The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications, and the Department of Civil Aviation, Shipping & Maritime Affairs, carried out a joint control of a Cole Bay business operation located along the Simpson Bay Lagoon on Thursday afternoon to ascertain whether the business is operating according to the licenses and permits that was issued when the company was established.
Officials from both departments did an assessment of the business location and queried the persons met at the establishment about the business activities that were taking place.
Some of the information sought were: which businesses operates from that location; which vessels operate out of the marina; status of jet ski’s found and boats found at the location and who are they registered to.
The operators at the location in Cole Bay were informed to provide additional information and a follow-up visit is planned by the inspectors and controllers.
The controls are also being closely monitored by the Cabinet of the Minister who strongly recommends to all businesses to have their paperwork in order as controls will be stepped up in the coming weeks and months.
The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications and the Department of Civil Aviation, Shipping & Maritime Affairs is advising all businesses operating along the Simpson Bay Lagoon to have all permits and documents available at all times in the event of spot checks that the aforementioned departments can carry out without notice.
The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications (MinTEATT) wants to ensure that all businesses are operating according to the laws of the country and in accordance with the permits and licenses that they have been issued to carry out lawful business activities in country Sint Maarten.
The Maritime Affairs department wants to ensure that all water related business activities are carried out in accordance with the laws of the land in particular where it concerns the safety of the public and visitors who utilize the water-based services being offered.
MinTEATT is here to ensure that Sint Maarten continues to have a vibrant economic sector.
PHOTO CUTLINE: Maritime Affairs Inspectors and Economic Controllers checking out jet skis and boats moored to a dock along the Simpson Bay Lagoon.