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ROAD NETWORK CLEAN UP UNDERWAY

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of VROMI wishes to inform the public that ministry teams are actively working across the country today to clear debris. 

“Following the recent heavy rainfall, crews are carrying out clean-up of the road network to ensure safe and accessible roadways. 

“Works are being conducted along the main road network, covering areas from Point Blanche, Philipsburg, Dutch Quarter, St. Peters. 

“Motorists are advised to expect minor delays in traffic, exercise caution, and adhere to all traffic signage in work zones. 

“We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue to restore road network safety.”

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SMYC Dinghy Season Championship Concludes with Bus Regatta

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - Twenty-four boats took to the waters of Simpson Bay Lagoon on Saturday, April 11, for the Bus Dinghy Regatta, which was the final installment of Sint Maarten Yacht Club’s annual Dinghy Season Championship. 

With the race course set south of the causeway bridge, competitors were in for a challenge in a 10 to 15 knot easterly breeze that was both shifty in direction and velocity. Sponsored by Grant Thornton, the ILCA, Optimist, Optimist Green, and RS Zest fleets were able to get in four races and the competition was tight throughout the morning.  

As is typical, the priority for racers was to get a solid start and then find clear air on the first upwind leg. Also, it was anyone’s guess as to how the wind would shift—sometimes changing as much as 30 degrees—and if you caught it right, you were going to make some big gains. Catch it wrong, though, and it was a fight to finish. Along with the shifts in direction, sailors had to navigate either big gusts coming down the course or lulls that seemed to put the brakes on. Overall, the conditions made for a fun morning of racing. 

In the hotly contested ILCA Fleet, Oskar Jarrett Versteegden took third place, Clement Le Normand grabbed second place, and taking the overall win was Massimo Lapierre.

The younger sailors in the Optimist Green Fleet delivered their own share of excitement. Magnus Cross came in third place, Ryan Etwaroo held on for second, and J'Amari de Groote took home the top prize in first place.   

In the Optimist Fleet, Axel Le Calvez came in third place, Porter Cross took second place, and Adam Gumbs stood atop the podium in first place. 

Three RS Zests came out for the regatta and it was Adrien and Stefan in third place, Harrison and Hunter Radican in second place, and Achile Le Normand taking first place.  

“Wow, that was a really fun morning on the water. It was great to see everyone competing at such a high level and I’m happy that we were able to get four races finished before noon,” said SMYC Race Officer and sailing coach Andy Cross. 

The 2026 Bus Dinghy Regatta was a success, and we look forward to more events in the future. Next up on the schedule is the Sint Maarten National Dinghy Championship on May 2-3. For more information and full results visit: https://smyc.com/dinghy-season-championship/

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VROMI ACKNOWLEDGES ROAD CONDITIONS AND URGES PUBLIC PATIENCE AMID ONGOING RAINS

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) acknowledges that the current rain will continue to expose vulnerabilities in the island's road infrastructure, resulting in the formation of potholes and deteriorating road surfaces across various areas.

While efforts to improve road infrastructure remain a priority, repair works are weather-dependent and will commence as soon as conditions permit. The Ministry is actively working toward a more comprehensive, long-term road management plan to address these challenges in a sustainable manner.

The Ministry respectfully asks for the patience and cooperation of all road users during this period and assures the public that restoring safe and reliable road conditions remains a top priority.

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MP Christopher Wever Calls for Stronger Cooperation at Parlatino Meeting

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Christopher Wever has highlighted the importance of unity, dialogue, and cooperation among countries in Latin America and the Caribbean following his participation in a recent meeting of the Committee on Political Affairs, Municipal Affairs and Integration of the Latin American and Caribbean Parliament (Parlatino), held in Panama.

The meeting brought together parliamentarians from across the region to discuss key issues such as security, migration, organized crime, and political developments.

During the discussions, MP Wever supported a joint position that the region must address shared challenges through coordinated and long term cooperation. The focus was on working together through strong institutions and respecting international law.

The meeting ended with the circulation of a draft declaration on hemispherical cooperation. This draft declaration confirms the commitment of participating countries to work together in a unified and constructive way.

“We are living in a time where global tensions are affecting our region in real ways,” MP Wever stated. “It is important that Latin America and the Caribbean respond together, with a clear vision and a calm and united approach.”

The Committee reaffirmed important principles such as respect for each country’s independence, peaceful resolution of conflicts, and equality among States. MP Wever stressed that stronger regional cooperation is necessary to maintain stability and progress.

