PHILIPSBURG:--- The Honorable Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, alongside the Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs, convened a high-level meeting with the Supervisory Board and Management Team of Postal Services St. Maarten NV (PSS NV) on March 10, 2025. The meeting, held at the Government Administration Building, focused on strengthening PSS NV's financial sustainability and operational efficiency while exploring new avenues for innovation and growth.
Key topics discussed included the approval of the continuation of the Supervisory Board, securing a permanent home for PSS NV, addressing financial challenges, and enhancing mail delivery services. Discussions also covered security measures, improving government collaboration, and fostering better coordination with Customs to streamline postal operations.
A major highlight of the meeting was exploring a new business model to expand PSS NV’s services beyond traditional mail delivery. This includes the potential introduction of a possible Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government and the travel agency services, the issuance of number plates and banking-related offerings, positioning PSS NV as a modern and dynamic institution catering to the evolving needs of the community.
Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term viability of PSS NV, stating:
"Postal services are an essential part of our country's infrastructure, and we must adapt to the changing times while ensuring efficiency and sustainability. This meeting reflects our dedication to strengthening PSS NV through strategic planning, enhanced collaboration, and the exploration of new opportunities to diversify its services. Our goal is to create a postal system that is modern, financially resilient, and capable of meeting the demands of the people of Sint Maarten."
The discussions also addressed the salary structure of PSS employees, the need for address updates, and the improvement of mail delivery coordination with VROMI. Security concerns were raised as a priority, with an emphasis on strengthening risk management protocols for the protection of employees, assets, and mail services.
Honorable Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs added, "Having had the privilege of leading PSS NV as its Managing Director, I understand the challenges and opportunities that come with operating our postal service. PSS is more than just a mail delivery entity—it is a vital institution that connects our people, businesses, and government. Today’s discussions reaffirm our commitment to financial stability, operational efficiency, and innovative service expansion. With a clear vision and strategic action, we can transform PSS into a modern, self-sustaining entity that continues to serve Sint Maarten and our people."
As Sint Maarten continues to navigate economic and infrastructural challenges, this meeting marks a crucial step toward ensuring that PSS NV remains a reliable, innovative, and financially sound institution serving the people of Sint Maarten effectively.
PHILIPSBURG: --- Member of Parliament representing the National Alliance Ardwell Irion, who called the meeting on the issuance of casino and lotteries licenses, asked the Minister of TEATT Grisha Heyliger Marten several questions on the moratorium and its procedures.
Member of Parliament Francisco Lacroes informed the parliament of St. Maarten that the United Peoples Party that his party is not against any type of business and, in this case, casinos. He asked the Minister to provide the statistics on the amount locals working in casinos, while he asked the minister to also provide parliament with the number of gambling addicts in St. Maarten and how many of them checked in at Turning Point.
Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis asked if there are sufficient casino workers currently on duty to carry out inspections in all casinos during the designated time period.
PHILIPSBURG: --- The understaffing of the Pointe Blanche Prison continues to affect the safety and security of the prison on St. Maarten.
PHILIPSBURG: --- The Chief of Staff of the Cabinet of the Ministry of Finance, Nicole Marlin, has been appointed to the Resolution Fund Committee of the Central Bank mainly to overlook the Ennia saga and the agreements made between the Minister of Finance on St. Maarten Marinka Gumbs on behalf of the Country St. Maarten.
THE NETHERLANDS (THE HAGUE):--- Minister Plenipotentiary Drs. Gracita R. Arrindell attended the launch of the Cari-Aire Aviation Internship Program last week at the Cabinet of the Minister Plenipotentiary of Curacao at the Curacao House in The Hague. The launch was attended by the ministers of plenipotentiary from Aruba and Curacao.
