The Groningen Safety Advisory Board provides independent advice on the reinforcement operation. Due to gas extraction from the Groningen field, earthquakes have occurred. As a result, some buildings need to be reinforced to ensure they are as safe as other buildings in the Netherlands. The ACVG advises Secretary of State Van Marum from the Ministry of Interior and Kingdom Relations on this matter.

Secretary of State Van Marum is pleased with the arrival of the new chairperson: “With Pieter Heermas arrival, the ACVG remains at full strength. I thank Wim Nagtegaal for his efforts over the past years and wish Pieter much success in his new role.”

Heerma is an experienced administrator with great social involvement. He studied political science at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam. Between 2012 and 2023, Heerma was a member of the House of Representatives. During that time, he held various portfolios, including Social Affairs and Housing. He was also a member of the temporary committee investigating the broad concept of prosperity. Between 2019 and 2021, and between 2022 and 2023, he was the faction leader of the CDA. Since June 2024, Heerma has been the chairperson of the Rent Committee, a role he will continue alongside the chairmanship of the ACVG.

Pieter Heerma: “The ACVG is a board that plays a crucial role in safety in Groningen. By advising independently and on a scientific basis, we strive for clarity and calm among residents. As chairperson, I want the people of Groningen to not only be safe but also feel safe in their homes.”

The appointment has been made at the suggestion of the Secretary of State for Interior and Kingdom Relations and is initially valid for a period of 4 years.