch Quarter during her recent visit to the island at the invitation of Mrs. Shanomay Young, a teacher at the school. The students recited an oral history of Ms. De Weever's life and spoke of her grandmother Mrs. Agatha Vlaun. Nicole was deeply moved by how excited the students were to meet her and was grateful to Mrs. Young for the invitation and presentation made by the students.

Nicole was on the island at the invitation of Prime Minister Wescot-Williams to receive an award of recognition for outstanding achievements in the performing arts on International Women's Day 2013.

Nicole has launched Art saves lives Program in January of this year and the inaugural project will be held in St. Maarten June 24th- 30th.


About Art Saves Lives

Art Saves Lives Program (ASLP) is a cross-cultural exchange between youth in need and experienced practicing artists who seek to use their talents for positive change. This collaborative project will select renowned artists from around the world who use the arts to introduce participants to global and local traditions and empower them with the life skills necessary to effectively deal with the demands and challenges of everyday life. The program will also provide guidance for young artists with aspirations in pursuing a career in the arts.
The first project, an intensive week long workshop program will be held June 24-30th on St. Maarten.

sjacobsandtaekwondoteamkingyenschool10032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs would like to congratulate the students of the King Yen Tae Kwon Do school and Grand Master Theo Liu and Board on their recent successful participation in the 20th Anniversary International Tae Kwon Do Open Championship which was held in Puerto Rico.

In her address to the delegation prior to their departure the Minister asked the delegation to "Stand tall" and that they did.

As a country St. Maarten should be proud of our kids, once again the King Yen Tae Kwon Do School under the leadership of Grand Master Theo Liu did extremely well in the medals.

In total they came back with 37 medals with the breakdown being: 21 Gold, 13 Silver, and Bronze three.

Minister Jacobs commends organizations such as King Yen and other institutions that help instill discipline, sportsmanship and competitiveness as character builders in our St. Maarten youth.

utsdonatestorotaryclubofsxmmidisle14032013Philipsburg:--- UTS has committed its financial support to the tune of $1000 towards the youth table tennis tournament of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-isle, which is organized in close cooperation with the St. Maarten Table Tennis Federation. The event is scheduled for March 16th at the L.B. Scott Sports Auditorium and will showcase local and regional teams competing. Aside from a spirited competition amongst local and regional table tennis players, the event is also intended as a fundraiser to enable local Table Tennis Players to take part in an international table tennis event in Trinidad & Tobago from April 2-8. "Of course we are happy to contribute to any initiative that will foster a healthy competitive spirit and physical activity in the youth of St. Maarten," said UTS Marketing & Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. "We commend the Rotary Club Of St. Maarten Mid-isle for putting its support behind the St. Maarten Youth Table Tennis Federation and assisting them to raise funds for the youngsters to be able to attend regional competitions. Service Clubs such as Rotary play a very important role in assisting local foundations and organizations and the sacrifices of the individual members do not go unnoticed."

UTS Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- In celebration of Aruba Flag and Anthem Day CHUCHUBI foundation in collaboration with University of St. Martin presents the book, "Sibling Voices of the Sunrise City" written by the sibling pair Tammy Richardson and Gregory Richardson. The presentation will be held on March 18th, 2013 from 7:00 – 9:00pm at the University of St. Martin and will form part of the USM Lecture series.
Sibling Voices of the Sunrise City is a collection of essays, songs and poems that dissect the experience of the life, mind and development of people living in the Aruban town of San Nicolas, affectionately known as Sunrise City or Chocolate City. With the establishment of the Lago oil refinery in the early half of the 20th century, many persons from the surrounding Caribbean region and the rest of the world settled in the San Nicolas area. This resulted in an ethnically and culturally diverse town of varying identities and experiences. With all these differences, San Nicolas residents still managed to find ways to coexist as a family, while at the same time experienced instances of racism and prejudice.
The narrative of Ms. Mary and Ms. Ann from the Village are never heard by the wider population and the struggles and triumphs of the Omas and the Tantes in Lago Heights, Rooi Hundo and Brazil, make up no part of our school curriculum" (from: Sibling Voices of Sunrise City, P.30). Through the use of various literary forms Tammy and Gregory express their opinion on the various social political and cultural issues of Aruba. They address these issues from different angles of identity, ethnicity, religion, gender, music and language. Tammy says that "This book by no means is only intended for the people of San Nicholas, on the contrary it is intended for all who wish to know more about the life, mind and the development of the Aruban town we have come to know as the Sunrise City.
The aim of the book presentation is to explore the ever present Aruba –St. Maarten connection. A significant amount of St. Maarteners during the period of 1930 onward lived and grew up in Aruba particularly in the town of San Nicolas. For those St Maarteners the dynamics of the Sunrise city help shape their identities wider view of the world.
Gregory Richardson has an MA degree in Latin American & Caribbean Studies, University of Utrecht. He currently works as a teacher and researcher at the IPA in Aruba. Tammy Richardson has an MA degree in Organizational Science and Public Administration, University of Utrecht. She currently works as program manager at the Department of the Interior & Kingdom Relations in St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- In her comments regarding the stranded Carnival cruise liner Carnival Dream the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams stated that she wished the passengers and crew of the stranded cruise ship all the best and ensured that her Government has done their utmost to ensure that the needs of primarily the passengers and crew but also of the cruise line are being met.

"Although the situation was never serious it is indeed still unfortunate that something like this has happened, but the Government of St. Maarten has gone to great lengths to ensure that the needs of the passengers and crew have been and are being met. The Government of St. Maarten has provided logistical support and services in order to assist carnival in ensuring that the comfort of the passengers and crew remained a top priority. Technical assistance was also provided by the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure in coordination with the St. Maarten Port Authority.

"The Ministry of General Affairs Section Fire Department provided assistance in the form of a 100 meter hose that was to resupply the vessel with clean water while the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labor kept in touch with the ship's agent and Port Authority should any assistance be required. The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications/Tourist Bureau has also played a role.

"From what I understood passengers have also now disembarked the cruise liner and having said that I am sure the people of St. Maarten will show the friendliness they are so known for in welcoming the passengers with open arms back to our shores.

"To the passengers I say enjoy your extended stay on the Friendly Island and make use of what it has to offer while the Government of St. Maarten cooperates with Carnival Cruise Lines to ensure that the current situation is resolved in a seamless and effortless manner," commented the Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Simpson Bay:--- Stranded passengers of the Carnival Dream cruise ship that stalled in port at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities on Wednesday, began their journey back home Friday, March 15, 2013 – by air, and the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has stepped up to the plate to ensure that their departure is as seamless as possible.

"We swung into action immediately to accommodate the thousands of passengers of the cruise ship who now have to be evacuated through SXM," said the PJIAE Managing Director Regina LaBega.

"The entire management and staff of SXM has been mobilized to guarantee that everything is done to put a little smile on the faces of the stranded passengers following this unfortunate situation," LaBega added.

"Team SXM will be offering complimentary breakfast and lunch for the passengers from a branded station with tables and banners, which will be erected in a central area of the terminal building for maximum visibility to all passengers," she disclosed.

Director of Operations at the airport, Larry Donker, confirmed that he had been updated about the plans to fly out approximately 4,400 passengers via chartered flights operated by Delta Airlines by Carlos Garcia of Carnival Cruise Lines early on Thursday and SXM immediately offered its full cooperation to ensure that the efforts would not encounter any hiccups.

A team of 20 Carnival Cruise Lines officials arrived Thursday at SXM to assist with the evacuation plans.

"We have decided to keep the airport open later than usual, and rearranged our flight schedule among other measures to assist with the evacuation," Donker said.

The Air Traffic Service (ATS) managers have been duly briefed about the situation while the stand-by controller for the night shift has also been informed and the schedule adjusted to accommodate the early departure and arrival of airlines for Friday, Donker added.

The required manpower has been mobilized to meet this unusual surge in passengers leaving the airport in a day.

"Our main concern is to ensure a time coordinated drop off of passengers with confirmed seats only on these flights," Donker said.

The first flight to leave with some of the stranded Carnival Dream passengers will be Delta Airlines flight 8857, departing SXM on Friday at 9 AM. A total of ten Delta Airlines flights are expected to ferry some 2,184 passengers out of SXM almost on an hourly basis throughout Friday.

On Saturday, another six Delta Airlines flights are scheduled to shuttle 1,318 passengers out of SXM with the last batch of 986 passengers due to leave on four different Delta Airlines flights on Sunday.

"This is a very unusual situation and SXM is determined to ensure that despite this, the passengers should leave believing that there could be no better destination to be stranded on than St. Maarten," Labega said.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 20 and 21 about the Marine Industry and the Monument Council.

The central committee will meet on Wednesday, March 20 at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is related to the survival and growth of the marine industry in Sint Maarten. This meeting was requested by M.F. Ferrier on behalf of the Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA).

The central committee will meet on Thursday, March 21 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber.

The agenda point for this meeting is the proposal to name the Chair persons and member of the Monument Council. Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs will be present for the session.

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

swescotwilliamsandmischulaikah14032013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams met with St. Maarten born talented singer/songwriter Mischu Laikah. Mischu, who is also the host for the Coach & Girls 'N Cocktails web show, paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament Roy Marlin at the PM's Cabinet on Wednesday. Mischu Laikah presented the Prime Minister with her new Album "Back to My Roots" and talked about her upcoming tour. Mischu Laikah will also be featured on Oral Gibbes Live on Thursday the 14th of March.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

carnivalcruise14032013Philipsburg:--- Passengers on the Carnival Cruise ship currently docked on St. Maarten are stuck on the island because the vessel encountered some technical problems.
CEO of AC Wathey Cruise Facility Mark Mingo said that the harbour is not commenting on the dilemma the passengers are facing. Mingo said that as CEO of the harbour and his team is doing all they can to have the passengers rerouted. Mingo further explained that he is not in a position to comment on the issues the cruise ship is facing. At the square in Philipsburg a number of security guards are placed on the location to prevent tourist and media workers from taking photographs of the broken down cruise vessel.

rotaractsxmsunriseinducts3newmembers13032013The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise held their third induction ceremony for the term 2012-2013 on Tuesday 12th March 2013 at Rotary Mid Isle's meeting at ESPN Cafe. The members of Rotaract Sunrise visited and fellowshipped with the members of Rotary Mid Isle in celebration of World Rotaract Day where the Rotaract members gave a profound presentation on Rotaract . Among Rotaractors and Rotarians; 3 new members were welcomed into the Rotaract family. The new members joining the club are Rennis Wilson, Shardee Richardson and Magdiona Gumbs. President of the Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise Elisia Lake congratulated the 3 new members and encouraged them to be the best they can be and remember to put service above self in anything they think, say or do. The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise has increased their membership from 20 members to 23 members.

The Club encourages persons between the age of 18-30 to become a member of the organization and give back to your community. The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at 7pm at the Holland House Conference Room. For more information about the club you can visit our Facebook page: "RotaractSunrise St Maarten" or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

turtleonguanabaybeach13032013Native Sea Turtle Population Can Be Brought into Jeopardy

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently carried out a wide scale assessment of the threats to St. Maarten's Native Sea Turtle population which mostly nests at Guana Bay Beach. Over the last two months there have been various activities that have been occurring on Guana Bay which has caused the Nature Foundation to express grave concern on the safety of the island's most important sea turtle nesting beaches. Threats on Guana Bay are related to two large scale constructions which are occurring there, bonfires and people driving vehicles on the beach.
Each year between March and November, female sea turtles return to lay their eggs on the island. There are three sea turtles which nest on St. Maarten beaches: the Hawksbill Sea Turtle, the Green Sea Turtle and the largest sea turtle species, the Leatherback. Guana Bay Beach is the most important nesting site, with in 2012 42% of all sea turtles having nested on just that one particular beach.
The St. Maarten Nature Foundation actively manages the sea turtle population on St. Maarten, particularly during the nesting season. The Foundation conducts various activities with regards to sea turtle nesting including beach surveys, nest excavations, tagging activities and nest success research. This research is done through beach patrols by staff, volunteer checks and dedicated research activities conducted on a daily basis during nesting season.
Sea turtle population numbers have plummeted to dangerously low numbers throughout the past century due to human impacts, bringing many species close to extinction and causing them to be listed as critically endangered. In order to reverse this trend, all sea turtle species are now protected by international laws and treaties as well as local laws.
During beach surveys the Nature Foundation noticed significant development activity both at Guana Bay Point and along the beach. The two large scale developments have caused significant soil and dirt to get washed into the environment, large boulders to roll unto various areas of sand and has formed large obstructions along the beach. The access path at the southern end of Guana Bay Beach has also been obstructed and poses a serious danger to those using it.
One of the locations where construction has been occurring is historically one of the most important areas for sea turtle nests on Guana Bay Beach. The large scale excavation and disturbance of sand has resulted in a seriously damaged ecosystem for nesting turtles.
Bonfires and beachfront lighting also strongly affects sea turtle hatchlings, luring them inland and away from the sea where they succumb to predators, dehydration, and hatchlings can be attracted to and be burned by the flames.
Trash also is affecting the Beach at Guana Bay. The Nature Foundation has had the gracious help of various organizations and groups in cleaning up the beach, however there is a continuous source of trash being piled along the beach, which is detrimental for beach goers as is it for fauna, in particular sea turtles who can get entangled or who can digest the trash. The Nature Foundation suggests bins be placed along the beach with regular trash collection organized in order to curb the amount of garbage found on Guana Bay.
Driving on the beach is also a significant issue. During patrols the Nature Foundation has continuously noticed tire tracks of vehicles driving on the beach. This is illegal on St. Maarten and carries with it a fine. It is also very detrimental to beach stability and can also crush turtle nests through engine and tire vibration.
The Nature Foundation compiled a report on the activities and has disseminated the report throughout the community and to various governmental and non-governmental departments, in the hope of still saving one of St. Maarten's most unspoiled and important beaches for sea turtle nesting. The Foundation urges the community to call its offices on 5444267 if they notice sea turtles nesting or if they notice illegal activities on any of the island's beaches.

swescotwilliamsandwmarlin13032013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams gave reporters more details on the statement she made regarding the Bada Bing bribery allegation involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge.

Wescot Williams said that she addressed three main issues in her statement issued on Sunday. Wescot Williams said she thought it would be fitting that she explain the functions of the VDSM (National Security Department of St. Maarten). She said the VDSM is governed by law in how it executes its duties. Furthermore, the National Security has its responsibilities which are separate from the judicial system. She said politically she is responsible for the VDSM but the organization operates independently, it does its work after careful analysis in accordance of the law they are governed by and they also execute their duties in accordance with the law. She said the second point she commented on was the statements she heard over recent days about invoking the guarantee function which is in the Kingdom charter. Wescot Williams said that guarantee function has no place on St. Maarten or for St. Maarten as far as the government of St. Maarten is concerned. She said the guarantee function that is in the Kingdom Charter can only be invoked when all other authorities locally fails. Wescot Williams said she was pleased to see that Minister Plasterk said the same thing to Members of Parliament in the Kingdom when they mentioned invoking the guarantee function for St. Maarten. Minister Plasterk she said made it clear to the Members of Parliament in the Netherlands that this can only happened when agencies on St. Maarten are not executing their task. The Prime Minister said that it is the opinion of the Government of St. Maarten that is not the case currently because all wheels are turning and were turning even before the tape was released in the media. She said that as regretful as this may be, those that are responsible for certain actions will see what will come out of the investigation currently taking place. Wescot Williams said the system and agencies on St. Maarten are very much intact. "The agencies are functioning and the government of St. Maarten is also very much intact." The third point she raised in her statement is respect for the government of St. Maarten. "Regardless of what the circumstances are, I expect respect for the government of St. Maarten at least from the other governments that form the Kingdom. I can imagine an event like this is a field day for others to blow this up. But when it comes from government to government I expect respect from the other governments and members of government especially in the Kingdom. I know the statements I am referring to did not come from the government of the Kingdom as a body, but there is show of sensationalism of not knowing the facts. Statements are coming especially from the members of the second chamber. Everyone has their opinion on this matter but the only place this matter will be settled is via the judicial channels."

Wescot Williams made a call on persons not to sensationalize the situation that is currently under investigation. She said on Tuesday a member of the Dutch Parliament suggested that interference/assistance should come from the United States in the ongoing investigation. Wescot Williams said she hopes that everyone including to the general public of St. Maarten will understand that when it comes to statements such as those made by the members of parliament in the Kingdom she must react to protect the image of the government in general and the people of St. Maarten.

Wescot Williams further stated that St. Maarten spent a lot of time in ensuring that the foundations and institutions are in place which is the bedrock of a democratic system. There are checks and balances in all areas, until these agencies are not functioning then she will remain put on her statement.

The Prime Minister said she intends to travel to the Netherlands and speak to these persons who do not have the information. However, she made clear that when the constitution was being worked on they ensured that laws are in place because they did not want politicians to get away with " murder".

When SMN News reporter asked Wescot Williams if the VDSM was ever in possession of the tape and if she was aware of it. Wescot Williams said that even if she knew that she would not divulge the information. She said she met with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice shortly after the Minister of Finance returned to St. Maarten and informed the government that while he was in the Netherlands he heard rumors of the existence of such a tape.

Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin said what is seen on tape is a very serious matter and that is one of the reasons he kept his statement very short. Marlin said right now there is another twist to the story where the leader of another political party is involved. This he said has created a new direction and it's now starting to look like a "James Bond" movie but in reality, the legal system and constitution have provisions in place to handle these matters. Marlin said everyone is having a field day through the electronic media on the situation. He said he is confronted by several questions regarding Illidge but he has to constantly be referring to the system in place to deal with politicians that are under investigation. Marlin said when the Minister of Justice and himself met with the Prime Minister to discuss the existence of such a tape, immediately after that meeting was held the Minister of Justice sent a letter to pertinent authorities to get the tape and to properly investigate the matter. Marlin said when the tape was released the Minister of Justice sent a second letter to the authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly.

williammarlin13032013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin who is also the Minister of VROMI will be climbing on the roof of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at the end of this week to install the final solar panel and to switch on the panels that will provide solar electricity to the institution. Marlin told reporters on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the monies the library will be saving in the coming months they will be allowed to keep to finalize the project by installing LED lights and inverter air conditioners that will be using less electricity.

Marlin said it is expected that the electricity bill will be decreased by one third the first month. He said when the entire project is completed then the Philipburg Jubilee Library will only have to pay a few dollars to GEBE for electricity.

Marlin said his Ministry is also busy installing solar panels on public schools while he is in discussion with the private schools in order to reduce the cost of the electricity these schools will use. The idea is to promote the use of green energy.

More homes to be hooked up to Sewage Plant --- Plant currently using 10% of its capacity --- Marlin.

The Minister of VROMI also announced that his Ministry is currently working on installing the main sewage pipes on the west side of Philipsburg so that more homes can be hooked up to the state of the art sewage plant on A.T. Illidge Road. Marlin said right now the sewage plant is only using 10% of its capacity and therefore it cannot function optimally. The project is expected to cost Naf. 160,000.00 which government intends to use from the capital loan of the budget. Other areas that will be hooked up are the St. Peters and Middle Region areas where the main pipes are already in place.

Marlin also said that this week he is expected to take a decision on the way forward with the waste to energy plant. He said the advice has been completed and he has to decide on the four or five proposals that were submitted to him.

He further stated that the company that gets the project will then have to enter into a power purchase agreement with GEBE.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- Two U.S. Government speakers participated in the Caribbean Basin Coastal Surveillance and Maritime Security Summit (CABSEC) at the Santa Barbara Resort in Curacao today, March 13. During his morning presentation, U.S. State Department Director for Anti-Crime Programs, David Luna, said "To the Caribbean nations and partners from the international donor and law enforcement communities: the United States stands ready to continue working with you to reduce illicit trafficking across our hemisphere and beyond, and to shield our citizens from the growing threats of transnational crime, corruption, and terrorism... These same networks are also trafficking humans, weapons, natural resources, and counterfeits that pose health and safety risks." In his remarks, he also said that "we applaud Brigadier General Dick Swijgman and the Netherlands Forces in the Caribbean for their efforts and leadership in disrupting and dismantling drug-trafficking and illicit networks."
Mr. Luna's full remarks, entitled, "Towards an Archipelago of Security across the Caribbean: US stresses collective action to combat transnational crime, corruption, money laundering" delivered today at Caribbean Basin Coastal Surveillance and Maritime Security 2013 can be found at http://www.state.gov/j/inl/rls/rm/2013/205899.htm The same afternoon, U.S. Brigadier General Linda Urrutia-Varhall, United States Southern command Director for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, also gave a presentation on the Whole of Society Approach to Intelligence Sharing (WISRD).
The CABSEC conference was an opportunity for the United States to collaborate with our partners in the Caribbean to strengthen our common security and to create safer and prosperous communities for our citizens. This approach is based on a holistic understanding of security that encompasses new and traditional threats to the safety of our citizens. Citizen safety is grounded on recognition of our shared responsibility for security challenges, the critical importance of the rule of law and legitimate and effective institutions of governance, and common aspirations for stable and secure societies. Our approach includes and extends well beyond traditional counter-trafficking concerns, embracing as well such needs as rising domestic crime rates.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt will be in a Central Committee meeting on March 19.

This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session on January 25 and is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Minister of Finance will continue to answer questions posed in the first round by Members of Parliament with respect to the financial situation of the country.

The initial meeting was requested by the Minister in a letter dated October 17, 2012.

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

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

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

rolandtuitt13032013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told reporters at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that the 2013 budget will be sent to the House of Parliament by Friday this week. The Finance Minister said that his Ministry is currently working on an amendment for the 2012 budget, while the preparatory document for 2013 budget is already complete. Tuitt said the documents will be handled in an emergency meeting on Thursday and all of which has to be approved by the Parliament of St. Maarten will be sent to them latest on Friday.

Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt said the meeting that was scheduled last week with the Ministers of Finance of Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten to discuss the lotto model that is used on Aruba was canceled. Minister Tuitt said the three Finance Ministers plan to meet regularly to discuss financial matters and to enhance cooperation among the countries within the Kingdom.

Minister Tuitt said that meeting did not take place because the Aruban Finance Minister had budgetary issues to take care of.

Minister Tuitt also announced that residents and businesses can now file their taxes online, since the service is now available for use. He also called on vehicle owners to pay their road taxes if they have not done so as yet because the deadline for the payments already passed on February 28th.

Philipsburg:--- At least three persons were arrested in the Save A Lot abuse and assault investigation that is currently underway. According to reliable sources, the three persons were arrested shortly after midday on Wednesday. SMN News published an article regarding the beating two workers of Save A Lot store received Monday night by their employers whose names were given as Sammy, Mikey, and Mohamed. The two victims are Omadat Kasinat of Guyana and Muhamed Shuman of Venezuela. Kasinat has been working for Save A Lot Store for four years while Shuman worked for the business located on Bush Road for two years illegally. Just recently the Immigration and Labour Department launched controls and raids at several businesses in search of illegal workers. Somehow those that were conducting the raids missed Save A Lot Store and probably many other stores that are hiring and abusing immigrant workers that are residing on the island illegally. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said on several occasions that any businesses caught with illegal workers would face a fine of Naf. 10,000.00.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed on Wednesday that three persons were arrested in the Save A Lot investigation. One of the victims Muhamed Shuman told SMN News on Tuesday that nine persons visited his home at 10pm Monday night and one of them slapped him in the back of his head a few times. The young man who was working and residing on St. Maarten illegally hesitated before he filed a complaint against his intruders and abusers. At this time it is not clear if police will arrest the other six persons that were involved in the incident.

SMN News received an email from one Sami Masoud claiming to be the brother of the Save A Lot store owners. Masoud in his email said he did not think any news agency should have published the story that was published on SMN News without hearing their side of the story. Masoud said he is currently in China but he feels that the people of St. Maarten have a problem because they talk too much without knowing the whole story. Masoud in his explanations said that one of the workers stole more than $20,000 in furniture from them and sold it to other people. He claims that the stealing took place at 6am in the mornings. He said Muhamed stole from the warehouse because he made a copy of the warehouse key so he could have gained access to their warehouse in Cole Bay. He asked if anyone would have liked this to happen to their house or business. Another excuse Masoud gave was that Muhamed Shuman borrowed $5000.00 from the owners of the store claiming that his father was sick but they understand that Muhamed fooled them and he was planning to return to his homeland Venezuela. "Everyone works hard for their monies and they don't like to be fooled." Sami Masoud never denied that the two workers were beaten, he claims that they treated their workers like brothers and instead of being grateful they were stealing merchandize every day from the warehouse.

wmarlintolaunchsolarenergyprojectatpjl12032013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday March 14 at 2:00 pm, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin will officially launch the solar energy project at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
A few weeks ago 48 solar panels were installed on the roof of the library. The installation was done by Caribbean Energy Store NV and financed by the Ministry of Public Housing, Spacial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure.
These solar panels will generate about 2000 kwh of electricity a month, which means that the Library will save about a third on its total energy bill.
An important aspect of this solar energy project will be educating the community on the benefits of solar power. Regular information sessions about the benefits of solar energy will be held for the general public in the hall of the library and schools will be invited to get educated about energy from the sun.
The solar panels are only the first phase in the " Library Goes Green " campaign. The next phases will be the replacement of all lights in the building by LED Lights and the installation of inverter airconditioners. The amounts the library saves on its energy bill by " going green " will be used to extend and improve the services of the library.

telemgroupcommunityoutreach12032013Simpson Bay:--- TelEm Group staff are taking their corporate citizenry one step higher - by establishing their own community volunteer group within the company.

TelEm Group has promised staff all the support they need to perform various tasks in the St. Maarten community – including financial support and limited time off company duties when necessary.

"As a company we have always supported our community with donations and sponsorship when financially possible, but now we have an opportunity to show how important the community is to us by being directly involved with community tasks," said TelEm Group Chief Financial Officer, Mrs. Helma Etnel.

Community volunteer group coordinator, Ms. Cheryl Rismay said the community outreach project for TelEm Group has been in the making for the past year. She is very excited about Monday's kick-off with one section of the St. Maarten Community in Belvedere.

"We have chosen to work along with the Belvedere Community Center to launch our program because the center's staff are dynamic and very involved in their community already.

"We will be reading to young children and we will also be hosting some sports and fun activities during the weeks of March," said Cheryl.

She said other community projects will take place in other districts during the course of the year and will include painting, clean-up campaigns and other events with TelEm Group staff taking the lead.

"What is most important for us is that our staff become involved in the community that they serve. Many already do some great work in their respective communities either on their own or with other organizations, but now they also have a chance to do some important work with the full support their company behind them," continued Cheryl.

TelEm Press Release

rotaractlogo12032013Philipsburg:--- Rotaractors worldwide are celebrating World Rotaract Day today March 13th. Rotaract is an international program for young adults ages 18 to 30 who strive to make a difference in the community. Rotaract International was founded on 13th March, 1968 by Rotary International as an association of clubs made up of service-minded business and professional leaders.
The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise was charted in 2005 and made an enormous impact on the island of St. Maarten. As one of Rotary's most significant and fastest-growing service program, with more than 8,400 clubs in about 170 countries; Rotaract has become a worldwide phenomenon.

The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise does and will continue to do a world of good. Since inception, we have successfully completed community service projects such as:

  • Collected food items through our Hurricane Awareness Mission
  • Donated hot meals to the less fortunate through our Feed the Homeless initiative
  • Distributed school supplies to the various schools on the island through our Give A Child A chance project.
  • Encourages child development in collaboration with Rotary Mid Isle in our Annual Spelling Competition

Become a part of Rotaract Sunrise today as Rotaract enables you to grow personally and professionally, address community needs, and promote international understanding through friendship and service. Rotaract Sunrise meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at Holland House Conference Room 7pm. Rotaract Sunrise "Service Above Self".

In connection with several media reports during the past week, allow me to put some facts forward regarding the National Security Service of St. Maarten (VDSM), a service established by organic law and promulgated in 2010 (PS 2010, no.4)

The National Security Service of St. Maarten, while under the political responsibility of the Minister Of General Affairs (Prime Minister) operates independently from the government apparatus to not only effectively ensure compliance with the laws governing the agency, but to also ensure the credibility of the young service with its international peers and thus be as effective as possible in averting or mitigating any threats to our national security. Political involvement in the daily operations of the service would undermine the capacity of the service to execute its tasks effectively in a national and international setting.

The National Security Service is duty bound to look into all matters relating to threats to the national security of St. Maarten. In the execution of its tasks, I must emphatically stress that it is not standard operating procedure for the National Security Service to share information with non-governmental organizations or individuals. It is therefore not for the National Security Service to hand over information to third parties, outside of the law governing the service.

The service has thus far performed its duties in accordance with its obligation to uphold the law under all circumstances.

The ordinance governing the National Security Service does allow for the service to seek cooperation and support from either peer organizations within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and/or other reputable security and/or intelligence agencies. Such requests for assistance or support must however comply with the laws of the country receiving the requests and must of course be in adherence with our national laws.

Information imbedded in such a request can only be shared by the agency of the receiving country with the explicit permission of our National Security Service. Unauthorized sharing of information would lead to the agencies discontinuing their cooperation and thus weakening the ability to ensure the integrity of our administrative apparatus, our democratic order and the safety or interest of St. Maarten and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Furthermore, a similar form of cooperation exists when collaboration is needed from local law enforcement agencies. The necessary permissions must be granted for the National Security Service to seek the cooperation of a law enforcement agency or vice versa. Notions that the National Security Service of St. Maarten may not have acted in the interest of this country are therefore refutable and threatens the very fabric our young democracy.

We can't prevent public sensationalism, yet as a country it would be good for all of us and our island to allow matters to be solved by those who are called in accordance with the laws of the land, and are the ones to investigate and establish the facts.

Until then...I ask especially the people of St. Maarten to not get caught up in the same sensationalism I referred to earlier and especially that which is damaging to our country.

I also expect that the government of St. Maarten as such will be respected, especially by members of other governments within the Kingdom. We respect them and we expect the same treatment from them.

We made much effort to ensure that the democratic foundation of our country was a solid one, in ensuring that the laws governing any situation and any governmental agency, especially those charged with investigating and prosecuting were put in place, as well as the checks and balances of one on the other and within their own realms.

It is unsubstantiated at this time to hammer on the guarantee function of the Kingdom, which in my opinion is absolutely not in play, because the system of guaranteeing proper governance and integrity is governed and upheld by our laws. There is absolutely not a situation where any of the agencies are non-functional, or laws being trampled or circumvented, as would be required to even think, let alone speak of something like the Kingdom exercising its responsibility in accordance with art. 43 of the Charter of the Kingdom.

I know it is not the government of the Netherlands that has been making these derogative statements about the government of St. Maarten in general, but on the other hand, I keep my statement general with respect to "respecting the government and people of St. Maarten as we respect other governments and government members in the Dutch Kingdom."

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister
March 9th, 2013

swescotwilliamsandrrichardson12032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Social Economic Council (SER) submitted an unsolicited advice on the future of our monetary union with Curaçao to the Prime Minister on Tuesday, March 12, 2013. The SER advice is entitled "Sint Maarten Stepping out of the Monetary Union". The SER was represented by Chairman René A. Richardson and Daniëlle Choennie-Babel, legal advisor and lead editor of the advice.
This advice provides the opinion of the SER on the following issues: Why should Sint Maarten consider stepping out of the monetary union and if we do leave, what is the next step forward? Should Sint Maarten create its own currency or adopt the US dollar as legal tender?
The SER decided to pursue an unsolicited advice on this matter, in light of the serious financial difficulties confronted by Curaçao during 2012 and the possible fallout this might have for Sint Maarten as partner in the monetary union.
Extensive research was done within Sint Maarten, but also in Curaçao, Aruba, and The British Virgin Islands. A large number of stakeholders from financial circles on different islands were interviewed. In addition, several experts were invited to the SER meetings to further elucidate on the topic. The research done resulted in a convincing majority advice which was presented to the Minister of General Affairs, Prime Minister Sarah A. Wescot-Williams, the Minister of Finance Roland S. Tuitt, and to Romeo F. Pantophlet, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication.
After release for publication, this advice will be available through the National Gazette and on the SER website www.sersxm.org.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (Ministry VSA) is currently coordinating a two-day meeting of public health officials from the Ministries of Public Health of Aruba, the Netherlands, Curacao and Sint Maarten with respect to the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Health officials will discuss putting in place a structure and intensify functional cooperation with respect to IHR.

This meeting is a follow-up to a meeting of experts that was held in early November 2012 on the island of Aruba. The meeting brought together representatives from Aruba, Curacao, and the Netherlands, the public entities of Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Saba (BES islands) and Sint Maarten.

The follow-up meeting will take place on March 20 and 21 at Divi Little Bay.

In 2007, IHR entered into force to help the international community prevent and respond to acute public health risks that have the potential to cross borders and threaten people worldwide. The Regulations detail core capacities that countries' should establish and strengthen.

A Sint Maarten Team will be tasked with assessing and developing a local IHR Implementation Plan to be implemented over the next two years and by 2014.

The IHR requires World Health Organization Member States (the Netherlands represents the Kingdom partners and BES islands) to strengthen core surveillance and response capacities at the primary, intermediate and national level, as well as at designated international ports, airports and ground crossings. The most relevant for the country will be the two ports of entry (airport, harbor).

States will also have to introduce a series of health documents, including ship sanitation certificates and an international certificate of vaccination or prophylaxis for travelers.

The IHR was a response to the exponential increase in international travel and trade, and emergence and re-emergence of international disease threats and other health risks.

194 countries across the globe have agreed to implement IHR-2005. This binding instrument of international law entered into force on 15, June 2007.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- One of the goals of the Government of Sint Maarten is to introduce the concept of E–Government.

On Wednesday, an information session has been organized for Tax Advisors and the business community at the Government Administration Building at 3:00pm. The aforementioned are all invited to turn out where officials from the Tax Administration will provide information about the process.

The Tax Administration is proud to inform that one of the first online services is the possibility to now download and file the tax return forms for the turnover tax, the wage tax and premiums AVBZ and AOV/AWW online.

Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union Claire Elshot told reporters that the union is looking into having a plan of action in place to tackle the physical abuse and profanity that is used by students at certain primary schools. Elshot said that the WITU is very much concerned because teachers are now being slapped while some students are using profanity at teachers and so far nothing has been done to aid or protect teachers. One of the things the union is planning to do is hold a march in order to create awareness for parents and those responsible for public education. Elshot said on Tuesday at the WICLU press briefing that she met with several teachers of one particular school where the abuse is taking place. She said in some cases the teachers are being sent home while the students who attack their teachers are allowed to stay in school because according to the school there are laws that protect the rights of the child and compulsory education. On several occasions the teachers had to take the brunt of the problem because some of them were removed from the classroom or from the school environment.

Elshot said that the teachers contacted her over the weekend and called for a meeting which took place on Monday. During that meeting she was informed that the threats and abuse is now alarming. She said the school manager has refused to take action because according to the teachers if the students that are attacking and abusing teachers are corrected then the students will become more aggressive towards the teachers. "According to the teachers, students that are five years old are already threatening their teachers and are using profanity at their teachers and inside the classroom." Elshot said she intends to request a meeting with the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs and other stakeholders to further discuss the matter. Elshot said that teachers also have rights and one of the most important rights is for teachers to be able to teach in a safe environment.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Town hall presentations about Greater Philipsburg, Suckergarden, Over the Pond; Cul de Sac, Little Bay; and Hillside Conservation areas, are available for download on the Government website www.sintmaartengov.org.

Interested residents and stakeholders can go to the website and select the drop down tab "Government," followed by "Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI)."

On the aforementioned page you then go to "Zoning/Development Plans" and a page will open with an interactive map. Select one of the maps noted above and you will go to the presentation that was made at the town hall meeting which is in a PDF file.

All presentations have been uploaded to the website which would allow residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review the aforementioned at their own leisure.

Persons can also write MinVROMI via the following email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with respect to their views and ideas regarding the development of the island.

Government has embarked upon the process to develop plans, and the plans will guide the future spatial development of the country where it relates to government and private land.

The Zoning Ordinance (EROP) prescribes that development plans are established regulating the development possibilities and land usage on the Dutch side of the island.

omadatkasinat12032013Philipsburg:--- A 28 year old Guyanese man who has been residing and working for Save A Lot on Bush Road was at the Philipsburg Police Station on Monday night and Tuesday morning filing a complaint against his employers whom he said beat him with a piece of wood and electric wires Monday night. The man identified as Omadat Kasinat said he has been working for four years for the company as a driver and on Monday evening he asked his bosses to use their truck to pick up a piece of furniture that someone gave his sister. The young man whose hand was in a strap and had several wounds said while he was on his way to pick up the piece of furniture his bosses he identified as Sammy and Mikey called him back to the store. He said when he reached the Bush Road store his bosses called him inside the store and began beating him. Kasinat said his bosses closed the shutters of the store before they started to beat him with a piece of wood and electrical wires. Kasinat further explained that he was beaten by Sammy and Mikey but another employee he identified only as Muhamed was locked out of the store while his bosses beat him. He said shortly after his bosses ordered his co- worker to go home. The co-worker who is a national of Venezuela overheard what was taking place inside the store. Kasinat said the two men wanted him to say that his co-worker "Muhamed" and him had plans to go to Cole Bay and steal from their warehouse. Kasinat said in the beginning he told his bosses that there was no such arrangement to steal from them and he did not have any plans with "Mohamed" whom they said have the keys to the warehouse. He said he maintained his position for quite some time but his bosses started to beat him from 6:30pm in the afternoon until after 9pm at night. Kasinat told SMN News that Sammy and Mikey even told him that if he admitted to making plans with "Muhamed" to steal from the warehouse they would increase his salary but he maintained that he had no such plans. Kasinat further explained that when the beating became unbearable and the two men "Sammy and Mikey" told him that they will kill him that was when he told them "yes" he did make plans with Muhamed to steal from them and they immediately stopped beating him. When he was asked by SMN News if his employers were recording him when they got the confession they wanted, Kasinat said he was not sure but thought so.

"I had to say yes to save my life, these people closed the shutters and they beat me until I said yes I made plans with Muhamed to steal from the warehouse." Kasinat said that he heard that his bosses took Mohamed to a beach and they also beat him and their intention is to send him back to his homeland. SMN News went to Muhamed's apartment in search of him on Tuesday morning but we were unable to locate him. Kasinat said that his bosses took away Muhamed's telephone so he was unreachable by phone. SMN News visited Save A Lot Store on Bush Road on Tuesday after conducting the interview with Kasinat and Muhamed was not at the store, even more disturbing Mohamed's telephone 1721- 526 4311 is switched off. Kasinat said that on Tuesday morning his bosses called his phone several times because he did not report to work. He said when he left the store Monday night even though he was severely injured his bosses instructed him to report to work on Tuesday. He said while he was at the Philipsburg Police Station his bosses was calling him but he did not answer the phone. "I am afraid I am not going back to work because those people could have killed me. They shut down the shutters and they beat me with a piece of wood and electrical wires. I don't know what they will do next and I also don't know when the police will arrest them. I cannot even find my co-worker whom my bosses accused of stealing." SMN News reporter overheard someone who called Kasinat and told him that the owners of Save A Lot took Muhamed to a beach and beat him severely Monday evening and they also took away his cellular phone.

muhmadshuman12032013Kasinat's sister identified as Rena who was at the Philipsburg Police Station on Tuesday morning told SMN News that when her brother did not go home Monday evening she began calling him on his phone and she could not reach him because his phone was switched off. The young woman said she got worried and she continued calling her brother and it wasn't until after 9pm he answered the phone and told her he was busy, she said someone else took the phone away from her brother and also told her that Kasinat was busy and then they hung up. Rena said her brother reached home after 10pm Monday night and she immediately took him to the Philipsburg Police Station to file a complaint when she saw how badly her brother was beaten. She said the police sent her and her brother to the St. Maarten Medical Center and instructed her and her brother to return to the Police Station on Tuesday to file an official complaint.

While Kasinat could not find his co-worker, SMN News managed to locate the young man Tuesday afternoon and he told SMN News in an interview that he has been working and residing on St. Maarten illegally for the past two years and that is one of the main reasons he did not approach the police Monday evening when his bosses were beating Kasinat inside the store. Muhamed Shuman said his bosses instructed him to go home shortly after they started to beat Kasinat and he went home but around 10pm Monday night nine persons all owners of Save A Lot Store showed up at his apartment on Pointe Blanche road and "Mickey" slapped him a few times behind his head and took away his cellular phone. Muhmad said that the men that went to his apartment also told him if he contacted the police they would kill him and they also told him that he is not to go back to the store. He said because of the fright he decided to hide out at a friend's place instead of staying where he is living. Despite the threats, Muhamed Shuman did visit the police on Tuesday afternoon where he filed an official complaint against the owners of Save A Lot Store.

sjacobsholdingculturalcalendar11032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Guests gathered at Fort Amsterdam for the launch of the Cultural Calendar and the Decade of Revitalization 2013 - 2023 on Sunday March 10th. Amongst the invited guests were the Governor of Country St. Maarten, Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister Hon. Cornelius De Weever and Minister Hon. Roland Tuitt. Several senior citizens, cultural icons, historians, and cultural stakeholders were also present.

The gathering of persons enjoyed the musical entertainment of the Ebony Steel Orchestra. The program commenced with the St. Maarten Song being played on the steel pans by two members of the orchestra.

Head of the Cultural Department Neville York officially welcomed the guests. In his welcome address York explained the vision behind the Cultural Calendar and the decade of Revitalization of our Cultural Heritage.

Joslyn Arndell followed with a monologue on the way we used to live. Arrindell recalled his younger days when St. Maarteners would greet each other and not doing so would lead to being chastised at home and several other examples. "St. Maarten culture has faded through the influx of other nationalities therefor the safeguarding of our cultural heritage is important" said Arrindell.

Where Arrindell gave an idea of what St. Maarten was like in the past, DJ. Easy gave an account of present day St. Maarten in a self-produced rap song with accompanying video in the background. The rap song spoke of the realities young persons are faced with today.

The Cultural Calendar which contains historical facts of St. Maarten and the bio of prominent local figures past and present was presented to the gathering by students of the MAC school Browlia F. Maynard campus. Each student read the extensive bio or story of each local figure featured in the calendar.

Minister Jacobs addressed the audience following the presentation of the Cultural Calendar. In her speech the Minister spoke of those people who awakened her love of culture and pride in being a St. Maartener.

She also spoke of the steps the Ministry would be taking to revitalizing our cultural heritage. "This launch is the first step in the Ministry' vision to revitalize St. Maarten Culture: The next step is to meet with you the cultural stakeholders to bring about cultural awareness and ways to preserve our Cultural Heritage" the Minister said.

telemsponsorsroadtocarnivalevent11032013Simpson Bay:--- TelEm Group and the St. Maarten Carnival Foundation (SCDF) kicked off a "Road to Carnival" party at Soggy Dollar Bar last Friday – the event is being hosted by TelEm at different locations each week in the build up to St. Maarten's premier carnival event.

Both TelEm Group and SCDF officials were present Friday . All were happy with the turnout and with the way the night progressed.

"We were especially pleased with the number of TelEm Group staff who turned out to join in the party, have fun and support their company," said one of the TelEm Group coordinators, Ms. Cheryl Rismay.

She said the "Road to Carnival" party moves on to Bliss night club this Friday (March 15) and then to Prive; Impulse, First Saturday, Boardwalk and Tantra for the following Friday's until the opening night of carnival.

"Of course the more people who turn up, the merrier, said Cheryl.

Meantime she is asking everyone to come out dressed in Carnival attire, or at least wear a mask so that they can enter into a free raffle to win a prize on the special party nights.

"It's all part of the fun and getting everyone geared up for the hottest carnival in the Caribbean," said an enthusiastic Cheryl.

TelEm Press Release

illegalfishingnearsaba11032013On Sunday, the maritime patrol aircraft Dash-8 of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard operating in the St. Maarten area spotted a Venezuelan fishing vessel near Saba. International law however prevents fishing in this protected maritime nature reserve called the Saba Bank.

The Dash-8 identified several fishing lines in the water however and numerous sharks already caught lying on deck. The Coast Guard operations centre sent the patrol ship HNLMS Friesland to intercept. The Friesland carrying an embarked Coast Guard boarding team caught up with the fishing vessel at sea and boarded the fisherman using its interceptor 'FRISC'. The boarding team ascertained the fisherman did not have the required permits and contacted the Public Prosecutor for Bonaire, Saba and St. Eustatius for deliberation. The Prosecutor decided to fine the Venezuelan fisherman for 1500 USD and ordered the Coast Guard to confiscate the fishing lines and catch.

The Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard is responsible for all maritime law enforcement in the Dutch Caribbean. The Coast Guard can be reached 24/7 on the toll free number 913.

rotaractsxmsunriseandpjl11032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise in collaboration with the Philipsburg Jubilee Library will be hosting a Literacy event under the theme "Today's Reader is Tomorrow's Leader", on Saturday, March 16, starting at 10:30am.
In celebration of World Rotaract Week, March 11 through March 17, Rotaract members and PJL staffers, Aukje de Jong and Maryland Powell, will be combining forces to conduct two reading activities, simultaneously for both toddlers, ages 0-4 years and children ages 5-12.
Toddlers can expect to hear stories in the library's, Baby & Toddler Room using the Japanese Kamishibai. This form of storytelling originated in Japan in the 12th century and is a mixture of oral storytelling and performing drama, illustrated in art. The art is usually displayed within a story box, while a person tells a story dramatizing it through performance. This technique will be conducted by several Day Care Center employees, who completed a workshop with library employee, Aukje de Jong.
Along with storytelling, the older children will complete arts and crafts projects. These projects will be based on the stories they were read by Rotaract Members in the reading room.
"The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise has chosen to embark on this event and make it a yearly occasion, because we believe that literacy is one of the main building blocks of learning. Individuals who struggle to read will struggle to learn and this difficulty will be carried with them throughout their school years and into their adult lives. This project is an effort to combat this and reach children from an early age, instilling in them a love of reading and learning," Elisia Lake, Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise, President said.
Participating children will be treated to refreshments after the readings activities. All parents are encouraged to bring their children to this interactive event.
"The more parents who turn out with their children, the more children we reach and start on an early road to lifelong learning and a love of reading. At the library, that is one of our primary focuses, to get children into the library and engaged with books. There are whole worlds waiting for them, but first, they must get here. So we are really urging all parents to come out and support this collaborative effort between Rotaract Club Of St. Maarten Sunrise and the Philipburg Jubilee Library," Morenika Arrindell, PJL Activity Manager stated.
For more information on this event, please contact the library at 542-2097.

sjacobsreceivescdfromdrro11032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- In a surprise presentation at the International Women's Day Program hosted by Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams at the Sonesta Maho Convention Center on Friday evening, Dr. Ro Brock presented the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs Hon. Silveria Jacobs with a DVD of Dr. Ro's Fit Kidz - The Nutrition and Fitness Show.

This DVD is geared towards encouraging and teaching elementary students about the importance of exercise and a healthy lifestyle in their lives using a space theme where students assist Dr. Ro in bringing the message.

The Minister was honoured to receive the Fitness and Nutrition DVD which includes Season 1 episodes one through eight from the esteemed nutrition coach.

Minister Jacobs acknowledged that St. Maarten's Government welcomes all efforts which promote physical education and health in the schools. This domain is well defined in the curriculum of Foundation Based Education and the DVD will be a welcome learning tool for educators, physical education instructors and especially the students due to the animated nature of it.

Public Schools will be given the opportunity to test drive the program and give feedback, though there were other school board representatives in the audience who later also expressed their interest in previewing the fitness program. The Minister will make it available for other school boards to test as well after the initial trials are done.

Minister Jacobs thanked Dr. Ro for the very inspiring, informative and motivational presentation to the women in the audience and welcomed the opportunity for further dialogue in the area of physical fitness and health in schools.

Minister Jacobs commends the Prime Minister and the organizing committee for putting together a program highlighting St. Maarten's talented youth and women as well as Dr. Ro in celebration of International Women's Day 2013.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Upon request from the unions NAPB, ABVO and WICSU/PSU in a letter dated February 26, 2013, Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan, began talks regarding the legal position of Police Officers.

The Minister started the meeting by explaining to the union representatives that he chose not to respond to articles published in the newspapers during the month of February, 2013. Rather, he decided to wait until he met with the unions, because he does not manage his ministry via the media.

Minister Duncan further explained that, the decree regulating the legal position of Police Officers referred to in newspaper articles was prepared in the constitutional process before 10-10-10 and similar to the one in Curacao.

In light of the overall dissatisfaction with the decree, Minister Duncan decided not to execute it, but rather appointed the legal specialist working in his cabinet, Knoppel, to revise it together with the police management. After the revision was completed, a copy of the new draft was sent to the unions by the legal specialist for their input.

The meeting of March 6, 2013, was the first of a number of meetings to be held until the matter of the legal positions of St. Maarten's police is resolved.

Among the topics discussed were: the matrix plan (Inrichtingsplan), salary scales, police structure, job evaluations and functions for the Police Organizations of Country St. Maarten.

The Minister and the unions agreed that in order to expedite matters, the follow up meetings to discuss and resolve the technicalities involved will be conducted among the unions, the legal specialist of the cabinet, and a member of the ministry's staff bureau.

If needed, the police management will also be involved in the discussions. Upon completion of this process, Minister Duncan will meet again with all parties involved to finalize documents and begin procedures to have it ratified.

tacostein11032013Philipsburg:--- The detectives from the Landsrecherche who are busy investigating Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge for alleged corruption are yet to approach the Supreme Court to officially start a criminal case against the MP. Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said currently the detectives from the Landsrecherche are busy with information gathering and the inquiry is in its preliminary stages. Stein said in order for them to approach the Supreme Court they have to have enough evidence to build a case and that is what the investigators are doing at the moment.

Stein confirmed to SMN News on Monday afternoon that Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge did not make contact with the Prosecutor's Office on Monday even though he indicated to reporters on Sunday when he returned to St. Maarten from the Netherlands where he attended the IPKO meetings that he would go to the Prosecutor's Office on Monday March 11th, 2013 to provide them with the information he has and also to explain to them what they saw in the videotape that was published late last week where he was seen taking stacks of monies from the owner of Bada Bing, Jaap van den Heuvel and stuffing them in his pockets.

Stein said that the investigators intend to invite the MP Illidge to their office where they will question him after studying the material they have at the moment. The deputy Attorney General said that whether or not the MP visits the Prosecutor's Office will have no bearing on the decision they will take to approach the Supreme Court. Stein further explained that the investigators have to study the material they have prior to approaching the Supreme Court to start a criminal case against the MP "to go to the Supreme Court we have to have enough evidence to show that a criminal act was committed." He said after the initial procedure is completed and the Prosecutor's Office believes that there is enough to file an official case against the MP or if there is need for MP Illidge to be placed under arrest, then the Landsrecherche will approach the Supreme Court as it is stipulated by law to do so. At that point if the judge finds that the investigators have enough evidence to start a criminal procedure against MP Illidge the judge of the Supreme Court will notify MP Illidge of his findings in writing and at he will also inform him that based on the law that he is suspended from office pending the investigation. While several persons in the community believe that government should suspend Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge because of the international attention and embarrassment since the video footage has been released, the law states otherwise.

Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin said in a short written statement on Sunday that "St. Maarten is a young democracy and over the past couple of days, the democratically established institutions of checks and balances have been and are being put to the test." Marlin said that he has confidence in the St. Maarten's judicial systems and institutions and he also acknowledges that every man and woman is innocent until proven guilty. The Deputy Prime Minister also said that the competent authorities have already started doing their job and he is confident in the process. There are many questions in the minds of the people and they deserve to get answers, Marlin said.

While the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams also issued a statement on Sunday, it was not sent to SMN News. The Prime Minister in her statements basically told the Dutch politicians to either put up or shut up because St. Maarten has laws and the system is now being tested. The Prime Minister did not mention anything about the ongoing investigation involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge.

SMN News took note of some of the comments that are being made on our website, many persons believe that the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan should also resign now that MP Illidge is under investigation and since his name was mentioned in the videotape shown also on SMN News, the laws that govern St. Maarten do not say that a Minister has to resign because the person who appointed him is under investigation.

It is now left to be seen how democracy works on St. Maarten and if the political leaders will bow to the demands of the people and good governance or if they will stick to the law they wrote and approved when St. Maarten became a country within the Kingdom.

In the meantime, SMN News contacted the Leader of the United Peoples Party Theo Heyliger for a reaction on the accusations levied against him by Jaap van den Heuvel regarding the videotape but Heyliger did not respond to the email. SMN News mentioned to the UP leader that we need a telephone interview with him or a statement that is written by him and not anyone else and we also asked the UP Leader to provide us with any type of documentation he may have that will show contrary to the accusations levied against him by Jaap van den Heuvel.

Over two years ago at least four persons working at the Philipsburg Police Station (police officers and administrative workers) admitted to the Police Internal Affairs that the Leader of the United Peoples Party offered them $300.00 to vote for him during the 2010 elections. The penal code of St. Maarten considers bribery as a crime or even offering someone a bribe is also a crime. Even though the Election fraud case is over two years old that case still cannot make it before a judge.

Independent Member of Parliament Romain Laville said on a number of occasions and again Sunday night that the UP Leader offered him $350,000.00 to return to the party he left in April last year. It should be noted that offering someone a bribe is a crime and while Laville has soaked quite some blows since he left the UP Party it is not yet known if Laville took it a step further and filed a complaint against the UP Leader Theodore Heyliger.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- That was a very honorable introduction, one I hope I can live up to in the eyes of the people of St. Maarten. Thank you Mr. York.

Yes, I have a vision of St. Maarten, a vision rooted in my childhood, listening to stories told by "Mom" Mrs. Elfrieda Peters, wife of the late Milton Peters in Cole Bay, stories told by Mr. Peters himself – a strict educator and pioneer, the stories of Miss Nini, Bongo, my father and all the other misses and misters, including my principal at the time, the late Mr. Camille Baly who we honored just last year before his passing. I thirsted for knowledge of our people.

Later in highschool I was disappointed in what we were taught in our history and social studies lessons, but appreciative of the many excursions we took with Mr. van de Hoeven and Ms. Van Enckevort, I recognized the work of Mrs. Elsje Bosch, Cees van Dolderen and other Dutch persons who saw the saving of our monuments as very important and fought to have them preserved.

But it was only when I went to the university of the Virgin Islands at 19 that I started to learn about our Caribbean History and went deeper into St. Maarten's history.
It was upon my return as a teacher that I made it my business to research and visit as many sights as possible with my students.

I didn't want my students to have the same ignorance that I had. Visits to the Forts, old buildings and plantations, museums, library proved fruitful and awakened a desire in many.

Strides have been made, St. Maarten's history and social studies now forms part of the elementary curriculum – a social studies book is being developed at this time by the Dept. of Innovations. There is a social studies workbook series for VSBO schools in place for a few years already, penned by Mrs. Van Enckevoort et al.

However, this does not guarantee that the actual learning about our history and culture takes place in our schools. Today, Many students still know more about the topography, history and culture of the United states and Europe than they do about St. Maarten's many hills, valleys, districts, water masses and the history of the development of our tiny nation.

Vision:
Every child and citizen on St. Maarten or anywhere in the world will have access to information about our historical and cultural heritage. That schools, library, museums and theaters promote the education of the populace to meet our needs in the 21st century.

Each child with interest in performing arts and cultural artistic development will be given the opportunity to excel to his or her highest potential.

Each citizen will feel a sense of pride and love in building this nation.

It is for this reason that 2013-2023 has been designated as the Decade of Revitalization of our Natural and Cultural Heritage – the people of our country are crying out for its identity, its norms and values, culture, foods, and history to be written, sung, danced and recorded so that generations to come will be able to experience, research and understand the roads we've traveled.

Mr. York has mentioned the tangible sites, but besides these the intangible must also be preserved and recorded for history to prevail.

It is my intention that we address the following in 2013:

  • WHO IS A ST. MAARTENER?
  • CHOOSING OUR NATIONAL ANTHEM, AND NATIONAL SONGS
  • PRESERVING AND RECORDING OUR HISTORY
  • ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION AND CULTURAL COUNCILS TO EXECUTE OUR CULTURAL POLICIES
  • INVOLVING THE COMMUNITY AND THE YOUTH IN EVERY ASPECT OF THE REVITALIZATION PROCESS

These and many other topics will be discussed with you, our stakeholders. Government recognizes that our culture has been preserved to a great extent due to the passion, diligence and dedication of several organizations and individuals. Government could have forged ahead with its current policy, formed its foundations and councils and proceeded to put much needed structure in place.

However, I believe that no progress can be sustainable without the input of the soldiers.

Therefore, Step 1 is this launch today of our Cultural Calendar and Cultural Website www.stmaartenculture.com.

Step 2 is the much awaited Cultural Conference where all stakeholders will come together to dialogue and give their input on the projects that government would like to realize in this decade which include:

  1. Defining the St. Maartener in our constitution
  2. Legislation for required cultural education at all levels of education
  3. Promote the creation of St. Maarten Literature and Art
  4. Cultural celebrations and commemorations - which we will continue to celebrate
  5. Introduction and Execution of the Oral History Project
  6. Establish the School of Traditional Arts
  7. Include cultural and performance arts in all community school programs
  8. The Plan for the development of Fort Amsterdam and other associated sites in historic Philipsburg
  9. Identifying our Cultural Ambassadors and launching the Cultural Ambassador Awards
  10. Expansion of the John Larmonie Center
  11. Approve the plan and design of the National Theater for the Performance and Cultural Arts
  12. Identification and training of the artists, performers, artisans to perform in our National Theater
  13. Building, preserving and digitalizing of the National Cultural Archives

Step 3: Present a SMART action plan for "2013-2023 The decade of Revitalization of our Natural and Cultural Heritage"

Step 4: Execute the Plan

Step 5: Evaluate the Plan periodically and adjust when necessary

All of you who have been contributing will receive your invitation to this very important conference which will be held in the first week of April. You are welcome to visit our website, and submit topics that you may notice are not on our agenda.

Silveria E. Jacobs
Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports

rsamuelacceptspetitionforprotectinggreatsaltpond10032013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel received the petition to "Protect the Great Salt Pond"--containing 1,275 signatures--from Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers Foundation (HNP).

The petition has been submitted to the St. Maarten government, addressed to Deputy Prime Minister Hon. William Marlin as Minister of VROMI--calling on Parliament "to immediately put in place zoning legislation to conserve the Great Salt Pond from any and all further landfill expansion, dumping, and pollution" in keeping with the five "Key Objectives" in the petition.

The symbolic presentation of the copy of the 52-page document to the President of Parliament, was made in the conference room of Parliament (2/25/13). HNP organized the petition, which was open for signatures on-island and online.

patrickillidge10032013Philipsburg:--- In an exclusive interview with SMN News, Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge who returned to St. Maarten on Sunday and is currently under investigation for corruption explained why he was caught on tape taking monies from the owner of Bada Bing strip club. MP Illidge said he lone Jaap van den Heuvel monies sometime in 2011 when the businessman was going through a hectic divorce. Illidge said he used to go ever so often to the Bada Bing strip club to collect the monies he lone the businessman who was paying him back in parts.
According to MP Illidge, the UP leader Theodore Heyliger asked Jaap van den Heuvel to trap and tape Patrick Illidge while giving him the monies and ask him questions as if he wanted Illidge to secure a business license for him. Illidge said he knew van den Heuvel and Heyliger were friends but he and the businessman is also friends and he never thought the businessman would ever do that to him because he helped him at a time when he was in need.

Illidge said while in the Netherlands he met van den Heuvel who explained him how and why he taped him. He said van den Heuvel traveled to the Netherlands to try and stop the Telegraaf from printing the story and to convince them not to use the video footage and explain why he taped MP Patrick Illidge but he Van den Heuvel arrived one day too late. Van den Heuvel said in an email to Illidge that he had no control over what Heyliger did with the tape. He said he did it because he too was angry because Illidge had left Heyliger's coalition government and he wanted to help Heyliger to get back in government.

Illidge said van den Heuvel told him that Heyliger asked him to tape him because he wanted to get back in government and that he (Theo Heyliger) would have used the tape to push MP Illidge to break the present coalition government. MP Illidge said that the businessman told him that he (Heyliger) even offered MP Romain Laville $135,000.00 when he left his party but that did not work. However, Member of Parliament Romain Laville said in a Blackberry message to SMN News that the UP Leader Theodore Heyliger offered  him $350,000.00 to return to the United Peoples Party. MP Laville also said more information will be released as the investigation progresses.

To corroborate his story MP Illidge provided SMN News with emails that were sent to him by Bada Bing owner Jaap van den Heuvel and the businessman's lawyer Cor Merx. In the email which is written in the Dutch language van den Heuvel apologized several times to Illidge, telling him that the tape was never intended for publication instead it was supposed to be used as a blackmail to break the current coalition government. Also implicated in the email is a reporter of the Daily Herald Michael Granger who once worked as the Executive Assistant to the United Peoples Party Leader Theodore Heyliger some years ago.

Below is the translated version of the email that was sent to MP Illidge and Merx.

Dear Mr. Merx:

Via these means I am requesting your legal assistance, concerning the negative publicity which has arisen in the media concerning myself and Patrick Illidge. I, Jaap van den Heuvel made the tapes which are to be seen on many media sites on the request of Theo Heyliger. Theo was very mad when Patrick left his party and he spoke to me many times about correcting this so that he could return to politics. At first he tried to buy out Laville for the amount of $135,000 according to me. When this failed he wanted to ask me a favor. He asked about the story that I had paid Patrick for a permit and I told him that was not true, but that I had borrowed money from Patrick in 2011 and that Patrick often came by to collect his portion of this money. He asked me if it was possible for me to tape him the next time he came by and also question him about the problems with William Marlin. He knew that there were problems in the party, at least, between William and Patrick. That was the only thing that Theo was going to use, to get Patrick back on his side so that he could return to politics. The images of me repaying Patrick the loan were to be removed by Theo's friend Michael Granger of the Daily Herald. Theo was only going to use these images to get Patrick back on his side. I agreed because I also was not in agreement with Patrick leaving Theo. After I was called this week by the Telegraaf about this, I was very scared and very disappointed that Theo had sent the tape to the media. A really poor decision! The day after I flew to Holland and tried via a lawyer to get the Telegraaf to stop publication but alas too late because on the day I arrived it was already in the papers. I was shocked and ashamed towards Patrick who had always been my friend long before he entered politics. Our children were in the same class. He who had helped me during my failed marriage in 2011, I have done this to him. And when the day after all the images appeared on YouTube and all media sites I knew it was time for me to clear this up as soon as possible by telling Patrick what had happened. Who at that moment rather would have preferred to wring my neck in anger and disappointment about our friendship. I am really very sorry for what I have done. I had 100% confidence in Theo that he would only show Patrick those images, what a mistake. I saw it this way. We all know each other since our 20's I thought he would show Patrick the tape, Patrick would return to his spot next to Theo, Patrick would call and ask "what are you doing", he would be angry, but I still owed him Naf. 5000 from the loan, so he would control himself and in the following weeks everything would calm down. Patrick does not carry hate as far as I know him for me it all about getting things back to normal as they had been before.

Click here to view emails sent by van den Heuvel to Merx and Illidge in Dutch.

rotaractsxmsunrisemembersatchurch10032013Grand Case:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise started off World Rotaract Week 2013 with showers of blessings and strength at the Christian Assembly Church in La Savane, Grand Case. Pastor Jerome Thomas welcomed the group and encouraged them to keep up the good works and always but God first in everything they do. The church prayed over the Rotaract Club as they start the week with a weeklong of activities.

Young Scientists Showcase St. Maarten's Future

On Friday, March 8, 2013, the St. Maarten Academy conducted their 1st Annual Internal Science Fair competition. The fair, which was organized and managed by Science Fair Coordinators Mrs. Suja Pereppadan and Mr. Claude Javois, was held in the schools' gymnasium from 7:25 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. There were 25 Science projects which highlighted the competition in the areas of Science and Technology. Thirteen (13) projects represented the science category and twelve (12) the technological category, respectively.
The projects centered on alternative forms of "green" energy, DNA research; animal and plant cloning; genetics; environmental science type projects such as global warming, indoor air quality pollution, plasma gasification of solid waste and sea water pollution and control; transportation science and technology; plant science (botany); and technical physics, to name a few.
About forty-six (46) students, comprising of third and fourth formers, participated in the annual Science fair event. The event drew students from the school, administrators, staff members, Academy board members and the public in general.
The judges comprised of ten (10) teachers and two (2) senior students who participated in previous external science fair competitions. The school established science fair judging criteria based on scientific and/or engineering goals, creativity, thoroughness, skills and clarity of presentation. The winners of the competition will be announced at a special ceremony to be held at the St. Maarten Academy (academic campus). The date is still to be determined.
The St. Maarten Academy plans to make the Science fair competition an annual event and include students at all the form levels. The most outstanding Science projects will be chosen from both the science and technology categories and sent to the Annual External Science Fair competition conducted by the St. Maarten Science Fair foundation. The foundation annually conducts the science fair and poster competition for secondary schools.
The St. Maarten Academy would like to thank the public and all those who made the 1st Annual Science Fair competition event possible and a success. We look forward to Internal Science Fair 2014.
To the students, thank you for a great job well done.

sjacobsatbuildyourfutureboatlaunch10032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the SMMTA Launch of the 'Build your future Boat' at the Kim Sha Beach on St. Maarten recently. Students from MPC, CIA, St. Dominic's Academy, SBO, St. Maarten Academy PSVE proudly showcased their boats and participated in a rowing race in the boats that they have built.

sjacobsandtaekwondoteamkingyenschool10032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A delegation of the King Yen Tae Kown Do School left for Puerto Rico to participate in the 20th Anniversary Puerto Rico International Tae Kwon Do Open Championship March 9th and 10th 2013.

The championships were expected to attract over 700 athletes from countries and islands such as the Dominican Republic, USA, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, Mexico, St. Barths, Brazil, Cuba, Martinique, Jamaica, Surinam, St. Thomas and Barbados.

The St. Maarten delegation consists of 53 members with Grand Master Theo Liu as delegation leader and a Senior/Masters team comprising of Jeroen Veen (Black Belt), Sonny Wongsonadi, Carlo Talkami and four female athletes.

Officials and a number of parents are also part of the delegation. The athletes traveled in special sports outfits with St. Maarten written on the back. The outfits were made possible by the sponsorship of Senior Black Belt holder attorney Jeroen Veen, Director of the law firm Lexwell.

Prior to the delegation leaving, Minister Jacobs was invited to witness the athletes in preparation for the championship. The Minister witnessed the practice and the defile. Many youngsters were already exhibiting leadership skills as they led their peers in exercises and maneuvers.

The athletes displayed discipline and respect, for which the Minister commended them. The students marched and sang the St. Maarten song as part of their preparations. Minister Jacobs was able to address the delegation and took the time to encourage them and their parents to continue to participate in sports, as well as wishing them the best as they represent St. Maarten in Puerto Rico.

They were encouraged to "Stand tall and proud while their song is being played, to do their very best and come back with as many medals as has become customary for the King Yen Tae Kwon Do students. "St. Maarten is proud of you and as long as you do your best you are already winners."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 11. The first agenda point is in connection with a working visit to the Netherlands at the end of April. A second agenda point has been added.

The second agenda point relates to approval of travel by Members of Parliament (MPs) to Parlatino meetings for the remainder of 2013.

The working visit of parliament in April is in connection with the abdication of Queen Beatrix. It is still to be determined how many MPs will be present to attend the inauguration of Willem-Alexander as King.

The central committee will meet on Monday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The Central Committee of Parliament will meet in an urgent session on March 12 in connection to legislative amendments related to the abdication of Queen Beatrix and the inauguration of Willem-Alexander as King.

The Prime Minister/Minister of General Affairs Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams is expected to be present for the parliamentary session to explain about the required changes to several national ordinances related to the change in monarch.

The central committee will meet on Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

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

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

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

Philipsburg:--- Detectives from the Landsrecherche searched the office of Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge at the house of Parliament located next to the Court of First Instance on Front Street. The search took place Sunday morning confirmed Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein.

Stein declined to say what are some of the items that were found and confiscated during the search. The searches that took place on Saturday and Sunday stemmed from a tape that was released by one of the local newspapers on St. Maarten while the Telegraaf in the Netherlands reported about the alleged bribery that the Member of Parliament was seen taking from the owner of Bada Bing strip club Jaap van den Heuvel.

Since the tape was released on Thursday last week, political leaders including the Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin and Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who is responsible for security (VDSM) have not made any statements.

According to information reaching SMN News, Members of the Council of Ministers confronted Wescot Williams last week Tuesday to find out if the VDSM informed her of their findings and why was the tape not turned over to local authorities.

Some of the questions that have to be answered is why the VDSM did not turn over the video footage they managed to obtain to the Prosecutor's Office and who gave the tape to the Telegraaf in the Netherlands and the local newspaper on St. Maarten.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said in a statement on Saturday that on the request of the Prosecutor's Office the newspaper handed over the tape to them and claimed that the tape was dropped off in their letter box some time ago, the big question is why the leading newspaper on St. Maarten did not publish the contents of the tape prior to the Telegraaf.

SMN News learnt of this and two other tapes showing Members of Parliament taking bribes from business persons. A reliable source said that the Leader of the United Peoples Party and the Prime Minister were in possession of this and other tapes which they were allegedly keeping to use next year during the 2014 election.

It should be noted that Jaap van den Heuvel and his attorney Cor Merx are also close friends to some members supporting the UP political party.

While it is clear as day on the videotape that MP Illidge collected what looked like cash and stuffed it in his pockets, Illidge in a statement to SMN News said what is taking place now is something that has been orchestrated by the opposition party.

HOUSE SEARCH IN PARLIAMENT QUARTERS MP ILLIDGE.

On Sunday, the judge of instruction conducted a house search in the parliament quarters of MP Patrick Illidge. Both his personal room and the faction room were searched.
The Public Prosecutor's Office requested deputy Chairman of Parliament MP Leroy De Weever and the deputy registrar of Parliament to attend the search, which they did. This was to secure that no other interests but the interest of the criminal investigation was taken into account.
Members of the Special Investigation Unit, supported by a member of the local police, conducted the search.
During the search computers, a laptop, and several documents were seized.
Last Friday, the Attorney General ordered the start of an investigation into possible corruption made visible on video footage that was published by the press.

Press Release by Public Prosecutor's Office


St. Maarten Delegation Return from the Netherlands --- MP Illidge Greeted Several Reporters at PJIAE.

patrickillidgereturnstosxm10032013Airport:--- The Members of Parliament that went to the Netherlands to attend the IPKO meetings returned to St. Maarten safely on Sunday and were greeted by a number of reporters who were eager to get a statement from Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge who is now under investigation for alleged corruption.

Member of Parliament Patrick Ilidge told SMN News in a short interview that he is thankful to the people of St. Maarten who called and texted him during his stay in the Netherlands when the videotape was released by The Daily Herald. MP Illidge told SMN News that the investigators who searched his home on Saturday under the supervision of the judge of instruction did not ransack his home. "I found my home in good order and all I need is for the people of St. Maarten to wait because in a few days they will know the true meaning of what they saw on the tape.

While the investigators are now in the initial stages of the investigation, they have to study the documents and other digital materials they seized from the three locations before approaching the Supreme Court for a formal hearing in the ongoing investigation. Based on the laws St. Maarten has in place, politicians such as Members of Parliament and Ministers have to go through a special hearing to determine if there is sufficient evidence to show that the suspected politician committed a crime. If that is proven then the MP and those he implicated in the conversation on September 30th, 2012 will be questioned and detained. MP Illidge called the names of three civil servants. Micheal Fredericks the former head of TEATT (Traffic and Transportation Department), he also alluded to the current head Martha Thewet, and the head of Immigration Udo Aron.

In a brief statement, Leader of the National Alliance William Marlin in a written statement to SMN News said "St. Maarten is a young democracy and over the past couple of days, the democratically established institutions of checks and balances have been and are being put to the test.

I have confidence in our system and our institutions and acknowledge that every man and woman is innocent until proven guilty.

The competent authorities have already started doing their job and I am confident in the process. There are many questions in the minds of our people and they deserve to get answers."

SMN News learnt that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams who is also responsible for the VDSM (the security services) of St. Maarten is expected to issue an official statement on Monday.

jvandenheuvelpillidgerduncan09032013Philipsburg:--- The videotape that showed Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge collecting monies from the owner of Bada Bing exotic club on September 30th, 2012 initiated a speedy investigation. According to reliable information reaching SMN News, detectives searched the home of Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge early Saturday morning. MP Illidge who is currently in the Netherlands with his wife confirmed to SMN News on Saturday that he was informed by one of his cousins that his home and the apartments he is renting were searched. MP Illidge said he does not know what was found and no one from law enforcement contacted him prior to searching his home. He said that he will be meeting with his lawyers when he returns to the island on Sunday to check on the legality of the search.
According to well placed sources, the detectives found an illegal firearm in one of the apartments that MP Illidge is renting to a relative of another Member of Parliament from the Democratic Party faction. MP Patrick Illidge lives in the Pointe Blanche area.
SMN News contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on Saturday afternoon for a comment on the search. Mos said he will not make any verbal comment but he will be issuing a press release sometime Saturday afternoon.


ATTORNEY GENERAL ORDERS INVESTIGATION --- House searches conducted after video footage has been secured.

On Friday, Attorney General Mr. D. A. Piar ordered the start of an investigation by the Special Investigation Unit into possible corruption made visible on video footage that was published by the press.
The Prosecutor's Office subsequently ordered a local newspaper to hand over the video footage that, based on the newspapers' claim on Friday, had been dropped in their letter box some time ago. This footage will be further studied.
On Saturday, the judge of instruction conducted a house search on three different locations: in the house of MP Patrick Illidge, at the Bada Bing adult entertainment center, and at the Immigration and Naturalization Service IND. The Special Investigation Unit was assisted by several local Police officers.
On the premises of Patrick Illidge, a 29 year old Spanish man, M.R.M.S., was arrested because of illegal possession of a firearm and bullets. He was handed over to the Police where he was remanded in custody.
During the search on the three locations another fire arm and bullets were seized besides money, immigration documents, computers, laptops, an iPad, USB-sticks, telephones, official documents and papers and photo cameras.
The seized papers and the digital information will be subject to research the coming days. Based on the findings the investigation will continue.

Press Release from Prosecutor's Office

Below is the video of MP Illidge allegedly accepting a bribe (Courtesy The Daily Herald):

rotaractsxmsunrisemembers08032013Philipsburg:--- The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise is joining Rotaract Clubs around the world as Rotaract celebrates World Rotaract Week 2013 from March 11th-17th 2013. World Rotaract Week is a time for celebrating the success and importance of the Rotaract program. Throughout the week, the members of Rotaract Sunrise will be engaging in numerous activities such as:

Sunday 10th- Attending Christian Assembly Church in Grand Case.
Monday 11th- Radio Interview on Youth Radio and Budgeting Session
Tuesday 12th- Visit to Rotary Clubs
Wednesday 13th- Radio Interview on PJD2 and Fellowship with Rotaract Nord
Friday15th- Donation to Crystal Home
Saturday16th- Literacy Session at the Library and Speech Competition
Sunday 17th- Attending the Methodist Church in Philipsburg

The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire population of St. Maarten for their continued support to Rotaract Sunrise in their efforts to provide "service above self" and support our weeklong activities for Rotaract Week. Rotaract Sunrise meets every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month at Holland House Conference Room at 7pm.

smeyersolivacce12072012The United People's (UP) Party faction is very disturbed of current developments related to a Member of Parliament (MP) of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, and who is also a member of the current National Alliance led coalition government.

This development tarnishes the image of Parliament and its MPs.

The people of Sint Maarten are also traumatized by what has transpired. The people are very upset and concerned. This is a dark day in the history of our country.

The allegations are there and there needs to be a speedy and thorough investigation to ascertain what exactly transpired. The allegations of an MP accepting a bribe or whatever took place sheds a very dark cloud on our democracy. Our judicial institutions need to get to the bottom of this in order for integrity to be brought back.

It sends a bad message to investors and others and at the same time damages the image of this young country. It also sends a bad message to our youth. MPs are well paid and should not have to make such choices as has been portrayed in the video.

The integrity of the country is suffering and the integrity of the Government is at stake!

The people want to hear from the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister with respect to this matter.

The UP faction will be calling for an urgent meeting of Parliament to address this developing situation. The UP faction would like to hear the views of the other factions in Parliament, and at the same time, it is an opportunity for the people to also hear what has transpired.

The UP has also been hearing about a second tape concerning another MP with respect to a similar situation.

These developments are not good for the country. The country is on the wrong track and going downhill fast.

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

committeegovernorssymposiumpresentsrecommendationsreportonnationalheritage08032013Harbour View:--- The Report of Recommendations of the Governor's Symposium 2012 on the topic National Heritage; Historic, Cultural and Economic Importance was presented by the Organizing Committee to Governor Eugene B. Holiday, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Deputy Prime-Minister William Marlin and Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Silveria Jacobs at the Governor's Cabinet on March 8, 2013. The organizing committee is comprised of Members: Paul Middelberg (Chairman), Cedric Peterson (Act chairman) Neville York (Secretary), Elsje Bosch, Marcellia Henry, and Permanent advisors to the Committee: Jay Haviser, Astrid Plantz, Clara Reyes, and Reuben Thompson.

The purpose of the Governor's Symposium 2012 was to place the National Heritage of Sint Maarten – tangible and intangible – in the spotlight as a nation building initiative by highlighting Sint Maarten's national heritage and drawing from various experiences to emphasize the benefits of the restoration and preservation of national heritage. The Committee's report of recommendations is the result of the committee's review of the presentations delivered. The lessons drawn have been summarized in 7 focus areas and captured in 16 concrete recommendations for consideration by all stakeholders including government. The 7 focus areas include: (a) establishing a monument council, (b) national heritage education (c) maintenance and preservation of national heritage; (d) investing in national heritage facilities; (e) introducing public information campaign; (f)fostering community responsibility; and (g) organizing funding.

Governor Holiday thanked the members and permanent advisers of the organizing committee for accepting the tasks to organize the symposium and for their time and dedication in making it a success.
"As I said at opening of the Symposium on December 17th last, it is my belief that in the Governance of our country heritage matters. It is my hope therefore that the lessons drawn from the symposium and outlined in this report of recommendations by the committee will if implemented contribute to a stronger embrace of our National Heritage as a unifying force and as a driver for our common future as we continue to build and develop our nation. I trust that the recommendations will be well received, considered and adopted in national development policies of our country" Governor Holiday stated

Prime Minister Wescot-Williams, Deputy Prime-Minister William Marlin and Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Jacobs all also thanked and congratulated the Committee for their work. Minister Marlin stated that he is confident that the contribution of the committee will be of benefit to the government and the people of Sint Maarten.

Press Release from Governor's Cabinet

usfolcleansupbokagrandibeach08032013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On March 4, 2013, U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) personnel spent several hours picking up trash that washed up on the beach at Boka Grandi in the Christoffel Park. They collected more than 210 gallons of plastic bottles, caps and Styrofoam, in addition to a discarded refrigerator.
On 6 March, volunteers also spent the morning exercising and interacting with the animals awaiting adoption at Dierenasiel Parrera.
The Community Relations (COMREL) projects are led by the USFOL Chapel Team, in order to reciprocate the hospitality that they have received from the citizens of Curacao.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- International Women's Day (IWD) is marked on March 8 every year. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.

However, not everywhere women are valued and revered for who they are and how they contribute to society. We still find that women worldwide struggle with discrimination, oppression and out casting. Women are still the victims of abuse and violence. As a society, we must strive to eradicate this.

The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs wishes to extend congratulations to all women around the world on this day, but most especially to the women of St. Maarten.

St. Maarten is known today for its strong women, and has been identified throughout history as Oualichi – land of Strong women by some of its earliest inhabitants.

Though there are many women that come to mind on this day, Minister Jacobs expressed the need to single out Women who contribute to society on a daily basis as mothers, nurturers, caretakers, teachers, nurses, social workers and in all areas that help our children to grow and become productive members of our society.

These women are sometimes forgotten in our awards ceremonies and speeches.

Minister Jacobs: "Today, I commend you all. I especially commend the women who have inspired me throughout my life: "My mother, Nadia Bryson-Willemsberg, Mavis Brooks-Salmon, Milva Hoeve-Job, my many aunts, Clara Reyes, and also younger women such as Rita Bourne-Gumbs, Nicole de Weever and my very own daughter Nichelle who has inspired me so much.

"Women have come a long way through history, from walking one step behind the men and being subservient to men – to being leaders in our society, our governments and also the stronghold of the family.

"Today on International Women's day, I congratulate you all, and heap all the glory and praise on all of you as you continue to lead, sacrifice and contribute to the growth and development of your families."

rolandduncan08032013Philipsburg:--- "Let justice take its course and let us not jump to conclusions, until the investigation is completed. St. Maarten has the same laws as Holland that Aruba and Curacao do not have to investigate politicians such as Ministers and Members of Parliament," those were the words of Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in an interview with SMN News on Friday as he was questioned by SMN News about the video tape circulating on the internet involving Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge who was seen collecting what looks like cash from the owner of Bada Bing, Jaap van den Heuvel on September 30th, 2012 in exchange for several favors.

Duncan said that when he heard that the VDSM who falls under the Prime Minister of St. Maarten has a video tape where Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge was seen taking monies from the owner of the exotic club he asked the Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams to instruct the VDSM to turn over the video tape to the Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES Islands Dick Piar or his deputy on St. Maarten Taco Stein.

The Minister of Justice said he already got word that the tape was handed over to the Attorney General and it is now being studied. "What bothers me is that the VDSM is a security service that gathers information on St. Maarten and they are supposed to inform and turn over information to the Prime Minister. They have this information and instead of breaking the news on St. Maarten where the alleged crime was committed, they sent it to the Netherlands in order to embarrass St. Maarten and to get St. Maarten on its knees to support the BES Islands."

Duncan said he will not allow the Dutch (Netherlands) to meddle in what appears to be a crime on St. Maarten when St. Maarten has the same laws as the Netherlands and the people that are working as Attorney General and at the Prosecutor's Office were appointed by the Dutch and not by St. Maarten. The Minister of Justice who was appointed by MP Patrick Illidge said that there is European Dutch working for the RST, Marechaussee, and at the Prosecutor's Office and he has no control over those persons. "They are saying they cannot trust the integrity of these people then why should St. Maarten trust theirs? Let me make clear the Public Prosecutor's Office and Attorney General do not need anything from me to start any type of investigations." Duncan said his name was called and so were others, all of whom are entitled to due process. Duncan said he read some articles where the Dutch is saying they will ask Minister Plasterk to handle the investigation because they in the Netherlands do not trust St. Maarten. "Well the people that have to investigate cases such as these are European Dutch and they were appointed by the Dutch so what they in the second chamber are saying is that they don't trust their own people."

Duncan said the contents of the video tape are indeed bothersome and it is also embarrassing. He also feels bad about what he sees on the tape which he looked at a number of times as he analyzed the contents of the tape. However, the Minister of Justice who is lawyer by profession says he wants to make a distinction between politics and a criminal procedure. Duncan said not all of what is on the video can be qualified as acts of criminality. When he was asked if the part that shows the MP accepting monies from the businessman can be considered a criminal act, Duncan said that part looks very much like a criminal act but he believes the investigators would have to determine whether or not it was money and if the tape was doctored. Duncan said when someone looks at the tape it does not look or sound good but even so no one should jump to conclusions. Duncan said the people of St. Maarten should allow due process to take place by allowing those investigating to apply the applicable laws and also allow the person that is under investigation to have fair treatment. Duncan said part of due process is that a person is innocent until proven guilty whether people like it or not. "We can jump to conclusions and apply our own meaning on what is seen on the video, but one must remember that St. Maarten has laws which have to be respected." The Minister further explained that if St. Maarten is a country then she must be allowed to handle the problems she faces and deal with them appropriately. Secondly, I read where Holland wants to have their own investigation because they don't trust the system because Roland Duncan is the Minster of Justice." Duncan said he will not agree neither would he cooperate with Holland on what they want. When asked if it is because he was appointed Minister of Justice by MP Illidge, Duncan said that was not the case because St. Maarten is a country that is governed by laws. He said there is nothing in the Kingdom Charter that allows the Netherlands not to trust St. Maarten. He said if that is allowed the investigation will become dirty with politics and Holland would profit from St. Maarten's dilemma.

Duncan said that there are people who wants to see St. Maarten down in the ground or on its face. He said since the story broke he sought legal advice on his Ministry and his position as Minister of Justice.

The Minister of Justice said that based on the current laws, politicians that are suspected of a crime or are being investigated will be suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. He said this was placed in the law simply because some years ago former State Secretary Joan Berkle was asked to resign when she was suspected of committing a crime and to date that person cannot clear her name or even work. "Joan Berkle was asked to resign from her position and years later she received a letter from the Prosecutor's Office that states that there is not sufficient evidence to prosecute." Duncan further explained even though that was done Berkle's name and character can never be cleared and there is nothing that can compensate her for what she endured.

Here is the video courtesy of The Daily Herald:

sswdonatestodowmusicalfoundation07032013SIMPSON BAY:--- Dow's Musical Foundation of composer, singer and steel pan instructor Isidore York, also known as the Mighty Dow, is the latest recipient of a donation made by Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten).

The donation of 2000 U.S. dollars was made to The Mighty Dow, who is president of the foundation which was founded in 1991 as the Ebony Steel Foundation.

The cheque was presented on Monday by Seven Seas Water (St. Maarten) managing director Franklyn Richards, who remarked that the company is "happy to assist this foundation in
its continuing objective to keep this important art form alive, by involving children at a young age, so that they can carry on this cultural tradition".

The foundation's Mighty Dow says that "the upkeep of this art-form, steel pan, and the continued promotion of this music has proven, over the years, to be quite educational and conducive to our culture on St. Maarten -- as it also serves as a destination marketing tool in the area of tourism".

The foundation provides classes, during school hours, to the Sister Borgia School, Marie Laurence School and the Martin Luther King School.
Other children are accommodated for afternoon classes at the foundation's location on the A. Th. Illidge Road. Presently classes are provided to 125 students.

The foundation plans its 3rd annual summer steel pan work shop to be held in July 1 upcoming, when it also plans a trip to the Netherlands, where about 17 advanced students are to perform there.

daniellajeffrypresentsbooktopjl07032013Philipsburg:--- Daniella Jeffry-Pilot, author, historian, and community activist, presented the 2nd edition of her book, "1963 – A Landmark Year in St. Martin", to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library on March 5, 2013. The book chronicles 1963, the eve of tourism development on St. Martin and the evolution from agricultural, rural economy to a commercial, tourist-oriented economy.

Simpson Bay:--- Work will begin in earnest this Sunday, March 10, on the Runway Rehabilitation Project of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM).
According to Mirto Breell, Director of the Technical Division at SXM, work on the new taxiway Bravo, the general aviation ramp extension, and the new helipad will start this Sunday while the asphalting of the runway is scheduled to start a week later. He said that the asphalt plant has been built in the area across from the Terminal building since mid-January and testing of the asphalt mix began on February 28, 2013.

"Everything is on track. We have very good communication with the contractor, scheduled biweekly meetings, and impromptu meetings as required. The contractor has submitted a quality control program, which outlines all the safety and security issues on the airside," said Breell.

He further disclosed that SXM met with the St. Maarten Medical Center and Louis Constant Fleming Medical Center to update them on the runway restrictions during the project execution. Both hospitals will be updated weekly on the progress of the project and the availability of the runway for emergency medical evacuation flights at night during the rehabilitation project.

Also to be replaced during the multimillion dollar SXM runway rehabilitation, explained Breell, is the Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL), which includes the runway edge lights, taxiway lighting, windsock lighting, runway signage, precision approach path indicators (PAPI), and the remote system to control the lights.

Regina LaBega, Managing Director of PJIAE, the holding company of SXM, said the commencement of the project is an important part of the airport's Capital Investment Program, which includes several projects aimed at upgrading SXM facilities, improving service and consequently allowing the airport to continue to meet international standards.

"This is, indeed, a new phase in the development of our airport, which begins now with the rehabilitation of the runway that will enable us to continue to remain in compliance with FAA requirements," LaBega said.

All of the work on the runway will be carried out at night between 10 PM and 6 AM when there are no aircraft operations and the airport is closed, hence there will be no affect on flight operations. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by October 9, 2013.

LaBega urged motorists and all those who would be transiting the area during the construction period to drive carefully and be on the alert for the heavy trucks entering and exiting the asphalt plant area. "We are in a high-density tourist area, with exciting entertainment and nightlife activities, and while all necessary measures have been taken to ensure safety, it is only prudent for everyone to be careful," she said.

The project will be executed as a joint venture between contractors Janssen de Jong Caribbean BV, NV Arubaanse Wegenbouw Maatschappij, and Windward Roads BV.

"The project also includes the implementation of the required Runway End Safety Area (RESA) to the west," Breell explained.

"The rehabilitation of the runway is urgently required due to the deterioration of the asphalt surface after 15 years of use. It is customary to have a major resurfacing of the runway done every 15-20 years depending on the condition of the airport pavements," added Breell. The last resurfacing of the runway took place in 1997.

The new taxiway Bravo will be modified to allow larger commercial aircraft to have better access to the ramps and shorten the backtracking on the runway prior to take off.

In preparation for the SXM runway rehabilitation, a topographical survey, a pavement investigation with core drilling, and subsoil testing among other stringent internationally required studies were carried out.

rotarysxmdonatestomacschool07032013March 8th marks an important date on the Rotary International agenda as Rotary clubs around the world recognize the importance of this area of focus.
Rotary International lists Basic Education and Literacy as one of the eight areas of focus. Literacy is reflected upon as a critical humanitarian issue which is being addressed by Rotarians worldwide. The Rotary Foundation enables Rotarians to ensure that all people have sustainable access to basic education and literacy by involving the community to support programs that strengthen the capacity of communities to provide basic education and literacy to all. The Rotary Foundation, which is an essential part of Rotary International, also focuses on increasing adult literacy in communities, works to reduce gender disparity in education and supports studies for career-minded professionals related to basic education and literacy.
For most of us, reading and writing are as natural as breathing, but nearly 800 million adults worldwide lack the literacy skills needed to complete a job application, understand a child's report card, or read a prescription. Rotary International and the International Reading Association know that literacy is an essential ingredient for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Since 2002, RI (Rotary International) and the IRA (Int'l Reading Association) have combined their resources and skills to advance literacy in communities worldwide by providing books and educational materials, building and supporting schools, mentoring students , training teachers and establishing literacy programs for children and adults. Guidelines are available on the Rotary International website www.rotary.org designed to help Rotary clubs and IRA reading councils to select and carry out literacy projects that meet their community's needs. Whether through volunteering your time and expertise, providing financial support, or building awareness, everyone can empower people and communities through literacy.
The Rotary Club of St. Maarten recognizes the importance of literacy as it continues to carry out its annual literacy project of distributing dictionaries. All contributions towards literacy projects are appreciated and the community is encouraged to work together on increasing literacy in the local community as it is proven to alleviate poverty.
The Rotary 7020 Assistant District Governor Mr. James Ferris together with members of the recently held RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) task force and members of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten made a contribution of USD 1000 to the MAC: Browlia F. Maillard Campus as a token of appreciation for making the school available to host the youth leadership conference. The conference was held from February 14th through 17th and hosted 124 students from around the Caribbean. Anyone interested in assisting with increasing literacy in St. Maarten is encouraged to contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten on www.rotarysxm.org or find us on Facebook.

brianmingoandswescotwilliams07032013Pond Island:--- TelEm Group has taken up the call for all women to celebrate International Women's Day Friday, with a special focus on their health and the health of all women globally.
Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Mingo, Tuesday presented Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot Williams with a check towards the hosting of a high-profile American nutritionist to address women on International Women's Day.

To mark the occasion, St. Maarten will be hosting a visit and lecture by acclaimed nutritionist, Dr. Ro, aka "America's Nutrition Coach" Rovenia Brock, Ph.D.

Dr. Ro is the author of Dr. Ro's Ten Secrets to Livin' Healthy and an award-winning health journalist and television personality. She known for her easy-to-apply diet, fitness and health advice for women and families and is also named as one of America's top 5 nutritionists.

According to Prime Minister Wescot Williams this year's theme for International Women's Day: Gender Agenda is focusing on health and this, coincides well with her own "U 2 Can Move" health initiative for civil servants and women in the civil service.

"Dr. Ro being here brings these two matters together in the interest of all women on International Women's Day and that is a worthwhile thing for us," said the Prime Minister.

On behalf of TelEm Group, Mr. Mingo wished the organizers of Friday's event much success and urged all women to attend and to give their support.

The "Evening with Dr. Ro" event will take place at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Friday, starting at 7:30 pm.

TelEm Press Release

CUL DE SAC:--- The Science Department of St. Maarten Academy's academic campus will be hosting an internal Science Fair on Friday, March 8, 2013 in the school's gym. The exhibition, which starts at 7:25am and ends at 2:15pm, will showcase 25 projects in the 'Science' and 'Technical' categories.

According to Mrs. Suja Pereppadan, head of the Science Department, all science students at the third and fourth form levels of the school are participating in the event. Thirteen of the projects are in the science category and 12, in the technical category. Some of the projects deal with indoor air quality control, alternative energy, DNA research, and traffic issues on St. Maarten.

Pereppadan said each year the Science Fair acts as a platform to motivate students to do more research on topics of interest.

"Being involved in the Science Fair also hones in on their problem-solving, analytical and public speaking skills. Very often it builds the self-confidence of students," stated Pereppadan, who together with technical expert Claude Javoise, have been guiding the young scientists for some weeks now.

Throughout the day on Friday, teachers and students will get an opportunity to view the projects and it is hoped that other students will be motivated by the inventions.

The school has established a criteria for judging the projects in terms of their scientific and/or engineering goals, creativity, thoroughness, skills and clarity of presentation. The judges will include 10 teachers from the school and two senior students who have been involved in external fair in past years.

Pereppadan said she is planning to make the event annual.

The public is invited to view the exhibits from 1:30pm.

Philipsburg:--- On March 4, 2013, Mr. Rudsel Casimiro Ricardo officially retired from Government service.
Mr. Ricardo began his career with the government of the Netherland Antilles, in Curacao, in 1972, in service of the ministry of defense. In 1986, he was promoted to prison director at the (Bon Futuro) prison in Koraal Specht, where he worked until the year 2000.
Later that year on November 1, 2000, Mr. Ricardo became the Prison Director at the Point Blanche prison, where he served for more than 12 years until his retirement. On July 3, 2012, Mr. Ricardo celebrated 40 years in government service.
Under Ricardo's leadership, the prison's sewing room program was created. This program allowed many prisoners to develop their sewing skills, which proved beneficial to them upon their release from the institution. Other programs initiated by Mr. Ricardo for the inmates were, the agricultural (garden) program, GED program and the literacy program.
Working with little financial means and being understaffed proved to be challenging at times. However; with hard work and dedication, Mr. Ricardo along with his staff were able to ensure that the prison could meet international standards, well-matched to other prisons found in the Caribbean.
The Minister of Justice wishes to thank Mr. Ricardo for his years of service to the Justice Ministry, and much success in his retirement and any future endeavors.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Friday March 8 marks International Women's Day. All women and girls have a fundamental human right to live free of violence.

"I would like to congratulate the Sint Maarten women on their day. Our country has strong women who hold various positions in the public and private sectors. We are one of a few countries in the world that has a woman as Prime Minister.

"Women also work in many fields throughout our economy and play an important role within the family. I would like to thank my Mother, my Wife and all other female role models that have played a role in my personal development which in turn has given me a positive outlook on life.

"We must also commend the single mothers who play an important role in being not only mother to their child, but also as the father figure as well.

"Sint Maarten's women have progressed. As we reflect on past struggles and accomplishments, we must look ahead to the untapped potential and opportunities that exist for women especially in this digitized age.

"Sint Maarten's women are very fortunate when compared to other women living in countries around the world who go through various struggles on a daily basis. As a country we must be proud with respect to what has been achieved.

