Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Energy Minister, has disclosed that crude condensate worth US$2.5 million has been missing from the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
According to Dr. Prempeh the deal he secured for TOR in the premix sector has left the funds unaccounted for.
“I gave TOR a new business opportunity in the premix fuel market that all the condensate from Ghana Gas should be used for making premix fuel. The last time I heard, over US$2.5 million worth of condensate had gone missing from TOR,” he said.
He reassured the public that the government is making every effort to reopen the refinery in response to a request from employees.
However, due to accusations made against the managing director, Jerry K. Hinson, employees are clamouring for his dismissal.
The General Transport Petroleum Chemical Workers Union (GTPCWU) has announced its intention to picket at the Jubilee House, Ministry of Energy, and other strategic locations.
In response, Hinson wrote to the employees and issued a warning, citing sections 168–171 of the Labour Act, that any illegal picketing or strikes would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
“Kindly be aware of the illegality of any such actions under clauses 168- 1 71 of the Labour Act and the consequences thereunder for participants/staff involved. Please be aware of section 171 in particular which emphasises the term “picketing” which is only lawful in furtherance of a lawful strike/industrial action,” he said.
“Kindly be advised finally that participation of staff in any illegal action or picketing or indeed any act that purports to disrupt the activities of the Company or possibly undermine the authority of the Shareholder will be subjected to the prescribed ramifications under the relevant laws.”
