Last Friday, a public meeting was held in Parliament that was suddenly changed to an informational meeting. The parliamentary opposition was unhappy with this change, as it does not allow for demanding changes related to environmental development and the situation of ATV and UTV operators.
PPA faction leader, Eduard Pieter, explained the difference between a public meeting and an informational meeting with an angry tone. He emphasizes that an informational meeting limits the time available to debate sensitive and essential issues for the country of Aruba. According to the parliamentarian, the state of democracy under the current government’s way of working is concerning.
According to the parliamentarian, the PPA is promoting a plan for Aruba 2050, which seeks a balance between nature and the economy. Pieter criticized the government for making unilateral decisions, which he considers strategic, that affect local merchants operating ATV and UTV businesses. According to the parliamentarian, many of these merchants feel abandoned and find it difficult to continue operating.
In closing, Pieter questioned the proposed hotel project in that area, asking if there is a planned hotel and what the actual assessment is. The parliamentarian maintains that, while he stands for nature, he emphasizes the impact these decisions have on the families who depend on this work for their income.
