the informer - St. Eustatius Government
Transcription
the informer - St. Eustatius Government
THE INFORMER INFORMATION BULLETIN OF THE ISLAND GOVERNMENT OF ST. EUSTATIUS Volume 2, Issue 1 + 2 January,February ISSUE , 2011 SPICE FOUNDATION EMPOWERS STATIANS THROUGH ADULT LITERACY PROGRAMME Statians improve their chances on job market On Saturday February 26th 2011 the St. Eustatius Promotion of International Culture and Education (SPICE) held it’s first graduation session for the persons who completed the Dutch training for beginners and advanced level. Mrs. Leonora Sneek-Gibbs president and founder of the foundation proudly welcomed the crowd to the special occasion. She gave a short introduction and explained how Spice came about. She acknowledged Mrs. Darlene Berkel who was also a co-founder of this foundation in the same period when she was employed at the School of Medicine on St. Eustatius. Spice was established 10 years ago on February 20th 2001 when the Botswana students were studying at the School of Medicine. They sought ways to guide these students to be able to settle in culturally on Statia. Other programmes besides the acclimatization of the Botswana students were: A Health Fair in which neighboring islands participated. Spice took youngster to Aruba to participate in the CTO Caribbean Essay competition; a cultural group was taken to Curacao to partake in the Diaspora programme and many other little projects on Statia. Leonora was proud that although she commenced the Adult Literacy Programme with 20 persons some 5 individuals were hampered to continue as a result of various factors. She proudly passed the word over to Mrs. Maaike Patrick who proceeded with the ceremonies. The students of level –1 which is beginners of the Dutch language were called upon to sing a Dutch song. Entitled” Het is altijd lente in de ogen van de tandarts assistente”. Followed by the advanced group 1 with the Dutch song “Poes Poes, hemel blauw is die kat van jou” . The both groups proudly sang their songs. It was clear that they were very much motivated. It was such a wonderful feeling to see people taking the initiative to enhance their situation. The participants were in the category from very young to a more mature group. Looking at the participants and their backgrounds totally forms the ingredients of which Spice foundation is all about. The graduates on level –1 were: Mr. George Mathew, Ms. Christine Mayombo; Mr. Walter Moore; Mr. Roy Laurence; Mrs. Mariane Berkel; Mrs. Lynette Burgan Yonette Fraiser;Mrs. Donner Maynard and Ms. Ramona Gibbs. The advanced level 1 graduates were: Mrs. Helena Moore; Mrs. Theresita van Putten; Mrs. Janet Farrell (Continue on page 5 ) Inside this issue: Statians Empowerd through Adult Iiteracy Programme Status of Post Spaar Bank Official opening of Centre for Addiction & Mental Care 1,5,13, 3,11 5,10,13, 14,15, Minister Donners Vist to Statia, Saba 2,12 Groundbreaking for Water Distribution Network Project 9,25 Election Results, Island Council Election Photos of the various celebrations on Statia 16 12,13,14, 15 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 2 STATIA GOVERNOR ACCEPTS COMMEMORATIVE COIN St. Eustatius—On Monday, January 3rd 2011, The Island Governor Mr. Gerald Berkel was presented a commemorative coin by Mr. Ewout van Haeften, a representative of the Dutch Central Bank. This presentation was a brief ceremony in the office of the Governor. This is a special commemorative coin minted for the introduction of the dollar as the new currency of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba effective January 1st. Mr. Van Haeften thanked stakeholders on all three islands for their collaboration throughout the process. Governor Berkel encouraged businesses and the community on St. Eustatius to lend the dollarization process their continual support and cooperation. (Photos by Ms. A. Francis) (Photos by Vincent Whatkins) The Government of Saba in the persons of the Honourable Island Governor Mr. Johnathon Johnson and Commissioner Mr. Bruce Zagers accepted the commemorative coin at the Juancho E. Yrauquin airport. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 3 LUCIA BECKS, NEW COMMUNICATION CHIEF FOR BONAIRE,STATIA, SABA (Introduction to Statia Government) St. Eustatius– On Thursday, February 10th 2011 the new Chief of Communication, for Bonaire St. Eustatius and Saba, Ms. Lucia Becks was introduced to the Island Government of St. Eustatius. She was accompanied by Mr. Friso Fennema, the former Chief of Communication and Ms. Alida Francis Communication advisor for Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba. The meeting with the Executive Council was one of an introductory nature, however both parties talked about utilizing available mediums to reach the public on all three islands. The Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland (RCN) is working intensely to assure that residents of the Bonaire Statia and Saba are well informed. Presently their website is available in Papiamento and English, at the same time they also get information out through facebook. In this meeting the positive areas of cooperation between RCN and the Island Government Information Service were highlighted, like combine Press