On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Board of Directors and the negotiation team of Horacio Oduber Hospital (HOH), together with the ABV labor union, proudly announced the signing of a new Collective Labor Agreement (CAO), valid from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028.
Negotiations began on April 14, 2025, and after 15 meetings, both parties reached a positive outcome before the current agreement’s expiration on December 31, 2025.
“I am very proud of the hospital’s negotiation team and ABV for achieving positive steps within the established timeframe to continue positioning HOH as a leading organization in Aruba,” said Mr. Vroegop, President of the Board of Directors.
Board member Mr. Croeze added, “We are pleased to strengthen our employees’ work-life balance together. Congratulations to everyone!”
Mr. Casseres, another board member, noted, “This is a special moment for me, signing my first CAO as a board member—a beautiful result of collaboration and mutual trust.”
Ms. Croes, head of the HOH negotiation team, shared her satisfaction:
“As chair of the working group for the first time, I’m very proud of the result. Our open dialogue and mutual understanding helped us reach a well-balanced agreement that benefits both employees and the organization.”
Ms. Maduro, President of ABV, emphasized:
“HOH and ABV are setting an example for all employers in Aruba. This CAO focuses on work-life balance and promoting a sustainable work culture for all employees.”
Key Highlights of the New Agreement:
- Introduction of a 36-hour workweek (feasibility studies to follow)
- Increased bereavement leave: from 6 to 10 days for a partner or child; from 3 to 5 days for a parent
- Night shifts: exempt for breastfeeding mothers during the first 9 months after childbirth and for employees over 60
- Paternity leave: increased from 2 to 10 days
- Extra vacation day upon turning 60
- Access to psychological counseling
- Up to 5 unpaid personal days per year for family or personal balance
- Option to choose time off or pay for overtime
- Extended rest after “on-call” duty: from 6 to 8 hours
- Loyalty bonus also applicable in cases of work-related disability
- 30 years of service reward: equivalent to one month’s salary
- Seasonal bonuses in January and November
- Salary indexation in January 2026
This constructive collaboration between HOH and ABV sets a strong foundation for the hospital’s workforce over the next two years. The Board expressed gratitude to both negotiation teams for their dedication and congratulated all HOH employees for this significant achievement.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/sindicato-abv-y-hospital-a-firma-cao-nobo-pa-2026-2028
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