Tour operators block Las Americas roundabout after meeting with Minister Herdé

ORANJESTAD — A meeting between the government and representatives of the UTV/ATV sector ended in protest when a group of tour operators blocked the Las Americas roundabout to draw greater attention to their concerns. Minister Rene Herdé later went to the location personally and spoke with the group.

The incident followed an extensive meeting involving Minister Herdé, Minister of Tourism, Transport and Labor Wendrick Cicilia, several advisers and representatives of the tour sector to discuss the situation surrounding access and alternative routes for tour operations along Aruba’s northeast coast.

During the meeting, which drew broad participation from the sector, operators were given the opportunity to voice their concerns, share their experiences and present suggestions. According to Herdé, the exchange took place in an open and constructive atmosphere.

The government said its priority is to find a solution as soon as possible, while maintaining a balance between the continuation of tours, the jobs of tour guides, compliance with the law and the protection of nature and the environment.

As a next step, representatives of the UTV/ATV sector agreed to take part in a working group to continue discussions on the current and future operation of the sector.

The government will also meet with Aruba Birdlife Conservation (ABC) on Monday to explore the possibility of reaching an agreement. If no understanding can be reached, the government is preparing to defend its position in court and then continue discussions with the tour operators to establish concrete agreements.

At the end of the meeting, however, tensions rose when a group of tour operators blocked the Las Americas roundabout. The action was intended to get the minister’s direct attention. Herdé eventually went to the location and spoke with the group.

The government says it will continue working with urgency toward a realistic, balanced and sustainable solution for the sector.