The Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, Internal Affairs, and Telecommunication, René Herdé, held an extensive meeting with representatives of the tour sector to discuss the current situation regarding access and alternative routes for tour operations on the Northeast Coast (Noordoostkust).
The meeting saw a large turnout of sector representatives, completely filling the room. Minister Herdé was accompanied by his colleague, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, and Labor, Wendrick Cicilia, as well as various advisors and representatives from relevant departments.
During the meeting, ample space was given to those present to express their concerns, share their experiences, and present suggestions to address the situation. According to Minister Herdé, the dialogue took place in an open and constructive atmosphere, yielding several valid suggestions that the Government will duly take into account in the next steps.
On behalf of the Government, the ministers and relevant departments provided all possible explanations regarding the situation and the ongoing process. Minister Herdé emphasized that the priority is to find a solution as soon as possible, while doing so responsibly and with due attention to all interests involved.
Working group to continue the dialogue
An important outcome of the meeting is that a group of UTV/ATV operator representatives agreed to participate in a working group to continue dialogue on all aspects of UTV/ATV operations now and in the future.
The intention is to maintain contact with the sector while the Government continues to address the various aspects that form part of the situation.
As a next step, the Government will meet this coming Monday with Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC) with the intention of exploring the possibility of reaching an agreement. Should an understanding not be reached, the Government is prepared to defend its position in court and subsequently proceed with the tour operators to reach concrete agreements regarding their activities.
The goal is a balanced solution
Minister Herdé emphasized that the Government’s goal is to reach a solution that takes into account the various interests involved, including the continuity of tours, the jobs of all people working as tour guides, as well as working within the framework of the law and the protection of our island’s nature and environment.
The large turnout and exchange of ideas during the meeting demonstrated the importance of keeping dialogue open.
The Government of Aruba continues to work with a sense of urgency to achieve a realistic, balanced, and sustainable solution that provides clarity to the sector and properly addresses the current situation.
