PM refutes claim of collusion in oil tanker seizure

2025, 12/16

The crude oil tanker Skipper seized by the United States off the coast of Venezuela, was traveling in a southwesterly direction and positioned north of Guadeloupe in the Caribbean Sea on December 12.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar dismissed as “false propaganda” the Venezuelan regime’s accusation that T&T colluded with the US in the seizure of its oil tanker. She said Venezuela should take up seizure of the tanker Skipper with the US President and she is unbothered by the regime’s threat to “extinguish” all natural gas deals with Trinidad and Tobago.

“They should direct their complaints to President Trump, as it is the US military that has seized the sanctioned oil tanker. In the meantime, we continue to have peaceful relations with the Venezuelan people..

We have never depended on Venezuela for natural gas supplies. We have adequate reserves within our territory. We are aggressively working to reduce bureaucratic barriers to speed up approvals for energy companies. The real issue is bureaucracy is hindering our exploration and production. “

Former energy minister Carolyn Seepersad-Bachan made it clear yesterday that recent developments involving Venezuela amount to no shock or major blow because there was never any gas supply coming into the country in the first place.

She insisted that the current situation simply confirms what has been the reality for some time: Venezuela is not a source of relief for the gas shortage. She said the framework governing unitisation agreements for cross-border fields remains in place, but it does not revive projects that were already stalled or shut down.

The Dragon gas arrangement was never a unitisation agreement or a formal energy cooperation project. Instead, it relied on limited permissions that could not advance without approvals from the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Those approvals were never secured in a way that allowed production to proceed.

Only two cross-border fields were ever potentially affected, Loran-Manatee and Coquina-Manakin. Loran-Manatee was de-unitised years ago after the USA declined to issue an OFAC licence during the Biden administration. As a result, Trinidad and Tobago moved ahead independently, extracting only its share of the gas from the field.

Coquina-Manakin effectively came to a stop earlier this year when the OFAC licence was cancelled, bringing joint operations linked to Dragon Gas to an end.

In that context, there is no immediate fallout now because production from those fields had already been halted or restricted. There will be no negotiations and no gas supply from Venezuela under current circumstances as the much-discussed 6-month OFAC licence was never a licence to produce gas. Instead, it only allowed for the possibility of negotiations, which have since collapsed.

While the Dragon Gas OFAC licence remains technically valid, it has no practical effect. Any progress would have required renegotiating long-term exploration and production arrangements with Venezuela, a process effectively ended when the broader energy cooperation framework was revoked.   T&T must now look elsewhere for gas, as domestic reserves continue to decline and foreign exchange pressures mount.

She cautioned against expecting quick solutions from other regional players. Grenada remains far off the horizon, with prospective resources still at an early stage and no proven commercial gas volumes or infrastructure capable of supplying T&T in the near to medium term.

Suriname is not a viable option . While recent discoveries are significant, the focus is on oil and any gas-related infrastructure would take years to develop. For the foreseeable future, the only realistic option is to accelerate development of territorial acreage and pursue viable partnerships, accepting that Venezuelan gas will not be part of the equation.

 

 

Venezuela ends natural gas contracts

2025, 12/16

After Venezuela announced it had terminated all natural gas contracts with T&T, Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal rejected its claims that T&T was complicit in the seizure of an oil vessel transporting Venezuela’s oil and he is asking its government to direct complaints to the US government.

The announcement seemed to be a response to the US military’s seizure last week of the oil tanker “Skipper” off Venezuela’s coast, which  Venezuela denounced.

“I have taken note of a statement purportedly issued by the government of Venezuela. The Venezuelan authorities should direct their complaints to President Donald Trump, as the U S military seized the sanctioned oil tanker.

In the meanwhile, we continue to have peaceful and fraternal relations with the people of Venezuela. We have never depended on Venezuela for natural gas supplies, we have adequate reserves within our territory.

We are aggressively working to reduce bureaucratic barriers so that we can speed up approvals and licences for the energy companies. We are not bothered by this act of hypocrisy, since the government of Venezuela continues to engage with the USA and Chevron is exporting heavy crude oil to the refiners on the US Gulf coast.

So, they continue to do business in the oil industry with the US but then make these erroneous statements about T&T.”

Venezuela Vice President and Energy Minister Delcy Rodríguez yesterday, alleged that T&T   “acted in collusion with the US in an act of piracy“.

In response to this “escalation of hostilities and serious aggressions,” President Nicolás Maduro terminated any existing contract, agreement,or negotiation for natural gas supply to T&T.

Venezuela said it has “full knowledge” of T & T participation in the theft of Venezuelan oil on December 10 by the US through the assault on a ship transporting the strategic product and described this incident as “a serious violation of international law and a clear transgression of the principles of free navigation and trade.”

The statement directly points to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, as having “revealed a hostile agenda against Venezuela since her arrival in Government.”

Among the actions denounced was the “installation of US military radars” to harass Venezuelan ships. Venezuela considers that Persad-Bissessar turned T&T into a “US aircraft carrier to attack Venezuela, in an unequivocal act of vassalage.”

President Maduro proceeded to denounce the Energy Cooperation Framework Agreement previously signed with T&T. Faced with this “very serious act that aims to blatantly steal Venezuela’s oil,”his government decided to sever energy ties with T&T.

“Venezuela demands respect! And it will not allow any colonial entity and its vassals to threaten the sacred sovereignty of the country and its right to development. Venezuela will always prevail.”

Former energy minister Stuart Young was “very concerned” by the deteriorating relationship and warned it could hurt the future of possible energy projects.

“I am very concerned about these latest developments and, in particular, what the implications may be for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector. The obvious question that arises is, does this mean a cancellation of the deunitization agreement for Loran-Manatee and consequently the development of Manatee by Shell? We are not in a good place and this is yet another serious cause of concern.”

In May 2024 Young revealed that T&T was paying over US$1 million per year in taxes to Venezuela as part of the Dragon deal, including royalty, 5% special commission, surface tax, social contributions and a confidential signing bonus.

 

 

 

Green light for US troops

T&T permission for military aircraft to transit Piarco & Crown Point airports

2025. 12/16

US Air Force personnel attached to the 166th Air Wing board a C-130 were stationed at the Ponce Airfield in Puerto Rico. US Navy crew guided a MH-60S Sea Hawk departing the flight deck on board destoryer USS Bainbridge DDG96 on November 12.

akash.samaroo@cnc3.co.tt

T&T Government approval of the use of local airports by US military aircraft to conduct “logistical activities,” sparked Opposition criticism of T&T status as a “satellite state” of USA but experts differ on whether the decision is a cause for concern.

Yesterday the Foreign Ministry announced, “In keeping with established bilateral cooperation, the Ministry has granted approvals for United States military aircraft to transit Trinidad and Tobago’s airports in the coming weeks.

