National Alliance candidate number 17 Carlita Guy has a passion to see the St. Maarten economy thrive and return to the pinnacle it once was. An entrepreneur herself, Guy in an interview with www. StMaartenNews.com, spoke passionately about the taxation inequality between small and medium enterprises and larger businesses on the island.
By Andre Huie
“I don’t believe in small businesses paying TOT (turnover tax) while a business that is profiting in the 5 digits and higher can be exempted for 10 years. That is a something that has piqued my interest to bring understanding to me because as we know the economy of St. Maarten consists of many small businesses who are the pillars of our economy,” she said.
The passion for helping small businesses is why
Guy is running on the National Alliance slate. She said in her view, the National Alliance has always been for the “small man” and seeing them develop. “(National Alliance’s) policies and principles align with mine. They stand for entrepreneurship. I am an entrepreneur so I will go where I feel at home and where I know my expertise will be appreciated,” she said.
And speaking of expertise, Guy operates
a yachting business LuxCmar Yacht Services, which provides all around services to yachts that visit St. Maarten. She believes that the tourism industry, which was a jewel in the Caribbean, is preforming below its level and she has plans, if elected to help restore the industry to its former glory. “In order for our economy to rise, so does our tourism product. As a person who owns a business in this industry, I see the potential…to open opportunities for our youth, beautifying St. Maarten and making St. Maarten number one again…. seeing that tourism is our (main industry) this is something we need to tackle,” Guy said.
Carlita Guy said she chose to enter the political arena due to the lack of leadership she has observed in St. Maarten, which led to the fall of the coalition government, just 17 days into the new term. “I never thought about it (before),
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten – In a proactive response to the ongoing energy crisis that has significantly impacted the business community, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion and National Alliance candidate Edsel Gumbs recently engaged in a fruitful discussion with the management of Qredits. The meeting focused on the severe repercussions businesses have faced, including revenue loss due to food spoilage, waste, inability to service clients, and disruptions in operational preparations.
but I am the kind of person if I see something going wrong, I always try to jump in (to fix it) …when the government fell, I was frustrated like every other citizen in St. Maarten,” Guy said. “I have a vision and I am very determined to see my country rise above all .”
Guy has qualification in international businesses management from The Netherlands. She returned home after studies and later started her company LuxCmar Yacht Services, after working at the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority. She believes the success she has achieved in business, can be translated into politics if given the opportunity. “My business was nominated and awarded nautical tourism yacht agent award in 2023. If I was able to complete that and achieve that goal for my business, I believe I can achieve a lot more for the government of St. Maarten,” she said.
UP Party Member of Parliament Akeem Arrindell was officially arrested on the the afternoon of Thursday, August 1, 2024. Read more on StMaartenNews.com as the investigation continues into the vote buying case.
PHILIPSBURG -Utilities Company
GEBE has made a down payment for renting container generators with an output of 10 MegaWatt. Prime Minister Luc Mercelina stated in a press release that these containers are expected to arrive
on the island by midJuly, “provided there are no unforeseen delays.”
GEBE wants to have the generators operational by the end of July or the beginning of August. The company has also reached an agreement with large consumers to go offline during scheduled hours to ease the load on the power grid. Mercelina stated that GEBE has furthermore made a down payment on lease-to-own 20-Megawatt container generators that are expected to be on the island by the end of September.
The container generators will “significantly alleviate the strain on our power grid and reduce the instances of load shedding,” Mercelina stated. The generators are also “vital in ensuring a more stable and reliable power supply for our island.”
In spite of the current issues with power cuts, Mercelina remains optimistic: “We will overcome this challenge and build a more resilient energy infrastructure for our future.”
PHILIPSBURG -- The administrative court gave the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) four weeks to take a decision about a request from EZ Air for a FACOP (Foreign Air Operator Certificate).
EZ Air, doing business under the name Z Air, applied on August 2, 2023, for a FACOP but so far the ministry has not taken a decision. The Curacao-based air-
line, established in 2000 by Captain René Winkel, initiated two lawsuits to settle the matter; one against country St. Maarten and one against the minister of TEATT.
A FACOP would enable the airline to fly to international destinations with a stop in St. Maarten. The court ruled that the St. Maarten Civil Aviation Authority (SMCAA) has the exclusive authority to take a decision about the issuance of a FA-
COP and that it is possible to appeal a negative decision. The court ruled against EZ Air’s demand saying that its option to take the matter to court is embedded in sufficient guarantees.
EZ Air repeated its request for a FACOP several times, and the SMCAA kept asking for additional information and documents. According to its attorneys, the SMCAA refuses to grant the FACOP because there is no agreement
with the American Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) about the supervisory tasks related to its fleet of planes that are registered in the United States and that are hired based on a dry lease agreement, whereby EZ Air provides the crew and takes care of control over the planes.
The agreement the SMCAA demands is however impossible, according to EZ Air because the Unites States does not make agreements over supervisory tasks with other countries about US-registered planes that are operated by foreign companies and that are used for business outside of the United States. Instead, the FAA says that the regulations that are in place on Curacao apply to the planes. EZ Air’s maintenance program for the planes has been approved by the FAA. This information has been provided to the SMCAA.
In spite of all this, the administrative court declared EZ Air’s demand inadmissible
At the regular Court in First Instance EZ Air had more success. In this lawsuit it demanded that the ministry takes a decision about its request for a FACOP. After repeated requests, the airline stated in
a letter dated April 3, 2024, that SMCAA had all necessary information in its possession and demanded the issuance of the FACOP on the same date.
But the ministry did not react, reason for EZ Air to take the matter to court. In this case, the ministry stated that the term for taken a decision had not expired yet but the court did not accept the argument: “A legal term does not apply to a request for a FACOP.” Besides, the court ruling states, the ministry has had more than ten months to take a decision and that therefore the reasonable term for it had expired.
“The defendant has had enough time to take a decision,” the court ruled, adding that postponing a decision any longer would result in disproportionate damages to EZ Air. The court therefore ordered the ministry to take a decision within four weeks after the ruling that is dated July 12.
The court did not provide a further-reaching ruling (such as declaring that the FACOP must be considered to have been issued) because this would interfere with the authorities of
By Hilbert Haar
Something stuck in my mind about the address of attorney David Comissiong at the Governor’s Symposium about the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. Related article: Comissiong makes strong case for slave trade reparations One of the elements of a reparation package, Comissiong said, was a demand for sovereignty, independence. Why? Because that was St. Maarten’s situation before Dutch slave traders took hold of the territory and made it a colony. In other words: the Dutch have to give St. Maarten back the status it had before the slave trade.
On the surface, this argument makes a lot of sense. But when I thought about it, it does not make sense at all. Why? Because the road to independence is completely under the control of St. Maarten’s population. Our people decide about the status they want St. Maarten to have.