"Once again, congratulations to the women of Sint Maarten on behalf of the Members of Parliament and myself on your day, International Women's Day 2013," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel.

According to the United Nations (UN), worldwide today up to 50 per cent of sexual assaults are committed against girls under the age of 16.

Globally, 603 million women live in countries where domestic violence is not yet considered a crime. Up to 70 per cent of women in the world report having experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point in their lifetime.

Over 60 million girls worldwide are child brides, married before the age of 18.

The international community of nations are strongly committed to change the plight of women and the Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women requires that countries party to the Convention take all appropriate steps to end violence.

In 1975, during International Women's year, the UN began celebrating International Women's Day on 8 March. Two years later, in December 1977, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a UN Day for Women's Rights and International Peace to be observed on any day of the year by Member States, in accordance with their historical and national traditions.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Reports continue to reach the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour that individuals have been observed picking up or catching fish from the Salt Pond for possible human consumption.

The Salt Pond fish could be poisonous and residents should refrain from eating fish from the Salt Pond.

Fish poisoning symptoms can occur anywhere from two to 12 hours after eating fish. They include: abdominal cramps, diarrhea (severe and watery), nausea and vomiting.

Secondly, due to a lack of circulation of the water in the Salt Pond near an area where work is being carried out, a large number of fish have died due to the lack of oxygen.

Residents and other persons are strongly advised to leave the fish, do not take them home to cook as the fish are not fit for human consumption. The Ministry of Public Health continues to receive reports of individuals fishing in the area.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Sint Maarten is the venue for the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) Caribbean Civil Society Cervical Cancer Advocacy Workshop from March 21-22.

The workshop is for representatives of cancer societies and foundations in the Caribbean.

According to Head of Collective Prevention Services Dr. Virginia Asin-Oostburg (CPS), a government health agency falling under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, the country was selected based on HCC participation in the Sint Maarten Cancer Conference that was organized last October which impressed the President of HCC Professor Trevor Hassell.

HCC was formed in 2008. It arose out of a 2007 Declaration of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).

The HCC is a regional network of Caribbean health NGOs and civil society organizations who are interested in addressing NCDs. HCC works closely with regional and international leaders in NCD prevention to leverage the power of civil society by strengthening and supporting membership in the implementation of programmes aimed and reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with NCDs.

Every year, over 500,000 women develop cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the developing world, and the largest cancer killer among women in the most developing countries.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 11.

The first agenda point is in connection with a working visit to the Netherlands at the end of April. A second agenda point has been added.

The second agenda point relates to approval of travel by Members of Parliament (MPs) to Parlatino meetings for the remainder of 2013.

The working visit of parliament in April is in connection with the abdication of Queen Beatrix. It is still to be determined how many MPs will be present to attend the inauguration of Willem-Alexander as King.

The central committee will meet on Monday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet in an urgent session on March 12 in connection to legislative amendments related to the abdication of Queen Beatrix and the inauguration of Willem-Alexander as King.

The Prime Minister/Minister of General Affairs Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams is expected to be present for the parliamentary session to explain about the required changes to several national ordinances related to the change in monarch.

The central committee will meet on Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

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

confiscatedcocaine070332013On Monday March 4, 2013 the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard intercepted a so called "go-fast" in open seas about 400 miles south of Sint Maarten. The "go-fast" was heading North and was cut off by the Royal Netherlands Navy patrol vessel "Friesland" which was guided and supported by the DASH 8 reconnaissance aircraft of the Coast Guard.
Two on board interception sea craft (FRISCS) were launched and took care of the interception during which several warning shots were fired.
On board of the go-fast the Coast Guard found 51 bales with a white substance which after testing turned out to be cocaine. The three male crew members were arrested and taken on board. According to their information, two of them were born in the Dominican Republic and are 29 and 34 years old. The third suspect claims to be born in Venezuela and is 33 years old.
The drugs and the boat were seized. After weighing the total amount of the seized drugs was 1.453 kilos (gross). This is the largest drug seizure by the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard ever.
Tuesday afternoon upon arrival in Sint Maarten the suspects were handed over to the local Police who will take care of the case and do the further investigation. The suspects were taken into custody and will be questioned. The drugs have been destroyed.
The three will be led before the investigating magistrate on Thursday afternoon.
Investigation has shown that the go-fast was not destined for Sint Maarten but on its way from the South American continent towards islands North of Sint Maarten. Given the intervention by the Coast Guard and upon their request, Sint Maarten law enforcement agencies, in view of international obligations, decided to show their willingness to investigate and prosecute this case by claiming jurisdiction. By doing so Sint Maarten has shown to be a reliable partner in the fight against international drugs trafficking organizations.

Press Release from Public Prosecutor's Office

pillidge25012012THE HAGUE, Netherlands:--- MP van Raak asked St. Maarten independent Member of Parliament Patrick Illidge to leave the inter-parliamentary meetings currently taking place in The Hague. Van Raak based his request on a newspaper article that was printed in the Telegraph in the Netherlands. In a telephone interview with SMN News, MP Illidge said that the Dutch MP did make the request for him to leave but the leader of St. Maarten's delegation and President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel intervened stating that none of what MP van Raak said is on the agenda for discussion and asked that Illidge be allowed to stay in the meetings. MP Illidge said the proposal made by President Samuel was seconded by the other members of the delegation and he was allowed to remain in the ongoing inter-parliamentary discussions. President of St. Maarten's Parliament Rodolphe Samuel also confirmed the information. MP Illidge also said that it is clear that the Dutch MP's are working on something and he is of the opinion that the United Peoples Party on St. Maarten which he once supported is involved in some sort of scheme with the Dutch to embarrass the current coalition government.

The Telegraaf newspaper article mentions this video (Video courtesy of The Daily Herald):

Philipsburg:--- A police officer who responded to the accident scene on L.B. Scot Road early Friday morning has left the Prosecutor's Office in shambles and the family of Margarita Rosario Contreras clueless based on the conclusions he submitted in his report to the Prosecutor's Office on the driver who is responsible for the death of the 49 year old woman.
Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos in an interview with SMN News said that St. Maarten still does not have any law that regulates the legal limit of alcohol when driving a motor vehicle. Mos said some two years ago he handed over a copy of the Aruban law on drunken driving to the relevant authorities in order to enable them to insert that into the local traffic ordinance. The Aruban law, like the Dutch, has a 0.5 promille and the use of breathalyzers for testing persons that are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol, but to date that legislation is not in place. Mos further explained that the driver who hit the woman while crossing the street early Friday morning cooperated with the police because he was arrested on the spot. "The driver went to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) voluntarily and took a blood test which showed his alcohol level was 1.6 when he was involved in the accident that killed the woman almost instantly. However, the police officer who was on the spot concluded that the driver was in a proper and fit condition to drive even though his alcohol level was that high.

The island's Chief Prosecutor said that the driver was arrested when the accident occurred and he was placed in a cell to sober up, after that police continued with the questioning. Mos said in order to put a suspect in custody, the Police have to determine if a person is responsible for committing a crime that warrants more than four years prison term.

In this case, the police officer did not consider the driver incapable of driving. If the driver was considered incapable, a crime with a four year warrant could have been held against him. Since this was not the case, according to police, the suspect could not be remanded in custody by the Police.

Mos said that even though a full report has not yet been submitted to his office, given the information he received from the Police it is likely that his office will file a case against the suspect. First the file will have to be studied. Involuntary manslaughter in traffic is a serious crime and can be punished with a prison sentence of up to two years. Not keeping a person in custody does not mean that the suspect is off the hook.

romeopantophlet06032013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic, and Transportation (TEATT) Romeo Pantophlet told reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that when he visited some South American countries, in particular (Cartagena and Bogotá) Columbia, he met with numerous Airlines whose desire is to make St. Maarten one of their routes. Pantophlet said the intention of these airlines is to make PJIAE an improved and international hub. He said some of the airlines St. Maarten is discussing with want to do charter flights while others want to operate here as one of their destinations. Pantophlet said that one of the main requests from these airlines is that St. Maarten has to be more flexible on its visa requirements for the South Americans countries particularly Colombia. "These airlines guarantee St. Maarten that if they can be more flexible with the visa requirements, they will basically flood the island with upscale visitors from those destinations."

The airlines also asked that PJIAE stay open for extended hours due to the connections of other flights that might have to stop here after normal schedule or closing hours. The TEATT Minister said this is one point they intend to discuss with the management of PJIAE. He said when the resurfacing of the runway is completed, the information will be sent to the airlines that expressed interest. Colombia he said wants to start running here as early as the summer of 2013. Minister Pantophlet also confirmed that he is also discussing with the Minister of Justice to see how they can simplify the visa requirements for the South American countries.

The Minister of Tourism also announced that St. Maarten will be hosting the next FCCA conference in 2014. He said an organizing committee has already been installed to make arrangements for the conference.

rolandtuitt06032013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Minister of Finance of the Netherlands and his department heads refused to meet with him during his visit to the Netherlands to deal with some pertinent issues affecting St. Maarten. Minister Tuitt said that even though the meetings were all scheduled prior to his departure, the Finance Minister chose to cancel the meetings with last minute notice. Tuitt said he intends to write a letter to the Council of Ministers of the Netherlands and the Kingdom Council to inform them of the Minister's behavior. Tuitt said one of the main reasons he traveled to the Netherlands was to try and improve communication between St. Maarten and the Netherlands.

Tuitt termed the Minister's actions as disrespectful, therefore he will be sending a letter to the first chamber and the other relevant partners that need to be informed. Tuitt said the TOT problem was created by the Netherlands because they implemented a new tax system on the BES islands. TOT is an item that has been implemented on all goods on St. Maarten and this tax was implemented years now. The TOT was also implemented on Saba and St. Eustatius. However, the Dutch changed their tax system and implemented the BTY. "This is a sales tax which works two sides, one it is implemented on imported goods and also when goods are sold." Tuitt said that the Minister wants St. Maarten to subsidize the tax they implemented and that in his view is not logical.

Tuitt said he met with the "vaste kamercommissie" whom he gave an overview of St. Maarten, especially when it comes to the island having had to develop several departments after St. Maarten obtained its country status. Tuitt said he also informed this committee how it was in getting the Netherlands to provide St. Maarten with technical assistance. Tuitt said he also gave the committee members an overview of St. Maarten's financial situation including the writing off of St. Maarten's debts and the new tax system that is envisioned by the government of St. Maarten. Tuitt said he expounded on St. Maarten's financial situation because St. Maarten is of the opinion that information was mis-communicated to the Netherlands, therefore he tried to clarify the situation by making it a bit more real. Tuitt said the CFT in their communications to the Netherlands said that St. Maarten could have a big financial "liquidity" problem but he disagrees with the CFT. He said that the government of St. Maarten is not concealing information, they have a buffer of 46 million guilders and the island managed to finance all the capital projects during the past two years to the tune of 38 million guilders. He said when the loan St. Maarten is working on currently is approved they will get back the 38 million guilders which would then raise the buffer to 80 million guilders. Tuitt said some of that money will be used to pay off creditors which will in turn increase cash flow in the community. The Finance Minister said in his view St. Maarten is still reasonably solid, he said he also informed the committee that the CFT approved the 2013 budget which will soon reach parliament for their approval. Another topic that they discussed was the debt relief and St. Maarten remains steadfast on the agreements that were made prior to St. Maarten obtaining its country status, therefore the goal of the debt relief was not attained for St. Maarten. Tuitt said Holland's argument is that they budgeted for the debt relief for St. Maarten in 2010 and there is no account in their hands showing that there is money on it that was intended for the debt relief that was not used. Tuitt said he met with the Secretary General of Finance and they also discussed certain items. He said in that meeting he explained how the TOT is levied on St. Maarten.

Tuitt said the trip to the Netherlands had a positive side and it also had a negative side, explaining the negative side Tuitt said they requested meetings with the Minister of Finance, the State Secretary of Finance, and the Secretary General of Finance all of which were scheduled. Tuitt said these meetings were cancelled and the Minister also cancelled meetings with certain departments in the Finance Ministry. Tuitt said he later found out that the Minister of Finance gave a decree "instruction" to his departments not to share any information with St. Maarten and its Finance Minister. Tuitt said he understood that the issue with the TOT between St. Maarten, Saba, and St. Eustatius should be solved before any meetings could take place.

The Finance Minister said he managed to meet an organization called the CAOP who has agreed to visit St. Maarten for three days to conduct a study on how St. Maarten should move forward with indexing civil servants' salaries annually. The CAOP will meet with the various stakeholders and they will also meet with the GOA and the unions after which they will draft a report for St. Maarten which the new country would use as a basis for its indexation of salaries. Tuitt further explained that the CAOP has informed him that no other country in the world is using the COLA system anymore simply because it is outdated. Tuitt said he also met with Minister Ronald Plasterk who made a commitment that the issues will be solved on a technical level. He said a technical group will be established which would include two persons from the Netherlands and two from St. Maarten. "This group will be commissioned to work on a technical level and to find solutions. This committee will then write some reports which will be sent to the Ministers and political leaders prior to them holding a meeting on a political level."

The Minister also confirmed to SMN News that the government of St. Maarten is working on a new structure for the Clem Labega paid parking lot. The Minister said wherever there is money involved checks and balances have to take place and currently they are working on restructuring the checks and balances on the revenues collected on a daily basis from the parking lot.

tzuchifoundationthankyouceremony06032013The St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation announced plans to embark on an education initiative during a special ceremony on Sunday to thank its volunteers and members and to give an insight into the work of the Buddhist compassion relief organization over the past calendar year.

The well-attended event showed the cultural diversity of St. Maarten with performances from the Dominicano community, Filipino Community and local and Caribbean children who performed a prayer in both English and Chinese. It was also supported by volunteers from the Haitian and Indian communities, while attendees included persons from many other communities represented in St. Maarten.

During the event seasoned educator Claire Elshot, also a Tzu Chi volunteer, announced that her education foundation - All Children's Education (ACE) Foundation - and Tzu Chi Foundation will be collaborating to keep the doors of ACE open and to continue educating children academically with a special focus on embracing humanitarian principles.

Elshot said ACE has been encountering increasing challenges meeting its financial obligations and was considering closing its doors until Tzu Chi Foundation stepped in and agreed to work with and assist the institution.

A major part of the education initiative is the purchase of a property which will be initially used by ACE school and eventually blossom into a special education initiative that would focus heavily on developing pupils to embrace humanitarian and moral principles as well as other life skills. The initiative is geared towards instilling in youngsters a strong academic base with an equally strong sense of compassion, love and understanding in keeping with the principles of ACE and Tzu Chi Foundation.

Prior to the introduction of compulsory education in St. Maarten, Foundations such as ACE were the only institutions that catered to the educational needs of undocumented immigrant children in St. Maarten. As a result scores of immigrant children who had been barred from the regular education system had a chance to be educated, learn English (for those who came from non-English speaking countries) and many, Elshot said are now doing well in the community and are excelling at other government and semi-subsidized schools now that compulsory education is enforced.

Tzu Chi Foundation also launched its first newsletter during Sunday's event, which was compiled by its volunteers. The newsletter will be printed quarterly and will include information about the work of the foundation in preceding months.

In addition to regular volunteers, Sunday's event was also supported by ACE pupils and teachers who were instrumental in welcoming and serving guests a healthy vegetarian dinner. The pupils and volunteers also played a key role in other aspects of the event such as pinning guests with corsages and 'hand washing' a special feature at Tzu Chi events.

Other performances included a dragon dance; video presentations of Tzu Chi's work locally; the handing out of special "Red Pocket" gifts to guests, which has a special significance for Tzu Chi Foundation as well as the emptying of "Bamboo Banks," a special ritual at Tzu Chi events.

Volunteers and members were thanked for their continuous support of the foundation, while attendees were thanked for their presence. The event was held on Sunday in commemoration of Chinese New Year celebrated this time of the year.

Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung and her husband Wing Cheung are grateful for all those who were instrumental in the success of Sunday's event as well as all those who continue to support the foundation and its efforts.

Sandra and Wing founded the St. Maarten Chapter of Tzu Chi Foundation on February 19, 2004. They were inspired and motivated after learning about Tzu Chi international founder Master Cheng Yen's mission at a book exhibition at the Hong Kong Library Center in July 2002.

Persons interested in volunteering for or becoming members (donors) of the local chapter can contact any Tzu Chi volunteer or Cheung at Tel: 586-3019 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Tzu Chi Foundation Press Release

markyokoyama11022013Grand Case:--- Author Mark Yokoyama's The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin has brought St. Martin's unique fauna to thousands, both in print and online. Now, with a totally-updated new edition almost complete, he has launched two different fundraising campaigns–one to make the guide more affordable, and another to bring it to schools, libraries and other institutions on the island and in the Caribbean.

The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of Saint Martin is a full-color wildlife guide with over 400 photos of animals from St. Martin/St. Maarten. It covers everything from bats, birds and lizards to insects, spiders and snails, including a number of species that are found nowhere else in the world.

Unlike most wildlife guides, Yokoyama's book places wildlife in a historical and cultural context unique to the island. According to Yokoyama, "If a wildlife guide covers the biology of the animals without explaining how the Pink Bollworm helped kill St. Martin's cotton industry or why people don't eat the Jumbie Crab, then it's only telling half of the story."

The first fundraising project, which is running through March 25th on the website Kickstarter, raised over $3,000 within the first two days of launching. "The Kickstarter project is great because backers get rewards, like a copy of the book, but they're also financing a print run that will make it more affordable on the island." says Yokoyama. "It's exciting to see people from the U.S., Europe and the Caribbean come together to make this happen." Funding the project on Kickstarter means people who want to support it can do so from anywhere in the world at kickstarter.com, and it's currently one of the Kickstarter Staff Picks in the publishing category.

The second project, to subsidize copies of the book for schools, libraries and other institutions is also already underway. "Kids are naturally interested in wildlife, and they're also going to be responsible for taking care of this island in the future," says Yokoyama, "I hope every child on the island gets a chance to read this book, and I think that with the help of individuals, businesses and the local government, this is totally possible."

The book is also a way to showcase St. Martin/St. Maarten as a destination for the growing number of eco-tourists eager to experience the natural world on their vacations. By some estimates, eco-tourism is poised to double between 2000 and 2020 and represents an ever-increasing opportunity for creating jobs and economic growth on the island in a way that preserves its natural heritage.

The website for the guide is at http://www.sxmwildlife.com. The entire first edition of the guide can be downloaded on the site for free. Site visitors can also learn more about the fundraising projects and how to participate. The Kickstarter project page is at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/420840503/the-incomplete-guide-to-the-wildlife-of-saint-mart.

smeyersolivacce12072012The people are concerned that the cost of living will once again increase under the National Alliance (NA) led Government once the NA-led majority in parliament approves the 2013 country budget.

Government approved and added to the 2013 budget a new tax levy on diesel. Food wholesalers and other services utilizing trucks that run on diesel will have to compensate from a new diesel tax by increasing the prices of their products and services. This will result in an increase in the cost of living as well as the cost of doing business.

This past weekend we saw a further increase in fuel prices, and probably the second or third increase in the past couple of weeks.

How are low income earners going to survive? Also the pressure being placed on middle income earners as well.

Individuals who take the bus to go to work are also at risk. Bus drivers who drive diesel fuel buses will either have to absorb the cost or seek an increase in bus fares.

The question that needs to be asked is did government consult with the Bus Drivers Association as well as Taxi Associations?

Does government have an impact analysis of what the results will be once the diesel fuel tax levy has been introduced?

The cost of living and the cost of doing business is already high and since the promised relief of the new government is nowhere in sight from almost one-year of a new government in power, all we can say is that the country is on the wrong track and the people are being burdened.

On the horizon the country and its people are in for more...toll fees in order to drive through the tunnel another burden from the government that says it's for the people.

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

smmtabuildyourfuturelaunch06032013Simpson Bay:--- After much hard work and enthusiasm by the students, volunteers, the St. Maarten Sailing School, the Kids at Sea Foundation, the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association's Build Your Future project was successfully launched on Sunday March 3rd on Kim Sha Beach. In attendance was the Minister of Education, Silveria Jacobs and administrators from the participating schools and many cheerleaders. Students of the SBO, CIA, Milton Peters College and St. Dominic's Academy all took to the water for two short and fun rowing races. Though the St Maarten Vocational boat was not quite ready for the launch, their team representative joined with another team to enjoy the fun.

Experiencing the event, SMMTA Vice President Lorraine Talmi said "This initiative has gotten off to a great start, the kids are so excited, the support from the community has been amazing. We hope this will build a love for the sea that will stay with the students long into their lives. It was fun to notice the on water lessons of teamwork, as they learned the difficulty in steering a vessel through synchronized paddling. Some experienced a rather circular or zigzagged course; it didn't seem to matter much, even though one team crossed the finish line first, all of the participants in Build Your Future came away winners!"

The next step of this initiative is to teach the students to sail the boats and organize frequent interscholastic as well as inter-community competitions. We would like to thank the marine mentors, the businesses and the community as a whole for such overwhelming support and for the great presence at the launch on Sunday. We thank the sponsors Aqua Mania, Budget Marine, BWA Yachting, FKG, IGY Marinas, Island Water World, Kelmador Holding, The St. Maarten Harbour Group, The St. Maarten Sailing School, SXM Sails and The Windward Islands Bank. We also thank the Ministry of Education and all others who have pledged their support for the continuation of the project which aims to teach the students different skills and open their eyes to the many opportunities in the marine industry both in terms of employment and recreation.

The Build Your Future initiative is applying for the upcoming 'Oranje Fonds Kroonappels' (Crown Apple Awards), voting for the awards will be held online at www.kroonappels.com from March 15 to March 17. We hope that you will support this initiative by voting for it!

SMMTA Press Release

Zenitel N.V. (EURONEXT Brussels: ZENT), a leading player in critical radio, instant and secure audio and data communication, recently announced its results for the fiscal year 2012.
The company has experienced an increase in turnover to EUR 64.7 million in 2013, up from EUR 63.0 million in 2011 and recurrent EBITDA was EUR 4.7 million compared to EUR 4.3 million in 2011. Net profit amounted to EUR 0.9 million, against EUR 0.5 million last year; and net financial debt and obligations resulting from past restructuring and litigations have been reduced by EUR 2.9 million to EUR 10.5 million.
Kenneth Dastol, CEO of Zenitel, commented, "We are very pleased with our results in 2012 where we increased the top line by 3% and the EBITDA by 9%. Furthermore we reduced net debt and further improved our balance sheet."
Zenitel also launched a new series of IP stations called "Turbine" in 2012. "The feedback from the market has been better than expected, and due to our new products we have already been able to win major projects in all our market segments, Dastol added. The sales impact of these new products has yet to be fully realized.
"In 2013 Zenitel will continue to focus on growing the business and further reducing debt. We intend to reinvest the profits generated primarily into sales and marketing, product management and further product development. Focused on the execution of our strategy, we are well positioned to meet and overcome tomorrow's challenges and to continue growing our company," Dastol concluded.
General Manager Zenitel Caribbean, Bert Schreuders expressed he is very satisfied with the result, which serves to prove that the new strategy and management based on "innovative solutions based on the clients' needs" works.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- A workshop is slated for March 7 at the University of St. Martin (USM) with approximately 50 stakeholders to develop a National Development Plan (NDP).

The Government, in cooperation with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has embarked on a project to create a NDP.

The goal of the NDP is to guide the strategic development of Sint Maarten within the medium to long term. The agreed basis for developing a NDP is through a national visioning process that will engage all sectors of Sint Maarten society.

The objective of a national visioning process is to ensure that development trajectory of the country is in accordance with a vision that the people of Sint Maarten aspire to.

Those partaking in the workshop are general and key stakeholders from the private sector and civil society organizations including Secretary General's, and Ministry officials (Department Heads, Senior Program/Policy Advisors).

The selection of the stakeholders was based on a stakeholder analysis undertaken by the project team from the Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK).

The main objectives of the workshop are to raise awareness; consult stakeholders on the implementation strategy; engage stakeholders in a SWOT analysis and production of a fact sheet; and consult stakeholders over the appointment process of private sector and civil society members on the Steering Committee.

eugeneholidaywithbeverlyhyman05032013Philipsburg:--- Prime Time with Beverly is pleased to announce the upcoming special " One-on-one with His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday."

As one of St. Maarten television's longest running local programs, Prime Time with Beverly is well known for its personality profiles. In the this exclusive two-part programme, His Excellency Governor Holiday speaks candidly with Beverly about growing up in St. Maarten, his family, and how his personal and professional experiences prepared him to accept the role as Country St. Maarten's first Governor.

Governor Holiday also offers insight into his job, responsibilities and what he hopes will be his legacy. The first part of Prime Time's one on one chat with Governor Holiday airs on St. Maarten Cable TV's TV15 (channel 115) on Wednesday, March 6th at 8:30pm with a repeat on Sunday March 10th at 7:30pm. Part two of the interview with Govenor Holiday airs on Wednesday March 13th at 8:30pm with the repeat on Sunday March 17th at 7:30pm.

claireelshot05032013Philipsburg:--- Vice President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU), Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday during WICLU's weekly press conference that the WICLU is in support of the actions taken by the ABVO and other unions in Curacao against the increase of the pension age from 60 to 65. Just recently, a bill was passed in Curacao to increase the old age pension from 60 years old to 65 years old. Several persons and unions attended a meeting on Monday to address the issues that will be affecting pensioners. Elshot said in the case of St. Maarten there is a different situation because St. Maarten has a document that states that the pension age will increase from 60 to 62 and gradually to 65. However, nowhere in the document it is stated how the workers who will be putting in two to five years more of service and paying dues to APS will be compensated. She said the SER already submitted an advice with future plans to increase the pension age to 65. However, in this document some transitional measures were added to it which would guarantee some of the workers' rights. "Even though there is a document, all persons and aspects were not considered. Persons making 58 or 59 will go through a transition period, but persons that went on early retirement prior to reaching 58 or 59 provisions were not made for them and it appears as though they are falling into the forgotten group. Early retirement was granted to a number of persons who had contributed 20 years or more of service and had reached 55 years of age. A number of persons were granted the early retirement in education and a percentage of their salaries would have been paid until they reached the pensionable age. Also in that transitional phase nothing is mentioned about the financial consequences to the workers that have to continue to paying premiums for two or more years."

Elshot further explained that there are a number of senior citizens residing on St. Maarten and are not collecting their full pension because of various loop holes in the system. She said that one of the things the unions and pensioners organization have been championing is equality for all people living within the Kingdom. Elshot said that there are senior citizens on St. Maarten that are collecting a mere Naf. 73 or between Naf 100 to Naf 300+ per month. "Because of this situation there are seniors that are forced to work daily so that they can maintain themselves. Elshot said that pensioners on St. Maarten are suffering severely even though the government announced that there has been an increase for pensioners. When this happens the older persons are taking up places in the job market and therefore the younger generation is not being employed. Right now, too many of these cases are surfacing and something has to be done to rectify the situation because if this continues to escalate then it will create more social problems that no one would be able to control."

She said even though all workers are supposed to be registered at APS since pension has become compulsory, there are several persons who are not yet registered at APS. Elshot is calling on teachers and other civil servants to visit the APS office located at the Yogesh Building to ensure they are fully registered. Elshot further explained that just recently two persons who requested the allowance through pension were denied and the unions will be seeking to get those persons justice because it is more than unfair to them. The unions will be dealing with this matter in a petit committee who will be tabling the issues affecting pensioners and the increase in pension age. Elshot said workers that contributed 30 to 35 years should benefit from the full pension they built up.


No information on COLA.

The WITU President said to date the unions and the GOA have not received any information on the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) payments. Elshot said that the Prime Minister of St. Maarten promised the unions and the GOA that she would have sent a proposal to the GOA since October 2012 and to date the GOA and the unions have not gotten the promised information. The government of St. Maarten now has to pay civil servants the COLA for 2010 to 2013 but on several occasions they said they have to find a new structure to make these payments because the current structure in place is costing government approximately Naf. 20 million per year.


Public Education Teachers Claim that they were over taxed --- Union Investigating.

Teachers working in public education are now crying out because they claim that they were overtaxed on the salary indexation that was due to them since last August. President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU), Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday that these teachers were waiting for quite some time for the monthly indexation and now that they have received it in a lump sum in their salaries, the wrong tax structure was used to make deductions from the monies that were owed to them. Elshot said teachers normally get an increment every year starting in August but teachers in public education did not get their increment. She said the problem is that the teachers who received their monies at the end of February had to be paid retroactively however, those monies are part of the teachers' salaries and what they noticed is that those that calculated the salaries did not use the tax scales for normal wage tax. Elshot said the extra-ordinary tax scales were used and the teachers found this to be unfair because what they received was part of their regular salary that was due to them since August 2012. Elshot said if the teachers had gotten what was due to them monthly then they would have been taxed through the regular wage tax system. Elshot said the teachers contacted the union so that they can intervene to have the taxation reversed and hopefully the difference of monies that were taken from the teachers will be reimbursed to them.

More Developments at Prins Willem Alexander School.

The WITU President also told reporters that the union was quite surprised to learn that some foreign psychologists were brought in to access the students attending the Prins Willem Alexander School. Elshot said they found some pertinent issues at that school which were discussed with the Minister of Education when they met and it was quite surprising to learn that foreign psychologists were brought in and the issues such as training teachers at that school to deal with special education for students of that school was not done. Elshot said when they met with the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs in January 2013, she did not indicate to the union that she had plans to bring in psychologists from outside to analyze the students of the Prins Willem Alexander School. Elshot "a special education teacher" said when she learned of this it raised her eyebrows because those students were screened and tested already. She said there are other issues that are more pressing and urgent for her and her members. Elshot said St. Maarten has a number of psychologists locally that are employed by government and the union cannot understand the need and urgency to bring in foreign psychologists to re-test or screen the students. More troubling for the WITU Elshot said the staff of the school was not informed of the measures that were taken by the Ministry and they felt that the code of ethics was breached. Elshot said the union and the staff of Prins Willem Alexander School will be monitoring the process because they would like to see what back up plan will be put in place to continue monitoring the students.

The WITU president explained that the acute problem facing the school is that there is a lack of certified special education teachers, therefore training has to take place at that school to bring the teachers up to par with the learning disabilities and approaches that have to be used. Elshot said another issue that is plaguing the school is that there are no substitutes teachers. While there are five or more teachers that have different ailments and are on sick leave, they have not been replaced. Elshot said the school has been sharing students with the other teachers which has become an extra burden for their colleagues. Elshot said she is of the opinion that the lack of trained staff at the Prins Willem Alexandre School should have been the number one priority for the Ministry.

hugochavez05032013CARACAS, Venezuela:--- Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has died after a two-year battle with cancer, ending the socialist leader's 14-year rule of the South American country, Vice President Nicolas Maduro said in a televised speech.

Several international news agencies announced earlier this week that Chavez was fighting a new infection in relation to his battle against cancer. Chavez was said to have breathing problems early Tuesday and by afternoon the Vice President of Venezuela announced in a televised speech that Chavez had succumbed to the deadly disease.

Reuters

juniorcalypsosingers04032013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation SCDF reminded the general public that its youngest participants need its support as well for Carnival 2013 and assured that the contestants of the Junior Carnival Calypso & Roadmarch Competition are preparing to deliver a high caliber show as they are accustomed of doing.
The Junior Calypso competitions will be held on Sunday April 7, at Celebration Palace along with the Junior Carnival Queen Pageant. The event has always been billed as a family afternoon and that concept remains in place for Carnival 2013. It kicks off at 4:00pm.
"We are very happy with the 6 singers we have in junior calypso this year, they are all 'veterans' so to speak who work hard every year. They are looking forward to the public coming out and supporting them, the future of Carnival," President of the SCDF Mike Granger said.
"But these children won't be classified as juniors forever. We need to encourage more to take up the art form of calypso. We have a plan in place for this and will address it after Carnival," Granger added.
He added that the junior shows always draw families and encouraged parents to embrace the show again this year. The reigning Junior Calypso Queen is Princess Acquilla Carty and the reigning Roadmarch King is Rickyshio Bertie. Both will be defending this year.

SCDF Press Release

scdftelemcarnival04032013~ Six night spots in build up to Carnival ~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation and the main sponsor of Carnival 2013, TelEm Group of Companies/TelCell, will kick off their "Road to Carnival" series of club parties this Friday, March 8 at the Soggy Dollar Bar.
As part of its marketing plan for Carnival 2013 and with the intention to build the hype for Carnival, the SCDF and TelEm will be hosting six club parties over the next few weeks that will be Carnival themed with several Carnival aspects to the nights.
Following the initial party at Soggy Dollar, the next Road To Carnival (RTC) party will be at Bliss Night Club on March 15, the April 6 at Tantra as part of the popular "First Saturdays Affairs" and April 17 for Tantra's Ladies Night. There are two other RTC parties in the planning, one slated for the Great Bay Beach Promenade (Boardwalk) and another which is actually scheduled for off island. Details will be released soon.
TelCell, as the sponsor for the events, will be giving away phones, credit and many more gifts and coupons all night long. S an added bonus and since the events are Carnival related, anyone who wears a carnival mask or headpiece to the clubs will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win a Carnival VIP pass.
The TelEm Group has jumped on board with Carnival this year in a significant way and saw its involvement in the build-up to official festivities as important. The company is adamant about getting everyone ready for Carnival 2013 where it is expected that it will have a strong "red" presence.
According to the SCDF, one of the weaknesses of Carnival over the years is the build-up, something the current board intends to change over the next few years starting now with RTC. "Carnival is our country's largest calendar event and we wanted to give it a build-up of steam, we wanted to increase the already high anticipation for Carnival 2013, RTC is our first step in doing this," President of the SCDF Mike Granger said.
"This is also in keeping with our mission to transform Carnival into a 'community of interest' where everyone from all sectors are involved in promoting and participating in Carnival so that we truly begin to elevate our festival. It doesn't hurt that St. Maarten is the party capital of the Caribbean so we're excited about these parties," Granger said.
Club goers could expect appearances by costumed revelers, pageant contestants, some SCDF giveaways and more for the RTC events.

SCDF Press Release

telemrepwithdjmegandaniels04032013Simpson Bay:--- TelEm Group helped bring a fun end to another successful Heineken Regatta event over the weekend - with a sell-out After Party for participants and crews at the Soggy Dollar Bar Saturday.

The event highlighted the hottest female DJ in the world, Megan Daniels.

"This was THE hottest after-party held over the weekend with sold-out capacity and sponsored by TelCell," said Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas.

Suraj was pleased to see visitors and locals jumping together to Megan's techno beats, courtesy of TelCell.
TelCell will be out again this weekend with another fun sponsorship at Sunset Beach Bar where St. Maarten's top mobile provider will be sponsoring a huge beach party.

TelEm Press Release

blackhistorycelebrationquizwinner04032013Marigot/Great Bay:--- Gisele Jermin won the iPad mini first prize of the Black History Celebration Quiz last weekend, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

Jermin, an avid reader, also won an eBook from House Nehesi Publishers (HNP). The 2013 quiz prizes were presented by CLF on Saturday, March 2, at the Blue Point electronics store, sponsor of the popular iPad mini prize.

"I am glad to see the overwhelming response that we received over the span of three weeks," said Krisha Kukreja, public relations officer at Blue Point.

Priscilla Lake, the second place winner, received a 200 Euros gift certificate from Ruby Bute's Art Gallery, and a copy of St. Martin's bestselling cookbook, From Yvette's Kitchen to Your Table by Yvette Hyman.

High school student Julia Latoya Grigg took home the third prize bundle, consisting of a 50 Euros gift certificate from La Classe Boutique, and the fine poetry collection, Book of Sins, by the Palestinian poet Nidaa Khoury.

Quiz organizer CLF also presented the three winners with a copy of the St. Martin Emancipation commemorative calendar 2013.

"The level of interest that people have shown toward this quiz contest makes us truly believe in the fact that investment in knowledge pays," said Kukreja.

The winners identified the eight people pictured on the quiz sheet and wrote a short biography of each individual. The eight persons identified were: 1 - Winnie Mandela, South African political activist; 2 - Ralph Gilles, American-Canadian automobile designer; 3 - Romare Bearden, African-American artist and writer; 4 - Tubal Uriah "Buzz" Butler, labor leader, Trinidad & Tobago; 5 - Patricia Pantophlet, labor leader, St. Martin; 6 - Perrinon Auguste-François, Martinican-born abolitionist; 7 - Queen Truganini, the last full blooded Tasmanian; 8 - Kanye West, African-American songwriter, music producer, rapper and singer.

"This year's quiz proved to be quite challenging: an activist, a designer, an artist, two unionists, an abolitionist, an aborigine, and a rapper. A very eclectic bunch but all forged ahead in their respected domains and have made their impact," said Jermin.

"Labor, the cradle of our civilization," was the theme of the 22nd annual Black History Celebration program organized by CLF.

"I'm very thankful to Blue Point electronic store, SOS Radio, House Nehesi Publishers, La Classe Boutique, Artsen Service Center, Watt de 9, and PJD2 Radio, for supporting this island-wide annual CLF project," said Reiph.

The prize giving was broadcasted live on SOS Radio 95.9 FM and it closed the Black History Celebration 2013. "CLF is very pleased with the support we got this year and look forward to a bigger celebration in 2014," said Reiph.

cleavlandberesfordwithpjiaemanagementteam04032013Simpson Bay:--- As Member of the Supervisory Board of Directors of the Princess Juliana International Airport operating company (PJIAE), Cleavland Beresford made a plea here to Bosch Security Systems, the supplier of security cameras to consider St. Maarten for its scholarship grants, which it offers through its foundation.

Beresford made this plea at a press conference held last Wednesday at the presentation of the new, expanded and improved security system for SXM Airport.

According to Bosch engineer and trainer, Scott Glidden, the global manufacturer and supplier of security, safety and communications products and solutions, the 126 year-old company is managed as a foundation. He said the seven descendants of founder Robert Bosch share in about 7% of the profit.

"The rest of that money goes to charitable contributions, disaster relief; grants for education to those who can't afford it, and to a number of charities around the globe," Glidden disclosed.

Glidden further stated that the investment made by PJIAE in SXM Airport security gear, will be put back into the world for good. "So, we're not just a corporate numbers-driven organization, we're an organization that looks at the world and gives back to it."

Beresford, noting that Bosch has been in St. Maarten for some time now and has anchored its position in preparation for future growth, expressed the hope that the company would "take St. Maarten into consideration for future grants." This was met with a nod of approval from Glidden who said he would certainly convey this request to his superiors.

At the press conference were Justice Minister Roland Duncan, PJIAE Managing Director, Regina La Bega, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, Marion Matser and member Cleavland Beresford, as well as top executives of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce, and directors and other staff of PJIAE.

vandalizedmacclassroom04032013Philipsburg:--- Students attending the Methodist Agogic Center (MAC School) John A. Gumbs Campus in Betty's Estate have two days off as teachers and other persons try to clean up and repair the damages that were sustained to several of the classrooms over the weekend. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said in a police report that the police department was called early Monday morning and they were informed of the vandalism that took place at the school over the weekend. Henson said a police patrol visited the scene to conduct an investigation. When the patrol reached the scene, the Principal Mr. Hodge informed him that over the weekend unknown persons, probably youngsters, gained access to the school premises and caused a significant amount of damage to several classrooms. Of the sixteen classrooms at the John A. Gumbs campus, five had sustained damage and two were broken into. A search was conducted in the classrooms to determine the extent of the damage. Police found that the classrooms were severely damaged and three others were sprayed with a fire-extinguisher completely covering everything inside that classrooms with powder. As a result of the extensive damage to the classrooms and some of the materials inside the classrooms it was decided that these classrooms cannot be used for at least two days because of the amount of powder which can be hazardous to the students. A large live iguana was also thrown through one of the windows that were forced open to enter the classrooms. The Detective Department and Forensic Department will be conducting an in-depth investigation to find out who are responsible for this act. The Police Department is totally against this type of behavior and will be giving this investigation priority.

sjacobsattendsbooklaunch04032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the Beyond Writing Foundation Book Launch of 'The Magic Wedding Cake/La Mágica Tarta Nupcial' by author Loekie Morales and illustrator Tess Verheij on March 1st 2013 at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.

The publishing of the book was made possible due to the donors AMFO and the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds (Caribbean). Through their efforts the book has been published in a hard cover format, full color children's book. Copies will be given to all primary schools of the former Netherlands Antilles islands for comprehensive reading.

rhodaarrindell04032013AUC Students, Others Volunteer to Tutor Members for GED

Great Bay:--- After more than 20 years of functioning primarily as a recreational club focusing on volleyball teams to participate in the island's tournaments, the United Volleyball Foundation has expanded its mission to assisting individual members to reach their full potential as members of the United Academy (UA).

According to Dr. Rhoda Arrindell, who is spearheading the project, the objective of the United Academy is to "introduce youngsters—especially at-risk youth—and attract more adults to sports, and to identify and further train and nurture talented students who might want to become collegiate or professional athletes. Thus, at the United Academy, all members—young and mature—will receive a strong and balanced preparation in sports, recreation, and academics."

Dr. Arrindell said the athletics program in the pilot project started in January with a 14-week course, which includes intensive weekend trainings with UA Athletics Coordinator, Patricio Bridgewater.

In February, the last part of the project got underway with the testing of students and the start of a college preparatory program called "Bridges," which aims to close the gap between students' academic shortcomings and regular college-level courses.

"It is specifically designed to enhance students' skills in a number of basic subjects such as English, mathematics, computer literacy, financial literacy, and communication," Dr. Arrindell said.

The first Bridges class started on February 25 with over 30 students who will be preparing to sit the GED exams in May. Another 19 students are awaiting the start of the Basic classes (adult literacy, social studies, and mathematics) in March, and there are still others on a waiting list.

"While we had expected to register about 15 – 20 students, on the night of the testing, almost 50 persons showed up," said Dr. Arrindell. "For me this means that there are a lot more people out there than we imagined who want the knowledge and access to better education opportunities but can't afford them."

All the programs in the United Academy pilot project are offered free of charge to participants and made possible through the assistance of volunteers and private-sector partners.

Students of the American University of the Caribbean have volunteered to tutor United Academy students in math and science. According to Dr. Golden Jackson, AUC's Director of Service-Learning and Community Affairs, the AUC students wanted to do something as a way of breaking the ice prior to the start of the sessions with the UA students. This took the form of a "Meet-n-Greet" activity for participants in the pilot project, which was held on February 24, 2013. Over 40 people took part in the event, which gave everyone a chance to get to know not just their future tutors, but also the other people participating in other areas of the project.

Other volunteers in the United Academy project so far include the St. Maarten Academy PSVE campus; Community Tutoring Foundation, which provided free evaluation and placement for mathematics; CIFSEF, which provided free classroom space; and Mr. Thurman Thomas.

Persons who wish to volunteer for any part of the project should please contact Dr. Rhoda Arrindell at email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Suzette Moses-Burton, Programme Manager of the HIV & AIDS Programme Management Team (PMT) departs on Tuesday, March 5th to Trinidad and Tobago to attend a three day workshop on "Costing for Strategic Decision-Making" for regional representatives of National AIDS Programmes and senior policy-makers from Ministries of Public Health throughout the Caribbean. The invitation to attend this workshop was extended from the Centre of Health Economics of the University of the West Indies in collaboration with Futures Institute. This training workshop is intended to expose the Caribbean island's policy-makers and technical staff to more in-depth and hands-on practice with the various tools that can be used for budgeting. The skills obtained from taking part in this workshop will help inform decision-making in the area of HIV & AIDS and Health in general. Taking part in these regional training helps build the technical capacity of St. Maarten to deal with various public administration dilemmas.

sjacobsmeetswithsingermlaikah04032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minster Jacobs met with Singer, Songwriter, Coach & Girls 'N Cocktails web show host Mischu Laikah on February 28th 2013.

Accompanying Mischu was Jaap van den Heuvel who has been assisting Mischu Laikah during her visit and upcoming tour. The multi-talented singer and native of St. Maarten spoke to Minster Jacobs about herself released album 'Back to my Roots', her upcoming mini-tour and her plans to host workshops for young and upcoming artists on how to maneuver their way in the music industry.

Though the core of the workshops will be focused on the pros and cons of the music industry and how to best manage, the singer will also be focus on discovering and knowing who you are and how to be true to yourself.

"I would never have been able to have made it this far and self-release my own album on my own label if I didn't know myself, and remained true to who I am". Mischu Laikah expressed her desire to speak at the different schools on the island about the importance of discovering and cultivating a person's own authenticity.

Minister Jacobs commended the singer for the strides she has made within the music industry and expressed her pride in the young talent and her efforts to put St. Maarten on the map with her music. In addition the Minister pledged her support for the upcoming tour and expressed her enthusiasm for the workshops and personal message the multi-talented Mischu Laikah plans on conveying to young artists, students and the youth in general.

Mischu Laikah, who performed at the 2013 Heineken Regatta on Friday March 1st, currently resides in The Netherlands and will be returning to the island later this year to embark on her mini-tour which will take her to the neighboring islands and St. Maarten.

troymills04032013Philipsburg:--- Relatives of Troy Mills, a volunteer of the Red Cross is calling on the community of St. Maarten to locate his whereabouts and to contact them or the police if they have any information regarding Mills.
Jessica Jones, a cousin of the missing man said that Mills was last seen on Friday on the boardwalk during the Heineken Regatta festivities and ever since then no one has seen him again. Jones told SMN News on Monday that she was contacted by the daughter of an old man that Mills takes care of in Betty's Estate on Saturday and Sunday when Mills did not show up to stay with her father. Jones said one Jessica Cannegieter called the Red Cross and other places in search of Mills over the weekend to no avail. She said Cannegieter was supposed to file an official complaint with the Police on Monday morning but she was not sure if that was done. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said he was not aware of any missing person's report filed on Monday.
Troy Mills was also an employee at Super Plaza. Anyone with information can contact Jessica Jones at 1 721-5232502.

sjacobsmeetswithnicoledeweever03032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs met with the talented Nicole de Weever on February 27th to discuss her 'Art Saves Lives' project.

Also in attendance at the meeting was the Head of the Culture department Neville York. The Art Saves Lives project is geared towards young St. Maarteners and focuses on enlightening, training and preparing them for a possible career in the Arts.

'With this project I want to be able to give children on the island the exposure and opportunities to broaden their horizons and a have the possibility to pursue a career in the arts,' De Weever said during her introduction of the project.

The driving force for De Weever to launch this project was her desire to see more St. Maarten talent be exposed to and participate in Arts, nationally, regionally and internationally. "I was fortunate to be able to have these opportunities and to go abroad to further cultivate and showcase my talent. I would love for more children to be able to experience this." Minister Jacobs expressed her enthusiasm for the project and remarked that it encompassed a lot of the vision of the Ministry to promote the Arts on St. Maarten. In addition the Minister pledged her support for the 'Art Saves Lives' project.

sjacobsvisitssisterbasiliacenterorientationtour03032013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs attended the Sister Basilia Center orientation tour on March 1st, 2013.

During the tour the Minister visited the various facilities of the center and the clients. The Minister had the opportunity to view and briefly discuss the educational endeavors of the center towards their clients. Upon conclusion of the tour Minister Jacobs received tokens of appreciation from the Director, staff and clients of the Sister Basilia Center.

PHILIPSBURG:--- After Members of Parliament (MPs) arrive in the Netherlands, on Tuesday, March 5 they will meet with the Chairman of the First Chamber Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Fred de Graaf. This marks the start of the Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations Conference (IPOK).

The delegates of the First and Second Chambers will also be present for a plenary session where all delegation leaders will give an opening speech. Thereafter MPs will meet to discuss issues of concern.

On Tuesday after lunch the four parliamentary delegations will continue their deliberations in the Thorbeckezaal at the Second Chamber of Parliament with respect to transportation issues.

The MPs will also meet with Dutch Prime Minister Hon. Mark Rutte and on Tuesday evening the delegations will be attending a dinner hosted by the chairman of the Second Chamber.

On Wednesday and Thursday deliberations will continue about health care, youth affairs and the 200 years celebration of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. MPs will also be on several work visits. The chairman of the First Chamber will host a dinner for MPs from the four parliamentary delegations.

On Friday morning the last day of the IPOK parliamentary conference, the delegations will make a number of decisions including the frequency of the parliamentary conferences between the four countries.

A decision list will be drafted and a joint press conference will take place that includes the four delegations. This can be followed live through the website of the Second Chamber www.tweedekamer.nl and will take place in the Thorbeckezaal at 14:00.

The daily parliamentary meetings can also be followed live via the websites of the Second and First Chamber www.eerstekamer.nl depending on the location.

The Sint Maarten delegation is headed by President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel.

The Permanent Parliamentary Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations is chaired by MP Hon. Roy Marlin, MP Hon. George Pantophlet, Vice Chairman, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Frans Richardson, and MP Hon. Dr. Ruth Douglass, who are all part of the delegation.

The delegation also includes MP Dr. Lloyd Richardson, Secretary General Jozef Semeleer and Advisor Ralph Richardson.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on March 11 in connection with a working visit to the Netherlands at the end of April.

The working visit of parliament in April is in connection with the abdication of Queen Beatrix. It is still to be determined how many Members of Parliament (MPs) will be present to attend the inauguration of Willem-Alexander as King.

MPs from different parts of the Kingdom will meet in The Hague where there will be a joint general session of the First and Second Chambers of the Dutch Parliament where MPs will swear their allegiance to the new monarch.

The central committee will meet on Monday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

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

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

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

strippedcar03032013Simpson Bay:--- Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson reported on Sunday that on Saturday March 2nd at approximately 1:25am while the festivities of the Heineken Regatta were still ongoing on the Boardwalk in Philipsburg, a phone call came into the Central Police Dispatch stating that in the vicinity of Buccaneers Bar and Restaurant in the Billy Folly area several men were busy stripping parts from a car.

Henson said when police received the information, several police patrols including a bike patrol were directed to the area to investigate the matter. While the area was being searched by the bike patrol that were first on the scene, one officer noticed a grey colored Toyota suspiciously parked across from the Buccaneers Bar and Restaurant. When the officer attempted to approach the car, the driver of the car intentionally drove the car in question towards the police officer. The officer, fearing for his life, had no other alternative but to jump from his bike to avoid being run over by the car. The driver of the suspected vehicle continued fleeing the scene and drove over the officers bike causing severe damage. The other bike patrol officer who had seen what took place then pulled his service weapon and fired several shots at the fleeing vehicle. The suspected vehicle fled the scene, at very high speed, in the direction of Maho Reef without any lights. A back-up police patrol searched the Simpson Bay and Maho Reef area to locate the suspects or suspected vehicle without any results. During the investigation in the immediate area, the officers located a white Hyundai i10 rental car with license-plate 9425 AAA that was stripped of several parts from the front of the vehicle. This rental car was confiscated for further investigation. Thus far into the investigation it could not be determined if the shots that were fired by police hit the suspected vehicle or if anyone was injured. The investigation is ongoing.

youthsplayingoncleancourt03032013Philipsburg:--- The Community Police Officer (CPO) of the St. Peters community is making great strides with changes in the area mostly by getting the residents and youths of St. Peters to participate in projects that are beneficial to the entire community. CPO Felix Richards told SMN News that last week he managed to get the parents of the Methodist Agogic Center to agree and accept the new parking area for drop off of students attending the MAC School in Betty's Estate. Richards said during the morning hours and when school ends each day there is a traffic back up in the Betty's Estate area and to ensure there is a free flow of traffic he contacted the land owners of a vacant property next to the SOL gas station on St. Peters road and gained permission to use the area for parents to drop off MAC students. The area was graded and made into a drop off spot for students of the MAC. To better facilitate the project, Richards managed to get a few companies to build a two way step that the students and parents can use to walk to the school. Richards said the Scot families, Ellis families, BBW, MNO, Windward Roads, Mr. Bakker, the parents who volunteered, those that accepted the idea, management of the Methodist Agogic Center, and the bus drivers helped to make the project a great success. The CPO of the St. Peters community is urging parents to use the new drop off area and not to drive up to the school because this has been causing a severe traffic back up for years. He said the idea now is to create a free flow of traffic in St. Peters area and to provide safety for students attending the MAC school.

Richards said since the steps were built GEBE has decided to place a shade over the entire step up entrance to provide shade from the sun and rain when the students have to use the walkway to get to and from the drop off spot. GEBE has also agreed to put lights throughout the walkway. The police bike patrols and the police patrols will also be surveying the area to ensure that thugs and other persons do not use the area for loitering and other illegal activities.

Another project that was undertaken by the CPO of St. Peters area is the painting of the basketball court on St. Peters road. Richards said a number of youngsters came out in full swing Sunday morning to paint the basketball court. The area was cleaned and then painted. Materials such as scrapers, paint, and brushes were donated by Kooyman. Nico Bersman said he was more than happy to contribute to a project that would enhance the St. Peters neighborhood. The initiative taken by CPO Felix Richard clearly shows the effectiveness of  this program.

jeanillidgeandrodolphesamuel03032013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel recently thanked Commander of the St. Maarten Voluntary Corps (VKS) Jean Illidge for his 15+ years of service to the country. Illidge officially stepped down recently.

In light of a new year the Honourable Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Cornelius de Weever hosted an extended staff meeting with all employees under the Ministry on Thursday February 21st at the Caribbean Cinema Megaplex. During this staff meeting Minister Cornelius de Weever and the Secretary General, Jorien Wuite went over the accomplishments as well as challenges that the Ministry faced in 2012, and then elaborated on the top priorities that each of the 9 departments under the Ministry will be focusing on for 2013. The intentions of this meeting were to encourage, motivate, and applaud the work of the Minister's staff.

The Ministry's motto for this year is "We will be smarter". Smarter in the way in which we make use of our financial and human resources, which means being more critical and making choices to secure efficiency and avoid unnecessary expenditures. The priorities that will be of focus for 2013 include: promoting employment and employability; ensuring social protection and social provisions; promoting quality of health services, public health, and healthcare provisions; as well as adherence and rights to a healthy and safe society. After the meeting the staff was awarded popcorn, a drink, and a movie. At the end of the day all staff members walked away feeling enthused about their planned contributions for 2013.

uscoastguardworkshopparticipants01032013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The U.S Coast Guard offered a three-day port security workshop and emergency management table-top exercise from February 27 to March 1 in Mahuma. The 23 workshop participants included representatives from the Curacao Maritime Authority, Curacao Ports Authority, Refineria Isla, the Fire Department, the Curacao Drydock Company, the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, Curacao Port Services, the Curacao Police Department, and Customs.
The workshop covered International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code objectives, Coast Guard responsibilities, security threats assessment, and other port security matters, including industrial ports and cruise ship security.
Curacao's Maritime Authority Director, Jan Sierhuis, and U.S. Consul General Valerie Belon handed out graduation certificates at the closing ceremony on Thursday, March 1. During the ceremony, U.S. Consul General Belon stressed the strong ties between Curacao's maritime industries and the United States. "It is in our common interests to minimize and mitigate risks to shipping. With so many cruise ships coming from the United States, refinery fuel shipments going to the United States, container ships going to and from the United States, improving security in Curacao's ports increases security at our ports as well. The Caribbean is in our backyard and so we are working with all partners in the region to reduce risks and improve security." The training was very well-received and an excellent opportunity to further strengthen ties between the U.S. Coast Guard and maritime stakeholders on Curacao.

passengersusingselfservicekiosksatpjiae01032013SIMPSON BAY:--- As part of its program to improve service, cut down on long lines at check-in counters, and enhance passenger experience, Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), has installed 12 self-service check-in kiosks or Common Use Self Service (CUSS) kiosks. Eleven of the check-in kiosks are in the Departure Hall and one in the Transit Area.

According to Larry Donker, Director of Operations at PJIAE, the program began some two years ago, however, in the last couple of days alone, the use of these kiosks has grown tremendously by passengers.

"The airlines themselves are very happy to promote the use of these kiosks by their passengers because it reduces the long lines at the counters and also the check-in time," Donker explained.

Besides, he noted, modern passengers like to feel more empowered to check-in themselves.
SXM Airport and the airlines are responding to passengers' wishes with these new kiosks by providing more self-service options, Donker said.
The installation of a series of Common Use Self Service (CUSS) kiosks will allow passengers to perform an automatic check-in, cutting down on check-in time by more than half for passengers with check-in luggage and offering an even quicker option for those without any check-in luggage, he added.

"By introducing CUSS kiosks we are providing faster check-in for our passengers, and also reducing queues at check-in desks. The common use kiosks can be used by any of the airlines to offer check-in to their passengers; ensuring that both our passengers and our airline customers receive the highest level of service. By providing common-use kiosks we can accommodate the extra flow of travelers during peak hours," Donker said.

Six carriers that service the destination – Air France, KLM, Delta, American Airlines, US Airways, and Caribbean Airlines – are featured on the self-service kiosks.

Donker explained that this is so because "the airlines have to have agreements with SITA, a Europe-based organization that specializes in air transport communications and information technology."

Established in 1949, SITA (Société Internationale de Télécommunications Aéronautiques), offers its services to almost 3,000 customers that include airlines, airports, and governments in about 200 countries and territories all over the world.

The kiosks are simple to use: all the passenger needs is his or her passport and the ability to follow the instructions that appear on the screen. However, in case additional assistance is required, airlines normally have a staff at hand to offer such.

"This is part of our strategic plan to take the airport to a new level by modernizing every aspect of our operations," concluded Donker.

telematpreheinekenregattaparty01032013Simpson Bay:--- TelEm Group rocked the house at Soggy Dollar Bar Wednesday night – the venue for a pre-Heineken Regatta party to welcome visitors and participants to St. Maarten's premier sailing event.
The pre-regatta party has become an annual event for TelEm Group and Soggy Dollar Bar for visitors and residents alike.

"We had a blast getting re-acquainted with returning guests and making new friends," said Lead Customer Service Representative, Suraj Ramdas.

Suraj said the night featured many company giveaways along with the sale of mobile products and communication services.

"As the main telecommunication provider on St. Maarten we offer the widest range of services to the Heineken Regatta guests," he said.

TelEm Group is a year-round sponsor of Soggy Dollar bar where the largest yearly pre-regatta parties are held.

This year's celebration featured a lagoon barge on which 800 party-goers danced the night away.

The fun continues at Bliss over the weekend where a number of Heineken Regatta after parties will be held with more giveaways and daily prizes awarded by TelEm Group.

The Caribbean Electricity Association (CARILEC) is pleased to announce that in conjunction with NV GEBE it will, host a Regional Conference for Human Resource, Training, and Health, & Safety Professionals on the Island of St Maarten. The conference which has been described by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of CARILEC as a game changer is scheduled to be held under the theme HR & Safety Management; A Strategic Alliance for securing our business future ", from March 17th to 19th 2013, at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort Conference Centre.

Upwards of 20 countries from the Caribbean and a few international delegates from Canada and the United States are expected to converge in St Maarten for the inaugural event. The conference Chairperson Alison Pascal has indicated that the event is the first of its kind and will address issues of health and safety in the workplace, while providing a strategic outlook on managing people problems given the contemporary issues of Absenteeism, Aging Workforce, Contract Labour, Relating with Trade Unions and Economic Decline that plague most businesses. Pascal further goes on to explain, that the conference offers an ideal opportunity for networking for Human Resource, Training and Health & Safety Professionals from all businesses especially persons seeking to do business within the rest of the Caribbean.

A cadre of well-known and internationally acclaimed speakers will address the conference, which will end on a high note with a world renown Motivational Speaker Ken Ned who will speak on the topic "Leadership in times of change, A Prescription for Pressure: Action plan for mastering stress. "

The conference which also features an exhibition component has thus far received local endorsement for SOL and EDF St Maarten in the form of Sponsorship and participations as registrants and exhibitors. Other sponsors Include Talent Analytics, Institute for Safety in Powerline, Laureat Online and Development Consulting Limited. There are still opportunities for other local companies to participate in the conference both as a conference registrants, exhibitors or as sponsors

The conference also offer post conference training that offer professional development units. For information on registration and sponsorship please call (758) 452 0140 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

pjiaereadyforheinekenregatta01032013Simpson Bay:--- For arriving and departing passengers as well as other users, this year's edition of the Heineken Regatta sailed off on Thursday, February 28, 2013, at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM).

SXM Airport has been a steady wind behind the sails of the island's foremost regatta and promotion of the event can be seen on the front exterior of the Terminal Building as well as inside the Arrival and Departure halls. Also, beginning on Friday, March 1, 2013, there will be an information booth at the Arrival Hall area next to the Reception Office.

"The regatta is a major sporting event held under the now well-known theme of 'Serious Fun' and SXM Airport is happy to be able to highlight this," said Kalifa Hickinson, Marketing and Communications Department manager at SXM.

margaritacontreras01032013Philipsburg:--- A 49 year old woman died in an early morning road accident on L.B. Scot Road. The accident occurred in the vicinity of John Cooper Lake Baseball Park and Cake House Bakery. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said in a police report issued on Friday that the accident occurred around 1:00am early Friday morning. Henson said the victim was struck by a car and she sustained serious injuries causing her death. Upon receiving information on the accident, Henson said several police patrols, including the traffic and ambulance department reported to the scene where they found the victim who was not showing any signs of life.

The victim has been identified as Margarita Rosario Contreras who was born in the Dominican Republic, she was 49 years old. Preliminary investigations show that the victim attempted to cross the street to enter her vehicle which was parked on the other side of the road when she was struck by a white Daihatsu Sirion with license plate P-9042. The force of the impact caused the death of the victim almost instantly.

The body of the victim was confiscated for further investigation and the driver of the car was taken in for questioning. The traffic department is still conducting their investigation into this case to determine the exact cause of the accident. Henson said the driver is being questioned by Police and so far he is cooperating with the investigators. However, eyewitnesses to the deadly accident said the driver was driving at very high speed.

SMN News learnt that the victim Margarita Rosario Contreras was living at Cinnamon Drive Cul de Sac and she was leaving some friends at the time to go home.

sxmeurotastpanel28022013ST. MARTIN:--- February 2013 proved to be extra busy for authors published here by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP). While in its 30th anniversary year, "HNP is happy to see what is for us an unprecedented crush of activities by at least 14 of our authors in just 28 days in the Caribbean, the USA, and Israel," said HNP president Jacqueline Sample. Among the busy set of writers taking part in Black History Month celebrations and literary activities, in the shortest month of the year, were Dr. Rhoda Arrindell, Amiri Baraka, Dr. Jay B. Haviser, Fabian Adekunle Badejo, George Lamming, Marion Bethel, Joseph H. Lake, Jr., Drisana Deborah Jack, Daniella Jeffry, Robert Romney, Chiqui Vicioso, Kamau Brathwaite, Nidaa Khoury, and Lasana M. Sekou. "I congratulate the writers for keeping busy, which causes a demand for their writings and their appearances in their community and in various parts of the world. I also thank the book reviewers and bloggers, and the organizers of activities who invited our writers as guests authors and keynote speakers at conferences, literary readings, school visits, library exhibits, and media appearances this month," said Sample. Baraka and Arrindell were the busiest with numerous speaking engagements. At the EUROTAST Symposium (2/8/13), five out of the seven "First Voice" panelists and the conference's St. Martin principal, were all authors published by the small press that has managed to produce books by leading authors from throughout Caribbean, the USA, and the Middle East. 

pjiaeunveilsnewsecuritysystem28022013Simpson Bay:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has concluded phase one of the installation of what is considered "the most sophisticated security system in the whole Caribbean." This was disclosed at a press conference held Wednesday morning at the airport.

The security system, consisting of ultra-modern, weather-tested cameras supplied by Bosch, a global leader in this field, was designed by United Technologies Group NV (UTG), established in St. Maarten, in collaboration with Mako Systems Inc. of Sun Valley, California.

According to UTG's managing director, Christian Lont, a number of cameras were installed covering 80% of the airport, from the Operations Tower to the luggage-handling areas and jet bridges.

Lont said 14 security officers and 13 Operations Tower personnel were trained in the use of the cameras, and praised the excellent team work that made the realization of the project possible.

Speaking earlier at the press conference, PJIAE managing director Regina LaBega said that since, for SXM Airport, the "number one priority is human safety, we thought we should join together with UTG, a leading company in St. Maarten and together with Bosch, to ensure that we have a proper CCTV system."

"Of course, the safety of our employees, our stakeholders, our passengers, the aircrafts, etc., is of paramount importance," she continued. "We sat here, I believe, it was almost two years ago with the Hon. Minister of Justice and the then Acting Shareholder's Representative and we discussed how important it was to have a secure airport, but not just the airport, but the surrounding area as well, and we pledged our commitment not only to ensuring that the airport is safe, but also the surrounding area as a good community partner and here we are today."

Master of Ceremony at the press conference, Robert Clifton Brown, Special Projects Coordinator at PJIAE, stressed that this was "a very important initiative for the airport."

"It enhances the quality of our airport security system, making our airport more secure and assisting Operations and the Security Departments in carrying out this very important and critical job of safeguarding the airport."

As one of the project leaders, he conceded that, "this wasn't an easy project to pull off." But, he added, "because of the commitment from the very beginning of the managing director, the project was able to kick off and today we can say it's done."

Brown disclosed with pride that SXM Airport "has the most sophisticated security system on the island and in the whole Caribbean region."

Security Staff as Extraordinary Police Officers.

Justice Minister Roland Duncan, in an improvised address earlier, congratulated the managing director and the entire staff. "The idea of security is very important. Politically, I'm responsible for the security and safety of (St. Maarten) and this is one of the best ways we can ensure that security."

"Over a year ago now, we also had the harbor representatives here who are engaged in a similar project. The idea is to bring harbor, airport and the rest of the island together in a nice, compatible and I would say interchanging communicating system or systems, which would ensure that we can see all we need to see and we could help secure the airport, the harbor and the island."

Pledging "all the support and cooperation" his ministry can offer, Minister Duncan said, "we are engaged in getting a similar project where (St. Maarten) is concerned and one of the requirements is that all of it shall tie in so that we can see what we need to see and exchange information, etc."

He announced that his ministry will be offering the airport management training sessions for the security employees.

"We've set up a Justice Academy and very soon it will be incorporated and part of its duties will be to organize training courses for security staff. The employees of the airport who pass the course could be appointed extraordinary police officers."

The minister said, in his opinion, those people who are charged with operating and observing the cameras should be able to function as extraordinary police officers because, "if they detect anything illegal while on the cameras, for instance, they can act immediately and issue process verbal and take the necessary legal action and the airport can be very proactive where this is concerned."

Bosch engineer and instructor, Scott Glidden, said SXM Airport has installed a "foundational system" that allows for growth in the future with newer technologies.

Glidden said he was very impressed with the security personnel of the airport whom he described as "super-intelligent" and commended the professionalism of the airport's IT staff. "I had a magnificent experience," he said, adding that his company would offer further "remote training" should the need arise.

Attending the press conference were members of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, Gary Matser and Cleveland Beresford, as well as top officials of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce, and directors and other staff of PJIAE.

utssupports2013heinekenregatta28022013Philipsburg:--- Chippie, the mobile service of UTS, will once again be one of the major sponsors of the 33rd annual St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. The mobile brand will be partnering with the St. Maarten Yacht Club again to support the yearly event which brings many visitors to the island on a yearly basis. The company will also be offering various specials and promotions to the general public at the Regatta parties which will be held this weekend at various locations. "We are commemorating our 10 year anniversary as a mobile operator on St. Maarten and we've developed offers that we are certain our customers will appreciate. We're giving away extra's with purchase and who wouldn't like an extra gift when you're buying something,' says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. 'We have been working with Heineken and the Yacht Club for various years now and we are happy to be able to work with them again to assist them in staging this event. It gives our island a welcomed economic boost at the beginning of slow-season,' Lambert continues. CaribServe, the broadband internet service of UTS will also participate as a sponsor of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. The brand is the official internet provider of the event, providing connectivity for real-time racing results on location. In addition there will be complimentary wifi at the yacht club, the sailors lounge at each of the night-time Regatta parties, as well as a larger wifi-zone which will be accessible to the general public. 'To make any event a success, good communication is key and we're happy to assist the Yacht Club by offering them our newest technologies to make their work a little bit easier,' Lambert states.

nfandslacinstallswaterqualitymonitoringstations28022013The St. Maarten Nature Foundation and the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority (SLAC) will be partnering with RS Watertech Solutions to install remote water quality testing devices at various points in the Simpson Bay Lagoon and Great Bay. Recently the Nature Foundation tested high levels of pollutants in the Simpson Bay Lagoon as part of their ongoing water quality testing program and suggested that residents avoid contact with the water. The levels of pollution in the Cole Bay section of the Lagoon have subsided but there is a need for constant monitoring to both take measures to curb the pollution and to inform the public on what is happening in the waters of St. Maarten.

In order to better monitor the health of St. Maarten's inland and coastal waters the Nature Foundation, supported SLAC and using equipment made available by RS Watertech Solutions, will be installing various remote monitoring stations were specialized equipment will be used to monitor the real-time water quality. The Nature Foundation will be able to check on a round-the-clock basis whether or not there is a problem with the quality of the water. "This is a huge step for the monitoring of the health of the water not only in the Simpson Bay Lagoon but also along our beaches. Instead of us having to go out in the field to test once or twice a month, we will be able to constantly keep track of the quality of the water along our beaches and inside of the Lagoon. When there is an oil spill for example we will now know of a problem much earlier than we know now and we will be better equipped to take actions to save wildlife or recommend that certain areas be avoided," read a Nature Foundation statement.

The Water Quality Monitoring Equipment is installed on the bottom of the seafloor and transmits directly to the computers and cellular telephones of registered users. The Nature Foundation and SLAC will be partnering on various initiatives in the Simpson Bay Lagoon, including wreck removal and water circulation programs, in the next coming months.

Philipsburg:--- Government financial controller Alex Richardson signed a contract for Naf. 11,850 additional to his regular government salary for the services he rendered to Postal Services St. Maarten (PSS) for the month of December 2011 and half of January 2012.

SMN News obtained a copy of the contract that was signed by the three members of the Supervisory board Hubert Pantophlet, Stuart Johnson, Julien Lake and Alex Richardson. Richardson was supposed to be paid in three installments of Naf. 3,950.00 as agreed upon with the supervisory board of PSS.

The other person that was supposed to sign that contract was the former interim Director Denicio Richardson who did not pay the government controller because he sought legal advice and was informed that the contract signed by the Supervisory Board with Alex Richardson was illegal and it also creates a conflict of interest since he (Alex Richardson) is working for the Government of St. Maarten. Moreover, the Supervisory board is not allowed to interfere or be involved with the day to day operations of the company. They are also not allowed to commit PSS to any third party neither are they allowed to issue directives to the interim director as stipulated in the articles of incorporation of PSS. While all of these so called illegalities were taking place, it is understood that the shareholder representative of the company was well aware and did nothing to stop the supervisory board from hampering or bleeding the company of monies it did not have.

SMN News learnt that since Alex Richardson was not paid up to the time Denicio Richardson resigned from his position as Director of PSS, Richardson has increased his claims to almost Naf. 20,000.00 and has threatened to take PSS to court if he is not paid. What is not clear in the agreement is the type of services the government controller provided to PSS. SMN News also understands that the Supervisory Board did not even seek permission from the Ministry of General Affairs or the Shareholder representative to hire Alex Richardson.

SMN News learnt that Denicio Richardson was given instruction by the supervisory board to pay Alex Richardson the monies but Richardson held his ground and did not make the payment. It is also understood that is one of the arguments the board used when they suspended Richardson for signing a check that is over the amount he is allowed to purchase computers for the company.

According to information provided to SMN News, Alex Richardson submitted several claims to PSS for the monies and he even took the issue to Parliament but to date that has not been dealt with by the Parliament of St. Maarten. SMN News learnt that the Members of Parliament plan to tackle the Prime Minister with the agreement that was signed by the Supervisory Board and Alex Richardson when they meet to discuss the SOAB report.

The report submitted by SOAB on PSS cites that the Supervisory board of PSS went outside of their jurisdiction when they made certain decisions for the government owned company. This report is still to be submitted to the Parliament of St. Maarten. During the central committee meeting of Parliament earlier this week, several MPs asked the Shareholder representative Sarah Wescot Williams to provide them with the SOAB report so they can peruse what the SOAB found when they audited the company.

An advice given to PSS by a law firm on the installation of the Strategic Management Group (SMG) clearly states that having this group with Hensley Plantijn as the chairman and Hubert Pantophlet vice chairman clearly creates another conflict of interest. The law firm that provided the advice to PSS states that the only reason the SMG was set up was to have more political influence in a government owned company.

The law firm also cited the guidelines of the Corporate Governance Code which states that the Stated should act as an informed and active owner and establish a clear and consistent ownership policy, ensuring that governance of the state owned enterprises is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner. The advice further states that accountability, transparency, and administrative integrity are the core values on which the code is based.

The advice further states that SMG has no legal basis to function or work within PSS, this was derived upon book 2 of the articles of incorporation and the law. Even their function with PSS could not be established.

The conclusion of the advice stated that the SMG was tailored to create more political influence on the day to day management of the Government owned company PSS, and to eliminate the use of the Corporate Governance Council. The shareholder representative must consult with the Corporate Governance Council to appoint members of the Supervisory board and Director. Already the CGC in their advice rejected members from the cabinet of Ministers to be part of any board, therefore SMG was created to sidestep the CGC.

Click here to view the agreement signed by the Supervisory Board of PSS and Alex Richardson along with the pay slip that was created by Richardson.

moneyinballotbox29012013Philipsburg:--- The Landsrecherche was one day away from their deadline for handing over the files on the election fraud case to the Prosecutor's Office. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed to SMN News on Thursday that he had given the Landsrecherche until March 1st, 2013 to complete and turn over the files to his office so that they can begin studying those files and take a decision on how to move forward. Mos said that the Landsrecherche turned over the files on Thursday February 28th, 2013 to the Prosecutor's office. When asked by SMN News how soon he will have information to release on the decision his office will take on the case, Mos said that his colleague has to study the file and in his opinion it will take them about one month to fully study the file because there is a lot of reading to do.

The Internal Affairs of the Police Department (KPSM) conducted an investigation into the election fraud case that involves four police officers and the leader of the United Peoples Party in 2010 when the news broke that three officers took a police vehicle and went to the UP head office and collected four envelopes each containing $300. The three officers got greedy and they opened the fourth envelope and shared the money among the three that went and collected the envelopes. When the fourth officer learnt that his colleagues had cheated him of the monies that were meant for him, a brawl broke out inside the police station which prompted the investigation.

The election fraud case has been sitting in the office of the Landsrecherche since 2011 and only recently the file was taken off the shelves and work was done on it. At first reporters were told the department Landsrecherche was understaffed and that case was not on their priority list. But since the media has refused to let the Landsrecherche and the Prosecutor's office off the hook on some of the cases that they have been holding on to for years and nothing is done to them, those in the main seats in the those two departments have decided to finally work on this case.

Another case that is still sitting on the desk of the Landsrecherche is the case involving former Health and Labour Affairs Maria Buncamper Molanus. Just some weeks ago the Minister who was ousted from office announced that she will be contesting the 2014 elections. It is expected that the Prosecutor's Office will also take a decision on the Buncamper Molanus case. In addition, the case involving the Director of the Princess Juliana International Airport Regina Labega, Edward Dest, Member of Parliament Frans Richardson. The people of St. Maarten are still waiting to see when that case that was filed by the former Director of Finance Bas Roorda will take off. Late December 2012 the Prosecutor's Office arrested former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto in what they call the Piranha Investigation, also arrested in that same case was the Chief Financial Officer of WINAIR Roberto Gibbs. Gibbs is the owner of Global Advisory Services. Global Advisory Services was contracted by the Government of St. Maarten to provide workers for the tax and other departments. The Prosecutor's Office said that the company double charged government for the services they provided. Some of the charges levied against Shigemoto and Gibbs are fraud, forgery, money laundering, and not following government rules.

It should be noted that the former Director of Finance Bas Roorda who was fired from his job for breaching government policies is the one that provided information on Shigemoto, Gibbs, Labega, Dest, and Richardson. It is still not clear how the Prosecutor's Office have separated the Piranha investigation from the other persons that Roorda implicated in wrong doings.

Philipsburg:--- The Council of Ministers of St. Maarten was given a presentation by the Chief of Police of St. Maarten Peter de Witte on the 2012 crime report. The report shows that capital offences dropped by 25% compared to 2010 and 2011. The Police believes that the 2012 crime figures create hope for St. Maarten since the trend for the past three years is a downward one. One of the most striking results for the police in the 2012 crime report is the decrease of burglaries by 50%. House burglaries are considered as one of the most serious infringements on one's privacy and life. The figures presented to the Council of Ministers are linked below with the graphs prepared by KPSM.

The burglary team that was established in 2011 managed to infiltrate and arrest the perpetrators that were invading the homes and businesses on the island. The police believe that information, the tactics used, and forensic evidence that were combined helped them to reduce crimes in 2012. Due to the strategic way in which the police handled the investigations of burglaries they managed to arrest more suspects that were eventually convicted and deport those that were residing on St. Maarten illegally.

According to the report presented to the Council of Ministers, during a murder investigation at the end of 2010 a group of criminals were arrested and they were the ones linked to a number of car thefts and burglaries.

In the year 2011, police had to deal with a number of assignations. The investigation into the sudden killings took a major part of police resources, thus interfering with the staff that was tasked with investigating burglaries and car thefts. Because of this certain cases were delayed as the investigation into the killings took priority. However, early 2012 the police managed to refocus and place some energy in finding those responsible for several robberies. During this time one suspect that was responsible for 15 armed robberies in St. Peters area was arrested.

Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte told the Council of Ministers that by further strengthening the detective department there will be greater hope for St. Maarten when it comes to the reduction of crimes. He said theft directly related to tourism will take priority but as long as the police force has sufficient manpower then focus on the home front will remain of great importance.

De Witte feels that increasing the men and women in blue on the streets of St. Maarten worked as crime prevention even though he could not show the council figures for this. The installation of community policing will soon bear fruits in the various districts.

In 2012, a large number of murders occurred on St. Maarten. The investigation which is now known as the Vesuvius investigation led to the arrest of several persons. The police believe that the efforts they placed in this investigation bore fruits because those suspects were convicted. Since the arrest of the Vesuvius suspects, no other murder was committed in 2012. The police also believes that the fluctuating composition of the population and the financial crisis that many persons are facing have a major impact on crime.

The police force (KPSM) has displayed its abilities in solving capital crimes, one example is the solving of the Cupecoy (Ocean) murder investigation in less than one month where the lives of two American citizens were snatched away. De Witte told the Council that solving this case alone has given the people of St. Maarten confidence and therefore it is of uttermost importance that the police force be strengthened further.

Ill- treatment increased in 2012 and it occured mainly with persons that had relationships. The police believe that focus and investment has to be placed on prevention and the police does not hold that type of responsibility, even though they play a strong role as partner. Sexual offences also increased during the year 2012 and it is one of the most difficult type of crimes to prevent and investigate because it takes place within families and filing of police reports are not done in a timely manner because in most cases the victims of these crimes are fearful and would hesitate to act. While the police have dealt with a number of these cases, they believe that more has to be done on creating awareness because they are of the opinion that there is a large number of people suffering in the dark. Even though some 62 reports were received of sexual offences, only in 31 cases a complaint was actually filed because in most cases the victims do not want to press charges because they lacked courage. Severe cases of sexual abuse occurs mostly in "step" families. The police is of the opinion that cases such as these should not be seen as social issue but the police can only act repressive in most cases.

Click here to view the Official 2012 Crime Report that was delivered to the Council of Ministers.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- With the upcoming Carnival season, the Department of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication has issued a public notice to the community to those persons wanting to sell or vend food, beverages, helium balloons, and other typical items associated with carnival.

In order to vend such products, a vending license is needed to sell along the public roads during the carnival festivities of 2013.

This is also the case for booth holders. They too have to get a vending license at the Department of Economic Licenses (also known as Economic Affairs), according to the public announcement by the Department.

The vending license will be issued by the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunication via the relevant department.

Applications for these vending licenses are processed by the above-mentioned Department located at Zoutsteeg #3 in Philipsburg (the former Bico Building, or next to the Chamber of Commerce).

The deadline for these applications to be submitted is April 5th, 2013.

The cost of the license for the entire Carnival season is seventy five NA guilders (Naf. 75.00).

williammarlin27022013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin held on to the promise he had with the owners of Hard Rock Café and the Simpson Bay Resort on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing when he was asked by SMN News if his government tried to secure the employment of the Simpson Bay Resort workers who have been out of work for almost two years now. When the National Alliance was not in government Marlin and other Members of the National Alliance criticized how Member of Parliament Jules James and his government treated the SBRMC workers who have been engaged in numerous court battles. In responding to the question on Wednesday, Marlin said "There have been no discussions or negotiations for Hard Rock Café to purchase Simpson Bay Resort, there have been discussions between Hard Rock and Simpson Bay Resort Management Company. It is not my responsibility or prerogative to divulge information on the ongoing discussions. Only last week I told a reporter it is the responsibility of those two companies that are discussing to divulge information to the media."

Marlin said several months ago he did participate in a meeting with the parties and he made it clear that the interests of the working class are very dear to him. Marlin also reminded the reporters present that when he was a Member of Parliament he submitted a draft law to make changes to the civil code to curb the abuse of the short term contracts. Marlin said every time there is a law in place business people would get legal advice on how to circumvent that law to their advantage. Marlin said it is not acceptable to government the way the short term contract is used but the changes the National Alliance submitted to amend the civil code is taking some time before it is finalized. He said the reasons he brought up the amendment to the civil code that was spearheaded by him was to let the workers and the unions know that he has not deviated from the position he took when it comes to the working class. Marlin said that if the discussions taking place with Hard Rock and SBRMC are fruitful a number of jobs will be created out of the venture. He said that while not being in a position to divulge information on the ongoing discussion, if a deal is sealed between Hard Rock and SBRMC, those that were put out of work and much more people would be hired.

When asked by SMN News if the Government of St. Maarten should lead by example when it comes to the short term contracts or hiring people through Employment agencies because currently someone working in the parking lot on the square has been providing services for government for over 12 years through an employment agency and to date government has not hired the individual even though the job they are holding is a permanent one. Marlin said he is aware of the situation but he was not sure if the person is working for that amount of years. Marlin agreed that the situation does not look good, he also said that it is not only that person that is working for government via Employment Agencies. He said in some cases it is more viable for government to hire persons through agencies for projects that would last only for a short period of time based on the provision of the law. The Deputy Prime Minister said he could not say why government did not take the person into permanent service over the years but he is of the opinion that there could be several reasons.

Philipsburg:--- A seminar that will focus on "Women with a Purpose" will be held on St. Maarten in June. The announcement was made by the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press conference. Wescot Williams said Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, and St. Maarten are collaborating with the organizers to have the event from June 18th to June 22nd, 2013.

Wescot Williams said that on June 19th, 2013 a women of power luncheon will be held under the theme "Its 2013 -- As women how do we measure our power?" The keynote speakers will be Carmen Wong Ulrich and Solidad O'Brien from CNN.
The Prime Minister said that during the event there will be several dignitaries on the island including several international media to cover the event. More information on the seminar will be disseminated as the date approaches.

swescotwilliams27022013Philipsburg/Marigot:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams announced at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that she was meeting with the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Alain Richardson and Prefet Phillipe Chopin to discuss the way forward with the tripartite cooperation meetings.

Wescot Williams said that this meeting is for the parties to discuss how they will move forward with the cooperation meetings that are scheduled to take place between the French and Dutch side. One of the main purposes of the meetings is for the French side to share information with the Dutch side authorities on the competencies of the State (Prefecture) and the competencies of the Collectivity.

After the meeting held on Wednesday, parties will organize the governmental sessions which will be looking in-depth at the areas of cooperation and what must be done by both sides. Wescot Williams said that they will also be receiving reports from the departments and agencies that are already working together from both sides of the island.

All government subsidized schools on St. Maarten will soon have a digital Student Tracking System to record and manage the data of all their students and track their development and progress from the time they are registered until they leave the school system.
The school board representatives on both Primary and Secondary level, that are presently without a digital student tracking system, have all signed off to have this system implemented in their schools.
The program will also be made available to the new SBO school in Cay Hill that will soon be operational.

This project is part of the Project Plans for the Innovations in Education and has been realized through the team effort of various Ministries within the Government of St. Maarten.
The Division for Educational Innovation, a Division of the Ministry for Education, Culture, Youth and Sports along with the assistance of the Department for Interior and Kingdom Relations and the I.T. Department within the Ministry for General Affairs, were able to contract a vendor who will supply all government subsidized schools with the Schoolfit student tracking system.
This system is not new to St. Maarten as it has been operational in the Secondary schools of the Milton Peters College and the Sundial School for the past few years.

Presently a pilot project is being implemented at the M.G. de Weever school and the Sr. Magda Primary school. The pilot is being coordinated by Ms. Caren Matthew from the I.T. Department who is assisting the Division of Educational Innovation with the roll-out of the system in the selected pilot schools.

After the program has been fully operational in these two schools by the end of June 2013, it will also be rolled out in the other Primary schools as well those on the Secondary level and the SBO school , which are presently without a digital student tracking system.

During the month of January 2013 the staff of the both pilot schools, were introduced to the system via a familiarization sessions whereby they were shown how to capture and record data of their students.

Since then the Education Department and the other Divisions within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports have been meeting with Ms. Matthew from the Dept. of I.T. and the representatives from the Division for Educational Innovations. These meetings are to work out the various features of the tracking system that will be customized by the vendor to the Education system on St. Maarten.

Assistance has also been sought from the various school board representatives of the government subsidized schools, for their input in this process. As the project moves on, the various school managers and their staff will be approached, for their assistance when needed.

The Division for Educational Innovation will organize trainings for school managers, office administrators, teachers and support staff to efficiently and effectively use the system.

At the end of the roll-out of the student tracking system, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports will be able to capture the much needed data from the schools and their student population. This data will be uploaded into the Educational Management Information System (EMIS).
Some of the other benefits of this program are:

  • Teachers will record attendance and input students grades and other data into the system
  • Report cards and other educational reports will be generated from the system
  • Parents will have access to view the progress of their children at school
  • School boards and School managers will have a better over view of the performance of the students enrolled in their schools

The funding for this project is made possible through USONA from the Dutch Funding agreements between the Government of St. Maarten and the Netherlands.

PHILIPSBURG:--- "I would like to congratulate the organizers of the Heineken Regatta and at the same time welcome the participants who will be in for some serious fun during the next four days," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Wednesday.

The 33rd Annual Heineken Regatta kicks off on Thursday, February 28 and runs through Sunday, March 3.

"Various persons and organizations play a role in making this competitive sailing event a success each and every year for more than three decades, and whoever has been involved, those that have come and gone, have delivered by doing a great job in organizing and making once again the 33rd event a reality.

"On behalf of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, we would like to wish all participants in the 33rd Heineken Regatta much success, have a safe regatta, and serious fun out there in our pristine waters, happy sailing," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Wednesday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Parliamentary Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations will meet on February 28 in its final round of preparations for a series of meetings that are planned next week in the Netherlands.

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

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

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

The Chairman of the committee is Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Roy Marlin, MP Hon. George Pantophlet, Vice Chairman, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Frans Richardson, and MP Hon. Dr. Ruth Douglass.

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

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

wmarlinshowingtunnelconstructionreport27022013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin who is also the Minister of VROMI showed reporters the report he recently received from Lievense Engineering who was contracted by the Government of St. Maarten to conduct a study on building between one to three tunnels that will connect the various roads that will be constructed in 2013 and 2014 and the causeway that is currently under construction over the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The report issued by Lievense gave an outline on tunnel one and two and the possibility of a third tunnel. The draft of the tunnel shows a tunnel with two lanes for traffic to accommodate two way traffic with large vehicles but the Minister of VROMI is considering the possibility of changing that draft to include a third lane in the middle, which will be used only as a by-pass to deviate traffic in the event of an accident on any of the lanes. Marlin said the third lane in the middle that is now being considered will not be used for overtaking.

The report showed that the project can be completed within 28 months as soon as a decision is taken by the Minister of VROMI. Marlin told reporters that the intention is to give the interested company/companies a concession for a period of 30 years. Government's intention is to have the contractors build the tunnels at their own expense and they would then charge a toll fee for vehicles that go through these tunnels to cover the cost of construction and to operate and maintain the tunnels.

The report states that in general the overall environmental impact with the construction of the bypass tunnel will be very beneficial, the rerouting of traffic and more importantly the removal of heavy vehicles from A.J. C Browers Road will have major benefits to the island and the flow of traffic from the west and east side of the island. Additional to those benefits, the time spent in traffic by bypassing the A.J.C Browers Road will be reduced significantly. The gradients in the tunnel will have to be minimal for the purpose of drainage. Air pollution will also be reduced significantly while with the reduced traffic on the main roads there will be a possibility to provide more areas for pedestrians and further improvements for resident and visitors.

Based on a preliminary traffic study, approximately 10,000 vehicles can be expected to use the tunnels on a daily basis in both directions, therefore that would immediately reduce the stress on Union Road, Browers Road, and Bush Road.

The report further stated that the construction of these tunnels will have minor impact on the environment while the spoils from the construction can be used as fill material in land reclamation and will also be suitable for concrete aggregate for the construction of the tunnel. The tunnels can also be used as an emergency shelter for a potentially vulnerable sector of people. The report mentioned that during hurricane Luis and Lenny a number of people were killed, it added that the tunnel could provide an ideal refuge for such persons which would require simple measures which is to seal the portals with roller shutters. Basic accommodation including camp beds, mobile toilets, washing facilities, and canteens as well as medical and emergency units can be housed in the tunnels during natural disasters.

tunnelconstructionreport27022013One of the tunnels measure 16.5 and another one measures 20.45. Marlin said the two tunnels will amount to over 3000 meters in tunnel space. Lievense said their report that the construction a tunnel from Union Road to L.B. Scot Road is feasible. This can be achieved with minimal disruption to the existing traffic and when it is completed it will be of considerable benefit to St. Maarten's residents and visitors. These tunnels will take traffic out of Union Road, Browers Road, and Bush Road making it appreciable to pedestrians and permitting revitalization of the area. Lievense also suggested that a site investigation and survey must be undertaken which will be used for the final designs of the tunnels and that will also assist in determining the final cost of the project.

Marlin confirmed to reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the tunnels will cost must less than the causeway that is currently under construction. He further explained that the construction cost of the causeway was passed on to the people with the increase of container fees and fuel taxes which affected everyone on St. Maarten even those that might never use the causeway. He said the estimated cost is way below the one hundred million dollars that the contractors claim the causeway would cost St. Maarten.

Marlin did not say how soon his government will take a decision on the construction of these tunnels. He made clear that no decision has been taken on the construction of these tunnels that are highly criticized by others that have political interest. He said so far three companies have shown interest in the project and they come from China, Brazil, and Austria.

Former Deputy Prime Minister's Executive Assistant fighting to get back in power.

The five day commissioner and former Deputy Prime Minister's executive assistant Maurice Lake verbally attacked the tunnel project earlier this week at a town hall meeting that was held to inform the residents about current zoning plans. Marlin was also at that meeting and immediately responded to the allegations made by Lake who said that the current Minister of VROMI has a tunnel vision and that the tunnels will cost over three hundred million dollars. In response to what Lake said at the meeting, Marlin told reporters that some people who are currently not in power are fighting to get back positions they had in government. Therefore, these persons will use each and every opportunity they get to criticize the initiatives that are undertaken by the current government, especially by him (Marlin) who is over the Ministry of VROMI. Marlin insisted that the current coalition government has not taken any decision to build the tunnels. He said government is looking at building one tunnel and if it feasible they will build a second tunnel. He said these tunnels will serve several purposes such as the east to west connection. Marlin said based on the road network plan, there are up to seven links from one to seven that had to be constructed. This plan is in place between 15 to 17 years and to date only links that were constructed is link one- phase one which he initiated when he was commissioner some years ago. He said link one-phase two was constructed by former commissioner Roy Marlin when he was in office while link one-phase three is yet to complete. He said there has never been a final alignment to that link which would have run through the Bells property on Cole Bay Hill. Marlin said ever since then no other road links were undertaken even though the plans were in place. He said the construction of the causeway was sold as if it will alleviate the traffic in Simpson Bay. Marlin further explained that his reaction back then was that it is a bridge to nowhere if it does not connect to the rest of the island to really alleviate traffic. Marlin said since he took office he decided to maximize the presence of the bridge and connect the west side of the island to the eastern side of the island.
Another benefit Marlin mentioned is that the tunnels will eliminate the scarring of the island as opposed to if several road links are constructed.

 

cherylrismay26022013Great Bay:--- TelEm is very satisfied with the results of the recently concluded Rotary Youth Leadership Awards Conference held under the theme, "Leadership and Peace through Cultural Diversity."
"As one of the main sponsors of this event, we are very happy and satisfied at the level of participation as well as the discussions that took place during the four-day conference," said Cheryl Rismay, TelEm's Marketing & Sales Officer.
"TelEm has always been supportive of activities involving our youth and we are very pleased to have been able to assist the Rotary Club 7020 in hosting this important conference," Rismay said, adding: "we are satisfied with the way the young 'leaders of tomorrow' addressed the issues."
Thanking TelEm for its kind sponsorship, Jim Ferris, Rotary's Assistant District Governor and chairman of the Task Force that organized the conference said, "It was fantastic! They're asking for it again next year."
According to Ferris, there were some 124 young people within the age bracket 14 – 20, drawn from several Caribbean islands including Jamaica, St. Kitts and Tortola, and of course, St. Maarten, who attended the conference.
"They were highly motivated. Most of them were very impressed at the organization and how well it was put together," Ferris said.
He said that Rotary 7020 District Governor, Vance Lewis of Tortola showered praise on the organizers.
The RYLA conference was addressed by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams as well as Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports, Hon. Silveria Jacobs.

For the upcoming Heineken Regatta from February 28 – March 3, 2013, the Dutch Caribbean Coastguard is issuing some safety recommendations.
The Coastguard is aware that the Heineken Regatta is an event that attracts many visitors and participants. In order to make sure that everything goes well, there are some rules and regulations to be followed:

  • Registration numbers on both sides of the vessel
  • Personal flotation devices
  • Visual Distress Signal (Flares, floating smoke signals, etc)
  • Fire extinguisher (check the expiration date)
  • Sound producing device, such as a whistle or horn (not a human produced noise)
  • VHF-radio
  • Valid certificate of competence
  • Valid certificate of sea worthiness
  • No sailing while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

In addition it is also advisable to have the following:

  • Mobile phone with a good working battery
  • Enough drinking water
  • A good working torch

The Dutch Caribbean Coastguard can be reached during the Regatta Period through the following numbers:

  1. 554-6713 24/7
  2. 553-3716 07:00 hr to 15:00 hr
  3. 581-0188 07:00 hr to 15:00 hr
  4. 554-1684 15:00 hr to 23:00 hr
  5. 550-0884 15:00 hr to 23:00 hr
  6. 588-5660 23:00 hr to 07:00 hr

The Coastguard congratulates the organizing committee with the 33rd edition of the Heineken Regatta and wishes all participants and visitors a pleasant and safe Regatta.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Tuesday 26th February, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Affairs officially welcomed a team of six psychologists from St. Johns University, Graduate school of Psychology to the island, and formalized an agreement between the Ministry and the University for the Graduate School of psychology to provide technical assistance to the Ministry and in particular to the Prins Willem Alexander School.

During this week of February 25 through to March 1st, psychologists from the St. Johns University, Graduate School of Psychology are on the island to provide technical assistance, to carry out an environmental scan of the types and clusters of special needs (disabilities & exceptionalities) of children attending Prins Willem Alexander School (PWAS).

The PWAS-St. John's Project, herein referred to as the Project, is a multifaceted program to provide diagnostic and psycho-educational services to students in Prins Willem Alexander School and other Elementary Schools on St. Maarten, who would otherwise not receive them.

In June 2013, this same group of psychologists will visit the island again and carry out the same type of testing for children of the remaining Public Schools and other subsidized schools on the island.

St. John's University was founded in 1871 by the Vincentian Community, and is accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Since 1999, the Psy.D. program has been offered by the Department of Psychology, which is an academic unit of the College of Arts and Sciences of St. John's.