The United States has advised that these movements are logistical in nature, facilitating supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations.

The Ministry .. maintains close engagement with the United States Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Honourable Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has affirmed the Government’s commitment to cooperation and collaboration in the pursuit of safety and security for Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region.

We welcome the continued support of the United States.”

No further information about the aircraft was provided. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said this was a “routine cooperation between the US military and our national security agencies.”

Opposition Senator and former Foreign minister Dr Amery Browne called the media release “deceptive” and unprecedented.

“Never before has our country given blanket permission for unspecified foreign military aircraft to use the airports and airspace of Trinidad and Tobago in the build-up to a regime change war. There is nothing routine about this.”

The former minister claimed this has nothing to do with the usual cooperation and friendly collaboration enjoyed with the US over the years.

“It simply takes Trinidad and Tobago a further step down the path of a satellite state which has dismissed Caricom and international law and embraced a might-is-right philosophy. For six months , the Prime Minister refused to explain what she has done to our neutral foreign policy and our standing in the region and the world.”

In response , the Prime Minister said Dr Browne’s hatred of the American government and its people is shameful.

Concern over the Government’s announcement was also expressed by international relations expert Dr Anthony Gonzales, noting that while the Prime Minister has constantly maintained that this country will not be a “launching pad” to attack the Venezuelan people, the Government’s actions will be perceived differently by the Nicolas Maduro regime.

“They are looking at this and saying, American planes are landing here, they are refuelling here . They are looking at that as you are supporting and assisting the Americans to be able to attack them. If you say you don’t want here to be a launching pad, you have to be pretty strict , very clear with the Americans what they can come and do here and what they shouldn’t do.”

However, former director of the Institute of International Relations at the UWI, Professor Anthony Bryan, said the announcement by the Foreign ministry was “perfectly normal.”

“This is a check on military assets within Trinidad and Tobago that belong to the United States. I don’t think the Venezuelans would be worried about that.

They know that Trinidad and Tobago is an ally of the United States. This is perfectly normal. Nothing mysterious there, nothing hidden. It’s all out in the open, and each side will make the appropriate judgement.”

Former National Security Minister Gary Griffith said the heavy US military presence in the region will mean they have supply needs and the country can capitalise on that.

“If you speak about 10,000 sailors, eventually they have to go on shore leave.

If you talk about 1,000 at all times coming to shore, you’re speaking about $500 US being spent. When you keep multiplying that for a year, you could get billions—over a billion odd TT dollars.

They also have the possibility that if the Government do this right, they can start assisting the United States by stating that we can supply food, instead of bringing it from North America, take it from Trinidad and Tobago. This can assist our agriculture industry immensely.”

Over the weekend, the Government of the Dominican Republic authorised several US military aircraft to land in the country as part of an operational support deployment.   The aircraft will have temporary permits to operate from restricted areas at San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport.

 

 

Trinidad and Tobago open airports to US military

15 December

Trinidad and Tobago will allow the U.S. military access to airports as tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela escalate.   Following U.S. installataion of a RADAR system at the airport in Tobago, the government said it would allow the U.S. military access to airports as tensions build between the United States and Venezuela.

The announcement comes after the government said the RADAR is being used to fight local crime and that the country would not be a launchpad to attack any other country.   The U.S. would use the airports for activity that would be “logistical in nature, facilitating supply replenishment and routine personnel rotations,” the Foreign Ministry said.

The prime minister previously praised ongoing U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea.   Only 7 miles separate Venezuela from T&T at their closest point.

It has two main airports: Piarco International Airport in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago. Strikes began in September as the U.S. builds up a fleet of warships near Venezuela, including the largest aircraft carrier.

In October, a U.S. warship docked in Port of Spain as the U.S. boosts military pressure on Venezuela. U.S. lawmakers questioned the legality of the strikes against vessels in the Caribbean Sea and the eastern Pacific Ocean and announced a congressional review .

 

 

Arjoon: Moody’s outlook shift a warning signal

14 DECEMBER

On December 13, UWI economics don Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon said the decision by Moody’s to revise Trinidad and Tobago’s outlook from stable to negative must be taken in the proper context in relation to global energy cycles.

Former minister in the ministry of finance Mariano Browne said, “Moody’s report was to be expected. I am intrigued by what the final figures for the fiscal position would like.”

While TT’s credit ratings with Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s (S&P) have not changed, Arjoon said this is a moment when government must make an honest analysis of TT’s economic situation and take the necessary steps to maintain and strengthen the country’s economic position.

“Our ratings and outlook tend to move with the energy cycle – improving when higher production and prices support export foreign exchange (forex) earnings and fiscal revenues, and coming under pressure when production declines or prices weaken.

It’s crucial to understand that our credit rating itself remains unchanged by both S&P and Moody’s.   We have not been downgraded, but the outlook adjustment signals that both agencies have placed our rating under review, essentially putting us on watch as they assess whether future economic conditions warrant maintaining our current standing.”

In this context, the new outlook reflects heightened caution regarding our forex reserves levels, falling from about US$11 billion in early 2015 to roughly US$4.6 billion by October, driven largely by a prolonged decline in natural gas output.

“Gas production dropped from over 4 bscf/d in January 2015 to around 2.7 bscf/d today, as upstream activity relied mainly on mature fields amid insufficient new investment.

“The absence of exploration block awards for seven consecutive years (2015–2022), combined with fiscal rigidity, policy uncertainty, investor caution, delayed commercial negotiations, and ageing infrastructure, weakened the pipeline of new gas projects.

Given that energy commodities account for 80 per cent of export earnings, this sustained production decline translated directly into lower export receipts, reduced forex inflows, and declining reserve – key factors underpinning the deterioration in the outlook.”

He observed efforts are being made to partially arrest some gas declines by giving more priority to smaller, lower-cost, faster-to-market gas fields with shorter lead times.

This is being done while projects such as Manatee, Ginger, and Coconut are expected to deliver first gas from 2027 onward.

“Together, this sequencing will improve foreign-exchange inflows and strengthen forex reserves over the medium term, hopefully supporting an improved rating outlooks by 2027, as higher and more sustainable gas production is realised.”

He suggested the new blueprint plan proposed by government “can drive further diversification and attract FDI (foreign direct investment) helping to generate new forex earnings. Ultimately, lasting improvement in the rating will depend on continued structural adjustment – expanding non-energy export capacity and attracting FDI that generates sustainable foreign-exchange earnings.”

Browne said, “The reality of unsettled wage demands cannot be escaped. The absence of any realistic market based approach to solving the foreign exchange (forex) crisis has led to rapidly declining reserves. The wage settlements will add to the demand for forex and exacerbate this situation.”

Browne said this is a case of two pressures leading in the same direction.

“Worsening the deficit and the forex position simultaneously worsen the overall situation.”

