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  • Makana Ferry Service has tem­porarily withdrawn its vessel “Makana” from service after a mechanical problem caused visible smoke as the ferry ap­proached Fort Bay Harbor on Wednesday morning. According to the company, the smoke resulted from a mal­function involving one of the vessel’s turbochargers and was not caused by a fire. The ferry arrived safely at Fort Bay Har­bor without incident. Following an inspection and consultation with the relevant authorities, passengers were given the option of re-boarding the vessel for its scheduled departure. Those who decided not to continue their journey received full refunds. As a precaution while repairs are carried out, the “M/V Sa­mantha II” will operate the scheduled ferry service in place of the “Makana”. “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority,” the ferry company said in a statement, acknowledg­ing that the sight of smoke had caused concern among pas­sengers and members of the public. Makana Ferry Service thanked passengers for their pa­tience, understanding and continued support while repairs are completed. Makana Ferry Service has tem­porarily withdrawn its vessel “Makana” from service after a mechanical problem caused visible smoke as the ferry ap­proached Fort Bay Harbor on Wednesday morning. According to the company, the smoke resulted from a mal­function involving one of the vessel’s turbochargers and was not caused by a fire. The ferry arrived safely at Fort Bay Har­bor without incident. Following an inspection and consultation with the relevant authorities, passengers were given the option of re-boarding the vessel for its scheduled departure. Those who decided not to continue their journey received full refunds. As a precaution while repairs are carried out, the “M/V Sa­mantha II” will operate the scheduled ferry service in place of the “Makana”. “The safety of our passengers and crew remains our highest priority,” the ferry company said in a statement, acknowledg­ing that the sight of smoke had caused concern among pas­sengers and members of the public. Makana Ferry Service thanked passengers for their pa­tience, understanding and continued support while repairs are completed. The Daily Herald.

  • According to figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS), the median purchasing power on Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba increased in 2024. On Bonaire, households gained 13.7 percent, on St Eustatius 10.8 percent and on Saba 10.4 percent. Single-parent families and households reliant mainly on benefits saw the largest increase. Purchasing power fell for around a quarter of the population, for example due to personal life events. On the advice of the Social Minimum Commission, the government has introduced a number of measures to improve purchasing power from 2023 onwards to strengthen the sense of economic security in the Caribbean Netherlands. For example, the government increased the Statutory Minimum Wage (WML) twice in 2024. Benefits under the General Old Age Pension (AOV), the General Widows’ and Orphans’ Act (AWW) and income support were also increased. These measures led to a rise in purchasing power for both people in employment and recipients of benefit. On Bonaire, the median purchasing power for households reliant on benefits as their main source of income improved by the most, by 21.8 percent. On St Eustatius and Saba, it increased by 17.1 percent and 10.7 percent, respectively. As a result of the increase in benefit payments, the situation for nine out of ten people in households reliant mainly on benefits for their income has improved. On Bonaire, the purchasing power of people in employment rose by 13.2 percent, on St Eustatius by 10.5 percent and on Saba by 10.2 percent. Over 90 percent of residents of the Caribbean Netherlands are members of households that derive their income primarily from work. Single-parent families gained the most In 2024, the median purchasing power rose for all households, but particularly among single-parent families. On Bonaire, purchasing power for this group improved by 19.0 percent, partly due to the increase in child benefit. On St Eustatius and Saba, single-parent families saw their position improve by 18.4 percent and 15.9 percent, respectively. On St Eustatius, one-person households saw the smallest increase, at 5.6 percent. Increase in purchasing power across all age groups In 2024, purchasing power among households rose across all age groups. Among residents of Bonaire with a main breadwinner aged below 40, the largest increase in purchasing power reached 16.1 percent. They are more likely than average to work in sectors where wages are around the minimum wage level and therefore benefit from increases in the minimum wage. On St Eustatius, young people saw their position improve by 11.6 percent, and on Saba by 12.0 percent. Among older people, purchasing power rose mainly due to the increase in the General Old Age Pension (AOV). Largest increase among low income-households The biggest improvements were seen among lower-income households. On Bonaire, purchasing power rose by the most among low-income households, by an average of 19.4 percent. On Saba, low-income households in particular also benefited from the 16.1 percent increase in purchasing power. Purchasing power also improved among other income groups, but to a lesser extent. CBS

