SINT MAARTEN (CAY HILL) - St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) recently provided a tour of the St. Maarten General Hospital (SMGH) construction site to Members of Parliament (MPs) and other Parliament staff.

The visit was part of SMMC’s ongoing efforts to engage directly with stakeholders and the community, providing vital information and updates on healthcare developments and the new hospital project.

The visit began with a presentation on SMMC, its medical developments and SMGH, followed by a question-and-answer opportunity. The MPs and their delegation were then given construction personal protective equipment (PPE) and led onto the active construction site.

They began on the ground floor, walking through the future dialysis department and visited all five floors of the building, including a model patient treatment room.

“These elected officials are the people’s representatives, and we were pleased to have them visit our hospital for a closer look into what we do at SMMC and the future of healthcare on the island. The visit was a successful one, and we look forward to hosting our MPs again in the future,” concluded SMMC.

SMMC encourages the public to stay up to date on construction updates and developments on Facebook (www.facebook.com/StMaartenMedicalCenter), LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/StMaartenMedicalCenter), or its new website www.smgh.sx

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - As students across Sint Maarten return to the classroom for the new academic year, Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina is calling on the entire country to recognize that the responsibility for their success extends far beyond the school gates.

“The first lesson our children receive this school year will not come from a textbook,” Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina stated. “It will come from us which from the patience of a driver near our schools, the encouragement of a teacher, the sacrifice of a parent, the leadership of a principal, and the decisions we make as a Government. Before a child opens a book, we must open the way.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that the beginning of the school year should not be treated merely as a return to routine, but as a renewal of Sint Maarten’s national commitment to its children.

“Education is not the quiet work taking place inside a collection of buildings. It is the clearest statement a country makes about the future it intends to create,” the Prime Minister said. “Every classroom holds future leaders, innovators, caregivers, entrepreneurs, public servants and nation-builders. What we invest in them today will determine the strength and character of Sint Maarten tomorrow.”

Prime Minister Mercelina encouraged students to enter the new school year with confidence, discipline and curiosity, reminding them that their present circumstances do not determine the limits of their future.

“To every student: you are returning to school for more than grades, examinations or promotion to another class. You are returning to discover what you are capable of becoming,” the Prime Minister said. “There may be subjects that challenge you and days when progress feels difficult. Do not allow one difficult day, one mistake or one disappointing result to become the definition of your life. Ask for help, remain focused and keep moving forward.”

The Prime Minister also extended special appreciation to the teachers, school managers, administrative personnel, counsellors, bus drivers, security officers, cleaners and other professionals whose work makes education possible each day.

“Our educators are entrusted with far more than the delivery of lessons. They help children recognize their worth, develop their voices and imagine possibilities they may not yet see for themselves,” he stated. “Their contribution cannot be measured only by what is written on a report card. It can also be found in the confidence of a child who finally understands, participates or begins to believe.”

Parents and guardians were encouraged to remain actively engaged throughout the academic year by establishing routines, communicating with schools and creating an environment in which children feel supported and accountable.

Prime Minister Mercelina further appealed to motorists to reduce their speed, remain attentive near schools and school buses, and exercise additional patience as traffic increases.

“A child arriving safely at school is more important than any appointment, deadline or moment of impatience,” he said. “The few seconds we save by speeding can never outweigh the value of a young life.”

The Prime Minister concluded by urging the community to ensure that no student feels invisible or alone during the school year.

“The strength of our education system will not be measured only by how far our highest-performing students rise, but also by how firmly we stand beside the child who is struggling,” Prime Minister Mercelina stated. “When every child knows that someone believes in them, education becomes more than preparation for life, it becomes the place where a new life becomes possible.”

Prime Minister Mercelina wished all students, educators, parents and school communities a safe, productive and inspiring academic year. 

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - The University of St. Martin (USM) has announced several important updates to the Caribbean Foundation Year (CFY) Academic Track for the 2026–2027 academic year, including a new October 1 start date and the delivery of all Academic Track classes at the USM campus in St. Maarten.

The updates follow the completion and evaluation of the program's 2025–2026 pilot year and are intended to strengthen the delivery of the Academic Track and provide students with a more consistent and connected academic experience. The upcoming CFY Academic Track will officially begin on October 1, 2026, and run through June 2027. All students enrolled in the Academic Track, including eligible students from St. Eustatius, will be required to attend classes in person at the University of St. Martin campus in St. Maarten.

The CFY Academic Track serves as a bridge between secondary and higher education, giving young people an opportunity to strengthen their academic skills, prepare for university-level studies, explore future educational and career pathways, and further develop the skills needed to successfully transition into higher education. To provide prospective students with additional time to apply under the updated program structure, the application deadline has been extended to Friday, August 28, 2026. With the placement tests taking place at USM on September 2 and 3, 2026.

Students who have already completed their CFY placement test at USM do not need to take the exam again. Applicants who have already submitted an application also do not need to submit a new application. The USM Admissions Office will follow up with applicants regarding their application status and any outstanding admission requirements.  The Academic Track is open to eligible students between the ages of 16 and 23 who meet the program's admission requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to complete any outstanding application requirements before the August 28 deadline.

USM encourages interested students and families, particularly those who may still be considering their next step after secondary school, to contact the University to learn more about the CFY Academic Track and determine whether the program is the right pathway for them. 

Key Dates for the 2026–2027 CFY Academic Track

• Application Deadline: August 28, 2026
• Placement Assessments: September 2 & 3, 2026
• Program Start: October 1, 2026
• Program Duration: October 2026 – June 2027
• Location: University of St. Martin Campus, St. Maarten

For additional information on the CFY Academic Track or the application process, contact the University of St. Martin Admissions Office at +1 (721) 542-5171 or +1 (721) 523-4876, or visit www.usm.sx

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Regional Rastafari leader and cannabis policy advocate Ras Iroy will be among the featured speakers at the upcoming public forum “Building the Future of Cannabis Regulation,” where he will address the relationship between Rastafari, reparatory justice and the development of a sustainable cannabis industry in the Caribbean.

The event, hosted by the Cannabis Legislative Inter-Ministerial Work Group, CLIWG, will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2026, from 6:00pm to 10:00pm at the University of St. Martin. Admission is free and members of the public are encouraged to register in advance due to limited seating.

Ras Iroy’s presentation, titled “Cannabis and Rastafari: A Reparatory Approach to a Sustainable Cannabis Industry,” will revisit decades of Rastafari advocacy surrounding cannabis, known within the faith and culture as the Holy Herb, while examining how Caribbean governments can develop cannabis legislation that is inclusive, rights-based and responsive to the history of criminalization.

His presentation will revisit the findings of the CARICOM Regional Commission on Marijuana and its report “Waiting to Exhale,” which examined the social, religious, health and legal implications of cannabis prohibition across the region.

Ras Iroy will also explore the longstanding relationship between cannabis and the Rastafari way of life, including the religious, cultural and social significance of the plant within Rastafari communities.

A central part of the presentation will focus on the Sankofa Maccabbee case and its implications for Rastafari rights and cannabis policy. Ras Iroy is expected to examine how the case contributed to the wider Caribbean conversation about religious freedom, cannabis possession and the treatment of Rastafari under existing laws.

He will also highlight legislative developments in St. Kitts and Nevis, where amendments have been introduced recognizing the rights and religious practices of the Rastafari community in relation to cannabis.

The presentation is expected to argue that the development of a cannabis industry should not be viewed only through the lens of commercial opportunity, but should also take into account the communities that advocated for cannabis reform long before legalization and regulation became mainstream policy discussions.

Ras Iroy will outline an inclusive Rastafari perspective on building a sustainable industry and will offer recommendations on how governments can incorporate social justice, cultural recognition, reparatory considerations and meaningful participation into future cannabis frameworks.

The discussion is particularly relevant as St. Maarten considers the development of its own legislative framework for cannabis. The August 14 forum is designed to bring together government representatives, healthcare professionals, academics, researchers, businesses, legal specialists and members of the community to examine evidence-based approaches to regulation, public health, science and economic development.

Ras Iroy currently serves as Chairman of the Caribbean Rastafari Organisation Inc., CRO Inc., and Chairman of the Organisation of Rastafari in Unity, ORU, the umbrella Rastafari organization in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Through those roles, he has worked to strengthen cooperation among Rastafari communities across the Caribbean while advancing cultural preservation, food security, environmental sustainability, youth empowerment and greater unity within the movement nationally, regionally and internationally.

He also serves as a Community Development Officer within the Nevis Island Administration, supporting community-based initiatives, civic participation and programs aimed at improving social wellbeing and sustainable community development.

His involvement in cannabis policy extends to his membership on the National Cannabis Authority, where he contributes to policy development and public education surrounding the responsible development of the cannabis sector.

Ras Iroy is also Co-Chairperson of the National Reparations Committee, contributing to advocacy and policy discussions surrounding reparatory justice for people of African descent.

His participation in the St. Maarten forum will bring a regional perspective to discussions about how cannabis regulation can balance public health, economic development, legal reform, social justice and cultural rights.

Other featured speakers at the event include medical cannabis physician Dr. Joseph Rosado, senior lecturer and researcher Dr. Machel A. Emanuel, and legal and policy expert Leandra Leslie-Cijntje.

The forum forms part of the Cannabis Legislative Inter-Ministerial Work Group’s broader effort to support the development of St. Maarten’s cannabis legislative framework through evidence, education and public engagement.

The event will provide members of the public with an opportunity to hear from specialists, ask questions and participate in the wider discussion about the direction of cannabis policy in St. Maarten.

SINT MAARTEN (MULLET BAY) - “Sun Resorts”, announces the commencement of the Mullet Bay masterplan process, an important step toward providing the people of St. Maarten with clearer information, better understanding, and a more structured view of what the future of this significant area could look like.

