Philipsburg:--- Minister of Health Maria Buncamper Molanus told reporters on Wednesday that the council of Ministers have made the medical coverage and other benefits including that of the employees of SVB (Social Insurance Bank) their number one priority. Minister Buncamper said while she met with the SVB representatives from Curacao on Tuesday no definite agreement has been made. "We are not where we ought to be yet but we are making progress. Information still has to be provided from the main office from Curacao." However, the services that SVB provides to the people and its clients have been guaranteed and also the employment for those persons working at SVB St. Maarten.The Minister said she will continue to gather information as well as further work on the relationship they have with Curacao for a limited period of time. The Minister said St. Maarten is looking into ending its formal relationship with Curacao by the end of this year. "While this is a tall order for us all parties have expressed their willingness and are conducting themselves in such a manner that they can conclude that all hands are on deck properly resolving the issue of SVB coverage and its employees.
Minister Buncamper said St. Maarten has to establish an organization to take over the responsibilities that SVB is carrying out. She said right now the government of St. Maarten is getting the necessary cooperation but there is need for more information for this organization to be established. She said with respect to the monies that are to be invested, St. Maarten could have claimed it since October 10th but a safe place had to be found which would generate an income.