WILLEMSTAD – Minister of Economic Development Roderick Middelhof plans to meet with Egg Farm Moderno and Stichting Sunset Heights in an effort to find a solution to the years-long dispute over odor nuisance caused by chicken manure. The minister’s intervention comes after Moderno recently suffered another setback in court in its attempt to prevent the collection of penalty payments.
Middelhof says he is closely examining the situation surrounding the poultry company, stressing that Moderno plays an important role in Curaçao’s local egg production and, consequently, the island’s food security.
The minister intends to hold discussions with both the company and representatives of residents in Sunset Heights. His objective is to find a solution that protects the interests and living conditions of residents while preserving local food production.
“We understand the importance of Egg Farm Moderno to our community,” Middelhof said. “That is why we are taking the situation seriously, with the aim of reaching a sustainable solution for the future.”
Years of complaints
The conflict between Moderno and residents of Sunset Heights has continued for several years. Residents have repeatedly complained about odors and other nuisance associated with chicken manure from the poultry operation.
The dispute has resulted in several court proceedings over how Moderno is permitted to handle and dispose of the manure.
In a summary judgment issued on February 24, 2026, Moderno was prohibited from dumping chicken manure on its own premises. The manure must instead be transported to a designated disposal location.
The court attached a penalty of Cg 10,000 for each violation of the prohibition, up to a maximum of Cg 1 million.
Stichting Sunset Heights maintains that Moderno subsequently violated the court order and therefore owes penalty payments.
Moderno disputed that position and returned to court in an effort to stop the penalties from being collected. The company, however, was unsuccessful.
In the most recent ruling, the court determined that Moderno could not use that particular legal procedure to block enforcement of the previously imposed penalties. The underlying court order therefore remains in effect.
Food security enters debate
Middelhof's involvement adds an economic and food-security dimension to a dispute that until now has largely centered on environmental nuisance, residents' interests and compliance with court orders.
Curaçao depends heavily on imported food, making local agricultural and food production strategically important. Middelhof's position is that any longer-term solution should therefore take into account both the rights of nearby residents and the importance of maintaining domestic egg production.
The minister has not yet announced what specific solution he believes could resolve the dispute.
His planned discussions also do not end the legal battle. Proceedings between Egg Farm Moderno and Stichting Sunset Heights remain ongoing while the minister seeks a possible solution acceptable to the parties involved.