ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Minister of Labor Wendrick Cicilia recently addressed the Standing Committee on Labor to discuss ongoing efforts to optimize the Department of Labor and the Department of Labor Progress. During the session, the minister provided updates on initiatives taken to professionalize these departments and shared details regarding the development of a minimum wage for young people.
According to Cicilia, steps have been taken over the past year to synchronize these departments with the country’s economic management. This included a review report and an evaluation process involving employees from both departments. Cicilia noted that the process is progressing well and highlighted the launch of the “Tienda Legal Laboral” as a positive change already in effect.
Regarding wages, Member of Parliament Shailiny Tromp-Leea requested specific information on the development of a minimum wage for youth. This inquiry followed a motion passed unanimously on September 1, 2025. Cicilia explained that since this concept is new to Aruba, the implementation requires more time. He stated that the government has received advice from the Social Economic Council (SER) and paused the execution of the motion to study the council’s report carefully before making a responsible decision.
