PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently responding to a vehicle fire that occurred near the entrance of Divi Little Bay. Members of the Fire Department are on the scene and working diligently to extinguish the blaze.

As a result, the road leading to and from Divi Little Bay is temporarily closed to all traffic. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes until the situation is brought under control.

Police and detectives are also present at the scene as the investigation into the cause of the fire continues.

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PHILIPSBURG:--- Police Union, NAPB- Sint Maarten, representing the dedicated law enforcement professionals of Country Sint Maarten, today announced its full and unwavering support for the members of the Fire Department and Ambulance/EMS workers represented by the WICSU-PSU in their ongoing efforts to have their grievances fairly addressed.

On Monday, 8th August 2025, at 8:00 AM, an urgent meeting was held with the membership of NAPB- Sint Maarten. Among the various updates given to the members present, Pantophlet also discussed the current issues affecting firefighters and ambulance personnel and foresees adverse effects on other agencies in the justice ministry if their grievances are not addressed.

“The fight of the firemen and ambulance/ EMS workers was our fight 5 years ago. We must stand shoulder to shoulder with our brothers and sisters in the fire and ambulance services!” said Pantophlet, President of NAPB-Sint Maarten. “We all serve the same community, and we all face the same challenges — long hours, dangerous conditions, and increasing demands with limited resources. It’s time for the country to recognize and properly address the legitimate concerns being raised.”

The grievances filed by fire and ambulance personnel reportedly stem from serious concerns about placements and retroactive payments linked to their function book. Despite repeated attempts to engage in meaningful dialogue, their concerns have not been adequately met.

“The safety of our community depends on strong, supported, and respected emergency services across the board. When one of us is stretched too thin or ignored, it affects all of us — and ultimately, it affects public safety.”

NAPB-Sint Maarten calls on public officials and stakeholders to prioritize fair treatment of all first responders and work toward a resolution that ensures the long-term well-being of those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Government of Sint Maarten has taken another significant step toward strengthening collaboration with the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union–Private Sector Union (WICSU-PSU) by proposing the introduction of an independent mediator to support ongoing discussions concerning Fire Department personnel.
Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina formally communicated the proposal to WICSU-PSU President Ms. Sharon Cangieter, highlighting the Government’s dedication to resolving outstanding matters through cooperation and mutual respect.

While the Government has presented four potential candidates directly to the union, the Prime Minister made it clear that he will not be publicly disclosing the names of those individuals out of respect for the integrity of the process and the privacy of all involved.

“In recent weeks, the Government and WICSU-PSU have engaged in constructive and meaningful communication,” stated Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina. “This progress reflects our shared commitment to finding fair, balanced, and sustainable solutions for the men and women of the Fire Department who serve our country with unwavering dedication.”

The Government’s proposal allows the union to either consider a candidate put forward by the Government or propose a mediator of its own choosing, with the understanding that the final selection must be mutually agreed upon to ensure neutrality and trust.
“The introduction of a mediator represents our intention to support a dialogue that is transparent, respectful, and focused on tangible outcomes,” the Prime Minister added. “We welcome WICSU-PSU’s participation in shaping this next step, and we remain committed to pursuing a resolution that honors the interests of all parties involved.”

Prime Minister Mercelina also emphasized that protecting the confidentiality of proposed mediators is essential to maintaining a professional and impartial process.

“This moment provides an opportunity for us to reaffirm our partnership and our shared responsibility to safeguard the well-being of those who protect and serve our community,” he said.

“Together, we can foster a path forward that reinforces trust, strengthens collaboration, and upholds the values of service and fairness that our country stands for.”

The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to working collaboratively with the union to ensure a dignified and solution-oriented process for Fire Department personnel and all stakeholders.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) is pleased to announce the official launch of the IVSA Strengthening Project, which kicked off last week. This initiative marks a step toward enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of the Inspectorate of Health, Social Development, and Labor (IVSA).
Earlier this year, the TWO approved the IVSA project as part of Sint Maarten’s broader institutional strengthening agenda under the Country Package. The project focuses on modernizing IVSA’s organizational structure, clarifying roles and responsibilities, and ensuring its operations are supported by a coherent legislative framework.
The first phase of the project, approved by the Council of Ministers (CoM), establishes the project team:
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Mrs. Jorien Wuite – Project Manager
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Mrs. Noella Ruivenkamp – Organizational Developer
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Mr. Jan Egbert Temmink – Legislative Draftsman
The team will work closely with the Ministry’s leadership and staff to assess the Inspectorate’s current functions and develop proposals aimed at strengthening oversight, compliance, and service delivery in public health, social development, and labor.
Minister of VSA, Richinel Brug, welcomed the initiative, stating: "Strengthening the IVSA is essential to ensuring that the Ministry can continue to effectively safeguard the health, safety, and well-being of our community. This project represents an important step toward a more modern and responsive."
Regular updates on the progress of the IVSA Strengthening Project will be shared as implementation advances.