GEBE and KADASTER in serious financial difficulties

PHILIPSBURG — The financial situation of the Kadaster and the island utility company GEBE is said to be in dire straits. According to reliable sources it was stated that the former Minister of Finance Richard F. Gibson had ordered the utility company, which is said to have reserves, to release some thirty million guilders to assist with financial situation of government.

Prime Minister of St. Maarten Leona Marlin when questioned about the financial situation of the company stated at the Council of Ministers press briefing that the government does not have the funds to give back to GEBE. She alluded to the fact that because of the damages to the water tanks and some of their buildings the utility company had to spend their funds to get their house back in order.

She further explained that through the recovery program which was approved by the World Bank the utility company will receive some financial assistance.

With regards to the situation of the Kadaster the Prime Minister Marlin has promised to contact the Minister of Finance Perry Geerlings and the Minister of Public Works Giterson to give an update on the financial situation of that institution.