There is of course one problem with this train of thought, because choosing independence requires a referendum. Unfortunately, it is not so that a random citizen can collect a number of signatures to enforce a referendum. No sir, a referendum can only be called by politicians, by the parliament of St. Maarten. So in reality, the future of our country is in the hands of just fifteen people, the members of our esteemed parliament.
Article 92 of the constitution makes the requirements for a referendum clear: an advisory referendum takes place at the initiative of the parliament. Article 95 stipulates that the consequences of a referendum will be described in a national ordinance.
As far as I know, but maybe I have missed something, such an ordinance does not exist, so it remains unclear whether the result of a referendum will have any consequences at all. And besides, during the past almost fourteen years of its autonomous existence, no parliament has ever taken the initiative to put the independence-question to the test in a referendum.
I have always thought, and please correct me if I am wrong, that politicians like to talk a lot about their desire for independence but that they are afraid to hold the required referendum because they fear its outcome. What if such a referendum shows that 40 percent of the voters supports independence, another 40 percent opposes it and the remaining 20 percent has no opinion? The best you could say in such a scenario is that 60 percent does not oppose independence, which is quite different from 60 percent supporting that status.
I stand firmly behind the idea that people are entitled to the right to selfdetermination. If the people of St. Maarten want independence, so be it. One has to respect that desire, if it is expressed as such in a properly organized referendum.
Unfortunately, as long as politicians continue twiddling their thumbs, St. Maarten will never obtain independence while at least a part of the population strongly favors it.
It is unfortunate that Comissiong made sovereignty the most important element of a slavery-reparations package, as if others have the power to decide about St. Maarten’s future. This is simply not the case. That power is, and rightly so, in the hands of the people who live here.
PHILIPSBURG -- Real estate broker Arun Jagtinani is an outspoken advocate for the legalization of marijuana. In April 2015 he was the first businessman in St. Maarten to make his position on the recreational use of soft drugs public during a seminar. But marijuana also is part of a darker side of Jagtiani’s life and he describes this in his recently published book The Best Weed I Never Smoked in painstaking detail.
The book details the troubles Jagtiani had to endure because of his love for marijuana. That story begins somewhere in 2009 when his childhood friend David Soon offers him a small bag of weed, a product, Soon claimed, of an excellent quality. Unfortunately they chose the wrong spot for handing over the drugs. Suddenly, their car was surrounded by three police cars. The officers eventually found the small quantity of drugs and arrested both men.
Jagtiani was no stranger to police busts: he was found in the possession of marijuana on four previous occasions - in England, the USA, Jamaica and St. Maarten but he was never arrested for it. The arrest in the United States had however consequences that would haunt him for years. Jagtiani describes the “injustice” done to him by the American authorities, even though he was of course simply caught breaking the law.
On several occasion he was denied entrance to the United States and obtaining a valid visa turned out to be a nightmare. His company Island Real Estate Team tethered on the edge of bankruptcy and his brother Dino offered him a job as the manager of one of his restaurants.
Jagtiani ended up working there as a waiter until, in November 2012, he sold a commercial property on Front Street that solved all his financial troubles in one go. In the book, Jagtiani states that the government of St. Maarten is actively working on a policy to allow the recreational use of marijuana. So far, this has not become a reality.
In the last chapter of the book, Jagtiani examines the question why marijuana is illegal in so many countries. He mentions the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 that made using or selling the product illegal in the United States. In the seventies, this legislation was replaced by the Controlled Substance Act and in June of 1971 President Richard Nixon declared the war on drugs which has been, as we know by now a completely useless exercise.
Is this a book worth reading? Yes and no. Jagtiani’s combines honesty about his own mistakes with indignity about the injustice done to him. All in all the book is a fair warning to anyone who wants to break the drugs laws in the United States (or anywhere else). It is not for nothing that one of the first pages of the book is dedicated to a “do-not-trythis-at-home” warning. It is of course up to everyone to take his or her own decisions, but Jagtiani’s experience makes clear that the day of reckoning is usually right around the corner.
“The Best Weed I Never Smoked was published by Happy Self Publishing, a company that offers services to aspiring authors. Their packages include The Author Essentials, which provides everything needed for professional publication, and The Author Rockstar, which helps position authors as thought leaders in their niches.”
THE HAGUE -- The Dutch desire to regulate everything becomes once more apparent from rules that apply to the amount of money citizens are allowed to have at home. The situation in St. Maarten is a lot more relaxed.
There is some good news though: currently there is no limit to the amount of money Dutch citizens can keep at home. And here is the bad news: above a certain level, this money must be reported to the tax inspectorate. The value of gift certificates also counts.
According to the Dutch government money kept at home falls under the household insurance (if you have such insurance of course).
Money saved at home must be reported on the annual tax return. Single citizens have to report if they have more than 653 ($712) in cash. People living with what the government calls a fiscal partner have to report amounts above 1,306 (1,424).
According to the National Budget Institute it makes sense to keep a
small amount of cash at home for emergencies. Larger amounts of money are safer in a bank account.
According tofitnessmeester.nl Dutch citizens carry less and less cash, not because they don’t want it but because paying with a bank card is more convenient to them.
According to data provided by the Dutch National Bank around 20 percent of citizens exclusively pay for everything they buy with cash. The remaining 80 percent prefers using a bank card. Some people are concerned that cash will eventually disappear but the government says that this is not going to happen “for the time being” (a conditional remark that has created at least some uncertainty about the future of cash). The situation in St. Maarten is different. The tax return (a document of 23 pages) only asks citizens if they have more than 5,000 guilders ($2,793) in cash. The requested answer is simple: yes or no, and the tax inspectorate does not require that citizens report the specific amount of cash they have at home.
PHILIPSBURG -- National Alliance kandidaat voor de verkiezingen op 19 augustus Terrance Rey kan bogen op ervaring aan beide kanten van de oceaan. Hij verbleef voor studies en werk 19 jaar in Nederland en keerde in 2007 terug naar Sint Maarten met academische diploma’s op zak voor studies in economie en bedrijfsmanagement.
Zijn zakelijke activiteiten omvatten onder meer de publicatie van StMaartenNews.com, een vliegtuig charter bedrijf onder de naam AirStMaarten en gerelateerde ondernemingen op het gebied van e-commerce, reizen en toerisme.
De politiek is Rey niet vreemd, want hij werkte van 2010 tot 2012 als Beleidsadviseur voor het Parlement van St. Maarten. Sinds 2012 is hij ook de Adjunct Secretaris voor de Voortgangscommissie Sint Maarten.
Rey spreekt vloeiend Nederlands en Engels en is daarom goed in staat om de doorgaans in het Nederlands gestelde wetsvoorstellen in het parlement op hun waarde te beoordelen.
