PHILIPSBURG: ---  Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling has reported an overall decline in major crime categories for 2025, while warning that youth involvement in firearm-related offenses remains a serious and growing threat.

Presenting to Parliament during the April 8 Committee of Justice meeting, the Minister outlined statistics showing notable improvements across several areas. Homicides decreased by 19 percent, armed robberies by 15 percent, and traffic accidents by 11 percent. Emergency calls dropped by 5.5 percent, while noise complaints fell sharply by 37 percent.

At the same time, law enforcement activity increased, with arrests rising by 5 percent, traffic tickets up 10 percent, and firearms seizures increasing by 11 percent. Authorities also confiscated more than 650 kilograms of illegal drugs, marking an 8 percent increase.

Despite these gains, Tackling stressed that gun-related crime among youth demands urgent attention.

“In 2025, 50 minors were arrested, most of them male, for offenses ranging from armed theft to firearm possession,” the Minister stated. “This trend continues into 2026, where 11 minors have already been arrested in the early months alone.”

The data shows that while most young people are not involved in crime, a small group of predominantly older teenage boys is responsible for a disproportionate share of violent incidents, particularly those involving firearms.

The Minister linked youth crime to underlying social challenges, including school dropout rates, unstable home environments, limited job opportunities, and exposure to violence.

“These are not new issues,” she said, “but the patterns are changing, and our response must evolve accordingly.”

Minister Tackling emphasizes that tackling crime requires more than enforcement, calling for collaboration between families, schools, community organizations, and government agencies.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Government of Sint Maarten, represented by the Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina in his capacity as Minister of General Affairs, has today signed a significant agreement with representatives of active and retired Fire Department personnel, bringing long-awaited clarity and resolution to matters of formal placement, career advancement, and retroactive compensation. 

This agreement marks a major milestone in addressing longstanding issues that have affected Fire Department personnel for years, including discrepancies in placement, promotion, and compensation. It establishes a structured and transparent framework to correct past shortcomings and ensure equitable treatment for both active and retired firefighters, recognizing their invaluable service and contributions to Sint Maarten. 

The agreement provides for the formal placement of all Fire Department personnel based on the new Function Book (2025), with retroactive effect to March 25, 2025. It also ensures that personnel are appropriately ranked and compensated in accordance with applicable requirements. 

Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina welcomed the agreement as a critical step forward and a continuation of the Government’s commitment to the Fire Department. “From day one as Prime Minister, I have been committed to addressing the longstanding issues facing our firefighters. Today’s agreement represents not the end, but a continuation of the way forward—delivering on that commitment and ensuring that our firefighters receive the compensation, recognition, and respect they deserve.”

A key component of the agreement is the provision for retroactive compensation for salary and pension losses resulting from delayed or incomplete placement under the old function book. The agreement also explicitly includes retired firefighters, ensuring that their service and the impact of past discrepancies are acknowledged and addressed as part of this process. Eligible personnel will receive individual compensation proposals, with payments to be made following employees' confirmation and agreement.

The agreement further reinforces transparency by ensuring that placement and promotion decisions will be made in consultation with the employees concerned. It also reflects a collaborative process built on dialogue, resilience, and a shared commitment to achieving fairness for all Fire Department personnel.

Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the broader importance of the agreement within the context of public sector reform:

“This agreement reflects our Government’s commitment to good governance and sound personnel policy. We are correcting past shortcomings and building a stronger, more equitable system that supports the men and women who keep our country safe.”

In addition, the Government has committed to a comprehensive review of the Fire Department’s Function Book. This review process is scheduled to begin before the end of this year.

While this agreement represents a significant milestone, the Government acknowledges that the process is ongoing. The parties have committed to continuing negotiations in good faith with the objective of concluding a covenant addressing other outstanding matters, further strengthening the framework governing the Fire Department. 

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, and on behalf of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union – Private Sector Union (WICSU-PSU) by its President, Ms. Sharon C.V. Cangieter. The process was facilitated by mediator Ms. Valya Pantophlet, LL.M. 

