WILLEMSTAD - According to most Members of Parliament, the Air Quality Standards Ordinance for Curaçao is not comprehensive enough. This was discussed in Parliament on Monday following a technical briefing by the committee that compiled the law.
It was argued that there should be a broader environmental law that also addresses issues such as (sea)water and soil quality. "We want a law that solves problems and does not create new ones," was the sentiment expressed in Parliament.
MP Ana-Maria Pauletta of the opposition party PAR believes that the refinery should not be the starting point of the legislation, but rather the other way around. "There should be a general environmental legislation that the refinery fits into." The MPs agree with this and will submit a joint request to the President of Parliament, Charetti America-Francisca of the coalition party MFK. Furthermore, the MPs have emphasized that there needs to be a good balance between economic interests and the health of the population.
There was a report in late January regarding the concerns of the Fundashon Birgen di Rosario. The foundation is located near the refinery and has emphasized in the past experiencing nuisance. Additionally, the foundation said it wants stricter air quality standards. They suggest that the government is failing in its duties and advises stricter norms for the refinery and other industrial operators.
The draft law was submitted to Parliament in early February. If the law is approved, according to the government, it will contribute to ensuring a sustainable and healthy living environment for the population of Curaçao, while holding companies accountable for their impact on air quality.