Zijn kijk op de wereld wordt treffend geïllustreerd door een opmerking uit zijn eerste boek, Cusha Columns: het is leuker om geld te verdienen (als een zakenman) dan om geld te
tellen (als een accountant).
Rey is ook auteur en heeft inmiddels twee boeken over Sint Maarten en de politiek geschreven en gepubliceerd. Namelijk Cusha Columns en Cusha Cartoons. Rey is ook columnist voor DossierKoninkrijksrelaties. nl.
Rey hecht grote waarde aan stabiliteit, continuïteit en verantwoording en met die gedachten in het achterhoofd is hij van plan de National Alliance in het parlement te vertegenwoordigen. Dat is een geruststellende gedachte voor de 1,116 Nederlandse en 502 Surinaamse kiesgerechtigden die St. Maarten als hun thuis beschouwen.
Willemstad, Curaçao, July 15, 2024 –As CIBC Caribbean, trading as FirstCaribbean in the Dutch Caribbean, completed the transfer of its assets to Orco Bank N.V last month, the bank made a parting gift of USD$25000 to support key marine projects in Curaçao.
The bank made the donation to Seacology which is involved in two projects in Curaçao, coral restoration and sea turtle protection, through its charitable arm, The FirstCaribbean ComTrust Foundation.
Chair of the foundation and Chief Executive Officer of the bank Mark St. Hill said the bank wanted to “make a tangible and lasting demonstration of our
gratitude to our staff and clients in Curaçao for their years of dedication and support”. He added that support for preservation of the environment was a natural choice since the foundation was committed to supporting projects and initiatives across the region geared toward the preservation or rehabilitation of the region’s coasts, seas and green spaces.
Executive Director of Seacology, Duane Silverstein, said “Seacology is grateful to CIBC for its generous support of our marine projects in Curaçao. The corals and other marine life of Curaçao face several threats. Thank you, CIBC, for having the vision and heart to support these programs that play a vital role
in protecting the coral reefs and sea life of Curaçao.”
This is not the first time the bank has partnered with Seacology as back in 2011 the bank signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding with the United States based environmental charity to support projects in Jamaica, Bahamas and Grenada.
The projects in Curaçao are with the sea turtles which include the endangered green, hawksbill, and loggerhead marine turtles and is aimed at further protecting them. The second project will see the setting up of a coral nursery to replenish coral lost to stony coral tissue loss disease which hit the island last year and is projected to destroy 25 per cent of the coral reefs.
State Secretary Alexandra van Huffelen has made more than $23 million in subsidies available to St. Maarten for projects that strengthen the country’s sustainable ability to generate income.
The objective of the subsidy-regulation is to contribute sustainably to the economic development of the country with a system of guarantee-regulations from the National Service Entrepreneurial Netherlands (RVO), the National Growth Fund and regulations for sustainable energy production (SDE+++). Eligible request for subsidies can come from legal entities that are governed by private law and from natural persons that run a business. The RVO executes the regulation based on a mandate from the
Ministry of Home Affairs and Kingdom Relations.
An Advisory Committee for the sustainable ability to generate income advises the minister about project proposals. This advice includes an answer to the question whether there is sufficient confidence that the project will - directly or indirectly - contribute to the strengthening of the sustainable ability to generate income.
The regulation published by State Secretary van Huffelen in the Dutch National Gazette (Staatscourant) indicates several projects that qualify for a subsidy. Among them are projects that support the combat against the consequences of climate change and that shape the energy transition; projects that strengthen the quality of education and im-
prove the educationinfrastructure; and projects that improve the government’s digital infrastructure and strengthen the public service to citizens and enterprises.
The subsidy program makes a distinction between two stages. Under Stage A subsidies are available for preparatory activities that are necessary to apply for Stage B subsidies. Stage B is where the activities as described in a project proposal take place. The subsidy available to St. Maarten for Stage A is 1,191,833.33 ($1,299,098) and for Stage B 20,261,166.66 (($22,084,672). The maximum for Stage A subsidy requests is 300,000 (327,000)
The regulation takes effect on an undetermined date for St. Maarten and it expires per January 1, 2030.
The Common Court of Justice sentenced Benny Sevinger, a former Minister of Urban Planning, Infrastructure and Environment (and later of Urban Planning, Integration and Infrastructure) in Aruba to a 48-month prison sentence with three years of probation and a 6-year ban on working as a civil servant or to be elected as a member of parliament. Of the sentence, 12 months are conditional.
On April 14, 2023, the Court in First Instance sentenced Sevinger to a 1-year prison sentence, of which 6 months is conditional, 3-years of probation and a ban on the right to work as a civil servant or to be elected as a member of parliament for a period of five years. Sevinger and the public prosecutor both appealed this verdict.
When the verdict against Sevinger becomes irrevocable he will also have to give up his seat in parliament.
The conviction is based on proof of fraud, bribery and embezzlement. Together with his fellow AVP-member Le-
oncita Arends, Sevinger defrauded the country of Aruba, while he accepted gifts from the same Arends and his good friend Pieter Susebeek. “By acting this way, the defendant is guilty of abusing his position,” the court ruling states.
The court found evidence that Sevinger signed off on request for rights of long lease to basically empty companies whose only intention was to sell these rights at a huge profit to a third party.
Sevinger also defrauded his own political foundation Fundasion Curason Berde of more than 11,000 florins (around $6,145) by using the money to pay for a private trip of his wife. This way, Sevinger used money from his foundation (established to finance his political ambitions) for a purpose that is not a part of its articles of incorporation.
Sevinger also accepted gifts from Arends and Susebeek to pay for the purchase of a Vectra gymmachine and for renovations at his garden and house, located at Paradijs 14 in Aruba.
Three people who were charged for different crimes associated with the actions of Sevinger were acquitted: Carlos Mansur, Curt Harms and Damira Nunez. Businessman Pieter Susebeek was sentenced to 30 months in prison, with 10 months suspended and Leoncita Arends was sentenced to 24 months in prison, with 12 months suspended and 3 years of probation.
PHILIPSBURG -- Taxi permit holders are up in arms about the 120 licenses the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication issued at the end of last year. The permit holders published a manifesto that contains seventeen questions about this issue.
They claim that in October and November of last year the ministry issues 120 additional licenses and ask: “What is the legitimate reason for this and how will this affect the existing taxi operators?”
The manifesto states that 200 additional permits were granted in 2011 and another 100 in 2013. The license holders inquire whether a feasibility study was done, “considering economic reports on tourism sector and visitor numbers.”
According to the manifesto, there are 500 current licenses, the ministry has added 120 to this total, while there are 300 taxi licenses on the French side. “What measures are in place to ensure that these additions do not over-saturate the market?”
The taxi permit holders furthermore wonder if one day their permits will have an economic value that could serve as collateral for obtaining loans. “Are there plans to offer subsidies to taxi operators during low seasons, such as assistance at gas pumps or supermarkets?”
