WILLEMSTAD - After learning the limited details about the signing of the contract between RdK and Oryx Petroleum, it became clear why the Pisas Cabinet did not first consult Parliament or properly inform anyone about the contents of the "deal" made with Oryx Petroleum. 

The available information raises more questions than answers, and the first impression suggests that this is another instance of Premier Pisas's "Campaign Show." 

Let's be honest. Premier Pisas has entertained us with similar shows in recent years. Just look at the huge contract with PDVSA, which resulted in a 55% discount over 10 long years, without a drop of oil to date. The reception of the ship with smuggled oil in Bullenbaai was a major issue for RdK. Who has forgotten the show of registering 3,000 names for work in the refinery? After this show, we dealt with forged CPR documents, and ultimately, some individuals will end up behind bars. 

The hope we all had for the welfare of our community made us believe this would be something truly significant. Unfortunately, the limited information shared does not portray this positively. 

To operate the refinery according to environmental standards, an investment of over $1 billion would be needed (according to RdK). Oryx would invest a total of $70 million. If we recall, much more was asked from all other companies as "Proof of Funds." Let's not forget what the forged CPR documents entailed and that the funds shown by GIK (Rutsel Martha) were insufficient. 

So it is clear that with this investment, refining won't start even within 100 years. 

The primary conclusion that can be drawn from this is as follows: 

There will be no more product refining taking place in the refinery. (Some installations will be used for "mix" products. The Cat Cracker, the heart of the refinery, will no longer be operational); 

There will be no oil activities (even the promised ones) taking place in the next three years. (This period will be used, among other things, to explore possibilities); 

There will be no additional jobs created. (The current approximately 260 employees of RdK will keep their jobs); 

Oryx will use Bullenbaai to earn more money and pay the same as CPR. 

It is clear that the intention is to lease parts of the refinery at a low price for 30 years, allowing Oryx Petroleum to become wealthy without investing much money, creating more jobs, or investing in the protection of our environment. 

Therefore, the PAR faction will request a parliamentary meeting so that the government can provide an explanation and answer these questions, to get a clear picture of what this deal really means for the future of the energy sector in Curaçao. 

The first impression, in any case, does not indicate progress for Curaçao.