BWEL explains why it wasn’t part of butane importers conference

So why wasn’t BWEL a part of the press conference called by the importers?

Via Phone: Jose Mai

“We felt that this movement was headed by the two local companies which are Belize Gas and Western Gas, owned by a father and son.  They were being premature in threatening government with a strike for today and we did not support that.  We do not feel that we need to threaten anybody; we feel that we should dialogue with government; we feel that we should dialogue with anybody with regards to anything. In fact, I can tell you that the release that went on Monday. I believe that it was sent out by Western Gas. That was never authorized or approved by BWEL, yet our logo was on that and that was wrong.”

Marion Ali

“So they included your logo without any consultation with you?”

Via Phone: Jose Mai

“None.  There was a meeting held last week but no consensus was arrived at.”

Marion Ali

“How does BWEL feel that the Belize Natural Energy is now supplying butane to thirty percent of the local market?”

Via Phone: Jose Mai

“We live in a free market; we operate in a free market.  We cannot tell anyone or limit anyone from doing business anywhere in this world, in the free world.  And that’s our position, Marion.  We cannot cling to government’s skirt and beg for protection. This is a free market, man.  Those days are gone.  If you’re efficient they will provide; if you’re not, I’m sorry.”

As was agreed in the meeting on Wednesday among the importers, B.N.E.’s Marketing Manager, Daniel Gutierrez and Bureau of Standards Chief, Jose Trejo, there will be four grades of butane and the customer will decide which grade they want at what price.