Saba News News and Information from Saba Island, Dutch Caribbean
- July 1, 2026
Public Entity Newsletter No 24 – June 2026
There is political will to make flights between St. Eustatius, Saba and St. Maarten cheaper, Minister Vincent Karremans (Infrastructure and Water Management) assured the House of Representatives late Tuesday evening. Whether the money to make that happen can actually be found, however, remains far less certain, according to the website Dossier Koninkrijkszaken. The assurance came during a House debate on introducing a so-called Public Service Obligation (PSO) between the islands. “Having a law that makes something possible doesn’t mean it will actually happen,” one MP said during the debate. “So I’m not yet reassured, but this matters, and the islands have been asking for it for a long time. Can the Minister explain when he’ll decide whether to use this legal option? To me, it’s ultimately a question of political will.” Karremans responded that a decision is expected this autumn. “In principle, I will decide this autumn whether to make use of the legal option for the PSO. The only real showstopper I see is whether the resources become available. That’s the sole condition. I intend to proceed with the project, provided the funding is there. The annual cost of implementing the scheme is estimated at 3.8 to 7.6 million dollars. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is unwilling to cover this itself and instead argues the funds should come from the 30 million dollars set aside in the coalition agreement to strengthen social security in the Caribbean Netherlands. How that money is ultimately divided will be decided as part of the Autumn Memorandum. Karremans also stressed that any support scheme would be temporary. “How long would the subsidy measure run? A PSO is valid for a maximum of five years. It can be extended, but that has to be reassessed each time. So the duration is five years. This is a temporary measure, not a permanent one.” The debate showed that the bill has broad support and is likely to pass by a large majority in the upcoming vote. Even so, its actual implementation may take time. “The details will of course depend on the exploratory study we’re still working on,” the minister said. Dossier Koninkrijkszaken
The countdown to the 50th anniversary of Saba Carnival officially began on Saturday, June 27th, with Saba Tourism’s Road to Carnival event in Windwardside. As the first event in Carnival in the Village, the evening brought together residents and visitors to celebrate the start of this year’s milestone Carnival season. The event featured entertainment from local DJs DJ Noah and DJ Slim, followed by a special performance by Child Focus and an energetic set from Saba’s own Entyce Band, who had the crowd full of energy and high spirits. Guest DJ Maestro from St. Maarten closed out the evening with a lively set that capped off the night. Local vendors offered a wide selection of food and drinks throughout the event for attendees to enjoy. One of the night’s highlights was the annual Jungle Juice Competition. Ian Hassell took home this year’s title for first place as well as crowd favorite, with Stanford Johnson placing second and Gideon Wilson finishing third. The Road to Carnival event was a great success in helping get everyone into the Carnival spirit for the weeks ahead, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable 50th anniversary celebration. The Saba Tourist Bureau wishes to thank everyone who contributed to the event success, including all participating vendors, entertainers, and the participants in the Jungle Juice Competition. A special thank you goes to the sponsors of the Jungle Juice Competition: Juliana’s Hotel, Tropics Café, Makana Ferry, Winair, Jewel Cottage, Island Paradise, and Brigadoon Restaurant. The Carnival in the Village series continues on Saturday, July 4th, in St. John’s, followed by the final village event in The Bottom on Saturday, July 11th. These community events continue to build anticipation while bringing Carnival celebrations to villages across the island. The official 50th Anniversary Saba Carnival will take place from July 24th through August 2nd, featuring a full schedule of cultural events, live entertainment, and parades. As Saba marks this important milestone, residents and visitors alike can join in celebrating 50 years of Carnival, culture, and community. PES
- June 30, 2026
Fire Department Caribbean Netherlands supports Saba SAR foundation with vehicle transfer
The Fire Department Caribbean Netherlands (Brandweerkorps Caribisch Nederland) has officially donated a Ford Ranger pickup truck to the Saba Search and Rescue (SAR) Foundation, thereby strengthening the organization’s capacity in support of emergency response and rescue operations on the island. The official handover took place at the fire station in The Bottom, where local fire chief Julio Every presented the vehicle keys to SAR skipper and coordinator Nicholas Johnson. Prior to the transfer, all official fire department markings, emergency striping, numbering, light bars, and related equipment were removed in preparation for the vehicle’s new role to the SAR fleet. Hans Schreuder, ‘Director of the Saba Statia Search and Rescue Foundation’, welcomed the donation and noted that the vehicle will be repainted in SAR colors and undergo any necessary maintenance before being placed into operational service. The Fire Department Caribbean Netherlands expressed confidence that the truck will be put to good use, thereby strengthening Saba’s maritime search-and-rescue capabilities and further supporting emergency response for the local community. RCN.
