The National Petroleum and Gas Union in Morocco has issued a warning about the continued erosion of production units at the Samir company, citing the prolonged shutdown of operations. In a statement, the union called for the revival of oil refining at the Mohammedia refinery and a clear decision on the future of the Samir company. The union also demanded a resolution to the social situation of its employees, whose salaries have been frozen since 2016.

The union's demands were made during a protest organized by the Unified Union Office of the Democratic Confederation of Labor at the Samir company in Mohammedia. According to a statement obtained by a local news outlet, the protest was part of the union's ongoing struggle since the company's judicial liquidation in March 2016 and the failure of the comprehensive transfer of assets.

The union's statement expressed concern over the absence of discussion about the refinery's future in the new government program and statements, despite the international context marked by a significant increase in refining margins. The union warned that this situation could impact the prices of petroleum products, transportation, and travel costs.

The National Petroleum and Gas Union urged the government to make a decision on reviving oil refining at the Mohammedia refinery, warning that continued shutdowns would lead to the erosion of production units due to prolonged inactivity and increased maintenance and restoration costs.

The union also called for taking advantage of the significant increase in refining margins, which reached 6 dirhams per liter of diesel, to regain the multiple benefits of oil refining industries. The union warned against relying solely on import, distribution, and monopolization, which it claimed would serve the interests of lobbies controlling the Moroccan market.

On the social front, the union demanded an end to the "deplorable" situation faced by the company's official employees, whose salaries have been frozen since 2016. The union called for the payment of all due salaries and benefits, as well as ensuring the right to social security and retirement.

The union's warnings and demands come as the Moroccan government faces pressure to address the country's energy needs and ensure the sustainability of its refining industries. The situation at Samir and the Mohammedia refinery remains a critical issue, with implications for the country's energy security and economy.

Key points

  • The National Petroleum and Gas Union in Morocco is calling for the revival of oil refining at the Mohammedia refinery.
  • The union warns that continued shutdowns will lead to the erosion of production units and increased costs.
  • The union demands a resolution to the social situation of its employees, whose salaries have been frozen since 2016.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.