Petrotrin PetroConnect #107 September 2010

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PETRO Connect Connect Connect Connect Connect Corporate News at a glance No. 107 - September 2010 Trinmar Holds a General Contractors Communication Forum Partnering With Petrotrin

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petroleum company of trinidad and tobago newsletter

Transcript of Petrotrin PetroConnect #107 September 2010

Page 1: Petrotrin PetroConnect #107 September 2010

Interdepartmental Football Season Opens

The primary aim of the Petrotrin Employee Football League (PEFL) is to develop bonds and relationships among Petrotrin employees through healthy interac-tion and competition in football. This is all part of the Company’s employee relations drive to build strong teams of employees within the Company. Petrotrin Employees Football Knock-Out Play

Offs in both the North and South Areas kicked off on the 16th of August, where 18 teams participated to mark the Opening of the 2010 Season. Since then the fierce competition has been ongo-ing as rival teams seek to outdo each other for the coveted trophies which will be distributed at the end of the season.

PETROConnectConnectConnectConnectConnect

PETROConnectConnectConnectConnectConnectCorporate News at a glance No. 107 - September 2010

Trinmar Holds a General Contractors Communication Forum

Sports

Partnering With Petrotrin

CREDITS

Editor: Gillian Friday Editorial Team: George Comissiong, Walford Coker, Elmo Griffith, Afiya Butler-Ray, Photography: Elmo Griffith, Kerri-Ann Joseph, Lisa Williams-Lewis Layout+Design: Kishore Raghoobar

The PetroConnect is published monthly for employees, retirees and other stakeholders.

We would like to print your views, Department highlights, personal stories etc.Send your comments to:PetroConnect,Corporate Communications Department, Casuarina Avenue, Pointe-a-Pierre, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.Fax: (868) 658-1825 / Phone: 658-4200 Ext. 2811 / 2823For more info visit www.petrotrin.com

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in this issue

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lines for registering as a contractor with Petrotrin; conflict of interest and ethics issues; Petrotrin’s finance and payment systems; contractor HSE performance; avoiding accidents and incidents; security arrangements and other issues. Abundant time was allotted for contractors to ask questions or voice concerns about various matters. Petrotrin is committed to keeping the channels of communication open with all of its contractors in order to ensure than win/win symbiotic relationships are main-tained which not only satisfy the Company’s strategic interest, but also redound to the national good.

Petrotrin takes its role of contributing to national development seriously; and one of its overarching objectives is to promote local content as well as to encourage and develop indigenous business capability. The Company has a deliberate policy of encouraging as many fence-line commu-nity contractors as possible to participate, where applicable, in its business opera-tions. In its bid to improve communication, understanding and greater synergy between Petrotrin and the contractors who

supply a wide range of goods and services, Petrotrin Trinmar Operations convened a “General Contractors Communication Forum” on Wednesday 2010 September 15. Adopting the theme “Partnering with Petrotrin,” two sessions were held with over 150 contractors at the Auditorium of the Point Fortin Borough Corporation on George Street, Mahaica, Point Fortin. This was done in order to apprise participants about Petrotrin’s policies and procedures and to obtain feedback from

the contractors about ways to improve the relationship with the Company. Through-out the both sessions the emphasis was placed on HSE issues in order to ensure Contractors continue to work safely and productively within the guidelines of Petrotrin’s approved work protocols. Senior Manager Production Opera-tions, Mr. Steve Baldeosingh gave general opening remarks during which he welcomed participants and outlined the philosophy that would guide the day’s proceedings. The rest of the day’s proceedings consisted of presentations on various pertinent issues. These included: guide-

News 2/3Editorial 3Refining and Marketing HSE Fair 4/5Rewarding Excellence in HSE Performance 6Health, Safety and the Environment 7Focus on People 8/9We are Process Safety Management at Work 10/11Corporate Social Resonsibility 12/13Wellness Page 14Petrotrin Employee Achievement 15San Fernando Jazz Festival 16/17Sport 18/19/20

NEWS NEWSNEWSNEWSNEWS

The Legacy ofKeith Awong

Editorial

Head HSE Trinmar OperationsGarret Manwarring

Trinmar Operations Holds General Contractors Communication Forum

On 2010 September 01 Trinidad and Tobago lost an energy icon in the person of Mr. Keith Awong who passed away at the Augustus Long Hospital at the age of 70 after ailing for some time. Mr. Awong made a sterling contri-bution to the local energy sector for over 40 years; impressing all with whom he interacted by his humility and lack of ostentation, coupled with a formidable intellect and a breadth of experience in the energy sector. In a joint newspaper communiqué issued on 2010 Sunday September 5th by three of the energy companies which he led, the following statement appeared: “He brought to every Com-pany with which he was associated his immense experience, knowledge, resourcefulness and determination. His vision for the companies under his leadership was inspirational and far reaching, with the national interest always at the forefront. This vision included the develop-ment and expansion of the local energy sector, the gaining of competitive advan-tage for the country through various modernization drives in the sector and an increased focus on entrepreneurship and investment in downstream indus-tries.”

