Patriotic Energies and Technologies is hoping the stumbling blocks stalling the purchase of Petrotrin can be removed.

Yesterday the company along with its parent Oilfield Workers Trade Union expressed surprise that proposals submitted to the government last week were rejected.

Energy Minister Franklyn Khan announced the rejection last Saturday afternoon.

The OWTU’s President General Ancil Roget said Patriotic met all the requirements and even made upfront payments twice to ensure it was in line with the requirement of the Cabinet.

But Minister Franklyn Khan said on Saturday Patriotic was lacking in 3 areas.

Mr. Roget is adamant Patriotic adhered to every instruction outlined in the purchase bid.

He feels not enough attention was paid to the proposal document sent by Patriotic. 

Mr. Roget called for another round of discussions.

Further Mr. Roget expressed concern that Patriotic’s international and extensive business plan is now in the hands of someone else.

The State indicated on Saturday that other options are now being explored but discussions with Patriotic can still be had.  

Mr. Roget said there is no doubt that Trinidad and Tobago will benefit from the sale and restart of the refinery but he believes more will be gained if a local company acquires the refinery.