The taxi permit holders also refer to legislation going back to 1969 that states that taxi permits were intended for born Antilleans. “Have there been any recent changes to this legislation and if so, what are the current criteria for granting taxi permits?”
Additionally they ask whether there are any
permit holders that do not have a Dutch passport.
In 2018 a new threat to the local taxi-economy surfaced when (then) MP Rolando Brison discussed the possibility of introducing a ridesharing service like Uber on the island. “It was unanimously opposed,” the manifesto states. The taxi permit holders ask about the results of a feasibility study into this option and ask who will be responsible for the costs associated with the (potential) introduction of Uber. Yet another beef the taxi permit holders have is with the fact that some civil servants have a taxi permit. Therefore, they want to know which legislation allows civil servants to obtain such licenses.
In a related news report - see Taxi Associations Present Tariff Change Proposal to TEATT Minister - taxi associations present tariff change proposal to TEATT Minister, Grisha HeyligerMarten, wherein five taxi associations operating in the southern half of St. Maarten have proposed a change to the existing tariffs, according to them, “due to the increased cost of living and inflation.”
In a letter to the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, the associations stated that the proposed amendments to the current tariffs are also to “synchronize tariffs with the Frenchside Taxi Association which is presently in negotiations to increase their tariffs.”
“We met last week to discuss, among other things, their proposal to change the current tariffs for different districts,” Heyliger-Marten said. “At this point, the proposal is being han-
dled by the Ministry and on it yet until I receive
The Minister however noted “overly saturated” with tration increasing the number from 385 to 521.
President of the Airport drew Royer, informed his meeting with Minister fruitful.” He said the agenda also included “improvement vironment” and “future sociations.”
Some highlights of the taxi associations include fares to the French side the current tariffs of the tions.”
According to the associations, ed tariff change was in The proposal also calls initiative to be “permanently its impracticability.”
Furthermore, the taxi tariff layout to be formatted easier visibility and legibility tourists, instead of being ple pages. They would a minimum US$10 tariff from Cole Bay to Cole Bay, Representatives of the signed the proposal: the ciation, Dutch St. Maarten Down Town Taxi Association, ciation, and Divi Taxi Services. The Dutch St. Maarten (DSTA), which operates nal at the Port of St. Maarten, significant meeting with
and I can’t take a decision the necessary advice.”
noted that the sector is the previous adminisnumber of taxi licenses
Airport Taxi Association, Anhis membership that the Heyliger-Marten “was agenda points discussed “improvement of the working enplans for the Taxi As-
proposal from the five include the “reintroduction of side which should mirror the French Taxi Associa-
associations, the last updatMarch 2022.
calls for the “ride sharing” “permanently abolished due to associations want the formatted on one page for legibility to guests and being published in multialso like to implement tariff within districts (e.g. Bay, etc.) following associations the Airport Taxi AssoMaarten Taxi Association, Association, Maho Taxi AssoServices. Maarten Taxi Association from the cruise termiMaarten, recently held a with the TEATT Minister
of Transportation, Mrs. Grisha Heyliger-Marten, together with other taxi associations operating on Dutch Sint Maarten. This meeting focused on critical updates regarding taxi tariffs and the issuance of new taxi permits.
Maya Friday, the DSTA board president, informed StMaartenNews.com that discussions with Minister Heyliger-Marten included a proposal for a slight increase in the taxi tariff. Specifically, there will be an increment of $1 on several routes, including those to the French side, which had been removed in the updated tariff of March 2022. Additionally, the board discussed removing the “ride sharing”
concept that was also introduced in the same 2022 update.
Another crucial topic was the issuance of new taxi permits by former TEATT Minister Arthur Leo Lambriex. The issuance of these new permits has sparked complaints among existing taxi permit holders, who are concerned about market saturation and the impact on their income.
See related document: Subject Questions Regarding Taxi Permits Regulation
The minister clarified that the newly issued permits would not be revoked for individuals without a Dutch passport, as a policy had been established to include those with residence permits. However, there were concerns within the taxi associations about rumors suggesting that these permits were distributed in 2023 to curry favor ahead of the political elections in January 2024.
The DSTA, along with other taxi associations such as the St. Maarten Airport Taxi Association and the association of Independent Taxi Drivers, is actively addressing these issues to ensure fair and sustainable operations for all members.
Photo caption: Taxi association presidents during their meeting with TEATT Minister Heyliger-Marten.
This update above highlights the ongoing efforts by the Dutch St. Maarten taxi associations to maintain a fair and profitable working environment for its members while addressing regulatory changes and new policies in the taxi industry.
Known to the people as Chacho, Claude Alfred Hans Peterson is the son of retired Police Affairs and Naturalization Department Head, Hans Peterson, and retired School Principal/ Union Leader/Politician Aline Choisy. He is a Mechanical Engineer and businessman with a wide range of professional experiences in the private sector. His career spans 13 years as a General Contractor and 12 years in the restaurant sector on St. Maarten. Before returning to St. Maarten in 2001, Chacho spent nine years in the Hotel Management and Tourism sector in Aruba, where he gained invaluable firsthand knowledge and experience on the value of tourism.
Chacho has been a dedicated political activist for many years, enlightening the people through social media and public gatherings. He has consistently challenged the nepotism and corruption plaguing government related companies and Parliament. As a Mem-
ber of Parliament from July 2018 to November 2019, MP Peterson represented the people with passion, diligence, and integrity, ensuring that the facts and truth were always told. Chacho is once again making himself available to serve in Parliament and defend the rights of the people. He has proven to be a man of integrity, stability, and his word. Chacho’s message is clear: “One GOAL, one PASSION!” The goal being to get Soualiga back on track. His passion being his love for country and his people.
Former MP Claude Peterson was a steadfast advocate for integrity and fiscal responsibility within government. One of his notable actions as a member of parliament was voluntarily taking a 10% reduction in salary, in accordance with the motion brought by the then party leader MP Wycliffe Smith. During his time in parliament, Peterson fought to maintain stability within the Coalition. As a Member of Parliament he had all Coalition partners sign on to a Coalition Management Agreement, with a clear vision
to resolve the impasse with the bondholders after they held back the insurance proceeds.
of stability for Country St. Maarten. After the fall of the government, MP Peterson immediately and voluntarily gave up his Parliamentary seat, returning it to then Party leader, Wycliffe Smith. This act of integrity stands in stark contrast to the past, where Parliamentarians often held on to their seats. As the second chair of Parliament, Peterson directed important meetings, including the 2019 budget debates. His representation of his then party in the Coalition saw him being very vocal on issues confronting the island. To resolve the Princess Juliana International Airport crisis, Peterson advocated for the trust fund/ European Investment Bank Financing option, which included liquidity support to cover day to day operations, employee payroll and for the airport reconstruction project. He exposed the sabotage and delays in the airport reconstruction and on the floor of parliament, called for a forensic audit of the airport finances and that of all government related companies. Peterson brought the first motion
Peterson, as a Member of Parliament, initiated many parliament meetings, including the first meeting to discuss the viability of US preclearance for St. Maarten. He also initiated a request for a meeting with, then, Kingdom Relations State Secretary to discuss the reconstruction trust fund grant and other matters related to the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. This request was publicly accepted by the State Secretary, a first time occurrence since becoming an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. His exemplary attendance record in the Parliament of St. Maarten, as highlighted in the year-end report further evidences Peterson’s commitment to his duties.