Management recognizes that Mullet Bay means a great deal to the community of St. Maarten. Sun Resorts recognizes that the area carries strong emotions and many unanswered questions. It is a place connected to memory, recreation, tourism, public interest, and many emotions.

For that reason, it is imperative that the next phase must be approached with care, and respect for everyone who feels connected to it and its future must be approached with openness, and responsibility.

The masterplan process is an important step in helping us better understand where we are, where we are going, and what a responsible vision for the area could look like.

“Our goal is to work toward a balanced and constructive outcome that can create the best possible results and a win-win situation, one that considers the interests of the owner of the Mullet Bay property, while also respecting the long-term value, concerns, and aspirations of the people of St. Maarten,” said a representative of Sun Resorts.

The intention is to help explain the possibilities, principles, and considerations that may guide the future of Mullet Bay. It is not a final development announcement, but a planning, communication, and educational framework designed to bring together technical insight, environmental awareness, spatial planning, accessibility, heritage value, and long-term benefit for St. Maarten

To support this process, Sun Resorts has engaged Lyongo Architecture, an architecture and urban design firm with a strong presence in the Netherlands and the Dutch Caribbean. The firm’s involvement brings both professional expertise and a meaningful understanding of the local context.

Architect Lyongo has lived in St. Maarten for several years and has been part of developments such as The Sister Borgia Elementary School, Vocational Training School, Halley’s dental Clinic, in addition to these, he has also supported with residential developments. He is familiar with the Mullet Bay property, and understands the sensitivity, history, and public interest connected to the area. This connection is important in helping translate the complexity of Mullet Bay into a visual and strategic framework that can support public education, stakeholder discussions, and a better understanding of how responsible planning is shaped.

A key objective of this process is to move the conversation from uncertainty and speculation toward information, education, and constructive dialogue. By presenting Mullet Bay through a more organized planning lens, Sun Resorts aims to help the community better understand what is being explored, what factors must be considered, and what steps are needed before any future decisions can be made.

Once the masterplan development advances, it will also create a basis for engagement with relevant authorities, environmental and technical advisors, community stakeholders, and other parties whose input is important.

As this process continues, Sun Resorts will provide updates that explain the masterplan framework, the planning principles involved, and the next steps. The intention is to support a more informed public conversation rooted in education, responsible planning, environmental and cultural awareness, and long-term value for St. Maarten.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - In recent discussions on heritage and museums in the Caribbean, increasing attention has been given to cultural artifacts that were involuntarily surrendered or stolen during the colonial period.

In response, the ministers of the Four-Country Ministerial Consultation decided to establish a working group on collections from a colonial context. As a result, museums and heritage institutions in the Caribbean region will gain more influence over how these collections are handled, grounded in the principle of equal partnership.

The working group held its first in-person meeting on Saba, hosted at the Saba Heritage Center and the Eugenius Johnson Center. The sessions focused on shaping the outlines and priorities for the advice that will be presented to the Four-Country Ministerial Consultation in November 2026.

Central themes included collection management and preservation, digitisation, professionalisation, climate-conscious infrastructure, community engagement, knowledge sharing and cooperation within the Kingdom and the wider region.

As the smallest island within the Kingdom, Saba provided a meaningful and welcoming setting for this first gathering. The program also included an educational walk through important historical sites in The Bottom, guided by Saban anthropologist, oral historian and researcher Dimetri Whitfield.

In addition, the working group visited the island’s two museums: the Major Osmar Simmons Museum and the Harry L. Johnson Museum.

With a view to the upcoming Four-Country Ministerial Consultation, the working group is preparing recommendations on the return of cultural items and the management of museum collections.

A new structure was deliberately chosen for this trajectory, bringing together both civil servants from the governments and heritage and museum experts from the Caribbean and the European part of the Netherlands.

The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science has also commissioned consultancy firm Scriptis, led by Ludmila Duncan, to guide and support the development of the recommendations in collaboration with the working group.

The participants include civil servants and experts from the six Caribbean islands and the Netherlands: Aruba, represented by Raymundo Dijkhoff; Bonaire, by Daudi Cijntje and Ziran Chin-On; Curaçao, by Irelnety Copra and Dyonna Bennett; Sint Maarten, by Koert Kerkhoff; Saba, by Shaigan Marten and Sharifa Balfour; Sint Eustatius, by Sjahaira Fleming; and the Netherlands, by Robert Verhoogt and Remco Vermeulen.

Based on their expertise and experience, Arminda Franken-Ruiz and Raimie Richardson complement the group as external advisors.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is seeking the assistance of the public in locating a missing female, Yvrose Joseph, age 58, who has been reported missing under concerning circumstances.

Ms. Joseph is described as being approximately 1.60 meters tall, with a heavy build and a dark brown complexion. She resides at Sucker Garden Road 111-B.

According to preliminary information, Ms. Joseph, who is known to be suffering from medical conditions, was last seen on Thursday of last week by her spouse while they were out shopping. During the outing, she reportedly walked away and did not return, and her whereabouts have remained unknown since that time.

KPSM is urging anyone who may have seen Ms. Joseph or who may have information regarding her whereabouts to come forward immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to contact:

• KPSM Emergency Line: +1 (721) 542-2222
• Spouse (T. Jean-Marie): +1 (721) 587-4832

The Police Force of Sint Maarten continues its efforts to locate Ms. Joseph and ensure her safe return.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - FREEGAN proudly announces that the organization placed 16th in the national online public voting round for the Appeltjes van Oranje 2026. Just like last year, FREEGAN once again became the highest-ranking organization in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom.

The Appeltjes van Oranje are prestigious awards presented by the Oranje Fonds to organizations that make an exceptional contribution to society. The online voting round formed part of the selection process, allowing the public to support organizations by casting their votes online.

FREEGAN would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to vote. Despite the various difficulties many people experienced during the voting process, the support from St. Maarten, the wider Caribbean, and the Netherlands remained incredibly strong.

“We are deeply touched by all the people who still made the effort to cast their vote,” said DJ Jansen of FREEGAN. “The support, messages, and involvement from the community truly moved us. It shows how many people believe in a society built on dignity, choice, and caring for one another.”

As a part of this achievement, FREEGAN has been invited to travel to Curaçao in June to present a pitch to the Oranje Fonds jury. During this stage, selected organizations are given the opportunity to further present their work, impact, and vision.

FREEGAN works daily on St. Maarten to improve food security, reduce waste, and strengthen families and individuals through programs including the client-choice Food Market, coaching, education, and community support initiatives.

The organization emphasizes that this milestone does not belong to FREEGAN alone, but to the entire community that supports and helps build the organization every day.

“This feels like recognition for all of St. Maarten,” FREEGAN added. “For every volunteer, donor, partner, and family who continues to show what real community truly means.”

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Department of Statistics tracks all visitors (including post immigration transfers) at Princess Juliana International Airport as Air Passenger Arrivals. St. Maarten's hub status means some travelers connect to nearby islands, including French St. Martin.

The new digital immigration system enhances data accuracy, though limitations persist in distinguishing transfers, residents, and EU citizens, impacting detailed statistics. The term “Air Passenger Arrivals” is now used to reflect all arrivals through the airport port of entry, providing a broader and more accurate representation of air traffic and tourism movements. 

Passenger Air Arrivals results for Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025

• Total air passenger arrivals in Q1 2026 reached 314,765, reflecting an increase of 57,842 passengers, or 23%, compared to Q1 2025.
• North America (the United States and Canada) remained the primary source market, accounting for 213,595 arrivals, or 67.9% of all arrivals during quarter 1 of 2026.
• The United States continued to be the largest individual market, contributing 171,340 arrivals, which represented 54.4% of total arrivals and approximately 80% of the North American market (USA & Canada), with an average of more than 57,000 passengers per month.
• The European Union ranked as the second-largest market with 76,790 arrivals, accounting for 24.4% of total arrivals of Q1 2026. France led the region with 31,091 arrivals (40.5% of EU arrivals and 9.9% overall), followed by the Netherlands with 18,502 arrivals (24.1% of EU arrivals and 5.9% overall).
• The Caribbean region recorded 9,946 arrivals, representing 3.2% of total arrivals and averaging more than 3,300 passengers monthly.

• Central and South America contributed 8,588 arrivals, or 2.7% of total arrivals, averaging more than 2,800 passengers per month and showing an increase of approximately 1,700 passengers compared to Q1 2025.
• Arrivals from the Rest of the World totalled 5,846 passengers, accounting for 1.9% of total arrivals and averaging more than 1,900 passengers monthly.

Cruise Arrivals results for Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025

• Maarten recorded a total of 748,603 cruise visitors during Q1 2026, representing an increase of 18% compared to the 635,968 visitors recorded in Q1 2025.
• January 2026 showed a 19% increase in cruise passenger arrivals compared to January 2025.
• February 2026 experienced a 16% increase in cruise passengers and recorded approximately 30% more cruise calls than in the same month of the previous year.
• March 2026 registered an 18% increase in cruise passenger arrivals compared to March 2025, despite approaching the start of the traditional off-season.
• Total cruise ship calls during Q1 2026 reached 316, representing an increase of 40 calls compared to Q1 2025.

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SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT), Grisha Heyliger-Maarten, has expressed deep alarm and strong condemnation regarding GEBE’s recent fuel clause increase of approx. 10 cents, which has already appeared on electricity bills for April consumption period, despite GEBE’s public statement that the increase would take effect in May.

“Consumers are already under tremendous financial pressure,” the Minister stated. “To announce that a new rate will take effect in May, but then quietly apply it to April bills is unacceptable, misleading and a breach of public trust. The public deserves clarity, not confusion. This is not how a GEBE’s management should treat the people of St. Maarten.”

She emphasized that under the Electricity Concession and the Electricity Concession Ordinance, no tariff component, including fuel clause, may be adjusted without proper justification, supporting data and Government review and approval. “These safeguards exist to protect consumers,” she said. “They were not respected, and that failure lies squarely with GEBE’s management.”

