GREAT BAY--Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten intends to engage authorities in Anguilla over concerns affecting charter boat operations between the two islands, emphasizing that any differences must be resolved through dialogue that protects the interests of maritime operators while respecting the laws of both jurisdictions.
Speaking during Wednesday's Council of Ministers briefing, the Minister acknowledged concerns within St. Maarten's maritime sector and outlined plans to meet with local public and private stakeholders before requesting discussions with her Anguillian counterpart.
Heyliger-Marten stressed that the relationship between St. Maarten and Anguilla extends beyond their geographical proximity, pointing to longstanding family connections, historical ties, shared economic interests and a tourism industry that depends in part on the movement of visitors between the islands.
For years, maritime operators have played an important role in facilitating that movement, particularly through charter services that contribute to tourism activity and generate business opportunities.
The Minister said she intends to approach the matter with an understanding of the concerns raised by Anguillian authorities while ensuring that the experiences and interests of St. Maarten's charter boat operators are properly represented.
Her immediate priority is to consult with stakeholders in the local maritime sector, with a meeting expected shortly, before seeking formal engagement with Anguillian officials.
The objective, she explained, is to identify practical solutions that respect the regulatory responsibilities of both jurisdictions without unnecessarily disrupting legitimate maritime activities.
Heyliger-Marten indicated that cooperation between neighboring territories requires a willingness to address disagreements constructively, particularly when their economies and communities are closely connected.
While the Minister did not announce any agreement or specific regulatory changes, her proposed consultations signal an effort to address the concerns through direct government-to-government engagement rather than allowing the matter to remain unresolved.
The Minister maintained that protecting legitimate business opportunities and maintaining productive relationships with neighboring islands are both important to St. Maarten's economic interests.
