Eni flags shutdown risk at southern Italy refinery due to steelworkers' protest

MILAN, Oct 15 (Reuters) - A workers' protest linked to the crisis of the former Ilva steelworks in Taranto, southern Italy, continues to block access to Eni's local refinery, the group said on Thursday, warning it could lead to a planned shutdown of the plant.

• Eni said the strike that began on Monday was still blocking logistics flows into and out of the refinery

• While refinery operations continue normally, Eni said prolonged logistical difficulties could affect staff shift changes and force a reorganisation of activities

• The shortages of technical gases needed to run the plant could ultimately require a planned shutdown of refinery units, it added

• More than half of around 300 Enilive service stations in the Taranto region of Apulia are currently without fuel, the group said

• A previously declared fuel shortage at Bari and Brindisi airports remains in effect, it added

• The disruptions are also affecting fuel deliveries to essential and public utility services, including firefighters, local public transport operators and rail companies, Eni said