Opposition Calls for Independent Investigation into Diving Tragedy

Incident Overview

• Location: Pointe-a-Pierre
• Incident: Five divers trapped in a pipeline during underwater maintenance, with a delayed response.
• Date: The incident occurred on a Friday, with a media briefing on Sunday.

Key Individuals Involved

• David Lee: Pointe-a-Pierre MP and shadow energy minister advocating for investigation.
• Newman George: Chairman of Paria Fuel Trading Company.
• Stuart Young: Energy Minister involved in discussions and visiting families.
• Diver Rescued: Christopher Boodram.

Missing Divers

• Kazim Ali Jr.
• Fyzal Kurban
• Rishi Nagassar
• Yusuf Henry
• Status: Presumed dead; recovery exercise underway.

Calls for Investigation

• David Lee's Position: Urges for an independent investigation to uncover what happened and address delays in rescue efforts.
• Concerns Raised:
  • Delay from initial report to action (up to 8 hours).
  • Inaction in the first 12 hours post-incident.
  • Pounding sounds from within the pipeline indicating possible activity/alive divers.
  • Issues with work permit approvals for maintenance work.
  • Breakdown in safety procedures.

Family and Recovery Efforts

• Family Situation: Families stationed at a bus shed near the company’s car park with inadequate facilities.
• Response from Authorities:
  • Energy Minister Stuart Young’s visit.
  • Paria Fuel offered condolences and counseling.
  • Criticism for lack of proper accommodation for families.

Recovery Operation

• Status: Transitioned from rescue to recovery.
• Collaboration: Involves Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard.

Media and Government Response

• Media Briefing: Scheduled by the Energy Ministry.
• CEO Statement: Newman George confirmed recovery operations underway.
• Allegations: Claims of orders preventing potential escape by closing a flange.

These notes summarize the call for an independent investigation into the diving tragedy involving Paria Fuel Trading Company and the broader implications regarding safety protocols and family treatment in crisis scenarios. The notes also highlight the key figures involved and the status of the recovery operations.