We at PETROTRIN remember his distinguished career at our predecessor companies: Shell, TRINTOC (Point Fortin), later the merged TRINTOC and then as the first CEO/MD at PETROT-RIN from 1993 to 1997. Mr. Awong was able to oversee the successful merger of TRINTOC and TRINTOPEC into PETROTRIN while supervising the first refinery upgrade which may have been the most complex engineering project undertaken during the mid 1990s in the entire Caribbean. Despite many technical challenges as well as some labour unrest he was able to realize the successful completion of this mammoth project. Throughout all of this, Keith remained humble, grounded and approachable - as all who knew him well can attest. Petrotrin President Kenneth Allum described him as a mentor to many young engineers. He said: “He was like a father to us, he mentored us, he was always there to coach us.” He was also a devoted family man and a philanthropist who dedicated his energies towards ameliorating the plight of the less fortunate. As evidence of this social activism, in 2009 the New Life Ministries dedicated their refurbished drug rehabilitation in his honour. He has left us all a worthy example to emulate.

Partnering With Petrotrin

Senior Manager Production Operations,Steve Baldeosingh

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Office Safety PoemOffice safety is a must

In the guidelines given you can trust.Running is not permitted in the corridors on any day

Always keep to the right when in the passageway.Be careful when carrying a heavy load,

Make sure the railing you can hold.All exits should be posted and bright,

Open doors slowly so you don’t hit those out of sight.Placing the computer under the air condition unit

Proves to be a bad habit.Office storage is yet another problem

Always organise files and have one area to store them.Remember, office safety is a must,

The guidelines we have shared, you should follow and trust.

By, Jamila K. Bannister2010/07/12

The Refining and Marketing Division hosted an HSE Fair on Friday 17th September at the PLC car-park from 9am to 3pm under the Theme “We are PSM at Work”. The day’s activities featured promotional materials by the EAP section, the Fire department, wellness testing as well as numerous booths displaying a wide variety of HSE parapherna-lia. There was also a formal programme during which speeches and presentations were made by the President and other mem-bers of the Company’s senior management. Individuals and teams which excelled at HSE performance were also publicly recognized and rewarded. Manager HSE Valerie Quanvie explained: “This activity represents the culmination of the formal HSE calendar for the

current fiscal period and will showcase the output of the various departments and sections within the division and their alignment with the Process Safety Management principles. It is expected that employees would gain an improved appreciation of the synergetic interdependencies that key our work process as well as remove the negative concept of separation between “actual work” and safety.” The Fair was open to all company employees including administrative staff, contractor support personnel or other line personnel residing or based at Pointe-a-Pierre, and was used as a practical learning opportunity. It is hoped that the event would become an annual one which will be extended to all Petrotrin fields.

Refining and Marketing Division Hosts HSE Fair

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At the R&M HSE Fair held at Pointe-a-Pierre on 2010 Septem-ber 17, four employees were recognised and rewarded for excellence in their day to day HSE performance. Mr. Darren George of the Utilities Department, Refinery Services was adjudged the overall winner while there were three “second runners up” who were also recognised. These were Mr. Donald Harriram of Maintenance Services, Conver-sion Department; Mr. Winford Keith Coombs of the same department and Ms. Shelly Nagessar of the Optimization Department who works at the Refinery Laboratory. There were also other awards given on that occasion. The Technical Services Department obtained the award for the best managed booth while the Marine Department was adjudged as having the most innovative booth. Mr. Leonard Chan Chow captured the award for the best performing HSE line manager. These awards are consistent with the division’s strategic objectives for HSE where it endeavours to entrench a culture

of health and safety as well as care and preservation of the environment among all employees. The Refining and Marketing Division has therefore devel-oped a reward program where HSE committees can nominate work colleagues to be recognised for their HSE stewardship.Petroconnect also congratulates these HSE exemplars and calls upon all employees to follow their example.

