Minister Brug: Hantavirus situation poses low risk to Sint Maarten, vigilance remains key

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) — Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, is informing the public of recent developments regarding a reported Hantavirus cluster aboard a cruise ship, while reassuring the community that the risk to Sint Maarten and the wider Caribbean region remains low.

According to international health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), a number of Hantavirus cases were identified aboard a cruise vessel currently located off Cabo Verde.

As of early May 2026, several confirmed cases and fatalities have been reported, all directly linked to individuals onboard the vessel. Minister Brug emphasized that there is no evidence of spread beyond the ship, and that the likelihood of transmission within the Caribbean region is limited.

“Based on the information provided by international and regional health authorities, the risk to Sint Maarten remains low. However, as a country that welcomes a significant number of cruise passengers annually, we remain vigilant and proactive in our approach to public health,” Minister Brug stated.

The Minister explained that Hantaviruses are typically transmitted through specific types of wild rodents and are not commonly associated with urban environments. This further reduces the likelihood of local transmission within Sint Maarten.

In light of the situation, the Ministry, through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), continues to prioritize strong surveillance and prevention measures, particularly at the island’s ports of entry.

“Our port health systems, including the Maritime Declaration of Health process, play a critical role in identifying and managing potential health risks before vessels arrive. We continue to work closely with international partners to ensure that these protocols remain effective,” the Minister noted.

Minister Brug also highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration with regional and international organizations such as CARPHA, PAHO, and the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) to monitor developments and respond appropriately if needed.

While no travel or trade restrictions have been recommended, the Ministry remains prepared to take any necessary measures to safeguard public health.

“This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong public health systems and preparedness, particularly in a region that plays such a significant role in global cruise tourism,” Minister Brug added.

The Ministry of VSA will continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to the public as necessary.

MP Doran Calls for Fair Resolution in Fleming Waste Solutions Matter

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Egbert J. Doran is calling for the fair and immediate resolution of the ongoing payment dispute involving Fleming Waste Solutions, stating that while Government should always work toward stronger administrative structures and formalized contracts, contractors who carry out essential services for the country should not remain unpaid after work has already been executed, verified, and accepted.

Doran said the recent public discussion surrounding the matter requires additional context, particularly as attention now appears to be shifting toward assigning blame instead of resolving the issue responsibly.

“Let us be realistic about how Government operations have functioned over the years,” Doran stated. “While formal contracts are always the preferred structure, not every operational arrangement historically operated that way, especially in areas tied to urgent or essential public services.”

Doran said that while a formal written contract would certainly have been the ideal and more structured approach, the absence of such a contract does not automatically invalidate or make the arrangement illegal where services were requested, carried out, verified, and accepted by Government through established operational and financial processes.

“The reality is that Government cannot continue benefiting from services rendered and then disregard payment obligations afterward,” Doran stated.

According to Doran, situations involving operational necessity, procurement timelines, budget limitations, and evolving maintenance costs have existed across multiple ministries for years and are not unique to this matter.

“The important point is this: once Government requests the service, the work is executed, the work is confirmed, invoices are submitted, and Government continues benefiting from those services, then the provider deserves to be paid,” he said.

Doran noted that Fleming Waste Solutions continued operating under the current administration for nearly two years, during which the company reportedly continued receiving assignments and payments under the same operational arrangement now being questioned.

“If concerns existed about the structure itself, then those concerns should have been addressed much earlier,” Doran said. “You cannot continue requesting essential services, continue benefiting from the work, and then only raise administrative complications once payments become delayed.”

Doran also encouraged the Minister to engage directly with the relevant departments, financial personnel, and individuals previously involved in the operational process to gain a fuller understanding of how the arrangement evolved over time and how payments were historically handled within Government systems.

Providing background on the matter, Doran explained that following the receipt of heavy equipment from the NRPB for landfill management operations, Government entered into a working arrangement with Fleming Waste Solutions to assist with the operation and maintenance of landfill machinery, including Caterpillar equipment used for daily landfill operations.

At the time, Fleming Waste Solutions already maintained an operational presence at the landfill. Mr. Derrick Fleming is a Certified Diesel Technician and Certified Level 1 CAT Technician, and the company possessed the experience required to service Caterpillar equipment under challenging landfill conditions.

