HARBOUR VIEW, PHILIPSBURG:--- Governor of Sint Maarten, His Excellency A.G. Baly, LL.M., today announced the speakers for the 12th Annual Governor’s Symposium.

The distinguished group of experts who will address this year’s event, themed “15 Years of Constitutional Autonomy: Achievements, Lessons, and Prospects,” represents diverse fields including law, governance, economics, and social development. The Symposium will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine in Cupecoy. The distinguished group of experts for this year's Symposium include:

• Franklyn Richards, a legal scholar, and Lieutenant Governor of the former Island Territory of Sint Maarten (2000–2010), continues to contribute to national institutions through leadership roles at the Progress Committee, the Sint Maarten Volunteer Corps Foundation (VKS), and the General Pension Fund of Sint Maarten (APS). His career reflects decades of dedication to good governance, public service, and civic resilience.
• Nancy R. Guishard-Joubert, member of the Council of Advice of Sint Maarten, is a constitutional and administrative law specialist. She previously served as Secretary General of Parliament and played a key role in the legislative process leading up to and following Sint Maarten’s constitutional transition in 2010.
• Jason Lista, Economic Analysis and Research Specialist at the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS), focuses on Sint Maarten’s real sector and macroeconomic outlook. He has previously served as a senior policy advisor to the Government of Sint Maarten and contributes to regional economic research and IMF consultations.
• Carla Vlaun, Managing Director of Tackling Law and former policy advisor at the Social Economic Council, is a researcher and cultural advocate whose work bridges governance, heritage, and civic engagement. She is also the co-host of Mele, Sint Maarten’s first historical podcast exploring local history and identity.
• Jorien Wuite, Crown-appointed member of the Social Economic Council (SER), former Minister Plenipotentiary, and Member of the Second Chamber of the Netherlands, is known for her leadership in both Sint Maarten and the Netherlands. She currently serves in various supervisory and advisory capacities, including at the Netherlands Film Fund and Qredits, advancing social innovation and cultural collaboration across the Kingdom. 
• Khalilah S. Peters, Senior Director of Caribbean Government Relations at Adtalem Global Education, with over 15 years of experience in regional policy and diplomacy as the former Head of the Department of Foreign Relations of the Government of Sint Maarten will moderate the panel discussion and public engagement session. Panelists will reflect on Sint Maarten’s 15-year constitutional journey, highlight lessons learned, and share insights for the country’s path forward. 

As in previous years, attendance at the Symposium is by invitation only. However, the public is encouraged to join the conversation virtually. The event will be livestreamed on the Governor’s official Facebook page and YouTube channel on Friday, October 10, 2025, starting at 8:30 a.m. In-person registration for invited guests begins at 8:00 a.m. promptly. Virtual viewers are encouraged to log on a few minutes early to ensure access.

Interested parties who wish to attend the Symposium may submit their requests for attendance via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or through the Governor’s official Facebook page.

Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion countersues Attorney Bloem.

PHILIPSBURG:---A high-profile legal dispute between Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion and Attorney Jairo Bloem is set to take center stage in court this week. The case stems from a heated exchange of allegations and counterclaims regarding public statements made by both parties in recent days.

Attorney Jairo Bloem has filed an injunction against MP Ardwell Irion, accusing him of making defamatory remarks about his professional record and suitability for the position of Chairperson of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten. Bloem claims that Irion’s statements, published in The People’s Tribune and reiterated on the Lady Grace Radio program, were factually incorrect and damaging to his reputation. He is demanding a public retraction and apology from Irion, as well as assurances that such statements will not be repeated.

In response, MP Irion has rejected Bloem’s allegations, defending his remarks as part of his constitutional role in scrutinizing government conduct. Irion maintains that his statements were made in good faith during a public debate of significant societal importance and were neither defamatory nor unlawful. Furthermore, Irion has announced his intention to counter-sue Bloem for libel, citing what he describes as factually incorrect and professionally improper statements made by Bloem during the Lady Grace program.

The legal proceedings are scheduled to begin on Thursday at 3:00 PM, when the court will hear Bloem’s injunction against Irion. The case has garnered significant public attention, as it addresses issues of governance, accountability, and the boundaries of public discourse in matters of societal importance.

As the legal battle unfolds, both parties remain steadfast in their positions, with potential implications for their reputations and the broader public debate surrounding the Central Bank nomination process. The court’s decision is highly anticipated and could set a precedent for how such disputes are handled in the future.

In the meantime, Bloem has withdrawn his candidacy for the position of chair of the Central Bank Supervisory Board.

Heads up, residents and visitors of Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy. The Guadeloupe Meteorological Center has issued a Yellow Alert for heavy rains and thunderstorms. This bulletin is a call for increased awareness and caution as unstable weather conditions are expected to impact the region.

Overview of the Yellow Alert

Météo France has placed Saint-Martin and Saint-Barthélemy under a Yellow Alert, which signifies a need to "Be Attentive." This is the first bulletin issued for this specific weather event, labeled as Episode n°17-IN.

The alert specifically warns of strong rains and thunderstorms. It was officially issued on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 11:35 AM local time. The weather event is expected to begin around 12:00 PM today and may last until Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 6:00 AM.

