Recent posts on Saba News

Arrival of SAR Vessels for Saba and St. Eustatius

The Search and Rescue (SAR) vessels for Saba and St. Eustatius have officially arrived at their new home harbors. After being transported to St. Maarten on October 17 by the Netherlands Royal Navy aboard the Zr.Ms. Den Helder, the vessels were delivered on Friday, October 24 by a local transport company to their final destinations: Sint Eustatius and Saba. This marks a significant milestone in strengthening maritime safety and emergency response capacity in the region. Statement from the Foundation Hans Schreuder, Director of the Saba Statia Search and Rescue Foundation, expressed gratitude on behalf of both Island Governments to the Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands for transporting the two SAR vessels across the Atlantic. The Royal Netherlands Navy deployed its newest Combat Support Ship, Zr.Ms. Den Helder, to carry out the mission. “In the name of both Island Governments, I extend our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Defence for making this possible,” Schreuder stated. “The arrival of these vessels brings us one step closer to realizing a dedicated volunteer SAR organization for both islands.” Acknowledgement of IenW The Foundation also extended its gratitude to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW) of the Netherlands. The long-term subsidy provided by IenW has been instrumental in making the acquisition of the SAR vessels and the development of a professional management organization possible. “Without this vital support, we could not have achieved such a significant step forward in maritime safety for Saba and St. Eustatius,” Schreuder emphasized. Next Steps In November, follow-up training sessions will be conducted on Saba and St. Eustatius for the volunteer crew members affiliated with the Foundation. Once these trainings are successfully completed, both SAR vessels will become fully operational. In addition, preparations are being made to provide suitable housing and facilities for the vessels, ensuring that they are properly stationed and maintained before entering active service. PES.

Building together toward a future-proof migration chain in the Caribbean Netherlands

How do you translate policy into visible results in practice? That question was central during the mini-conference “The Caribbean Netherlands Migration Chain: On the Road Together,” which took place on Bonaire on October 23. This year’s annual mini-conference on the migration chain in the Caribbean Netherlands was organised on Bonaire by the Public Entity Bonaire, IND CN, and the Directorate for Migration Policy of the Ministry of Asylum and Migration. During the conference, the transition from vision and policy to implementation in the areas of migration, border control, and return processes for foreign nationals was the central theme. Participants from the migration chain in the Caribbean Netherlands, policymakers, and the public entities of the Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba jointly explored how border control can be further strengthened, what measures are needed to keep migration in balance with the capacity of society, and how return procedures can be arranged in a humane and efficient way. There was also attention for cooperation in exceptional circumstances, such as in the event of a disproportionately high influx of migrants. In working sessions per island, participants developed emergency scenarios. This approach ensures that work is done not only on policy, but also on practical and operational agreements that strengthen the islands’ resilience and response capacity. Thus, the mini-conference offered more than just substantive depth. It provided a tangible moment of connection between policy and practice and a joint step toward a sustainable and future-proof migration policy in the Caribbean Netherlands. RCN.

Minor crashes into police car

On Thursday, the 16 th of October, around 3:30 PM, a collision occurred between a scooter and a police vehicle on Pasture Street on Saba. The scooter driver, who turned out to be a minor, was driving at high speed and was ordered to stop by means of a stop sign. Due to the high speed, the driver was unable to stop in time. He lost control of the steering wheel, causing him to collide with the service vehicle. The scooter was confiscated. The minor’s parents have been notified and the driver will be fined for all the offenses he committed. In accordance with the ‘botsen is blazen’ policy, a breathalyzer test was administered with both drivers, with a negative result. KPCN.