She noted that this latest development follows a series of challenges at GEBE over the past years, including prolonged billing disruptions, governance instability and repeated public concerns about transparency and service reliability. These issues were further highlighted in the 2025 evaluation conducted by the Regulatory Authority of Curaçao (RAC) in collaboration with BTP, which identified gaps in data reporting, maintenance planning and tariff methodology.

“Taken together, these events show why independent oversight is not an option, it is urgently necessary,” the Minister said. “GEBE has to be transparent, accountable and stable, because that is what the people deserve. The current pattern of decision making is simply not acceptable.”

To address longstanding gaps in transparency and accountability, the Minister of TEATT has finalized a joint Ministerial Decree designating the Bureau of Telecommunication and Post (BTP as the legally mandated Supervisor under the Electricity Concession Ordinance.

The decree has been signed by the Minister of TEATT and transmitted for co-signature of the Minister of VROMI, after which it will be published and take immediate effect.

“This Decree activates a supervisory mechanism that has existed in law since its establishment but was never implemented,” Minister Heyliger-Marten explained. “It is a critical step toward protecting consumers both residents and businesses.

Once in force, the decree empowers BTP to:

• Request and verify all operational and financial data from GEBE.
• Review tariff structures, methodologies and fuel clause calculations.
• Conduct inspections, audits and technical assessments.
• Monitor compliance with all concession obligations.
• Oversee renewable-energy obligations under Article 14 of the Concession.

The Minister confirmed that BTP has already been instructed once the Decree takes effect to immediately investigate the basis, timing and legality of the recent fuel clause increase.

The Minster also noted that GEBE has not complied with the Government’s formal request to submit a complete tariff structure proposal, despite repeated reminders.

“The most responsible way to set tariffs is through verified, cost-based information,” she said. “Only GEBE has full insight into its operational costs. Government cannot lawfully approve or adjust tariffs without receiving and validating that information.”

Because GEBE has failed to submit the required tariff structure, BTP will now begin the process of independently reviewing and reconstructing the tariff methodology to ensure fairness, legality and consumer protection.

The Minister also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Prime Minister to stabilize GEBE’s governance and strengthen corporate oversight.

“The Prime Minister has taken important steps to stabilize the company and reinforce internal controls,” she said. “This decree complements those efforts by ensuring that the regulatory side is equally strengthened.”

The Minister emphasized “this is done to protect the people of St. Maarten, ensuring that no tariff adjustment, fuel clause or otherwise is ever implemented again without transparency and proper justification. The days of unilateral decisions by GEBE’s management without oversight are coming to an end.”

Once the decree takes effect, BTP will have full legal authority to intervene, verify data, review tariff calculations and ensure that future decisions are fair, transparent and based on verified information. “I ask the public for patience as we move swiftly to correct these issues and protect consumers of GEBE.”

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - In recognition of International Nurses Day and the conclusion of Nurses Week activities, Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, took a moment to personally thank the nurses within the Ministry of VSA for their continued dedication and service to the people of Sint Maarten.

As part of the observance, Minister Brug presented the nurses with a small token of appreciation as a gesture of gratitude for the tireless work they continue to perform every day on the frontlines of healthcare.

“Nurses play an essential role within our healthcare system and our society,” Minister Brug stated. “Their commitment, compassion, professionalism, and sacrifice often go beyond what many people see on a daily basis. This simple gesture is only a small way of saying thank you for the tremendous work they continue to do for our people.”

Minister Brug emphasized that healthcare workers, particularly nurses, remain one of the pillars of the country’s healthcare system and deserve continued recognition and support for the demanding responsibilities they carry.

“Whether in clinics, institutions, community care, inspections, elderly care, or public health services, our nurses continue to show up every single day to care for others. Their work does not go unnoticed, and they deserve to feel appreciated not only during Nurses Week, but throughout the entire year,” the Minister added.

The Minister concluded by extending his sincere appreciation to all nurses across Sint Maarten for their dedication, resilience, and continued service to the community.

SINT MAARTEN (POND ISLAND) - Students enrolled in the University of St. Martin’s Interpersonal Communication course (SPE 115) concluded the semester with a series of engaging and creative final presentations that highlighted teamwork, research, communication, and real-world application.

Facilitated by instructor Shobhan Giterson, the course challenged students to move beyond traditional classroom presentations by developing interactive group projects centered around interpersonal communication, culture, relationships, and human behavior. 

As part of their final assessment, students were required to invite guests to attend the presentations, creating an interactive atmosphere that included both in-person attendees at USM and students from St. Eustatius who participated remotely throughout the semester.

The final projects reflected a wide range of creativity and collaboration. One group produced a mini documentary based on field interviews conducted with individuals from various cultural backgrounds, while another developed an interactive communication game.

Students also incorporated audience participation through a “Family Feud”-style quiz and explored complex social themes through dramatic role play presentations focused on toxic relationships and interpersonal dynamics. 

To provide students with professional feedback and practical exposure, presentations were assessed by invited guests from within the USM and wider St. Maarten community.

Assessors included USM faculty member and author Mr. Kenver Regis, who recently released his book Good Loving: What Men Want in Women and What Women Want in Men; USM alumna Ria Adams, who completed her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology; USM faculty member and proud alumna Claudia Connor of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (MECYS); and social worker Nkosazana Illis, who specialized in counseling and couples guidance in the Netherlands. 

According to Giterson, the course was designed to help students connect theory with real-life experiences and social interactions. “It is important that we prepare students for the real dynamics they face out in the real world,” Giterson shared. “Many times people judge others because of a lack of awareness or understanding about a particular culture or belief system.

The more we understand each other and where people come from, the more respect and empathy we can develop.” 

During the final weeks of the semester, each student group was required to conduct field research and interview individuals from different cultural and social backgrounds to help develop the content for their projects and support the communication theories explored throughout the course.

Through this process, students gained firsthand insight into how communication influences relationships, teamwork, culture, and everyday social interactions. 

Giterson noted that the final projects reflected not only what students learned academically, but also their ability to collaborate, adapt, problem-solve, and engage meaningfully with others.

“It was rewarding to see how students prepared, the challenges they encountered, and how they worked together to overcome them,” she added. “They made the projects real, relatable, and meaningful, not just for themselves, but also for the guests they invited. The Interpersonal Communication course (SPE 115) focuses on understanding human interaction, cultural awareness, teamwork, and relationship dynamics.” 

USM also reminds prospective students that applications for the Summer 2026 semester remain open. Placement testing for Summer admissions, as well as early testing for the Fall 2026 semester, will take place on Friday, May 15, at the USM campus.

Persons interested in starting or continuing their studies are encouraged to contact the Admissions Department or Student Services Center at USM for additional information on available programs and enrollment opportunities.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Public Prosecutor’s Office has filed an appeal against the verdicts of the Court of First Instance of Sint Maarten in the “Lisbon” criminal case, which concerns bribery of public officials.

The appeal was filed in the cases of R.B., R.A.D.S., and S.L.G.. The Court rendered its judgment in this case on April 29. The main defendant, R.B., was suspected of having accepted bribes from three individuals while serving as a member of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, including by accepting bribes in exchange for favoring these individuals.

The Court ruled that bribery could not be proven in two cases. In one case, the Court did find bribery proven. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has reviewed the verdicts but does not agree with several of the Court’s legal considerations, nor with the sentence imposed.

For that reason, it has been decided to file an appeal against the verdicts in the cases of R.B., R.A.D.S., and S.L.G.. The Public Prosecutor’s Office emphasizes that cases of this nature strike at the heart of democratic governance.

Integrity in public office is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring that decisions are made in the interest of society as a whole, without being influenced by personal gain.

Corruption, both passive and active, undermines fair decision-making, distorts economic opportunities, and erodes trust in public institutions. Addressing such conduct remains a priority within the broader efforts to uphold the rule of law in Sint Maarten.

The “Lisbon” investigation was conducted by the Joint Investigation Team (RST) led by the Central Team of the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

RST is a multidisciplinary investigative unit active in the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom and focuses on complex and cross-border criminal investigations. The Central Team focuses on a specialized approach to combating corruption and subversive crime.

The team conducts criminal investigations with a financial-economic component that may involve, among others, politically exposed persons (PEPs), public officials, government entities, facilitators, and public sector organizations.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office will further appeal the case to the Joint Court of Justice.

CURACAO (WILLEMSTAD) - During Earth Day 2026 – Our Power, Our Planet, NOS ISLA – the SustainaBUL Awards 2026 marked the next, deepening phase in the growing Green Wave from Curaçao.

In the Auditorium of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten, students, companies and social partners came together to discuss the future of Curaçao as a resilient Small Island State.

The auditorium was filled to the last seat, with more than 200 attendees. The SustainaBUL Awards are organized in collaboration with the 2030 HUB Caribbean Foundation and are anchored in an accredited bachelor's program at the University of Curaçao (UoC).

Students earn credits while working on real sustainability issues from society. Student teams presented future-oriented solutions, developed with leading organizations, such as APC, Vidanova, Aqualectra, MEO-CTB, Deloitte and MNO Vervat.

This year it was MNO Vervat who became the winner with their Table Mountain Challenge. In addition, there was a winning team from the UoC Green Campus Challenge, supported by MCB, with its own UoC Impact HUB.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the Sustainability Pledge. The Central Bank formed the backdrop for a powerful ritual in which the entire room — students, working professionals and impact makers — jointly and standing expressed their responsibility for the future of Curaçao.

The words 'This is our Power. This is our Planet. Esaki ta NOS ISLA.' resonated palpably through the room, creating a moment of connection, emotion and shared ambition. The opening was performed by Richard Doornbosch, President of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten.

