Dear Editor,
The history of the Caribbean clearly shows that Caribbean people have migrated when the opportunity was afforded and their economic circumstances could be improved. Where this is still possible, it is still occurring and where it is not possible, extensive and creative efforts are constantly being made to migrate to territories where the quality of life is perceived to be better. This occurs at all levels including the crucial high-skilled sector which is so essential for island nations to develop.
At the same time we hear from independista groups that when connections with European powers are finally untied completely, a wave of nationalism will sweep over the newly independent country and will drive an improved administration, economic activity and a cohesive nation will perform better when released from the European created restrictions.
It seems clear to me that unless there is some unprecedented cultural change, a change to independence in St. Maarten would lead to the population behaving as the economic actors they always have been and choose jurisdictions that provide the safest option for the best quality of life. Are those choices likely to be in the long-term interest of country St. Maarten?
Robbie Ferron
