PHILIPSBURG:--- Juda-El Jno Baptiste-Sam has recently been awarded for the top-scoring European abstract by the International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy (ISCT). The announcement was made prior to the ISCT conference held this year in New Orleans. Sam also presented the work at the conference during a session on tissue engineering, embryonic Organs, and tissue-specific stem cells. ISCT hosts one of the largest gatherings of industry experts and academics with the common goal of advancing the development and manufacturing of cell and gene therapies. Sam’s research was about taking a very promising tissue engineering technology called organoid culturing (taking primary cells and creating 3D structures that mimic the function and the structure of the native tissue) and scaling it up to produce clinically relevant numbers of cells for therapeutic purposes. This work was made possible through the collaborative effort between Utrecht University and Scinus Cell Expansion, where Sam is employed.

Sam currently works as a senior process development engineer in the Netherlands and has a strong background in Medical Biology and Life Sciences. Her abstract is titled, “Mass Scale Liver Organoid Expansion in an Automated Bioreactor Moving Towards Clinical Viable Numbers for Cell Therapy”. She noted that it is one the most significant gatherings for her industry, providing networking opportunities for researchers, clinicians and a range of industry leaders. ISCT was established in 1992 with the vision to “improve lives through safe and effective cell and gene therapies.”

Sam’s science journey began with a dream of becoming a general surgeon. “For as long as I can remember that was going to be my path because I was always fascinated with biology and the medical field” she stated. However, she was pulled by life sciences and delved into scientific research. Sam expressed that research wasn’t a field she was exposed to growing up and was curious enough to leap into it.

While studying for her Bachelor of Science degree, Sam completed internships where she would be expected to study diseases on a molecular level. “This is when I fell in love and realized that from this discipline I could help make a major impact in human health by working to understand, prevent, and possibly treat human diseases,” she stated. That led her to continue her education with a Master’s in medical biology, and now she is working in the field focused on regenerative medicine via cell-based products.

Sam encourages young St. Maarten students not to allow anyone to define them and determine their capabilities. “Look at the world around you and find where there are needs to be filled.” She said, “An individual’s path may not resemble those they’ve seen before, so we should not allow fear to keep us from navigating our individual journeys”. She ended by saying, “So far, so much of my journey has been a surprise to me because I never really had a plan B. I am not ashamed to say that I am still learning and open to seeing where I go next. I dare to release control to God, letting Him guide the rest of my path.”

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Franklin Meyers has directed a series of pointed inquiries to the Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling, highlighting concerns about prison conditions, overcrowding, fire safety, and policies surrounding inmate management. The questions raised during a parliamentary session shed light on critical issues that demand answers for the sake of transparency and public confidence in the justice system.

Age of the Prison and Infrastructure Concerns

MP Meyers began by questioning the age of the prison, an important factor in understanding its structural integrity and suitability to house inmates safely. Prisons that are decades old often face challenges such as outdated facilities, heightened maintenance needs, and insufficient capacity to meet modern demands.

A particular point of concern was Meyers' statement that the fire incident at the prison "didn’t break out" but was "deliberately caused." If true, this allegation raises serious security questions and underscores the need for an inquiry that examines potential gaps in oversight and preventative measures. Such incidents erode trust in the safety and administration of correctional facilities.

Overcrowding and Prison Capacity

MP Meyers’ questioning focused on overcrowding. He sought clarity on how long the prison has been over capacity and the duration for which the current inmate-to-space ratio has persisted. Overcrowding is a long-standing issue in many correctional systems globally, often resulting in heightened tensions, resource strain, and inadequate management.

The exact capacity of the prison and the number of inmates currently housed remain major factors in addressing these challenges. Meyers' inquiries reinforce the urgency of reevaluating these numbers to ensure humane conditions.

Early Release as a Historical Precedent

Another query posed related to the use of early release methods for inmates. Specifically, Meyers asked whether any other Minister of Justice had applied such methods. This raises the question of whether such tactics are standard practice or represent a new approach under Minister Tackling's tenure. Early release is often a controversial measure used to alleviate overcrowding, but it can provoke public concern if not accompanied by adequate vetting of candidates for release.

The MP asked how many additional batches of inmates are planned for processing under the current early release program and when the process might be completed. Clear communication about these plans would help address public and political skepticism around fairness and accountability.

Violent vs. Non-Violent Offenders

Addressing prison demographics, Meyers requested the disparity between violent and non-violent offenders currently housed. Differentiating between these groups is crucial for implementing tailored rehabilitation programs, considering public safety risks, and determining appropriate eligibility for early release or alternative sentencing.

Accountability for Prison Workers

Lastly, Meyers referenced Minister Tackling's commitment to addressing prison workers' conduct and roles. Ensuring accountability among staff is essential to maintaining order, preventing malpractice, and improving the overall functioning of correctional institutions. Meyer’s remarks suggested a demand for updates on any reforms or disciplinary measures undertaken within this realm.

Moving Forward

MP Meyers's series of focused questions underscores the pressing need for comprehensive answers from the Ministry of Justice. Issues surrounding prison age, overcrowding, fire safety, and the management of offenders have far-reaching implications for public safety, justice, and human rights. Minister Tackling’s responses in upcoming sessions will likely shape the narrative around the government's management of correctional facilities and its approach to criminal justice reform.

