PHILIPSBURG:--- In light of the severe weather impacts experienced over the past week, Member of Parliament and Chair of the VROMI Committee, Darryl York, has formally submitted an urgent request for a VROMI Committee meeting. The recent flooding and widespread damage across Sint Maarten have raised serious concerns about the island’s preparedness for extreme weather conditions, highlighting critical vulnerabilities in its infrastructure.
The purpose of the meeting is to assess the current state of Sint Maarten’s infrastructure and to evaluate the government’s immediate and long-term responses to these challenges. MP York stressed the importance of proactively addressing these vulnerabilities, especially given the increasing frequency of climate-related events.
One of the key areas of focus will be an in-depth review of the weather-related issues, particularly identifying the most affected areas and understanding the weaknesses in existing infrastructure. MP York is seeking an update from the Ministry of VROMI on the steps taken to address immediate threats, such as road clearances and repairs, following the inclement weather. Given the frustrations expressed by residents regarding delays and inadequate responses, it is crucial that the government provides a clear account of the actions taken to mitigate the damage and prevent future disruptions.
Another focal point will be discussing the government’s long-term resilience strategies, with a particular emphasis on sustainable measures to enhance the island’s ability to withstand future weather events. MP York is calling for concrete solutions to protect infrastructure and ensure that future storms and flooding do not result in similar damage.
Additionally, MP York is requesting an update on the government’s action plan for managing Sint Maarten’s ponds. This plan, which was expected to be submitted within 30 days following MP York’s recently passed motion, is vital to maintaining the environmental health of the island’s crucial wetland areas.
A central theme of the meeting will also be public trust and accountability. MP York has emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability from Minister Patrice T. Gumbs. The Minister will be asked to address how the government plans to learn from recent challenges and what concrete plans are being implemented.
The meeting will also address traffic management issues, particularly the persistent congestion in the areas around L.B. Scott Road and Ebenezer during peak morning hours. The public has voiced growing dissatisfaction with the current traffic woes, and MP York seeks clarity on both short- and long-term plans for alleviating this issue.
The meeting, with VROMI Minister Patrice T. Gumbs in attendance, will be a crucial opportunity for constructive dialogue to develop actionable measures aimed at improving Sint Maarten’s infrastructure and resilience. MP York is hopeful that the discussions will address current shortcomings and prevent future issues. “This is about restoring public trust and ensuring that Sint Maarten’s infrastructure is prepared for future challenges,” stated MP York. The VROMI Committee remains committed to fostering dialogue and driving effective solutions to protect Sint Maarten’s residents and resources.
Minister of VSA Swears in Pharmacy Assistant for Cay hill Pharmacy.
PHILIPSBURG:---Today, November 18, 2024, the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA), Veronica Webster-Jansen, officially swore in Ms Sewradj Aarti, a newly appointed Pharmacy Assistant for Cay hill Pharmacy. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in their professional journey and highlighted the importance of the healthcare sector in St. Maarten.
In her address, Minister Webster-Jansen emphasized the vital role that pharmacy assistants play in ensuring quality healthcare and supporting the well-being of the community. “As healthcare professionals, you are on the frontline of patient care, providing essential services to those in need. Your dedication and commitment to excellence strengthen our healthcare system,” she stated.
The newly sworn-in assistant pledged to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in their duties. Their role at Cayhill Drugstore will include assisting with dispensing medications, providing health advice, and supporting patients in managing their prescriptions effectively.
This appointment reflects the Ministry of VSA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare services and supporting the growth of skilled professionals in St. Maarten.
The Ministry congratulates Ms. Sewradj Aarti on this achievement and wishes them success in their new role.
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week Kicks Off Around the Globe.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), kicked off on November 18 around the globe and runs until November 24.
The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) says Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antibiotics used to treat a wide range of bacteria making infections difficult to treat and at times impossible, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
Antibiotics and other antimicrobials play a key role in the success of modern medicine and have greatly improved the health of humans and animals. But overuse and misuse has reduced their efficacy, with more pathogens developing the ability to survive the antimicrobials designed to eliminate them, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
This year, the theme of WAAW is, Educate. Advocate. Act now.”
This theme was chosen based on feedback from an online survey among stakeholders from the human, animal, plant, and environmental health sectors, which collected nearly 200 responses globally.
The objective of WAAW is to spread information to different groups within the community and for persons to be able to learn more about Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), and why it’s a global concern and what impact it could have on Sint Maarten.
