PHILIPSBURG:---  Former Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), MP Omar Ottley, is raising alarm bells over what he calls a "blatant disregard" for critical legislation he initiated to rescue the financially distressed Social and Health Insurance (SZV) fund, especially knowing that majority of the legal trajectories were completed during his tenure as Minister of VSA. The law in question—targeting a sustainable tourist tax revenue stream—has been quietly passed off by the current VSA Minister, Richinel Brug, to the Ministry of Finance, leaving Ottley questioning both the URSM-led government's priorities and their understanding of the legislation’s urgency.

“The one piece of legislation specifically designed to pull SZV back from the financial cliff has been tossed around like a hot potato,” said Ottley. “Minister Brug inherited a solution and instead of championing it, he abdicated responsibility.”

Ottley didn’t hold back in his criticism, accusing Minister Brug of failing the people by neglecting a legislative tool that could have made real progress in addressing SZV’s ballooning debt—a debt that continues to threaten healthcare sustainability in the country. SZV is reportedly in critical financial condition, and without intervention, services could be compromised in the near future.

“What exactly is the purpose of having a Minister of VSA if they’re not going to act in defense of the most important institution safeguarding public health and workers' benefits?” Ottley asked. “This law was never about politics—it was about responsibility. And what we've seen from Minister Brug is the exact opposite.”

According to Ottley, the legislation was not only drafted but also positioned for swift implementation under his leadership. However, since the change in government, the file has been rerouted to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of TEATT—sparking concerns that it may get watered down, delayed, or worse, shelved entirely.

“This government came in with big promises. But if your very first move is to dodge the only actionable plan to stabilize SZV, then what message are you really sending to the people?” Ottley added.

Equally baffling to Ottley is the complete standstill on the SZV 1B legislation, which would finally extend SZV health insurance coverage to underserved sectors like small business owners and transport operators.

Despite receiving a positive Council of Advice opinion in November 2023, the bill has yet to make it to Parliament.

Since URSM took office in May 2024, the Ministry of VSA has failed to secure a legislative lawyer to finalize the required nader rapport-the final explanatory note needed to submit the law to Parliament.

 As the country faces mounting economic and social pressure, Ottley is calling on the public and Parliament to demand clarity: “Will this government follow through on real solutions, or is it all just lip service while our institutions collapse?”

PHILIPSBURG:--- In the early hours of June 10, 2025, just after 2:00 AM, the Central Police Dispatch received a report from hotel security in Cupe-Coy regarding two individuals suspected of attempting a robbery near the hotel premises.

Police patrol units quickly responded, with one team closing off the Cupe-Coy border and another securing the road leading to Mullet Bay. Additional officers joined in the search operation.

During the investigation, officers were informed that the suspects were driving a red Hyundai i10 and were seen in the vicinity of the casino in Cupe-Coy. Upon arrival at the casino parking lot, officers discovered a motorcycle lying on the ground.

Shortly after, two young males, identified by the initials A.A. and J.C., both residents of the French side of the island, were encountered. Following a brief inquiry, it was determined that the individuals were attempting to steal the motorcycle.

The suspects were arrested on the spot and subsequently transported to the Philipsburg Police Station for further processing.

A search of the red Hyundai i10 revealed a sizable quantity of illegal substances, which were confiscated. The Detective Department is currently conducting a thorough investigation into this incident.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten urges all scooter and motorcycle owners to remain vigilant and to take all necessary precautions to secure their vehicles.

KPSM Press Release.

PHILIPSBURG:--- From day one, Minister of Justice Nathalie M. Tackling has approached her mandate with unwavering determination. Even amid the ongoing crisis at the Point Blanche Prison, the Ministry remains fully engaged in strengthening justice institutions, expanding partnerships, and delivering results that matter to the people of Sint Maarten. This update provides a comprehensive look at recent high-level engagements and milestones under Minister Tackling’s leadership.

