Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Ludmila de Weever would do well to provide clarity on her role in the controversy surrounding the recent closure of District 721 by inspectors from her ministry at Wednesday’s weekly press briefing. In a voice note released over the weekend she seems to be threatening the owner to pull his operating licence.
The apparent reason is loud music coming from the entertainment complex situated next to her residence. Anybody who has ever tried to get a good night of rest under those circumstances will sympathise with that.
However, public administrators need to be extra careful not to mix their personal affairs with government business. And when a minister is accused of potential abuse of power, an explanation is warranted.
The company claims it has permits for a bar, restaurant as well as nightclub, but says TEATT inspectors keep raising issues including customers parking in front of the apartments where the minister lives. For example, the licences had to be placed closer to the entrance, which was done.
The real question is what kind of noise level would be acceptable for such a location. Normally this is also specified in zoning laws sorely lacking in St. Maarten.
Nevertheless, there are maximum legal limits and equipment to measure such has been used locally in the past. De Weever should leave enforcing these to the competent authorities, although she can certainly make a complaint like any other citizen.
Especially as the property housing the new business reportedly belongs to her uncle and the building where she resides to her father, one would hope this matter can still be resolved at the table in the best general interest and that of all parties involved, including the investor and his employees.
To be sure, ministers are also human and may at times be guilty of errors in judgement, especially if they suffer from sleep deprivation. Everyone can make mistakes, but the thing is to own up to them.