moments, town hall meetings and television presentations. Both entities are working together to accomplish the same goal, which is informing the public of the ongoing developments. Although the G.I.S distributes a monthly newsletter, host a weekly radio programme, send out press releases, organize town hall sessions host press sessions and television presentations, the Island government and RCN are still looking for ways and means to improve the communication to the public. (Continue on page 4) R to l: F.Fennema,L.Becks,G.Berkel,Dijkshoorn) POSTSPAAR BANK HELD FRANK TALKS WITH STATIA CLIENTS On Thursday, February 10th 2011 a Town hall meeting was held at the Ernest van Putten Youth Center. The honourable Island Governor, Mr. Gerald Berkel welcomed the general public at 7.30 pm to the informative session. He recapped that the Postspaarbank held their first informative session in 2010, however the public had several unanswered questions and they return to share additional information of the status of the Postspaarbank. Mr. Berkel welcomed Mr. Claymore Lanoy to the general public. Mr. Lanoy expressed his appreciation to be back on St. Eustatius, so that especially the persons that are clients to Postspaarbank can get a clear picture of the changes that they are undergoing. He circulated immediately a postspaarbank package which contained documents like: frequently asked questions savings products; funds transfer form A; non-resident, open account form B; close/renew account form C; NonResident loan application form D; Indemnity letter E; Source of funds Declaration form; and Scenario’s BES-islands form. Clients of Post Spaarbank on St. Eustatius can do business in St. Maarten at the Post office. The forms that are in the package (which were distributed at the town hall meeting) can be used to do business with Postspaarbank in Curacao. Mr. de Lanoy explained the reason why they discontinued doing business at the post office in St. Eustatius. The new status of Public Entity of the Netherlands brought new conditions for doing business through the Dutch Central Bank. These new regulations of the Central Bank were rather high and had a financial picture which Post spaarbank did not meet. Many Statians expressed disappointment because they have used this entity for years, mostly as a savings account. The Postspaarbank has been doing business for almost 105 years and mostly associated with the Post office. Despite the departure of Postspaar bank from St. Eustatius, they are trying to find a representa- tive on St. Eustatius to continue rendering service to clients on St. Eustatius. The Postspaarbank is working on improving service to the clients, therefore they are in the process of getting the Ebanking system up and running. The public were able to discuss personal situations on a one on one with Mr. de lanoy after the session. (see page 11 for general information of Postspaarbank) V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER MINISTER DONNER VISIT’S STATIA St. Eustatius- On Friday, January 7th 2011 Minister of Interior and Kingdom Relations Mr. P.H. Donner and entourage arrived by charter flight to St. Eustatius. He was welcomed by the Island Government Protocol Officer Mrs. Mercedes Spanner-Lopes. The Island Governor, Mr. Gerald Berkel, joined the delegation at the lunch. Minister Donner’s delegation comprised of his spouse, Mr. Buitendijk, Mr. Gerritsen, Mr. Manten and Mr. Dalenoort they were accompanied by their Protocol officer Ms. Carol-Ann and the Communication Advisor of Bonaire St. Eustatius and Saba, Ms. Alida Francis. Upon arrival they immediately settled in at the Blue Bead Restaurant for lunch. Thereafter a one hour meeting was in place for the Lt. Governor after which the entire Executive Council held discussions with Minister Donner about a number of irritations and bottle necks that the people of St. Eustatius are experiencing. They are working on solutions to a number of problems that the public have shared through the G.I.S. phone number which worked as a hotline within a certain time frame. The delegation was given a tour through the Historic Core by Mr. Walter Hellebrand. Thereafter was a press opportunity followed with a cocktail at the Fruit Tree. (see photos of the visit to Saba and Statia 12). SPECIAL THANKS TO MRS. ALIDA FRANCIS FOR THE PHOTOS PAGE 4 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 5 LUCIA BECKS, NEW COMMUNICATION CHIEF FOR BONAIRE,STATIA, SABA (Continued from page 3) There are discussions on the table to evaluate the experience of the public with regard to the mediums used to convey information to them. Presently the government and RCN offers, a wide range of communication mediums like radio, television, written press, assembly of the public through town hall meetings, website information, but the public will determine through the survey which medium is preferred. RCN has been doing a magnificent job getting information out there to public about all the changes in the different sectors. Discussions were tabled about bottle necks that are experienced locally and the role the media can play in this. Both parties shared ideas and recommendations with regard to the STATIANS EMPOWERED THROUGH ADULT LITERACY PROGRAMMA (continued from page 