According to Doran, due to the operational realities, evolving maintenance demands, and the need to first establish clearer long-term servicing and repair cost projections, the arrangement developed into a phased operational maintenance structure over time rather than an immediately fixed long-term contractual model.

“This approach allowed Government to better assess recurring operational costs based on actual repairs, servicing history, parts replacement, and ongoing operational usage,” Doran explained. “Like many operational realities within Government, these types of structures sometimes evolve while ministries work through procurement procedures, budgeting limitations, and operational demands simultaneously.”

Doran stated that payments were processed through submitted advices and the normal financial review channels, with supporting documentation and internal checks carried out.

“This was not a situation where random payments were simply being handed out,” Doran stated. “These services were tied directly to maintaining landfill operations and avoiding disruptions to a critical national function.”

Doran added that many long-standing operational arrangements across Government evolved out of necessity where operational realities, procurement procedures, and budget constraints did not always align perfectly.

“Whether we agree with every administrative structure from the past or not, we also have to acknowledge reality,” Doran added. “Fleming Waste Solutions continued carrying out difficult and essential work under extremely challenging conditions while helping maintain continuity at the landfill.”

Doran said the focus now should be on resolving the issue fairly and responsibly rather than allowing the matter to continue dragging on.

“At the end of the day, the contractor carried out work requested by Governments both past and present, work that Government benefited from, and work tied directly to an essential national function,” Doran stated. “The people carrying out these services earned their wages. The matter should now be resolved responsibly and fairly.”

Parliament of Sint Maarten to host 2026 SSS Cooperative Consultations on May 7 & 8 with Saba and Statia

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President of the Parliament of Sint Maarten MP Sarah Wescot Williams

SINT MAARTEN (PHILIPSBURG) - In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) previously signed between the Island Councils of Saba and Sint Eustatius, and the Parliament of Sint Maarten, the SSS Cooperative Consultations 2026 will take place on May 7–8, 2026, in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten.

The consultations will be hosted by the Parliament of Sint Maarten at its location on Wilhelminastraat 1.

Building on the outcomes of the inaugural consultations held in 2025, the SSS Cooperative Consultations serve as a dedicated platform for the representative bodies of the three islands to continue structured dialogue and cooperation on matters of shared concern.

The consultations reflect the commitment under the MoU to strengthen regional ties and pursue practical solutions that benefit the people of the SSS islands.

Formal consultations will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, and will include an update and follow-up on the SSS Cooperative Report 2025, and the signed MoU.

Participants will also focus on key areas of cooperation, including: Healthcare, Education, Economic development, Tourism, and Air connectivity between the SSS islands.

These discussions are intended to further align policies, share experiences, and strengthen collaboration in areas that directly impact social and economic development across the three islands.

Minister of TEATT: Government Reviews Fuel Excise Amid Rising Global Prices

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Minister of TEATT Hon. Grisha Heyliger Marten

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten has outlined Government’s role in fuel pricing and the measures currently under review, including fuel excise.

The Minister’s remarks were made in response to questions during the Council of Ministers Press Briefing held on Wednesday.

Fuel prices in Sint Maarten are primarily driven by international market developments. As global oil prices fluctuate, these changes are reflected locally through the established pricing mechanism. Government does not set fuel prices arbitrarily but regulates them through a maximum price mechanism based on international market developments.

Fuel prices are driven primarily by international market developments, while local consumption patterns can influence how strongly those increases are felt in Sint Maarten.

A key component of that structure is the excise tax on fuel. The Minister confirmed that Government is actively reviewing the current excise framework. However, such measures require careful consideration, as excise revenues form part of the national budget and support public expenditure across multiple sectors.

The Minister added that similar adjustments to the excise structure were implemented in 2022. While these provided short-term relief, they also created ongoing budgetary implications that continue to affect Government’s financial position today.

She further explained that any changes at this stage are dependent on the status and finalization of the 2026 budget and require alignment with the Ministry of Finance, which determines the broader fiscal impact of such measures.

“Any adjustment to excise must be weighed against its broader financial impact. These are not isolated decisions and require coordination with the Ministry of Finance, particularly in the context of the 2026 budget,” the Minister said.

Beyond fiscal measures, Government continues to assess the downstream impact of fuel price increases on goods and services. TEATT maintains regular communication with shipping companies to track cost developments and uses this information to guide market oversight.

Through its inspection services, the Ministry reviews the pricing of essential goods to ensure that increases at the retail level remain proportionate to actual cost changes. Where irregularities are identified, engagement takes place with businesses to address them.

