WILLEMSTAD - Access to the Malpais landfill remained closed today until there is clear, written clarification on who is allowed to dump waste for free at the site. This was announced by BTG union president, Frensley Sillé.
Sillé stated that Minister Silvania explained on two radio stations who is permitted to dump waste for free, specifically heavy machinery such as large trucks. However, on the minister's Facebook page, it was stated that anyone can dump waste for free.
This discrepancy led to disputes between those denied free dumping and the employees working at the weigh station. As a result, the workers consulted their union, and Sillé instructed them to leave their posts until clarity is provided. The union president demanded that the minister issue an official statement clarifying who can and cannot dump for free, as users do not trust what Selikor, the waste management company, says.
BTG views the minister’s actions as a political "stunt." Sillé added that BTG has repeatedly proposed a plan to create a job security program, which used to be Selikor’s responsibility. The proposal involves dividing Curaçao into three districts—north, central, and south. In each district, fifteen workers with their equipment would be assigned to keep the areas clean, which would also create employment. So far, nothing has been done with this plan.
Protection
"If people think that others are dumping waste for free and that it’s not harming the country, they’re gravely mistaken," Sillé added. BTG wants to clarify that they are not against free waste dumping, but the issue with the employees, who are following orders based on statements from Selikor’s director and Minister Silvania, is focused on preventing uncontrolled waste dumping.
Clear communication is necessary to avoid problems when Selikor collects and bills for waste. Any new project must fit within the existing structure used by the workers, and there must be understanding of the current situation. Sillé questioned what happens to those who pay taxes but struggle with the high cost of living without a comprehensive social plan.