1) Ms. Misha Spanner; Ms. Dianarie van Heyningen and Ms. Ingrid Houtman. While the participants received their certificates it was amazing to see how teacher Maaike gave a anecdote of each student. This clearly indicates that she has established a special bond with each student. The training Dutch advanced level-2 is also a part of this Adult Literacy Programme. On March 1st 2011 the class for Dutch Advanced will continue, whereas a new class will commence on March 3rd 2011 for beginners at 6 pm sharp at the new facility on the corner of S.E. Sadler road. The Adult Literacy Programme is really the tool to help eradicate illiteracy on the island. Research has been done to find out that 10 % of the people of Statia are illiterate. Although Statia is a little island where people know each other many signed up to improve their situation. Later on we will gather more info on the group who succeeded in this class. (see photos on page 13 ) structure of the new entity. The Island Governor, Mr. Berkel was curious about the operation of the hotline installed by RCN. The Government Information Service is also preparing a hotline project with a financial picture to submit to the island government. This as a result of GIS having collected public data regarding Health Care issues using their phone lines to acquire this information. Although the hotline proposal is not something new, this transition period may well be the time to establish this communication tool. In everything that is new we can anticipate mishaps, but at the same we need to have mechanism is place so that the general public can direct their problems and or concerns. The hotline idea is the solution. OFFICIAL OPENING OF CENTRE FOR ADDICTION & MENTAL CARE St. Eustatius—A reasonable large group of Statians came out on February 25th 2011 to witness the official opening of the Centre for Addition and Psychiatric Care. The building which is utilized for this center is the former Pink building, located next to the Community Center at Rose Mary Lane. Mrs. Alida Francis warmly welcomed the crowd that assembled at the Center. Mr. Andre Kleinmulman,Substitute Secretary-General of VWS. (volksgezondheid,welzijn en sport) held a speech and was proud to see what was accomplished thus far. Mr. Kenneth Cuvalay a son of the soil is responsible for the Care to the target group. He talked briefly about how he started as a youngster and his accomplishments. He elaborated more on the purpose of having such a Center on the island and what he hopes to achieve with the target groups. (See page 10 for Mr. Kenneth Cuvalay’s Story). It was a touching moment when a few of the target group members addressed the crowd about the care that they have acquired thus far. They expressed lots of gratefulness to have Kenneth a Statian to help them improve their life V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 • T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 6 Press Release 11 February, 2011 Appreciation for senior police Kerindongo The Bottom – On Wednesday last senior police officer Arlie Kerindongo received special appreciation from Chief of Police for Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba, Jan Rooijakker. On October 1st, 2010 Kerindongo celebrated 25 years in the police force. At that time no attention was given to this, however the leadership Police Force BES finds that such milestones should not go unnoticed. In the meantime Kerindongo has worked providing security to the islands for more than a quarter of a century. This is an important task and enough reason to place Kerindongo in the spotlight in the presence of his colleagues. After obtaining his HAVO-diploma in 1985 Kerindongo joined the Police Force of the Netherland Antilles. He is currently a senior police officer in BPZ (Basis Politie Zorg) basic police care and is stationed on Saba. Chief of Police Jan Rooijakker thanked Kerindongo for his effort in the past years and expressed the hope that he will ad more years as a police officer. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 7 Press Release January 17th, 2011 Joint information campaign Island Council elections Oranjestad/The Bottom – The first elections since the new political structure will take place on the 2nd of March 2011. On Bonaire, Saba and St Eustatius it will be about Island Council Elections, and in the Netherlands these are the elections for the provincial states. Each Public Entity is responsible for organizing the Island Council elections and to inform the citizens about the voting process for these elections. Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland (RCN) is responsible to simulate citizens to use their right to vote. For that reason Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland together with the main voting bureau will be informing the public. The joint messages will be launched as of this week. Special attention will go out to changed voting rules. These will be applied for the first time, because it is the first time that Dutch voting rules will be applicable. As of the end of January the messages will be intensified. Under the slogan “You’ll be voting too, right?”, an intensive public awareness campaign will start, with the input of different communication tools. Not only radio, television and newspapers will be used, but there will also be a door-to-door folder. Moreover, each voter will receive a letter together with his/her voting pass containing the most important things they should take into account. Contact: Rijksdienst Caribisch Nederland Alida Francis Communication Advisor Saba & St. Eustatius Mobile: 318-4989 www.rijksdienstcn.com www.rijksdienstcn.com/eilandsraadsverkiezingen V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 8 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 9 GROUND BREAKING FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION NETWORK PROJECT ON STATIA St. Eustatius– The Chief of the Planning Bureau, Mr. Maldwyn Timber proudly welcomed members of the community and guest from abroad who were gathered in the area, to witness the groundbreaking ceremony of the water distribution network on February 16th 2011 at the Wilhelmina Monument which is located at the Roman Catholic Church square. The Commissioner holding the portfolios, Physical Development and Planning , Mr. Roy Hooker addressed the public . He opened his speech saying” major world wars will be about water”. He explained that successive governments over the years in Statia, sought for portable water which was significant for the island economically. It has always been a struggle, but today is the groundbreaking for the water distribution network. We will get portable water that will run through hygienic pipes and not in the trucks or on donkeys. He went on to say that the cisterns are essential for agricultural purposes. This too will give the economy a boost. He asked the community to bear with them while this project is underway. He acknowledged that it will inconvenience the lifestyles in the areas where they will commence, but the contractors promised not to keep the roads open too long unnecessarily. He extended thanks to all the persons who in one way or the other were a part of making this project a reality. After the speech of Mr Roy Hooker, Mr. Maldwyn Timber,who acted as of Master of Ceremony highlighted two significant elements in the speech of Commissioner Hooker, which were: to have patience and indulgence while the project was in process. Commissioner Julian Woodley expressed his sentiments as honourable to see this project, become a reality. He took the crowd to a few steps back in history, reminding them that near the location where the unveiling of the sign was located (Wall fencing the Berkels Property from the area of the late D. Sprott residents, leading to glassgut) was the installation of a pipe where running water was available. That waster was well-water, but shortly we will deliver safe drinking water from pipes. He talked about the actions taken by his government in the past to establish this distribution network. Mr. van Heyningen and his person travelled consistently on a weekly basis to St. Maarten to work with the consultant Grawborski, unfortunately it did not work out. The calypsonians sang a song about this situation which did not make him popular. He hopes with the realization of this project, starting with the groundbreaking that the calypsonians will sing about the realities of good running water, good electricity and soon the internet service. He went on to explain that Government is not forbidding anyone to construct a cistern. However, to build a cistern is based on ones personal choice and income. He reiterated that which Commissioner Hook said, that the construction of the cistern eats up approximately 1/3 of ones income. He acknowledged that the rainwater which is collected by the cisterns can be used for agricultural purposes. He also thanked all those who contributed to this project. Thereafter the Honourable Island Governor Mr. Gerald Berkel addressed the crowd present. He said to develop any Island Nation the ingredient of sound infrastructure is essential. He confirmed that he stands proud as a Statian to witness the groundbreaking ceremony for the water distribution network. He went on to say that he consis- tently encourages optimism and participation of the community in these events. He congratulated everyone who had a hand in this project and immediately asked for the participation and cooperation of the community with this project. He concluded his speech with a comparison of the execution of this project to a large omelet which demands many eggs to be broken to accomplish the final results of the omelet. Mr. Udo Aron , General Manager of Usona St. Maarten, thank the Island Government and the people of Statia on behalf of Usona for this project. He shared the duration period of 15 months for the execution of the project. He talked about the hard work of the Planning Bureau and Usona to get this project going, although there were many doubts because of the lengthy European Union Procedures, but at the groundbreaking ceremony he smiled and confirmed that it paid off and is ready for execution. The following speaker was Mr. Jan Max Schakel, General Manager of the company MNO-Vervat that contracted the project. They also recognized the present of Mr. Pieter Sulberg, who is the Supervisor Representative of the Planning Bureau. Mr. Gilberto Croez will be coordinating the distribution network project on behalf of Usona. The groundbreaking ceremonies concluded with a treat to the crowd with some refreshments and snacks. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 10 PROJECT ADDICTION CARE ST. EUSTATIUS St. Eustatius‐The government of for (the need for) prevention. the BES‐islands and the Netherlands are currently working on imple‐ menting improvements in society under the constitutional changes within the Kingdom. Priority have the fields of education, youth and families, safety and public health. Focus areas for the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) include psychiatry and addiction. At the end of 2007 the Trimbos In‐ stitute in cooperation with Founda‐ tion "The Quill" Sint Eustatius (Foundation for Addiction and Psy‐ chosocial care ‐ Stichting Verslavings ‐ en Psychosociale zorg ) carried out a study into problematic drug and alcohol abuse in St. Maarten and St. Eustatius. This study was commis‐ sioned by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS). nent and full attention and guid‐ ance can structurally be worked on the addiction problem. The project includes the set up of an accessible ambulatory daycare for people with addiction and re‐ Expertise is used to ensure advice and lated psychosocial problems. Pro‐ knowledge transfer to local aid work‐ ject goals include: ers about (the need for) a good addic‐ tion care. Identification of the target group and stay in touch with it. Substantive research into the se‐ verity and extent of the prob‐ lem and structural attention to it. Prevention of drug and alcohol use and reduction of harm to users. The results of the project could lead to full cooperation with the various welfare and health services, clearly leading to a follow‐up that ultimately can lead to rehabilitation of members of the target group. The results of the study showed that Reduction of inconvenience to the community and penetration of on the island of St. Eustatius prob‐ hangouts where drugs and al‐ lematic drug and alcohol use sub‐ cohol are used daily. stantially increases, especially among young people (see Rapid As‐ Minimization of the possibility that sessment Report for problematic youth at risk comes in contact drug and alcohol abuse in St. with drug and alcohol users in Maarten and St. Eustatius, pp. 20). the scene. According to the report interven‐ tions should be of a preventive na‐ Breaking through the taboo and ture. fear of drug addiction and re‐ lated problems in the popula‐ Drug and alcohol‐related problems tion. (crime, inconvenience) are increas‐ ingly a problem for the community Increase of knowledge and aware‐ of the island of St. Eustatius. How‐ ness about drug and alcohol ever, there is hardly a structure consumption among the popu‐ within the health care system pre‐ lation and aid workers. sent for the reception and treat‐ ment of drug and alcohol abusers. The Sint Eustatius Centre for Addic‐ tion and Mental Care can offer Moreover, on the island there is lit‐ the clients a safe and familiar tle or no expertise in the field of ad‐ environment where they can diction and related psychiatric prob‐ feel at home. Through perma‐ lems. There is also little attention Sint Eustatius, 28 februari 2011 Mr. Kenneth Cuvalay, Project Addiction / Mental Care Sint Eustatius NOTICE The Island Government of St. Eustatius, congratulates it’s people for this accomplishment in the Care Sector. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 11 V OLU ME 2, T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 12 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 13 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 14 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 15 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 16 ELECTION RESULTS OF THE MARCH 2nd ISLAND COUNCIL ELECTIONS ST. EUSTATIUS PRELIMINARY RESUTS Votes Casted 1455 Blank Votes 13 Spoiled Votes 8 Political Parties 2011 2007 D.P. 509 626 P.L.P. 289 270 Step 250 211 Wilhem Spanner 33 U.P.C. 353 D.P. P.L.P. STEP U.P.C. Rueben Merkman 100 Clyde van Putten 153 Franklin Brown 143 Wilhem Spanner Koos Sneek 64 49 Glenn Schmidt 104 Elvin Henriquez 21 Adelca Spanner 111 Laurens Duiverman 18 Kerkhof Koerten 5 Wilma van 13 Millicent Lijfrock 33 Reginald Zaandam 263 Zoest Marista Patrick 16 Michelene Leerdam 21 Bernadine Schmidt 15 Julian Woodley 77 Arlene Spanner 16 Derrick Simmons 41 Maya Leon 6 Brenda van Putten 4 D. Zimmerman 6 Esmond Roosberg 0 J. Obispa 3 Sonaida Smithen 16 Roy Hooker 122 Orlando Sanchez Reynaldo Redan 5 9 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 17 NOTICE The St.Eustatius Island Labour Office (DAZ) is in charge of the registration of employment and job vacancies. Our main purpose is to facilitate between jobseekers and employers, thereby linking the island’s work supply and demand. The Island Labour Office is having a Labour Drive from February 14th 2011 until February 28th 2011. Businesses and job seekers are urged to come in and register at the Island Labour Office on de Graaff weg. All persons seeking employment, and all businesses that have vacancies. Registration of jobseekers and vacancies is crucial because the admission of foreign workers is linked to the employment registration. If the