The D66 party shares the concerns of many opposition parties regarding the impact of proposed social security cuts. These measures specifically target disabled and chronically ill citizens. Consequently, the party faced intense criticism during a parliamentary debate on the Ministry of Social Affairs’ budget.
Member of Parliament Stephan Neijenhuis defended the current coalition agreement. However, he admitted that the government must still do a lot of work to ensure everyone can cope with the changes. He stated that he wants to prevent vulnerable people from “falling through the ice”. Despite this, Neijenhuis did not clarify how he intends to stop those with permanent disabilities from facing financial hardship. This lack of detail caused significant frustration among opposition members.
Dispute over disability assessments
Neijenhuis further claimed that these cuts would help reduce waiting lists for disability assessments (WIA). However, he did not explain how reducing funds would achieve this goal. In contrast, an independent commission recently advised the government to invest billions to fix the WIA system’s existing problems.
Opposition labels cuts as antisocial
Opposition leaders reacted with disbelief to the government’s stance. SP leader Jimmy Dijk described the debate as a “bizarre spectacle”. He argued that D66 and the coalition are making a deliberate choice to slash disability benefits. Similarly, Edgar Mulder of the PVV questioned the logic of cutting support for people who are physically unable to work.
Furthermore, the GroenLinks-PvdA alliance remains highly critical of the plans. MP Mariëtte Patijn highlighted the case of a woman with ALS who stands to lose €926. Her colleague, Esmah Lahlah, warned that these interventions will force more people into basic welfare. She ultimately described the policy as “cowardly and antisocial”.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