  • Carnival is one of the highlights of the year on St. Eustatius and Saba. A time to celebrate culture, enjoy music, and come together as a community. To help ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities safely, the Caribbean Netherlands Police Force (KPCN) is asking residents and visitors to celebrate responsibly and look out for one another throughout the Carnival season. During Carnival, police officers will be present at events across both islands to maintain public order, assist residents and visitors, and respond quickly whenever necessary. While KPCN is committed to providing a safe environment, everyone has a role to play in making Carnival a safe and enjoyable experience. To help keep the celebrations safe, KPCN asks everyone to keep the following in mind:   Zero tolerance for violence: Fighting and misconduct will not be tolerated. Violators face immediate arrest.   No weapons allowed: It is strictly illegal to possess weapons or any objects that can be used to cause harm.   Do not use glass bottles: To prevent accidental injuries, please choose plastic or other safe alternatives.   No driving under the influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal. Offenders will be arrested, fined, and risk losing their driver’s license.   Avoid noise disturbances after the events: Loud music and shouting are prohibited after events. Sound equipment may be seized if rules are violated.   Follow police instructions: Officers are on-site to maintain order and guide emergency responses. Compliance with their instructions is mandatory. KPCN will act against anyone whose behavior threatens the safety of others or disrupts public order. By respecting the rules and looking out for one another, we can all help make Carnival a celebration that is remembered for the right reasons. KPCN.

  • Fight on SABA On Sunday, the 12th of July, around 3:10 AM, the central control room received a report of a fight involving several people at a club in The Bottom on Saba. By the time the police arrived, the fight had ended. It turned out that several people had been attacked. All those involved were informed that they could file a report of assault if they wished. Two people had been injured during the brawl and had to go to the hospital for medical treatment. The police dispersed everyone at the scene. KPCN.

  • The Bottom, the capital of Saba, came alive with music, culture, performances, and community spirit on Saturday, July 11th evening as a large number of residents and visitors gathered for the village’s highly anticipated Road to Carnival event. The celebration forms part of the island‑wide lead‑up to Saba’s 50th Carnival festivities taking place later this July. Organized by Akilah Levenstone and Pamela Meijvogel‑Whitfield, the event transformed the capital into a vibrant gathering place where culture, entertainment, and community pride took center stage. The evening featured performances, vendors, music, and activities that drew an enthusiastic crowd of all ages. One of the highlights of the night was a surprise performance by Funtopia from St. Maarten, who accepted an invitation from the organizers and delivered an energetic show that captivated attendees and added an extra level of excitement to the festivities. The event saw strong attendance, with families, children, and community members coming together to celebrate and enjoy the Carnival spirit. According to the organizers, the most rewarding part of the evening was seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and residents who came out to support the event. “We are extremely grateful for the wonderful turnout and support from the community,” the organizers said. “Seeing the joy and excitement on the faces of the children and everyone in attendance made all the hard work worthwhile. Everything came together beautifully, and we are proud to have hosted such a memorable event for our beloved village, The Bottom.” The organizers also extended sincere thanks to all sponsors, vendors, performers, DJ’s, MC, photographer, and all attendees whose contributions helped make the event a success. Held in the heart of Saba’s capital — where Carnival will take place later this month — the Road to Carnival celebration showcased the strong community spirit that continues to define the island. The organizers emphasized that the event was created out of love for The Bottom, for Saba, and for its people, making the evening a true celebration of culture, unity, and community pride.

  • On July 9, Saba welcomed Jocelyn Levenstone as its new Island Governor in a ceremony marked by pride and reflection on his roots — including his great-grandmother Rebecca Levenstone, great-aunt Bernadette Levenstone, and late mother Alidia — and his career in the Police Force and Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard. MC Hazel Durand opened the event, followed by an ecumenical service and a performance by Child Focus’ Dynamic Dancers before the formal Island Council meeting began. Acting Governor Amelia Nicholson opened the council meeting, describing the Governor’s Chain as a symbol of continuity and public trust. Island Council members Vito Charles and Saskia Matthew then spoke,  Charles on the weight of the appointment process and the importance of integrity, and Matthew on the meaning of a native son returning home to serve. Commissioner Bruce Zagers echoed this pride on behalf of the Executive Council, and also noted that healthy debate is a strength of democracy, not a weakness. Island Registrar Akilah Levenstone read the Royal Decree of appointment, and Acting Kingdom Representative Jan Helmond administered the Oath of Office, praising Levenstone’s integrity. In his inaugural address, Governor Levenstone noted the symbolism of the date, his matriarch Rebecca’s birthday, and honored generations of his family, especially the Saban women whose quiet dignity shaped his values. He reflected on lessons from his career, saying authority without discipline is dangerous, and discipline without compassion is cruelty. He closed by thanking his partner, Victoria Williams, and his great-aunt Bernadette, then formally closed the council meeting. Celebrations continued with a traditional maypole dance, a steel orchestra performance, a toast to the new governor, and closing music from Roy Barnes, DJ Slim, and the Family String Band. Public Entity Saba thanked all who attended and helped make the event memorable, welcoming Governor Levenstone home. PES