In September, S&P revised TT’s outlook from stable to negative and said that they will reduce TT’s rating if there is no improvement in the fiscal management.

Recent changing of the boards of commercial banks and the firing of Export Import (Exim) bank Navin Dookeran cannot address the economic structural issues which ratings agencies assess in determining credit ratings and outlooks for countries. The situation is not helped by replacing managers of state enterprises.

“There are policy gaps and weak measures that do not address the fundamental issues. They merely give the appearance of effort without addressing the basics. If you don’t have the revenue you have to cut expenditure. If you aren’t earning enough foreign exchange you have to address the pricing.”

Moody’s reported “The change in outlook to negative reflects rising external vulnerability, as liquid forex reserves (defined as gross reserves excluding gold and special drawing rights; forex reserves) have fallen by 24 per cent over the past year to $3.2 billion as of August 2025, below our previous projection for stabilisation at about $4 billion.”

This intensified forex shortages and reduced coverage of upcoming external debt payments.

“While we expect new hydrocarbon projects to bolster foreign exchange inflows and, consequently, reserves, this is unlikely before 2027.

The negative outlook reflects the risk that the implementation of the new government’s announced measures, such as enhancing Eximbank’s focus on key exporters, advancing transfer pricing legislation, strengthening the fight against financial crime, and intensifying economic diversification efforts toward non-energy exports, are insufficient to arrest the decline before new energy projects come on-stream.

At the same time, strengthening tax compliance, reducing revenue leakages, and improving fiscal efficiency will be critical to lowering reliance on the energy cycle and and builds more economic resilience that rating agencies reward.”

 

 

US donates computers to Tobago school

8 December

United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), through the US embassy in Port of Spain, donated educational equipment and supplies valued US$25,000 to the Roxborough Anglican Primary school as part of its school outreach initiative.

The donation included 10 desktop computers, 10 desks, 10 chairs, 10 UPS, 1 printer, 10 whiteboards, 1 refrigerator, 1 microwave, stationery and supplies as part of a school outreach initiative funded by SOUTHCOM’s Humanitarian Assistance Program.

The initiative supports learning environments, promotes digital literacy and enhances opportunities for students. US embassy Chargé d’Affaires Dr Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz presented the items to  principal Verlene John who thanked the USA and said students in all classes will use the computers. .

At the donation ceremony were Dale Hercules, representing the MP for Tobago East; school manager Fr Shaquille Charles; Vice President of the Parent-Teachers’ Association Michelle Duke; teachers and pupils.

Dr de Ortiz said, “This donation reinforces the strong partnership between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago. It reflects our enduring commitment to strengthening our partnership and investing in the future of Trinidad and Tobago’s youth.

Education is the foundation for opportunity and prosperity, and we are proud to stand with you to work to empower the next generation.”

 

 

 

Moonilal:  All options on the table for refinery restart

2025, 12/07  radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt

Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal says the government is considering every possible commercial arrangement to restart the Pointe-à-Pierre refinery, including partnerships with foreign governments, international investors and companies that previously bid for the asset.

Cabinet is reviewing the Refinery Restart Committee’s Interim Report, delivered to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar .

He warned that any delay in advancing the project could drive up costs and undermine the restart effort.  “Further delays would make the project itself uneconomical and there’s a real risk that the cost can escalate rapidly if we delay further.”

The report confirms the refinery is technically and commercially viable, despite being closed for 7 years. It will need significant capital investment and could return to limited operation within 18 months, with full capacity reached within 38 to 39 months. The government is assessing domestic and international partners.

“The committee’s roadmap suggests the refinery could begin limited production within 18 months once capital is secured. We can begin to have something akin to a turnaround… to return the refinery to operational mode. We are now looking at the report in its entirety… to identify entities, groups, possibly governments interested in partnering with us.”

Companies which previously submitted bids may return.
“Those persons and entities who have shown interest before, all options are on the table.”

He referenced concerns raised about the former administration’s selection process.
“I… discovered… a very mind-boggling letter from the OPR… which raised serious concerns about that process.”

He confirmed that the Oilfield Workers Trade Union participated in the committee’s work and signed the report. Restart could initially create 2,000 to 3,000 jobs, rising to 4,000 or 5,000 at full operation, with an estimated 95 per cent of the workforce being local.

Dr Moonilal said the state cannot finance the multibillion-dollar restart on its own.
“We inherited an economy where the treasury… had a mop, a broom and Clorox because it was cleaned out.”

External support will be required and the ministry will continue reviewing the technical and financial elements of the report before entering any negotiations.

The Prime Minister’s office confirmed she received the committee’s Interim Report, chaired by former energy minister Kevin Ramnarine. The committee met 11 times, reviewed historical operational and financial data, examined the refinery’s preservation status, received expert presentations and conducted site visits to Pointe-à-Pierre.

The report outlines capital needs, technical-readiness assessments, commercial feasibility and the human-resource requirements for a restart. It concludes that the refinery remains technically, commercially and financially viable based on current regional and extra-regional demand for refined products.

It warns that degradation of units and supporting utilities continues and time is critical to prevent a restart from becoming un-economic. Newer plants installed under the Gasoline Optimisation Programme are in relatively good condition.

The interim findings recommend a 4-phase restart strategy and emphasise the importance of remedial work on the Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel plant, which was never commissioned but is considered critical to refinery economics.

The Prime Minister said health and safety requirements remain paramount. She directed the Energy Ministry to review the findings and propose possible restart models.

A final feasibility and restart recommendation is expected early in 2026. Since the refinery closure, 77 bidders expressed interest in acquiring or leasing the facility. In the 2024/2025 cycle, shortlisted groups included CRO Consortium, INCA Energy LLC and Nigerian firm Oando PLC.

 

 

 

Development Drilling Resumes in Central Block after 19 years

1 December 2025

The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries announced that development drilling targeting Natural Gas reserves in Central Block has resumed with the Carapal Ridge-3 Development Well.

The last development well drilled in this block was in 2006. Dr the Honourable Roodal Moonilal, M.P., Minister of Energy and Minister Ernesto Kesar, M.P., congratulated Touchstone Trinidad Central Block (Touchstone) on this significant milestone within our onshore province.

Touchstone operates Central Block under an Exploration and Production Licence following a successful transfer from Shell Trinidad Central Block Limited on 16 May 2025 and produces approximately 21 mmscf/d.

Since acquiring the block, Touchstone evaluated the remaining resources, resulting in their plans to drill 4 development wells. Production from Carapal Ridge-3, the first well of this campaign, is expected in February 2026. Should all 4 wells in this campaign be successful, production from Central Block is forecast to exceed 50 mmscf/d.

MEEI in its thrust for accelerating activity in energy , collaborated with Touchstone to facilitate the commencement of drilling operations 3 weeks ahead of schedule. Touchstone investments in drilling aids in bringing vital Natural Gas to market.

