WILLEMSTAD - In the third quarter of the year, 14 out of 21 Members of Parliament (MPs) in Curaçao attended all eight parliamentary meetings, which included five public sessions and three Central Committee meetings. This was revealed in the third-quarter report of the Parliament, which reviews its activities over the period.
High Attendance Among Coalition Members
The high attendance rate was primarily observed among MPs from the governing coalition. However, while participation in plenary sessions was notable, the report highlighted limited activity within the standing committees. Many committees convened only once or twice during the quarter, with some failing to meet at all, raising concerns about the overall efficiency of parliamentary operations.
Transparency Debate
The report also touched on the ongoing debate about the transparency of committee meetings. While Central Committee meetings are open to the public and broadcast, standing committee sessions are held behind closed doors. Advocates for greater transparency argue that open meetings are essential for democratic accountability. On the other hand, opponents suggest that public access might hinder in-depth discussions with experts.
Impact of Recess on Activity Levels
The report acknowledged that part of the third quarter coincided with the parliamentary recess, which could explain the reduced frequency of committee meetings. Nevertheless, questions persist about the effectiveness of the legislative process, particularly in addressing pressing issues.
As Curaçao's Parliament continues its work, the balance between transparency, efficiency, and active participation remains a focal point for both lawmakers and the public.