Saba’s awareness Grows with Major Media Coverage

The island of Saba continues to make waves on the international stage with widespread media coverage during the third quarter of 2025. From global television broadcasts to top-tier digital and print features, Saba’s profile as a premier Caribbean destination for adventure, nature, and sustainability continues to grow. This quarter, Saba generated 35 earned media placements and 19 social media placements, reaching an impressive 143 million+ people worldwide. Broadcast Saba was featured on an episode of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, highlighting the island’s vibrant marine biodiversity and unique underwater experiences that continue to attract divers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Digital Saba earned a diverse range of coverage across leading digital outlets, including: • NationalGeographic.com — Saba’s first feature in over 80 years, celebrating its natural beauty and adventurous appeal. • Travel + Leisure — recognition among the best Caribbean hotels, underscoring the island’s growing hospitality offerings. • Islands.com — included in a roundup of underrated Caribbean islands worth exploring. • LonelyPlanet.com — featured in a Caribbean island-hopping guide, reinforcing Saba’s appeal for mindful travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility. Print Saba was showcased in a six-page feature in Scuba Diving Magazine, offering readers an in-depth look at the island’s pristine reefs, dramatic topography, and unmatched dive experiences. Social Media Visibility for the island was amplified by global travel accounts such as @NYTimesTravel and @NatGeoTravel, who promoted their digital coverage to millions of followers. Marine biologist and content creator Andriana Fragola (@Andriana_Marine) also highlighted Saba’s Shark Week feature across her platforms, further expanding awareness and engagement. “As awareness of Saba continues to grow, we are encouraged by the international recognition the island is receiving across respected media outlets,” said the Saba Tourist Bureau. “This quarter’s coverage not only showcases Saba’s stunning natural environment and warm hospitality but also reinforces its reputation as one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.” The Saba Tourist Bureau would like to thank Diamond PR and all partners whose collaboration and dedication have helped elevate Saba’s visibility in 2025. Your continued efforts play a vital role in sharing Saba’s unique story with audiences around the world. PES.

Agriculture program continues at the Hydroponics Farm for Saba Comprehensive School

Saba Grows (The Hydroponics farm at Rendez-Vous), and the Saba Comprehensive School are continuing the school program to provide hands-on gardening education for students in the lower forms and PrO classes. Following a successful first year, the program has returned for the new school year for students to explore the world of agriculture and sustainable farming. Through weekly sessions at the Hydroponics Farm, students are introduced to both the traditional basics of plant care and the modern innovations that hydroponic systems bring to farming. This dual approach gives students insight into how agriculture is evolving, while also proving the basic essential skills to grow and care for plants in traditional farming. A key component of the program this year is the introduction of class projects. Each class is responsible for setting up, sowing, planting, and maintaining its own raised garden bed. The collaboration has also expanded beyond the classroom. Several students are now completing their job-shadowing requirements at the Hydroponics Farm, where they gain first-hand experience in the daily operations of a working agricultural initiative. Through this school project, students at the Saba Comprehensive School are exposed to the principles of farming and sustainability, inspiring curiosity and enthusiasm for the agricultural field. PES.  

Caribbean Netherlands: Inflation Eases in Third Quarter of 2025

In the third quarter of 2025, consumer goods and services on Bonaire were 3.3 percent more expensive year-on-year. In Q2, inflation was 5.3 percent. Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reports this on the basis of the consumer price index for the Caribbean Netherlands. Prices on Saba in Q3 were up 3.5 percent compared with the same quarter last year, down from 4.2 percent in Q2. Inflation on St Eustatius stood at 1.9 percent in Q3, compared with 1.1 percent in Q2. Prices on Bonaire down 0.8 percent quarter-on-quarter In Q3 2025, prices on Bonaire fell 0.8 percent compared with Q2 2025. This decrease was mainly due to prices for housing, water and energy, which fell 6.4 percent on average. Prices for water supply and electricity fell 29.0 percent and 6.9 percent, respectively. This decline resulted from the reintroduction of drinking water and energy subsidies in the third quarter, after they had been discontinued at the beginning of 2025. Prices for food products and non-alcoholic beverages in Q3 were 1.6 percent higher than in Q2. Passenger transport by air became 12.8 percent more expensive. Prices on Saba also decreased On Saba, prices fell 0.1 percent in Q3 2025 compared with Q2 2025. This was mainly due to prices for housing, water and energy, which fell as they did on Bonaire. Electricity prices fell 11.3 percent as a result of the reintroduction of the energy subsidy, while prices for water supply fell 10.6 percent. Prices for clothing and footwear increased 3.2 percent compared with Q2, particularly for children’s and women’s clothing and men’s trousers. Prices for food products and non-alcoholic beverages rose 1.2 percent, mainly due to higher prices for fresh vegetables. Prices on St Eustatius up 1.0 percent quarter-on-quarter On St Eustatius, consumer prices rose 1.0 percent in Q3 compared with Q2. Clothing and footwear became 3.4 percent more expensive. As on Saba, the largest price increases were seen in women’s and children’s clothing, men’s trousers and men’s shoes. Food products and non-alcoholic beverages were 1.2 percent more expensive, mainly due to higher prices for fresh fruit and vegetables. Water and electricity became cheaper compared with Q2. As on Bonaire, this was caused by the reintroduction of drinking water and energy subsidies, which had been discontinued earlier this year. CBS

