KINGSTON, Jamaica — Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell has instructed Petrojam, in collaboration with the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, to undertake sample testing of petrol dispensed by all service stations across Jamaica as of tomorrow, and to return the test findings to the ministry within 24 hours.

The minister’s directive followed an emergency meeting with marketing companies, service station operators (retailers), the Bureau of Standards Jamaica, and the Consumer Affairs Commission at the ministry’s New Kingston offices earlier today.

The meeting was called to address complaints from some motorists that sup-standard petrol was being sold at some petrol stations and the use of this bad gas resulted in engine damage particularly to newer engines equipped with direct injection mechanisms.

At least one major car dealer reported incidence of engine damage caused by the use of substandard petrol, while the Consumer Affairs Commission confirmed a “few complaints” in recent weeks.

While noting that even though the incidence did not appear to be widespread, Minister Paulwell explained that it was important to nip the problem in the bud.

“Petrol is very volatile commodity and we must do all we can to protect the integrity of the trade. With respect to the legal importation of petrol, we must ensure its quality from ship to pump, while every effort must be made to stamp out illicit importation of the product,” he emphasised.

In addition to the intensive testing of petrol at all petrol stations, the minister has assigned State Minister in the Energy Ministry Julian Robinson the task of leading a team of regulators and industry stakeholders to further investigate the incidence; examine the protocols and regulations governing the petroleum trade, including the importation, transportation and quality control of the product, and make recommendations relevant to effective monitoring and enforcement.

The report will be submitted to the energy minister in seven days’ time and will inform regulatory changes designed to plug any loopholes where they exist.