labour market lacks labourers/workers in certain industrial areas or occupations, then the admission of foreign labourers has to be sustained. Registration of vacancies: Businesses can register their vacancies free of charge at the Labour Office. An official registration form has been designed for this purpose with specific questions. A job description of the vacancy is required. Having this information will help in finding a suitable match for the opening. Registration can be done via email at labour.dept@statiagov.com or personally. Jobseekers registration: To register the jobseeker has to visit the office. They will be assisted in filling in the registration form. Questions about diplomas, job experience and the kind of job they are looking for will be asked. This information will help the Labour Office find a job that is suitable for the jobseeker. For registration an ID card, resume (C.V.), a passport picture and diplomas and certificates are required. For more information please contact the Island Labour Office at 318-2881 or email your inquiries to labour.dept@statiagov.com Feel free to pass by DAZ anytime during working hours. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 + 2 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 18 Press Information January 21st, 2011 New Health Insurance: Frequently asked questions after three weeks As of January 1st, 2011 there is a new health insurance system. Naturally, there are many questions regarding the new health insurance. In order to facilitate all the insured, we have made an inventory of frequently asked questions with the answers thereto. Referrals The general practitioner gives you a referral letter in case of paramedical and specialist care. With this referral you can visit for example a physical therapist, lab, hospital or a specialist recommended by the hospital. For specialist care outside the hospital or care outside the Dutch Caribbean your general practitioners will give you temporary guarantee letter. You are required to leave the guarantee letter behind with the care provider outside the Dutch Caribbean. If you do not have proof of guarantee you will be required to personally cover the costs for the treatment. Therefore, if you must travel abroad for care, see to it that you are always in the possession of a referral and a guarantee letter from your general practitioner. Medical referral/Passport The general practitioner is required to submit the request for a medical referral. You are required to collect the ticket yourself at the travel agency or airline company. For medical referrals within the former islands of the Netherlands Antilles you may travel with your ID card. In case of medical referrals outside of the islands of the former Netherlands Antilles it is important that the insured have their passport in order. Therefore the Health Care Office is advising you to ensure you are always in the possession of a passport. All insured persons who must receive medical referrals, must have a bank account where, upon referral, the allowances can be deposited. The deposit of these amounts, depending on your bank or island, can take 2 to 10 workdays. In case of urgent medical referrals the Health Care Office will assist the insured with the necessary solution. Hospital admittance The insured is entitled to admittance in a room equipped with air-conditioning and insect repellent devise. If airconditioning and insect repellent devise are not available in a certain class you are entitled to be admitted in a class where this is available. Supplementary insurance for a higher class is not necessary. You are namely entitled to hospital admittance with airconditioning and insect repellent devise. (Continue on page 22) V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER DIENST ZEEHAVEN SINT EUSTATIUS C.N. NOTICE SUBJECT : PORT DECLARATION OF COMPLIANCE: Date : January 5th 2011 To all Ship agents, we are hereby informing you of the following: As of January 1st 2011, Port Clearance will no longer be issued by the Port, but by the Customs services. However be advise that no Port Clearance will be issued with out the following form n.m a : “PORT DECLARATION OF COMPLIANCE-FORM” This P.D.O.C. form, will be issued by Port once vessel (agent/Rep.) has Complied with all requirements towards the Port (Port fees; anchor fees etc). For more information please contact Mrs. Tokaai @ Statia Harbour Phone : 318-2205 Email : statiaharbour@hotmail.com Austin P van Heyningen Act.Harbourmaster PAGE 19 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 20 LIST EXEMPTIONS OF GENERAL SPENDING TAX (ABB) (continue on page 21) Potatoes Grain COMMODITY CODE DESCRIPTION PERCENTAGE 07011000 Potatoes (fresh or chilled) 0% 07019000 All other kinds of potatoes 0% 07142010 French fries 0% 10011000 Wheat 0% 10019000 All kinds of wheat 0% 10020000 Whole wheat 0% 10030000 Yeast 0% 10040000 Oatmeal 0% 10051000 Sowing seed 0% 10059000 All sorts of corn 0% 10061000 Rice 0% 10062001 Brown and brown parboiled 0% rice 10062009 White or half white rice 0% 10063001 White parboiled rice 0% 10063009 Other white and or half white rice 0% 10064000 Broken rice 0% 10070000 Grain 0% 10081000 Buckwheat 0% 10082000 Millet 0% 10083000 Birdseed 0% 10089000 All