That the so-called Flag Pole Project remains on hold because government has no formal approval from the landowner (see Wednesday newspaper) is disappointing. According to Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications (TEATT) Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten (DP) government cannot carry out works at the site without permission.
She said if no agreement is reached, the ministry will evaluate whether related funds in the 2026 budget must be carried forward or reprogrammed toward other high priority tourism infrastructure needs. That would be a pity.
Because the reality is that hundreds of visitors stop at Bell’s Lookout Point on a daily basis to admire the view. Unfortunately, for years already it includes an empty flagpole.
One can understand the landowner having issues with substantial changes, but why simply fixing what’s currently there would be a problem remains unclear. Needed right now is the addition of a flag to end this ongoing embarrassing situation and again give residents something to be proud of when they drive over Cole Bay Hill.
If the pole has to be adjusted or even renewed as often argued, this doesn’t seem like that big of a deal. Perhaps talks on such limited action pending a comprehensive arrangement make sense.
After all, this is about St. Maarten’s primary national symbol, patriotism and love for country. Moreover, another November 11 is just around corner.
Correction
The editorial in Tuesday’s printed edition mistakenly identified Member of Parliament Ludmila de Weever as MP of URSM, while she represents PFP. The author apologises for this error and any inconvenience caused.