As a token of appreciation for hosting the final event, he received a special gift signed by the SustainaBUL Class of 2026 cohort. It underlined the partnership between students, institutions and the business community.

A substantive focus was the contribution of Eugene Rhuggenaath, Executive Director at the World Bank, in an interview with students. He emphasized the importance of Green Skills for Small States and outlined how the World Bank is developing from financier to Knowledge Bank, with collaborations up to university level.

He also mentioned concrete opportunities for cooperation with the UoC, including working visits to Washington DC. "Choose your focus and topic, and lets make it happen. This is a time for bold actions. Be the Change you want to see. I'm ready to do my part".

The translation of ideas into realization also became visible. MCB committed to an impact seed investment of XCG 25,000 for the further development of the UoC Impact HUB. ACU follows with a commitment of XCG 10,000, combined with internships for students and the ambition of a joint knowledge and learning program.

MNO Vervat joins this green coalition as a construction partner to realize things. "We are more the makers; let's start by building this test case on the UoC Campus," says Harmen Visser of MNO Vervat.

The evening was not only about knowledge and concrete impact ideas, but also about responsible entertainment, excitement and connection. During DE Groene Borrel, the Atrium of the Central Bank was transformed into a Green Experience Center, with the Inner Development Goals coming to life through personal portraits of participating students, with Green Wave cocktails and through inspiring encounters.

The Rector Magnificus of the University of Curaçao, Dr. Stella van Rijn, emphasized the importance of SustainaBUL as a driver for educational innovation and social impact. She indicated that Iwan Zunder, as Coordinator of the Center for Sustainable Transitions (CST), will work in the coming period on the safeguarding and regional expansion of the SustainaBUL programme and on the further elaboration of international collaborations, including with the World Bank.

The SustainaBUL Awards 2026 is the next step in further shaping a Green Wave that has only just begun — supported by young talent, empowered by partners and connected to the world.

Opening Remarks by CBCS President Richard Doornbosch:

Good afternoon, distinguished guests, colleagues, supervisory board members, students and fellow green networkers, It is my great pleasure to welcome you here at the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten for the fourth edition of the UoC SustainaBUL Awards ceremony.

The SustainaBUL Awards program focuses on sustainable transition of our economy, government and society at large. It is a super interesting initiative as it uses and rewards the ingenuity of the young generation with real life problems that need sustainable solutions. It’s a what you call a double-edged sword that provides a learning opportunity for students – you will probably remember for life – with (hopefully) lasting and sustainable solutions for organizations facing challenges typical for small island states.

The focus of today’s SustainaBUL Awards lies with the construction and tourism sectors. Two sectors that we see as very important for our own climate-related work, given both their importance for the economy of Curaçao and their vulnerability to climate change risks.

This is one more reason why we have joined the University of Curaçao as a corporate partner of the SustainaBUL Awards 2026. So why are we as a central bank interested in sustainability and specifically climate change? In recent years, global challenges have tested our ability to adapt - we have seen overlapping shocks since COVID-19.

The war in Ukraine and the rapid rise in food and energy prices, supply chain disruptions, cyber incidents and, most recently, the war in the Middle East and the resulting energy crisis that is more impactful that the energy crisis in the ‘70s according to the head of the IEA in Paris.

These shocks remind us that resilience is essential. We also know that shocks from climate change will be as impactful for small islands as these global shocks. We can use them as a reference point on how to prepare and adapt and transform in the face of uncertainty.

As a central bank, our core mandate is to ensure our financial system can withstand shocks. Geopolitical shocks but just as much climate change shocks. That’s why we find it crucial to better understand these risks. The global economy and financial markets have - for now - held up remarkably well, although they have caused great hardship for many lives and livelihoods.

To secure financial stability, we must continuously invest in the monitoring of systemic risk, conduct research, and apply measures appropriately. A central bank never works alone when conducting new, essential research. While we focus on ensuring that balance sheets of financial institutions become less vulnerable to climate risk, we need partners, such as the Curaçao Meteorological Services, to receive good and accessible climate change data.

Regionally, we collaborate with other central banks on crucial projects such as the development of a green taxonomy, and supervisory guidance for responsible financial management. Therefore, we are also grateful to the University of Curaçao, for organizing the 2025 Green Week with Prof. Jan Rotmans, and now already for the 4th time this super inspiring program with young and bright minds of Curaçao.

The CBCS hosting the SustainaBUL Awards is not intended as a one-time event. Your presence here, today, reflects a broader dialogue that we value - with knowledge institutions and societal partners - on the existential topics of sustainability, resilience, and long-term development.

We think this program will help strengthen the resilience of our community and while working together across generations, it will contribute to a robust National Adaptation Plan for Curaçao. I look forward to the pitches that our students will present today, eager to see how they will contribute to a sustainable Curaçao. And with that I will end and say…good luck and may the best team win!

SABA/SINT EUSTATIUS - Minister Sterk (Long-Term Care, Youth and Sport) is making a working visit to Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba from Monday 27 April up to and including Friday 1 May.

During her visit, she will be introduced to the care and welfare institutions, social organisations, and the Executive Councils of the islands to discuss the state of care, youth care, and the social domain.

Bonaire

The working visit starts on Bonaire. Here, she will be making two visits in the context of domestic violence and child abuse, namely to the women's shelter Refugio Tabitha and to the advice and reporting hotline Guiami.

The next day, the Minister will visit Fundashon Mariadal, Bonaire Medisch Centrum, Mental Health Caribbean, and Sentro Akseso Boneiru. In addition, she is meeting the Executive Council, and she will be speaking with acting Kingdom Representative Jan Helmond.

On the last day, after a tour at FKPD in Rincon, the renovated playground Misa di Rincon will be reopened. Finally, the Minister will be speaking with representatives of ZW Group and visiting Rosa di Sharon.

St. Eustatius

On St. Eustatius, the Minister has a meeting with the Executive Council. She will then make a house call in the context of youth care and she will visit the St. Eustatius Health Care Foundation and Auxiliary Home. She will also speak with representatives of the Public Health Department and the Social Directorate of the Public Entity St. Eustatius.

Saba

On Saba, the Minister will be meeting the Executive Council. In addition, she will visit the Domestic Violence Shelter and speak with representatives of the Community Development and Culture Department of the Public Entity Saba. The working visit will end with a visit to Saba Cares, where a part of the new nursing home is also being opened.

SINT MAARTEN (HARBOUR VIEW, PHILIPSBURG) — On Tuesday April 14, 2026, the second naturalization ceremonies of 2026 were held at the Cabinet of the Governor of Sint Maarten. During two separate ceremonies, a total of 70 individuals took the declaration of allegiance before the Governor of Sint Maarten, His Excellency Mr. Ajamu G. Baly, and in so doing formally obtained their Dutch citizenship.

The newly declared Dutch citizens represent 15 different nationalities across the community of Sint Maarten. The youngest was 1 year and the oldest was 73 years. In his address to the attendees, Governor Baly emphasized the significance of Dutch nationality and highlighted the core values of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in general and of Sint Maarten in particular. He also pointed out the rights and responsibilities that accompany citizenship and the connection with the Sint Maarten community and the Kingdom. He emphasized the importance of and urged the individuals who obtained the Dutch nationality to embody the Friendly Island spirit in their daily lives.

Dutch nationality can be acquired in several ways, that is automatically at birth if at least one parent is Dutch, through adoption or acknowledgment, or through formal procedures such as the option or naturalization process. These procedures are governed by stringent requirements under the Kingdom Act on Dutch Nationality. To honor the importance of the completion of this important milestone, the Governor’s Cabinet organizes naturalization ceremonies for all individuals who obtain Dutch nationality through the option or naturalization procedure. Attendance at the naturalization ceremony is mandatory and must be done within one year the decision being rendered.

These ceremonies take place across the Dutch Kingdom. By publicly marking this milestone, the Cabinet wishes to promote awareness and understanding of the process regarding acquiring Dutch citizenship.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Minister of Finance has requested the Inspectorate of Taxes to review the current requirement for senior citizens to submit annual income tax returns.

This request is part of ongoing efforts to improve public service delivery and reduce unnecessary administrative burdens.

The Minister noted that many seniors rely solely on their pension and have no additional income, yet are still required to file annual returns. This process often involves obtaining documentation in person, which can be time-consuming and physically challenging.

“Government systems must work efficiently and compassionately for our people,” the Minister stated. “For individuals with unchanged financial circumstances, this requirement may be unnecessarily burdensome.”

The Inspectorate has been asked to assess the feasibility of exempting seniors whose only income is a pension, as well as the potential benefits such a change could bring to overall system efficiency.

Findings from this review will help inform future policy aimed at creating a more accessible and streamlined tax system.

Further updates will be provided as the review progresses.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - On Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) carried out several targeted controls at various locations across the island, including the Maho area, Dutch Quarter, Fort Willem, and A.Th. Illidge Road.

These controls were conducted with a strong focus on the prevention of illegal firearm possession and narcotics-related activities. Preventative searches were also carried out as part of the operation. This initiative forms part of KPSM’s broader efforts to address ongoing public safety concerns, particularly the rise in traffic accidents recorded during the first quarter of 2026, as well as recent robberies involving individuals using scooters.

During the controls, a total of five scooter riders were stopped and checked. Two riders initially refused to comply with police instructions to stop but were later intercepted with the assistance of additional patrol units. Upon inspection, both scooters were found to be not roadworthy, and the required documentation was not in order. The riders were issued fines, and the scooters were subsequently impounded.

KPSM emphasizes that these controls are also part of ongoing efforts to maintain public order and safety during the Carnival period, when increased activity requires heightened vigilance.

The police strongly urge all road users, including scooter riders and motorists, to cooperate fully with officers during such controls. Refusal to comply with lawful instructions from police officers is considered a punishable offense.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – “Let me start with something simple. The questions (Ed. Member of Parliament MP) Lewis has been talking about in the press have not actually reached my office yet. They will be answered in full once they come through the proper channel in Parliament. But because the narrative being advanced in public right now is wrong, a few things need to be said straight away,” Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling said on Tuesday in a press statement.

