WILLEMSTAD - The PAR faction in Parliament has highlighted that the Minister of Finance has submitted a request for the approval of the 2024 budget, with a notable delay of 8 weeks compared to the customary opening of the parliamentary year. The reason cited by the finance minister is the ongoing negotiations with the Netherlands, focused on the refinancing of COVID-19 finances and addressing the Ennia issue. However, these negotiations have not yet culminated in a definitive resolution. It is expected that these matters will be concluded by the end of September, paving the way for the presentation of the budget by November 6.
The proposed submission date falls after the second Tuesday in September, which is September 12 - the official inauguration of the parliamentary year, as dictated by the State Regulation and the Accountability Law. The Minister's official petition reached parliament on August 8 and sparked discussions, but a consensus has yet to be reached on the matter. Consequently, it was determined that the letter would be referred to the Central Committee for further deliberation. However, the formal request for a committee meeting has yet to be made.
Members of the PAR faction have categorically stated that they find the petition unacceptable. They emphasize that the finance minister should adhere to the legal framework and explore alternative solutions to address the concerns outlined in the submitted letter. The PAR faction, embodying their role as a responsible governing body, believes it's imperative to summon a Central Committee meeting to address this matter.
Recognizing the urgency of attaining clarity and a prompt response from the finance minister to ensure adherence to the budget deadline - September 12, the PAR faction is leveraging Article 33 of the Order Regulation to formally request a Central Committee meeting.
The PAR MPs express their hope that the President of Parliament can promptly convene this meeting, enabling the people of Curaçao to be informed about the developments slated for September 12, the commencement of the new parliamentary year.