PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Mr. Richinel S.J. Brug, wishes to provide the public with an update regarding Sint Maarten patients currently receiving medical care abroad, in light of recent developments in the region, particularly the evolving situation in Venezuela.
From the onset of emerging regional tensions, the Ministry of VSA and SZV Social & Health Insurances have been closely monitoring the situation and assessing any potential impact on patient mobility, medical access, and continuity of care. As a precautionary measure, and prior to the developments over the past weekend, SZV had already begun facilitating the return of patients who were medically cleared and able to travel back to Sint Maarten from Curaçao and Colombia, due to concerns about possible disruptions to air travel in the region.
At this time, there are about 30 patients still receiving care in Curaçao and Colombia who require continued treatment before they are able to return home. SZV and the Ministry are actively coordinating medical oversight, logistics, and travel arrangements to ensure that these patients continue to receive appropriate care and can return safely as soon as their medical condition allows.
In the event of further escalation affecting Venezuela, Colombia, or Curaçao, the public is assured that contingency plans are already in place. SZV has identified alternative treatment destinations within the Caribbean, tailored to specific medical needs, to guarantee uninterrupted access to care for referred patients.
Minister Brug emphasized that these preparations are not solely a response to the current regional situation. “Even prior to recent developments, I instructed SZV to actively explore alternative care options within the Caribbean,” the Minister stated. “This was done both to strengthen our resilience in situations such as this and from a cost-containment perspective, while ensuring that the quality and safety of care remain paramount.”
The Ministry of VSA and SZV remain on top of this situation, working proactively, responsibly, and in close coordination with medical partners to protect the health and well-being of all patients receiving care abroad. The public will be kept informed should there be any changes that impact patient care or travel.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Dr. Luc Mercelina, Prime Minister of St. Maarten, has expressed his sincere appreciation to airport personnel and key stakeholders for their decisive and coordinated actions following the temporary disruption of flights over the weekend and the beginning of the week, stemming from heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela.

The disruption, which peaked at the start of Saturday, January 3, affected several inbound and outbound flights, leaving passengers stranded and residents facing unexpected delays in returning home.

Thanks to the swift response and collaboration among stakeholders, flight operations were safely resumed, and impacted passengers received critical assistance and support.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the dedicated staff of Princess Juliana International Airport, Air Traffic Controllers, the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM), airline partners, ground handlers, security personnel, emergency services, and all other relevant stakeholders who acted swiftly and professionally during this challenging situation,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated.

“Their collective efforts ensured that stranded passengers were cared for, that our residents were supported in their return home, and that normal flight operations could resume as quickly and safely as possible.”

The Prime Minister also highlightled the importance of preparedness and cooperation during periods of international uncertainty.

“This incident demonstrates the strength of our institutions and the effectiveness of inter-agency cooperation. Despite circumstances beyond our control, the response reflected professionalism, compassion, and a strong commitment to public safety and service,” he added.
Prime Minister Mercelina further reassured the public that the Government of St. Maarten remains in close communication with regional and international partners to monitor developments and mitigate any potential impact on travel, tourism, and national security.

“I commend everyone involved for placing people first. Your actions reinforced confidence in our aviation sector and demonstrated St. Maarten’s readiness to respond calmly and responsibly during unforeseen disruptions,” the Prime Minister concluded.

The Government of St. Maarten thanks the traveling public for their patience and understanding and reiterates its commitment to ensuring safe, secure, and reliable air travel for residents and visitors alike.

 Simpson Bay, St. Maarten:---  The Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA), in collaboration with the Simpson Bay Fireworks Association, is pleased to announce the return of Crew Year’s Eve, set to take place on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Crew Year’s Eve has become a much-anticipated tradition within St. Maarten’s maritime calendar, bringing together crew, marine professionals, residents, and visitors for an evening that celebrates the island’s vibrant marine community. The event will once again feature a festive atmosphere capped off with a spectacular fireworks display over Simpson Bay.
Following the strong turnout and positive response to previous editions, the SMMTA looks forward to welcoming the community for another memorable celebration. Crew Year’s Eve continues to serve as a moment of appreciation for the hard-working crews and businesses that contribute year-round to St. Maarten’s reputation as a leading yachting and maritime destination.
In addition to the main fireworks celebration scheduled for 10pm, several marinas will host events, welcoming both the maritime community and the wider public.
The SMMTA extends its sincere appreciation to the event partners and sponsors whose continued support makes Crew Year’s Eve possible: IGY Marinas, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance, Palapa Marina, Port of St. Maarten, Skyport Marina, Simpson Bay Resort, Pro Serve Marine, Island Water World, Napa, BWA Yachting, Carrefour, Steve Coetzer, PDG Supplies, and Bluwater Construction. Their commitment reflects the strength of collaboration within the marine sector and the shared pride in celebrating the people who power it.

Willemstad/Philipsburg:---  The Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) has been informed of the passing of Mr. Hushang Ansary and expresses its condolences to his family. With respect to the ongoing proceedings, the CBCS remains committed to recovering the losses suffered by Ennia.
Mr. Ansary’s attorney has informed the Joint Court of Justice of his passing. On that basis, the Court has stayed the liability proceedings against Mr. Ansary pending notification of his assumption of the position in the proceedings. Once this notification has been received, the proceedings can be resumed. It should be noted that the liability proceedings are not directed solely against Mr. Ansary personally, but also against other parties, including a legal entity affiliated with Mr. Ansary. Mr. Ansary’s passing does not change the legal position of these parties.
The CBCS remains fully committed to recovering Ennia’s losses from former directors and shareholders and will continue to take the necessary steps to protect these interests, including, where required, appropriate legal action against their legal successors.
Willemstad, January 6, 2026 CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN