Chairman of Parliament’s Committee for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Roland Brison called no less than seven meetings on Wednesdays starting next week (see Friday paper). That probably sounds like a lot, especially as the legislature only recently ended its summer recess.
However, one must consider that the country basically has a one-pillar tourism economy, which makes the TEATT ministry crucial. Restoring the dominant hospitality industry is obviously key to a full post-Hurricane Irma recovery and the right conditions need to be in place for that to happen.
The long-awaited St. Maarten Tourism Authority (STA) is a major element of the destination’s future marketing and promotion strategy. Brison fears this will ultimately fail if the legal and executive structure of the Tourist Office is not changed to fit competitive realities.
Perhaps even more urgent are the United St. Maarten Party faction leader’s queries regarding travel by plane, with upcoming audits by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the United States (US) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In addition, it appears the very-welcome US pre-clearance project may be in jeopardy and that is reason for great concern.
How all these matters relate to the current situation at Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) and work to open a better temporary facility inside the damaged terminal building on the ground floor in November is also important. Airlines as well as local resorts and other related entities need to know what to expect when, so they can properly plan possible investments and use of their equipment, personnel and other resources.
It’s good if elected representatives seek clarity on these issues that can affect the livelihood of the entire population. “The Friendly Island” must do whatever it takes to regain its popularity as favoured Caribbean vacation spot and home-away-from-home for many, sooner rather than later.