Transparency and decisive action will be key to addressing these concerns effectively and restoring confidence in the justice system.

PHILIPSBUG:--- The recent riot at Sint Maarten's central correctional facility (Pointe Blanche Prison) has brought to light troubling shortcomings in the island's justice system. Member of Parliament Omar Ottley has addressed Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling with a detailed series of pressing concerns and questions, underscoring the urgency of reforming the nation’s prison system. The unresolved issues surrounding the riot, chronic overcapacity, and the general vulnerability of the Ministry of Justice have left both the inmates and the nation’s justice framework in a precarious state.

MP Ottley has demanded clarity on key matters ranging from the handling of the prison fire to broader systemic challenges. His concerns are rooted not only in practical policy issues but also in adherence to international human rights obligations.

Unanswered Questions About the Prison Fire

The recent fire at the prison raises critical concerns about management and preparedness. MP Ottley seeks clarity on several points:

• What exactly caused the riot, and has the root cause been resolved?
• When was the Minister informed about the unrest, and how quickly was an emergency team dispatched to the site?
• What is the officially required guard-to-inmate ratio, and how does the current ratio compare?

Simpson Bay, an unsuitable facility due to its lack of natural daylight, was reopened to accommodate inmates after the fire. MP Ottley questioned how many prisoners were transferred there, whether these were sentenced inmates or those in pre-detention, and what legal basis justified their transfer. He noted that past reports highlighted Simpson Bay’s inadequacy for housing inmates.

Furthermore, Ottley questioned the decision to suspend visitation rights, particularly when the riot was seemingly under control by the same day. He also inquired about the transfer of female inmates, even though they were not affected by the incident.

Central to MP Ottley’s critique is the acknowledgement that inmates are human beings deserving of dignity and fair treatment. He cited international covenants, such as the ICCPR, Convention Against Torture (CAT), and UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules), as benchmarks for required conduct. He raised alarm at possible violations of these standards, including the handling of evacuation during the fire, inadequate medical treatment, and restrictions on family contact.

Crisis of Prison Overcapacity

The fire exposed deeper issues related to the structural and operational capacities of the prison system. MP Ottley called for both immediate and long-term solutions to the overcrowding crisis, which has severe implications for human rights.

He pressed for short-term measures, such as the use of regional partnerships with Curacao and Aruba. He also highlighted the apparent lack of adherence to standards outlined by the Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT), which include acceptable cell space, hygiene, food provisions, day programs, and medical care.

Ottley urged the Minister to leverage existing legislation, such as Article 1:37 of the Criminal Code, which allows for conditional early release to alleviate overcrowding. He also advocated for the revival of electronic monitoring policies (e-detention) as a way to reduce the pressure on physical facilities.

Additionally, he called attention to practices in territories like Aruba, where sentence discounts have been introduced to reduce prison population pressures. Sentence reductions for factors such as rehabilitation efforts or non-violent offenders could serve as a model for Sint Maarten. MP Ottley urged the Minister to reconsider reintroducing ankle bracelet policies for non-violent offenders to promote humane alternatives to detention.

Highlighting discrepancies in the system, Ottley criticized the forced release of detainees by the prosecutor’s office after only ten days due to the lack of space. He described this situation as a failure of the Ministry to take necessary action, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate reforms.

Strengthening the Ministry of Justice

Beyond the challenges specific to the prisons, MP Ottley focused on the broader vulnerabilities within the Ministry of Justice. He highlighted a lack of progress on recommendations made by the Kingdom Council for Law Enforcement in 2018, and earlier critiques by the CPT in 2014. These recommendations called for coherent strategies to combat overcrowding and reform policies on community sanctions, conditional release, and reintegration.

MP Ottley further questioned whether the Ministry plans to decriminalize or reclassify certain offenses, such as minor marijuana-related crimes. He highlighted that a rational distribution of prison capacity could significantly reduce strain on the system, particularly by applying community-based sanctions for non-violent offenses instead of custodial sentences.

Training for prison personnel emerged as another area of concern. Ottley inquired about past and planned training programs and requested clarity on the timeline for finalizing the legal position (LB) of prison personnel. Delays in addressing the guard’s legal framework have reportedly inhibited career growth and prompted dissatisfaction among staff. Ottley emphasized that any adjustments must account for years of service and increased responsibilities.

A Call for Accountability and Immediate Action

MP Ottley’s demands encompass not just solutions for specific incidents but a vision for lasting reform. He urged the Minister to address capacity and resource challenges, uphold international human rights standards, and implement policies that build a fairer and more effective justice system.

The challenges facing Sint Maarten’s prisons are not new, nor are they unique to the island. However, as the recent riot demonstrates, inaction can have disastrous and far-reaching consequences. MP Ottley’s appeal to the Minister of Justice is more than a critique; it is a roadmap for urgently needed change. His questions demand answers, his concerns merit action, and his proposals outline steps toward a more humane and just prison system.