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Three individuals were recognized recently under the auspices of the HSE Committee Recognition program. HSE Winners Darian Khan, Shauna Charles and Anisha Mohammed-Nagassar, all employed in the Project Engi-neering Design Department placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively as exemplars who are striving towards HSE excellence in their department. The HSE Committee Recognition Program was developed by HSE Chairpersons in an attempt to recog-nize and encourage individuals who are trying to improve HSE in their department or area. This recognition program is part of a wider process which started as a Business Improvement Plan (BIP) for rationalization and improvement of HSE committee’s performance in addition to increasing engagement and participation of employees. The winners have joyfully expressed that HSE awareness has become more prominent as more employ-ees are becoming involved and making a conscious effort to strive for outstanding HSE performance in their areas. Darian Khan stated that he has taken up responsibili-ties such as alerting others of dangerous situations and offering alternate methods; ensuring that permit to work systems are in place and following up with plant operators to ensure that they adhere to safety rules and practices. Although they encounter challenges such as, non-conformity and “being aware but not fully prepared”, they are not discouraged and continue to spread the HSE mes-sage and participate in activities as well as action initia-tives. Anisha shared that Tool Box Talks, drills and training, should continue to be held regularly as they allow for inter-action and troubleshooting which can bring expedited remedies to issues that may arise in any and all depart-ments. Darian, Shauna and Anisha have been impacted by the HSE way of life not only in their offices, but have consequently applied their HSE knowledge to their way of thinking and analysis of proposed risky or hazardous situations in their everyday lives. Receiving these plaques of recognition have made the winners feel appreciated, proud and for Shauna Charles, even shocked. Darian was especially grateful for the opportunity to interact one-on-one with members of management within the organization. Anisha feels a sense of accomplishment and shared a quote which she feels is one that all employees should keep in mind… “No man is an island”, reinforcing the message that HSE awareness and compliance is a role which we all must take a part in playing.

Rewarding Excellence in HSE Performance Health Safety and Environment

Darren Geroge receives his award

Darren George wins R&M HSE AwardDarren George wins R&M HSE Award HSE Recognition Program Awards EmployeesHSE Recognition Program Awards Employees

Shelly Nagessar is congratulated by Senior Manager Refining, Roy Lloyd

Proud members of the Marine Department

Vice President Refining and Marketing Loiue Forde recently announced that the Refining and Marketing division has embarked on a project to upgrade the existing refinery alarm. The first phase of the implementation process is expected to begin in 2010 October. He stated: “As some of you may have been aware, we have been experiencing a number of challenges with the alarm and must improve if the assurances are to be provided for all persons working in the Pointe-a-Pierre field.” The VP R&M explained that there will be three major differences with the upgraded system. The first of these improvements would be that areas to be appropriately zoned for emergency notification. Secondly, different tones will be signaled for different emergencies and finally, there will be clearly identified designated evacuation routes and assembly points. He pointed out that when the system is fully commis-sioned there would be changes in the roles and responsibili-ties of all persons. He concluded: “Your continued support is requested as we forge ahead to improve our emergency notification system. Further updates will be provided over the next few months as the project begins its implementation phase in 2010 October.”

New Refinery AlarmBeing Installed

New Refinery AlarmBeing Installed

Darian Khan

Shauna Charles

Anisha Mohammed-Nagassar

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Focus on People Focus on PeopleFocus on People

Focus on People

Several employees who had worked closely over the years with Mr. Keith Awong paid tribute to his memory. Among them were Messrs. Christopher Farquhar, Garrick Warner and Donald Gopaul. Mr. Farquhar said: “I first met Mr. Keith Awong in August 1975 when I joined our predecessor company TRINTOC as a Chemical Engineer after graduating from UWI. He was at that time Senior Technologist to a group of young engineers with experience levels from new graduates to about five (5) years and later became Chief Technologist. He was one of the corner-stones in the moulding of the new group of Chemical Engineers into a Technology Department with high professional standards. He injected confidence in his junior engineers by encouraging us not to be afraid to present our views and by executing our proposals that were accepted. He advised us that we should not be fearful of making errors however we should learn from any such error. When he became Manager of the General Engineer-ing Division he continued his nurturing of engineers in engineer-ing, procurement and construction activities to the extent where the services of the division was an asset to the shareholder in executing community projects. Mr. Awong had an aura of humility, peace and calmness with him and I do not recall witnessing anger emanating from him at anytime to convey his thoughts. However, with his calm demeanor he was very firm and confident. One always had a fair hearing from Keith in any matter of controversy regardless of the source. Notwithstanding his position of authority he always accepted an invitation from the department to join in an evening of fun. All of us will have fond memories of him.” Garrick Warner made the following contribution. He said: “I am indeed fortunate to have joined Trintoc in Point

Fortin in the mid 1970s as a young engineer just out of university to work with Keith Awong. Keith was extremely gifted, talented and accomplished. I am eternally grateful to him for his guidance and mentoring over the years. He encouraged us then to be honest, fair, reliable, to exhibit self-discipline, to work hard, to be accountable and to perserve at what we did in order to achieve our fullest potential in the engineering and managerial fields. Keith's death has been the passing of an era, the passing of an icon. My master and outstanding mentor is no more. No one was too lowly for his friendship, guidance and encouragement. He was always there to coach and guide us. He will always be remembered for his humble and caring personality. If one were to select two particular qualities of Keith I would choose his decisiveness and his inflexible honesty, integrity and high sense and regard for the ethics and traditions of our noble engineering profession. Even death will not sever the bond that has been fashioned between us. May his soul rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.” Donald Gopaul said: “ Keith as we know him was a visionary, a leader. He was decisive yet he was willing to entertain suggestions. His mind was quick and sharp, yet he was simple. He will take control of situations and still remain humble. Many of his leadership style I try to copy: He said to us “never come to me with a problem, but with a problem and a possible solution.” And one of my Christian life lessons that I will always remember is his advice: “Kill them with love “ He was of impeccable charac-ter and integrity and his word was his honour He was and still is a mentor to me, both professionally and in my personal life. He will live on many people through his many lessons and teaching may he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Colleagues pay tribute to Keith

