PHILIPSBURG:--- We are bursting with excitement here at the Sint Maarten Library as we welcome our readers, families, and the wider community into a vibrant new era of storytelling! In a spectacular boost to regional literacy and cultural exchange, we have officially unveiled a captivating collection of children’s and youth literature, generously donated by acclaimed visiting author Delno Tromp, affectionately known as "Denchi," during his recent high-profile literary tour of our island. These brilliant works celebrate the richness of Caribbean storytelling and highlight the vital power of multilingual literature to strengthen identity and spark imagination across the region.

Written in English, Dutch, and Papiamentu, the official languages of the Dutch Caribbean islands, this dynamic collection bridges cultures and generations. The newly available titles weave together unforgettable narratives rooted in rich culture, vivid imagination, history, and even entrepreneurship, ensuring there is a transformative story for every young reader who walks through our doors.

Among the standout treasures now gracing our shelves is Quingo Flamingo, a thrilling adventure that follows a charismatic flamingo protagonist as it journeys across the Caribbean, meeting vibrant wildlife and discovering the unique ecosystems of neighboring islands. For a touch of whimsy mixed with real-world ambition, The Goat with the Golden Tooth delivers an inspiring tale of creativity and entrepreneurship, following a young goat whose discovery of a golden tooth leads to unexpected fame, business ventures, and the creation of merchandise.

Deeply rooted cultural identity and life lessons shine through in Shi Helena ta Konta, a beautiful blend of storytelling and poetry that reflects on heritage, morals, and everyday wisdom. Meanwhile, history comes alive with profound resonance in 1842 – Abolition of Slavery: An Emancipation Story. This powerful narrative follows the life of Urdu, an enslaved man whose journey symbolizes ultimate resilience, justice, and transformation. This vital historical work is already generating massive excitement as it is currently being adapted into a major theatrical production set to tour the islands.

The excitement surrounding Delno Tromp’s visit continues to ripple. During his time with us, the author brought his storytelling directly to young audiences through our Virtual Story Time program, delivering an engaging, high-energy live session in Dutch and English. For families eager to experience more of his work, the journey continues this Saturday, June 13, 2026, with a special follow-up storytelling session featuring one of his written works, broadcast live on our official Facebook page.

We warmly encourage all residents, children, youth, educators, and families to dive into these remarkable new titles. By making these books available for both in-library reading and borrowing, we are thrilled to offer a unique, golden opportunity to engage with stories that reflect both our proud local heritage and universal human values. Come visit us today and let your next great reading adventure begin!

Following a successful 2026 Marketplace, Caribbean hospitality and tourism leaders will convene in Barbados from May 18-21, 2027 for the region's premier B2B tourism event

Fort Lauderdale, Fla.:--- The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has named Barbados as the host destination for Caribbean Travel Marketplace (CTM) 2027, the region's premier business-to-business tourism event. The annual gathering connects global buyers with Caribbean suppliers to strengthen partnerships and drive business opportunities across the region. The announcement was made at this year's Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Antigua. 

"Barbados has long played an important leadership role in Caribbean tourism and within CHTA," said Vanessa Ledesma, Chief Executive Officer of CHTA. "We are thrilled to bring Caribbean Travel Marketplace to Barbados in 2027, marking the 45^th edition of this historic event. We look forward to delivering a reimagined, elevated attendee experience with innovative formats and deeper global business opportunities." 

Caribbean Travel Marketplace brings together destinations, hotels, attractions, transportation companies, and tourism partners from across the Caribbean and international markets for pre-scheduled business meetings designed to generate tangible commercial outcomes.

“Hosting Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2027 is an important opportunity for Barbados and a reflection of the confidence placed in our tourism product, our people, and our infrastructure,” said Hon. G.P. Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport. “It will create economic value, strengthen regional collaboration, and further position Barbados as a leader in Caribbean tourism.” 

The announcement was also welcomed by Barbados’ Hotel & Tourism Association.