The School Psychology Psy.D. Program is APA- accredited, as of April 2007, by the American Psychological Association (APA). The School Psychology Psy.D. Program is also fully approved, until December 2016, by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). The School Psychology Psy.D. program is also approved by the ASPPB/National Register.

Some of the tasks that will be performed by the group of psychologists, as it pertains to the agreement, are as follows:

  • Provide all relevant tests for the testing of children for special needs.
  • Offer specific individualized educational recommendations for each student.
  • Drafting a comprehensive report for special education for St. Maarten with recommendations.
  • Drafting a two-year implementation plan for special education in St. Maarten with cost.

The Minister officially welcomed the psychologists to the island and thanked them for their service to Public Education and the St. Maarten community in general and officially signed the Agreement for the upcoming phases of this project. The main principal to finance this project is the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Affairs along with contributions from the University of St. Johns.

Philipsburg:--- The Independent Members of Parliament namely Frans Richardson, Patrick Illidge, and Romain Laville lambasted the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams during a Central Committee meeting continuation regarding the Postal Services St. Maarten (PSS) on Tuesday. The Members of Parliament questioned the PSS shareholder about the so called illegal suspension of the former PSS Director when he signed a check to purchase computers for the functioning of PSS. MP Romain Laville posed several questions on the suspension and the computers that were purchased for the company. He said the way St. Maarten is going right now government is setting up the young people of St. Maarten to fail. Laville made clear that it is not because he is part of a coalition government that they will not call in a Minister when things are not in the interest of the people.

Laville also asked for the minutes of the meetings that were held prior to the former Director Denicio Richardson being suspended. He also asked for the checks that Richardson signed and if they bounced. Laville said he thinks that Richardson must be compensated for what has happened to him which led to his resignation.

Member of Parliament George Pantophlet asked if the budget for PSS is in place for 2013 and he also asked for the financials of PSS because he wants to know how much it costs the company to rent the vehicles they are currently using.
MP Gracita Arrindell asked the shareholder representative if the reprimand that was given to Denicio Richardson will remain on his files (resume) even though he acted in good faith when he exceeded the amount he was allowed to sign for checks. She also asked if the shareholder representative was aware of the reprimands taken against the former director and if shareholder representative feels that the reprimand taken against the former director was fair. Arrindell wanted to know if the former Director will be given a second chance if he reapplies for the job that is now vacant.

MP Johan Janchi Leonard asked if the former director was dealt with fairly and if the actions were good faith. Leonard said he is not in a position to take sides. Member of Parliament Roy Marlin and Leonard said for them the most important thing they want to discuss the SOAB report, even if it means that has to be done behind closed doors. Prime Minister Wescot Williams answered most of the questions posed to her by the various MPs. Wescot Williams said the check written by the former director was accepted by the bank with one signature even though the check required two signatures. She also explained that the Supervisory Board can be make changes since it is mentioned in the articles of incorporation.

celshot26022013Philipsburg:--- The Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) and other non-governmental organizations are planning to send a letter to the President of Parliament as early as Wednesday, Vice President of the WICLU Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday during WICLU's weekly press briefing.

The WITU President said that the letter they intend to send to Parliament is to request some clarifications or information from the Members of Parliament that are planning to attend the inter-parliamentary meetings to be held in the Netherlands shortly. Elshot said last Monday evening representatives from the non-governmental organizations, labour unions, senior citizens organizations, and the council of churches met to discuss a number of issues, especially how to get the attention of the Members of Parliament to address the realization of the social, economic, and cultural rights for the people of St. Maarten. Elshot said they want to know what happened to the request that was tabled in January 2012 by the social organizations. This was tabled to all Parliamentarians at the inter-parliamentary meetings that were held on St. Maarten. Elshot said that the request to the Kingdom Council was to address cooperation in the Kingdom to recognize all the social, economic, and cultural rights in the Kingdom in a non-discriminatory manner.

Elshot said to date the request was not placed on the agenda of the meetings to be held in Hague from March 5th to 8th, 2013. "The President of the Parliament of St. Maarten Rodolphe Samuel informed the vice president of the St. Maarten senior citizens and pensioners association that all parliamentary presidents have agreed to leave sensitive issues out of the agenda. In other words, the request to discuss cooperation on the most pressing issues such as poverty eradication, the realization of the right to an adequate standard of living for the people of St. Maarten as well as equal social protection on the social floor will not be discussed in the upcoming inter-parliamentary meetings. Elshot said only the President of the Parliament of St. Maarten and the Kingdom committee in Parliament can give them the information on the request they submitted last year. This request was adopted by the St. Maarten Parliamentary delegation and it was also discussed by the IPCKC meeting. Elshot said they still don't know what are the official agenda points to be discussed in the up-coming inter-parliamentary meeting to be held in the Netherlands. Elshot said they intend to request a formal meeting with the Members of Parliament prior to them leaving the island so they will know what the elected officials of St. Maarten will say during these meetings on behalf of the people of St. Maarten.

Workers should get Equal Treatment like the Politicians.

The WITU President said that they are of the opinion that workers rights and benefits must be protected just as the politicians who were elected by the people of St. Maarten. She said politicians who were ousted from office last year are still able to collect their salaries for a period of time yet workers that have given years of service to their employers are not able to get their benefits and or salaries. Elshot was referring to the Ministers who were forced to leave office last May when the UP/DP government fell. Elshot said when one looks at the salaries the Ministers and Members of Parliament are collecting then one would understand what the unions and other non-governmental partners are speaking about when it comes to equality. She said what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.

She also made reference to the Simpson Bay Resort Management Company (SBRMC) that is now busy finalizing the sale of the property to Hard Rock Café. Elshot said she is hoping that government would ensure that the workers of that resort maintain their jobs with the new investors because to date some of the workers were not able to collect their benefits because the department of labour never finalized the request the company submitted for some of the workers' dismissal. She said because the process was incomplete many of the workers were not able to obtain social assistance and were not paid out for their years of service.

telemsupportssemanadominicana25022013Great Bay:--- The Semana Dominicana which ended Sunday, February 24th with the much-anticipated parade, has been possible thanks to TelEm Group of Companies which is one of the major sponsors. The parade route ran from Le Grande Marche to the TelEm parking lot.
"We are happy to support the Dominicano Community in St. Maarten," said TelEm's Jesus Richardson in presenting a check of US$2,500 to the organizers.
Milagros de Windt, the hardworking representative of the organizers conceded that perhaps due to the economy sponsorship was not as easy to find as in the past. "We are very grateful to TelEm for assisting us."
The new Miss Semana Dominicana, St. Maarten Academy PSVE's Ms. Sepulveda, took home a portion of the money donated by TelEm, along with the crown.
The Semana Dominicana – a week-long festivity that culminates with the celebration of the Independence Day of the Dominican Republic on February 27th, had its cultural climax last Saturday when reggaeton sensation, El Chuape hit the stage at Port de Plaisance.

greaterphilipsburgarea25022013PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and stakeholders of the Greater Philipsburg Area, Suckergarden and Over the Pond, are reminded to attend the first town hall meeting with respect zoning/development plans of the aforementioned areas for Tuesday, February 26 at 7:00pm to 9:30pm. The meeting will take place at the University of St. Martin.

With this being the first public town hall meeting for the aforementioned areas, residents and stakeholders has an opportunity to bring forth their views and ideas.

The main topics of the draft development plan are traffic (roads and other infrastructure), tourism (tourism and recreation), industry (commercial, industrial), residential (housing, public spaces and facilities), nature (ecology, landscape and water), culture (cultural heritage and archaeology).

The presentation on Tuesday evening includes some proposals to resolve traffic situations on secondary roads and side streets; road designs and beautification of the A.T. Illidge Road, Arch Road and Sucker Garden Road; reserve space for sidewalks; no parking directly alongside the road; the Ring Road; re-arranging of traffic in Philipsburg; extra parking spaces and parking garages; extension of boardwalk; the creation of an additional jetty; enhancing the connection from Harbour Village to Fort Amsterdam; the creation of a Over the Pond/Suckergarden Village Centre; the Ponds and surrounding Green Hills.

Also part of the discussion among many other issues on Monday evening are drainage issues and flood risks, green hills and mangroves.

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI) is developing the legal framework for possible future development; to designate and/or reserve land for desired use; to prevent uncontrolled development; and to offer legal security to residents about future development.

The meeting is part of the process of drafting "development plans" for country Sint Maarten.

pridefoundationteamsupwithshipwreck25022013Shipwrecks shops has partnered with the Sint Maarten PRIDE Foundation, an environmental community based non profit group. Shipwreck stores that has been established since 1972 with 15 stores island wide has offered to the foundation, a one of a kind designed t-shirt in limited quantities, of which part of the sales proceeds will go to the foundation to help continue eco-projects such as tree planting, beach and community cleanups, as well as educational projects for the youth.
The t-shirts depicts one of the wild life species seen everywhere on the island, and are available in very limited quantities. The shirts are now available island wide in their 15 store locations.
"Our return visitors such as the time share folks who appreciate the work the foundation sometimes desire a souvenir product that is not mass marketed and available on all Caribbean islands. This t-shirt design is exclusive to Shipwreck and the PRIDE Foundation and will only be sold in Shipwreck stores Sint Maarten.
The idea is to create a limited edition t-shirt every year with a new exclusive design depicting a chosen wild life species, the t-shirts will be collectors items as very few are available for sale."
The Board of the St. Maarten PRIDE Foundation thanks the Shipwreck Shop Manager and especially the long time staff for their commitment to helping the islands environment.

smdfsignsmouwithamfo25022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Antillean Organization for Co-Financing (AMFO) and the St. Maarten Development Fund (SMDF) executed a Memorandum of Understanding on Monday, February 18 at the Dr. Claude Wathey Legislative Hall.

The signing was witnessed by the Prime Minister, Hon. Sarah Wesot – Williams and Richelda Emmanuel, President of the Board of the St. Maarten Development Fund.

Executing the agreement on behalf of AMFO was Reinoudt Karsdorp, Director and Keith Franca, Interim Director of the SMDF.

The memorandum of understanding sets out terms of cooperation, information sharing on best practices and transitioning terms to insure continuity of program and project funding to Non-Governmental Organizations on Sint Maarten.

Later that same morning, Messrs. Reinoudt Karsdorp representing AMFO and Keith Franca on behalf of SMDF, paid a courtesy visit to the recently appointed Head of the Dutch Government representative in Philipsburg, Drs. Gert Versluis at which time the history of AMFO on the Netherlands Antilles and St. Maarten specifically was outlined and the vision and mission of the St. Maarten Development Fund Foundation was introduced.

The AMFO is represented on St. Maarten by Hendrikje Stoffels rendering communication, evaluation and monitoring of projects and programs from qualifying Non-Governmental Organizations on St. Maarten.

Stoffels will continue to service the wrap up on Sint Maarten until year end and will work closely with the St. Maarten Development Fund to give content to the executed memorandum of understanding.

Philipsburg:--- The Landsrecherche still has to turn over the files on the election fraud case that involves the United Peoples Party and four police officers to the Prosecutor's Office, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on Monday. Mos said when the head of the department Ademar Doran turns the files over to his office they would then study the files and decide how they will proceed. Last week Mos said that the Landsrecherche changed their office location and that had delayed the process which picked up speed some weeks ago. The country's Chief Prosecutor said that he does not know when Doran will turn over the files to his office.

The election fraud case started shortly after the 2010 elections when the news broke that three officers working at the Philipsburg Police Station went with a police vehicle to the UP head office in Pointe Blanche and collected four envelopes containing $300.00 each. A fight broke out inside the Philipsburg Police Station when one of the cops learnt that the other three had opened the envelope that was meant for him/her and shared the monies among themselves. Chief of Police Peter de Witte ordered an internal investigation when he learnt of the incident. De Witte turned over the files to the Landsrecherche sometime in 2011 and to date the case has not been investigated and prosecuted because those working at the Landsrecherche claimed they were understaffed and the case was not on their priority list.

The media on St. Maarten did not allow those responsible for law and order to push the case under the proverbial carpet because it was constantly brought up. Just recently, Mos said the investigation on the Election fraud had kicked off and as soon as his office gets the file then they will move forward.

Philipsburg:--- Convicted Vesuvius suspect Andrew "Ratty" Davis was released from the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) since last Thursday and he is now back at the Prison facilities recuperating, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Davis who is currently serving a nine year prison sentence was stabbed multiple times in the Simpson Bay holding cells last week Sunday morning. Davis had to undergo emergency surgery to save his life. Mos said the detectives detained four suspects who were all questioned and sent back to the prison facilities, he also told SMN News earlier that the detectives that searched the institution found several weapons but he could not say if the weapon that was used in the stabbing was found.

Mos said on Monday that Davis already gave police a statement and confirmed that he was involved in an altercation with the four persons that were arrested and questioned but the police still has to figure out which of the four suspects/prisoners stabbed Davis. Mos said the police have to question Davis again before they can finalize the investigation.

It should be noted that Andrew "Ratty" Davis was scheduled to be heard sometime this month in the appeal hearing of the Vesuvius case which is scheduled to take place sometime in March 2013.

panelistsforrelevanceofblackhistorymonth25022013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library concludes its month long Black History activities, with a panel discussion on the relevance of Black History on St. Maarten on Wednesday, February 27, at 7:00pm.
The 6 member panel includes, Dr. Maria van Enckevort, Dr. Rhoda Arrindell, Clara Reyes, Shujah Reiph, Riegnald "Bakari" Arrindell, and Christopher Emmanuel. Also moderating the panel will be Lysanne Charles and Rene Violenus.
The program will explore the significance of Black History Month, in light of the 150th and 165th anniversary, respectively, of both sides of our island. Panelists will reflect on why it's still important to acknowledge, commemorate and participate in the celebrations of the contributions made by people of African descent.
This event is open and free to the general public, and audience participation is encouraged. For more information please contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

gebeworkerscarryingoutrepairs25022013Philipsburg:--- On Friday, February 22, there was a fault in the transmission cable to the Zagersgut Substation, which led to some outages over the weekend. GEBE technicians worked on Saturday and Sunday to isolate and repair this fault, and it was repaired on Sunday, February 24th.

On Sunday, another fault occurred in the transmission cable to the Pondfill Substation, and later another fault a separate feeder cable. Power has been rerouted to back up cables while repairs were conducted. These two cables are still being repaired and GEBE is working hard to redistribute the load to prevent further outages on Monday.

GEBE apologizes for any inconvenience that was caused.

GEBE Press Release

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), in accordance with article 4 of the National Ordinance Announcement and Enactment (A.B. 2010, GT no. 21), hereby informs the public of the following:

The Ministry of VROMI, department of Permits is in the processes of cleaning up the backlog on pending permits in an interest to better serve the public and applicants needing permits for land development activities. To this end it is necessary to finalize the processing of all permit applications that have been pending response from applicants.

Applicants who have pending permits applied for until 2011, including approved building permits not yet issued due to unpaid building fees, will have 28 (calendar) days after publication to report to the Department of Permits at the Ministry of VROMI, in order to take the necessary steps needed to complete the permitting process.

After these 28 days have expired and if no response received from the applicant, the pending request will be considered incomplete and the processing of the applications will be discontinued.

Applicants will receive notice thereof in accordance with article 20 and article 21, section 2 of the Building Ordinance (P.B. 1935, nr. 64). Thereupon the provisions of the National Ordinance on Administrative Procedures (LAR, P.B. 2001, nr. 79) are applicable.

The department of Permits looks forward to the cooperation of applicants to ensure that the best service may be rendered in this process. For more information, the public and permit applicants may contact the department of Permits at 1 (721) 542-4289, or visit the department during visiting hours on Monday through Thursday from 9:00 -12:00, at the Yellow Building, Tamarinde Steeg # 16, Philipsburg.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- After the Health Inspectorate was alerted about tainted European food products with traces of horse meat, the Inspectorate carried out local inquiries with food importers to find out if any of the products are available for sale on local store shelves, and was informed that this is not the case.

European health authorities continue to deal with the situation of horse meat falsely labeled as beef and other products which was sold in Europe and the United Kingdom.

These tainted products have been found in several European countries such as United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden and Norway. Food products in another 11 European Union countries may be affected.

The issue was unearthed in January in Ireland and the United Kingdom when health officials conducting routine checks found horse DNA in frozen beef burgers.

The European Union has implemented a major DNA testing programme to ascertain how much of the horse meat is being sold as beef and other products.

The United Kingdom Food Standards Agency has doubled the scope of its testing for food authenticity.

The Health Inspectorate which falls under the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour will continue to monitor the situation in Europe.

pointblachepprison31012011Philipsburg:--- A BlackBerry broadcast message which began circulating on Sunday has sparked an internal investigation at the Pointe Blanche Prison, confirmed Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. The Minister of Justice said he also got the BlackBerry message and he could not say if the contents of the message has any truth to it but he instructed the Director of the Prison Facility Edward Rohan to investigate and submit a report to him as soon as possible. The BlackBerry message states that prison guards are charging prisoners up to $1000.00 in exchange for sex and the monies are taken from the prisoner's canteen monies. The message even suggested the sexual activities involves an inmate that is HIV positive, therefore the prisoners at Pointe Blanche prison are now concerned and disturbed.

SMN News learnt that a prison guard whose name is mentioned in the broadcast message is indeed having a sexual relationship with a former inmate who is currently out on early release and that is against the rules of the prison. SMN News has been reliably informed that the sexual activity between the prison guard and the prisoner has been taking place for quite some time now and nothing was ever done about it even though it is against the rules of the prison for prison guards to have sexual contact with inmates.

Below is the BlackBerry message that has been circulating since Sunday.

Here to Inform you that we have found out a group of prisoners in the point blanch prison have been having sex in their cells and so far is conformed that one of the prisoners is Lorenzo Thomas a.k.a pimperz we are looking more in to this n all prisoners will be tested we will keep u informed. On the behalf of the Point Blanch Prison, St Marteen N.V, I am letting this message out to the general public informing you all that female guards are charging inmates minimum US$1000.00 obtained from canteen fees in bagain for sex reliable sources state that one of the following is Stalina Yoke a.k.a Shotless, the present girlfriend of an ex-inmate Shervin Woods; in comrade with Masha Yoke a.k.a "Charles Barry"...

Prisoners are discontented with the behavior of the sexual contacts as they are disturb about the fact that one incident consist of one HIV infected inmate. Claims have been made to the recent ex-director and is pointing out to the reigning director of Point Blanch Prison, St Marteen N.V.

" As an inmate residing at the confirmed facility, I personally request that if we are considering the fact fees are being paid for sexual intercourse with female gaurds, I request decent and clean agender amoungst the prison population."

While the above message is disturbing to say the least, it is clear that if there is any truth regarding the price prisoners have to pay prison guards for sex then one can conclude that sex in prison is rather expensive even though it's illegal. Efforts made to reach Prison Director Edward Rohan on Monday for a comment by telephone proved futile.

Some months ago the Prison Director Edward Rohan and his colleagues showed reporters at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall the amount of items they confiscated during spontaneous searches at the prison facilities. One of the items that was confiscated is a "sex toy – plastic vagina". When reporters asked the Prison Director why that item was confiscated since conjugal visits are not allowed in the prison and the item in question cannot harm anyone, Rohan said that too was an illegal item and if a prisoner wants something like that they have to request it.

swescotwilliamstourssmdfoffices24022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Honorable Prime Minister, Sarah Wescot - Williams paid a courtesy visit to the recently completed offices of the St. Maarten Development Fund Foundation at the Yogesh Commercial Complex.

The Prime Minister was given an overview of the activities of the Foundation to date and the organization forecasted.

On 27th September 2011 the National Ordinance on judicial establishment of paternity has been accepted by the Parliament. The National Ordinance shall enter into force on May 1st 2013.

Core of the National Ordinance on "Judicial establishment paternity."
In normal cases a child gets a legal father because it is born within the marriage or because it is acknowledged. If that is not the matter, then the child is legally fatherless.
A fatherless child may not inherit from the biological father (natural father), not obtain his nationality, etc.

Who may file a request for judicial establishment of paternity?
In accordance with the new regulation the child may, if it is younger than 12 years, the mother or the Court of Guardianship may request the Court to judicially establish the paternity of the natural father.
However, the Court of Guardianship may not make a request if the mother opposes this. The natural father himself may, if the mother does not give him permission to acknowledge the child, request the Court to grant him alternative permission.
This thus has the same effect as a judicial establishment of the paternity. However, the difference exists that the Court will not grant the natural father any alternative permission if as a result of that the interest of the child would be harmed.
Condition for a judicial establishment of the paternity is that the child is fatherless.
If the child has a legal father who is not his biological father, it must first have the legal paternity affected via the Court.

Period for submission of request for establishment of paternity
For filing of a request for judicial establishment of the paternity no expiry date applies.
Also after the natural father has died judicial establishment of his paternity may be requested. Indeed in that case the Court may limit the claims according to the law of inheritance of the child if it is a matter of a specific hardship for the widow or the other children. This also applies if the man has died more than five years before the request a judicial establishment of the paternity according to the law of inheritance has no consequences.
For the rest the judicial establishment of the paternity indeed has the consequences of the paternity.

Assuming name of the child in case of establishment and in case of acknowledgment
What concerns the name of the child it applies that a judicial establishment has the same consequences as an acknowledgment. In case of acknowledgment as well as in case of a judicial establishment of the paternity the child who is younger than 16 years in principle keeps the name of the mother unless the parents jointly choose for the name of the father or for a combination of names (name of the mother followed by the name of the father or name of the father followed by the name of the mother).
If the child is 16 years or older it makes its own name choice.

Minister of Justice
R.E. Duncan

Great Bay:--- "We were not demonstrating against anybody or anything; we were just having a lovely stroll through Memory Lane, seeing what Front Street looks like today as opposed to what it was back then," said Mary Rogers, one of the dozens of senior citizens of the Home Away From Home Foundation who took part in a walk along Front Street that ended at the Government Administration Building Friday, February 22, 2013. The walk was sponsored by TelEm Group of Companies.
Explaining the purpose of the walk, Foundation President, Patsy Flanders said strange as it may sound, "a lot of our seniors have not been through Philipsburg and Front Street in particular for a long time."
"We want to keep them as fit as possible," Flanders continued. "They were happy to walk through Philipsburg. People were excited to see more than 30 senior citizens in wheel-chairs strolling down Front Street. We didn't have enough wheel-chairs."
"Thanks to TelEm for their support," Flanders said. "They were our biggest sponsor."
The group of senior citizens were accompanied along the route by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, Minister of Health, Dr. Cornelius de Weever, President of Parliament, drs. Rodolphe Samuel and Independent Member of Parliament, Romain Laville amongst others. Members of the Voice Of Our Children Foundation helped push the wheel-chairs during the walk.
The group stopped at the St. Rose Arcade where they were treated to refreshments donated by TelEm, while children from the Oranje School and St. Joseph School serenaded them with songs.
It was the first time an event of this nature was organized by the Foundation, confirmed Flanders.
"I want to do this every year, with God's help," she said. "We want to be able to block off the whole of Front Street next time."
The seniors are ready to repeat the walk "tomorrow self," Flanders said, adding: "they like to be active."
Echoing the sentiments of the rest of the group, Ms. Rogers described the outing as "very good and interesting."
"I would like to see it continue," she said, admitting that initially she had expressed some skepticism about the idea. "I'll do it again for sure."

PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and stakeholders of the Cul de Sac Basin, Cay Hill and Little Bay, are reminded to attend the second town hall meeting with respect zoning/development plans of the aforementioned for Monday, February 25 at 7:00pm to 9:30pm. The meeting will take place at the Belair Community Center.

The first public town hall meeting was held back in September 2012. The main topics of the draft development plan are traffic (roads and other infrastructure), tourism (tourism and recreation), industry (commercial, industrial), residential (housing, public spaces and facilities), nature (ecology, landscape and water), culture (cultural heritage and archaeology).

Attendees will be informed about the proposals from the Ministry with respect to zoning of Cul de Sac Basin, Cay Hill and Little Bay based on suggestions made in the first public meeting.

The presentation on Monday evening includes a proposal of a new urban sub core; mixed neighborhoods where housing is concerned, the creation of a village centre/heart in the Cul de Sac Basin.

Also part of the discussion among many other issues on Monday evening are drainage issues and flood risks, green hills and mangroves.

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI) is developing the legal framework for possible future development; to designate and/or reserve land for desired use; to prevent uncontrolled development; and to offer legal security to residents about future development.

The meeting is part of the process of drafting "development plans" for country Sint Maarten.

smdfpresentationtocom24022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The St. Maarten Development Fund Foundation ("SMDF") delivered a presentation to the Council of Ministers on Thursday, February 13, at the Dr. Claude Wathey Legislative Hall. At the conclusion of the presentation, the President of the Board, Richelda Emmanuel presented to the members of Council of Ministers a copy of the Policy Plan titled "Contributing to A Society that Cares," prepared by the SMDF for the period 2013 to 2023.

The presentation included the background of formation of the SMDF in May 2012, the history of project and program funding in Sint Maarten and the Netherlands Antilles by several funding agencies, several reports and documents compiled over the years with respect to Non-Governmental Organizations, funding and conclusions drawn, the social needs in the Sint Maarten community, target groups in the community and the expected void created due to the loss of AMFO, Reda Sosial and other Dutch Development Aid as NGO funding agencies.

The presentation was well received by the Ministers in attendance. Present were the Honorable Prime Minister, Sarah Wescot – Williams, Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports, Hon. Sylveria Jacobs, Minister of Finance, Hon. Roland Tuitt, Minister of Justice, Hon. Roland Duncan, Minister of VROMI, Hon. William Marlin and Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, Hon. Cornelius De Weever.

As well in attendance representing the Sint Maarten Development Fund was Joy Arnell, Vice President of the Board and Keith Franca, Interim Director.

The Sint Maarten Development Fund will be operational towards mid-April contingent on the current 2013 budgetary approval process.

The Foundation has offices at the Yogesh Commercial Complex Unit 1-H.

cftseminaroncorporategovernance24022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The seminar: "Checks and Balances in Corporate Governance on Curaçao", which was held on Thursday February 21st in Kurá Hulanda on Curaçao, was visited by more than 125 interested directors, accountants and other participants. The seminar was organized by (College financieel toezicht - Cft), the Foundation Bureau for Supervision and Standardization Government Entities (Stichting Bureau Toezicht en Normering Overheidsentiteiten - SBTNO) and the Dutch Caribbean Accountants Association (DCAA) with the objective to enhance the awareness concerning the Corporate Governance Code and to shed light on the obligations of governmental corporations and foundations, amongst others the controller function of the external accountant.

The participants received ample information on the Ordinance Corporate Governance and the Corporate Governance Code from the speakers Erik van Engelen and Marloes Kempes (Cft), Donald de Palm (SBTNO), André Delger (DCAA) and guest speaker Karel Frielink. Chairman of the seminar was Etienne Ys. Specifically the task, responsibilities and competencies of the three company parties (shareholders, Board of Directors and management) were discussed. The functioning of these parties within the margins of their responsibilities and competences was emphasized. The independent role of particularly the members of the Board of Directors, who should act without mandate or instruction of the one who appointed them, was discussed extensively. Also the limitation of possible interference by the shareholder received a great deal of attention.

It can be concluded that cooperation between all parties and entities involved is of great importance for a sound implementation of the Code and compliance with the Ordinance and the Code. Moreover, considering the experiences gained, an evaluation of the code is recommendable. The Ordinance Corporate Governance and the Corporate Governance Code can be downloaded on www.cft.an and www.sbtno.org.

rodolphesamuelatzionmethodistchurch24022013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel recently was recognized by the Zion Methodist Men with a Vision organization.

President Samuel was recognized for his contribution to the enhancement of the country's community.

rduncan17072012Philipsburg:--- The Director General of Police Affairs from the Ministry of Justice in the Netherlands Dick Schoof held meetings with the Minister of Justice of St. Maarten Roland Duncan and Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte over the weekend to hammer out some of the concerns St. Maarten has raised with its ICT system and the training of Police Officers.

Minister Duncan told SMN News on Sunday morning via a telephone interview that he met with the senior civil servant who was sent by the Minister of Justice of the Netherlands on Friday and Saturday to discuss the concerns St. Maarten has raised regarding the management of the ICT system and police training. During that meeting some of the issues regarding the budget of the RST were also discussed, Minister Duncan said that St. Maarten will not be participating in the BMS system which is managed by Curacao and that was agreed upon during the meeting with the Director General Dick Schoof.

Duncan said that St. Maarten managed to settle the problems regarding the ICT system which will be installed and managed by St. Maarten. He said he has agreed to share police information with Aruba, Curacao, and the BES but information on St. Maarten's visitors will be safeguarded and stored on St. Maarten and not in Curacao. St. Maarten's Minister of Justice said the Netherlands tried their best to spite St. Maarten when he decided that he will maintain his position regarding St. Maarten's information and the ICT system. He said while the Netherlands and a civil servant in Curacao took measures that hampered the island's security; no one ever took the time to listen to what St. Maarten wants for her country. "I know I was right with the decisions I took on safeguarding St. Maarten's visitors' information and the Director General who came here to discuss with St. Maarten has agreed with our position." Minister Duncan said that the Police will have a new web based system called the ACTPOL which is far better than the old one that was used by the former Netherlands Antilles, that system will also be managed and controlled by St. Maarten but there will be information sharing with Aruba, Curacao, and the BES islands. Basically, St. Maarten gets what she has been lobbying for its Justice Ministry and the Director General Dick Schoof understands St. Maarten's position and has agreed to them. With regards to the Detective Department, an agreement was reached where the St. Maarten Detective Department will have a separate system. The Minister did not share much information on the system that will be purchased for the detective department on St. Maarten.

Police Training to be done jointly.

On the issue of Police training, the Minister of Justice said that police officers who recently joined the KPSM will have to undergo a two year training program which will take place on St. Maarten, the BES islands, and the Netherlands. That training program is called the BPO which is the basic police training. All BAVPOLERS working with KPSM will have to undergo this training program, the Minister of Justice told SMN News. He said these officers would have to spend at least one month in the Netherlands where they would participate in an examination and if they pass they will be certified.

RST Budget to be Discussed again in June 2013.

With regards to the 2013 budget of the RST which is not yet approved by the three Ministers of Justice from St. Maarten, Aruba, and Curacao, Minister Duncan said he relayed St. Maarten's concerns on the budget of the RST to the Director General Dick Schoof and he also understands St. Maarten's position regarding the RST. He said that the three Ministers of Justice will meet again on June 27th, 2013 to further discuss the budget of the RST. Minister Duncan said Curacao now has to relay the concerns they have with the 2013 budget of the RST while it does not seem as though Aruba has much problems with the RST and the budget they presented. At this time Duncan said he does not know if they will approve the RST budget in their next meeting but one thing he said happened is that the Director General of Ministry of Justice of the Netherlands completely understands St. Maarten's position. Minister Duncan said besides these issues there were other matters that were discussed during the two day meetings all of which yielded positive results in the interest of St. Maarten, its people, and the economy.

While the meetings took place on Friday and Saturday, the agreements between St. Maarten and the Netherlands were signed sometime Saturday night, St. Maarten's Minister of Justice confirmed.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Financial Intelligence Unit (MOT) of the Ministry of Justice has relocated from the Puerta Del Sol Complex in Cole Bay to a new location on Back Street.

The office is now located at: Deltonice (Photo Gumbs) Building, Third Floor, Backstreet #65; new telephone numbers: 543-0825, 643-0826, new Fax: 543-0828; www.fiu-sxm.net

The relocation took place on February 22. Set-up will continue on Monday, February 25. MOT will be officially open for business on Tuesday, February 26.

wmarlinatetiennemeyersfuneral23022013Sucker Garden:--- Residents and citizens both young and old made their way to the Royal Funeral Home on Saturday morning to bid farewell to the late Etienne Hubert Meyers who passed away on his 67th wedding anniversary which was February 14th, 2013. Among those that attended the funeral was Governor Eugene Holiday and First Lady Marie Louise Holiday, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, former Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the United Peoples Party Theodore Heyliger, President of Parliament Rodolphe Samuel, Members of Parliament George Pantophlet, Dr. Lloyd Richardson, Dr. Ruth Douglass, Johan Janchi Leonard, former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards, the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Alain Richardson and Senator Louis Constant Fleming. Other well known persons such as former Mayor Albert Fleming and his wife Josianne Fleming, founder of the United St. Martin Movement (USM) Daniella Jeffry, Judge Wally Haverthong, and former Chief of Police Derrick Holiday along with several police officers who are now retired attended the home going ceremony of the late Etienne Meyers who made major contributions to his country during his lifetime.

The late Etienne Meyers served in the Dutch Colony Militia "The Scotterj" while he lived in Aruba, he joined the Police Force of the former Netherlands Antilles on February 12, 1948. He gave 37 years of his life to the Police Force as an "Onder Inspecteur". Later he wrote the police examination and passed with flying colors. The late Etienne Hubert Meyers attained the title of Chief of Police in St. Maarten and Statia where he also lived for some years, Chief Immigration Officer at the Princess Juliana International Airport, and Captain of the Boys Brigade in the 1970's. The late Etienne Hubert Meyers was also knighted by Oranje of Nassau for his achievements and the years of service he gave to the Militia and Police Force. He was also the Chief Security Officer at the Princess Juliana International Airport until he retired in 1988. The late Meyers then opened a security company and obtained a contract to secure the La Samanna Hotel on the French side of the island.

horsehearse23022013His son, former Minister of TEATT Franklin Meyers read his father's eulogy and in that presentation he said while his mother the late Methodist Minister Eulalie Meyers who passed away two years ago gave her life to the world, the community and the eight children that the late Etienne Meyers fathered, but he was there for them even when they were ill at night.

Even though there was a huge crowd inside and outside of the Royal Funeral Home, the children of the late Etienne Meyers were not shy in showing their emotions for their late father, all of whom took care of him equally his son Franklin Meyers told the gathering. His body was taken by the Royal Funeral Home Horse carriage to the Cul de Sac cemetery where he was laid to rest.

Click here to view more photos of the Home Going Ceremony of the late Etienne Hubert Meyers.

ministryofhealthrepsmeetwithcpos22022013Philipsburg:--- On Friday February 22nd, representatives from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor headed by Mrs. Maria Henry held a discussion with several CPOs at the Philipsburg Police Station. The main purpose of this discussion was to form a partnership between both departments along with other stakeholders in combating and minimizing the mosquito and rodent population on the island of Sint Maarten thereby reducing the risk of the dengue fever and other diseases.
The discussion was very informative and the CPOs were more than happy to form a partnership with the Health Department supporting this initiative. A presentation by the Public Health Department is forthcoming and meetings will be held with the other stakeholders in the very near future in regard to this topic.

deadfishingreatsaltpond22022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Due to a lack of circulation in the Great Salt Pond near an area where work is being carried out, a large number of fish have died due to the lack of oxygen. Residents and other persons are strongly advised to leave the fish, do not take them home to cook as the fish are not fit for human consumption. The Ministry of Public Health has received reports of individuals fishing in the area.

A clean-up operation has been initiated after inspections were carried out by the Inspectorate and Ministry VROMI.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and stakeholders of the Cul de Sac Basin and Cay Hill, are invited to the second town hall meeting for Monday, February 25 at 7:00pm to 9:30pm. The meeting will take place at the Belair Community Center.

The first public town hall meeting as it relates to the Greater Philipsburg area, Suckergarden and Over the Pond is scheduled for Tuesday, February 26. Residents and stakeholders should make every opportunity to attend the meeting. The venue of the meeting is at the University of St. Martin (USM) starting 7:00pm until 9:30pm.

Attendees will be informed about the proposals from the Ministry with respect to zoning of the aforementioned areas.

The Ministry would like to get the public's views and ideas as it pertains to development so that these can be also incorporated as much as possible.

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI) is developing the legal framework for possible future development; to designate and/or reserve land for desired use; to prevent uncontrolled development; and to offer legal security to residents about future development.

The meeting is part of the process of drafting "development plans" for country Sint Maarten.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports (ECYS) of Parliament will be meeting February 28.

The Permanent Committee ECYS meeting is scheduled for Thursday afternoon at 4:15pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda for the meeting is the courtesy visit of the Rector Magnificus mr dr. Francis B.G. de Lanoy, of the University of the Netherlands Antilles (UNA).

The meeting was requested by the President of UNA.

The Permanent Committee ECYS is Chaired by Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Romain Laville, Vice Chair MP Hon. Louie Laveist, MP Hon. Petrus Leroy De Weever, and MP Hon. Sylvia Meyers.

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

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

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

Philipsburg:--- The Chairman of the Corporate Governance Council (CGC) submitted their advice to the Government of St. Maarten on January 24th, 2013 regarding the five members that they were asked to issue an advice on who were selected to become members of the Board of the Voluntary Korps (VKS) which is yet to be established.

According to reliable information reaching SMN News, the two names that were submitted by the Government of St. Maarten to be board members are Police Chief Inspector Antonio "Anthony" Rogers and Emilia Thomas. In their advice the Corporate Governance Council rejected Emilia Thomas simply because she is a staff member of the Prime Minister's cabinet and having her on the board of any foundation or organization would not be in the interest of that organization since persons that are part of any Minister's cabinet and on these boards would not have an arm's length position when taking decisions. In the case of Chief Inspector Antonio Rogers, the CGC issued a positive advice for him to become a board member of the VKS Management Team. SMN News published other articles earlier this month where the outgoing Commander Jean Illidge said he recommended Rogers to be his successor because he worked with Rogers in the past and knows his capabilities. When contacted on Friday, Illidge said the recommendation he gave for Rogers was to be the future Commander of the VKS and not a member of the Management Team. Illidge also confirmed to SMN News that he submitted the name of Franklyn Richards to be a member of the board.

According to the rules and articles of incorporation, the CGC can only issue an advice on persons that were recommended by Government. Therefore, they could not issue an advice on the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein who was recommended by the Attorney General's Office (Dick Piar), Bastian Bolt who was recommended by the Regional Command (Governor's Office), and former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards who was recommended by the VKS outgoing Commander Jean Illidge.

SMN News also reported that Chief Inspector Antonio Rogers would have been appointed as Commander of the VKS based on the advice given to the Prime Minister, but now that Rogers' name has been submitted as a member of the Management Team and he was approved by the CGC, he cannot be appointed Commander unless he resigns from the board if not there would be a conflict of interest.

Up to this moment it is not yet clear how the Prime Minister will proceed with the appointment of the members of the VKS Foundation which has to be established now that St. Maarten is a country. This Management Team is the one tasked with appointing a commander and if the foundation is not established then they will not be in a legal position to appoint anyone as commander. The current commander Jean Illige is due to leave the VKS on February 28th, 2013 when he goes on pension.

The Police Department would like to inform the general public and mainly the school bus drivers and parents, that in connection with an ongoing project to alleviate the traffic congestion that occurs every weekday morning in the Sint Peters, Betty's Estate, Ebenezer, and Saunders areas when children are transported to school, the following measures should be taken. As of Monday February 25th, all parents and school bus drivers dropping off children at the MAC School in Betty's Estate should no longer drop them off in front of the school but take them to the open lot of land next to the former Shell Gas Station, which was prepared solely for that purpose. From that area the children will be guided to the school premises. Your cooperation will be highly appreciated in making this project a success.

KPSM Public Announcement

silveriajacobs22022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The first ever National Primary School Interscholastic Olympiad was held from February 18th to the 20th 2013.

The Ministry of Sports as well as parents, teachers and participating schools deemed the Olympiad a success. The goal of the Olympiad is to increase the number of sports participants through the country and to use sports as a tool to promote social well-being and excellence.

Seven primary schools participated in the Olympiad i.e. The Methodist Agogic Center, Marie Genevieve de Weever School, Ruby Labega, CIA, Learning Unlimited, Leonard Conner School, St. Dominic Primary, Oranje School, Hillside Christian Schools, Sr. Regina Primary school, Sr. Magda Primary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, Charles Leopold Bell School.

The sports events that were presented were Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Track & Field and Soccer which took place at the various sports locations on the island.

The overall winner is The Hillside Christian School. Overall second place went to the Martin Luther King Jr. School and third place was awarded to the Methodist Agogic Center Rev. John A Gumbs Campus.

The Sportsmanship Award went to the Methodist Agogic Center Browilia F. Maillard Campus which also has the most athletes participating.

The Female MVP is Tasha Mauvais of the Martin Luther King School. The Male MVP is Deandro Ferdinand of the Ruby Labega School.

Based on the success of this Olympiad the Ministry of Sports would like to encourage schools to prepare for the coming year.

On Monday February 25th to the 27th the Olympiad for the Secondary schools will commence. We look forward to another successful three days of the Interscholastic Olympiad, Minister Hon. Silveria Jacobs said on Friday.

rodolphesamuelandcatholicyouthgroup22022013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel recently addressed the Catholic La Salette Youth Prayer Group.

The Catholic Church prayer group meets every 1st and 3rd Saturday to pray and discuss religious issues such as the Lady of La Salette. They also learn more about the Catholic faith and Catechism. The age range of the group is from four to 18.

Professionals from the community are invited to speak with the prayer group to share their knowledge and experience with the children. The children are also taken on excursions.

naturalizationceremony22022013Dawn Beach:--- On Friday February 22, 2013, a total of 108 persons took the pledge of allegiance before His Excellency, Governor Eugene B. Holiday during the naturalization Ceremony which took place at The Westin Dawn Beach Resort and Spa. The pledge of allegiance, as being expressed in either taking an oath or making a promise, is the final mandatory step in the process of obtaining the Dutch nationality.

Governor Holiday in addressing the gathering, explained that naturalization or option is a legal process under the Dutch Kingdom Law whereby a person may be granted Dutch Citizenship. Obtaining the Dutch nationality, through naturalization or option, is a special and transformative moment in a person's life. A moment following a long legal and administrative process. A process of meeting a number of statutory requirements, including those related to residency, parental ties, "good conduct"; a process of demonstrating an attachment to the social and cultural values of Sint Maarten and a process of proving knowledge of the constitutional principles upon which the Dutch Kingdom and St. Maarten are based.

Stating that the 108 persons come from 18 different nationalities with varying backgrounds, Governor Holiday addressing the gathering emphasized: "In the context of the St. Maarten community it is the start of a new chapter in your life. For the younger ones among you St. Maarten may well be all you know and this day will be a confirmation of your relation with the St. Maarten Community. For the older ones among you, today is truly a new beginning. It is my hope that for all of you it will be a journey of growth towards a stronger St. Maarten." As a result Governor Holiday advised the new citizens as they begin this journey: to respect and hold dear the St. Maarten Song, oh Sweet St. Maarten land, to salute the St. Maarten Flag and Dutch Flag, to observe and celebrate St. Maarten's day, to acquaint themselves with St. Maarten's history and customs; and to seek to serve their new country.

After the ceremony, Governor Holiday congratulated the new citizens who had obtained their Dutch nationality in a more personal way during a reception.

Press Release from the Governor's Cabinet

greatsaltpondillustration22022013MARIGOT/GREAT BAY:--- The calendar honoring the 165th anniversary of St. Martin's Emancipation will be launched on Saturday, February 23, at Philipsburg Jubilee Library, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

The 2013 desk calendar will be given as a gift to all who attend the 22nd annual Black History Celebration Lecture program, which starts at 8 PM.

Produced by CLF in collaboration with Artsen Service Center, the calendar features illustrations of Maroon heroine One-Tété Lohkay, the frontier monument, the Great Salt Pond, and saltpickers in the Grand Case Salt Pond; and highlights history dates from St. Martin and other parts the world.

Dr. Maria Cijntje-van Enckevort will deliver the keynote address at the lecture, which has as its theme this year, "Labor, the cradle of our civilization." A historian and educator, Cijntje-van Enckevort is an expert on Surinamese trade unionist Otto Huiswoud.

Dr. Cijntje-van Enckevort will also critically address key aspects of St. Martin and Caribbean labor history from the books of Joseph H. Lake Jr., George Lamming, and Aimé Césaire.

Guest artists at the history celebration program will include Shakiya Arrindell, singing a "Negro spiritual," and Stephen Rodney, reading his poetry.

danielhodgeandmikefrancovisitusfol22022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On Thursday morning, February 21, Commander of the U.S. Forward Operating Location (FOL), Lieutenant Colonel Tim Beers along with his staff and U.S. Consul General Valerie Belon hosted Prime Minister Daniel Hodge, Chair Parliament Mike Franco, and two other Curacao Government Ministers for a briefing and tour of the FOL.
Briefing PM Hodge, Parliament Chair Franco, Justice Minister Nelson Navarro, and Transportation Minister Earl Balborda, Lt.Col. Beers emphasized the exclusively counter-drug mission of the FOL supporting a multi-agency, multinational effort to combat illegal drug trafficking in the region.
Lt.Col. Beers also briefed the group on the significant contributions the FOL has made to the Hato International Airport including ramp and taxiway improvements, runway maintenance, training for airport firefighters, and programs to reduce the risk of bird strikes which can endanger aircraft. He also explained the large contributions the FOL makes to the local economy providing dozens of jobs and purchasing millions of dollars worth of goods and services locally as well as volunteer community service projects.
Consul General Belon emphasized how combating illegal drug trafficking is a common challenge of all countries of the region and the FOL plays an important role to detect, monitor, and hand-off suspect vessels and aircraft to local authorities. Information is shared so that, depending on the legal jurisdiction, the appropriate local authorities can interdict, apprehend, and prosecute drug trafficking crime all around the region. In 2012 alone, these efforts resulted in over US $3 billion worth of drug seizures.
After the briefing, PM Hodge, Chairman Franco and the others received a tour of the FOL facilities including a U.S. Air Force AWACs aircraft currently in Curacao to support counter-drug operations.

rolandduncanwithfrancodutchtreatycommittee22022013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told reporters at a brief press conference on Friday afternoon that the Franco–Dutch Treaty which was ratified by France and the Netherlands over 17 years ago will soon take effect on St. Maarten. Minister Duncan explained that a committee has been established to execute the Franco–Dutch treaty and Friday was the first time the committee met at the Immigration section of IND Building on A.T. Illidge Road. The Franco-Dutch treaty committee members from the Dutch side are Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein and Head of Immigration Udo Aron, from the French side the committee members are Vice Prosecutor Flavien Noailles and Director of the Police Aux Frontiers (PAF) Raphael Harley.

Minister Duncan said right now the committee is working out the plans they have in mind to have French Immigration Officers (PAF) at the Princess Juliana International Airport when there are flights coming to St. Maarten that are considered 'risk' flights. Dutch Immigration Officers will also be at the Grand Case (L' Esperance) Airport under the same conditions.

SMN News reporter asked the Minister of Justice and the members of the committee if it would be possible for French residents or French nationals to travel within French territories including St. Martin through PJIAE with their French Identification cards. Minister Duncan said that as a long as the PAF is at PJIAE they will check the travel documents of the persons going to the French side and if its valid and authentic then the person can use their French Identification cards. It should be noted that just over two years ago the French Hotel Association spoke out against the Dutch side who informed the French side that French travelers would have to travel with their passports and not identification cards.

The Minister of Justice explained that when the meetings are kept on the Dutch side of the island they will be chaired by Attorney General Taco Stein and when they are kept on the French side by Vice Prosecutor Flavien Noailles. The Minister said the booths at the Immigration check points at PJIAE have already been extended to accommodate their colleagues from the PAF. The committee is also tasked with working out the budget for the implementation of the Franco-Dutch treaty. Duncan said that there will be joint controls under the conditions of the Franco-Dutch treaty.

The committee will also be working on having immigration officers at the harbors but that is not yet in the place. Duncan said during the first phase of the project focus will be placed on the two airports, after that they will also work on joint policing since the law is already in place.

clarareyesandrudolphdavis21022013PHILIPSBURG:--- Under the theme "Grafting Roots: Passing on the Legacy", the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's (PJL) continues its Black History Month activities, with a dance workshop featuring Clara Reyes and Rudolph Davis on Saturday, February 23 from 12:00pm to 1:00PM.
The primary focus of the library's Black History Month activities is to shed light on achievements of St. Maarten's elders, who use their talent as an instrument for passing on the history, culture, and legacy of St. Maarten to the younger generations.
The Lady responsible for giving birth to St. Maarten's dance for Emancipation, the "Ponum ", and founder of Imbali Center for Creative Movement, Reyes has committed her life to educating countless of young, up-and-coming dancers in various dance forms. Her unwavering dedication to the development of dance on St. Maarten is unparalleled.
Reyes, with a keen eye for budding talent, was instrumental in encouraging the young dancer, Rudolph Davis, to pursue his passion for dance. Davis, as a result, now serves as dancer and instructor at the Imbali Center for Creative Movement and spreads St. Maarten's legacy of dance.
Reyes and Davis will be conducting a free workshop in dance for all ages in the Library's lobby on February 23, from 12:00 to 1:00pm. The general public is invited to attend. For more information please contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

chippieipadwinnerorlandolake21022013Philipsburg:--- Chippie announces the third and fourth winners of the iPad 3 sweepstake that the mobile provider is offering together with distribution partner Xtreme Machines. The third winner, Mr. Orrin Burgan of St. Eustatius will be receiving his iPad shortly and the fourth winner, St, Maarten resident Mr. Orlando Lake received his iPad this week. These winners follow two previous winners of a total of 5 potential winners of an Apple iPad. They won the tablet by saving their Xtreme Machine top-up receipts. Each receipt contains a letter and after saving all the letters necessary to spell 'APPLE I PAD 3' they were also confirmed to be winners of the sweepstake. 'There is 1 more iPad to be won at this moment. One person has already come in with their receipts and we are awaiting confirmation on if this is also a genuine win,' says UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. "We are happy to collaborate with our partner, Xtreme Machines to bring fantastic prizes to our customers. The holiday season is behind us, but we aren't about to stop with the gift-giving yet. The 33rd annual Heineken Regatta is coming up, and we will once again be offering our customers various extras leading up to and during this event. Our customers have a choice in whom they select as their mobile provider and we want to show them that we appreciate their good custom; whether it is through our sweepstake, free credit giveaways or otherwise, we want to show our appreciation. Chippie is celebrating its 10 year anniversary on St. Maarten all year and we want to show our appreciation to the customers that have helped make that possible," Lambert continued.

Please be informed that due to works that has to be carried out by GEBE NV, to upgrade their high tension network with approximately 24 high tension cables, a section of the ring road area used for public parking will be partially closed off. The work will start on Friday the 22nd February, 2013 up until Sunday evening the 24th February, 2013.
Motorists are asked to pay keen attention to this section of the ring road when using it for machinery and workers.

The Ministry of VROMI apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- The Board of financial supervision (College financieel toezicht - Cft), the Foundation Bureau for Supervision and Standardization Government Entities (Stichting Bureau Toezicht en Normering Overheidsentiteiten - SBTNO) and the Dutch Caribbean Accountants Association (DCAA) are organizing a seminar on Thursday afternoon February 21st 2013 at the Kurá Hulanda, titled: "Checks and Balances in Corporate Governance op Curaçao". The objective of the seminar is to enhance the awareness concerning the Corporate Governance Code and to shed light on the obligations of governmental corporations and foundations. The controller function of the external accountant will also be discussed.

Speakers
During the seminar various speakers from the respective organizations will be discussing topics concerning the theme. On behalf of the Cft, Erik van Engelen and Marloes Kempes will be giving a presentation about the role of the financial supervisor with regard to Corporate Governance. Donald de Palm (SBTNO) will be discussing the tasks and activities of the SBTNO and the obligations of the government and the entities in this. André Delger (DCAA) will explain the role of the external accountant, the legal task resulting from the Code and the importance of a uniformity approach and reporting by the different accounting offices. Guest speaker Karel Frielink will conclude with a speech concerning the present and future of the Code.

Interest
Cft, SBTNO, and DCAA have common interests for stimulating compliance with the regulation and the Code and also achieve a spin-off with the organizing of this seminar. For Cft this concerns the improvement of the compliance with the Corporate Governance rules and regulations; SBTNO focuses on the enhancement of the knowledge and awareness for directors and commissioners in the area of Corporate Governance rules and regulations in general and specifically for the controller function of the accountant; and for DCAA this means uniformity in the application of the rules and regulations and the usage of best practices and standardized text for reporting and declarations by its members.

Role of the organizers
Each of the three organizations has a different role concerning Corporate Governance. Cft has the role to identify and advise on the determination and execution of the budgets, the improvements of the financial management and the control over the total money loans. The SBTNO is an independent organization which by request or on own initiative gives advice to the Council of Ministers of Curaçao concerning the compliance with Corporate Governance on Curaçao. DCAA is an association which amongst other things stimulates its (accountant) members to execute their profession properly, safeguards the common interests of its members and promotes an interest in executing the accountancy profession, while it strives for good service in the area of financial reporting.

Register
The seminar will be held on Thursday February 21st, 2013 at the Kurá Hulanda from 13:30 – 17:30 hours. Entrance is free and the instruction language is Dutch. The seminar focuses especially on commissioners and directors of the governmental entities and accountants on Curaçao. Naturally other interested persons are also welcome. There are still a limited number of seats available. Interested persons can register on the Cft website (www.cft.an). The National Ordinance Corporate Governance and the Corporate Governance Code can be downloaded on www.sbtno.org. For more information, interested persons can send an e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Mount Zion Ladies Auxiliary Group will be hosting a POWER WALK-A-THON.
Date: Saturday March 9, 2013
Time: 5:00 AM sharp
Starting point: Le Grand Marche (Bush road)
Route: Start/Meeting point: Le Grand Marche-Church hill round-about A.J.C. Brouwers road -Welgelegen road-Link-One-Little Bay road-Kerkhof straat-Long wall road- A.Th.Illidge road- Middle Region road (End at the Mt. Zion Church yard).

Tickets: only $10,-- (incl.- a Power Breakfast)
For tickets or more information please call +1-721-5533719, looking forward to your participation.

SXM:--- iPhone and Android users are able to download THE ST MARTIN APP for free in the App Stores. This destination App provides comprehensive and current information about the whole island of St Martin & Sint Maarten like what happens and is interesting for visitors and locals.
The ST MARTIN APP contains extensive travel information, important phone numbers, history, where to eat, where to stay, and information on transportation, activities and main attractions. Also the st Martin App contains weekly updated events, promotions and special discount coupons. Handy features such as an exchange rate calculator, tip calculator and wheelchair accessible locations.
An innovative, fun and useful feature is Augmented Reality or 3D view. When you point your phone in a certain direction, like taking a picture, all poi's from concerning
category like restaurants and sights in that direction will pop up on your screen. Background information is obtained by clicking on the pop ups.
The App is published by CRAPPS (Caribbean Apps). CRAPPS is a DMO specialist and has various leading Destination Marketing Tools in the region. Because the
development of the app's take place over different countries, the products of CRAPPS are always up-to-date, innovative, focused on the needs of users and attractive to advertisers.
Although the development and operation of the app's takes place regionally, the app's are absolutely focused on the local market. There is a category 'Tips by Locals' where various residents mention their relationship with SXM and share their special places and experiences. The content and contacts are also managed by local colleagues.
In case of St. Martin/ Sint Maarten they have chosen to cover the whole island as one, but of course pay attention to the differences. Like the other destination applications the English version is also chosen for the username 'St Martin'. St Martin App pays special attention to local developments and events so that the app will be valuable for both locals and travelers. Updates of the apps are done automatically when connected with internet, without waiting or annoying reminders.
Because we move in a fast exploring 'Application World' the App will remain to be developed in the future. In the near future the webapp or htlm5version will be introduced for Blackberry and Window users and also for desktop PC. All versions can be used in English , French, Dutch, and Spanish.
Although al info and updates are free, it's important for the initiators that the APP offers a complete service that is supported by local businesses. Therefore  authorities and businesses get a free listing in the App, so that users can easily find them. Of course it is possible for companies to draw more attention and adjust more information with photos and info details of their website etc.
ST MARTIN APP will be introduced on several locations on the island from February 27th-March 10th with a Scan Me Action. A nice promo team will visit different
locations and besides sharing info about the app great prices can be won from sunset cruises, to car rental to Insel Air tickets to Curaçao.
Download the App or visit our website for more info about the Scan Me Action at www.stmartinapp.com.

lasanasekouandjacquelinesample21022013by Fabian Adekunle Badejo

ST. MARTIN, Caribbean:--- Thirty years ago, when Lasana M. Sekou started House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP), he was the only author the new publishing outfit had or could count on. Three decades later, HNP has established itself as a leading multi-media publishing house in the Caribbean with over 75 titles, including books by world renowned authors George Lamming, Kamau Brathwaite, and Amiri Baraka, to name just a few. However, its emphasis continues to be in developing St. Martin authors in consonance with its stated mission of a "critical development of the 'national literature' of St. Martin, North and South, as a natural part of the dynamic, world-class literatures of the Caribbean."

Although the book publishing division was established in New York in 1982, when Sekou was an undergraduate at Stony Brook University – literally in his dorm room – the idea of founding a publishing house was consolidated and the coining of the name "House of Nehesi" was settled on in 1980, with the completion of his second manuscript, For The Mighty Gods ... An Offering. HNP was registered as a Foundation in Philipsburg, St. Martin, in 1986

HNP's primary activity is the publishing of books for the adult/general readership and for the research/academic, scholastic, and children "markets" in areas that include literature, education, history, biography, tourism, and entertainment but that are not exclusive to these.

The island's only book publishing house, HNP has in the last 15 years embarked on a policy of simultaneously bringing out multi-lingual editions. It has published Lamming's groundbreaking essay Coming Coming Home in English, French, and Spanish. Other trilingual titles followed: Eva-Sion-s by Sherezada Luisa "Chiqui" Vicioso, an outstanding author and ambassador of the Dominican Republic; the seminal long poem Nativity by Sekou; and the English, Arabic, and Hebrew edition of Book of Sins by the Palestinian/Israeli Nidaa Khoury, considered "one of the major exponents of modernist Arab women writing."

These multi-lingual publications have become policy at HNP, the idea being that offering the work in the main languages of the Caribbean – with a determination to extend these to "nation languages" such as Kwéyòl, Haitian, and Papiamentu – would extend its domain of mediation and make it accessible immediately to a wider readership.

In other words, rather than wait – sometimes "eternally" – for a translated version of a book, the reader in the main linguistic zones of the region would have this in the same original tome. This cuts down the waiting time and makes comparisons possible of the original text with its translated versions. In an anniversary year message to Sekou last December, Chiqui Vicioso expresses what it might mean to the writer to be published in this manner: "You do not imagine how fortunate I have been to have been published by you. It is an invaluable literary reference."

This HNP policy is in accordance with the idea of bridging the linguistic gulf between the various countries and territories of the Caribbean. In this sense, it responds to an eminently Pan-Caribbean philosophy, aided by the linguistic plurality of St. Martin where English, Dutch and French are official languages, the first two in the Southern half of the island, still a Dutch territory and the last in the Northern portion, a territory of France. However, unofficially, Spanish is the second most spoken language on the island, after English, which Sekou has called the "nation tongue" of St. Martin.

While the institutions have not yet been established to tap into the "linguistic versatility" of the average St. Martiner – a term coined by linguist Dr. Rhoda Arrindell, HNP has already begun to systematically make use of this resource in a pioneering way that could become the norm in the Caribbean, if the necessary structures are put in place.

"The experience of House of Nehesi Publishers and its impact on the development of literature and reading on St. Martin is illustrative of why it is necessary to have our own publishing houses in the Caribbean," is a point I made in Salted Tongues: Modern Literature in St. Martin.

As a not-for-profit foundation, HNP, in the best of that Caribbean spirit of survival, has been able to navigate through the suspicion and even distrust of officialdom to survive largely on its own creativity as St. Martin's leading book publishing house.

In relation to its work with authors, books, and seminars in St. Martin and other parts of the Caribbean and beyond, the great Brathwaite, in an anniversary tribute poem, calls HNP a "Guard-wall & guard-well" that is fostering "scimitars/of truth & light From islands to islands & the meaning/of mainland(s)."

Whether it is illustrated creatively or as hard news, HNP has actually become much more than a traditional book publishing outfit whose books have become compulsory and supplementary reading in schools and universities around the region, the USA, Canada, and the UK.

HNP, with its various multi-media divisions – a recording label, a film/video production unit, editing services and a communication consultancy arm, has become an engine of cultural development and transformation in St. Martin. Thriving on the synergy between its various divisions, HNP's emphasis on quality products has set it aside as a giant in its field, notwithstanding its very limited resources and not-for-profit status.

Among its "compounding" activities are sponsoring and judging of children's poetry, essay, and photo contests; coordinating educational/historical fora such as the Marcus Garvey Centennial forum/awards ceremony with the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and Idile Foundation, the 1994 workshop/lecture by George Lamming, and the 1994 constitutional pre-Referendum forum. HNP was involved with co-directing the "Traditions" theater festivals in the 1980s with St. Maarten Council on the Arts, and in directing and co-sponsoring manifestations for the Youth Explorers (teenage drama group).

Other activities that HNP has engaged in include co-sponsoring the school vacation motivational workshops, "In Session with the Youth" (2001); and the annual St. Martin Book Fair with Conscious Lyrics Foundation for the last ten years. In 2003, HNP organized a Creative Writing Program, which produced a collection of short stories and poetry written by the participants and edited by Rhoda Arrindell.

Similarly, HNP spearheaded the first traditional Boardwalk Mas, which it organized on behalf of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in 2005. HNP published its first eBook in 2012, and plans to bring a few more online during the 30th anniversary production period that will stretch to August 2013. HNP also plans to publish an anthology of some 20 of St. Martin's mostly new generation poets in 2013.

The Fête recording by Tanny & The Boys, National Symbols of St. Martin, St. Martin Massive!, and Yvette's cookbook, already in its third printing since being launched at the 2011 book fair, are all HNP publications that have become iconic of St. Martin culture. The hurricane book is still in production. The scripting, additional interviews, editing, and DVD design and production of the Ponum dance documentary film is still on hold – mostly for lack of funds. In 1997, the highly successful fundraising under the auspices of then Lt. Gov. Dennis Richardson and first lady Mariolijn Richardson paid for the Ponum choreography that HNP commissioned to Clara Reyes, provided the honorarium for the dance experts, and afforded the cost to stage and film the choreography and various footage.

In 2011, HNP opened the "Petition to Protect the Great Salt Pond" and plans to present over 1,200 collected signatures to Parliament in 2013. In fact, there is no area of cultural expression that HNP has not been involved in, including art exhibitions, socio-educational forums, reading/writing stimulation programs, "book parties" and other promotional activities for books it has published.

Sekou refers to HNP as "a network organization." When it comes to its publishing division alone, the company's project-driven aspect kicks into gear at the start-up of each book project. Upwards to 15 people and companies are coordinated by Sekou, thus his title of projects director, a title that I still think is a bit too modest.

HNP president Jacqueline Sample often advises Sekou, "If someone brings you a paper clip during a production, say 'Thank you' and give them due credit." There's also a fondness and respect that Sekou expresses mostly in private for the authors, illustrators, graphic artists, editors, proofers, photographers, the book party "committee" and guests, book buyers and supporters, patrons of the arts, and printers, that he rarely gets an opportunity to speak about publicly. He truly feels that he has not yet found the best way or perhaps not enough ways to thank them for making HNP possible.

HNP has received awards in recognition of its contributions in numerous areas. These include a World Tourism Day Award (2001) from the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, the UNESCO prize "For Mother Language" (2006), and the Cultural Organization of the Year ACT Award 2010 from Culture Time radio program.

The first 30 years of what Lamming has called elsewhere, "The audacity of the adventure of House of Nehesi Publishers," can be described as "a journey of faith." Faith in the abundant talent of St. Martin. Faith in the power of the written word as a transformative text within the context of nation building and Caribbean unity. Faith in the collaborative efforts of those who share a similar vision to overcome financial handicaps. Faith, in the end, in the genius of mankind to shape his destiny with the tools available to him.

williammarlin20022013Philipsburg:--- Deputy Prime Minister who is also the Minister of VROMI William Marlin made some clarifications regarding the verbal stop order he issued on the filling of more sand at the FOGA pond for the construction of the Ring Road. Marlin said in November 2012 he approved the filling of more sand in the area of the FOGA pond for two reasons. Marlin said those reasons are the ring road alignment needs more sand for its completion also for the eastern section of the FOGA pond which is the back the Melford Hazel Sports Auditorium where the emergency homes are located. Marlin said the intention is for the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SHDF) to begin construction of 32 homes in that area. The VROMI Minister said SHDF already mounted a sign in the area launching the construction of the additional homes. Marlin made clear that the intention is not to fill the pond but they intend to raise the elevation where the homes are to be constructed.

Marlin said that he received a phone call from the head of New Projects Kurt Ruan when he was off island informing him that he will be moving the sand from the harbor to the FOGA on that day. He said because there was a difference of opinion between the director of SHDF and Ruan, he told Ruan not to move any sand until he gets back to St. Maarten where they will further discuss the matter. "When I told the SHDF director that they were going to move the sand to the FOGA pond, Lynch told him not to place the sand in the area now because it would create a problem with the construction of the 32 homes." Marlin said that was the only reason he told Kurt Ruan to wait until he gets back to St. Maarten so that a proper solution could have been found. Marlin said the discussion took place and a decision has been taken on moving the sand from the harbor to the FOGA pond.

Marlin said that the intention is to raise the elevation where the homes will be built so that the new homes will be at a higher elevation than the existing homes.
Marlin further explained that the department of VROMI is also working on upgrading the trenches in the area starting from where former commissioner Patricia Flanders is living. He said the project went on bid and four contractors submitted their bids but the lowest bid was submitted by Millennium PRO and the department of New Projects is in discussion with them on the upgrading of the trenches in that area. Marlin said as soon as the budget of 2013 is approved and government has access to the capital of the budget then this project will kick off. This project involves the upgrading of the trenches, the construction of a new road, drainage on both sides where the homes are to be built, also drainage in the back of the existing emergency homes.

Another project the VROMI Minister said will soon start is the construction of 38 boundary walls in Middle Region. Marlin said when the upgrading of the Middle Region road took place some walls were removed for the construction and government recently put that project on bid and the lowest bidder was Designers Choice. He said that government had an agreement with 38 home owners who agreed to move their boundary for the construction of the road and sidewalks and the agreement was government will build a new boundary wall. He said very shortly the construction of the walls will take place on the West side of Middle Region heading to the Tamarind tree.

The Deputy Prime Minister said that this Friday a bid will be launched for the final upgrade of the Dutch Quarter main road. The VROMI Minister said when he took office last year he did some emergency paving which was temporary work on the Dutch Quarter main road to grant the residents of that area some relief.

The final upgrading he said is expected to start in the month of June when the school vacation starts and it is expected to last at least five months. The final surfacing of the Dutch Quarter main road will consist of a main sewage line, the construction of side-walks, modern day street lighting along with street and landscaping. Marlin said secondary sewage lines will also be placed in the inner roads which would give home owners the opportunity to hook up their sewage which would then lead to the main sewage line. Marlin said when the project is completed the running sewage water in Dutch Quarter will come to an end. Marlin further explained that the designs for link two are being worked on. This link will be from Zagersgut road to L.B. Scot Road next to the Cake House supermarket. He said shortly the construction of that link will also go on bid. Marlin said his Ministry is also working on the design of link six which will start in French Quarter and end by the St. Dominic School in South Reward.

Marlin said now that the budget is almost finalized, government can begin floating the bonds for the capital side of the budget to execute the projects that were in the pipeline.

On 27th September the National Ordinance on joint custody has been accepted by the Parliament. The National Ordinance shall enter into force on 1st May 2013.

Core of Joint Custody
During marriage the parents have joint custody of the minor children. From now on (henceforth) the general rule shall be that this remains so after divorce.
Joint custody has as advantage that both parents can better appeal to their sense of responsibility towards the child. Only in cases that joint custody is harmful for the child will the Court charge one of the parents with the sole custody after divorce.

Child born out of wedlock
When it concerns a child born out of wedlock, then the mother has sole custody. The parents may, however, obtain joint custody by having an annotation placed in the custody register at the city hall (civil registry). They must both want that and the father must have acknowledged the child. If the unwed mother does not approve of joint custody, the father can request the Court to institute the joint custody. The Court will reject the request (petition) if joint custody is harmful for the child.
Condition is each time that the father has acknowledged the child. For that he needs the permission of the mother. Should the mother refuse to give permission for acknowledgment, then the father can request the Court for alternative permission. Alternative permission is denied if by the acknowledgment the interests of the child are harmed. Therefore should a father who has not acknowledged the child want to obtain joint custody against the will of the mother, then he shall have to request two permissions from the court: a permission to acknowledge and a permission for joint custody.

Besides, the national ordinance introduces a prohibition for parents, guardians and foster parents to apply spiritual or physical violence in the upbringing (education) or any other humiliating treatment. Child abuse is often disciplinary measures which got out of hand. If the law sets as standard that in the event of disciplinary measures no violence is used, such can maybe do its bit in the combating of child abuse. Also the International Convention with reference to the rights of the child prohibits the application of violence in the upbringing (education).

The Minister of Justice
R. E. Duncan

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on February 26 as the meeting about recent developments concerning the Postal Services of St. Maarten (PSS) is reconvened.

The Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams as shareholder representative is expected to be present along with representatives of the Supervisory Board.

The agenda point also includes the resignation of the Director of PSS.

The central committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson, Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

A Central Committee meeting with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan that was scheduled for February 21 was postponed on Thursday until further notice.

The two agenda points that were to be dealt with were crime fighting initiatives, crime statistics for 2012 as well as other relevant information; and an update regarding security and security companies in Sint Maarten.

The Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction. The initial meeting was first held on January 25. MP Hon. Gracita Arrindell from the UP faction presented a letter to the President of Parliament on behalf of the UP Interim Faction Leader MP Hon. Sylvia Meyers requesting the postponement.

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

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

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

swescotwilliamsreceivesbookletsfrompmia20022013Philipsburg:--- The president of the Philipsburg Mutual Improvement Association (PMIA) Glenderlin Davis Holiday with project coordinator Clayton Holiday and board member Marsha Thomas presented a set of seven booklets that were prepared by the PMIA to Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams. President of the PMIA Davis Holiday said that there were a number of speakers who gave lectures for the memorial of L.B. Scot.

Davis Holiday said the lectures have been taking place for the past eleven years, all of which are in the booklet. The seven booklets were for the seven members of the Council of Ministers.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and stakeholders are reminded about the second town hall meeting regarding hillside conservation areas for Thursday, February 21 at 7:00pm. The meeting will take place at the University of St. Martin (USM).

Attendees will be informed about the proposals from the Ministry with respect to zoning that also includes Geneve Bay area, Emilio Wilson Park, Belvedere Plantation, building possibilities, road network, cultural heritage, and public facilities.

The Ministry would like to get the public's follow-up views and ideas as it pertains to hillside conservation areas especially after the first public meeting was held back in April 2012.

The preservation of hillside conservation areas are to take into account landscape and scenery, ecology, cultural heritage, recreation, and tourism. The objective is to protect certain areas from development pressure. Development that will be allowed will be based on rules for density, height and excavations.

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI) is developing the legal framework for possible future development; to designate and/or reserve land for desired use; to prevent uncontrolled development; and to offer legal security to residents about future development.

The meeting is part of process of drafting of "development plans" for country Sint Maarten.

meyshanejohnson20022013Philipsburg:--- The Court of Appeals of Curacao, St. Maarten, Aruba, and the BES Islands in their decision rendered on Wednesday ruled that the main suspect in the brutal murder of Micheal and Thelma King, Meyshane Kemar Johnson will remain in custody for the duration of his trial. The decision was pronounced in St. Maarten even though the Appellate Court made the decision in Curacao.

Based on the decision rendered on Wednesday, the panel consisting of three judges said while the Attorney General Taco Stein stated that the suspect and his lawyer had no grounds to appeal. Stein asked the Court of Appeals to deem the appeal submitted by Johnson inadmissible. However, the Appeals Court found that the suspect (Johnson) was within his rights to appeal and the appeal was submitted on time therefore it is admissible.

The court believes that the suspect was within his rights to appeal the decision rendered by the Court of First Instance who ruled that the summons issued to Johnson on January 10th, 2013 was null and void.

The Appeals Court stated that even though the judge in the lower court ruled the summons null and void, the judge also used another part of the law which is article 105- 4 which allowed her to keep the suspect behind bars for a period of three weeks. The Appeals Court further explained in their decision that at the time when the judge ruled that the summons of January 10th, 2013 was null and void, the Attorney representing Johnson did not request his immediate release. The Appeals Court further explained that during that period of time a new summons was issued to the suspect for him to appear in court on January 17th, 2013.

Therefore, the Appeals Court rules that the pre-trial detention of Meyshane Kemar Johnson continues as of January 17th, 2013. Clearly from the decision rendered by the Appeals Court on Wednesday, Meyshane Kemar Johnson was kept in custody without a title or reason for a period which is from January 10th to 16th 2013.

Regarding the other two summons that Attorney Brooks asked the Appeal Court to declare inadmissible, the Court of Appeals states that they have no authority to make a decision on the other summons.

Based on the decision rendered by the Court of Appeals on Wednesday, Meyshane Kemar Johnson will remain in custody until the case is completed in the Court of First Instance and when the case reaches them for a second time, a decision will be taken on the legality of the three summons that were issued to Meyshane Kemar Johnson. When the decision was pronounced on Wednesday afternoon several members of the King family and some of their friends were in the court room.

Click here to view the decision rendered by the Court of Appeals on Wednesday.

deadbodyatchesterfieldsrestaurant20022013Philipsburg:--- Police and other law enforcement officers were called to Chesterfields Restaurant late Wednesday afternoon after the body of a black male was found in the water behind Chesterfields Restaurant. The boats from the Coast Guard and other law enforcement officials were on the scene recovering the body from the water. Part of the area was closed off by police as they removed the badly decomposed body.
Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed that the body of a black male was found in the water somewhere in the vicinity of Chesterfields Restaurant. Henson said he did not have the dead mans' identity but what he knew at the time was that the man is from one of the neighboring islands and he came to St. Maarten on one of the boats that bring produce to the island. Henson said the boat is currently anchored at Great Bay. The police spokesman said that the owner and other workers on the boat told the detectives they noticed that the man was acting strangely since Monday and sometime that same day he went missing. Henson said the owner of the boat filed a complaint with the IND department informing them that the man went missing. Currently an investigation into the man's death is underway. Reliable information reaching SMN News states that the man is from the island of St. VIncent.

 

newfinanceministryuniforms20022013Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt showcased the uniforms the personnel of the Finance Department will be wearing as of now. Minister Tuitt said government is trying its best to improve the image and the services of government to the community. Tuitt said to achieve that they are dealing with different aspects in different phases. He said one aspect is having programs in place to develop and upgrade the employees through education. Tuitt said they are also automating all the systems they can automate therefore they implemented e-government. He said in order for government to project a good image they also have to make it visible, therefore special uniforms were ordered for the staff of the Finance Ministry.

PHILIPSBURG:--- "I am very pleased that the Heineken Regatta organizers and stakeholders have added a new dimension to the 33rd Annual Heineken Regatta with the participation of 10 young people who will participate in the race.

"Our youths need to be stimulated and involved in various sports be it on land or on the water. Our country has much to offer and I am happy to see that our youth will partake in this event which is considered the premiere sailing event in this part of the Caribbean," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Wednesday.

The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, IGY Marinas, and St. Maarten Sailing School, joined in partnership to sponsor this programme whereby 10 youths will crew two boats and be at the start line of the regatta race.

The 33rd Heineken Regatta kicks off on February 28 and runs through March 3.

The 10 youth sailors, ages 16-19, are students at Milton Peters College, and will be sailing on a Catalina 36 named "Moondance," and a Beneteau 30 called "Vanille."

The young sailors have received training and are enrolled in a community service programme at St. Maarten Yacht Club.

"I would like to wish the 10 young people who have been given this opportunity much success in the yacht race next week.

"I also would like to use this opportunity to appeal to other young people out there to make use of this opportunity that is offered by the St. Maarten Sailing School with respect to learning how to sail among other related aspects," President Samuel concluded.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A Central Committee meeting with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan is still scheduled for February 21.

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

The two agenda points to be dealt with are what initiatives are being taken to fight crime, including receiving crime statistics for 2012 as well as other relevant information; and an update regarding security and security companies in Sint Maarten.

The Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction. The initial meeting was first held on January 25.

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

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

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

publicprosecutorswebsite20022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- In the context of a better and professional information service, the Public Prosecution Service of Sint Maarten, the BES islands and Curaçao are now also accessible through its own website. The website was officially launched on Wednesday, February 20, 2013. The website was launched by the Attorney-General, mr. Dick Piar. With the push of a button, he initiated the website. The webaddress is: www.openbaarministerie.org.
On the website the surfer can find a lot of information about the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Public Prosecutor in the various countries and special informative sections. The site also has a section for any available jobs positions within the organization.
The site was launched in this first phase in Dutch. Within short the site will also be available in English and Papiamento.
The website was developed by DragonFly Media and constructed with information that will be very regularly updated by the Communications Department of the Public Prosecutor.

rolandtuitt20022013Philipsburg:--- Finance Minister Roland Tuitt told reporters very briefly on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the CFT issued a positive advice on the 2013 budget. Minister Tuitt said that his Ministry is now preparing the other documents to send the 2013 budget to Parliament for approval. He said the budget should be sent over to parliament by the end of this week.

Tuitt also told reporters that he will be leaving the island to the Netherlands where he will meet with Minister Plasterk.

Tuitt said he will also be meeting with a committee to discuss several matters relating to St. Maarten. He said one of the topics on the agenda is the social funding. Tuitt said his aim is to ensure that communication between the Netherlands and St. Maarten remains at a certain level, while he will be looking for information on the structure used in the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) payments for civil servants in the Netherlands.


Meeting with Bankers Association on FACTA fruitful.

The Finance Minister also reported that he held a meeting with the banking association on St. Maarten. Tuitt said that meeting was to discuss the implementation of the FACTA and his Ministry is providing all the necessary information to the bankers association now because when the FACTA is implemented in 2014 everyone will be prepared. He said a follow up meeting is scheduled with the bankers association so that his Ministry can delineate all that is necessary on the FACTA.

Tuitt said after he finishes the delineating process with the bankers association and they find a way of moving forward then he will look at how far the Netherlands is with the process because it is in the interest of the Netherlands to get an agreement with the US regarding the FACTA because one of their main industries is financial services.

TAXAND Issue Discussed with Council of Ministers --- Tuitt Appointed to Proceed with Taxand scandal.

On the issue of TAXAND, the Minister of Finance told reporters on Wednesday that he discussed the report he received from the SOAB on the TAXAND investigation with the Council of Ministers. He said the Council of Ministers has designated him to continue the process while he also has to design a path forward with the TAXAND affair. Tuitt said that when he returns from the Netherlands he intends to finalize his plans on how to move forward with the TAXAND scandal.

Lottery Game an Idea to Generate Funds of SDF.

Minister Tuitt also announced on Wednesday that the St. Maarten Development Fund (SDF) which was recently established to take over what AMFO was doing with social funding is planning to establish a lottery game to accumulate monies to fund social projects and non-governmental organizations. Tuitt said that the proceeds from this lottery game will go towards financing all social projects on St. Maarten.

sjacobsatnationalinterscholasticolympiad19022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs opened the first ever National Primary & Secondary Interscholastic Olympiad on Monday February 18th 2012 organized by the Ministry of Sports.

The goal of the Olympiad is to increase the number of sports participants through the country and to use sports as a tool to promote social wellbeing and excellence.

February 18th through 20th is the Olympiad for primary school Cycle 2 students. February 25th through 27th is the Olympiad for the Secondary schools.

The Olympiad is a pilot project geared towards structural annual scholastic sport exchanges. It is the intention that this Olympiad becomes a yearly program held at the end of February.

During this inaugural year the event presented seven sports i.e. Baseball, Softball, Basketball, Volleyball, Swimming, Track & Field and Soccer.

The Olympiad will utilize the various sports venues around the island, making it a true sporting experience.

Locations that will be utilized for the Olympiad and the sports that will be hosted are:

Raoul Illidge Sports Complex – Soccer and Track & Field

Jose Lake Ball Park – Baseball

L.B. Scott Auditorium – Basketball

Melford Hazel Sport Facility – Volleyball

Little League Sports Complex – Softball

Belair Health & fitness Club – Swimming

Minister Jacobs commended the participants and the supporters for coming out in such great numbers. Participating schools are Methodist Agogic Center, Marie Genevieve de Weever School, Ruby Labega, CIA, Learning Unlimited, Leonald Conner School, St. Dominic Primary, Oranje School, Hillside Christian Schools, Sr. Regina Primary school, Sr. Magda Primary, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School, Charles Leopold Bell School.

The Minister expressed her desire to see the children embrace and further develop their sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie. To further encourage that she invited the young athletes to recite the Sportsman's Creed where after the Olympiad was officially opened.

The Minister briefly attended two sports events, Volleyball and Baseball, at their respective locations. The Olympiad will continue till Wednesday at the various locations. Registration for secondary schools is still ongoing.

2013rylaconference19022013Philipsburg:--- The 2013 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) in St. Maarten can be simply described as "Unforgettable". RYLA is Rotary International's annual youth leadership conference. It purpose is twofold: to teach leadership skills amongst teens and to foster stronger ties amongst countries and regions. This year Rotary District 7020 selected St Maarten/St Martin as the hosts.

Hundreds of RYLA photos are currently circulating across social media and the web and capture the experiences of the 124 participants, aged 14-17, who came from Anguilla, Tortola, St. Kitts, Saint Martin and St. Maarten. Opening on Valentine's Day, District Governor Vance Lewis and Assistant District Governor from St Maarten, James Ferris, joined together with Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams and Minister Silveria Jacobs to welcome everyone. Immediately following the opening ceremonies Giselle Hilliman, a young St. Maarten psychologist, set the stage for the conference theme by addressing the various personality styles that exist and how our behaviors vary as result of the influences of our past experiences, culture and other factors. Understanding these differences is the hallmark of a great leader.

The conference featured workshops by Rebecca Low, David McGregor, Oldyn Bryson Pantophlet, Barbara Ejingiri and Nkozana Illis on the themes of leadership, peace, listening skills, negotiation, interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution. Interactive sessions on how to prepare for a job interview, how to budget and effective public speaking were facilitated by Maria Buncamper, Robert Judd, Toastmasters DG Rolando Tobias, Emilia Thomas and Valerie Brazier. Heather Mercuur of the Love of Kids Foundation discussed the issue of bullying and offered effective tools to deal with it.

All that hard work also called for relaxation which came in the form of positive motivation and tips in handling stressful situations by Dushyant Savadia of the Art of Living. Participants – many of whom were also Interactors and no strangers to community service – dove into community projects. These included backyard gardening and becoming one with Mother Nature at the Hillside Adventures in South Reward and at the Rasta Farm in Bellevue. Participants cleaned the Guana Bay beach and planted mangroves in Red Pond under the guidance of the Nature Foundation. The St. Maarten Red Cross demonstrated their continued commitment to keeping our youngsters safe by setting-up a makeshift emergency room at the MAC School during the RYLA, as well providing youth-led workshops on life saving techniques and disaster preparedness.

As with every Rotary initiative, building bridges and making lasting friendships was the heart of the conference. Much of this bonding took place through the "Front Street Challenge" (a treasure hunt), zumba, self-defense training, dancing, singing and good old fashioned play that rounded out this year's Rotary Youth Leadership Awards on St. Maarten/Saint Martin.
RYLA was organized in collaboration by the four Rotary Clubs on Dutch and French St. Maarten with the assistance of Rotaractors from both sides. The TaskForce would like to thank the many volunteers who assisted in this conference as well as the generous financial contributions received from CIBC, the Ministry of Education, Nagico, Telem, Sol, Biocompression, and other private donors. A true community effort - Rotary in Action.

chtaandctomeeting19022013On February 28, 2012, the new www.CaribbeanTravel.com regional website will be launched and officially goes live at a press conference in New York. This website was created as the result of a partnership between the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) and Caribbean Tourism Association (CTO). These Regional Public Sector and Private sector organizations have joined together to form a commercial entity called the Caribbean Tourism Development Company or CTDC with the following objectives:

  • To promote and protect of the Caribbean brand;
  • To promote and protect the interests of the owners;
  • To create synergies which might not otherwise go to the partners;
  • To generate revenues for the benefit of the Caribbean people.

According to Emil Lee, President of the SHTA and First Vice President of the CHTA, "The CTDC website www.caribbeantravel.com is an excellent example of what can be achieved through structured public private sector partnership. The CTDC is the Caribbean equivalent to the long anticipated and ever elusive St Maarten Tourism Authority or STA. The www.caribbeantravel.com program achieves multiple goals. It allows the region to collectively cooperate and combine resources to brand the Caribbean. Additionally, like the www.vacationstmaarten.com initiative, it puts upward pressure on the net rates for hotels by generating sales leads and forwarding them directly to the hotels for them to convert into reservations without paying commissions. All hotels should be participating in both projects. There is no cost to participate. The additional exposure provides leads at higher net rates thereby improving profitability for the hotels and ultimately benefits the whole island."
People interested in previewing the website can view it at www.caribbeantravelpreview.com All SHTA members that are also CHTA member hotels are entitled to list their property on www.caribbeantravel.com at no charge – and only member hotels will be displayed at this time, allowing a click through to the hotel's own website further enhancing the value to SHTA/CHTA member hotels.
If you are interested in participating, contact Natasha at the SHTA at 542-0108 or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

commeetswithpoliceforcemanagement19022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Council of Ministers was provided with a presentation recently on two boats that will be acquired to improve and increase the services of the police particularly patrolling in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

This will increase among others the safety feeling of the owners of mega yachts. For effectiveness of the controls, the police will join forces with the Coast Guard and Immigration services (IND) and increase the cooperation with the French side that already carry out similar controls on the water.

Based on public bidding, the company Caribbean Nautical was selected. The boats will be customized based on the requirements of government. Similar to the companies experience with Aruba and Curacao, the company will also look into possibilities of contributing on a social level to the St. Maarten community.

The investment in the boats is structural; the vessels will be low maintenance and have a life expectancy of about 10 years under normal operational circumstances. A location for the lifts for the boats is currently being explored.

pjiaefence19022013Simpson Bay:--- No vehicles will be allowed to park here alongside the SXM Airport's fence, according to a decree to that effect issued by the Minister of Justice, the Hon. Roland E. Duncan. The decree is in keeping with the International Aviation Safety requirement established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), in its Standards and Recommended Practices document.

On Monday, contractors started to remove the existing guardrails in order to install new railing at 1.5 meters from the road, to be in line with the new guardrails. They will continue preparations for the installation of the new guardrails, which are expected at the end of the month. The entire work is scheduled for completion by mid-March.

The contractor, MNO, has already begun digging holes along where the guardrail poles will be installed to check if there are any cables or pipes where they plan to install the poles.

The ICAO requirement prescribes that "Security fence lines should be kept clear of all obstruction such as electric poles, trees, stowed equipment and materials, vehicles, etc..."

The Princess Juliana International Airport operating company (PJIAE), in order to comply with this international security measure, had requested the Minister of Justice to issue the necessary ministerial decree.

The airport has also requested the Ministry of Works, Spatial Planning and Environment (VROMI), to place the relevant traffic signs to inform the general public about the parking prohibition. This is a requirement before the ministerial decree can go into effect.

"VROMI has ordered the traffic signs and these will soon go up at strategic points along the airport road," confirmed Robert Brown, PJIAE's Coordinator of Special Projects.

Brown explained that the guardrails will be erected over approximately 900m on the eastern side of the SXM Airport road to further discourage parking along the fence. He said the contractor will be using the Blue Martini location to park their containers and equipment for the project period and possibly also in front of the Al Wathey Apartments (if necessary).

In the meantime, all of the car rental companies will receive a letter informing them of the work, and offering a contact person for any questions.

About 50 cars, mainly belonging to car rental companies, are usually parked along the airport fence.

"We have space for car rental parking at a fee," Brown said.

Vehicles violating the No Parking order will be towed away at the owners' expense.

garbagebinsonmulletbaybeach19022013The St. Maarten Tourist Bureau partnered with Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) in 2009 to establish the Blue Flag Program on St. Maarten and launch a continuous environmental awareness campaign aimed at encouraging residents and visitors to dispose of their waste in a responsible manner. This partnership enjoys the full support of the Honorable Minister Romeo F. Pantophlet and was initiated under the direction of Mr. Frans Richardson at that time Commissioner of Tourism and Ms. Regina LaBega then Director of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

As part of this campaign the Tourist Bureau and EPIC developed Environmental Codes of conduct signs and have been working on placing garbage bins on all of St. Maarten's beaches. The project has been a long time in the making but this past week eighteen garbage bins were placed on Mullet Bay Beach and four were placed on Kim Sha Beach.

Several Environmental Codes of conduct signs have already been installed on Great Bay Beach, Little Bay Beach and at Isle de Sol Marina. Similar signs will be placed on Mullet Bay and Kim Sha Beach shortly followed by placement of signs and bins on other beaches in the near future.

"As a destination with 37 beautiful beaches, we are taking every measure to keep them clean and pristine to keep residents and visitors coming back and able to relax and enjoy the perfect setting in the Caribbean. In order to do this, we would like to solicit the cooperation of the beach users to make responsible use of the bins and aide us in keeping our beaches clean for all" said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

According to EPIC project manager Rueben J. Thompson the Foundation is extremely pleased to see this project being carried out successfully. Thompson called on the public at large to please make proper use of the bins and refrain from abusing them.

This project was made a reality in partnership with and through the dedication and contributions of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC), St. Maarten Pride Foundation, St Maarten Timeshare Association and The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure.

EPIC Press Release

eholidaylecturesatutrechtuniversity19022013UTRECHT, Netherlands:--- On February 18th, Governor Eugene B. Holiday gave a lecture at the law faculty of the University of Utrecht, the Netherlands, on the subject "Perspectives on good governance: nature, importance, practice and challenges". The lecture was attended by Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, Mr. M.S. Voges, Minister Plenipotentiary of Curacao, Mr. R.A.M. Pieters, officials of the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Affairs, law professor dr. G.H. Addink and law students from the University of Utrecht. The lecture was organized by the Politeia study club for constitutional and administrative law.
The intention of the lecture was to discuss the practice and challenges of governance, which is at the center of the tasks and responsibilities of the Governor of Sint Maarten. The lecture was aimed at locating the parameters of governance in Sint Maarten in relation to its social, cultural and constitutional setting and to point towards the importance and challenges which are indicated in the practice of good governance.
According to the United Nations Development Programme in 1994 "Good governance ensures that political, social and economic priorities are based on broad consensus in society and that the voices of the poorest and the most vulnerable are heard in decision-making over the allocation of development resources".
The Governor put forward that on Sint Maarten several of the principles of good governance, such as accountability, effectiveness, transparency, properness and participation, are anchored in legislation and supported by case law. However, he stated that at the end of the day compliance to the principles of good governance stands or falls with behaviour and attitude. He emphasized his personal motto: "Excellence in governance to serve the people of Sint Maarten". In explaining this he stated "We must continually aim to be the best we can be as we strive to develop a more safe, secure and just society. To achieve this we must adopt best practices". The Governor stated that there are ample examples of the absence of best practices from time to time in all parts of the Kingdom.
Promoting excellence in governance is intended to serve as a guide for one's attitude towards governance. It promotes the application of a number of universally accepted basic principles. Continuing the governor outlined the role of the various players in promoting good governance among which the Parliament, the Courts and the High Councils of state. But in the end it is parliament, as representative of the will of the people, that should be the judge of the conduct of government, according to the Governor.
The Governor said that considering the nature and importance of good governance for the overall development of the people it is evident that we must continue to build on, amend and perfect the existing frameworks. Sint Maarten as a new country is still in the process of developing the traditions of government which are critical to the progress and wellbeing of the society, the Governor stated. Highlighting this universal quest for progress the Governor quoted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's, statement: "the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice." In addressing issues of good governance the Governor said to be continually inspired by the fundamental optimism revealed in Martin Luther King's statement about the human nature.
"Progress is and has never been automatic, it depends on individual and concerted action. It is against this background that as Governor, I continue to work with parties towards the fortification of excellence in governance. For it is only through our continued observance of the principles of good governance that we will continue to progress and build a more safe, secure and just Sint Maarten and Kingdom", the Governor concluded.

After the lecture students had the opportunity to have a discussion with the Governor.

The complete text of the lecture is published on the Governors website www.kabgsxm.com.

pjiaephotocontestjudges1902013Photographers from among others, Canada, Belgium, The Netherlands, and St. Maarten participating.

Simpson Bay:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), is one of the major sponsors of the first aviation photography competition in the Caribbean region, offering a cash prize of US$2,500 to the overall winner. The competition, which is organized by Toppix under the theme, "St. Maarten: Aircraft Spotters' Paradise" will be held here from March 17 – 23, 2013.

"This is part of our year-long celebration of the 70th anniversary of the airport," said Robert Brown, Special Projects Coordinator of PJIAE, the operating company of SXM Airport.

At a press conference held at the airport on Monday morning, Brown said the competition offered a great opportunity for Public Relations for the island and the airport.

"It is an opportunity to show off our unique scenic and panoramic approach and view coming into SXM," Brown said. "This especially since we have just been named the world's most stunning landing."

"At the same time," he continued, "we boast an impeccable safety record, which also highlights our commitment to safety. I think this is another indication that SXM is a leader in the region. We are always interested in highlighting our qualities and sharing them with the world."

"We are very excited to be participating in this aviation photography competition, namely the Toppix Sint Maarten Aviation Photography Competition, which we hope will be held on a yearly basis and grow and continue to highlight this attraction," Brown said. He added that this is "definitely part of our vision and part of our brand, which we have recently launched."

The competition is the brainchild of Robbie Cijntje, a renowned photographer. Cijntje, a dedicated aircraft spotter on the island, gave an elaborate explanation of the aims and objectives of the contest. He disclosed that already, 10 participants drawn from Canada, Belgium, and The Netherlands, and three from St. Maarten have registered for the competition.

"St. Maarten as a tourist destination needs something 'magical' to attract the tourist," he said. "That something magical is right here at the airport and Maho surroundings where you can see lots of YouTube pictures... showing an exclusive destination where you can come so close to the aircraft and airport that it became an attraction on itself."

According to Cijntje, aircraft spotting is very closely related to the state of technology. He gave a brief history of the activity's development over the years, starting with Dutchman J. Lawant in 1948.

Judges for the Toppix 2013 aviation photography competition include veteran photographer Peter Gunn and Chermaine Petit-Booi, both of St. Maarten, and head judge Chris Kilroy, owner and managing director of the world's largest aircraft spotting website, jetphotos.net.

The rules of the competition require that the photographs reflect the theme and be taken on the island between March 18 – 22, 2013. They should portray an aviation-related activity in a portrait or landscape format, with an aircraft visible in the picture, which must have a St. Maarten backdrop. A maximum of three photographs per participant can be entered, each with a minimum of 1200 pixels on the longest side and 600 pixels on the shortest side.

Entries must be e-mailed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. on or before March 22, 2013. The photos must contain the correct exif date and time. The competition is open to both amateur and professional photographers 16 years old and above.

Cijntje stressed that "if any picture is taken where only one person is recognizable on it, the photographer should obtain a release from that person" to avoid possible legal complications later. Photographs showing a group of persons do not require such a release.

The best six photographs will be on display at the airport for four months. The winners will be announced at a prize-giving ceremony on March 23, 2013, and the overall winner or his/her legal representative must be present at this ceremony to claim the prize.

"We expect it to be a recurring event, so we will be having it every year," Cijntje disclosed, while expressing the hope that it would continue to grow with the years. He said with the help of the sponsors, Toppix 2014 will be held from November 6 – 10, a period close to St. Martin Day and also to the start of the tourist season.

The full amount of the registration fee of US$20 per participant will be donated to the foundation charged with bringing awareness to breast cancer, Cijntje said.

Speaking also at the press conference, Lisa Noel of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, co-sponsor of the event, said her office was very proud to be part of the competition. "We hope the competition will not only showcase the happenings at the airport but also showcase the destination as a whole."

celshot19022013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions' (WICLU) weekly press briefing that she felt the statements made by Finance Minister Roland Tuitt were disrespectful and unethical.

