South Holland appoints Robert Tieman as provincial deputy

The South Holland Provincial Council has approved the appointment of Robert Tieman, a member of the BBB and former minister, as a provincial deputy. Tieman will take over the portfolios for finance and nitrogen policy, succeeding Mariëtte van Leeuwen.

Despite the upcoming provincial elections on March 17, the BBB argued that the complexity of the finance and nitrogen portfolios requires dedicated administrative attention. Opposition parties, including the PVV and JA21, contested the appointment, suggesting the existing six deputies could redistribute the responsibilities. They criticized the frequent turnover in the provincial executive, labeling it a ‘jobs carousel’.

Tieman, who grew up in the province, stated he does not intend to merely ‘watch the shop’ during his six-month term but aims to address key issues before the new coalition is formed. He noted the province's economic importance, highlighting its significant role in Dutch employment, greenhouse horticulture, and the aerospace sector.