The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.), together with the Federation of Workers of Aruba (FTA), officially signed the fourth Collective Labor Agreement (CAO). The agreement was formally signed by both parties, represented by Ronella Croes, CEO of A.T.A., and Hose Figaroa, President of FTA. This marks the second CAO signed with the FTA.
One of the requirements for A.T.A. upon becoming a Sui Generis entity in 2011 was to initiate the process of reaching a collective agreement with its employees. Following a referendum held in August 2022, the FTA was chosen as the representative union for A.T.A. employees.
The new CAO is effective for the period 2026 to 2028 and reaffirms A.T.A.’s continuous focus on the well-being of its employees. In addition to monetary compensation, A.T.A. considers it essential to focus on other forms of rewards that respond to the demands and needs of the modern workforce. Programs introduced over the years include the Flexible Working Arrangement, the Wellness Program, and gym memberships for employees. These benefits aim to promote a healthy work-life balance.
Individual Choice Budget (Individueel Keuze Budget) A unique benefit introduced under the new CAO is the Individual Choice Budget. A.T.A. is the second organization in Aruba to implement this type of benefit in collaboration with the FTA. Each employee will receive an annual individual budget that can be used according to their own preference for various purposes, such as:
Childcare or school fees.
Payment of vehicle registration (number plate) costs.
Payment of student loans.
Training or courses not directly related to work.
Purchasing extra vacation days, among other options.
This benefit grants employees with different needs the freedom to choose how to use the benefit according to their personal situation.
Both parties conducted negotiations in a reasonable, respectful, and constructive environment. A.T.A. Management expressed its satisfaction with the process and thanked Hose Figaroa (President of FTA), Aldrick Pontilius (Vice President of FTA), and Shop Steward Jonathan Boekhoudt for their dedication. Special thanks were also given to A.T.A.’s HR Manager, Shadey Figaroa, and CFO, Maas van Drie, for their key roles in ensuring positive negotiations.
