Dutch Health Minister Ab Klink has pledged to give Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba 30 million euros.

Speaking ahead of a trip to the Dutch Antilles, Minister Klink said the funds will be used to build and renovate hospitals and nursing homes. The money will also be used to buy new medical equipment and two new ambulances for each island. In addition, health care services will in two years' time be expanded with 150 jobs and current staff are to receive additional training.

The minister says he is also considering offering bonuses for highly-qualified Antilleans who want to return from the Netherlands. The bonuses are to compensate for a drop in their salaries. Local residents will also be offered collective medical insurance with a coverage that is virtually identical to the basic package in the Netherlands. In 2011 the islands of Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba will be given something close to city status within the Netherlands.