The province’s energy minister is calling it a “glimmer of hope” in light of some very troubling news on the Come by Chance oil refinery.

The future of the refinery sparked an emergency debate in the House of Assembly yesterday.

A second company has come forward expressing interest in the asset amid news that the sale of the refinery to Irving has fallen through, affecting hundreds of jobs.

Origin International says it “remains interested” in Come by Chance, but could not offer further comment at this time.

Minister Andrew Parsons was questioned on the matter in the House of Assembly, indicating that the matter was “fluid” and “evolving.”

He says government is not a party to the private commercial transaction but will do what it can to facilitate “some form of deal.”

Opposition Leader Ches Crosbie says the possible closure of the Come By Chance oil refinery would affect far more than the roughly 500 people it employs.

Crosbie estimates the real number is four times that when all spinoff and related work is factored in, saying that more than justified yesterday’s emergency debate on the issue.

He says holding the debate demonstrated how serious a matter it is for the workers and families involved, and how important it is for members of the House of Assembly as well.