By Prior Beharry
FORMER energy minster Kevin Ramnarine says that Heritage Petroleum cannot remove itself from responsibility for the operations of private operators in its Trimar acreage.
He said, “Heritage can’t extricate itself from the incident with Rig110.”
Ramnarine said the highest priority must be the workers’ safety in this incident.
He said, “I have, however, taken note of two separate statements on the matter: One from the Minister of Energy and Energy Industries and the other from Heritage Petroleum.
“These statements stress that the company involved in the accident is a private sector company, namely, Well Services Ltd.
“However, the facts are that this rig, Well Services Rig 110, was drilling for Heritage Petroleum in Heritage’s Trinmar acreage and would have been doing so under the instructions and supervision of Heritage Petroleum.
“Heritage Petroleum therefore cannot remove itself from its responsibility for these operations.
“As the licensee, they are ultimately responsible for petroleum operations in their licensed acreage as outlined in the Petroleum Regulations 42 and 43.
“I recommend that Heritage Petroleum executives read the Petroleum Act and apprise themselves of their statutory responsibilities.
“Even as details emerge, we must extend our support and encouragement for all personnel on the rig and those in supporting roles and first responders.”
