WILLEMSTAD — Interim Premier Stanley Betrian held a national speech yesterday during Telenotisia on TeleCuraçao. Betrian emphasized that the people can go to the polls on October 19^th, ensured a proper proceeding of the elections and incited everyone to make use of their right to vote. He also emphasized that the interim-cabinet doesn’t have any political ambitions and is open to work together with everyone.

Apart from the elections, the screening also has priority. “The draft law will be presented to the Parliament for discussion within short and published afterwards”, said Betrian. Another matter that requires attention is the financial situation. Minister of Finance José Jardim composed a team of experts that is to present structural solutions for the financial situation.

Betrian also said it isn’t the intention to criticize the policy of the previous government and thanked former premier Gerrit Schotte for his work done between 10-10-’10 and September 29^th last. “Unfortunately, the switch of government hadn’t proceeded in a desirable manner”, he added.

Betrian then expressed his thanks to the Kingdom partners for the entire support to the interim-cabinet. “The government already gave a strong and clear signal to the world that all steps on Curaçao had proceeded in accordance with the democratic and constitutional system.”

“Debating is healthy but there must also be order.” Therefore, Betrian announced a national dialogue (Diálogo Nashonal Nos Kòrsou) just like he had in the Parliament earlier (as reported by the Amigoe yesterday). Especially youngsters are invited to participate in this dialogue. He indicated this can only happen if everyone respects each other’s opinion. “I request to respect our professional youngsters and give them the room and support to do good work for this society.”

‘Quality of life’ is to play an important role with the national dialogue. The interim-cabinet thinks quality of life should be put on the agenda of ministers again and will start doing so. This requires brainstorming on short and long term targets, said Betrian.

Emergency plan to restore image

The government is working on an emergency plan with the private sector, semi-government and other authorities to restore the image of Curaçao in a record tempo. Betrian calls on all residents of Curaçao to contribute toward a good reputation of the island internationally.

Betrian also mentioned another point of concern, namely crime. This problem must be tackled but the time is too short for the interim-cabinet, he indicated. Another point deserving attention is the civil service. The integration process in a new organization isn’t completed yet. “This will also be included in a dialogue with heads of the departments and unions.”

We all want the same actually, said Betrian. We want to take care of our family and life on this small piece of earth. We want welfare and to enjoy our rest.