Main Features The project comprises the development of approximately 400 hectares of land and will cater for a mix of heavy and light downstream gas-based industries.

The estate will contain the following drainage features:

• Construction of temporary earthen drains (perimeter drains) along the northern and southern boundaries of the site.
• Construction of permanent trapezoidal drains (perimeter drains) along the northern and southern boundaries of the site.
• Construction of permanent reinforced concrete box drains on Main Site North, Main Site South and Site A.
• Construction of earthen collector drains on the banks of Vessigny River to avoid scouring and further collapse of the banks.

For the purpose of sediment load reduction, a sheet pile double weir with sediment trap and outfalls will also be constructed. The project will also entail the reshaping and filling of Vessigny River to optimize storage capacity. Completion of the Union Industrial Estate will result in reduced sedimentation and flood potential in the Vessigny area, thus preserving the Vessigny Beach and improving the drainage within the community.

What are the benefits of the project?

The LABIDCO Estate is currently operating at near full capacity. A new industrial estate is therefore needed to facilitate the establishment of new downstream energy industries. The benefits to be derived from the new estate include direct and indirect employment, increased foreign direct investment and revenues for the country. Through this initiative, Trinidad and Tobago is also poised to strengthen its place as a leader in the downstream energy sector.

For the community of La Brea and indeed the South-west region, the Union Industrial Estate represents the creation of approximately 50 jobs jobs during construction and over 20 permanent jobs when the estate becomes operational. The community is also expected to benefit from enhanced and upgraded infrastructure and utilities.

What measures will be taken to mitigate impact on the environment?

NEC has obtained a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) from the Environmental Management Authority (EMA). For the preservation of the environment, NEC is enforcing a post-CEC monitoring plan for the project and is complying with the conditions of the CEC.

Safety during the Operations Phase

NEC is committed to the prevention of injuries and loss of life of the public and our employees. We therefore adhere to the strictest standards of safety and security in our operations. NEC has over thirty (30) years of experience in operating marine facilities including multi-user piers that handle petrochemicals and steel products.

The following measures will form part of the Company’s Environment, Health, Safety & Security Plan for Union Industrial Estate:

• Compliance with Certificate of Environmental Clearance
• Compliance with Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Safety and Health Act 2004 (Amended 2006)
• The National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited (NGC) Environment, Safety and Security Requirements for Contractors
• Point Lisas Energy Association (PLEA) Passport Training
• Contractors/Operators/Leaseholders Health, Safety & Security Policies and Procedures.