The Prime Minister today defended his series of high-level meetings with energy giants in Europe, saying that it was critical that this country have a seat at the decision makers' table.
Dr Keith Rowley returned last night following overseas meetings with Proman, Shell and BP. All three companies have significant investments in Trinidad and Tobago.
At a media briefing this morning, Dr Rowley said since the Government is not a producer of natural gas, it was critical that they meet with these companies at their headquarters in Europe as he said, "if we sit idly by, it is quite possible that certain decisions critical to us won't be in our favour."
He described the meetings as productive and said he is pleased that this country is well positioned to continue its relationship with these companies.
The Prime Minister said that if these discussions do not happen now, then this country will be in serious trouble a few years down the line when the current natural gas fields are used up.
"By 2026, if no new improvements are hard, there will be far-reaching consequences for Trinidad and Tobago, that is why we are working overtime."
Dr Rowley underscored that this country still relies heavily on its energy earnings and not many people are connected to the reality of what will happen when that source of funds dries up.
Meanwhile, the PM said there is no truth to allegations made by the United National Congress that part of the purpose for the overseas trip was to sell off CLICO's methanol plant shares to Proman Germany's plant.
Dr Rowley said nothing of the sort happened.
"Do us a favour and do not undermine our efforts. It is quite disturbing that while we are doing this for T&T a little cabal is spreading misinformation," he said.