“For the sake of clarity, one important point should be corrected at the outset. The Chief of Police has not been “appointed” to a separate post of Secretary-General. What is at issue is a temporary stand-in arrangement to ensure continuity of the Ministry when the Secretary-General is absent or unavailable. Such arrangements are governed by Article 25 of the Civil Servants Ordinance and exist precisely to prevent administrative stagnation. “Acting Secretary-General” is not a job. It is not a position that gets posted, advertised, or filled through a recruitment process. It is simply the rule for who steps in on days when the Secretary-General is away, sick, travelling for work, or otherwise unavailable. Every ministry needs someone who can sign papers and keep the work of government moving. That is all this is.

“Now to the heart of the “conflict of interest” claim, because it rests on a basic misunderstanding of how the justice chain actually works.

“A conflict of interest arises when someone ends up in a position to supervise themselves, or to check their own work, or to make decisions about their own pay, promotion, or discipline. That is not the situation here, and it never has been. The Chief of Police does not report to the Secretary-General. He never has. Under the law, the Chief of Police answers to the Minister for operational policing matters, and the Secretary-General runs the civil service side of the ministry. They are two separate tracks that both lead to the Minister, not one track where one person sits above the other. And on both of those tracks, the Minister holds political responsibility and the final decision. A stand-in does not set policy. A stand-in does not take decisions that are reserved to the Minister by law. Nothing of substance moves in this ministry without my knowledge and my authorization. That is how the system is designed, and that is how it is being run.

“As a lawyer, and as the sitting Minister of Justice, I take that responsibility seriously. The decision to designate the Chief of Police as stand-in was mine, made with full awareness of the applicable legal framework. Mr. John has my confidence. He has served as Chief of Police since 2015, has performed well in that role, and has played a constructive part in bringing cohesion to the Ministry.

“And this is where the concern deepens, not about the arrangement, but about the person raising the alarm. MP Lewis is a former Minister of Justice and a former police officer. The Kingdom Act on the Police, and the broader framework that governs how the Chief of Police, the Minister, and the civil apparatus of the ministry relate to each other, is not unfamiliar territory for him. It is territory he has worked in for years, from both sides. A misunderstanding of this basic structure, from someone with his background, is difficult to explain as an honest mistake. The public is entitled to ask whether the confusion is real, or whether the framework is being misrepresented on purpose to manufacture a controversy. Neither possibility reflects well on the seriousness of the concerns he claims to be raising.

“That brings us to the history, and this is where the facts matter most.

“This arrangement is not new, and it is not unusual. For years, under several different governments, the role of acting Secretary-General has been filled by whichever service head within the ministry made sense at the time. Under Minister Kirindongo, the Chief of Police filled it. Under Minister Anna Richardson, the role rotated among multiple service heads over the course of her tenure. For a long stretch spanning multiple administrations, including during MP Lewis’s own tenure as Minister of Justice, the Head of the Financial Intelligence Unit filled it. None of this was treated as a conflict of interest at the time. No fifty-question letters were sent to Parliament. No press releases were written about good governance and institutional integrity. The work of the ministry simply continued, because that is what the stand-in arrangement exists to make possible.

“So, the question answers itself. If the same arrangement was acceptable under Minister Kirindongo, across Minister Richardson’s full tenure, and during MP Lewis’s own time as Minister of Justice, it cannot suddenly become a scandal now. The arrangement has not changed. The person writing the press release has.

“I welcome scrutiny. Every minister should. But scrutiny only means something when the same rules are applied to everyone. Raising an alarm about something that was perfectly fine when you were the one doing it is not scrutiny. It is politics.

“Public debate is important, but it should remain grounded in the applicable legal framework and in the facts.

“The people working in our justice sector deserve better than that, and so does the public. When MP Lewis’s questions reach my desk through Parliament, they will be answered, fully and on the record,” the Minister of Justice statement concludes.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) will once again take center stage at the St. Maarten / St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) during its 19th edition, scheduled for June 22–26, 2026.

This year, the airport will participate through a “Hub Lounge,” a centrally located walk-in and appointment-based space showcasing the gateway’s strategies to visiting “spoke” destinations, travel partners, and airlines. The announcement was made today by the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA), in close cooperation with the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau (STB), l’Office du Tourisme (OdT), and Club du Tourisme (CdT).

SMART 2025 attracted visitors from 29 countries and destinations. PJIA’s presence with a double “Hub Booth” at the binational tradeshow reflects its growth ambitions as a regional hub. Airport CEO Michael Cleaver stated: “With its strong alliances locally and internationally, Princess Juliana is a vital gateway for stay-over tourism and inter-island connectivity, and a cornerstone of the regional economy. One of our growth ambitions is to strengthen that role.”

The binational tourism industry event, held for over 25 years, highlights the island’s tourism and other industries. It gives visiting tourism partners a taste of the island’s culinary and cultural offerings while helping expand the local economy.

In addition to large and small hotels and tourism companies, participating industries include marketing and advertising, training services, media, telecom, retail, restaurants, food & beverage, and finance, representing both sides of the dual-nation St. Maarten / St. Martin.

As in the past two editions of SMART, Princess Juliana International Airport will use the event to meet current and prospective partners and share its next steps with stakeholders. Among these initiatives is the ambition to make the airport a destination in its own right: “An attraction within a destination, delivering seamless and memorable passenger experiences.”

The PJIA Hub Lounge will be one of the new features of SMART 2026, to be held at the JW Marriott. Other additions include a small hotels plaza, featuring dedicated tables for boutique properties, and the return of the “Green Room,” which highlights local NGOs working to improve the tourism product. An additional evening has been added to the program, and more event space will be made available, as both the 2024 and 2025 editions had all booths fully booked.

As of today, 79% of SMART booths have already been reserved. Given that booths for the past three editions consistently sold out, interested companies are encouraged to secure their spot at the 2026 event via events@shta.com.

In addition to Princess Juliana International Airport and the four main organizing entities, many local companies also support the event. Amigo Tours, Rainforest Adventures, ShowMe Caribbean, Vin de Plage, Vin de Plage, Grant Thornton, CC1 St. Maarten, Port St. Maarten, Booking Success, Winair, Liberty Business, Copa Airlines, and Snap SXM are among the businesses contributing to making SMART 2026 a success.

SINT MAARTEN/CARIBBEAN - Caribbean tourism continued its expansion in 2025, recording a 2.5% increase in international stay-over arrivals to an estimated 35 million visits, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

This performance — approximately 900,000 more tourists than in 2024 — reflects the region’s sustained recovery and resilience with arrivals once again surpassing pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

Despite a complex global environment marked by evolving economic conditions in key source markets, heightened geopolitical tensions and weather-related disruptions, including the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the region maintained steady tourism demand throughout much of the year.

“Caribbean tourism in 2025 demonstrated continued resilience and adaptability even as the global landscape presented a number of challenges,” said Aliyyah Shakeer, CTO’s Director of Research. “Strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, sustained marketing efforts, and incremental gains in airlift connectivity helped support growth and maintain the region’s competitiveness.”

Performance across the year was uneven but generally positive. While the first quarter recorded a slight contraction of 0.3% amid early-year uncertainty, arrivals rebounded in the second and third quarters with growth of 5% and 5.6%, respectively. The fourth quarter remained broadly stable with marginal growth of 0.2% as late-year momentum softened.

Monthly arrivals ranged between 2.1 million and 3.5 million, peaking during the traditional high-demand periods of March, July and December. Notably, all months in 2025 exceeded their corresponding 2019 levels, underscoring the strength of the region’s post-pandemic recovery.

Across destinations, performance remained mixed. Strong growth was recorded in several destinations, including Guyana, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Curaçao, reflecting ongoing product development and market diversification efforts.

At the same time, some destinations experienced contractions influenced by external economic pressures, capacity constraints and localized disruptions. Nevertheless, a majority of destinations have now surpassed their pre-pandemic benchmarks, highlighting the region’s overall recovery trajectory.

Source Markets

The United States remained the Caribbean’s largest source market, with arrivals increasing 0.5% to approximately 17 million visitors. While demand from this market remained relatively stable, performance was uneven across the year, reflecting more cautious consumer behavior and varying conditions across destinations.

Arrivals from Canada declined 5.3% to an estimated 3.1 million visitors, remaining below pre-pandemic levels, as higher travel costs and increased competition from alternative destinations influenced travel patterns.

Similarly, arrivals from Europe decreased 3.3% to approximately 5.1 million visitors with recovery continuing at a slower pace compared with other markets.

In contrast, South America emerged as the strongest-performing source market with arrivals increasing 23.7% to 2.4 million visits. This growth was supported by improved air connectivity, targeted marketing initiatives and rising outbound demand, contributing to a gradual diversification of the region’s source markets.

Intra-regional travel also showed modest improvement, increasing 5.1%, although ongoing challenges related to air connectivity and travel costs continued to constrain growth.

Caribbean Hotel Performance

The Caribbean hotel sector posted mixed results in 2025. According to CoStar, average room occupancy declined slightly to 63.7% from 65% in 2024. However, the Average Daily Rate (ADR) rose 2.1% to US$350.37 while Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) increased modestly by 0.8% to $223.12.

Performance varied across destinations with several markets recording growth across key indicators and others experiencing declines, reflecting uneven demand patterns and localized market conditions.

Cruise Tourism Performance

The cruise sector continued its strong expansion in 2025 with total cruise visits increasing 5.2% to an estimated 35.5 million visits. This represents a significant 16.7% increase over pre-pandemic 2019 levels, confirming the sector’s full recovery and continued growth trajectory.

