Social benefits adjusted on BES-Islands

April 22, 2010 7:00 AM

WILLEMSTAD — The social benefits on Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba (BES) will be adjusted. Minister Donner of Social Affairs and Employment made further agreements with the islands on the allowance level and the retirement age.

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment announced the aforementioned. Amongst others, the amount of the AOV-allowance (known as AOW in the Netherlands) has been fixed at 514 USD per month as of January 1st, 2011. One has also agreed to increase the retirement age from 60 to 65 years via a grow in model as of 2015 and mounting to 65 years in 2021.

One has also determined the amount of the so-called welfare, which is to commence per October 10th, 2010. In that, one has departed from a system in which the allowance will apply for resident singles as a basis. Furthermore, a supplementary allowance will be paid for independent residence, having a partner or children, as well as for permanent unemployment.

In addition, there is a dedication to enhance the development of the social and economical circumstances on all islands. In that, it also regards the connection between various subjects such as (social) housing and day care center. It was agreed to further investigate and discuss these bottlenecks before October 10th, 2010.

The basis for the agreements had already been laid in November 2009. The adjustments evolved from the fact that the BES-Islands will no longer be part of the Antilles as of October 10th, 2010, but will directly resort under the Netherlands. All parties agree on the principle that regarding the allowances also on the BES-Islands, one must stimulate people as much as possible to find employment.

(Source: National newspaper Amigoe)

19 April 2010