Prime Minister Mercelina concluded, “Our firefighters have demonstrated resilience, unity, and steadfast dedication to protecting our people. This Government will continue to stand with them—not only in words, but through decisive action that improves their livelihoods, safeguards their dignity, and strengthens our institutions.

Simpson Bay:---  Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) proudly welcomed home St. Maarten’s CARIFTA 2026 Athletics Delegation with a ceremonial water cannon salute, one of aviation’s highest honors, recognizing the athletes’ outstanding achievements on the regional stage.

In collaboration with the St. Maarten National Athletics Federation and the St. Maarten Sports Federation (SMSF), the airport joined the wider community in celebrating a new generation of athletes who have represented the island with pride, determination, and excellence.
Among the highlights of this year’s CARIFTA Games was a historic performance by Nahjah Wyatte Munoz, who secured a gold medal in the 800m U17 Boys, marking a significant milestone for St. Maarten athletics.

The delegation, consisting of athletes Joleen Tomlin, Sebastiana Reyes Camacho, Nahjah Wyatte Munoz, Nessiah Wyatte Munoz, Marlon Prince, Michael Van De Veer, Adio Williams, and Carlos Brison Cainez, returned home to an emotional welcome at Princess Juliana International Airport. They were accompanied by Javea S Clarke-Wattley (Delegation Leader), Abdule Wattley (Head Coach), Cameron Hyman (Coach/Safeguarding Officer), and Javon Edwards (Physiotherapist).

Their arrival was filled with celebration, as family members, friends, and supporters gathered with steelpan music, balloons, and cheers to give the athletes a warm and memorable welcome home. Following their arrival, the delegation departed in an escorted motorcade to the Raoul Illidge Sports Complex, where the celebrations continued.

The water cannon salute symbolized the airport’s deep appreciation and recognition of the athletes’ achievements and their role as proud ambassadors of St. Maarten. Princess Juliana International Airport extends its heartfelt congratulations to all members of the CARIFTA 2026 delegation and expresses sincere appreciation to the dedicated PJIA team for their collaboration and efforts in organizing this special welcome.

About SXM Airport – Surrounded by water, connected by air
Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM airport) is the premier gateway to Sint Maarten and the second busiest airport in the Northeast Caribbean. Strategically positioned, SXM airport serves as a critical hub for regional connectivity, linking destinations such as Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthelemy, Anguilla, Dominica, Nevis, and Tortola. Its role extends beyond transportation. It is the gateway of economic growth and tourism development for the island and the region. As one of the largest employers on Sint Maarten, SXM directly employs over 330 professionals and supports an airport community of more than 1,700 individuals, including airline partners, concessionaires, and service providers. This ecosystem drives innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centric services.

PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):---  Collective Prevention Services (CPS), a department within the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), in collaboration with the Department of Communication (DCOMM), is urging all motorists to drive sober and avoid drinking and driving during the upcoming Carnival 55 festivities.

With a wide range of events, food, and beverages expected throughout the Carnival season, authorities are reminding the public that impaired driving poses a serious risk to lives on the road.

Motorists who plan to consume alcohol are strongly encouraged to arrange for a designated driver or utilize taxi services to ensure a safe journey home.

The primary goal of this appeal is to protect all road users and prevent avoidable tragedies during this festive period.

CPS is encouraging members of the community to look out for one another by ensuring that friends and family do not get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol.

Responsible decisions can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Carnival festivities officially begin on Friday, April 10, 2026, with the opening of the Carnival Village, marking the start of several weeks of celebrations.

While the season is one of enjoyment and cultural expression, authorities stress that safety must remain a top priority.

Driving under the influence can result in serious injury, loss of life, and long-term consequences for individuals and families.

Motorists are also reminded to avoid speeding, always wear seat belts, and remain alert while driving. These simple but critical actions serve as a strong defense against road accidents, especially in situations where impaired drivers may be present.

CPS and DCOMM call on the community to act responsibly and make safe choices throughout the Carnival period. Don’t drink and drive—always drive sober.

By working together, the public can help ensure a safe and enjoyable festive season for everyone.