Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake would like to thank all stakeholders and volunteers who came out for the Simpson Bay Lagoon clean-up that took place on Saturday, December 6.
Brian Deher, President of the St. Maarten Marine Trades Association (SMMTA) in an invited comment on Sunday said there were 30 volunteers in total from the marine industry, SXM Airport, Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority, Environmental Organization EPIC, Nature Foundation, and several private citizens that took part in the clean-up.
Minister Lake launched an appeal early November for a coastal clean-up of hurricane related debris in the lagoon due to the passing of Hurricane Gonzalo back in mid-October.
SMMTA took the lead in organizing the clean-up along with Nature Foundation, St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies Lagoon Authority, Maritime Affairs Authority, and Ministry VROMI.
“I would like to say a special thank you to the following companies for their support, SXM Airport, NAPA from Michael Ferrier, EPIC, IGY Marinas, Port de Plaisance Marina, Budget Marine, Buccaneer Beach Bar, the Lagoon Authority, Steve Coetzer, Nature Foundation, Jeff Boyd, volunteers, and the SMMTA for a job well done,” Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Sunday.
SMMTA President Deher also thanked Minister Lake for spearheading the clean-up and all volunteers, and is looking forward to future clean-up efforts of this nature.