Legal Desk day: Wednesday, 29 October

I will be in Saba again on Wednesday, 29 October, for another legal desk day. Book your spot now for a free legal consultation between 10:00 AM and 4:30PM at the BMS building in Windward Side! Book a spot on our website: www.sabalegaldesk.com or send an email to emmely@sabalegaldesk.com Background info at https://saba-news.com/foundation-for-legal-aid-and-equal-treatment-established-in-the-caribbean-netherlands/ Saba Legal Desk

Decree on Price Indication of Products in Saba

Public Entity Saba is pleased to announce the introduction of the Decree on the Indication of Prices for Products on Saba, which will take effect on March 1, 2026. Businesses have a grace period until that date to implement systems to meet the requirements mentioned in the decree. This decree has been developed with a focus on consumer protection, aiming to enhance transparency in commercial transactions and ensure that consumers are fully informed about the prices of the products they purchase. With this implementation, retailers are required to display the price of each item clearly and provide receipts that describe each product, accompanied by its corresponding price. The overarching goal of this measure is to foster transparency, benefiting both consumers and retailers alike. The Decree reads as follows: EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Decision No. 001/2025Date: September 2, 2025 ISLAND DECREE CONTAINING GENERAL MEASURES REGARDING THE PRICE INDICATION OF PRODUCTS OFFERED TO CONSUMERS (Island Decree on Price Indication of Products Saba) THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL OF THE PUBLIC ENTITY OF SABA, Taking into consideration:That consumers benefit from clear price indications. Having regard to:Article 2, Section 4 of the BES Prices Act. HAS DECIDED:To establish the following Island Resolution containing general measures: Article 1 — Definitions For the purposes of this decision, the following definitions shall apply: Consumer: any natural person who buys a product for purposes not covered by his trade, profession, or business. Product sold loose: a product that is not pre-packaged and is measured or weighed in the presence of the consumer. Unit price: the price per unit of measurement used in the sale of a product, including sales tax and all other taxes. Selling price: the final price for a unit of a product or a given quantity of a product, including sales tax and all other taxes. Seller: any natural or legal person who offers products for sale to consumers in the course of his trade, profession, or business. Article 2 — Units of Measurement The price per unit of measurement shall be expressed in one of the following units or their decimal multiples or fractions:a. Where the quantity of a product is indicated in volume: 1 cubic meter or 1 liter (the unit 0.1 liter may also be represented as 1 deciliter, 10 centiliters, or 100 milliliters);b. Where the quantity of a product is indicated in weight: 1 ton, 1 kilogram, or 100 grams;c. Where the quantity of a product is indicated in length: 1 meter;d. Where the quantity of a product is indicated in area: 1 square meter. Where a pre-packaged product consisting of a solid component and a pouring liquid is marked with the draining weight, the indication of the unit price shall refer to the solid component of the product. Article 3 — Indication of Prices A seller may offer a product, or a sample with which a product is offered for sale, only if it bears an indication of the selling price and the price per unit of measurement. The selling price and the unit price need not be indicated for products listed in Annex I. Notwithstanding paragraph 1, the unit price need not be stated if:a. the unit price of a product is identical to the selling price; orb. the product is sold in a manner described in Annex II. Notwithstanding paragraph 1, the selling price need not be indicated on products sold in bulk. Article 4 — Display of Prices The indication of the selling price and the unit price of a product or sample shall be made on, in, or near the product or sample, or on the packaging or object in which it is contained. Each price indication must clearly show which product it refers to. The indication of the selling price and the unit price:a. is comprehensible and unambiguous;b. is expressed in U.S. dollars;c. contains, where necessary, the relevant sales unit; andd. is clearly legible at close range after a superficial examination, unless displayed as referred to in paragraph 3. If a product or sample is displayed in a window, the selling price must be clearly legible from outside the window. Article 5 — Advertisements If a seller offering products to consumers in an advertisement announces the selling price or unit price, Articles 2, 3, and 4(2) of this Decree shall apply. Article 6 — Price Reductions In announcements of price reductions, the seller shall indicate the lowest selling price applied by him during a period of at least thirty (30) days before the price reduction. Notwithstanding paragraph 1, for perishable products or those with a limited shelf life, the seller may indicate the selling price applied immediately prior to the reduction. In cases of progressive price reductions, the seller may, for up to three (3) calendar months after the first reduction, indicate the lowest price applied during at least thirty (30) days prior to the first reduction. If a product has been on the market for less than thirty (30) days, the seller may indicate the lowest selling price during a period specified by the seller. Article 7 — Receipts The seller shall provide an invoice or receipt to the buyer immediately upon completion of the sale. The invoice or receipt shall include at least: a description of each product sold; and the selling price of each product. Article 8 — Entry into Force This decision shall take effect on March 1, 2026. Article 9 — Citation This decree may be cited as the Island Decree on Price Indication of Products Saba. Thus established and signed on October 17, 2025. The Executive Council of the Public Entity of Saba Island Governor Acting Island Secretary J. G. A. Johnson, M.Ed. M. van Duin Published: October 15, 2025Governor: J. G. A. Johnson, M.Ed. ANNEX I (Appended to Article 3, paragraph 2, of the Saba Price Indication Decree) The selling price and unit price need not be indicated for:A. Antiquities.B. Products designed or substantially manufactured as individual works by an artist.C. Products offered for sale at auction.D. Products provided with a […]

