Minister of ECYS Melissa Gumbs submits new Monument Council candidates to Parliament

GREAT BAY--Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (ECYS) Melissa Gumbs appeared in Parliament today to present the proposed members of the new Monument Council for the 2025–2029 term.

The Minister submitted six names for Parliament’s consideration:

Mrs. Cadula Jones – proposed as Chairperson

Ms. Sharilyn Bryson

Mrs. Alnisha Davis

Mr. Jean Oneli Blaise

Ms. Samira George

Mr. David Richardson

In her remarks, Minister Gumbs said the appointment represents the final step in a process that began after the resignation of the previous council in February 2024. “Following the resignation of the former Monument Council members, a public call for applications was issued in May 2024 via advertisements coordinated by DCOMM on behalf of the Department of Culture,” she said. “After review and evaluation, it was my pleasure to submit to Parliament the proposed candidates for final approval.”

Minister Gumbs explained that the Monument Council plays a central role in the protection and management of Sint Maarten’s cultural heritage. “The Council provides oversight for both public and private monuments, including review and issuance of monument permits related to rebuilding and restoration,” she said.

Chairlady of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams recalled that the formal proposal was received by Parliament on August 29, 2025, and registered as incoming document #1384. She noted that under Article 2 of the National Ordinance on Monuments (AB 2013, GT no. 47), Parliament’s approval is required for the appointment of council members.

Members of Parliament expressed support for the proposal, with no objections or questions raised. The Chairlady informed the House that the advice of the Committee of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sport will now be drafted, after which the appointments will be forwarded to a public meeting of Parliament for formal approval.

Minister Gumbs thanked the Chairlady and Members of Parliament for their cooperation and said she looks forward to seeing the Monument Council resume its work in safeguarding Sint Maarten’s historic and cultural assets.

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