As a long time and permanent citizen of this beautiful country called St. Maarten/St. Martin I came from the United States of America 28 years ago and decided to make. St. Maarten my home.
I have seen when St. Maarten had its highs and lows. Memorable lows were the devastations caused by Hurricanes Luis and Lenny, the effects of 911, which had a negative impact not only on St. Maarten but worldwide. Last year, we again had to grapple with one of the most devastating hurricanes of all times, Hurricane Irma. Hurricane Irma crippled our economy and has set us without a doubt back for many years.
I am saying all of this to say the following. We need all hands on deck to ensure that this country is rebuilt better than it was. We need persons with real leadership and vision.
Let me share this one experience with you that left me in awe. Yesterday, I went to the airport to pick up a friend. The plane landed at 1:45pm, and it was not until 4:10pm that she was able to obtain her baggage. The rain, which we have no human control over, delayed her arrival even more. I observed that our visitors were standing in the rain waiting for taxi service. My heart went out to especially an elderly lady who had no umbrella to shield from the rain. When I saw this, I went over and shielded her with my umbrella until she was ready to take a taxi.
The state of the airport is no secret. However, for the sake of our visitors, there should be some small provisions made so that their first impressions are not blighted by not having these simple accommodations in place. What would it take to erect a canopy alongside the area of the passenger arrival which will serve as a shelter in the times of rain or even from the heat?
And speaking about having leadership and vision especially where the airport is concerned, I have always said that if Mrs. Regina Labega, the former director, was still at the helm, the airport would have already been much further along. Her hard work at this main port of entry should never go unnoticed. It is alleged that Mr. B. Mingo will be taking on the position as CEO at the airport. In my opinion that is an excellent choice. He proved himself at TelCell and I am quite sure he will do the same at the airport. However, I strongly believe that having Mrs. Labega at his side will be an excellent arrangement until he is able to take over the reins independently.
As a matter of fact, this would be one of the best decisions the Government can take at this crucial time for the airport. The Government needs to use its limited resources to get the airport and country back on its feet. It is about time we start to rebuild seriously so that St. Maarten can regain its place as the number one tourism destination in the Caribbean.
By most, I would be crucified as an outsider, but I too want to see what is best for St. Maarten. If this was otherwise, I too would have returned to the United States after Hurricane Irma. Love St. Maarten with all my heart.
M. Daniel