Energy Minister Carol Seepersad-Bachan, former Prime Minister Patrick Manning and Mrs. Manning were among the mourners

Petrotrin President Kenneth Allum addresses the mourners

Former Petrotrin Chairman Malcolm Jones, Mrs. Jones and formerNGC President Frank Look Kin at far right pay their respectsFrom left to right: Daughters Keilan, Nicola and Keitha join their mother, Dolcie, to pay respects to their father, Keith Awong

On 2010 September 06 hundreds of mourn-ers gathered at the La Romain Roman Catholic Church to pay their last respects to the late Keith Awong, former CEO/MD of Petrotrin, who passed away at the Augustus Long Hospital at the age of 70. Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs Carolyn Seepersad–Bachan was prominent among current and former government ministers who were in attendance. These included: Government Senator David Abdul-lah, former Prime Minister Patrick Manning and his wife Hazel; former Energy Ministers Conrad Enill and Dr. Lenny Saith. San Fernando Mayor, Marlene Coudray was also present. The energy sector was well repre-sented by Petrotrin President Kenneth Allum and members of Petrotrin’s Executive Lead-ership Team; former Petrotrin Chairman Malcolm Jones; President of the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago Andrew Mc Intosh; former NGC President Frank Look Kin and a wide cross section of employees from the energy sector.

Energy Sector Says Goodbye to Keith Awong Tributes to Keith Awong

Numerous tributes poured in, with his peers commenting on his technical compe-tence and the many career achievements of this great man who served in several capacities in different energy companies.

But it was his personal qualities of humility, integrity and a willingness to mentor and freely share of his vast experience which were most remembered by the persons who paid tribute to this icon.

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On 2010 September 19, the Optimization Group became the fourth group within the Refining and Marketing Division to reach 1.5 million man hours without a lost time injury milestone having the last recorded case on 2007 May 13 and worked for 1,225 days to reach this milestone. In a release issued to employees in the Refining and Market-ing Division, Vice President Refining and Marketing Mr. Louie Force commended employees for achieving this milestone. “On behalf of the R&M management team, we would like to extend our congratulations to all the employees who continue to work with safety as the cornerstone of their personal commit-ment,” Forde stated in the release. “As we come close to the end of this fiscal year, I want to personally implore each and every employee to continue the dedication towards HSE excellence in all that is done whilst at the workplaces and by extension into your personal lives as well.”

have made significant strides with respect to the improvements in the air quality from the facilities and the systems must be maintained along with adherence with the operational proce-dures. Over the last few months, we have seen our water situa-tion move from very dangerously low levels in our reservoirs to where they have all now been replenished and requires our diligent management to ensure that there is an adequate water supply to all our facilities into 2011. Our end of pipe waste water treatment facilities must also be maintained so that we reduce the risk of releases into the waterways and marine environment. The other area in our HSE performance that must be managed is the number of culpable vehicular accidents. Thus far for the fiscal year, the division stands at fourteen accidents against a target of ten, indicating that we failed in this area. What does this mean? Recovery requires each person who is authorized to drive the company vehicles to ensure that this is done with due care and attention as if it was your own personal vehicle. This step change in behaviour is a requirement and not a choice that any employee has. I also wish to record my gratitude to all employees and contractors who have worked assiduously to restore the refinery plants which were brought down because of a system-wide electrical supply disruption on the 2nd of August, 2010. As we move closer to the end of this fiscal year in the next thirteen days, we have to be careful not to regress, and thereby lose the gains that we have made. An example to demonstrate this is the third lost time injury recorded on 2010 August 16 where an employee from the Refinery Services Group sustained injury to his left ankle as he stepped off the last step from the tank stairs after taking a sample. As I pointed out on that occasion, we need to arrest these incidents and return to the HSE basic tools that are available to us like the 3 Whats, Tool Box Talks, Understanding the hazards in the workplace and so on. HSE is the responsibility of all of us; we must do that what we know to be right, in a proactive manner.

