WILLEMSTAD – The Diocese of Willemstad is calling on the Curaçao government and the Sint Elisabeth Foundation to return to dialogue and seek a solution that respects both the public interest and the historical legacy of the former Sint Elisabeth Hospital.
In a pastoral letter, the diocese stated that the foundation’s more than 150-year contribution to healthcare in Curaçao should not be overlooked in discussions about the future of the former hospital complex.
The church acknowledged that the Sint Elisabeth Foundation is not without shortcomings and has experienced difficult periods. However, it emphasized that the organization provided healthcare to the Curaçao community for generations and remains an important part of the island’s social history.
The government has indicated that it wants to maintain control over the future development of the Sehos property. The diocese believes that this goal can be achieved while also respecting the foundation’s role and the historical significance of the site.
Need for cooperation
The diocese urged all parties involved to work toward cooperation, mutual understanding and respect.
The church stressed that the former hospital complex represents more than real estate. It represents decades of healthcare, community service and the contribution of many people who worked within the institution.
The dispute between the government and the Sint Elisabeth Foundation concerns the financial conclusion of their relationship after the transition from the former Sehos hospital to the Curaçao Medical Center.
The foundation has taken legal steps to seek a final settlement, while the government continues to focus on determining the future use and preservation of the historic complex.
According to the diocese, a lasting solution should protect both Curaçao’s public interests and the historical, social and spiritual heritage connected to Sehos.