TEATT post assessment of Tropical Storm Ernesto

Good Morning to my fellow Soualigans:

First and foremost, I would like to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for bringing us all safely through this storm. However, the impact of this storm has revealed that some individuals and businesses underestimated its severity and did not take the necessary precautions to protect themselves. This situation highlights the importance of the '5 Ps'—Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance.

This was my first experience in my capacity as Minister of TEATT handling the measures for a storm, and I paid close attention to every detail. Last night, I personally reached out to key stakeholders in the marina and hotel industry, as well as our two main ports of entry— the airport and harbor— to gather assessments of their experiences during the storm.

Today, I am here to provide a report and update on the outcomes within our ministry’s purview.

1. Marinas

I have been in direct contact with all the major marinas, and I’m pleased to report that none of them experienced any damages. Isla del Sol, Sky Port, and Port de Plaisance all had yachts docked during the storm, but thankfully, everything remained secure and there were no incidents to report.

2. Hotels/Guest Houses

Similarly, all went well with no hiccups at most of our major hotel properties and guest houses. Preliminary reports from JW Marriott, Hilton, Simpson Bay Resort, Oyster Bay Resort, Divi Little Bay, Princess Heights, Carl and Son, Sonesta Maho, Holland House all indicate that all the guests are safe, although some were stranded due to the closure of the airport.

3. Airport

And speaking of Princess Juliana International Airport, it was closed due to the approaching Tropical Storm Ernesto, but it was scheduled to reopen this morning at 7:00 AM. The closure impacted around 40 flights, leaving approximately 1,250 passengers stranded. Fortunately, there are no reports of damage, except for some arrival tents left outside. This serves as a clear example of the importance of the '5 Ps'—Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance—and a reminder not to underestimate the severity of storms like this

4. Harbor

Regarding the Harbor, initial assessments indicate no infrastructural damage to the Port. However, management has reported some minor 'cosmetic' damage to trees and shrubs, as well as four vinyl covers used at the temporary home porting building. They were already aware of the wear and tear on these covers and had ordered replacements, which are already on the way. Do you see the difference?

The financial impact assessments are still being carried out, but according to management, gratefully, the financial impact is not expected to be significant.

The first cruise call will be welcomed this Friday.

I, join the management of Port St. Maarten in applauding the heroic actions of the

maritime staff who answered the call to assist in the rescue mission related to the

vessel, MV Island Scout that was in distress during the passage of TS Ernesto.

They worked in collaboration with the Maritime Affairs team to rescue 4 people

from the vessel.

5. Cargo

While sea conditions remain unfavorable, it can be assumed that cargo operations

will still be interrupted throughout today. The Maritime Manager is providing

updates every 4 hours that will be shared with key stakeholders in anticipation of

the resumption of cargo operations at the earliest time this becomes feasible.

6. Marketplace

On a somber note, my heart goes out to the vendors at the Marketplace whose stalls were destroyed by Tropical Storm Ernesto. This morning, I toured the marketplace and was saddened to see the extent of the damage. We were already in the process of relocating the vendors to the Pavilion, which was scheduled to be erected at the old administration building two days ago. Unfortunately, the storm caused delays, pushing back our timeline. The original plan was to break ground for the new Marketplace construction yesterday, but this will now take place next week. We aim to relocate all vendors by this coming Saturday.

7. Winair

On a more positive note, I’m pleased to share that I had a productive telephone conversation with my counterpart, Minister Cooper in Curaçao, earlier this morning. We may have reached a consensus on allowing Winair to increase its flights. Through a verbal, reciprocal agreement, we found a middle ground.

Minister Cooper is currently reviewing my proposal to extend the deadline to April 1, 2025, which would provide both Winair and Z Air the opportunity to run holiday promotions. For St. Maarten, it's essential that the FAA agrees to allow Curaçao to oversee Z Air’s U.S.-registered planes. Once we receive a positive response from the FAA, the date will be lifted.

This morning, I sent a letter to Minister Cooper to reaffirm our discussion, and I will await his decision on my proposal.

8. Billboards

And just a word of caution to all business owners with wooden billboards around the island: Most of you did not adhere to the call to take down these structures, this time around and I want to especially caution those with billboards near PJIA. No action has been taken yet, but if, God forbid, anything happens to our beloved PJIA, please be aware that you will be held completely responsible for any damage to our airport. We simply cannot afford any more setbacks with our airport. Remember the 5Ps, and prepare for what could happen if a hurricane strikes.

Closing:

I would like to end with this message by saying: As we approach the peak of the hurricane season, it's natural to feel a mix of emotions—concern, uncertainty, and perhaps even fear. But remember, our community is strong, resilient, and prepared. We've weathered storms before, and we will again.

Now is the time to take proactive steps to ensure our safety and the safety of our loved ones. Make sure your emergency kits are ready, review your evacuation plans, and stay informed through reliable sources. Check on your neighbors, especially those who may need extra help. Together, we can face whatever comes our way.

While we cannot control the weather, we can control how we respond to it. Let's support each other, stay positive, and face this season with attentiveness.

Thank You

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