VP Refining and Marketing Louie Forde called on employees of Petrotrin to make the desired changes in their day to day HSE behaviours in order to safeguard Petrotrin’s personnel and plant as well as to protect and preserve the environment. The following is the full text of his address: “This HSE Fair is the first of what we in the Refining and Marketing Division hope would be an annual Health Safety and Environment event. It is also my understanding that this is anticipated to become a standard activity impacting all fields and divisions throughout the organization. Today’s activities have been designed to heighten employees’ awareness of the role that HSE must play as an integral and indispensable part of the way work must be done at Petrotrin. I am pleased to report at the outset that some depart-ments have already begun to record some significant milestones in their HSE performance. During this fiscal year, I would like to recognize two groups within the division, The Technical Services group who surpassed 1.5 million man hours without a lost time injury on March 10 which translated to working for 1,410 days since their last incident. Then on August 05, the Refinery Services Group moved a notch higher up the ladder of HSE excellence by achieving 2.5 million man hours without a lost time injury milestone having the last recorded case on 2007 September 10. These achievements are evidence that personal HSE risks can be managed through s structured process where the individual takes ownership for HSE and allows this to cascade among the other members of the team. On behalf of the R&M management team, we would like to extend our congratulations to all the employees who continue to work with safety as the cornerstone of their personal commitment. This focus is required in all the groups within R&M. Also the Gasoline Optimization Programme overall has already completed 15.9 millions of man-hours without any lost time accidents as of 2010 June 30. This is a tremendous achievement especially since the new facilities are being constructed whilst we continue to operate our refinery and marine facilities. I therefore take this opportunity to publicly commend all those managers, supervisors, contractors and employees who have remained diligent in achieving a safe place of work on a daily basis. I must caution you however that we still have much work to do in the area of environmental improvements of our facilities and this continues as a key initiative for all of us. We

We are Process Safety Management at WorkWe are Process Safety Management at WorkOptimization reaches 1.5 million man hours without a loss time injury on September 19th Address from the

VP Refining and Marketing

We are PSMat Work

VP Refining and Marketing, Mr. Louie Forde.

The reality is when we fail to conduct our business in accord-ance with the stated guidelines the risk exposure increases with the potential to cause harm to ourselves, the assets, the environment and our fence-line communities. As you would have realized from the Theme of the HSE Fair “We are PSM at Work” the displays are designed to provide the visual learning environment for our employees to understand the linkages of what each person and department does to ensure align-ment with the principles of the our Integrated HSE Management System and build and strengthen the HSE culture within the organi-zation… Today’s HSE Fair must serve as a reminder of our obligations to protect the lives and limbs of our fellow employees, to preserve the environment and to protect our Company from the business losses that accompany accidents. Let us put into practice the additional knowledge that we have gained today. I also wish to join our President in congratulating those teams and individuals who have achieved awards which will be given out shortly. Well done. Keep up the great work.”

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Corporate Social Responsibility Petrotrin Conducts

3D SeismicPublic Consultation

MeetingsDuring the month of September 2010 Petrotrin conducted several public consultation meetings in order to address questions and concerns raised by residents who will be affected by the ongoing 3D seismic survey that is being conducted in communities throughout the Southwest Peninsula, Trinidad. A full panel of Petrotrin and contractor personnel were on hand at Salazar Trace Community Centre, Point Fortin; Palo Seco Secondary School, Siparia Erin Road; Palo Seco, Techier Village Point Fortin; New Village Point Fortin and Los Charros Community Centre, Siparia Erin Road in order to allay the fears of local communities in respect of this Petrotrin initiative. Common concerns running through these public consultations centred on safety issues and the economic benefits to be derived from the exploration for oil in these communities. In the main, residents needed to be assured that the seismic explosions and other activities would not pose a health or safety hazard and that temporary jobs would be available to members of local communities in the various phases of this massive exercise. Manager Exploration and Geophysics Victor Young On and his team gave them the required assurances that the interests of the local communities would be paramount to Petrotrin at all times.

Geophysicist Sean Cardinez addresses the audience

Manager Exploration and Geophysics, Victor Young On

MIC Exit Programme

Addressing Residents’ Security ConcernsCorporate Services Groups hosted a Resident’s Town Hall Meeting on Thursday 9th September at the PAP Staff Club from 5.00pm to 8.00pm. The President of Petrotrin Kenneth Allum, VPHRCS Preston George, Corporate Manager Services, Carol Bristol and MCC (Ag), George Comissiong were present. At the meeting information was presented by Manager HSE Valerie QuanVie and CSO (Ag) Hollis Hamilton to address the residents’ HSE and Security concerns. The PEAPSL Department was repre-sented by consellors who spoke about the services they can provide to families in need in times of crisis.

Consistent with its philosophy and long practice of being an exemplary corporate citizen, with a special preference for supporting programmes in education and youth development, Petrotrin recently concluded an intensive training programme for students of MIC who were attached to various Petrotrin Departments from 2008 August 25 to 2010 August 24. At a recent Feedback and Exit Programme held at the Petrotrin Learning Centre, thirty-seven

students graduated from the institution, having successfully completed courses in the fields of elec-trical electronics, industrial maintenance and machine shop. These graduates were based in Maintenance Departments across Company operations. PetroConnect extends congratulations and best wishes to the graduates for success in their future endeavours.

