Hundreds File Lawsuit Against Golden Triangle Refineries

Reported by Scott Lawrence
KDFM-TV
June 25, 2003 - 2:10PM

Hundreds of people Wednesday filed a lawsuit against a number of refineries in Port Arthur, claiming the plants have affected their health. About 500 people are seeking unspecified seeking damages against the plants, and compensation for loss of quality of life.

They also want the petrochemical plants to set up a clinic to monitor the health of families living near the plants.

The lawsuit was filed Wednesday afternoon at the Jefferson County Courthouse.

The refineries and chemical plants named in the lawsuit include Premcor, BASF, Atofina, Chevron Phillips, Huntsman, and Motiva. The plaintiffs are seeking to have the case certified as a class action lawsuit.

Refinery Responses to Clean Air Lawsuit:

MOTIVA
Motiva Spokeswoman, Sue Parsley, says the company has not received anything about the lawsuit from attorneys, plaintiffs or the state. However she says all community issues are important to Motiva.

BASF
BASF's Manager of Human Resources and Community Affairs, Mark Viatore, says BASF also has not received anything about the lawsuit from attorneys, plaintiffs or the state. Viatore says BASF cares about its employees and community. He says the company is confident of the effectiveness of its technology and its employees look forward to reviewing the lawsuit and understanding the concerns that are being expressed. Viatore is also personally listed as a defendant in the suit, but with the title "Plant Manager," a title he says he does not hold.

HUNTSMAN
Huntsman spokesman, Clark Colvin, says his company has not seen the lawsuit either, therefore it would not be appropriate or responsible for him to comment on it specifically. But he also says after seeing news coverage leading up to the filing of the suit, the company believes there is no basis in fact for the suit and Huntsman wants the public to know employees will defend the company on this matter.

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