- June 29, 2026
Police Conducts Routine Traffic Check on J.Z. Ridge Road
Between Friday 26 June and Monday 29 June 2026, the Saba Police Force carried out a scheduled traffic control operation on J.Z. Ridge Road as part of ongoing efforts to promote road safety and compliance with traffic regulations. During the checkpoint held on Friday, officers stopped and inspected 17 vehicles. According to the police, all drivers had their documents in order, and no violations were recorded during the operation. The police emphasize that similar checks will continue to take place regularly across the island. Drivers who fail to comply with traffic laws or who do not have the required documentation risk receiving a fine. The force encourages all motorists to ensure their vehicle papers are up to date and to follow traffic rules at all times to maintain safety on Saba’s roads.
From Stories to Screen In April, the Sea&Learn Foundation brought their Heritage Advisory Committee together for a special evening of celebration at the Scenery Hotel—marking not only the incredible contributions of our committee members but also the official premiere of our Adopt-A-Box documentary. With 45 guests in attendance, they filled the event with great food, drinks, and a shared sense of accomplishment after months of collaboration. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G06khwnXI5c The highlight of the evening was the first screening of the documentary, which beautifully captures the stories, voices, and community spirit behind the project. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing how proud they felt to see their island’s heritage brought to life on screen. You can now watch the documentary here. Sea&Learn Foundation
- June 29, 2026
Undermining crime approach for BES
The approach to undermining crime in the Caribbean Netherlands is increasingly taking shape. This is stated in the 2025 annual report of the Regional Information and Expertise Centres (RIEC) and the National Information and Expertise Center LIEC. Dutch Minister of Justice and Security David van Weel sent the annual report, along with an explanatory note, to the House of Representatives. “In 2025, the focus was on the completion of the pioneering phase of the RIEC Caribbean Netherlands partnership, and work was done towards further professionalisation and the sustainable embedding of working methods. Together with partners, an evaluation was conducted of what has been achieved and what has proven necessary to arrive at a structurally anchored RIEC CN from 2029 onwards,” wrote the VVD minister. A programme plan has been adopted for the period 2026-2028, funded by the ministry. The RIECs and the LIEC focus on so-called undermining crime, i.e., illegal activities involving the use of legal companies and government services. In Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (BES islands). Meetings were organised, among other things, to raise awareness about the issue. In addition, inspections were carried out in the hospitality industry, retail sector, airports and harbours. “At Bonaire airport, the inspections resulted in the discovery of several individuals carrying more than the permitted amount of cash — more than 10,000 dollars — upon departure. On Sint Eustatius, marijuana was found in the suitcase of an arriving ferry passenger, after which an immediate arrest was made,” stated the report. Van Weel also mentioned the approach in the Caribbean Netherlands in his explanatory notes. The first pilot phase has been completed, so that the fight against crime is now becoming structural, he wrote. In total, the RIECs took action over 800 times in the European and Caribbean Netherlands in 2025. The actions were aimed at tackling drug trafficking, money laundering and interference in administrative matters. The related criminal assets amounted to over 483 million euros. The Daily Herald.