For many years the residents of Petrotrin’s Pointe-a-Pierre Residential Compound have lived in relative peace and security, far removed from the levels of crime that have bedevilled many communities in Trinidad and Tobago. In recent weeks, however, there was a prolif-eration of incidents of petty theft on the “Camp” where some residents were robbed of household items. Due to effective police work by our Secu-rity Department the perpetrators have since been apprehended and charged, but residents remained apprehensive about the possibility of future incidents. It was against this background that the

Petrotrin Supports San Fernando Jazz Festival“Petrotrin has been among the major sponsors of the San Fernando Jazz Festival from its inception in 2004. The Company has continued to support this significant event which was designed to further heighten the cultural profile of Trinidad and Tobago’s Industrial Capital, through the hosting of one of the few authen-tic Jazz festivals in the Caribbean. This is our way of giving back to southern communities who have supported our operations for over 100 years.” These are the words of Manager Corporate Com-munications Gillian Friday as she brought greetings on behalf of Petrotrin at the launch of the San Fernando Hill Jazz Festival at City Hall San Fernando. She pointed out that this Festival benefits the southern communities by providing an event that generates civic pride as well as economic benefits through the provision of goods and services that are needed to ensure its success. She said: “We actively encourage the participation of members of our fence-line communities who have been performers over the years at this Festival. Many of our employees come from these commu-nities and some have also performed at this event. For example, jazz singer Vaugnette Bigford-Griffith, a

Petrotrin Trinmar employee, has showcased her rich talent at this event. She is recognized as one of the top female jazz singers in Trinidad and Tobago.” The three Company sponsored steelbands: Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, Hatters and Siparia Deltones have all performed at this event.

See pages 16 and 17.

San Fernando Mayor Marlene Coudray presents a token to the wife of the late Andre Tanker in whose honour this year’s festival was held.

Corporate Manager Services, Carol Bristol

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Wellness Page

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Are you concerned about your Breast Health and need to have a mammogram? The service is now available at the Medical Imaging Department, Augustus Long Hospital, Pointe-a-Pierre. This was started at the beginning of September, 2010, following the installation of a Siemens Mammomat 3000 Nova with Stereotac-tic Biopsy attachment. Petrotrin patients no longer need to travel to San Fernando to access the nearest mammographic services at non-company medical facilities. Prior to the installation of the Unit, Petrotrin’s Radiology Department offered only general and specialised x-ray diagnostic services. Due to recent developments, patients can now access computed radiography, diagnos-tic ultrasound and mammography. Plans are underway to also provide computed comography (CT Scans) in-house as the Company continues in its thrust to upgrade facilities at the hospital and provide all the frequently used modalities in-house. A release, issued from the Radiology Department and announcing the launch of the new services at Augustus Long Hospital stated, “Our breast imaging services is comprehensive. Patients have access to the top registered mammographers and radiologists in the field versed in providing excellent patient care

and quality breast imaging with our modern digital system. Should the radiologist identify a problematic mass on the mammogram rapid follow-up ultrasound is available at the same location within the same day. This test increases the accuracy of diagnosing a mass, sometimes eliminating the need for unneces-sary biopsy and giving patients peace of mind sooner. Follow up procedures requiring additional testing such as fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) or stereotactic biopsy can be performed relatively quickly for more exact diagnosis.” Patients on the Petrotrin Medical Plan in need of this service will be given Billheads to have their mammograms on the recommenda-tion of their doctors. Private clients (i.e. non-company and those outside Petrotrin Medi-cal Plan) are also welcome to access our quality

mammographic service at a reasonable cost. Mammography screening is the best way to detect breast cancer in its earlier stages. The recommended age for screen-ing begins at age 40. Routine mammogram appointments can be scheduled for within two to three days by calling the Augus-tus Long Hospital Imaging Department (X-Ray) at 658-2739/ 658-4200 x. 5725/ 6/ 7 and Mammo Hotline at 722-4623.

Petrotrin Opens Mammography Suite at Augustus Long Hospital

Chief Medical Officer,Dr. David Jackson

Radiologists Timothy Dean, Allett Bruce and Elizabeth Rocke pose at the new mammo unit

Petrotrin employees are everywhere. They have excelled at sports, topped the country in academics and have even held highly coveted posts in Government. Providing a nurturing environment for human development, this Company has produced the crème de la crème for almost every competitive field, even beauty pageants. Most recently, Petrotrin graduate trainee Meenakshi Sharma has been creating waves in the modeling industry after she walked away with the top prize in a number of competitions. Sharma is this country’s representative for the Miss India Competition to be held in Holland in 2011. She won the title Miss India Trinidad and Tobago in 2009. Her streak of success continued this year when she again secured top spot at the fifth annual Miss Independence Queen Pageant held at Crowne Plaza, Port-of-Spain, on August 29.

