Investigation into policy of government nv’s

July 19, 2012 5:43 PM

WILLEMSTAD — The Parliament is to make the next move. Union members adopted the joint resolution of six unions – Abvo, UGTK-Cadmu, STK STKo, CBV and PWFC – during a meeting at the SSK-building last night where they took a stand against the government.

They want the Parliament to investigate the government’s policy in nationalized nv’s. Aqualectra union STK initiated the meeting. The unions demand respect and an opportunity to comment on the developments within government companies that have consequences for the employees. According to the unions, companies such as the harbor, airport and utilities, must be strategic state-owned companies where the government is the main shareholder. For that reason the unions want the Parliament to investigate the government’s policy in government nv’s. The Parliament will receive a declaration on the mismanagement within the nationalized companies.

The subjects on the resolution were diverse. In the resolution adopted yesterday the unions reject the energy policy, want a permanent solution for the AOV-fund, and demand adjustment of the health insurance and that all stakeholders observe the principles of good corporate governance. The unions also suggest a restructuring of the public transport with an opportunity to comment for all stakeholders. The plan for the public transport must be affordable and reliable. The unions want to see a policy plan for day nursery on the island. The appointing of directors of government nv’s should precede transparently, according to the unions. The list also mentions the construction of the new hospital. The latter should be operational as soon as possible. The group also wants a supervisor for public health, energy and transport who functions independently from the government. Finally, the six unions promised yesterday to support each other and communicate through a contact point. The shop stewards of Aqualectra unions STK and STKo assembled at the SKK-building this morning. The employees are very concerned about the policy within Aqualectra. The financial figures sketch a gloomy picture. The employees also fear for loss of jobs. The government plans to build a solar panel park of 100 mw. Such parks will be managed by third parties and are less labor-intensive. The unions further state that the government hadn’t considered the necessary investments in the grid for this alternative energy.