WILLEMSTAD - The PAR faction in Parliament has submitted an official request to Parliament President, Charetti America-Francisca, for an urgent public meeting to address what it describes as a "social debacle" involving the housing foundation Fundashon Kas Popular (FKP). 

The letter, dated November 27, 2024, highlights concerns over a recent Court ruling that grants FKP significant legal authority to address unpaid rent arrears. According to the PAR faction, this decision, if not carefully managed, could lead to severe social consequences. 

FKP has reported that over 2,500 tenants have accrued structural rent arrears, with the foundation stating that past administrations failed to address the issue adequately. The ruling, dated November 26, 2024, empowers FKP to take decisive action, potentially evicting thousands of tenants to make room for the 6,000 individuals currently on the housing waiting list. 

"Madam President, I am sure you can imagine the social disaster this could cause," the letter states, calling for responsible government intervention to ensure the ruling is implemented without widespread displacement. 

The PAR faction emphasized the long-standing calls from "Fundashon E Hende," a community advocacy group, to address the poor state of affairs within FKP. The group recently petitioned Parliament to hold a public hearing on the matter. 

In their request, PAR faction members Ana Maria Pauletta, Quincy Girigorie, and Steven Croes have urged Parliament to convene an urgent public meeting under Article 64 of Parliament's Rules of Order. They also called for the participation of the Minister of Traffic, Transport, and Urban Planning (VVRP), Charles Cooper, representatives from FKP, and members of "Fundashon E Hende." 

While acknowledging that inviting external stakeholders to public parliamentary meetings is uncommon, the letter argues that the gravity of the situation necessitates hearing all parties involved to formulate a comprehensive and responsible position. 

“The urgency of this matter cannot be understated. It’s a crisis that demands immediate attention to prevent further harm to vulnerable communities,” the letter concludes. 

The public awaits further developments as Parliament deliberates on the request.