President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell expresses her sympathy to the fire victims of more than 100 persons who lost their homes and possessions after a fire ripped through the area where they were residing at Wesley Lane, Cole Bay.
"I was shocked to learn about the tragic fire event earlier this week. I would like to commend the various Ministers who have responded to the tragic situation, Minister Maurice Lake, Minister Cornelius De Weever and Minister Dennis Richardson, as well as the personnel from their respective departments and services.
"Such a tragedy must be prevented from happening again. Living in such close proximity from each other presents serious fire hazards as well as challenges once something happens.
"I fully support the calls and steps taken by Minister Maurice Lake and Minister Dennis Richardson not to allow the re-construction of a shanty town, and to also look at other areas in the country that fall within this category and seeking permanent solutions to the so-called shanty town development.
"After the life changing event of Hurricane Luis in 1995, a policy was established not to allow the construction of shanty towns. How easy do we forget, yet we must never forget," President of Parliament Hon. Arrindell said on Thursday.
President Arrindell added that in time of need, more than 100 persons are in need of clothing, children’s toys etc. and appeals to the Sint Maarten public to give and donate to such organizations as the St. Maarten Red Cross who are assisting these persons.
PHOTO CUTLINE: President of Parliament Hon. Gracita Arrindell