PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (MinTEATT) wants to ensure that all businesses are operating according to the laws of the country and in accordance with the permits and licenses that they have been issued to carry out lawful business activities in country Sint Maarten, and therefore all businesses are advised to have their documentation in order and available upon request by economic controls and inspectors during official controls.
The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications, and the Department of Civil Aviation, Shipping & Maritime Affairs, recently carried out a joint control operation and these will continue in the weeks and months to come.
During one control along the Simpson Bay Lagoon, inspectors came across a vessel that was being prepared to become a floating bar.
Maritime Affairs and Economic Controllers questioned the owner about his documentation and were informed that the various requests for permits and licenses were being processed. This however, does not give the right for any business to operate, while the documents are being processed.
Advice was provided to the owner about what needs to be done with respect to the procedure which includes a maritime inspection of the vessel as well as inspections by the fire department. Sounds pollution was also discussed and department was stepping up controls on noise pollution.
MinTEATT is here to ensure that Sint Maarten continues to have a vibrant economic sector in an equal and fair playing field in a safe environment.
All businesses with direct access to the lagoon must understand that water based activities, that are not mentioned on their business license, must be subject to proper licensing as additional business licensing and Maritime Affairs Department approval. Not doing so will result in additional action against the land based businesses.