She made it clear that the issue surrounding the national carrier can no longer be postponed. “We must do what needs to be done to preserve our own aviation sector in association with others. Difficult decisions must be made,” said President Simons who added that the SLM has had serious problems for many years. Shortly after she came into office, the national carrier sounded the alarm. The SLM made it clear that it would not be able to continue its operations without financial support. The national carrier currently receives a monthly support of SRD 2 million via Grassalco as part of an agreement that was reached by the previous administration.  “That isn’t healthy but we could not end it abruptly,” said President Simons. In the next couple of weeks reports will be studied and talks will be held with all parties involved. “Everybody who says that we can save the SLM must present proposals. Those who believe that we should shut down the company must also present their arguments. We will make a decision within three months,” said the head of state who added that the aviation sector is of big importance to the tourism sector and the nation’s economy. “I want SLM to keep flying but only if that is possible in a healthy and sustainable manner.”