WILLEMSTAD – The government of Curaçao has approved a one-time gross subsidy of 1,000 guilders per staff member for various institutions, foundations, and federations. This so-called Bashí bonus is intended to recognize and appreciate the efforts of employees throughout 2024.
The decision was made by the Council of Ministers on December 24, with ministerial decrees now finalized and sent to the respective organizations. Payments will be processed in accordance with standard financial procedures. Most institutions are expected to receive the bonus this week, enabling them to begin disbursing funds to their employees.
Implementation
The implementation of the bonus falls under the responsibility of the secretaries-general of the relevant ministries. Sharlon Melfor will oversee the process for the Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN), while Dayanara Roozendal will manage it for the Ministry of Social Development, Labor, and Welfare (SOAW).
Details of the Bashí Bonus
The Bashí bonus is a one-time subsidy disbursed through the institutions. Income tax and social security contributions will be deducted, meaning the net amount received by each employee will vary depending on their total income.
The timing of payments to employees will differ based on the internal processes of each institution.
This bonus serves as an acknowledgment of the critical role employees of subsidized institutions play in Curaçaoan society. The government aims to not only show appreciation but also boost employee motivation through this initiative.
Employees with questions regarding the payout of the Bashí bonus are advised to contact their employers. Institutions with inquiries about the subsidy and ministerial decrees can reach out to the secretaries-general of the respective ministries.