WILLEMSTAD – MFK Member of Parliament Ishahier Monte is requesting clarification from Minister of Finance Charles Cooper about whether organizations receiving government subsidies are complying with their financial reporting obligations.
In written questions submitted under Article 96 of the Rules of Order of the Curaçao Parliament, Monte raises concerns about reports that several foundations, associations and other legal entities receiving public funds have failed to submit annual reports and other required financial documentation.
According to Monte, the situation raises questions about transparency, accountability and the effectiveness of the government’s monitoring mechanisms for the use of public funds.
“If this information reflects the actual situation, public funds may be granted to organizations that are not meeting the legal and administrative requirements applicable to receiving government subsidies,” Monte stated in his letter.
The parliamentarian says such a situation could undermine public confidence in the government’s management of taxpayer money.
Questions about audit findings
Monte specifically asks Minister Cooper whether he is aware of findings by the General Audit Chamber (Algemene Rekenkamer) regarding insufficient compliance with financial obligations by subsidized organizations.
He also asks whether it is correct that only 19 out of 42 subsidized organizations have submitted their annual accounts in accordance with current requirements.
The MFK parliamentarian wants the minister to explain the main reasons why a significant number of organizations have failed to meet their reporting obligations.
He further questions whether organizations that do not comply with transparency and accountability requirements should continue receiving government subsidies.