Growth in cruise activity was evident throughout the year with particularly strong performance in the fourth quarter driven by increased capacity and strong seasonal demand. The Bahamas remained the leading cruise destination, receiving a record 10.7 million visits, followed by several high-performing destinations across the region.

The continued expansion of cruise itineraries, fleet capacity and port infrastructure has supported sustained growth in this segment, reinforcing its importance to the region’s overall tourism performance.

Outlook

Looking ahead, the outlook for Caribbean tourism remains cautiously optimistic. The sector is expected to transition into a phase of more moderate, stable growth as global travel patterns normalize.

“While growth is expected to continue, the pace of expansion may ease as the industry navigates a shifting global environment,” noted Shakeer. “Maintaining a steady focus on strengthening air connectivity, particularly intra-regional connectivity; enhancing product offerings; and diversifying source markets will be important to supporting sustained growth and resilience over the longer term.”

Notwithstanding current travel and tourism challenges, CTO projects that stay-over arrivals will increase between 3% and 4% in 2026, supported by steady demand from North America and continued expansion in select emerging markets. Cruise tourism is also expected to grow further with projected increases between 5% and 7%.

However, ongoing global uncertainties — including economic conditions, travel costs and external geopolitical developments — may continue to influence travel demand and performance across destinations.

“Caribbean tourism continues to demonstrate its resilience in the face of evolving global conditions, but this is no time for complacency. We must remain vigilant and proactive, working together as a united region to navigate uncertainty and sustain our momentum,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO Secretary-General & CEO. “By strengthening collaboration, enhancing air connectivity and advancing responsible tourism practices, we can ensure long-term growth that benefits our people and economies.”

Regis-Prosper asserted the Caribbean remains well-positioned as a highly desirable destination, supported by its diverse tourism offerings, strong brand appeal and continued commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism development.

SINT MAARTEN (COMMENTARY - By Lilia Burunciuc) - During one of my visits to Sint Maarten, I spoke with a woman who works as a taxi driver. She had once held a job in a hotel that was highly seasonal, leaving her with little or no income during the off-season and few opportunities to increase her earnings.

Determined to change her situation, she moved into the transport sector, starting out as a taxi driver. She worked long hours during the high season, saved money, and later rented an additional vehicle and hired another driver.

Today, she operates two vehicles in addition to her own, with plans to expand. She is dreaming of a house and sending her kids to college.

Over the years, during my visits to Sint Maarten, I have met women like her repeatedly; women who create opportunities for themselves. They are willing to learn new things, take risks, and continue, even when things are hard.

This determination is visible not only in households and small businesses, but also in public life. Today, women hold nearly half of the seats in Sint Maarten’s Parliament - around 46.7 percent - reflecting how widely women are stepping into leadership roles across the island.

The leadership women bring across the island is among Sint Maarten's greatest strengths and a clear economic advantage. Evidence consistently shows that companies with gender-diverse leadership are more likely to outperform others, and closing gender gaps in employment could raise global GDP by more than 20 percent.

Political representation, however, does not automatically translate into broad-based economic opportunity. Many women continue to face constraints that limit their ability to expand businesses, increase incomes, or access capital. Barriers to finance, professional networks, and supportive services still shape how fully their economic potential can be realized.

For a small island economy like Sint Maarten, the implications are particularly significant. With a small population, few sources of economic activity, and exposure to natural shocks, growth depends on making full use of talent which already exists. When more women are able to earn higher incomes, invest, and grow their businesses, productivity rises and households become more resilient in times of uncertainty.

This is why women’s economic participation is embedded in the World Bank’s work in Sint Maarten. Through the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, financed by the Government of the Netherlands and managed by the World Bank in partnership with the Government of Sint Maarten, our support in the years following Hurricane Irma went beyond rebuilding homes and critical infrastructure.

It also focused on restoring livelihoods, helping small businesses reopen and grow, and giving people the practical skills needed to turn ideas into income. Women were given particular attention in this work. 

And the results show how strongly women responded when opportunities were made available.

Through the Emergency Income Support and Training Project, people received temporary income support and practical training to help them find work and start earning again. More than 1,900 people participated in the program, and over 70 percent were women, highlighting both how significantly the crisis affected women’s employment and how ready they were to re-enter the labor market.

The Trust Fund has also provided more than US$19.3 million to over 300 small businesses on the island, and 124 of those were led by women. With this financing, women have opened bakeries, catering services, neighborhood shops, and businesses as diverse as mushroom production.

These enterprises are now employing others and keeping economic activity rooted locally. They have also received tailored training and coaching in financial literacy and core business skills, from planning and marketing to tax compliance, giving them the tools to grow sustainably.

This progress matters. It means more women are able to move beyond subsistence and begin planning for growth, just like the taxi driver I spoke with.

Building on this progress, the priority in Sint Maarten is to expand what works: increasing access to finance, strengthening the link between skills and jobs, and creating support systems that make it possible to balance care responsibilities with paid work.

These are the investments that will allow more women, and the island as a whole, to keep moving forward.

By Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Division Director for the Caribbean

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten on Tuesday outlined reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, during the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI) Town Hall at the Belair Community Center.

Addressing a cross section of the business community, the Minister stressed that economic growth requires partnership between Government and the private sector, supported by trust, dialogue, and collaboration.

A key development is a pilot within the Department of Economic Licenses allowing certain applications to be submitted online, moving toward more accessible and transparent service delivery. This forms part of broader efforts to modernise systems and reduce administrative barriers.

The Minister also acknowledged that unclear requirements often discourage entrepreneurs. An information campaign is therefore being developed to better guide the public on procedures, documentation, and compliance.

Beyond licensing, she highlighted the role of the St. Maarten Small Enterprise Development Centre (SEDC) in supporting entrepreneurs through training and guidance, and pointed to continued focus on economic diversification, including opportunities within the Orange, Green, and Blue economies. The Agri Loans initiative, offering financing at two percent interest, was cited as one example.

The Minister further called for fairness and transparency within the business sector, noting the need to balance support for local businesses with affordability for the community.

She also underscored the importance of initiatives such as COCI’s Start Smart programme, which helps individuals transition from ideas to structured businesses.

Looking ahead, Government is working toward an integrated digital platform where users can apply, track, and manage business processes in one place.

The Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with COCI and the wider business community.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Screens are everywhere in our modern world, and for many families in Sint Maarten, managing their children’s screen time can feel like an uphill battle. Between phones, tablets, and television, it’s easy for children to spend more time behind a screen than parents would like.

Technology certainly has its benefits, and it can be a useful tool for learning and staying in touch with peers. However, too much screen time can affect sleep, attention span, and even social development in children.

With a mindful approach, you can help your child build healthier habits while still enjoying the benefits of modern technology. Here, we share three tips for reducing your child’s screen time.

Create a balanced daily routine

Sticking to a daily routine that naturally limits screen time is a great place to start. Children thrive on structure, and when they know what to expect, they’re less likely to rely on screens out of boredom. Start by thinking about key parts of the day, such as schoolwork, meals, outdoor play, and bedtime, and then assign clear boundaries around when screens are allowed.

For example, you might decide that screens are only allowed after homework is completed or that they’re not allowed during meals. Consistency is important, and the rules should be set in stone so your child always knows what to expect. Over time, these are likely to feel more like boundaries and less like restrictions.

In Sint Maarten, where the weather encourages outdoor living, you can take advantage of beaches, parks, and neighborhood spaces to replace screen time with active play.

Encourage engaging alternatives

At first, it can be frustrating for children to have their screens taken away, so it’s important to replace them with activities that feel just as exciting. Children are far more likely to step away from devices when they have something fun and engaging to do. Try creative hobbies like drawing, building, or music, or physical activities such as biking, swimming, or playing sports.

Involving your child in choosing these alternatives can make a big difference – if they feel a sense of ownership over their activities, they may feel more motivated to participate. You might also want to consider family-based activities, like evening walks, board games, or cooking together. These shared experiences can both reduce your child’s screen time and strengthen your family’s bonds.

Visit St. Maarten has lots of suggestions for family-friendly activities, from nature parks to movie exhibits and watersports. Trying something a little out of the ordinary can introduce your child to new experiences and hobbies.

Lead by example

Children pick up a lot by observing their parents, and this can include screen habits. If they see adults constantly checking phones or watching television, they’re likely to mirror that behavior. On the other hand, when parents model balanced screen use, children are more inclined to follow suit.

Try setting your own boundaries, such as putting your phone away during family time or limiting social media use in the evenings. You can even turn this into a shared challenge, where the whole family works together to reduce screen time. This can send a powerful message that screen management is not just a rule for children – it’s a healthy lifestyle choice for everyone.

Support for Sint Maarten’s parents

Reducing your child’s screen time may take some time, but with patience, consistency and a positive attitude, meaningful change is possible. By creating structure, offering engaging alternatives, and modeling positive habits, you can help your child develop a healthier relationship with technology while still enjoying the benefits of the digital world.

For parents who are struggling, there are organisations that can offer support, like the Positive Parenting Support Program, which offers strategies for communication, setting boundaries, and modeling constructive behaviour. You can also find helpful resources in the Sint Maarten Library’s Island guide.

SINT MAARTEN (SUCKER GARDEN) – Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW), Member of Parliament (MP) Lyndon Lewis is urgently calling on the Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), Patrice Gumbs to take immediate and decisive action to address the worsening state of road infrastructure across Sint Maarten, following a deeply concerning incident highlighted by the police union, NAPB Sint Maarten.

The recent report by the union outlines a serious accident involving police officers responding to an emergency on Sucker Garden Road, where hazardous road conditions — including a significant pothole — are believed to have contributed to the crash. This incident has once again brought to light the dangerous reality faced daily by law enforcement officers and the wider public due to neglected infrastructure.