Ongoing Engagement in The Netherlands: Strengthening Support and Capacity

Minister of Justice Nathalie M. Tackling is currently in the Netherlands, engaging in high-level meetings to strengthen Sint Maarten’s justice infrastructure and deepen international cooperation. As part of her working visit, Minister Tackling met with Mr. Guus Schram, Board Member of the Prosecutors General and portfolio holder for the Caribbean. Discussions centered on long-term support for criminal justice reforms, improving investigative capacity, and exploring sustainable staffing strategies for key justice units. The meeting also explored the organization of an expert roundtable between Dutch and Caribbean justice professionals, slated for later this year.

Joint Approach to Crime and Public Safety

In follow-up meetings with Mr. Ronald Baarends ( Director of Police Organization and Resources), Mr. Erik de Vries (National Police Portfolio Holder for the Caribbean), and Mr. Marius Noort (International Cooperation Lead), Minister Tackling outlined Sint Maarten's increasing security concerns, including the rise in gun violence and limited investigative capacity. These discussions focused on enhancing cooperation and securing targeted support to address urgent needs. The parties involved discussed the broader impact of organized crime, the demand for investigative assistance, and the lack of critical resources required to manage potential unrest or detect contraband. All parties recognized these gaps and committed to exploring ways to assist. They agreed on the necessity of developing a coordinated strategy under the OSLAC framework to disrupt criminal networks and strengthen the island's overall security posture.

Upholding Human Rights Through International Oversight

Minister Tackling’s next stop is Strasbourg, France, where she will engage with key Council of Europe institutions to advance partnerships in human rights, detention reform, and institutional development. Since 2018, Sint Maarten has been under enhanced supervision by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, following a European Court of Human Rights ruling on conditions at Point Blanche Prison and in police cells. This process requires regular updates and measurable progress toward compliance with European human rights standards. While in Strasbourg, Minister Tackling will participate in a scheduled debate with the Committee of Ministers and hold bilateral meetings with senior officials. These engagements reflect the Ministry’s serious approach to its international obligations. Amid public criticism, Minister Tackling’s diplomacy affirms that the government remains open and welcomes ongoing international scrutiny. The visit further lays the groundwork for continued alignment with European standards in areas such as prison reform, mental health in detention, access to justice, and institutional capacity-building, demonstrating that even in times of crisis, the pursuit of justice and human dignity remains central to the Ministry’s work.

Prison Reform

The Ministry is fully aware of the longstanding concerns surrounding the Point Blanche Prison and recognizes the urgency highlighted by recent public statements. While criticism is acknowledged, it is important to emphasize that structural action is already well underway. In collaboration with the Government of the Netherlands and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the Government of Sint Maarten has launched Phase 2 of the New Prison Project. This $52 million joint investment marks a historic commitment to justice reform and human rights compliance. The new facility, designed to meet the highest international standards, will expand detention capacity, improve conditions, and embed rehabilitation at its core. Construction is set to begin this year, with the first phase operational by mid-2026. The project reflects the Ministry’s determination to resolve longstanding issues through sustainable, Kingdom-supported solutions. The foundation for a safer, more humane prison system is already being laid—with transparency, partnership, and urgency.

Financial Crime Reform: Sint Maarten at CFATF 60th Plenary

In May, Minister Tackling represented Sint Maarten at the 60th Plenary of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) in Trinidad and Tobago. The event provided a platform for honest reflection on Sint Maarten’s performance in Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing during the 2019–2023 period. While acknowledging improvement in several technical ratings, Minister Tackling emphasized that continued ICRG monitoring means there is more work ahead. "We’re not here to make excuses. We’re here to reflect, improve, and act," she stated. The Ministry is now focused on follow-up actions to enhance enforcement coordination, strengthen supervisory bodies, and accelerate its National Risk-Based Action Plan.

Justice Sector Workforce: Progress on LBs

 Despite ongoing challenges, the Ministry is steadily advancing the distribution of national laws and regulations (LBs). Batch 13 has been signed by the governor and distributed, while Batches 14, 15, and 16 are currently undergoing validation under the Ministry's new approach, which invites early input from justice staff. This collaborative method enhances transparency and reduces the likelihood of objections later in the process. The final batch will focus on department heads.

