THE HAGUE, WILLEMSTAD – Dutch State Secretary for Finance Sandra Palmen (Benefits and Recovery) will pay a working visit to Curaçao from January 25 to January 28 to meet with parents affected by the Dutch childcare benefits scandal, organizations that support them, and representatives of the Curaçao government.
An estimated 275 Curaçao-born victims of the benefits scandal are known to have returned to the island out of desperation after encountering severe financial hardship in the Netherlands. Between 2005 and 2019, childcare benefits for these families were abruptly halted, while the Dutch tax authorities wrongly demanded the repayment of large sums, pushing many households into debt and financial distress.
Parents affected by the scandal who live outside the Netherlands are entitled to financial compensation for the damage they suffered, just like victims residing in the Netherlands. While support in the Netherlands is provided through municipalities, victims abroad receive assistance from the Ondersteuningsteam Buitenland (OTB), including those living on Curaçao.
Through OTB, affected parents can receive help with issues related to family life, health, finances, employment and income, and housing. Support is also available to other family members across these same areas of daily life.
For victims on Curaçao, additional tailored arrangements have been made to assist with resolving outstanding debts. Where possible, integrated solutions are also sought in areas such as housing, employment, and healthcare.
During her visit, State Secretary Palmen will assess how the recovery operation and support mechanisms are functioning on Curaçao and identify what additional measures may be needed to better assist affected parents and their families.