Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.xVinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.xVinaora Nivo Slider 3.x

Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina Orders Closure of Government Offices on Friday Due to Tropical Storm Jerry.

lucmercelina09032025PHILIPSBURG:---  Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has announced the closure of all non-essential government offices on Friday, October 10, 2025, as a precautionary measure in anticipation of the expected impacts from Tropical Storm Jerry. This decision follows close consultation with the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (MDS) and the Office of Disaster Management (ODM).

According to the 2:00 P.M. advisory issued by the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and relayed by MDS, a Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for St. Maarten, meaning tropical-storm-force conditions are expected within the next 24 hours.

At 2:00 PM, the center of Tropical Storm Jerry was located near latitude 16.5° N, longitude 60.0° W, moving west-northwest at 18 mph with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph (100 km/h). The storm’s closest point of approach is projected to be approximately 75 miles northeast of the island on Friday, bringing tropical-storm-force winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas.

 “Tropical Storm Jerry is expected to bring periods of heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas beginning tonight,” stated Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina. “While we are not expecting a direct hit, the effects of this system could still pose serious risks to public safety. Therefore, we are taking every precaution to safeguard the lives of our citizens and public servants.”

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized that the decision to close government offices was made out of an abundance of caution, noting that tropical systems can often behave unpredictably.

“As Prime Minister, I prefer to ensure that this situation is handled in a safe and responsible manner for the people of St. Maarten,” he said. “The temporary closure of government offices allows everyone the opportunity to prepare properly, minimize movement during hazardous weather, and protect themselves and their families.”

The Meteorological Department has forecast rainfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches, with the heaviest activity expected Friday night into Saturday. Gusty winds up to 65 mph (100 km/h) and seas reaching 12 feet are anticipated, particularly along coastal areas. These conditions may result in flash flooding, rockfalls, and localized damage, especially in low-lying and flood-prone communities.

In light of these hazards, non-essential government offices will remain closed on Friday, while essential services—including the police, fire department, medical facilities, and disaster management agencies—will remain fully operational to ensure public safety.

“Your safety is our highest priority,” Prime Minister Mercelina added. “The government is working in close coordination with emergency agencies and monitoring the storm’s development around the clock. Let us remain calm, vigilant, and united as we navigate this weather event together.”

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has not been officially activated at this time. The government continues to closely monitor weather developments, and further actions will be determined as new information becomes available.

The Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) will assess conditions and make a decision regarding the possible closure of businesses following updated forecasts later this evening.

Residents are strongly advised to:

Monitor official updates from the Meteorological Department of St. Maarten (www.meteosxm.com) and the Department of Communication of Government  (DCOMM).

Avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions.

Secure outdoor items and clear drainage areas to reduce flooding risks.

Exercise extreme caution near coastal areas, where rough seas and rip currents will be dangerous.

Further announcements will be made following the 5:00 p.m. weather update from MDS and any subsequent government advisories.

 “Together, through preparedness and care for one another, we will ensure the safety and resilience of our country,” concluded Prime Minister Dr. Mercelina.


Successful Testing Marks Major Step Toward Launch of New Online Residence Permit System.

permittesting09102025PHILIPSBURG:--- The Ministry of Justice, through the Immigration and Border Protection Services (IBPS), has successfully completed the testing phase of Sint Maarten’s new online residence permit application system, marking a major milestone in the Ministry’s ongoing digital transformation and modernization of immigration services.

Over the past week, IBPS teams carried out a series of controlled tests across all stages of the process to ensure the system’s operational readiness. Staff members were allowed to experience the process as applicants, providing valuable feedback that is now being used to refine and improve the platform ahead of its official launch.

As part of the pilot, a selected group of external users, including lawyers, government agencies, and other approved partners, also participated in testing. This targeted exercise allowed the Ministry to evaluate user experience and gather professional input from key stakeholders before broader rollout.

The successful testing phase confirms that the system is functioning as intended and positions the Ministry to move confidently into its final review and preparation stage. The online residence permit system is being implemented by Stichting Beheer ICT Rechtshandhaving (SBIR) and Advanced Computer Technologies Services (ACTS) through a joint venture.