Immigration System Reform: Digitalization Underway

The Ministry is making steady progress toward launching its new digital immigration management system. In recent weeks, immigration staff participated in a two-day workshop to map workflows critical to system configuration. The project is moving forward as a key priority, focused on a modern, transparent, and efficient platform that strengthens accountability at every level. Minister Tackling continues to lead efforts to build a fairer immigration process. As stated during a meeting with SBIR in the Netherlands, her vision is for a system where transparency is embedded, processes are traceable, and every user, from applicant to officer, is held to the same standard.

A Ministry on the Move

Despite the challenges presented by the Point Blanche Prison crisis, the Ministry of Justice remains focused on delivering results and advancing long-term reform. Whether it’s reinforcing international partnerships, strengthening public safety tools, or addressing long-standing systemic weaknesses, the Ministry is committed to real progress.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, June 12, 2025, Cupecoy Sunset Toastmasters Club is set to celebrate 10 years of existence with a festive ceremony. The event will be held at the AUC School of Medicine in Cupecoy on June 12, at 6:00 PM, and will feature guest speakers and a surprise guest artist. 

It will also feature some of the previous presidents and board members from past years. 

“This marks ten years that Cupecoy Sunset Toastmasters has been a vital launchpad for countless professionals, fostering high-performance habits that extend far beyond our meetings. This milestone isn't just a look back; it's a reaffirmation of our commitment to nurturing future leaders and innovators for the next ten years and beyond." - president Damien Schmidt. 

Persons interested in joining Toastmasters and joining the Cupecoy Sunset club specifically are welcome to join the free event to network and enjoy the festivities. The registration link can be found here: https://das.eventcube.io/events/73272/cupecoy-sunset-10-year-anniversary.  

"As a fairly young club on the island, which also caters to upcoming professionals and experienced professionals, the club is always open to new visitors who are interested in becoming members. 

If you want to get fit, you go to the gym, and if you want to improve your speaking and leadership skills, you join Toastmasters. And if you're a young professional in St. Maarten eager to explore and grow, you join Cupecoy Sunset Toastmasters Club." - Rholdyne Lake, Vice President of Public Relations. 

The theme for this past year has been “Creating High Performance Habits”, and as such, the club has organized events and collaborations along this theme; some of which include the International Women's Day celebration featuring a panel of prominent women in the community, such as MP Ludmila de Weever, Sabrina Charville manager at Grand Case airport and Amanda Vital-Bedminister from The Rising. 

April featured a collaboration with the Soualiga Fatherhood Association, which featured another panel of guest speakers, all fathers, including the president of the Soualiga Association, Gregoire Dumel, Former Minister Plenipotentiary, Rene Violenus, and Christian Grannum. 

Other meetings the Toastmasters club hosted this year featured Vice President Valérie Damasaeu, MP, and former Minister of Finance, Ardwell Irion, and the Trending SXM duo Janelle Presentacion and Kimberly Meyers. The club also opened up the year with an active session about health and wellness with Gilda “Gigii” Parisot from BodybyGigii, fitness coach and nutritionist. Stephie Gumbs, writer and cultural preservationist, was also present for the St Martin's day meeting in November. 

This year the club has also organized a set of Chasing Sunset events, which are signature Cupecoy Sunset events, that bring Toastmasters out of the meeting room and onto the beachside of Kim Sha Beach. 

"We have come a long way, done a lot this year, and we are looking forward to closing off our year with a big bang," shared Vice President Education, Melissa Harrisson Grinuva. 

As the Toastmasters year runs from July to June, this event will also mark the close of the Toastmasters year. 

However, the club will be organizing a Speechcraft session in September 2025. The Speechcraft is a special four-eight-session training that will boost participants’ confidence and improve their communication, public speaking, and leadership skills—all within a safe Toastmasters environment. 

For more information and to pre-register for the speechcraft persons can do so via this link: 

https://das.eventcube.io/events/86431/cupecoy-speechcraft