A ceremony was held this morning at the Mount Scenery tower site to mark the significant progress that has been made on the construction of the new tower. In attendance were Island Governor Jonathan Johnson, Admiral Jan Willem Hartman, Commander of the Material and IT Command (COMMIT), representatives from the Ministry of Defence, HANAB, Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, the Saba Conservation Foundation, and other representatives of the Public Entity Saba. The event highlighted the successful installation of the first section of the radar tower which took place on June 15, 2026. That moment marked a major milestone in the project. Work on the second section is in progress, however recent weather conditions have hindered helicopter operations. Opening the ceremony, Island Governor Johnson expressed his appreciation to all project partners and contractors, including the Ministry of Defence, HANAB, the Saba Conservation Foundation, Coast Guard, engineers, and everyone who had contributed to bringing the project to life. “Your professionalism, dedication, and expertise will result in a facility that will serve an important national purpose for many years to come,” said Governor Johnson. He added, “Building this facility on Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is both fitting and symbolic. From this unique place, Saba continues to contribute to the strength, resilience, and security of the entire Kingdom.” Admiral Hartman also expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the project, acknowledging the collaboration and dedication that have made the project possible. He also took a moment to recognize the many individuals who worked tirelessly during the recent search for Erik Matthijsen, who was part of the HANAB team. “Above all, my thoughts remain with Erik’s family, friends, and colleagues,” said Admiral Hartman. Admiral Hartman further acknowledged Governor Johnson’s years of dedicated service to Saba, and particularly his leadership during the search efforts, saying “You have shown that leadership is not about standing above people, but standing alongside them.” Speaking on the importance of the project, Admiral Hartman noted, “This radar tower is more than steel and technology. It will become part of a modern radar chain that strengthens maritime awareness across the Caribbean region… May [this tower] serve Saba well. May it strengthen our cooperation on future projects across the islands. And may it remind us that whatever challenges lie ahead, we will face them together.” During the ceremony, the Ministry of Defence, together with HANAB, presented Governor Johnson with a plaque in recognition of his 18 years of dedicated service, unwavering commitment, and continued cooperation with the Ministry towards strengthening safety in the region. The recognition also honoured his diligent leadership and tireless commitment during the search for Mr. Matthijsen. For these reasons, the Ministry of Defence used the plaque to name the tower after Governor Johnson. The Public Entity Saba extends its sincere gratitude to all the teams, contractors, and partners whose hard work, professionalism, and dedication have made this project possible, and who continue to work steadfastly toward its completion. PES.
The Public Entity is aware of the concerns expressed by members of the community following the euthanasia of a stray dog in The Bottom earlier today. Over recent months, Public Entity, together with veterinarians and other personnel, attempted to safely capture and remove the dog from the area using non-lethal methods. These efforts included locating the dog, attempting sedation using specialized equipment (dart gun), and establishing a regular feeding routine to gradually gain the dog’s trust so it could be safely sedated and removed. Despite these repeated efforts, the dog remained too wary for anyone to successfully approach or capture it. During this period, concerns regarding public safety were raised. After careful consideration of the circumstances and the options available, the decision was made to euthanize the animal in accordance with the 2013 Dog Ordinance. Local animal handlers developed the plan to do so in consultation with expert invasive species hunters, the police, and the Department of Public Order and Safety. A veterinarian was involved in Wednesday’s assessment and planning and was present during the operation this morning. Following the euthanasia, the dog was examined, scanned for a microchip, and its overall condition was documented before the body was safely removed and disposed of. We understand that questions have also been raised regarding the collar the dog was wearing. While the collar suggested the dog belonged to someone, no owner came forward during the period the dog was being monitored. The dog was unmicrochipped and unknown to veterinary services, so identifying an owner through available veterinarian records was impossible. We understand that many residents are saddened and distressed by this outcome and that the photographs shared on social media have further added to the emotions of our community. Decisions involving the welfare of animals are never taken lightly, and we recognize the strong emotions this matter has generated. The Public Entity remains committed to both public safety and responsible animal welfare. We will continue working with the relevant partners to strengthen the management of stray animals. We appreciate that members of the community care deeply about the welfare of animals. While opinions may differ regarding this decision, we respectfully ask that discussions remain constructive and respectful toward everyone involved. Link to Ordinance: https://lokaleregelgeving.overheid.nl/CVDR354126/1?fbclid=IwdGRjcASqFEhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeKClmPYRTHCrzkNOfTAcbefNwHo7CfKnTI0m3zMT51vvlInwXcFwTjWeScMs_aem_8ukEvv3HBQ-HN6gjU20M4A PES Automated translation to English:
