St. Maarten: TEATT Ministry commends the Caribbean Cinemas on Megaplex 7 reopening
From Government of Sint Maarten
Economic Affairs Minister Stuart Johnson has lauded the grand reopening of the Caribbean Cinemas Megaplex 7 in St. Maarten a “much needed economic activity generator for our economy.”
In a press release issued Wednesday, July 4, Minister Johnson commended the operators of Megaplex 7, on behalf of his Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic & Telecommunications, TEATT, for their demonstrated commitment to reopening and supporting the local economy. “The Movie Theatre was extensively damaged by hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 and left both French and Dutch St. Maarten without the coveted outlet of ‘movie nights’ with friends and family.
Minister Johnson said, “This is excellent news for a change in St. Maarten particularly as we are recovering from the devastation caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria ten months ago.”
He said, “The Cinema is an example of rebuilding towards a “sustainable St. Maarten.” He also said that it demonstrates that St. Maarten as a tourism product is once again offering other entertainment activities unique to this sub region. Johnson said, “The Cinema is not only important to our residents but also the visitors to both halves of the island as well as Anguila and St. Barths.”
The night life in St. Maarten is further returning and that is what has always positioned St. Maarten differently from the other islands in the region.
He said, “The reopening of the Megaplex 7 means that some of our people who lost their jobs after hurricanes can go back to work.”
Minister Johnson said it was important that the ministry of TEATT with responsibility for Economic Affairs pointed out that the confidence expressed in our economy by Caribbean Cinemas, and other businesses is “heartfelt,” as many of them could have fled after St. Maarten was devastated but they have stayed with us, and for that we are truly grateful.”
Johnson said the reopening of Megaplex 7 would have positive economic spinoffs for other businesses as more people will come out to the movies and once they leave they would want to patronize the other establishments including bars and restaurants.
Johnson said the reopening of the Movie Theatre was “encouraging and positive news” considering St. Maarten’s very challenging economic period.
