PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Darryl York has officially requested a Finance Committee meeting of Parliament with the Minister of Finance and the management of the TELEM Group of Companies to discuss the company’s current financial situation, performance, and outlook.

According to MP York, TELEM plays a vital role as a government-owned company that not only provides essential telecommunications services but also has a major impact on the country’s finances. “Parliament needs a clear and updated picture of where TELEM stands financially and what plans are in place to ensure its sustainability moving forward,” he stated.

In his request, MP York proposed that the meeting not be held entirely behind closed doors. He suggested that the opening portion be broadcast publicly to promote transparency and accountability, while allowing for closed-door discussions if any sensitive or confidential information arises.

“The people of St. Maarten deserve to know how one of our key public companies is doing,” MP York said. “At the same time, we have to be mindful that certain financial details may need to be handled privately to protect the company’s interests.”

MP York emphasized the urgency of the meeting, noting that the public has a right to understand TELEM’s current challenges and the steps being taken to strengthen its operations. He expressed confidence that an open, structured discussion between Parliament, the Minister of Finance, and TELEM’s management can help identify solutions and restore trust in the company’s direction.

CAY HILL:---  As part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is proud to announce a community clean-up of the Little Bay Pond in partnership with the St. Maarten Nature Foundation. The clean-up will take place on Sunday, November 2nd, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Little Bay Pond, and volunteers are requested to gather at the entrance of Learning Unlimited (LU) at 7:00 am.

This initiative aims to restore and preserve one of the island’s key ecological sites while reinforcing SMMC’s commitment to protecting Blue Forest ecosystems — a value that directly inspired the interior design concept of the new St. Maarten General Hospital (SMGH). SMMC/SMGH’s focus on community, culture, and the environment drives meaningful projects that enhance the overall well-being of the island and its people.

“Protecting the pond through clean-ups and raising public awareness is essential. Healthy mangroves not only support biodiversity but also act as carbon sinks, helping to combat climate change. Preserving ecosystems like this one ensures they can continue to sustain the well-being of the island and its inhabitants,” remarked the St. Maarten Nature Foundation.

Little Bay Pond played a crucial role in the early settlement of the island, thanks to its abundant food supply and proximity to water. The surrounding mangroves provided habitat for juvenile fish and crabs, supporting both biodiversity and local communities. After the abolition of slavery, formerly enslaved people settled near the pond, utilizing it as a vital fishery during times of scarcity. Today, the pond remains a feeding ground for pelicans but faces growing threats from pollution and development.

Volunteers are asked to sign up by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/LV1N9AMhVexodors9 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes, protective clothing, and bring reusable water bottles when taking part in the clean-up. Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in mini bird-watching tours during the clean-up.

~New technology defends against cyber threats, safeguards public data, and ensures more secure and reliable IT services for all citizens.~

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Government has taken a major step forward in protecting the nation’s digital infrastructure by installing an advanced firewall system under the Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP). This new technology significantly enhances the government’s ability to defend against cyber threats, safeguard public data, and ensure more secure and reliable IT services for all citizens. Prime Minister, the Honorable PM Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina, emphasized the importance of this milestone for national digital security.

“This upgrade comes at a pivotal time,” said PM Dr. Mercelina. “Over the past few years, several institutions on our island have faced cyberattacks, including ransomware incidents that raised serious concerns about the safety of sensitive information. Today, we are acting decisively to protect our digital future. Every improvement to our systems strengthens the public’s trust in government. It ensures that citizens can access essential services safely, efficiently, and confidently. This investment is more than an upgrade; it’s a transformation that positions Sint Maarten firmly in the digital age.”

The new firewall consists of two (2) physical Next-Generation Firewall devices. These hardware devices are designed to detect and block unauthorized access and prevent cyberattacks before they can affect government systems. The newly implemented Next-Generation Firewall devices are some of the world’s most widely used firewall technologies and are known for protecting sensitive information and securing complex networks. The new firewalls are part of a larger effort to replace outdated technology, reduce cybersecurity risks, and build a more connected and efficient public service. It also strengthens the government's ability to continue operations during disasters or disruptions and support the development of future digital services, such as electronic IDs and data exchange.

This investment is a key milestone in Sint Maarten's journey toward a safer, more modern digital government, one that citizens can trust and rely on. DGTP is led by the Government’s Digital Leadership Team (DLT), tasked with advancing digital reform across ministries. The project is implemented by the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten. It is funded through a $12 million grant from the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands and managed by the World Bank. 

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) has taken proactive measures to mitigate flooding across the community following recent heavy rainfall.

Due to the rising water levels of the Freshwater Pond, VROMI has initiated controlled spillover into the Great Salt Pond. This measure helps to balance the water levels between both ponds and reduce the risk of flooding in surrounding areas.

Simultaneously, the Great Bay Channel is being opened to allow for the regulated release of excess water into the sea. This combined effort is part of the Ministry’s ongoing water management strategy to safeguard residents, property, and public infrastructure during periods of intense rainfall.

The Ministry urges the public to exercise caution when traversing flood-prone areas.

VROMI teams remain on alert and will continue to monitor and manage water levels as part of ongoing flood prevention efforts.