As part of the draft declaration, parliamentarians called on governments and parliaments to focus on dialogue and cooperation in order to build stronger relationships across the region. The aim is to improve the well being and development of all people in Latin America and the Caribbean.

MP Wever noted that for small island states like Sint Maarten, working together with other countries is especially important when dealing with issues such as crime, economic challenges and food security.

“By working together, we can better protect our people, our resources, and contribute to peace and stability in the region,” he added.

The draft declaration also confirms that cooperation between countries must always respect national sovereignty and follow international law, while promoting a shared regional vision for the future.

MP Wever concluded by reaffirming Sint Maarten’s commitment to being part of regional discussions and solutions, ensuring that the interests of small island nations continue to be represented.

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General Audit Chamber submits 2025 Annual Report early

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The General Audit Chamber of St. Maarten presented its 2025 Annual Report to the Governor and Parliament on March 31st, fulfilling its obligation to submit the report well ahead of the required deadline, before July 1st.

The Audit Chamber is an independent institution and invests value for money and legal compliance of the Government's income and expenses.

The annual report provides an overview of the audits conducted throughout the year and presents a detailed account of the institution's use of its budget for the fiscal year 2025.

In terms of performance, the Audit Chamber produced reports on various topics, including the Governments response on climate change, an assessment on the experiences of taxpayers at the Tax Office, the protection of personal data, the audit on the APS’ 2024 Financial Statement and the audit on the building permit process.

The annual report provides information on the institution’s budget realization for 2025. It outlines the Audit Chamber’s communication performance, including several key performance indicators (KPIs) for its social media platforms.

The Audit Chamber's online interactive environment delivered strong KPIs, and the institution plans to enhance its online presence further by adding new topics.

The Annual Report for 2025 is available on the General Audit Chamber's website (www.arsxm.org) and social media platforms. Interested parties are encouraged to read the report and gain valuable insights into the Audit Chamber's activities and achievements throughout the year.

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Island Pet Shop: Your One-Stop Destination for Pet Care in Sint Maarten and the Caribbean. Number One Leading pet care provider

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY) — Conveniently located on Union Road in Cole Bay, Island Pet Shop is the go-to destination for pet lovers seeking quality products, expert advice, and reliable service.

Known for its wide selection of pet care items, the shop proudly serves customers not only in Sint Maarten but also across the Caribbean through its regional export services.

Island Pet Shop offers a comprehensive range of supplies for all types of pets. Bird owners can find everything from cages and stands to specialized food, medicines, and treats for both wild and domestic birds.

For dog and cat owners, the store provides premium food options, bedding, kennels, toys, grooming products, and more, with special orders available upon request to meet specific needs.

Aquatic enthusiasts will appreciate the shop’s offerings for fish care, including saltwater tanks, essential equipment, and a selection of exotic fish.

In addition, Island Pet Shop caters to small animals with a variety of cages, chew items, exercise wheels, puzzles, hideaways, and other accessories designed to keep pets healthy and active.

Caribbean customers can easily access Island Pet Shop’s products and services by reaching out directly to arrange orders and export options.

The team is committed to assisting regional clients with their pet care needs, ensuring reliable service and quality products beyond Sint Maarten.

For more information or to place an order, customers can contact Island Pet Shop at +1 (721) 544-2116, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

, or visit the website at www.islandpetshopsxm.com

Island Pet Shop continues to be recognized as a leading pet care provider, proudly rated number one on Sint Maarten.

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Cabana Bar & Restaurant: A Tropical Escape in Sint Maarten

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - Nestled right along the pristine shoreline, Cabana Bar & Restaurant is located at Hilton Vacation Club Royal Palm Resort near the Simpson Bay Bridge, offers the quintessential Sint Maarten experience where the turquoise Caribbean Sea meets world-class hospitality.

It has become a beloved sanctuary for both sun-seeking tourists and discerning locals, perfectly balancing a chic, upscale atmosphere with the laid-back "island vibe" the Friendly Island is famous for.

Whether you are looking to spend a full day lounging on a plush beach bed with the sand between your toes or seeking a sophisticated spot for a sunset dinner, Cabana provides a seamless transition from a sun-drenched beach club to an elegant evening destination.

The culinary and beverage program at Cabana is designed to impress, featuring a diverse menu that mirrors the island's international flair. Guests can indulge in fresh, locally-sourced seafood, vibrant Mediterranean-inspired salads, and gourmet burgers, all prepared with a focus on bold flavors and artistic presentation.

