PHILIPSBURG:--- Questions are being raised about Parliament's overall productivity, as numerous committee and central committee meetings remain uncalled by the Presidium and the Chairperson of Parliament, despite being formally requested by Members of Parliament and government ministries for months — and in some cases, more than a year.
Several essential discussions that directly impact national policy and the lives of citizens are still pending, leaving many to question whether Parliament is functioning effectively or allowing key matters to remain stalled.
Finance and VROMI Have the Most Outstanding Meetings
A review of the pending agenda shows that the Minister of Finance and the Minister of VROMI have the most outstanding appearances before Parliament. These include several critical subjects such as:
The national tax reform process and the operational state of the Tax Office;
Revenue-generation and collection measures;
The financial situation and performance of TelEm.
The Central Bank of Curaçao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) discussions;
The Strategic Plan of the Kadaster;
The Social Housing Project; and
Broader discussions on national housing policy, land use, and the Nature Policy Plan 2021–2025.
These pending matters do not include the upcoming deliberations on the 2025 Budget Amendment and the 2026 Budget, both of which are expected to require multiple sessions before year’s end.
Delays and Inaction Undermining Oversight
Many of these meetings were officially requested by sitting Members of Parliament, yet have not been placed on the agenda. In some cases, the relevant ministries have already confirmed their willingness to appear, but the Presidium has failed to schedule the sessions on time.
This continued inaction raises concerns about how Parliament’s agenda is managed and whether the Presidium is effectively fulfilling its responsibility to ensure proper parliamentary oversight.
Oversight and Accountability at Risk
Parliament’s constitutional mandate is clear: it must hold government accountable. When meetings on issues such as taxation, public finances, housing, and infrastructure are repeatedly delayed, that oversight function is weakened.
The backlog also includes statutory obligations, such as presentations by the High Councils of State — including the Audit Chamber, Ombudsman, Integrity Chamber, and Council of Advice — which traditionally take place in October but remain unaddressed.
Parliament Must Lead by Example
While ministers are often criticized for delays and lack of execution, Parliament itself is now showing signs of inefficiency, with critical meetings piling up and little progress in sight.
With two major budget processes still to be debated before year’s end, the question stands:
Will the Presidium and Chair of Parliament take the necessary steps to restore order and accountability, or will Parliament continue to fall behind on its own responsibilities?
