ORANJESTAD, Aruba — Aruba government transparency will be a major priority for Public Works Minister René Herdé as he prepares to meet with business groups, unions, social organizations and other stakeholders following criticism of government services.
The minister responded this week after Comerciantenan Uni di Aruba raised strong concerns about several government agencies, particularly the Department of Public Works, known as DOW.
Among the issues highlighted were long delays in processing construction plans and permits, as well as the deteriorating condition of roads across Aruba.
Herdé said the ministry needs to communicate more frequently and more effectively with the public and organizations affected by government decisions.
He noted that he has only been in the position for a relatively short period but said concerns reaching his ministry will be addressed.
Minister Plans Meetings With Organizations
As part of the Aruba government transparency initiative, Herdé said his ministry plans to contact Comerciantenan Uni di Aruba directly.
He also recently met representatives of the Aruba Chamber of Commerce and said additional meetings with organizations are planned.
A meeting with the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association, or AHATA, is also pending. Herdé acknowledged that some of the delay in arranging that meeting came from the ministry.
The minister said his approach will include discussions with commercial organizations, unions, social groups and other stakeholders.
According to Herdé, government cannot operate effectively behind closed doors.
He believes criticism should be heard and used as information that can help authorities identify problems and develop practical improvements.
Public Encouraged to Share Concerns
Herdé also pointed to his “Info di Infra” program as another way residents can communicate directly with the ministry.
He encouraged people to submit questions and concerns so officials can provide information and use public feedback to improve government services.
The minister said government departments know that he supports and defends their work, while also expecting them to improve their performance.
He emphasized that criticism from residents and organizations will be taken seriously.
Long Waits for Land Applications Raise Concerns
Herdé also expressed frustration about residents who say they have waited 12 or even 14 years for decisions regarding government land.
He said he regularly encounters people who explain that they have been waiting for years without receiving a clear answer about their applications.
According to the minister, a shortage of available land would be one issue, but leaving applicants without any response for more than a decade is another matter entirely.
The lack of communication can cause residents to lose confidence and become increasingly dissatisfied with government services.
Herdé said he understands those frustrations and believes residents are justified in demanding answers.
Communication Central to Government Improvements
The minister’s comments indicate that Aruba government transparency will form part of a broader effort to improve communication between ministries, government departments and the public.
Rather than dismissing criticism, Herdé said the government should listen to concerns, respond more clearly and use feedback to address weaknesses within public services.
The planned meetings with business organizations, unions and community groups are expected to provide opportunities for stakeholders to raise concerns directly and discuss possible improvements.
Herdé said government cannot effectively serve Aruba without maintaining open communication with the people and organizations affected by its decisions.
For the minister, improving Aruba government transparency means ensuring that criticism receives attention, residents receive answers and government institutions remain open to dialogue with the wider community.