MEEI welcomes this renewed activity in our onshore natural gas fields and looks forward to further collaboration with operators in revitalizing energy to benefit citizens.

 

 

 

Touchstone resumes drilling in Central block after 19-year hiatus

Fabio Palmigiani Rio de Janeiro 3 December 2025

Canada-based independent Touchstone Exploration, the largest independent producer in Trinidad & Tobago, with assets in exploration and production development, resumed activities in the Central Block onshore, marking the first development well drilled in the area since 2006 and plans a four-well campaign in the Block.

Touchstone operates the Central Block, currently producing around 21 million cubic feet per day of natural gas, following its acquisition from Shell in May 2025. Since then, Touchstone has been evaluating the resource potential of the Central Block and has committed to drilling 4 development wells.

Production from the first well, Carapal Ridge-3, is expected by February 2026. If all four wells are successful, output from the Central Block is forecast to exceed 50 MMcfd. Touchstone worked in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy to accelerate activity, with drilling operations starting 3 weeks ahead of schedule.

Touchstone operates the Central Block with a 65% stake and partner state-owned Heritage Petroleum holding 35%. Located in the Herrera geological fairway, the Central Block spans about 6700 acres, adjacent to the company’s Ortoire block.

 

 

Central Block drilling Welcomed

4 December 2025

Economists Dr Indera Sagewan and Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon laud the resumption of drilling in the Central Block, which will translate into benefits for Trinidad and Tobago. Development drilling in the Central Block with the Carapal Ridge-3 well, marked the first such effort in 19 years . Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal and Minister Ernesto Kesar congratulated Touchstone Trinidad Central Block (Touchstone) on the milestone.

Touchstone operates Central Block under an Exploration and Production Licence following a successful transfer from Shell Trinidad Central Block Ltd on May 16, 2025 and produces approximately 21 mmscf/d (million standard cubic feet per day).

Sagewan said, “This is a welcome event. Any effort at gas exploration or exploitation is celebrated because it translates into the future in a potentially increased supply of natural gas to bring petrochemical and LNG plants back to full capacity. This country has billions of US dollars invested in plants in the industrial estate, which require natural gas to produce exports, earn forex, generate jobs, pay taxes, etc.”

This does not minimise the urgency for economic diversification.

“In fact, we can hope for surplus inflows to help finance the non-energy diversification agenda.

We must be realistic; the traditional energy sector still is the backbone of our economy, and it will take time to transition out of this…the imperative for using the largesse from our current energy sector to transition into alternative energy sources and economic diversification has never been more urgent .So, by all means, celebrate this new Touchstone drive, focused on the diversification agenda.”

For Arjoon, this sends a positive signal about the investment climate.

“A mid-tier independent, Touchstone Exploration, was confident enough to acquire this asset from Shell and shortly after embark on a multi-well programme. This suggests that even as global energy portfolios shift and majors rebalance toward larger offshore opportunities, onshore gas economics in T&T remain attractive. Strong technical base, established infrastructure and experienced service sector continue to offer a compelling environment for the right kind of upstream investment.”

Resumption of drilling in the Central Block represents a small-volume but strategically important development for our upstream sector.

“For several years, our main challenge has been insufficient and unstable gas supply, especially for downstream producers. This chronic shortage has contributed to intermittent shutdowns of Point Lisas plants—a key reason the estate continues to operate much below optimal capacity.

The effect has been significant: lost production, lower export revenues, reduced foreign exchange inflows, and a gradual erosion of competitiveness in one of the economy’s most important industrial hubs. Against this backdrop, any additional molecule of gas matters.

The new drilling initiative “appears to be a part of a broader national strategy to stabilise gas supply and arrest upstream declines, while positioning the sector for future growth as larger fields come on stream.

“Although the Central Block volumes are modest compared to forthcoming projects like Manatee and other deepwater developments, they bring material value at the margin. The reason is simple: these are relatively low-cost, onshore gas volumes that can be delivered quickly into a system where even small increments of gas can unlock idled export capacity at Atlantic LNG and help re-energise Point Lisas.”

Onee advantage of this development is its cost profile since the Central Block relies on existing infrastructure so unit costs and lead times are significantly lower than offshore or deepwater operations.

“It is not exposed to the heavy capital requirements, long development cycles, or cost-overrun risks typical of deepwater projects.

As a result, onshore wells like these can start producing earlier and with greater certainty, helping to bridge the supply gap in small but important increments until larger, more complex projects begin contributing to national output.”

To maximise the economic impact, the Government should work closely with the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC) and key downstream producers to ensure that a portion of Central Block gas is ring-fenced for strategic use, particularly to support plant restarts or boost utilisation where export revenues are greatest.

Even a small increase in utilisation at Point Lisas can translate into meaningful gains for foreign exchange earnings, tax revenue and job stability.

“Given that onshore and mature fields operate with a different cost structure from offshore and deepwater areas, there is also room for a more agile fiscal framework.

Measures such as accelerated capital allowances or simplified SPT thresholds, designed specifically for onshore activity, could incentivise further investment without significantly reducing the state’s revenue take.

Such targeted fiscal reform would encourage more companies to follow Touchstone’s model of efficient development drilling, while ensuring that T&T remains competitive in attracting upstream capital.”

 

 

 

 

Trinidad opportunity with Exxon

4 December 2025

On 12 August 2025, the energy sector rejoiced when ExxonMobil, the world’s largest multinational oil company, signed a production sharing contract (PSC) for 100 per cent of the Ultra Deep 1 block (UD1) off Trinidad’s east coast. UD1, an amalgamation of seven blocks was not nominated by other companies in the recent deepwater bid round.

The new government deserves praise for signing a contract of this magnitude 3 months after taking office.

Exxon plans to acquire 3D seismic data in 2026 and drill at least one well by 2028. In petroleum exploration, this is extremely fast and would be record setting for deepwater in the petrostate.

Exxon can leverage their massive regional footprint to mobilize rapidly. Prime minister and Energy Minister committed early to ensure participation of local companies in the energy sector, allowing citizens and contractors to grow into world-class companies. Energy services exports are a low hanging fruit to fast-track diversification and bring US dollars to TT.

No legislation is required to revive the Permanent Local Content Committee (PLCC).

If Exxon discovers fields even close to the scale found in Guyana, it will be transformational for TT, where the hydrocarbon sector, especially oil, dwindled to below 50,000 barrels per day.

Exxon could practically produce first oil within 5 years of discovery. The undrilled UD1 blocks have a few sparse 2D seismic lines and are the last greenfield exploration acreage left in TT.

