Over one million euros for organisations in priority neighbourhoods
On 19 June, in the courtyard of the Prefecture, representatives of the State, the Collectivité and fifty associations gathered for a ceremony marking the signing of the Republican Commitment Contract. In the presence of Prefect Cyrille Le Vély and President Louis Mussington, this event provided an opportunity to honour the organisations receiving grants under the urban policy
Introduced by the Act of 24 August 2021, the Republican Commitment Agreement sets out the fundamental principles to which organisations receiving public funding must adhere. Signatory organisations undertake, in particular, to uphold the values of liberty, equality, fraternity and secularism. Whilst signing this agreement is already a requirement when applying for grants, it is the first time an official ceremony has been held for this purpose in Saint-Martin. Beyond its symbolic significance, the event above all highlighted the importance of the voluntary sector in priority neighbourhoods. “We are not just signing pieces of paper today; we are signing a promise to the children of Saint-Martin,” said Louis Mussington, paying tribute to “partners” whose day-to-day work contributes to social cohesion in the area.
Funding to support local initiatives
This year, the State and the Collectivité are jointly allocating more than one million euros to fund around a hundred initiatives in the island’s priority neighbourhoods. This funding is directed at both community organisations and schools operating in the areas targeted by urban policy. Prefect Cyrille Le Vély pointed out that this financial support is awarded following calls for proposals. He also highlighted the introduction of multi-year funding schemes to provide associations with greater resources. “This event is designed to put you in the spotlight, to showcase what you do and to demonstrate that we support your work,” insisted the government representative. Through this ceremony, the institutional partners paid tribute to the commitment of community organisations to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community. This work is essential for reducing inequalities and strengthening social cohesion in Saint Martin.
