SXMElections.com

PHILIPSBURG, St. Maarten – United People's (UP) Party Member of Parliament (MP) Maurice Lake MP Lake supports the Chamber of Commerce statement that the community won't be safe if labour issues are left unaddressed.

"As a community spirited person and always in contact with the people and young people, I fully agree with the Chamber of Commerce statement that the country cannot have a healthy and safe community if education, health, poverty, immigration and labour issues, such as unemployment and abuse of the labour laws are not addressed.

"The only way we can address these issues is together as stakeholders and come up with an immediate, short term and long term plan of action that will benefit everyone the business and the community. We also have to address the flexibilization of the labour laws.

"I applaud the Chamber initiative of coming up with action points to present to Government to be part of the solution to combat crime and the safety and security of St. Maarten.

"The youth and unemployment rate is high. Every day, I have our local people speaking to me about looking for employment. Our people are hurting and is looking for opportunities.

"There are some out there who may find this sad situation an opportunity to play politics, but we need to show political maturity and come together with one plan of action to address the social issues.

"Some say where are we going to find the money? But, it's not all about money. It involves everyone, parents, and community councils. It starts from within the home on how we are bringing up our children. Parenting issues and challenges are also part of the social challenges. We should also utilize the Voluntary Corps.

"As a representative of the people, I have to speak out on these social issues that are affecting our people and come with a plan of action with all stakeholders. We need to address the underlying social issues that are at the basis of the crime spree as stated by the Chamber of Commerce," UP MP Maurice Lake pointed out.