As the nation looks to its leaders, the Ministry of Justice must rise to the occasion. The prison system should reflect not only the need for safety and order but also the values of dignity, rehabilitation, and respect for human rights. The time for change is now.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament (MP) Lyndon Lewis raised a series of pressing issues during his remarks in Parliament, commending Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling for her proactive measures while emphasizing the need for greater accountability and comprehensive strategies across various sectors under her purview.

Commendation Coupled with Concern

MP Lewis began by acknowledging the Minister's swift actions in managing recent developments. However, he expressed ongoing concern about the high crime rate and the perception among offenders that consequences remain negligible. This, he argued, continues to erode public trust in the justice system. While Lewis noted progress within the justice chain, he called for a more holistic approach that tackles socio-economic contributors to crime, including poverty, lack of education, and limited opportunities for youth.

"Crime not only burdens our economy but profoundly impacts future generations," Lewis stated, urging the Council of Ministers to adopt a unified strategy. He questioned whether other Ministers have actively addressed these root causes and pressed for stronger inter-ministerial collaboration.

Immigration Challenges For Stateless Youth

The MP highlighted a critical human rights issue regarding children born in the country to undocumented foreign parents. At age 18, these individuals often face statelessness or lack legal documentation, leaving them ineligible for permanent residency or lawful employment. Lewis stressed that this "state of limbo" demands immediate attention. He called for targeted research to examine root causes and emphasized long-term investments in opportunities, education, counseling, and job creation to secure the future of marginalized youth.

Increase in Domestic Violence Cases

Another area of significant concern for MP Lewis was the rise in domestic violence, particularly among young women. Citing deficiencies in the current justice system, he lamented that many cases are dismissed or delayed unless severe physical harm is evident. Lewis called for enhanced efforts in awareness campaigns, victim support systems, and the prioritization of domestic violence cases. Additionally, he questioned the availability of offender rehabilitation programs such as anger management and reconciliation initiatives and asked for clarity on existing measures to address these issues.

Prison System in Crisis

MP Lewis turned his attention to troubling developments in the nation's prison system, raising questions about recent incidents and long-term management. Referring to damage sustained during a recent prison riot, he called for transparency regarding the timeline and next steps for repairs, along with the Ministry's interim contingency plan.

Reports of prison guards abandoning their posts during the riot on orders from their superior were also brought to light, with Lewis requesting confirmation of the claims and accountability measures. Furthermore, the MP pressed the Minister on the speculation that lapses in insurance coverage contributed to the crisis.

Questions about the proposed $ 65-million prison restoration project were raised, including its timeline and current status. Lewis also criticized the Minister’s decision to reinstate the interim prison director, questioning their qualifications and past performance. He called for a clear plan moving forward regarding the appointment of prison management leadership.

Detailed Questions on Prison Management

Under this subheading, MP Lewis presented a suite of pointed questions related to current issues within the prison system. These inquiries included the timeline for restoring damage sustained during the recent prison incident and whether a formal assessment has been completed. He further questioned what interim measures were in place, such as the possible use of cells on other islands, and sought details on the associated budgetary implications.

MP Lewis also raised concerns about reported orders from a superior for prison guards to abandon their posts during the riot, requesting confirmation of these claims. Speculation that a gap in insurance coverage might have contributed to the crisis led him to ask what steps are being taken to address this issue.

The lawmaker called for transparency about the grievances or conditions that provoked the riot and how these events might impact the $65-million prison facility reconstruction project. He queried whether the Ministry remains on schedule for the restoration and urged elaboration on the reasons for any delays.

Highlighting his prior recommendation for a change in prison leadership due to past issues under the interim director’s tenure, including misconduct and security breaches, Lewis questioned the Minister's rationale for reinstating this individual without a formal evaluation. He pressed her on her plans for addressing issues within the prison management team, emphasizing the need for more effective leadership.

Insurance Coverage for Law Enforcement

Addressing the safety of frontline law enforcement officers, Lewis underscored the Minister's responsibility to ensure proper insurance coverage for those risking their lives daily. He inquired whether the prison facility was insured and sought updates on the insurance coverage approved under Article 114, Chapter 10 of the Rechtspositie Politie.

Controversies Over National Decrees

One of the more contentious issues raised involved national decrees affecting justice workers. Lewis criticized delays in their processing and questioned the legality and efficiency of measures implemented by the Minister. He expressed concerns that the new processes could inadvertently strip justice workers of their legal right to object to decrees. He noted that this has caused further delays in remedying wage discrepancies.

He also raised a series of questions about the outsourcing of validations to the SOAB (the government auditor), including how personnel files are handled and the associated costs. Additionally, MP Lewis asked for confirmation on reports that Batch 13 of decrees was returned by the Governor and requested clarification on certification deficiencies delaying its progress.

Demand for Leadership and Accountability

Concluding his remarks, MP Lyndon Lewis emphasized that the safety and well-being of citizens and law enforcement officers should rise above political considerations. He called for strong, accountable, and proactive leadership to address the pressing concerns in justice, law enforcement, and prison management.

While commending Minister Tackling's initial efforts, the MP’s pointed queries signal a demand for greater transparency and an urgent call to action in addressing systemic issues and restoring public confidence.