Discussions for the sale of ArcelorMittal’s plant in Trinidad and Tobago, which was shut down in March 2016, have reportedly advanced, according to the local steel workers union, SWUTT.
“We believe that finally we have been given a hearing,” SWUTT spokesman Timothy Bailey told local media Newsday.
The local union said it was “encouraged” by a meeting with the country’s prime minister representatives on a proposal for investors to buy ArcelorMittal’s assets and keep the mill operational.
“We believe the government understands what we are asking for,” the union said, adding it wanted the government to “ensure” the mill will remain in Trinidad and Tobago, and will be “profitable,” while benefiting the local economy.
The union’s proposal is to “restart” the local steel industry under new investors. The proposal was originally sent to the country’s prime minister, Keith Rowley, in September 2016.
The union said it is still talking to the government over the proposal to buy ArcelorMittal’s assets and restart the mill under new investors. The union will provide the country’s government some additional information by January 5.
“It was very encouraging the government representatives appeared to have understood our position,” the union said.