Public Health MoU to be Signed Soon. Border to Reopen June 2nd

SAINT-MARTIN (MARIGOT) – The Prefecture of Saint-Barths and Saint-Martin stated on Monday that the next phase of de-escalation begins on June 2^nd if there are no dramatic changes between now and then with respect to the public health situation on the island.

Fifth and sixth graders returned to classes on Monday which was another phase of the returning to the new normal. This also included the re-opening of beaches and allowing boating activities within the past week.

If the public health situation remains without any changes, the next phase of re-opening takes place on June 2^nd when sailing and other nautical activities can take place, but also no more border controls - free movement across the border between north and south.

The aforementioned is dependent on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Public Health that is to be signed between the authorities of Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten in the next few days.

The MoU is being finalized by the relevant government agencies between the two Governments.

A meeting took place on May 22^nd between the Regional Health Agency of the French side and the Dutch side Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour.

The MoU establishes a common doctrine between both sides of the island, guaranteeing monitoring and control of the public health situation. A follow-up meeting is planned for Tuesday, May 26^th, to discuss testing strategies, and contact tracing among other issues.