On Friday, June 14th., the Minister of Justice, Shalten Hato, rendered a visit to the Coastguard Dutch Caribbean Region as well as to Military from Curaçao. This visit was aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the operations and challenges that both organizations face on a daily basis.
The Minister was welcomed on the Naval Base Parera by Navy Commander in the Caribbean Region and also Director of the Coastguard, Walter Hansen, and Deputy Director of the Coastguard, Joëlle de Jong-Mercelina.
The day started off with an extensive program at the Coastguard. The purpose of the visit was to give Minister Hato a better view of the daily tasks of the Coastguard, including combating illegal activities at sea (such as drug smuggling and human trafficking), search and rescue, and safeguarding our maritime environment. The Coastguard at this moment is involved in a transition project, which will create for next year space for approximately 40 workers. Also the Minister had the opportunity to participate in several sports activities with Coastguard personnel to be able to experience the importance of physical top condition for this labor. The Minister expressed his appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of the Coastguard Personnel and emphasized the importance of this work for the national security.
During the afternoon the Minister moved by Coastguard helicopter to the training grounds of Wacao. He was welcomed here by the Commander of the Curaçao Military, Captain Sicni Meulens. The program entailed a presentation of the current military operations and training programs, which are aimed at ensuring security and stability in the region. The Minister assisted a military exercise and had the opportunity to speak with the soldiers about their experience and the challenges which they encounter in their job. The Minister emphasized in his speech the importance of cooperation amongst the several security services. He also expressed his appreciation to the Curaçao Military and underlined the importance of further professionalization of the Curaçao Military.
