ORANJESTAD (AAN) – Minister of Justice Demands Order and Respect in Public Areas, said Minister Arthur Dowers in a recent interview. On Monday morning, a Serlimar team, at the request of Minister of Justice Mr. Drs. Arthur Dowers, began a street cleaning operation in one of the most frequented tourist areas of Oranjestad. The operation focused on Weststraat and Werfstraat, areas that had seen significant accumulation of waste and uncontrolled vegetation growth for some time.
Minister Dowers stated that the current situation is unacceptable, especially in an area frequently visited by tourists. According to the Minister, it is not only the government’s responsibility to maintain public spaces clean, but also that of the business owners who have an important role in maintaining the area directly in front of their establishments.
The government has invested in several cleaning crews and resources to keep public spaces in good condition. However, while the government is doing its part, there are businesses that are failing to meet their responsibility and, in some cases, even contributing to the problem of waste accumulation in the streets.
The Minister commended those businesses that have kept their spaces clean and well-maintained, even allowing the creation of a beautiful mural on the side of their buildings. Unfortunately, other businesses have failed to manage waste properly.
Both Weststraat and Werfstraat have undergone several positive changes in recent years. Business owners have breathed new life into buildings that had long been abandoned. Many of the commercial spaces in these areas, which once formed part of a vibrant entertainment district, are now being transformed into Airbnb accommodations. Additionally, thousands of cruise tourists pass through these areas nearly every day.
For a country that markets itself as a five-star tourist destination, the condition of key streets like Weststraat and Werfstraat must reflect high standards for public spaces.
Minister Dowers will instruct the relevant authorities to investigate which businesses in the area are not properly managing their waste and ensure that those found in violation will be fined according to current laws.
Order, cleanliness, and respect for public spaces are not optional; they are an obligation. “We do this to protect our image as a country and to create a dignified environment for both residents and visitors,” the Minister emphasized.