Foundation for Legal Aid and Equal Treatment established in the Caribbean Netherlands

For the first time, Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba will have a physical location where residents can go for free information, advice, and support concerning legal issues and discrimination. The foundation that will offer these services has now been officially established. The foundation’s local name on Bonaire is Lokèt Hurídiko, while on St. Eustatius and Saba it is called Legal Desk. This foundation serves as a structural continuation of the successful Legal Desk pilot project, which has been operational on Saba for a long time and recently began operating on St. Eustatius as well. At this new foundation, you will soon be able to: Receive information and advice on legal matters, such as conflicts with an employer, issues concerning rent, or family affairs. Report discrimination that you experience, for instance, when you are treated unequally because of your background (origin) or a disability. This is an important step to ensure that everyone in the Caribbean part of the Netherlands receives the same protection as in the European Netherlands. What happens next? In the coming months, the foundation will hire staff and set up locations on the three islands. The goal is to strengthen the legal protection of residents, so that you know where to go with legal problems or concerns. The service will start in the first half of 2026. As soon as the locations for the desks and the opening hours are known, they will be shared with the public, including via https://www.rijksdienstcn.com/. Who will lead the Foundation? With the establishment, the first faces of the foundation are also known. Suhendra Leon, who has extensive experience in the field of legal protection, has been appointed as the Executive Director. Additionally, a Supervisory Board has been formed with Shirma Rouse, Reza Asgarali, and Marga Buys-Trimp serving as its Chair. Executive Director Suhendra Leon   With the new Anti-Discrimination Protection Act for Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba, the National Institute for Human Rights Caribbean Netherlands will also be given a role in assessing discrimination cases on the islands. This means that residents can submit a request to the Institute to assess whether discrimination has occurred in their situation. Min. BZK

ACM Introduces New Tariff Method to Accelerate Sustainable Electricity

Effective January 1, 2026 | Six-year regulatory period The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has established a new regulatory method for setting maximum electricity and drinking water tariffs on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. This updated framework introduces stronger incentives for sustainable electricity production while maintaining consumer protection. The new regulatory method will govern tariff-setting from 2026 through 2031, providing a stable framework for utility planning and investment in sustainable infrastructure. What’s Changing The new method replaces the current regulatory framework, which has been in effect since 2020. Key updates include: Enhanced Sustainability Incentives Utility companies will receive additional encouragement to transition from oil-based electricity generation to renewable energy sources. While production method choices remain with the utility companies, the ACM has identified significant opportunities for improvement across all three islands. Continued Oil Price Adjustments The ACM will continue adjusting electricity tariffs semi-annually (July 1st) to reflect volatile oil prices, which remain a major cost component. Drinking water tariffs will not receive interim adjustments, as oil prices have minimal impact on water production costs. Current State of Renewable Energy Sustainable electricity production varies across the islands: Bonaire: ~25% renewable (wind and solar) St. Eustatius: ~50% renewable (solar) Saba: ~30% renewable (solar) These figures demonstrate substantial room for growth in renewable energy adoption. Increased sustainable electricity production delivers multiple advantages: Price Stability: Reduced exposure to volatile international oil markets Lower Long-term Costs: Decreased dependence on expensive fossil fuels Environmental Protection: Reduced carbon emissions and climate impact Energy Security: Greater independence from imported fuel sources ACM