Elshot said all unions on St. Maarten have been speaking out against the non-payment of the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) and she cannot understand why the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt would say if the WITU could tell him where to find the monies he would make the payments immediately.

The WITU President said that the unions and government are currently discussing the 2010 COLA payments and while the Prime Minister promised the unions and the GOA to send them a proposal on how they intend to index the COLA payments, that proposal has still not been sent by Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams.

Elshot further explained that last week the Finance Minister challenged the WITU into taking over his seat as Minister. The WITU President said she finds the statement made by the Finance Minister is a dangerous presidency and unethical. Elshot said the COLA payments do not only benefit teachers alone, she said she also believes that the WITU was singled out by the Minister when he made his comments. The COLA is for all civil servants, teachers, police, prison guards, coast guards, and pensioners. Some two weeks ago the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt responded to a question that was posed to him by a reporter regarding the COLA payments. Minister Tuitt in response to the question said if the unions could tell him where to get the monies to make the COLA payments he would do it immediately.

When SMN News asked Elshot if she took note of the recent budget cuts that government had to make in order for the CFT to approve the budget, Elshot said that in 2011 the government did not even budget the COLA payments but that payment was made in June 2012 shortly after the UP/DP Government collapsed.

Lack of Teachers in Public Schools Worrisome.

Another issue that has the attention of the WITU is the lack of teachers in at least three public schools. President of the WITU Claire Elshot said that there are a number of teachers that are out on sick leave and so far the department of public education has not found replacement teachers for those teachers that are out on sick leave. She said the students whose teachers are out on medical are divided among the other classes and this is creating a huge problem for the other teachers who now have to shoulder the extra work load. "Sometimes the guest students don't even fit in the class program that is prepared by the teacher who has to take in the extra students, besides that when these students don't fit in the teacher has to neglect her class to pay special attention to their guest students.

Elshot said it was brought to her attention that substitute teachers are sometimes called in but these teachers do not receive equal pay for equal work as it is stipulated in the law. She said she understood that the substitute teachers are being paid less and that is not part of the law. Therefore, the WITU will be doing some research to deal with the matter.

The Windward Island Teachers Union will also be looking into the matter regarding extra and further training for FBE teachers. Elshot said her members believe the FBE training has become a never ending program and they are supposed to receive certification when they complete these trainings but so far that has not been done.

readersareleadersclub19022013PHILIPSBURG:--- This evening, Tuesday, February 19, the "Readers are Leaders" Club will be presenting a cultural evening to celebrate Black History Month in song, poetry, and dance at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's lobby at 5:30 pm.
"Readers are Leaders" is a reading program organized and supported by the Philipsburg Jubilee Library and the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunrise. The goal is to promote literacy specifically among high school students and to encourage readers to express their thoughts, feelings and ideas through writing. The participants are challenged to read a number of books and submit reports about the books they read.
The recently elected Readers are Leaders board has been working hard to make this event an exciting one. Snack and drinks will be available to the audience members directly after the presentation.
Students interested in joining the Readers are Leaders can contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or join their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/readers.a.leaders for more information.

cupecoymurderssuspects19022013Philipsburg:--- The three suspects that are in custody for the murders of American citizens Micheal and Thelma King in their Cupe Coy condominium on September 19th, 2012 appeared in the Court of First Instance for their second Pro-forma hearing on Tuesday. Meyshane Kemar Johnson confessed to police that he killed the Kings during a robbery attempt at their home on the night of September 19th, 2012. The trio is also charged with robbing the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant that same night. The other two suspects, Jeremiah Chevon Mills (17) and Jamal Jefferson Woolford (20) also appeared for the hearing. The three suspects were dressed in their prison garments. Johnson sporting a low haircut wore a pair of a blue and white sneakers while Mills and Jefferson had their hair in plaits. Mills had on white sneakers while Woolford wore black high top booths. The three suspects who sat beside each other remained stoned face as the charges were read to them. Inside the courtroom were some friends of the Kings and two RST officers listening to the proceedings.

During Tuesday's hearing the lawyers representing Jeremiah Chevon Mills and Jamal Jefferson Woolford contested the psychiatrist's reports that were submitted to the court and the respective lawyers namely Attorney Shaira Bommel on behalf of Mills and Attorney Aernout Tnaageveld from Gibson Associates on behalf of Jamal Jefferson Woolford. The Prosecutor's Office had requested psychiatric and psychological reports on Mills and Jefferson to determine their mental state when they committed the brutal murders. Attorney Bommel told the judge that several questions in the report were left unanswered and she wanted a full report on her client "Mills." Bommel told the court that the psychiatrist through the court of guardianship only saw her client once for a period of 15 minutes and in her opinion that was not sufficient time to evaluate her client. Attorney Aernout Tnaageveld also expressed the same sentiments to the court on behalf of Woolford. Prosecutor Douna Benammar told the court that the psychiatrist had the entire file and in her view the reports were not only based on the meeting held with the suspects but also on the information they had in the two suspect's files. The psychiatrist in her assessment report stated that the two suspects Mills and Woolford are in their right minds and they can be tried normally for the crimes they committed on September 19th, 2012.

The judge then ordered the two lawyers to submit the additional questions they have for the psychiatrist to the judge of instruction by March 1st, 2013 so that the judge of instruction could make contact with the psychiatrist and get the answers for them. The case is now postponed to March 8th, 2013 at 2pm where the re-enactment will take place. The judge told the suspects that no one except for their lawyers can be present at that hearing because it will not be a public session. She also informed the three suspects that they will be transported separately to the scene which is at Rhine Road (Ocean Club) Cupe Coy. The judge also indicated to the suspects that the trial might last longer than the normal time which is 5pm. She also indicated to the three suspects that special arrangements have to be made so that the re-enactment could take place inside the Kings' apartment where the killings took place. When the judge asked the three suspects if they had anything to add Mills told the court he will use his right to remain silent while Johnson and Woolford said "No".

It should be noted that the relatives of the three suspects were not at the Court House on Tuesday.

More Mistakes in the Prosecution files on King Murders.

The Court of Appeals is expected to render its decision on February 20th, 2013 (Wednesday) on whether or not Johnson will remain in pre-trial detention since the Prosecutor's Office made a number of mistakes when they summoned him to appear for his first Proforma hearing last month. Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks appealed the decision made by the judge in the court of First Instance when she ruled that the first summons given to Meyshane Kemar Johnson was null and void. Even though the judge threw out the summons, she did not release Johnson from pre-trial detention due to the seriousness of the case. The Appeal hearing took place on January 30th, 2012. Brooks told the court that her client received three summons for the first hearing and each of them had mistakes on them. Attorney Brooks in her plea to the Appeals Court said that the case should not be based on emotions but on the law of Kingdom. She said the Prosecution had enough time to repair the mistake they made the first time but instead of correcting that mistake they made more mistakes which is what prompted her to appeal the verdict of the first summons.

One would think that persons preparing the files for the suspects who brutally murdered two innocent people would do their job diligently to ensure that the relatives of the Kings and the people of St. Maarten get justice, especially knowing that the main suspect can get away with murdering two people on technicalities. Even though Johnson confessed to killing the Kings, even if he is convicted by the Court of First Instance he stands a high chance of walking free in the Appeals Court because the three summons issued to Johnson will be deemed inadmissible when it reaches the Appeals Court for the second time.

It clear that something is wrong at the Prosecutor's Office, either the people working there are over worked or under qualified because again they made a mistake on the charge sheet of Jamal Jefferson Woolford. On that sheet, the Prosecutor's Office stated that Woolford was born December 9th, 1993 in Guyana. Woolford took sometime before responding to the judge but later told the judge when she asked him what is his date of birth that he was born on December 9th, 1991 in Guyana. While this mistake is a minor one that has no major consequences one would believe that the Prosecutor's Office would have taken time when preparing the files of these suspects to ensure that no more mistakes are made. After all there is only one double homicide case on St. Maarten right now.

hillsideconservationplanarea18022013PHILIPSBURG:--- Residents and stakeholders are invited to a town hall meeting about hillside conservation areas for Thursday, February 21 at 7:00pm. The meeting will take place at the University of St. Martin (USM).

Attendees will be informed about the proposals from the Ministry with respect to zoning of the aforementioned areas.

The Ministry would like to get the public's views and ideas as it pertains to hillside conservation areas.

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (MinVROMI) is developing the legal framework for possible future development; to designate and/or reserve land for desired use; to prevent uncontrolled development; and to offer legal security to residents about future development.

The meeting is part of process of drafting of "development plans" for country Sint Maarten.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The official Sint Maarten Public Holiday Schedule 2013 issued recently by the Department of Labour from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is available on the Government Website www.sintmaartengov.org.

Go to the "What's New," tab, scroll down a bit to come across the listing of the 13 public holidays.

The official holidays are: New Year's Day (Tuesday, January 1, 2013), Good Friday (Friday, March 29, 2013), Easter Sunday (Sunday, March 31, 2013), Easter Monday (Monday, April 1, 2013), Carnival Day (Monday, April 29, 2013), Queen's Birthday (Tuesday, April 30, 2013), Labour Day (Wednesday, May 1, 2013), Ascension Day (Thursday, May 9, 2013), Emancipation Day (Monday, July 1, 2013), St. Maarten's Day (Monday, November 11, 2013), Kingdom Day (Sunday, December 15, 2013), Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25, 2013), and Boxing Day (Thursday, December 26, 2013).

nagicodonatestomlkjrschool18022013Great Bay:--- NAGICO Insurances donated a brand new copier and over 200 copy books to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. school this morning to assist with teaching material for the children enrolled there.
"Education is one of the areas we give priority. We promote studying amongst our youths and here at NAGICO amongst our staff, because nothing can be achieved without hard work and education."
The release stated that the school approached NAGICO for help and NAGICO pledged their support and offered to assist with copy books for the students and a multi-functional copier for school purposes. As part of the company's educational policy, scores of NAGICO staff members are currently engaged in tertiary level studies aimed at improving themselves and to continue to provide the best service to their clients in all 19 territories in which they operate.
The items were presented by Ms. Kassandra Matthews and Ms. Marlen Ozuna Frias, to Mr. Christopher Emanuel, a representative of the school.

dwightbarran18022013PHILIPSBURG:--- As part of the Philipsburg Jubilee Library's (PJL) Black History Month activities, Dwight Barran and Ans Koolen will be discussing the archives of Profiles of the Windward Islands on Wednesday, February 20 at 7:30pm.
Morenika Arrindell, Activity Manager of the Library, said that the archive is about 30 years old and contains rare footage of St. Maarten, St. Eustatius and Saba.
In 2011, Barran and Franklin Bryson, through the Barson Foundation, presented the library with episodes of Profiles of the Windwards Islands on DVD. Documentary maker, Barran, will be presenting on these episodes.
The digitized collection holds a wealth of information for researchers, students and curiosity-seekers who want to learn more about what the islands were like in the past decades. They contain images of hurricanes, interviews with many St. Maarten political leaders and artists, as well as the hoisting of the St. Maarten flag for the first time.
Through funding made possible by the Mondriaan Foundation in the Netherlands, the archive spanning some 3 decades of program was digitized.
Librarian Koolen, charged with the cataloging of the entire DVD collection for this project, will briefly discuss how the information was stored, how the information can be located by the public, and the rules for use.
"This archive will become a vital addition to the historical St. Maarten collection of the library," Arrindell stated.
The general public is invited to attend this very informative event, on Wednesday, February 20 at 7:30pm in the library's lobby. For more information please contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- The owner of the homes in Fort Willem Sebastien Mina (Frenchie) who is currently residing in Marie Gallante, Guadeloupe confirmed to SMN News on Monday during a telephone interview that he gave court marshal Solange Apon written authorization to evict and sell the homes he owns in Fort Willem.

Mina confirmed that he cannot read and write but he said he was on St. Maarten in 2011 when Ms. Apon's father died and he gave her authorization to do what has to be done so that he can get back some of his investments. Mina's sister Charlesia Acncelade also confirmed that she and her brother authorized Solange Apon to take the necessary actions because her brother will not return to St. Maarten to live anymore.

Acncelade said that for years they had no contact with her brother because he was not in touch with his relatives. She said when her brother first came to live in St. Maarten he went back a few times to Guadeloupe and then he disappeared and none of his relatives knew where he was. "When we could not find him we thought he died in St. Maarten." Acncelade further explained that Mina has son who lives in Miami, Florida and he is the one that came to St. Maarten in search of his father. Acncelade said when her nephew found her brother he was in a deplorable condition. "My brother was sick, he had no food, no medication and while the Brooks families were living in his houses they were not taking care of him. We had to buy a ticket and take him to Guadeloupe and I am the one that took care of his documents so that he could have obtained medical coverage from the French Government. My brother is not coming back to St. Maarten to live and the last time he visited St. Maarten he met a number of people in his homes and they were not taking care of the properties. Ever since my brother came back to Guadeloupe he is living with me." Acncelade said that her brother was raised by the owner of the front house that was given to Monica Apon Watkins and her brother knew Monica and her children ever since they were small.

"The old lady gave Solange's mother the front house but my brother built the other houses at the back and while the land might have been government lease land my brother paid all his taxes while he was on St. Maarten." Acncelade said they have proof that the houses belong to her brother and the arrangement they have with Solange Apon is for her to sell the properties and when it is sold then she (Solange Apon) would send her brother's share for him. Acncelade said that her brother never married to the late Mrs. Brooks and while he was living with her she did not have all her children living with them.

SMN News learnt that Mina and the entire Brooks families are alcoholics and they lived a very carefree life since they were not paying bills.

In an invited comment, Solange Apon said that she and her brother are the heirs of the house her mother inherited and when the property is sold the monies will be divided among the three parties. Apon said they wanted to sell their shares to Mina and when he said he could not purchase their home they began sending letters to the Brooks family informing them that they wanted to sell the properties. Apon said that her lawyer started to send letters to the Brooks since the beginning of 2011 and they went to court in September 2011. The decision was given in October 2011 and it clearly states that the occupants of the homes had to move by December 2011. Apon said that they extended the time to February 2012 and the Brooks made no effort to leave the place.

"Despite all of this, the Brooks did not vacate the property and they were also given the first option to purchase the properties. Apon said when she sent the adjuster to appraise the properties the Brooks family prevented him from entering the property. Apon said she had no intention of putting the Brooks family on the street especially knowing that they have children. She also clarified on Monday afternoon that there were not 25 people living in the houses. Apon said that neighbors in the area were constantly complaining about the Brooks and their behavior in the neighborhood.

SMN News also learnt that one of the women living in the house is living a despicable life because she has two children that were born at home and their births were never registered.

SMN News also learnt that one of the Brooks sisters was living in one of the social homes provided by St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation and she was evicted from the property by the UP/DP government for non-payment of rent.

 

Government only paid two nights hotel stay for Brooks Family --- Family went back to Fort Willem Homes.

The Brooks family contacted SMN News Monday evening and stated that the Government of St. Maarten only paid for two nights at Bute's Hotel for them and the owner of the hotel informed them that they had to find somewhere to go Monday afternoon if they are not able to pay for their accommodation. One of the women told SMN News that they cannot afford to pay for the hotel, therefore they are returning to the houses in Fort Willem.

Up to late Monday afternoon the staff and Minister of VROMI Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin was trying to find alternative accommodations for the Brooks family, especially since there were a number of young children involved. SMN News learnt that the staff of the Deputy Prime Minister's office contacted several churches on the island to request assistance in the form of food stuff, pampers, and other items for the families.

Philipsburg:--- Police with the help of the Judge of instruction searched the Simpson Bay holding cells in search of the weapon that was used to stab Andrew Davis early Sunday morning. Davis is one of the eight persons that were convicted last year in the Vesuvius investigation where a number of persons in the community were killed.

Davis was sentenced to nine years in prison and he was expected to be heard as a witness sometime this month for the appeal hearing which is scheduled to take place in March 2013.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said four persons that are being held at the Simpson Bay holding cells were arrested and questioned on Sunday. He said after statements were taken from the suspects they were taken back to the Simpson Bay outpost. Mos further explained that the police still have to question Davis about the incident and that will be done as soon as police are able to do so. Andrew Davis had to undergo an emergency operation on Sunday as he was severely injured by the five stab wounds he received.

When asked by SMN News if police recovered the weapon that was used to stab Davis, Mos said that the team of officers that conducted the search found several objects but he is not able to say whether or not the one used in the stabbing was found. SMN News asked Mos if any of the four detainees/suspects that were arrested and questioned confessed to the early morning stabbing, Mos responded by saying he could not divulge that information at this stage of the investigation.

mariavanenckevort18022013MARIGOT/GREAT BAY:--- The 22nd annual Black History Celebration Lecture will be delivered by Dr. Maria Cijntje-van Enckevort at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, on Saturday, February 23, at 8 PM, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

Dr. Cijntje-van Enckevort will address key aspects of Caribbean labor history, with historical and contemporary references to the labor process and economic development on the island of St. Martin, said Reiph.

"Labor, the cradle of our civilization," is the theme of the 2013 Black History Celebration Lecture, which is organized by CLF.

Dr. Cijntje-van Enckevort, who studied history at the University of the West Indies in Jamaica, has been working in the education field in St. Martin for over 30 years. She has authored and co-authored social studies publications for secondary schools on the island. "My main interests are history, philosophy, and Caribbean studies," said Dr. Cijntje-van Enckevort.

The former Dean of the University of St. Martin has also presented papers at regional and international conferences.

ireneserfilia18022013Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever is congratulating Irene Serfilia on celebrating 40 years with the Government of St. Maarten working in the health sector.
Miss Serfilia within her 40 year span with the government of St. Maarten worked at the Backstreet Clinic; travelled with patients for medical attention abroad and later transferred to the Department of Youth Health Care, which at that time was the school clinic. Miss Serfilia has been working within that field up to present.
"I would like to extend my gratitude to Miss Serfilia for her many years of dedication to the government of St. Maarten and by extension many of the school children through the school clinic," said Minister De Weever.

dtmcinductsshirmaroberts18022013BELVEDERE:--- Disciples Toastmasters Club (DTMC) has added three new members with the induction of a security officer and two university students.
Diana Cocks, a security officer at Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) was one of two new members inducted on Sunday, February 10 during the club's meeting at Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church in Belvedere. The second member to receive her pin that day was Kimasha Williams, a graduate of the University of the Southern Caribbean Trinidad and Tobago.
The two brought to three, the number of new members to grace the club this year. The other inductee, Shirma Roberts, is a student of the University of St. Martin and a native of St. Kitts. Each of the three has been assigned a mentor to help them reach their goals.
Every new member begins his/her Toastmaster career with an ice breaker, which allows club members to get to know them better. Cocks, who presented her first speech project after her induction, wowed the audience with her easy delivery and her faith in God. She and the other new members were encouraged to keep on presenting their speech projects in order to attain their goal of being a Competent Communicator.
Disciples Toastmasters Club is one of six such organizations on the island that cater to enhancing communication skills. The club meets every second and fourth Sunday from 5:00 – 6:30pm. All are welcome.

rylacleanup18022013Some thirty students from around the Caribbean region partnered with the St. Maarten Nature Foundation in a cleanup and mangrove transplanting initiative on Guana Bay and Gibb's Bay last Friday. The students, part of the Rotary District 7020 RYLA Conference held on St. Maarten from the 14 to the 17th of February, were given an explanation on the importance of the Mangrove ecosystems at Red Pond and the importance of keeping the beaches of Guana Bay and Gibbs Bay clean for Sea Turtle Nesting Season, which will start at the end of this month.

Some thirty young mangroves were planted at Red Pond and thirty bags of garbage were collected with everything ranging from plastic to rope and other larger materials. "We were very happy to have these enthusiastic and driven youngsters assist us with this important activity; firstly because mangrove ecosystems are very important nursery areas and environmental filters and secondly in keeping the beaches clean of garbage and waste. A lot of attention is given to the other beaches and wetlands on the island and it sometimes seems as if we have forgotten Red Pond, Gibbs Bay and Guana Bay. With the planting of the mangroves and the cleaning up of the beaches and rocky cliff sides these students have greatly contributed to both the health of the beach and marine ecosystem and the success of the 2013 Sea Turtle Nesting Season," read a Nature Foundation statement.

Great Bay:--- On Thursday February 14, 2013 an article entitled "Checkmate forced to dismiss officers" appeared in the Daily Herald.
As the authority responsible for the issuance of employment permits, I deem it necessary to react to this article as it may lead to factual misinformation of the general public.
My Ministry prides itself for being transparent in all matters with a passion for providing the public with the correct information and the optimal service it deserves.

First of all it should be noted that it is the responsibility of the employer to secure an employment permit prior to employing the worker. If it is a case of a renewal it should be noted that:

  1. The employer should request the extension prior to the expiration of the present permit;
  2. There is no guarantee that the permit will be extended;
  3. The request for extension can be denied for reasons other than the availability of locals.

According to the article the permits in question were not rejected because of locals being available, rather for the reason that Management failed to file for the extension within the required period, thus rendering the employee as being illegal in the Country in the interim.
If a permit is denied by the Minister, the employer has the possibility to file an objection to the Minister, who decides after having received advice from an independent appeal committee. Should the objection have also been denied, the employer can still file an appeal with the Courts of First Instance.
If in all three cases the request was denied, the employer will have to wait for a period of one year before he/she can reapply for that same worker. Should the employer fail to follow the full appeal trajectory (appeals committee and Courts) then he/she would have to wait for three years before being able to file for the same worker. According to the article the employer in this case failed to file an appeal with the Courts of First Instance, thus would have to wait for three years to reapply.

The employer in this case states that he is forced to dismiss the workers for not having a valid employment permit to employ them. The following should be stated.

  1. As stated above, it was his responsibility to have filed timely for the extensions;
  2. When dismissing an employee, the stipulations as mentioned in the Civil Code of St. Maarten and the National Ordinance on the termination of labour agreements should be taken into consideration. Considering the duration of employment as mentioned in the article one could conclude that prior permission for dismissal by the Secretary General would be needed.

The article also states that the employer in this case have granted loans to employees to cover the costs involved. It should be noted that in accordance with the existing law and regulations, it is the employer who is responsible for paying the processing fees charged by government and not the employee.

"I acknowledge reacting solely based on the article mentioned above, yet finding it necessary to clarify certain matters referred to in the article."

It should also be noted that the stipulations of the labour legislation of St. Maarten apply to all workers, documented or non- documented. It is the responsibility of the employer to comply with these stipulations. Workers and employers needing information can always contact the relevant departments of my Ministry.

whatcayhillneedscommunitymeeting18022013CAYHILL:--- Residents of Cay Hill came out in numbers Saturday evening to the 'What Cay Hill Needs' community meeting organized by the Cay Hill boys and the Soualiga Social Movement. After a welcome by the foundation's board members and some words of encouragement by the Prime Minister and Community Police, residents wasted no time in letting their issues be heard.

Problems such as derelict vehicles, dilapidated buildings, rodent infestation, zoning issues and sewage water running onto the road were brought up by the over 80 residents that attended. Several residents pointed out dangerous traffic scenarios they have seen over the years and asked the Community Police to please look into possibilities of rerouting some traffic, placing speed bumps and making sure the proper signs and mirrors are in place. The derelict basketball court and socially deplorable state of 'H-Town'(Haitian Town) proved to be very emotional topics of discussion.

When the topic of unemployment among the young Cay Hill boys came up, the Soualiga Social Movement and the Community Police presented a few initiatives they had been already working on for the unemployed over the past few weeks, and encouraged them all sign up. Later in the meeting, commissioner of Police Carl John, as a resident of Cay Hill also encouraged the boys to take work offered to them and to realize that they need to start somewhere.

Mr. Nicky Owen who has supported the initiative of the boys from the beginning suggested that the community take pride in what is in their backyard eluding to the way the basketball court and sports complex has been vandalized over the years. The young men from Cayhill had decided to volunteer and help Nicky by cleaning and maintaining the Sports Complex on the weekends.

The suggestion to form a community council in Cay Hill to represent the issues and interest of the neighborhood was most welcomed and applauded by all. Over 13 residents from different walks of life volunteered to form such a council. Nicky Owen of the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex expressed how proud he was of this initiative and offered the facility as a meeting place if this council would need it.

Amoung the attendees were several representatives of the government including but not limited to Prime Minister of St. Maarten, the Most Honorable Mrs. Sarah Wescot-Williams and Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour the Honorable Dr. Cornelius de Weever.

In closing, the Soualiga Social Movement thanked, the residents, foundations and Ministers for attending and showing interest in the issues of the people. The Foundation also promised to work alongside and advise the volunteers as they go about actually forming the Council. A follow up meeting is planned on Saturday March 9th, 2013 to hear from the Council on how they plan to go about handling their issues.

Great Bay:--- All offices of the Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor will be closed in the afternoon hours of Thursday, February 21, 2013 from 12 noon until 5PM to allow staff the time to attend an extended staff meeting of the ministry. The ministry apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The offices will resume regular opening hours on Friday, February 22, 2013.

pollutedlagoon18022013During the past week the St. Maarten Nature Foundation has been recording significantly elevated levels of pollution in the Cole Bay section of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Although that particular area of the Lagoon is known to have poor water quality, recent research and test results show that there is a higher than usual level of fecal pollution as a result of human waste, and heavy metal pollution present.

The Nature Foundation received complaints from a diver who was doing work in the Simpson Bay Lagoon that he started to get ill after spending some time in the water. The Nature Foundation tested the water quality and found elevated levels at four locations surrounding the Cole Bay section of the Lagoon. "We have no real idea why the quality has been so bad lately and are continuously doing follow up tests in order to determine what the cause is. We have also done dives using specialized equipment to see if we could determine a source but we have not yet been able to do so. In the meantime we encourage the community to avoid contact with the water in the Cole Bay section of the Lagoon until we have found that the situation has stabilized," read a statement from the Nature Foundation.

The Foundation found elevated levels of Nitrates, Phosphates, Heavy Metals and Coli-form bacteria at all testing locations. Testing will continue indefinitely until the source of the pollution is found or until the situation has stabilized.

sonestamahoresort17022013MAHO:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation and the Sonesta properties of Maho Resort and Great Bay Resort have teamed up to offer our Caribbean travelers, residents some terrific rates for Carnival 2013. It will be the first time the SCDF and Sonesta have partnered this way.

Caribbean travelers simply have to make reservations using the promo code CARICOM on www.sonesta.com/mahobeach or www.sonesta.com/greatbay to reserve a full resort experience. Caribbean travelers and residents can book now for travel for Carnival which runs from April 18 to May 2, 2013.

An additional benefit is that local residents can also treat themselves to a weekend stay at St. Maarten's flagship resorts during the Carnival period. Room rates are available with all inclusive benefits or standard rooms with breakfast.

The SCDF expressed thanks to Sonesta management for working with Carnival 2013 and hopefully beyond. The foundation is making a strong push among select properties this year for the first time as part of its overall marketing strategy to attract travelers to St. Maarten.

SCDF will be announcing additional travel deals very soon that involves not only other stay-over properties, but airline partners as well.

Middle Region:--- On Saturday February 16th at approximately 8:00pm a patrol carried out a control in the vicinity of Samuel Bakery on the Middle Region road after they saw a group of young men standing and smoking marijuana close to the building. The officers approached the group of men including a young man that was riding a blue Yamaha motorcycle. The young men took off running through the bushes leaving the motorcycle behind. A search of the immediate area was done but the young man was not located. More police assistance was called in and a more intense search of the area was done and during this search a pistol GLOCK-19 was found and confiscated for further investigation.

KPSM Police Report

Simpson Bay:--- On Saturday February 16th at approximately 03:30am, a phone call came into the Central Police dispatch reporting a serious traffic accident with injuries on the Welfare road in the vicinity of La Bamba. Immediately several police patrols were dispatch to the scene to investigate what had taken place. On the scene the investigating officers encountered the victim with initials G.D.R. (30) from Great Britain. The victim who was heavily under the influence of alcohol and attempted to cross the street was accidentally struck by an oncoming jeep with license plate P-8118. The victim suffered severe bruises to his body and concussion to his head. He was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment where he is a coma. The case is under investigation by the Police Traffic Department.

KPSM Police Report

brooksfamily17022013Philipsburg:--- Five families consisting of 25 people, sixteen of which are children were evicted by a court marshal and scores of police officers that were dressed in riot gear on Saturday leaving the families including two babies in the hot sun. The Brooks family in an interview with SMN News Sunday evening said that the court marshal whose name they provided took them to court with documents they believe are fraudulent. "The marshal's mother got a house from our mother because she cared for the old lady for a period of time. But there are four properties on the government lease land they have been occupying for the past 36 years." Three women and a man all of whom are the step children of Sebastien Mina (Frenchie) said that the last time their step father was on St. Maarten is in the year 2010. They said their stepfather showed them a document saying that his sister told him that he is supposed to meet with the marshal who would take him to the doctor. The women said that their stepfather told them that the marshal took Euros 600 from him when she met him. The women said when they read the document their step father showed them he assured them that he did not sign any document and that he had no intention of putting his family on the street.

The Brooks family said that their step father who is illiterate told them he did not sign any document to throw out his step children because he raised them from the time they were babies. They said the man returned to Guadeloupe after his wife died. They said the marshal took them to court and the notary document that was presented in court was signed on the November 3rd, 2011, a time they believe their stepfather was in Guadeloupe. They showed SMN News a document they obtained from Air Antilles which stated when Mina traveled from Pointe Pitre to St. Martin and when he returned to Guadeloupe. The Brooks family said that the sister of their stepfather is in some sort of deal with the marshal along with a male lawyer on the Dutch side because ever since the problem started they are not able to find their step father. The Brooks said that one of their sisters went to Guadeloupe in search of her step father and she did not find him. "We know his sister is in this with the marshal and she is the one keeping Sebastien away from us. Right now we don't know if our stepfather is dead or alive. We heard he was sent to Marie Gallante but we have no proof of that and we just don't know where to find him."

Attorney at law Shaira Bommel confirmed to SMN News that she represented the family in court last year and the family could not provide any proof or find their step father to prove what they are saying. Attorney Bommel said she believed her clients and that is why she took their case. Attorney Bommel further explained that there was not much she could do for the Brooks family because they had no documents to show they inherited the properties even though they are the ones that were paying the taxes and was occupying the homes in Fort Willem. "The only thing that would have helped my clients is a letter from their stepfather or if he had showed up on the day of the hearing. But since my clients did not have any of that the marshal won the case and the eviction she carried out on Saturday was fully legal."

The Brooks family said that the police officers who went to the scene were told that they have arms and ammunition and some of them left the scene when they saw that they were called to evict a number of children on a Saturday when no one could go their aid. "One of the police officers took his own money and bought a tarpaulin to cover our household items when he saw rain was coming. Another officer jumped his jeep and left because he could not bear what was going on. One of the officers told us that the marshal told them that there are arms and ammunition in the house and that is why they showed up in riot gear but when the officers did not find anything they took off their masks and some of them left the scene in rage."

The Brooks family said at some point they called on the Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin for assistance and the Deputy Prime Minister went and saw the commotion. They said that Marlin then called on the Minister of Social Affairs Cornelius de Weever who managed to secure two nights for them at the Bute Hotel while Marlin is working on getting the families social homes in Belvedere. The Brooks family said they have to meet with the Minister of Health, Social and Labor Affairs Cornelius de Weever at 8am on Monday and the Minister asked them to take all the documents they have so that the department of legal affairs could look into their case and to see if they could challenge what took place. They said after the meeting with the Minister of Social Affairs they have to go over to the St. Maarten Housing Development Foundation at 2pm to see if they will get emergency homes.

pjiae28062012Simpson Bay:--- There was no big fanfare when the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) recently formalized the closing of its US$132 million bond issue in New York City, despite the fact that the St. Maarten delegation that attended the ceremonial event included two cabinet ministers: Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, who also has responsibility for the airport; and Minister of Finance, Hon. Roland Tuitt.

There was no big to-do either when the delegation returned home, after securing such a huge financing on the international money market, despite the fact that the amount is about half the draft St. Maarten government budget for 2013.

It was business as usual, even when representatives of the underwriters of the bond, Nomura Securities International Inc., one of the world's leading independent investment banking firms with headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, and of Cigna, a global health insurance company and one of the largest health service companies in the US, which invested US$30 Million in the SXM bonds, visited the island following the closing of the bond issue.

"This is in typical St. Maarten fashion," noted Regina LaBega, managing director of the Princess Juliana International Airport operating company, PJIAE. "We are usually not hyped up by anything; we just go for it, get it done, and move on, no matter how extraordinary the achievement may have been."

Regarding the need for the bond issue, LaBega said, "airports are always in need of capital because they're always growing." She pointed to international airports, such as Schiphol in Amsterdam, Charles de Gaulle in Paris, O'Hare in Chicago; in Atlanta, Miami and closer to home, San Juan, Puerto Rico as examples of where there is constant construction activity in response to the growth in passenger movement and the capacity of aircraft.

For Clarence Derby, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, the bond issue was a "huge accomplishment that will have a major impact on the economy of St. Maarten."

Indeed, the economic development of St. Maarten is closely linked to the development of its airport. Nobody is more conscious of this fact than Minister Romeo Pantophlet, who at the New York closing ceremony stated that this would further facilitate the hub function of the airport.

This hub function – particularly for St. Barths and Anguilla, both considered high-end destinations – resulting in lower-than-normal passenger volatility, was what Moody's saw as key to the rating Baa2 it granted the airport.

This rating was also made possible by the sovereign rating of Baa1, which St. Maarten received from Moody's. Although the previous administration set the ball rolling, the current government recognized the importance of this and worked diligently and tirelessly to achieve the sovereign rating. Naturally, this would not have been possible without St. Maarten obtaining its new constitutional status on October 10, 2010.

According to PJIAE managing director LaBega, the importance of the bond issue in contrast to a bank loan from a St. Maarten bank is that, "you need to go to a wider source of capital – the capital market that has deeper pockets than the banks so to speak, to seek funds for major projects like we plan to undertake at the airport."

"The capital markets have more money and cater mainly to institutional investors such as pension funds, insurance companies, and banks among others," she said.

The difference between a bond and a loan resides in the fact that a bond is a security that can be bought and sold and has a usually fluctuating value.

Jan Beaujon, managing director of the Windward Islands Bank Ltd., said bonds are issued in large denominations in the primary market which functions really as wholesale.

"You can only subscribe to them at the moment of issue," he explained. "Banks can buy packages of a 100,000 or 200,000 and subsequently put them on the secondary market where anyone can buy them as retail, depending on how the bond is structured."

LaBega expanded on this. She said the bonds in the case of the airport, were sold to qualified investors. This means that such investors are very sophisticated and have rules to ensure that individuals, for example, do not buy bonds from corporate entities whose credit rating they cannot properly analyze.

"That's why we went through a very elaborate and strenuous process with Moody's, the rating agency, as well as another round of scrutiny by the investors – the underwriters, in our case, Nomura – because people want to protect their money," LaBega said.

"Our bond issue was structured and marketed solely to institutional investors. This has to do with our credit quality," said LaBega. The higher a corporate entity's perceived credit quality, the easier it would be for it to issue bonds at low rates and issue higher amounts of them.

According to Beaujon, the underwriter or arranger of the bond prepares the documents and advertises these to entities "they think will be interested in it." "The rating gives us a degree of confidence that the risk you're taking is worth it," he added.

The SXM Airport bond has a maturity of 15 years, meaning it will be due in 2027. This is typical for this kind of bond and the credit rating of the airport, LaBega said, and is the maximum maturity period generally for projects in the Caribbean because the region is not considered a mature market.

She further highlighted the fact that "SXM is one of the few airports in the world that is financed on its own. The government gave us a concession and we are very grateful for that, but most airports, for example, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago, and several others are supported by US federal and state funds. We are one of the few who depend mainly on our own revenues to finance development projects."

This and other factors, made the SXM bond "go like hot bread."

"We had a diversity of investors," LaBega revealed. "If we had more bonds we would have been able to sell even more. This is because the Princess Juliana International Airport has been in the market before, so we have a track record of paying our bills on time and meeting our obligations promptly. This shows discipline, which investors look for. My predecessor, Mr. Eugene Holiday, laid a very sound foundation."

The bonds are at a fixed interest rate of 5.5%, down from 8.25% of the previous loan. Regardless of the market conditions, this interest rate will remain the same for the next 15 years when the bonds will mature. The lower interest rate means substantial savings for the airport.

"It's like if you had a mortgage loan at 8.25% and you were able to refinance it and bring it down to a fixed rate of 5.5%. You can imagine how much you would be saving in this way," LaBega explained.

There was competition among the investors. The Windward Islands Bank Ltd. was one of the investors who wished they could have bought more SXM bonds.

Managing Director Jan Beaujon said his bank exchanged the old notes it had from the previous loan of the airport for the new bonds. It couldn't get more. "We were a bit late," he admitted. "There's only a certain amount (of bonds) issued and once they're sold, that's it."

LaBega said, "People were calling us after the deal was done asking if they could still get to buy our bonds. But there were no more left. It's like going to a restaurant and there is no more food to serve. This was because the 5.5% fixed interest rate is very good. It's a good deal. Good money always finds good deals, but bad deals don't find money."

The SXM bond issue opens up the door for other corporate entities on the island to try and do the same.

According to Beaujon, some government-owned companies on St. Maarten have obtained substantial loans in the past backed by the Central Bank, "which issued a guarantee to buy those bonds back in case of default." The Central Bank, he said, does this for an issue of "national interest."

"We do have a lot of liquidity now because the debts of the former Netherlands Antilles have been paid off since 10-10-10," he added. This means that the Pension Fund, insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions can invest their excess liquidity in bonds, especially St. Maarten bonds.

With the St. Maarten government unable to issue bonds of its own due to the conditions attached to its attainment of its new constitutional status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, despite receiving Moody's sovereign credit rating of Baa1, the airport may have charted a new path to financing major projects in St. Maarten.

kpsmdetectivesattenddrugenforcementseminar17022013On Monday February 11th, the Honorable Minister of Justice Mr. Roland Duncan opened a Drug Enforcement Seminar provided by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Several members of the Detective Department attended this seminar which ended on Friday February 15th. These seminar included Firearms and Raid training. At the end of the seminar the members of the Detective received their certificates for their participation.

KPSM Police Report

motorworldintroduces2013santafe17022013Awards:

In its very short lifespan as a new model, it is already racking up the awards.

  • The ALL New Santa Fe was recently awarded the 2013 ALG Residual Value Award. ALG is the industry benchmark for vehicle values and a leading provider of automotive insights. Residual value is a complete indicator of vehicle value, taking into account quality, durability and brand desirability. Basically, if you win this award, this vehicle will have the highest resale value. The Santa Fe has joined the Elantra and Azera who have also won their respective categories.
  • 2013 Top Safety Pick, IIHS- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (the premier industry benchmark for U.S. Safety)
  • The 2013 All New Generation Santa Fe has been named as the safest car in its class assessed by Euro NCAP during 2012. Across all test categories was rated best in the Large Off-Road 4x4 segment- ahead of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Range Rover!!

Notable highlights:

  • New 3.3 LAMBDA II MPI Engine- Fast and powerful, and more fuel efficient than ever before
  • 7 Passenger Seating
  • Bluetooth Hands Free Phone technology standard.
  • LED lights front and rear standard.
  • Backup Warning Sensors standard.
  • Touch Screen standard.
  • Rear View Camera standard.
  • 18" Alloy Wheels
  • Electric Folding Mirrors
  • And many more....

Available on the Fully Loaded Models:

  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Leather Interior
  • Push Button Start
  • HID Xenon Headlights
  • 19" Alloy Wheels
  • Electronic Parking Break
  • Supervision TFT Cluster (computerized and digital instrument cluster)
  • and many more...

The All New Santa Fe is available in many colors at Motorworld. Please call 544-5294 for more information on this beautiful new model.

Coming Tuesday February 19th, 2013, at 14:00 pm in the Hope Estate Senior Citizens Recreational Center, the SMSPA will organize an information session for all seniors and their family members in Sint Maarten. The information session is entitled: "SMSPA Achievements and What Next".

The vice-president of the SMSPA just returned from attendinig a 10 day Conference of the UN Committee for Social Development. Mr Jessurun left on Monday February 4th to New York to represent Alzheimer's Disease International at this conference. Starting the 1st of February Mr. Jessurun has also been appointed as CORV Ambassador to International Organizations. CORV is the Coordination of Civil Society Organizations of Latin America and the Caribbean on Aging. The board of the SMSPA is very pleased that their board member has these international assignments. The decision was taken to assign their vice-president to rally among the participating organizations at this UN world conference for solidarity and support for our struggle for equal pensions, equal health care, and equal social protection in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and to expand the SMSPA network of international non-governmental organizations.

The main topics of the UN Conference in NewYork where eradication of poverty, social protection, empowerment of the poor, the seniors, the youth and the disabled, and the evaluation and follow up of the 2002 Madrid International Action Plan on Aging.

At the information session the SMSPA board will address the following topics:

  • The 1000 guilders pension increase in Sint Maarten, the ongoing pension reform and the struggle for our right to equal social security in the Kingdom of the Netherlands
  • The health care treatment of seniors in Sint Maarten, the discriminatory SZV health care insurances, the ongoing health care reform and the struggle for our right to equal standard of health care in the Kingdom of the Netherlands
  • Local and international support for our struggle for equal rights in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the position of the governments and the parliaments in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, international treaty obligations, the International Action Plan on Aging and the outcome of the 51st Conference of the Committee for Social Development (CSD 51) from the United Nations Economic and Social Committee (UN ECOSOC)

All the members of the SMSPA and prospective members are hereby invited to come out. Also all members of the press are invited to inform the public at large. By word of mouth everyone is invited to come out, to be informed and to let their voice be heard!

So don't miss this information session. Tuesday coming at 14:00pm sharp (two o'clock in the afternoon), at the Seniors Citizens and Recreational Center of Hope Estate.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on February 18 with respect to recent developments concerning the Postal Services of St. Maarten (PSS).

The Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams as shareholder representative has been invited to parliament.

The agenda point also includes the resignation of the Director of PSS.

The central committee meeting will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (TEATT) will be meeting on February 19.

The agenda point for the meeting is the state of affairs at the Princess Juliana International Airport.

The permanent committee meeting will meet on Tuesday, February 19 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson who is also Chairman of this permanent parliamentary committee.

The other members of the committee are MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, MP Hon. Petrus De Weever, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Romain Laville, and MP Hon. Jules James.

The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on February 19 with respect to the current situation at GEBE utility company.

The Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure Hon. William Marlin as shareholder representative has been invited to parliament along with the Supervisory Board and members of the Shareholders Foundation.

The agenda point also includes future plans of GEBE utility company.

The central committee will meet on Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent MP Hon. Frans Richardson, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

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

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

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

smmc23082012CAY HILL:--- Recently a number of statements are being made again publicly regarding the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) by the minister of Health Care. We regret this development. The Prime Minister Mrs. Sarah Wescot fairly recently requested all parties to refrain from publicly addressing any issues and St. Maarten Medical Center has chosen to honor this request.
We agree with the Prime Minister that holding public discussions is not conducive to further improve the care we are giving to our patients. Our dedicated personnel, our patients who are residents of St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatius, the surrounding islands and the tourists we serve, have suffered enough of the unfounded and negative public media display in recent months from the Minister of Health Care and certain members of parliament.
The Minister of Health Care has now chosen to publicly discuss his request to the Supervisory Council of the SMMC to reconsider our position and has publicly referred to our response while taking this again totally out of context. We feel it is correct to forward our official response given to the minister, enclosed as an attachment.
We will refrain from further comments by honoring the Prime Minister's request.
St. Maarten Medical Center will continue as usual, to improve the care and services to all our patients who are in need of treatment, for their well-being and for the benefit of their families.
We look forward to doing so in collaboration with the Government of St. Maarten and the Inspectorate of Health.

The Supervisory Council of the SMMC

Simpson Bay:--- The Jamaican born convict Andrew Davis who was convicted to nine years imprisonment in the Vesuvius case was stabbed about five times early Sunday morning at the Simpson Bay outpost. According to reliable information reaching SMN News Sunday morning, Davis received about five stab wounds about his body around 4am. A source close to the convict said he was taken to the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) where he underwent surgery to save his life.
SMN News was also reliably informed that Davis was supposed to be heard as a witness in the appeal hearing which is supposed to take place sometime this month.
Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed on Sunday morning that Davis received multiple stabbed wounds and he is now a patient at the St. Maarten Medical Center. Mos did not say how many times Davis was stabbed and by whom. Mos said at this time it would not be wise for him to divulge more information in the ongoing investigation.
SMN News further learnt that an investigation has been launched to determine who stabbed Andrew Davis and the reasons. Detectives and other law enforcement officers were busy throughout the day on Sunday searching for the weapon that was used by the suspect or suspects who stabbed Andrew Davis.

Several efforts by SMN News to reach the Director of the Prison Facilities Edward Rohan proved futile on Sunday. While there is a major situation that involves the life of a prisoner, the new prison director cannot be reached. SMN News was confronted with the same situation when the Health Inspectorate conducted a control in the kitchen of the Pointe Blanche Prison Facilities. It appears as though Rohan can never be reached when there is a crisis at the house of detention.
Andrew Davis was represented by Attorney at Law Cor Merx during his trial. Merx could not be reached on Sunday for a comment on his client's condition. However, SMN News learnt that Davis was in stable condition after the operation and that he is heavily guarded at the St. Maarten Medical Center.

While it is known that prisoners fight among themselves, it can be considered outrageous that a prisoner who is locked up in a prison facility was stabbed multiple times and no one that was on duty supervising the prisoners at the time of the incident saw who was involved in the attack against Andrew Davis. Even though the Prison Management and its Director is responsible for the prisoners, the Prosecutor's Office also carries some of the responsibilities on the safety and security of the prisoners especially regarding their rights as a prisoner.

Minister of Justice Roland Duncan when contacted for a comment told SMN News that while the incident occurred at 4am Sunday morning and he arrived back on St. Maarten by 11:30am that same day, no one from the prison contacted him to inform him of the incident and the condition of the convict.

Duncan said that St. Maarten does not have enough cell space where he can keep prisoners separately. He said this is one of the reasons he is trying so hard to have the Justice Park which includes the BOX where more prison cells would be available.

Minister Duncan further explained that there are at least two gangs in the prison and the prison officers have to know the members of these two gangs to ensure they are kept separately.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A Central Committee meeting with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan has been scheduled for February 21.

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

The two agenda points to be dealt with are what initiatives are being taken to fight crime, including receiving crime statistics for 2012 as well as other relevant information; and an update regarding security and security companies in Sint Maarten.

The Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction. The initial meeting was first held on January 25.

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

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

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

mvogesandsxmstudentdelegation15022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- For the first time, Sint Maarten will be represented at the Erasmian European Youth Parliament Conference 2013. Moreover, it is the only country situated outside European Union to be present at this prestigious event. The student delegation from Sint Maarten consists of Miss Carla Vlaun (student of World Politics), Mr. Ryan Geerlings (student of International Public Management), and their coach Mr. Garrick Richardson (recent law graduate).

The Erasmian European Youth Parliament is organised by the Dutch foundation: the EEYP Foundation, and is an essential part of the Youth Capital program. Its aim is to empower young people and to encourage the implementation of innovative ideas with regard to their active participation in society. The EEYP started in 2008 in Rotterdam at the Erasmiaans Gymnasium as a pilot-project. Since then the EEYP has followed the European Youth Capitals, starting with Rotterdam in 2009, followed by Turin in 2010, Antwerp in 2011 and Braga in 2012.

This year the event will be held at various locations in Rotterdam whilst the Erasmiaans Gymnasium will be at the centre of all activities. It is because of the vision and dedication of members of the teacher's corps and parents association of this prestigious and historical education institute, that EEYP came to life. Special recognition should in this be given to two of its outstanding and inspirational board members Mrs. Evelyn Dolk and Mr. Pieter Dupont. The conference will be held from February 17th to the 23rd 2013.It will be an intense week for the Sint Maarten delegation. They will join approximately 120 students from eleven other EU membership countries to discuss, deliberate and debate issues that affect the EU.

The St. Maarten delegation recently paid a courtesy visit to Minister Plenipotentiary the Hon. Mathias Voges at his Cabinet in The Hague in order to inform the minister further about the EEYP event and its program. Minister Voges emphasized the fact that the members of the St. Maarten delegation will be seen as Ambassadors of our nation and that they should make use of the opportunity to profile not only themselves but also their country at the best of their abilities. "Go and make us proud, I am sure that you are more than capable to make this journey a success", minister Voges said.

The Sint Maarten delegation selected to be a member of the following committees: Energy, Infrastructure and Urban Development. Within these genres, they will have to research and develop solutions for the following questions: How to prepare Europe for a connected future? How to develop metropolitan areas in a sustainable manner? and How to battle youth unemployment in the EU? Subsequently, the respective committees will need to draft a resolution, which will be presented and defended in the General Assembly and voted upon. But also importantly, our students will have the opportunity to introduce and profile Sint Maarten on the opening day.

Soualiga Foundation's Chairman, Mr. Perry Geerlings, the architect of this initiative together with the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, said "I am so proud of Carla, Ryan and Garrick for volunteering for this event on such short notice. Next year, we hope that students can travel from Sint Maarten to take part in this event as it is more catered towards students that are in their final years of secondary education".

Mr. Geerlings hopes to further strengthen the relationship with the board of EEYP. "There is already a tentative agreement in place to add to the agenda/program topics affiliated to Sint Maarten's LGO status next year. This will enhance the mutual knowledge and understanding about our country's status and position towards the EU."

rolandduncan04012013Curacao/St. Maarten:--- The Ministers of Justice of St. Maarten, Curacao, and Aruba are yet to take a firm decision as to how they will move on with the RST that has set up shop on each of the countries. St. Maarten's Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in a telephone interview from Curacao told SMN News on Friday afternoon that the Ministers met to continue the discussion they started last month in Aruba. Minister Duncan said during the meeting with the Presidium a decision was taken where the three countries will draft a letter and send it to the Minister of Defense informing him of their concerns regarding the operations and services of the Coast Guard. Minister Duncan said they discussed a pilot program for St. Maarten and Aruba. In that pilot program the intention is to decentralize the Coast Guard, especially from the commander in Curacao to the local Coast Guard offices on the two countries namely St. Maarten and Aruba. It is also suggested in the pilot program that an evaluation will be done after one year. The Justice Minister said in his view this is a first attempt to deal with the issues of the Coast Guard, the Minister made clear that the decision they took during Friday's meeting is not a final solution but he believes that it is a step in the right direction because he felt decentralizing would give St. Maarten the opportunity to involve the local government some more. The Justice Minister said what they did on Friday was theoretical and it will be evaluated after one year to see how it functioned practically.

Duncan said that one of the things they will mention in the letter to the Minister of Defense is the equipments. Duncan said one of the things he has to see is what St. Maarten is getting out of the relationship, therefore parties have to be serious enough to discuss the failures or lack of interest. Minister Duncan said St. Maarten has a big mega yacht economy and a tourism industry which is far bigger than Curacao and Aruba, therefore St. Maarten is asking for special attention from the Coast Guard. St. Maarten wants to have its maritime police with a fully functioning harbor police that can patrol the lagoons. He said he already indicated to the Coast Guard that they have to provide the services St. Maarten needs if not St. Maarten will go ahead and set up its own maritime police and the Ministry of Justice would have to buy boats so that the job can be done. He said as Minister of Justice his first obligation is the security of St. Maarten and if he is not able to provide that security then St. Maarten would have a problem. The Justice Minister said this matter was raised by the FCCA last year. He said from day one he has been telling the Coast Guard if they agree to take care of air and sea patrol then they need to do the job and they have to do so under the command of the local law enforcement agencies. Duncan said people are asking why he is purchasing boats while there are boats at the Coast Guard. He said the boats that are owned by the Coast Guard have big cutters so they simply cannot patrol in the lagoons and monitor Oyster Pond. He said that is why he is now buying boats for the police and it is not because he has a problem with the Coast Guard but it is because they are not providing adequate services to St. Maarten. He said Curacao and Aruba have the same concerns and they too want to ensure that they could rely on the Coast Guard for certain services. Duncan said Aruba bought boats for its police and they also bought a helicopter because the Coast Guard does not provide the services that Aruba wants from them, he said the same thing applies to St. Maarten.

RST still has no Budget --- Year Plan has to Reflect the Budget.

The Ministers of Justice from Aruba, Curacao, and St. Maarten also met to further discuss the budget of the RST. Minister Duncan said that the RST budget was not approved during this meeting. Duncan said there is still some information lacking from St. Maarten regarding the RST. The budget the RST presented does not show what the countries, Curacao, Aruba, and St. Maarten are contributing.

He said Aruba doesn't appear to have much more problems with the RST and they also don't seem to have a problem with the budget of the RST. Duncan said both St. Maarten and Curacao do not agree with the budget the RST presented. The budget has to reflect what the countries are contributing and the services they are paying for. He said that he has to give Parliament accountability on how he is spending the people's money. "The RST does not have a prison, some of the detectives working for the RST are being paid by St. Maarten but this is not reflected in their budget."

Minister Duncan said the year plan that was presented represented the philosophy of the RST and the two countries do not agree with these philosophies, therefore the year plan has to be re-visited. Minister Duncan said there is a committee in place that comprises of the police chiefs of the countries within the Kingdom (namely Curacao, St. Maarten, and Aruba, the President of that committee is the Chief of Police of St. Maarten Peter de Witte) and this committee had the task of re-working the annual plan (year plan) of the RST. Minister Duncan said he is hoping that the report will be completely finalized in another few weeks. He said the committee did submit a report but the Ministers did not have enough time to fully analyze the report with the suggestions that were made by the committee, therefore no final decision was taken on the report submitted by the board of the police chiefs. Minister Duncan said he is not in any rush to take decisions on these matters because he wants to be able to tread carefully on the decisions he will take. "Aruba already made clear that the protocol of the RST should be revisited now and not in 2014." It should be noted that in 2008 Suzy Romer made a report where she stated that she felt the same way in 2008 about the Protocol of the RST. Minister Duncan said he agreed with Aruba and what the former Minister Suzy Romer said but the agreement they have is with Curacao, St. Maarten, and the Netherlands which states that the RST will be evaluated in 2014. Duncan said the Netherlands feels that changes should be made in 2014 when the evaluation is done, but Aruba's position is that the Netherlands does not have to do any evaluation because in their view the protocol is no longer relevant. Duncan said right now there is a new situation where the Police Forces in the various countries are much stronger now than they were in the year 2000 when the protocol on the RST was signed. He said one of the concerns is the operations of the RST outside of the local police force is not acceptable. He said while the RST was put in place to provide support they have a tendency to believe that they are functioning on their own and they don't report to anyone locally. Duncan said he is not creating issues with the Netherlands regarding the RST because St. Maarten is not the only one that has concerns and not in favor of the functioning of the RST. He said right now the Netherlands cannot just blame him for not wanting to cooperate because Curacao and Aruba have the same problems as St. Maarten. The Justice Minister of St. Maarten said Holland does not want to agree with these issues because their intention (mission) is to dictate. Minister Duncan explained that no date has been set by the Ministers of Justice as to when they will meet again to continue the discussion on the operations of the RST and take a decision in the interest of each of the countries. He said they agreed to make contact with each other next week and at that point they will set a new date to meet again. Minister Duncan further explained he basically wants a new relationship with the RST. The Minister of Justice said that even though the RST has its own budget, St. Maarten has to pay the detectives that work for the entity as well as pay to accommodate and the feed the people they investigate and arrest. Besides that, Minister Duncan said that he is of the opinion that KPSM (St. Maarten's Police) is already in a position to hold its own and he is willing to cooperate with the world, not only the Netherlands. "Cooperation is different from having a law enforcement agency imbedded in your country." He said if they are to provide assistance then he should be able to call on them for that assistance but they should not set up a separate shop in St. Maarten. "Why do we need to have a Dutch organization that is managed by the Netherlands in St Maarten? In my opinion they don't trust us, yet they are disturbing the progress of St. Maarten and when they are told this they get upset." Minister Duncan said that there is a new argument with the Dutch regarding Saba and St. Eustatius. He said that the BES is trying to dictate for St. Maarten and while Minister Plasterk had a lot of nonsense to say in his letter, he never mentioned that St. Maarten is subsidizing two of the three BES islands with electricity. The matter of GEBE is not even mentioned but they are telling us about our taxes, airport taxes, and WINAIR (a private company). Minister Duncan further explained that WINAIR is a government owned company and the Dutch is telling us to intervene and tell WINAIR what to do to benefit them. Furthermore, PJIAE has a concession with the Government of St. Maarten and here the Dutch and their reporters are telling us that we should tell PJIAE what to do with their airport taxes. He said that the Dutch is constantly complaining but they are not speaking about GEBE and he believes what is good for the goose is also good for the gander. "Being a country within the Kingdom does not make any sense if the Dutch has the gall to write letters telling St. Maarten to decrease its taxes and what to do with government owned companies."

pjiaecelebratesvalentinesday15022013Simpson Bay:--- Arriving and departing passengers and other users were pleasantly surprised on Thursday, February 14, 2013, Valentine's Day, when the SXM Airport firemen turned cupids as they gave out candies and roses, with their bows and arrows slung around their necks.

Decked appropriately in white T-shirts with red lettering, many of the cadet firefighters were in high spirits as they spread the love at the meet-and-greet area of the Arrival Hall, and later upstairs at the Departure Hall, where saxophonist, Connis Vanterpool was an obvious hit.

Music was indeed the food of love as love ballads filled the air at the Arrival Hall, where the pianist from Soprano's Piano Bar entertained the people. He also provided lucky passengers with gift certificates for dinner for two at Soprano's restaurant. A Valentine's Day booth was also set up in the meet-and-greet area where flowers and teddy bears were on sale.

"It is the second year we have organized this event and it is obviously becoming bigger and better," remarked Audrey Jack, Senior Business Development Officer at PJIAE, the operating company of SXM Airport.

"This is a very nice gesture; I didn't expect it," said St. Maarten resident Mariel Smith, who received a bag of gifts from L'Occitane, one of the concessionaires at SXM Airport participating in the Valentine's Day promotion.

Sally and Chris Maro, a couple that have been visiting the island for more than 15 years were winners of a gift certificate worth US$100 from AMA Bella, a store that sells luxury items. "This is fantastic," they said, beaming with smiles as they received the envelope containing the gift certificate from AMA store manager, Pradeep Tewani.

Similar sentiments were expressed by Rev. Vernon Liburd, arriving with his wife Eunelda, after winning a beautiful gift basket from Penha. "This is a total surprise," said Rev. Liburd. "We certainly weren't expecting this."

Penny and Joe Schmidt, a warm-hearted and lively American couple who have been visiting the island for the past 23 years were sad to be leaving, but elated to have won another gift certificate from AMA jewelers, which they were able to redeem before their flight was called.

"We're taking a bit of St. Maarten sunshine back home with us and now some glitz also," said a well-tanned Mrs. Schmidt. Her husband, Joe, had one word for the Valentine's Day surprise: "fantastic." They promised to be back again next year.

"We choose the winners randomly," explained Kalifa Hickinson, Manager, Marketing & Communications at PJIAE. She announced the additional winners of the other give-aways as Carmen Tyson, a resident of St. Maarten who was en route to New York. Tyson received a necklace from Capri Italian Fashion just after clearing security at the Departure Hall.

According to Hickinson, Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Haynes of St. Eustatius were the lucky winners of a trip for two to any destination Air Sunshine services. Air Sunshine is the newest addition to the scheduled carriers at SXM Airport. It began service on February 1, 2013 and flies to Tortola, Virgin Gorda, St. Thomas, Dominica, and San Juan.

"Our Valentine's Day promotion is another event we hope will make the 'experience move you' at SXM Airport," added Hickinson.

rylayouthleadershipconferenceopened15022013With the participation of 124 Intercators and other Youth Leaders, RYLA was declared open last Thursday Evening by Assistant District 7020 Governor James Ferris. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams, Minister Silveria Jacobs and District Governor Vance Lewis offered the young leaders words of welcome and encouragement before wishing them a successful conference on St. Maarten. The evening continued after the formalities with dinner and followed by a dynamic presentation by Psychologist Ms. Giselle Hilliman who spoke on the topic of "Understanding Different Behavioral Styles.

Gisella S. Hilliman, MA is a multi-talented young professional, and one of St Maarten's rising young leaders. Gisella holds a bachelors degree in Psychology from Temple University, in Philadelphia Pennsylvania and a Masters degree from the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her presentation engaged the participants to seriously evaluate their own personalities and those around them in an attempt to recognize how they themselves and others would react to a particular situation. The topic which set the tone for the rest of the conference which bears the theme "leadership and Peace through cultural diversity" was followed by an Ice Breaking Activity which built on the dinner theme. David McGregor Director and Trainer of TDC truly broke the ice as participants from Anguilla, St. Kitts, Tortola, Jamaica and St. Maarten took part in an exercise which challenged them to not look at each other in the eyes and remember as many as 20 names, of persons they had never met before, within 20 minutes. The challenge of not looking each other in the eyes failed terribly as clearly in our culture this is not customary. As for remembering names, based on an honor system the winner of this exercise was victorious with claiming to have remembered 18 names. Before lights out on the first night a final treat of ice cream was given as the following morning at 6:30 Patti Panthophlet would set the pace for the day with Zumba.

The Youth conference which is taking place at the MAC school in St. John's Estate will end on Sunday afternoon. The varied topics discussed will be facilitated at the University of St. Maarten and at the MAC school.

pjiaejetbridge15022013Simpson Bay:--- Following the successful rebranding of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), demand for advertising space on the jet bridges has been overwhelming, says Managing Director Regina LaBega.

"As a result of the recent rebranding of the airport, we have noticed an overwhelming surge in demand for advertising space on our four jet bridges," LaBega said.

"This is a clear indication of confidence in the SXM brand and a welcome development in terms of improving the revenue stream from our non-aeronautical sources in accordance with our strategic plan," she added.

At the official launch of the SXM brand, LaBega had noted that the "whole aim is to re-position the Princess Juliana International Airport as a leading hub in the Caribbean and to promote our ultra-modern facilities and the quality of our services."

LaBega had further added that "it was a strong belief in the rebranding efforts of Princess Juliana International Airport that tipped the scales in our favor for Moody's to grant us a rating of Baa2," which in turn paved the way for Nomura Securities International to underwrite the bond issue of US$132 million recently closed in New York to fund the airport's Capital Improvement Program.

Staff of Lexwell Attorneys, a member of the SXM Airport family, had been given a tour of the facilities as the first advertisers on the jet bridges.

"We are proud to have contributed to our island's world-renowned airport and our team of attorneys is thrilled to be the first exclusive advertisers to be featured on the jet bridges," said Mark Kartenoever, partner at Lexwell Attorneys.

"We applaud the airport for their innovative initiatives such as the advertising opportunities on the jet bridges where hundreds of travelers each day will see these ads creating an invaluable opportunity for local and regional businesses," he added.

Simpson Bay:--- The latest traffic development figures from the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM Airport) indicate a slight decrease in traffic in 2012 compared to the preceding year.

While scheduled aircraft movements showed a slim decline of 0.1%, there was a robust increase of 9.18% in cargo movements. Overall, however, the total aircraft movements at SXM Airport including landings and take-offs dipped by -2.33% in 2012 in comparison with 2011.

Charter, corporate jets, and general aviation all suffered significant drops in the period under review. Charter flights decreased from a total of 661 in 2011 to 512 in 2012, a decrease of 22.54%. General aviation also plummeted from 7,671 flights in 2011 to 6,721 flights in 2012 or a decline of -12.38%. The biggest drop percentage-wise, however, was in military aircraft, which dipped to -30.59% with only 59 movements in 2012 versus 85 the preceding year.

"We are naturally monitoring these figures very closely and analyzing them," remarked Regina LaBega, managing director of PJIAE, the operating company of SXM Airport.

"These figures bear out the need to improve our facilities in order to be able to accommodate especially corporate jets and general aviation which have had to divert to neighboring airports due to inadequate parking facilities for them at SXM Airport," she added.

A portion of the US$132 million bond issue the airport just concluded will be allocated to this expansion as part of the Capital Improvement Program which is about to take off shortly.

eholidayvisitsmgdwschool14022013Hope Estate:--- On February 13, 2013, His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday paid a working visit to the Marie Genevieve De Weever Primary School. The Governor received a warm welcome as all the students greeted him by singing 'The School Song'. After addressing the students with some motivational words the Governor met with the School Principal Mrs. Bourne and the Adjunct School Manager Mrs. Moeslikan and discussed developments within the school. Mrs. Bourne gave the Governor a tour around 12 of the 14 classes. His Excellency Eugene Holiday encouraged the youngster to always strive to be the best they can be through hard work as he visited the class rooms. The Governor was invited to assist the sixth grade in creating miniature structures of the Emilio Wilson Estate as part of the black history month program. In working with the students Governor Holiday questioned the students about Emilio Wilson and pointed out that it was important to study our history and to have a place like Emilio Wilson Estate to help to remember and understand our history. Governor Holiday applauds the work of the management and teachers of the Marie Genevieve De Weever Primary School and encourages our community to reach out and support our educators in their work in forming and preparing our youngsters.

minervalawrencewinsrotarycarraffle14022013Car raffle raises funds for Children's Special Needs Projects.

Minerva Lawrence was the lucky winner of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten's Valentine's Day Car Raffle. In the company of Rotarians, supporters and under supervision of Notary Meridith Boekhoudt the winning ticket was drawn on the premises of Le Grand Marche on Bush Road at approximately 10:15 Thursday morning. The car raffle which was launched in August last year aimed to raise funds for community service projects that in particular cater to special needs children, youth and the community in general. The red Hyundai i10 was provided at cost by Motor World allowing for most of the funds raised to go back to the community. President Robert Judd called the Valentine's Day winner who made her way to the location to collect her prize. The Rotary Club of St. Maarten would like to congratulate Minerva Lawrence on this very happy Valentine's Day and thank Motor World and all who contributed towards making this fundraising a success. The club continues to carryout it's community service work and can do so because of the support of the community.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Soualigan Fyah, a poetry/spoken word competition for teens ages 13-18, will get its official launch this afternoon, Friday, February 15, at 5pm, at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
The event, organized by Lysanne Charles of 5 square miles productions in collaboration with PJL and Imbali Center for Creative Movement, will begin with an orientation evening, before moving into the first round of competition next Friday, February 22.
"Today the teens will basically get a packet with the rules of the competition and the rubric. They will also get to read some of their pieces, just to get rid of the jitters and hear from veteran poets who I have invited to share their work," Charles said.
She said that the younger poets would also be able to ask some of the veteran performers for feedback if they so desired. Charles explained that the first 30 teens that arrived and registered would be eligible to compete in the event.
"I definitely think there is a need for this kind of event for the young people. After organizing Summers Speaks and Winter's Words and going to different events and hearing young poets like Andrew Peterson, Gabriella Prensa, and others, I knew I wanted to organize something like this, so I am definitely excited that it is finally going to happen," Charles said.
The final round of competition is scheduled for Friday, March 15 and the top 3 teens from each week, along with a teen picked in the wildcard spot would advance to this evening, Charles explained.
"Thus far, the winner will be able to perform at Summer Speaks and Winter's Words, on radio, will receive a book bundle generously donated by House of Nehesi Publishers and will travel to Tortola to perform at the annual Microphone Messenjah held there if parents consent," Charles said.
She said that several other prizes were pending and would be released as they came in.
"This event is about more than prizes though; it's about the development of poetry and spoken word on our island. I'm grateful to House of Nehesi for its donation, because after all it was and is the platform which gave and gives many St. Maarten poets a voice. This is what Soualigan Fyah is about, giving our young people a platform to share their views and let their voices be heard," Charles said.
Charles said she is encouraging all interested young poets who fit the age criteria, and are high school based, to come out and participate in this event. She is also encouraging them to bring along their support network, but promises to create a supportive environment for all poets.
"This is just the beginning of Soualigan Fyah and hopefully with the enthusiasm of the young people and the support of the community it is a vehicle for artistic development which will be around for a long time," Charles said.

garrindellandlawyerhijmans14022013In my further preparations of my objectives to introduce a draft law on domestic violence, earlier this week I met with Lawyer Hijmans.

I will also discuss this issue with Professor de Doelder. He was in Sint Maarten and before Parliament several times to assist Minister of Justice Roland Duncan when hearings were held in 2011 regarding the Penal Code.

Contact will be made as well with other stakeholders including Safe Haven once a draft is made to get their input in the document.

In the meantime, I have received a copy of the law and the explanatory notes thereto of the special law as established in the Netherlands regarding domestic and relational violence.

Domestic Violence Awareness and its consequences on society are at the front burner of many governments around the world. It was very encouraging to me and dare say to the millions of women and men around the world to hear President Barack Obama refer to the Domestic Violence Act, in his State of the Union address on Tuesday evening. It is that important of an issue.

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

Marigot:--- The Criminal Courts in St. Martin condemned former State employee Yannick Beaud on February 14th, 2013. Beaud and his family received the bad news on Valentine's Day when the judges from the criminal courts pronounced their decision. Beaud received a fine of Euros 10,000 for not following proper procedures when he left his State appointed job at Departmentale Direction d' Equipment (DDE) and went to work for Semsamar. Beaud also got eight months suspended sentence while he was banned from working in any public function for a period of three years. On November 18th, 2012 Yannick Beaud appeared before the court on three charges which showed he engaged in conflict of interest from December 2009 to December 2010 and from May 1st, 2011 when he took leave of absence from the State to work for Semsamar. The case against Yannick Beaud was tried on December 15th, 2012. In December during the trial, Prosecutor Flavien Noailles told the court that Beaud acted against the law when he worked for the State and at the same time worked for a private company on similar dossiers. Prosecutor Noailles said Beaud was wearing two hats while he did not apply the requirements of the law to abstain from working for private companies for a period of three years. The defense lawyers for Beaud told the court during the trial that Beaud had received consent from two Prefets that were working on St. Martin. Those Prefets were Dominique La Croix and Jacques Simmonet.

It should be noted that Beaud left his State appointed job shortly after he secured European funding for the Caisse des Ecoles and the Abattoir. Both projects were commissioned by Semsamar and Yannick Beaud was the engineering specialist who was supposed to overlook the projects and ensure they were built in conformity with State regulations. To date, the Abattoir cannot function because they were built on the same property and in close proximity of each other causing a health and hygiene concern.

Also condemned on Valentine's Day is the former head of Urbanism Josi Carti. The Court also found Carti guilty of acting in conflict of interest when he worked on a building permit for his own company. Carti had applied for a building permit for his company Societe Civile de Construction Vente SCCV "Tropicana" that was granted to him in a little over two weeks. The file was handled between 2002 to 2003. The court found that Josi Carti abused his power, thus they condemned him to two months suspended sentence with a fine of Euros 5000.00. The court also forbid Josi Carti from working as a civil servant for a period of three years.

Josi Carti and the third Vice President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Guillaume Arnell along with the owner of SINDEXTOUR Norbert Luftman have to return to court on March 21st to answer charges of fraud and obtaining monies that were not due to them and the use of fraudulent documents when they issued an Autorisation d'Occupation Temporaire (AOT) to the owner of SINDEXTOUR Nobert Luftman.

shtameetswithcoc14022013The newly elected Executive Board of St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry met with the Executive Board for the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, (SHTA) on Tuesday February 5th at Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, to discuss several issues of common interest. The two organizations have agreed on regular meetings to see how they can combine efforts to tackle critical issues that are of common interests. In the photo are Executive Board Member and Vice President of the SHTA Eveline Henriquez-Dijkhoffz, SHTA Executive Board member Keith Graham, Chamber Treasurer Sidharth "Cookie" Bijlani, Executive Director for the Chamber of Commerce Claret Connor, SHTA Executive Board Member Lorraine Talmi, Newly Elected Chamber President Tamara Leonard, SHTA President Emil Lee, Chamber Vice President Hubert Pantophlet and SHTA Executive Director Alfred Harley.

rotaryclubofsxminducts2newmembers14022013The Rotary Club of St. Maarten has two new members that where inducted during the lunch meeting on Wednesday February 13th at Divi Little Bay. Here for the opening of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) DG Vance Lewis was on hand from Tortola, to conduct the induction ceremony assisted in the pinning ceremony by the Honorable Governor Eugene Holiday who was a member of this club and is currently a Honorary member.
Joining Rotary are Debbie Biscontini and Geeta Usha Khatnani. Debbie Biscontini has a PhD in Economics and taught economics for much of her career, her classification within Rotary is Economist. Mrs. Bisconiti is also a volunteer Treasurer with the Dawn Beach Estate Lots Foundation.
Geeta "Ushi" Khatnani is the owner and manager of Mr Tablecloth and has joined the Rotary Club of St. Maarten under the classification of Retail.Ushi has been on the island since 1980 and lives with her husband Pishu and has 2 children and is has been a member of the Indian Merchants Association. Both new Rotarians have already demonstrated their involvement in community service within and without the Rotary organization. Recently inducted Rotarian of the Mid Isle Club Veronica Jansen Webster joined the other new members in the ceremony.
The opportunity was also taken by chairman of the RYLA Task Force Mr. James Ferris to present the the RYLA program to District Governor Vance Lewis.

youngmangrove17072012Environmental Protection In the Caribbean (EPIC), St. Maarten Pride Foundation and volunteers will be planting Red Mangroves along Little Key and possibly other locations in the Simpson Bay Lagoon on Saturday February 16th with the support of Isle de Sol marina. Meeting point is in front of "The Taste Factory" across from Kim Sha beach at no later than 8:15am.

Mangrove ecosystems have significant ecological, environmental and socio-economic functions. Mangrove communities usually occur in sheltered shores and in areas where sediment is gradually trapped forming mud banks. In short, the functions of mangroves include:

Soil formation by trapping debris;
Filtering land run-off and trapping terrestrial organic matter;
Maintenance of coastal water quality;
Shoreline protection
Nursery areas and feeding grounds for juvenile reef and pelagic (deep sea) fish;
Important habitat and feeding grounds for a range of other animals.

Those attending are asked to wear slippers, boots or old shoes as "we will be getting a little wet!". Be sure to bring drinking water (in your reusable bottles of course). Everyone is invited to participate in this small but important event!!! To register and for more information about the event please contact EPIC at 5453009 or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/epicislands

The Foundations extend their gratitude to Mr. Parker Davis of Florida Coastal Mangroves for the generous donation of some 200 mangroves.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on February 18 with respect to recent developments concerning the Postal Services of St. Maarten (PSS).

The Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams as shareholder representative has been invited to parliament.

The agenda point also includes the resignation of the Director of PSS.

The central committee meeting will meet on Monday at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson, Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

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

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

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

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Parliamentary Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations will meet on February 15.

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

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

The points to be discussed are the status of workgroups; preparation of notifications; and working visits.

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

The Chairman of the committee is Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Roy Marlin, MP Hon. George Pantophlet, Vice Chairman, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Frans Richardson, and MP Hon. Dr. Ruth Douglass.

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

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

etiennemeyers14022013Sucker Garden:--- Retired Inspector of Police Etienne Meyers died early Thursday morning at the age of 89 in his sleep. Meyers was ailing for quite some time now and he was being cared for by his children, mostly his son Etienne "Toochie" Meyers. According to the Meyers children, one of his daughters who recently came from the USA to spend some time with her father found him dead in his bed around 6am on February 14th, 2013.
Etienne Meyers served the Police Force of the former Netherlands Antilles on St. Eustatius as a major and he also served on St. Maarten until he retired.
Etienne Meyers was married on February 14th, 1946 to his late wife, a former Minister of the Methodist Church Eulalie Meyers who passed away on March 25th, 2011. On the day of his passing, the late Etienne Meyers would have been celebrating his 67th wedding anniversary.
He leaves to mourn eight children, Etienne Toochie Meyers, Charles Meyers, Frankie Meyers, Gwen Meyers, Joyce Meyers, Merlie Meyers, Jackie Meyers, and Harold Meyers. Also mourning the loss of the retired Inspector are his grandchildren, great grand children, in laws, and several other close relatives.
SMN News team extends deepest condolences to the Meyers family who are now grieving the loss of their loved one.

pjiaecelebratesvalentinesday13022013Simpson Bay:--- Music, give-aways, and an atmosphere filled with love are expected to turn SXM Airport into a romantic experience that will move you on Valentine's Day.

Starting at 11:30 AM on Thursday, February 14, passengers and the entire airport community will be serenaded by virtuoso saxophonist, Connis Vanterpool at the Departure Hall, while the pianist from Sopranos Piano Bar will take to the stage at the Arrival Hall to treat passengers and others to love ballads.

SXM Airport Firefighters will don Valentine apparel to distribute chocolate and roses to passengers in both the Departure and Arrival Halls.

Concessionaires will also be joining in the Valentine's Day promotion by giving away various items to passengers. For example, Penha Perfumes will be giving away Valentine baskets, while L'Occitane, Capri, and AMA Jewelers will also offer special give-aways.

Air Sunshine will be giving away a ticket for two for the destinations it services, and Sopranos will be offering four dinners to lucky passengers.

In addition, there will be a Valentine Booth where candy, flowers and teddy bears will be on sale.

"Valentine's Day is celebrated all over the world and we want to make sure that all the users of SXM Airport feel the love on this special day," said Kalifa Hickinson, Manager of Marketing & Communications at SXM Airport.

presidiumdelegationsfromarubacuracaoandstmaarten13022013PHILIPSBURG:--- A delegation from the Parliament of Sint Maarten headed by President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel, Chairman of the Permanent Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations Member of Parliament Hon. Roy Marlin, and Secretary General Jossy Semeleer, forming the presidium of the Interparliamentary Kingdom meeting IPOK, travelled to Curacao and held discussions with the Presidiums of Aruba and Curacao on February 4.

The presidiums of the aforementioned parliaments prepared for a video conference that took place on February 5 where a number of decisions were taken in preparation for the IPOK in the Netherlands early March.

The video conference was very constructive and the propositions made by Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten were accepted. All parties agreed that the delegations of the countries will cooperate with each other in order to make the IPKO a success.

Among the issues decided upon: the Presidium of each country is formed by Presidents of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, the President of the Committees Kingdom Affairs and the Secretaries General, except for the Netherlands, where the Chairman of the Committees Kingdom Affairs of the First and Second Chamber and the Secretaries General, will form the Presidium.

The Presidents of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten, the Netherlands, and Chairmen of the Dutch Committee, are heads of the delegations and will sign the final document.

Each delegation can make an annotation in the decision list if the country has a different view. An explanation of this position can be given in an annex, which formally is not a part of the decision list.

All delegations can participate in the working groups. The Netherlands (First Chamber) will take the lead in a working group if the subject regards the Netherlands in the Caribbean (BES islands).

The Presidiums of Aruba comprised of, C.G. (Chris) Dammers, Vice President, G.R. (René) Herdé and mr J.A. Bastien-Sherman, Secretary General. Curacao was represented by President M.C.F. (Mike) Franco, H.M. (Helmin) Wiels, and mr S. Cijntje, Secretary General.

During the meeting in Willemstad, the draft agenda for the IPKO in March was discussed. In mutual agreement some proposals for changes and additions were made to the draft agenda. These proposals were discussed during the video conference on Tuesday, February 5, 2013, with the IPKO Presidium of the Netherlands, Jeroen Recourt, President of the Committee Kingdom Affairs of the Second Chamber and Marijke Linthorst, President of the Committee Kingdom Affairs of the First Chamber and the Secretaries General of respective Chambers.

The initial meeting paving the way for discussions was a result of the initiative taken by the President of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, to invite the Presidents of the Parliaments of Aruba and Curaçao, to come to Sint Maarten on January 28, 2013, to discuss amongst other things the upcoming IPKO.

blackhistorycelebrationquiz13022013Marigot/Great Bay:--- Historical and contemporary figures or personalities, eight in total, make up the history quiz for the 22nd annual Black History Celebration (BHC).

The top quiz winner will receive the much in-demand iPad mini with a surprise download of a recent St. Martin-published eBook, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation, organizer of the island-wide BHC.

"We are happy to participate in this educational quiz," said Krisha Kukreja, public relations officer at the Blue Point computer store.

To be a winner of the iPad and other prizes, each quiz figure has to be identified correctly by his or her first and last name; and a short biography of no less than 30 words has to be written about the person, said Reiph.

The completed quiz should be emailed, along with the name and contact information of the person filling out the quiz, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The completed quiz and contact information can also be delivered in a sealed envelope addressed to Conscious Lyrics Foundation, to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, C. Voges Street 12; Blue Point, 93 WJA Nisbeth Road, Philipsburg; or SOS Radio, 197 rue de Hollande, Marigot – by Thursday, February 28, 2013. The first, second, and third prize winners will be announced on Saturday, March 2, said Reiph.

Blue Point, SOS 95.9 FM, and House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) are sponsors of the quiz for BHC 2013, said Reiph.

"Labor, the cradle of our civilization" is the theme of this year's month-long commemoration of history. "Each year since 1991, Conscious Lyrics Foundation has publicly celebrated the history of Africa and its Diaspora around the world, including in the Caribbean and the Americas. We also place special emphasis on history-makers and history-making events from the island of St. Martin," said Reiph.

sjacobsattendscircustheatersilk13022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs, attended circus theater SILK, a Chinese Legend production on Monday February 11th 2012 at the Philipsburg Cultural Center.

CircoMagik with the assistance of Motiance St. Maarten collaborated to present this circus theater production.

SILK tells the story of how silk was accidentally discovered by the Silk Queen His Ling Shih. The story is depicted in a whirlwind of color, circus artistry, drama, dance and martial arts.

Motiance St. Maarten provided the drummers for the production as well as choreographing several contemporary dance pieces. The performers are students of CircoMagik Curacao, a production company focused on training youngsters in various artistic disciplines.

vromiinspectorsreceiveextraordinarypolicestatus13022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Seven civil servants from the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) last week Friday were sworn in by Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan with the status of extra-ordinary police.

The seven persons include three senior inspectors at the Department of Inspections comprising of the Enforcement Team of the department and four persons from the Department of Infrastructure Management.

The aforementioned police status allows the civil servants to enforce various ordinances and issue fines to those who are infringing upon the law.

According to Acting Secretary General Ministry VROMI Louis Brown, the ministry now has an additional task at its disposal to adequately enforce laws governing building construction and development, environment, safety on job sites, and other applicable legislation that the ministry is charged to enforce.

Civil servants from the Department of Infrastructure Management also received the aforementioned status since they are in the field on a daily basis and can detect transgressions and are now able to take action on the spot in collaboration with the Enforcement Team of Inspections.

Six persons within the Ministry successfully completed their training in 2009 and one person already had the authority in the Netherlands and is currently employed at VROMI.

Other staff members from the Department of Inspections will within short will start their own training and once successfully completed will be certified as extra ordinary police officers.

srsstudentstourmarinas13022013On Wednesday February 6th, students from Sister Regina School in Simpson Bay were given a tour of Yacht Club Isle De Sol (IDS) and Yacht Club Port De Plaisance (PDP).

Marina managers Brian Deher (IDS) and Leon Wilson (PDP) guided the students around the marinas. The children got to see the yachts up close and understand marina operations. Discussion of the many different types of jobs available both in the marinas and on the boats. The students were given refreshments after their tour.

"I was extremely impressed to see how polite and interested all of the children were. They all had very intelligent questions and their curiosity and excitement was very apparent. From the St. Maarten Marine Trades perspective, we are always happy to help spark an interest in our industry, especially students at such a young age since they have a great opportunity to pick up hobbies now as children that can turn into successful careers as young adults," said Marina Manager and SMMTA President Brian Deher.

2013jciboard13022013PHILIPSBURG:--- Junior Chamber International of St. Maarten (JCI), the nonprofit personal development organization whose sole mission is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change, recently elected and installed its new Board of directors for 2013.

During the recently concluded elections, outgoing president, Ms. Meandra Hazel, welcomed the newest board members to the executive wing of the organization and wished them well in their one (1) year term.

The new board consists of President Ms. Deidrae Thompson, Vice President Mr. Richinel Brug, Secretary Mr. Dwain Thompson, Treasurer Ms. Janine Hunte, and Ms. Meandra Hazel will remain on the board as the Immediate Past President.

During the newly elected president's incoming address, Ms. Thompson, emphasized that "Despite numerous challenges that the organization faces today, I wish to do nothing but be an inspiration to others. Inspiration is an essential tool in pushing individuals out of their comfort zone to serve, impact and transform the lives of others in their circle of life". She said, and went on to emphasize "I hope to inspire you, like black America, inspired by President Barack Obama in his first postulation as president of the United States of America with his famous theme... "Yes We Can"."

She went on to thank the organization and its membership for allowing her the unique opportunity to serve them as their president and she promised to do her utmost, maintain the JCI standards and empower them to be more effective in transforming themselves and the people in our community.

Junior Chamber International (JCI) is one of the largest worldwide non-political and non-sectarian youth service and self-development organizations. It is an international community of citizens between the ages of 18 and 40 with the aim and purpose of creating positive changes in the world.
The organization believes that these changes must result from one taking "collective action to improve themselves and the world around them."
While containing a religious element in their Declaration of Principles, JCI neither promotes nor engages in any religious activities. JCI St. Maarten meets on the last Wednesday of every month for their General Membership Meeting at the University of St. Maarten (USM) at 7:30 PM.

JCI St. Maarten can be reached on their Facebook page and is also accessible by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on February 19 with respect to the current situation at GEBE utility company.

The Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Development, Environment, and Infrastructure Hon. William Marlin as shareholder representative has been invited to parliament along with the Supervisory Board and members of the Shareholders Foundation.

The agenda point also includes future plans of GEBE utility company.

The central committee will meet on Tuesday at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Members of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson, Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, and MP Hon. Romain Laville.

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

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

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

swescotwilliams13022013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams addressed the letter sent to her by Minister Ronald Plasterk on February 8th, 2013. Wescot Williams said many twists have been given to the letter that was sent to her, she said visited the Netherlands in December 2012 and during that meeting several points were raised such as St. Maarten's financial situation and the relationship between St. Maarten and the BES islands. Wescot Williams said even though the Minister raised the points he clearly did not have all the information surrounding the issues. Wescot Williams said during that meeting the Minister indicated to her that he would have secured more information on the issues and he would then discuss them again when he visited the island in January 2013. St. Maarten's Prime Minister said that when the Council of Ministers met with Minister Plasterk on January 22nd they provided much information on the issues he tabled when she met with him in December 2012 in the Netherlands.

Wescot Williams said the situation surrounding WINAIR was extensively explained to the Minister since the Netherlands (BES) owned a minority share in the company. Wescot Williams said that the Council of Ministers on St. Maarten gave Minister Plasterk the history of WINAIR and they also provided information on the other issues the Minister raised. She said when St. Maarten asked Minister Plasterk to provide specifics he still did not have sufficient information. She said at that meeting an agreement was made with the Minister where he agreed to gather all the necessary information from his civil service and send St. Maarten the answers in writing to the Council of Ministers. Wescot Williams said in certain media in the Netherlands it is stated that Minister Plasterk is calling the Prime Minister of St. Maarten to order. Wescot Williams said that she will not react in the same tone as Minister Plasterk but she wants the Minister to know that prior to the BES there was SSS (Saba, St. Eustatius, and St. Maarten). She said she wants the Minister to know that the relationship between the three islands goes back way beyond the BES that became an integral part of the Netherlands.

Another issue Minister Plasterk addressed is some sort of double indirect taxes. Wescot Williams said St. Maarten is not levying any double indirect taxes. She said the Dutch Government decided to levy their general revenue taxes on the BES islands. Wescot Williams said that the Council of Ministers explained Minister Plasterk that the Turn over Tax (TOT) on St. Maarten is not the same as Value Added Tax (VAT). She said St. Maarten ensured that businesses on St Maarten do not incorporate the TOT as if it is a sales tax or value added tax.

The Council of Ministers also discussed the issues affecting the medical helicopter. She said that they are trying to find out who is really responsible for the hiccups regarding the medical helicopter.

Regarding the issue of the fiber optic cable, Wescot Williams said that the government of St. Maarten explained the Minister that St. Maarten (TELEM) invested a lot of money to have its own fiber optic cable and having another one could be to the detriment to St. Maarten. However, the Dutch Minister feels that the issue of the fiber optic cable is a business venture.

She said at the time this matter was discussed the courts had ordered St. Maarten to give the BES (Netherlands ) a response on their request to pass their fiber optic cable through St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said St. Maarten was busy gathering information such as environmental impact. She said despite all of that both parties came up with alternatives to make it a win–win situation.

Finance Minister Roland Tuitt also addressed the letter on Wednesday by informing reporters that Minister Plasterk wrote a letter to the second chamber and he indicated to them that he will send St. Maarten a letter in which he would address the issues and he would also provide solutions (recommendations) to St. Maarten. Tuitt said that while the Minister sent St. Maarten a letter there were no recommendations or solutions.


rolandtuitt13022013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told reporters on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the process to finalize the 2013 budget is not yet complete as he is still awaiting a response from the CFT on the last draft the Government of St. Maarten presented to them for their approval.

Minister Tuitt said the 2013 budget now stands at 457 million guilders. The Minister of Finance said that the Council of Ministers already gave a preliminary approval of the budget in their Council of Ministers meeting on Tuesday while the they are still working on a follow up report. Tuitt said as soon as he gets the approval of the CFT he will send the budget via the various channels so that it can reach the Parliament of St. Maarten for their approval.

When asked by SMN News if he believes that he will meet his target by having the budget approved in the month of February as he anticipated some weeks ago, Tuitt said that will not happen because the Government of St. Maarten is making a realistic budget and not a "voodoo" budget.

The Minister also clarified again on Wednesday that he has no problems with the CFT and their checks and balances. He said the only disagreement he has with the CFT is the fact they have not given to him in writing the criteria on which they are auditing the budget he sent to them.

Road Tax Deadline February 28th.

The Finance Minister said again on Wednesday that were no major changes made to the payment of the annual road tax. He said that the only thing that was done is that the payment system has been simplified so that motor vehicle owners could make their payments easier and faster. Tuitt cautioned vehicle owners that the deadline for paying their road tax is February 28th, 2013. Another remark the Finance Minister made was that in his view a lot of people/residents and vehicle owners on St. Maarten have become law enforcement officers when it comes to the road tax and the changes made to the payment system. Tuitt said he came to that conclusion based on the kinds of questions that he is confronted with on a daily basis.

Philipsburg:--- The officers of the Voluntary Korps of St. Maarten (VKS) are not in favor of Chief Inspector Anthony Rogers who was recommended by outgoing Commander of the VKS Jean Illidge to take over his position as commander of the VKS. Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed to reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that Rogers was recommended to her by Illidge but the appointment has to be made by the board (management team) that is not yet established.

Wescot Williams also confirmed to reporters that the VKS officers are not in favor of Rogers getting the position. She said while the selection of a commander has to take place, Paul Martens will be at the helm of the VKS. It should be noted that Paul Martens is the section head of Disaster Management, he is the President of the Red Cross, and as of March 1, 2013 he will also hold the post as Commander of the VKS.

Illidge told SMN News in an invited comment on Wednesday that he recommended Rogers because he knew of Rogers' capabilities. The outgoing commander said that Rogers worked under him in Aruba and on St. Maarten. "I gave 16 years of my life to the VKS and I suggested someone who I think is capable of carrying the baton. If the Prime Minister does not agree with my suggestion she should have said that. I don't understand why a local St. Maartener cannot hold a prime position and why it always has to be an outsider." Illidge said that Martens already has three major positions and it is impossible for him to be the interim commander of the VKS. Illidge further explained that the officers that are complaining want the position and in his opinion they are not capable of doing the job. "What is happening right now among the VKS officers is a fight for position and that is why they are grumbling about Rogers." Chief Inspector Anthony Rogers could not be reached on Wednesday for a comment on the ongoing saga.

Netherlands/St. Maarten:--- The President of the Courts of the Netherlands recently approved new court room rules for reporters/journalists and videographers which will go into effect in March 2013. According to a monthly magazine issued to prosecutors within the Kingdom and countries within the Kingdom, journalists will be allowed to tape record, videotape, and take photographs of court room proceedings as of March 2013. The rules were made broader for media workers in order for them to bring forward a more accurate and complete picture of court room proceedings. Journalists and videographers who wish to tape court room proceedings have to notify the court in advance in order for the presiding judges to make the necessary arrangements for the taping and recording. Some special arrangements were made for criminal proceedings especially where it relates to the personal aspect of suspects. Suspects in each case can choose whether or not they agree to be taped during their trial. The magazine states that the judge, lawyers, and prosecutors can be taped during court room proceedings.

Click here to view the article on the new court room media rules.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs says it is a priority for her to see the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex (RISC) and Little League Ballpark upgraded.

Department of New Projects Development and Planning has been working diligently and the advice for the renovation of the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex, is in its final administrative stages. Phase 1 of the upgrading plans for RISC includes renovation of the running track, sports field, lights and drainage.

The upgrading of the Little League Ballpark, has been the focus of attention for some time. Execution of upgrading plans for the ballpark should be completed by July 1, 2013.

Last week, discussions with the Minister and the Board of the Little League Association took place. Design aspects related to drainage, sporting field, tribunes, stadium lights, scoreboard, fencing and the upgrading of the bathroom facilities were center of discussion.

During the upgrading, the scheduling of the local competition games must continue therefore logistics with regards to location have to be ironed out.

The Little League Board will present some alternatives to the logistics and scheduling. Design works are currently in execution and scheduled to be completed for tender by the beginning of March 2013.

irminhughes12022013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) honors staffer, Irmin Hughes-Richards for her 35 years of dedicated service to the people of St. Maarten.
"Earnest dedication, selfless devotion and utter commitment to her work are only a few words that describe Irmin's work ethic here at the library," Monique Alberts, PJL Director, explained.
Hughes-Richards, a daughter of the St. Maarten soil, started her long career at the library in 1978 as an energetic, high school graduate, ready to make a difference. With this goal in mind the young Hughes-Richards applied for a job at the library and she was immediately hired as an Administrative Clerk. During that time Hughes-Richards was expected to run to Holland House to make photocopies because the library was not yet in possession of a copier. From that humble beginning she worked her way up to a member of the library's Management Team.
In the past 35 years Hughes-Richards fulfilled many roles among which were: Circulation and Book Mobile Clerk, Circulation Supervisor, and Assistant Librarian. Currently, Hughes-Richards serves, primarily, as the Human Resource Officer, Head of the Information Desk and member of the Management Team.
"The sheer scope of Irmin's work experience here at the library is testament to her inherent drive to succeed," declared Alberts.
The Philipsburg Jubilee Library Board, Management and Staff congratulate Hughes-Richards on this milestone in her career.
In recognition of Hughes-Richards unwavering service to the library, a staff luncheon will be held in her honor on Wednesday afternoon.

Pembroke Pines, FL:--- The FCCA Member Lines' top-level cruise executives will serve as hosts for the 19th annual FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza on Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The evening will begin with a 90-minute cocktail reception, where you can meet and mingle with some of the cruise lines' CEOs and presidents, along with decision-making cruise line executives from operations, tours, itinerary planning, marketing and every other aspect of the cruise industry. A silent art auction featuring a magnificent collection from Park West Gallery will also take place before the dinner commences.

However, the night's main festivity is the dinner itself, as the tables are hosted by FCCA Member Lines' cruise executives, presidents and CEOs, and Gala guests purchase tickets to sit with the host of their choice for a night of productive networking and valuable insight.

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

For more information about the 2013 FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza, contact the FCCA, 954-441-8881. To purchase your tickets on line:
http://registration3.experientevent.com/showcru131/Default.aspx

pjiaeaidsmlkjrschool12022013SIMPSON BAY:--- When a school cries out for help, it invariably strikes a sympathetic cord with the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) with a long-standing tradition of outreach to the youth of the island.

So, when concerned citizen Christopher Emmanuel approached Regina LaBega, managing director of PJIAE, the operating company of SXM Airport last week with the school's urgent need for janitorial supplies she got on board right away to assist.

"There was no hesitation on her part when I contacted her," said social activist Christopher Emmanuel, who explained how he got involved in seeking help for the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Primary School.

