Oyster Pond:--- On Friday 19 October 2012, 117 persons took the pledge of allegiance in before His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday during the festive naturalization Ceremony which took place at The Westin, Oyster Pond. The pledge of allegiance, as being expressed in either taking an oath or making a promise, is the final mandatory step in the process of obtaining the Dutch nationality.
Naturalization is a legal process under the Dutch Kingdom Law whereby a person may be granted Dutch Citizenship. The Governor emphasized that community wise, naturalization is more than just the result of a legal process. In the context of the St. Maarten community, it is the start of a new chapter in one's life. A new chapter, which is truly a new beginning as well as confirmation of an existing relation with St. Maarten and its community. The Governor expressed his hope that each of the participants would consider this moment as a journey of growth towards a stronger St. Maarten.
The naturalization ceremony consisted of one session, including children who became Dutch Citizens. Each of the participants received the Royal Decree which confirmed their Dutch nationality. At the end of the ceremony, Governor Holiday personally congratulated each participant who had obtained their Dutch nationality. The naturalization ceremony was completed with the posing for a group picture as a special memory to an extraordinary day.
Press Release from the Governor's Office