Good reason for optimism
Governor tells Parliament
WILLEMSTAD--“There is talk of a growing optimism on the islands of the Netherlands Antilles, and with good reason. The progress of the constitutional developments offers good prospects and the economy is gradually recovering from a rough time.”
That’s what Governor Frits Goedgedrag said in the Central Government’s policy speech in the Antillean Parliament during the opening of the new legislative year on Tuesday.
“Opportunities for a sustainable improvement of the welfare of the Antillean citizens on all the islands are presenting themselves. We shall not and cannot forget the youth in this.”
He said the constitutional reforms should be aimed at solving the problems of the islands. “That is why government shall continue till December 15, 2008, with its two-track policy: constitutional renewal and the tackling of urgent problems, as also stipulated in the Transition Accord. The government has a great appreciation for the efforts of many persons who make this possible.”
This coming year additional investments will be made in the realisation of what Goedgedrag called “a knowledge society.” Consequently, the continuation of the Delta plan Education has high priority.
The governor added that “the successful Safety Plan Netherlands Antilles will be continued through 2009 to allow all the departments in the legal chain to function better. Combating the laundering of money and the financing of terrorism will get special attention.
“Government shall make every effort to see to it that our country shall again belong to the top ten in the world of the international financial services.”
Also the concern for an honest and reliable administration will remain an important issue for the government.
In addition, the achievement of a sustainable healthy financial situation is of vital importance to government. Budgetary discipline and supervision on its compliance are of great importance as well.
“The process of the constitutional changes is a huge challenge for all of us. Government wants to work towards a new state with good perspectives for the inhabitants of the islands. If our input remains aimed at this, if we really avail ourselves of the opportunities that present themselves, then this will be a tempting perspective.
“Members of Parliament, your support and trust are indispensable for the success of the necessary reforms and, therefore, I wish you much wisdom and strength.”
