WILLEMSTAD - Several lawmakers have expressed concern about the lack of transparency surrounding the deal between the government and Oryx Midstream, which was finalized at the end of June.  

During a meeting with Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas (MFK) and the management of Refineria di Korsou (RdK), lawmaker Rennox Calmes (TPK) emphasized that there has been significant confusion due to conflicting reports in the media. He urged the government to provide the public with accurate information and address the concerns. According to Calmes, it is crucial that the population is fully and honestly informed about the deal. 

Lawmaker Steven Martina (MAN-PIN) joined Calmes’ call and expressed his disappointment over the absence of a presentation by the minister. He questioned why there is no clarity regarding the resumption of the refining process and the financial sustainability of the refinery. 

Notably, political party KEM, led by Michelangelo ‘Low’ Martines, and independent lawmaker Zita Jesus-Leito, have shifted their stance. While they previously supported making the deal with Oryx public as opposition parties, they now appear to oppose transparency after joining the coalition. 

Lawmaker Frenciss Lourens (MFK) also called for more information and criticized the government for its poor communication with the public. He raised questions about the details of the deal and the employment it will generate. Lourens wants to know how many employees currently work at the refinery, what the future prospects are, and whether certain waste processes are related to refining. 

Despite the criticism, Lourens stressed that the government is taking steps to stimulate Curaçao’s economy, with the hope of making the refinery operational again.