A Yellow Alert is a signal to be vigilant, especially if you are involved in outdoor activities that could be affected by the weather. It is not a call to halt all activity, but rather to be mindful of the developing situation and potential risks.

Current Weather Situation

The source of this instability is the tail end of Tropical Wave N°30. This system is generating an unstable southeasterly flow across the islands, bringing with it increased moisture and a higher potential for significant weather events. At the time the bulletin was issued, the primary conditions were set for the development of heavy showers and thunderstorms throughout the afternoon.

Forecast and Expected Impacts

The forecast points to a period of wet and unsettled weather. Here’s what you can expect:

Heavy Rainfall

The main concern is the potential for intense downpours. The meteorological center warns that rainfall accumulations could reach 30 to 50 mm (approximately 1.2 to 2 inches) in three hours or less. This rate of rainfall can quickly lead to localized flooding, particularly in low-lying or poorly drained areas.

Thunderstorms

Alongside the heavy rain, there is a risk of thunderstorms. These storms can bring not only downpours but also lightning and potentially gusty winds. The combination of these elements increases the danger associated with being outdoors.

Timeline of Events

• Tuesday Afternoon: The risk of moderate to strong, sometimes stormy, showers is highest.

• Tuesday Evening: A temporary improvement in conditions is expected.

• Tuesday Night: New showers are likely to develop overnight.

• Wednesday: The risk of showers will continue throughout the day.

The persistence of this weather pattern means that even during breaks in the rain, the ground will be saturated, increasing the risk of flash flooding if another heavy shower moves through.

Safety Recommendations from the Prefecture

When a Yellow Alert is in effect, it's vital to follow official safety advice. The prefecture has provided a list of recommended behaviors to minimize risk during this period of heavy rain and thunderstorms.

VIGILANCE JAUNE - FORTES PLUIES/ORAGES: SOYEZ ATTENTIFS! (Yellow Alert - Heavy Rains/Thunderstorms: Be Attentive!)

Here are the key precautions you should take:

• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts. Monitor information from Météo France and local authorities.

• Be Cautious with Outdoor Activities:

• • If you plan on practicing any high-risk outdoor sports, reconsider your plans.
  • Pay close attention if your outdoor activities are in an exposed area, whether on land or at sea.
• Avoid Flood-Prone Areas:
• • Be extremely careful if you need to travel through areas known to flood.
  • This includes crossing fords (gués), ravines, or low-lying passages at the bottom of hills (mornes). These areas can become impassable very quickly.

• Take Precautions During a Thunderstorm:

• Avoid using landline telephones and electrical appliances.

• Do not take shelter near pylons, posts, or under a solitary tree, as these can attract lightning.

Stay Safe and Informed

This Yellow Alert is a reminder that weather conditions can change rapidly. The primary message is one of heightened awareness. By staying informed through official channels and making sensible decisions, you can significantly reduce your risk of being affected by the heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Remember to check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need assistance. Secure loose objects around your property that could be affected by wind or heavy rain. Most importantly, do not take unnecessary risks. A cautious approach is the best way to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you until this weather system passes.

The Bottom, Saba:---  Mr. Stuart Johnson has been confirmed as a member of the Supervisory Board of Directors of Saba Bank Resources N.V.. In this capacity, Mr. Johnson serves as the representative of Saba, a role that has been approved by the Executive Council of Saba, the Executive Council of St. Eustatius, and the Councils of Ministers of Sint Maarten and Curaçao.

Saba Bank Resources N.V., established in 1976, plays a vital role in the Dutch Caribbean’s energy and resource management landscape. Its Supervisory Board comprises representatives from Saba, St. Eustatius, Sint Maarten, Curaçao, and the Netherlands, working collaboratively to ensure the responsible stewardship of the
The region’s shared natural resources.

In reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Johnson expressed both gratitude and commitment, “It is an honor to serve as a member of the Supervisory Board of Directors of Saba Bank Resources N.V. and to represent Saba at this important time in our region’s development. This role provides an opportunity to strengthen collaboration among our islands and to ensure that our resources are managed with transparency, integrity, and sustainability.”

He continued, “As someone with close family ties and a deep personal connection to Saba, I am especially proud to represent the island. Saba holds a special place in my heart, and I see this appointment as a meaningful way to contribute to its continued growth and to the prosperity of the wider Dutch Caribbean.”

Johnson added, “Our region’s resources must be managed more wisely and transparently to ensure that they benefit the wider communities of Saba, Sint Maarten, St. Eustatius and the rest of the Dutch Caribbean.”

Mr. Johnson joins a distinguished group of professionals on the Supervisory Board dedicated to promoting sound governance, accountability, and sustainable development. The Board’s oversight ensures that Saba Bank Resources N.V. operates effectively, ethically, and in alignment with regional priorities and international best practices.

“This appointment is both a privilege and a responsibility,” Johnson added. “Together with my colleagues from Saba, St. Eustatius, Sint Maarten, Curaçao, and the Netherlands, I look forward to advancing sustainable growth, fostering regional unity, and protecting our shared resources for future generations.”