MP Lewis expressed grave concern over the situation, stating:

“While our officers were carrying out their sworn duty to protect and serve, they were exposed to life-threatening danger caused not by criminal activity, but by preventable failures in infrastructure. This is unacceptable and demands immediate intervention. Sint Maarten roads are in a deplorable state and the Minister is doing absolutely nothing about it.”

He emphasized that safe and properly maintained roads are essential to national safety and public welfare. Emergency responders — including police, ambulance personnel, and firefighters — rely heavily on functional infrastructure to perform their duties effectively and safely. The current conditions not only hinder response times but also place lives at risk.

MP Lewis is therefore calling on the Minister of VROMI to:

• Conduct an urgent and comprehensive assessment of Sucker Garden Road and other critical roadways.
• Execute immediate repairs to hazardous potholes and deteriorated road surfaces;
• Establish and communicate a clear, structured road maintenance plan;
• Introduce consistent monitoring and accountability measures to prevent further incidents.

 “The people of Sint Maarten deserve better. Our first responders deserve better. We cannot continue to wait for tragedies before action is taken,” MP Lewis added.

He further voiced his full support for the officers involved in the incident and prayed for their full recovery. He commended the police union, NAPB Sint Maarten, for bringing attention to this critical issue. He stressed that safeguarding infrastructure is a fundamental responsibility of the Government and must be treated with the urgency it requires.

“Enough is enough, the Minister needs to act without delay. I have raised the deplorable state of our public infrastructure many times in parliament and the Minister isn’t taking heed to the urgency of the matter at hand. Immediate action must be taken to restore safety on our roads and protect all who depend on them,” MP Lewis stated. 

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) is voicing its full support for comments made by Minister of TEATT Grisha Heyliger-Marten against price gouging in the wake of the conflict involving the United States and Iran, while warning that unfair price increases have particularly been the norm around Carnival time annually. The price hikes are so blatant, the SCDF says, they not only feel wrong but illegal.

SCDF said the conflict in the Middle East must not be used as a convenient excuse for excessive markups at the local level.

“Even without an international conflict, supermarkets and other businesses have a pattern of raising prices in ways that are not just wrong, but increasingly feel abusive and impossible to justify,” SCDF said. “Every year around Carnival time, people see the same thing. Prices rise sharply, basic goods become more expensive, and ordinary people are left to absorb the cost. It is becoming a racket, and if stronger controls are not put in place from now, it will only get worse this year under the cover story of conflict in the Middle East.”

SCDF said the issue is especially important during the Carnival season, when thousands of people, including booth holders, vendors, organizers, performers, and patrons, depend on steady and reasonably priced access to basic goods. The Foundation noted that rising prices do not only hurt households, but also place added strain on the small businesses and operators who help make Carnival possible.

Additionally, when booth holders are forced to buy at these exorbitant prices, they are left with no choice but to increase prices in Carnival Village. "It's economics 101, booth holders have little choice when the market is being exploited and abused."

The Foundation explained that one of the reasons it decided to facilitate a mini-market in Carnival Village was not only to improve logistics and make it easier for booth holders to access needed supplies, but also to help address the recurring issue of price gouging during the season.

SCDF said the VilliMart was created to cater to the basic necessities that booths in Carnival Village typically require. These include the everyday items vendors and operators need to function efficiently during the busy Carnival period. According to the Foundation, the initiative was developed in direct response to the reality that regular supermarket prices during Carnival are often so inflated that they create unnecessary financial pressure on those operating in the Village.

“The VilliMart is there to meet practical needs in Carnival Village, but it is also a response to a larger problem,” SCDF said. “Booth holders should not have to battle excessive prices for basic supplies during one of the busiest periods of the year. We recognized that this has become part of the Carnival experience for far too many people, and that is one of the reasons we moved to facilitate this option.” Villimart prices will realistically reflect what's happening in the world, but it won't take advantage of people and overcharge them.

SCDF said it hopes the Ministry of TEATT has the manpower and resources necessary to carry out meaningful market controls in the weeks and months ahead. The Foundation urged the Ministry to monitor pricing behavior closely, issue warnings where necessary, and impose fines when businesses are found to be taking unfair advantage of consumers.

“We support the Minister’s position and we encourage firm action,” SCDF said. “Consumers need to know that someone is watching. Businesses that are acting fairly have nothing to fear, but those engaging in price gouging should be put on notice now. Warnings should be issued where appropriate, and fines should follow if that is what it takes to protect the public.”

SCDF stressed that protecting consumers from unfair pricing is not only a matter of economics, but also one of public confidence and fairness. With Carnival approaching and families already managing rising expenses, the Foundation said the country cannot afford to allow unjustified markups to become normalized.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently investigating an armed robbery that took place at a pizza establishment on Bush Road on the morning of Thursday, March 19th, 2026, shortly after 09:00 AM.

According to preliminary reports, two suspects on a scooter carried out the robbery and fled the scene in the direction of A.Th. Illidge Road, heading towards the French border.

Police patrol units responded immediately and attempted to intercept the fleeing suspects.

During the pursuit, one of the police vehicles lost control while maneuvering to avoid another vehicle and subsequently collided with a truck that was parked along the roadside in Sucker-Garden.

As a result of the collision, three police officers sustained serious injuries. They were being transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center for medical treatment.

The suspects managed to continue their escape and fled towards the French side of the island. KPSM is actively working in close collaboration with its French counterparts to locate and apprehend those responsible.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten KPSM would like to address false information circulating on social media.

KPSM has seen claims that two officers have passed away following the incident earlier today, Thursday, March 19. This is fake news. The officers are seriously injured, but no fatalities have occurred.

KPSM asks the public to refrain from sharing these rumors and encourages anyone with accurate information to come forward and assist the investigation.

KPSM urges anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist in the investigation to come forward and contact the police. 1721 542-2222 or the tipline at 9300.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Minister Richinel Brug initiated a new community outreach project as part of his commitment to be more present in the neighborhoods.

Rather than operating solely from the Government Administration Building, the Minister began holding Cabinet hours at the Community Help Desk in Hope Estate on a rotating basis.

The Ministry considers this a tangible step toward bringing government closer to the people, particularly residents of Sucker Garden and surrounding communities. During this period, the Minister and his Cabinet provided direct public access on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Residents were encouraged to walk in, schedule appointments, and engage directly with the Minister and his team—creating a space for open dialogue, problem-solving, and community connection.

Throughout the engagement period, the Cabinet addressed a wide range of matters, including assistance for seniors with GEBE relief registration, questions regarding financial assistance procedures, SZV-related concerns, and follow-ups on previously submitted complaints.

The Community Center also served as a platform for residents to share constructive suggestions aimed at improving services within the Ministry. A number of cases required coordination with other ministries, prompting inter-ministerial collaboration.

In such instances, the Minister and his Cabinet initiated discussions with other ministries to ensure coordinated decision-making. Where matters fell entirely under the responsibility of another ministry, residents were guided accordingly.

Many individuals expressed appreciation simply for being heard—highlighting the value of accessibility and empathy in governance. “This rotating community-based approach will continue in other districts as well,” stated Minister Brug. For now, the Minister of VSA and his cabinet will remain at the Community Center in Hope Estate until the end of March.

Based on feedback received, the Cabinet has also recognized the importance of introducing walk-in hours after 5:00 p.m., allowing individuals who are unable to visit during regular working hours the opportunity to access the Community Help Desk and seek assistance. Starting March 16th, 2026, the new walk-in hours will be Monday: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Wednesday: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Friday: 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

The public is warmly invited to engage with the Minister and his team as this outreach initiative continues across Sint Maarten.

PORT ST. MAARTEN – Shoulaika Maduro, is now Port St. Maarten’s first female certified crane operator. The entire Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) proudly celebrates a significant and historic moment for its operations, recognizing their first female employee to achieve full certification as a container crane operator.

This accomplishment is more than just a personnel update; it is a powerful symbol of gender equality and the dismantling of traditional barriers within maritime industries globally.

Having women represented in highly technical and demanding positions like crane operations brings new perspectives, strengthens PSG team dynamics, and proves that capability knows no gender.

This milestone is a visible demonstration of PSG commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where all talented individuals in the country can aspire to the highest levels of professional achievement as defined by an unwavering pursuit of operational excellence.

Maduro, a former Milton Peters College (MPC) and MAVO graduate made the following remarks in relation to her career advancement: “You have to have faith, believe in yourself, determine your value, know your worth, command respect when and while you’re at it.

“Especially, if you’re the first one setting and breaking records as the top trainee crane operator ever to be moved over to full-fledged crane operator in the fastest time period, breaking records.

“Respect isn’t given out here as a crane operator. It’s earned by your crane operating skills, productivity, hard work, long nights and early mornings.”

Maduro has held numerous positions working for a varied number of companies including running her own business since October 2013, All-Rounder’s Services, a general contractor.

At the core of PSGs long-term strategy is the belief that investing in people is investing in the future of the island. The port operations company has placed tremendous importance on fostering an environment where every staff member has the opportunity not just to perform their current duties, but to grow and develop professionally.

Seeing dedicated employees commit to rigorous training, achieve specialized certifications, and advance their careers—as exemplified by Maduro—is a source of immense pride. This commitment ensures that PSG retains top talent, cultivates leadership from within, and builds a highly skilled island workforce equipped to handle the complexities of modern port operations.

Maduro wanted to thank some of the individuals who played very important roles in her journey, firstly, “I would like to thank God first for watching over my family and for his blessings. I thank my mother, of course S. Matthews (Silvy) Taxi 431, for giving me life, her only daughter and youngest child, for always being there, always believing in me and always having my back when or if needed.

“I thank my brother Edwin Maduro Jr. (Sprinky) for always being there for me daily, always believing in me and always guarding my back daily. Especially during my loss, trauma and afterwards, only you understood a bit about what I was going through and dealing with those days.

