WILLEMSTAD - Patrick Newton, the director of Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK), stated during a meeting with the union representing contract workers, SGTK, that the installations of the Isla refinery are in such poor condition that a significant overhaul is necessary before the asphalt production process can commence.
Alcides Cova, president of SGTK, expressed concerns about the clarity and future of contract workers within the refinery's plans. He emphasized that despite promises made during the 2021 election campaign by the ruling MFK and PNP parties, concrete steps have yet to be taken to restart the refinery.
According to Cova, Newton admitted that negotiations regarding the refinery's operations have been altered once again. The original plan was to start the asphalt unit by the end of May and then proceed with the revision of the remaining installations. "Newton has decided to do everything at once. The installations have deteriorated significantly. Pipelines, columns, pumps, and other equipment are poorly maintained. In the interest of safety, we will now revise everything before starting asphalt production," Cova stated.
Contractors will be hired for this revision. Cova points out that RdK is facing a major problem because contractors are struggling to find workers. This is due to wages decreasing since the closure of Isla, resulting in lower wages for workers as well.
Cova suggests that contract workers, like former Isla employees who were absorbed, should be paid according to the rates that were in place before the refinery closed. "Newton indicated that it is up to Global Oil to decide on this."
If contractors are not paid according to these rates, it is logical that they will also struggle to find workers because they can find better-paid work elsewhere, even temporarily. "This also creates a situation where dissatisfied contractors do not bid for work on the refinery site," Cova added.
SGTK finds it unacceptable that if local workers cannot be found, cheaper labor from abroad, such as Venezuela, is being attracted. The union has also agreed with RdK that information about former employees will be provided to contractors to recruit local labor.
Cova concluded by announcing that a new meeting with the involved parties is scheduled within two weeks to further discuss developments.