Simpson Bay:--- Following the incident involving WestJet flight WS2276, a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, on the runway of Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) on Sunday, September 7, 2025, we wish to inform the public and all stakeholders that the runway will remain closed until 12:00 PM tomorrow, Monday, September 8, 2025.

This closure is necessary to allow for a thorough investigation by the relevant civil aviation authorities and the safe removal of the aircraft from the runway. A recovery crew from WestJet will be arriving to carry out the removal operation. Once the aircraft has been cleared and the runway has been inspected by SXM Civil Aviation, PJIA will reopen for flight operations.

Throughout the day, the Minister of TEATT, Ms. Grisha Heyliger, and her team were present on-site, supporting the response efforts. In addition, the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, Dr. Luc Mercelina, visited the airport to offer his support and encouragement to all involved.

PJIA extends its sincere appreciation for the great effort demonstrated by all stakeholders, including PJIA staff, PJIAE, PJIAH, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of TEATT, Tourism Offices, the Fire Department, SXM Customs, SXM Civil Aviation, SXM Immigration, and Juliana Handlers, who worked tirelessly under challenging circumstances to assist our customers and ensure safety.

Passengers with upcoming flights are advised to contact their airline directly for the latest updates and assistance regarding their travel plans.

We appreciate the understanding of the traveling public and all stakeholders, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On behalf of the Chairman of the Social Economic Council (SER), the Acting Secretary-General/Senior Policy Advisor, drs. ing. Sharon Arnell, submitted the Council’s advice on the draft national ordinance titled the Sustainable Affordable Accessible Health Care Act (SAAHA), formerly known as the General Health Insurance (GHI), to the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Mr. R. Brug.

The advice was prepared following an initial request received on March 7, 2023, from the former Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Mr. O. Ottley. However, the SER was unable to meet the requested deadline, as the Board’s term concluded on April 30, 2023. A revised draft of the national ordinance, under its updated title SAAHA, was later submitted to the SER on March 4, 2024. Despite receipt of the updated version, the advice could not be processed due to the non-appointment of the Board. The Secretary-General of the SER, Mr. Gerard Richardson, subsequently placed the matter on hold pending the reinstatement of the Board. Following a 16-month delay, the Board of the SER was reappointed by the Honorable Prime Minister, Dr. Luc Mercelina, on Monday, August 5, 2024. With the appointment of the Board, the advice was finalized and submitted to Minister Brug on Friday, September 5, 2025.

After months of deliberations the stakeholders arrived at a consensus on Thursday, September 4^th, 2025. The proposed legislation was designed to ensure that all residents of Sint Maarten have access to the same improved healthcare packages.  With the introduction of the SAAHA, all citizens will gain access to an improved and equitable healthcare package. The introduction of the legislation seeks to address funding deficits in the healthcare system, which disproportionately affect the citizens of Sint Maarten. SAAHA aims to enhance solidarity by introducing a solidarity premium. This includes contributions toward long-term care and compensation for the fact that private insurers do not invest in healthcare infrastructure. The draft law contains provisions to ensure that the government meets its financial obligations to the healthcare fund. While the Government has presented its plans to stakeholders, there are serious concerns from the SER Board regarding the cost containment measures associated with the introduction of SAAHA, arrears owed to SZV, and fiscal consequences for taxpayers. The SER reaffirms its commitment to contributing to the policy development of Sint Maarten by providing timely, comprehensive, and independent socio-economic advice. Looking ahead, the Council underscores the importance of strengthened cooperation and heightened professionalism between the Government and the SER, in order to ensure that legislative processes are guided by robust, timely, effective, and well-considered advisory input.

The SER extends its appreciation to the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Mr. R. Brug, for his patience and support throughout the advisory process. Special recognition is also given to the Honorable Minister of Finance, Ms. M. Gumbs, Dr. J. Asin, and Ms. F. Arnell, Head of the Department of Public Health, for their tireless collaboration, as well as to the dedicated staff of the Ministries of Finance and Public Health, Social Development, and Labor. The SER further acknowledges Mr. E. Felisie, CFO of Social and Health Insurances (SZV), for his commitment and valuable contributions.