“I thank my gone but not forgotten support system, my Granny who even when certain of my own aunts doubted me and my skills, my Granny always believed in me. My dear late big brother Dr. Bruce Flemming and my late partner Herbert (Apachi) Jn. Charles, my only teammate of All-Rounder’s Services. Both of you left this world too soon and unexpected, but I know both of you are very proud of me while watching over our family from above.”

Maduro expressed gratitude to her father Edwin Maduro, Supervisor R. Gumbs, for always believing in her crane operating skills, her crane operators’ team, mechanics and technicians.

“I want to thank A. Davelaar for believing in me, my capabilities and my skills etc., to come look for me and tell me about the opening of the position for first female mobile crane operator.

“I thank R. Lawrence for seeing to my recognition for being the first official certified female mobile crane operator at Port St. Maarten Group. Last but not least, I want to thank Port St. Maarten Group for giving me this opportunity and believing in me.” Maduro added, “I’m very grateful for that opportunity and appreciate your confidence in me for breaking barriers and breaking records.”

Maduro’s words for those seeking a career: “As long as you have self-discipline, faith, self-confidence, believe in yourself, set your mind to it and don’t let nothing deter you from achieving your goals in life.”

In addition, Maduro would also like to share her Hillside Christian School motto, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

Within the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities bustling cargo section, the success of Port St. Maarten, and by extension the economy of St. Maarten, relies on efficiency, precision, and safety. By providing every opportunity for staff to acquire world-class skills, PSG is simultaneously elevating its operational standards to meet and exceed global benchmarks.

The dedication shown by our team members directly translates into faster turnaround times for vessels, safer cargo handling, and the superior service that our shipping partners and the local business community expect.

Moving forward, this achievement reinforces our vision to extend the culture of growth and excellence across every single department. Port St. Maarten is committed to ensuring that all employees, whether they are in administration, security, or heavy machinery operation, have access to the resources they need to develop, lead, and thrive.

PSG will continue to champion policies that recognize merit, and promote excellence all around the port, ensuring that the organization remains agile, resilient, and reflective of the diverse talent pool of St. Maarten.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The highly anticipated Season 2 premiere of the Truth Be Told Podcast opened with a powerful live panel discussion in celebration of Women’s Month, under the empowering theme “Boss Lady Balance.”

Hosted by the dynamic duo Stephania Prescod and Milinne D. Gumbs, the episode featured three inspiring women making meaningful contributions within the community: Endene Edouard-D’Haiti, Linda Dorival Gardener, and Suzy Thervil.

The discussion explored the realities many women face while balancing multiple roles as professionals, mothers, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Through honest dialogue and personal experiences, the panelists shared stories of resilience, growth, and determination, offering an authentic perspective on pursuing success while maintaining family, purpose, and personal wellbeing.

The live session created an intimate atmosphere of empowerment and connection, leaving the audience inspired by the strength, wisdom, and candid conversations shared throughout the evening.

The Truth Be Told Podcast team extends sincere thanks to the members of the public who attended the live recording and to the wider community for their continued support of the podcast’s mission to spark meaningful conversations and amplify authentic voices.

Special thanks are also extended to TV15 for partnering with the podcast and helping bring these impactful discussions to a broader audience.

Viewers can tune in to Truth Be Told Podcast every Sunday at 6:00 PM on YouTube and Facebook via the “Truth Be Told SXM” channels, and now also Sunday at 2:30 PM on TV15.

As Season 2 unfolds, Truth Be Told will continue providing a platform for honest conversations, powerful stories, and voices that inspire the community.

About Truth Be Told Podcast

Truth Be Told Podcast is a St. Maarten–based talk show that creates a platform for open and meaningful discussions on social issues, culture, and everyday experiences. Through candid conversations and diverse voices, the podcast aims to inform, inspire, and connect the community.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - “No matter how powerful the prison, every prison has a door.” Author, resilience expert, speaker, and entrepreneur Shaka Senghor, a formerly incarcerated man, has transformed his life and now inspires others through his latest book, “How to Be Free: A Proven Guide to Escaping Life’s Hidden Prisons”.

In this deeply personal work, Senghor reflects on his journey, dedicating the book not only to the family and supporters who stood by him but also to every version of himself, from the boy nicknamed “Pumpkin,” to the teenager “Jay,” to nineteen-year-old James White who entered prison, to the man who emerged into the light as Shaka Senghor.

The book aligns with the Art Saves Lives Foundation’s mission, by empowering youth and community members to confront challenges and overcome life’s hidden prisons.” The Sint Maarten Library has gratefully received 24 donated copies from Art Saves Lives Foundation, and we are proud to include them in our collection for the benefit of the entire community.

“This book brought me joy. It helped me confront and uproot my own hidden prisons,” Senghor shares. “I have earned this joy. I have earned the right to thrive.” His story underscores themes of survival, growth, and reclaiming one’s life from trauma and adversity, inspiring readers to honor their own journeys.

About Shaka Senghor
Shaka Senghor is a bestselling author, activist, and educator who transforms his experiences with incarceration and personal struggle into lessons on leadership, resilience, and redemption.

By joining this initiative, the Sint Maarten Library invests in the community’s potential enriching resources, fostering empathy, sparking dialogue, and promoting personal and educational growth.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - There is once again public contention surrounding the chairmanship of the Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS), specifically regarding the question of “whose turn” it is to propose a candidate.

While this debate has generated considerable discussion, it is important to clarify the historical sequence of events and, more importantly, to redirect attention to the substantive challenges facing our monetary union.

Historical Context

In 2017, Etienne Ys was appointed Chairman of the CBCS. His candidacy was recommended by the Supervisory Board of Directors (SBD), and the screening for both countries was conducted through the agencies of Curaçao.

At that time, his appointment was generally regarded as Curaçao’s candidate within the rotational understanding between the two countries.

Upon the expiration of his term (2017–2021), the SBD, then signed by Vice-Chair Denis Richardson, recommended Mr. Ys for extension. However, Mr. Ys subsequently withdrew, and the Supervisory Board retracted its recommendation.

During this period, internal disagreements within the CBCS Board intensified. As a result, the Ministers of Finance of Curaçao and Sint Maarten agreed to jointly present a proposal for the chairmanship, effectively bypassing a board recommendation due to the prevailing contention.

This approach was communicated to the Court and endorsed. Board members were expected either to resign or to be dismissed.

In December 2021, the SBD proposed Denis Richardson for the position. Both Ministers of Finance agreed to this proposal. Notably, there is no documentation reflecting any dispute over “which country made the proposal.”

On the contrary, the Minister of Finance of Curaçao reminded the Minister of Finance of Sint Maarten of the recommendation of Mr. Richardson that was on the table.

At the time, Sint Maarten had not yet amended its National Decree (LBHAM) governing the screening of CBCS officers. Noteworthy in this regard is that in 2017, screenings were conducted by each country’s respective agencies.

Following the required procedural steps in Sint Maarten and Curaçao, the screening of Mr. Richardson did not proceed, notwithstanding communication between the current Sint Maarten Finance Minister and the SBD.

Subsequently, faced with a stalemate, the Minister of Finance of Sint Maarten initiated a new nomination process, resulting in the proposal of Jairo Bloem.

Conclusion

Based on documentation:

• The 2017 appointment of Mr. Ys was recommended by the SBD and regarded as Curaçao’s candidate.
• The attempt to reappoint Mr. Ys was treated as Sint Maarten’s candidate, but this did not materialize.
• The SBD then recommended Mr. Richardson as the next Sint Maarten(?) candidate; both Ministers agreed, pending procedural screening, which was never completed.
• Thereafter, a new nomination process was initiated.

Importantly, the so-called “rotation” of the chairmanship is not legally codified. It has been a matter of practice and political understanding, not statutory obligation. Therefore, framing the current debate as strictly a matter of “whose turn it is” oversimplifies a complex institutional process.

While institutional clarity is important, the greater issue before us is the health and effectiveness of the monetary union itself. Curaçao and Sint Maarten face pressing economic and financial challenges that demand coordinated policy, regulatory stability, and strong governance at the Central Bank.

Public energy would be better directed toward:

• Addressing structural bottlenecks within the monetary union;
• Strengthening regulatory oversight and financial sector resilience;
• Ensuring transparency, credibility, and institutional stability within the CBCS;
• Safeguarding the shared currency and protecting economic confidence in both countries.

The stability of our monetary union must transcend individual appointments. Leadership matters, but institutional coherence, economic resilience, and public trust matter even more.

Now is the time to move beyond procedural disputes and refocus on strengthening the foundation of our financial systems.

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - On February 26, the Department of Communication of the Government of Sint Maarten paid a working visit to their French side counterparts of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, Communication Department, which includes the protocol section.

The working visit was to get a deeper understanding of how the French side Department of Communication functions within the Collectivité, to exchange mutual operational information and ideas, and to continue fostering the working relationship.

In their Marigot offices, the head/director of the French side Department of Communication Nathalie Longato gave a short presentation and shared an overview of the work and responsibilities. After doing so, the two departments made informative exchanges of ideas, policies, and procedures.

Following the discussions, the staff of DCOMM was given a tour of the operational section, where demonstrations of what and how takes place with respect to equipment, photo and video tapings, programs, and further discussions about their graphic designs, internet, social media products and operations.

Head of the Communication Department Maurice Lake said, "Our visit to the communications department of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin was an invaluable exercise in synergy and professional exchange.

“It provided a unique platform to align our operational protocols and compare logistical setups, ensuring that both departments are working toward a unified standard of excellence. Beyond the technical discussions on infrastructure and communication workflows, the meeting allowed us to build the interpersonal rapport necessary for seamless cross-border collaboration.

“We left with a deeper understanding of our shared challenges and a strengthened commitment to streamlining our information-sharing processes for the benefit of all our communities."

Both departments exchanged tokens of appreciation.

DCOMM head has extended an invitation to the French side Communication Department for a visit in the near future.