UD1 spans 7765 sq km, exceeding the area of Trinidad at 5,131 sq km and about 29% of the vast Exxon acreage of 26,800 sq km in Stabroek block Guyana. UD1 is a triangular block at the easternmost edge of the TT maritime boundary, with Barbados acreage to the north and east and Guyana to the south.

Venezuela disputed its border with Guyana in recent years and “claimed” the entire Essequibo region and adjoining waters south of UD1 as its territory. UD1 block is therefore in an intricate geopolitical position as discoveries could potentially extend to Trinidad, Guyana and Barbados, excluding the Guyana- Venezuela dispute.

Exxon signed the UD1 PSC days before the first US military vessels arrived in the region . Tensions in the Occidental Sea rose to an all-time high as US- based Exxon begins exploration in TT. Following decapitation of the Venezuela regime, the US intervention means a potential acceleration of the Dragon gas field project in Venezuelan waters where Shell is expected to renew its focus and TT will benefit from improved relations.

Interest in Trinidad follows Exxon’s largest developments globally over the last decade in Guyana, currently producing over 900,000 barrels of oil per day from zero in 2019.

In November, Guyana became the highest oil producer per capita. Exxon had unprecedented deepwater success in the Stabroek Block, with 4 FPSOs producing oil and several more in the pipeline.

To the south, Suriname sanctioned its first offshore development by Total Energies with first oil expected in 2028 and in November, Petronas announced commerciality of its Sloanea gas field, Suriname’s first offshore gas development.

Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad form a petroliferous province with mammoth investment of petrodollars from the largest firms led by Exxon, Total, Chevron, BP, Shell, Qatar Petroleum, Petronas, Apache & CNOOC.   Exxon hopes to replicate Guyana’s success in Trinidad and is seeking oil not gas.

The Guyana basin geological model has been extended into the Trinidad Ultra Deep, hence their bid for UD1 block. Trinidad geology is far more complex than Guyana and exploration chance of success is generally around 10 per cent for virgin acreage. However, Ultra- Deepwater operators are now in a prime position to create value from the industry’a exciting new theme.

High-impact exploration in UD basins is transforming strategies to deliver barrels that fill the future supply gap as energy transition to net zero is slow and cost of renewables is high.

Like its predecessors and fellow majors, Exxon will continue traditional practices to employ local contractors, support local suppliers of goods and services, offer training and fund scholarships in UWI Petroleum Geoscience and Engineering degrees

 

 

 

 

 

Slowdown in well completions lowers output

Energy Chamber of T&T   2025, 12/04

Well completions in T&T 2014 to June 2025

Well completion is the critical final phase of oil and gas operations that prepares a newly drilled well for service. It is essential for economic viability, as it ensures the safe and efficient control and flow of hydrocarbons from the reservoir to the surface.

This process involves several key mechanical steps: after the well is drilled and evaluated, steel casing is run and cemented for structural integrity.

The final stages involve installing production tubing to carry the fluids up and fitting the wellhead (often called the “Christmas Tree”) on the surface to control flow and pressure.

The fundamental objective of any completion strategy is to maximise the total volume of oil or gas recovered while managing costs, though the methods are highly variable based on reservoir type, well design, and local geology.

In T&T, well completion activity serves as a vital indicator of the country’s efforts to increase production. The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries tracks this data, providing a direct insight into the number of new wells brought into service.

Between 2014 and June 2025, T&T recorded 402 well completions for production.

The majority, 66 per cent, were for oil wells, predominantly concentrated in onshore Trinidad. The remaining one-third of completions were for natural gas wells, which are primarily located offshore.

Additionally, there were 99 other well completions, including abandonments: the process of permanently sealing non-economic or depleted wells for safety and environmental protection.

The data reveals a declining trend in total well completions over the analysed period. While drilling activity experienced a significant halt in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has since recovered, it has not returned to the robust levels seen between 2014 and 2016.

Over the period, oil wells have shown a marked reduction in completions while natural gas completions have also declined, though less severely than oil.

This overall slowdown in new completions directly contributes to the country’s falling production rates. Since well pressure and output naturally decline over time (a process known as natural decline), new wells must be continuously brought online just to maintain steady national production, and even more are required to achieve growth.

Beyond simply increasing output, an acceleration of onshore oil production activities, primarily in south Trinidad, presents a significant opportunity for job creation.

Onshore activity typically requires a greater and more diverse human input compared to automated offshore gas operations.

Increasing output from these fields can boost the local labour force by creating demand for specialised energy services (eg, drilling, maintenance, rentals), local contractors and general labourers and support services such as welders, transport providers, and caterers.

Increased investment and activity in well completions are not only key to bolstering T&T’s energy output but also to improving local employment and economic spin-offs in the surrounding communities.

 

 

 

Methanex future operations hinges on gas supply,Venezuela

December 3, 2025

President and chief executive officer Rich Sumner said The Methanex Corporation’s future in Trinidad and Tobago hinges on securing adequate gas supplies, with expansion plans closely linked to potential cross-border development in Venezuela.

On its Investor Day, he noted stable or improving gas supply conditions in regions such as Chile and Egypt while in T&T uncertainty continues. Sumner said that offshore gas fields in T&T are “all mature and at end of life”, similar to Methanex’s assets in New Zealand. Methanex expects T&T’s gas supply–demand balance to remain relatively tight through 2027.

“Production has gone from a peak of 4.2 billion cubic feet (bcf) a day in 2010 to around 2.5 bcf per day today. That’s roughly a 40% decline from peak production. But what’s different and more important is that the country itself is highly dependent on oil and gas revenues.

So unlike New Zealand, their strong political will and motivation could enable upstream activity in the region. Today, few local offshore developments are expected to come online in 2027 and have the potential to slightly increase current production and sustain that for another couple of years.

Ultimately, to sustain and grow production, gas in Trinidad hinges on the ability to develop cross-border supplies with Venezuela where there is a very large gas resource base. But such cross-border developments require the right geopolitical conditions to enable.

Today, we’re operating our Titan asset in Trinidad and producing around 800,000 metric tonnes per year. And even though we’ve developed good capability in Trinidad, continued operation will be largely contingent on the gas look. And more importantly, our ability to secure future gas supply contracts to profitably sustain longer-term operations in the country.”

Sumner said that because of gas shortages in T&T, all the energy players are taking a “haircut” on their operations.

“As it currently stands, T&T’s gas demand comes from methanol, ammonia and LNG producers.

“Pretty much across the board in terms of gas, 4 bcf a day of gas demand and 2.5 bcf a day of production. So, across all end users there, LNG, methanol and ammonia…everyone’s taking a haircut on operations there.

There is the announcement of Nutrien backing out of Trinidad. And what happens to gas? We do believe—not certain—that what’s going on there is obviously not…for us to speak to that situation.

We do think, on a short-term basis, some gas may have been rediverted into methanol. But I think everyone is taking a haircut across the whole downstream sector and right now our focus on Trinidad is again operating at cash positive.

