OWTU on Paria Diving Tragedy: Families Still Awaiting Justice and Compensation

Overview

• Date of Event: February 25, 2022
• Location: Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd's Pointe-a-Pierre facility
• Victims: Kazim Ali Jnr, Yusuf Henry, Rishi Nagassar, Fyzal Kurban
• Survivor: Christopher Boodram

Incident Description

• The four divers were repairing a 30-inch pipeline when they were sucked into it.
• Only Christopher Boodram managed to escape alive.

Legal Proceedings

• Upcoming Court Appearance: September 11, before San Fernando magistrate Alicia Chankar
• Individuals Charged:
  • Mushtaq Mohammed, Paria's general manager
  • Colin Piper, Paria's operations manager
  • Kazim Ali Snr, head of LMCS
• Charges: Related to Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) violations
• Initial Hearing: Held virtually in July; charges not read until September 11

Current Issues

• Justice Status:
  • Families have not received compensation or justice.
  • No workmen compensation or charitable donations from Paria.
• OWTU Stance:
  • Criticisms from Christopher Jackman, president of the Point-a-Pierre branch of OWTU.
  • Accusations of Paria ruining the lives of five families.
  • Allegations of unqualified personnel in leadership roles causing daily risks.

Commission of Enquiry

• Substantial funds spent, recommendations made but not implemented.
• Formation of a risk assessment committee for diving operations.
• Complaints about existing hazards, including risks of fire and explosion.

Public Reactions and Memorial

• Memorial Gathering: Held at Tulip Avenue, Pointe-a-Pierre with media and victim's relatives.
• OWTU Actions:
  • Publicizing incidents inside Paria.
  • Burning images of involved officials and political leaders.
• Family Members: Displayed banners demanding justice.

Calls for Action

• OWTU Demands:
  • Removal of unqualified staff to prevent future incidents.
  • Compensation for victim's families.
  • Swift justice in court.

Conclusion

• The OWTU continues to press for reforms within Paria and justice for the victim's families.
• Public and family members are vocal in requesting accountability and recognition of the tragedy.