"I was on a radio program one night, on Fernando Clark's show, and one of the teachers called in to say how the school lacked several materials. Fernando, in his usual manner, said, 'no problem, Chris will take care of it.'"

"When I contacted Regina, her response was instant; she told me to come over. SXM Airport really came through big time," Emmanuel added.

"It is a standing policy of ours to extend a helping hand to our schools whenever and wherever possible," LaBega said. "A school with a name like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and needing assistance during a month like February, Black History Month? It is just natural for SXM Airport to quickly do what it can to help."

The school officials were very pleased to receive the much-needed items Monday morning, February 11, 2013.

Winner To Receive US$2,500 Cash Prize.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Professional and amateur photographers can capture their dreams with the upcoming St. Maarten Aviation Photography Competition taking place March 17 - 23, 2013 at the Sonesta Maho Beach Resort and Caravanserai Beach Resort, both located in Maho Bay. Photographs must depict an aviation-related action, with an aircraft visible amid a St. Maarten backdrop. The photographer of the winning image will receive a US$2,500 cash prize.

This comes on the heels of St. Maarten's airport being just named the most stunning airport approach in the world by PrivateFly.com. The airport is located on the scenic shores of Maho Beach, offering passengers on incoming flights breathtaking views of turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Spectators looking to get a unique view of low-flying incoming planes frequent Maho Beach daily. This one-of-a-kind setting lures tourists and photographers from around the world to the island to capture exclusive shots of arriving planes.

In addition to residents of St. Maarten, participants from the French Antilles, Puerto Rico, Trinidad, Brazil, Belgium, Canada, and the U.S. are expected to take part in this competition, organized by Robert Cijntje, the founder of Xpress-Digital and one of the top 15 most viewed photographers on JetPhotos.net, the largest aviation website in the world. The competition will be the first of its kind in St. Maarten and the Caribbean region.

"We're excited to be hosting the first competition of this nature in the Caribbean region and look forward to seeing all of the contest's submissions, which are sure to capture the unique beauty St. Maarten offers its residents and guests every day," said the Honorable Romeo F. Pantophlet, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications. "The competition will increase awareness of the rare views that the airport and surrounding areas boast and will likely increase aircraft spotters and photographers to the destination and turn them into repeat visitors," he added.

"The St. Maarten Aviation Photography Competition is a unique event that comes during a great period for the Princess Juliana International Airport, SXM, as we celebrate our 70th anniversary this year," said Regina Labega, Managing Director of Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company, N.V. (PJIAE).

"The fact that the photographs must depict an aviation-related action in St. Maarten makes this a very interesting competition. We believe it will yield positive results for the destination, not only in the sense of further promoting the new branding of the airport, but also in drawing attention to the beauty of the island through the creative eyes of photographers," she added.

In addition to the winner's cash prize, judges will select six photos from all submitted to be exposed in the arrival hall at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten, with the names of each photographer displayed.

Registration fees can be paid to the organization during the morning briefing at the Sunset Beach Bar on March 18, 2013 at 8:00 am or anytime before Friday, March 22, 2013. All fees received will be donated to the Breast Cancer Awareness Program in St. Maarten, during the Prize Giving ceremony on Saturday March 23, 2013.

Photograph submissions must be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. on or before March 22. Emails must contain the full name and address of the photographer. Photos should be in JPG format, be a minimum of 1200x800 pix, and must contain the date and time. A maximum of three entries per participant is allowed. The photographer of the winning image must be present at the prize giving ceremony on March 23 to receive their cash prize. The competition is also open to residents of St. Maarten.

For more information on the St. Maarten Aviation Photography Competition, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For additional information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

rotaractsunriseandinteractsdhwelcomesheldonrichards12022013Simpson Bay:--- In efforts to promote cultural and educational diversity, friendship and building networks; The Rotaract Club of St. Maarten Sunrise, Rotaract St. Kitts and the Interact Club of St. Dominic High collaborated in a Student Exchange program. Rotaract Sunrise members along with Interactors of St. Dominic welcomed Sheldon Richards to the island of St. Maarten on Saturday 9th February 2013. Sheldon was chosen as this year's exchange student because of his exceptional academic performance.

Sheldon attends the Saddlers Secondary School. He was valedictorian of his 6th grade class and also class representative. Upon graduation from the Saddlers Primary School in 2009, he received the Social Security Scholarship for Academic excellence. When Sheldon began his Secondary School tenure, he was elected as the Vice President for the Student Council from 2010 to 2012. He used that opportunity to develop his leadership skills. In fact in 2012, He was recognized as one of the 25 Most Remarkable Teens in St. Kitts in the category of Leadership. He excels academically in every aspect; consistently receiving the Gold Honour Award from the school's Honour Roll Program. Sheldon's overall goal is to become a Physician specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Sheldon will be on the island for one week and will be attending the St. Dominic High School from Monday-Wednesday and attending the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) from Thursday-Sunday of this week. We are happy to have Sheldon with us and hope he leaves this friendly island with additional knowledge, advance leadership skills and an unforgettable experience.

anthonyrogers12022013Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams will be appointing Chief Inspector of Police Anthony "Tony" Rogers as the Commander of the Voluntary Korps of St. Maarten (VKS) in the very near future. SMN News has been reliably informed that Rogers will be leaving the Police Force sometime this year as he reaches his pensionable age. It is not yet known if Rogers will be taking up the new position before he goes on pension or if he will serve KPSM until his last day.
According to information provided to SMN News, the current Commander of the VKS Jean Illidge will be serving as Commander up until February 28th, 2013. Illidge will be leaving on pension at the end of this month. It is also understood that Paul Martens will serve as the interim commander until Rogers takes up the position as commander.

SMN News also learnt that since St. Maarten became a country on October 10th, 2010 the government of St. Maarten did not form the foundation under which the VKS will function. According to information provided to SMN News, the government of St. Maarten issued a decree to the VKS authorizing them to operate as the Voluntary Korps of St. Maarten.
SMN News further learnt that the Prime Minister already selected the candidates who will be on the board of the VKS and their names were sent to the Corporate Governance Council for advice. Those that were selected to be on the board of the Voluntary Korps are Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein, Former Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards, one of the Adjutants from the Governor's Office, and Emilia Thomas from the Prime Minister's office.

In an invited comment, Commander Illidge confirmed that he is leaving on February 28th, 2013. Illidge also confirmed that the foundation for the VKS has not yet been set up since St. Maarten became a country and prior to that the VKS was functioning under a foundation of the former Netherlands Antilles. The outgoing commander also confirmed that the government of St. Maarten did issue the VKS a Ministerial decree in order for them to function until the process of setting up a foundation is finalized.

Philipsburg:--- The Management of the Harbor Group of Companies was called to Parliament on Tuesday to give the committee on Economic Affairs an update on how they have been managing the Harbour Group of Companies. While the CEO of the Harbour Group Mark Mingo gave the committee members a perfect picture of the operations he has been heading for the past 11 years, Member of Parliament of the Democratic Party faction Petrus Leroy De Weever pleaded with the Management team not to take his questions personally but he thinks that the people of St. Maarten need to know the truth.

De Weever asked Mingo if he is not the one who chose to sell lands that belonged to harbor for almost nothing. The MP also asked for queries about the land sold to EDC and what happened to the monies that the Harbour Group took as financing for the EDC project. De Weever also asked about the land the Management of the Harbour Group sold to the Indian Merchants.

De Weever said that while the Government owned company is battling with the insurance companies and Ballast Nedam who built the harbor which can only withstand up to category four hurricanes, he wants the management team to tell Parliament how much it would cost the Harbour Group of Companies to repair pier one that was damaged by storms and hurricanes. De Weever said based on the information Mingo shared with the committee members, it is clear to him that the Harbour is looking for more monies (30 to 35 million USD) for expansion. The DP MP said that he wants to know exactly how much the harbor properties was sold for compared to the price they are willing to pay for other properties for further development.

De Weever also asked for more information on the agreement they are working on to purchase the properties of Bobby's Marina.

MP De Weever asked if the causeway will be completed and if it will cost the government of St. Maarten more monies. De Weever said that while SLAC has certain responsibilities including the waterways, just recently he went to see the condition of the Simpson Bay lagoon and he concluded that the Mississippi River is in better condition than the Simpson Bay Lagoon. He said that SLAC falls directly under the Harbour Group of Companies. De Weever reminded Mingo that as a St. Maartener he knows the importance of waterways and therefore he should do his best to save the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Mingo gave the committee members a full outline of the activities of the Harbour Group of Companies. He mentioned how the causeway which is currently under construction came into being and some of the other projects that will be connected to the causeway. Mingo also confirmed on Tuesday during his presentation that the height of causeway had to adjust because the workers of the Airport Towers shared concerns on the height of the causeway.

Mingo in his presentation said that the Harbour Group has been making a lot of contribution to the community and he is also in agreement with the Minister of Finance who is currently working on a policy for government owned companies to pay government its dividends. Mingo said that he hopes that the other government owned companies would pay their fair share to the shareholder.

Other Members of Parliament congratulated the management team of the Harbor Holding Companies for the informative presentation they presented to the committee members. However, Member of Parliament Romaine La Ville in his presentation said he believes that the Harbor Holding Companies could offer more opportunities to the younger generation of St. Maarten by granting one or two students a year full scholarship.

Member of Parliament Jules James said that he is of the opinion that Mark Mingo is a politician based on the way he answered the questions that were posed. James said that it appears to him as though Mingo is preparing to contest in the 2014 election. James also asked Mingo how much money the Harbour Holding Companies invested in TEMPO Turns 7 and if they believe that was good investment for St. Maarten. The UP MP further asked the Harbour Group Management how do other people qualify for funding.

Philipsburg:--- The supervisory board of SZV had to postpone their meeting on Monday evening which was called to discuss the letter the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever sent to them regarding the appointment of Reginald Willemsburg as Director of SZV. According to well placed sources, the Supervisory Board meeting had to be postponed due to a lack of quorum. SMN News learnt that meeting will now be held on Monday February 18th, 2013.

The supervisory board sent their advice to the Minister of Health some months ago where they suggested Willemsberg as the candidate for the position. However, some two weeks ago the Minister responded to the Supervisory Board informing them that he has several concerns regarding the person they selected. One of those concerns was that he (the Minister) did not feel that Willemsburg could bring SZV to the level he would want it to be while the Minister also wants to appoint both the Director and Assistant Director at the same time, therefore he asked the Supervisory Board to reopen the selection process so that more suitable candidates can be selected for the positions that are available at SZV.

According to information SMN News received, some six persons applied for the position, two of which are from St. Maarten namely former Minister of Health Maria Buncamper Molanus and Reginald Willemsburg while the other candidates were from outside of St. Maarten.

SMN News reported last week that one of the reasons the Minister of Health wanted to re-open the selection process was because the Democratic Party wanted to appoint the former Minister of Health to the position. SMN News was told after the article was published that the Democratic Party and the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever who is a Minister appointed by the DP Fraction had absolutely no influence in the selection process. A source close to the SZV board said the Minister of Health and his legal advisors met with the Supervisory Board last week and they raised some legitimate issues regarding the appointment of Willemsburg. The source said that while the Minister of Health expressed his concerns on the person that was selected, no definite decision has been taken on the appointment. It should also be noted that while the Supervisory Board would send an advice to the Minister on a candidate they feel should be appointed, the Minister of Health is the one that has the final say in the appointment of persons to senior positions.

smmc23082012Philipsburg:--- The four members of the Supervisory Board of the St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) has sent a letter to the Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever informing him that they will not resign from their positions since they see no reason to do so. The Minister of Health Cornelius de Weever sent a letter to the SMMC board and announced publicly in Parliament that he asked the four board members to make their positions available. It should be noted that two of the Supervisory Board members of SMMC are not residing on St. Maarten. One of the board members live on Curacao while another one is living in St. Eustatius.

The Supervisory Board of SMMC is tasked with the appointment of a Director of SMMC which is without a Director since Dr. George Scot vacated the position. SMN News further learned that the Supervisory Board already indicated to the Minister of Health that they are not able to find a suitable person to appoint as Managing Director of the only Medical Institution on St. Maarten.

SMN News learnt that there are three persons functioning as interim director of SMMC but two of them are currently off island.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In a fruitful meeting on Friday, February 8th, a Social Economic Council (SER) delegation discussed a number of key policy issues with the Minister of Finance Mr. R. S. Tuitt and several staff members. In line with the intention of the SER to anticipate advice requests from government at the earliest possible opportunity, the Minister of Finance informed the SER about future plans on a number of important upcoming topics. By announcing new policy initiatives to the SER at an early stage, the Minister gives the social partners represented in the SER the opportunity to advise government in a timely fashion. This speeds up the policy making and legislative process, as requesting SER advice is mandatory for government on all important social economic matters.

Primary issues on the agenda of the meeting were tax reform and the handling of the cost of living adjustment (COLA) on the civil servants' salaries. As a result of the meeting, the SER will receive different specific advice requests on these issues, permitting the council to table these topics at the earliest opportunity. In this way, the shared view of the business community, the labor unions and the independent experts represented in the SER can be taken into account by government before finalizing their regulatory and legislative proposals.

The SER is anticipating similar meeting requests from other ministries pertaining to policy intentions with a high social economic impact.

In the meeting, the Minister of Finance was accompanied by policy advisor Xavier Blackman as well as Fiscal affairs officials Mercedez James and Janio Chayadi. The SER was represented by Chairman René Richardson, Secretary-general Gerard Richardson and senior policy advisor Arjen Alberts.

summithotelstaffholdingdadpromomaterial12022013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Summit Resort Hotel in Cupecoy, St. Maarten who is celebrating forty years in operation this year, has returned to the Dollar-A-Day (DAD) program and says its guests have always been very happy with the work that has been done on the island through the program.
Summit Resort had underwent some changes about four years ago and during that time the DAD program was not being run at the resort. However, recognizing the significant benefit to the island and the hotel staff, management was happy to restart the program.
The DAD program officially launched by the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) over ten years ago, gives visitors to the island an opportunity to contribute to the Social Development and Hospitality Education on the island.
General Manager for the newly refurbished 26 guest room Resort Hotel Edna "Pat" Evans said "We are really looking forward to participating in the Dollar-A-Day program once again. We are especially pleased with the type of training it provides for our staff."
She said that with much of the upgrade of the facility already done, the focus now is on ensuring that the staff has the proper training they need to enable them to provide excellent customer service to the guests. She said, "Training the staff is something that we see as not only good for the hotel, but for the island in general because the increase in the service level on the island will secure it as being truly the "Friendly Island" and we want to keep it that way."
The staff was also given some basic training on how to promote the DAD program to the guests and they were also given a set of marketing tools to assist them. Through the hotel's participation in the DAD Program the staff can benefit from discounted training and certification programs following the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) professional certification curriculum. The SHTA provides on the job training for Front Desk Customer Care, Housekeeping, Security, Maintenance and Food & Beverage staff of their member hotels. Training is also available for Supervisors and Managers. The DAD motto is "give one Dollar-A-Day and make St. Maarten Smile!"

shtameetswithrduncan11022013PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the Board of the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) met on Wednesday February 6th with Justice Minister for St. Maarten Roland Duncan to discuss amongst others the Tourism Statistical data Information System (TSIS), Crime, the proposed Justice Park and updates on Brooks Tower program.
The Meeting was requested by the SHTA as a means of getting firsthand information on critical issues affecting St. Maarten and was used as an opportunity to put forward concerns of its members. These concerns include the spate of violent criminal activity in 2012, poor lighting in Philipsburg and the still not ready camera surveillance system for the Island.
The SHTA also questioned the process to get the TSIS System up and running, explaining to the Justice Minister how critical that data that would be collected is for the future of St. Maarten's Tourism Product. The data according to SHTA will shed light on the areas where Tourism Destination Marketing efforts should be more heavily concentrated.
The SHTA also expressed its concern about the practicality of a Justice Park at this juncture especially considering its price tag in an economically dull market. Notwithstanding the need for better detention facilities and for the separation of first time offenders and juveniles from hardened criminals, the SHTA wondered whether such a large investment was the most practical solution.
Minister Duncan said because he had not yet presented the findings of the 2012 crime report to Parliament and the Council of Ministers he could not disclose the findings but expressed satisfaction that there were signs of improvement in crime detection and prevention. He said that the lighting issue in Philipsburg had the Justice Ministry's attention and that the Chief Police Commissioner had formed a committee to report on the lighting on the entire Dutch side of the island. He said with regards to the cameras, he not only wanted to put cameras in Philipsburg but throughout Dutch St. Maarten, which would include cameras at every border point and known hot spots for criminal activities.
Minister Duncan also explained that with the TSIS system there were still some technical issues to be resolved, and that while the original idea showed passengers scanning the ED Cards, he felt it would be a far less complicated process if the Immigration Officers maintains the responsibility to ensure information was accurately entered into the system. He also expressed hope that he would be able to also install a finger print scanner at the airport for arriving passengers.
Regarding Brooks Towers Duncan said that there were no new applicants following the end of Phase One and some issues were being worked out with the Labor Department to ensure that the issuing of Residence Permits was in sync with the issuance of Work Permits.
Regarding the Justice Park Minister Duncan said the real question should be if not now "When?" He said there were several areas where Government had to by law already be in compliance with regards to detention of persons. In order for Government to do what is constitutionally required, Duncan said investments would have to be made. The existing house of detention in Pointe Blanche, already thirty years old, was according to him crumbling and already not large enough to house the prisoners resulting in them being spread to as far as the Simpson Bay Sub Station. He also noted that Juveniles and First Time Offenders were not presently being separated from hardened criminals and that the combination of the various departments of the Ministry Of Justice already resulted in over six different properties being rented. He also pointed out that he made sure he came up with proposals of how it would be paid for over time.

sjacobsatrightsofthechildbikeathon11022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs took part over the weekend in the Day Care Bike-a-thon and Family Day at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex on Saturday.

This activity was the last of the Rights of the Child Commemoration program which started in the month of November 2012.

The Bike-a-thon commenced at the Grand Marche Supermarket on Bush Road at 9:00 am and ended at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex with a Family fun day.

Management of various day care centers participated with their students who were also accompanied by their parents. The children dressed in a school uniform could be seen on their bikes beautifully decorated for the occasion.

Some parents were also on their bikes as the Soualiga Youth Drum Band marched their way in the parade. Minister Silveria Jacobs was at the front of the parade leading by example.

shtaboardmeetsgertversluis11022013Philipsburg:--- The Executive Board of the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) met with the new Dutch Representative to St. Maarten Drs. Gert Versluis, who will replace Marsie Jonkers. Jonkers who has had an excellent relationship with the SHTA, the largest private sector representative organization on St. Maarten, introduced Versluis to the SHTA's Executive Board on Tuesday February 5th, during a brief meeting at the SHTA office on the Walter Nisbeth Road in Philipsburg. Jonkers will take up a position in Curacao.

policepatrolingonhorses11022013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Island Civil Servant Union/Private Sector Union (WICSU/PSU) Deri Leonard and the NABP are concerned about several issues affecting the police. Even though the two unions met on Saturday and agreed that they would send out a joint press release expressing the concerns of KPSM, the NAPB President went ahead of WICSU/PSU and gave an interview to one of the newspapers on Sunday.

A press release issued by the W.I.C.S.U/PSU and NAPB states that the unions sent a letter to the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams, the Members of Parliament, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan, and the Chief of Police Peter de Witte. According to the press release, the letter was sent to Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte on July 25th, 2012 outlining some of the issues affecting KPSM.

According to the unions, KPSM lacks police vehicles. They said there is a large fleet of police vehicles that are not in proper condition or safe for police officers to drive anymore. WICSU/PSU claims that the vehicles were purchased in the year 2004 and most of them have mileage of more than 190,000 kilometers. The police unions feel that the condition of the police vehicles is a very serious matter because they believe that the safety and lives of dedicated police officers are in jeopardy. They said they are not limiting neither excluding the safety and security of the citizens of St. Maarten.

Leonard in her press release said just recently the police ordered ten vehicles, of that amount only four arrived. The union thanked the Minister of Justice for the four vehicles he provided the police with but they want the Minister of Justice to know that in order for them to have an up to par surveillance unit, the police would need at least 50 more new vehicles. They said the police have to provide service over the hill and above the hills, while there are other departments within the police force that need more vehicles.

Another concern the union raised in their letter to the Chief Commissioner of Police was the quality and quantity of the Police Uniforms.

Additional issues that are affecting the police the unions said is the 16.3% indemnity that is given to police officers. According to WICSU/PSU, when the police were part of the former Netherlands Antilles the indemnities for civil servants were incorporated in the salaries of civil servants and the only workers that did not get their indemnity were the police and immigration. The WICSU said it is important that the 16.3% indemnity be incorporated in their salaries because it is an important aspect that will looked at when their pensions are calculated. The WICSU/PSU also addressed the statements made by the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt last week when he was asked about the COLA payments (Cost of Living Adjustments.)

According to the WICSU/PSU, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams in a meeting with the GOA indicated that the government of St. Maarten could not continue paying the COLA because of the financial burden that it places on government. WICSU/PSU said at that time it was decided that a proposal regarding the COLA be sent to the GOA for further discussion but to date the Prime Minister and those responsible for putting that proposal together has not done so. Therefore, the WICSU/PSU and the NAPB believes that the COLA must be paid in its present structure because in their opinion the civil servants deserve the extra monies. They also feel that the government of St. Maarten has no respect for the GOA which is a very important body within government.

The union is calling on the elected officials on St. Maarten to act promptly on the issues affecting the police because they believe that is the only way the people of St. Maarten would receive quality services.

policemanonhorse11022013In an invited comment, Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte said that he did receive the letter the unions sent him almost a year ago. De Witte said that when St. Maarten became a country on October 10th, 2010 the materials including computers and vehicles were in a deplorable condition. The top cop said that there were vehicles that had over 200,000 kilometers and the police had no choice but to use the vehicles they had, some of which were more than ten years old. De Witte further explained that the management team of KPSM sent the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan an overall plan on the state of affairs of KPSM. De Witte further explained that even though the plan was sent to the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan in writing, they also discussed the matter and they advised the Minister to provide KPSM with the tools they need progressively. He said in 2011 the Minster approved the plan they gave to him but nothing happened because there were no monies to buy the materials including vehicles for KPSM. De Witte said sometime after the Minister of Justice found a solution and he approved the purchase of ten vehicles via letter of guarantee. So far the police received four vehicles while the other six are on the way. As for the uniforms for KPSM, De Witte said he received orders from the Minister of Justice to order the uniforms from the Pointe Blanche prison which he did. He said KPSM received some uniforms from the prison but suddenly that too stopped. De Witte could not say why the Pointe Blanche Prison stopped providing the uniforms but recently he received permission from the Minister of Justice to find a suitable company (outside source) that could supply the police with the uniforms they need.

SMN News learnt that the Minister of Justice invited the unions to a meeting and to date they have not met. According to information provided to SMN News, the legal advisor of the Minister of Justice tried to meet with the unions to discuss their grievances but the unions refused to meet with the person claiming that is not the person that is supposed to deal with their concerns and needs.

It should also be noted that while the police unions have raised some valuable points regarding the needs of the police or KPSM, the Ministry of Justice just lost six million guilders in their 2013 budget due to additional budget cuts in order for the CFT to approve the 2013 budget. It is also clear that the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan is under the radar from all angles since he has been making the news in St. Maarten, Curacao, and the Netherlands. Some Parliamentarians on St. Maarten questioned the Minister about the 100 Million dollar Justice Park he is working on while others are questioning the Minister about the BOX and other issues that are affecting the Justice Ministry.

While the issues facing KPSM and its faithful workers are valid and should be taken serious, we at SMN News chose to use a little bit of humor to take the stress off our men in blue by reminding them that policing can be done with or without modern day tools. The photographs above show the police in Saba used to patrol their streets on horses. The officers in those days also solved major crimes back then and it seems very likely that the people including the police of St. Maarten would have no choice but going back to basics in order for them to keep crime under control if the Dutch continues to make it difficult for St. Maarten to run its own affairs.

mpcinteractclubrecruitmentdrive11022013President Ger-Dwina Browne assisted by Secretary Rainer Ranis, Treasurer Ikmareka Hunt, and Community Director Catherine de Windt organized a recruitment drive on Friday last at Carl & Sons.
Students of MPC who where identified as having leadership potential were invited and provided with a PowerPoint presentation in which information was shared of what Interact is all about and the Community Service, fundraising activities and fellowship that the Milton Peters College Interact club has been involved in over the past 3 years.
Interact is Rotary International's service club for young people ages 12 to 18. Interact clubs are sponsored by individual Rotary clubs, which provide support and guidance, but they are self-governing and self-supporting. The MPC, St. Maarten Academy, and Learning Unlimited Interact Clubs are sponsored by The Rotary Club of St. Maarten, while the St. Dominic High School Club is sponsored by St. Maarten Mid Isle Rotary Club. Club membership varies greatly. Clubs can be single gender or mixed, large or small. They can draw from the student body of a single school or from two or more schools in the same community.
Each year, Interact clubs complete at least two community service projects, one of which furthers international understanding and goodwill. Through these efforts, Interactors develop a network of friendships with local and overseas clubs and learn the importance of , leadership skills and personal integrity, being helpful and respectful to others taking on individual responsibility as well as hard work and understanding that all this and goodwill goes beyond the local geographical boarders.

As one of the most significant and fastest-growing programs of Rotary service, with more than 10,700 clubs in 109 countries and geographical areas, Interact has become a worldwide phenomenon. Almost 200,000 young people are involved in Interact.The recruitment drive resulted in 23 students of the Milton Peters College signing up to be Interactors. The official ceremony will be organized shortly. Anyone interested in joining an Interact Club should contact any member of the Rotary Family for more information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In an effort to connect and interact with cruise travelers, the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (www.VacationStMaarten.com) will guest host a live one-hour #CruiseChat with MSC Cruises on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 2 pm ET. Participants will gain valuable information about cruising to St. Maarten and the Eastern Caribbean and will have the unique opportunity to get their travel related questions answered the program's co-hosts.

"With thousands of tourists visiting St. Maarten each year while cruising the Caribbean, we understand how essential cruise travelers are to our island," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "We believe this live Twitter chat with #CruiseChat will help us gain valuable insight into what cruise travelers really want to do and see while in St. Maarten and will aide us in better catering to their needs," he added.

Participants can join the live Twitter chat by searching the topic #CruiseChat and including the hash tag #CruiseChat in all tweets. During the chat, the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and MSC Cruises will jointly tweet questions and answers to the public about cruising in the Caribbean.

CruiseChat is a weekly Twitter event dedicated to the discussion of cruise travel in a fun, informative and engaging format, and is the only Twitter chat dedicated to the cruise industry. Each chat reaches up to 900,000 Twitter users during the one hour live sessions.

Follow the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau on Twitter at @StMaartenTravel.

For more information on St. Maarten visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

markyokoyama11022013GRAND CASE:--- The current issue of the journal of the International Reptile Conservation Foundation (IRCF) features an in-depth look at the reptiles and amphibians that have been introduced to St. Martin. Written by Mark Yokoyama, author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin, it is available to view or download for free at the IRCF web site: http://www.ircf.org/journal/volume-19-no-4-december-3/

Today, St. Martin is home to eleven species of reptile and amphibian brought to the island by human activity. This is an unusually high number for an island this size. Three native species are thought to be extirpated on the island, leaving more introduced species than native ones.

The article discusses each introduced species and their potential impact on the native wildlife of the island. St. Martin has at least two native reptiles found nowhere else on earth, so the impact of introduced species is of significant interest. It also takes a look at how economic, social and political ties to other islands and the United States may influence which species have become established on St. Martin.

Although it is a scientific publication, anyone interested in this subject should find it interesting. Photos of each of the introduced species are included in the article.

About Mark Yokoyama

Nature photographer Mark Yokoyama is an avid entomologist and former president of the Oregon Entomological Society. His interest in zoology was re-awakened when he co-founded the world's first extreme shallow snorkeling team, Les Fruits de Mer, in 2008. He holds a degree from Harvard University, and currently resides on the island, where he has explored a significant portion of the land and surrounding waters. He is the author of The Incomplete Guide to the Wildlife of St. Martin, a wildlife guide to St. Martin. For more information, visit http://www.sxmwildlife.com or http://www.facebook.com/WildlifeGuideSXM

Philipsburg:--- The man police detained some ten days ago as a suspect in the involvement of the disappearance of Pineapple Pete's employee Anne Marie Lynch was released by the Judge of Instruction. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos said in an invited comment that the suspect who was held some ten days ago was taken before the judge of instruction on Friday and the judge ordered that the suspect be released at the end of his first pre-trial detention which ended on Monday. Mos said that even though the suspect was led before the judge on Friday he was released on Monday. The island's Chief Prosecutor said that the judge denied the request of the Prosecutor to extend the pretrial detention for another eight days.
Anne Marie Lynch (41) is a Jamaican national who was residing on St. Maarten and an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant. She was last seen on December 22nd, 2012 when she left work to go home with her boyfriend. According to the missing woman's friends and co-workers, Anne Marie Lynch confided in them the night she went missing that she was having trouble with her boyfriend because the man saw her with some monies and wanted to know where she got the monies from. The friends told SMN News that Anne Marie was someone who saved her monies and she also participated in "partner hands" and they believe that she collected the last and first hand of the well-known money saving game in December.

It is not clear how the investigation of the missing woman will move forward. In January 2013, the police with the help of the police dogs, and the coast guard conducted several searches for the missing woman. Friends of Anne Marie Lynch also combed the beaches and the only thing they found was a black stretch jeans pants that they turned over to police.

cayhillboysontheblockwithssm10022013CAYHILL:--- The community of Cay Hill, enjoyed a most welcomed surprise Saturday afternoon. Young men from the district took to the streets on foot, knocked on every door in Cay Hill in an effort to personally invite everyone in the community to a meeting the following Saturday called "What Cay Hill Needs".

A few weeks before, members of the Soualiga Social Movement (SSM) foundation were approached by a group of young men from the Cay Hill area who wanted to see community work done in their neighborhood as they have seen done in other districts on the island. They asked SSM if they could assist them in organizing some sort of community project for the residents of Cay Hill.

SSM then held a meeting with the group of young men to discuss plans to do a project that can benefit the entire community. The young men brought up several serious issues they would like to see solutions to such as unemployment, fixing the basketball court, sewage water and the general cleaning up of the community. There, it was decided that all the residents of Cay Hill should be allowed to participate in assessing what needs to be done in Cay Hill and how to solve any issues. Subsequently, SSM contacted several organizations for assistance.

So on Saturday afternoon (February 9th), the Soualiga Social Movement along with the 'Cay Hill Boys' convened at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex. They were joined and supported by the a representative of the Dutch Quarter Community Council, Community Police of Cay Hill (Officer Henson) assisted by the CPO of Dutch Quarter (Officer Statie) and members of the Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs Department. After some encouraging words by the CPO, a former resident of Cay Hill Mr. W. Dekker gave some motivational words about employment to the boys and also encouraged them to volunteer for the Heineken Regatta.

At about 4pm, the flyers were handed out and the group split up on foot, motorbike and bicycles and went door-to-door inviting the community to the meeting on Saturday February 16th at 7pm, to be held at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex. The Community assisted in inviting residents and passing messages from one part of the group to the other.

President of the Soualiga Social Movement foundation Alston Lourens said "It was great to see the boys come out and have pride in their neighborhood. Some mentioned they had never been to some parts of Cay Hill before that day and many residents said a meeting like this was long overdue".

The Soualiga Social Movement is a non-political foundation that aims at encouraging awareness, participation and inclusion of all the people of St. Maarten, in the sustainable development of this nation. All residents of Cay Hill are invited to the community meeting, to be held at the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex at 7pm, next Saturday February 16th, 2013.

Click here to view more photos of Cay Hill Boys inviting community to "WHAT CAY HILL NEEDS" meeting.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday, February 15, 2013, Soualigan Fyah, a poetry/spoken word contest for high school students between the ages of 13 and 18 will be launched at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library.
The competition, which is being organized by 5 square miles productions and Imbali Center for Creative Movement in collaboration with the Philipsburg Jubilee Library, will run every Friday for 5 weeks from 5-7pm.
According to Lysanne Charles, 5 square miles productions founder, the event aims to be a vehicle through which young people can explore their interest in poetry and also have a platform from which to voice their opinions.
"Soualigan Fyah is an idea that I have been walking around with and talking about for some time. After having organized Summer Speaks and Winter's Words for a few years, I knew I wanted to do something similar for teenagers, so Soualigan Fyah grew out of that desire," Charles said.
Charles explained that this year's event was going to be the competition's soft launch in order to gauge the interest amongst the young people for both poetry and such an event.
"We know that there are some creative young writers out in the community and we want to provide them with the space to engage with their talent on a different level. So we are going to give this an initial run and see how it is received amongst the youngsters," Charles said.
Charles said that on the first Friday, which is February 15, all of those who are interested should come to the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 5pm. The first 30 teenagers who register are the ones who will compete on the following three Fridays in groups of 10. The best 3 will go through each week and will meet in the final of the competition scheduled for Friday, March 15. Charles explained that a wildcard spot would also be granted to one of the eliminated teenagers. The teenagers will be judged by a different set of veteran poets each week and will also get to experience the work of an older poet at each event.
"The maximum number of participants catered for is 30, but whether 30 teens show up or 10, the competition will run this year. I'm really excited about it and those I have spoken to are also enthused about the competition and about this new opportunity for teenagers to engage with this particular art form," Charles said.
She said that while it was not being run as a high school competition this year she is still encouraging interested teenagers to go to their English teachers and Creative Arts teachers for support and to also bring along their friends and family members on the days they were competing as a support network.
"It is tough taking that step to the podium at times and because of that we are asking all of those interested in poetry and spoken word come out and support these young people once the competition starts on Friday, February 22. It is important that we create an appreciative environment for them to do this. The first Friday is really for the poets, they will be given packages with the rules of the competition and the rubric that they will be judged on. They will also get to meet with some of the older poets from Summer Speaks and Winter's Words and will get to see one of them perform. So launch day is going to be fun," Charles said.
Charles said that the eventual winner of the competition will perform at the upcoming Summer Speaks 2013 and would also travel to Tortola in October to perform at Microphone Messenjah, an annual poetry event held there.
"This is really all about the opportunity for self-expression, giving voice to their own thoughts. Of course there can be no lewdness and no profanity, but for the rest I'm really interested in hearing what the youth have to say and write about and I know the other poets are also. So I encourage the teenagers, both Dutch and French side based, who are interested in poetry, to come out and take advantage of this opportunity," Charles said.
For more information interested teens can contact Charles at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

extraordinarypolicepowersswearinginceremony10022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Acting Head of the Department of Inspections Martha Thewet says her department will be stepping up controls and enforcement after the swearing in of a number of civil servants with the status of extra-ordinary police.

The Department of Inspections recently swore in 18 staff members and Economic Affairs two, who have received the status of extra ordinary police.

The aforementioned police status allows the civil servants to enforce various ordinances and issue fines to those who are breaking the law.

Thewet says that this additional tool which has been pending will allow the department to carry out more controls and increase enforcement.

Controls will be intensified in the economic area as well as public transportation. New policies and changes to the public transportation ordinance will be implemented within short.

Three taxi dispatchers are also now extra ordinary police and they will be able to issue fines. One school bus controller has also received the same status.

Thewet added that the Ministry of Justice has been helpful in assisting the department in a number of areas which will allow the department to fulfill its obligations under the law.

Additional staff from the Inspections department is currently enrolled in the Police Academy and will within short have the same status as their colleagues.

One of the projects is a noise pollution campaign. This campaign was launched two-years ago and will be re-launched in the coming months.

The department has received a number of complaints from the community about loud music in different districts where Bars and Snack bars are located, and the department will be controlling these establishments to make sure that they adhere to current ordinances that regulate sound in accordance with the licenses issued to these types of establishments.

After civil servants were sworn in, they were treated to lunch at Sheer Restaurant.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The School Bus Section Inspection hereby informs the public that three designated school bus holding areas exist in Philipsburg, and motorists are not allowed to park in those areas.

The three designated holding areas in Philipsburg are Cannegieter Street, across from the GEBE Customer Service Building; Cannegieter Street in front of the Sister Borgia Primary School; and Sundial School, across from the Social Health and Insurance SZV Building.

The designated areas allows for the safe loading and unloading of school children and at the same time it allows for the free flow of traffic.

Motorists are hereby advised to cooperate by not parking in those areas, or suffer the consequences of being fined and your vehicle being towed away.

The Inspection Department is also asking school bus drivers to take note of the following, that they should follow their routes accordingly and avoid using private roads and detours.

The Section School Bus Inspection can be reached at telephone numbers 542-4511 or 542-4509 for further information.

romeopantophlet24092012PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (MinTEATT) Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, is currently in Colombia attending the sixth year of Routes Americas Aviation Conference, billed to facilitate meetings between senior airport executives and airline route decision-makers, along with tourism authorities from the Americas and the Caribbean.

Routes Americas is similar to the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), cruise line itineraries are also presented along with insights into the cruise sector.

The event is expected to attract more than 60 airlines. All four United States network carriers; US Airways, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and the world's largest airline, United Airlines will be present in Colombia, along with major low-cost carriers in the US, including JetBlue, Southwest, and Spirit.

Other airlines that will be at the conference are, Gol, Volaris, COPA Airlines, Aeromexico, Colombia's home carrier, Avianca-TACA and most recently Vivaaerobus.

Canada is expected to be represented by Air Canada, and leading low cost carrier WestJet.

Minister Pantophlet will be looking at additional airlift opportunities for the destination and is looking forward to getting the latest insights from high-profile aviation experts such as the Chief Executive Officers of the various airlines to be present at Routes Americas.

The aviation conference takes place at the Hilton Cartagena from 10 to 12 February.

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes and undertakers on the French side were called early Sunday morning to remove a decomposed body that was found on the beach side of La Belle Creole in Low Lands area. Captain of the Gendarmerie Sylvain Jouault confirmed to SMN News while he was on the scene where the body was found that the corpse they found is that of a male person. Jouault said that the body is severely decomposed and for the moment the Gendarmes could not say if the person was a Caucasian or local. The Captain of the Gendarmerie said that an autopsy has to be conducted to determine who the victim is and the cause of death.

sjacobsmeetswithloveofkidsfoundation08022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports (ECYS) Hon. Silveria Jacobs met on Monday with representatives of "Love of Kids Foundation" to discuss how the foundation and the Ministry can collaborate on the learning challenges and special needs of children on St. Maarten.

sjacobsmeetswithmalberts08022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports this week met with Director of the Philipsburg Jubiliee Library, Monique Alberts.

The minister and the director discussed several topics in regards to the Library outreach services for schools, training opportunities in librarianship on St. Maarten and future plans of the Library.

During the meeting Alberts presented the Minister with a proposal for a National Library and Heritage Centre which would see several institutions at this location to serve the growing need of our residents as well as our visitors.

sjacobsreceivesplansformacacademy08022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs met with the board of the Methodist Agogic Centre (MAC) in regards to the plans for a new Secondary Education Institute.

The board of the Methodist Agogic Centre presented the Minister with their plans to start the MAC Comprehensive Education Academy, a secondary Institute on Thursday February 7th 2013.

Over the years the MAC school board has worked on their plans to embark on secondary education. Considering the successes achieved so far, supported by formative evaluation and the increasing demand by parents, the MAC could no longer delay their plans for Secondary Education.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (TEATT) will be meeting on February 19.

The agenda point for the meeting is the state of affairs at the Princess Juliana International Airport.

The permanent committee meeting will meet on Tuesday, February 19 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson who is also Chairman of this permanent parliamentary committee.

The other members of the committee are MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, MP Hon. Petrus De Weever, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Romain Laville, and MP Hon. Jules James.

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

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

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

sjacobswithunescocaribyouthforumrep08022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The first ever United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Caribbean Youth Forum on Intangible Cultural Heritage held in St. Georges Greneda on November 20th through 24th 2012 , was attended by the St. Maarten representative Melanie Choisy.

On Wednesday February 6th 2013 Choisy presented her action plan to the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports the Hon. Silveria Jacobs. On hand for the presentation were Marcellia Henry - SG UNESCO St. Maarten and culture department representative Arlena Sprott. The action plan focused on the various ways the intangible cultural heritage of St. Maarten can be promoted and preserved and the necessity of these actions.

Melanie Choisy is a 22-year-old recent graduate of the University of Miami where she received double Bachelor of Arts degrees in Latin American & Caribbean Studies and International Development with a minor in Spanish. Majoring in these subjects has allowed Melanie to be very knowledgeable of numerous cultures, languages, and institutions, especially those particular to the Latin American and Caribbean region.

During her last two years in Miami, she interned for Diaspora Vibe Cultural Arts Incubator, a local Miami 501(c)(3) organization that offers support and exhibition opportunities for Emerging Artists of the Latin American and Caribbean Diaspora.

Minister Jacobs expressed her delight in knowing that Melanie has returned to the island after her studies and is so invested in 'spreading the word' among her peers and encouraging youth involvement in St. Maarten's Cultural Heritage. Her return to the island can be seen as a great asset in promoting and preserving the islands cultural heritage.

In addition much of the topics she touched on in her presentation are in line with the Ministries' ideas to set a 10-year cultural program ""2013-2023, The Decade of Revitalizing our Natural and Cultural Heritage" in motion.

The Ministry is currently in process of gathering the relevant stakeholders, most who have already been invested in upholding, promoting and preserving the cultural heritage, to set the 10-year program. Minister Jacobs encouraged Choisy to continue the very important work that she has been doing.

elisacohen22122012Marigot:--- The special team of Gendarmes that was brought in from France to investigate the Authorisation d' Occupation Temporaire (AOT) that was issued by the RRR Government to Norbert Luftman owner of SINDEXTOUR has charged third Vice President in charge of Urbanism Guillaume Arnell with fraud, obtaining false documentation, and working together with a head civil servant to collect monies that are not owed to him (Escroquerie et Obtention Frauduleuse de document Administratif Constatant un droit, une identite ou une qualitie, ou accordant une authorization, Concussion par charge de mission de service public, perception indue de droit, impot ou taxe). Also charged is the former head of Urbanism Jose Carti. Carti was charged with fraud and obtaining a false document (Escroquerie and Obtention Frauduleuse de document Administratif Constatant un droit, une identite ou une qualitie, ou accordant une authorization). The Gendarmes also charged Norbert Luftman the owner of SINDEXTOUR with fraud and obtaining false documents (Escroquerie and Obtention Frauduleuse de document Administratif Constatant un droit, une identite ou une qualitie, ou accordant une authorization). The convocation with the charges is linked below this article.

Arnell, Carti, and Luftman have to appear in court on March 21st, 2013 at the Criminal Courts in Marigot. The Gendarmes confiscated the passport of Norbert Luftman and placed him on a bond of Euros 300,000.00 as a guarantee that Luftman cannot leave the territory. Luftman was also ordered to stay away from both victims Cohen and Just and he is not allowed to enter either of his victims' businesses that are located on Orient Bay.

The investigation started some months ago when the owner of Bikini Beach Elisa Cohen and the owner of Kontiki Beach Phillipe Just filed a complaint against the Collectivity of St. Martin for denying them an AOT even though they submitted their request way before Norbert Luftman. Cohen told SMN News on Friday that the Gendarmes held the third Vice President Guillaume Arnell at least three times, twice Arnell was placed in garde à vue and now he is under judicial control, she said Carti and Luftman were also placed in garde à vue when the investigation was going on while the President of the Collectivity of St. Martin Alain Richardson was heard as a witness in the case because he has a moral responsibility, the gendarmes believe that he probably suffered prejudice at the hands of his employees and those in his cabinet. It should be noted that the DGS of the Collectivity of St. Martin Pascal Avern was also held and several other Collectivity workers were heard many of whom it is understood were placed in garde à vue. Among those heard is former Vice President Pierre Alliotti.

Cohen said both her and Just filed a claim for damages they suffered from September 19th, 2012 to present. Cohen said the Prosecutor handling the case will be presenting their civil case at the same time when he is presenting the criminal case on March 21st, 2013. Cohen said she estimated her loss at about Euros 200,000.00 while she will be claiming damages for undue stress, for her employees and herself.

When asked if Norbert Luftman won the case that he filed in the court of commerce in order to evacuate them from AW33 on Orient Bay, Cohen said that the court was supposed to deliver its verdict since February 5th, 2013 but to date her and her lawyer have not received a written verdict from the court. Cohen said if the verdict is not their favor they will appeal the decision because that is within their rights. She further explained that the criminal case that will be heard on March 21st, 2013 shows that the AOT given to Luftman was not done in accordance with the law.

Click here to view the three convocations and the charges.

Philipsburg:--- The woman who received at least four stab wounds on Friday February 8th between 8:00pm and 9:00pm has been identified as a lady from Dominica who is visiting the island for shopping. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson said the woman was attacked by an unknown masked man, dressed in dark clothing with a large knife. The incident took place in the parking lot opposite SZV in the vicinity of Nen's Place. During the attack, the victim was stabbed several times in both shoulders and also suffered deep cut on her lower right arm from which she was bleeding profusely. The suspect succeeded in taking the victim's shoulder bag with all her personal belongings and the keys to her white Hyundai rental car with license-plate 6777 AAA.

Henson said after the culprit committed the act the suspect jumped into the car and took-off in the direction of Cole Bay. Immediately all police patrols on the street were informed of what had taken place and told to look out for the stolen car. The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. Shortly after, a police bike patrol that was in the Cole Bay/Simpson Bay area saw the vehicle in question driving in the direction of Simpson Bay. The patrol informed the Central Dispatch and requested back-up. The patrol saw the car parked in front of Scotia Bank. The suspect saw the patrol approaching the vehicle at which time he reversed the car at high speed almost knocking the officers off their bike and took off in the direction of Cole Bay. Several patrols went into that direction and in the vicinity of Daily Extra a patrol again tried to stop the vehicle at which time several shots were fired by police. The suspect did not stop and continued at very high speed on the Welfare road in the direction of the Kruythoff round-a-bout. At the round-a-bout the suspect collided head-on with another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. The suspect jumped out of the car and took off on foot in the dark. The Police K-9 was called in and the entire area was searched, however, the suspect was not located. The Special Robbery Unit and the Forensic Department are investigating this case.

rolandduncan04012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan is currently investigating who authorizes the police and other persons to monitor his movements and to see where and who he is sleeping with. Minister Duncan in an invited comment to SMN News on Friday said he is aware that local people (including police officers) are being used to monitor his movements illegally. He said in order for him to be monitored or followed a judge has to authorize such but based on what he knows thus far no such authorization was granted. The Justice Minister said he is busy investigating the illegal monitoring and in due time he will take the necessary actions that he has to take.

In response to the news that broke in Curacao that a newspaper on St. Maarten picked up and published on Friday regarding the statements made by Dutch Member of Parliament Andre Bosman, Minister Duncan said that Bosman should step away from the immunity he gets when speaking on the floor of Parliament and file a complaint against him with Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES Dick Piar who is currently in the Netherlands. "I want Bosman to step away from the immunity he has on the floor of Parliament and provide the evidence he has against me and my affiliation with prostitutes and file a complaint against me with the Attorney General. Let them investigate me and if I am found guilty then I will pay for it but if I am found not guilty I will take the necessary actions against Bosman and those that suggested that I am affiliated with prostitutes and brothels. If I have to leave as a Minister I want everyone to know that I can live otherwise. I have other investments and I am a lawyer by profession." Minister Duncan further explained that the two newspapers on St. Maarten that has a lot to publish about him have never contacted him. "The only people that call me for a response on St. Maarten are SMN News and PJD2. The newspaper reporters don't call they write what they hear me saying to other reporters on the radio."

Minister Duncan said the sad thing that is happening on St. Maarten is that some St. Maarteners tend to agree with the Dutch and they will not stand up against the injustice that the new country faces. The Dutch have decided to cut St. Maarten off from the BMS/LCT systems illegally, six million guilders were taken from the Justice Ministry to please the Dutch so that they could approve the 2013 budget and despite all of that St. Maarten is still standing and getting ahead. "The Dutch thinks that they could bring St. Maarten to its knees but so far I am a big boy and I am taking care of my country's business despite what the Dutch is doing to St. Maarten and its people. I want to make clear that I am not looking for anyone's sympathy because I am not one of the step fetching slaves. I will do what needs to be done because right now I am under siege. I want the people and politicians of St. Maarten to know that today it's me (Duncan) tomorrow it is going to another one of us and I want to know how long our people is going to continue and sit back and allow the Dutch to dictate for the new country. This is the time for the people of St. Maarten to act. This whole nonsense about me owning a house of prostitution started with the "Dutch Stooge" who has been writing all sorts of unfounded articles about me."

On another note the Minister of Justice said he intends to take appropriate actions against the Prosecutor's Office for the mess they created with the King Murder investigation. "I don't intend to act in haste against anyone but I will take the necessary actions against those that jeopardized the investigation."

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes managed to arrest a 19 year old young man who stole a beach bag from a woman at the Grand Case Beach on February 7th, 2013. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that a woman went to the beach to relax and shortly after a young man stole her bag that contained her personal items. The woman after realizing her bag was stolen alerted the gendarmes who were not far away from the location. The gendarmes acted on the tip and description of the suspect and managed to track down the suspect shortly after on the main road. The bag and its contents were recovered and returned to its owner while the culprit was arrested and released. He will be summoned to the Criminal Court of St. Martin sometime in the future.

garrindellmeetswithusmreps07022013Early last week MP Drs. Gracita Arrindell met with the representatives of the University of St. Martin (USM). The meeting focused on the subject of among others the teacher's accreditation program and the process leading up to the recognition of the USM. Tertiary education is very important to our Country, especially when we have hundreds of students leaving secondary school, and want to further their studies locally.

This matter has been in discussion for many years. Since the new constitutional status went into effect on October 10th 2010, there is still clarity and support needed in terms of the extent of having or putting in place a legal system or basis for accreditation and how the acknowledgement process of our tertiary educational institutions took place or if necessary must proceed stated, MP Arrindell.

Sint Maarten has a lot of work to do in terms of reviewing or 'catching up' on laws that have been inherited from the former Netherlands Antilles. In order to further understand this issue and inform myself on this matter a meeting was held with USM President Annelies van den Assem and Acting Head of Academics Glen Yeung of USM.
The next step will be to request a meeting of the Education Committee of Parliament and invite USM officials to provide their views regarding this matter to Parliament, thereafter if corrective measures are needed to act. In other words what steps must be taken in order to formalize the recognition of the USM as the Institute for Tertiary Education on Sint Maarten.

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

garbage07022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) from the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, is advising households and business establishments to take preventive measures against rodents.

Vector and Rodent Assistant Controllers on the authority of the Police Ordinance 1940, Waste Ordinance 1993, and the Ordinance of 1921, with provisions to combat contagious diseases to instruct property, are informing home and business owners to clean-up their surroundings or face fines.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's Hon. Cornelius de Weever's 'Get Checked,' campaign, when yards are un-kept and full of debris it creates a haven for rodents and puts all members of the community at risk. So 'check' your surroundings and keep them clean!

Rodents are a fact of life but we can reduce their numbers by working together in protecting our homes making them rodent proof. The success of this and any program is dependent upon collaboration between government, citizens, and the community at large. Base on the fact rodents can spread infectious diseases it is recommended to keep the rodent population at a minimum and away from your homes. You can help keep rodents away from your home by depriving them of shelter and food by following a few simple guidelines.

Keep your entire premises clean. Seal garbage in tightly covered metal or heavy rubberized containers; don't use containers like bags or boxes. All garbage should be bagged before it is placed in your garbage bins, a sealed container. Drain and wrap food waste before putting it into can. Keep garbage cans at least 18 inches off the ground and keep bin's surroundings clean.

Store food items in rat-proof areas and/or into containers. Don't store food in the garage or outside. Clean up any spilled food immediately. Don't leave out uneaten pet food. Clean dog droppings up daily. Don't put bird seed on the ground; rodents will get it first. If you use a bird feeder, the area under and around it must be kept free of seeds, hulls and should be free of all remaining food scraps, bird seeds etc.

Seal cracks or breaks in your foundation and repair holes in the floor, around pipes, screen doors, windows, vents and other openings into your home to prevent rodents from entering. Outside steps should be made out of concrete/masonry. Keep the space beneath wooden steps clean.

Keep all stored material (storage) at least 18" off the floor. Set furniture and appliances flush with the wall or far enough away so that the space between them and the wall can be easily cleaned. Keep all areas clean; keep the rodent outside, rodent proof your home.

For more information on eliminating rodents, call 542-2078/23003.

lustudentsconductwatertest07022013Encourages students to submit findings to necessary Government Departments.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation has been advising and mentoring a number of high school students with various environmentally themed projects lately. Particularly students of the Milton Peters College and the Learning Unlimited Preparatory School have been receiving support on various innovative and conservation oriented projects. "One of our most important tasks is to guide students and offer assistance when it comes to projects and programs centered around the environment, biology and ecosystem management on St. Maarten. We encourage all of the students to not only conduct the necessary research for their grades or for Science Fairs but to also submit their reports and findings to the necessary Departments within Government as solid proposals for the enhancement of the Environment on St. Maarten.," stated a release from the Nature Foundation.

Some of the projects being supported by the Foundation are centered on the Simpson Bay Lagoon, Waste Water, Sea Turtles and Coral Reef Ecosystems. "The only way to really know what is happening with regards to environmental degradation and damage is to research it and to communicate the research to the public and the decision makers. And there is no one better equipped to do this than the students at the local high schools. The Nature Foundation is encouraging all students interested in Environmental Management and Conservation to contact the foundation on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or to send a message on the St. Maarten Nature Foundation Facebook Account," concluded a Nature Foundation statement.

mpjulesjames04052011I am wondering what has happened to the depositors of the Christian Kingdom Cooperative (CKC)? CKC went belly up and into bankruptcy.

Approximately US$1.5 million was lost when CKC went bankrupt leaving 2,318 members without their money.

According to newspaper reports back in December and key persons affected by the Credit Union bankruptcy, the Court of First Instance ordered the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten (CBCS) on October 30, 2012 to pay a couple of depositors to cover their deposits that they made to CKC.

The newspaper report also said that the court in its ruling found that the Central Bank did not perform its supervisory function well enough.

The UP faction would like to know from the Minister of Finance Mr. Roland Tuitt, a couple of things.

  1. What is the status of CBCS and CKC depositors with respect to litigation?
  2. Has CBCS paid out monies to depositors?
  3. If yes, how much? If no, why not? Wasn't CBCS ordered by the court to pay a Mr. Lourens and a Mr. Whitfield their deposit plus interest?
  4. Has CBCS taken additional measures to strengthen any areas of supervision to protect depositors hard earned money placed in all financial institutions including that of cooperatives?
  5. If so, what are these measures and when were they implemented?
  6. Are there other cooperatives on the island?
  7. If so, how many?
  8. What are the amounts of deposits?
  9. How many financial institutions are there, where depositor's money is not protected?

I will be drafting a letter with respect to the aforementioned in seeking clarity with respect to what transpired. Hard working people should not become the victims.

 

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

Great Bay:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that "It is extremely important that Mr. Thompson understands the difference between an increase in the minimum wage and the indexation of the minimum wage. Consultations with unions to increase the minimum wage was done years ago when the minimum wage salaries went from Naf. 1100 to Naf. 1380."

The Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor has the authority to index the minimum wage based on article 13, paragraph 1 of the Landsverordening minimumlonen. In accordance with this provision, the minister may, if the statistics provided by the Bureau of Statistics (STAT) indicate that the consumer price index (CPI) figure for August of the current year, compared with the figure for August of the preceding year has changed, establish a new minimum hourly wage.
There is therefore no question of an increase in, but an adjustment to the minimum hourly wage, in this case an increase to the consumer price index (CPI). After all, according to the press release of the Bureau of Statistics (STAT) dated September 14, 2012, the cost of living has increased by 4.7% during the period August 2011 to August 2012. The minimum hourly wage was Naf 7.96, and has been adjusted to Naf. 8.33 as of January 1st, 2013. It is important to note that the last indexation of the minimum hourly wage dates back to September 2008.
"I think that it is important that the minimum hourly wage is indexed annually, that it is adapted to the increased cost of living. By acting accordingly employees who earn the minimum hourly wage retain their purchasing power. So, the cost of living mainly caused by the surge in world oil prices and the related food prices has risen sharply. It is especially the workers with a minimum wage that have experienced the effects of the skyrocketing cost of living in their daily existence, and are experiencing this," said Minister De Weever.

The indexation of the minimum hourly wage is subject to Tripartite consultation, the platform of social dialogue, in which in addition to the Government both the representatives of employers, as well as employees are represented. All parties involved reached a consensus with regard to the indexation of the minimum hourly wage. Topics related to the labor market are always put forward by the minister for consultation within this tripartite dialogue. The tripartite dialogue is therefore the central platform for consultation with trade unions. Consultation with the individual trade unions will take place only if the topic concerns the individual trade union. To date, there has been no reason to do so. The SER socio-economic council (another tripartite platform/body) of which Mr. Thompson is a member was also asked to advice on this matter and strongly supported the indexing of the minimum wage.

rolandtuitt06022013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told reporters on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the Christmas bonus payments for civil servants will be made as of Wednesday. Tuitt apologized for the late payment but said it is better late than never and that the payments will be taken from the 2012 budget.

In responding to questions regarding the Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) for teachers and other civil servants, Tuitt said he is busy trying to balance the 2013 budget where he was forced to make cuts in various Ministries to the tune of 25 million guilders for the CFT to approve the budget so that it can be sent to the Parliament of St. Maarten for its approval. Tuitt said if the union (WITU) could tell him where to find the additional 20 million that it cost the government of St. Maarten to make the COLA payments he would gladly do it. He said right now the government of St. Maarten is busy conducting a worldwide research to see how these adjustments are being applied so they can apply the same measures on St. Maarten.

Speaking on the 2013 budget, Tuitt said that cuts were made but the government of St. Maarten added two new items that would increase revenues. Those two new items are to add taxes to diesel which was never done in the past and to add an additional 1% on transfer tax. Tuitt said the transfer tax stands at 4% and the intention of government is to increase it by 1%, this additional taxation will affect real estates.

Government to Start Court Case against Kingdom Government on Debt Relief.

Tuitt also announced on Wednesday that the Council of Ministers has taken an unanimous decision to start a court case against the Kingdom Government regarding the debt relief that was agreed upon prior to the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles.

The Finance Minister said that the Kingdom Government is saying that because the former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto did not submit certain documents then they are not going to live up to the agreement that was signed between the Kingdom Government, St. Maarten, and Curacao. He said that in the same Kingdom law the CFT was included and it is impossible for the Kingdom Government to use that against St. Maarten even though there is an agreement.

The Finance Minister said he cannot say if the case will be dealt with in the Netherlands or on St. Maarten. He told reporters that the lawyers will decide where to file the case in the interest of St. Maarten

Expired Taxes will be written off --- Taxes owed from 2006 and before will be written off.

The Finance Minister also announced that the government of St. Maarten will be writing off all old taxes dating back to 2006 and before. Tuitt said that he consulted with six lawyers inside and outside of government in order to ensure that the process is done in accordance with the law. Tuitt further explained that the process took longer that was expected but government wanted to ensure that everything is done correctly. He said that he has the authority to issue a decree which would authorize the tax office to write off the taxes even though the law on this procedure is not fully completed. The Finance Minister made clear that the law states that government cannot collect taxes that are older than five years so what they are doing now is to erase expired taxes so that businesses and residents can pay the taxes they owe to government now. The writing off he said will be done in two phases which means that he will issue a decree instructing the tax office that they are not to deal with taxes from 2006 and before. He said the amounts might be in the billions but that does not mean anything because the taxes are already expired and it cannot be collected anyway.

TAXAND final report soon to be ready.

The Finance Minister said just last week he submitted his reactions to the SOAB on the draft report they submitted on the TAXAND scandal. Tuitt said that he is expecting the final report in one week and the it will be discussed in the Council of Ministers prior to it being sent to Parliament and made public for the people to see what took place. When asked by SMN News if there were any criminal offenses committed during the TAXAND deal involving the former Minister of Finance, Tuitt said he is not a lawyer or prosecutor but when the report is made public the Prosecutor's Office will determine if a crime was committed. The current Finance Minister did confirm that government rules were broken when the TAXAND contract was awarded to Judith Brewster.

Bridge to Nowhere will hurt small man.

The Finance Minister Roland Tuitt also responded to an article that was written by Member of Parliament Ruth Douglass who said she is proud of her leader who had the vision for the causeway (bridge to nowhere) and that she would also be happy when she drives over that bridge. Tuitt said that he wants the Member of Parliament to know that the causeway (bridge to nowhere) is hurting the small man because the cost of the project is thrown on the shoulders of the small man. Tuitt said because of the bridge basic necessities on St. Maarten increased and even when he has to drive over that bridge it will hurt him because he too has to pay for the causeway.

scdfpresents2013carnivalcalendartoscotiabank06022013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) presented the official hard copy calendar of events for Carnival 2013 to Scotiabank, the corporate sponsor of the calendar for 15 plus years. The calendars are located in the bank and distribution of the calendars will now commence island wide.

President of the SCDF Mike Granger presented the first copies of the calendar to new Scotiabank Director Raymond Green along with a small representation of his team at the bank. Joining Granger was Janelle Hermance of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau, who is also a board member of the SCDF.

Granger lauded Scotia as a dependable and committed corporate sponsor of the Carnival calendar. He said the SCDF takes comfort in knowing that Scotia will always be there as a partner of Carnival for a very important aspect of Carnival.

Additionally, Granger said Scotia for the past few years has stepped up its contribution to the SCDF by sponsoring the uniform polo shirts of the SCDF members. Both the calendar and uniform shirts are adorned with the Scotiabank logo.

Green expressed how proud the bank was to continue the tradition of partnering with Carnival with the calendars and looks forward to a continued relationship for years to come. He wished the SCDF a fun-filled and successful event.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Department has recently received numerous complaints of stray dogs roaming the streets in Philipsburg and surrounding areas. In many of these complaints the dogs attacked persons while walking on Boardwalk in the evening and the early morning hours. The police is informing all dog owners to have their dogs fenced in or tied and not have them roaming the streets. The Police Department is in talks with the competent departments to tackle this escalating problem.

KPSM Police Report

oysterpondroadaccident06022013Oyster Pond:--- On Wednesday morning February 6th at approximately 5:10am, police patrols along with personnel from the Ambulance and Fire Department were directed to Oyster Pond road at the entrance of Rice Hill Garden for a serious traffic accident whereby the occupants of a vehicle remained stuck in the wreck. On the scene, the driver of the car with license plate 4559 AAB whose condition seemed to be extremely serious was removed from the vehicle, treated on the scene by paramedics, and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for further treatment. The Fire Department personnel that were also on the scene immediately took action by using the metal cutting machine "Jaws of Life" to remove part of the mangled wreck to remove the passenger. After being removed from the wreck, the passenger was also treated on the scene by paramedics and then transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for medical treatment. The investigation done by the Police Traffic Department and statements from witnesses indicate thus far that driving at high speed and losing control of the vehicle was the cause of this accident. The victims with initials D.R.P. and S.Q.V. are both French nationals visiting the island. Later in the early morning hours, the Traffic Department learnt from the medical center that the driver of the car died as a result of the injuries he sustained. The passenger was also flown to Martinique for further medical treatment because of his serious condition.

KPSM Police Report

romeopantophlet24092012PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism, Economy, Transport and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet met with representatives of the Board of the St. Maarten Timeshare Association (SMTA) earlier this week. The meeting was both very positive and also productive according to statements by both Minister Pantophlet and SMTA Chairwoman, Mayra Provence.

Three items were highly discussed along with other issues affecting tourism, namely tourism signage; taxes and laws impacting the sector; and upgrading of properties.

First on the agenda was recognition of the Minister's areas of responsibility that fall under the Governing Program. The SMTA would like to provide active support for Minister Pantophlet's initiative to provide tourism signage via contribution from the $-a-day program. Both the Minister and the SMTA see positive benefits to a partnering relationship between the public and private sectors on this project.

Taxes and laws affecting the timeshare industry were the next topic covered during the meeting. The SMTA claims that as of 2001 the Executive Council and successive governments had agreed to change the weekly timeshare user's tax to a nightly one. Minister Pantophlet has agreed to look into this.

Recent laws proposed by Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Leroy de Weever in Parliament to provide better timeshare consumer laws and a regulatory body were discussed. Minister Pantophlet and the SMTA agree that these laws will benefit the Island and the timeshare industry, as well as the consumer.

Also discussed were; how to stimulate the upgrading of aging properties, hospitality training, response planning for tourism related problems, vacation clubs that have come and gone on the island, and the challenges posed by the huge spikes in cost of operations of resorts by GEBE rates.

Minister Pantophlet informed the SMTA that many of these issues already were being dealt with and that an ongoing dialog will be beneficial for the creation of measured solutions dealing with the timeshare sector, and the partnering between public and private sectors will result in positive developments for the sector overall.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Committee of Parliament for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (TEATT) will be meeting on February 12.

The agenda point for the meeting is the state of affairs of the harbour and marine sector.

The permanent committee meeting will meet on Tuesday, February 12 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The meeting was requested by Independent Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Frans Richardson who is also Chairman of this parliamentary committee.

The other members of the committee are MP Hon. Dr. Lloyd Richardson, MP Hon. Petrus De Weever, MP Hon. Patrick Illidge, MP Hon. Romain Laville, and MP Hon. Jules James.

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

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

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

deatrainscurpolice05022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- More than twenty members of the Curacao Police Corps (KPC) are participating in a one-week training program offered by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Curacao. The
training covers a wide range of topics including shooting range weapons training, officer safety, investigative techniques and tactical analysis, and legal procedures for intelligence-sharing
and extraditions. At the commencement of the training program on Monday, U.S. and Curacao officials stressed our common goals in improving local security and fighting international crime.

DEA Country Attaché Greg Garza stressed that it is important for officers to do their job well, but the most important part of their job is to make sure they go home safe at the end of the
day. Part of the training will prepare law enforcement officers to practice safety procedures while on duty.

Similar training sessions will be held on St. Maarten next week and on Aruba on a later date.

garrindellwithwhitearrowvessel05022013I would like to take this opportunity to thank Coast Guard Sub Station Chief Edison Kiringdongo and Brigadier General Swijgman, for their outstanding work that the Coast Guard is doing in defending and securing our water way borders.

Special gratitude goes out to the men and women in the Coast Guard who work tirelessly day and night with much pride and respect for their profession and the institution they represent.

I concur with many that we don't see their sacrifices or success made on a daily basis. I commend them highly and wish the Coast Guard much success with their new boat which I was honoured to unveil the new name of the boat and 'christen' it with champagne: the "White Arrow", as they keep our waters and our people safe.
(The christening took place at the Coast Guard's annual New Year's reception at the substation in Simpson Bay.)
God Bless them and keep them safe.

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

utswinyourdreamvacation05022013Philipsburg:--- Chippie, the mobile branch of UTS, will be offering its customers a unique opportunity to commemorate the 10 year anniversary of the mobile operator on St. Maarten. Prepaid and Postpaid Chippie customers of St. Maarten will have the opportunity to win the dream vacation of their choosing worth up to ANG 10,000. The mobile operator is commemorating its 10 year anniversary on the island by offering its customers this unique opportunity, with many more of such offers to come throughout the year. 'All our customers have to do to participate is what they do anyway: Use their phone!,' stated UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert. 'For every ANG 10 used in calls or SMS, customers automatically get a digital raffle ticket to participate. No special action or registration is necessary. This is just another way for us to say thank you to the customers that have brought us to where we are today,' Lambert continued. The raffle starts today and runs until May 15th with a winner being chosen at random on May 20th. Throughout the duration of the promotion customers will be able to check their balance of digital raffle tickets by sending an SMS with the words CHIPPIE10 to 7777. 'Winning a vacation to wherever you want in the world is something we believe anyone can relate to, so that's what made this promotion one that we think anyone can appreciate and also what made it the perfect promotion to commemorate our 10 year anniversary on St. Maarten,' Lambert continued. For more information on the promotion, as well as other information related to the 10 year anniversary of Chippie, customers can contact UTS at 5420101 or on Facebook at ChippieSXM.

Philipsburg:--- Recently the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and Chief Commissioner of Police said in separate interviews that there has been an increase in ill-treatment and sexual offenses. Minister Duncan spoke about the 2012 crime report on Sunday during a radio program while De Witte gave SMN News some of the figures early January 2013.

While the Minister of Justice said it is hard to combat what is described as threatening and other ill-treatment that takes place in private homes. It was surprising to learn from the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein on Tuesday that the Manager and Editor of the Today Newspaper who beat one of his co-workers in 2009 was allowed to pay the victim a mere $150.00 or face prosecution.

The Today Newspaper's editor who has been writing all sorts of unfounded articles about SMN News reporter wrote that the matter has been settled but somehow he did not mention that he got a sweet deal from the Prosecutor's Office after spending two days in the Philipsburg holding cell. After learning this information today, SMN News is now wondering if any man can assault a woman whether black or white and pay $150.00 and go home.

deadshark30052012A recently conducted Nature Foundation Research Project has shown that sharks are still being taken in the waters surrounding St. Maarten despite a ban on the intentional capture and harming of sharks and patrols executed to combat illegal poaching. In 2012 there were 4 incidents of sharks being harmed or killed in the waters surrounding St. Maarten, two of which occurred in the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. The practice of intentionally fishing for sharks has been forbidden since October 12th 2011, when the Ministry TEATT banned the practice of intentionally poaching sharks in the territorial waters of St. Maarten. The act of trying to catch by tracking, stalking, baiting, chasing, trapping, hooking, netting, shooting or otherwise hunting - sharks, rays and skates is prohibited and therefore the animals may not be wounded, caught, landed, or killed. Violators may be punished with jail and a considerable fine may be issued. If Sharks are accidentally caught all steps should be taken to release the animal with as little harm as possible.
The Nature Foundation Report is part of a wider Shark Research Project being conducted on St. Maarten which, based on surveys of dive operators and tourist divers, has shown that a single live shark is worth up to USD $884,000 to the economy of the island, as is opposed to just a few dollars dead. "The majority of divers who come to the island pay top dollar to see sharks in their Natural Environment. These divers also rent cars, stay in hotels, eat at restaurants and drink in bars. Taking all of that into account and based on research conducted by the Nature Foundation a single live shark contributes $884,000 to the economy of St. Maarten annually. Sharks are an apex predator and are essential to the health of local coral reefs. If we do not have sharks we will lose our coral reef ecosystem. Sharks keep the reefs clean of unhealthy fish which in turn keeps the ecosystem in balance," said a Statement from the Nature Foundation.
The Nature Foundation and Dive Operators have also been introducing the invasive Lionfish to sharks in the hope that the animals will control the poisonous fish. "The reputation of sharks as blood thirsty creatures is largely exaggerated by sensationalist reports. Countries all over the world have recognized the importance of these animals and here on St. Maarten we will continue to put Shark Conservation as a top priority," concluded the Nature Foundation Report.

ruthdouglass23092012In her press meeting on January 30th, 2013, Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot Williams gave a wonderful report on how St. Maarten is rated as a first class Tourism Destination. Our Airport is rated the best in the region. While this is partly true, we the people are not feeling the prosperity, Madam Prime Minister. Let us take off the rose tinted glasses for a minute. We are not much more than a hub drop off point, servicing the other Islands in the Region.

While you were talking I kept thinking, one third or more of these stay over visitors just touched down at the Princess Juliana International Airport and left just as quick as they arrived. The most affluent visitors were not visiting St. Maarten, they are enhancing the economies of our neighbour's, if that is your version of a premier destination then I'm afraid that you are living in an Ivory tower that has clouded your vision.

I say this because the average businesses on St. Maarten are not feeling this economic wonderful impact from all these rosy pictures you are painting, neither are the people. Our Hotels on St. Maarten are currently rated ***(3 stars) at best, so this great report is not about St. Maarten's accommodations. If St. Barths and Anguilla are the premier destinations in the region for the affluent visitor then the PM should say it, and not try to make the people feel as if they are living in a deprived state of economic affairs while others are benefiting from our Airport arrivals.

Affluent visitors are often players of Golf, they now have to go to Anguilla, even if they are visiting St. Maarten, to play because, the island's Golf course has deteriorated and prime property remains untouched while the owner should do something with it. I'm just saying the rose tinted glasses needs to come off.

So what can you do in the future to change this Madam PM, you are after all the first amongst equals, if you set the pace , maybe, just maybe the Minster of VROMI your Deputy Prime Minister and the rest of the cabinet of ministers will follow your lead. I don't know maybe St. Maarten needs to put pressure on the owner of the property to rebuild the flagship Hotel Mullet Bay or at least bring the Golf Course up to an internationally acceptable standard.

While the current Minister of VROMI was a Member of Parliament, he would yell loud and clear, that the previous Vice Premier was not doing anything to help the people but was only doing projects just for his circle of friends. As I drive over the Cole Bay hill I see the Causeway nearing completion and I'm thankful, for the vision of the previous Vice Premier. I will soon, as one of the MPs on the UP faction (in his circle of friends) be able to drive non-stop across this causeway to the airport without having to stop and wait for the Simpson Bay bridge.

The difference is something I will be very thankful for, while I hope that the current Deputy Minister will stay off the causeway since it is in his words a "Bridge to nowhere." Let's face it, he is taking St. Maarten nowhere; he wanted to stop the construction and failed. Now I'm sure he will be there for the ribbon cutting ceremony. While a drag strip and cricket field (not approved) started by trucks of sand being brought from the Harbour to the great salt pond, it is the only thing that this current Government has accomplished, the shifting of sand.

I'm very concerned that the Deputy prime Minister of VROMI and the Minister of Economic Affairs Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, need to go back to school and take a few courses on Economic Development. I'm just saying they need to learn what progress really looks like. Front Street needs to be resurfaced, I guess they do not drive on Front Street either; it is not their problem that a tourist can break an ankle while stepping into a hole. As a Doctor I feel we should prevent mishaps, whenever we can.

The PM also talked about changing the Electoral laws, I guess that Madam PM is not satisfied with being the PM, while she only has two MPs supporting her in Parliament..... Be very careful what you start Madam Prime Minister. The Last commissioner that changed things, so the greatest vote-getter got elected, was successful at pushing himself out of the commissioner's seat, because he was not more popular than others who got into Government on the backs of their party and he sat on the outside looking in. I would hate to see the Prime Minister suggestion for change cost her Prime Ministership. Maybe the next PM will be the Leader of the most popular Party.

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

Philipsburg:--- Inspectors from the Labour and the Immigration Department began controlling businesses on Tuesday morning in search of persons working on St. Maarten illegally. Head of the Immigration Geronimo Juliet confirmed to SMN News on Tuesday that the controllers went to Sunny Food Supermarket located on A.T Illidge Road. During the control the supermarket had to close its doors to ensure that no one working for the establishment could escape. Juliet said a number of persons were taken into custody so that they could identify themselves because despite the announcement in the media, people working on the Dutch side of the island are not walking with their identification cards. Juliet said that 11 persons working for Sunny Foods were taken into custody all of them are legal residents residing on St. Maarten while others were locals.

"Since these people did not have proper identification cards they were brought in so they could identify themselves and if it is proven that they were working and residing on the island illegally then a process verbal would be made up so that the business establishment could be fined. Also measures will be taken to immediately deport the illegal immigrants to their respective countries."

Last month the immigration and labour inspectors announced that they would have started a control and businesses that are caught with illegal workers would be given a fine of Naf. 5000. 00 per illegal worker. Since the announcement last month at a press conference held at IND building Tuesday's control was the first Juliet said. Juliet insisted that persons working and residing on the island must walk with their identification cards even if they are Dutch nationals because not having an identification card is a crime and while it is time consuming for immigration officers to process these persons to ensure they are legal residents, having your documents or identification card will make the procedure easier for everyone.

Later in the day on Tuesday the immigration officers went to Qualichi Restaurant on the Boardwalk where they controlled nine persons all of whom are working and residing on the island legally. The immigration officers ended their day by controlling Coliseum Casino. Juliet said a total of 50 persons were controlled on Tuesday, the first day of the immigration control, to crack down on businesses that are hiring people that are residing on the island illegally. Juliet said Tuesday's operation was tedious because workers and residents on the island did not have their documents when they conducted the control. He said since no illegal worker was found on Tuesday no fines were issued.

reginalabega26092012Speech by Regina LaBega, Managing Director, PJIAE, at the Official Launch of the Rebranding of the Airport, St. Maarten, February 2, 2013

(Greeting of Dignitaries, Guests)

Good evening.

There comes a time in the life of a corporate entity when it has to look itself in the mirror and decide whether or not to undergo a corporate make-over. We at Princess Juliana International Airport have taken a hard look at ourselves in the mirror and decided it was time to re-brand, especially after wearing the same look for quite some time.

The reason we are all gathered here today, therefore, is to officially unveil the new look of Princess Juliana International Airport; a new 21st Century look to replace the old one we have all gotten so accustomed to.

Re-branding is a universal phenomenon, which is common among businesses all over the world. Companies re-brand in order to remain relevant, keep abreast of the times, or to get an edge over the competition. Of course, others use re-branding as an effective marketing tool to erase negative images of the past that could affect their bottom line. For us, however, our whole aim is to re-position the Princess Juliana International Airport as a leading hub in the Caribbean and to promote our ultra-modern facilities and the quality of our services.

Branding is at the very core of an intrinsic intangible value investors attach to companies. According to Dr. Roger Sinclair, a global expert on brand valuation and brand equity practice, "A brand is a resource acquired by an enterprise that generates future economic benefits."

I would like to think that we have begun to reap those "future economic benefits," especially if we consider that it was a strong belief in the re-branding efforts of Princess Juliana International Airport that tipped the scales in our favor for Moody's to grant us a rating of Baa2. This, in turn, facilitated the underwriting of the bond issue of US$132 million by Nomura Securities International – one of the leading investment firms in the world – which we recently closed in New York. In fact, the bond issue was over-subscribed almost immediately, a clear indication of the confidence in the Princess Juliana International Airport brand.

We have taken this critical step in the development of our airport in part as a response to increasing competition in a fast-changing market.

The re-branding is a comprehensive make-over, with a logo inspired in the IATA destination code for the airport – SXM – which is eye-catching and easy to identify and remember.

The new website – www.sxmairport.com – offers real-time information on arriving and departing flights and features user-generated YouTube videos in the "Spectacular Landings" section that show the famous landing approach for which we were just a few days ago voted number one in the world. The new website offers useful information about all the facilities and core services we offer as well as the diverse range of retail, food and shopping outlets. Similarly, it fully integrates social media with our Facebook page and Twitter feeds that are featured in the "On the Radar" section of the home page. We are, indeed, excited about our new look and hope that you will embrace it just as enthusiastically.

Ladies and gentlemen, may I conclude by recognizing the contributions of all those who have worked at this airport in the last 70 years; we are where we are today because of the strong foundation they have built. We kick off the celebrations of our 70th anniversary with this re-branding. SXM is PJIA, and PJIA is SXM. Long live SXM!

I thank you.

Marigot:--- On January 31st, 2013 the Gendarmes arrested two employees of Chronopost for grand theft. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie, the two men ages 20 and 39 were arrested on their jobs for stealing items valued up to 12,000 Euros. The manager of Chronopost filed a complaint with the Gendarmes on January 21st, 2013 when he realized that the company lost lots of its goods, mostly digital cameras that were stored at their warehouse in Hope Estate. Shortly after the complaint was filed, the investigators suspected the two employees whose actions were suspicious. The investigation showed that the two suspects were attracted to electronic devices such as iPads and mobile phones. The Gendarmes said it is believed that the suspects stole the valuable items and replaced them with items that had no value before circulating the packages. The two will have to appear in court on April 18th, 2013.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS) which is part of the Ministry of Public Health, continues surveillance for Cholera, and also maintains its travel advisory for persons traveling to Hispaniola (Haiti, Dominican Republic).

Travelers to the Dominican Republic are strongly advised to follow basic hygienic habits while in one of the aforementioned countries.

According to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), while there has been a downward trend in the nationwide number of cases and deaths in Haiti since October 2012, the first week of January 2013 is comparatively showing higher numbers of cases and deaths than what was registered for the same period in 2012.

The Dominican Republic reported in the first week of January 2013, a cholera outbreak of 37 cases and two deaths registered in the prison of La Altagracia. The outbreak has been linked to contaminated drinking water and overcrowding of the prison population.

CPS was informed about the imported cholera case last year on the North side of the island by French health authorities, and linkages with persons on the Dutch side were ruled out, however, travelers are requested to be on alert upon their return home from Hispaniola.

As part of the Minister's 'Get Checked,' campaign, travelers who return to the island and display symptoms of cholera are strongly advised to get checked by visiting their family physician.

In Haiti, since the beginning of the epidemic (October 2010) to January 7, 2013, the total number of cholera cases reached 638,511, of which 352,532 were hospitalized and 7,943 died.

In the Dominican Republic, since the beginning of the epidemic (November 2010) through the first week of January 2013, the total number of suspected cholera cases reported was 29,490 of whom 426 died.

CPS continues to maintain PAHO recommendations which were reiterated recently to maintain in place surveillance activities to detect the occurrence of outbreaks and implementing intervention actions to reduce cholera spread determinants.

Cholera is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water. It causes severe diarrhea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and death within hours.

Cholera is transmitted through fecal contamination of water and food. In places where there is infrastructure damage, the lack of safe drinking water and poor sanitation and hygiene can increase the risk of cholera, as well as numerous other diarrhea diseases.

While in the Dominican Republic ensure that you take vital precautions such as hygienic food preparation, boiling or purifying all water, and washing hands often with soap and clean water.

Symptoms can occur within 24 to 48 hours of being infected with the cholera causing bacteria. Cholera symptoms are generally mild; they include diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle cramps. About one infected person out of 20 has severe signs and symptoms, such as increased heart rate, dehydration, and shock. Immediately consult your physician if you have traveled and have any of the symptoms, while maintaining proper hygiene.

To minimize the number of people infected, frequent hand washing, personal hygiene, safe water use and food preparation are a necessity. Maintain these basic hygienic habits as you travel.

By taking a few basic precautions, cholera as well as most other food and water-borne diseases can easily be prevented. The main rule is, always be aware of the quality of what you eat and drink. Enjoy and keep safe as you travel and help us keep Sint Maarten Cholera Free!

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs, will be back in parliament on February 7 and 8.

The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on Thursday, February 07 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting is a continuation of the session that was adjourned on October 8, 2012 with respect to the St. Maarten Medical Center with its impact on social and labour policies.

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

On Friday, February 08 at 10:00am in the morning, the Central Committee will meet with the Hon. Minister Silveria Jacobs. This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session of January 25, 2013.

The agenda point for the meeting is the present policy on youth and sports. Members of parliament will have the opportunity to pose questions in the second round.

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

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

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

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

epickayaktour05022013Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) St. Maarten successfully hosted its second annual fundraising kayak tour of the Simpson Bay Lagoon on Sunday February 3rd with over 40 enthusiastic participants in attendance. The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Tri-Sport and was aimed at raising awareness about the importance of St. Maarten's Ponds and Lagoons (wetlands).

On every February 2nd since 1997 countries around the World observe the adoption of the convention of wetlands in the city of Ramsar, Iran in 1971. Governments, NGOs and communities across the globe use this day to raise awareness and highlight the importance of the world's wetlands. Sunday's Kayaking event is the first of a number of activities EPIC will be undertaking this month to bring extra attention to the need to protect St. Maarten's few remaining ponds. Activities will include school presentations, excursions, clean-ups and tree planting events.

Just four decades ago Dutch St. Maarten boasted at least 19 ponds, by the mid 1990s that number had been decreased to 10, today in 2013 less than 5 of St. Maarten's Ponds remain intact. The Foundation therefore once again reiterates its calls for government to develop, implement and enforce environmental and conservation legislation aimed at protecting the island's remaining wetlands and other ecologically, historically and culturally significant areas for current and future generations of residents and visitors to enjoy.

EPIC Press Release

deadwomanring05022013Marigot:--- The Gendarmes are calling on witnesses who could identify the completely decayed body of a female that was discovered about two weeks ago by workers of the Collectivity of St. Martin in the Marigot cemetery. Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille made clear that the body they are now trying to identify does not correspond with missing Jamaican national Anne Marie Lynch who disappeared on December 22nd, 2012. Betaille said that the remains they found is of a person that died several years ago.
The Gendarmes also sent out a press release calling on persons who could assist them with the identification of the deceased female. The only thing that the investigators have that persons can use to identify this person is a ring that was found on the left hand of the remains at the time it was discovered. Anyone who believes they can assist with the identification of the person should call the investigators at 0590 52 30 16.
It should be noted that while focus is being placed on Anne Marie Lynch who went missing on December 22nd, 2012. American citizen Leta Lynn Cordes went missing in January 2008 and to date her body has not been recovered. Cordes was last seen when she left her Oyster Pond vacation home after having a few drinks to go to the Westin Casino. Several searches were made on both sides of the island and to date there has been no trace of the missing woman whose husband Frank Cordes was arrested as a suspect in her mysterious disappearance. Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos told SMN News that he already contacted the French authorities to inform them that the Dutch side authorities would like to see if the remains they found is that of Leta Lynn Cordes. Mos said that even though the Cordes case is in the cold files they just want to make sure that the latest find rules out Leta Lynn Cordes.
Another woman who went missing some years ago and to date was never found is one Marie Minville, a resident of Sandy Ground. SMN News learnt that Minville disappeared and to date relatives of the woman does not know what has happened to her.

mvogeswithpanamaambassadorjteran04022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister Plenipotentiary the Hon. Mathias Voges and the Director of his Cabinet Perry Geerlings welcomed the Ambassador of the Republic of Panama, the Hon. Dr. José M. Teran, last week at the Cabinet in the Hague.

The Ambassador, who just recently was accredited to the Netherlands paid a courtesy visit, and while doing so Minister Voges and Geerlings made use of the opportunity to discuss the status of the existing relationship between St. Maarten and Panama.

Ambassador Teran was explained that St. Maarten has some historical ties with Panama, and that Panama was and still is a very important partner for St. Maarten, more in particular for our business sector.

Much of our imported goods are transshipped through the free zone in Panama. The Ambassador was quite happy to be provided with this information and immediately suggested to look at ways and means in order to intensify this economic relationship. He also would like to explore the possibilities to intensify the (friendship) ties between the two nations on a governmental level.

The Republic of Panama intends to organize an economic trade fair in the Netherlands during the month of May in order to market their country more intensively.

In the light hereof Ambassador Teran invited St. Maarten and its business community to be part of this fair in order to see where both countries can be of benefit for each other in terms of trade in goods and tourism, but also in terms of financial services.

In a very friendly and amicable atmosphere both parties also made use of the opportunity to inform each other about their respective countries history.

smeyersolivacce12072012A great concern to the UP parliamentary faction is if provisions have been taken by the Government to secure the employment of close to 500 persons and the programs that serve 4900 people in our community from the Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs).

Secondly, what is the NGOs sector doing with respect to their current programs and employment of personnel since funding has apparently dried up from Dutch financial sources at the end of 2012?

The umbrella St. Martin United Non-Governmental Organization Federation SUNFed last November sounded the alarm that some 240 full-time employees and 225 part-timers workers for various NGOs were at stake and that 4900 young people and others in our community – single parent homes headed mostly by women; assistance for parents with their children's needs, safety and security for youngsters and homework tutorship - would be in jeopardy if funding was not forthcoming.

The St. Maarten Development Fund is to be allocated funds from the 2013 country budget and distribute these funds to the NGO community. However, it's now the beginning of February and the 2013 country budget still has not been sent to parliament and we have been hearing this story since last year.

Is there a transition phase in place for the NGOs due to the 2013 budget not being in place? The Minister of Finance is the responsible body and should provide transparency to the NGO community and the people of the country to where we stand on this very important issue that impacts thousands of our people.

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

uscdaenolanmeetswithcurpm04022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- U.S. Embassy The Hague Chargé d 'Affairs Edwin Nolan led a U.S. delegation on an, January 28-31, 2013, official visit to Curacao. Joining him was U.S. Defense Attaché CAPT Dan Braswell. The trip served to strengthen the bilateral relationship and to highlight U.S. interests in the region.
Chargé Nolan and U.S. Consul General Valerie Belon met with Acting Governor Adele Van der Pluijm-Vrede, Prime Minister Daniel Hodge, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development Steven Martina, Minister of Justice Nelson Navarro, Foreign Affairs Director Arthur Kibbelaar and Chairman of Parliament Mike Franco to discuss bilateral issues and other topics of common interest.
The U.S. delegation also met with the President of Chamber of Commerce, business leaders, and the diplomatic corps. The Chargé, Consul General and CAPT Braswell joined Dutch military officials at the Parera naval base in discussions of mutual interests and cooperation in the region. They also received briefings at the U.S. Air Force's Forward Operating Location. A visit to the Kurà Hulanda museum provided the delegation with a historic overview of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and the ways in which our shared African cultural heritage has influenced Curaçaoan and Caribbean societies.

Philipsburg:--- The judge of instruction granted the Prosecutor their request on Monday and extended the pre-trial detention of the boyfriend of missing Jamaican Anne Marie Lynch. The boyfriend has been identified by friends of the missing woman as either Wallace or Serge.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed on Monday that the judge extended the pretrial detention of the woman's boyfriend as they continue the investigation regarding the missing person.

Anne Marie Lynch (41) was an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant, she went missing on December 22nd, 2013. According to friends and co-workers of the missing woman, she confided in them the same night she went missing that she was having problems with her boyfriend who found out she had some monies. In January 2013 friends and co-workers of Anne Marie Lynch combed the beaches on St. Maarten and they managed to find a black stretch jeans pants they believe belonged to their missing friend. One of the friends who was part of the search party said that they also found a location not far from where the pants were found where someone seems to have burned some items. The pants were turned over to police who apparently conducted the necessary forensic testing to determine if the pants belonged to Lynch.

The friends told SMN News in an earlier interview that Lynch was accustomed to playing "partner hand" and she was someone that saves her monies because she has two children in her homeland Jamaica. As for the monies Lynch apparently had, her friends said they believe that Lynch had collected her partner hand, the last and first payments. Another concern the friends had was the different stories the boyfriend told the friends that contacted him when they were looking for Lynch after she did not show up for work or make contact with her children during the Christmas holidays.

shtadonatestompc04022013The St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association (SHTA) recently assisted the VSBO-TKL section of Milton Peters College (MPC) in covering the costs of students' transportation for a series of environmental education excursions. Milton Peter College (MPC) Teacher Ms. Diana Atmopawiro accepted the check from SHTA board member Rueben J. Thompson. Ms. Atmopawiro explained that the funds would allow for the transportation of some 100 VSBO-TKL1 students to the Landfill in Philipsburg and the Waste Sorting Facilities (Déchèterie) in Galis Bay French St. Martin where students would learn about the island's waste treatment services. Thompson noted that the SHTA was pleased to be able to support the Milton Peters College's environmental education excursions as the Association believes it is becoming increasingly important to raise awareness about the environmental challenges St. Maarten faces.

eufundingseminar04022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Several civil servants from the civil service corps of country Sint Maarten participated in a seminar recently in Berlin, Germany with respect to European Union (EU) funding sources and opportunities.

The group of six civil servants attended the course at the European Academy for Taxes, Economics and Law.

The current architecture of European Funds and direct grants offers a wide range of funding opportunities to support innovative projects, to EU countries.

However, funding is often not used effectively or it may be denied due to poor planning. Although numerous programs and initiatives have different features, the development and implementation of projects in practice follow common rules.

In an effort to provide the necessary training to potential applicants, the EU are providing a specific Master Course program to all persons involved in EU funding.

At the end of the program participants, are prepared for the various components of acquiring EU funding and successfully managing the project as per EU regulations.

Those participated on behalf of country Sint Maarten included Soraya Agard, Policy Advisor, Education Department; Perry Geerlings, Director of the Cabinet of Sint Maarten's Minister Plenipotentiary in the Hague; Lucy Richardson, Head of Department Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication, Leona Romeo-Marlin, Head of the Civil Registry Department; Veronica Jansen-Webster, Project Manager, BAK; and Carol Voges Head of Finance and Economic Affairs, Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten.

gracitaarrindell08112012More than enough time has passed for the Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt to present the findings of research carried out by the Government's Accountants Bureau SOAB on the procedures used by the former Minister of Finance Hon. Hiro Shigemoto in handling the Taxand-led tax reform project.

The Minister on a monthly basis since he cancelled the project in May/June 2012 has promised to make the results known and we are still waiting. The SOAB report was received some time in November 2012 and up to the beginning of the New Year wasn't presented to the Council of Ministers.

What is the hold up? The Minister had the entire month of December to submit the findings to the Council and that did not happen.

Minister Tuitt mentioned in his last meeting with parliament that the Council still had to review the report. How thick is this report that it is taking so long?

It is important for Sint Maarten to move forward post haste in getting our new tax structure in place. The longer the delay, the less revenue, including, possible new to be attracted revenue for government to fund programs and projects for our citizens.

The UP faction is eagerly awaiting this report.

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

Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Health, Labour, and Social Affairs Cornelius de Weever dispatched a letter to the board of SZV last week informing them that he is not in favor of appointing the Acting Director of SZV Reginald Willemsberg as the Director of SZV. The Director's position became available last year when former Director Denis Richardson left to take up another position in the Netherlands. According to well placed sources, the board of SZV will be meeting on Monday February 4th, 2013 to deal with the letter the Minister sent them. The board of SVZ selected Willemsberg from among several candidates that applied for the position. SMN News learnt that there were two candidates from St. Maarten that applied, one of them being former Minister of Health Maria Buncamper and the other was Acting Director Reginald Willemsberg, while there were at least four candidates from overseas who also applied for the vacant position. While the selection committee chose Willemsberg from the lot and sent their advice to the Minister of Health since last year, only last week he reacted by stating that he wants to restart the selection process to find someone that he believes is more capable for the position

SMN News learnt that the Minister told the board of SVZ that he does not believe that Willemsberg has the required knowledge to upgrade SZV to where he would like it to be in the next few years.

A source from SZV said Willemsberg had planned a party for his promotion which would have also included a farewell party for the former Director Denis Richardson all of which was cancelled abruptly. The source stated that the current government, especially the Democratic Party wants to appoint the ousted Minister of Health and in order to do so they need to restart the selection process.

snbfcommittee03022013Philipsburg:--- Members of the St. Maarten Nation Building Foundation held their fourth Soualiga Nation Building Jollification on Sunday at the Emilio Wilson Park where they introduced the members of the committee that will be dealing with the St. Martin Heritage Identification card. The members also signed a pledge that was drafted by the board members of the St. Maarten Nation Building Grassroots Foundation whose President is drs. Leopold James.

The committee members that were established on Sunday are Daniella Jeffry, Dr. Orillio Scott, Elton Jones, Horace Whit, Andre Patrick, Jean-Louis Rey (Ex-Rey) along with the board members of SNBF drs. Leopold James, Jessy Adams, and Larissa Hodge.

James told the gathering that the main purpose of the monthly Jollification which is held on the first Sunday of each month is to bring St. Maarteners together that are willing to stand up for their rights and recognition in their country. Most of the speakers felt that governments on both sides of the island have abandoned their people and are now mixing and meddling with persons who can finance their political party or give them what they need when they walk into the stores or other businesses that are owned by mostly foreigners on St. Maarten. James said that since St. Maarteners are almost forgotten he felt that it was time that the foundation start its operation at ground zero by organizing the monthly jollification. Horace Whit told the small gathering that most of the politicians on St. Maarten are locals and they are the ones that have failed their people. "These local politicians that were elected by us messed up when they chose to forget their own people. When politicians have failed to represent you then it's time we the people come together and represent and defend ourselves. We are the ones that developed St. Maarten and gave it the name the "Friendly Island" and today that name is thrown in our faces when we stand up for our rights and recognition." Dr. Orillio Scott said just recently he read in the news where the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot William commended the Indians on their Commemorative Day and he asked himself when the Prime Minister will realize that St. Maarteners should be commended for their day.