“On behalf of the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association and the wider local industry, we are honoured to welcome CHTA Marketplace 2027 to Barbados,” said Javon Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association. “This event is where relationships are built, business is advanced, and our destination is showcased to the world. We look forward to welcoming delegates with the very best of Bajan hospitality.”

Additional details regarding Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2027, including venues and registration information, will be announced in the coming months.

For more information on Caribbean Travel Marketplace, visit www.CaribbeanTravelMarketplace.com. For more information on CHTA, visit www.CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com. 

Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 was made possible by host destination Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority, Antigua & Barbuda Hotel & Tourism Association; Premier Destination Partners: Barbados, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Experience Turks & Caicos; Platinum Partners: ABA Global Marketing, Interval International, Mastercard, Triptease, U.S. Virgin Islands; Gold Partners: Amadeus, Courts Business Solutions, Dominica, Maestro PMS, MyBookingRewards.com, Silverware, TaConnect, Tambourine, Travelzoo; Silver Partners: Antigua Cruise Port, Caribbean Journal, Infor, Saint Lucia Cruise Port, Sojern, The Anything Group; Bronze Partners: Atlas Obscura, Simplotel, Questex Travel; Airline Partners: Inter Caribbean Airways, Liat Air; Data Partner: STR; and Media Partner: Breaking Travel News. For information on CTM partnership opportunities, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

PHILIPSBURG:---  Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs has confirmed that the Government has received approximately Cg. 6.5 million from Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company (PJIAE), representing passenger safety fees collected on behalf of the Government from 2019 through the first quarter of 2026.

The payment follows the successful resolution of longstanding discussions regarding outstanding passenger safety fee transfers and brings PJIAE fully up to date with its obligations to the Government.

"I welcome this payment of approximately Cg. 6.5 million, which brings PJIAE fully up to date with the transfer of passenger safety fees collected on behalf of the Government. This outcome ensures that these public funds are now properly accounted for and available for their intended purpose," Minister Gumbs stated.

The passenger safety fee was introduced to support civil aviation oversight within Sint Maarten. While the envisioned Civil Aviation Authority has not yet been formally established, these responsibilities are still carried out by the Department of Civil Aviation under the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT).

Minister Gumbs confirmed that the funds will be safeguarded and reserved for aviation-related purposes until the Civil Aviation Authority becomes operational.

"These monies were collected specifically to support aviation oversight and safety. It is therefore important that they remain available for that purpose. The funds will be held in a dedicated account pending the establishment of the Civil Aviation Authority, ensuring that they can be utilized for the continued strengthening of civil aviation oversight in Sint Maarten."

The Minister expressed appreciation to PJIAE and all stakeholders involved in bringing the matter to a successful conclusion.

"This resolution demonstrates the value of constructive engagement and responsible financial stewardship. More importantly, it reflects Government's commitment to ensuring that revenues collected on its behalf are properly transferred, accounted for, and safeguarded in the interest of the people of Sint Maarten

PHILIPSBURG:--- In response to a series of tragic scooter-related fatalities, serious traffic collisions, and growing concerns about hit-and-run incidents, Risk Analyst Terence Jandroep proposes a comprehensive reform package aimed at improving road safety, strengthening accountability, and reducing preventable deaths on Sint Maarten's roads.

The proposal, inspired by elements of the Colombian motorcycle regulatory model and adapted to Sint Maarten's local circumstances, seeks to address what the analyst describes as an urgent public safety issue affecting motorists, scooter riders, pedestrians, and visitors alike.

Rising Concerns Over Road Safety
Scooters have become one of the most widely used forms of transportation on the island due to their affordability and convenience. However, the increase in scooter usage has coincided with a rise in serious accidents, life-altering injuries, and fatalities.

Equally troubling, according to the analyst, is the apparent increase in hit-and-run incidents involving both scooter operators and motor vehicle drivers. In several cases, victims and their families have been left without answers as responsible parties fled the scene before authorities could identify them.

