In recent years, significant steps have been taken to improve the security of existence in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. To continue this effort, the cabinet reserved €9.5 million per year at the end of last year to further support the purchasing power of residents in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. Additionally, the cabinet is structurally allocating €4 million to improve work opportunities for people distanced from the labor market on the islands. This is outlined in the spring memorandum published by the cabinet.
State Secretary Nobel (Participation and Integration):
“Despite the difficult financial puzzle that the cabinet had to solve, we remain attentive to the poverty issues on the islands and will continue to improve the purchasing power in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.”
Purchasing Power Measures
The cabinet aims to reduce the cost of living for all households by making utilities and internet costs cheaper. The additional energy and drinking water subsidies for households that ended 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 attentive to the poverty issues in Caribbean Netherlands. Therefore, just like in previous years, low-income households 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 indicate that families with children particularly need extra financial support. For this compensation, the cabinet reserves €10.8 million structurally.
Support for People Distanced from the Labor Market
The cabinet is also structurally allocating €4 million for people distanced from the labor market in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. This provides this group with 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 temporarily made funds available for this. With the new measure, this provision is now being made structural.