PNM Members Must Confront the Reality: The Petrotrin Refinery Closure Was a Historic Mistake

In the annals of Trinidad and Tobago’s economic history, few decisions have sparked as much controversy and enduring impact as the closure of the Petrotrin refinery at Pointe à Pierre in 2018. While the People’s National Movement (PNM) managed to navigate the 2020 general elections without significant backlash over this move, the 2025 electoral landscape tells a different story. The refinery’s shutdown has resurfaced as a central issue, particularly as the nation grapples with a persistent foreign exchange crisis.

The government’s rationale for shuttering Petrotrin centered on the company’s financial woes, including significant debts and operational inefficiencies. However, the aftermath has revealed deeper economic fissures. The cessation of local refining operations has forced Trinidad and Tobago to import refined petroleum products, thereby increasing the demand for foreign currency and exacerbating the country’s foreign exchange challenges. This shift has not only strained the national economy but also highlighted the refinery’s previous role as a vital contributor to foreign exchange earnings .

Beyond the economic metrics, the closure’s social ramifications have been profound. Thousands of workers found themselves unemployed, and the ripple effects extended to their families and communities. The termination of Petrotrin’s generous medical benefits program left many without essential healthcare coverage, underscoring the human cost of the decision .

The decision to close the refinery was not merely an economic calculation but also a reflection of political dynamics. The contentious relationship between Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley and Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) President General Ancel Roget played a significant role. Roget has been vocal in his criticism, accusing the government of political motivations and highlighting the adverse effects on workers and the broader economy .

As the nation moves forward, it’s imperative for PNM members and supporters to acknowledge the multifaceted consequences of the refinery’s closure. Recognizing past missteps is not an admission of defeat but a necessary step toward rebuilding trust and crafting informed policies. Ignoring the evident economic and social impacts risks alienating constituents and undermining the party’s credibility.

The closure of the Petrotrin refinery stands as a cautionary tale of how decisions, driven by a confluence of economic challenges and political tensions, can have lasting repercussions. For the PNM to remain attuned to the nation’s pulse, it must confront this reality head-on, embracing transparency and accountability in charting the country’s future.