other grains 0% 11010011 Wheat flour 0% 11010019 Other sorts of flour 0% V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 21 Exemption List of General Spending Tax (ABB) (Continued from page 20) Bread COMMODITY CODE DESCRIPTION PERCENTAGE 11010030 All flour 0% 11021000 Rye flour 0% 11022000 Cornmeal 0% 11023000 Rice flour 0% 11029000 All kinds of flour 11031100 Wheat groats 1103100 Corngroats 11031900 Groat of other grain 11041200 Oats 11041900 Oats from other grains 11042200 Cream of wheat 11042300 Oats form corn 11042900 From other grains 11043000 Wheat germ 11081100 Wheat macaroni 11081200 Corn macaroni 11090000 Gluten, also when dried 19059051 Brown or white V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 22 (Continued from page 18) Medicines For the time being, the Health Care Office covers all medicines that were included in the former BZV – SVB list with exception to simple painkillers and drugstore articles. Take note: with your ID-card you can go to all pharmacies on Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba. Please check if your medicine in supply. If you are using medication and are staying outside the Dutch Caribbean (therefore also on Curacao and St. Maarten) take the following medications with you. If your are required medically to purchase medicine this will be reimbursed by the Health Care Office. Children/Students Children residing abroad are insured only if had to leave the Dutch Caribbean for study purposes. They can register with the Health Care Office. Conditions for registering: prior their studies they should have resided on one of the islands of the Dutch Caribbean. Because nowadays each student can regulate almost everything digitally, the Health Care Office is working to meet the needs of the students as much as possible. Owing to this the most information for students and the health insurance can be found via de website, www.rijksdienstcn.com under the heading care. The Health Care Office advises students to monitor the website. Besides, they can also collect an information folder at the counter of the Health Care Office. Vacation If you need to take a vacation ensure you take out a travel insurance. The Health Care Office covers only costs for emergency help abroad. Emergency care means: help after an accident or an acute need. But pay attention, the compensation is in principle not more that what it costs in the Dutch Caribbean. For example, in the Netherlands and the Unites States the costs for emergency care are notably higher. Not registered, but employed Persons not residing on Saba, St. Eustatius or Bonaire but who are in service of one of the three islands and pays taxes on these islands are also insured. These persons are requested to register at the Health Care Office. When registering these persons must have with them: a valid form of identification, a work permit, an employer’s declaration and a salary receipt You are not in our insurance system If you are not registered in our insurance system, you may visit the Health Care Office with proof of your IND admittance and or proof of inscription at the Census Office, a valid ID-card or passport. We will then look at your case. Note for the Editor: For information contact the Health Care Office on Saba via +599-416-3934 and on St. Eustatius on +599-318-3370 or via email infoZVK@rijksdienstCN.com V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 23 JOB OPPORTUNITIES "IN H ET JAAR 2025 IS CURAÇAO EEN LAND D AT BER UST OP GOED BESTUU R, M ET EEN H OGE LEEFKW ALITEIT, D UURZAME SOCIAAL ECONOMISC HE ONTW IKKELING EN EEN ON DERWIJSSYSTEEM D AT EEN IEDER MOTIVEERT OM HET BEST E UIT ZICHZELF T E HALEN." Om een nieuw land op te bouwen zijn gemoti veerde ambtenaren nodig. Mens en m et visie, geloof i n de toekom st en voldoende energi e om onze gezamenli jke k lim naar boven te begeleiden. H et team am btenaren aan de top van onze overhei dsorganisatie is professioneel, straalt respect ui t en vindt een goede balans tussen empathie en zakel ijkheid. Voor de nieuwe ambtelij ke organisatie van de overhei d van Curaçao zij n wij op zoek naar: TOPKADER (m /v) Daadkrachtig, verbindend, integer, innovatief Het betreft de functies van: - secretaris generaal (9), - secto rd irecteur (18 ), - b eleidsdirecteu r (8 ), - d irecteur shared services organ isatie (1 ), - d irecteur hu m an resources, organisatieontw ikkeling&in formatietechno log ie - d irecteur bu itenland se b etrekkingen (1 ). (1), Uw profiel U bent authentiek en straalt gezag uit; een onafhankel ijke persoonlijkhei d di e zich ook dienstbaar kan opstel len. Een bouwer, ondernemend, pro actief, bedri jfsmati g en resultaatgericht. U vervult een sturende rol en u bent comm unicatief sterk. U weet signalen uit de achterban op te vangen en te vertalen naar concrete acties. U bent sti mulerend en in staat anderen te laten scoren. U beschikt over een bindend verm ogen, bent mensgericht en een bruggenbouwer. U heeft een uitstekend gevoel voor politi ek/bestuurli jke verhoudi ngen. Gezien het beleid van hori zontale roulatie van functies i s uw profiel eerder generiek dan specifiek. Functie-eisen Een oplei ding op aantoonbaar academ isch niveau en een achtergrond in voor de functie relevante terreinen. Visie, kennis en