PHILIPSBURG:--- The OSPP has been following with keen attention the latest developments regarding the purchasing of the Pelicans for the roundabout at the airport and the purchasing of the property of the former Turtle Pier. We feel that the people have a right to know how their money is being spent and that those in charge are managing the finances of the PJIA NV to the best of their abilities.
The premiums at the SZV were increased by 100% during the approval of the 2014 budget in order to balance it. Most of the government owned companies have not paid their rightful share of dividends that could have avoided the extra burden being put on the people. Our parliamentarians did not even take the cry of the people into consideration when they supported the 2014 budget. Therefore it is incomprehensible for us to accept these prices paid for the pelicans and the purchasing of the former Turtle Pier Restaurant by PJIA NV. If these types of astronomical prices were paid for those pelicans, what were the prices paid for those statues in the other roundabouts on our public roads? We can't imagine that our cash strapped government would have paid the same type of prices for that art in the roundabouts.
The airport has indicated that the turtle pier property purchased was appraised by two local appraisal companies. The OSPP has forwarded a letter to Minister Ted Richardson and copied to Ms. Regina Labega and Mr. Clarence Derby. We have requested copies of all the deeds for the purchase of the properties alongside the run way and requested the government to provide us with the future plans for the expansion of the PJIA N.V. Did the PJIA NV paid all the notary fees, transfer tax and all other related costs for previous properties purchased? We also want to know from the government what is their policy regarding the sale of government land on long lease?
It is the same airport that in the 1990's was caught up in some very peculiar dealings that brought shame on to St. Maarten. This young nation has had its' share of shameful acts during the last three years and a half and doesn't need any more.
The OSPP is calling on the Minister of PJIA NV, the Supervisory Board and the Management to come clean with information to avoid any type of wrong full speculation about those transactions. Please, no more scandals St. Maarten can't afford it, especially with all these integrity investigations taking place at this moment.
Click here to view OSPP's letter to PJIAE.
