WILLEMSTAD – MFK Member of Parliament Ishahier Monte is calling on the Minister of Finance to provide greater transparency regarding the implementation of the increase in the General Old Age Pension (AOV), the payment of the XCG 100 lump sum to social assistance recipients, and the legislative process required to formally incorporate these measures into existing laws.
Monte submitted questions to the minister under Article 96 of the Rules of Order of the Curaçao Parliament, requesting clarification on the execution and monitoring of the social measures.
According to the MFK parliamentarian, the issue goes beyond figures and payments. For many pensioners and social assistance recipients, AOV and government support represent their main source of income, and for some even their only source of financial support.
“In the current economic climate, where the cost of living and daily expenses continue to rise, the AOV increase and the XCG 100 lump sum have a direct impact on the well-being, dignity and purchasing power of the most vulnerable groups in our society,” Monte stated.
The parliamentarian emphasized that when the government introduces measures aimed at providing financial relief to pensioners and assistance recipients, implementation must take place in a clear, fair and organized manner.
“Clarity and confidence in the process are essential,” Monte said.
Monte is also asking the minister to explain how the payment process was organized and carried out, how many pensioners have received the AOV increase, how many social assistance recipients received the lump sum payment, and whether there are still pending cases or payment problems.
He warned that unclear procedures, delays or failures to reach eligible beneficiaries could undermine public trust in government institutions.
In addition, Monte requested information about the progress of the legislative process to formally integrate the AOV increase into existing legislation and the government’s timeline for completing the legal procedures.
“People must be able to trust that social promises do not remain only words, but are implemented in a fair, transparent and sustainable manner,” Monte said.
The MFK parliamentarian stated that he will continue advocating for the protection of pensioners, social assistance recipients and other vulnerable groups, while emphasizing the importance of good governance, effective oversight and responsible management of public funds.