ervari ng m et veranderi ngsmanagement in een strategische positie. Mi ni maal 5 j aar management ervaring in een eindverantwoordelij ke functie. Ervaring in een complexe bestuurlij ke en poli ti ek gevoeli ge om geving. Een goede beheersing van zowel het Nederl ands als het Papiamentu. Pro cedure het betreft een 2e werving en selecti eronde topk ader functies, w aarbij de voorgeselecteerde kandidaten uit de eerste ronde w orden meegenomen in de eindselecti e. Indien u zic h herk ent in een of m eer van deze functies nodigen wij u graag uit om te solliciteren. Uitgebreide inform atie over de procedure en de functi eprofi elen kunt u vi nden op: www .curacao-gov.an, www.aals epartners.nl en is opvraagbaar bi j: g.smeul ders@kgmc.nl (consul ent w&s Curaçaohuis). De procedure w ordt uitgevoerd door het werving & selecti ebureau Aals e & Partners/Caribe. U kunt uw m otivati ebrief vergezeld van een curriculum vitae uiterlijk op zaterdag 26 februari 2011 richten aan drs. Carla Aalse per e-mail: carla@aalsepartners.nl. Let op: U dient uitdrukkeli jk uw voork eur voor twee functies aan te geven bi j uw sollici tatie. Een assessment en referentieonderzoek m aken deel ui t van de werving- & selectieprocedure. D it geldt ook voor het politi ële onderzoek en de medi sche k euring. Voor nadere inform atie k unt u c ontact opnemen met drs. Carla Aalse of drs. C hris D ijkm an, per telefoon 005999-8690404 of per e-mail: i nfo@aalsepartners.nl De (voorselecti e)gesprekken vinden binnen zeer korte term ijn plaats. V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 JOB OPPORTUNITIES T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 24 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 Specia T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 25 V OLU ME 2, ISSU E 1 T HE I NF OR MER PAGE 26 JOB OPPORTUNITY ISLAND TERRITORY SINT EUSTATIUS DUTCH CARIBBEAN VACANCIES AT ISLAND GOVERNMENT OF ST. EUSTATIUS The Island Government of St. Eustatius, is advertising the following positions: • Personnel Consulent on Poly-tech level (HBO) for Personnel Affairs • Chief co-worker Financial Administrator (hoofd medewerker financieel Administratie) at Finance For more information about these vacancies please contact Ms. Florence Marlin during working hours Tel.nr. 599 - 318 - 2931 Fax: 599 - 318 - 3391 Email: personel.affairs@statiagov.com GOAL/OBJECTIVEMETHOD •The local politics must become more transparent •The administrative function will be separated from the control function so that it becomes clear who is doing what •There needs to be more political discussion in the Island •The council sets the outline: the execution of policy is the Council responsibility of the Executive Council •The Island Council needs to function more like a representative of the people •The island Council needs to research what concerns are of the local community and put it on the council agenda. The Informer, is the St. Eustatius Government Information Bulletin It is a monthly publication of the Island Territory of St. Eustatius. The objective is to inform residents of St. Eustatius about the developments that are taking place within Government and social matters on the island. Published by M.A. Lopes Chief Public Relations for the Island Territory of St. Eustatius Kennep Rd. z/n, Princes Garden, St. Eustatius, Neth. Ant. Telephone:599-318-2745 Fax: 599-318-2084 Email: gis@statiagovernment.com Malvern.gis@statiagovernment.com Layout by D. Simmons Queries should be directed to the Office of the Lt. Governor, Mr. Gerald Berkel, under which he has the responsibility of Bureau Kabinet, St. Eustatius. Tel: 318 –2552 Fax: 318-2324 SHEDDING LIGHT Join us weekly on Wednesday morning, at 9 Am sharp, on the Government radio p ro g r am m e Sheddi ng Light, for a day of self discovery, sharing information, reviewing developments in our community, questioning our elected officials about important issues. If you have ideas, suggestions contact the host, Malvern on 318 - 2745 or email malvern.gis@statiagovernment.com Please put your suggestions or opinions in the GIS idea box at our office at Princess. THE GREATEST GIFT WE CAN GIVE TO OTHERS IS A GOOD EXAMPLE! Honour where Honour is due We encourage Statians and residents alike to submit names of persons in the community that do exceptional or outstanding services in the community. If you want to nominate someone for a Royal Decoration it is advisable to contact the Decoration Committee for relevant island territory or the cabinet of the Lieutenant Governor. They will inform you whether the services rendered by the nominee are exceptional or outstanding enough to warrant a Royal Decoration. They will explain you exactly what you need to do, once you have collected the necessary information. Tel.nr.: 318-2552Fax.318 2324 Weekly Press Conferences The Government information Service is hosting weekly press conferences at the V.A. Lopes legislative Hall. These sessions will be held every Tuesday from 9.30– 10.00 am .We encourage all the media to participate in these session. GOODNESS IS THE ONLY INVESTMENT THAT NEVER FAILS!!! We apologize that we were not able to host our weekly press conferences for the last few weeks due to the absence of our local representatives. Thanks for patience.