National Ombudsman Reinier van Zutphen has criticised the cabinet’s plan to exclude general social assistance from a new law that helps municipalities identify who is entitled to support. He explained his concerns in a letter to Minister Thierry Aartsen (VVD) for Work and Participation, and he spoke about it on Saturday on the NOS Radio 1 Journaal.
The proposed law gives municipalities tools to determine who qualifies for specific schemes. This allows them to inform people directly. The cabinet does not want to apply these rules to general social assistance. Because of this choice, municipalities may leave part of the available budget unused. The government expects this to save 30 million euros.
Van Zutphen says people need clear information about the benefits they can receive. Many residents do not know they qualify. Others hesitate to apply because the benefits scandal has damaged their trust in the government.
He warns that the planned savings may lead to higher costs later if people fall further into financial trouble.
@ANP | News Brainport
