PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA), in collaboration with the Simpson Bay Fireworks Association, is pleased to reflect on the successful execution of Crew Year’s Eve 2026, held on Friday, January 9, in Simpson Bay.
Crew Year’s Eve once again proved to be a highlight on St. Maarten’s maritime calendar, bringing together yacht crew, marine professionals, residents, and visitors for an evening celebrating the island’s vibrant marine community. The festivities culminated in a spectacular fireworks display at 10:00 PM, lighting up the Simpson Bay skyline and creating a memorable moment for attendees both on land and on the water.
Beyond the celebration itself, Crew Year’s Eve generated a noticeable positive ripple effect across the island’s economy. Restaurants and bars experienced increased activity throughout the evening, while visitors and tourists actively sought information about the event, reinforcing St. Maarten’s reputation as a lively and welcoming destination. The timing of Crew Year’s Eve also encouraged many visitors to extend their holiday stays, allowing for greater flexibility in travel plans and contributing to sustained economic activity beyond the traditional holiday period. This extended engagement highlights the value of the event not only to the maritime sector, but to the wider tourism and hospitality industries on the island.
Following the strong turnout and enthusiastic response, the SMMTA is proud to see Crew Year’s Eve continue to grow as a meaningful moment of appreciation for the hard-working crews and marine businesses that contribute year-round to St. Maarten’s reputation as a leading yachting and maritime destination.
In addition to the main fireworks celebration, several marinas hosted events open to the maritime community and the wider public, further enhancing the island-wide atmosphere. Palapa Marina welcomed guests with a vibrant Gatsby-themed celebration, while Isle de Sol Marina and Yacht Club port de Plaisance also hosted themed events, reinforcing the inclusive and collaborative spirit that defines Crew Year’s Eve.
The SMMTA extends its sincere appreciation to the event partners and sponsors whose support made Crew Year’s Eve 2026 possible: IGY Marinas, Yacht Club Port de Plaisance, Palapa Marina, Port of St. Maarten, Skyport Marina, Simpson Bay Resort, Nowhere Special, ProServ Marine, Island Water World, NAPA, BWA Yachting, Carrefour, Steve Coetzer, PDG Supplies, and Bluwater Construction.
Their commitment reflects the strength of collaboration within the marine sector and a shared pride in celebrating the people who power it.
The Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association thanks all partners, marinas, sponsors, and attendees for contributing to a safe, festive, and successful Crew Year’s Eve 2026 and looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.

PHILIPSBURG:---  The Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, Mr. Richinel S.J. Brug, has released the third video in an ongoing awareness series focused on youth mental health, this time addressing the serious issue of bullying and online exploitation. The video was produced in collaboration with local artist King James.
This third installment follows two earlier videos launched by the Ministry: the first centered on emotional well-being and the message “You good? Are you okay?”, encouraging young people to reach out to trusted individuals and not suffer in silence; the second highlighted the negative impact of vaping on youth health and development.
The latest video focuses on bullying, particularly in the digital space, and tells the story of a young girl who shared a private image with someone she trusted, only to have that image later shared widely without her consent. The video sheds light on the emotional harm, shame, and long-lasting mental health consequences that can result from such actions, while also emphasizing responsibility, empathy, and the importance of speaking up.
Minister Brug emphasized that the goal of the series is not to shame or frighten young people, but to create open conversations, promote awareness, and encourage safer choices, both online and offline. Bullying, including the sharing of private images without consent, is never acceptable and that young people who experience such situations should know they are not alone and that help is available.
Through this video series, the Ministry of VSA continues its commitment to supporting youth mental health by addressing difficult but relevant topics in a way that is relatable and locally grounded. Minister Brug emphasized the importance of respect, empathy, and accountability, calling on parents, educators, community leaders, and young people to work together to create safe and supportive environments. The Minister highlighted that addressing bullying requires early intervention, education, and consistent support for those affected.
The project reflects government’s priorities for 2024–2028, which focus on strengthening social well-being, empowering young people, and fostering safe, inclusive communities. These priorities emphasize protecting vulnerable groups, promoting positive social behavior, and encouraging collaboration among public institutions, schools, families, and community organizations.
Further information on support services and youth assistance programs will continue to be shared through the Ministry’s official communication channels.

PHILIPSBURG:--- During Tuesday’s meeting of the Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Inter-Parliamentary Relations (CKAIR), MP Egbert J. Doran raised a central question facing Sint Maarten today: can the country realistically speak about autonomy while remaining structurally dependent on external support?

According to MP Doran, discussions about Kingdom relations have repeated themselves for years, often focusing on autonomy, inclusion, and a stronger voice within the Kingdom. Yet, he noted, those discussions lose meaning when actions taken at the executive level do not reflect the same objectives.

“We talk about having more control over our future,” Doran said, “but when decisions consistently move us toward deeper dependence, we are not moving forward. We are standing still, or worse.”

A key part of Doran’s intervention focused on the country’s continued reliance on the Netherlands for assistance across multiple sectors. While he acknowledged that cooperation is necessary, especially in areas such as justice and governance, he stressed that long-term autonomy is impossible without a strong local revenue base.

“If Sint Maarten does not actively build its own revenue streams,” Doran cautioned, “then no amount of political language about autonomy will change our reality.”

This position, he emphasized, is not new. Last year, Doran formally requested a Finance Committee meeting focused specifically on revenue generation. That meeting has yet to be convened. More recently, together with his faction, he requested an urgent joint meeting with the Ministers of Finance and TEATT to discuss concrete revenue opportunities for Sint Maarten.

That meeting was scheduled, but ultimately canceled at the last minute.