There are developments that Kevin spoke to that could allow Trinidad, both within Trinidad, to develop gas in the short term, but also, then, longer term it’s around geopolitics in Venezuela and the opportunity to unlock there. “

In October 2023, Methanex signed a two-year natural gas agreement with the National Gas Company of T&T for its currently idled, wholly-owned Titan methanol plant to restart operations in September 2024.

“So, today, our focus will be on the Titan asset that we have. We’ve got a gas contract coming up in September 2026. Our base case scenario is that we get another two-year gas contract there on similar terms, and we don’t have a turnaround on Titan till the end of that…term of the contract.”

The Titan plant produced 203,000 tonnes in the third quarter of 2025, down from 216,000 tonnes in the second quarter.

For the year to date, Titan has produced 556,000 tonnes for the nine months ended September 30, 2025. In 2024, Titan produced 956,000 tonnes.

While Titan was restarted, Methanex idled its Atlas methanol plant when its legacy 20-year natural gas agreement expired.

“I am proud of our team’s effort to reach an agreement with the NGC that allows us to preserve this strategic location in our global portfolio and maintain a world-class team. The two-year term of the Titan contract offered by the NGC reflects the challenging near-term gas supply and demand situation in the country.

In the medium to long term, the NGC continues to work with the upstream sector on their plans to develop increased gas supply to the country through various projects, although uncertainty remains.”

Sumner said then that Methanex had been working with the NGC and the T&T Government for an extended period to secure economic gas supply for the Atlas and Titan plants.

“Our decision to restart Titan and cease operations at Atlas was based on economic considerations, including significantly lower capital requirements at Titan compared to Atlas.”

Sumner said the company’s plant in Beaumont, Texas—and the gasoline it produces—is essentially a replica of the Atlas plant.“We have a lot of history operating those plants and learning from that particular asset.”

Sumner said right now, Methanex is “very focused” in both T&T and New Zealand about ensuring that they are free cash flow positive. Asked whether Methanex would consider relocating its T&T plants to another country, the company said it had studied the feasibility.

“Yeah. No, it’s something that we look at. What I would say is it sort of depends on the state of the plant; and then also, the jurisdiction that you might be going to, because a lot of it has to do with how much of the plant can you move to a different location, and does it actually give you an advantage to do that?

And a lot of it has to do with the piping or the pressure that you can move. So, we do look at it. We’ve got studies…on the shelf, and there’s opportunities that emerge. We’ll look at that. But it’s not something that we’re actively pursuing today,” senior vice president—Corporate Development Kevin Maloney said.

Sumner said the main advantage to moving is about speed and less about capital savings.“And so, we don’t see the market really demanding us to move with speed, because the pricing signals aren’t there today. So, it’s unlikely that we’re exploring that. But like Kevin says, we’re always studying to see if that was an option, how and which asset would make sense.”

Nutrien shutdown to continue next year? In October, Nutrien completed a controlled shutdown of its T&T nitrogen operations due to uncertainty with respect to port access and a lack of reliable and economic gas supply.

During an earnings call on November 6, president and chief executive officer of Nutrien Ken Seitz said the reduction in its T&T volumes is expected to be partially offset by the continued strong performance of its North American nitrogen operations.

“In Trinidad itself, we are looking at our various alternatives, assessing options, because we do need line of sight to stable and economic gas supply; and of course, access to port.

So, we’re working, talking to the Trinidad Government about what those…optimal operating conditions might be. And again, assessing our path forward,”

Asked if the Nutrien nitrogen plant will remain shut down in T&T next year, Seitz said he was not certain.

“Yeah, no—in Trinidad, we’ll see. We’re certainly not prognosticating that we’re gonna be shut down into 2026. We’re working through that at the moment, and, you know, looking for those optimal operating conditions where, again, (we have) reliable and affordable gas supply and access to port…So, those discussions will be ongoing. Trinidad contributes less than 1% of our free cash flow. And so, it is, from that perspective, in terms of the overall contribution, it’s de minimis.”

Nutrien executives visited Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in T&T on November 22.   “And even our own Trinidad operations, which are shut down this year, I would say, you know, phosphate probably will continue.

And again, looking at the supply and demand balance, it will probably continue to be tight. I know that…phosphate prices are elevated compared to historical average levels. But at the same time, it’s a supply story. And while we might see some reduced phosphate volumes going down here in the fall, given where phosphate prices and therefore affordability is at, we might see some of that. We expect that…heading into 2026, the market will continue to be tight,” Seitz said.

 

 

‘T&T is safer now’..PM asked for US radar

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says there is no need for citizens to be on edge over the RADAR installed by the United States military in Tobago, as the system will make both islands safer. The ridiculous controversy ignited criticisms from the sanctimonious Opposition.

Persad-Bissessar reiterated that T&T was not a US base for any attacks on Venezuela, noting that US military might in the region, including the US Navy flagship USS Gerald R Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier is more than sufficient.

The US owns thousands of satellites, they own the GPS system, they have almost 20% of their navy in the Caribbean Sea with the most sophisticated military communications technology in existence.

They don’t need to put RADAR in the country for any military purpose. They could monitor the entire Caribbean from the Gerald Ford aircraft carrier. Sensible people understand these facts.

The Prime Minister met General Dan Caine, chairman of the United States’ Joint Chiefs of Staff, in Port of Spain.

He is the highest-ranking military officer and the principal military adviser to US President Donald Trump. She said the meeting focused on tackling narco-trafficking and regional security-not Venezuela. Contrary to public speculation, she requested the RADAR from the US Embassy months ago and it was not a result of her meeting with General Caine.

“Months ago I made the request to the US Embassy for a US-supplied RADAR as a temporary solution for our poor surveillance capabilities. A system will also be installed at a site in Trinidad until a permanent replacement for our ineffective existing radar system can be installed.” ‘Tobago safer than ever’

The people of Tobago, in particular, have nothing to fear, as the RADAR system enhances their protection.

“Tobago’s air and sea territory are the most secure they have ever been and the people of Tobago are the safest they have ever been.

I am ultimately responsible for their safety and security and will ensure they never have a bloody year like 2024. Murders (26 in total) were mainly driven by fights for drug turf.

Trinidad criminals went to Tobago and sought to create havoc with gang violence and drug trafficking. The previous PNM government did nothing to help (THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine) because they believed by allowing crime to flourish in Tobago it would damage him at the polls. There has never been a Chief Secretary who loves the people of Tobago as much as Farley.”

Marine RADAR system

Retired Lt. Cmdr. Norman Dindial, a former military commander who once ran T&T’s coastal surveillance, now political leader of the National Transformation Alliance (NTA), claimed that T&T already has a fully functional and effective marine RADAR system and that the US-operated system in Tobago is a battlefield-grade technology designed for war, not counter-narcotics.

