PHILIPSBURG:--- In an official press release from Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling regarding a rise in break-ins taking place in the Simpson Bay lagoon. The Minister assured that this issue has her full and undivided attention. The Ministry, through the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) and the Coast Guard, is actively addressing the situation to ensure the safety and security of our maritime community.

In recent weeks, there has been a notable rise in break-ins and theft of dinghies, which are then used as a means of transportation to burglarize vessels that are moored in the Simpson Bay lagoon.

To this end, on Monday, the Minister held strategic discussions with KPSM, the Coast Guard, and the Prosecutor's office. “There will be a concentrated effort to focus resources to address the issue of these break-ins. The marine industry is a vital component of our tourism product, and threats to the safety and security of stakeholders will not go unattended.”

The discussions focused on increased measures to address the situation, including joint patrols with the French authorities to address the challenges of hot pursuit on the water and to develop and execute a strategic plan moving forward.

The Minister underscored the critical importance of the yacht and cruise sector to Sint Maarten’s tourism industry. As a cornerstone of our economy, the marine industry represents not only a vital contributor to employment and local businesses but also our identity as a premier Caribbean destination for mariners and cruisers from around the globe.

KPSM and the Coast Guard have intensified their efforts to safeguard the lagoon and surrounding areas. Patrols in the Simpson Bay lagoon have been ramped up, and round-the-clock surveillance measures have been implemented, ensuring heightened visibility and responsiveness to deter criminal activity. They have also strengthened collaboration with their French counterparts to ensure a unified and effective response to address cross-jurisdictional challenges. “ I am committed to the safety and security, of all, on Sint Maarten and I will do everything in my power to address these issues proactively” . As we enter the high season, it is a collective goal to ensure the safety of citizens and guests, from those who seek to take the opportunity of committing crime during the Holiday season, the Minister went on to say.

The Ministry of Justice supports initiatives like the planned town hall meeting organized by the Sint Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA). This meeting will provide a platform for stakeholders to voice concerns, receive updates, and learn about further security measures being implemented.

The Minister also commended the swift actions of KPSM and the Coast Guard, whose dedicated efforts have already resulted in arrests and the recovery of stolen property. These enforcement agencies continue to work tirelessly to investigate and dismantle the networks responsible for these criminal acts.

All mariners, yacht owners, and marine community members can be assured that Sint Maarten remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment. These isolated incidents do not define the strength and resilience of our maritime sector. The collaborative actions demonstrate that Sint Maarten takes these matters seriously and is fully prepared to address them with urgency and effectiveness.

In her final words, the Minister urges everyone to enjoy the festive season, albeit in a careful and vigilant manner.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Colombian Consul General based in Curacao, Pablo Rebolledo Schloss, met with Prime Minister Mercelina today to discuss important matters concerning bilateral relations between Colombia and Sint Maarten. The meeting, which focused on the strengthening of economic, security, and law enforcement ties as well as education exchange, marks a significant step in enhancing the partnership between the two countries.

The discussion covered key issues impacting both nations, focusing on expanding economic cooperation and trade relations and improving security frameworks. “We are committed to deepening our bilateral relations with Sint Maarten, especially in economic development and security areas,” said Mr. Rebolledo Schloss.  The Consul General invited Sint Maarten to participate in Vitrina Turística, Colombia's most important tourism event, organized by the Asociación Colombiana de Agencias de Viajes y Turismo (ANATO).

The Consul General also emphasized the importance of mutual support in areas such as organized crime, including counter-narcotics and protection of Colombian civilians, particularly minors. “Our shared goals of enhancing stability and promoting prosperity can only be achieved through close cooperation and mutual understanding.”

The Prime Minister expressed support for Colombia’s ongoing efforts to address security challenges and reiterated the country’s commitment to collaborating on law enforcement matters, particularly in combating transnational crime and improving border security.

“We value the strong relationship between our two countries and recognize the importance of continued cooperation on security and economic matters,” stated Mr. Mercelina. “This partnership is essential for addressing regional and global challenges, and we are committed to working alongside Colombia to achieve lasting solutions.” Both officials also agreed to continue their discussions in the field of educational exchange through the Department of Foreign Relations and the Ministry of ECYS.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Fyi Foundation is pleased to announce the successful completion of a series of workshops held in August through November, designed to enhance skills development within the creative industries for its members. These sessions aimed to refine existing skills and introduced essential new techniques and practices crucial for excelling in the creative field.
We are excited to recognize the contributions of our former members who are currently studying abroad. Their participation has significantly enriched our workshops, bringing invaluable knowledge and experience to enhance the learning journey for all attendees. Below are key highlights from the sessions:
In addition to these workshops, the FYI Foundation’s junior and senior stilt walkers and stage performers participated in extensive training sessions in Afro-Caribbean and traditional African dance led by the renowned dance instructor Rudolph Davis.
Rudolph Davis' sessions culminated in a dance examination hosted at Indisu Dance Theater, where members received constructive criticism and grading from professional dance trainers Natasha Peters, Daushan Prince, and Miss Bee Ada. These assessments will become an ongoing process to enhance members’ professionalism.
Dance Workshops:
Sue Ann Agol, a former member studying in the Netherlands, facilitated engaging classes on heels and contemporary dance, helping senior members refine their techniques and expressiveness.
Tristan Defoe, who has completed his studies in the Netherlands and is now working there, led dynamic body stretching and hip-hop workshops that invigorated participants and sparked creativity.
Music and Audio Training:
Special guest Kevin Hanson, known as DJ Chubs, introduced attendees to the art of DJing and live music mixing, equipping them with essential skills for live performances.
Photography and Videography:
Local photographer Lario Duzuson conducted an introduction workshop on smartphone video and photography, teaching participants how to create professional-quality content using everyday devices.
Cultural and Visual Arts:
Solyeman Camera, an expert in African djembe, instructed members on drum repair techniques and the importance of instrument maintenance, including methods to tighten drum ropes for optimal sound quality.
Sandrine Jerome, a senior face and body paint instructor, taught members basic face-painting techniques, line work, and blending skills.
In addition to these workshops, the FYI Foundation’s junior and senior stilt walkers and stage performers participated in extensive training sessions in Afro-Caribbean and traditional African dance led by the renowned dance instructor Rudolph Davis.
Rudolph Davis' sessions culminated in a dance examination hosted at Indisu Dance Theater, where members received constructive criticism and grading from professional dance trainers Natasha Peters, Daushan Prince, and Miss Bee Ada. These assessments will become an ongoing process to enhance members’ professionalism.
The enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by our members have been truly inspiring, and our team eagerly anticipates future workshops that will further explore and expand knowledge within the creative industries.
For more information about the Fyi Foundation and our upcoming workshops, please contact:

