PHILIPSBURG:--- In today’s public meeting of parliament, Member of Parliament Omar Ottley expressed serious concerns regarding the Minister’s plans to omit all pending land requests, warning that this decision could lead to a catastrophe for the people of Saint Martin.
During the parliament debate, MP Ottley highlighted the implications of the Minister's proposal, emphasizing that individuals should be asked to re-register for land when many have been waiting for years. The MP also emphasized that there is currently a housing and land crisis in St. Maarten. “The current approach taken by the Minister will only create more difficulties for our residents," stated MP Ottley.
Furthermore, Ottley pointed out the contradiction in the Minister's statements that would not entertain any new land requests, the Minister also indicated that existing land requests would be omitted, requiring individuals to re-register. "This is a classic case of taking one step forward and two steps backward," he remarked. "It is vital that we address the needs of our citizens rather than complicating the process further."
MP Ottley called on the Minister to reconsider this approach and engage in a more constructive dialogue to resolve the land and housing crises in St. Maarten. He urged that those who have been waiting for land be considered.
