PHILIPSBURG:---  Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis is urgently calling on the Government of Sint Maarten—specifically the Honorable Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT), Mrs. Grisha Heyliger-Martin—to take swift and decisive action regarding the deteriorating conditions at the temporary marketplace in Philipsburg.

Vendors stationed at the site have repeatedly voiced their frustration about the poor and worsening environment in which they are forced to operate. The tents currently in use provide little relief from the high temperatures, and the lack of proper ventilation is causing significant discomfort for those trying to run their businesses under these conditions. Many vendors have described the space as unsafe, especially as temperatures continue to rise and working conditions become increasingly unbearable. “We have no electricity, no running water and the portable toilets are in a terrible state, the place is very hot and we are in need of proper ventilation” stated some of the vendors interviewed by MP Lewis.

What was initially announced as a temporary relocation project, scheduled to be completed within three months, has now been delayed for more than a year without any substantial progress. Vendors remain in limbo, with no confirmed date for their return to the newly constructed permanent facility. This continued uncertainty has only deepened their frustration and raised concerns about their ability to maintain stable livelihoods.

With the island entering the peak of hurricane season, MP Lewis stressed that it is unacceptable for these hardworking individuals to remain in such vulnerable conditions.

He also highlighted the need for immediate communication from the Ministry of TEATT, not only to provide clarity on when the vendors will be able to move into the new marketplace, but also to outline what short-term solutions will be implemented to address their current concerns. Proper ventilation, electricity, and water must be installed as a matter of urgency to ease current conditions. Additionally, MP Lewis called for practical support to help vendors continue operating and generating income during this prolonged and challenging period. “When I visited the vendors, there were absolutely no tourists or shoppers present,” MP Lewis stated.

MP Lewis emphasized that the vendors are not responsible for the delays they are experiencing and should not be made to suffer as a result of government inaction. Their ability to serve both residents and tourists should be supported, not hindered. It is the government’s responsibility to provide them with a safe, functional, and dignified environment to operate in.

Ensuring the stability and well-being of vendors in the Philipsburg marketplace is not only a matter of economic importance, it is a matter of public safety and respect for our entrepreneurs.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Management and staff of Milton Peters College (MPC) and Sundial School are proud to announce their full readiness for the start of the 2025–2026 academic year. Under the inspiring theme “I-YOU-WE CARE: THRIVING TOGETHER,” the schools are placing a renewed focus on care, connection, and community engagement. Education Director Sergio Blomont warmly welcomes back all students, teachers, and parents, expressing his heartfelt wishes for a successful and enriching school year. “Together we grow stronger, wiser, and kinder,” Blomont stated. “Our focus this year is on togetherness—because together, we thrive.”

Staffing and Academic Focus

The schools have successfully filled the majority of their teaching vacancies, with only a few remaining in French and Arts and Crafts, which we are hoping will be filled shortly. A new vacancy for a Reading Specialist will be posted this week to support students facing language barriers, ensuring inclusivity and academic success for all. In addition, a Verzuimcoordinator (Attendance Officer) will be appointed to address long-standing attendance challenges. This initiative will be carried out in close collaboration with parents and the wider community, reinforcing the belief that “it takes a village to raise a child.”

Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Enhanced Academic Support: Expanding after-school tutoring and mentorship programs to support student achievement. - Teacher Development: Continued investment in professional development to empower educators with the latest tools and strategies. - Data-Driven Interventions: Implementing tailored academic interventions based on performance trends and student needs. - Student Wellness Programs: Strengthening counseling services and wellness initiatives to support the holistic development of every learner.

Community Engagement and Communication:

A key priority this year is improving communication between the schools and the community. The SVOBE schools operate under the legislation of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports, and the examination criteria—especially within the Dutch education stream—are more stringent than in other streams. Efforts will be made to clarify these standards through parent and teacher committees and other outreach initiatives.

Facilities and Contingency Planning

Following the passage of Hurricane Erin, both campuses have undergone inspections and are deemed safe for reopening, with only minor water leakage reported. However, the termination of gym and sports facility repair contracts by NRPB—highlighted in a July 7 article in The Daily Herald—is a setback. Fortunately, contingency plans are in place to ensure students still have access to physical education and sports activities.

Looking Ahead

MPC and Sundial Schools are committed to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, academic excellence, and community involvement, the 2025–2026 school year promises to be one of growth and unity.