~The new ILO Social Dialogue Report 2024 shows the potential of peak-level social dialogue in promoting decent work in an era of unprecedented change.~

GENEVA (ILO News):--- A new International Labour Organization (ILO) report highlights how social dialogue can enable countries to pursue economic development alongside social progress, while ensuring fair and inclusive low-carbon and digital transitions.

The Social Dialogue Report 2024: Peak-level social dialogue for economic development and social progress, focuses on “peak-level social dialogue” (PLSD) – a set of institutions and processes whereby governments, employers’ and workers’ organizations negotiate, consult each other and exchange information on labour, economic and social matters at national or sectoral level.

The report shows that PLSD can contribute to decent work, fairer labour income distribution and just digital and green transitions. It also underlines that respect in the law and practice of freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining is essential. But the capacity of PLSD to shape change is weakened when socio-economic policies are driven by short-term considerations and exclude important segments of society.

“This edition of the Social Dialogue Report is published amid economic and geopolitical instability,” said Manuela Tomei, the ILO’s Assistant Director-General for Governance, Rights and Dialogue. “In a context where technological advances, climate change and demographic shifts are deeply transforming labour markets, social dialogue remains a credible governance model for navigating complexity, identifying fair solutions and advancing social justice.”

The report draws on case studies, industrial relations data, a global review of PLSD processes and outcomes, and a perceptions survey of 71 employers' and workers' organizations in 38 countries on the effectiveness and inclusiveness of National Social Dialogue Institutions (NSDI).

The report emphasizes the essential prerequisites for effective PLSD. Importantly, it finds that countries’ compliance with freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining has deteriorated by 7 per cent between 2015 and 2022. This decline was driven by an increase in violations of the fundamental civil liberties and bargaining rights of employers, workers, and their representative organizations. “Countries that uphold these fundamental labour rights are better positioned to unlock PLSD’s transformative potential, reinforcing both social justice and democratic governance,” Tomei stressed.

National Social Dialogue Institutions have a large presence, are relevant but should be more inclusive

The report reveals that NSDIs are present in 87 per cent of ILO Member States. Three-quarters of workers and two-thirds of employers view them as effective, but concerns remain over inadequate follow-up by governments or public authorities on social dialogue outcomes, as highlighted by the perceptions survey conducted for this report. Another matter of concern is the inclusiveness of NSDIs and gaps in relation to the needs of underrepresented groups, such as women, youth, and workers and economic units in the informal economy.

Greater involvement of social partners in policymaking needed

In many countries the importance of the involvement of employers’ and workers’ organizations in the design and governance of employment policies or social protection systems is being recognized. For instance, more than 30 per cent of public employment services include employers’ and workers’ representatives on their management boards, while 25 per cent of national employment policies identify tripartite consultation as a key requirement. Approximately 80 per cent of ILO’s 187 Member States have established peak-level tripartite occupational safety and health (OSH) bodies, while social protection reforms in 65 countries have extended the coverage of pension, health, and employee benefits, with the involvement of social partners.

Stronger PLSD institutions to tackle the cost-of-living crisis

The report also reviews the role of minimum wage fixing involving social partners and sectoral collective bargaining in addressing the cost-of-living crisis and promoting wage equality. It stresses that where national minimum wages set by governments in consultation with the social partners co-exist with sectoral minimum wages determined through collective bargaining, PLSD is more effective in tackling high labour income inequality.

Fostering PLSD for just digital and green transitions

Evidence suggests that PLSD fosters societal consensus on digital transformation and decarbonization policies. Yet, reliance on PLSD to manage this twin transition is more prevalent in countries with well-established social dialogue institutions and where digital penetration is more intense. A review of 118 social dialogue processes from 2022-2023 shows that around a quarter addressed twin transition-related themes, mostly in Europe. A new generation of industrial policies aimed at economic diversification and structural transformation, and centred around the twin transition, present a timely opportunity to advance the role of PLSD in guiding this transition.

A call for action to unlock the power of PLSD

To fully unlock PLSD’s inclusiveness and effectiveness the report calls on countries to:

• Uphold fundamental principles and rights at work, especially freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining.
• Equip labour administrations and social partners with the necessary resources and technical capacities for effective participation in PLSD. 
• Expand the outreach of NSDI’s and social partners to under-represented groups. 
• Conduct regular, evidence-based evaluations of the role and influence of PLSD institutions in socio-economic decision-making.