The experience is further elevated by their famous pool bar, where mixologists craft refreshing signature cocktails and frozen delights that are perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat.

Between the rhythmic sounds of the waves, the inviting pool, and the high-quality fusion of Caribbean cuisine, Cabana remains a premier destination for anyone looking to taste the very best of Sint Maarten.

Make sure to check out Cabana Bar & Restaurant which offers American, Caribbean and Barbeque dishes. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try out their happy hour.

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Prime Minister Submits Legal Advisory on Constitutional Role of the Governor to CoM, Governor, and Parliament

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) — The Honorable Prime Minister, Dr. Luc Mercelina, has formally submitted a legal advisory concerning the constitutional role of the Governor of Sint Maarten to the Council of Ministers (CoM). In the interest of transparency, the advisory has also been shared with His Excellency the Governor and the Honorable Members of Parliament.

The advisory, prepared by constitutional expert Prof. Dr. Arjen van Rijn, was commissioned following developments in January 2026 related to the handling of an administrative matter and the associated decision-making processes within Government.

The report provides a detailed legal analysis of the Governor’s dual role as both the constitutional head of the Government of Sint Maarten and as the representative of the Kingdom Government. It further examines the limits of the Governor’s authority within that framework and the principle of ministerial responsibility.

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional boundaries, “This advisory provides critical guidance on the proper functioning of our constitutional system. It reinforces a fundamental principle: that the elected Council of Ministers carries the political mandate and responsibility to govern, and that this mandate must be respected at all times.”

The advisory concludes that certain actions taken during the January 2026 events exceeded established constitutional boundaries and risked undermining the political primacy of the Council of Ministers.
Prime Minister Mercelina reaffirmed that the matter is about protecting institutions, “This is not about individuals; it is about safeguarding the integrity of our democratic institutions. Sint Maarten is a constitutional democracy, and we must ensure that the separation of roles and responsibilities remains clear, respected, and upheld.”

The Prime Minister further stressed the importance of learning from the situation and preventing future ambiguity, “We have a responsibility to address this matter with maturity and resolve. Clear constitutional boundaries are essential to good governance. Where those boundaries are tested, it is our duty to reaffirm them decisively and constructively.”

Prime Minister Mercelina indicated that the Council of Ministers will deliberate on the advisory.

“Our focus now is on strengthening governance, reinforcing accountability, and ensuring that our constitutional framework continues to serve the people of Sint Maarten effectively and without ambiguity.”

The Government of Sint Maarten remains committed to transparency, the rule of law, safeguarding the constitution and the continued strengthening of its democratic institutions.

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MP Roseburg: Amendments Under Review of LTU and Rental Law to Assess Socio Economic Impact

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Sjamira Roseburg has welcomed the outcome of a recent meeting with the Social Economic Council (SER), highlighting steady progress in the legislative process.

During the meeting, it was confirmed that the SER is actively reviewing two important amendments, one related to the LTU and another concerning the rental law.

The amendments have been sent to the SER to assess the possible socio economic impact, meaning how these changes may affect people, businesses, and the wider community.

This step is important to ensure that the proposed laws are not only good on paper, but also practical and fair in real life. Once the SER provides its advice, the feedback will be taken into account and added to the amendments where needed.

This will allow the proposals to be further refined before continuing through the legislative process.

MP Roseburg noted that this stage helps to strengthen legislation by ensuring it is based on real situations and actual impact.

The amendments will continue to move forward once the advice from the SER has been received, reviewed, and adapted where necessary.

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Cabana: A Great Pool Bar & Restaurant. A Place to Hang Out Every day

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) – Cabana Bar & Restaurant located at Hilton Vacation Club Royal Palm Resort near the Simpson Bay Bridge is a place to visit while you enjoy your stay on the ‘Friendly Island.’

Bill H. from Saint Louis, Missouri, told Tripadvisor that Cabana is a great pool bar and restaurant. “The food is very good. The service is great! Kenny at the pool bar took very good care of us…attentive, courteous and knows his cocktail.”

James W.R. from Altamonte Springs, Florida, in his Tripadvisor review stated the following about Cabana: “Ate there twice, lunch and dinner. Good afternoon happy hour, 4-7. Fun place to hang out and talk with other guests.”

Make sure to check out Cabana Bar & Restaurant which offers American, Caribbean and Barbeque dishes.

They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For the local scene its a great location to meet up with friends as well.

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