According to Persad-Bissessar, Dindial has questions to answer.

“This person claims he was in charge of the RADAR system we are replacing and that it works properly.

Well, he should also explain why for the past ten years there was a proliferation of drugs, guns and human trafficking into Trinidad and Tobago. We had record drug trafficking, murders and violence for ten years because of people and equipment that failed at their jobs.”

Questioned about US aircraft and marines in Tobago, the Prime Minister did not divulge any information about the RADAR and instead said the US marines were assisting with the runway at the new ANR Robinson International Airport.

Later, she explained that a RADAR system was being installed and she withheld the information to avoid alerting criminal networks. Asked if she should have informed citizens, she said she never takes reckless decisions regarding the safety of the people.

“Priority is to protect our country and people.

In situations involving classified security issues, the priority must be protecting our country and our people, and that limits what I can say.

Even when I cannot comment publicly, the Government is engaged, informed and acting within the responsibilities entrusted to it. I will not disclose sensitive information about matters under classification, regardless of political pressure or commentary. I don’t think it’s wise to broadcast to local and transnational criminal networks our national security and intelligence gathering plans.”

On Saturday, US President Donald Trump declared Venezuela’s airspace should be considered closed, triggering fear that Trinidad and Tobago’s airspace was also affected. Defence Minister Wayne Sturge assured media in Tobago later on Saturday that T&T’s airspace remains open.

The Prime Minister reiterated this yesterday, cautioning against fake information on social media.

“The majority of the population are not fooled by fake information. Some of these posts are political, some mischievous and some are lonely people farming for likes and comments.

We had 40,000 people in Tobago partying for their carnival and we had thousands in San Fernando celebrations. Citizens are not fooled by the fake posts.”

Asked for her opinion about a no-fly zone over Venezuela, the Prime Minister responded: “That is between President Trump and (Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro). We are focused on our national security interests only.”

Persad-Bissessar repeatedly stated that the US presence in T&T is focused on narco-trafficking and joint training with the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF). Asked to respond to those who believe the US is using T&T as a launch pad against Venezuela, she replied:

“They can believe what they want, according to their intelligence level, but the facts speak for themselves.

Murders are 40% down, boats ceased smuggling drugs, guns and humans from Venezuela. Drugs and illegal gun prices are up because of scarcity and fish prices remain the same.

Facts are facts. It’s pointless to spend time trying to convince persons who want to deliberately misrepresent and misunderstand anything I say.”

The Prime Minister thanked the US for its assistance.

“The US government has never requested any use of Trinidad and Tobago territory for any military action against the people of Venezuela.

As I said before, I requested a temporary RADAR system be installed here and I am thankful that the US gave us one of the best systems available and the assistance to install and operate it.

At this time we have the best air and sea surveillance that we ever had in our history. We now have to efficiently use the data we get from these systems to effect land and sea interdiction operations.

I told the citizens that in six months they would be safer and they are safer. My government has to keep on working to bring the levels lower and lower and I am thankful to the US Embassy for partnering with us.”

 

 

 

 

Strategic U.S. Radar Deployment in Tobago Near Venezuela Shifts Regional Surveillance.

29 November 2025   Defense News Army

U.S. Marines are quietly installing a new radar system at ANR Robinson International Airport in Tobago, after the prime minister updated news of the presence of U.S. troops . Officials frame the project as a counter-narcotics and airport upgrade effort.

Likely capabilities and location give the RADAR implications for wider regional air and maritime surveillance.

On November 28, 2025, Trinidad and Tobago’s prime minister confirmed that United States Marines are in Tobago installing a new radar system at ANR Robinson International Airport.

The government presents the project as an upgrade of airport infrastructure and national surveillance capabilities against narcotics traffickers operating in the waters around the islands.

The U.S. Marine Corps AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) is a multi-mission air and missile surveillance system. In a context of U.S. counter-drug operations and a military presence in the region, including new access agreements with the Dominican Republic, this deployment is being read as having implications beyond the fight against narcotics.

U.S. Marines are installing a likely AN/TPS-80 radar in Tobago, expanding U.S. surveillance near Venezuela under the banner of a counter-narcotics and airport upgrade.

 

 

 

Tobago East MP : RADAR necessary

30 NOVEMBER

MP David Thomas confirmed the RADAR at the ANR Robinson International Airport is “necessary,” insisting there is no cause for alarm. On November 28, Thomas said RADAR is part of standard security procedures for an international airport.

Reflecting on 40 years of experience as a fire officer, Thomas said he understands all the intricacies involved in airport security and acknowledged public speculation has been rife regarding the RADAR.

“I find this is one of those normal procedures that might not appear normal to the public. A lot of things have been said in the public space that do not add up.

From where I sit, I know the information is accurate: I know what is happening. When you are not accustomed to these things, they can appear abnormal and cause concern.”

He reiterated that when an international airport is being upgraded, “There are certain standards that must be met going forward.”

Asked about Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Farley Augustine’s remark that he was unaware of the radar installation, Thomas said Augustine’s concerns would be allayed once he receives the information he requires.

“Information is often received from one source before it reaches another. As soon as the time comes for the public to know and have additional details, that information will be handed out.”

Addressing concerns that the radar could embroil Tobago in tensions between the US and Venezuela, Thomas was unequivocal: “Of course not.”

An international airport must follow certain procedures.

“It is from a national security perspective. There are also intricacies relating to fire safety, and other matters are far more critical than what we are discussing here. If we do not address those, then we do not have an airport that can operate safely.”

On the US military role on the island, Thomas said he did not have full details but noted the RADAR would assist in combating narco-trafficking, as confirmed by the Prime Minister. He emphasised that the RADAR is standard practice, despite some confusion over its purpose.

“I am aware there are other radar systems covering this country, primarily to ensure security standards are maintained. An airport is one of the most sensitive areas. You can’t use a cell phone.”

Responding to online criticism from some threatening street protests over the installation, Thomas urged the public not to jump to conclusions.

“Before making a judgement, be mindful that all information concerning Tobago will come to hand. I am a responsible person. If anything were happening that would negatively impact Tobago, I would be the first to come out publicly and object. We are in good hands, and everything that is happening is in our best interest.”

The RADAR is intended to benefit all users of the airport and national security matters sometimes need to remain confidential.

“Certain details and events must be treated as classified. Security should always be a priority, and everything happening is to ensure Trinidad and Tobago remain safe.”

 

 

 

 

RADAR to track drug drones

30 November 2025

Following a debriefing with Defence Minister Wayne Sturge, Attorney General John Jeremie and Chief of Defence Staff Don Polo, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine told media he was assured by central government that the RADAR installed at the ANR Robinson International Airport will not be used by the US to attack Venezuela or any other nation.

