Task force needed to examine refinery upgrade

With the proposed closure of the Whitegate Oil Refinery, there is in the opinion of many people an urgent need for Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte to set up a task force to examine the upgrading of the refinery to ensure the livelihood of the current 350-plus Cork employees and contractors and in the interests of the motoring public.

Some people refer to the possibility of a partner arrangement for the upgrading of the refinery with an oil-producing country.

In relation to finding a partner, I would like to know if the minister issued provisos regarding the State’s controlling interest in the refinery?