Elton Jones who is also one of the committee members said the government has failed its people miserably because one third of government's budget is spent on education yet when the youths of St. Maarten return home they cannot find work because they are considered over qualified. Jones said one of the reasons the people of St. Maarten came together and developed their island was ensure that St. Maarteners did not have to cross the seven seas to find work, but the current epidemic and failures of elected officials have given the St. Maarten youths no choice but to remain overseas to work and survive.

Click here to view more photos of Soualiga Nation Building Jollification held at Emilio Wilson Park.

jeepand4wheeleraccidentonatillidgeroad03022013Philipsburg:--- Residents and drivers on A.T. Illidge Road were stuck in traffic on Sunday afternoon when at least three police patrols rushed to A.T. Illidge Road to attend to a minor traffic accident between a black jeep and a four wheeler. When the first patrol reached the scene of the accident he was overheard reporting back to the command center that it was a minor traffic accident and no one was hurt. However, that did not stop two other patrols from driving at high speeds one behind the other with their sirens on rushing to the scene as though they were going to a gruesome murder or robbery scene. The actions of the police on Sunday afternoon showed they had no respect for the drivers who queued up in long lines to get their destination because the police vehicles doubled every vehicle they saw and blocked off the entire area.

lromeomarlinandlrichardson03022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Lucy Richardson, Head of the Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication and Leona Romeo-Marlin, Head of the Civil Registry, last week successfully completed the European Seminar on "Risk Management in the Public Sector".

The seminar took place in Berlin, Germany at the European Academy for Taxes, Economics and Law. The seminar was paid for by the Government of Sint Maarten.

The use of risk management tools and correctly balancing risk and control enables public authorities to make better decisions based on calculated risks, and increases the focus on accountability.

It supports the execution of the institution's responsibilities and the achievement of its strategic objectives and thus leads to a more effective and efficient control and audit function without an unnecessary and disproportional increase of bureaucracy.

It creates a real added value for the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of the work of public institutions.

Participants included, Parliamentarians from Finland, Auditors, Public Sector Workers and Public Sector Managers from Russia, Portugal, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Estonia, United Kingdom, the European Union (EU) Court of Auditors and Sint Maarten.

cdeweever19082012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever says Monday, February 4th marks World Cancer Day.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and affects everyone – the young and old, the rich and poor, men, women and children - accounting for 7.6 million deaths (around 13 per cent of all deaths) in 2008. Deaths from cancer worldwide are projected to continue rising, with an estimated 13.1 million deaths in 2030.

Lung, stomach, liver, colon and breast cancer cause the most cancer deaths each year.

Minister De Weever says many cancers have a high chance of cure if detected early and treated adequately and therefore via his 'Get Checked' campaign to improve the welfare and health of the people of Sint Maarten, and that the Ministry of Public Health, is calling on the populace to take action today in order to prevent cancer.

The most frequent types of cancer differ between men and women. About 30 per cent of cancer deaths are due to the five leaving behavioral and dietary risks: high body mass index, low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and alcohol use.

Minister De Weever's 'Get Checked,' campaign says that more than 30 per cent of cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors including tobacco use, being overweight or obese, unhealthy diet with low fruit and vegetable intake, lack of physical activity, alcohol use, sexually transmitted Human Papilloma Virus-infection.

'Get Checked,' says cancer mortality can be reduced if cases are detected and treated early based on two components of early detection such as early diagnosis, see your family physician who can assist with this.

The second component is screening, your family physician can also advise with respect to when and how this is done. Some examples of screening methods are, visual inspection with acetic acid for cervical cancer; PAP test for cervical cancer; and mammography screening for breast cancer.

Cancer is a generic term for a large group of diseases that can affect any part of the body. One defining feature of cancer is the rapid creation of abnormal cells that grow beyond their usual boundaries and which can then invade adjoining parts of the body and spread to other organs.

zacaatemoanayacht03022013The St. Maarten-St.Martin Classic Yacht Club announced today that the fast 143 ft schooner Zaca A Te Moana will be available for regatta charters during the upcoming Classic Regatta in St.Maarten-St.Martin the last week-end of March and also during Antigua Classics in April.
The magnificent yacht is docked at Palapa Marina in Simpson Bay already for many weeks after refit works in Antigua.
She will sail to Cuba in the coming weeks and come back to St.Maarten in advance of the St.Maarten-St.Martin Classic Regatta.
The captain and first mate are both from Belgium while other crewmembers are from France and other countries.
She was built to the lines of the famous and fast Class of the Grand Bank Schooners by an experienced yachtsman.
Her powerful rig allows her to cruise effortlessly under sail at over 10 knots whilst retaining a very high level of comfort and unusual stability.
Zaca a te Moana offers luxury accommodation for 8-12 guests in 6 cabins, including the spectacular 'Owners Suite' comprising the entire aft section of the Yacht with chart table, separate entrance and complete with Victorian 'slipper bath'.
Her interior is one of understated elegance in keeping with the classical style of the yacht, with smart studded leather sofas, rich wood panelling, and fresh white linens throughout the accommodation.
A bar with dining area is located forward most on the lower deck.
She is a 'Classic' in appearance and accommodation.
Whilst she is fitted out to a very high standard, she remains what she is, which, to some, may appear somewhat Spartan, particularly when compared to modern 'Luxury' Yachts.
It should be clearly understood that, whilst attractive, traditional, and luxurious by those same standards, she remains a robust and steady ocean-going 'Classic' and her interior 'comforts' are in keeping with the traditional nature both of her design and handling.
Equally, she is an Auxiliary Sailing Yacht, as such her main and preferred form of propulsion is the wind, not the auxiliary engine.
The true sailing experience to be enjoyed on board Zaca is of a type that is rarely offered nowadays, sailing this yacht in a Classic Regatta is the dream of every sailor.
Zaca A Te Moana can accommodate up to sixteen guests during a regatta charter.
The ideal yacht for corporate charter during a classic regatta can be reserved and booked trough No Limits Yachts and the web site www.ClassicYachtForCharter.com

Specifications:
Length/type: 143'/43m Schooner
built by Amstel Shipyard, Holland.
Designed by: Olivier F Van Meer
Year build: 1992 refitted 2001/2 - 2012
Crew: 8-10 Race Crew:16

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Social Economic Council (SER) this week concluded a series of successful workshops entitled "SER's past and present" conducted by the Training and Development Institute of eminent labor relations expert Clarence Richardson. In separate courses for SER staff and SER board members, Mr. Richardson elaborated on the history of labor unions, employers' organizations and social economic councils in the different islands of the former Netherlands Antilles. Useful training was provided on the process of debate and finding agreement in the council, as well as the technicalities of drafting an advice.
For this occasion, the SER was privileged to draw on the expertise of Mr. Clarence Richardson. Over a career spanning five decades, Mr. Richardson developed from a successful union organizer in Aruba through a career in Curacao to a skilled negotiator and mediator as well as an eminent labor relations expert residing in Sint Maarten, representing both employees and employers on different occasions. Along the line he was active in the Netherlands Antilles SER and chairman of the provisional SER of the Island Territory of Sint Maarten.
The program of the workshops included background on the development of labor unions as well as employers' organizations in Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten over the twentieth century up to the present day. Furthermore, attention was given to the relations between SER and government, to which the council directs their advice. With the help of case studies and several hands-on assignments, the discussions about important socio-economic topics and the drafting of advices was simulated. In well attended series of sessions spread out over two weeks in January, SER staff and board members participated actively en enthusiastically in the workshops and training exercises.
This training constituted another valuable contribution to the development of the social economic council, one of the new government bodies instituted as part of the new constitutional framework as of 10-10-10.
These workshops were made possible by Dutch development funds managed by USONA.

The Minister of Finance and the Honorable Prime Minister proudly present to the General public of St. Maarten the first digital service on its Online Service Portal: eLogin per February 1, 2013. This is part of Digitalizing Government (e-Government) mentioned in the Governing program.
On the new site: http://onlineservices.sintmaartengov.org one can login and register for an E-login.
The E-login is a username and password combination that gives users access to low threshold services of Government. The first service made available by the Tax department is downloading Tax forms.
Once on the site it will explain how to select and download tax forms for businesses to able to file all monthly taxes starting January 2013.
Within days the system will be extended with a function to offer online tax filing, the site will explain how to request and qualify for this function. The tax payer will not have to go to the tax department any more to pick up forms.
We are urging the general public, especially businesses, to use these new services, as it will improve the level of Government services.
In the coming weeks and months new functions, such as

  • Online Payments
  • Requesting a Tax ID (Crib number)
  • Protesting an Assessment
  • Filing Income taxes
  • Filing Wage tax Year end summaries
  • Filing Profit Taxes


will be announced follow the developments on www.sintmaartengov.org and the media.

High Regards,

Roland Tuitt
Minister of Finance

romeopantophlet24092012PHILIPSBURG:--- New recipients of bus and taxi licenses participated in a mandatory training last week Tuesday and Wednesday evening at the Justice Academy in Dutch Quarter.

This training was implemented and organized by Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (MinTEATT) Hon. Romeo Pantophlet using existing and experienced drivers to train this new batch of taxi license recipients.

The training was a nutshell version of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) training that taxi drivers took earlier in 2012 and focused primarily on hygiene, etiquette and conduct when dealing with our valued guests.

Otis Hughes of the Dutch Sint Maarten Taxi Association, Linda Cox of the Genesis Taxi Association and Sylvia Jeffers of the Airport Taxi Association, all gave up their time to train this new batch of bus and taxi license recipients, an act that Minister Pantophlet commends and sincerely appreciates.

Up to date taxi rates were also distributed to the new taxi license holders as well as other informational handouts, ensuring that they have the right tools necessary to start their new careers as Tourism Ambassadors for the country's main pillar of the economy, tourism.

Minister Pantophlet intends to repeat the extensive CTO training during the off season and to customize the training to also include bus drivers. Legislation is also being drafted to implement frequent mandatory training for bus and taxi drivers as a condition to keeping their bus and taxi licenses.

Minister Pantophlet congratulates all recipients of taxi and bus licenses and hopes that with the rising visitor arrival numbers, they will all be successful in their new careers and promoting to visitors to return back to the destination on another visit.

Further plans for this sector includes setting up a transportation committee in order to regulate the transportation system and beginning work on the changing lanes project, key essential areas for Minister Pantophlet that would facilitate a more professional and better organized public transportation system which is used daily by hundreds of residents.

pjiaerebranding03022013SIMPSON BAY:--- Over 200 invited guests gathered at Gate A1 of the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on Saturday evening for a first class presentation of the rebranding of the St. Maarten airport, which also serves as a leading Caribbean travel and transit hub.

Prime Minister Sarah Wescott-Williams, Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin, and Minister of Transport, Economic Affairs and Telecommunications Romeo Pantophlet, along with ministers Hon. Roland Duncan, Hon. Silveria Jacobs, Hon. Cornelius de Weever, and Member of Parliament Drs. Gracita Arrindell, joined a full range of airport stakeholders, tourism officials from both parts of the island, and leaders of the legal, insurance and banking communities, SXM board and management officers and personnel, and the media among others, for what the airport's Supervisory Board of Directors Chairman Clarence Derby called, a "historical evening."

"After ... 70 years of wearing the same look ... we are all gathered here ... to officially unveil ... the new 21st Century look of Princess Juliana International Airport," said Regina LaBega, Managing Director of the SXM Airport operating company.

In her opening address, at Gate A1, elegantly transformed with dark blue and teal décor, LaBega told an attentive audience that, "Re-branding is a universal phenomenon, which is common among businesses all over the world. Companies re-brand in order to remain relevant, keep abreast of the times, or to get an edge over the competition," and as "an effective marketing tool."

At SXM, "our whole aim is to re-position the Princess Juliana International Airport as a leading hub in the Caribbean and to promote our ultra-modern facilities and the quality of our services," said LaBega.

"The re-branding is a comprehensive make-over, with a logo inspired by the IATA destination code for the airport – SXM – which is eye-catching and easy to identify and remember," said LaBega.

Derby joined LaBega in pointing out that, "The timing for this event could not be more perfect: with the airport acquiring its Baa2 investment grade ratings from Moody's," repurchasing its old bonds, offering of new bonds – oversubscribed from the inception by foreign and St. Maarten investors; raising over $130 Million at a 5.5% interest rate; and recently voted as the airport with the most stunning landing in the world by privatefly.com.

The new brand image launch also coincides with the just re-branded website; the start of runway resurfacing, and airport expansion project, which includes the new FBO building to better service private plane passengers; constructing a new 15,000 barrel fuel farm at the airport to eliminate running out of fuel, and "revamping the concession space, integrating art with retail, and food and beverage, to maximize non-aeronautical revenues and "provide a first class environment to radically improve passenger experience," all "coupled with the lady celebrating her seventieth birthday," said Derby.

Minister of Transport, Economic Affairs and Telecommunications Romeo Pantophlet said that the "government of St. Maarten is proud of the improvement of the airport in the past years." He praised past and present airport workers and directors.

Rafael Cardozo, president of the marketing agency Tambourine, explained the research and design process that produced the new brand.

Cardozo said that special note was taken of "the lines and forms of the architecture of the airport." He emphasized that Tambourine listened to the story of the island, its people, including those who worked at SXM, and then "put all of the ingredients together" to create the new brand, "a symbol of growth and prosperity."

Cardozo's presentation was highlighted by two videos. The 6o second video in particular showcased key aspects of the airport, ending with the new logo, and its accompanying signature slogan: "SXM - The experience will move you."

A much-enjoyed feature of the launch was on a fashion show of past and present airport uniforms by SXM staff and managers – Robin, Stefania, Peggy, Mirto, Hilda, Ambrose, and Erica. The spiffy new grey and navy and teal uniforms that will soon be introduced to the company were also modeled.

Manager of Marketing & Communications, Kalifa Hickinson, expressed her delight at officially launching the new look of SXM airport. "We have worked very hard and have been looking forward to this day – we are very, very proud," she noted.

Special Projects Coordinator Robert Brown, a rebranding planning committee member, said that the SXM airport "employees felt good after working long hours on getting it right."

The rebranding tasks included "changing all the visible logos in the facility and on service vehicles, then other gradual changes," which culminated with the rebranding ceremony, said Brown.

The Soualiga Brass band performed early the program while the Kool Berry Jam band performed after the launch presentation. Radio personality Jacques "Billy D" Hamlet served as the Master of Ceremony.

A celebrity-style "after party," with the live performance by the band Onyan, took place at Tantra nightclub for all of the guests of the SXM rebranding launch.

GREAT BAY:--- The Police Force of St. Maarten is launching a Road Safety Campaign, aimed at creating awareness and changing driving behavior in an effort to minimize the number of road fatalities and traffic accidents. The campaign is supported by NAGICO Insurances.
This project is themed 'Safety Starts with you' and will run for a period of 12 months during which it will be specially targeted at road users in the community and tourists who use our roads. The awareness campaign will be centered on encouraging and enforcing road safety measures like: the wearing of seatbelts, reducing speed, the wearing of helmets for riders and pillion riders, desisting the use of cellular phones while driving, obeying the road codes and to stop driving while under the influence of alcohol.
"We have great concern for the number of accidents we have had in the previous year up until now, which have resulted, some in fatalities and others in serious injuries, therefore we have been working on a plan of approach to address this matter," Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson explained. "We were more than happy when NAGICO approached us with a similar project, therefore after weeks of discussions we have decided to pool our efforts and create one awareness campaign which we believe will bring about a change in the attitude and behavior of our road users and ultimately minimize the number of accidents we are faced with each day."
NAGICO came up with the initiative as part of their community involvement program and has pledged to combine their efforts with the police to reach the same goal.
"Safety starts with you" will feature road signs strategically placed across the Dutch side of the island, the campaign will also incorporate the disseminating of information via popular radio stations and television talk shows in which the Police and Traffic Department will be disseminating information to the Public regarding the importance of knowing and using the road codes, accident hot spots, explaining traffic laws among other relevant topics.

Philipsburg:--- Police arrested the Jamaican born boyfriend of the missing Jamaican woman and employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant Anne Marie Lynch, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on Saturday. The boyfriend who has been identified as Wallace/Serge by friends of the woman was arrested Friday morning and his house was also searched. Mos said the man will be led before the judge of instruction on Monday. When asked what the man was charged with, Mos said that the charges involve the disappearance of the woman who went missing since December 22nd, 2012.

On January 5th, 2013 friends of the missing woman combed several of the beaches on St. Maarten and they said they found a black stretch pants they believe belonged to Anne Marie Lynch (41) who is also a mother of two children that are residing in their homeland Jamaica. The pants were found on Cape Bay beach and it was given to the police who were called to the scene when it was found. The friends told SMN News that they also found a fire not far away from where the pants were found. On that day, the friends who conducted the search said that the boyfriend joined them in searching for the woman who went missing on the night he picked her up from her job.

Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos confirmed earlier to SMN News that the police and coast guards conducted searches in several areas on the island. Mos said that the police were using their dogs while the coast guard and its divers searched the coast lines of the beach. These searches were conducted between January 3rd and 5th 2013.

SMN News received information on Saturday evening where persons from the community said the woman's body was found in a pig pen on the French side of the island. However, the Gendarmes said they had no information on a body being found on the French side. SMN News also asked Mos if he was aware that persons on the French side recovered a female body and Mos said that he had no such information.

debrisremovalfromgreatbay01022013Great Bay:--- Contractor Devcon, working on behalf of St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies, removed submerged items from Great Bay washed into the bay during Hurricanes Omar (2008) and Earl (2010). The dredging will clear all debris from the bay to ensure the safe berthing for cruise vessels and cargo vessels. The largest debris were from containers, struck with high waves and swept into the water during the hurricanes. Work will continue through the coming months.

walcottrichardson01022013Anguilla/St. Martin:--- Unconfirmed reports reaching SMN News on Friday evening state that The Royal Anguilla Police Criminal Investigation Department arrested the Anguillian Minister of Home Affairs Walcott Richardson as they continue to investigate a case of sexual misconduct.

According to information provided to SMN News, a woman filed a complaint against the Minister which prompted the investigation. SMN News learnt earlier this week that the Royal Anguilla Police Force was busy with the investigation since earlier this week but the arrest was only made on Friday. Efforts made to reach the Anguilla Commissioner of Police Rudolph Proctor Friday evening for confirmation and a comment proved futile. SMN News will bring you more information as soon as Commissioner Proctor could be reached by telephone or he issues a press release on the arrest and ongoing investigation.

skanfondsrepswithmvoges01022013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- On Tuesday, January 29th Drs. Henriette Hulsebosch, Director of Skanfonds along with Bas Pieck, Senior Policy Advisor of Skanfonds, paid a courtesy visit to Sint Maarten House in The Hague, the Netherlands.

Since the late 1980s Skanfonds, a Dutch funding agency, has been operating in Sint Maarten, and has financed a number of projects and continues to fund different projects in the Dutch Caribbean.

According to Minister Plenipotentiary Hon. Mathias Voges, organizations dedicated to the care of vulnerable persons in society, and those involved in strengthening social cohesion, have come into consideration for funding.

Skanfonds is active in the Netherlands, the Dutch Caribbean, Suriname, and also assists in funding approximately 700 projects on an annual basis.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Governing Program (GP) is available on the Government Website www.sintmaartengov.org then going to the "What's New," tab, scroll down and select the PDF file to print out or save to your computer desktop.

GP is also available on social media, namely Facebook and on a regular basis updates on the projects of the various Ministries will be posted on the GP Facebook Page. The web link for the page is: http://www.facebook.com/TheGoverningProgram20122014OfCountryStMaarten

This focus of GP is on Education, Infrastructure, District Improvement and Housing, Health Care and Social Welfare, Economy, Environment, and Safety and Security.

The Governing Program "Working for the People," was officially launched on January 16 at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel in the presence of approximately 100 invited stakeholders from the community, and forms the basis for the governing coalition comprising of the National Alliance (NA), Democratic Party (DP) and three Independent Members of Parliament (I-3) namely Hon. Patrick Illidge, Frans Richardson and Romain Laville.

rochelleward01022013GREAT BAY:--- An upcoming generation of stars, and organizations headed by young people, managed to "clear de way" with eight out of 16 ACT Awards (Annual Culture Time Award) for 2012.

The awards were announced Sunday on the popular PJD2 radio program Culture Time, by host Fabian Badejo and co-host Fernando Clark, the nation's leading humorist.

"The judges seemed to have focused on the young and promising cultural workers for the 2012 ACT Awards. Fernando Clark and I were pleasantly surprised at their choices," said Badejo, who founded the ACT Awards some 23 years ago.

There were 40 nominees competing in 16 categories for the oldest and most consistent cultural award in St. Maarten/St. Martin.

The upcoming generation winners in cultural and youth leadership categories, at times beating the more senior artists, are Krump Soldiers (Dance), Ku-J (Music), Akeem Gumbs (Fine Art), Kerwin Du Bois for "Bacchanalist" (Foreign Song of the Year), SCDF (Cultural Organization), Teen Times (Youth Organization), Faizah Tabasamu (Rochelle Ward) (Literature), and Nadata Gentle (Fashion).

The senior cultural leaders and organizations that received an ACT Award for 2012 are Felix Fleming (Theater), DJ Patrice (DJ of the Year), Hot Chocolate Band (Band of the Year), UTS (Patron of the Year), Carlyle Barriteau (Lifetime Achievement), Dr. Rhoda Arrindell (Person of the Year), and Enoch (Chef of the Year).

"We are concerned that one of the most popular categories – 'Song of the Year' – was left vacant for 2012," said Badejo, an astute observer, writer, and analyst of the nation's cultural and socio-political developments since the early 1980s.

"Maybe the 'Song of the Year' category was left vacant because our radio stations haven't played many St. Maarten songs released in 2012 by our singers and musicians. Maybe there hasn't been much production by these artists outside of carnival," said Badejo.

"It is also unusual for the ACT Award 'Person of the Year' to be a politician but no one can argue against the tremendous work that the former Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs did to make July 1, Emancipation Day, a national public holiday in the South of our island, the first territory in the Dutch Kingdom to do so. This is even more important because of the 165th anniversary of Emancipation that we are celebrating island-wide in 2013," said Badejo.

"The winners will receive certificates for the first time this year since the awards coincide with the 25th anniversary of Culture Time," said Badejo.

usfolvolunteerscleanparketropikalzoo01022013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On 30 January 2013, over 20 personnel from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) volunteered for service at the Parke Tropikal Zoo. They cleared a large field to be converted to a picnic area, filling up an entire shipping container full of debris. The zoo and the USFOL continue to build a positive working relationship to improve the park, so that it can provide a safe and enjoyable space for the animals and visitors.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever and Minister of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs, will be back in parliament next week February 7 and 8.

The Central Committee of Parliament will meet on Thursday, February 07 at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting is a continuation of the session that was adjourned on October 8, 2012 with respect to the St. Maarten Medical Center with its impact on social and labour policies.

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

On Friday, February 08 at 10:00am in the morning, the Central Committee will meet with the Hon. Minister Silveria Jacobs. This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session of January 25, 2013.

The agenda point for the meeting is the present policy on youth and sports. Members of parliament will have the opportunity to pose questions in the second round.

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

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

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

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

markmingoandcolleague31012013Philipsburg:--- A group of taxi drivers from Dutch St. Maarten expressed dissatisfaction at the way they are being treated by the Dutch St. Maarten Taxi Drivers Association (DSTA). Founder of the DSTA, Vernon Denis Aventurin told SMN News that he along with some other older taxi drivers are the ones that established the DSTA in 1988.

On Thursday night, members of the DSTA called their election at the PMIA Hall to select new board members. Aventurin said he left St. Maarten for a number of years and when he returned to the island he went and registered at the DSTA office and paid his fees but he was not allowed to work at the AC Wathey Cruise Facilities. Aventurin said that on Thursday night he was not even allowed to vote because the DSTA board does not consider him to be a member of the Association. Aventurin managed to obtain a copy of the DSTA constitution and marched into the building to address the members of the DSTA regarding the association rules and bylaws that he helped draft. At the PMIA Hall Thursday evening was the CEO of the AC Wathey Cruise Facilities Mark Mingo. Mingo said every year he would attend the election of the DSTA because the Association has a concession with the Harbor. Some of the taxi drivers informed SMN News that while they are paying members of the DSTA, the current board members chose to lock them out while Mingo was addressing the taxi drivers before the election took place. During Mingo's speech was when Aventurin who was also locked out of the PMIA Hall opened the door and marched in to inform the drivers of their rights as members of the DSTA.

vernondenisaventurin31012013Several drivers who are holders of taxi permits wrote a letter to Mingo outlining their grievances most of which they said are unfair treatment from the DSTA. These drivers also signed a petition and have over 100 signatures all of which are active taxi drivers who claim that they want to work with the AC Wathey Cruise Facilities and not DSTA. "Here is my receipt I have been paying DSTA $40 per month for them to call me when they need taxis at the harbor on busy days and even though I am paying every month I never received one call from the DSTA. The incumbent President Otis Hughes told us he does not want anything to do with us and even though we are paying he does not want us to work at the harbor." The group of taxi drivers also dispatched a letter to the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunication Romeo Pantophlet informing him of their concerns as legal taxi drivers and tax payers. The taxi drivers said that even though they are paying $40 to DSTA to be able to work on busy days at the port, the DSTA has a schedule of whom they will call on busy days and these persons have to pay $10 per day when they are called to work at the AC Wathey Cruise Facility. They stated in their letter to the Minister of TEATT and the CEO of AC Wathey Cruise Facilities that they are extremely angry and frustrated at the unfair treatment and discrimination by the incumbent President of the DSTA.

The drivers said on several occasions when there are six or more ships in port they have to literally go to the harbor and beg for a job. Another driver said he submitted his documents to the DSTA over six months now and to date they have not accepted him to be a member of the DSTA. He said that he would go to the harbor and work on busy days and even though he has a vehicle that carries six passengers he is placed in the sprint line where he could only get short jobs. The taxi driver who prefers to remain anonymous said that other drivers who are close friends with the board members of the DSTA and has vehicles like his are working in the tour lines where they are able to make more monies. "Those that get that opportunity are friends of the DSTA board members." Several taxi drivers stood outside the PMIA Hall while rain was pouring down to see how the DSTA board would handle the election process. Up to 9pm the election process did not begin and no one knew who was postulating for what position.

haar14052009Philipsburg:--- After reading several articles and commentaries where the manager and editor of the Today Newspaper Hilbert Haar has chosen to write constant trash about SMN News reporter and criticize our work. We have decided to respond to the so-called reporter who has made it his business to attack local St. Maarteners and its elected officials while protecting the incompetent Dutch Prosecutors that are allowed to work on the island. While Hilbert Haar has an axe to grind with locals and with SMN News reporter, he somehow failed to realize that it's a local man who chose to hire him for so long even though his newspaper has gone from being bad to worse.

Readers on St. Maarten do not even purchase the newspaper Haar works for and the businesses on St. Maarten also saw that Hilbert Haar has one mission which is far from writing news so they refuse to advertise with this newspaper. Everyone on St. Maarten is now wondering how the "Yesterday Newspaper" continues to exist without incoming revenues. Maybe the guys in blue should look to see if there is money washing taking place close to the Prins Bernard Bridge.
Hilbert Haar described SMN News as a gossip website yet he is not able to stay off of it. It is from SMN News Hilbert Haar gets most of his news and has stolen several articles from us without crediting his sources, yet he chose to say that he does not know why the people of St. Maarten/ St. Martin choose to have SMN News on their menu. The question the owner of SMN News has for Hilbert Haar why is he always on SMN News? Are you not able to secure and write news articles of your own?
Since Mr. Haar likes comparing what the Netherlands and its people sees fit for their country and only St. Maarten tolerate what the Netherlands does not tolerate then our advise to Hilbert Haar is to go back to where he ran away from because surely the newspapers and other media entities in the Netherlands would not give him a job. Or maybe Haar should try going to the USA where he is wanted for a traffic violation.

While Hilbert Haar has a lot to write about Bibi Hodge Shaw, let it be known that Haar was locked up for beating a female co-worker and his friends at the Prosecutor's Office released him but to date have refused to press charges and tried to force the victim to accept an apology. If any other suspect was arrested for beating an employee would Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos do what he did for Hilbert Haar, or did Haar's nationality and personal relationship with the Prosecutor's Office play a role in the decision making of that case?

As for the incident on Wednesday in the Common Court of Appeals, Hilbert Haar should tell the few readers he has that the Dutch Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp who verbally attacked SMN News was sitting next to him so she can coerce him into writing an article that would not expose the incompetencies coming from the Prosecutor's Office. Serving a simple summons to a murder suspect was done three times and each time with a blunder which might throw the entire case in limbo.

Just recently the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan described Hilbert Haar as a "Dutch Stooge" and after reading his unfounded article on Friday we have no choice but to say the Minister of Justice was right in selecting the name for Hilbert Haar, therefore we too have decided to label him as a "Dutch Stooge".

Haar said he is not there to tell the Court House or the Prosecutor's Office what to do because according to him Bibi Hodge Shaw broke the rules. Hilbert Haar and his prosecutor friend was sitting in front of SMN News reporter, behind the SMN News reporter were several top ranking police officers who saw that the Prosecutor lied on SMN News reporter.

What Haar needs to know is that his friend Gonda van der Wulp was out of place first by taking up the place assigned to reporters, secondly she was more out of place to create a scene and lie during an open court session. If SMN News reporter had done anything that was in violation of the court the only persons that had to take action was the three judges, the court bailiff, or the police officers who told SMN News reporter that they saw and know Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp lied on her. These police officers will be called as witnesses because SMN News reporter has taken the necessary steps against Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp.

Since Hilbert Haar mentions certain things that are not accepted in the Netherlands but is tolerated on St. Maarten. SMN News will go further and inform our readers that only on St. Maarten we take a Prosecutor that was kicked out of Aruba and make him Chief Prosecutor on St. Maarten, this person is none other than Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. Only on St. Maarten, prosecutors try every trick in the book to obtain evidence against people illegally, even trying to sleep with suspect's girlfriend to get sworn statements, or plant drugs in another man's car so he can sleep with the man's wife or girlfriend. Just in case Haar and his friends at the Prosecutor's Office do not know who we are referring to, SMN News will make it easy for Haar to do his research. The case of Barth den Hartigh against Charles Barry, Virgilio Leonora owner of Oasis Restaurant against former prosecutor Gert Oldenkamp who was convicted for the crime he committed against Leonora, not to mention Jan Bart Daveling caught driving under the influence of alcohol and almost ran over a police patrol. Daveling was dismissed and sent back to the Netherlands where cannabis and alcohol can be bought at cafes. Only on St. Maarten a convicted Chief Prosecutor is accepted in the bar and is allowed to practice law on the island.

In other countries, incompetent prosecutors who bungled a major murder case where the suspects confessed to killing two innocent people in an attempt to rob them would have been charged with Prosecutorial Misconduct. So yes, lots of things are allowed on St. Maarten because of the twisted legal system. And to end this article only on St. Maarten sworn court translators living on the French side who work as freelance workers at the Court of First Instance would violate the oath they took when they leak information from the court house to their husband Hilbert Haar. Really only St. Maarten this kind of craziness is allowed.

rodolphesamuelpresentsgifttopaulcroes31012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The three presidents of parliament, namely Presidents of Parliament of Aruba drs. Pauldrick (Paul) Croes, of Curacao drs. Marcolino (Mike) Franco visited the country earlier this week where they met with President Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel.

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

At the end of the visit there was a gift exchange.

Philipsburg:--- UTS today announced it will be launching the new BlackBerry® Z10 smartphone powered by BlackBerry® 10 in the Dutch Caribbean and Surinam. The new BlackBerry Z10 is the first smartphone to launch with the re-designed, re-engineered and re-invented BlackBerry 10 platform, offering customers a powerful and unique new mobile computing experience. The BlackBerry Z10 is the fastest and most advanced BlackBerry smartphone yet, and offers a smarter experience that continuously adapts to a customer's needs.

"UTS has been a proud provider of BlackBerry solutions and smartphones for the past 7 years and we are very happy to be offering such an innovative new device. The fact that the operating system is based on one of the most stable operating systems in the world will be the reason this device will be a big success. When it comes to stability and security this the BlackBerry Z10 will rival, and in most cases surpass, any other smartphone currently on offer," said Carl Riley, Service Market Manager Data Services for UTS.

"The BlackBerry Z10 smartphone delivers a powerful new platform for BlackBerry customers. Combined with network and service plans from UTS, BlackBerry Z10 customers will be delighted with a re-invented communication experience, seamless multitasking, easy access to multiple social networks, and the peace of mind that BlackBerry security gives them," said Carlo Chiarello, EVP, Global Smartphone Business at RIM.

BlackBerry 10 is a re-designed, re-engineered and re-invented BlackBerry platform that creates a powerful and unique new mobile computing experience. BlackBerry 10 gives customers a faster and smarter experience that continuously adapts to their needs. Every feature, every gesture, and every detail is designed to keep customers moving and includes advancements such as:

  • Peek and Flow into the BlackBerry Hub – A new mobile computing paradigm where what matters to customers is always only one swipe away
  • Keyboard – Understands and adapts to customers, so they can type faster and more accurately
  • BBM™ (BlackBerry® Messenger) – Allows customers to share things with the people that matter to them in an instant
  • BlackBerry® Balance™ technology – Protects what is important to customers and the businesses they work for

planelandinginsxm31012013PHILIPSBURG:--- St. Maarten's Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has been named the number one most stunning airport approach by travel fans around the world in PrivateFly.com's recent Airport Approaches Survey.

The Airport Approaches Survey was conducted in December 2012 on PrivateFly.com, the leading online booking platform for private aviation charters. SXM airport was selected from a group of airports chosen by a panel of high-profile travel industry experts with travel enthusiasts voting for their favorites.

"We are incredibly proud of our airport in St. Maarten and are appreciative that travelers from around the globe enjoy the one-of-a-kind views that both spectators on the ground and passengers in the sky are afforded at Maho Beach and the Princess Juliana International Airport," said Edward Dest, interim director of tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

SXM airport, located on the scenic shores of Maho Beach, offers passengers on incoming flights breathtaking views of turquoise waters and white sand beaches, while spectators looking to get a unique view of low-flying incoming planes frequent Maho Beach daily.

For additional information on St. Maarten, visit the official site of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau at www.VacationStMaarten.com.

The Department of Statistics (STAT) in collaboration with the Ministry of VROMI is currently collecting data on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, to update the Geographic Information System (GIS) of government.

This initiative entails collecting & recording up-to-date information on the location and function of each building on Dutch St. Maarten. This includes for example, registering the address, type of building (i.e. residence, commercial, church, school etc.), the number of floors & units of each building, and some other general information.

The project commenced this week and is projected to run until March 2013.

With an updated GIS, the government of St. Maarten and STAT will have access to a current map of St. Maarten, with proper street-names, and building-function data. This can serve many purposes, in particular for STAT, it will assist with determining the coverage of the Population Census, facilitate the fieldwork process on future sample-based surveys as well as
provide a basis for spatial analysis.

The Department wishes the general public to be informed of this undertaking, and thanks persons in advance for co-operating with its staff members, should they be approached, in connection with this project.

pjiae28062012SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM Airport) kicks off the celebration of its 70th anniversary with the official launch of its rebranding on February 2, 2013.

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

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

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

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

sjacobsmediatesmeetingbetweenscdfandcalypsonians31012013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports the honorable Silveria Jacobs mediated a meeting with the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) President Michael Granger, Member Radjouki, and Calypsonians for an amicable solution to facilitate the Road March Competition being a part of the Carnival schedule for 2013.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

cdeweeveratpointblanchewatertankconstructionsite31012013Great Bay:--- A delegation comprising of Minister Cornelius De Weever and GEBE management made a site visit last week to the location in Point Blanche where the two new water tanks will be built. Currently the old tanks are being demolished to make way for the new tanks.

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

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

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

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

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

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

usfolvolunteerscleanchristoffelnationalpark31012013WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On 22 January 2013, over 30 volunteers from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) visited the Christoffel National Park. Hiking from the Visitors Center to the summit of Mount Christoffel for several hours, they cleared 5 bags of trash along this strenuous hiking trail to help enhance Curacao's natural beauty. This is part of their on-going effort to assist the National Park and the island overall in order to preserve its unique natural resources, so they can be enjoyed by all for years to come.

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

simpsonbaylagoon30012013Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) St. Maarten will host its second annual fundraising kayak tour of the Simpson Bay Lagoon on Sunday February 3rd. Participants will be able see and learn firsthand about the various habitats and wildlife found in the Lagoon. This excursion will provide participants with the opportunity to better understand and appreciate this very special place right in our backyard.

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

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

EPIC Press Release

romeopantophletwithofficialsfromsxmaviationdeptandiaso30012013In our ongoing attempts to bring our Civil Aviation Dept. back to Category I (CAT-I) status, Minister Romeo F. Pantophlet has engaged the services of IASO (International Air Safety Office, Inc.) to perform a gap analysis.

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

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

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

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

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

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

gracitaarrindell08112012I support the call for drafting and subsequent approval of national laws towards the screening of ministers. This is a step in the right direction as we continue to move towards firmly establishing our executive and parliamentary 'footprint 'as a new 'country' within the kingdom of the Netherlands. We are looking forward to receive the draft law proposal during this first term of Parliament, and prior to the next polls are held.

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

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

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

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

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

membersofstatiasafeandsoundfoundationleavingcourthouse30012013The Court in First Instance Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Saba convened in the Government Guesthouse in St. Eustatius to hear the appeals against the Amendment Plan NuStar Terminals St. Eustatius. With the Amendment Plan, the Executive Council of St. Eustatius tried to change the Spatial Development Plan of the island for the construction of a new oil storage facility right next to Oranjestad and within the flight path of the airport.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

meyshanejohnsonleavingcourthouse30012013Philipsburg:--- The Common Court of Appeals will pronounce its verdict on the summons that was issued to the main murder suspect that confessed to killing American citizens Micheal and Thelma King on February 20th, 2013. Michael and Thelma King were murdered in their Cupe Coy condominium on September 19th, 2012. The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson will remain in custody until the verdict is rendered.

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

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

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

policeofficersleavingcourthouse30012013Brooks also asked the court to forget about the seriousness of the case because if it was that serious the Prosecutor's Office would have followed proper procedures to ensure that justice is served. Brooks asked the court to look at the procedures that were used in the case compared to what is stated in case laws. The cases Brooks quoted were also serious cases and the judges in Curacao and the Netherlands applied the law. She told the court that "murder is murder", it does not matter if it involves one or two people and what must be applied is the law and not emotions.

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

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

familyandfriendsofmichaelandthelmaking30012013Also in court was Dutch Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp who attended the session as a guest but chose to sit where reporters are supposed to sit. When SMN News reporter reached the court, the seats for reporters were taken up by Gonda Van der Wulp. SMN News reporter chose to sit behind Prosecutor Van der Wulp and at times leaned forward in order to hear what was being said during the proceedings. Prosecutor Van der Wulp chose to disturb the entire proceedings when she began screaming at SMN News reporter saying that reporters are not allowed to take photographs in court. It must be noted that while SMN News reporter had her camera around her neck, the camera was off and no photographs were being taken in court. Wednesday's court session is not the first this media house has covered and it is clear that the prosecutors that are currently working on St. Maarten are on the edge because the incompetencies of the Prosecutor's Office are now being exposed.

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

rolandtuitt30012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the CFT wants the government of St. Maarten to cut another 25 million guilders out of the 2013 budget before they approve it. Minister Tuitt said his Ministry is currently working on the cuts which would affect all seven Ministries, this amendment he said will be done by the end of the week and hopefully after the CFT approves the budget it will go to Parliament for approval before the end of February 2013.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

illegallyplacedfishpot29012013Adhering to no fishing rules of the Marine Park important to rebuilding local fish stocks.

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

rotaryclubofsxmdonatesrecorderstomhf29012013The MHF is embarking on an effort to collect data regarding the disease burden of psychiatric disorders on St. Maarten. This will help with planning for the future. The topic of the Research is : "School prevalence of select childhood psychiatric disorders in St. Maarten". Other contributors towards this project are the American University of the Caribbean (Medical school), University of Louisville Kentucky USA, and Parnassia Bavo Group in the Netherlands. During the New Years reception at The Mental Health Foundation last Friday The Rotary Club of St. Maarten donated 10 Sony ICD- AX412 Digital Flash Memory Voice Recorders which will be used in the process of collecting data. As the presentation was being made, club members were honored to be joined by his Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday as a former member of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten and now an honorary member. The Rotary Club of St. Maarten continues to raise funds particularly for youth community projects. Last year the grand fundraising held on the Oasis of the Seas raised funds for Youth Leadership and this year again funds raised in the Valentines Day Car Raffle February 14th, 2013 will also go toward projects related to special needs children as well as youth and other community service projects.

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

Press Release from Governor's Cabinet

rubybute29012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) is hosting its annual Black History month celebration under the theme "Grafting Roots: Passing on the Legacy".
This year the primary focus will be on the achievements of St. Maartener's in three areas, namely Painting, Dance and Literature. PJL's exhibitions will showcase the passing on of knowledge between the elders and younger generations and how it is imperative to the survival of St. Maarten's legacy.
According to Morenika Arrindell, PJL Activity Manager, each elder who will be highlighted in the exhibitions, have served key roles in sharing their talents with the world and in particular the youth of St. Maarten.
"Their contributions have spurred young, talented St. Maartener's to explore their own creativity and have motivated them to consider creating and passing on legacies of their own," Arrindell said.
Arrindell said that each elder has been paired with a person from a younger generation who has also made steps to create a legacy of her or his own in that same genre.
"So for example Ruby Bute is paired with Lucinda Audain in terms of painting, though this could also have been done in terms of their poetry. Lasana Sekou has been paired with Deborah Drisana Jack for their literary contributions to St. Maarten and Clara Reyes has been paired with her protégée Rudolph Davis," Arrindell explained.
Bute's selection for painting comes as a result of her continuous efforts in the preservation of St. Maarten's culture, through her paintings, as well as her commitment to the mentorship of upcoming artists, are exemplary. Audain selection is a result of her emerging presence as a young, dynamic painter on the St. Maarten art scene. Both the paintings of Bute and Audain will be exhibited for the entire month of February in PJL's lobby.
Audain, who is also the founder of Funtopia, a company geared towards family entertainment, with face and body painting as one of its main services, will be giving free workshops in the PJL lobby, on Saturdays, February 2 and 9. These workshops cover face and body painting and are open for all persons who are interested in learning the craft. The workshops will briefly highlight the history of face and body painting and its current recognition as an art form. Audain will teach a few of the basic line strokes and promises that all who return for the follow-up session on February 9 are in for a major treat. Audain said she plans to choose a willing participant to serve as the model for a full body painting demonstration.
The general public is invited to attend this first installment of PJL's Black History Month Celebrations with our first featured workshop artist, Lucinda Audain, on Saturdays, February 2 & 9 from 11:00am – 12:00pm. For more information please contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

deniciorichardson03012013It is important to note that despite my resignation and departure as the Director of PSS that the continuation of the organization is safeguarded and key facts established and presented.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PSS Press Release

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

moneyinballotbox29012013Philipsburg:--- The Landsrecherche is now working on the Election Fraud case that involves the United Peoples Party leader Theodore Heyliger, three police officers, and a civil servant working at the Philipsburg Police Station.

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

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

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

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

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


Draft Report on Piranha Investigation not completed.

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

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

celshot29012013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot announced on Tuesday during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions' (WICLU) weekly press conference that the WITU board members election is scheduled for this Thursday January 31st, 2013 at 6pm at the WIFOL building on Pondfill Road.

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

FZOG are Gangsters, where are our elected officials?

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

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


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

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

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

Teachers not pleased with February days off.

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

 

WITU Submits Motion to have Vacation Allowance Equalized.

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

sdhwinsusgfinterscholasticgames28012013SOUTH REWARD:--- St. Dominic High School Student Council on Thursday last emerged champions of the fifth annual Interscholastic Board Games Competition hosted by the United Student Government Front (USGF).
Close to 50 students from a number of high schools on the south side of the island converged at Milton Peters College to exhibit their skills at chess, checkers, and dominoes. There were individual winners in each category, as well, but it was the blue and green clad scholars who racked up the most points to walk away with the trophy donated by Personalized Creations. Host school, MPC copped second place, while St. Maarten Academy's academic campus came in at third place.
In the game of chess, Isaiah Escallier of St. Dominic High took the lead, beating out rivals Ryan Fong of Milton Peters College, and John Joseph of Sundial School, who placed second and third, respectively.
Wilfred Dunker and Arion St. Clair of St. Maarten Academy's academic campus slammed their way into first place in dominoes, leaving Andrew Peterson and Joseph Toussaint of St. Dominic High; and Alvin Martin and Maribel Fleming from Milton Peters College to settle for second and third places, respectively.
But MPC rebounded in the game of checkers when they sent up Melissa Cloose who secured the top spot over Anthony Rogers of St. Dominic High and Malik Deacon St. Maarten Academy PSVE.
All categories of winners were able to go home with prizes donated by KFC, Pizza Hut, Domino's Pizza, Family Book Store, Carousel, Vandorp, Shipwreck Shops, and Computer World. Annual sponsor for the event, BIMACO, ensured that all participants had snacks throughout the afternoon.
Three lucky students were also the recipients of three raffle draws, earning them a two-piece KFC dinner, a $10 Carousel voucher, and a book from Family Book Store. USGF was extremely grateful to this year's sponsors, especially Personalized Creations, since this was the first year a trophy was up for grabs.

cdeweevermeetswithrobertdixon28012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever recently met with newly appointed CEO and Board Director of Seven Seas Water Corporation, Robert Dixon. They discussed various matters relating to water production here on St. Maarten, especially the new water tanks, which will be built in the Point Blanche area.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday, January 28, 2013, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix announced to the Kingdom of the Netherlands via television and radio broadcast her abdication. His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange is the successor to the throne.

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

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

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

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

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

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

smeyersolivacce12072012The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan recently stated that Sint Maarten procedures are too formalistic where procedures are being more cumbersome than those in the Netherlands.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

sarahwescotwilliams24092012Looks forward to having His Royal Highness Prince Willem Alexander as Monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

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

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

denguemosquito28012013Marigot:--- The Dengue Management Committee declared at a meeting on Monday at the Préfecture that St. Martin is currently in an epidemic phase due to several indicators and urges citizens to protect themselves.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

sxmcuracaoandarubapresidentsofparliamentandsgs28012013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Parliament of St. Maarten Rodolphe Samuel met with the President of the Parliament of Aruba and the President of Parliament of Curacao on Monday. Marcolino (Mike) Franco is the President of Curacao's Parliament. Franco was accompanied by his Secretary General Silvin Cyntje.
The Aruban President of Parliament Paul Croes and his Secretary General Jacqueline Sherman also formed part of the delegation that visited St. Maarten on a working visit. The delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Government Administration Building where they met with the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams.

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

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

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

KPSM Police Report

queenbeatrix28012013Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands has announced she is abdicating in favour of her son, Prince Willem-Alexander.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Queen Beatrix will be 75 on Thursday.

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

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

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

BBC News

gracitaarrindell08112012UP faction in Parliament is condemning the way things are done with the House of Parliament. The running of Parliament is being carried out with no regard for protocol, nor procedures. Members of Parliament are not informed or notified after the fact too often. The so called Senioren Convent consisting of Faction leaders and independent Members of Parliament of which the UP faction is represented did not receive any official nor informal information as far as we can check with respect to the official visit of the Presidents of Parliament from Curacao and Aruba and the meeting planned for Monday, January 28, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

sjacobsmeetswithrepsfromparticipantsxm27012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Honorable Silveria Jacobs met with Dan Marmar and Zahira Marmar- Hilliman of 'Participant SXM', on Friday January 25th 2013.

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

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

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

eholidayreceivesfirstthediaryofastmartinsaltchecker27012013Harbour View:--- The Book 'The Diary of a St. Martin Salt Checker' was presented to His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday at his office by its author Mr. Will Johnson together with Mrs. Carolyn Buncamper on January 25, 2013.

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

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

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

sjacobsgreetssoccerplayers27012013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs opened the 20th Annual Scholastic Soccer Tournament for Schools on Saturday. The tournament is organized annually by the St. Maarten Soccer Foundation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

hivaidsinterregtreatmentprojectmeeting27012013On Friday January 25, 2013 HIV & AIDS Programme Manager Suzette Moses-Burton, St. Maarten AIDS Foundation President Dr. Gerard van Osch, and the St. Maarten Laboratory Services Manager Dr. Hose Booi met with delegations from French St. Martin, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, and Anguilla at the French side Hospital L.C. Fleming. Participants included Doctors, healthcare specialists, civil servants, and INTERREG Representatives from the various countries. The meeting was held to evaluate the "Development of an inter-Caribbean HIV observatory" Project that aims to build regional evidence on the scale of HIV drug resistance in order to equip and prepare countries with the knowledge, skills and systems to respond to patients whose treatment may be failing. This project was signed with the European Commission in December 2010 and has been extended until the end of September 2013.

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

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

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

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

cdeweeveradministersoathtopsoekhoe27012013Great Bay:--- On Friday January 25, 2013, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever administered the second oath taking ceremony oath at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall to three medical professionals, namely two pharmacy assistants and one physical therapist.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

smeyersolivacce12072012I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the new Executive Board of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry on behalf of the UP parliamentary faction that are now in place to carry out the Chamber's plans for 2013.

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- Upon the initiative of the President of Parliament Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel, a meeting with the Presidents of Parliament of Aruba drs. Pauldrick (Paul) Croes and President of Parliament of Curacao drs. Marcolino (Mike) Franco, will take place on Monday.

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

Definite decisions won't be taken during these discussions.

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

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

sxmyouthcouncilparliamentmeetsrodolphesamuel25012013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel is allowing the St. Maarten Youth Parliament to meet at the House of Parliament every two weeks. The Youth Parliament had its first meeting on January 11 at the Conference Room in the House of Parliament.

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

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

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

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

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

 

MOTOR VEHICLE TAX TARIFFS 2013

License Plate Desigation

Gasoline Nafls.

Diesel Nafls.

M-/P-

275.00

750.00

SXM/MR/L/PAR

275.00

750.00

TAXI

275.00

550.00

R-

300.00

750.00

BUS/G/T (35 passengers or less)

275.00

550.00

BUS/G/T (35 passengers or more)

1250.00

1250.00

V-

Weight less than 3500 kg (7700 lbs)

275.00

750.00

V-

Weight more than 3500 kg (7700 lbs)

1250.00

1250.00

Z-

Weight more than 3500 kg (7700 lbs)

1250.00

1250.00

MF- Motorbike

200.00

-

MF- Moped

50.00

-

Important Notice:

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

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

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

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


Press Release from the Governor's Cabinet

ernamaefrancisgivesprizetoginacarty25012013Philipsburg:--- Gina Carty, collection agent at Gibson and Duncan, a staunch member of the Philipsburg Methodist Church, where she is actively involved in the youth ministry there, recently received her gift certificate for a week-end stay at Sea View Hotel. Not only did she experience her Victory Walk™ with Victorious Living Foundation on December 29th as they symbolically declared victory in 2013, and closed the doors to any negativity from 2012, but she was fortunate to have won this grand prize from Victorious Living.
Carty, who humbly carries out her many duties, is Church School Superintendent, President of the Sunday School Choir, leader of the Youth Fellowship and secretary of the Organization and Education Committee all at the Philipsburg Methodist Church.
In an invited comment about the Victory Walk™, Carty stated: "Even though I didn't walk all the way, it was nice. I loved the gathering at the Victory Walk Ceremony™ and that so many young people are involved. I would like to encourage persons to be a part of Victorious Living as they are doing a good job."
Victorious Living thanks Carty for her kind words and also thanks Sea View Hotel one of St. Maarten's family owned hotels of over 50 years; and Anacaona Boutique Hotel of Anguilla, as well as all others who contributed to making the Victory Walk a success.
As Victorious Living restructures its operations to be able to provide better and even more vital services to the community of St. Maarten and beyond, they are inviting senior and junior volunteers and donors to join them in making an even more significant difference in the community by calling 721-524-8731/305-407-9260 or visiting their websites: www.victoriouslivingsxm.org and http://www.y2xsxm.org/.
Victorious Living Foundation has some powerful events and programs planned for 2013 which include BOSS (Be your own success story) Society Tour on April 6th, 2013. BOSS will provide inspirational entrepreneurial training to persons wanting to start businesses and others currently in business.
Plans are also underway for a radio-tele-thon geared at assisting Victorious Living to sustain its operations as well as secure the necessary funds to establish its own facilities so that the community of St. Maarten and beyond could be better served. In the mean time, while they restructure in order to positively impact more persons and be financially sound, Victorious Living is still operational, but by appointments only for its various counselling and mentorship services.
In addition, Community, business, Government and Church leaders can access the knowledge and experience of world-renowned leaders by attending Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® in conjunction with Victorious Living Foundation on May 10, 2013.
Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® is a one-day leader development event broadcast LIVE from Atlanta, Ga. to hundreds of sites throughout the nation, including for the first time on St. Maarten in partnership with Victorious Living. Speakers for this year's event include:

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

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

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

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

meyshanejohnson03102012Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten may become the center of attention as early as January 30th, 2013 if the Court of Appeals decides to follow the letter of the law and release the main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson (29) that is in custody for the brutal murders of United States citizens Micheal and Thelma King.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

oranjeschoolbookweekparade25012013Philipsburg:--- Students attending the Oranje School lit up Front and Back Street early Friday morning with a parade as they opened this year's Book Week. Among the students and teachers who carried banners was the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs and the Head of Division of Public Education Glenderlin Davis Holiday. Each class of the Oranje School depicted various trades that students take up after completing their education. The main message of Oranje School Book Week is "Reading gets the job done". One poster read "A teacher plants a seed that grows forever". Then came a class with impressive outfits depicting the fire service, the police, and other legal entities.
Teachers, nurses, firemen, bakers, chefs, environmental workers and people who work in the judicial field were all depicted in the Oranje School Book week parade.

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

cftmembers25012013Philipsburg:--- The board of the CFT told members of the media on Friday that during the last three days the Board of financial supervision, Cft, met the Governor, the Prime-Minister, the Minister of Finance together with the Vice Prime-Minister, the Council of Ministers and Parliament. The last visit dated back to October 2012. The Minister of Finance presented a more complete budget 2013 compared to prior years. Within two weeks the government will send the budget to the Cft in which the outcome of the discussions will be reflected.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

johanleonard25012013The Progress Committee Sint Maarten has written several reports and has pointed out in one of them that they are not enthusiastic about the plans by Minister of Justice Roland Duncan has for a Justice Park and Maritime Police Unit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

165thanniversaryemancipationcommittee24012013Great Bay/Marigot:--- A committee was recently launched to commemorate the 165th anniversary of the Emancipation from slavery in 1848 for both parts of St. Martin, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

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

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

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

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

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

slssignscontractwithheavenlywater24012013Great Bay:--- The St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) and two local water distribution companies namely Younique Water & Ice and Heavenly Waters have signed a contract with SLS to have their water tested on a regular basis.
During the signing, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever mentioned that this says a lot about these two companies as they have the lab behind them. "This is great for the marketing of your water and it is good that you both have taken the initiative to have your drinking water up to standards, and for this I want to congratulate you," said Minister De Weever.
Raymond Peterson of SLS mentioned that the lab uses the standards of the World Health Organization and the NAN standards of the Netherlands, which ensures that the water is up to standard for drinking. "Once the water is tested we send the report to the Inspectorate of Public Health for further handling," said Peterson.
Minister De Weever further stated that this is the year of water, as government is looking into regulating the testing of water from the wells, and imported bottled water will be tested.

rolandduncan04012013Philipsburg:--- The controllers who are supposed to be working for the Ministry of Economic Affairs and were also used to direct traffic in the St. Peters area during the early morning hours stopped controlling traffic claiming they want to be sworn in as extra-ordinary police officers. According to information reaching SMN News, the controllers have been putting pressure on their boss Martha Thewet claiming they will not render certain services if they are not sworn in by the Minister of Justice. These controllers were trained for the services they are providing before St. Maarten became a country. Other officers that were trained with the same group and are working at the Department of Health and Hygiene were sworn in by the Minister of Justice and are currently working as extra ordinary police officers. The controllers that are working for the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transportation, Tourism and Telecommunication were trained because part of their job description includes traffic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

mpjulesjames04052011Going back to the end of October, the Honourable Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, informed the people that he was negotiating with Holland to exempt goods bought in Sint Maarten from Turn over Tax (ToT) and exported to the Dutch public entities of Statia and Saba. The timeline that this was to take place according to the Minister's statement to the media was by year-end (2012).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ruthdouglass23092012No one should be surprised that the Dutch liberal legal system allows for it. St. Maarten is no different than any of the other members in the Dutch Kingdom. If a laws in the Netherlands allows for prostitution wide spread and open, then guest what we are stuck with it. We could object loudly in Parliament as Members and citizens, but we only can make provisions in the law to make sure that it does not become a major health issue on this Island where we have open borders. We receive over two million visitors annually. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) is already a serious problem on this Island. As a doctor I have to deal with it at an alarming rate in my practice. The thought that now men and women could be in un-regulated environments like their own homes, with licenses to operate personal brothels is scary to say the least. This would be a haven for communicable diseases, HIV/AIDS still does not have a cure it can be managed with daily cocktails of pills once diagnosed and prescriptions prescribed. STI like HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) can result in cervical cancer that can end a woman's life. The male sex partner can be a carrier and not know it; he can therefore have sex with a sex worker, catch it and then spread it to the next unsuspecting partners. STD, like herpes, can be easily spread from partner to partner. Currently prostitutes working in licensed businesses are tested, but not regularly enough, in my view. But at least it is done and can slowdown the spreading of STDs and STIs. The health agencies can barely deal with it now. So opening the doors to have any and every - want to be money making sex service provider- can be a dangerous thing. We in the health profession are not prepared to deal with what can happen here.

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

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

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

swescotwilliamsandkruansignleaseagreementforsimpsonbayservicecenter23012013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams signed a lease agreement with the Foundation that manages government owned buildings for the service center that will be established at the Simpson Bay Fish Market. The agreement was signed on Wednesday shortly after the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing. Those that were part of the signing ceremony were Angela Dekker from USONA and Chairman of the Foundation for Government Buildings Kurt Ruan. Other persons that joined to witness the signing ceremony gave support and expressed their appreciation for the new service center that is to be established upstairs of the Simpson Bay Fish Market. A help desk will also be on the ground floor to assist senior citizens or persons that are not able to climb the steps to the top floor.

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

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

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

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

swescotwilliams23012013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams at the Council of Ministers' weekly press conference on Wednesday said one of the things discussed with the Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk who visited the island for the first time earlier this week was the dramatic increase in fares by WINAIR to travel to Saba or St. Eustatius. Wescot Williams said the route is costly since the Netherlands Antilles dismantled.

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

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

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

Fiber Optic Cable Issue.

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

rolandtuitt23012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he plans to meet with the board of the CFT on Thursday regarding some of the disagreements the government of St. Maarten is having with the CFT and its 2013 budget.

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

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

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

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

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


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

presidentobamasinauguralinvitation23012013The Finance Minister also took a jab at persons who have been criticizing St. Maarten representatives that attended the inauguration ceremony of President Barrack Obama. Tuitt said it is always good when they attend ceremonies such as these to see what the people of that country does for their representatives. He said four years ago US Government and its people spent 180 million dollars for the one day inauguration ceremony on security alone. In 2013, the US and its people spent 130 million on security for the inauguration ceremony which was held on Monday.

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

silveriajacobs23012013Philipsburg:--- The committee that was established to investigate the functioning of the Department of Public Education submitted their report on December 11th, 2012 to the cabinet of the Ministry of Education, announced Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

rotaryrylameetingatmpc22012013The Four Rotary Clubs on St. Maarten/Saint Martin are planning one of the largest Youth conferences St. Maarten has hosted for the second time called RYLA. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary's leadership training program for young people. RYLA participants can be ages 14-30, but most clubs and districts choose to focus on a narrower age range, such as 14-18 or 19-30.
RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and personal growth, and aims to demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for the youth, provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders, encourage leadership of youth by youth, and recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.
The St. Maarten/St Martin hosted RYLA will take place February 14-17, 2013.
The conference will target persons between the ages 14-17 years old from 10 countries in the Caribbean. In addition to Intercators from St. Maarten and Saint Martin, participants are expected to come from Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Us Virgin Islands, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Island, Turks & Caicos, and Anguilla.

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

cupecoymurdersuspects12112012Philipsburg:--- The prosecution asked the Court of First Instance on Tuesday to grant them another postponement for the pro-forma hearing of the Kings (OCEAN) murder trial. The three suspects who already confessed their involvement to police, appeared in court on Tuesday for their first Pro-forma hearing. Their first pro-forma hearing was initially scheduled for Thursday January 10th, 2013 but the suspects did not attend because the prosecution served them with their summons late. However, the prosecution managed to repair the damage that very evening which led to Tuesday's trial.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

alainrichardsonmeetswithdgibbsandlconstantfleming21012013The French Parliament has decided to inject 20 billion Euros into the French economy, by significantly reducing the labor costs for companies. However, because of the fiscal competence of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, local companies have been excluded from the measure. President Richardson as a result has decided to petition the Minister for the Overseas, Victorin Lurel on what he has termed the "unjustified exclusion of Saint-Martin from the benefits of the new tax measure."
Within the framework of the "National Pact for Growth, Competitiveness and Employment", the Parliament, on the initiative of the Government of Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, decided to inject 20 billion Euros into the French economy, by significantly reducing the labor costs for companies.
The companies will, as a result, be given an aid equal to 6% of their overall wage costs that they incur during the year for remunerations lower than or equal to 2,5 SMIC (4% in 2013). This aid package will take the form either of a tax cut or of a check issued by the French Treasury for those who do not incur sufficient taxes to allow them qualify for this help.
Taking into account the fiscal competence that the Collectivité has, the choice of a "tax expenditure" as the mode for financing this important aid package, excludes Saint-Martin companies from the measure. President Alain Richardson, supported by the entire majority in the Territorial Council, considers that this exclusion is completely unjustified. According to the President, the fiscal competence that the Collectivité enjoys cannot have as a consequence that companies established on Saint-Martin be excluded from benefiting from a national policy aimed at reducing labor costs. A cost, Richardson further explained, on which the Collectivité has no control, since the labor laws, the social costs and the Employment Policy falls under the responsibility of the State.
Already confronted with the perpetual competition from companies established in Sint-Maarten, where the labor costs are lower than that of the French side and where the labor laws are much more flexible, the local companies will now also have to submit to the additional competition provided from companies originating from Guadeloupe or Martinique who will benefit from a major competitive advantage because of the CICE.
In a letter dated January 14, the President of the territorial council drew the attention of the Minister for Overseas to the need for finding a solution quickly so that Saint-Martin companies are provided with an equivalent aid. Senator Louis-constant Fleming, and Member of the National Assembly, Mr. Daniel Gibbs, who attended a meeting on the issue at the request of President Alain Richardson, were informed of this situation and committed themselves to supporting the Collectivité's initiative towards the national political authorities.

smeyersolivacce12072012It has been reported in the media with information provided by the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt that Government intends to increase casino fees to raise over Naf. 7 million. The 2013 budget is Naf. 476 million or Naf. 43 million more than the 2012 budget (Naf. 432.5 million). The NA led Government has managed within the past seven months since they took over to increase the budget by Naf. 43.5 million.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

mpjulesjames04052011Are their potential Job Losses in Wholesale Sector with Increase in ToT on Alcohol & Tobacco Products?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ambulancepersonnelreceivesadvancedtraumacoursecertificates21012013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- After completion of the Advanced Assessment and Treatment of Trauma course, 16 personnel from the Ambulance Department received their certificates from the World Wide International Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS).

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

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

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

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

uts2ndipadwinner21012013Philipsburg:--- Chippie announces the second winner of the iPad 3 sweepstake that the mobile provider offers together with distribution partner Xtreme Machines. The first winner is St. Eustatius resident, Mr. Valentine Fortin in December 2012. Ms. Vanina Lozandier is now the second of 5 potential winners of an Apple Ipad. She won the tablet by saving her Xtreme Machine top-up receipts. Each receipt contains a letter and after saving all the letters necessary to spell 'APPLE I PAD 3' she also dubbed a winner of the sweepstake. 'There are 3 more iPads to be won, so anyone that almost had all the letters shouldn't be discouraged,' says UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert "We are happy to collaborate with our partner, Xtreme Machines to bring fantastic prizes to our customers. The holiday season is behind us, but we aren't about to stop with the gift-giving yet. There are 3 more tablets to be won. Our customers have a choice in whom they select as their mobile provider and we want to show them that we appreciate their good custom; whether it is through our ongoing sweepstake, free credit when we spot you with one of our bumper stickers, we want to show our appreciation. Chippie is celebrating its 10 year anniversary on St. Maarten all year and we want to show our appreciation to the customers that have helped make that possible," Lambert continues.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COLEBAY AREA

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

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

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

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

ruthdouglass23092012It was sad to see how the Mental Health Foundation that wants to become an accredited facility for doctors with specialty in psychiatry, has been treated, and by extension mental health persons who deal with the facility on a daily basis for their care.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

mpjulesjames04052011Having an ambitious agenda is one thing, but taken all consequences into consideration must remain of paramount concern, when it comes to spending our tax payer's money with the Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs proposal put forward. It would be amiss of me not to point out that I believe the Minister with his announced proposal to establish a St. Maarten Airline Company may be considered yet again, as the "Minister running a fowl" with his quest to put the cart before the horse.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

cignaexecsvisitpjiae20012013Nomura, underwriter of the bond, praises vision and leadership of management.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both Mazlich and Cann had earlier been given a guided tour of the island as well as of the airport facilities. They said they were very impressed by what they saw.

Cigna is a global health insurance company, with about 22 billion US dollars in revenue, employing 31,000 people worldwide and active in 30 countries around the globe. It is one of the largest health service companies in the US, with headquarters in Bloomingfield, Connecticut. Cigna is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:CI) and is a component of the S&P 500 stock index.

On the other hand, Nomura is a Tokyo-based financial services group and global investment bank with regional headquarters in Hong Kong, London, and New York with operations in 18 stock exchanges all over the world and has held the number one position on the London Stock Exchange since 2007.

According to Regina LaBega, managing director of the airport operating company (PJIAE), the bond issue would allow the Princess Juliana International Airport to execute its Capital Improvement Program, which includes the resurfacing of the runway, construction of taxi-ways; expansion of the aprons to provide additional aircraft parking, especially during peak traffic periods; and the relocation of various facilities to improve efficiency and provide for future growth.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Season passes for Carnival 2013 will go on sale as of February 2, 2013 for US $170. Sponsored by UTS/Chippie, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) over the weekend finalized details surrounding the passes which have developed into "must haves" for Carnival lovers.
The season pass allows the purchaser entrance to all shows in carnival Village for the 2013 Carnival season. With 10 show nights on the schedule this year and the passes priced at US $170, holders of the pass will actually only be paying US $17 a show for Carnival.
"The idea has also been to offer the public a cost saving measure for Carnival and generate early buzz and pre-sales for the shows," SCDF President Mike Granger said. "Last year the passes were priced at US $140, but this year we have a longer schedule with two additional international show nights. So basically, you will be getting two additional shows for just $30. You can't beat that deal," Granger said.
The SCDF has also afforded the possibility for residents to pay for the season pass in two installments, with 50 percent due on registering for the pass. The balance would be due on or before April 1, 2013. Persons abroad who wish to register for a season pass can do so by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. <mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> for details.
A subsequent announcement will be made as to where persons have to go to register for the pass as of February 2 along with requirements. In the meantime, a registration form can be emailed to all interested persons once a request is sent to the email listed above. Registration closes April 1.
"The season passes have been a big hit for us the last two years. People started asking about them since December. We are happy to offer this mode of convenience again for Carnival 2013," Granger said.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten carnival development Foundation (SCDF) and the Festivités Carnavalesques de Saint-Martin (FCDSM) will host the Unity Jump-Up upcoming Saturday, January 26.
The annual event, which takes Carnival lovers on a trek involving both sides of the island, is being held as part of the French Carnival festivities this year. Annually, the two organizations alternate the Unity Jump-Up. Next year it will form part of the Dutch carnival festivities.
The Unity Jump-Up will start on the Dutch side this year in the vicinity of the St. Maarten Festival Village. It will then make its way down Walter Nisbeth Road (Pondfill), Bush Road, AJC Browers Road (Cole Bay Hill), Union Road, past the border at Bellevue and makes its way through Marigot and end at the water front.
All bands that will be taking part in the Unity Jump-Up are advised to inform the SCDF and FCDSM of their participation post haste. Thus far three band have confirmed to be on the road for the jump-up, the Dutch side Band of the Year Official Band and two bands from French St. Martin, Power Band and Madness Band.
All bands will also have to go through inspections with strict inspection guidelines from the Fire Department. Inspections will take place on Saturday a few hours before the jump-up. These guidelines are available from the SCDF and FCDSM who have also provided them to the bands.
President of the FCDSM Phillipe Richardson and President of the SCDF Mike Granger both expressed pride at having been able to host this event for a number of years now. They stressed that both committees cooperate whenever and wherever possible and the Unity Jump-Up is just a way to remind everyone that though both sides have separate festivals "we are still one island, one people."
They also stressed that law enforcement from both sides of the island will employ a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who have any intentions to start any trouble. Bands can contact SCDF on 5225133 or FCDSM on 5819587.

kpsmsexoffenseinvestigationcourseparticipants20012013Philipsburg:--- On Monday January 14th, 2013, Police Chief Peter de Witte officially opened a course on optimizing the investigation process in regard to sex-offenses. This course was provided by a forensic specialist/expert from the Nederlandse Forensische Instituut (Forensic Institute of the Netherlands) in collaboration with forensic advisors and investigators from the Netherlands. Several topics regarding to this type of investigation such as injury investigation, photographing the injuries, the use of forensic light sources, and DNA investigations were discussed.
The objective of this course was for technical and tactical investigators, public prosecutor, and medical doctors who all form part of the forensic framework to optimize their knowledge on properly collecting forensic evidence and treatment and care of the victim.
The instructors of this course were Peter Huisman, Doris Eerhart, Bernice Grotebevelborg, and Martin Oosting.
The participants of this course were: J. Muller-Rijna, E. Levenstone, M. Atmopawiro and T. Constance (Forensic Department), I van Ter Beek, L. Piper-Cristian, L. Wiel-Williams, L. Lewis (Juvenile Department), Dr. M. Mercuur, Dr. R. Douglas, Dr. Spencer, Dr. Ofrenga (Medical doctors), G. van de Wulp and L. Hodge-Sprok (Public Procesutors Office), O.G.A. De kort en S.G. Ras (investigators from Aruba), A. Leonard, D. Chandler and S. Carty (Community Police Officers) Sh. Gijsbertha, D. Muller and I. Hassel (Tactical investigators).
On Friday January 18th the course ended and all candidates received their certificates for their participation.

romeopantophletreceiveseconomicoutlook2012-201320012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT) has released its annual Economic Outlook for 2012-2013. A copy of the report was recently presented to Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet.

The purpose of this publication is to provide a comprehensive review of the economy annually that will be beneficial to local businesses and potential investors.

The publication is accessible via www.sintmaartenoutlook2012-2013.org. As a special feature of the online copy, all websites ( www........) in the online book received a link. There are links in the Table of Contents. In order to access a link, a simple click from a chapter in the Table of Contents to the page of the chapter.

The public may send their comments or questions to the department via the below email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The public is also encouraged to contact the department in order to add their email contact to our mailing list. This will guarantee that organizations and persons receive the latest publications on their computers.

To be added to the mailing list, please send your information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hard copies are available at the Government Document and Management department, the Public Library and the department.

The analysis and projections contained in this Economic Outlook are an integral part of the responsibilities of the department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication.

In keeping with our responsibilities, within the next six weeks the department will be publishing its first annual Investment Guide 2013 and the 2012 Year End Report.

Additional publications will follow in the coming months. The public will be notified when and how they may access these publications.

The department extends its thanks to all its contributors, especially its private and public sector stakeholders that have taken the time to provide information and feedback.

mulletpondresearch20012013The Nature Foundation, over the course of nearly a year, recently completed a research project and compiled a report on the environmental health of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The purpose of the report was to create a more in-depth study of the ecological health and the water quality in various locations of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The report also outlines the possible uses which can be made of the lagoon, protecting it while at the same time ensuring that its economic contribution will grow while protecting the Natural Resources found in its waters. The study also aims to convince policy makers that official zoning of the Mullet Pond and Little Key areas as conservation zones are of essential importance to the stability of the remaining healthy environment in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Amongst various outcomes outlined in the report it was found that 70% of all mangroves located in the Simpson Bay Lagoon currently survive in Mullet Pond, which forms the largest continuous area of unbroken mangrove forest on St. Maarten. Mullet Pond is located in the south-eastern most area of the lagoon in the area of Mullet Bay. Baseline surveys included in this report have shown that the area forms one of the most pristine habitat within wetland and aquatic habitats supporting numerous species including juvenile snapper, seahorses, crabs, reptiles and a number of bird species.

Based on the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) World Conservation Monitoring Center 2006 document In the front lines: shoreline protection and other ecosystem services from mangroves, the Value of the 880 square meters of Mangrove Habitat which represents the Mullet Pond ecosystem is equal to USD $792,000 per year towards the economy of St. Maarten in its intact form, not counting or taking into consideration the high biological value that the area represents.

The report found that the Marketing of the Mullet Pond area as a high Value Eco-Tourism experience is significantly untapped. With increased trends moving towards the marketing of Caribbean islands as eco-tourism destinations Mullet Pond was found to be able to contribute significantly to eco-tours in the form of snorkelling, diving, limited fishing excursions, kayaking and ample bird and reptile watching opportunities, thus further reinforcing the economic contribution of the ecosystem.

Additionally, the waters surrounding Little Key were also found to have some of the more undamaged ecosystems of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The last remaining strands of seagrass beds in the Simpson Bay Lagoon were found to surround Little Key. Environmental Organizations have also been continuously calling for the protection of Little Key, a small island within the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The Research Project, which involved water quality tests and research dives conducted by Nature Foundation staff on more than two dozen locations within the Lagoon, also established various problem areas. The areas of the Simpson Bay Lagoon in Cole Bay in particular had especially bad Water Quality, including sewage, heavy metal, and chemical pollution and a virtual lack of any Marine Species such as fish or crabs.

The results of the report have been delivered to the various stakeholders including recommendations to Policy Makers regarding the future development, protection and management of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

First Phase of Tender Process for Concessionaires Ends Jan. 24th.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The new retail strategy at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is expected to be a "win-win-win" situation for all stakeholders, according to the findings of the InterVISTAS Consulting Group. The findings were presented to the airport concessionaires during the 3rd Quarter Facilitation Meeting held in August 2012.

In accordance with the recommendations of the study and following extensive consultations with the concessionaires, including another one held during the 4th Quarter Facilitation Meeting in November 2012, PJIAE announced the first of a two-phase tender process at the beginning of this month.

The first phase of an Expression of Interest (EOI) or a Request for Qualification (RFQ) began on January 8, 2013 and will close on January 24, 2013. The conditions to qualify for the next phase of Request for Proposal (RFP) include that the applicants should be in good standing regarding their financial obligations with PJIAE; that they should not be in litigation with PJIAE and have a minimum turn-over that varies according to the concession package. Qualified candidates will be announced on January 31, 2013.

The publication of packages for the second phase – the Request for Proposal phase (RFP) – will be made on February 5, 2013, with a pre-proposal meeting set for February 19, 2013. The deadline for the submission of the RFPs is March 26, 2013, while the selected candidates will be announced on April 4, 2013. The duration of the new concession agreements will be five years for retail and seven years for Food and Beverage businesses.

The bidding process is open to all interested businesses that can deliver the product categories, have adequate experience in the field, and proper financial resources to create and maintain a sustainable concession at the airport. Applicants can include the experience in airport operations of their parent or partner company, brand name or franchise.

There are 14 new exciting packages, including: Duty Free Operator, Sunglass Operator, two News, Books, and Magazines Operators, St. Maarten Souvenir Operator, Fashion Operator, Jewelry/Watches Operator, Wine and Cheese Concession, and two Coffee/Sandwich Bars.

Others are: St. Maarten/ Caribbean Food Concession, three Fast Food/ Hamburger, Italian/ Sandwiches, two Full Service Restaurants, Café de Paris, Drugstore, Telecom Store, Convenience Store, and Italian (Pizza).

All these are concepts that have been proven to be successful at airports all over the world and that generate the most revenues.

At present, there is a total of some US$20 million in outstanding debt – accumulated up to about 2010 by some of the current partners – which PJIAE is currently trying to turn around.

The InterVISTAS study indicated, in this regard, that there is room for improvement in terms of the performance of concessionaires, while it also highlighted the fact that there is significant unused space in the airside Food and Beverage and Retail area.

The study similarly found that there was passenger confusion made evident by the fact that each of the three Liquor and Tobacco outlets that currently exist at the airport, offer the same identical products at three different prices.

The new retail strategy therefore aims at increasing sales volume for the concessionaires. This will result in a win-win-win situation because when passengers find what they want and spend, the concessionaire's sales will increase. This, in turn, will result in higher concession revenues for the airport. In this "triple win" scenario all of the stakeholders benefit.

Other objectives of the new retail strategy include:

  • Creating a tempting airside lounge reflective of a St. Maarten sense of place (i.e. by effective use of culture, music, flavors)
  • Improving the Food & Beverage and Retail space, particularly in its mix and lay-out.
  • Ensure less passenger confusion regarding product offering and pricing.
  • Upgrade airside Food & Beverage and Retail area with existing and/or new concessionaires.

In 2012, managing director of PJIAE, Regina LaBega had informed the concessionaires, especially those who had concerns about their future at the airport, that the consultations gave them a "heads up" on the plans and advised them that they could start making preparations right away.

LaBega had indicated then that, "having more money does not guarantee you a spot in the new F&B and Retail area. Everyone will have to go through the RFP process."

She further added that, "it is the objective of PJIAE to increase traffic and these proposed changes go hand in hand with the expectation of an increase in arrivals." The InterVISTAS study had forecast that "passenger traffic, using the main terminal building, but not including FBO traffic" would reach between approximately 1.8 million and 2 million by 2020. More than 1.6 million passengers passed through the airport in 2012.

Indeed, the plans had been warmly welcomed by several concessionaires who said with sales down and the economy in a slump, "it is highly appreciated that PJIA recognizes the need and is willing to take on the necessary steps towards improvements that would result in a win-win-win situation for all."

Construction and remodeling is expected to begin in April and end in September 2013 while the new airside lounge and landside facility is scheduled to be opened on October 1, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication that falls under the responsibility of the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, has posted on the government website the 3rd Quarter Macro Monitor Report 2012 Special Edition on Impact of Hurricane Sandy.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "3rd Quarter Macro-Monitor Special Edition Hurricane Sandy Report" for download.

The analysis, projections and policies are the product of a comprehensive interdepartmental review of the United States economic developments.

Projections were also based on results generated by the department Macro-Economic Model.

Inside the issue is Assumptions and Conventions; Hurricane Sandy Overview; Hurricane Sandy Macro Economic Impact Analysis; Conclusion & Recommendation; Appendix – Tables.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The various ministers in the coming weeks will be going into more details about their ministerial portfolio's via the broadcast media as it relates to the governing program "Working for the People."

Last week Wednesday, January 16 the official launch of the Governing Program took place at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel in the presence of approximately 100 invited stakeholders from the community.

Attendance at the event was based on an invitation only guest list of a cross section of the community that included civil society organization, labour, and business.

Official activities started on time at 9:00am while the media was invited from 8:30am in order to allow media personnel ample time to set up their audio and visual equipment so that when the presentation based events began there would be no unnecessary interruptions.

The Secretaries-General of the various Ministries and of the Council of Ministers as well as the President of Parliament and His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday received copies of program 32-page program of the NA/DP/I-3 coalition leading up to the official launch.

ambulancedeptintraumacareupgradingcourse18012013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Ambulance Department is taking part in a week-long, advanced level course in trauma.

Minister of Public Health, Labor, and Social Development, Cornelius de Weever, applauds the continuous efforts of the Ambulance Department to keep abreast of the latest developments in the emergency services. "We are all proud of the emergency services that ambulance department provides to the community. With the amount of violent crimes and the amount of road accidents it is essential that the staff of the ambulance is continuously trained especially in trauma."

About 20 persons from the ambulance department took part in the course that focused on trauma and catastrophes. The trauma course helps emergency personnel learn a method that is systematic and important to the early care of the trauma patient, which is essential for the injured patient in emergency situations.

"This is a continuing process," Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson said, "we have to continual train and update ourselves in order to provide quality service when called upon. The better trained we are, the more prepared we will be."

During the course of this week a specialized group from Worldwide International Emergency Medical Services out of Washington DC provided this intense trauma training. They have gone through several modules and have increased the knowledge level of the Ambulance Department.

The St. Maarten Ambulance Department participated in the latest Health Care Provider American Heart eSimulation technology for CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) which was implemented in 2010.

This course included the eSimulation technology where the participants were initially involved in treating patients in a virtual healthcare setting. The eSimulation portion of the course is incorporated in the hands-on skill training sessions which provided the practical training.

Key changes in CPR sequence are "CAB" Compression Airway Breathing change from "ABC" Airway Breathing Circulation, allowing the rescuer to get the chest compressions in less time.
Isos Health (a professional survey firm) along with a CPR Improvement Working Group surveyed more than 1,000 healthcare professionals in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany to identify attitudes, beliefs, and assumptions among practitioners who perform CPR.

For the second to fifth day of training, the Advanced Assessment and Treatment of Trauma (ATT) course represents the state of the art in pre-hospital assessment and management of the trauma patient based on the most current medical information and best practices.

The St. Maarten Ambulance Department participated in a course that is highly interactive covering the critical knowledge and skills necessary to rapidly evaluate, stabilize and transport the trauma patient. The modules include Patient Assessment, Airway Management, Traumatic Brain Injury, Trauma to the Head and Neck, Trauma to the Torso, and Mass-Casualty Incident Triage exercise.

tzuchifoundationsxmhomevisit18012013A total of 85 St. Martin's Home residents and 46 Sr. Basilia clients were treated to a day of pampering, entertainment, and gift giving during the Tzu Chi Foundation's annual 'New Year's Blessings Visit' to the two facilities earlier this month.
Foundation volunteers led by Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung visited the two facilities and held several fun and entertaining activities for clients.
The clients received massages, took part in non-strenuous exercises, miracle hands sessions and were entertained with a performance of the Lion Dance. The volunteers also prayed with clients and played games such as 'passing the ball."

They were also treated with a 2013 cake and given gift bags containing items such as Chinese oil, juice, biscuit, water, chocolate, a Teddy bear, cookies and other items.
Tzu Chi Foundation, a Buddhist compassion relief organization, which focuses on spreading cheer, love and joy to others, has been visiting the St. Martin's Home annually for about two decades. Cheung, who runs Cake House Supermarket on L.B. Scot Road, began the benevolent act two decades ago when the St. Martin's Home was located in Philipsburg.
She continued the act and added more activities after forming the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation several years ago.
Cheung said it is always a blessing to add some cheer to the days of the seniors and the intellectually challenged in our community. She said it was a blessing to help them start off their New Year on a positive note.

gracitaarrindell08112012The United People's (UP) parliamentary faction met with Attorney and former Lt. Governor Ralph Richardson on Thursday morning to discuss possible changes to the existing electoral law.

We have a Parliament of 15 members associated with the three political parties, but then three members of parliament became independents.

During the meeting several articles were discussed pertaining to the electoral law, and the Constitution of Country Sint Maarten, in reference to the issue of elected members declaring independence from the party on who's platform they were elected.

Acknowledging the sensitivity, and complexity of this issue including the rights of individuals under the Constitution, nevertheless since the topic has become a hotly debated issue again, the UP faction welcomes an open dialogue pertaining to this matter.

Not only internally within the faction, but more so between Factions in a nonpartisan mature manner. It's a start, which if any changes are made including to the Constitution regarding this topic, the end result must be considered and approved by a referendum by the people of this country.

As we continue to evolve as a new country, this topic and others will undoubtedly come to the forefront for discussion, and debate, and if and where necessary adjustment. This is a natural evolvement as questions of this nature confront us from time to time.

Important is how do we go about it in a mature way where discussing this issue is concerned. Other Countries in the Kingdom of the Netherlands have also been confronted with this topic.

Gracita Arrindell
United People's (UP) party Member of Parliament

bavpolcustomsofficersreceivewiemscertification18012013Mount William:--– On Thursday January 15, 2013, the Sint Maarten Justice Academy and the Windward Islands Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS) conducted a brief certification ceremony, to officially recognize 10 Customs Officers for their achievement, in successfully completing the first aid Course. First aid is one of the compulsory subjects in their training to become a professional law enforcement officer(commies), is set to be completed in the coming months.

The Officers were presented their certification cards by the Justice Academy Coordinator and master chef instructor Drs. Richard Straker on behalf of the Justice Minister the Honorable Roland Duncan and the WIEMS Course Coordinator Joanna Rijnboutt. Also present at the ceremony were Justice Academy staff.

Second semi-annual report 2012 Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

Willemstad:--- The Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba (College financieel toezicht Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba - Cft) ascertains that it can be determined that important progress has been made with regard to the budgeting processes for the public entities and that financial supervision is paying off. However, the financial management remains delicate. Cft declares this in the eighth semiannual report, which has been submitted to the minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations (Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties - BZK) on January 15th.
Cft determines that the processes for preparing and adopting the budgets, for the first time have taken place for all the legal entities within the legal terms. The adopted 2013 budgets are all balanced. This is among others related to the recent raise of the so called 'vrije uitkering'. Besides the reports concerning the execution of the budget are improving in quality. As it shows, the budgets for 2012 will close with a positive balance for all three of the public entities. Besides all the public entities have a positive liquidity balance. For Sint Eustatius counts that the Preceding Supervision (Voorafgaand Toezicht –VT), which has been introduced by the Minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations for 2012, as a consequence of complying with the agreements made with Cft, was terminated at the beginning of December 2012 with immediate effect by the Minister.

Despite the fact that the financial statements were prepared in time, in all cases a positive auditor's opinion is still lacking. Next to the further to be implemented improvements in financial management, the standards and assessment framework that still needs to be drafted and approved, which would enable auditors to give a positive opinion on the financial legitimacy, is still lacking. This forms a major challenge for the public entities, especially given the often mentioned capacity problems. Due to the limited qualitative and quantitative capacity on the islands, the Cft together with the islands stipulates each year only a few realistically achievable priorities. Because of the difference in progress between the public entities, the appointments differ per island.

In the short term the solving of the capacity problem (partly due to the local availability and the competition with other employers for attracting the currently present quality) will be particularly difficult for the public entities. The public entities are therefore still highly dependent on technical assistance. This assistance however is only temporary and very expensive. The Cft has advised the public entities to use an innovative approach to the capacity issue and to undergo a sourcing process. The results of a sourcing project could potentially result in the formation of a Shared Service Center or "twinning" with a municipality from the Netherlands.

In the formation of the public entities the possibility to obtain interest-free loans from a specialist department in the Netherlands was created. This allows for the public entities, in addition to the free allowance (vrije uitkering) from the Netherlands and the own income, a third way to obtain public funds investments. Late last year, the first agreements about this subject were reached between public entities and the relevant Dutch ministries. The Cft evaluates the relevant application on amongst others the repayment obligation related to this. It is important that these are properly integrated into the multiannual budget and that reservations are made for the maintenance costs associated with the investment.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication that falls under the responsibility of the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, can find on the government website the 2nd Quarter Macro-Monitor Report 2012.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "2nd Quarter Macro-Monitor Report" for download.

The analysis and projections contained in the report highlights the critical parts of the department's observation and monitoring of economic developments and policies in St. Maarten as well as internationally.

The analysis, projections and policies are the product of a comprehensive interdepartmental review of world economic developments, which draws primarily on information received from key Government Departments and external stakeholders.

Projections were also based on results generated by the department Macro-Economic Model.

Special points of interest in the report are tourism data, balance of payments info and Gross Domestic Product. Besides the aforementioned, it contains assumptions and conventions, international, external, fiscal, and monetary sectors, prognosis/conclusion, and appendix and tables.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication, hereby informs the business community and investors that the "Sint Maarten Smaartmodel" presentation presented at the Carribbean Mini Macro Modeling Conference is available on the Government website.

The Smaartmodel is a practical analytical spreadsheet that contains all macroeconomic data. It is a tool to present a holistic view of the operations of the economy. It is a tool for impact analysis of policy measures and forecasting.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Special Events" and then select "Macro Model Conference 2013" for download.

The main function of the Smaartmodel is analyzing, monitoring, forecasting, and impact analysis.

The presentation also includes historical data, assumptions, model overview, other linked models, protocols for requesting information and protocols for sharing information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will have a busy time next week with five meetings planned starting January 22 with the last one on January 25.

The Central Committee will meet on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting is a continuation from last where with respect to the St. Maarten Medical Center. The meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction, and the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever will be present to provide answer to questions asked in the first round by parliamentarians last year.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Permanent Justice Committee will be visiting the Point Blanche Prison.

The work visit will take place on Wednesday, 23 January at 9:00am.

Members of the parliamentary committee of Justice are Chairman Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, Vice Chairman Hon. MP George Pantophlet, Hon. MP Petrus Leroy De Weever, Hon. MP Gracita Arrindell, and Hon. MP Janchi Leonard.

A Central Committee meeting is planned for Wednesday afternoon January 23 at 2:00pm. It is a continuation of a meeting from the latter part of 2012 with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan, where the Minister made a presentation about the Justice Park. Minister Duncan will be present in this meeting to respond to questions that were posed to him during the 2012 parliamentary session.

On Thursday, January 24 at 2:00pm in the afternoon, the Central Committee will meet with the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT with respect to the public finances of the country.

On Friday, January 25 at 10:00am in the morning, the Central Committee will meet with the Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt. This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session in the latter part of 2012. The Minister of Finance will be present to continue to answer questions posed by MPs.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary sessions with the exception of the visit to the prison will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

rolandduncan04012013Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News in an invited comment on Thursday that the Director of the Pointe Blanche Prison Edward Rohan is working on an action plan for the kitchen at the Pointe Blanche Prison. Minister Duncan said that he did receive the report that the Inspectorate of Health delivered on Wednesday to the prison but they are now working on an action plan to execute the advice provided to them by the Inspectorate of Health. The Inspectorate of Health conducted a control at the house of detention on Tuesday morning and wanted to close the kitchen because of its deplorable conditions. According to information provided to SMN News, the kitchen sinks were in terrible condition which poses severe health risks, the oil pits were leaking, and there was water running everywhere. Minister Duncan said that the kitchen is over 25 years old and he can guarantee that no one will be poisoned or get killed because of the dilapidated state of the kitchen at the Pointe Blanche Prison.

SMN News learnt that the Minister of Justice managed to find a workable and suitable kitchen at the Mental Health Foundation in Cay Hill. A reliable source said that the Minister found the new location because the Pointe Blanche Prison needs a new kitchen and that new kitchen is part of the Minister's plan in the Justice Park project. While the Minister of Justice introduced the one hundred million guilder project to Parliament, it has not yet been presented to them for approval.

When SMN News reporter asked the Minister of Justice about the new location he found in Cay Hill, the Minister of Justice said he does have an alternative plan but he would not divulge any information on it unless the agreement has been finalized.

While the local Inspectorate of health has given a bad report on the Pointe Blanche Prison especially the kitchen, it should be noted that two researchers are on the island compiling a report on the detention centers on St. Maarten.

The two researchers Vegter and Pesselse also work for the European Committee for Prevention and Torture (CPT) which compiles annual reports on prisons and other detention facilities. Last year, St. Maarten obtained a very bad report which was handed to the Governor of St. Maarten. One of the greatest fears is that is that if the CPT committee places St. Maarten as a country that violates human rights and prisoners especially since their prisons are not up to date, then the country will be considered as inhumane and degrading to prisoners. Being on such a list will have dire consequences to the country that thrives on tourism.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert on Monday to all Western Hemisphere public health agencies with respect to increased influenza activity in North America.

The most affected age group in the United States of America with regard to influenza associated hospital admissions is persons 65 and older followed by the 0-4 year age group. For Canada, the influenza-like illness rates were the highest among persons within 5-19 years of age.

PAHO recommends to Member States to ensure adequate clinical management of patients, the implementation of prevention and control measures, while enhancing the preparedness of their health services to cope with a potential flux of patients. PAHO nor the World Health Organization, does not recommend any travel restrictions including screening at points of entry.

The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, recommended late last year at the start of the flu season for high risk groups to get their seasonal flu vaccination.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's "Get Checked," campaign, influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads very easily from person to person, and can affect anybody in any age group.

"Check with your physician to see whether or not you are part of the high risk group and be proactive. Get vaccinated and take measures to prevent you from getting the flu," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said.

The submitted surveillance numbers to CPS determine the type of action to be undertaken as a response to any possible risk.

These numbers are submitted by the sentinel sites, which consists of a few volunteer physicians working along with CPS in monitoring the health of the local population.

For influenza like conditions the syndromes under surveillance are "fever and respiratory" and "undifferentiated fevers." For the period of December 30th 2012 to January 12th, 2013 which corresponds to the first two epidemiological weeks (EPI) in 2013, the reported number of fever and respiratory cases was 34.

In comparing 2013 to 2012, the reported number observed was 41, or 5% of all reported cases for that year. In 2011 the total number reported was 44 or 4% of all reported fever and respiratory cases.

For undifferentiated fever for the same two week period, six cases were reported for 2013. In comparison to 2012 the reported amount was two cases or <1% of all reported cases. In 2011, 28% of all cases of undifferentiated fever were reported in the first two weeks.

Influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illnesses and deaths for higher risk populations. Vaccination (flu shot) is the most effective way to prevent infection.

Members of the community are advised to check with their family physician on their seasonal flu vaccine and are strongly advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their family members from infection at home and especially traveling by maintaining high standards of personal hygiene.

Persons with fever in consultation with their physician should take the necessary preventive measures. Follow the advice given by your physician; take your medicine as prescribed if you forgot what the physician told you, call him/her; sneeze or cough in your arm sleeve or a tissue; and wash your hands frequently.

The primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact. Hand washing hands is the most effective way of reducing transmission.

Marigot:--- Former Director of Urbanism who was recently promoted as the Director of Service Technique Josi Carti is facing two months suspended sentenced for what the prosecutor termed as abusing his power for his own interest while he was the Director of Urbanism from 2002 to 2003.

Carti appeared in the Criminal Courts on St. Martin on Thursday charged with "Prise Ilegal D'Interets par charge de mission public dans une Affaire. Dont il assure l'administration ou la surveillance commis du 1 Janvier 2002 au 31 Décembre 2003 à St. Martin."

The President of the Court in reading the charges to Carti said that Carti while being head of Urbanism applied for a building permit for his company "Societe Civile de Construction Vente SCCV Tropicana" and obtained the building permit in less than two months. Josi Carti owns 85% shares in SCCV Tropicana. SCCV Tropicana requested the building permit on April 5th, 2002 and it was granted on May 21st, 2002.

The President of the Court said a former member of the municipal council and his daughter sold land to SCCV Tropicana. The President in his remarks while reading from the file said that he is of the opinion that there were group of people working in the commune with bad intentions. The building permit was signed off by Mayor Albert Fleming. Several persons including the former director of SEMSAMAR Jean-Paul Fisher was questioned during the investigation.

This company constructs apartment buildings for the purpose of selling. The President of the Court told Carti that the investigation started when an association who was also interested in the development of a property in La Colmbe in Concordia filed a complaint against him. The association "La Colombe et ses Evirons" was also interested in the purchasing the same property.

According to the court, Carti gave one of his subordinates his file to sign off on while not telling the civil servant that the company was his or that he owns most of the shares in the company. SCCV Tropicana has six apartment buildings, one of which was sold. The civil servant Serge Weimum told the investigating judge that he did not perform his duties to verify the ownership and the documents that were in the file. However, the court believes that Carti prepared his file and used the person working under him to sign off on his request in a nick of time.

