WILLEMSTAD - Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas has admitted to mistakes in drafting redevelopment plans for Playa Lagun and Playa Jeremi, acknowledging that local residents and key stakeholders were not adequately consulted. During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Pisas stated, “We failed, but we have learned from this experience.”
Urgency Led to Hasty Decisions
The Prime Minister explained that the urgency to address climate-related challenges and regional competition drove the government to act quickly. “Recent heavy rainfall and rough seas caused damage to several beaches, prompting us to implement improvement plans without sufficient consultation,” Pisas said.
Formation of a New Working Group
In response to the backlash, Pisas announced the establishment of a working group comprising representatives from Carmabi and the ministries of Health, Environment, and Nature (GMN), as well as Traffic, Transportation, and Spatial Planning (VVRP). This group will engage with stakeholders and the broader community to refine the government’s beach management strategy.
“We need to ensure that beach policies reflect the needs and interests of all parties involved,” Pisas emphasized.
Focus of Revised Policy
The updated policy will prioritize accessibility, preservation of the unique character of Curaçao’s beaches, and better visitor distribution. The government aims to balance environmental conservation with sustainable development to maintain the island’s appeal while addressing community concerns.
Pisas concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to transparency and collaboration in future planning efforts.