Opposition Says Suspension of Maintenance May Leave Government Without Housing for Families in Crisis
WILLEMSTAD – The suspension of maintenance work by Fundashon Kas Popular (FKP) could have consequences beyond deteriorating housing conditions, according to opposition party PAR, which warns that the measure may undermine Curaçao's ability to provide emergency housing for families in crisis.
In a letter submitted to Parliament, PAR leader Quincy Girigorie pointed out that public housing units have frequently been used as emergency accommodation for families who suddenly lose their homes, including victims of house fires and other disasters.
According to PAR, the decision to halt maintenance and reportedly stop preparing vacant homes for new occupants could leave the government with fewer options when urgent housing needs arise.
The party fears that families facing emergency situations may have nowhere to go if vacant units are not maintained and made available for occupancy.
PAR is also asking whether the government has developed an emergency plan to address urgent maintenance requests while FKP's suspension remains in effect. The party wants Minister Charles Cooper to provide Parliament with details of any contingency measures that may have been put in place.
Another issue raised by the opposition concerns the legal and contractual relationship between the government and FKP. PAR notes that a maintenance agreement was extended through December 2025 and is seeking clarification on whether a similar agreement is currently in force for 2026.
The party argues that uncertainty regarding maintenance contracts, funding, and emergency housing capacity raises broader questions about the management of Curaçao's social housing system.
With public housing serving some of the island's most vulnerable residents, PAR says the government must provide immediate answers and concrete action to ensure that safety, housing availability, and emergency response capabilities are not compromised.