“We are building a system that reflects the kind of public service Sint Maarten deserves, one that is fair, modern, and reliable,” stated Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling. “This new platform not only improves how we manage permit applications but also how we serve our community. Through the collaborative efforts of IBPS, SBIR and ACTS, we are creating a more secure, efficient, and user-friendly online experience that gives applicants confidence their information is well protected and their cases are handled with care.”

IBPS is now in its final review phase, incorporating feedback from both internal and external users before the system’s official launch. The Ministry will announce the launch date in the coming weeks.

This initiative forms part of the Ministry of Justice’s broader agenda to strengthen the justice system from within by equipping staff with the tools and resources needed to deliver fair, modern, and efficient public service.

Fundashon Pro Bista Kòrsou wins Appeltje van Oranje 2025.

Oranje Fonds honors the organization for its efforts as an indispensable link

Fundashon Pro Bista Kòrsou has won an Appeltje van Oranje 2025 award. This afternoon at Noordeinde Palace, in the presence of King Willem-Alexander and Princess Beatrix, Queen Máxima presented the Oranje Fonds recognition awards to organizations that are indispensable in their communities. The other winners are Stichting Straat Consulaat from The Hague and Takecarebnb from Amsterdam. 

Indispensable Links 

This year, the theme of the Appeltjes van Oranje awards was ‘Indispensable Links’. These organizations see what is going on in society, listen to their target group, and are there when needed. They build bridges and establish connections, working together within the community and with relevant agencies and authorities. In this way, they contribute to a connected society in which everyone can participate and no one is left behind.  

Fundashon Pro Bista Kòrsou

Fundashon Pro Bista Kòrsou has been committed to helping people with visual impairments in Curaçao for more than 25 years. Through their powerful approach to rehabilitation and practical training, psychosocial counseling, and empowerment, they have helped hundreds of people regain their strength. Moreover, they strengthen families and society through this way of working. In this way, they make a double impact, for the individual and for society. 

The Appeltjes van Oranje are the recognition awards of the Oranje Fonds. They are presented each year to three social organizations that are committed to a connected society. The Queen presents the awards, and in anniversary years, the King does so. The award consists of a bronze statue designed by Princess Beatrix. They also each receive a cash prize of €25,000. This is the 23rd edition of the Appeltjes van Oranje. 

ODM: Country Under Tropical Storm Watch. Flood Watch and High Seas Warning as of 6:00 PM Today.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  Tropical Storm Jerry will pass approximately 75 miles from Sint Maarten early Friday the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten (MDS) said on Thursday morning. On the forecast track, the center of Jerry is expected to pass near or to the northeast

of the country overnight tonight into Friday.

MDS in its updated forecast says a flood watch and a high seas warning will be in effect as of 6:00 PM today until further notice.

The country remains under a Tropical Storm Watch until further notice. A watch is issued when tropical storm conditions of sustained winds of 39 to 73 miles per hour are possible within a specified area within 48 hours.

RAINFALL: This system could produce rain accumulation of up to 2 to 4 inches over the region, starting from this evening through Sunday. Some showers may be heavy and can be accompanied by thunderstorms, producing flash flooding and rock falls. The heaviest rainfall is expected late Friday into Saturday. Hence, a Flood Watch is now in effect.

WIND: Tropical storm-force winds are likely to affect St. Maarten from after 8pm tonight through Saturday, with the heaviest winds expected on Friday night.

SEAS: Seas will gradually deteriorate throughout the day, peaking up to 12 feet. Small Craft Warning and High Surf Advisory (combined High Seas) will be in effect from 6pm today.

The Office of Disaster Management (ODM) urges the community and business sector to monitor government channels and credible media sources for public and weather information related to the approach of Tropical Storm Jerry.

For local weather reports follow MDS: www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/.

For more information on hurricane preparedness and to find a list of official resources, please visit the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your “Hurricane Season Readiness Guide’ and “Hurricane Tracking Chart” or you can use the following link: https://shorturl.at/VbaxC

Listen to the Government Radio station – SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairperson of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page.

Continue to monitor official news sources for credible information.

Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad season.  Remain vigilant and prepared!

Government Embarks on Digital Transformation: Awareness and Co-Design for Civil Servants at Stakeholders’ Engagement.