  • The Public Entity recognizes that the continued closure is significant for residents and businesses who depend on in-person banking services. RBC maintains responsibility for branch operations and customer communication, but we are actively seeking updates and raising the issue with supervisory and governmental authorities. Based on the latest information available, a reopening date has not yet been confirmed. The public entity has requested that RBC provide the community with an official update regarding the status of the branch. Should RBC issue a statement, it will be reshared through Public Entity Saba’s official communication channels. In the meantime, customers requiring banking assistance are encouraged to make use of RBC’s available digital banking services or contact RBC Customer Service for support and information on alternative banking options. PES

  • On the recommendation of the State Secretary for Kingdom Relations and Effective Government, Jocelyn Levenstone has been appointed Island Governor of the public entity Saba effective July 1, 2026. Acting Kingdom Representative (wRv) Jan Helmond swore him in on July 9 during a ceremony of the Island Council. With this appointment, Saba gets a new Island Governor for the first time in 18 years. “During the interviews with Jocelyn, he impressed me. He considers integrity and purity of conduct to be important characteristics of his professional and personal demeanor. These characteristics will certainly come in handy in the exercise of the function of Island Governor.” – wRv Jan Helmond.   Subsequently, there was an opportunity for the residents of Saba to congratulate the Governor. RCN

  • The Dutch government is strengthen­ing its “comply or explain” principle, requiring minis­tries to make new national policies and legislation applicable to Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (so-called BES) by default un­less there are compelling reasons to do otherwise. The policy is intended to promote greater equality between the three public entities and the European Netherlands while recog­nising local circumstances. In a letter to the Second Chamber of Parliament (House of Representatives) dated July 6, State Secre­tary for Kingdom Relations Eric van der Burg outlined how the Jetten Cabinet plans to implement and evaluate the policy, which was tightened under the “Aan de slag” (To Work) co­alition accord. The govern­ment says ministries must actively assess whether new legislation, regulations and policy measures should ap­ply to the Caribbean Neth­erlands and explicitly justify any decision to exclude the islands. According to the letter, the objective is not to impose identical rules in every situ­ation but to achieve equiva­lent outcomes for residents of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba. The cabinet states that their unique cir­cumstances should no lon­ger automatically result in lower standards of public services or protections. In­stead, any deviations must be transparent, carefully justified and, where neces­sary, phased in to reflect local implementation ca­pacity. The government points to several policy areas where this approach is already being incorporated. These include healthcare, educa­tion, culture, housing, cli­mate adaptation, economic development, food security and public safety. The letter also high­lights continued attention to security challenges in the Caribbean part of the Kingdom, including de­velopments in and around Venezuela, hybrid threats, cybersecurity, organised crime and strengthening police capacity. The cabinet announced that it will evaluate the ap­plication of the “comply or explain” principle togeth­er with the governments of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba. The review will draw on previous reports, legal analyses, discussions with island authorities and an upcoming study by the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights. The find­ings are expected to be pre­sented to Parliament later this year. To improve participation in the legislative process, the Dutch government also plans to make public con­sultations more accessible by offering them in Dutch, English and Papiamentu where appropriate. Offi­cials hope this will enable residents, businesses and local governments on the islands to contribute more effectively to the develop­ment of new laws and poli­cies. The letter further con­cludes that implementation assessments carried out on proposed legislation affect­ing the Caribbean Nether­lands have proven valuable. However, it notes that these reviews should be simpli­fied and better tailored to the realities of the islands, while ensuring that local authorities are consulted at the appropriate stage of the legislative process. Although the policy ap­plies specifically to the special municipalities of Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba, and not to the autono­mous countries of Curacao, Aruba and St. Maarten, it reflects the Dutch govern­ment’s continued focus on reducing disparities within the kingdom. The Daily Herald.

  • The site Dossier Koninkrijszaken reports that the Caribbean Netherlands will retain its own tax legislation, State Secretary for Finance Eelco Eerenberg has assured the House of Representatives. “The socio-economic circumstances on the islands, and in the surrounding region, mean that fully applying Dutch social security and tax legislation would be disruptive,” Eerenberg said, responding to questions from the House about the tax changes planned for 2027. “It would lead to substantial tax increases and heavier financial and administrative burdens for residents and businesses alike.” Eerenberg is nonetheless sticking with his plan to raise real estate tax on hotels. He argues that the reduced rate introduced for the hotel sector in 2013 can no longer be justified, citing strong growth in tourism, rising coastal property values, and the sense that hotels also benefit from local facilities and infrastructure. The government does not expect the rate increase to affect hotel profitability or employment. Dossier Koninkrijkszaken

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