Former MP Peterson, with the support and encouragement of his faction staff, also prepared an amendment to the traffic ordinance to accommodate breathalyzer testing, with the draft law ready for presentation in Parliament, when government fell. During the Ad Hoc Committee meeting on Electoral Reform on November 7, 2019, he proposed that “No coalition should be formed with ship jumpers.” Peterson advocated for a covenant among parties to not form governments with ship jumpers, taking away the incentive for MPs to go independent and form rogue factions. His rationale was, and
continues to be, straightforward: fiscal responsibility when spending taxpayer monies. Each independent MP in our rules of order, is considered a one seat party faction, and allotted a monthly budget to employ faction staff (naf. 13,800 in 2019). Without curbing the practice of “ship-jumping,” the country will incur significant costs, diverting thousands of guilders that could be more effectively allocated within the national budget. If elected on August 19th, 2024, as an MP representing the Soualiga Action Movement Party led by Former MP/Minister Franklin Meyers, Peterson will place electoral reform as a top priority and seek to implement his proposals for electoral reform to foster stability for Soualiga and deincentivize ship jumping. Claude A.H. Peterson has exemplified the highest standards of integrity and leadership during his notable but short stint in Parliament. His tenure is marked by an unwavering commitment to universal principles such as accountability, honesty, transparency, and moral values, which are foundational to good governance. Chacho has consistently demonstrated what it means to be a true leader, confronting and resolving issues within the coalition and government with steadfast ethics and an unwavering dedication to the country’s welfare above personal interests. Claude “Chacho” Peterson, stands out as a man of integrity and a man of his word.
Over the years I have had the honor of serving our community in various capacities. My journey in the political arena, as well as in the private sector, has been driven by a steadfast dedication to improving the lives of our citizens and addressing issues that matter the most to you.
ON THE UPP LIST
* Established a Hospitality Training Institute with the aim of producing hotel managers.
* Established a law school on Sint Maarten that presently has 20 students.
* Served as Minister of Finance of Sint Maarten and produced balanced budgets.
* Founded the Sint Maarten Red Cross.
* Founded the Jaycees of Sint Maarten.
* Founded the Rotary Club of Sint Maarten.
* Founded the Sint Maarten Commercial Bank owned by locals, today named RBC bank.
* Founded NAGICO INSURANCE COMPANY, originally owned by locals.
* Served as one of the governors of The Central Bank for 8 years.
* Served as Minister of Constitutional Affairs of the Netherlands Antilles for Sint Maarten.
* Served on the CFT Committee supervising the budgets of Sint Maarten, Curacao, Bonaire, Saba and Sint Eustatius.
* Served as President of Sint Maarten Referendum Committee.
* Served as President of the Sint Maarten Crime Task Force.
* Translated the Civil Code of Sint Maarten from Dutch into English.
* Practiced law for over 50 years on Sint Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG -- The Detective Collaboration Team (RST) searched the house and the workplace of an outgoing Member of Parliament, 721news.com reported. According to the report, the investigation focuses on the fall of the government that took office on May 3.
The fall was caused by NOW-candidate Kevin Maingrette who announced in a press release on May 20 that he had withdrawn his support from the government that had the
the governing coalition though it was too late to stop the elections that are scheduled for August 19. Maingrette does not appear on any party’s list as a candidate for these elections. While the Prosecutor’s Office has not provided any information about the situation, or mentioned Maingrette as a suspect, other mediaoutlets have reported that Maingrette was arrested on Friday morning.
Media reports suggest that Maingrette, who worked as a Policy Advisor at the Ministry
Searches in outgoing Member of Parliament’s residence and Parliament Building Sint Maarten
On Friday, July 12, 2024, the Criminal Investigation Team (RST), under the direction of the examining judge, conducted searches at a Member of Parliament’s residence and at his workplace in the Parliament Building in Sint Maarten.
The searches took place as a result of the criminal investigation “Metz”. The Member of Parliament is suspected of taking bribes and misusing his position. The investigation focuses on the events that led to the collapse of the recently formed government. The sus-
clarify whether criminal acts have indeed occurred. The credibility and legitimacy of Sint Maarten’s democracy is at stake. The impact of the government’s collapse on the citizens of Sint Maarten is significant. It means that the government can no longer make crucial decisions and Sint Maarten citizens will have to go to the polls again during the hurricane season.
As of yet, no arrests have been made, and investigations are still ongoing for now.
Anyone who may have information related to these events is urged to share this with the investigation team. This can be done through
the email address: tip@ rstpolitie.com.
Criminal investigation “Metz” is conducted by the RST under the authority of the Central Team of the Attorney General’s Office of Curaçao, St. Maarten, Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba.
The Central Team focuses primarily on a specialized approach to fight corruption and subversive crime. The team mostly conducts criminal investigations into complex crime with a financial-economic component and which involves Politically Exposed Persons (PEP), public officials, government NVs, facilitators or public sector organizations.
THE HAGUE - Curacao and Arubaand by extension St. Maarten - have to allow partners of the same sex to marry, the Supreme Court stipulated in a ruling dated December 22, 2023.
The ruling is the conclusion of a legal dispute that began with a ruling by the Court in First Instance dated September 13, 2021. The court ruled that banning same-sex marriages violates the constitutional ban on discrimination. On December 6, 2022, the Common Court of Justice in Willemstad supported this ruling. Both Curacao and Aruba appealed in cassation to the Supreme Court in The Hague. The countries did not contest the conclusion that the ban on samesex marriages violates the discrimination ban; instead they claimed that with this ruling the court overstepped its authority.
The Supreme Court ruled that there is no reasonable and objective justification for “a discrepancy between the social reality and the rights of citizens.” It furthermore noted that
homosexuality is not a free choice but “the result of an individual’s unchangeable characteristic.”
The court also ruled that the classic fundamental rights of a minority cannot be made dependent on the opinion of the majority. “Not for nothing, this is about basic rights,” the ruling states. Another issue is that national ordinances cannot be applied if they violate the European Human Rights Charter.