The SER underscores that country Sint Maarten has the potential to achieve its national objectives, provided that cooperation and shared responsibility remain the guiding principles by Government and all stakeholders. The submission of this draft legislation marks an important step toward strengthening the country’s social and economic stability. The SER advice is now before the Government for further deliberation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Get ready for a celebration of stories, creativity, and early learning! The Sint Maarten Library is thrilled to invite parents, caregivers, and the community’s youngest learners to the grand finale of its Read to Me – Book Start Campaign 2025. This exciting family event will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Government Administrative Building – Soualiga Rooms 1 & 2.

As part of Literacy Month, this year’s campaign, themed “From Peekaboo to Possibilities,” highlights the magical journey of development from infancy through kindergarten. The initiative is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of reading and equipping families with the tools to support their children’s growth.

Family Literacy Day Highlights Include:

• Miniature Costume Parade: Children will delight in showcasing imaginative, book-inspired costumes crafted from simple, reusable materials—a true celebration of creativity and storytelling.
• Supportive Words from Leadership: Hear from the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Honorable Melissa Gumbs.
• Expert Workshop: Join renowned early literacy expert Patti Illidge Maier for an invaluable session on the importance of reading for children ages 0–4.
• Special Read-Aloud: Enjoy storytelling by esteemed guest reader Maria Buncamper-Molanus.
• Engaging Atmosphere: The entire event will be expertly guided by charismatic Master of Ceremonies, Sherritza Peterson.
• Interactive Fun: Families can also enjoy face painting, a lively puppet show, mindfulness trainings, and more.
• Community Connection: With nine educational booth holders offering interactive activities, creative showcases, and resources, there will be something special for everyone.

“We believe that the journey of a thousand books begins with a single peekaboo,” said Reading Consultant M. Spencer and Librarian Mariland Powell of the Sint Maarten Library. “This campaign is all about showing parents how simple, joyful interactions can build a foundation for lifelong learning. We cannot wait to see the creativity of our little ones in the costume parade and welcome new families into our library community.”

Special Membership Drive

To make joining the library family easier than ever, a Special Registration Drive will be available exclusively at the event:

• Children (ages 0–18): FREE library membership
• Youngest Readers (ages 0–6): FREE age-appropriate gift, book kit, and book bag (while supplies last)
• Parents & Caregivers: Special discounted membership of only XCG 25.00
  Bring a recent passport-sized photo to sign up your child and yourself on the spot.

Mark Your Calendar

• Saturday, September 6, 2025 – Join us for an interactive story time at the Sint Maarten Library, Philipsburg, Adolphus Building, Walter Nisbeth Road #3, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, read by librarian M. Powell. This is a perfect opportunity for families to experience the magic of early reading firsthand.

The campaign, running from today, September 5th to September 13th, also includes a series of special read-aloud sessions at local daycares with esteemed guest readers Melanie Choisy, Dennis van Putten, Marvio Cooks, Andrea Bartlett, Josiah Lamothe, and Ruby Gumbs–Louise.

The Sint Maarten Library invites all families to enjoy a day of fun, learning, and community. Together, we can nurture our next generation of leaders and dreamers—one story at a time.

The Sint Maarten Library is dedicated to fostering literacy, providing access to information, and promoting lifelong learning for all residents of Sint Maarten. It serves as a vital community hub for education, culture, and personal enrichment.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Francisco A. Lacroes officially submitted his request on September 3rd 2025 for a Parliamentary TEATT Committee meeting on transportation, making it clear that he is prepared to confront the challenges facing the sector without hesitation all the allegations.

“The request is already in. It’s time to stop circling the issues and finally face them head-on,” Lacroes stated. “This is about accountability, transparency, and delivering solutions to the people of St. Maarten. They have waited long enough.”

His move follows a bold response from Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, stated "There’s a lot to unpack and I’m ready for the discussion. Game on, let’s go.”

Lacroes welcomed the Minister’s readiness but rejected any suggestion that this is about political sparring. “The Minister says ‘Game on.’ But let me be clear, this is not a game. The transportation system impacts thousands of people every day. From permit distribution to the lack of proper regulation, these are issues that affect livelihoods and the daily lives of our citizens. I am prepared, and I expect serious answers and concrete plans.” Lacroes stressed that this step is about action, not theatrics: “This is about putting our people first. The request is filed, the stage is set, and now it’s time to get results.