At present, no significant or disproportionate increases in the basket of basic goods have been recorded. However, Government notes that the situation remains dynamic and subject to ongoing global developments.

The Minister also acknowledged the broader economic effects of rising fuel costs, including potential impacts on transportation, utilities, and tourism. While external factors such as aviation fuel prices may influence airfares, current tourism indicators remain stable, with hotel occupancy and forward bookings performing in line with expectations.

Government will continue to keep international developments under close review and assess targeted measures where necessary to mitigate local impact.

Recognizing that fuel pricing is a complex issue and one that deserves clearer public explanation, the Minister has asked the Ministry to prepare a comprehensive breakdown of the fuel pricing mechanism in Sint. Maarten.

The goal is to give residents a clearer understanding of the main factors that influence the final price at the pump and to make that information more accessible to the public. The Ministry expects to share that overview in the coming weeks as part of Government’s ongoing commitment to transparency and public understanding.

Divi Little Bay Resort welcomed as official host property for Caribbean Queen Pageant

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation, SCDF, is extending sincere appreciation to Divi Little Bay Resort for serving as the host property for the contestants of the 2026 St. Maarten Carnival Caribbean Queen Pageant.

Contestants representing countries and territories from across the region began arriving on St. Maarten yesterday and are being accommodated at Divi Little Bay Resort ahead of the highly anticipated pageant on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Carnival Village.

SCDF said Divi Little Bay Resort has worked closely with the foundation to help ensure that all delegates enjoy a warm, comfortable, and memorable stay while on island for one of the hallmark events of St. Maarten Carnival 2026.

“The Caribbean Queen Pageant is one of the signature events of our Carnival season, and we are very pleased to have Divi Little Bay Resort hosting our contestants,” SCDF said. “From the moment the delegates began arriving, Divi has been a valued partner in helping us create a welcoming experience for these young women as they prepare for the pageant. We are grateful for the support and hospitality being extended to all of the contestants.”

The 2026 Caribbean Queen Pageant, held under the theme “Queens of Sun & Soil,” will bring together 13 ambassadors from across the Caribbean and beyond in a celebration of culture, poise, talent, and regional pride. Contestants are expected to compete in several segments, including Evening Gown, Talent, Interview, and Ambassadorial or National Wear.

The pageant will take place on Wednesday, April 15, at 8:00 p.m. at Carnival Village and will feature representatives from Aruba, Anguilla, Nevis, Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, Antigua, St. Eustatius, Belize, and St. Maarten. The winner will walk away with the coveted Caribbean Queen title and a grand prize of US$10,000.

As St. Maarten Carnival celebrates its 55th anniversary in 2026, SCDF said partnerships such as the one with Divi Little Bay Resort play an important role in maintaining the quality and reputation of the island’s major cultural events.

SCDF thanked Divi Little Bay Resort for its cooperation, support, and commitment to helping make the 2026 Caribbean Queen Pageant a memorable experience for every contestant visiting St. Maarten.

SMAF’s National Team is off to Martinique for the CARIFTA 2026 Aquatics Championships

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Sint Maarten Aquatic Federation (SMAF) national swim team, consisting of 10 swimmers— five (5) boys and five (5) girls. The team consists of Azaiah Roper- Duzon, Holdson Jean Fort, Kjeld van der Meer, Declan Boyd and Emmbriel Flanders as well as J’aishaa Jeffers, Victoria Otto, Caithlyn Challenger, Lois Geeerdink and Aiyana Bourne.

Both Victoria and Holdson are new members on the national swimming team. They will compete against athletes from 20 Caribbean countries at the CARIFTA 2026 Aquatics Championships, which will take place in Martinique from April 3–8, 2026.

The young athletes will compete in a variety of aquatic disciplines, showcasing their skills and determination on a regional stage. Accompanying the team will be a coach Dwight Vermeer and delegation leader Claudia Connor, both representing SMAF and providing guidance and support throughout the competition.

All pool events will be held at the Lamentin Aquatic Center in Martinique. The CARIFTA Aquatics Championships is regarded as a key developmental event, offering young swimmers the opportunity to gain valuable international experience and prepare for higher levels of competition.

