Damen did not keep promises made in 2017

WILLEMSTAD - Damen Shiprepair Curaçao has lost the confidence of contractors and financial institutions. The company has not kept any of the promises it made in 2017. This is apparent from a letter dated 10 May from Minister Ruisandro Cijntje of Economic Development to the President of Parliament Charetti America-Francisca.

Cijntje answers questions from MFK Member of Parliament Maria Nita. The first two years after Damen starts operating the Curaçao dock are still 'very positive'. “All financial institutions were ready to finance the company's projects,” Cijntje writes. But from 2019, things take a wrong turn and the Curaçao subsidiary in the Damen Group will lose all credibility with both contractors and financiers. “None of the promises were kept,” observes Minister Cijntje.

The Pisas government wants to prevent job losses. For this, the concession agreement that was concluded at the time must be adjusted. Cijntje: “In such a way that more jobs are created for Curaçaoans.” First of all, it must be ensured that Damen Curaçao becomes viable.

 

Reportedly, 78 jobs are at risk at Damen Shiprepair Curaçao. Dois Gijsbertha, sector director at the Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW), said when asked that no request for dismissal had yet been submitted to the ministry. Gijsbertha has understood from trade union circles that a 'mutual agreement' has been concluded with most of the employees.




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