Operations at Suriname’s Milk Central have returned to normal following successful mediation efforts by Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries Minister Mike Noersalim. The resolution comes after partial work stoppages occurred yesterday when staff expressed dissatisfaction with the sudden departure of Director Monché Atompai.
Minister Noersalim personally engaged with management and employees to address the concerns, emphasizing that the situation did not constitute an industrial conflict. “This is not about an industrial dispute. Not working jeopardizes the company’s stability,” Noersalim stated in comments to Starnieuws. He warned that continued work stoppages would create significant financial losses for the state-owned enterprise.
The ministerial intervention included the presence of Ebu Jones, Chairman of the National Assembly’s permanent committee on LVV matters, demonstrating the government’s commitment to resolving the matter. Operational leadership has been temporarily assumed by Deputy Director Larissa Barden during this transition period.
The personnel unrest stemmed from President Jennifer Simons’ recent decision to terminate the contracts of both Director Atompai and Deputy Director Ritshik Adelaar. These dismissals are reportedly connected to developments regarding contracts signed with the State Health Insurance Fund (SZF).
Minister Noersalim confirmed that stability has been restored, noting: “Everything is calm now. People are working normally.” The resolution prevents further disruption to Suriname’s dairy supply chain while the government addresses underlying administrative concerns.