Representatives of local contractors and developers have brought serious concerns to my attention regarding the way processes within the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Spatial Planning (VVRP) are being handled under Minister Cooper.
According to their accounts, there are many unnecessary delays in procedures related to the granting of permits, approval of construction drawings, inspections, and also the allocation of land for projects. According to the sector, this situation is seriously affecting local entrepreneurs and is slowing economic development in Curaçao.
What is even more concerning is the perception that foreign investors are receiving preferential treatment over local businesses. Representatives of the sector indicate that in several cases, projects from foreign investors receive attention and processing much faster than those of local entrepreneurs, who often have to go to court just to obtain clarity or progress in their cases.
It cannot be acceptable that with just a single phone call, documents and procedures for foreign projects are completed within one day, while local entrepreneurs face long delays and bureaucratic obstacles.
In addition, various sources within the sector allege that the departments and services operating under VVRP have declined in efficiency in recent years. There are also complaints that Domain Management (Domeinbeheer) is operating without sufficient transparency and that oversight of major projects is not being applied equally to everyone.
According to information that reached me, local developers claim that more than 85 million guilders in projects have been delayed or paralyzed because of administrative delays and a lack of proper management within VVRP.
Parliament has the duty to demand clarity. Therefore, Minister Cooper must be called upon to give account and explanation regarding:
· the allocation of government land for projects;
· housing development processes and affordable housing for the people;
· approval of subdivision plans;
· and the handling of projects during the past 16 years.
The current situation cannot be allowed to continue, causing harm to the people of Curaçao and losses to the local economy. Ultimately, it is the local economy that ensures money circulates locally and remains in the pockets of the people of Curaçao.
This means that in the coming week I will deliberate with my fellow parliamentarians, both from my faction and other factions, to submit a request to the President of Parliament for Minister Cooper to appear before Parliament to provide accountability and explanation regarding the situation described and the points raised, and if necessary evaluate concrete steps that Parliament can take to remedy this situation for the benefit of the people of Curaçao — who also deserve a roof over their heads and a dignified life in every sense of the word.
drs. Luigi A. Faneyte MSc. CFE CICA CCS
Staff Member for the PAR faction in the Curaçao Parliament