The cabinet allocates a structural €4 million for people at a distance from the labor market in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. This provides this group with the assurance of being supported in finding suitable work in the future. If possible, with a regular employer, and otherwise in a sheltered workplace.
Everyone has talents. And everyone who can should be able to participate in the labor market,” said Secretary of State Jurgen Nobel (Participation and Integration). “I therefore find it a very important step forward that structural funding is becoming available for job seekers in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba who need a helping hand. With extra guidance, they can actively participate in society and utilize their talents.
For some time now, the public bodies of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba have been working together with local implementers and employers to support people at a distance from the labor market in finding and maintaining work. They use various instruments for this. Sheltered work is available for people who need an adapted environment. Wage cost subsidies encourage employers to hire people at a distance from the labor market. Job coaches provide personal guidance in the workplace.
In recent years, the cabinet has repeatedly allocated temporary funds for this purpose. With the new measure, structural funds are now available. This gives people at a distance from the labor market in the Caribbean part of the Netherlands, now and in the future, a better chance of paid work. The cabinet follows the advice of the Commission on the Social Minimum Caribbean Netherlands with this measure.