September 18, 2026 No comments
Amid global trade uncertainty and an expected decline in foreign exchange reserves CBCS adjusts monetary policy measures
SINT MAARTEN/CURACAO - On September 17, 2026, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) decided to increase the pledging rate (The pledging rate is the interest rate commercial banks pay when borrowing from the central bank.) to 4.50%, while maintaining the reserve requirement unchanged at 18.50%. The decision was taken against the backdrop of an expected decline in the monetary union’s foreign exchange reserves in 2026, continued uncertainty surrounding international trade policies, and ongoing geopolitical tensions. It also follows the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision in September to raise its policy rate by 25 basis points. The CBCS also adjusted its Certificates of Deposit (CD) program. The changes are aimed at reducing the costs of absorbing excess liquidity in the banking...
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September 18, 2026 No comments
WYCCF Marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month with Week of Community Activities
SINT MAARTEN (ST. JOHN’S ESTATE) - The White & Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF) will mark Alzheimer’s Awareness Month with a week of activities focused on dementia awareness, education, and support for people living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. As part of the week, WYCCF healthcare professionals will participate in specialized training on person-centered communication and dementia care. Informal caregivers from the community are also invited to attend one free workshop, which is offered twice: on Monday, September 21, and Wednesday, September 23, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at WYCCF. This workshop will provide practical tools to communicate with confidence, understand challenging behaviors, and respond calmly and compassionately to someone living with dementia. Registration is free through the QR code...
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September 17, 2026 No comments
CPS Takes Proactive Measures to Safeguard Schools and the Business Community Against Respiratory Illnesses
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), wishes to reassure parents, educators, employers, employees, and the wider community that proactive measures are being taken to promote healthy environments and minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses. Following recent reports of respiratory illnesses at Charlotte Brookson Academy for the Performance Arts, including a confirmed COVID-19 case and flu-like symptoms among students and teachers, the Ministry acknowledges the concerns expressed by parents and school personnel. The school's temporary closure to facilitate cleaning and sanitization reflects its precautionary approach. CPS remains actively engaged in promoting preventive measures and public health awareness to protect the community. The Ministry encourages schools, businesses, and other institutions to...
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September 17, 2026 No comments
Minister Plenipotentiary Arrindell Meets with Governor Baly. Discuss EU Funding Opportunities
THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE) – Minister Plenipotentiary of Sint Maarten, Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell, received Sint Maarten Governor H.E. Ajamu Baly on Monday, 14 September 2026, during the Governor’s working visit to the Netherlands. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on various matters of importance to the country. Among the topics discussed were ongoing developments in the area of European Union (EU) affairs, including EU funding opportunities and the importance of developing investment-ready projects and strengthening regional cooperation in order to align with the European Union’s programming priorities in the coming years. The parties also discussed ways to address brain drain and strengthen ties with Sint Maarteners living in the Netherlands. Minister Arrindell highlighted the Cabinet’s efforts through its diaspora...
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September 17, 2026 No comments
A Lifetime of Literacy and Legacy: Shirley Richardson Celebrates 45 Stellar Years of Service
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - For 45 remarkable years, Shirley Richardson dedicated her time, talent, and passion to serving the community and advancing literacy. Retiring just two months shy of her 46th anniversary, Shirley leaves behind a lasting legacy of warmth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to literacy and the people she served. Congratulations, Shirley Richardson, and thank you for 45 remarkable years of dedicated service! Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Throughout nearly five decades at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library (now the Sint Maarten Library), Shirley was more than a dedicated team member; she was the heart of the library’s mission. Her career spans generations, leaving an indelible mark on thousands of young minds. From guiding toddlers to...
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