November 02, 2026 No comments
IVSA Teams Up with Altus Communication to Improve Public Access and Digital Services
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Alongside the organizational and legislative reforms underway at IVSA, the Inspectorate is investing in the systems and services needed to move the reform process forward. IVSA is working with Altus Communication and Website Design to improve internal communication, strengthen engagement with key stakeholders, and expand public access to its services. This work includes reviewing and consolidating internal procedures, identifying potential gaps in work processes, and translating those procedures into clear, comprehensive information for the public. Over time, these efforts will lead to a modernized website that serves as the primary portal for the public and stakeholders. Visitors will be able to find relevant information about matters within IVSA’s areas of responsibility and submit questions, complaints, and concerns. The work...
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November 02, 2026 No comments
A TEACHER’S LEGACY COMES FULL CIRCLE. Author Oswald Francis Gives Back
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - A great teacher’s influence outlives the walls he taught within. On Monday, October 26th, 2026, that truth took shape at the Browlia Maillard Campus of the Methodist Agogic Centre (MAC), a campus that did not yet exist in veteran educator Oswald Francis’s teaching days, but now holds his book in its children’s hands. Victorious Living Publishing presented his debut, In Emilio Wilson Park with Uncle Joe, to the campus, launching its give-back to the schools of St. Maarten and carrying a beloved educator’s legacy into a generation he never taught, but has surely shaped. The gift was presented by Publisher Dr. Nicole E. Francis Cotton, Mr. Francis’s daughter and herself a former pupil whom he taught...
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November 02, 2026 No comments
Minister of Finance Recognizes Julisa Frans for Years of Service on the Cft
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Honorable Minister of Finance, Marinka J. Gumbs, recently met with former Sint Maarten member of the Committee for Financial Supervision (Cft), Ms. Julisa Frans, to personally thank her for her years of service and contribution while being a Member the Cft on behalf of Sint Maarten. During the meeting, Minister Gumbs presented Ms. Frans with a plaque of appreciation in recognition of her dedication, professionalism, and commitment throughout her tenure. Minister Gumbs expressed her gratitude to Ms. Frans for taking on the important responsibility of a Member of the Cft on behalf of Sint Maarten and for the knowledge and experience she contributed during her years of service. “It was important for me to personally thank Ms....
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November 02, 2026 No comments
Census 2022 Reveals Population Growth, an Ageing Population and Key Findings on Education and Health
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Department of Statistics (STAT) has released three reports from the 2022 Population and Housing Census, providing an updated picture of Sint Maarten’s population and important insights into education, health and living conditions. Census interviews began in September 2022, with final visits conducted in April and May 2023. More than 32,000 people participated, contributing to the statistics describing the 41,902 residents living on the Dutch side of the island. Sint Maarten’s population grew by approximately 25%, from 33,609 in 2011 to 41,902 in 2022. Nearly half (49%) of all residents live in Cul de Sac and Lower Prince’s Quarter. The population is also ageing, with the median age increasing from 35 years in 2011 to 43 years in...
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November 02, 2026 No comments
Public Service Center Reception Desk Restores Regular Hours, Including Afternoon Service
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of General Affairs announces that the Reception Desk of the Public Service Center (PSC), located at the Government Administration Building on Soualiga Road, has restored its regular operating hours effective Monday, November 2, 2026. The restored schedule includes afternoon service on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, providing residents and businesses with greater flexibility to access assistance. The Reception Desk also remains open during the lunch break on these days. Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina welcomed the restoration, emphasizing the importance of public services that accommodate the needs of the community. “For some time, members of the public have been unable to access the Reception Desk’s services during the afternoon. Restoring these hours, with service continuing...
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