Dear Editor,

Traffic congestion has become one of the most pressing issues affecting Sint Maarten’s economy. From productivity losses to reduced quality of life, the problem impacts residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Many residents argue that there are simply too many vehicles on the road, but the more important question is: how many of those vehicles are actually legal?

How many vehicles have paid road tax? How many drivers possess valid licences? How many vehicles are properly insured and have up-to-date inspection cards? The absence of consistent, year-round traffic controls has significantly contributed to the current situation.

To address this, I urge Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling and Minister of TEATT Grisha Heyliger to initiate formal dialogue with French Saint Martin authorities. The objective should be to establish joint and coordinated traffic control efforts, where French Police (Police Municipale) participate as observers during traffic controls conducted on the Dutch side, and vice versa.

The role of French law enforcement would be limited, but essential, verifying the legality of French-registered vehicles, including compliance with French traffic laws. Given their expertise, French officers are best positioned to determine whether documentation is valid. If a French-registered vehicle is found to be non-compliant, Dutch (side) police should have the authority to confiscate the vehicle.

Vehicles operating without proper documentation are in direct violation of the international agreements that allow French-plated vehicles to circulate on the Dutch side, just as Dutch-plated vehicles are permitted on the French side. This principle must apply equally and consistently.

Likewise, Dutch (side) police officers should be invited as observers during traffic controls on the French side to verify documentation of Dutch-registered vehicles. This is particularly important because many vehicles operate exclusively within neighbourhoods on both sides of the island and never cross official border checkpoints. As a result, they evade detection during joint border operations.

The Dutch side urgently needs more neighbourhood-based traffic controls, with a strict focus on: vehicle registration and road tax; valid driver’s licences, insurance coverage, inspection cards, and other traffic violations can be addressed through warnings, except for illegal window tint, which should be removed immediately on the spot.

The primary goal is simple: remove non-compliant vehicles from public roads and compel owners to regularise their documentation. When vehicles are fully compliant, the government benefits directly through increased and guaranteed revenue.

Lose Your Car, Lose Your Legal Status. During the high tourist season, particularly when cruise ships are in port, individuals from neighbouring islands frequently rent vehicles to engage in illegal “gypsy” taxi operations. Others use their personal vehicles for the same purpose. These individuals openly drop off tourists in town and collect payment as though they are licenced taxi operators.

This activity continues largely unchecked, not because it is unknown, but because enforcement priorities are misplaced.

A specific law must be enacted to address this issue. Anyone caught conducting illegal taxi operations should face: immediate fines, prosecution in court, the prosecutor should be empowered to request judicial approval to auction the vehicle, or, if the vehicle is not roadworthy, order its destruction.

Individuals without valid work or immigration documents must be arrested and deported. Those holding legal or permanent residency should face the revocation of their status and removal from the country if found in violation. Legal residency is not granted for the purpose of engaging in illegal transport activities. No one receives legal status to drive gypsy taxis.

Conclusion, extra and sustained traffic controls are no longer optional – they are necessary. Proper enforcement will reduce congestion, restore order, protect licensed operators, improve public safety, and significantly increase government revenue. What is required now is political will, inter-ministerial cooperation, and cross-border collaboration.

Gromyko Wilson

Dear Editor,

By now I believe that everyone driving a motor vehicle in Sint Maarten is aware of the density of the traffic. And it goes without saying that even though the powers that be are aware of this, I will go out on a limb and state that nothing is being done in connection with the steady import of more motor vehicles.

It is no secret of what is being said about the influence that auto dealers have on government. I personally do not have any proof of this, but then again we know what is said about, if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck.

What I know is necessary is that the Minister of Justice should get together with the VROMI Minister so that in some form or fashion the traffic signs be put back in place, the road markings refreshed and definitely make sure that the signboards for the bus stops are placed and replaced adequately, so that the police can go back to making sure that the buses stop messing up the traffic, by stopping wherever there are passengers along the way.

Not I believe, I am sure that this will go a long way in alleviating the traffic congestion. By the way, I am not an insider, so I do not know, but what I don't understand is when it is time to lock up, they know who and how to lock up, but why, they being number one in public transportation in the world for a long time, have not done anything to help a Kingdom partner to regulate it's public transportation. I do not think that letting us know the reason why not would be devastating.

Also driving unto and around the roundabouts cause unnecessary stagnation. Drivers should not block the passage trying to cross lanes if they miss their exit. They should stay on the inside, go back around and get off at the correct exit. Experience has taught me that there are always drivers who will ignore the rules, that is why at rush-hours there should be traffic controllers.

I believe there has been enough lip-service from part of government. It is time for action. If we are seeing all of this, should not they who are paid to see it, do something about it?

Russell A SIMMONS

Dear Editor,

I will be honest and mention off the bat that I did not read the article USM to start new GED classes. That is simply because I always, in my way, advocated for everyone to have at least an equivalent to M.U.L.O education.

During the last political election I asked a candidate if the majority of those men cleaning the streets are voters, that candidate told me yes. So I suggested to him to find out their level of education and depending on the results he could look into the possibility of getting them into GED classes. And from there he should know what to do as a candidate.

I never liked the saying “In the land of the blind, the one eyed man is King”. I would like for everybody to be able to see.

Russell A SIMMONS

Dear Editor,

I want to commend Ms. Dros-Richardson, Head of Labor, for her recent honesty when she said, “we are not doing well” and “we are failing our people”. Too often, officials soften the truth, so it was refreshing to hear her speak plainly.

But honesty alone isn’t enough. Tourism may be thriving, yet many workers still struggle to pay rent, buy groceries, or make ends meet. Social assistance isn’t enough, and economic growth is not improving the lives of those who keep this country running.

If the Department of Labor is serious about change, it should focus on a few key actions:

1. Living wages: Minimum wage isn’t enough. Workers should earn enough to live on, especially in tourism, construction, and security

2. Stronger enforcement: Labor laws only matter if they are applied. Unpaid wages, long hours, and unsafe workplaces must be addressed.

3. Protect workers: Many, especially migrants, fear speaking up. Complaints must be safe, and abusive employers held accountable.

4. Link tourism success to worker benefits: Booming industries should lift wages, job security, and working conditions.

5. Be visible and approachable: Workers need to know their rights and trust the system to help them.

Ms. Dros-Richardson spoke the truth. Now, we need to see a clear plan and real action so honesty leads to results.

Alfred A. Bryan