Sharma, 26, has been employed with Petrotrin under the Graduate Trainee programme for the past two years. She holds a BSc in Business Management from the University of the West Indies and is currently pursuing a Diploma in Law. At Petrotrin, Sharma is employed in the Benefit Plans Depart-ment. “I have learnt a lot at this organization and I am definitely happy to be part of this dynamic team,” Sharma told the Petro-Connect shortly after her latest victory. “I was honored to be selected for the Graduate Trainee programme and I have definitely enjoyed my time here. My contract ends in Novem-ber, and I do hope to take all that I have learnt into the work-place. While I did not get sponsorship for the competitions I entered, I certainly did have a lot of support from the people in my Department. Overall, it was a rewarding experience.”

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Petrotrin Employee Achievement

Meenakshi Sharma takes top prize

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San Fernando Jazz Festival

Musical Shower Rains on San Fernando HillThe Lady showed her competence on the red guitarThe Lady showed her competence on the red guitar

Singer Kay Alleyne belting out a numberSinger Kay Alleyne belting out a number

This lady clearly enjoyed the music as she

performed

This lady clearly enjoyed the music as she

performed

An appreciative audience gives applause

An appreciative audience gives applause

t was a night of musical splendour. High above the city, the enchanting cadence of jazz, soca, reggae and Latin music soared to the high heavens, accompanied by the compelling syncopation of the drums. An appreciative audience would listen and cheer each rendition until well past midnight. Not even the angry showers that had deluged the southern city earlier in the day or the foreboding skies in the night could dampen the enthusiasm or mar the rhapsody of the true jazz lovers. These aficionados had once again made their annual pilgrimage on 2010 September 25, to the top of San Fernando Hill for the musical treat known as the San Fernando Jazz Festival. Distinguished personages intermingled with other patrons. These included: United States Ambassador Beatrice Wilkinson Welters; acting Prime Minister Errol Mc Leod; Senator David Abdullah; San Fernando Mayor Marlene Coudray and Cuban Ambassador Huberto Rivero Rosario. They were not to be disappointed. Darren Sheppard excelled on the steel pan with a medley of well chosen pieces. Veteran singer Mavis John stamped her authority with sterling performances of well known Andre Tanker classics and her own “You Are What

Love Is.” Sitarist Mungal Patasar and his band Pantar worked their usual lyrical magic with haunting melodies. Kay Alleyne once again demonstrated her versatility as she belted out musical pieces that were well received by the enthralled patrons. The feature act, the Cuban Lazaro Valdes and his band lived up to their billing. Light rains drizzled at intervals throughout the night, but the bands played on.

Senator David Abdullah, Cuban Ambassador Humberto Rivero and acting Prime Minister Errol Mc Leod

Senator David Abdullah, Cuban Ambassador Humberto Rivero and acting Prime Minister Errol Mc Leod

A member of thegroup Pantar

does his thing

A member of thegroup Pantar

does his thing

Mavis John gave a dazzling performanceMavis John gave a dazzling performance

Latin beats pervaded the night airLatin beats pervaded the night air

Mungal Patasar in his usualtrademark stellar performance

Page 10: Petrotrin PetroConnect #107 September 2010

Sports Corner

18 PETROConnectConnect

The air was tense with excitement. The tiny room at the back of the stands in Guaracara Park, Marabella, was filled with teenage girls, whose voices echoed so loud, they could have been heard by employees at the Petrotrin Sports Club almost on the other end of the grounds. Gathered in that tiny room that could hardly contain their energy, these girls chanted and danced, beat on drums and called to each other with ear-splitting yells that could cause the hair of the casual observer to stand on end. And they were just warming up for a game. Their energy is contagious, their celebrations are wild, but this group of girls is extremely disciplined, for even as they yelled to each other, proclaiming their victory for the game ahead, their coach, Petrotrin employee Arnold Murphy walked into the room in the midst of the celebrations and held up his hands. “Ladies,” he said without raising his voice. “Ladies, we have a game.” It was all he needed to say. The celebra-tion ended and the group of girls, now a disciplined and focused team, filed out of that tiny room and onto the grounds at Guaracara Park prepared to play. Someone walking into the stands at that point in time and witnessing those girls walking onto the field would have difficulty imagining the wild celebration that took place mere moments before. The team of girls preparing for a game at Guaracara Park at Pointe-a-Pierre comprised members of the Petrotrin Ladies Football Team, three of whom recently formed part of the Trinidad and Tobago Under 17 Ladies Football Team-the ‘Soca Princesses’ in the World Cup competition held here. The girls, Linfah Jones, 17, Patrice Vincent, 17, and Kayla Taylor, 15, all students of Debe Hugh School, now join a long list of Petrotrin female players who have made it to the National Team. They are the first to play at a World Cup Competition. At the World Cup, Jones played as keeper, Vincent played as Left back and Taylor played as Right Midfield. Though the team did not progress from Group A, the Soca Princesses played well against some very strong contenders includ-ing the defending champions North Korea and the formidable Nigerians. According to reports, post tournament statistics showed Trinidad and Tobago to be the best overall performers not to qualify for the second round. “This just shows that we are doing something good,” said a proud coach Arnold Murphy who also works at Petrotrin’s Procurement Department. “We actually had six girls training on the National Team, and of those three were selected for the World Cup.

