GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten — The controversy surrounding the Vie L’Ven luxury development in Indigo Bay continues to raise concern, as statements from VROMI Minister Patrice Gumbs reveal contradictions and shifting narratives that have left many questioning the transparency and direction of the project.
From the start, Minister Gumbs pointed out that the building permit for the project was issued by his predecessor. However, despite voicing concerns about the process, the same building permit was re-issued under his leadership in January 2025, still without an environmental impact assessment.
In February, Minister Gumbs publicly stated that no civil works permit had been granted for the development, giving the impression that critical parts of the project. However, weeks later, the Minister issued a clarification confirming that a civil works permit had in fact been granted in January 2024, covering excavation, land clearing, and road construction. These works were already visibly underway.
MP Lewis noted that the delayed clarification allowed ample time for backlash against the former administration, which the Minister did not rush to correct. “One could reasonably ask whether the delay was convenient,” MP Lewis said. “Instead of providing the public with the full facts right away, the Minister allowed confusion to spread.”
These mixed signals began after Minister Gumbs appeared at a Vie L’Ven promotional event and stated, “This project has Government’s full support. We see this as a partnership.” But following public pressure from various groups concerned about environmental protection, the Minister’s tone quickly shifted. What was once full support became cautious messaging and calls for retroactive assessments, while the project itself continued.
Rather than halting or reviewing the project in light of his own so- called concerns, it appears the development is moving forward with minimal changes.
The contradictions are hard to ignore. The same permits he criticized are being upheld and reinforced. The same project he endorsed is moving full steam ahead. And the blame is being laid at the feet of a former Minister, while the current one continues the course with minimal change.
If the Minster supports the project which he loudly declared initially, he should stand by that instead of using others as a scapegoat to backpedal.
