PHILIPSBURG:--- During a parliamentary meeting on November 13th focused on transportation, Member of Parliament (MP) Omar Ottley delivered a sharp critique, arguing that the discussion failed to address the core economic concerns of the nation's taxi drivers. He called for immediate, substantive action to improve their livelihoods, especially as the Christmas season approached.
MP Ottley began by drawing attention to the taxi drivers present at the meeting, stating they were not interested in political disputes but in practical solutions. "They're here to hear how we are going to improve their livelihood, how we are going to ensure that they can generate enough funds," he remarked. He expressed disappointment that "nothing of substance was brought up for these gentlemen and women" to give them hope for the upcoming tourism season.
The MP defended the practice of issuing licenses to older, more experienced drivers, describing them as "the pioneers of this country" who possess invaluable local knowledge. He connected this to the rising pension age, arguing that experienced drivers over 60 should not be forced into inactivity but should be supported.
A significant part of Ottley’s address focused on what he described as governmental inaction on a key piece of legislation designed to help transportation workers. As the former Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), he explained that a measure to provide insurance for sole proprietors, including taxi and bus drivers, had already passed most of the legislative hurdles.
He stated that the Council of Advice had rendered its final advice on the matter in November 2023, leaving only the final report to be prepared for parliamentary handling. Ottley claimed he had offered to help the current minister advance this and other "low-hanging fruits" but was rebuffed. "One of those low-hanging fruits... is sitting on the minister's desk since November 2023," he asserted.
MP Ottley declared his commitment to bringing the legislation to Parliament himself if the government fails to act, emphasizing his focus is on tangible results for the drivers. "I am here for the taxi drivers and bus drivers," he concluded. "And how can we better your life?"
MP Irion Highlights Concerns Over Transportation License Processes in TEATT Meeting,
PHILIPSBURG:--- During Thursday’s Committee of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) meeting, Member of Parliament (MP) Ardwell Irion raised pressing concerns about the government’s handling of transportation licenses and the need for greater consistency in how such issues are addressed.
MP Irion questioned the government's approach to promoting meetings related to transportation licenses, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication and equitable attention to all pressing matters within the sector. He pointed out that while certain meetings receive major promotion, including strong social media campaigns and videos, other crucial sessions directly impacting transportation stakeholders often go largely unnoticed.
“I would like from the government some type of consistency,” Irion stated, drawing a contrast between the selective promotion of meetings and the limited attention given to transportation license discussions that impact many within the community.
He also criticized the government for what he sees as an overall lack of transparency, particularly highlighting the inadequate promotion of meetings related to the 2025 budget amendment. Irion stressed that the government continues to make financial decisions, such as operating without an officially approved budget, which raises constitutional concerns. He called for significant fiscal matters, including future discussions affecting the transportation sector, to be promoted and addressed with the same seriousness and visibility as other high-profile meetings.
MP Irion concluded his remarks by urging the government to adopt consistent and transparent practices in promoting and managing all important meetings—especially those concerning transportation licenses—to ensure stakeholders are properly informed and involved.
At the Adlith Brown Memorial Lecture:Jeanette Semeleer urges courageous, collaborative action to build Caribbean resilience.
WILLEMSTAD/PHILIPSBURG:--- On Thursday, November 13, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) hosted the Adlith Brown Memorial Lecture, a highlight of the Annual Monetary Studies Conference (AMSC). This year’s keynote speaker was Jeanette Semeleer, President of the Centrale Bank van Aruba. In her address, titled “Aruba, From Isla Inutil to Isla Innovativo,” Mrs. Semeleer drew on Aruba’s experience with external shocks to emphasize that true economic resilience is not merely bouncing back, but also bouncing forward.
Since 1985, the Adlith Brown Memorial Lecture has honored Dr. Adlith Brown, who served as Coordinator of the Regional Program of Monetary Studies from 1980 to 1984, recognizing her regional vision, intellectual leadership, and policy insight.
Speaking on the AMSC conference theme “Resilience through Transformation,” Mrs. Semeleer outlined how Aruba is moving from “bouncing back” to “bouncing forward.” She highlighted diversification beyond tourism, investment in human capital, institutional capacity and independence, environmental stewardship, and the adoption of responsible tourism, green energy, the blue economy, and digital transformation. In addition, she underscored the value of prudent courage in crisis management, clear communication, and contingency planning to maintain confidence and stability. Mrs. Semeleer noted that global headwinds, notably geopolitics and climate change, make adaptation urgent, and argued that collaboration across public institutions and communities is essential to sustain innovation, build resilience, and secure long-term, inclusive growth.
Following a Q&A session with the audience, Richard Doornbosch, President of the CBCS, expressed his profound appreciation for Mrs. Semeleer’s collegiality and commitment, her years of dedicated service, and her balanced and forward-looking perspective.
A video recording of the 2025 Adlith Brown Memorial Lecture is available on the CBCS YouTube and social media channels.
Willemstad, November 14, 2025
CENTRALE BANK VAN CURAÇAO EN SINT MAARTEN
Five Suspects Arrested Following Robbery and Assault in the Defiance Area.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) has arrested five suspects in connection with a robbery and assault that took place in the vicinity of a gentleman's club in the Defiance area. The incident occurred on November 12, 2025, around 12:45 a.m.
Following quick police action, officers located and arrested all five suspects. The individuals arrested have the initials D.D., D.L.R.J., C.D., S.J., and F.P.K. Two of the suspects are female minors.
In this incident, four victims came forward and filed official reports of assault and robbery after leaving the club. Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department are currently investigating the case. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
KPSM Press Release.
Shooting Incident in Fort Willem Under Investigation.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is currently investigating a fatal shooting that took place in the Fort Willem area on Thursday, November 13th, 2025, just before 7:00 p.m.
Upon arrival at the scene, officers encountered a young male victim who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate emergency response efforts, the victim tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Detectives of KPSM, along with the Forensic Department, are presently on location investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident.
At this time, the investigation remains ongoing. KPSM will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.
The Police Force urges anyone with information that may assist in this case to contact the police via +1 721 542 2222, the anonymous tip line at 9300, or send a direct message to the KPSM Facebook Page.
KPSM Press Release.