WILLEMSTAD - The decision by parliamentarian Steven Croes to vote against one of two proposed 150-florin bonuses for welfare recipients has drawn significant attention. However, the real motivation behind his decision—focused on providing long-term solutions for this group—has not been highlighted. Welfare recipients are currently set to receive one bonus this December, with the contested vote concerning a second bonus in January.
Croes explained that allocating funds for the second bonus, estimated to cost nearly 900,000 florins, could instead be invested in a professional employment guidance program. Such a program would assist the approximately 5,800 welfare recipients in Curaçao to secure stable employment, ultimately improving their lives more significantly and sustainably than a one-time payment.
He emphasized that while the proposed bonuses provide temporary relief, long-term strategies could foster lasting positive changes for this vulnerable group. Investing in initiatives that help recipients achieve financial independence aligns more closely with his vision for progress.
Croes expressed regret that his argument, rooted in positivity and foresight for the 5,800 citizens in need, was taken out of context. He clarified that his vote against the bonus was driven by a genuine desire to support these individuals in achieving lasting improvements, rather than short-term fixes.
“This is not about making decisions to win votes,” Croes stated. “It’s about voting according to my conscience and focusing on real solutions that provide the community with long-term opportunities and perspectives in life.”