Move to restart ALNG work

OFFICIALS of Bechtel International spent most of yesterday briefing sub-contractors on the restart plan to facilitate a return to work at the Atlantic LNG Train IV construction project, by workers who up to last week were engaged in protest action. Work at the construction site was stalled for ten weeks after some 1,800 contract workers downed tools seeking improved wages and working conditions. However, an agreement was brokered last Friday after marathon negotiations between the workers’ representatives, Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) and Atlantic LNG and Bechtel International officials, at the Port-of-Spain offices of Public Administration Minister, Dr Lenny Saith. 

According to a Bechtel representative, the restart plan was divided into three phases and will include an orientation, safety training and testing plan. She said in phase one, sub-contractors would be notified on the order of orientation to ensure a safe restart. The official said the initial orientation would be for maintenance sub-contractors, including temporary electrical, temporary water, water distribution, toilet and equipment maintenance crews.  Phase two would include equipment and material-handling subcontractors, where heavy mechanical and equipment vehicles will be inspected and maintenance work performed before the commencement of work. She said safety and equipment inspections were also an integral part of the restart programme.

Phase three will see the remaining sub-contractor personnel returning to the construction site but they would be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing before they resume work. Meanwhile, at a meeting at the former Point Fortin strike camp yesterday, workers’ representative Ernest Thompson once again thanked workers for their courage and commitment throughout the ten-week ordeal. Also addressing the meeting was OWTU Trinmar branch president, Ancil Roget, who called on the returning workers  “not to allow brother workers to be victimised.” He said workers must be prepared to return to the strike camp if a fellow worker experienced any form of victimisation on their return to the construction site. He also urged workers to join a recognised trade union and suggested a labour organisation with over 60 years in industrial relations practices in the nation.