PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Finance Ardwell Irion called on the residents of St. Maarten to be vigilant and not be fooled by anyone who thinks that there is free money giving away on the open market. Irion said no one has a bag of money giving away at this time and that people should be aware of that. He said that the Government of St. Maarten is doing its very best to accommodate its residents by preparing a stimulus package even though the resources are limited. He said thus far the Dutch Government did not give any firm commitment to St. Maarten, therefore Government is using its liquidy support for the stimulus package that has been prepared.
However, businesses that apply for the payroll relief would have to submit documents proving what they have lost during this pandemic. Minister Irion said that there are 3 categories ranging from 80% to 60% payroll relief.
The Minister of Finance said St. Maarten was not prepared for this pandemic with its infrastructure and despite that, the government is working endless hours to ensure that the population survives and remains safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
