Khan: 4,000 ex-Petrotrin workers sought counselling

SOME 4,000 ex-workers at Petrotrin and/or their family-members have sought counselling as provided by the former state-run oil company, Energy Minister Franklin Khan told the Senate. In reply to a question by Independent Senator Dr Varma Deyalsingh, the minister said these people had sought help in “some form or fashion.” The counselling service is on offer until May, Khan said. Petrotrin shut its refinery last year and bequeathed its various operations to three legacy companies, all of which resulted in more than 5,000 workers losing their jobs.

Khan answered a separate question by Opposition Senator Saddam Hosein regarding what money (if any) does the Government owe Sandals over failed negotiations based on past statements by company chairman Butch Stewart.

Khan said based on recent statements by Sandals CEO Gebhard Rainer, the government owes nothing.