MEP files formal complaint over access to Parliament press area

ORANJESTAD – MEP parliamentary leader Evelyn Wever-Croes has filed a formal complaint with Parliament Speaker A.M. Sneek following an incident during the July 10 public parliamentary meeting. According to Wever-Croes, Astrid Vries entered the press section and recorded videos of MEP members, despite later confirmation that she was not representing Radio Hits 94 as initially stated during the meeting.

In her letter, Wever-Croes states that she subsequently obtained written confirmation from the owner of Radio Hits 94 that Vries is neither an employee nor a representative of the broadcaster. She argues that the incident raises questions about how access to Parliament's press facilities is controlled and whether existing procedures are being properly followed.

According to the complaint, the press area should be reserved exclusively for accredited media representatives covering parliamentary proceedings. Wever-Croes says allowing unauthorized individuals into the press section could undermine the order, safety and integrity of parliamentary meetings. She also notes that Vries has been publicly associated with a Facebook page that, according to MEP, frequently publishes personal attacks against politicians.

MEP is asking the Speaker to explain the basis on which Vries was admitted as a member of the press, clarify Parliament's accreditation procedures, indicate whether media credentials are verified in advance and outline measures to prevent similar situations in the future. The party says clear and consistent enforcement of the rules is essential to ensure members of Parliament can perform their duties in a safe and independent environment.