Blockade Temporarily Over
The shutdown of north St. Martin shouldn't come as a surprise. The organizers gave a forewarning in early August that this day would come. After the court gave a ruling in favor of the local government (Collectivité) the labour union UNI.T 978 Secretary-General Albert Blake, stated a more intense disturbance will come; which we witnessed on September 3. Another announcement was given by the union and collaborators of the protest on August 30th.
The march in Marigot brought protestors who rallied against the mandatory vaccinations issued by the State of France for hospital employees, sanitary pass (vaccination certificate), lack of consultation with district council ( relating to Sandy Ground bridge renovation), the Rudy Webster property issue, and land titles.
The blockade related to the Webster property battle. The protesters made two stops; one at the Hôtel de la Collectivité and the second at the Préfecture, where the delegation presented their grievances. Further action will be determined by the response they receive.
How we got here
The protest that took place goes back two months. The union UNI.T 978 began their demonstration by blocking the Hôtel de la Collectivité. Their reason for doing so is primarily for the removal of the Director-General of Services (DGS) Christiane Ayache. It was part of the list of over 20 grievances the union presented to the President, Daniel Gibbs.
The union and Gibbs met several times but proved unsuccessful. The demonstration led to the Collectivité taking the union to court to remove their blockade. While the court ruled in favour of the Collectivité it did not stop the efforts of the unions to continue their protest.
Increased Support
The efforts of UNI.T 978 received backing from other local movements such as the Soualiga Grass Roots Movement and Soualiga United Collective. They also supported the removal of Ayache because of complaints that she's built her staff of only French Europeans. There are also claims of disrespect against local civil servants, abuse of workers' rights, and misspending of public funds. The group of organizations call themselves the Collectif. They met with the Préfet (representative of French state) Serge Gouteyron Friday evening but preferred meeting with Gibbs since their main concern was related to local matters.
Pending Solution
Gouteyron still met with them regarding state affairs and a meeting has been scheduled for Monday, September 6 to continue discussions with Gibbs. Their hope was to settle the dispute by sunset which did not take place. While the intent was to maintain the blockade, the roads are now open. Many who were stuck in the north or south of St. Martin was free to return home after spending hours in traffic. Some left their cars and crossed the border on foot. Whether the blockade will reoccur A total dismantlement of the blockade can not be determined until next week's meeting.
