Dear editor,
As the island celebrates the year, there is a lot that St. Maarten should be grateful for. While 2018 could be seen as a challenging year for many St. Maarteners, our resiliency re-enforces the knowledge that brighter days are ahead of us.
We all look for a better tomorrow that demands from all of us greater determination and hard work. The government had a rough year publicly, but with the strong support of St. Maarten United Christian Democratic Coalition, we will continue to work in the best interest of St. Maarten. St. Maarten should be proud to get back to some type of normalcy with tourists returning to the island since devastating Hurricane Irma nearly wiped out our beautiful island on September 6, 2017.
I am proud of the VROMI [Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure – Ed.] ministry who was able to assist a number of homeowners with their roofs and NGOs [non-governmental organisations] who continue to assist those who are in need of rebuilding their homes. As a member of parliament, I will continue to work in the best interest of the country and I request that the population continue their resiliency, as St. Maarten is truly unique and special.
I look forward to 2019, government working on reviving the economy. I would like them to put emphasis on sustainability. As outlined in the governing programme, the council of ministers should stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation, establish an economic masterplan and introduce incentive programmes for (small) businesses, fully restore Princess Juliana International Airport to its former glory while introducing USA pre-clearance.
Also, as an MP I would like to see the creation of more homes and diversity of our economy but at the same time promote the tourism industry. Despite the difficult fiscal conditions we are facing, the people will understand that it is not possible to solve every issue overnight. I wish the citizens of St. Maarten peace, prosperity, good health and God’s guidance for the upcoming year and I look forward to tackling any challenges ahead in the name of a better St. Maarten.
Chanel Brownbill
Member of Parliament
