Tanker drivers strike suspended

Motorists could be faced with a shortage of petrol at some service stations in the Corporate Area following strike action, which was taken by tanker drivers yesterday.



The drivers have since suspended their industrial action following the intervention of the Energy Minister, Clive Mullings.



The management of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (Petrojam) has also promised that their concerns will be addressed by tomorrow.



The drivers were disgruntled over what they said were delays in the dispensing of E10 gasoline at the Petrojam loading bay on Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston.



The drivers say they sometimes have to wait for up to 16 hours to load their tankers which often results in reduced earnings.



They also took strike action to support five of their colleagues against whom the Petrojam management had taken disciplinary action, based on alleged breaches of safety procedures.



President of the Jamaica Gasoline Retailers Association, Trevor Barnes, who spoke with the Gleaner Power 106 News last night said there could be disruptions in service at some service stations as the drivers are not likely to resume their deliveries until tomorrow.



He says already at least three service stations have reported that they are out of fuel.



Mr. Barnes said the shortage is not likely to be eased before Friday.



Granville Valentine, the Vice President of the National Workers Union, which represents the drivers, said the Petrojam management has promised to expedite the process of repairing the loading bay.



Additionally the management has withdrawn disciplinary action against the five drivers who were accused of breaching safety procedures.