Antibiotic medicines were discovered a century ago and have significantly extended average life expectancy. Every day, these essential medicines save millions of lives.
AMR is directly responsible for 1.3 million deaths and contributes to five million deaths every year. But this is just the start. AMR also threatens the world’s economic future, with an estimated global annual cost of up to US$3.4 trillion by 2030 and 28 million people pushed to poverty by 2050, the WHO points out.
“Together, we should ensure the international community sets ambitious goals during high-level meetings on AMR and that countries allocate sufficient resources to meet AMR national action plans.
“By sharing real-life experiences of AMR, we aim to illustrate its tangible impact and promote global action. WHO urges governments, NGOs, civil society groups, youth and student organizations, universities, healthcare professionals, private stakeholders and media to act and engage local communities in raising awareness around this global health crisis,” the WHO adds.
Minister Lewis Recognizes International Men’s Day.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On this International Men’s Day, observed annually on November 19, Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Mr. Lyndon Lewis, extends heartfelt recognition to men across the nation and around the globe for their invaluable contributions to society.
International Men’s Day provides an opportunity to celebrate positive male role models and to raise awareness about the importance of men's mental health, physical well-being, and social contributions as leaders, fathers, mentors, and community builders.
"Today, we honor the men in our lives who strive to lead by example, uplift their families and communities, and contribute to the development of a better society. On this special day, let us
also reflect on the challenges men face, particularly in areas such as mental health, work-life balance, and social expectations. Together, we must continue to build a society where men are free to express their strengths and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment."
As Acting Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Minister Lewis emphasized the importance of engaging young men in positive activities and programs that foster discipline, leadership, and teamwork, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to society.
The Ministry encourages all residents to take a moment today to show appreciation to the men in their lives and to support initiatives that promote the well-being of men and boys in Sint Maarten and beyond.
Lewis Signs Agreement to Launch Phase 2 of New Prison Project.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Justice Lyndon Lewis, representing the Government of St. Maarten, in collaboration with the Government of the Netherlands and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), has officially signed an agreement to initiate Phase 2 of the New Prison Project. This phase, supported by a joint investment of $52 million USD from St. Maarten and the Dutch Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations, marks a pivotal transition to the construction of a state-of-the-art correctional facility designed to meet the highest international standards.
"For the past four years, we have worked tirelessly to reach this moment. Phase 1, which began in the second quarter of 2023, focused on design and procurement and is nearing completion. Today’s signing for Phase 2 signifies more than just a project milestone—it represents an urgent commitment to address our nation’s pressing needs. The current prison no longer serves the demands of our justice system, making this advancement critical for our country’s safety and progress,” Lewis said.
State Secretary for Digitalization and Kingdom Relations of The Netherlands Zsolt Szabó said: "The robust program of requirements formulated by UNOPS guarantees that the construction will meet the necessary standards. It will comply with the specific needs within the local context of Sint Maarten, as well as the human rights standards required in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The construction of this prison will contribute to more effective, safe, and humane detention conditions in the long term. This next step also paves the way for increased cell capacity on the island. It means that everyone sentenced to prison will serve their time. This aligns seamlessly with one of the key pillars of our Kingdom, which I also consider one of the priorities of my policy: good governance. I am pleased we signed this agreement, as I believe it will be beneficial for all concerned. Of course, continued close collaboration is essential to ensure the prison’s opening.”
The project reflects a commitment to enhancing human rights, dignity, and rehabilitation. Designed with a focus on social, gender, and environmental considerations, the facility will incorporate cutting-edge features to ensure both security and support for inmates' reintegration. It will include spaces for education, health care, family visits, professional workshops, and recreation—reinforcing a holistic approach to rehabilitation.
UNOPS will manage the project to align with Sustainable Development Goal #16, emphasizing good governance and effective resource utilization. Deputy Regional Director Giuseppe Mancinelli highlighted the organization’s principles: "This facility is designed to provide a safe and dignified environment for all, while ensuring public resources are used efficiently. Phase 1 resulted in significant savings, and Phase 2 will continue to prioritize sustainability, transparency, and equity."
Phase 2 spans approximately 35 months. Construction begins in 2025, with the first stage operational by mid-2026 and final completion expected by late 2027.
Joanna Kazana, UN Resident Coordinator, reiterated the project’s transformative impact:
"This initiative exemplifies the UN’s close partnership with Sint Maarten to advance the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring no one is left behind. It combines security with opportunities for growth, fostering a system of justice that is both humane and effective."