WILLEMSTAD - The political party MAN has voiced strong concerns over the uncertain future of Kinderoorden Brakkeput, a well-known child welfare facility in Curaçao. The party is pressing the interim Minister of Social Development, Labor, and Welfare (SOAW), Javier Silvania, for detailed answers regarding the government's plans for the center.
Giselle Mc William, a representative from MAN, emphasized the party’s commitment to child welfare, criticizing the current government's allocation of funds. She pointed out that while the Pisas administration has found resources to finance projects like prison upgrades, the repurposing of the former brothel ‘Campo,’ and the cancellation of millions in tax debts, it has seemingly neglected support for vital child services like Kinderoorden Brakkeput.
"It’s concerning that the government can allocate funding for various other needs, yet claims to lack resources to support a crucial institution for child welfare," Mc William stated. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing care, health, and protection for children as part of fostering a healthy social development and preventing future societal issues.
The MAN party has submitted a series of 22 questions to the minister, seeking clarification on the government's approach to youth care. The questions cover various aspects, including:
Youth Care Policy and Needs: What is the government's strategy for handling youth care, and what is the current demand for such services?
Structure of the Care System: Can the government provide a detailed overview of the youth care system in Curaçao?
Support and Development of Youth Institutions: Is there an existing policy for maintaining, supporting, or expanding youth facilities like Kinderoorden Brakkeput?
Oversight and Inspection: Which government body is responsible for inspecting the quality of care, and what have recent inspection reports revealed?
Funding Allocation: How much has been allocated to youth care over the past three years, and what are the plans for future funding? Specifically, what financial support has Kinderoorden Brakkeput received, and how many children does this funding cover?
Government Awareness and Response: Was the government aware of the ongoing issues at Kinderoorden Brakkeput, and what measures have been taken to address these challenges?
Subsidy Conditions and Financial Support: What are the conditions for subsidies provided to the facility, and how have they been applied?
Transition Plans if Facility Closes: If Kinderoorden Brakkeput were to close, how will the care and guidance of its children be ensured?
Involvement of Fundashon Guia Eduká i Forma (FGEF): If FGEF, which manages various other boarding schools, were to take over the children from Brakkeput, what would be the integration process, and is there a concrete plan in place?
Job Security for Staff: What assurances are in place for the employment security of Kinderoorden Brakkeput’s staff during this potential transition?
Mc William underscored the need for the government to clarify its stance and actions, highlighting the importance of protecting the welfare of vulnerable children and their families.
"The wellbeing of these young people is paramount, and the government has a responsibility to ensure their safety and development," she added. "We cannot overlook the critical role that facilities like Kinderoorden Brakkeput play in our society. It’s time for the government to be transparent and address these pressing concerns."
The party’s push for answers reflects a broader concern about the future of child welfare services in Curaçao, especially in the face of potential financial constraints and policy shifts. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant implications for the care and support provided to vulnerable children on the island.