~Secretary Generals, Department Heads, and civil servants contribute to the shared vision of digital progress and service excellence.~

nrpbmercelina09102025Cay Hill:---  The Government of Sint Maarten, under the leadership of the Digital Leadership Team (DLT) and the ICT Department, with the support of the St. Maarten Trust Fund, World Bank, National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB), and NRD Companies, continues to advance St. Maarten’s Digital Government Transformation Project (DGTP) through its second series of stakeholders’ engagement sessions. This is the Government’s bold, transformative digital initiative to upgrade public services and enhance government efficiency, benefiting citizens and businesses. Two (2) key sessions were held on October 6 - 7, 2025, at Paradise Hall, engaging civil servants and key stakeholders across ministries. Each ministry was requested to nominate representatives to actively participate in these workshops, promoting co-design, shared understanding, and readiness across departments. Participants included Secretary Generals, Department Heads, and civil servants from across the Government of Sint Maarten, all contributing to a shared vision of digital progress and service excellence. Digital Identity, Digital Public Infrastructure Checklist, and Enterprise Architecture:

Current Maturity and Future State were among the sessions presented to attendees. These sessions focused on awareness, collaboration, and co-design, essential steps to ensure that all ministries move forward with a unified vision of delivering modern, efficient, and citizen-centered public services. “Together we will build a seamless digital government, as we have a passion for public service. It is not a copy-and-paste system for St. Maarten, but one that must be studied and tailored to our authentic situation and culture. We must continue to strengthen the trust between the government and the people by being transparent to our citizens. This project is commendable as it involves a lot of effort, coordination, and communication by our Digital Leadership Team,” declared the Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Luc F.E. Mercelina during his opening address.

The Prime Minister’s participation underscores his continued commitment to digital transformation, following his endorsement in September via an opinion piece titled “Embracing Digital Transformation: A Path to Resilience and Growth.” His leadership reflects the Government’s alignment with global digital transformation trends while ensuring local context remains central to implementation. Government Embarks on Digital Transformation: Awareness and Co-Design for Civil Servants at Stakeholders’ Engagement. Claret Connor, Director of the NRPB, reaffirmed this vision in his remarks: “We must be able to reimagine public service. The Digital Government Transformation Project represents a bold step forward for Sint Maarten. It’s about more than technology; it’s about transforming how government serves its people through collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. At the NRPB, we’re proud to support this effort and help lay the foundation for a digital government that is efficient, secure, and built around the needs of our residents and visitors.” The DGTP introduces groundbreaking initiatives such as digital identity and the first wave of digital government services, aiming to make daily government operations smoother, faster, and more impactful.

The success of these efforts depends on collaboration and alignment across all ministries and departments. “This program is more than technology, it’s about making government services more accessible, efficient, and resilient for every citizen and business,” said Femi Badejo, Leader of the Digital Leadership Team (DLT) and Interim Head of the ICT Department. “Civil servants, who know our systems best, are the key drivers of this transformation. Their involvement is essential to ensure success.” NRD Companies, a global consulting firm specializing in GovTech and FinTech solutions, facilitated day one (1) and explored the digital priorities, including digital identity, e-services, and enterprise architecture.

Anonymous polls were conducted through QR code engagement to gather real-time feedback from attendees. The Digital Leadership Team (DLT) facilitated day two (2) under the theme “DGTP in Execution: Hands-On Alignment for Implementation Teams”. The Digital Leadership Team’s workstream project managers highlighted implementation strategies, role clarity, and next steps for accelerating digital transformation. The Digital Government Transformation Program (DGTP) is led by the Digital Leadership Team (DLT) and implemented by the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten. The project is funded by a $12 million grant from the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands and managed by the World Bank. Through this initiative, the Government of Sint Maarten reaffirms its commitment to building a digital-first, citizen-focused government. With the dedication of its civil servants and support from strategic partners, Sint Maarten is well on its way to shaping a more connected, resilient, and future-ready public sector


Subcategories

Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.xVinaora Nivo Slider 3.xVinaora Nivo Slider 3.x

RADIO FROM VOICEOFTHECARIBBEAN.NET

Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.xVinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.x
Vinaora Nivo Slider 3.x