Curacao and Aruba’s main argument to the Supreme Court was that it is not up to the court to regulate same sex marriage but that this task falls within the authority of the legislator - in other words: the respective parliaments.
“In this context we note that the commandment of equal treatment in equal cases gets additional weight for the legislator, since the court gets the authority to judge actions of the legislator on their constitutionality related to classic rights.”
On April 13, 2007, the Supreme Court already ruled that same-sex marriages conducted in
the Netherlands must be respected in the other countries within the Kingdom. “Countries must respect each others’ court rulings and authentic deeds, also if they are at odds with local opinions.”
The plaintiffs in this case stated to the court that around 10 percent of the population in Curacao is homosexual or lesbian - around 16,000 people. The countries stated that same-sex marriages are at odds with religious views but the court countered this claim as unsubstantiated.
The Supreme Court also addressed Curacao and Aruba’s main argument that it should not intervene in matters that are the authority of local legislators.
“Refraining from intervention can only be justified if there is a choice between several options that are up to the legislator,” the ruling states, adding later on that there is only one solution, namely, allowing partners of the same sex to marry.
“Serious injustices demand faster interventions, also when the legislator is aware of the situation but lingers with intervention.”
PHILIPSBURG -- Governor Ajamu Baly hosted the eleventh Governor’s Symposium on June 28 at the auditorium of the American University of the Caribbean in Cupecoy. The subject of the symposium was the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.
Five speakers addressed the issue: David Comissiong, Dr. Nilda Arduin, Dr. Napolina Richardson, Amaris Richardson and Raimie Richardson. Veteran attorney Comissiong is currently ambassador to the Caribbean community (Caricom) and to the Association of Caribbean States for Barbados. Dr. Nilda Arduin was St. Maarten’s first Ombudsman. Dr. Napolina Richardson is a historian, librarian,
author and theologian. Amaris Richardson is the manager of the St. Maarten National Heritage Foundation and Museum. Raimie Richardson is a heritage inspector with the public entity of Statia.
After the speakers have finished, Makhicia Brooks moderated a panel discussion that aims to explore “the deep intricacies of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, its long-term impact and ways forward.”
The symposium was by invitation only and it began promptly at 8.30 a.m.
Citizens could follow the symposium via a live stream on the governor’s Facebook-page and on Youtube, using the following links:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Governor-of-Sintaarten/570166756411901 or https://youtube.com/@ thegovernorofsintmaarten8632.
Virtual attendees could join the conversation via www.slido.com by entering the event code Gov2024 on the Slido website.
Dear Editor,
With the snap elections set for August 19th, 2024, it is crucial for the residents of Sint Maarten to thoroughly evaluate the candidates and political parties vying for our votes. Our island’s future depends on the decisions we make today, especially regarding environmental sustainability and sustainable development.
So far, very little candidates have shown a clear focus on sustainable development and environmental conservation. There is a concerning lack of a climate change resilience and adaptation plan for Sint Maarten, including a structured proposal for sustainable energy using renewable resources, which is critical given the current energy crisis. Additionally, there are no clear strategies for how we will become resilient to climate change through a National Climate Change Adaptation and Response Plan. This is especially worrying considering the impacts of unprecedented hurricanes like Beryl in the Caribbean and the anticipation of a long, difficult hurricane season.
We need to look beyond just individual candidates and focus on the platforms and track records of the political parties they represent. It is essential to prioritize those committed to sustainable development and nature conservation, focusing on long-term benefits rather than short-term, unsustainable gains. Sint Maarten is one of the few islands in the Caribbean without protected nature areas on land. Establishing these protected areas is vital to preserving our unique biodiversity and boost sustainable development for our country. Similarly, compared to other Caribbean islands, Sint Maarten is lagging in implementing Environmental and Social Impact Assessment laws. Our current focus on building unsustainable structures without considering environmental and social impacts is causing us to fall behind in
valuing and preserving our natural resources for economic development. Unrestrained, unsustainable development is also negatively impacting our communities, affecting not only our energy grid and natural environment but also our traditional communities. Just ask the residents of Simpson Bay village about the impacts they are currently facing, considering how permits for large-scale developments have been issued without any social or environmental impact assessments to identify the impacts on residents who often struggle to make a living. This lack of foresight is eroding the very fabric of our communities. Candidates and parties advocating for Blue and Green Economies, which emphasize sustainable development and nature conservation while integrating our cultural heritage for the orange economy, deserve our serious consideration. We must support leaders who recognize the threats posed by climate change and are committed to developing a resilient strategy for Sint Maarten, protecting our way of life as Caribbean people. We need to shift our tourism focus towards eco-tourism, rather than solely increasing cruise ship passengers or airlift. Electing leaders who understand the importance of green spaces for local flora and fauna and their contributions to our well-being is essential for the island’s long-term sustainability.
also critical to ensure the sustainable management of these ecosystems, protecting us from flooding, landslides, and restricted access to our beaches, which are our most vital natural resources.
As we approach the elec-
tions, let us vote for parties and candidates who prioritize the environment and people over personal gain or empty political rhetoric. We need leaders committed to shaping our country sustainably, protecting our land, and fostering devel-
opment that benefits all. Let us ensure that Sint Maarten remains a beautiful and thriving home for future generations.
Sincerely, Tadzio Bervoets Belair +1 721 5864588
I urge everyone to carefully examine party manifestos and governing programs, prioritizing candidates that champion nature conservation, sustainable development, green, blue, and orange economies, regional integration, climate change adaptation, and sustainable tourism. Our votes should support those who prioritize people and the planet over personal or private profit, recognizing the importance of conservation and cultural development. Transforming the Beach Policy and the Hillside Policy into enforceable laws is
On Saturday, July 27, 2024, Emergency Support Function 7 (ESF7) held a productive Transect Walk in Philipsburg, introducing a new assessment tool designed to capture
critical data in the first 72 hours following a disaster. The event, attended by CERT members, representatives of volunteer groups, and enthusiastic community volunteers, pro-
PHILIPSBURG -- The Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten (CBCS) has learned some valuable lessons from the downfall of the Girobank and from the report Deloitte Netherlands produced about this situation.
from reactive to pro-active: it will not wait for a financial institution to break the law but it will already intervene when the risk that this happens increases.
vided an invaluable opportunity to practice using the tool in a real-world setting.
During the Transect Walk, participants ventured into the Philipsburg community to assess various areas using the newly introduced tool. This hands-on experience not only familiarized attendees with the assessment process but also ensured they were well-prepared to contribute effectively during emergency situations. Feedback and suggestions from volunteers were actively encouraged and welcomed at the conclusion of the session.
