Wever Did Not Properly Address SADA concerns, according to Edward Maduro, President of the Sindicato di Aduana Aruba (SADA).
In a recent interview with DIARIO, Maduro elaborated on ongoing problems within the Customs Department and accused the government, including Minister of Finance Geoffrey Wever, of failing to properly respond to these issues. Maduro stressed that problems throughout the Customs Department have been shared with previous and current government leadership, yet no effective solutions have been implemented.
Maduro said that despite repeated communication about internal challenges, including lack of respect for union rights by management and alleged harassment of union leadership, the ministry has not acted. He described a climate where union members feel unsafe carrying out their roles and indicated that some leaders have had to take reports to court due to internal pressure.
He also noted that a protest occurred in the past over new security measures that were installed without prior consultation with union members, reflecting tensions between the union and leadership over engagement and communication.
Maduro expressed particular concern that no clear government action has followed meetings with Minister Wever, even after union leaders explained the situation and the alleged internal persecution. As a result, a union board member has had to bring a disciplinary report to court, which could affect that employee’s salary and future.
He emphasized that this unresolved situation needs attention, warning that continued inaction from the ministry may cause further problems for union members and the Customs Department as a whole.
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