WILLEMSTAD - A years-long dispute between the Dog Center and the residents of Rio Magdalena has finally been resolved through the intervention of Minister of Health, Environment, and Nature, Javier Silvania. The minister announced yesterday that he has decided to deny the Dog Center’s permit request, ending the prolonged conflict.
Residents had long complained about disturbances caused by the facility, eventually filing a legal motion (LAR procedure) to compel the minister to take action. Expert assessments conducted on behalf of the ministry confirmed that barking from the dogs at the center exceeded permissible noise levels, often far surpassing legal limits. Based on these findings, the minister concluded that granting a permit was not an option.
However, in an effort to ensure a fair resolution, the Dog Center has been given six months to relocate to a new site. Additionally, the ministry has committed to contributing to relocation expenses, up to a specified maximum amount.
Minister Silvania described the decision as a "win-win situation" that balances the needs of both parties. "The Dog Center fulfills an important social role in our community, but residents also have the right to peace and undisturbed enjoyment of their homes," he stated.
This resolution aims to uphold both public well-being and animal welfare while mitigating the long-standing tension between the Dog Center and its surrounding neighborhood.