This letter addresses concerns raised by his correspondence dated February 6, 2025, in which he outlined proposed amendments to the Wet openbare lichamen Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba (WolBES) and the Wet financiën openbare lichamen Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba (FinBES).
Over the past week, all three Island Councils have confirmed and agreed upon the joint response letter in their respective meetings and have formally submitted it to the State Secretary’s office, as well as to other key governmental bodies.
The response highlights concerns regarding unilateral changes to agreements that were carefully negotiated during the Work Conference held in March 2024 in De Bilt.
These agreements were established in collaboration with the former State Secretary and were intended to guide future governance and financial structures for the islands.
In his recent letter, the newly appointed State Secretary expressed his intention to revise some of these agreements and to take additional time to assess further adjustments.
The Island Councils strongly oppose this approach, as no consultation with the islands was conducted prior to these proposed changes.
The Island Councils find this lack of dialogue both disrespectful and dismissive of the collaborative efforts made during the Work Conference.
Given that these agreements were established in good faith, they expect the State Secretary to engage in a constructive conversation before any amendments are made.
In the joint letter, the Island Councils of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba have formally requested an urgent meeting with the State Secretary before the consultation process for the legislative amendments begins.
