The WolBES and FinBES concern the governance of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. They enable the island government to do the right things for the island and its residents. These laws provide frameworks that help ensure good governance and solid public finances. This also includes checks and balances, such as oversight by the island council, a local Audit Chamber, and the Kingdom Representative. This contributes to better service delivery to residents, entrepreneurs, and social organizations.

This is a second online consultation for the Revision Act WolBES-FinBES. A second consultation round is necessary because there are changes compared to the previous consultation version. The consultation round lasts for 8 weeks.

Changes in the Role of the Kingdom Representative

In the previous version of the Revision Act WolBES-FinBES, the role of the Kingdom Representative was removed. Now the role is retained but will be structured differently. This is part of the consultation.

Financial Frameworks

To give Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba more opportunities to perform their tasks adequately, the proposal is to expand the borrowing possibilities of the island governments. Just like municipalities, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba will be allowed to take out loans from banks. This is only allowed for the execution of island tasks, for example, for social housing, better roads, and improved energy supplies. Conditions will be attached to borrowing. There will also be oversight on borrowing by the islands. This way, financial risks are limited.

During the consultation round, everyone will have the opportunity to express their opinion. The Secretary of State will also engage in discussions with the executive boards about the legislative proposals in the coming time.