I come to you today with important news
news that affects every single one of us who calls this island home.
The Court of First Instance has issued a landmark ruling confirming what we
have long maintained:
Mullet Bay Beach has always been, and remains, public property belonging to
the people of Sint Maarten.
This judgment came from proceedings brought by Sun Resorts Limited N.V.
against our Country, and it resolves a long-standing question over the ownership
of one of our island’s most significant natural and public assets.
The Court accepted our Government’s historical and legal position and
confirmed that Sun Resorts never acquired ownership of the beach itself.
This is an important victory for the people of Sint Maarten.
This ruling gives us long-term legal certainty that Mullet Bay Beach, like all of
our other beaches, belongs to the public and will continue to be enjoyed by
residents and visitors alike, for generations to come.
Now, I want to be transparent with you about what comes next. The judgment
addresses a number of related matters, and my Government, together with our
legal advisors, is carefully reviewing the full decision to determine the
appropriate next steps.
In particular, we are working through the details surrounding this ruling,
including how public access to the beach will be assured and protected, and how
the boundaries of what is legally considered “the beach” will be clearly defined
going forward. This work matters, and we intend to get it right.
I want to reassure everyone: I remain fully committed to acting in the best
interests of the people of Sint Maarten. As this process continues, we will keep
you informed.
Thank you, and may God continue to bless the people of Sint Maarten.