Sturge revealed a marked increase in illegal flights and drones entering the country to transport illegal drugs and guns. US military presence in the southern Caribbean Sea since late August led to a decline in guns and drugs entering the country by sea, to the nation’s benefit.

Drug traffickers are changing their strategy and Trinidad and Tobago needed to stay a step ahead. He insisted that the RADAR was solely for domestic security purposes, to assist in identifying drug traffickers, gun smugglers and human traffickers and to suppress violent crime.

Augustine and Sturge said the US does not need Tobago for military operation. Assets including aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford have the capabilities to launch any military attack. Augustine said TT has little sway in dissuading US President Donald Trump from anything he set his mind on doing. Escalating geopolitical tension heightened on November 29 with Venezuelan airspace closed.

“I don’t know that TT could stop Trump from doing whatever Trump wants to do.

When you hear the description about the vessel and assets the US has in the Atlantic now, it is evident they don’t need our soil or our waters to do anything. They can do it from an international space and international waters.

I will not support any installation that is meant to attack anybody anywhere . The government continues to assure that that which is installed here is not meant to attack anybody but provide much-needed information for our defence systems and our security services.”

The airport RADAR resembles the AN/TPS-80 ground/air task-oriented RADAR (G/ATOR), built by Northrop Grumman, capable of long-range, four-dimensional 360-degree total surveillance for air and missile defence, fire control and air traffic control. The system is operationally deployed by the US Marine Corps and US Air Force. It delivers the data necessary for air defence weapons to destroy airborne threats- missiles, manned aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.

There should be no real alarm about US forces in TT domain; it is nothing new.

Augustine was not surprised that he was not consulted about US troops in Tobago. The Status of Forces Agreement signed with the US is not unique, with the latest agreement under former prime minister Dr Keith Rowley. Augustine defended the PM, saying she was telling the truth about civil works being undertaken by the US Marines. He said roadworks are being done, a radar was installed, and US aircraft were refuelling.

Tobago remains neutral in any conflict between nations, and as proof of this gesture, he invited US Chargé d’Affaires Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz and Venezuelan Ambassador Álvaro Sánchez Cordero to the island for Tobago Day next week.

“We are not at war with anybody.”

 

 

 

 

Government to restore land, clinics for ex-Petrotrin staff

2025, 12/01

Former Petrotrin workers were buoyed by news that the Government intends to honour previous agreements to allocate them land and reopen their medical centres, as the Refinery Review Committee prepares to deliver its report on the Pointe-a-Pierre Refinery restart .

Former casual, temporary and permanent workers gathered at Paria Fuel Trading Company’s car park as the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union marked the seventh anniversary of the refinery closure and the mass dismissal of all Petrotrin employees.

The controversial restructuring by the previous PNM administration ended refining operations but as Minister Ernesto Kesar addressed the largest union gathering in years, optimism returned.

Kesar, a former OWTU branch president, said that although 2,814 former workers had applied to the Land Settlement Agency for parcels owed under their separation agreements, only 238 had received letters of commitment and none had yet received land.

Following recent meetings with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal, and OWTU President General Ancel Roget, Kesar was instructed to prepare a comprehensive report on all former workers for Cabinet approval.

“It will take into consideration where the land is located, the capacity, and all of the different facilities, but I have been given that responsibility to prepare that report,” he said.

Kesar said the Government hopes to reopen two defunct medical facilities for former workers and their families within six months. Moonilal tasked him with inspecting the clinics under Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd and identifying “quick wins.” After visits to the Guaracara and Santa Flora clinics, Kesar found that the Pointe-a-Pierre centre remained structurally sound and retained medical records for all workers.

However, the Santa Flora facility had been vandalised.  “Santa Flora wasn’t as sound as Guaracara. The place was vandalised. Doors and windows were removed. The centre is structurally strong, but there is a lot of work to do,” he said.

Regarding the refinery itself, Kesar stressed that the OWTU remains a key partner in the restart process.

“Can you imagine there are persons in this country who do not want this refinery to be open?” he asked.

As the union continues to assert its claim over Petrotrin’s successor companies, Kesar said Labour Minister Leroy Baptiste has been instructed to bring a motion to Parliament supporting the OWTU’s claim to successorship.

Roget described the refinery’s closure as the worst economic decision in the nation’s history and said it was designed to weaken the OWTU. He revealed that he had served former Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley with a legal notice and statement of claim for damages, alleging defamation in August 2022.

 

 

 

 

Energy turnaround

NICHOLAS HOSEIN Caroni.

The energy sector is experiencing its most dynamic resurgence in nearly a decade, driven by the decisive leadership of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Energy Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal.

In a short span of time, the country has begun reversing years of stagnation, securing major foreign investment, expanding regional influence and restoring confidence in our energy future.

One of the clearest signs of renewed momentum is the acceleration of natural gas development.   bpTT’s Cypre project, projected to deliver up to 250 million cubic feet of gas per day at peak, came online ahead of schedule, reflecting strengthened collaboration between the government and upstream operators.

Onshore, development drilling has resumed in the Central Block for the first time since 2006, signalling investor confidence and unlocking the possibility of doubling onshore gas output in the near term.

These gains bolster the national gas supply at a critical moment for the downstream and LNG sectors. Foreign investment, long seen as a measure of national credibility, has surged. The deep water bid round attracted bids from major international players including CNOOC International and STIT Energy, while ExxonMobil signed a landmark production-sharing contract for the ultra deep Block TTUD-1.

Global interest is returning , reaffirming confidence in TT’s regulatory stability and geologic potential. Equally significant is the government’s diplomatic success in securing high-level US support for cross-border hydrocarbon development, an essential step toward unlocking future offshore resources.

Under Moonilal’s stewardship, TT has reasserted itself as the regional energy hub. Strategic engagement with Grenada opened new avenues for shared hydrocarbon development, positioning TT’s infrastructure and expertise as the backbone for regional growth.

Strengthened ties with India expanded co-operation on biofuels and solar technologies, supporting an energy diversification agenda that balances traditional strengths with new opportunities.

Domestically, the ministry has finally placed renewable energy on a competitive and credible footing. Wind energy has been elevated as a national priority, supported by the EU-funded Wind Resource Assessment Programme and an upcoming offshore wind RFP designed to produce bankable data by 2026.

This complements the rise in upstream FDI and the steady improvement in natural gas output, both of which are easing pressure on petrochemical and LNG revenues. In a remarkably short period, the new government delivered achievements many believed would take years.

Moonilal’s proactive diplomacy, strategic vision, and ability to engage both long-standing and emerging international partners repositioned TT as a serious player in regional and global energy discussions.

The message is unmistakable: TT’s energy sector is once again moving forward; confidently, aggressively, and with renewed purpose. If this momentum continues, 2025 will be remembered as the year the nation’s energy industry began its true resurgence.