LEE RESPONDS TO MP Richardson.

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I am saddened and disappointed by the recent defamation of my personal integrity and honor. Normallly, I would refrain from responding to such comments but I find the comments very destructive and warrant a response. The ONLY point of the recent press release that was issued by SHTA was to explain the importance of incorporating the Tourism Authority as quickly as possible, because it brings continuity and stability to the Tourism industry. Nowhere in the press release did SHTA criticize the hard working tourism department staff – all of which we have worked side by side for many constructive years.

Westin

I lament the fact that the personal dispute between the Westin and myself has been made public. The Westin is currently running their generator 24/7 which is against the law and in violation of their hinderance permit. (Court case pending as well as official complaint to Public Prosecutor's office) Due to the failure of government to enforce their own laws, I have been forced to take the Westin to court to defend my rights and the peacefulness that my hotel guests expect during their stay . For this reason Westin banned me from their property. (This case is also currently in court as to the legal validity of my expulsion ) During my tenure as president of SHTA, due to my obligations to promote the island, I have refrained from making public statements about the court cases in the interests of the greater good of the island and for that reason I have never mentioned the ongoing dispute with the Westin.

Conflict of Interest.

During the time of the lawsuits, the Westin has even had their former General Manager, Mr. Larry Cooper on the board on the SHTA. During which time, the Westin has received all communications and opportunites that every other member of SHTA has received. In my role as President of SHTA, I have always promoted ALL of St. Maarten with unbiased vigor because it is the best thing for the island

St. Maarten Tourism Authority or STA.

It has been and will continue to be SHTA's belief that establishing the STA is essential in moving the tourism industry in St. Maaten forward. It is sad that we have been able to dismantle the Netherland Antilles and build Country St. Maarten in less time than incorporating a Tourism Authority. I have volunteered my time, talents and heart to promote St. Maarten for more than 10 years. I have recently been elected to position of First Vice President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association. During my tenure as Chairman of the board of the St. Maarten Medical Center or SMMC together with other members of the board and staff, I helped to turn around a near bankrupt institution.

I find it hard to believe that my involvement in the STA would be anything but positive.