Chantale GroeneveldtGeorge, Shelter Management Coordinator, also announced an upcoming Shelter Management Training scheduled from August 22 to 24. This training will precede the second session of the ESF7 Transect Walk, further enhancing the readiness and capabilities of participants. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the ESF7 team at esf7@ sintmaartengov.org for more information on how to get involved in future initiatives and training opportunities
In December 2013 the Girobank was placed under the emergency measure and the Deloittereport describes what happened in the period 2013-2019. In December 2019 the Girobank was the target of a bank run. That same month the bank went out of business.
The CBCS published a report this month, stating that it has changed its system of supervision in 2021. The Bank now uses stricter supervision standards. Among these measures are stricter rules for the financial buffers banks and insurance companies must have, minimum requirements for risk management and corporate governance and minimum requirements for the fight against money laundering and the financing of terrorism.
The Bank says that is approach has switched
If a financial institution is taken over by a new majority shareholder the process requires prior approval from the Central Bank. CBCS will separately review the reliability and the financial stability of a new ultimate beneficial owner (UBO) and it will require information about the origin of the money that is used to finance a takeover. The Bank also wants to be able to use fines and penalties to correct wayward behavior.
The 2019 bank run on the Girobank has emphasized the importance of a deposit guarantee system the CBCS writes in its report. Such a system is necessary to combat uncertainty among the public and to ensure that account holders can get at least a part of their money back in case a financial institution goes out of business. The report states that work on a deposit guarantee system began in 2020.
“We expect that it will be ready shortly.”
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
– In a proactive response to the ongoing energy crisis that has significantly impacted the business community, particularly micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion and National Alliance candidate Edsel Gumbs recently engaged in a fruitful discussion with the management of Qredits. The meeting focused on the severe repercussions businesses have faced, including revenue loss due to food spoilage, waste, inability to service clients, and disruptions in operational preparations.
Recognizing the urgent need for support, MP Irion and Mr. Gumbs, a former loan officer and communications manager of Qredits, championed the introduction of a specialized business loan at a significantly reduced interest rate for the purchase of generators. Addi-
tionally, as staunch advocates for green and renewable energy, they proposed even lower interest rates for businesses investing in solar energy solutions.
“We have listened to the cries of our people, especially our small and medium businesses, and are pleased to announce a collaborative solution with Qredits,” said MP Ardwell Irion. “Our goal with this new loan is to empower local SMEs by providing them with the financial means to invest in energy solutions that can significantly enhance their operational efficiency and resilience,” stated Edsel Gumbs.
Both MP Irion and Mr. Gumbs want to strongly encourage businesses to seize this opportunity to invest in sustainable energy solutions that will not only provide immediate relief but also ensure long-term operational stability.
“We extend our gratitude to Elwin Groenevelt, Director of Qredits, for his unwavering support and com-
mitment to the MSME sector in Sint Maarten.”
New Energy Loan Initiative
Qredits Sint Maarten is excited to introduce the new Energy Loan, specifically designed to assist local SMEs in enhancing their energy efficiency and resilience. This initiative aims to provide financial support for the purchase of solar panels and generators, ensuring businesses can continue their operations smoothly despite the energy challenges.
Key Features of the Energy Loan:
- Maximum Loan Amount:
$15,000
- Interest Rate for Solar Panels: 4.95%
- Interest Rate for Generators: 6.95%
- Eligibility: Available exclusively for existing businesses in Sint Maarten
- Application Start Date: August 1, 2024
- Simplified Application Process: Streamlined to be lighter than typical business loan applications
For more details and to apply, visit the Qredits Sint Maarten website or contact their office directly.
Contact Information: Main Office: W.J.A. Nisbeth Road 15, Philipsburg Email:st.maarten@qredits.nl Website: https://stmaarten-en.qredits.com/ Tel: +1(721) 54-23428
June 28, 2024 – Philipsburg, St. Maarten
- Get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure this November as St. Maarten bursts into life with the vibrant and tantalizing “St. Maarten Flavors” event! This highly anticipated celebration will shine a spotlight on the island’s rich culinary heritage, highlighting five key cuisines in the months leading up to November that define its dynamic food landscape: Caribbean, European, Americas, Asian, and Vegetarian. This year’s event, now in its third edition, introduces these five distinct culinary categories for the first time, promising an even richer and more diverse experience.
We invite all food lovers, locals, and tourists to partake in this extraordinary celebration. Restaurants are encouraged to sign up and be part of this unique opportunity to showcase their culinary masterpieces based on family recipes or other important influences throughout their career path. For more information and to register your
St. Maarten’s cuisine is profoundly influenced by both North and South America. Native ingredients like cassava and sweet potatoes blend with barbecue techniques and staples from North America, creating favorites like burgers and brisket. South American flavors, such as empanadas and ceviche, add vibrant diversity.
Asian Cuisine:
restaurant, please contact the SHTA at info@ shta.com.
“The main St. Maarten Flavors event takes place throughout November, when participating restaurants will offer special set menus designed to highlight their signature dishes. Restaurants have the option to have their diners choose from a onecourse menu at $17.50, a three-course menu at $49, or a higher-end three-course menu at $69. Each menu is crafted to showcase the best of what St. Maarten’s culinary scene has to offer, making November a month-long celebration of flavors and creativity.” Explains Michele Korteweg, organizer of St. Maarten Flavors though SHTA.
Leading up to the main event, promotions and competitions will take place to highlight the five key cuisines.
European Cuisine:
The island’s European heritage goes beyond Dutch and French, although clearly visible with traditional dishes like bitterballen and lobster thermidor. The diverse culinary landscape also includes Italian, Spanish, and German flavors, creating a rich European tapestry. Americas Cuisine
Thriving Indian and Chinese communities have infused the island’s food scene with aromatic spices and innovative fusion creations. From traditional Asian eateries to modern fusion restaurants, the blend of flavors adds a captivating layer to St. Maarten’s diverse culinary offerings.
Vegetarian Cuisine: Rooted in the island’s agricultural heritage, St. Maarten’s vegetarian cuisine includes hearty dishes like callaloo and rice and peas. Modern vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants innovate traditional dishes while promoting sustainable agriculture through bustling farmers’ markets filled with fresh, organic produce.
Caribbean Cuisine:
Experience a tapestry of multicultural influences with dishes like Johnny cakes, rice and peas, and grilled red snapper, reflecting St. Maarten’s African, Dutch, French, and indigenous roots. Local “lolos” serve these traditional dishes with unique twists, making Sundays, Easter, Christmas, and Carnival true culinary showcases.
“The 2024 St. Maarten Flavors event is more than just a culinary festival—it’s a vibrant celebration of the island’s rich history and diverse heritage. By highlight-
ing these five cuisines and allowing chefs to present signature dishes inspired by familial and historical sources, the event promises a unique culinary journey that honors the past while embracing contemporary trends. Visitors and locals alike will have the opportunity to savor the flavors that define St. Maarten, making this November a truly unforgettable month in the island’s culinary calendar.” Korteweg explains.
