State Secretary Nobel (Participation and Integration): “Despite the difficult financial puzzle that the cabinet had to solve, we are aware of the poverty issues on the islands and will continue to improve the security of existence in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba in the coming years.”
Purchasing Power Measures
The cabinet focuses on lowering the cost of living for all households by making utilities and internet costs cheaper. Thus, the additional energy and drinking water subsidies for households that expired on January 1 of this year will be (partially) extended. Households will also receive an additional subsidy for internet use worth $15 per connection per month in 2025 and 2026. The cabinet is aware of the poverty issues in Caribbean Netherlands. Therefore, just like in previous years, households with a low income can qualify for an energy allowance of $1,300 USD per year in 2025 and 2026. Additionally, a total of €1 million will be allocated over the next two years to local initiatives to combat child poverty.
In this way, the cabinet is taking short-term measures to further strengthen the security of existence in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. Furthermore, the cabinet is currently exploring the possibilities for an income-dependent child allowance. Insights from the Commission on the Social Minimum in Caribbean Netherlands show that families with children particularly need additional financial support. For this allowance, the cabinet reserves €10.8 million structurally.
Support for People at a Distance from the Labor Market
The cabinet is also allocating €4 million structurally for people at a distance from the labor market in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. This gives this group the certainty of receiving support in finding suitable work in the future. If possible with a regular employer, and otherwise in a sheltered workplace. In recent years, the cabinet has always made temporary funds available for this. With the new measure, this provision is now being made structural.