Erick Henriquez, President of the SIWA union, spoke openly in an interview with Matutino DIARIO about the challenges Aruba is currently facing during this period of governmental transition. He emphasized that the island is going through significant complications and that it is important to stay realistic about the situation.
Henriquez highlighted long-standing issues, including the ongoing situation with De Meza and leadership changes from Herde to Dowers. He noted that these transitions bring many challenges.
“I strongly believe that constant changes and uncertainty make it difficult for leaders to function effectively. Even though I’m confident that Dowers is doing his best and is fully dedicated, the situation is still complicated,” he explained. He further noted that WEB is undergoing major developments, including a new water production facility. While this progress is important, he stressed that workers must be kept in consideration throughout the process.
“Many times, projects move forward while workers feel left behind. These are the same workers that the community depends on, yet they are often blamed for the issues that frustrate the public,” Henriquez said. “We need to pause and evaluate structural matters so that the public understands the complexity of the situation. Things are not always easy, and the director undoubtedly faces several challenges.”
He added that the director has lost valuable time debating political issues instead of focusing on internal matters, such as operational management, production, and defending employees’ positions within WEB Aruba NV.
Henriquez also addressed the controversial changes made to WEB’s statute shortly after the fall of the government during the 2024 elections. He described the decision by the former government as a serious disrespect to the people of Aruba and to the workers of the company, especially since the changes were made without consulting either group.
“Thank God they made the change right during the election period, because otherwise we would have gone on strike. But if we had done that at the time, it would have seemed like we were protesting against the new government—which had nothing to do with the decision,” he emphasized.
Henriquez concluded by saying that the statute change is now on the table for review by the new leadership of Utilities Aruba NV. He hopes the statute can be returned to its original form to restore trust and proper governance.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/gobierno-anterior-a-haci-cambio-den-e-statuto-di-web-faltando-respet-di-pueblo-inmensamente
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