WILLEMSTAD - The Interim Minister of Health, Environment, and Nature, Javier Silvania, has sent a letter to the ministry's Secretary-General, Sharlon Melfor, addressing unnecessary tensions within the department. In his letter, Silvania stressed the importance of working together on a structured approach to prevent troubling situations in the future, particularly issues related to poor communication.
Silvania pointed out that he had often found out about important matters through the media without being informed beforehand. This, according to him, creates confusion and undermines the smooth functioning of the ministry. One example cited in the letter involves entomologist Gisette Seferina, who gave an interview without the minister’s consent or consultation with his office.
The minister emphasized that all communication with the press and the public must go through the ministry’s communication department. Press releases and other public statements must be coordinated with the minister in advance. Additionally, he insisted on receiving timely and structured updates regarding developments within the ministry, especially when urgent matters arise. These matters should be communicated directly through messages or apps to the minister and his office. Furthermore, Melfor is now required to submit written reports twice a week to ensure better communication and coordination within the ministry.