PHILIPSBURG:---The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labor, Richinel Brug, through the Department of Labor, proudly announces the launch of its “Know Your Rights” campaign, a public awareness initiative aimed at strengthening the understanding of labor laws, promoting fair workplace practices, and encouraging compliance across St. Maarten.
This campaign responds to ongoing concerns about misunderstandings of employee rights and employer obligations. Through clear, accessible information, the Department seeks to ensure that both workers and employers are equipped with the knowledge needed to foster safe, fair, and productive working environments.
The “Know Your Rights” campaign will focus on key areas, including:
• Employee rights related to wages, working hours, and leave entitlements
• Employer obligations under applicable labor laws
• Procedures for reporting workplace grievances and disputes
• Guidance on sick leave, occupational safety, and workplace protections
As part of the initiative, the Department will roll out a series of public service announcements in English, Spanish, and Creole, along with digital content in the form of video skits, on the government's social media platform. As part of the campaign, interviews will also be conducted with the Country St. Maarten Labor Mediator and the Department of Labor head, as these two entities play an important role in the rights of workers and employers.
“An informed workforce is a protected workforce,” said Minister Brug. “This campaign is about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to stand up for their rights while also supporting employers in meeting their legal responsibilities.”

PHILIPSBURG:---  The House of Parliament will sit in a Public meeting on April 14, 2026.

The Public meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at 14.30 hrs. in the Legislative Hall at Wilhelminastraat #1 in Philipsburg. The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sport (ECYS) will be in attendance.

The agenda point is:
Question hour: Questions from MP D.C. Labega directed to the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport regarding the levy on gasoline and diesel to fund sports programs (IS/941/2025-2026 dated April 8, 2026)

Members of the public are invited to the House of Parliament to attend parliamentary deliberations. All persons visiting the House of Parliament must adhere to the house rules.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House in Philipsburg.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on TV 15, Soualiga Headlines, via SXM GOV radio FM 107.9, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the internet www.youtube.com/c/SintMaartenParliament and www.pearlfmradio.sx

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), COVID, would like to inform the general public that the clinic at the CPS Offices at the Vineyard Building Office Park in Philipsburg is open for COVID vaccines by appointment only, and the next available date is April 17.

The CPS clinic is open for COVID vaccines for persons aged 12 and older on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Due to limited supply, CPS is requesting persons to call or email for an appointment by calling 914 (option 4) or 542-1570, or via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The booster is entirely free of charge and voluntary.

Please bring your vaccination card and a form of Identification (ID) when you have an appointment.
The COVID-19 virus has not disappeared. While the peak of the pandemic is in the past, the virus remains an active presence.
Routine prevention remains essential for public safety.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  With vibrant celebrations of Carnival 2026 now underway, the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), is reminding vendors the public of the importance of safe food preparation and handling to prevent cases of gastroenteritis or other food-borne illnesses during the festive season.

With an abundance of food and beverages available from food kiosks, street vendors, booth holders, and home gatherings, CPS is urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant about food safety.

Gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, is commonly caused by viruses, bacteria, or foodborne toxins. Symptoms may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, nausea, fever, and headaches. The most common signs are repeated episodes of vomiting and diarrhea within a 24-hour period.

Unsafe food handling poses a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

Gastroenteritis can spread easily when bacteria from contaminated hands, surfaces, or food is transferred to others. Poor hygiene practices, such as not washing hands after using the restroom, can lead to the contamination of utensils, food, and other commonly touched items.

CPS emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene practices to reduce the spread of illness. Members of the public are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom and before preparing or consuming food.

Surfaces such as kitchen counters should be cleaned regularly and disinfected using appropriate solutions. Practicing good cough etiquette and maintaining overall cleanliness are also essential preventive measures.

Food handlers and consumers are also reminded to prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked foods separate, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and ensuring proper food storage.

Temperature control is critical—food should be kept out of the “danger zone” where bacteria can multiply rapidly. If food appears spoiled or has been exposed to improper temperatures, it should be discarded immediately.

Individuals diagnosed with gastroenteritis are advised to remain at home, follow medical guidance, and practice good hygiene to prevent spreading the illness to others. CPS encourages everyone to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and the community.

As Carnival 2026 gets underway, CPS calls on all residents and visitors to prioritize food safety and hygiene. By taking simple preventive steps, the community can help ensure a safe, healthy, and enjoyable festive season for all.

For more information call CPS at 542-1122, 542-1222, 542-1322 and 542-1570; or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.