For Doran, these delays highlight a deeper issue. While there is no shortage of talk about reform, there has been limited follow-through on discussions that directly address the country’s financial independence.

“Autonomy cannot exist without revenue,” he stated. “If we are serious about reducing dependence, then revenue generation cannot remain a postponed conversation.”

In addition to revenue generation, Doran raised concerns about transparency in Kingdom-level agreements. He questioned the number of mutual agreements signed in recent months within the Ministries of Justice, Finance, General Affairs and the Netherlands.

According to Doran, Parliament often learns of these commitments only after they are already in effect.

“Parliament must know what is being agreed to on behalf of the country,” he said. “What obligations are being taken on, and what is Sint Maarten committing to in return? That information should not come after the fact.”

He reiterated that cooperation is not the issue. The concern is whether Sint Maarten is engaging as an informed partner or simply reacting to circumstances without a clear long-term strategy.

While speaking from the opposition, Doran’s tone remained focused on national interest rather than political confrontation. He called for honest dialogue between Parliament and government, clearer alignment between public debate and executive action, and renewed urgency around building local economic strength.

“This is not about rejecting cooperation,” Doran concluded. “It’s about making sure Sint Maarten stands on its own feet while cooperating, not leaning indefinitely.”

MP Doran’s message remains clear: real autonomy begins at home. Without deliberate action on revenue generation, transparency, and follow-through, discussions about independence risk remaining just that, discussions.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Security and healthcare are the twin pillars of a thriving society. Without safety, communities cannot flourish; without health, citizens cannot prosper.

In Wednesday’s briefing, the Prime Minister of St. Maarten shared significant updates on two critical fronts: the modernization of the Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten (VKS) and the tangible progress of the new St. Maarten General Hospital.

This update dives into the steps the government is taking to equip those who protect us and the timeline for delivering a state-of-the-art medical facility to the people.

Strengthening the VKS: From Insurance to Infrastructure

The Voluntary Corps of St. Maarten (VKS) plays a vital role in maintaining public order, often standing shoulder to shoulder with the police force. However, upon taking office, the administration identified several logistical gaps that hindered VKS’s effective and safe operations.

A systematic approach was adopted to resolve these issues, moving from immediate personnel safety to long-term structural needs.

1. Securing the Protectors

The first and most critical issue identified was a lack of insurance for VKS members. It is unacceptable for men and women to stand on the front lines, controlling traffic and ensuring community safety, without adequate coverage.

Recognizing the vulnerability this created for officers, the government moved quickly. Today, all active VKS members are fully insured. This fundamental step ensures that those who protect the community are protected by themselves.

2. Upgrading the Fleet

Mobility is essential for rapid response. The Prime Minister announced that the procurement process for new vehicles is nearly complete. This upgrade to the VKS fleet will enhance their visibility on the road and improve response times during emergencies or routine patrols.

3. Arms and Equipment

Beyond vehicles, ensuring officers have the necessary equipment is a priority. While the legal procedures for procuring arms are complex and rigorous, the government is navigating these channels to ensure the VKS is properly equipped to handle their duties responsibly.

4. A New Home for the VKS

For years, the VKS has expressed the need for a permanent headquarters—a place to call home. Currently, the board has formally communicated this need to the government.

The Prime Minister confirmed that the third phase of the VKS upgrade plan involves securing a dedicated establishment. While a specific location has not yet been identified, the commitment to building or acquiring a proper facility is now a priority on the government's agenda.

Acknowledging Recent Successes

The importance of a well-supported VKS was evident during the recent holiday season. The strategy of having "blue on the road"—increased visibility of police and VKS officers—contributed to a peaceful transition from Christmas into the New Year. This success underscores why investing in VKS logistics is an investment in national peace.

The New St. Maarten General Hospital: A Dream Taking Shape

For years, the new General Hospital project seemed stuck in the foundation phase, leading to public skepticism. However, the narrative has shifted dramatically.

If you drive past the construction site today, the progress is undeniable. The project has moved vertically, with construction crews currently working on the final level of the building.

From Foundation to Final Floors

The shift from stagnation to rapid development has been stark. Since May 2024, the project has accelerated, moving past the invisible underground work to the impressive structure visible today.

The Prime Minister, Dr. Luc Mercelina, emphasized that this momentum is not accidental. It is the result of focused effort and collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) and the contractors.

The Timeline: A Realistic Goal for 2028

While some stakeholders are optimistic about an earlier completion date, the Prime Minister has adopted a realistic stance. Given St. Maarten's vulnerability to climate change and the complexities of hospital construction, a conservative target has been set.

The goal is to present the fully operational hospital to the people of St. Maarten in 2028.

This timeline accounts for potential delays while aiming to deliver a facility that is safe, modern, and ready to serve generations to come.

Building on a Legacy

It is important to recognize that major infrastructure projects span multiple administrations. The current progress stands on the shoulders of previous efforts. The Prime Minister acknowledged the crucial role of former Minister of VSA, Emil Lee, in initiating the project and "putting it on the rails."

This continuity of governance ensures that the project remains focused on its ultimate owner: the people of St. Martin.

Conclusion

Whether it is insuring a VKS officer or pouring concrete for a new hospital ward, these updates reflect a government moving from planning to execution.

The VKS is becoming a better-equipped, more professional force with a clear path toward its own headquarters. Simultaneously, the General Hospital is no longer just a blueprint—it is a rising structure that promises to transform local healthcare.

As we look toward 2028, the focus remains on maintaining this momentum, ensuring that the safety and health of St. Martin's residents are secured for the future.