Supporters and fans are encouraged to follow the team’s journey and stay updated on their performance through social media platforms, including Instagram (@cariftamartinique2026 and @liguenatationmartinique) and Facebook (CARIFTA Aquatics Championships 2026 and Martinique Swimming League).

Belize Highlights Natural Assets and Sustainability Focus Ahead of STC 2026

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Belize Minister of Tourism Anthony Mahler at CTO’s Air Connectivity Summit last month

SINT MAARTEN/BERMUDA - Belize’s tourism minister has extended an open invitation to tourism industry leaders to visit the Central American and Caribbean nation next month, highlighting its world-class natural assets and long-standing commitment to sustainable tourism.

Speaking ahead of a major Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) conference, Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations, showcased Belize’s diverse offerings during remarks tied to the upcoming Sustainable Tourism Conference (STC 2026), scheduled for April 27–30 in Belize.

“It is our honor to host the next Sustainable Tourism Conference in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye in Belize under the theme ‘Tourism in Full Color’,” Mahler told regional delegates attending CTO’s Air Connectivity Summit in Bermuda last month.

Mahler noted that many across the Caribbean remain unfamiliar with Belize’s tourism product, positioning the conference as an opportunity to broaden awareness. “Belize has the second largest barrier reef in the world after Australia. We have three of the four atolls in the Western Hemisphere. We have the Great Blue Hole. We have about 250 to 300 offshore islands. We have the history of the Maya civilization. We have about 35 rivers, mountains, a rich rainforest just like the Amazon,” he said.

He emphasized the destination’s accessibility and diversity of experiences: “You don’t have to go to Australia to have great diving or snorkeling. You don’t have to go to Egypt to see pyramids. And you don’t have to go to New York or Miami or LA or any of those cities to have a diversity of people. We have all of that packaged in such a small piece of real estate in Belize.”

Belize has prioritized sustainable tourism for nearly 50 years with eco-adventure at the core of its development strategy, Minister Mahler added. The country’s tourism product includes approximately 12,000 rooms, many of them intimate properties that reflect a community-based model of sustainability.

The 17th edition of STC, organized by CTO in partnership with the Belize Tourism Board, will convene regional and international leaders under the theme “Tourism in Full Color: Integrating Blue, Green, Orange and Beyond Economies into Sustainable Planning and Development.”

Dame Pania Tyson-Nathan, DNZM, Chief Executive of New Zealand Māori Tourism, will deliver the keynote address. The program will feature ministerial roundtables, expert sessions, master classes and field experiences focused on the blue economy, green climate-resilient solutions, orange cultural and creative industries, and broader priorities including social cohesion and inclusive growth.

The conference underscores Belize’s commitment to sustainable tourism and reinforces its role as a catalyst for innovation and responsible growth in the Caribbean. STC 2026 will serve as a platform for bold ideas, strategic partnerships and actionable outcomes as delegates work to shape a more sustainable future for regional tourism.

Registration and additional details are available at: https://bit.ly/CaribbeanSTC2026. (CTO)

Belize Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole in Belize

Photo credit: Belize Tourism Board

One Suspect Arrested in Connection to Double Fatal Shooting in Ongoing Investigation

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) continues its investigation into the fatal shooting that occurred on March 2, 2026, on Arlet Peters Road (Old Cake House Road), in which two individuals tragically lost their lives.

On the same day of the incident, KPSM officers conducted several house searches at several locations across Sint Maarten. These searches were carried out as part of the ongoing investigation and were based on information linking certain individuals and locations to the case.

As a result of the investigation, on March 4, 2026, one suspect, identified by the initials A.H., was arrested in connection with this case. The suspect remains in custody as the investigation continues.

The Major Crimes Team of KPSM is actively working on this case, following multiple leads and gathering further evidence. KPSM is collaborating closely with the Prosecutor’s Office to ensure a thorough and coordinated approach to the investigation. The investigation is progressing steadily, and additional arrests are expected in the near future.

KPSM urges anyone with information that may assist in this investigation to come forward. The cooperation of the community remains vital in bringing those responsible to justice.

Persons with information are urged to contact the Police Force of Sint Maarten at +1 (721) 542-2222 or call the anonymous tip line at 9300.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.

Minister Brug announces return of National Job Fair 2026

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SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Mr. Richinel S.J. Brug, is pleased to announce that the Ministry, through the National Employment Services Center (NESC), will host the National Job Fair 2026 (NJF 2026) on September 24, 2026.

