The consequences of the corona crisis also have a major impact on the media sector in the Caribbean Netherlands. In uncertain times like these, the demand for information is increasing while the media channels, which are often dependent on advertising, are seeing their income fall back. Because it is especially important in this crisis period that the information provided is maintained, Minister Arie Slob for Primary and Secondary Education and Media has promised a one-off payment on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW).
This financial support is intended for newspapers and radio and television stations in the Caribbean Netherlands that meet a number of criteria:
- Provides professional and business news about Saba, St. Eustatius or Bonaire in general and news about the coronavirus in particular and continues doing so for an indefinite period of time;
- Was already active with providing general information before March 19th, 2020;
- Is registered with a Chamber of Commerce in the Caribbean Netherlands;
- Is on the press list of the Communication department of RCN;
- Experiences continuous pressure as a result of the corona crisis;
- Must not be in bankruptcy or have filed for suspension of payments on March 19th, 2020.
For radio and television, the medium must also be known to the Telecom Agency and must have broadcasting permission from the Media Commission.
A total of US$ 66,000 has been made available for organizations that meet the above conditions. Television channels can claim a one-time payment of US$ 6,000. The one-off amounts for radio stations and newspapers are US$ 3,000 and US$ 2,000 respectively.
The payment of the benefit is made via OCW. The Ministry has made an inventory of the various media organizations on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. These were approached in the week of May 10th with more information, including an application form. The application form must be completed, signed, and returned by e-mail to OCW no later than June 5th.
