WILLEMSTAD – The PNP party has outlined its vision for Curaçao’s future ahead of the upcoming elections, emphasizing social security, economic growth, and government transparency. Their proposals range from raising pension benefits to reforming taxation, boosting sustainable energy, and fighting corruption.
Social Policies: Pension and Wages
PNP believes that AOV pensions must be increased, given the rising cost of living. The party suggests importing young workers to balance the system and introducing a special tax on incoming travelers to help finance the fund. The government currently injects 25 million guilders annually into the pension system, but the CFT (Financial Supervision Board) insists it should be self-sustaining.
On minimum wage, PNP supports a sector-based approach, adjusting wages based on age, experience, and job type. The party argues that this would improve purchasing power and increase pension contributions.
Taxation and Economic Reforms
PNP takes a firm stance on tax collection, opposing blanket debt forgiveness for past-due taxes. “It’s unfair to those who have paid on time,” the party states. PNP supports a simplified, fairer tax system, lowering burdens for the middle class and small businesses, while ensuring multinationals pay their fair share. The party also wants to prevent tax avoidance and enhance efficiency at the tax office.
In the tourism sector, PNP prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring revenues benefit local businesses rather than large hotel chains. The party also calls for fairer utility billing for hotels and a revamp of Curaçao’s infrastructure. Additionally, it advocates for tourism companies to financially support education programs in the industry.
On the gambling industry, PNP seeks stricter regulations and transparency to protect Curaçao’s international reputation from money laundering and corruption. This includes taxation and responsible business practices, along with hiring the right professionals to enforce regulations.
Future of the Isla Refinery and Venezuela Relations
PNP envisions a clean-up and redevelopment of the Isla refinery site, which contains buried asbestos and pollution. The party rules out reopening the refinery under current environmental and economic conditions, favoring a shift toward sustainable industries and green energy.
On Venezuela, PNP supports maintaining diplomatic and economic ties while criticizing corruption and human rights violations. The party acknowledges the complexity of balancing pragmatic trade relations with political sensitivities.
Environment and Energy: A Sustainable Future
PNP sees renewable energy as Curaçao’s future, advocating for investment in solar power and a hydrogen energy plant at sea, a project initiated by PNP. The Dutch government is already involved, aiming to align with its own climate goals.
To combat pollution, PNP proposes education programs, recycling investments, and government restructuring to ensure more action-oriented policies rather than excessive advisory roles.
Housing and Infrastructure
PNP supports stricter regulations on new developments to protect nature while ensuring that tourism growth benefits the community. The party criticizes the poorly planned expansion of apartment complexes in areas without proper infrastructure.
For affordable housing, PNP suggests better financing options through local banks and government programs, while also tackling housing speculation. The party calls for social housing improvements, pointing out a lack of investment over the last 30 years.
Education and Healthcare
PNP wants modernized, practical education, with more internships and flexible language instruction (Dutch, Papiamentu, or English). However, language choices must align with students’ future studies.
To address CMC hospital’s financial shortfalls, PNP emphasizes better financial management and regional healthcare collaboration rather than relying on medical tourism as a business model.
On public health, PNP proposes making healthy food more accessible, promoting urban farming, expanding sports programs, and increasing awareness campaigns. The party is open to taxing sugary foods and possibly other unhealthy options.
Anti-Corruption Measures and Governance
PNP views corruption as a major threat, advocating for stricter oversight on government contracts, appointments, and building permits. The party calls for harsher penalties for corrupt officials and stronger control over SOAB, Curaçao’s financial watchdog, which currently lacks independent oversight.
To fund these reforms, PNP proposes improving tax collection, reducing fraud, increasing efficiency in public spending, and leveraging international investment funds.
Conclusion
PNP’s agenda prioritizes economic fairness, social responsibility, and sustainable development. With a strong stance on tax justice, environmental reform, and anti-corruption policies, the party aims to create a more transparent and financially stable Curaçao.