I must thank Petrotrin for providing us, through the Petrotrin Sports Club, with the facilities and the additional support we needed to place the team and its members in such a strong position. The Company’s support for Ladies football has

improved in the last two years, and I am hoping that they would take further notice now. We don’t only have players on the National Under 17

team, we also have players on the National Under 20 and Senior Teams and we have lots of ex-national players.”

Jones, who was described by the National media as one of the shorter but better keepers in the World Cup, described herself as a very vocal keeper, during a brief interview with the Petro-Connect before heading out to warm up for the game. Hers is a raw talent as she said she has been

playing football for the past three years. “I actually started playing with a summer team

at Mayaro,” she said. “It was my first game as a keeper and Coach Murphy saw me and offered me the opportunity to play with the Petrotrin football team. I was actually playing against his team at the time.” Jones, an A-Level student at Debe High School, said she had very little regret coming out of the World Cup other than the fact that the girls had to leave each other. She said however that the country needed to get a lot more serious about ladies football if it ever wanted to make an impact. “I thought I used to train really hard, but I realise

that we need to work way harder than we do now,” she said candidly.

She thanked Petrotrin for its support saying, “It is nice to see someone taking ladies’ football really

seriously.” Female employees or employee depend-ants are encouraged to join the Petrotrin Ladies Football Team. The team trains on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. “Just

show up for practice with gears,” Murphy said.

Soca Princesses at Petrotrin

sportssportssportssports

Squash Team to Participate in XIX Commonwealth Games, New Delhi India

Strike Squad Captain Clayton Morris was among four Petrotrin employees who made up a Trinidad and Tobago Legends Team that played against a Holland/Belgium team in a friendly football match at the Marvin Lee Stadium on 2010 September 22. The other Petrotrin employees were Dexter Francis, Brian Williams and Larry Joseph. Our boys gave a good account of themselves in the match but eventually lost to the

visitors by six goals to four. Nevertheless a good time was had by all. Members of the Dutch Football Federation and the Belgians were in T&T as part of a joint bid to lobby for support to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cup events in their respective countries. During their visit they hosted several training clinics with young nationals and also played some friendly matches.

Petrotrin pharmacist Ms. Dianne Julien has been selected to represent the Trinidad and Tobago Squash Association as Manager and Coach of the Squash Team to participate in the XIX Commonwealth Games. These Games will take place from 2010 October 3rd to 14th in New Delhi, India. The Company has put in place the necessary measures to facilitate Ms. Julien’s involvement in the Games. PetroConnect wishes her and the national team all the best in their endeavours.

Dianne Julien is T&T Squash Team Manager and Coach

Petrotrin Strike Squad Members Play the Dutch

Linfah Jones, goal keeper of the Under 17 Women’s Football Team

Page 11: Petrotrin PetroConnect #107 September 2010

Interdepartmental Football Season Opens

The primary aim of the Petrotrin Employee Football League (PEFL) is to develop bonds and relationships among Petrotrin employees through healthy interac-tion and competition in football. This is all part of the Company’s employee relations drive to build strong teams of employees within the Company. Petrotrin Employees Football Knock-Out Play

Offs in both the North and South Areas kicked off on the 16th of August, where 18 teams participated to mark the Opening of the 2010 Season. Since then the fierce competition has been ongo-ing as rival teams seek to outdo each other for the coveted trophies which will be distributed at the end of the season.

PETROConnectConnectConnectConnectConnect

PETROConnectConnectConnectConnectConnectCorporate News at a glance No. 107 - September 2010

Trinmar Holds a General Contractors Communication Forum

Sports

Partnering With Petrotrin

CREDITS

Editor: Gillian Friday Editorial Team: George Comissiong, Walford Coker, Elmo Griffith, Afiya Butler-Ray, Photography: Elmo Griffith, Kerri-Ann Joseph, Lisa Williams-Lewis Layout+Design: Kishore Raghoobar

The PetroConnect is published monthly for employees, retirees and other stakeholders.

We would like to print your views, Department highlights, personal stories etc.Send your comments to:PetroConnect,Corporate Communications Department, Casuarina Avenue, Pointe-a-Pierre, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.Fax: (868) 658-1825 / Phone: 658-4200 Ext. 2811 / 2823For more info visit www.petrotrin.com