WILLEMSTAD – The tax office on Regentesselaan may pose safety risks, according to Member of Parliament Ruisandro Cijntje (PNP), who is demanding urgent clarification from Finance Minister Javier Silvania. Cijntje warns that both employees and visitors could be at risk if concerns about the building’s safety prove accurate.

In a letter dated September 18, Cijntje confronted the minister with six critical questions regarding potential hazards. He asked why the building remains open despite warnings and stressed that, as an employer, the minister has a legal duty of care to safeguard the health and safety of civil servants under his authority.

Possible Negative Fire Safety Report

One of Cijntje’s pointed questions referred to the fire department: what happens if the fire service issues a written advisory stating a building is unsafe, yet the minister still allows it to operate?

He also highlighted the scenario in which a minister knowingly exposes employees and the public to danger without notifying Parliament or those affected. Ignoring expert advice, Cijntje argued, amounts to a breach of good governance. He further asked which articles of criminal law could apply to government officials who knowingly endanger public safety.

Right to Information for Employees

Cijntje stressed that employers are obligated to inform their staff about known safety risks. He added that public events should not take place in an unsafe building without prior warning.

According to the MP, anyone entering the potentially unsafe tax office has the right to file a formal complaint.

The situation has raised concern for both Tax Office employees and the citizens who visit the building daily. Cijntje is demanding written answers from the finance minister without delay.