The President asked Carti several questions pertaining to his company, he asked him what was his salary at the Collectivity which he said is Euros 3,800 per month, the President of the Court also wanted to know if Carti receives dividends from the company and if he declares these incomes when filing his taxes? Josi Carti told the court that the company does not pay out dividends and only one of the apartments was sold.

Carti told the court that even though he is a civil servant who was working for the commune at the time he formed the company to build his future since he is the father of four children. He also informed the court that he regretted opening such a company because if he did not he would have been standing before him on Thursday.

Prosecutor Patrick de Firmae asked Carti why the detectives who investigated the case could not find a certain document in his file when they collected it from the Collectivity, Carti told the Prosecutor he did not know but when the investigators asked him about the document he provided them with a copy of the missing document. Prosecutor de Firmae said that the infractions committed by Carti were not very serious, therefore he asked the court to condemn Carti to two months suspended sentence.

Attorneys at Law Paris and Maitre Karine Jaulin told the court that Carti did not break the law. Both attorneys asked the court why Wienum was not charged even though he admitted to the court that he did not perform his duties. Maitre Paris also stated that it is the Prefecture that has to verify and see if the building permit that was delivered to SCCV Tropicana was in conformity with the law. The Court will pronounce its decision on February 14th, 2013.

Marigot:--- A French Taxi Driver and father of a 16 year old daughter was condemned to 18 months suspended sentence on Thursday for sexual aggression of his minor daughter. The father identified as L.L. of Grand Case was sentenced to 18 months suspended sentence with a probation period of two years. He also lost his civil rights for a period of three years and his parental rights to his minor daughter. Another hearing will take place on March 28th, 2013 in the Civil Courts because the victim has petitioned the court for the damages she suffered at the hands of her father.

It should be noted that the father did not sexually molest his daughter but he appeared to have touched his daughter inappropriately.

Much-Anticipated Logo and Livery Revealed Today as
American Prepares to Fly Flagship 777-300ER

FORT WORTH, Texas:--- It's a new year and a fresh new look for American Airlines as the company today unveils a new logo and exterior for its planes, including the already delivered Flagship Boeing 777-300ER aircraft set to fly on Jan. 31. In addition, American plans to continue taking delivery of new planes this year as part of its historic orders for 550 new aircraft. The unveiling of the new logo and livery is the latest step forward in American's ongoing journey toward building a more modern travel experience for its customers.

"Since placing our landmark aircraft order in July of 2011, we've been building anticipation toward a moment in time when the outside of our aircraft reflects the progress we've made to modernize our airline on the inside," said Tom Horton, American's Chairman and CEO. "While we complete the evaluation of whether a merger can build on American's strengths, we remain steadfast in each step we take to renew our airline, a step we take with great respect for our name American. Today marks important progress in that journey as we unveil a new and updated look for the first time in more than 40 years."

American is preparing to take delivery of hundreds of new, lighter aircraft featuring composite materials that must be painted. Since the polished metal look was no longer an option, the importance of the paint selection became critical to honoring American's silver bird legacy. Silver mica paint was chosen as a way to maintain the silver heritage which American's people and customers are passionate about, yet progress ahead with a clean new look.

"Our new logo and livery are designed to reflect the passion for progress and the soaring spirit, which is uniquely American," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "Our core colors -- red, white and blue – have been updated to reflect a more vibrant and welcoming spirit. The new tail, with stripes flying proudly, is a bold reflection of American's origin and name. And our new flight symbol, an updated eagle, incorporates the many icons that people have come to associate with American, including the 'A' and the star."
Since entering the restructuring process, American has made a series of strategic investments designed to place customers at the center of all it does and give employees the tools, training and leading technologies they need to provide customers with a uniquely American experience, while also creating growth and opportunity for its people.

Today's news is a reminder that while there are still significant decisions that need to be made about the future of the company, American remains focused on continuing the forward movement of the many investments that have been announced in the past year, including:

  • Industry's Most Modern Fleet: This year, American will take delivery of nearly 60 new aircraft, including the new Boeing 777-300ER which will enter into service on Jan. 31. In July, American will begin taking delivery of Airbus aircraft made of lighter, more fuel efficient composite materials, which must be painted. The airline continues investments to offer state-of-the-art inflight Wi-Fi, in-seat entertainment, universal AC power outlets at every seat, and Main Cabin Extra seating on all mainline aircraft. In addition, American has plans to offer fully lie-flat premium class seats on all of the airline's widebody aircraft and transcontinental fleet.
  • Expanded International Service: American strengthens its network this year with expanded service to more destinations worldwide, including more international and domestic routes from Dallas/Fort Worth, more European and domestic service from Chicago O'Hare, new service to Europe from New York, and new service from Miami to Latin America and the Caribbean. This year, American also will begin the following international services: Dallas/Fort Worth ─ Seoul, South Korea; Dallas/Fort Worth ─ Lima, Peru; Dallas/Fort Worth – Bogota, Colombia; Chicago O'Hare ─ Dusseldorf, Germany; New York JFK ─ Dublin, Ireland; Miami – Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe; Miami – Fort-de-France, Martinique; Miami – Curitiba, Brazil; and Miami – Porto Alegre, Brazil.
  • Information in an Instant: The airline announced plans to supply flight attendants, pilots, and maintenance workers with their own tablet devices, designed to give them real-time information and better operational insights to do their job more efficiently. Beginning next month, employees will also be equipped with new technologies at the airport designed to make the travel experience easier and more convenient.
  • Top-Notch Onboard Experience: Earlier this month, the airline rolled out new enhancements in premium class cabins on international routes, including elegant new china, more menu choices, and a more personalized service similar to a restaurant. In addition, American will expand the availability of Samsung Galaxy tablets for entertainment use in the premium cabins to more routes later this year.

American Eagle and the AAdvantage® program also will get a new look as of today. The first American Eagle plane will fly the new livery beginning in February. Updating the new look across American's network is a long process and will be rolled out over time to the airline's airports, interiors and exteriors of aircraft, new uniforms, products and services, and technology platforms like AA.com and the American mobile apps.

American's new look was created with input from our customers and our people, and in partnership with FutureBrand – a leading global brand consultancy. In addition, American today launches a new advertising campaign designed to showcase the new look. The advertising campaign was developed with agency partner McCann Worldgroup.

For more information on American's new look, and to keep up with progress as the brand rollout continues, visit aa.com/newamerican.

I commend the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) for taking the initiative to establish an Environmental Defence Fund. I also take this opportunity as a promoter for the environment to commend all other environmental organizations and groups for their good efforts towards our community.

The SHTA intends to use to use the funds that they receive from our community to generate funds for legal action against the degradation of the natural, cultural and social environment on Sint Maarten.

I am calling on the people of this great country as well as the business community to contribute on a monthly basis to this fund so that the SHTA can use these funds in a wise manner for various environmental projects. I will be making a personal contribution to the fund and I call on all my colleague parliamentarians to do the same.

The bank account at the Scotiabank is as follows: SHTA 1015922.

Every Sint Maartener has a stake in our environment and the preservation of such. Every little measure taken to treat our environment better will lead to a better society.

Sustainable development is necessary at this point in time and everybody has a role to play.

I have made considerable progress with drafting a law to ban disposable plastic bags. They are a severe threat to our community especially our marine environment. I will be presenting this piece of legislation within short.

Johan "Janchi" Leonard
Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) Party

soualigacorporatetoastmastersinduct5newmembers16012013Philipsburg:--- Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Club opened the year by inducting 5 new members, namely: Tamara Groeneveldt, Community Police Officers Daryl Chandler, Shawn Crispulo, Rensley Henson, and Arcella Leonard.

After a short Christmas break the Soualiga Toastmasters enthusiastically returned to the lectern on Wednesday January 9th. Observing the theme "movies" new and seasoned Toastmasters, as well as guests, fancied themselves on a movie set. In Academy Award style several Toastmasters were recognized for their constant support, commitment and progress.

With a lot of innovative and creative activities and meetings coming up, 2013 promises to be a very active year for the Toastmasters club for civil servants. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches communication and leadership skills through a worldwide network of more than 13,000 clubs in 116 countries. On St. Maarten there are currently 5 clubs. For more information on the Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters you can check out their Facebook page.

smeyersolivacce12072012The Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt's forecasted windfall for 2013 is more like wishful thinking. This is setting up low and middle income earners at the beginning of the New Year for a big fall at year-end when the Minister can't deliver on his promise. Like one newspaper editorial said, don't hold your breath.

It makes no sense as a responsible Minister when you can't give a timeline for this windfall, and it boils down to political rhetoric.

The UP faction would welcome financial relief for persons who earn Naf. 5000 or less.

The best approach, and we reiterate, that going after the unregistered businesses will result in a more balanced revenue system for the Government as there will be more tax payer's, translating into more tax revenues for the country's treasury. This is more realistic rather than the Minister's windfall wishful thinking approach. This would translate into tax relief for the people where the wage tax could be lowered putting more money back into the hands of the workers and into the economy.

The Committee for Financial Supervision CFT has already dealt the Minister of Finance and the Government overall a blow with respect to giving a negative advice on the Minister's first budget under the new NA led coalition.

We can all recall back in 2010 when the NA led coalition left the country hanging with a Naf.100 million deficit that had to be cleared up by the UP led coalition. People have not forgotten! Yes, the UP had to increase the Turn over Tax (TOT) from three to five per cent, but it was a necessity as we took over the transition from Island Territory to Country status.

Our people understand that we needed to build new institutions from the ground up as a new country and this came with a cost. Today, the country is much better organized due to the initial investments that were made in order to be able to provide the basic necessary services demanded by our community, and to have the primary democratic institutions that govern us under the rule of law in place for the start-up and in moving our country forward.

Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Interim Faction Leader

seraovadvicepresentedtoswescotwilliams16012013Advice deviates from government proposals on important issues

PHILPSBURG----The much anticipated SER advice entitled "The AOV system made Affordable, Sustainable and Equitable" is now available to the general public. This advice pertains to a policy plan drafted by the government's Steering group on pension reform. The policy paper dealt with proposed measures to reform Sint Maarten's AOV entitlement system, and ensure the financial health of the AOV fund in the long run. In their advice, the SER deviates on important points from the government proposals and formulates alternative recommendations of their own. The document is now available on the SER website www.sersxm.org. All components of the advice mentioned below were approved unanimously by the nine SER members, comprised of representatives from the labour unions, the business community and independent experts.

The need for AOV reform is caused on the one hand by the difference between the original Netherlands Antilles population composition and the Sint Maarten situation. This causes the premium percentages to be high in the context of our relatively young population, causing the premiums collected to be higher. At the same time, many aspects of the AOV system are outdated, such as the amount of the entitlement, and the pension age. Finally, all measures together need to add up to a sustainable and financially sound AOV fund. The SER recommendations are based on the same points of departure and methods of calculation used by the government's steering group.

Increase the AOV benefit to Naf 1,000

The SER supports the government intention, already implemented, to raise the monthly AOV benefit to Naf. 1,000. Although this is a level still below the minimum wage, it is a necessary step, long overdue, to bring the AOV closer to a level sufficient to allow for basic subsistence.

Premium to be levied on all income up to 100,000

Currently AOV premium is calculated over income up to Naf 80,336 annually. This amount needs to be corrected for inflation periodically, and is now raised to Naf. 100,000. The SER supports this government intention. It needs to be said that nobody will actually pay more premium according to the SER proposal, for the SER – contrary to government - also recommends a reduction of the premium percentages.

SER: reduce premium percentage with 1.5% for both employees and employers

Currently employers pay 7% AOV premium while employees pay 6% over the workers' wages. These are very high percentages, stemming from the relatively 'old' population composition of the Netherlands Antilles. The government proposals however do not include any reduction of premium percentages. The SER on the other hand advises to lower the premium percentages to reflect the younger Sint Maarten population. Employer contribution should be reduced from 7 to 5.5 percent, while employees should pay 4.5 instead of 6 percent. This means an instant reduction in wage costs for all businesses of almost 1.5%, and an immediate increase in purchasing power for all wage earners of around 1.5% as well.

Keep AOV affordable in the long run by gradually raising AOV age

The SER agrees with government in gradually increase AOV age from 60 to 62 over the course of the years. This follows international trends, as there is hardly any country in the world with a state pension starting at 60, even 62 is comparatively low. This measure cuts both ways: workers will pay into the AOV system for more years, while the number of years of AOV entitlement is reduced. However, after having increases the entitlement age to 62, in approximately 2017, the SER advises to gradually go on increasing the AOV age to 65. This will ensure long-term sustainability of the AOV fund and take away the need to increase premium percentages again.

Full AOV after 10 or more active years on Sint Maarten

Government intends to maintain the present law, stipulating that only people who have lived in the Antilles or Sint Maarten for 45 years, from age 15 to age 60, will receive full AOV. With less than 45 years in the Antilles, a retiree receives proportionally less AOV. The SER does not consider this justifiable however, as we have many immigrants in Sint Maarten who chose to make the island their permanent home and contributed to our economic development, and who are at a disadvantage once they retire, because they did not live in Sint Maarten for the first part of their life. The SER recommends granting anyone who has ten or more years of active career on Sint Maarten, full AOV, reduced of course by entitlements the person may get from an earlier country of residence.

Additional pension plan necessary

Next to AOV, a lot of work needs to be done in the field of additional pension plans. Only 36% of the Sint Maarten working population has a pension plan additional to AOV. The other 64% will have to rely on their savings or on private life insurance they have taken out on their own initiative to ensure a comfortable old age. Factors that contribute to this situation are the lack of employment based pension plans, combined with the absence of tax deduction for private pension insurance.

Make private pension plans (lijfrente) tax deductible up to Naf. 12,000 annually

The great majority of workers lack any supplementary pension plan above AOV, it is therefore recommendable to take out private pension insurance (known in Dutch as lijfrente). The premiums involved are tax deductible in most countries, on the same footing as pension premiums. However in Sint Maarten only Naf. 1,000 is deductible annually, which is an insignificant sum for this purpose. Government rejected initial proposals to increase the tax deductibility to Naf. 12,000 a year. The SER however does advise to increase the private pension premium tax deduction to Naf 12,000.

Follow up with general supplementary pension arrangement

The SER fully supports the government intention to follow up the AOV reforms with research into a general employment based pension scheme supplemental to AOV, taking into account the very low coverage of workers under such pension plans. The recently introduced general pension scheme in Aruba may serve as an example to this effect.

SER proposals more equitable, yet ensure financial durability

Compared to the government proposals, the AOV reform advised by the SER adds some equitable and economically justified points, while still ensuring financial durability of the AOV system in the long run, as the graph below illustrates.
The current surplus situation, in which premiums collected are higher than AOV paid out, will last until 2027 at least. The AOV fund reserves will therefore keep growing until that year, topping off at more than Naf. 600 million, only to decrease slowly over the decade after that.seraovreformadvicegraph16012013

In conclusion, the SER advice ensures financial durability, meanwhile – contrary to government proposals - lowering AOV premiums for employers and employees alike and granting long settled immigrants full AOV.

Click here to view the full SER advice on AOV Reform.

joshuabellsingingsxmsongatgoverningprogramlaunch16012013Philipsburg:--- The seven Ministers from the Council of Ministers representing the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and Independent Members of Parliament launched the long overdue Governing program on Wednesday at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort. Those that attended the launching of the Governing Program for the years 2012 to 2014 were not too impressed because most of what was given in the presentations by each Minister was information that was provided to the media already. The governing program that was presented on Monday is one that was put together by the current government who took office nineteen months after St. Maarten became a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The National Alliance, Democratic Party, and the Independent Members of Parliament formed the current government in May 21st, 2012 under the theme "Working for the People". This new government represents ten of the fifteen parliamentary seats. In the government declaration that was signed by the new coalition they promised to work and develop several areas in their action plan. Those areas are education, infrastructure, district improvement, housing, health care, social welfare, economy, environment, safety, and security.

The first Minister to make his presentation to the gathering was Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin whose portfolios are housing, environment, infrastructure, energy affairs, and spatial development. Marlin reminded the gathering that it is almost eight months ago his government (second government since St. Maarten became a country) took office. Marlin said that his Ministry has been placing focus on the governing program which he said would enhance the various districts and businesses will be more active.

Marlin made clear that every Minister that forms the current coalition government has a role to play in order for them to reach the goals they set for the people of St. Maarten. Marlin said his Ministry is busy working on the huge backlog of building permits requests. Another focus for the VROMI Minister is to provide clean and affordable housing for the people of St. Maarten. Marlin said his government realized how important it is to make available cheap and affordable housing especially for those that are now renting. He said another aim of his government is to pursue public and private partnership to eradicate the "shanty towns". He said now that government is faced with the reality of no more domain land available to them, they are now purchasing land to provide a decent living. Marlin said the development of districts in partnerships has several benefits to providing people with decent living accommodation. He said social cohesion and integration will be encouraged by programs that uplift the districts through decent homes, adequate infrastructure, with overall cleanliness. Marlin further explained that the construction of two, three, and four bedroom homes already started with a target group being the young professionals. He said the profits that are made from the sale of those homes will go towards the re-financing the social homes and the expansion of the home program for senior citizens with an additional 24 homes which are constructed in the Belvedere area. Marlin said his government's intention is to offer homes to senior citizens for no more than $50.00 per month. Government is still working on finalizing the purchase of Emilio Wilson Estate.

Marlin said the community district report paints a stark picture of the ten districts. He said the residents of these districts complained about the running sewage and other water and its stench. The VROMI Minister said very soon this plague will be a thing of the past.

VROMI is also concentrating on constructing a waste treatment plant for Cole Bay and Cape Bay area. Garbage disposal has been a serious challenge to government for decades. Marlin said the dumping of waste in the middle of the Great Salt Pond created a man made mountain which stands at 24m high. He said his government is in the process of working out plans to offer a sustainable solution to waste management.

Marlin further explained that the intention of his government is to build links two and six while they intend to complete the ring road.

The second Minister that gave a presentation was Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. Duncan promised to submit a list with the actions his Ministry has undertaken and plans to undertake. Duncan said while there is a need for public safety and security there is a 'red line" running through the entire matter. With regards to safety and security, the Minister said the police needs to be upgraded while there is a great need for more infrastructures. Duncan said one of the things that the people need to know is that the current police headquarter is in need of urgent repairs. The justice minister said just recently they acquired a property in Sucker Garden and the intention is move some of the offices to the new building and they will construct a police training center and the same location. A gym, two shooting ranges, and classrooms would also be at that location. He said the community police have been installed.

Duncan said when they look at the youths and solving crime they also have to take into consideration article 30 of the country's constitution which clearly states that youth and adult prisoners cannot be together, however, there are no facilities in place to house young criminals. St. Maarten has to build and provide more space so that they can comply with the constitution of the country. Duncan said the prosecutor had to agree not to touch certain areas because of the problems that exist at the Pointe Blanche Prison.

The Justice Minister further stated that prisoners have a right to rehabilitation while the Justice Ministry also has to deal with problems of the youth (criminals) and he already has a comprehensive plan which he will soon deliver to Parliament and other stakeholders. He said if the Justice Ministry does not get the necessary tools and facilities then they will not be able to execute the new penal code which was recently approved by parliament.

Finance Minister Roland Tuitt in his presentation focused on tax compliance and the changes that have been made to the road tax (number plates). Tuitt said he is happy that after eight months of hard work the NA,DP, IND Government is able to present its governing program. Tuitt said since the change of constitutional status where country St. Maarten is operating in a dualistic manner each Minister within the Council of Ministers can take their own decisions. Tuitt said due to the economic and challenging times it is imperative that the government works with its people. He said it is only when government and its people are working towards a common goal progress will become a reality.

Tuitt said his Ministry is tasked with safeguarding the finances and well being of government. The Finance Minister said his government's intention is to improve the financial situation on St. Maarten. Therefore, they have been working with the tax authority to improve compliance. He said they are receiving some assistance from the Dutch Government while he is also focusing on cleaning up the tax registry by writing off old debts. Tuitt said while he is making several changes in order to benefit the government and tax payers, he is not able to do it if he does not have the right tools. That is why his Ministry is busy working on putting in place a proper ICT system which would connect all the various departments. The ICT installation is expected to be finalized by February 2013.

Minister of Education, Sports, and Youth Affairs Silveria Jacobs in her presentation said that her Ministry has placed focus on where the Education Ministry is going. The aim of the Ministry is to be efficient and effective in order to deliver a well rounded education to the youths of St. Maarten. Minister Jacobs said the objective of her Ministry is to set national standards, while building education and pride for the students on St. Maarten. The Education Minister said she is also focusing on improving the literacy level of English and Dutch in all schools on St. Maarten. As for culture, she said her aim is to promote culture continuously.

Minister of Health, Social Affairs, and Labour Cornelius de Weever dubbed his Ministry as the most hardworking Ministry. Minister De Weever said he has budget of 59 million guilders with 29 civil servants working in the Ministry. De Weever said in the year 2011 it was about laying the foundation while during the year 2012 they executed. He said his Ministry is critical to society therefore he took the responsibility to ensure sustainable growth, employment, social safety, and improved health status for the people of St. Maarten.
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunication Romeo Pantophlet told the gathering that his Ministry is the biggest and busiest in the Council of Ministers. Pantophlet said that government owned companies, such as the airport, harbor, and the disaster management plan falls under him including the small business association and EDC. Minister Pantophlet said that in the tourism industry they have been busy working on the St. Maarten Tourism Authority (STA). Minister Pantophlet said he started working with the Tourist Office to ensure that the island is properly marketed. The tourism Minister said he has been planning to embark on aggressive tourism marketing program where they will be focusing on the Latin American, Canadian, Scandinavian, and German markets. Pantophlet said that 60% of the tourists come from the United States and he is of the opinion that they have to have a backup plan. The Minister said he also concentrating on the South American market in order to have year round tourism on St. Maarten. The Minister said that the next FCCA conference will be held on St. Maarten and that would enable the island to market itself better while bringing in additional income. Another convention that will be held on St. Maarten is the COPA convention which they are currently working on. Minister Pantophlet said when it comes to diversification in the tourism industry they plan to focus on medical tourism, sports tourism, religious tourism, and the MICE tourism. He said the intention is to have a convention center built on the island where they can host more conventions. With this in mind the Minister said that St. Maarten would need additional facilities such as the drag strip and cricket stadium. The Minister assured that the two projects the (drag strip and cricket stadium) will be built. He said a decision will be taken by the Politicians on its location but he will not get into the discussion since he is a professional Minister.
The last speaker was Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who said that the governing program will be promoted widely through the social media in the form of a Facebook page, where the community of St. Maarten can keep up to date with both the launching and components of the program.

Wescot Williams said that in the Governing Program the Government of St. Maarten has prioritized areas impacting the lives of the citizens of modern day St. Maarten and has directed its focus toward the enhancement of the quality of life of the people. This focus of the Governing Program is on EDUCATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT AND HOUSING, HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL WELFARE, ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT, and SAFETY AND SECURITY.

The three hour program ended with a get together at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort.

Click here to view more photos of the NA/DP/IND3 Governing Program Launch.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever and the social dialogue group known as the Tripartite that includes representatives from Government, Unions, and Business, have reached consensus that the minimum wage should be applicable from the age of 18 as of January 1st, 2014.

These discussions took place during the annual indexation of the minimum wage round-table talks.

The current minimum wage is applicable for person's 21-years and older. In the position paper prepared by the Labour Department on the minimum wages, it was proposed to amend the national ordinance on minimum wages to reflect the present policy insights, which would include lowering the age from 21 to 18. Coincidentally, during the discussions in the Tripartite Committee the UFA tabled a similar proposal which was unanimously endorsed.

The Minister of Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever is very pleased that under the status of country Sint Maarten, the nation will be moving forward in improving the well-being of minimum wage earners in collaboration with other stakeholders.

The underlying motivation for lowering the age bracket is when a person reaches the age of 18, they are considered independent and ready to enter the workforce.

By allowing young people between the age of 18 and 21-years of age to earn the minimum wage, this will have a positive spin off on the economy as it will allow this group of consumers with a minimum income to buy products and services.

The Labour Department will now initiate the process to amend the present legislation and will also draft a modern wage policy, with the input of the Tripartite group.

The current minimum wage legislation dates back to the time of the former Netherlands Antilles.

Public to be updated on the various segments of the program.

The soon to be launched NA/DP/I-3 Governing Program will have a social media component in the form of a Facebook page, where the community can keep up to date with both the launching as well as the different components comprising the program.

In the Governing Program the Government of St. Maarten has prioritized areas impacting the lives of the citizens of modern day St. Maarten and has directed its focus toward the enhancement of the quality of life of the people. This focus of the Governing Program is on EDUCATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT AND HOUSING, HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL WELFARE, ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT, and SAFETY AND SECURITY.

The Governing Program will be officially launched on Wednesday, the 16th of January at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel during which every Minister will give an outline concerning the projects of their respective Ministry. On a regular basis updates on the projects of the various Ministries will be posted on the GP Facebook Page. The web link for the page is http://www.facebook.com/TheGoverningProgram20122014OfCountryStMaarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports (Ministry ECYS) says that it is with great concern that we have taken note of an article that appeared in the Daily Herald of January 16, 2013 under the heading; "USC officials worried government not recognizing teaching degrees".

Statements in this article attributed to USC Academic Dean Dr. Clayton DrePaul regarding the fact 15 to 20 teachers' jobs may be in jeopardy because USC's accreditation issue are erroneous and misleading.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs wishes to assure school boards, teachers, parents/guardians and students that no teachers are in jeopardy of losing their job. It is rather unfortunate that after what can be termed as a fruitful meeting with USC officials, the misinformation of the public took place in this manner.

The Ministry through the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI) has organized Foundation Based Education Certification training programs for uncertified teachers. As such all uncertified teachers have been given ample opportunity to become compliant with the existing Foundation Based Education (FBE) laws (article 3).

Since 10-10-10, the Division of Exams has assumed the responsibility for the evaluation of degrees on St. Maarten. Two persons within the Division have been trained and certified by NUFFIC to evaluate degrees and credentials. The NUFFIC are the experts in the Netherlands in the area of credential evaluations. The NUFFIC is not an accreditation agency as is being suggested in the article.

The FBE ordinance mandates that all teaching degrees obtained outside of the former Netherlands Antilles must be evaluated. Since 2011, the Division of Exams has evaluated only four USC degrees. These degrees were not recognized due to the fact that USC only finalized its accreditation in May 2012.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs is responsible for ensuring a high quality of education on St. Maarten. As such checks and balances have to be put in place to safeguard our educational system against persons with bogus degrees and/or degrees obtained from so-called degree mills.

The Government of St. Maarten subsidizes the Teachers Education Program at the University of St. Maarten and has placed as a prerequisite, the NVAO (The Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders) accreditation, as such regional and international educational institutions will be held to similar standards.

N.V. G.E.B.E. regrets to inform the general public that the Electricity supply to

SUCKERGARDEN ROAD

(Suckergarden Drive, Cob Cactus, Christmas Cactus, Doodle Cactus and surrounding area .)

Will be interrupted on Thursday January 17, 2013 from 9:00am until 11:00am.

This outage will allow us to carry out necessary maintenance to our Distribution system.

N.V. G.E.B.E apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

N.V. G.E.B.E. regrets to inform the general public that the Electricity supply to

HULDA RICHARDSON ROAD

(Pinel Key Drive, Eluthra Drive, Defiance road up to Inagua Island Drive, and surrounding area.)

Will be interrupted on Thursday January 17, 2013 from 11:00am until 2:00pm.

This outage will allow us to carry out necessary maintenance to our Distribution system.

N.V. G.E.B.E apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

ST. MAARTEN:--- With a recently completed $3 million refurbishment and enhancement, the all-inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino and Casino Royale will be hosting the 25th Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic and 25th Italian CHIN Winter Picnic showcasing the international atmosphere of the property.

Join the fun at the 25th Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic taking place January 10, 2013 to January 24, 2013 and the 25th Italian CHIN Winter Picnic running from January 31st, 2013 to February 21st, 2013. With a completed $3 million refurbishment and enhancement, the 4-star all inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is THE place to party in 2013!

Participants can enjoy performances including an array of local and international stars directly from Portugal, Canada and Italy featuring Paolo Mengoli, Fernando Pereira, Steve Vieira, Nancy Costa and Toy presented by CHIN Radio. Guests will also be provided with a commemorative 25th CHIN Winter Picnic gift package.

Weekly activities taking place during the Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic include:

  • Card game tournament in the Royal Pavilion Room complete with dancing and prizes awarded to the winners – January 15th and January 22nd.
  • An authentic Portuguese dinner prepared by Chef Manuel de Paulos with live music and entertainment – January 16th and January 23rd.
  • Nightly Performances each night exclusively for CHIN winter Picnic guests.

Additionally, exclusive activities during Italian CHIN Winter Picnic include:

  • Spaghettata- a huge favorite with CHIN listeners. CHIN offers an exclusive weekly Italian luncheon for all registered CHIN Winter Picnic guests.
  • Dancing under the stars: Nightly dancing to Italian music provided by local and international artists each night.
  • Weekly Tombola/Scopa tournaments.
  • Gala Dinner/Dance: Exclusive event offered weekly for registered CHIN Winter Picnic guests featuring fine Italian cuisine plus a live show and dancing.
  • CHIN Personalities: Each week a different CHIN personality will be your host and master of ceremonies for all CHIN events.
  • Guest star direct from Italy: Main attraction performs each night exclusively for CHIN Winter Picnic guests on a select week.

Tickets are $320.00 USD and do not include taxes. Price is subject to change without notice. For a complete itinerary of activities, please visit http://www.chinradio.com/

tzuchidonatestoaceschool15012013All Children's Education Foundation (ACE) elementary school recently received a generous donation from Tzu Chi Foundation thanks to a combined fundraising effort from Tzu Chi and several community groups.

Together the groups held a fundraising food sale on 'International Meatless Day' late last year and raised US $8,687.25 for the school. The donation, presented in two parts the last part made last week, will be used to help keep the doors of the elementary school open to continue to educate its children.

The fundraiser was coordinated by the Tzu Chi Foundation in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization; Filipino Community Foundation; Chinese Community Foundation; Haitian Community, Pathways to Health and Happiness Foundation and ACE.

The ACE School had requested Tzu Chi's assistance to help the institution raise funds to help settle a huge backlog in rent for its current location due largely in part to consistent unpaid school fees. This, coupled with other issues, put the institution in dire financial straits and at risk of having to relocate if some of the backlog was not settled soon.

Tzu Chi immediately decided to help to ensure that the school and the education of its pupils were not jeopardized. The Foundation met with its volunteers and it was decided that a fundraiser would be held.

"In our discussions it was clear early on that it would take a collective cooperation of goodwill on short notice," Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung said. "And with these difficult economic times, our strength would be our teamwork."

Representatives of the various community groups were happy to be part of the fundraiser, which was held on International Meatless Day to help spread awareness about healthy eating.

During the event Sabine Flanders shared information on healthy foods and how they can be prepared to patrons. Tzu Chi volunteer Frances Rovelet kept the younger patrons busy with games and raffles, while other volunteers assisted in other areas.

"Our community's greatest strength has always been its ethnic diversity. We are grateful for our united actions," said Cheung. "The event succeeded in helping the students and keeping the school open for the time being. All children deserve the right to an education. May all those that help be blessed."

Tzu Chi thanked all those who helped make the event a success including the Helping Hands Foundation, which donated tables; the business community, which donated items for raffles such as jewelry, perfumes, audio equipment, embroidered tablecloths, free haircuts and a camera; the Indian Community for providing food and entertainment; the Chinese and Filipino communities for the desserts and the local St. Maarten community for preparing Caribbean food.

"Every grain of rice, and every vegetable leaf, come by difficulty and hard work, eat gently, and taste mindfully, and be grateful to the blessings of all beings" ~ Tzu Chi Prayer.

PHILIPSBURG:--- For those interested in knowing about the country's lottery policy, you can find it on the government website.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Policies" and then select "Lottery License Policy" for download.

The policy establishes the conditions under which lottery licenses are issued.

The policy applies to all new applications for a business and operational licenses whose purpose is for conducting a lottery.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications are exploring economic alternatives that will create additional jobs and government revenue. The Ministry is therefore revising several of its moratoriums towards that goal.

pointblachepprison31012011Pointe Blanche:--- The Inspector of Health visited the house of detention in Pointe Blanche on Tuesday where they conducted a control. According to well placed sources, the Inspectorate of Health wanted to close the kitchen at the institution because of its deplorable condition, but hesitated to do so to save country St. Maarten further embarrassment. SMN News has been reliably informed that the Inspectorate of Health is expected to send their report to the director of the facility Edward Rohan as early as Wednesday. The source said inside the kitchen the sinks were in terrible condition which poses severe health risks, the oil pits need to be repaired because there is leakage, and paint is coming off the roof of the institution. "There is water everywhere running on the floor while there are loose tiles that have to be fixed." The inspectorate saw the same problems a year ago and made recommendations but now the Minister of Justice will be given a specific time frame in which he must have the repairs conducted. SMN News tried to contact the Director on several occasions but he could not be reached by telephone.

Sources within the institution said that renovations have to take place inside the entire house of detention but the renovations which were supposed to start three years ago had to be placed on hold because the Minister of Justice refused to send prisoners home to create space for the renovations. "The prison is in a deplorable condition and this is one of the reasons the Prison Inmate Association has been kicking up a storm. The prisoners went as far as striking and have refused to cook for the inmates. But instead of addressing the health hazard at the institution, the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan sought alternative solutions by hiring some workers to work inside the kitchen and prepare the meals for the inmates."

The Pointe Blanche House of Detention is 25 years old and renovations need to take place early. Another problem that is facing the institution is that it is overcrowded. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan tried to create space by having as much as 150 prisoners at the Simpson Bay Immigration Outpost while part of the Police Holding Cells was turned into a prison. The source said even though the Minister created space at the two other locations for prisoners there is still not enough room for those that are held at the Pointe Blanche Prison to be moved so that renovations can start.

Currently the Minister of Justice is in discussion with Sameer Andrwos to utilize the BOX in Cay Hill for another prison and other justice institutions but to date the agreements with Andrwos have not been finalized. Political pundits have said on numerous occasions that they are watching closely to see how the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and IND Government will deal with the Justice Minister and his BOX project because they criticized the idea when they were in opposition and heard the Justice Minister was in talks with Andrwos for the BOX. Another project the Minister of Justice is working is the Justice Park which is expected to cost one hundred million guilders.

Efforts made to reach the Inspectorate of Health Dr. Earl Best on Tuesday evening proved futile as Dr. Best could not be reached by phone for a comment.

It should be noted that two researchers are expected to visit St. Maarten at the end of the week to conduct inspections at the prison. The two persons that are expected on the island are Vegter and Pesselse. According to well placed sources, the Governor of St. Maarten hired the services of the two researchers to conduct research at the Pointe Blanche Prison. Governor Holiday could not be reached for a comment on this matter.

The European Committee for Prevention and Torture (CPT) compiles annual reports on prisons and other detention facilities. Last year, St. Maarten obtained a very bad report which was handed to the Governor of St. Maarten. One of the greatest fears is that the CPT committee could place St. Maarten as a country that violates human rights and prisoners especially since their prisons are not up to date, then the country will be considered as inhumane and degrading to prisoners. Being on such a list will have dire consequences to the country which thrives on tourism.

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said he was made aware of the inspection and the conclusions the Health Inspectorate came to. However, the Minister said he does not have any monies to build a new kitchen for the Pointe Blanche Prison right now. When asked what would he do if he is given a specific time frame in which he must upgrade and renovate the kitchen at the prison, the Minister said he will do his best to comply with the conditions that are set by the Inspectorate of Health. "Reality is I don't have any monies for the renovation." It should also be noted that monies were allocated in the budgets for these projects since 2010 and it is not clear what the Prison management under the helm of Rudsel Ricardo did with these monies that were allocated for prison renovations which was in his year plan. SMN News understands that these institutions are supposed to provide quarterly reports to the Minister of Justice on how they used the monies that were allocated to them and other missions they have undertaken. Another big question is why the Minister of Justice is not using the monies that are in the Crime Fund to deal with urgent matters within the justice Ministry.

Minister Duncan further explained that he has a plan on the Justice Park which would include a kitchen but he is still working on the project which has to be presented to Parliament for approval. When asked by SMN News why he is not in favor of early release of the less dangerous suspects, Minister Duncan said he has a committee that advises him on these matters and when this particular discussion came up he got a negative advice. SMN News asked the Minister of Justice who are the members of this advisory committee which he established to advise him on issues such as these, Minister Duncan said he will not reveal the names of the committee members because he has to protect their well being and safety. However, the Minister did confirm that two persons are expected on St. Maarten at the end of the week to evaluate the prison.

celshot15012013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU) and Vice President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) Claire Elshot made a strong call to all pensioners who believe that they are being short-changed to contact the Unions or APS to rectify their status so that they can obtain all that is due to them. Elshot made the statements on Tuesday at WICLU's weekly press conference.

Elshot said that pensioners confirmed to the unions that they received the 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). The unionist further explained that persons receiving old age pension also received an increase but there needs to be more clarity on this issue. She said SZV would be applying a different calculation depending on the amount of years the person contributed to the pension fund. Elshot said there are persons who will see an increase but not the full amount that was announced. The WITU President said she is of the opinion that SZV should come out and give their clients a thorough explanation as to how they will calculate and apply the increase for pensioners. Pensioners who were receiving full pension prior to the increase (NAF 800 and over) will now get Naf. 1000.00 or 990 guilders because for some reason Naf. 10 is withheld.

Elshot has called on her members and persons who recently went on pension (5 years or less) to pay keen attention to the information she is providing. She said the allowances by means of pension or onderstand have been on the books so that persons who worked for 30 years or more will not go home empty handed. This fund she said was made available especially for those persons who were not registered in the former APNA. Elshot said that besides the SZV and APS pension there are persons who would get the allowances which would help to make up the full amount that is due to them. The allowances she said is 75% of what the person/ workers would have gotten if they were inscribed at APNA (pension fund) for the full amount of years. Civil servants will get 75% while other workers such as laborers would receive 50% of what they were supposed to have gotten from the pension fund.

Elshot said the lack of information from St. Maarten, awareness, and proper inscription was extremely faulty. The WITU president said this has been a problem for years now and because of that several workers who gave years of service lost their benefits. Elshot said a particular senior civil servant working for personnel affairs did not do their jobs properly and in an effort to cover up their incompetence they tried to get some workers whose paper work were not done or completed by the department to sign waivers on their rights. Elshot personally intervened in one case some years ago and regulated the issue for someone who had all their proof to show the amount of years that they worked. Elshot said when the corrections were made the bill for the years prior to the pension fund becoming mandatory was sent to the Government of St. Maarten. Negligence in government cost them already and it will continue to cost them if their workers do not do what is right for workers. "I went to Curacao myself and when I produced the person's file APNA representatives corrected the matter immediately because they saw the injustice that was being done to the worker who gave more than 30 years of service. I can remember the WITU and WICSU wanted to take a class suit against the Government of St. Maarten but former commissioner of personnel affairs Roy Marlin dealt with the matter and signed an agreement with APNA. This agreement was signed after the pension fund became compulsory on St. Maarten." Elshot said the pension fund became mandatory on January 1st, 1998. Elshot said persons who were working prior to 1998 and were not registered in the pension was given an opportunity to buy back their years. However, this affected several persons because the cost of buying back was too costly. She said during the period the pension fund became mandatory they agreed that two thirds of the buying back would have to be paid by the worker while the employer had to pay one third, this arrangement was to encourage the workers to buy back their years so that they could benefit from all the years of service they have given. Elshot further explained that even though these measures were put in place there were people who simply could not afford to buy back their years of service therefore they had to turn to the allowances. Elshot said that it was never intended for workers to be penalized because they refused or could not buy back their years of service. There are instances where the workers were not notified, they were not given information and there other instances that people found out about the buy-back option too late. "I want to make clear that there are laws on the books to protect the workers, however, these persons will receive much lower than if they had bought back their years into the pension fund." Workers who bought back their years will get 70% of their last salary but those persons need to have at least 35 years of service to benefit fully from the pension fund. Elshot made clear that the union will not subscribe to any sort of injustice to workers, she said one person who gave 40 years and two months of service to St. Maarten request for pension was denied.

The WITU leader appealed to pensioners who believe that they are being shortchanged to contact the union or APS so that they can regulate their paperwork in order to receive what is due to them." Elshot said just recently she got a case where someone's request was turned down and that should not have happened. She said the WITU is busy investigating to see the basis on which the person was denied pension.


tthompsonwithdishliquid15012013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions Theophilus Thompson is calling on government to conduct the necessary supermarket inspections. Thompson showed members of the media on Tuesday at WICLU's weekly press briefing two bottles of dish liquid. The price on the bottles showed that the smaller bottle is more expensive than the larger bottle.

Thompson said the union has been trying to apply the ILO agreement where they agreed to fight against poverty. He said it has been weeks now they have been raising several issues but this week he wants to show media workers and consumers that while it is government's obligation based on treaties and conventions to reduce the level of poverty, cost of living on St. Maarten has become unsupportable since cost of living has outgrown income by a wide margin. Thompson said that they indicated to government that there should be an increase in minimum wage but that should be done in consultation with the businesses and consumers (workers organization).

The two bottles of dish liquid which is a necessity were made by the same manufacturer. However, the smaller bottle costs Naf. 3.96 (10 fluid ounces) while the larger bottle costs Naf. 3.60 (14 fluid ounces). Thompson said he is speaking as a consumer because has compared the quantity against the back drop of the pricing. He said consumers are now asking themselves why they have to pay more for less while their income remains the same. Thompson said the experts may have lots of arguments regarding the content of the products or the composition of the products but according to him the consumers do not understand that type of rational. "Right now the spending power of the consumers is decreasing by either remaining stagnant or by having an increase in the minimum wage without proper consultation being conducted with stakeholders. The last time the minimum wage increased was in 2006. When this was done all parties were involved and the businesses on the island also made certain commitments in order to stabilize the spending power of the consumer. Thompson said in any free market society when wages are increased and controls are not being done the prices of commodities would skyrocket.

The unionist said they are concerned about the way government intends to increase the minimum wage without proper consultation with the stakeholders. Thompson further stressed that they cannot continue to allow poverty to evolve and there is no remedy for the growing problem.


Employment Agencies Contribute to Poverty.

Thompson said he is also of the opinion that the various Employment Agencies on the island contribute to poverty on St. Maarten. Hiring workers through employment agencies is creating more poverty within the community. Thompson said these agencies do not hire workers for a full work week and they are not being paid the right salaries, this makes workers and families more vulnerable. Thompson said based on the ILO, they are attacking all areas that have been strengthening poverty and the employment agencies operating on St. Maarten are a major contributing factor to the poverty level. The WICLU President said he is yet to fully understand how the government of St. Maarten allows these employment agencies to practice on the island.

Thompson said just recently an employee from a supermarket contacted him for advice, the worker he said has been working for four years at the same supermarket and he was shifted from one employment agency to another. Because of this, the worker told him he is not able to obtain a loan or anything because he does not have stable job. "Here it is you have someone working for four years at the same place and he cannot move forward with his life."

theyliger04032012I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the people of our country, the Supervisory Board of the Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company Supervisory and Holding Boards, as well as the Management under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Regina Labega for the successful conclusion of a over US$130 million bond for the gateway into the country.

I can recall during the process to appoint Ms. Labega to the CEO position of our airport, in one of the advices it was stated that Ms. Labega was weak in the financial area, but her negotiation skills in getting a lower interests bond for this company demonstrates that she has what it takes to run this company.

This is a significant development once again for our country, and I am proud to have been part of the process under the United People's (UP) led Government.

Investors have so much confidence in our country and in particular the airport, that the bonds were over-subscribed almost immediately.

Employees of the Princess Juliana International Airport are also to be congratulated along with all others who render services to our visitors, such as Immigration officers, Customs and Police. Everybody has a role to play, and they do that to the best of their ability on a daily basis. The vendors must also be commended for their contribution as well.

The board of the airport played a very important role by carrying out the necessary due diligence.

The loan will mean that the investments that are necessary to keep our country at the forefront will be made, but at the same time, maintaining the highest safety and professional service standards at our gateway to the country will continue as well.

Another significant development was when Moody's Investors Rating Agency classified the airport as Baa2. It was also the UP led Government that initiated the Moody's rating for the country.

Congratulations to all the aforementioned, and keep up the great work that you are doing for the country and our visitors.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United People's (UP) Party

secretarygeneralsreceivegoverningprogram15012013GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Secretaries-General of the various Ministries and of the Council of Ministers was presented with their copy of the Governing Program on Tuesday.

The official launch of the Governing Program will take place tomorrow, Wednesday January 16 at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel in the presence of approximately 100 invited stakeholders from the community.

The program will be used as guideline in the advisory role to the Council and their relevant Minister by the Secretary Generals.

tzuchisharesgoodwillwithinmates14012013Pointe Blanche:--- The Tzu Chi Foundation continued its annual tradition of kindness and goodwill by giving New Year's gifts and sharing joy to 185 inmates from the Pointe Blanche Prison and the Simpson Bay detention facility.

The 85 guards at both facilities were also given gifts.

The Foundation, a Buddhist compassion relief organization, donated the gift bags containing essential items that prisoners can use such as a Jingsi book, toothbrush, soap, juice, water, biscuit and a pair of slippers. The combined total value of the items is US $2,668.41.

The Buddhist compassion relief organization is built on the principle of sharing joy, love and kindness to others, hence its annual effort to put smiles on the faces of others each year.

In addition to delivering the New Year's gifts, the foundation's ten volunteers, who went on the visit, also held a programme for the inmates. Upon arrival at both facilities, the volunteers sang, introduced themselves and with the help of two special volunteers from Canada (the sister and brother-in-law of Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung: Wanda and Hai), held stretching, exercise and Kung fu sessions with the inmates.

They also did a sign language session and engaged the inmates in a quiz session in which prisoners who had the correct answers won prizes. Inmates were shown a video from Tzu Chi founder Master Cheng Yen, which explained the principles of the Tzu Chi movement as well as focused on issues such as personality development, prayer and other subjects.

Among the messages left with the inmates were the importance of love, care, forgiveness, taking care of oneself and sharing of one's wisdom with others as is taught by Master Cheng Yen. "The moment we rest, our eyes close and our minds start dreaming. We have many problems today because people think more than giving action. In Tzu Chi we learn to take action, Master Chen Yen teaches us to just do it," inmates were told during the visit.

In an effort to teach youngsters the principles of goodwill from young, the Foundation enlisted the assistance of youngsters, ages two to five, from All Children's Education Foundation (ACE) to help pack the gift bags. The young children were excited to help pack the gift bags, while learning the positive principles.

The Foundation thanked Unit Head of the Corrections Penitentiary Institutions Ruthmila Gumbs-Milton and all others from the institutions for accommodating the volunteers each year. They also expressed thanks to the inmates from being open and accommodating during the visit and for participating in the fun activities.

pjiaewebsite14012013Simpson Bay:--- Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten is about to unveil a comprehensive rebranding as one of the major aviation facilities in the Caribbean and, as part of the rebranding process, a new airport website has been created.

The new website architecture was guided by the same principals of the airport itself and, along with the rebranding project, was executed by Tambourine, a global destination and hospitality branding and marketing firm.

"The idea was to create a clean simple and frictionless user experience," said Rafael Cardozo, president of Tambourine.

The website focuses on delivering vital up-to-the-minute arrival and departure information with a real-time data feed.

The site has been designed to serve passengers and guests both arriving and departing St. Maarten as well as those in the planning stage of their trip to the destination. The website communicates all of the facilities and core services and also features the vast array of retail food and shopping outlets.

The new website fully integrates social media with the airport's Facebook page and Twitter feeds that are featured in the "On the Radar" section of the home page.

The website's "Spectacular Landing" section highlights user generated YouTube videos of the airport's world famous beachside landings.

A soft launch of the site took place during the airport Capital Improvement Project's signing ceremony on January10, 2013 and the final launch will take place at the official rebranding event in February.

The new brand launch is scheduled for February 2013 and the new site will be live at the URL www.SXMAirport.com.

"We are proud to have brought together the best practices of the leading airport websites worldwide and to have executed a timeless user friendly experience for Princess Juliana International Airport," said Cardozo.

For more information, please contact Suzy Kartokromo, Senior Business Development Officer – Marketing & Communications, PJIAE, at P.O. Box 2027, St. Maarten; telephone 1-721-546-7544; e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

pssstampplanelandingatpjiae14012013Philipsburg:--- Postal Services St. Maarten NV is busy producing and will be introducing a number of scenic stamps of the island this year, and with the scenic theme will be in Dutch to cater to the huge dutch stamp collector market. Due to delay in production, both the 2012 and 2013 scenic sets will be featured and offered in 2013. The scenic set of stamps for the two years combined will feature eight (8) different scenes of the island. Snapshots were taken from different locations on the island and artist impressios made. As with the hero stamps edition, PSS is hoping with these stamps to further promote and share the beauty of our island to all corners of the world and get both young and old interested in stamp collection. The scenic stamps are in production and will be available within short at our post office to compliment the existing series of stamps.

PSS would like to remind the general public of the themes for the year 2013, which will feature: Churches, Birds, Heroes, SXM Scenes, Butterflies, Boy Scouts, 200th Anniversary of the Dutch Kingdom, Classic Boats, Light houses, Chess and Classic Paintings.

PSS is urging all stamp collectors, local and abroad, children and adults to come by and view what all stamps PSS has available for purchase and be the first to purchase and collect these one of a kind of stamps.

Mr. Richardson and the postal service family (PSS) looks forward to the feedback and comments from the public, and remains open to possible new themes and designs to further to promote what our beautiful island has to offer. Stamps are true ambassadors to a country, and through creativeness PSS hopes to keep its stamps around for a very long time.

For more information please contact your local post office at Tel. 542-2289 or 545 3782 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PSS Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will be meeting for the first time in the New Year on January 15 with representatives from the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC).

The Central Committee session is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 4:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is a presentation by USC, Trinidad. USC is a private, co-educational institution with a diverse student body.

It is operated by the Caribbean Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and is housed on three hundred and eighty-four acres of land.

Graduates of the university serve the church and society, not only in the Caribbean, but also in many parts of the world. The University's name is honoured as many of its graduates have earned advanced degrees in internationally recognized and renowned institutions.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes started a road safety awareness operation especially around schools. The operation which began on January 7th will end on February 18th, 2013. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that the Commandant of the Gendarmerie of Guadeloupe instigated the operation due to the amount of young people that have lost their lives while there are a number of people who are permanently injured because they did not practice the use of road safety equipments properly. The controllers will place special focus on the use of seat belts, helmets, and the use of car seats for minors.

The operation will be structured in two phases, one being prevention and awareness which will last until January 18th, 2013. The second part of the operation will then become repression which will commence on January 21st.

In the year 2012, the Gendarmes reported that among the five people that lost their lives on the road on the French side of the island, three of them were drivers of two wheel vehicles (motorbikes). Based on statistics from 2010 to 2012, eleven drivers and passengers of two wheel vehicles have lost their lives on public roads, while 52 people using the same type of transportation were injured some of whom have suffered lifelong injuries. Due to the high figures it became clear to the Gendarmerie that they needed to place focus on the importance of road safety equipments, focus will be placed especially on motorcycle users. The current action also aims to provide parents with important knowledge on how to seat their children at the back of a motorcycle.

cupecoymurdersuspects12112012Philipsburg:--- On January 22nd, 2013 the three suspects in the so called Cupecoy case concerning the violent deaths of Michael and Thelma King will have to appear in court for a so called procedural court session. The case itself will not be dealt with during this session.

During the hearing both defense and prosecutor will be allowed to ask the judge for additional investigations on their behalf.

The prosecutor's office has asked for psychiatric and psychological reports on each suspect but these will not be completed on January 22nd.

Most likely the case will be postponed until March or later, depending on how many requests for additional investigation will be granted. The judge will decide on that.

On Thursday, January 17th at 11 AM, the first suspect in the case, M.J, will have to appear in court for the first time. There the case will be postponed until January 22nd 2013 when the above mentioned procedural court session will be held.

Press Release from Public Prosecutor's Office

peterdewitte14012013Philipsburg:--- The Korps Politie St. Maarten (KPSM) has reasons to be proud of their overall performance for the year 2012 despite the challenges they faced. Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte told SMN News in an exclusive interview on Monday that the police have seen a 25% decrease in capital offenses such as murders. De Witte said 2012 was indeed a very busy year for the police while it sucked their manpower and other resources. During 2012 KPSM also implemented the Community Policing which the top cop believes helped in deterring crimes in several communities.

KPSM solved five of the ten murders committed in 2010, thirteen of the eighteen murders committed in 2011 and 12 of the fourteen murders that were committed in 2012. In addition there was a significant decrease from 2010 in other crimes such as burglaries, robberies, car thefts, and mistreatment. De Witte told SMN News that KPSM has 41 detectives working in the Detective Department and there are times when they have to seek outside help. De Witte further explained that even though KPSM needs more manpower and officers with experience and knowledge he still managed to give five of his detectives to the Landsrecherche which he considers a great loss for KPSM. When asked why give he gave away his best investigators to another institution, De Witte said that institution is very important for any country in the Kingdom. "In a constitutional state we cannot do without an institution that guards the integrity of civil servants."

One of the murder cases that the police solved by themselves and are very proud of their performance is the Cupecoy murders (Micheal and Thelma King). De Witte said had the police not solved that case it would have been to the detriment to St. Maarten's tourism economy. The police managed to capture the three persons involved in the gruesome murder of the American citizens, all of whom have confessed their involvement to police. However, that case still has to go before the courts.

The top cop who began leading KPSM since June 2010 said he is still optimistic with the ongoing murder investigations because the detectives working on the cases are extremely dedicated and serious in bringing those responsible for the heinous murders to justice.

Preliminary figures show that in 2010 there were 253 cases of car thefts registered, 215 in the year 2011, and 183 in 2012.

As for violence with a weapon and threatening 82 cases were registered in 2010, 71 in 2011, and 58 in 2012. A striking decrease in the year 2012 was in burglaries. In the year 2010 there were 667 cases of burglaries registered, 519 in 2011, and 363 in 2012.

De Witte said there are several reasons for the decrease but the main reason for it is because the police arrested several persons who were involved in these crimes.

De Witte explained that while there were major decreases in certain areas of crime there has been an increase in other areas of crime. He said threatening a person or persons increased. In 2010 the police dealt with 124 cases of threatening, 187 in 2011, and 219 in 2012. There is also an increase in physical abuse since 2010 to 2012. In 2010, the police dealt with 171 cases involving physical abuse, 148 in 2011, and 210 in 2012.

A significant blow in the year 2012 for KPSM is the increase in sexual offenses some of which involved children. These offenses police have to deal with them delicately because many of them occurred in the family homes while some of the victims are children. KPSM sought outside help to investigate these cases because St. Maarten lacked persons that are specialized in investigating such cases. In 2010, KPSM investigated eight cases of sexual abuse, eight in 2011 while they investigated 13 sexual abuse cases in 2012. Some of these cases De Witte said were solved because the culprits were known to the victims.

De Witte said the police started its operations in 2010 (10/10/10) below zero, there was no manpower, no institutions locally yet the men in blue worked with dedication to solve some of the most gruesome cases that occurred on St. Maarten while he is sitting in the main seat. He said in several cases the police sought help from external institutions and their judicial partners. Help was provided by the RST, Marechaussee, Aruba, and Curacao Police Force to solve some cases such as the Vesuvius Investigation.

While the investigations in capital offenses used up the police manpower some cases were neglected, De Witte explained that the "Burglary Team" that was installed in 2011 managed to capture a suspect that committed 15 burglaries in the St. Peters area. "Because of this team the police managed to solve a lot more of house burglaries because they managed to arrest more suspects that were committing these crimes. Several of the culprits were convicted while some of the suspects were deported from St. Maarten." De Witte said KPSM has placed lots of focus on educating its officers so that they can perform optimally.

Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte explained that one of the murder investigations in 2010 led the police to a group that was actively involved in car thefts and burglaries. This group was brought to justice and they are now behind bars. De Witte said the Vesuvius Investigation delayed the investigating of several other cases such as burglaries and robberies but that changed in 2012 when the suspect that was terrorizing residents of St. Peters was captured.

Reacting to the statements made by Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos in his 2011 annual report, De Witte said his management team did not see the report that was put together by Mos and sent to the Minister of Justice, Attorney General, and the media but when he learnt of it he immediately took action by discussing the matter with Mos. He said the island's Chief Prosecutor has agreed to ensure that the Police (KPSM) sees these reports and also given an opportunity to submit their reactions prior to it being finalized and dispatched. "As a partner we need to see these reports just the same way we work on our year plan together. We are supposed to be a team. I spoke to Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos and he agreed to do things differently in the future." When asked if there is any agreement in writing with Mos, De Witte said he did does not think there is need for a written agreement because he trusts the Chief Prosecutor.

Election Fraud Investigated but now Stalled.

While the top cop admitted that he gave away five of his best detectives to the Landsrecherche in order to guard the integrity of Civil Servants, this department is yet to continue the investigation of the Election Fraud that KPSM started and handed over to them. When asked how satisfied he is with the status of that case, De Witte said he is not satisfied with how this case has been handled. However, he made clear that it is the Prosecutor's Office that has to decide on which cases they will prosecute. "That case is no longer on my desk, we at KPSM did what we had to do and now it's the Prosecutor's Office that has to set its priorities. My hope is one day this case will be further investigated and prosecution will take place. For me the most important thing is that this case be investigated." When SMN News asked De Witte if he felt that there is political influence regarding the Election Fraud case, De Witte said when KPSM investigated the case there was no political influence from any side and he does not think anyone influenced the investigation, however, he still does not know what caused the delay.

As for the BAVPOLERS, De Witte said that he already delivered an advice to the Minister of Justice to ensure that the BAVPOLERS working with the police gets further training. He said he asked that these officers who got only four months training be given one year training locally before they are evaluated. Police Officers within the Kingdom have to attend the police school 18 months before they can join the police academy to further their education for another 18 months before they become fully fledged police officers. De Witte said he is happy with the BAVPOLERS that are working with the Police and they will follow the BPO training on St. Maarten.


RST verses the KPSM.

Currently there are political discussions taking place about the functioning of the RST. So far the budget for the RST has not yet been approved by the various countries. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and De Witte are expected to travel sometime this week where the discussion on the RST will continue. When SMN News asked De Witte for his opinion about the RST who works as a separate entity from the police, De Witte said he is in favor with the current discussion. He said the RST and the Police work closely together and they do cooperate but he believes that there is one police force in every country and one police chief. However, De Witte was reserved on what it's costing the Kingdom partners to maintain the RST in a separate entity. De Witte said that he is glad that the political discussion is now taking place and he will wait on the outcome of these discussions.
De Witte concluded the interview by saying that when he looked back at what St. Maarten had in 2010 to what they have now and how much cases they managed to solve he is extremely happy with the performance of the police. "Yes we do have quite a lot more to do to develop the Police Department in the next two or three years. In 2010 when the Netherlands Antilles dismantled Curacao kept everything and St. Maarten had to start from scratch. I demanded a lot from my officers even though they did not have the tools to do their job, but these officers worked with their heart and soul for the safety of St. Maarten."

De Witte also commented on how much St. Maarten suffered when Curacao decided to cut St. Maarten out from the BMS system. De Witte said the police are severely affected but the decision was political. He stated that he is quite disappointed with the outcome because cutting out St. Maarten has not helped the island because they have no access to their internal figures.

macroeconomicanalysisandmodelingconferenceday313012013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- At the mini conference that the Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT) is having, the first annual Mini Caribbean Macro Economic Model Conference, external and internal stakeholders were given a presentation about the SMAART model and its constituent parts.

The SMAART model is a macroeconomic, excel based data-analysis tool that presents a comprehensive view of the St. Maarten economy, with the main tasks of analyzing, monitoring, and forecasting, including impact analysis.

The model is dependent on historical data and input from the internal and external stakeholders.

On the 3rd day of the conference, Lucy Richardson, Head of Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT), welcomed the attendees gathered at Divi Little Bay Hotel, numbering about 40 persons, and provided an introduction and historical account of how the current economic model came to being, which had to be built from the ground up and personalized to the St. Maarten situation.

The aim as well is to fine-tune the Smaart model over time with better and more accurate data from the internal and external stakeholders. When this happens, we can predict with more certainty, Richardson said.

Present at the mini conference were members of the Ministries of Finance, Public Health, Social Development and Labor, the Departments of Statistics, Tourism, Receivers, along with external stakeholders and representatives of the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten, St. Maarten Harbor Group of Companies, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, Chamber of Commerce & Industry, among others.

According to Richardson, it is the intention to train qualified personnel from other departments within Government to understand how the model works, and can assist them in their tasks. Several persons within the department of EVT are being trained in the mode to ensure continuality.

The attending audience received a demonstration by Erika Radjouki, Senior Policy Advisor, EVT, and Jude Houston, Statistician, EVT, on how the Smaart model works, and the stakeholders provided feedback to the presenters and designers (Modelers) of the model.

Several scenarios were demonstrated, after which the audience asked questions in relation to the accuracy of the model, the calibration of the model, adjustments, correlations, impact analyses, among other issues. One such demonstration showed that the model already predicted the 1.7 million cruise passenger arrival as early as August 2012.

It was made clear by the Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunication (TEZVT), Miguel de Weever, that the model dealt with predictions based on historical information. (It is not, and cannot be, a model that predicts with exactness, for the future is unpredictable by nature.) In addition, there are other external factors that affect the model—factors beyond the control of man, i.e., hurricane, world recession, etc. Therefore, expertise knowledge to interpret the results will also be required.

silveriajacobs02102012On behalf of my colleague the Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs who could not be here this evening, asked me to convey the following message to you:

Brothers and Sisters I am blessed to have had a mother who loved her children more than herself and that for me will never change. That is called unconditional love. The Bible speaks of Agape love that has given me the courage to face the challenges of life.

Although not being here with you in the flesh to pray for our nation I am and always will be there in the spirit. I want to encourage and thank:

The National Day of Prayer Committee

Chairman: Pastor Esmond Flemming

Apostle Elmead Allen

Bro. Walley Havertong

Apostle Leyland Sam

Honorary Members

Pastor Wycliff Smith

Pastor Royston Philbert

Prophet Edwin Arrindell

Step out In Faith Consultancy N.V. for the Printing of the Booklet and Decorations

Sound 2000 for the Sound/Stage & Light

Dedicated Brothers Entertainment Services N.V. for the Tents and Chairs

Fire Department

Government Facility Services

The Department of Culture, Youth and Sport Affairs

Media

Government of St. Maarten

All in attendance

For praying for our blessed Nation, because there is power in prayer. I would like to leave you with two passages from scripture that are very dare to me especially in Understanding The Times and Knowing What To Do!

1. Psalm 107:28-30 reads: Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven
2. Philippians 4:6-7 reads do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Have a Blessed Evening,
Honorable Silveria Jacobs Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs

genegrabowski13012013GREAT BAY:--- The 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture will be delivered here at Philipsburg Jubilee Library, on Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at 7:30 PM.

"St. Martin Culture from an American Perspective" is the title of this year's address by Dr. Eugene Grabowski, MD, FACS, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics (CLF), the organizing foundation.

US tourists have been coming to St. Martin in a steady way for over 55 years but what do Americans really think about St. Martin people and their culture? "Dr. Grabowski's talk will be based on his graduate studies at the State University of New York in Albany. This will be a very different angle from what we're accustomed to in our contacts with US visitors," said Reiph.

The lecture will be in English and Dr. Grabowski will take the opportunity to include some French references, especially because it his master's degree in French that he is pursuing at SUNY Albany, said Reiph.

"The interest in the people and culture of the whole island developed when his French language study led Dr. Grabowski to the North of St. Martin as a territory where French was spoken as the official language, while English, Dutch, Papiamento and other languages were common to the population of the whole island," said Reiph.

"We try to bring unique perspectives to our annual programs that will relate to St. Martin and challenge our audiences. This is the case whether we're observing a St. Martin hero or heroine as we often do, or an internationally-recognized personage like Dr. King," said Reiph.

Dr. Grabowski will also be challenging himself with the lecture topic, which will be followed with a question and answer (Q&A) session involving the audience.

The practicing general and trauma surgeon from Vermont appears well accustomed to challenges. In addition to his scientific papers published in medical journals such as American Surgeon, he has climbed at least four major mountains, including Kilimanjaro and McKinley. The former governor of the Vermont Chapter American College of Surgeons, current consultant to Boston's Kiwanis Ped. Trauma Institute, and Lions Club member, is also a rookie NASCAR driver.

CLF's annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture is rotated between both capitals of St. Martin. Tuesday's program, which will include poetry reading, is organized in collaboration with House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

gracitaarrindell08112012I have sent a letter to the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel with respect to pending draft laws that had reached a certain part of the process during my tenure as President of Parliament. Since the change in Parliament, more than seven months ago, we have not heard anything. The following letter was sent on January 11, 2013.

"On June 14, 2012, a Central Committee meeting of parliament was held with the Minister of Justice the Hon. Roland Duncan to discuss 11 draft laws pertinent to the new Civil Code.

During that meeting it was decided that prior to going over to a final handling of these draft laws in a subsequent Central Committee meeting, to be followed by a public meeting of Parliament. The reports of these hearings would be submitted to Parliament as well as to the Minister of Justice.

These reports can contain proposal(s) which may lead to possible amendment(s) to some or all of the draft laws by the Minister or Parliament.

The reports must contain a summary of the hearings, including the general opinion of Parliament as expressed during these hearings reference to these as discussed, in order for the Minister of Justice to be able to make the necessary amendments.

To date Parliament has not received any such report or reports pertaining to these hearings.

To be clear, the Central Committee meeting of June 14, 2012 has been adjourned.

I herewith express my concern regarding the delay in receiving these reports. This delay means that the final handling of the aforementioned draft laws is also on hold, with all consequences to our society thereof.

Please inform Parliament soonest the reason for the delay and when we can expect these reports. Please inform Parliament if the Minister of Justice received these reports.

I would appreciate also an update regarding all pending laws to be handled by Parliament."


Hon. Gracita Arrindell
Member of Parliament United People's (UP) Party Parliamentary Faction

shtasponsorsheinekenregatta13012013The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, on Tuesday last week handed over check for sponsorship of the 33rd Heineken Regatta as part of its continued destination development and marketing program. The SHTA’s continued commitment as a sponsor of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta demonstrates its focus on the development of a cross section of visitor arrivals to the destination, creating diversity and sustainability of our tourism product. The Heineken Regatta which will be held from February 28 to March 3rd this year is expected to bring some 2000 sailors to our shores and countless spectators. It is the largest Regatta in the Caribbean and annual event St. Maarten should be proud of.

The check was delivered to St. Maarten Yacht Club Regatta Foundation (SMYCRF) by Loraine Talmi who is the Marine Division Director on the SHTA’s Board of Directors. The Marine Division is one of several divisions presently represented under the SHTA’s Umbrella Structure, which allows the organization to give direct representation to a broad base of trade and hospitality businesses on St. Maarten.

commeetswithmembersoffirstchamber13012013Philipsburg:--- The Council of Ministers met with the Dutch delegation of the First Chamber of Parliament on Friday, January 11. Main points of discussion were the experiences of St. Maarten as a Country as well as the relationship with Saba and St. Eustatius, which due to the constitutional changes since 101010 has changed. In additional, several points of concerns that were raised during the 'meet and greet' with residents and representatives of organizations of St. Maarten were brought forward. The challenges that St. Maarten faces as a young country in setting up the required democratic institutions, in establishing membership of various international organizations to strengthen national and international relationships as well as on the financial level were topics of discussion. Both parties agreed that direct talks on a political level should continue.

pjiaereceivesratedbonds13012013Resurfacing of runway, additional aircraft parking, and relocation of fuel farm among priorities.

SIMPSON BAY:--- It was all smiles at the ceremonial closing of the US$132 million Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) bond issue underwritten by Nomura Securities International Inc.

The closing was attended by a high-powered St. Maarten delegation led by Minister Romeo Pantophlet of Tourism and Economic Affairs, whose portfolios include the airport; and Finance Minister Roland Tuitt.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the offices of Nomura Securities International in New York on Thursday, January 10, 2013, both ministers thanked the team that made this historic bond issuance possible.

Minister Tuitt said the bond issue was good for St. Maarten, adding that it was precisely this that led him to finalize the official Moody's rating for the island. For his part, Minister Pantophlet said it would further facilitate the hub function of the island.

Acknowledging that the process was long and sometimes complicated, Patrick Quinn, managing director of Nomura Securities International Inc., said that Moody's rating had paved the way for the bond to be issued. He added that the fact that these bonds had not traded since they were offered reflects the purchaser's confidence in PJIA (SXM Airport). Quinn said Nomura was happy to underwrite the bonds for PJIA, one of the leading airports in the Caribbean.

Nomura is a Tokyo-based financial services group and global investment bank with regional headquarters in Hong Kong, London, and New York.

Nomura has operations in 18 exchanges all over the world and has held the number one position on the London Stock Exchange since 2007.

According to the Financial Times, in 2008, Nomura became the world's largest independent investment bank with Y20,300bn (£138bn) assets under management when it acquired Lehman Brothers business in the Asia-Pacific region and subsequently of its investment and equities portfolios in Europe and the Middle East.

Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, Clarence Derby, speaking on behalf of the SXM Airport board said he was happy for the closing and thanked the St. Maarten government and in particular, the two ministers for their support from the very beginning. Also in attendance at the ceremony was the Chairman of the Princess Juliana International Airport Holding Company, Dexter Doncher.

The issuance of the bonds – and the fact that it was over-subscribed almost immediately – is without doubt a vote of confidence in the direction the Princess Juliana International Airport has chosen, and a resounding thumbs up for the stability of the economy of St. Maarten and for its leadership, which is very well represented here today, said Regina LaBega, PJIAE's Managing Director.

Not only is the Princess Juliana International Airport the first and so far the only company in St. Maarten to have rated bonds, and this huge amount of money was secured at very favorable terms of a fixed rate of 5.5% over 15 years. This is a significant decrease from the 8.25% interest rate obtained in the 2004 financing of US$118 million and a net savings of some US$10 million for the airport.

"There can be no better way to begin the New Year – and kick off the 70th anniversary celebrations of our Princess Juliana International Airport – than with the official closing of this bond issue that would permit the airport to diligently pursue its multi-million dollar Capital Improvement Program," LaBega said.

"We are starting a new era in the development of our airport, and consequently, the continued sustainability of St. Maarten's economic growth," she said in her address. "Every improvement we make at SXM Airport also means huge benefits for the economies of the surrounding islands of Anguilla, St. Barths, Saba, and St. Eustatius."

LaBega continued: "To take SXM Airport to new heights, the Capital Improvement Program which these bonds will finance include: resurfacing of the Airport runway; construction of taxi-ways in order to increase runway efficiency; expanding the aprons to provide additional aircraft parking during peak traffic periods; and relocating various facilities to improve the efficiency of the airport facilities and to provide for future growth."

Work on the rehabilitation of the runway is expected to commence in February 2013 and completed by August 2013. All work will take place overnight starting at 10 p.m. after the last flight operation of the day and end at 6 a.m. before the first flight of the day. No flight interruptions are expected.

cooperatingfoundationsdonatestopjl13012013Philipsburg:--- To be able to revamp their youth and fiction (novels) department, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library received a grant of Naf 150,000.00 from funding agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean. The library will use the funds to install better signs and new shelves to make it easier and more attractive for kids and youths to select their desired books. They will further enhance the meeting function of the library by creating more sitting areas with comfortable chairs and beanbags. The library is looking for additional funding to refurbish the rest of the library.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The country's emergency services sprang into action after receiving a call on January 11 at 12.37 AM of a house on fire in the district of Dutch Quarter.

While the fire trucks were in route, the officers were informed that neighbors had contained the fire and nobody was at home.

Fire trucks were on the scene within eight minutes after receiving the call. Upon arrival, they saw the flames were out, but that smoke was still coming out of the house.

Fire fighters carried out a survey of the house and discovered a person lying on the floor in a backroom. Fire personnel got the person outside where he was attended too by ambulance emergency medical service attendants. The elderly man had suffered from smoke inhalation.

After the patient was secured, he was immediately transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.

The Fire Department would like to thank the neighbors for their quick action, the Police and Emergency Medical Services, and fire personnel for their services rendered which resulted in the fire victim being rescued from the burnt home.

Fire personnel carried out an investigation into the cause of the fire, and it was determined that it was an electrical entertainment system.

The house received a considerable amount of damage where one room was completely burnt out. The rest of the interior of the home had major heat and smoke damage.

eugeneholiday11012013Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening and welcome to this new year's reception.
I am pleased to gather here in the heart of Philipsburg on the captain Hodge Warf to celebrate the start of 2013 with you. To all present and to the people of Sint Maarten, Marie-Louise and I, extend warm greetings and best wishes for the year ahead.
Indeed, a brighter future is what we all wish each other at the start of the New Year. We wish each other "Happiness, Health, and Prosperity". A quality of life wish, which is primarily directed to one another, but which also holds in it our individual and collective vision for Sint Maarten.
I am sure you will agree with me that our words of well wishes will only come to pass when pursued by us through committed individual and collective action. Actions which only we can take. That is because as a Sint Maarten people we bear the responsibility to be our community's keeper. As keepers of our community it is our highest obligation to nurture and build a free, safe, secure and just society. A society in which we all have the right and opportunity to quality care, quality education and quality employment.
Having closed off 2012 and looking ahead the question before is: How do we plan to fulfill our role as keepers of our community's vision in 2013? The answer will vary from person to person, from family to family and from organisation to organisation. There will be differences in views and approaches between and within the public and private sectors. There will be those who believe that their plans or approaches are the only way and there will be those who believe that there is no role, place or opportunity for them. There are those who will on a daily basis continue to give their all in pursuit of the vision, while there are and will be those who do not have confidence in our ability as keepers of Sint Maarten to achieve the vision.
Whatever your answer or plan I hereby remind you that we are in this together. And that we, as a result must recognize, live and act by the guiding principle that our community - Sint Maarten - is bigger than any of us, its keepers. This principle must therefore be the primary point of departure in all our actions and decisions. Let us therefore, as keepers of our community, resolve to not breakdown but to build each other and thus build our community up. And in so doing reach out to each other to work with each other and tap the full potential of our community's scarce human reserves.

Ladies and gentlemen,
To attain our vision in 2013 and beyond through the deployment of the full potential of our human reserves it is imperative that we reinforce our commitment to our care and to the care of our environment. Let us commit ourselves to confront the threats of poverty, environmental degradation and crime to secure the viability of our community. This commitment calls for more effective initiatives by us as public and or private keepers of our community. It is a call:

  1. to eliminate poverty;
  2. to better shield and educate our children and youth as we prepare them for adulthood;
  3. to broaden and deepen the reach of health care;
  4. to protect and preserve our natural environment; and
  5. to unite in stamping out crime and corruption.

In view of this I call on and challenge each of you to take up and give deeper content to your role as keepers of our community by expanding existing and implementing new programs to address mentioned threats and thus foster a happier, healthier and more prosperous Sint Maarten. As I make this call and you contemplate your responses allow me to give you some food for thought:

  • Imagine a Sint Maarten where more schools are adopted;
  • Imagine a Sint Maarten where more people need not worry about affording preventive care;
  • Imagine a Sint Maarten where our natural environment is cherished; and
  • Imagine a Sint Maarten where private-public partnerships converts deprived districts in safe and thriving social centers.

Such actions and contributions are critical, because in so doing you - in your role as keepers of our community - can make a real difference in guaranteeing a free, safe, secure and just Sint Maarten society.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In closing, as we begin this New Year, let us thank God for watching over our country. At the same time let us as individuals, corporations and government renew our commitment to be the keeper of our community aimed at building a society based on sound governance principles in which we all have the right and opportunity to quality care, quality education and quality employment. We owe this to our community and ourselves. And as Governor I shall continue to work with government and other stakeholders to promote the achievement of this vision in service of the people of St. Maarten.

With that commitment, I hereby on behalf of Marie-Louise and myself, wish you and your family a year of health, happiness and growth.

Thank you, God bless you, and God bless Sint Maarten.

The Governor of Sint Maarten
Eugene B. Holiday

meetandgreetwithdutchmps11012013PHILIPSBURG:--- Approximately 80 to 100 persons showed up for the Meet and Greet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament on Thursday evening at the Cultural Center on Backstreet. Several members of the Sint Maarten Parliament were also present.

rsamuelreceivesgovernmentprogramfromswescotwilliams11012013PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel on Thursday morning in the House of Parliament received a copy of the Government's Program presented by the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams.

Also present for the presentation was Parliament's Secretary General Jossy Semeleer. President Samuel thanked the Prime Minister and said every Member of Parliament would receive a digital copy of the Governing Program.

waterqualityewe11012013The St. Maarten Nature Foundation carried out a series of tests of the stream which runs through the Emilio Wilson Estate. This was conducted for various reasons, the main one being the detection of the levels of pollutants of one of the most continuously running streams on the island. Although St. Maarten knows no actual rivers or streams in the true sense of the word, the stream which flows through the Emilio Wilson Estate is considered spring fed and runs more or less continuously throughout the year. The location where the Emilio Wilson Park lies is surrounded both by numerous freshwater springs of significant cultural, environmental and historic importance, but is also surrounded by the significant urban areas of Betty's Estate, Saunders, St. Johns, St. Peters, Mary's Fancy, Ebenezer and South Reward. All of the aforementioned districts channel some of their run-off water into the stream that runs through the park.

The Nature Foundation was approached by concerned citizens who make use of the park and complained about the 'bad smell' of the stream which runs through the estate. Some residents who let their dogs walk through the stream complained that their animals received skin infections. The Foundation carried out water quality tests over a period of three days in order to get reputable results of the water quality and the possible levels of pollutants.

Unfortunately the results show that the water quality is poor. This can be the result of various factors; contamination of the springs which feed the stream, run-off from the surrounding districts that have a high level of pollution and a single or multiple point source or sources of pollution upstream.

The Nature Foundation considered it also important to test the water quality of that location due to the environmental and cultural importance of the park, one that has to remain free of all environmental pollutants affecting both flora and fauna and the ecology of one of the last remaining green areas. It was also important that the quality be tested because of the fact that water which is passed through the park eventually makes it unto the bathing beaches of Great Bay, possibly resulting in contaminants on beaches were people swim.

The results that show high levels of phosphates, nitrates and bacteria are of particular concern. The Nature Foundation has communicated these findings to the authorities and sister foundations and is researching solutions which can be applied to the site in the short term in order to reduce the contaminants found in the stream.

The Nature Foundation will continue to test the quality of the water for the next coming weeks and will send out frequent alerts as to the quality of the water.

membersoffirstchamberandparliamentvisitpolicedept11012013Philipsburg:--- On Friday January 11th members of the First Chamber in the Netherlands and the President of Parliament, Honorable Rudolph Samuel along with other members of Parliament Roy Marlin and Ruth Douglas paid a visit to the Police Headquarters in Philipsburg. The members of the First Chambers and members of Parliament were met by Police Chief Peter de Witte, Acting Chief of Police Carl John, and other members of the Police Management Team and advisers to the organization. During this visit Mr. de Witte gave a presentation regarding the police organization from where it started, where it is at this moment, and the direction it is heading. After the presentation, Mr. De Witte open the floor for everyone to ask questions.
The visitors were then invited to attend a demonstration at the front of the Police Station, which was done by the K-9 Unit, Bike-team, Motorcycle Brigade, and Arrest-Team. The visitors were quite impressed with the improvements and achievements by the Police Force.

christalicartiwithpssworkers11012013On the 24th December 2012, Management and staff of PSS hosted a small celebration session at the post office for one of its staffers, Mrs. Christali Carti, who after dedicating a combined 35 years of her life to the islands Postal Administration of St. Maarten, went gracefully off into retirement. Customers at our Simpson bay branch will miss her warm and gentle service and so will the PSS family. Mrs. Carti was a dedicated and hardworking employee, and PSS found it only fitting and honored to give her, her well-deserved end of pension package from Postal Services St. Maarten N.V.

Management and staff say thank you Mrs. Christali Carti, for giving so much of your time and life to the postal administration, and it is now time for you to relax and enjoy your well deserved pension life.

Philipsburg:--- The United People's (UP) Faction in Parliament has requested two urgent Central Committee meetings of Parliament via the President.

The UP has requested that the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications Romeo Pantophlet be called to Parliament to provide information with respect to Census 2011 that was carried out nearly two years ago.

The urgency for the request is for the Minister to provide information to Parliament regarding problems or issues leading to the delay in releasing information compiled in the Census 2011 exercise.

The UP Faction via the President of Parliament has also urgently requested the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan to come to the House of Parliament to discuss three issues:

  1. The exclusion of Sint Maarten from the Border Management System;
  2. Crime fighting initiatives for 2013, and receiving crime statistics for 2012;
  3. Update regarding security and companies that provide security guard services in Sint Maarten.

The urgent meeting with the Minister of Justice is regarding problems or issues possibly compromising the safety and security of our country.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will be meeting for the first time in the New Year on January 15.

The Central Committee session is scheduled for next Tuesday afternoon at 4:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is a presentation by the University of Southern Caribbean (USC), Trinidad.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

hansmos26022011Philipsburg:--- Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos admitted by email to SMN News that the main suspect Meyshane Johnson who admitted to Police that he was involved in the murder of American citizens Micheal and Thelma King sometime between September 19th and September 21st 2012 was summoned late for his Pro forma hearing which was held on Thursday January 10th, 2013. Johnson is currently in pre-trial detention for the killing of the Kings and the armed robbery of the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant. On Thursday Johnson did not appear in court because the Prosecution did not summon him on time, his lawyer Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks told the court. Mos said in his written statement that the suspect was indeed summoned too late and that should not have happened. St. Maarten's Chief Prosecutor further explained that the matter was addressed Thursday night. "Nevertheless, there still was time to correct that mistake and that was done immediately after the Court session. This suspect has now been summoned to appear in Court next Thursday at 11 am. This is still within his term of pre-trail detention. This session will still be a "Pro Forma" session." Wasting the court's time and attorney's time seems to be the norm since the Prosecution still has some time on their hands and the suspect in this case did not get his ticket to freedom after murdering two innocent people.

Mos further explained that "the two other suspects are due to be summoned in court on January 22nd and that also will be a Pro forma session since the psychiatric and psychological reports will not be completed by then. On January 22nd a so called instruction session will be organized, during which the defense and this office will be allowed to ask for any further investigation from either side. After these investigations have been completed and the reports have been submitted the case itself will be dealt with, as we see it now, at least no earlier than March 2013."

In this particular case the officers of KPSM worked by themselves without any assistance from any other police organization.

SMN News reporter asked the Chief Prosecutor if he did not think the actions of his office was out of place since the police worked very hard in solving one of the most gruesome murders within days. SMN News reporter also asked Mos if he felt what took place on Thursday is fair to the relatives of the Kings who are monitoring the procedure from the United States. In response to the questions asked, Mos said "The Police and this office have been in close contact with the relatives of the Kings since the investigation started. These contacts have been appreciated both by the family on one side and police and prosecutor's office on the other. Those contacts are valuable for us too. The family was already informed about yesterday's mishap but also that this mistake was repaired directly after. The police and the prosecutor's office worked strongly together in this case as we do in any other. We are a team. The one cannot work without the other. The success in this case has been the result of a good and strong co-production. I am glad that the hard work of many in both organizations has lead to solving this case and bringing the culprits to Court."

Despite the statements Mos gave SMN News on the case of the Kings and the procedures that were messed up on Thursday by the Prosecutor's Office, SMN News received a copy of the 2011 annual report from the public relations officer of the Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES islands and it was astonishing to read that the island's Chief Prosecutor in his report which is one year and days late before it was made available stated that the police of KPSM were mostly responsible for the high dismissal rate of cases. He said suspects were released because proper procedures were not followed. The dismissal rate for 2011 the Chief Prosecutor of St. Maarten stated was over 10% and some of the suspects were deported to non-treaty countries.
While SMN News has been critical of the performance of the country's Prosecutor's Office and National Police it must be made clear that the police KPSM are investigators, the buck stops with the Prosecutor's Office, they are the ones that prosecute all cases and therefore it is unimaginable that the police was blamed for the dismissal rate of 2011. It should also be noted that when SMN News contacted the management of KPSM for a reaction to the report we were told that they did not receive a copy of the report that was disseminated to the media therefore they were unable to comment.

Click here to read the annual report of 2011 which was submitted to the Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES Islands.

Marigot:--- A Gendarme suffered serious injuries on Wednesday after being attacked by some youths in Sandy Ground who pelted them with rocks and other objects, a press release from the Préfecture disclosed on Wednesday night.

The Gendarme suffered a fracture, several facial injuries, including lacerations that needed 15 stitches. He was taken off duty for 12 days of medical leave.

The press release did not indicate how many Gendarmes were present when their colleague who was in a patrol vehicle was attacked, also not stated in the press statement were how many youths attacked the Gendarmes and why he was attacked.

The day before in Sandy Ground Gendarmes arrested four individuals suspected of being involved in at least 31 armed robberies since mid October 2012. It is not clear if the attack on the gendarme was in reaction to the persons being arrested. Wednesday night at least 40 Gendarmes were seen in Sandy Ground combing the area for the persons who attacked and injured their colleague. Among the Gendarmes Wednesday night was the Prefet Delegue Phillipe Chopin.

The incident prompted a visit to the Gendarmerie by Préfet Philippe Chopin and President Alain Richardson who expressed their concern for the injured Gendarme and to give support.

The Préfet condemned the incident and vowed a swift reprisal adding that the State is making fighting delinquency and insecurity a priority. He praised the dedication to duty of all Gendarmes.


Gendarmes Conduct Control in Sandy Ground Wednesday Night.

After the attack on the Gendarme on the evening of January 9, 2013 a mobile unit controlled the Sandy Ground area, the Gendarmes announced in a press release. The release states that Gendarmes of St. Martin and St. Barthelemy established the operation which was on the order of the Public Prosecutor. The aim of the special control was to search for  weapons and narcotics involved in the development. Several checkpoints were manned by a total of 50 military police, under the authority of Commandant Paul BETAILLE, in the presence of Prefet Delegue Philippe Chopin, who wanted to support the police in their efforts and mark the determination of the state and government in the fight against crime and delinquency.
The operation was launched at 8pm. It lasted a little over an hour and allowed law enforcement to thoroughly check 80 vehicles and 150 people. During the operation, two arrests were made; one for possession and transportation of an illegal 6th grade weapon (baseball bat), the second for possession of narcotics (herb). Besides baseball bat and drugs mentioned above, three scooters were immobilized by decision administrative (non-compliance, uninsured and unidentifiable) and confiscated by the police. Methodical raking of the ground by a dog team specializing in the research of drugs associated with the control also discovered 77 grams of herbal cannabis and 150 grams of seeds cannabis clearly abandoned by their holder (s) to a few tens of meters of dams.
The operation confirmed that the majority of the population of the district Sandy Ground have friendly forces and needs to be protected, while a minority of young people aged 15 to 25 years, offenders usual living through theft and trafficking, are inherently hostile to the police and feared by the sound of the fringe population who are daily victims of their actions.
The gendarmerie intends to keep the pressure on to fight against this type of crime in cooperation of constant support of judicial authorities on those terrorizing the area.
The operation was also an opportunity to explain to the residents of Sandy Ground the incided where Gendarme was attacked and severely injured in their district.
Bases on evidence gathered by the police, it seems that this aggression by stoning and throwing a variety of projectiles is related not only to the arrest of four suspects of robberies and armed robberies that morning, but also an arrest four days earlier of an individual carrying 4.754 kg of herbal cannabis. The neutralization of the dealer and the confiscation of such a quantity of drugs clearly destabilized a small network which caused him a substantial financial loss.

 

PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, on Friday will meet with the Parliament of Sint Maarten and visit several projects.

On Friday morning the Dutch MPs will first visit His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday; thereafter they will visit the Philipsburg Police Headquarters accompanies by members of the Sint Maarten permanent committee of Parliament for Kingdom Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations under the chairmanship of Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Roy Marlin.

In the afternoon the Dutch MPs will visit the Sanitary Landfill on Pond Island followed by the A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Treatment Plant and thereafter the Cay Hill site for the envisioned Justice Park.

President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel said on Thursday that the projects selected for the Dutch MPs to visit related to the Sewage Plant which was just recently opened; a major effort is underway to build a Waste Treatment Facility on Pond Island; and plans are in the works to build a Justice Park. The latter two developments will play a major role in the socio-economic and environmental development of the country.

The Dutch MPs will depart the island late Friday afternoon.

The First Chamber (Eerste Kamer) of the Dutch Parliament has 75 members. They are elected by the members of the 12 Provincial Councils. These elections are indirect where voters elect the members of the Provincial Councils, who in turn elect the members of the Senate.

The Senate's main duties are in the legislative field, but it also plays a role in scrutinizing the actions of the Government. Formally the Senate can only reject or accept legislation. Debates of legislation take place in the Senate with respect to the interpretation of a law.

The difference between the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament (House of Representatives) and the First Chamber, MPs in the Second Chamber are paid to be full-time legislators while members of the Senate work part-time and receive an allowance. They also hold other positions.

The Dutch Senate has been in existence since 1815 when it was instituted by King William I.

Marigot:--- The gendarmes managed to arrest the driver of a car who refused to stop at a control point in Marigot not far away from the Office du Tourisme. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie on January 5th 2013, the driver of a vehicle tried to escape the control by turning around his vehicle and heading towards Sandy Ground. The Gendarmes managed to intercept the driver when he tried to park his vehicle in an attempt to flee. During the arrest of the suspect and a search of the vehicle the Gendarmes found 4 kg 750 grams of cannabis inside the car. The driver who is a resident of French St. Martin was immediately arrested and was sent to Guadeloupe pending his trial. The case is scheduled for February 1st, 2013.
The Gendarmes stated in their press release that during the first ten days of the year 2013 they confiscated more that 5 kilos 25 grams of cannabis, and 1 gram of crack and cocaine while they managed to arrest six persons in connection with drug possession.

aldrickbenjamin10012013Marigot/Philipsburg:--- Local musicians on the French side stood up to a band that was brought to St. Maarten by one Sharon Peterson who obtained a visa waiver from the Justice Ministry for the group. The band consisting of ten musicians known to some persons in the community as "Silver Stars" came to St. Maarten three times during the year 2012 through visa waivers which were issued by the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan.

On Wednesday, the band obtained permission from the French Culture Department to play on the waterfront for three nights free of cost. Public Relations Officer of the Gunslingers Band Aldrick Benjamin said the local musicians on both French and Dutch St. Maarten were not able to obtain any type on information on the foreign group who has been doing business on St. Maarten but claims they are working for free. Benjamin said that they started negotiations with the Culture Department of the Collectivity of St. Martin on Wednesday afternoon and managed to stop the band from performing on the French side since they lacked the necessary paperwork that is required by law. Benjamin further explained that the band is on St. Maarten for about five months operating at different locations. Benjamin said based on the information he gathered, Peterson spoke with Alex Piper from Youth Waves and asked that the band be allowed to perform on the French side for three nights for free. Benjamin said that is "prospecting" in the music industry and while they are not against foreign bands, these bands need to correspond with the local artists that have to comply with the various requirements before they can perform their art and conduct business on the island. "We have no problem with anyone but since there is no clarity on this group (band) we have been collecting information as to where they have been playing since they are on the island. What I know is that they have been playing for Maho Group of Companies and other areas on St. Maarten. This band was scheduled to play from 10 to 4 for three days on the Waterfront even though there is no particular occasion at this time of the year on the French side." Benjamin said he had no problem if the band had intended to play for a few hours but playing for hours for three days in row for free is prospecting so that businesses and other people would hire them. Benjamin said since July last year this band has been telling people they just want to play for a few hours and they are leaving but to date they are still here. "As far as I am concerned there is something fishy going on; we as business people on St. Martin/St. Maarten need to know what is happening. I want to make clear that the Department of Culture on the French side cooperated well with the local artists and they stopped the mission Silver Stars had planned on Thursday. Unless Silver Stars has the proper documentation they will not play on the French side of the island." Benjamin said. "I am not here to drag anyone down, I met with those working in the Culture Department and they acted according to the rules and regulations."

Sir Isidore York (The Mighty Dow) told SMN News in a telephone interview that he has been asking questions about this band for quite some time now and no one is able to tell him anything. Sir York said one night he showed up at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort to play and management of the resort asked him not to play but he stood up for his rights and both bands were allowed to play. Sir York said he even asked a certain Minister how it is possible for a foreign band to play on St. Maarten and the Minister basically told him that nothing could be done unless the laws are changed. The Mighty Dow said that he is not against improving steel pan music on St. Maarten but in his opinion things have to be done properly. "These people have been saying they are playing at various locations for free. The question now remains how are these people eating and who is paying for their housing and other needs. Who pays for their airline tickets multiple times per year?"

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan admitted in an interview with SMN News that his Ministry granted the band permission to enter St. Maarten to play for Maho Group of Companies. The person who obtained the permit from the Justice Ministry Minister Duncan said was one Sharon Peterson whom he believes has a company registered on St. Maarten. Minister Duncan said that he remembered the last time Peterson received permission from his Ministry was sometime in November 2012. Minister Duncan made clear that his Ministry did not grant anyone a permit to play on St. Maarten for free. The band was granted permission to play for Maho Group of Companies and if they are saying they are playing for free this is where the water gets muddy.

The Justice Minister said that on the permits there are specific guidelines and if they are broken then there are enough reasons for the permit to be retracted. Minister Duncan said the Silver Stars received permission (visa waiver) to play for Maho Group of Companies and if they went to the French side they broke the rules and that is enough grounds for him to retract the permit. The Justice Minister made clear he has no authority to grant anyone permits to work on the French side. He said visa waivers are issued for a period of three months and persons can receive multiple visa waivers in one year. As for Silver Stars they got permission at least three times in 2012. The Minister said prior to the issuance of the permission they looked at all aspects especially since St. Maarten is a tourism destination and as such they need to have a variety of entertainment for the island's visitors. "We looked at how this would affect our local artists and we also looked at the Resort who can be considered local as well." Minister Duncan said that what happened now is sufficient reason for him to refuse the person requesting the permit in the future or retract the permit they have currently.

When SMN News asked if the band is paying its dues such as taxes, the Justice Minister said he cannot say because that falls directly under the Minister of Finance.

Marigot:--- The Collectivity of St. Martin will begin its census registration between January 17th and February 23rd, 2013. The objective of the census is not only to count the number of people living in France, it is also monitor annually the evolution of population, communities, and society more generally. Whether in nurseries, hospitals, pharmacies, housing, public transportation, neighborhood regeneration, sports facilities, etc., your responses are essential to help your elected officials to better meet your needs.
In 2013, part of the territory is identified. In fact, each year a survey is organized by the Community and INSEE in the municipalities of 10,000 inhabitants or more, with a sample of 8% of their population. Thus, it may be that you are identified this year, when another member of your neighborhood is not.
If you are concerned, a letter from the Chairman with an information notice will be given. An enumerator will come to your home from 17 January, 2013. You can recognize it by its official triple coloured map which contains a photograph and the signature of the mayor. It will help you to fill out a sheet for housing identified an individual form for each person living in the dwelling. The few minutes you take to respond to the questionnaires are important. The quality of the census depends on your participation. It is above all a civic act, but also a legal obligation under the law of 7 June, 1951. All your answers are confidential. They are transmitted to INSEE and cannot be subject to any administrative or tax.
To find answers to key questions on the census of population 2013: Census-www.le-and-moi.fr
To find out more and see the results of the previous census: www.insee.fr

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is recommending high risk groups to get their seasonal flu vaccination.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's "Get Checked," campaign, influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads very easily from person to person, and can affect anybody in any age group.

"Check with your physician to see whether or not you are part of the high risk group and be proactive. Get vaccinated and take measures to prevent you from getting the flu," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said.

Influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illnesses and deaths for higher risk populations. Vaccination (flu shot) is the most effective way to prevent infection.

