WILLEMSTAD – Minister of Traffic, Transport and Spatial Planning (VVRP) Charles Cooper has ordered immediate action against illegal construction and unauthorized activities on Klein Curaçao, expressing anger over what he describes as individuals increasingly treating the small island as their private property.
In a strongly worded statement, Cooper declared that none of the structures currently present on Klein Curaçao have legal authorization and that the activities taking place there must be addressed by the responsible authorities.
Klein Curaçao beach
The minister said he has already forwarded information about the situation to his ministry's management team and the relevant project teams, instructing them to investigate the matter and intervene as quickly as possible.
According to Cooper, the situation has become unacceptable, particularly because Klein Curaçao is an area that belongs to the people of Curaçao and should not be occupied or developed without the necessary authorization.
The minister emphasized that the absence of continuous government supervision does not give individuals the right to construct structures or undertake activities without permission.
He acknowledged that authorities cannot maintain a permanent presence on Klein Curaçao to monitor every development. However, he said this limitation appears to have created opportunities for individuals to carry out unauthorized activities.
Cooper expressed particular frustration with what he described as a lack of adequate control over the situation in recent years.
He also criticized the apparent failure of the responsible authorities within his own ministry to maintain sufficient oversight.
The minister indicated that the situation demonstrates what can happen when government supervision is inadequate, allowing unauthorized activities to develop gradually.
According to Cooper, individuals have taken advantage of the limited enforcement presence to carry out activities that should not have been permitted.
He made it clear that the government must respond firmly rather than allow the situation to continue.
Cooper has instructed the relevant teams within VVRP to visit Klein Curaçao as soon as possible and take decisive action against those responsible for the illegal activities.
The minister stressed that individuals cannot simply behave as though they own an area that belongs to the entire population.
His statement signals a more forceful approach toward unauthorized construction and the private occupation of public areas on Klein Curaçao.
However, Cooper did not specify how many illegal structures have been identified, who is responsible for them or what enforcement measures will be taken.
It also remains unclear whether the government intends to order the removal of the structures or pursue legal action against those involved.