PHILIPSBURG:--- A group of approximately ten documented construction workers says they have been left jobless after spending more than a year working for FTC Construction, a company they claim operates from the French side while carrying out major projects on the Dutch side of St. Maarten.
The workers allege that despite holding legal residency and work documentation, they were dismissed after their contracts ended and were not rehired when the company reportedly began several new construction projects across the island.
One worker, who has lived on the island for 16 years and holds permanent residency, said the group worked for the company for “one year and three months” on a project in Cupe Coy before being told their contracts had expired. Shortly after, they allegedly discovered that the company had launched additional projects near Port de Plaisance and other locations without recalling the documented employees.
“We home and not getting work while they have people there without papers working,” the worker stated during an interview.
The employees claim the company currently employs more than 50 undocumented Venezuelan nationals on construction sites. They further allege that immigration inspections are being leaked to management in advance, allowing undocumented workers to avoid detection.
According to the worker, supervisors allegedly warn undocumented employees not to report to work on days when immigration officers are expected to visit construction sites. “When immigration come on the work site, the guy that run the place come the day before and tell everybody who don’t have paper, don’t come to work,” he claimed.
The allegations have raised concerns about possible corruption and information leaks within government agencies. The workers claim they suspect connections between company management and officials within the labor and immigration departments because complaints reportedly never lead to action.
The group says they attempted to file complaints with the Labor Department but became fearful after being asked to provide identification and personal details.
“They are asking for my ID and my name. I never give them my name and my ID because I don’t want nobody know that is me making a report,” the worker explained, adding that they fear victimization or blacklisting if their identities become known.
The workers also questioned why documented employees with legal status are allegedly being overlooked while undocumented laborers continue to work openly on large-scale projects.
FTC Construction is reportedly involved in several major developments on the island, including projects in Cupe Coy and Port de Plaisance. Efforts to independently verify the claims and obtain a response from the company were unsuccessful up to press time.
The allegations come amid ongoing public concern over illegal labor, labor protections for documented workers, and the enforcement of immigration regulations within the construction sector on St. Maarten.
Authorities from the Labor Department and Immigration Department have not yet publicly commented on the accusations.
Response from FT Construction.
Request for Publication of Response Regarding Recent Article
Dear Editor,
We are writing in response to the article titled “Documented workers claim discrimination, fear retaliation at construction company,” published on May 6, 2026. (smn-news.com)
FT Construction firmly rejects the allegations and insinuations contained in the article. The publication presents a series of anonymous accusations as factual claims without any supporting evidence, verification, or meaningful opportunity for the company to provide a response prior to publishing.
The suggestion that the company engages in discriminatory hiring practices, , knowingly employs undocumented workers, or receives advance warnings regarding inspections is categorically denied.
FT Construction is a major actor of local employment and economy and like many companies in the construction sector, employment contracts may conclude based on project timelines, operational needs, workforce requirements and qualifications. The expiration or non-renewal of a contract should not automatically be interpreted as discrimination or retaliation.
We are particularly concerned that serious allegations implying corruption and illegal conduct were published based solely on anonymous statements, without any factual findings from the relevant authorities. Responsible journalism requires verification and balance, especially when accusations can significantly damage the reputation of a company, its management, and the many employees and families who depend on it.
FT Construction remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and legal compliance. We reserve the right to take appropriate action to protect our reputation against the dissemination of false or defamatory information.
We respectfully request that this response be published in full in the interest of fairness and balanced reporting.
Sincerely,
Benoit BROUSSY, Managing Director
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