WILLEMSTAD/PHILIPSBURG:---The Ennia debacle is a glaring example of corporate greed and systemic failure, leaving taxpayers in both Curaçao and St. Maarten to foot the bill for a financial catastrophe that should never have occurred. The recent developments in the case, as reported by Antilliaans Dagblad, highlight the ongoing struggle for justice in a saga that has drained hundreds of millions from these communities.

Under the ownership of Hushang Ansary, Ennia was systematically looted, with vast sums siphoned off, leaving the insurance group in financial ruin. This financial disaster has not only crippled Curaçao but has also deeply affected St. Maarten, where the fallout equally burdens residents. Despite the gravity of the situation, the justice systems in both territories have been hamstrung by a lack of capacity and expertise, delaying any meaningful progress in holding those responsible accountable. This is an insult to the taxpayers who have been forced to rescue the company, bearing the financial burden of others' misconduct.

The public outcry in 2023 reignited attention on the case, prompting a request for assistance from the Netherlands. Dutch authorities, including the Recherche Samenwerkingsteam (RST), are now actively involved in investigating the full scope of the Ennia scandal. This marks a significant step forward, as the Netherlands' expertise and resources could finally bring the accountability that has been sorely lacking. However, delays in providing concrete resources and answers only prolong the agony for those seeking justice. The lack of urgency in addressing this issue is a slap in the face to the people of Curaçao and St. Maarten, who deserve swift and decisive action.

The civil proceedings have already exposed the extent of the wrongdoing, with former executives and Ansary himself facing liability for unlawful withdrawals and payments. Yet, the absence of criminal convictions underscores the systemic failures that allowed this crisis to fester. The justice minister's assertion that capacity issues should not hinder investigations rings hollow when years have passed without significant progress.

This case is not just about Ennia; it is a litmus test for the integrity of institutions in Curaçao, St. Maarten, and the Netherlands. The taxpayers who bailed out Ennia deserve more than empty promises and bureaucratic delays. They deserve accountability, transparency, and a commitment to ensuring that such a travesty never happens again. With the Netherlands and the RST now fully engaged, there is hope that justice will finally be served—but the clock is ticking. Justice delayed is justice denied.

PHILIPSBURG:---  As part of the ongoing implementation of the integrity program established by the Board of the Dutch Caribbean Chiefs of Police, under the leadership of the Chief of Police of Sint Maarten, the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) conducted an essential week of training and a symposium from August 11 to August 15, 2025. This initiative, developed by the integrity platform of the Association of the Dutch Caribbean Chiefs of Police, aims to enhance internal investigation protocols and strengthen standards among the police forces of the Dutch Caribbean.

In its second year, the Integrity Program focuses on establishing consistent integrity standards for police forces across Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curaçao, and the Caribbean Netherlands. The project includes a series of training sessions designed for leaders within the police forces to ensure alignment with the integrity and transparency objectives.

KPSM leadership, including the Chief of Police and other senior officials, engaged actively in the training. Over the past year, various sessions have been conducted for police leaders, ensuring that all personnel, from top management to rank-and-file officers, are united in their commitment to integrity and transparency. More than 110 KPSM officers and other participants took part in this week of training, fostering a collaborative approach to internal investigations and accountability, resulting in a stronger, more professional police force.

The week culminated in a symposium featuring high-level participants from the Ministry of Justice, including department heads, the Prosecutor’s Office, unions, and other distinguished guests. The Honourable Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling, actively participated and endorsed this crucial initiative, significantly contributing to the success of the training program.

The symposium included expert presentations from Mr. J. Rosales and Mr. O. Bouman, who shared valuable insights into the implementation of the Integrity Protocol. The Integrity Protocol is a vital component of a broader regional initiative to uphold a high level of integrity and enhance collaboration among the police forces of Sint Maarten, Aruba, Curaçao, and the Caribbean Netherlands. By establishing clear, shared protocols, the police forces aim to:

- Increase the quality and transparency of internal investigations.

- Foster the exchange of best practices among investigators across borders.

- Ensure fairness and consistency in legal practices throughout the region.

- Leverage collective knowledge and resources to improve police operations.

- Promote accountability and compliance within the police forces.

The ultimate goal is to build a police force that is not only trusted by the public but is also characterized by internal strength, transparency, and accountability.

The Police Force of Sint Maarten extends its deepest gratitude to the  Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling for her unwavering support and participation in this initiative, as well as to the Chief Prosecutor and the unions for their ongoing collaboration. Special thanks are also due to the instructors, Mr. J. Rosales and Mr. O. Bouman, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in making this training a success.

KPSM Press Release.