WILLEMSTAD – Opposition party PAR is calling for an urgent investigation into alleged labor law violations at Sandals Royal Curaçao, following complaints from current and former employees about unpaid suspensions, questionable employment contracts, and the alleged denial of social security protections.
In a press statement dated November 5, 2026, PAR parliamentary faction leader Quincy Girigorie expressed serious concerns about working conditions at the luxury resort, warning that tourism development and foreign investment must never come at the expense of the rights of local workers.
Quincy Girigorie MP in Parliament
Girigorie said he has received complaints from several current and former Sandals employees over the past few years. Some approached him personally for advice, while others publicly shared their experiences on social media.
According to the parliamentarian, what initially appeared to be isolated incidents has developed into a pattern of complaints that warrants formal intervention by the Labor Inspectorate.
"Investment and development cannot be an excuse for the abuse of local workers," Girigorie stated.
Allegations of Unpaid Suspensions and Questionable Contracts
In his statement, Girigorie identified several employment practices that he believes may violate Curaçao's labor legislation.
One of the allegations concerns the reported use of ten-day unpaid suspensions as disciplinary measures against employees who commit a first workplace offense.
According to Girigorie, such suspensions can result in workers losing almost half their monthly salary. He argues that imposing such severe financial penalties for an initial workplace mistake is inconsistent with Curaçao's labor laws.
Another concern involves employees who allegedly work full-time for more than two and a half years while remaining on zero-hour contracts.
Sandals Resort Curaçao
Girigorie claims that these arrangements deprive workers of employment protections to which they may be legally entitled.
He argues that employees who consistently work full-time should not remain indefinitely under contractual arrangements that fail to reflect their actual working conditions.
According to the PAR faction leader, the consequences extend beyond employment security.
Workers without stable contracts may encounter difficulties obtaining financing for a vehicle or qualifying for a mortgage, even after years of continuous employment.
Workers Allegedly Denied Sick Pay and SVB Registration
Girigorie also raised concerns about the treatment of employees who become ill.
He alleges that some workers employed under zero-hour contracts are subject to a "no work, no pay" arrangement when they are unable to work because of illness.
Furthermore, he claims that certain employees are not registered with the Social Insurance Bank (SVB), potentially preventing them from receiving benefits when they become sick.
These allegations, if substantiated, could raise serious questions about compliance with employment and social insurance obligations.
Another practice identified by Girigorie involves workers who allegedly remain employed for years under successive six-month contracts without receiving written extensions or permanent employment agreements.
He argues that such arrangements create uncertainty and restrict employees' opportunities for professional and financial development.
The allegations have been presented by Girigorie and have not been established through an official investigation or court ruling.
PAR Claims Labor Ministry Is Already Aware of Complaints
One of the most significant assertions in Girigorie's statement concerns the Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW).
The parliamentarian says he contacted the Labor Department and learned that complaints involving Sandals Curaçao were already familiar to officials.
According to Girigorie, employees have repeatedly approached the department to report alleged violations of labor legislation and seek advice about their employment rights.
He claims the ministry is aware of the resort's treatment of local workers and the dissatisfaction surrounding its employment practices.
Girigorie described the situation as an open secret, arguing that the number of complaints makes it necessary to address the company publicly.
He acknowledged that he does not normally identify private businesses when discussing employment disputes.
However, he believes the seriousness and frequency of the complaints justify naming Sandals Curaçao and requesting an official investigation.
The press statement does not include a response from the Labor Department confirming the number or nature of complaints received.
Government Urged to Investigate Tourism Sector
Girigorie has submitted a series of questions to the Minister of Labor and requested an investigation into possible labor law violations at Sandals Curaçao.
He is also calling for a broader examination of employment practices throughout the tourism sector.
According to the parliamentarian, the government must ensure that economic development benefits local workers rather than allowing employment practices that undermine their rights.
Girigorie emphasized that he recognizes the importance of tourism investment and the contribution of foreign investors to Curaçao's economy.
However, he warned that the pursuit of economic growth should not prevent authorities from enforcing labor legislation.
He argues that failing to address potential violations could encourage similar practices elsewhere in the tourism industry.
The PAR faction leader also warned that government inaction could create the perception that questionable employment practices are tolerated.
Tourism Growth Must Benefit Local Workers
The statement comes at a time when Curaçao continues to promote tourism as an important driver of economic growth and employment.
Luxury resorts and international hotel operators play a significant role in attracting visitors and generating economic activity.
However, Girigorie argues that the success of the industry should also be measured by the quality of employment and the opportunities it creates for local residents.
He maintains that tourism development must contribute to better living standards, stable employment, and respect for workers' legal rights.
For PAR, the complaints involving Sandals raise broader questions about whether employment protections are being adequately enforced within the hospitality industry.
Girigorie believes that the Labor Inspectorate should determine whether the reported practices comply with Curaçao's labor laws and whether additional enforcement measures are necessary.
Sandals' Response Not Included
The allegations outlined in the PAR statement have not been independently verified. The document does not contain a response from Sandals Royal Curaçao or findings from an official labor investigation.
It remains unclear whether the Labor Inspectorate has already opened a formal investigation into the resort's employment practices.
Girigorie is now pressing the government to examine the complaints and establish whether workers' rights have been violated.
The parliamentarian concluded that tourism and economic development must improve the well-being of Curaçao's population rather than undermine the rights of its workers.