"Every road fatality is a tragedy, but hit-and-run incidents add another layer of injustice by depriving victims and their families of accountability and closure," the analyst stated.

A System Focused on Accountability
The proposed framework would require every scooter operating on public roads to possess:

• An official government-issued registration number plate.
• Valid third-party liability insurance.
• A current roadworthiness and maintenance certificate issued by a government-approved inspection entity.

According to the analyst, these measures would establish a clear chain of responsibility and significantly improve the ability of law enforcement to identify individuals involved in collisions.

The proposal argues that many hit-and-run investigations are complicated by the inability to identify riders or determine ownership of unregistered vehicles.

Helmet and Identification Jacket Requirement
One of the most distinctive aspects of the proposal is the requirement that scooter operators wear a certified helmet and a reflective safety jacket displaying the same registration number as the scooter they are operating.

The objective is to make riders readily identifiable by police officers, traffic cameras, witnesses, and accident victims.

Supporters argue that this measure could substantially reduce incidents in which riders flee the scene after causing property damage, injury, or traffic violations.

Addressing Hit-and-Run Culture
The analyst stresses that the proposal is not solely about scooter safety but about creating a broader culture of accountability on the roads.

He further recommends that government authorities consider strengthening penalties for all hit-and-run offenses, regardless of whether they involve a scooter, motorcycle, passenger vehicle, truck, or commercial vehicle.

Under the recommendation, drivers who leave the scene of an accident involving injury or death should face enhanced penalties, including possible suspension of driving privileges, vehicle impoundment, substantial fines, and criminal prosecution where warranted.

"Leaving an injured person on the road is not merely a traffic violation; it is a serious breach of civic responsibility that can cost lives. Every minute matters following a serious collision," the analyst noted.

Enforcement Measures
To ensure compliance, the proposal recommends significant penalties for operating a scooter without the required registration, insurance, inspection certificate, helmet, or identification jacket.

Non-compliant operators could face fines equivalent to six minimum wages.

Authorities would also have the power to impound vehicles found operating outside the legal framework.

Owners would be required to demonstrate compliance within a specified period before the vehicle is released.

The analyst argues that consistent enforcement is essential, as regulations without enforcement often fail to achieve meaningful reductions in road fatalities.

Benefits for Public Safety
The proposed reforms are expected to produce several public safety benefits:

• Reduction in fatal and serious traffic accidents.
• Increased identification of offenders involved in collisions.
• Decrease in hit-and-run incidents.
• Improved compensation for accident victims through mandatory insurance.
• Removal of unsafe scooters from public roads.
• Greater confidence in law enforcement and traffic regulation.

The analyst also believes that safer roads would benefit Sint Maarten's tourism sector by improving perceptions of public safety among visitors and rental vehicle users.

Balancing Safety and Practicality
While supportive of stronger regulation, the proposal acknowledges the need for practical implementation.

The analyst recommends a phased introduction period to allow scooter owners sufficient time to comply and suggests that government explore subsidy programs for helmets, inspections, and registration fees to minimize hardship for lower-income residents.

Legal experts would also need to review the proposed enforcement framework to ensure compliance with due-process protections and property rights.

A National Discussion on Road Responsibility
The proposal concludes with a call for a broader national conversation about road safety and personal responsibility.

According to the analyst, reducing fatalities will require cooperation between government agencies, law enforcement, insurers, vehicle owners, schools, businesses, and the public.

"Whether someone rides a scooter, drives a car, operates a truck, or walks as a pedestrian, every person has a responsibility to protect life. The goal is simple: fewer funerals, fewer grieving families, and safer roads for everyone."

As Sint Maarten continues to confront the consequences of serious traffic accidents and unresolved hit-and-run cases, the proposal is likely to generate debate regarding the most effective measures to protect lives while maintaining fairness and practicality in enforcement.