THE HAGUE - The Schoof cabinet has slashed 50 million euros from the 130 million euros previously allocated to the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom under the National Growth Fund by the previous government. This cut was disclosed in documents released today as part of the annual budget memorandum. 

The remaining 80 million euros will be transferred to the Kingdom Relations budget to support three key projects in the Caribbean territories. This allocation comes amid concerns that arose earlier this year, following the formation of a coalition between PVV, NSC, VVD, and BBB, about the security of the 130 million euros initially reserved for the islands. 

Interestingly, the budget cut was not mentioned in a press release from the Ministry of BZK (Interior and Kingdom Relations), which instead framed the remaining 80 million euros as an additional boost for the islands. The press release, titled "80 million to strengthen the economic foundation of the Caribbean islands," presented the allocation as new funding for projects to bolster the islands' economies and promote self-sufficiency. 

The 80 million euros will be divided among three projects: 40 million euros for the construction of a hurricane-resistant, future-proof harbor on Saba; 16 million euros for improving Bonaire’s road infrastructure; and 24 million euros aimed at reducing the islands' reliance on imported food in the long term. 

While these projects are intended to enhance the resilience and sustainability of the Caribbean territories, the decision to cut 50 million from the original funding has raised concerns about the long-term impact on the islands' economic development.