Join us in celebrating St. Maarten Flavors 2024, where heritage and history come alive through every bite, and be part of a culinary extravaganza that promises to be as colorful and captivating as the island itself!
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, St. Maarten Tourist Bureau and Visit, for their generous support. This event is also a crucial fundraising initiative to send a team of St. Maarteners to the prestigious “Taste of the Caribbean” competition. Sponsorship and participation help us achieve this goal and promote our island’s culinary talents on an international stage.” Concludes Korteweg. For more information and to register your restaurant, please contact the SHTA at info@ shta.com, visit www. stmaartenflavors.com and stay updated by following their social media channels! Let’s make St. Maarten Flavors 2024 a resounding success!
The Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department in the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (Ministry VSA), expresses its condolences to the family and friends of Lottie Peterson and her colleagues at the Diabetes Foundation of Sint Maarten (DFS).
Lottie Peterson has been a stalwart in creating public health awareness about diabetes. She worked with former Police Commissioner Walter Kramers under the umbrella of DFS and collaborated with many stakeholders within the community including Ministry VSA.
She worked tirelessly to bring awareness about prevention, diagnosis and management of the diabetes condition by minimizing risk of complications. Her goal was to limit the number of local amputations due to diabetic complications.
CPS will always be grateful for Lottie’s contribution to diabetes as it remains a prevalent condition within our community.
The staff of CPS wishes the family, friends and DFS much strength during this time of bereavement.
PHILIPSBURG -- Attorney David Comissiong made a strong case for the payment of reparations for harm caused by the Trans-Atlantic slave trade at the Governor’s Symposium in June, but a quote from a letter written by former Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte made clear that the Netherlands understands the situation very well but that it is not ready to commit to reparations.
Comissiong explained that the heads of state of Caricom decided in 2013 to pursue a reparations claim for native genocide and African slavery against all European nations that were implicated in it. Caricom created an infrastructure to pursue the claim and established a research center at the University of the West Indies in Barbados.
St. Maarten has applied for associate membership of Caricom and One St. Martin (SXM) Association is a member of the Caricom reparations committee.
The legal basis for the reparations-claim is the ruling in the Chorzov factory case by the Permanent Court of International Justice in 1927. That ruling, Comissiong said, contains the following conclusion: “Reparation must, as far as possible, wipe out all the consequences of the illegal act and reestablish the situation which would, in all probability, have existed if that act had not been committed.”
The reparation should thereby consist of a restitution in kind, or if this is impossible, the payment of a sum that corresponds to the value as compensation.
On January 25, 2016, the Prime Minister of Barbados wrote to six European heads of government inform-
ing them that Caricom would file a claim against them. The countries targeted by the claim are the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, France, Denmark and the Netherlands.
Dutch Prime Minister
Mark Rutte took eleven months to respond to the letter. Comissiong quoted from it: “As a maritime country the Netherlands played a part in the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. We profoundly regret the suffering of innocent people caused by the horror of slavery.”
Rutte furthermore wrote that the Netherlands understands that regional governments and Caricom remain troubled by the legacy of slavery: “We must always be mindful of the human cost of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and do everything possible to make sure it is never forgotten or repeated.”
It did not escape Comissiong’s attention that Rutte’s letter lacked a rather important component. ”He responded to the claim for reparations in a very non-committal way.” Rutte was not the only one: “Caricom was asking these European countries for a meeting to discuss reparations but none of them responded in a positive way.”
On December 19, 2022, Rutte made an historic apology for the slave trade on behalf of his government. Comissiong: “His views evolved tremendously in six years time.
He admitted that the slave trade was a crime against humanity. He admitted that the Dutch authorities were deeply involved in that crime. And he admitted that it still has a negative impact on people, saying: We cannot ignore the effect of the past on the present.”
Comissiong noted that
Caricom should take the lead in a conversation about reparations, adding that Surinam is the only (former Dutch) member state of the organization. “The Netherlands played a role in the slave trade all across the Caribbean.” Part of a proper reparation package ought to be independence. “St. Maarten must have its own nation because that is how it started,” Comissiong said. “Before the slave trade you had sovereignty, you had autonomy. I would think that you are entitled to autonomy, to national dignity and to self-determination.”
The claim for reparations is justified, Comissiong said. “Our ancestors were enslaved to help Europe develop an industrial economy. That same economy has created greenhouse gases and now we are at the receiving end of the climate crisis. We have been punished twice.”
AFTER 19 YEARS OF STUDYING, LIVING AND WORKING IN THE NETHERLANDS, TERRANCE REY RETURNED TO ST. MAARTEN WITH GRADUATE QUALIFICATIONS IN ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION. UPON HIS RETURN, MR. REY HAS BEEN ACTIVE IN THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY PARTICULARLY FOCUSED IN E-COMMERCE, TRAVEL, TOURISM AND THE AVIATION INDUSTRY. MR. REY HAS ALSO SERVED THE INTEREST OF COUNTRY ST. MAARTEN IN THE POSITIONS OF POLI CY ADVISOR TO PARLIAMENT FROM 2010 TO 2012 AND THEREAFTER HAS CONTINUED TO SERVE AS DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR THE PROGRESS COMMITTEE OVERSEEING THE PLANS OF APPROACH OF THE MINISTRIES OF GENERAL AFFAIRS, VROMI AND MOST NOTABLY JUSTICE.
MR. REY NOW ENDEAVORS TO SERVE THE ISLAND OF ST. MAARTEN ON THE FLOOR OF PARLIAMENT WHERE HIS WEALTH OF EXPERIENCE IN THE GOVERNMENTAL AND PUBLIC SECTOR CAN BE UTILIZED TO BRING ABOUT NEEDED SOLUTIONS TO THE LACKING AREAS IDENTIFIED DURING HIS TENURE. MR. REY AS AN ADVISOR ON THE ISSUES FACING THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE AND ITS WORKERS IN GENERAL WOULD LIKE TO SEE THE WORK BEGUN BY THE PREVIOUS GOVERNMENT CONTINUE AND IMPROVE TO ENSURE THAT THE MEMBERS OF THE JUSTICE MINISTRY HAVE A VOICE IN PARLIAMENT.
• JUSTICE WORKERS’ BACK PAY SETTLEMENTS BASED ON FINALIZED FUNCTION BOOKS AND PLACEMENTS IN PROPER POSITIONS AND CORRECT SALARY SCALES.
• 50% DISCOUNT ON TAXES AND PREMIUMS UNTIL JUSTICE WORKERS’ RETROACTIVE PAY IS SETTLED
• NO TAXES ON THE PENSION OF THE JUSTICE WORKERS (AND ULTIMATELY THE CIVIL SERVANTS WITH THE HELP OF THE UNIONS).
Vote Terrance Rey
Vote # 14 14 VOTE #
