KRALENDIJK – Former Deputy Nina den Heyer has urged Bonaire’s Island Council to expedite the introduction of a new ordinance aimed at restricting the use of alcohol, tobacco and tobacco products. In a letter to the members of the Island Council, she expresses her concerns about the absence of concrete measures and the consequences for public health on the island.
According to Den Heyer, the process surrounding the draft ordinance has been stalled for some time. During a committee meeting in February 2025, the Executive Council reportedly committed to submitting a proposal to the Island Council. Although a draft was approved in June 2025 while she was still serving as deputy, it was subsequently withdrawn following the installation of new deputies. According to her, no public explanation was ever given for that withdrawal.
Ordinance
The letter emphasises that the lack of transparency is raising questions within the community. Den Heyer calls on the Island Council to demand clarity from the Executive Council regarding the status of the previous ordinance, the reasons for any amendments and the timeline for a new proposal.
Smoking in Casinos
She also warns of the consequences of the continued absence of regulation, particularly for young people. She describes the use of vapes among schoolchildren as an "alarming development" and argues that swift action is needed to protect public health. She also draws attention to employees in casinos, where, according to her, smoking continues to take place in air-conditioned spaces, posing health risks to staff.
With World No Tobacco Day on 31 May in mind, Den Heyer calls on the Island Council to prioritise the consideration of the revised ordinance. In her view, protecting the health of residents, and young people in particular, must be central to Bonaire’s policy.
