Minister of Energy and Energy Industries Dr Roodal Moonilal says Government is not giving up on Nutrien, despite media reports about uncertainty surrounding the company’s operations.
Speaking to reporters at the launch of Powergen’s National Schools’ Debate Competition on Tuesday, he said workers at Nutrien remain on the job, adding that discussions with the company are continuing.
“I just wanted to remind you that workers were reported for duty yesterday at Nutrien. You won’t believe it, but they were reported this morning as well for duty at Nutrien. So the workers are not home. They are employed at this moment. They received their salary package.”
Minister Moonilal assured that Government is maintaining direct contact with the company and is examining possible opportunities that could support the plant’s future.
“We are in discussions with Nutrien, even at this time, looking at the situation to see what future investment we could look at, what is on the table for us to examine or re-examine, as the case may be. I have been in touch with Nutrien yesterday, and I will be in touch with Nutrien later today as well.”
Dr Moonilal said Government recognises the importance of the facility and is committed to keeping the dialogue alive.
“We are not closing the door on any matter involving that complex. We see the critical importance of it to Trinidad and Tobago and to the hemisphere as well. It is something that we are not turning our back to, but we are respectful of Nutrien’s position, which is a commercial matter, and we are hoping that we can continue the dialogue, notwithstanding the events of yesterday morning.”
The Energy Minister was also asked about reports that Nutrien had been exploring the sale of its local assets and whether there had been any developments on that front.
“No, Nutrien had announced, I believe, months ago, that they were talking to purchasers, including NGC, with the hope of selling the plant and the operations there. I have not seen or heard anything on that matter to suggest that it has been concluded. So we’ll have our discussions, but we are talking to Nutrien, and we’ll see how that goes.”