PHILIPSBURG: --- The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) has successfully completed demolition operations on a parcel of government land on Pond Island. Minister Patrice Gumbs Jr. confirmed the removal of unauthorized structures, including multiple shacks, containers, abandoned vehicles, and fencing. This action underscores the government's commitment to enforcing proper land management and addressing illegal construction.
The operation was conducted after an extended period of communication with occupants and stakeholders. The process began in September, providing months of advance notice. A final notification was issued on January 12th, specifying the demolition start date. Minister Gumbs noted that the government deliberately scheduled the work after the Christmas holidays to consider the residents involved.
Before the demolition began, ministry inspectors conducted thorough site assessments and documented all structures. The execution was coordinated with all relevant stakeholders, including utility providers, to ensure a safe and organized process.
Clarifying Land Ownership and Future Actions
Minister Gumbs used the opportunity to send a critical message regarding land ownership. He stated clearly that merely occupying land, even for an extended period, does not confer legal ownership or long-term lease rights. The only way to secure such rights is through a deed passed at a notary.
With the Palm Island parcel now clear, the government intends to review other parcels of government land where unauthorized construction has occurred. The Minister also clarified that the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) is not involved in this demolition and that there will be no relocation compensation from that entity. He urged individuals in similar situations not to wait for a payout but to take action.
Acknowledging Deeper Societal Issues
While enforcing regulations, Minister Gumbs also recognized that the situation on Palm Island is a symptom of deeper societal challenges. He cited a critical shortage of housing, complex immigration issues, and broader socioeconomic problems as contributing factors.
The government acknowledges that enforcement alone is not the entire solution. These underlying issues will be addressed collectively through comprehensive government action and will be a focus within the forthcoming housing policy.
The Minister expressed sincere appreciation to the VROMI team, the police force, and all cooperating agencies for their professionalism, which enabled the safe execution of the operations. The government remains committed to effective land management to prevent unsanitary conditions that often result from unauthorized occupation.