This initiative forms part of the Government’s governing program and underscores Minister Brug’s continued commitment to strengthening employment opportunities for the people of Sint Maarten.

As part of this commitment, the Ministry is reintroducing the National Job Fair as a key platform to actively connect job seekers with employers and support the development of a more resilient labor market.

This initiative is a direct continuation of efforts to reduce unemployment, strengthen Sint Maarten’s labor market, and connect our people with meaningful employment opportunities.

“The National Job Fair is not simply an event — it is a strategic investment in our people and in the future of our economy. It reflects our governing program priorities, where creating opportunities for our people to work, grow, and contribute to this country remains central. By bringing back the National Job Fair, we are taking a concrete step toward ensuring that employment opportunities are accessible to our people here in Sint Maarten,” Minister Brug stated.

The National Job Fair 2026 builds on the success of the second edition held in 2024, which saw strong participation from both employers and the wider community.

Data from the NESC Stakeholder Analysis Report 2025 highlights significant demand within the private sector, with 68.4% of businesses expressing interest in partnering with NESC and 73% indicating a willingness to hire through its services.

NJF 2026 is a direct response to this demand. The event will bring together job seekers, employers, and key social partners under one roof, facilitating structured, one-on-one interactions aimed at achieving tangible employment outcomes.

The NESC job portal (www.nesc.sx) will serve as the central digital platform supporting all stages of the event, including registration, job matching, and post-event follow-up and placement tracking.

The Ministry of VSA and the NESC remain firmly committed to building a more inclusive and opportunity-driven labor market for Sint Maarten.

Businesses and job seekers are encouraged to save the date and follow official Government and Ministry communication channels for further updates.

Calypsonians to clash on Saturday in the Nagico Senior Calypso Eliminations

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SINT MAARTEN (MADAME ESTATE) - The stage is set for an exciting night of lyrical rivalry and Calypso entertainment as 19 performers prepare to compete in the Nagico Senior Calypso Eliminations 2026 this Saturday, March 21, at the Aleeze Convention Center. Showtime begins promptly at 8:00 p.m.

The eliminations will determine which 10 Calypsonians move on to the finals in Carnival Village, where they will earn the chance to challenge reigning Calypso Monarch Edsel “Yaadfowl” Eusebius for the crown.

Yaadfowl made a strong entrance into the competition last year, capturing the Calypso title on his very first attempt and leaving a lasting impression on audiences. This Carnival season, a talented field of contenders will take their shot at advancing to the finals and positioning themselves for a possible showdown with the defending king.

Patrons can expect an evening filled with sharp lyrics, social commentary, wit, and the vibrant spirit that continues to define Calypso as one of the most important cultural expressions of Carnival.

The 19 Calypsonians slated to perform are: The Mighty Dando, The Mighty Dow, The Mighty Chipman, Bongo, Penshonair, King Barrow, Ebony Empress, Shadezz, Lady Baker, Pepper, The Protege, Young Dow, Fish Da Mega Boss, Ashayna, Empress Zee, Dr. Jones, Clifton Wilson, Baker Jr, D-Monitor and Empress Eunia.

The Nagico Senior Calypso Eliminations remains one of the key early events on the Carnival calendar, offering fans the first major look at this year’s contenders and setting the tone for the road to the Calypso finals.

The public is invited to come out and support the performers as they compete for one of the coveted spots in the final round.

Dr. Jones

Dr. Jones and The Pensionaire are two of the singers for Saturday night.

Soualiga Newsday Top Stories TWO (630)

Minister Brug: Hantavirus situation poses low risk to Sint Maarten, vigilance remains key

MP Doran Calls for Fair Resolution in Fleming Waste Solutions Matter

Parliament of Sint Maarten to host 2026 SSS Cooperative Consultations on May 7 & 8 with Saba and Statia

Minister of TEATT: Government Reviews Fuel Excise Amid Rising Global Prices

Divi Little Bay Resort welcomed as official host property for Caribbean Queen Pageant

SMAF’s National Team is off to Martinique for the CARIFTA 2026 Aquatics Championships

Belize Highlights Natural Assets and Sustainability Focus Ahead of STC 2026

One Suspect Arrested in Connection to Double Fatal Shooting in Ongoing Investigation

Minister Brug announces return of National Job Fair 2026

Calypsonians to clash on Saturday in the Nagico Senior Calypso Eliminations

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