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12 December 2008

The Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Buyelwa Sonjica, will meet with the Board of Governors of the South African Petroleum Industry Association (SAPIA) this afternoon.

The purpose of the meeting is for the Minister to be appraised of the situation around security of supply of liquid fuels during the holiday season. Minister Sonjica wishes to be assured that within the realm of the fluctuating crude prices (even though they are low currently), the misfortune around the fire at the Durban Engen refinery and other reasons, the country is not under threat of a lack of fuel when people start their holiday trips. This matter will not only focus on fuel for cars and trucks but will include the important factor of Jet fuel that, if lacking, will negatively impact on the airline industry and therefore tourism.

Minister Sonjica says that as a country we can never be too ready for any eventuality, therefore the need for continual interaction with industry in order to reduce the possibility of uncomfortable surprises.

Details of the meeting are below and media is invited for interaction thereafter:

Date: 12 December 2008
Venue: Room 8B, 8th Floor, DME offices, 234 Visagie Street (off Andries St), Pretoria
Time: 13h00 (1:00 pm)

For more information contact:
Sputnik Ratau, Minister’s MLO and Spokesperson
Cell: 082 521 9614

Issued by: Ministry of Minerals and Energy
12 December 2008