The US flu season has hit early and hard. According to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), this is the earliest flu season in 10-years, and 80 per cent of the United States is seeing severe flu symptoms.

Persons who form part of the risk groups are:

  • all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards;
  • with pulmonary disease: asthma (when maintenance medication is given; this also holds true for children), COPD, carcinoma of the lung, anthracosilicosis, lungfibrosis , mucoviscidosis, severe kyfoscoliosis, status after resection of a lung, breathing difficulties;
  • with cardiac disease: having experienced a myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, arrhythmias, valve dysfunction, cardiac failure;
  • with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication;
  • with chronic kidney disease/failure: dialysis, kidney transplant;
  • after a recent bone marrow transplant;
  • with HIV-infection;
  • with an intellectual disability in an intramural setting;
  • with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;
  • 60 years and older.

Front-line workers as well as health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices), should get their flu vaccination.

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to the flu should also be vaccinated.

The symptoms of the flu virus in people are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Members of the community are advised to check with their family physician on their seasonal flu vaccine and are strongly advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their family members from infection at home and especially traveling by maintaining high standards of personal hygiene.

Steps of personal hygiene entail covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough; washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., after sneezing and coughing).

Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

Consult your family physician in due time and do not place others at risk. Take the necessary protection when in the vicinity of any sick persons.

Eat healthy foods, get a lot of exercise and maintain a good sleep schedule which is usually eight hours.

silveriajacobs02102012GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs says under the theme, "Understanding The Times, Knowing What To Do!," will be the 8th Annual National Day of Prayer to be held Sunday, January 13, 2013 in front of the Government Administration Building. The ecumenical service will begin at 4:30 PM with Praise and Worship led by the Bells Brothers.

The Order of Service includes words of exhortation by the clergy representing the Council of Churches, Seventh Day Adventist Church and the St. Maarten United Ministerial Foundation.

Intercessory prayers and prayer of consecration will be offered by Pastor Vincent Gumbs, Pastor Emile Powell, Pastor Myrna Lake and Pastor Jamella Guy, Atul Pereppadan while Reverend Father Bob will deliver the sermonette. Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs will speak on behalf of government.

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the second Sunday of January, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was decreed in 2005 by an Executive Council resolution of the then Island Territory of Sint Maarten, and became part and parcel of the annual cultural calendar of program and activities.

The National Day of Prayer Committee's mission is to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for St. Martin and its leadership in the seven centers of power: Government, Law enforcement, Media, Business, Education, Church and Family.

In accordance with Biblical truth, the National Day of Prayer Committee seeks to:

  • Foster unity within the Christian Church
  • Protect St. Maarten's Constitutional Freedoms to gather, worship, pray and speak freely.
  • Publicize and preserve St. Maarten's Christian heritage
  • Encourage and emphasize prayer, regardless of current issues and positions
  • Respect all people, regardless of denomination or creed
  • Be wise stewards of God's resources and provision
  • Glorify the Lord in word and deed

The committee further seeks to encourage "the understanding of the importance of cultural expression and diversity as essential elements of cultural development".

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs hereby encourages the general public to participate in the National Day of Prayer to intercede for St. Maarten's leaders and the entire population as we start a New Year.

Great Bay:--- As of today, January 9, 2013 all work permit resolutions for non-nationals will be available in English. The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor recently had the work permit resolutions translated as a means of providing platinum customer service to the clients they serve.
"As a ministry we are constantly attempting to facilitate our clients. This translation has been in the making and after all the technical challenges and other priorities I am extremely happy to have this finalized. I am constantly listening to the complaints and trying to find new ways to address old/ pre-existing challenges. As a ministry we must continue to improve our services and be proactive," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.
Head of the Department of Labor, Peggy-Ann Dros stated that "Our business and private sector functions are primarily in the English language, and since the Work Permit has legislative consequences, it is important that businesses and the non-nationals are fully aware of same."
The Department of Labor Affairs has already made significant strides in addressing customer demands, by introducing an appointment system, as well as increased communication via email. Moreover, the department continues with the upgrades to its products and services, by creating heightened customer interaction opportunities.

Great Bay:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Cornelius De Weever has commissioned a research to look into the living situation and conditions of the elderly on St. Maarten and is asking all those persons that are part of the survey to cooperate with the interviewers that will be visiting their homes in the coming weeks.
This research aims to produce data and recommendations to help guide future preventative interventions for the elderly target group. It will focus on gathering and analyzing information of the elderly about chronic illnesses, disability and risk factors. Policy and programs related to the elderly will be supported in the future by the results of the research.
The first part of the research, an overview of the health care services currently available to the elderly has already been carried out. Currently, the consultant is busy with the second part of the research in which in-depth interviews will be held with the general public. Two different target groups will be interviewed in this phase of the research. The target group 60 + and those persons between ages of 50 to 59 that are part of the study. The first target group will provide information on the current situation of the elderly and the second target group will give an indication of problems that must be dealt with in the future for the elderly population.
This information is vital to improving the living situation and the present conditions of the elderly. Your cooperation with the interviewers that will be visiting the homes is highly appreciated.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association SHTA has opened up an Environmental Defense Fund EDF at the Scotia Bank, "SHTA ACC 1015922," which it intends to use to generate funds for legal action against the degradation of the natural, cultural and social environment on St. Maarten.
The fund, short named "SHTA-EDF" will enable residents, corporate citizens and organizations to provide financial assistance to St. Maarten's environmental organizations so they can secure legal assistance when challenging ignorance of environmental policy and procedures.
The fund will be chaired by Rueben Thompson who heads the SHTA's Environmental Division. The SHTA has as part of an umbrella structure, several divisions that are under its purview such as wholesale division, construction division, small and large hotel division and the environmental division.
The SHTA believes that Government is jeopardizing the viability of our tourism driven economy by allowing and in many cases commissioning the destruction of St. Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage.
As a board member for SHTA and Director of Environmental Division Thompson said, "The durability of St. Maarten's tourism product hence largely relies on the level of nature conservation and environmental care and requires a balance between tourism and the environment."
Tourism and tourism related services are the driving force of St. Marten's economy, accounting for an estimated 80% of the island's economic activity.
According to the SHTA, "Long-term Sustainable economic development in St. Maarten, therefore calls for sustainable tourism, (main economic pillar). Sustainable tourism in turn may be defined as tourism which is developed and mai9ntained in such a manner and scale that it remains viable in the long run and does not degrade the natural, cultural and social environment in which it exists to such an extent that it prohibits the successful development of other activities now or in the future."
In this context the SHTA has mentioned the 2009 documentary in the National Geographic Traveler Magazine which spoke at length about the environmental conditions on St. Maarten. The article spoke of the extent of development on St. Maarten. These sentiments have also been issued by local environmental organizations, other residents, return visitors, international experts and a number of well read publications.
The National Geographic Traveler article stated, "Dutch St. Maarten is in trouble. St. Martin, the French Side of the island, is promising in terms of balancing development with the natural resources. The environmental and ecological quality of Dutch St. Maarten is threatened by over-development."
It also stated, "This Island presents one of the best examples of what islands should avoid in tourism development. Tourism has gobbled up the culture of the island, which now is defined by the hotels, casinos, and other modern developments-not the islands historical, artistic, culinary, or other local heritage. Quality of life is a major consideration for residents as well as visitors."
Those persons interested in donating to the fund in defense of the Environment should make checks out to "SHTA ACC 1015922 and can deposit funds directly to the Scotia Bank account.

gracitaarrindell08112012The UP faction is concerned about the overdue delay in the release of Census 2011 statistical information to the community. This information is also very valuable for planning purposes for both public and private sectors.

The last Census was carried out in April 2011. Almost two years ago.

If we are to be considered a productive and forward thinking society, with an objective to be innovative and at the forefront of moving this country into the right direction, it is clear that proper research and credible data is a pre requisite to be successful in our efforts. Both government as well as business who are already established and those who would want to consider investing in our island must have timely access to this type of information.

Midterm and long term planning will bear fruit if one has access to formal information regarding our population movement in all aspects. The well- being, safety and quality development of our highly diversified society is a priority.

A letter with a request from the UP-Faction inviting Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, the Honorable Romeo Pantophlet via the President of Parliament, to Parliament to give account to the people with be sent out this week.

Ministers are politically responsible for the day to day management of this country. We cannot suffice with the press briefings only or statements to the media. Their positions and clarifications must be recorded in Parliament.

Transparency on this matter is warranted. I hope that the minister will be clear and forthcoming regarding the problems encountered and how he aims to solve these bottlenecks if any.

Gracita Arrindell
Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) party faction

whaleinsxmwaters26062012The St. Maarten Nature Foundation is once again conducting its Marine Mammal Monitoring project which will last from January until May. The Nature Foundation, in cooperation with Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten, will be conducting a wide scale census of all Marine Mammals found in St. Maarten/ St. Martin territorial waters, including within the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. "Many on St. Maarten might not be aware that there is a relatively significant Marine Mammal population in the waters surrounding St. Maarten, including numerous species of whales and dolphins. St. Maarten lies within the area of the Western Atlantic where various whale species come to give birth to their young. From February to May several hundreds of Humpback Whales migrate from the northern Atlantic to areas within the Caribbean to give birth and nurse their young before heading back up north", read a statement from the Nature Foundation.

Numerous other species of whale and dolphin, including sperm whales and several types of dolphins, make their home in local waters. Several questions are hoped to be answered as a result of the study, including most numerous species, migration routes and dates, and the feasibility of regulated wild whale and dolphin watching trips. This year the Nature Foundation will once again be partnering with Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten to bring greater awareness to the general public about St. Maarten's wild Marine Mammal Population and conservation issues faced by Marine Mammals in local waters.

The most abundant Maine Mammal species recorded in 2012 was the Humpback Whale, with the total number recorded at 41 individuals, including calves. The second most abundant species was the Bottle Nose Dolphin, with total of 21 individuals; the third most abundant species recorded was the Long Snouted Spinner Dolphin with 15 individuals recorded within the island's territorial waters. During research conducted in conjunction with the French Marine Reserve and the AGOA Marine Mammal Sanctuary, The Nature Foundation also observed numerous Sperm Whales including mothers with young. Using acoustic research and visual observations researchers are now trying to determine if there is a Sperm Whale traveling route in the deep waters between St. Maarten and Saba.

The Man of War Shoal Marine Park had a considerable number of recordings of both whale and dolphin species which adds considerably to the biological value of the Park. Acoustic recordings of Male Humpback Whales singing were also taken at various points in the waters surrounding St. Maarten, and the public is urged to listen to the local whale songs and look at video and photo of marine mammals in our local waters by looking at the Nature Foundation YouTube clip Nature Foundation Marine Mammal Research 2012.

If the public is interested in participating in the marine Mammal census they can send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and request a sighting form. Various charter boat and dive operators have been given copies of forms which they will distribute to their clients.

tennesseewarbler09012013EPIC's conservation staff has just completed its 12th year of island-wide bird monitoring. EPIC staff has, for each year since 2001, surveyed every wetland on the entire island during the winter period. Additionally, staff has surveyed every winter seabird colony on the island, including the two known Caribbean Brown Pelican colonies. Finally, songbird monitoring efforts on the northern flanks of Pic Paradis have just been completed and over 130 different songbirds of 22 species were monitored. The discovery of an over-wintering Tennessee Warbler on Pic Paradis was the highlight for 2012, in that it was the first record for the species on the island and only the second for the entire Lesser Antilles. EPIC Senior Biologist Adam Brown leads the bird monitoring efforts for the organization. Adam said of the recent bird monitoring work, "It's been very rewarding leading the bird conservation efforts for EPIC over this long period of time. We have been able to document changes in bird populations, track movements of birds between areas, and link significant bird population changes to habitat changes. EPIC's data set is one of the most long-term in the Caribbean, and has allowed us to take a step back and see the big picture on what is happening to birds on St. Maarten and in the Caribbean as a whole." EPIC will continue its bird conservation work on the island in future years, including continuing population monitoring as well as advocating for the protection of vital bird habitat island-wide.

EPIC Press Release

dettminimacroeconomicanalysisandmodelingconference09012013Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (DETT) has began its 1st Mini Caribbean Conference on Macro Economic Analysis and Modeling at Divi Little Bay Hotel.

The conference's primary goals are to exchange ideas and expertise on how to use macroeconomic models to assist in policy preparation, and forecasting. The group will meet, during the week, with other internal and external stakeholders, i.e. Economist from Suriname, the Statistical and Finance departments and the Chamber of Commerce, the St. Maarten Trade and Tourism Association, among others.

Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (TEZVT), Miguel de Weever, welcomed the audience on behalf of the Minister of Economic Romeo Pantophlet, who could not be present.

De Weever said that it is a great pleasure that we reached this level. This economic model will assist in constructing policy and serves as the foundation for making sound decisions. It is the hope that this conference expands to include other countries within the region and for us to exchange ideas, confront challenges, and share information and solutions

As for the model itself, which is meant to provide information beyond impact analysis, de Weever said that it should be fine-tuned for consistency, user friendliness, adoptability, and sustainability.

Head of Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (DETT) Mrs. Lucy Richardson who chaired the opening further explained about the inception of the Model and the purpose of the conference.

Richardson explained that work on making the model come to fruition started since 2010. Special mention should be given to funding agency USONA, the department's technical partners such as Micromacro Consultants, Kalmera BV and other internal and external partners, for providing the necessary data, and feedback on economic developments and trends.

Richardson indicated that her department is responsible for many things, one of which is the monitoring, evaluating, and forecasting of economic activity. For such, the model is a vital tool, that enhances the process. This conference, which will be an annually event, hosting regional economist, affords us the opportunity to create a platform where we can share expertise on the use and development of macro-economic models and key indicators.

Two presenters from the DETT, Jude Houston and Erika Radjouki presented the macro economic model for St. Maarten, namely, SMAART.

After this presentation, Sara Delgado, a Jr. Consultant with the firm Micromacro Consultants BV, provided information on the Macro/Micro economic model of Cape Verde islands as well as the two economists from Suriname.

cdeweever09012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour, Health, and Social Welfare Cornelius de Weever announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that the resolution for work permits will now be issued in the English Language. Minister De Weever said the change in policy is to facilitate and provide better services to their clients. The Minister said that the new policy goes into effect as of Wednesday January 9th, 2013. Minister de Weever said government realized that most businesses on St. Maarten use the English Language therefore they translated the work permit resolution to accommodate them.

Minister de Weever also announced that there is a survey on the elderly currently ongoing and he is calling on all the elderly persons residing on the island to cooperate with the interviewers when they knock on their doors for information. The Minister said the AOV was recently increased to Naf. 1000.00 and there are those that have concerns on this but he called on the persons that are criticizing to bring along data with them to substantiate their criticisms. Minister de Weever went as far as saying that those persons who believe that the AOV should be the same as that of the Kingdom should meet with the members of the first chamber when they visit the island. He said the elderly that he met thus far are very grateful for the increase they got. He further explained that if they are to work on another increase in the AOV the concerned persons must bring along data so that they can substantiate their claim because St. Maarten as a country has to do things responsibly.

Mental Health Foundation and Turning Point will Receive Temporary Permit.

The Minister of Health also announced on Wednesday that the Mental Health Foundation and Turning Point will receive a Temporary Permit in order for them to provide services. The Minister of Health said that when someone's rights (someone with an episode of mental health and substance abuse) are to be taken away an evaluation has to be conducted by an independent psychiatrist.

The Health Minister further explained that when the Minister of Justice takes a decision on removing someone's rights he must be provided with a report from an independent psychiatrist. Minister de Weever said the Mental Health Foundation doctor cannot be used solely to evaluate clients at the institution. De Weever said he and the Minister of Justice met with all four psychiatrists on St. Maarten and these persons were informed that protocol has to be followed. He said he hired someone who would be working in his Ministry to deal specifically with these cases. The Minister said he also met with the board members of the Mental Health Foundation to inform them on the procedures to which they have agreed.

Minister De Weever said one things he noticed recently at the Mental Health Foundation is that children and adolescents are not seen by the child and adolescents physiatrist. "I personally met with the doctor from Mental Health Foundation and during the time that doctor was there a child was at the institution and the child and adolescents physiatrist was not called and I recommended that should be done. In the end, the child was seen by that specialist and it turned out that the child ended up receiving treatment at the St. Maarten Medical Center." Minister de Weever said that he is aware that the MHF would like to offer different types of services but government has to ensure that the facilities they have are conducive to provide the services they want to provide. The Minister said that there must be secured space for patients to move around when they need to and especially take fresh air. Minister de Weever said Turning Point has much more space and there are also patients that have dual problems, such as mental and the abuse of illegal substances. He dismissed the idea that St. Maarten wants to send its patients to Curacao for treatment when there are facilities locally. He concluded that government has to protect patients and they intend to appoint a lawyer to these patients because they all have their rights.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport has published the Expressions of Interest documents for the new concession plan.

As noted last year, Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company (PJIAE) together with InterVISTAS Consulting Group has developed a concession plan to increase passenger satisfaction, concessionaire sales and airport income. This includes an overhaul of the existing program and features a walk-through duty-free store and a central food court. PJIA currently has 22 retail and seven food & beverage concessions pre- and post-security.

The new concession program is being publicly tendered in a two-phase process. An Expression of Interest (EOI) phase will run from 8 to 24 January 2013. A Request for Proposal (RFP) phase with short-listed candidates will follow from 5 February to 25 March (timings to be confirmed).

There are 24 concession packages, one for each individual concession, ranging from a 1,000sq. meter large walk-through duty-free store to landside food & beverage concessions. Parties may express their interest in multiple packages.

The EOI documents are available for download from the PJIA website at www.pjiae.com.

swescotwilliams09012013Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams shed light on the procedures that have to be followed if the government of St. Maarten needs to add subsidy for a government owned company such as Postal Services St. Maarten (PSS) to its annual budget. Wescot Williams said government owned companies are mentioned in the budget on the dividends, they are supposed to pay to the government of St. Maarten if they make profit. Wescot Williams said that when she heard the budget story regarding government not budgeting anything for PSS she felt that there was some sort of misconception. Wescot Williams said budgeting for government owned companies is a misconception she also made clear that the government of St. Maarten does not have any government owned companies listed in their budget for subsidy. She said if there is a need for government to assist one of its companies then they would have to follow lengthy procedures for this to take place. When asked if there was no possibility to assist PSS knowing that the government owned company was facing its own financial woes, the shareholder representative said it is not as easy as one may want to believe. SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister who is also the shareholder representative what did the government of St. Maarten do to protect its assets that NPNA took away from PSS, Wescot Williams said that St. Maarten is a minority shareholder and if the assets had belonged to St. Maarten then NPNA could not have taken up anything and move with it. "It is not because St. Maarten has a 25% or less shares in NPNA we could have stopped them from taking the vehicles, chairs, and other materials away."

Regarding the resignation of the current director of PSS Denicio Richardson who recently submitted his resignation to the Prime Minister, she acknowledged receipt of the resignation letter but said that the matter has not yet been handled. Wescot Williams refused to say if proper procedures were followed when Richardson was appointed Director of PSS. When asked by SMN News if the government of St. Maarten sought an advice on Richardson from the Corporate Governance Council and if his salary was approved by the council, Wescot Williams said she will not discuss anything regarding the labour dispute with the PSS director. As of now she said no one has been selected to take over from Richardson who is scheduled to leave his position on February 1st, 2013. Wescot Williams said the Supervisory Board still has to deal with Richardson's resignation and the meeting he and his attorney requested.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that St. Maarten was fully aware that St. Maarten would have been cut out of the Border Management System (BMS). "The so-called disconnect did not come totally unexpected. However, the Minister of Justice's views on how the system is set up is very clear to the Council of Ministers. When we informed the other parties that we will not agree to the way Curacao and the Netherlands want to set up the system we were told we would be disconnected. The Minister of Justice is working very hard to pick up from where the system was cut off and move on."

Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News that based on what he has seen with the ongoing disagreement with the joint Central Bank, he did not think it wise for St. Maarten to have another joint agreement. On this point, the Prime Minister said the two issues are totally different and in the case of the joint Central Bank there is an agreement and if parties cannot agree then they must agree to disagree. Wescot- Williams agreed that having all of St. Maarten's information stored in Curacao is not feasible to the country's economy. She insisted that when St. Maarten informed the other partners that the island will not be part of the system they were informed that they will be cut out of it. The Prime Minister further explained that St. Maarten is working with what it has even though it is not an ideal situation. "We do not have a complete system in place but the Ministry of Justice is working on the issue." When asked if the Council of Ministers has the same view as the Minister of Justice with regards to holding the Dutch Government liable for the damages the island suffered during the period of time it was cut off, the Prime Minister said that was not discussed. She said she is in favor of seeking the country's right if they were wronged but she could not say how successful they are going to be on such a mission.

smeyersolivacce12072012I would like to congratulate the minimum wage earners of this country with respect to the annual minimum wage indexation that they will be receiving retroactive to January 1, 2013. This is long overdue and under the UP/DP Government, it was a priority to get this implemented within our term of Government, however, due to a change in government, we still commend the Minister of Labour Cornelius de Weever for seeing this through.

The UP faction also welcomes the increase in the pension for senior citizens; however, we also would like to get information from the Minister responsible Cornelius De Weever with respect to how many pensioners will receive this increase.

The UP faction has taken note of the concerns of the St. Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association First Vice President Raymond Jessurun where he states that the persons who will collect a pension of Naf.1000 are only persons who had been working in the former Netherlands Antilles for 45 years that will be entitled to this maximum amount once it goes into effect.

The UP faction favours the increase in the pension for our seniors as the costs of living impacted by world fuel prices increases prices of goods in the supermarkets. The UP faction will be making use of its right to question the Minister of Social Development with respect to this issue and a letter will be forthcoming via the President of Parliament.

Sylvia Meyers
Interim Faction Leader, Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) Party faction

The Police Traffic Department and the Department of VROMI are informing the general public that in connection with the repairing (resurfacing) of the G.A. Arnell road which is located between the "One Tete Lokay" round- a-bout and the round-a-bout at the top of the Cole Bay Hill, better known as "Link Two" will be closed to all traffic on Wednesday January 9th from 8:00pm until all repairs have taken place. The public is asked to take keen note of this information.

On Tuesday January 8th, a man with initials M.A. reported to the police department that while he was in Nazareth area he was attacked by two very large and extremely aggressive pigs. These pigs were walking close to Amsterdam road and Monrovia drive when the incident occurred. As a result of the attack, the victim sustained minor wounds and bruises which were treated at the Sint Maarten Medical Center. The police dept. was trying to locate the owner(s) of these pigs which are openly roaming the streets of Nazareth but was unable to locate them. The owner(s) of these pigs are advised to have these pigs locked in a pen. Aggressive animals roaming the public roads and endangering the public will not tolerated.

KPSM Police Report

Pointe Blanche:--- On Monday, January 7th, 2012 between 6:00 and 8:00 pm, GEBE's technicians successfully upgraded a switch feeding the main cable to the Pointe Blanche, Monte Vista and Back Bay areas. This upgrade should effectively resolve the power supply issues that residents have been experiencing in these areas during the holidays and return the situation to normal. GEBE will continue to monitor the situation.

The situation needed some time to remedy as GEBE needed to trouble shoot the exact cause of the problem, and to exclude other possible causes, such as cables, protection devices and transformers.

GEBE apologizes for any inconvenience that was caused over the holiday season.

GEBE Press Release

tthompsonandcelshot08012013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday during WICLU's weekly press briefing that she is still awaiting a response from the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs on the meeting she requested to discuss some pertinent issues affecting teachers especially those working in the Public Schools on St. Maarten.

Besides the issues that are affecting teachers, Elshot said there are other issues the union wants to discuss with the Minister pertaining to workers rights on St. Maarten. Elshot further explained that government was working on the legislation to address the Employment Agencies on St. Maarten and to date that has not been finalized. The unions on St. Maarten have some grave concerns with regards to Employment Agencies and their concerns are not being taken into consideration. During the meeting held with the "petit committee" Elshot said they looked at the pros and cons verses the economy on St. Maarten.

The WITU union leader said that when they discussed the issue they took example from the Netherlands regarding Employment Agencies and the role they play. She said right now workers on St. Maarten lack legal protection in the workforce. Elshot said they managed to identify where workers are being employed for ten to sixteen years on a contractual basis. "When these workers requested that they become permanent employees they are being fired and when they seek legal recourse they are not given any satisfaction." Elshot made a special plea to workers on St. Maarten to be unionized so that their labour rights can be protected. She said when this happens the union can move forward with a collective voice on behalf of the workers that are being abused in the work force through the Employment Agencies. Elshot stressed that when workers tackle their issues individually they are being victimized or terminated from their jobs. Elshot further explained that there are too many workers on St. Maarten that are not part of the collective body or a union of their choice.

The WITU president said in most cases workers would consult the unions when they face problems and in those cases it is sometimes too late for the unions to assist them. In 2013, the most critical issue for the unions and the chamber of labour unions is to sensitize workers on St. Maarten and to get the workers in the private sector unionized.

President of Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Union (WICLU) and Workers Institute for Organized Labor (WIFOL) Theophilus Thompson also shared the same sentiments regarding workers that are not unionized on St. Maarten. Thompson said workers that are working in the Indian Stores and Chinese Supermarkets (stores) are not unionized because these businesses hire people from their own origin and this makes it harder for these workers to become unionized. The unionist said that because of that the WIFOL amended its articles of incorporation which allows workers that are interested to join the union individually.

Thompson said some years ago workers working for set of stores in Philipsburg had an issue with their employer and once the union intervened and the matter was resolved. However, two weeks later the owner of the stores outsourced the workers to an Employment Agency. "Some of the workers stood their ground and to date they are working for the owner of the stores while some of the workers left their jobs because they were not interested in working for the Employment Agencies, and some of the workers went ahead with the employer's wishes and registered under the Employment Agency. When asked if the Employment Agencies took on the responsibility of the workers years of service with the company, Thompson said the workers who went ahead and signed contracts with the Employment Agency lost their years of service and other benefits.

The President and Vice President also addressed other issues that are hindering workers such as the registration for the pension fund. Elshot said that APS is now asking persons to provide a document to show that they are still alive. "This document is only required for persons living outside of St. Maarten or for those persons who gave someone a power of attorney to collect their pension."

2013sxmcarnivalcalendar08012013PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has launched the official Carnival 2013 calendar of events which, as the SCDF put it, "takes over" the entire month of April 2013. Sponsored again by long time partner Scotiabank and boasting its new branding logo and slogan "Come, Experience Life", Carnival festivities start as early as April 6, 2013.

The format of the schedule deviates from the customary vertical layout, to a horizontal one, giving the SCDF a little more room for design aspects.

Though Carnival doesn't officially open with the opening of Carnival Village on April 18, the SCDF and its stakeholders and partners has a number of events scheduled prior to the opening of the Village.

The official dates of Carnival 2013 run from April 18 until May 2, when King Momo is burnt. The schedule features five jump ups, three parades, five international concert nights, seven local nights including all four Carnival queen pageants and the biggest local night, the Senior Calypso Finals.

Carnival 2013 will also feature a US $2 Family Fun and Cultural Night with the intention to showcase several cultural acts on in the main stage in Carnival Village while children bouncers and other playful materials fill Carnival Village.

Also on the scheduled are two events not hosted by the SCDF, but supported by the foundation as parts of Carnival. On April 13, Brenda Wathey and Rio Productions will take to the road for the second annual "Lightin Up De Road" lighted parade, which was a major hit last year.

The following day, April 14, Jasmine Philips and Survivors will host for the first time an elementary school balloon parade. "It's important that we get children involved in Carnival through positive Carnival related events, so it's a great initiative by Survivors to host this event," President of the SCDF Mike Granger said.

The international shows are a mix of music genres. Carnival Village kicks off immediately with an Antillean concert on April 19, followed by a Zouk and Compas Concert on April 20. There will also be a Latin Night, a Soca Blend Night and a reggae night by Clarence Derby's CD Entertainment. Derby will stage "Reggae Explosion III" to re-enter the Carnival concert promotion arena after being out a few years.

"In general we are obviously very happy with the lineup and we hope all carnival lovers will be as well. We have gone through months of negotiations with promoters and other stakeholders. We opened registration since September 2012 and closed on December 1, 2012 and we're pleased with registration figures though some shows, such as the road march and soca monarch did not draw sufficient registration to warrant a full show."

Other than that, we have a very exciting schedule of events, we have basically taken over the month of April 2013 for Carnival and we aim to have a fettin' good time," Granger said.

He went on to heap praise on Scotiabank for once again partnering with the SCDF in producing the calendar. "It's always good to have committed corporate sponsors that you can count on. Scotia has been a loyal partners for many years and we are very happy that the bank has decided to once again show its belief in our festival," Granger said.

The SCDF will be "rolling out" several items regarding Carnival 2013 over the next few days. "This is just the beginning," Granger added. SCDF can be contacted by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 5225133. The carnival schedule will be distributed and/or published island wide, regionally and internationally.

The Study Financing Division has extended until January 15, 2013, the submission period of the study financing application forms for the school year 2013. Application forms must be submitted during working hours from 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. at the Division Study Financing, N. de Brot street nr. 3, Vlaun's Building, 2nd floor, (opposite the Post Office) in Philipsburg. After the above mentioned deadline date no new application forms will be accepted. For more information please contact the Division at Tel: 5422363/5423718 ext: 131-134,140, or visit the Government's website at: http://www.study-sxm.org.

Postal Services St. Maarten NV (PSS) recently wrapped up its CHRISTMAS PARCEL SPECIAL in December to the Netherlands and experienced a very good turn out and results with parcels being delivered within as little as three (3) days after leaving St. Maarten, giving our loved ones in the Netherlands a very good and early nice Christmas treat. From feedback received many students and parents were happy that their loved ones received their special package so quick and complete, making their Christmas away from home special thanks to PSS and its team. In return Mr. Richardson and his PSS team hereby thanks all the parents, students, and persons that made use of our special program once more and entrusting your post office to deliver yet again. PSS Management will ensure this special becomes an annual event.

The PSS team worked hard to ensure that all the parcels were properly labelled, stored and secured at its facilities, and finally delivered. All the packages left the island as planned on the two (2) planned dates the 11 and 21 December 2012, for the Netherlands. Many students were pleasantly surprised to receive their boxes in literally days, after leaving the island. In the future PSS will be looking into not only continuing this services but also seeking to expand into other markets where arrangements can be made to ensure delivery is prompt and secured. PSS urges those few if any who are still awaiting their parcels to contact their local Dutch post office to arrange for their delivery to avoid the packages being sent back after a number of failed delivery attempts is made, back to St. Maarten.

Should anyone wish to inquire or get more information in general please feel free to contact our local Post Office at Tel.: +1 721 542 2289 ext. 100 or 127 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PSS and the team again says thank you to the community and we are working to better serve you, by bringing the postal world to your doorsteps.

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes are calling on eyewitnesses to come forward and provide them with information as they investigate the death of homeless man who was attacked on New Year's Day on Rue de Anguilla. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie, a homeless couple was attacked around 5pm.

The couple was attacked by two youths in a passage way not far away from the Anguilla port. The 51 year old unidentified male victim was evacuated to Martinique for further treatment since he received severe injuries to his head. Despite the medical efforts, the man died of his injuries.

Persons that have information on the attack are asked to call 0590 52 30 12.

It is also reported that the female that was with the man at the time of the attack was raped by the two attackers. The woman did not suffer other major injuries. News reports state that the couple was sleeping on the roadsides in Marigot because Le Manteau de Saint Martin did not have any available beds at the time. It is also reported that the woman received some assistance from the Red Cross who later sent her back to her relatives in St. Barths.

rodolphesamuelwithdutchfirstchambermembers08012013PHILIPSBURG:--- In a reaction to a news report on Tuesday that an invitation may be needed to attend a meet and greet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament on Thursday, January 10, President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel said on Tuesday that everybody is invited, an invitation is not needed.

The public can meet with Dutch MPs at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

President Samuel said on Tuesday that this is also an opportunity for business representative organizations and labour groups, as well as Non-Governmental Organizations to meet and greet the MPs.

Between 2013 and 2015, the 200 years existence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands will be celebrated with a range of activities.

This is one of the reasons to remember the joint history, present and future of the Kingdom in all its diversity, President Samuel acknowledges.

"The three areas that I plan on bringing up with Dutch MPs are the future positions of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the partners that make-up the Kingdom.

"With respect to Kingdom inhabitants, how the Kingdom will evolve for Caribbean Kingdom inhabitants, and thirdly, the future economy of the Kingdom, how the various partners can advance together and make use of the opportunities.

"It is good that the common man has an opportunity to discuss these and other issues relevant to them at such the meet and greet event," President Rodolphe Samuel pointed out.

changequarter08012013Marigot:--- A lone courier who was about to transport Euros 20,000.00 from the Change Point in French Quarter (Change Quarter) was robbed shortly after 9am on Tuesday morning. SMN News learnt that the courier was about to leave the business place on a motorcycle taking the large sum of monies with him in a back-pack when he was attacked by two masked men at gun point. SMN News learnt that the courier was supposed to take the monies to deposit at a bank in Marigot.

An eyewitness to the early morning robbery said the robbers were inside a car bearing French number plates. The eyewitness who preferred to remain anonymous said that the bandits knocked the courier to the ground as he was about to get on his motorcycle. After committing the attack the two gunmen escaped towards the border leading up to the Belvedere area. No details on the color and make of the escape vehicle were provided.

The armed robbery occurred outside of the establishment leaving the lone female employee inside in shock and despair.

The employee told SMN News that the incident occurred outside and she did not see what happened. She said Change Quarter has cameras inside the building but not outside.
Change Quarter has been operating in French Quarter for about two years now. The owner of the money exchange business also owns a Change Point in Marigot. Despite the armed robbery, the business place remained open on Tuesday and conducted business as usual.

Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille confirmed the armed robbery occurred early Tuesday morning in French Quarter but refused to divulge any information on the ongoing investigation which he said is conducted by the Bridgade de Recherche.

claudewatheystamp07012013Mr. Denicio Richardson on behalf of Postal Services St. Maarten NV is proud to have selected the late Dr. Claude Wathey and Vance James Jr. to be featured as the first two local heroes to be followed by others in the future, in its first upcoming set of local hero stamps for country St. Maarten. The stamps are currently in production and will be made available for sale very soon in the early part of the year. As stamps serve as ambassadors for its country to the world, PSS found it an honor to the faces of these two great men, to travel the corners of the world and ensure their legacy lives on and who contributed so much to our country development. This series of stamps will compliment a list of collectors stamps that are already in place and available at our post office, for purchase.

The themes that PSS will be making available for 2013 includes: Churches, Birds, Heroes, SXM Scenes, Butterflies, Boy Scouts, 200th Anniversary of the Dutch Kingdom, Classic Boats, Light houses, Chess and Classic Paintings. These themes will form the stamp collectors for PSS for the year 2013.

PSS is urging all stamp collectors, children and adults to come by and view what all stamps PSS has available and for purchase and from time to time will be promoting the addition of new sets. PSS remains open to promote special large events with its stamps and designs.

vancejames07012013Mr. Richardson and the postal service family (PSS) hereby thank the community for its continued support and wish all a prosperous 2013 from the management and staff.

For more information please contact your local post office at Tel. 542-2289 or 545 3782 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams confirms that the launching of the Governing Program, which was scheduled for Wednesday, the 9th of January, has been postponed due to the absence of three key Ministers. The Prime Minister stated earlier that the launch might be postponed due to the absence of the ministers who would be presenting at the launch. The new date set for the launch is January 16.

The launching of the Governing Program will feature presentations from each Minister about the elements from their respective Ministries laid out in the Governing Program. There will also be opportunities for invited guests to interact with each Minister to discuss the various programs and projects that are outlined in the GP.

The Prime Minister will also be presenting a copy of the Governing Program to the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday and to President of Parliament the Hon. Rodolphe E. Samuel.

Some one hundred guests are expected to attend the official launching of the Governing Program. The launch will also feature updates on various social media sites and extensive coverage to inform the public of St. Maarten of the content of the program.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

sxmmarineislandprofile07012013The establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park through the combination of economic and scientific research has been highlighted as one of the few examples of success in the Caribbean Region, according to a report from the World Resources Institute (WRI) released in December. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation conducted an Economic Valuation Study on St. Maarten's coral reef ecosystems some two years ago, which was used as one of the driving factors behind the establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. The study sought to place a monetary estimate on the coral reefs surrounding the island. Based on the research conducted by the Nature Foundation, with the assistance of the United Nations' Environment Program (UNEP) and the World Resources Institute (WRI), St. Maarten's Coral Reefs were estimated to be worth a total of $57, 742, 997 in contributions to the economy of St. Maarten and placed the emphasis on the need to protect them.
According to the WRI Report, Governments, corporations, and development agencies are increasingly interested in putting a dollar value on ecosystems in order to balance conservation and development needs, a concept known as economic valuation. "St. Maarten's government recently established the country's first national park after a local organization, the Nature Foundation, found that the area's coastal ecosystems contribute $58 million per year through tourism and fisheries," stated a release from the WRI. Other studies also listed as having positive outcomes were from Belize, which enacted a host of new fishing regulations based on a WRI valuation, which found that coral reef- and mangrove-associated tourism contributes $150 million-$196 million per year to the country's economy. And from Bonaire, where park managers used economic valuation to justify the Bonaire Marine Park's establishment of user fees—making it one of the few self-financed marine parks in the Caribbean. "These stories show that economic valuation can indeed lead to better coastal policy, conserving these ecosystems and securing their important economic contributions. However, according to new WRI research, these cases tend to be the exception in the Caribbean," read a statement from the WRI.
The World Resources Institute (WRI) is an environmental think tank founded in 1982 and is based in Washington, D.C. in the United States. WRI is an independent, non-partisan and nonprofit organization with a staff of more than 100 scientists, economists, policy experts, business analysts, statistical analysts, mapmakers, and communicators developing and promoting policies with the intention of protecting the Earth and improving people's lives.

The Man of War Shoal Marine Park includes globally threatened coral reef as well as seagrass ecosystems. The marine Park is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species, all of which range from Critically Endangered or Endangered. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation manages the Man of War Shoal Marine Park.

bluemall07012013PHILIPSBURG:--- What is projected to become one of the most upscale and exclusive shopping areas in the Caribbean just surfaced with the opening of the Blue Mall shopping center in Cupecoy, St. Maarten (www.VacationStMaarten.com). Convenient to both the French and Dutch sides of the island and away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, the mall's soft launch featured the opening of six stores - Enjoy SXM, Fashion and Chic, Swarovski, Swatch Watches, Bacchus and Yogen Fru.

Additionally, Blue Mall will open more stores and other amenities through the first quarter of 2013.

Offering a unique and unparalleled shopping experience in the Caribbean, the Blue Mall shopping facility combines modern architecture with the openness of the region's lifestyle.

"St. Maarten is already a shopper's paradise offering guests duty-free shopping and an abundant assortment of stores," said Edward Dest, interim Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "The opening of Blue Mall further solidifies the island as a shopping capital to both our visitors and residents with over 110,000 square feet of merchandise and dining."
Blue Mall, located at 162 Rhine Road, Cupecoy, St. Maarten, is easily accessible from the French side of the island via Terre Basses and is just a short distance from Princess Juliana International Airport, Mullet Bay Beach and Cupecoy Beach.

rolandtuitt07012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Monday during an extra-ordinary press conference that vehicle owners can begin paying their road taxes immediately. Minister Tuitt said the road taxes can be paid directly at the Receiver's Office, at the various banks, or via e-banking. Minister Tuitt said that nothing much has changed.

However, persons who choose to do their payments via the bank or e-banking would have to answer some supplementary questions. Those paying via the bank and e-banking would have to fill in their names, address, date of birth, identification number, crib number, license plate number, and the type and model of vehicle.

Minister Tuitt said while the new system is into effect, the law on the changes is not yet finalized. He said just recently the advisory council submitted their advice to government and as soon as the adjustments are made to the new law it will be sent to Parliament for their approval. Tuitt made clear that even though the law is not yet finalized owners of vehicles can pay their road taxes as of now.


Tuitt Attacks UP Leader Theo Heyliger --- "Theonomics".

The Minister of Finance also took several jabs at the leader of the United Peoples Party whom he said has become very active these past few days. Tuitt said the UP party is very vocal since the opening of the New Year by spreading "doom" for the island. Tuitt said in reaction to what the UP party is saying he has coined a new term for the UP leader Theodore Heyliger, that new term is "Theonomics."

Tuitt said "Theonomics" is built on certain pillars such as imposing more taxes on the people of St. Maarten. Tuitt explained that proof of that could be seen when the UP/DP Government increased TOT from 3% to 5% while they were in office. The Finance Minister said another pillar of Theonomics is creating budget deficits. In the year 2010, the budget deficit was over 30 million guilders, the year 2011 was also over 30 million guilders. Tuitt said for the year 2010 St. Maarten got a windfall with the debt relief from the Netherlands and that was the reason there is a profit of 30 million guilders on the records. The Finance Minister said if the figures are taken as is then one would realize that "Theonomics" has created a debt of 30 million guilders. The Finance Minister continued his explanations of Theonomics by saying they created a bridge to nowhere which will cost each taxpayer $1,342.00. That figure he said he based on a quick calculation if there are 38,000 people residing on the island. Tuitt said the bridge to nowhere has also created an increase in harbor fees which is passed on to the consumers (the common man) that are suffering due to the high prices. The increase on goods and services Tuitt said is directly linked to the bridge to nowhere. Tuitt said when the bridge is completed each taxpayer can say that the bridge to nowhere has cost them $1,342. 00. Tuitt said because of Theonomics the debt of country St. Maarten has increased even though they placed the 51 million dollars the bridge will cost under a separate entity (NV) it is the responsibility of government indirectly especially regarding the loan for the bridge to nowhere. The cost of building this bridge Tuitt said increased the debts the government of St. Maarten has by 51 million dollars. The Finance Minister said when he took office in May 2012 one of the first things he looked at was the insurance and that was placed on public bidding. Due to this procedure, the premiums for vehicles went down by more than 50%. Tuitt said the question now is how was it possible that the premium for vehicles under the UP/DP Government (Theonomics) was double. Tuitt said he wants to know why the UP leader and the UP government did not save the people's money when they were in office. Tuitt said the current government National Alliance/Democratic Party/IND also placed the insurance for the government buildings on bidding and there again they managed to have all the government buildings including the police station insured for the same amount they UP/DP was paying for half the amount of buildings they insured. Tuitt said right now the NA/DP/IND have double the amount of buildings insured for the same price.

 

COLA Payments to Pensioners Realized.

The Minister of Finance also announced on Monday that the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for pensioners were paid before the ending of 2012. Tuitt said the Coast Guards did not receive their COLA payments as yet because there is a technicality with the Coast Guards that has to be regulated before they could receive the additional payments. The Finance Minister said that St. Maarten has to safeguard an agreement with the Dutch Government and when that is finalized then the salary structure for the Coast Guards will be adjusted.

 

2013 Budget not yet Approved by CFT --- CFT Asks More Questions.

Finance Minister Roland Tuitt said due to some technical issues, the CFT issued a negative advice on the draft budget of 2013. Tuitt said the information his Ministry sent to the CFT was sent late, which was after the CFT made their decision. He said right now the CFT is taking the additional information that was provided to them into consideration after which they would adapt their advice hopefully by next week. Tuitt said the CFT posed questions on the compliance issue but his contention with the CFT is that the current government has an aim which is to increase compliance by 10%. Tuitt said if compliance is increased on a budget of 476 million then the compliance increase will be to the tune of 48 million. He said even though government is aiming at increasing compliance by 10% they only budgeted 20 million for the increase of tax compliance which is less than half they are aiming to collect. He said that with that kind of figures it is clear that after the calculation is done they actually increased compliance by less that 5% in the budget. "The figure might sound big but realistically it's less than 5% of the budget. We are putting structures in place for the increase of tax compliance and various reports were submitted to show how the collection process will take place. These reports were sent to the CFT so they can see how government intends to collect the monies they budgeted for compliance. Tuitt said with the additional information provided to the CFT he hopes that they will change their opinion and advice. The Finance Minister further explained that the CFT believes that St. Maarten should cut the amount by half. He said that the CFT is a bit hesitant because St. Maarten acted like a "rude child" in the past. He said he already indicated to the CFT that the government now in office is not the same and they have a different vision, therefore they should be treated as new and not be blamed for what happened in the past. Tuitt said last year the CFT approved the 20 million that was to be collected on the condominium taxes and they got burned and now they are saying they don't want to get burned again. Tuitt said the increase in compliance is far different from trying to collect monies from foreign real estate owners. Tuitt said even though St. Maarten did not place much focus on compliance they managed to increase their tax compliance by 6 million guilders. He said in actuality the current discussion with the compliance boils down to four million because the CFT themselves believe that St. Maarten could budget 10 million for tax compliance.

The Finance Minister made clear that budgets are estimates and it also based on assumptions and risks must be taken when dealing with assumptions. He said in accounting these risks have to be calculated risks, therefore tolerance has to be exercised based on what is documented.

Tuitt said his government ensured that taxes were not increased neither would the common man will be affected. Tuitt said when government was looking for revenues they looked at the casinos, and taxing alcohol and tobacco sales while increasing tax compliance. Tuitt said that his government protected the common man and instead has been looking for more relief for the people. The Finance Minister further explained that government is currently working on a plan to bring about more relief for people that are making salaries of Naf. 5000.00 or less. He said government is also looking for ways to decrease GEBE prices and other prices within the economy. When asked when the budget will process will be finalized with the CFT so that it can be taken to Parliament, Tuitt said that government has until this Friday to react since the letter was sent to the Kingdom Council. He said the CFT sent him another 16 questions and the answers will be provided early this week so that they could amend their advice.

Tuitt Yet to Respond to SOAB Report on TAXAND.

In relation to the TAXAND investigation, Tuitt told SMN News that he did not send his reaction to the SOAB as yet on their drafted report. He said he was tied up with the budget and the CFT but hopefully by next week he will be able to send his reactions to the SOAB so they could issue their final report. When all of this completed the TAXAND saga will be handled in the Council of Ministers by the end of January 2013.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- Preparations are well under way for the public to have the opportunity to meet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, also known as the Senate, who will be on the island January 10 to meet the public at an open event.

"I am very pleased," said President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel on Monday that the community will have the opportunity to talk with Dutch Members of Parliament (MPs).

The public can meet with Dutch MPs on Thursday, January 10 at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

Since Kingdom laws are directly applicable on Sint Maarten and the policies of the Kingdom Government directly impact Sint Maarten, this means that the First Chamber has a great influence on the lives of the people of Sint Maarten, President Samuel pointed out on Monday.

"It is with this mind-set that this session is being held. This is an opportunity for a personal meeting with the Members of the First Chamber, where Members can hear for example about the new political structure introduced on October 10, 2010, the experience with respect to the relationship between Sint Maarten, the Netherlands and in particularly with Sint Eustatius and Saba, and any other topic that may arise.

"The Members of the First Chamber are looking forward to an open and constructive exchange of views with the people of Sint Maarten," President Samuel added.

One of the issues that the community can discuss with Dutch MPs is the new Dutch Government's intention to present a law to apply the same residency registration rules in the Netherlands for people from Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten as overseas countries have for Dutch people who want to reside on the islands.

One of the requirements is that individuals from the aforementioned islands would have to provide proof of good conduct; they must have a degree/diploma; they should have work or sufficient income to support them while in the Netherlands.

The aim is to submit the initiative law in January 2013.

smeyersolivacce12072012I have taken note of the recent statements made mid-week by the Hon. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan with respect to crime where it is down. If this is indeed the case, I take this opportunity to commend the men and women in law enforcement for a job well done.

The UP parliamentary faction is very much interested in receiving the 2012 statistics on crime and other relevant information, and we will be requesting these and seeking information with respect to 2013 crime fighting initiatives by our law enforcement entities.

We will share this information with the public as transparency is very important and the public has the right to know.

We would like to know what the Police, Immigration & Naturalization Services, Customs, and Coast Guard to start with, are doing for 2013 to combat crime and keep our community safe throughout the year.

The UP parliamentary faction favours a proactive approach to fighting crime where prevention is the number one deterrent.

The UP faction has also taken note of a newspaper article on Friday in one of the daily papers where the story alleges information received from anonymous sources, that border control and security is a major concern at a port(s) of entry.

Border security is one of the main elements in keeping our Sint Maarten communities safe from outside criminal elements. Government already went through a process of offering a form of amnesty, granting legal status to thousands of undocumented persons two years ago.

The country cannot afford to go through a similar exercise again. We cannot allow once again persons to come in without being recorded in order to make sure that they leave when they are due to leave. We need to protect jobs and opportunities for our people and can no longer support feeding the rest of the world.

The former Federal Government of the Netherlands Antilles Ministry of Justice neglected the island territory for years when we formed part of that constellation. Today, it's a different story; it's our responsibility and the buck stops here with us!

Persons who come for legitimate work and are willing to contribute to the economy by paying their fair share, are willing to contribute to the positive development of our society are more than welcome, especially in the case where no local expertise can be found.

Another area of great concern to our community is the stealing of vehicles for parts. The UP parliamentary faction would like to know what measures are being taken to deal with this. We have been hearing about this for a long time and we need to know if any progress is being made. We hear that these vehicles are stripped and then the parts are shipped off island. How are they shipped out? Where are they being shipped too? Are our law enforcement authorities working with others from the destination countries where the parts are being sold?

Hon. Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Interim Faction Leader
Member of Parliament

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever says he welcomes the news of the new regional health organization, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) starting with its formal operations on January 1.

CARPHA has been created by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) with support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) and international partners including Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.

CARPHA's work will be aligned with the principles of the Caribbean Cooperation in Health (CCH III) initiative, which seeks to improve the health of the people of the Caribbean and reduce the risks of disease, injury, and disability.

Minister De Weever says that the principles of the Caribbean Cooperation in Health are also in line with his 'Get Checked' campaign to improve the welfare and health of the people of Sint Maarten, and that the Ministry of Public Health will be making use of CARPHA's capacities for the country.

At CARPHA's Board of Directors meeting in Trinidad last week, the appointment of Dr. James Hospedales was announced as the agency's new Executive Director. Hospedales is a former director of CAREC and currently senior advisor on prevention and control of chronic diseases at PAHO/WHO.

Last September Minister De Weever met with several CARICOM Ministers of Public Health who attended a PAHO meeting regarding CARPHA. "I understand their objective, because the Caribbean as a region has and may have unique health priorities. It is important that they have a united voice when addressing international health initiatives," Minister of Cornelius de Weever stated last September.

CARPHA will facilitate public health research to address common health problems in the region, including the rising epidemic of chronic non-communicable diseases, violence and injuries, and emerging and re-emerging diseases such as tuberculosis-HIV co-infection.

CARPHA comprises of the merging of operations of five regional health institutions: the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC), the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute (CFNI), the Caribbean Health Research Council (CHRC), the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI), and the Caribbean Regional Drug Testing Laboratory (CRDTL).

CARPHA was legally established on 2 July 2011 through an inter-governmental agreement signed by CARICOM Member States.

CARPHA is based in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and will be located initially at the current CAREC site, but is expected to move to new premises in Coura, St. Augustine, Trinidad, by the beginning of 2015.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Christmas holidays have come and gone and thousands of school children are back in school since last week Thursday.

This is the first full week of school and work for many others as well, and the School Busing & Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs, reminds motorists to drive safely.

School Bus Section Inspection Head Martha Thewet says she is calling on all motorists to observe the traffic rules, and of course it is always important to drive cautiously in and around school zones.

Heavy equipment is prohibited from operating during 6:30am to 8:30am and 12:00pm to 2:00pm.

The School Bus Inspection section is also appealing to parents to speak with their children about proper behavior while being transported on a school bus to and from school.

This is a New Year and everybody's cooperation is necessary in order to make this a safe busing experience for the hundreds of children that travel via bus to school.

annmarielynch02012013Philipsburg:--- The friends, co-workers, and a church team that organized the search for their missing colleague and friend has issued a strong call to the community of St. Maarten to join them in their search mission for Annemarie Lynch (41) who went missing since December 22nd, 2012. Another search will be held on Sunday January 6th, 2013 starting at 1pm. Persons that are interested in joining the search should gather at the Peiking Restaurant in Cole Bay.

A small team of people mostly from the Jamaican community held a search on Saturday January 5th, 2013. The search team gathered at the Le Grand Marche parking lot and from there they were taken by bus to Cupe Coy Beach.

One of the persons on the team told SMN News that they searched Mullet Bay Beach, Cupe Coy Beach, and lastly they went to Cay Bay Beach to search. The woman who has been residing on St. Maarten for a number of years said the small group of people that joined the search combed the areas where they search. She said she was not looking for a body instead she was looking for evidence such as the missing woman's clothing and other items that might help police with their investigation. "In my opinion, the body has decayed so we need to find things that would lead police to where Annmarie Lynch was last seen or taken." Among those searching was the woman's boyfriend whom the co-workers believe is responsible for her disappearance.

The woman who preferred to remain anonymous said she does not know Annmarie Lynch that well. She said she met her once while performing her work. "As a mother and Jamaican when I heard of this search I decided to join the group of people that are making every effort to find the missing woman." She said when they were combing Cay Bay beach she found a black stretch jeans pants resembling the one that Annmarie Lynch wore the night she went missing. Not far away they also saw a location where a fire was lit. The woman said one of the co-workers managed to identify the pants to be of the same size as Annmarie Lynch. The woman said a child found an earring but they dismissed it because the co-workers did not believe their friend and colleague wore that earring on the night she went missing.
The searchers said that they made sure they picked up the pants with a plastic bag and placed it in another plastic bag and turned it over to police. "When the police were notified they came to the scene and they also saw the fire. It appears to us that the person who did something to Annemarie Lynch tried to dispose of her clothing by burning it but the pants apparently fell down and that person did not know that." The woman said when the pants was found the boyfriend was walking alongside the beach and when she saw the pants she called everyone and that is how they managed to identify the pants which they strongly believe belongs to the missing woman.

One of the co-workers said that they want to make clear that Annmarie Lynch did not leave St. Maarten to travel to St. Thomas and the news that is being published that the woman might have fled to St. Thomas is completely false and it is also discouraging other people from joining the search team.

When SMN News asked how much money had caused the feud between her and her boyfriend, the woman said that she believes that Annmarie Lynch was involved in "partner hands" and she probably got the last and first draw shortly before the Christmas holidays. Besides that, she said Annmarie is someone who likes to save her money and while people are saying it is a large sum of money the missing woman had, she believes it to somewhere around three to four thousand dollars. Annmarie Lynch is an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant.

I was pleased to have learnt that the staff members of the Meteorological Department St. Maarten (MDS) as of January 1, 2013, have taken over meteorological services and the issuing of weather forecasts.

I was Minister at the time who signed the service level agreement with Curacao for continuation of services until we were able to build up our own human resources. This is a very important moment for the country as the MDS provides very important services to the aviation and boating sectors, as well as our brothers and sisters such as St. Eustatius and Saba, and the St. Maarten community overall.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the management and staff of MDS, and wish them much success throughout 2013. I am very proud of them and with what they have been able to achieve in order for us to be able to run our own met office.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish the people of our country a Happy New Year. I call on our community to focus on what we can achieve together in 2013. Our country has achieved significantly in many areas over the past 40 years. There is still much to be done, and together we can achieve those objectives by working together.

To all St. Maarteners, at home and abroad, on behalf of my family, and the UP party family, we wish you a healthy year and abundant success.

Former United Peoples (UP) party Minister responsible for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Franklin Meyers.

MARIGOT:--- Two individuals, one aged 15 years and the other 18 years, were transferred to Guadeloupe on Friday to face charges of committing a series of armed robberies at the end of December. The 15-year-old, a resident of Sandy Ground, was arrested by Gendarmes following an attempted burglary at a house in Baie Nettle on December 31 at 3:50pm. The occupant of the house however managed to scare the thief away.
The subsequent investigation revealed that this same individual had taken part in three armed robberies previously. They included: Theft of an electronic multi-media item on the public road in Lowlands on December 29 at 4:40pm. The thief got away on a scooter.
The attempted snatching of a handbag in Anse Marcel on December 29 at 10:30pm by two individuals on a scooter and armed with a gun, knife, and distress flare. The thieves took flight due to vigorous resistance by the victim.
The theft of car keys and money on Sunday December 30 at 5:45pm belonging to a motorist parked in Baie Nettle. The thief was armed with a gun and also stole the victim's vehicle.
The 15-year-old suspect, is believed to have been involved in three of the armed robberies, and the 18-year-old who attempted the robbery in Anse Marcel, were taken into custody. Under questioning they admitted to their involvement in the above crimes.
The Gendarmerie indicated the multi-media item and the stolen car had been found and returned to their rightful owners.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is calling on the community to implement dengue preventive measures due to recent early morning rainfall.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with CPS's appeal for residents and business owners, to check in and around their homes and businesses in order to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito, which has the potential to transmit dengue and chikungunya fever.

Last year March dengue and severe dengue were a public health concern in the Region of the Americas. Despite Member States' efforts to contain and mitigate the dengue epidemics, in the past two years at that time, some of the countries in the Region have surpassed their historic record of cases and deaths.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is an emerging, mosquito-borne disease caused by an alphavirus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV).

Although indigenous transmission of CHIKV does not occur in the Americas now, the risk for its introduction into local vector mosquito populations is likely higher than had previously been thought, especially in tropical and subtropical areas where Ae. Aegypti, of the main vectors of CHIKV, has a broad distribution.

Clear stagnant water in old tires and other types of debris in yards can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

CPS is therefore advising residents to take immediate measures after rain events to make sure there is no clear/clean stagnant water in their yards; disposing of responsibly old tires, empty drums, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.

An increase in the mosquito population puts residents at risk. In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these covered. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquito breeding.

rolandduncan04012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan brought clarity to what is said in the community of St. Maarten when it comes to the issuance of visa waivers to exotic clubs and certain residents on the island.

Recently, SMN News was contacted when a few young women from the Dominican Republic tried to seek refuge at the homes of various women claiming that they were brought to the island by certain men and were being used as "sex slaves". When SMN News was contacted the young girls who were afraid to come forward openly said certain older men on St. Maarten managed to obtain visa waivers for them and they came here with the intention of working as housemaids. SMN News also learnt that the visa waivers are being signed by the Minister's daughter who is working in the Department of Foreign Affairs. On Friday during an interview with the Minister of Justice SMN News asked the Minister about the issuance of visa waivers, whom it is being issued to, and who signs these waivers. The Minister made clear that his daughter does work in the Department of Foreign Affairs within his Ministry but she does not sign off on visa waivers. Minister Duncan said when his daughter used to work in his cabinet she worked on the visa waivers and she also did work for foreign affairs because the department was not yet established. He said when the foreign affairs department was established his daughter left his cabinet and went over to Foreign Affairs because she likes the job. "My daughter does work on the visa waivers but she does not sign them. She makes up the advices but I am the one that signs those documents or the Director of IND who is mandated to sign on my behalf."

The Minister said the only person who is mandated to sign documents on his behalf is the Director of IND Udo Aron. Duncan said visa waivers are issued under extra-ordinary conditions and if someone was brought in and is used as a sex slave then he believes that these matters should be reported to the police because it becomes slavery. Besides that, the Minister of Justice said that visa waivers are issued for a period of three months and not longer.

The Minister further stated that when the new penal code is implemented prostitution will no longer be an illegal act. Persons who want to have sex in exchange for money would have to obtain a license from the Ministry of Justice. In explaining the new policy Minister Duncan said that when someone gets such a permit and they turn it into a business then that becomes a crime (illegal). He said the former Lt. Governor used to issue these permits but he is now refining the law.

"I Don't Own a Whore House" --- Duncan.

The Justice Minister also reacted to the allegations that he owns a house of prostitution and was recently condemned. The Minister denounced the story saying that he does not own a "whore house" he said he invested 37 years of his life in his law firm and he has certain businesses that his company Duncan, Brandon, and Hover established. The Minister felt that there is no conflict of interest involved in what he owns and what he does because he is not the one running his law firm.

The Minister said his pension fund is his savings and he does not need to be in government to survive. Duncan said he is opinion that the reporter and editor of the TODAY Newspaper has something personal against him because he is on a mission to bring him down.

He said just recently when his son in law was arrested the reporter in his reports indicated that they are on the lookout to see if he pulls the plug on the Piranha investigation. Duncan said that the Dutch people in the Netherlands and on St. Maarten hate him because they cannot manipulate him.

Attorney General should "Piss or get off the Pot".

The Minister of Justice also made clear that he has no intention of getting involved in personal cases but he already indicated to the Attorney General both on St. Maarten and Curacao to either "piss or get off the pot" because they would have to give accountability for the monies they spend. He further explained that the national detectives have too many cases lying in their office and he is not happy with their performance. SMN News also asked the Minister about the Election Fraud case that involves four police officers and the United Peoples Party and the so-called case they have against former Minister of Health and Labour Maria Buncamper Molanus. Duncan said it is because of these cases he indicated to the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein to have the national detectives and the Prosecutor's Office to either piss or get off the pot because these cases are pending for a very long time.

Another issue the Ministry is dealing with is the RST and who would be fully managing the RST. Duncan said the RST will be evaluated sometime next year and that for him will be a major issue. When asked why the RST and the Police does not have the same management, the Minister said that is one of the concerns that he is currently dealing with because while the RST claims to have certain experts, the two entities are functioning separately. Duncan said to date the RST's budget has not been approved and this will be dealt with shortly.

passportscanningatpjiae04012013Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan admitted on Friday that a civil servant on Curacao blocked St. Maarten from fully accessing the Border Management System (BMS) since November 24th, 2012 because he (Duncan) refused to participate in a new system Curacao wants to implement. Minister Duncan made the clarifications on Friday after an article was published by a reporter and editor whom he called a "Dutch Stooge". Minister Duncan said the reporter in question is anti-government and he is also doing the dirty work of the Dutch Government which in his opinion is to create panic on the island. While St. Maarten was blocked from accessing the BMS system which is in Curacao, immigration officers operating at the Princess Juliana International Airport are still able to scan the passports of everyone that enters and leaves the island. Head of Immigration Geronimo Juliet and Director of IND Udo Aron accompanied SMN News reporter to the Princess Juliana International Airport and showed us that the scanning of passports is done and the information is now stored locally, it is no longer sent to Curacao as was the case prior to November 24th, 2012. Immigration officers are still able to scan all machine readable passports, they are able to detect if a person is listed on a watch list, and if the travel document the visitor is using is authentic.
As a matter of fact, SMN News reporter had the immigration officers scan her passport since it is often times difficult for certain countries to access information from French Passports for the protection of the person's personal information under human right laws. SMN News reporter also saw a passport that a national of Israel bought online and managed to use at least three times when the BMS system was fully operational. That passport was confiscated in November 2012. According to information from the confiscated passport, the Passport was purchased online and has on its cover "World Government of World Citizens/Passport Mondial" the person used the passport on June 7th, 2010 and April 7th, 2011 and also on November 16th, 2009. It should be noted that in 2009 the BMS system was not yet installed, but in 2010 and 2011 the BMS system was fully operational on St. Maarten and the system did not detect the passport to be fraudulent and bogus. An immigration officer said a traveler was in possession of a temporary resident permit which he obtained with his authentic passport and he is the person who used the bogus passport that was confiscated in November 2012.
Director of IND Udo Aron said St. Maarten and its Kingdom partners had some disagreements on how the system will be managed and country St. Maarten had to pay too much monies to maintain the system in Curacao. Aron explained that the Minister Justice could not agree to such a system because all the information and knowledge stays in Curacao. Aron said with this system it is time consuming for the travelers who have to wait in long lines for processing while St. Maarten wants to have its own database locally. Aaron further noted that St. Maarten is willing to share information with its Kingdom partners but the Minister of Justice refuses to allow Curacao to have access and store information for all its visitors. Aron further explained that St. Maarten is not able to access the system to see how often a person travels. "While we have that information on an image file we do not have it in a printable format." Aron said what is available to St. Maarten now is enough for border protection but third parties such as the police and prosecutor office can be hampered especially if they are interested in someone who might be suspected of a crime.

As for blocking St. Maarten out of the BMS, Minister Duncan said that Curacao wants to implement a new system which would cost almost Naf.10,000,000.00 (ten million guilders) to set up, of which one million would be for salaries. The new system will cost the two countries Naf. 551, 000.00 annually for operational cost. This system that Curacao and the Dutch government want to set up will be installed in Curacao and St. Maarten would have to continue sending all its information to Curacao. Minister Duncan said that is illegal because St. Maarten is not supposed to make travelers information available to third parties, he said St. Maarten does have an agreement with its Kingdom partners to share police information but not store or control information. Furthermore, St. Maarten has an agreement with Anguilla and St. Barthelemy as well as the Franco/Dutch treaty and it is impossible for St. Maarten to send visitors' information to Curacao for storage and not have full access. "Curacao and the BES islands are competitors to St. Maarten's tourism industry and I cannot and will not give them all information pertaining to the amount of visitors we get as long as I am the Minister of Justice on St. Maarten. In the beginning I agreed to use the same software and to continue to exchange information but that was not good enough."

The Minister of Justice said that in 2010 an agreement was signed where St. Maarten would share police information; however, there is a law on privacy therefore it is impossible for him as Minister of Justice to agree to give any and everyone access to people's information. He said prior to 10/10/10 the ICT and the servers are on Curacao and since St. Maarten became a country he wants St. Maarten to have its own ICT system with a server on the island that can serve as a backup to the one in Curacao.

He said when data is sent to Curacao it is managed by Curacao and St. Maarten never had full access to information because the island was only a client. To gather information from the database it can only be done by certain queries (pre-determined) the Minister explained. Minister Duncan said he proposed that St. Maarten which now a country within the Kingdom should have its own database and a server which would serve as a backup to the one in Curacao while he will continue to share information with the Kingdom partners as agreed upon but the Dutch and Curacao declined his proposal. Duncan said there was another agreement made which was to have quarter masters appointed to set up a new system that would cooperate with each other but the quarter masters were never appointed. He said someone by the name of Klass de Jhong is the coordinator for the plan veiligheid (safety plan). Duncan said the ICT system was financed by the plan veiligheid which is the Dutch funding which was in the Netherlands Antilles. He said at the end of 2011 the plan veiligheid ceased and the monies had to be shared up among the islands, namely St. Maarten, Curacao, and the BES islands. Duncan further explained that de Jhong was supposed to do a detail accounting but that too was not properly done. He said while the Netherlands Antilles no longer exists one of the heirs cannot decide to do what they want with the monies. However, in this case Holland did on behalf of the BES and Curacao agreed because what is to be done is again benefiting Curacao. He said he objected because as shareholder he wants to be able to appoint his own people simply because he does not trust de Jhong. Minister Duncan said de Jhong went on his own and set up a new company (NV) who will continue with the management of the ICT system.

Minister Duncan made clear that St. Maarten was deliberately cut off from the system on November 24th, 2012 by a civil servant whom he believes received direct orders from the Netherlands. Duncan said that he is sending the Dutch government a letter to inform them that he will hold them liable for the damages they caused the island. Even though St. Maarten was blocked since November 24th, 2012, the Minister said he did not send that letter out as yet, and he did not file a lawsuit against the Dutch Government as yet. However, he did inform the Council of Ministers and Parliament about the actions taken by Curacao. The Minister of Justice said he did not publicize the information because he believes that the media on St. Maarten is biased and when the news was finally leaked by someone, the newspaper and reporter that wrote the story did not seek thorough information before publishing it.

Minister Duncan said he believes that the civil servant received instructions from someone or some Ministers from the Dutch Kingdom Council of Ministers. Duncan said that the Immigration Department at IND building and the BMS was cut off intentionally one night after he was officially notified that the intention is to cut St. Maarten out of the system. The Minister said cutting St. Maarten out from the BES intentionally is blackmail and manipulation tactics that were used by the Dutch and Curacao to bring St. Maarten to its knees but that did not happen.

Minister Duncan said the Dutch and Curacao envies St. Maarten and that was the reason they chose to cut the St. Maarten out of the system during the peak of the season. "What they thought was that we were going to go down on our knees and beg them or they were going to cripple the tourism economy. What I want people to know is that we have survived because the Dutch thought they would have hurt us with our visitors during season but we have survived again without the Dutch stooge and his nonsense. I will admit that we are struggling and we are now using a profile system and there is no "free for all" as portrayed by the reporter who wrote the story. I want to make clear there is no free for all. There have been checks and balances while we have been setting up our own software (DECOS).

The Minister said that the system that Curacao is using is outdated and it is extremely slow. He said that the prosecutor's office cannot provide him with the statistics on fines, the court of guardianship also cannot provide him with the information that he asked them for simply because the system is outdated. He said his vision for the Justice Ministry will be highly technological.

He admitted that by cutting off St. Maarten from the BMS the island got hurt. He said that Curacao already handed over two tapes with the backlog information which he is busy transferring to the new system St. Maarten will be using. He said in another few weeks everything will be fully functional.

The Minister of Justice said its time for St. Maarten to do business seriously because there is a joint Central Bank between Curacao and St. Maarten that is not functioning and St. Maarten has no control over that.

Minister Duncan said he will be looking for St. Maarten shares from the plan veiligheid because he bought updated software for St. Maarten and is setting up an ICT system for St. Maarten. He made clear that St. Maarten is a shareholder to the BMS system and sabotaging the island without proper notice is illegal while he plans to hold the Dutch government responsible for their actions.


Click here to view photos of Immigration Officers scanning passports on Friday.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Traffic Department on Wednesday January 2nd, 2013 in the evening hours was regretfully informed that the victim in the traffic accident which took place on the Bishop Hill road in the evening hours on November 23rd, 2012 by the name of Rosario Dongo born on Curacao who was flown to Colombia for medical treatment passed away as a result of the injuries he had sustained during this accident. Dongo was involved in a motorcycle accident after he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a large rock on the side of the road.

Also the victim in the traffic accident involving a scooter which took place on New Year's morning at approximately 6:10am on the Longwall road by the name of Reinillio Halley, 19 years old and residing in Sint Peters died. On that same day, Reinillio Halley was flown to Colombia by air-ambulance for further medical treatment. However, he
died as a result of the injuries he sustained during the accident.

Deepest sympathy go out to the family and loved of the victims on behalf of the Police Department (KPSM).

KPSM Police Report

smeyersolivacce12072012It has been brought to my attention that the Curacao Civil Aviation authorities do not have any money to complete the process of upgrading the airport safety rating from category 2 to category 1, a previous status that the Princess Juliana International Airport had.

The US Federal Aviation Administration in 2011 downgraded the safety ratings of Curaçao and St. Maarten from Category 1 to Category 2.

According to the FAA: A Category 2 rating means a country either lacks laws or regulations necessary to oversee air carriers in accordance with minimum international standards, or that its civil aviation authority – equivalent to the FAA for aviation safety matters – is deficient in one or more areas, such as technical expertise, trained personnel, record keeping or inspection procedures.

Former Curacao Minister of Traffic & Communication Dominique Adriaens announced at the end of December that a major problem is the lack of money. Curacao has been busy with the process already for a year and a half, and major advancements are expected in October 2013. Some laws need to be initiated or adapted.

This means that, we need to know from Government if the Parliament of Sint Maarten also has to adapt certain aviation laws. This should be known in advance so we can properly prepare for this and facilitate this as quickly as possible.

Secondly, the St. Maarten Minister of Transportation Romeo Pantophlet needs to provide parliament and the country information about what were the results of his trips and meetings with Aruba and the Netherlands regarding aviation matters. Once again, where is the transparency in governing? We have not heard anything!

The Minister needs to inform the community if the Curacao Government has been in contact with St. Maarten regarding the money issue. Has St. Maarten been kept abreast of how the Curacao Civil Aviation authorities are progressing on this matter? If so, inform the community and stakeholders about this progress.

I was also informed that back in September; the Director of the Curacao Civil Aviation Authority resigned, and several airlines expressed their concerns about this development. The people have a right to know what is going on, and how this affects us, and whether government has received a request for money from Curacao since the upgrading from Category 2 to 1 for St. Maarten lies in the hands of Curacao.

If a request has been made, how much is it? What impact will this have on the 2013 budget if this has not been included?

Interim Faction Leader Hon. Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Member of Parliament

deniciorichardson03012013Philipsburg:--- Director of the Postal Services of St. Maarten (PSS) Denicio Richardson confirmed to SMN News on Thursday that he has tendered his resignation which will take effect as of February 1st, 2013. Richardson said he submitted his resignation on December 27th, 2012 to the shareholder representative Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who already confirmed receipt of his letter. Richardson said between now and February 1st he will be working with the shareholder representative to transfer his duties to his successor who has not yet been nominated. In short statement to the media after the interview, Richardson said he will be seeking to resolve and settle outstanding matters prior to his last day at PSS bringing his relationship to a proper closure.

The PSS Director explained that he was placed between a rock and hard place because he was not getting any cooperation from the Supervisory Board of Directors. He explained that it was extremely hard for him to work and develop the Postal Services on St. Maarten when he was not given the tools and resources to perform his duties and there comes a time when that happens when a decision has to be taken in the interest of the company. Richardson said during his tenure at PSS, NPNA took away their assets and there was nothing he could have done to prevent it from happening. Richardson said he was suspended illegally by the board because he wrote out a cheque to pay for computers for PSS. "The purchasing of the computers was discussed and the Supervisory Board knew about this but the chairman did not show up to sign the cheque even though he knew NPNA would have taken their computers and that would have shut down the frontline operations of PSS."

He stressed that the decision he took to resign is not only in his own interest but also the interest of the workers of PSS. He lamented that he was suspended illegally even though the chairman of the Supervisory Board knew that PSS had to purchase the computers he did not sign the cheque to pay for the computers. "After the suspension was lifted, I returned to work and did the best I could but I could not perform my duties simply because the supervisory board would not give me the cooperation I needed."

Richardson also made clear that he will try to have a round table discussion with the three parties (shareholder representative, supervisory board, and management team) to get what is legally due to him based on the articles of incorporation.

It should be noted that while Richardson has been in his position over two years now, to date he has not been receiving a fixed salary and other benefits as it is stipulated in the articles of incorporation of PSS.

Richardson said that there have been several ongoing issues that have not been resolved and while PSS is not yet on its feet, the Government of St. Maarten did not see it fit to include a subsidy in its budget for PSS. Therefore, the Managing Director was unable to sign and make agreements with other companies if there is not enough finances to operate PSS. His lawyer Wim Van Sambeek in a telephone interview said that Richardson could be held liable for the agreements he signed on behalf of PSS. Sambeek further explained that the government of St. Maarten did not follow procedures when they appointed Richardson as the statutory director of PSS. "The law clearly stipulates that the government must seek an advice from the Corporate Governance Council when appointing statutory directors for government owned companies and they also have to seek advice from the same council about the salaries the person will be paid and his or her benefits." Van Sambeek said Richardson has been living on advances instead of his full salary and benefits.

In an invited comment, Chairman of the Corporate Governance Council Louis Duzanzon confirmed that the council has no records on the Postal Services of St. Maarten and its statutory director. In short, Duzanzon confirmed that neither the shareholder representative nor the Supervisory Board contacted the council for an advice prior to appointing Denicio Richardson as the statutory director of the government owned company.

Philipsburg:--- The Corporate Governance Council (CGC) was established on November 17th, 2009 to pave the way for St. Maarten to obtain its country status on October 10th, 2010. Even the though the council has a full board and is currently chaired by Louis Duzanzon, the Government of St. Maarten has not yet seen it fit to have CGC subsidized by the Government owned companies that are obliged to fund the Council.

Some months ago Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said the regulation to make the council legal was never adopted by the former government of which she was head of the cabinet. Recently, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams announced at the Council of Ministers' press briefing that the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and IND government adopted the law to make the CGC legal and that government was looking at ways to recoup the monies from the government owned companies for the CGC. Wescot Williams even said in that press briefing that government will seek to advance the council the expenses they incurred in 2009, 2010, and 2011 and their budget for 2012 since the year had not ended when the law was adopted.

In an invited comment on Thursday, Chairman of the Council Louis Duzanzon confirmed that the council had not yet received any monies from government nor the government owned companies. Duzanzon said maybe the cheque is in the mail and suggested that media personnel on St. Maarten ask the person who made the announcement about the monies if any was paid.

This is the second time in three years that the Prime Minister told reporters that the government of St. Maarten had allocated monies for CGC. The first time the Prime Minister said in a press briefing that the government of St. Maarten had allocated Naf. 400,000.00 for the council and the Ministry of Finance and the council were working out the payment methods with the department of finance which was headed at the time by former Minister Hiro Shigemoto but to date those monies were not paid to the council.

rodolphesamuel03012013PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, also known as the Senate, will be visiting the country on January 10 and 11.

Preparations are well underway by President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel to welcome the Dutch parliamentary delegation. President Samuel has also taken the initiative to organize a meeting between Dutch Members of Parliament (MPs) and the people of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the exchange of ideas session to be held on Thursday, January 10 at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

President Samuel pointed out that this is an opportunity for a personal meeting with the members of the First Chamber, where MPs hear about the new political structure introduced on October 10, 2010; about the experience with respect to the relationship between Sint Maarten and the Netherlands, and also in particularly with Sint Eustatius and Saba.

The Dutch MPs look forward to an open and constructive exchange of views with the Sint Maarten community.

The First Chamber (Eerste Kamer) of the Dutch Parliament has 75 members. They are elected by the members of the 12 Provincial Councils. These elections are indirect where voters elect the members of the Provincial Councils, who in turn elect the members of the Senate.

The Senate's main duties are in the legislative field, but it also plays a role in scrutinizing the actions of the Government. Formally the Senate can only reject or accept legislation. Debates of legislation take place in the Senate with respect to the interpretation of a law.

The difference between the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament (House of Representatives) and the First Chamber, MPs in the Second Chamber are paid to be full-time legislators while members of the Senate work part-time and receive an allowance. They also hold other positions.

The Dutch Senate has been in existence since 1815 when it was instituted by King William I.

theophilusthompson03012013Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) Theophilus Thompson blasted Members of Parliament on Thursday during WICLU's weekly press briefing for the lack of adopting certain laws that were part of the Netherlands Antilles. The laws Thompson said are to protect workers on the island and had the Parliament of St. Maarten done their job then the workers of former Pelican Resort (Simpson Bay Resort Management Company SBRMC) would not have been in the predicament they are in.

Thompson said St. Maarten has its own parliament now where they can adopt, amend, and make laws and they as a union have been following the meetings of parliament while they have also been monitoring the performance of the various parliamentarians. Thompson said that the Members of Parliament who are legislators are acting as though they are island council members. The union leader said during the parliamentary debates the discussions are always personal and there is nothing about nation building being discussed. That, he said is a concern for the unions on St. Maarten because so far there have been a number of issues pertaining to the working class and no laws have been adopted or amended by the Parliament of St. Maarten to protect the working class.

Thompson said the workers of SBRMC are continuing with their legal struggle and by the end of January the legal team and WIFOL will update the media regarding what they intend to do next in order for the 182 workers to receive justice.

claireelshot03012013Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters on Thursday during the Windward Island Chamber of Labour Unions' press conference that she will be seeking a meeting with the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs to get answers as to why the teachers of Public Schools on St. Maarten did not receive their salary increase (Loontrede).

Elshot said that the increase is due since August 2012 and to date the union nor the teachers have been updated as to why they did not get their salary increase. Elshot further explained that all teachers that are working at Government subsidized schools got their increase but public school teachers are on the 'wait and see' for the past five months.

The WITU President said the time for "wait and see" is up and she has requested a meeting with the Minister hoping that she would receive the necessary answers. Elshot said every month the teachers from the public schools are in touch with her and she has been asking them to wait and see what happens. She said that "wait and see" is over and she needs clear answers from the Minister of Education.

Another concern the WITU President intends to raise with the Minister of Education is the request to change the break that teachers receive in the month of February. Elshot said the union has submitted a request to the Minister asking her to adjust the calendar because the union would prefer if the teachers get the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday off. Elshot said most teachers from islands such as Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire that are celebrating Carnival during that time allow those teachers to go back home to visit their relatives and even have family reunions. Elshot said the unions need clarity on whether or not government made the shift on the calendar so that the teachers don't have to take days off. "Our Minister of Education came from the Public Schools and she knows exactly how the teachers think, therefore she needs to provide straight forward answers to the teachers and the unions."

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot issued a call to all interested persons to postulate for the various positions that are available on the WITU board. Elshot said WITU will be holding its election on January 31st and she will be a candidate for the position of the President. Persons wishing to postulate can either contact Elshot by phone or by email.

annmarielynch02012013Philipsburg:--- The police and other persons related to Annmarie Lynch (41) are still busy looking for the missing woman, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. When asked if the investigation has been upgraded from missing person to a homicide investigation, Mos said that his office and the police have not ruled out any possibilities. Annmarie Lynch is an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant and she has been missing since December 22nd, 2012. Co-workers of the missing woman are suspicious of the Annemarie's boyfriend whom they know as "Wallace or Serge, he is also a national of Jamaica." One of the co-workers who preferred not to have her name mentioned in the news said she has become fearful since the first publication in one of the daily newspapers where her name was mentioned. The woman said on December 22nd, Lynch told her that she was having some serious trouble with her boyfriend because he found out that she had some monies and he wanted to know where she got it from. The woman said that night "Wallace" picked up Annemarie from work like he did every night and that Sunday the woman did not report to work. She said they made several phone calls to the woman's phone but the telephone was switched off. The co-worker said that on Tuesday the chef of Pineapple Pete's contacted the woman's boyfriend to inquire about her whereabouts and he told the chef that the woman was okay. However, on Tuesday December 25th 2012, Annemarie's 24 year old daughter who lives in Jamaica contacted one of her friends to find out if they knew where her mother was because the last time she heard from her mother was Saturday December 22nd, 2012. The woman said Annmarie's best friend whom she identified as Michelle contacted her boyfriend who told her he did not see Annmarie since Sunday December 23rd, 2012. "Michelle then contacted the chef of Pineapple Pete's to see if the Annmarie was at work and it was then they realized that the boyfriend was not truthful and something was amiss about her whereabouts." The co-worker said that Michelle and the chef both visited the Philipsburg Police Station and they informed the police and the police accompanied them to Annemarie's apartment to see if she was inside the house.

annmarielynchcloseup02012013The following day December 26th, 2012, the friends of Annemarie Lynch filed a missing person report. Persons within the community have it rumored that the woman fled to St. Thomas but the friends said that is not possible because Annmarie and her 24 year old daughter is very close and she would have contacted her daughter if she had fled the island. Moreover they said that the woman have two children both of whom are in Jamaica and she would not stay out of touch with her children during the Christmas holidays that just past. The friends and co-workers said they  have their suspicions but they are waiting on the police who convinced them that they are busy investigating the case.

dqresidentsoasisgamemeeting01122012Dutch Quarter:--- The OASIS Game training project brought together young and old who wanted to make a long-term contribution to their community and at the same time to other communities on the island. At one time, the activities attracted up to 80 people.

For 2013, those who took part will have the challenge of getting others involved in the grassroots community effort for 2013. The Dutch Quarter participants choose a slogan, "Our Community, Our Oasis (a place of Hope), the Power is within us, Dutch Quarter United."

Various activities were organized: cleaning of the pond near a supermarket; children painting murals while the women took care of preparing the food.

Many community stakeholders took part, such as the community police, manager of the Dutch Quarter community center, teachers, and sport coaches, members of the community council, property owners, firemen, and the young folks on the bloc.

The community came to the realization that a lot can be accomplished by themselves with the help of neighbors and others if everybody comes together. The working plans of the Dutch Quarter community that started in the last two months of 2012, but will continue in 2013 are to complete the pond and the playground; clean and beautify some streets, working towards building a soccer field and developing more places for fun and sports.

A core group of approximately 15 persons have acquired the status of the Dutch Quarter OASIS Games Team Players who received certificates early December. The Dutch Quarter Community Council (DQCC) according to one of the project coordinators Ron Oei, was a key link that was involved in the preparatory phase of the process.

The DQCC has also facilitated the process during the past two weeks and Oei and his team hopes that other community councils will follow suit.

The Dutch Quarter community have come together and to build their dream for their neighborhood.

The OASIS game originates from the favelas in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In early 2012, OASIS games were organized on Curacao and Bonaire.

The European Development Fund is funding this initiative through USONA.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Study Financing Division of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports will be extending the submission period of the study financing application forms for the school year 2013 until January 15, 2013.

Irene E. Gaari-Arrindell, acting division Head of Study Financing, said that persons who have already submitted their forms are also reminded to submit the remainder of documents by January 15, 2013.

Application forms must be submitted during working hours from 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. at the Division Study Financing, N. de Brot street nr. 3, Vlaun's Building, 2nd floor, (opposite the Post Office) in Philipsburg.

Mrs. Gaari-Arrindell indicated that after the abovementioned deadline date no new application forms will be accepted.

The following documents must be submitted along with your application form:

  1. Two (2) recent passport pictures
  2. An Original Birth Certificate. (If the applicant was born outside of the Netherlands Antilles, the original birth certificate must have the apostille stamp).
  3. Proof of Dutch Nationality (A document from the Census Office)
  4. A copy of Passport page with relevant information
  5. Proof of registration at the Census office.
  6. A valid health certificate
  7. One (1) copy of filed tax forms supporting parental income from the previous year.
  8. Recent grades/report card.
  9. Proof of admittance to institution (This document is required before any funds will be disbursed).

For more information please contact the Division at Tel: 5422363/5423718 ext: 131-134,140, or visit the Government's website at: http://www.study-sxm.org.

theyliger04032012My Fellow Sint Maarteners,

The year 2012 has been a challenging year for the community and the business community. After the so-called Carnival Coup back in April, and seven months later with a new government in place, there has been no relief for the people and business sector of our country. Instead, new taxes are coming and tax payer's money has been spent as if Government is a personal piggy bank.

Much uncertainty exists for 2013. Within the past seven months, the five leaders of government had to publicly come out and assure the country on more than one occasion that all is well politically within Government. Just before the Christmas holidays, Members of Parliament from the coalition were flexing their muscles, a further indication of a political unstable situation with the remark 10-2=8. This does not bode well for investor security, and creates more insecurity within the Sint Maarten community for 2013.

The people of this community would like to see realism and optimism throughout 2013. The country at the moment is heading in the wrong direction. The current coalition has failed to deliver to the people to date, and 2013 doesn't look any better with the NA-led coalition delivering taxes and debt in the New Year.

As Leader of the United Peoples (UP) party, the UP faction will continue to fulfil its role as the opposition party exposing bad governance and governing with impunity. Sint Maarten must have good governance.

Last year a Member of Parliament left a stain on the highest legislative body of the country when he threatened another honourable member of the House with violence. Another Member of Parliament orders the illegal filling of the Great Salt Pond without having any authority to do so.

The Leader of the National Alliance led Government favours and supports a cricket field and drag race track by filling in parts of the Great Salt Pond in September 2012, but then a month later pulls the breaks on the filling after a public outcry.

Over a million guilders is thrown down the drain for Tempo Turns 7; monies that could have gone towards the expansion of the Sint Maarten Medical Center or other community causes.

When the NA led coalition took over, we heard about a 100 Million Guilder loan. Thereafter, we hear about two tunnels which is another investment of close to US$200 million through our hills. We hear about a US$100 million Justice Park. Translated, close to Naf.650 million in debt for the country that is forthcoming, and this does not include interests which when all added up will bring the total amount that the people will have to repay over time of one billion guilders. Welcome to 2013, the year of debt and taxes!

2013 and beyond should be where as a country we uphold high standards of integrity and set good examples. This moral authority is needed to lead any nation of people. The bad examples of this coalition during the past seven months are clear indications that the country is heading in a negative direction. This describes a government in disarray.

The country cannot move forward with five different leaders at the helm. The left hand does not know what the right hand is doing, a clear example is the illegal filling of the Great Salt Pond, with the right hand saying one thing and the left hand another. No cohesion, lack of openness with the public and an atmosphere of constant instability plagues this government. Welcome to 2013, more where all indications are that more instability will be the call of the day.

Our country has made steady progress under an UP-led Government over a period of 19-months, and this can be seen from the figures that have been released by different government entities. The seven month old NA-led coalition cannot take credit for that.

Various road works such as the one in Cole Bay are nearing an end, just the finishing touches have to be added; a new storm pump station was inaugurated as well at the A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Plant; every road constructed, the utility lines have been placed underground as part of a vision to continue to build the storm resistance of our country; installing sewage lines underground has been a main priority in cleaning up the environment from having raw sewage run in different areas. Sewage lines have been installed in Middle Region, Cole Bay, and L.B. Scot Road as part of an integral sewage plan for the country to get homes connected.

Due to a marketing effort initiated by the Harbour Group of Companies and myself over the years, our country has surpassed 1.7 million cruise visitors; cruise passenger spending is up and Sint Maarten as a destination is number one in the Region where this is concerned, and this is due to cruise stakeholders such as those who offer tours and other activities to our visitors, the business community, and the friendliness and hospitality of our people.

Our country has seen growth in air arrivals due to the hard work over a 19-month period as well as growth in private jets; the Central Bank of Curacao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) announced recently that our national economy has showed signs of recovery in 2012 which demonstrates that sound decision-making and stable political leadership has been the basis of our slow recovery. All plans were executed after sound research into feasibility, environmental impact and economic viability to the people and country.

However, the creation of more debt and squeezing additional monies out of our economy from the same tax payer's, especially looking at the weak global economic situation is not a wise decision at this point in time. The CBCS says we can expect a modest 0.8 per cent recovery for 2012, and a continuation of the economic recovery of one per cent in 2013 based on a careful recovery of the world economy. The UP favours going after those that do business and do not contribute in taxes, and that was a policy of the UP coalition Government eight months ago.

For 2013, I would like to see our community continue to make headway due to the hard work and efforts of the hard working people in all facets of society. Let 2013 be the year of the Sint Maarten Community. There are many positive examples of Sint Maarteners doing good deeds and helping others. These persons reflect the best of our society which embodies all that is good. Let their spirit spread to others and further strengthen the Sint Maarten society in building a stronger and beneficial Sint Maarten nation for all.

The success of the SInt Maarten nation is not just defined by how much US$ you can make, but by our morals and values as a Sint Maarten people. As a young country, with all the responsibilities and obligations before us, we must balance economic development with the development of our society. Together as a people we are able to transform our communities and society overall, by utilizing the positive spirit and abilities of our human resources to their fullest throughout 2013.

I wish all Sint Maarteners a Blessed and Very Happy New Year on behalf of my family, as well as the UP party family.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United Peoples (UP) Party

reinillohalley02012013Philipsburg:--- 19 year old Reinillo Halley who had to be air evacuated to Colombia on New Year's day for further medical treatment died of his injuries on Wednesday, confirmed close relatives of the victim. According to one of the relatives, Reinillio was partially brain dead when he left St. Maarten.

Acting Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Wednesday that the young scooter rider was riding at high speed when he lost control of his scooter and hit a light pole then an oncoming pick-up truck. Henson said that the victim identified as R.D.H (19) was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident yet he suffered severe head trauma. The Police Spokesman further explained that the victim was removed from the scene in an unconscious state and he was bleeding from his mouth. SMN News has been reliably informed that the young man was on life support that kept him alive until late Wednesday afternoon.

Reinillo is a former student of the Milton Peters College who recently wrote the Caribbean Examinations (CXC) privately.

Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten registered its first road accident early New Year's morning when a scooter rider was involved in a serious accident in the vicinity of F.W. Vlaun & Sons Tuesday morning.

Information reaching SMN News states that the rider of the scooter was severely injured and he had to be evacuated to the Dominican Republic for further treatment. SMN News learnt that the scooter rider lost control of his scooter and hit an oncoming vehicle which was traveling in the opposite direction. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed the victim was sent overseas for further treatment.

Marigot/Philipsburg:--- Owners of vehicles that are bearing French number plates that were stolen and recovered by Police on the Dutch side of the island are calling on KPSM to make contact with the Gendarmerie or the various insurance companies when they recover any stolen vehicles bearing French number plates. The vehicle owners told SMN News that on several occasions the recovered vehicles which most of the time are stripped are handed over to the various towing companies by police instead of seeking the vehicle owner. On Monday, the distraught owner of a vehicle that was stolen on the French side said that their car was stolen on Friday night and by Saturday morning the Police on the Dutch side recovered the vehicle and handed it over to a towing company. The owners said when they contacted Philipsburg Police Station an officer told them that the vehicle was impounded and it is being stored at the towing company since there is an ongoing investigation. "The officer told us on Saturday that he cannot release the vehicle until Monday and he could not provide us with a report to take to the Gendarmerie the same day. On Monday when we went to the Philipsburg Police Station we were given a report on the description of our vehicle and we were told to pick up the car at a towing company in Sucker Garden. When we reached there the owner of the towing company demanded that we pay him $250.00 for towing and storage. I started to cry because I have three small children, all our documents including passports that were inside the car were all stolen and I pleaded with the owner of the towing company not to charge us but he insisted that we must pay him $150.00 before the vehicle can be moved. We paid the money but with a heavy heart."

When SMN News was contacted we immediately contacted the Police Management Team and we were told that the towing company was not supposed to charge the owners of the vehicle for the towing and storage because the cost will be paid by the police since they are the ones that impounded the vehicle pending an investigation. Commissioner of Police Carl John made contact with the tow truck company and instructed him to return the monies to the owners of the vehicle because he was clearly double charging for his services.

Fortunate for the owners, the tow truck company returned the monies ($150) without any dispute. However, they claimed not to have known that they could not charge the owners and the police for the same job. When SMN News contacted the towing company they told us that the police normally don't pay for the services and therefore they have no choice but to bill the owners of the stolen vehicle.

French Insurance Companies crying for help.

At least two insurance companies that are registered on the French side told SMN News that they are in a worse predicament. The two insurance brokers who preferred to remain anonymous said that when vehicles bearing French number plates are stolen they are obliged to pay out the owners of their vehicles one month after it was reported stolen. One of the insurers said that in most cases the vehicles are recovered the next day or two after it was stolen by the Dutch side police and these vehicles are turned over to the towing companies. The insurers said that no information on the vehicles that were recovered is ever turned over to the Gendarmerie or to the insurance companies. They said that the towing companies know the French insurance law so they would keep the vehicle for two or three months before they contact them and when that is done the storage fees they have to pay is far more that what the wreckage is worth. "Most of time when we are contacted we have to leave the vehicles with the towing companies because we already paid out the owner for the vehicles and to pay storage fees for a wrecked or stripped vehicle does not make much sense." The insurers said they believe that the police are in cahoots with the tow truck companies. "Somebody is paying somebody here because the police and the gendarmes work closely yet they do not send information on stolen vehicles that they recover to the Gendarmes, we do not know if the Gendarmes turn over information to the Dutch side police either when they recover stolen vehicles with Dutch number plates but what we know every vehicle has an insurance sticker indicating which insurance company the vehicle is insured with. If the police is not in the rip off business with the towing companies then they would at least make an effort to contact the insurance companies. All of the towing companies both French and Dutch side sell car parts. These parts are from the vehicles that were stolen and recovered by police and turned over to them." One insurer told SMN News that towing companies sell parts as if they are auto parts dealers but they don't buy parts overseas neither do they buy scrap cars.

vandnenterprise31122012Sandy Ground:--- Three gunmen entered V&N Enterprise located in Sandy Ground on Monday afternoon and robbed the owners at gunpoint. The three armed robbers managed to escape with the two cash pans while injuring one person. According to information provided to SMN News by an eyewitness, the three masked gunmen arrived on the scene in a small blue car (most likely a Hyundai Atos). The eyewitness said that the robbers reversed the car up to the entrance of the gated supermarket before robbing the establishment. The eyewitness said the the thieves got away with two cash registers after they hit a female cashier on her head with one of the guns. SMN News further learnt that the bandits managed to escape towards Lowland area.

Captain Sylvain Joulault confirmed to SMN News that an armed robbery was committed at a Chinese Supermarket in Sandy Ground and one person was hit in the face with a gun butt. Joulault said the victim suffered injuries to the face but the injuries were not fatal. The Gendarmerie has since opened an investigation to find the culprits that robbed the supermarket on Monday afternoon.

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