WILLEMSTAD - On Monday, the new cabinet led by Gilmar 'Pik' Pisas took office. Governor Lucille George-Wout sworn in seven new ministers. Candidates have yet to be nominated for the ministerial posts of Justice and Economic Development.
George-Wout wished the new cabinet, which consists of the social-democratic MFK and the Christian-democratic PNP, every success. She stressed that the ministers are starting in "extremely difficult circumstances".
Even before the corona pandemic, many people in Curaçao were already experiencing financial difficulties, partly because of the years of lack of economic growth in Curaçao, the governor said.
The situation has worsened for many people due to the corona crisis. The governor therefore called on the new government to do its utmost to tackle the existing problems quickly and to work together on the island itself and within the Kingdom.
The Governor also indicated that social needs are great and calls for urgent action in all sectors of society; from care to education; from economy to infrastructure; from social development to finance; and from justice to government services. Our society needs new impulses and arrangements to develop; and to make full use of the available talents. “Because those talents are there in our community; I'm convinced of that. They must be given the opportunity to develop in a safe and stimulating society.”
“That requires cooperation with all sections and organizations within the country; and also constructive consultation with our partners within the Kingdom. That means we have to work on mutual trust; both within Curaçao between politicians and the social partners, and between the partners within the Kingdom and internationally; that trust will have to grow; and that trust you will have to earn; based on your effort and performance!” said the Governor during the swearing in ceremony.
The Governor ended her speech by indicating that it is It is up to the new Council of Ministers, to take the lead; and to point the way out of the crisis. “This requires plans and decisions that are carefully prepared in consultation with all parties involved, taking into account the requirements of good governance and everyone's own administrative responsibility; and those plans and decisions must be based on a realistic assessment of our situation and our capabilities. That is the challenge you face.”