Table of Contents
1.0
Introduction……………………………………………………………………..
1.1
Objectives……………………………………………………………..
1.2
Methodology…………………………………………………………..
1.1
1.4
1.4
2.0
Baseline Description of the Socio Economic Environment………………..
2.1
Location of Study Area……………………………………………….
2.2
Historical Development of La Brea District and Environs…………
2.3
Land Use………………………………………………………………
2.1
2.1
2.6
2.10
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
3.0
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
Roads………………………………………………………………
Beaches, Rivers and Dams……………………………………..
Public Buildings and other Institutions…………………………
2.4.1
2.4.2
2.4.3
2.4.4
2.4.5
2.4.6
2.4.7
2.4.8
General Description………………………………………………
La Brea…………………………………………………………….
Sobo Village……………………………………………………….
Chinese Village…………………………………………………...
Brighton……………………………………………………………
Point D’or………………………………………………………….
Vance River……………………………………………………….
Vessigny…………………………………………………………..
2.18
2.30
2.34
2.35
2.35
2.36
2.37
2.37
2.5.1
2.5.2
2.5.3
2.5.4
Sobo Village………………………………………………………
Vessigny Village………………………………………………….
Union Village………………………………………………………
Vance River ………………………………………………………
Recreational Activities and Facilities……………………………….
2.39
2.40
2.40
2.40
2.41
2.6.1
2.6.2
2.6.3
2.6.4
2.6.5
La Brea…………………………………………………………….
Sobo Village……………………………………………………….
Vessigny Village…………………………………………………..
Union Village………………………………………………………
Vance River………………………………………………………..
Infrastructure and Social Services…………………………………..
2.41
2.41
2.42
2.43
2.43
2.44
2.7.1
2.7.2
2.7.3
2.7.4
Education…………………………………………………………..
Health Care………………………………………………………..
Police Services……………………………………………………
Fire Services………………………………………………………
2.44
2.44
2.46
2.47
Population Demographics………………………………………….
Economic Activity…………………………………………………….
Stakeholder Comments and Concerns………………………………………
I
2.12
2.16
2.16
2.18
2.38
3.1
4.0
Impacts and Mitigatory Measures……………………………………………..
4.1
Impact Assessment Methodology…………………………………….
4.2
Pre Project Community Issues………………………………………..
4.3
Issues from the Development of Union Estate……………………
4.4
Issues arising from the proposed establishment of the
Alutrint Aluminum Complex…………………………………………
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4
5.0
Pre Construction Phase…………………………………………
Construction Phase………………………………………………
Operational Phase………………………………………………..
Decommissioning…………………………………………………
References…………………………………………………………………….
4.1
4.1
4.3
4.8
4.12
4.15
4.17
4.20
4.22
5.1
List of Figures
Figure 1.1
Figure 1.2
Figure 2.1
Figure 2.2
Figure 2.3
Figure 2.4
Figure 2.5
Figure 2.6
Figure 2.7
Figure 2.8
Figure 2.9
Figure 2.10
Figure 2.11
Figure 2.12
Figure 2.13
Figure 2.14
Figure 2.15
Figure 2.16
General Project Location........…………………………………….
Layout of the Proposed Aluminum Complex on Main Site
Union Industrial Estate……………………………………………..
Map Showing the Location of the Study Area……………………
Map Showing the Study Area………………………………………
Map Showing the location of the communities of the Wider
and Immediate Study Area…………………………………………
Location of the Southern Main Road……………………………..
Map Showing the Road Network in the Study Area…………….
Bar Graph of the distribution of males and females in the
study area…………………………………………………………….
Bar Graph of the major ethnic groups of the study area………..
Bar Graph of the major Religious Groups of the study area…...
Bar Graph of the qualifications attained by residents across
the study area……………………………………………………….
Bar Graph of the most common occupations amongst male
Residents……………………………………………………………
Bar Graph of the most common occupations among female
Residents……………………………………………………………
Bar Graph of the top industries among males of the various
Communities………………………………………………………..
Bar Graph of the top industries among females of the various
Communities………………………………………………………..
Bar Graph of the Religion Distribution in the communities……
Bar Graph of the top occupations of male residents of the
Study area………………………………………………………….
Bar Graph of the top occupation of female residents in the
II
1.2
1.3
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.14
2.15
2.19
2.20
2.21
2.22
2.24
2.25
2.26
2.26
2.30
2.32
Figure 2.17
Figure 2.18
Study area………………………………………………………….
Bar Graph of the involvement of male residents in industry
In the study area………………………………………………….
Bar Graph of the involvement of female residents in industry
In the study area…………………………………………………..
2.32
2.33
2.33
List of Tables
Table 2.2
Table 2.3
Table 2.4
Table 2.5
Table 3.1
Table 3.2
Table 3.3
Table 3.4
Table 3.5
Land Use within Alutrint SIA Study Area…………………………..
Population Data………………………………………………………
Table giving s general overview of the status of housing in the
Communities………………………………………………………….
Economic Activities for each community in the immediate
study area…………………………………………………………….
2.10
2.18
Community Groups Interviewed…………………………………….
Agencies and Regulatory Agencies Interviewed………………….
Table Summarizing Comments/Concerns from Community
Groups…………………………………………………………………
Table Summarizing Comments/Concerns from Households……
Table Summarizing Comments/Concerns from other
Stakeholders…………………………………………………………..
3.1
3.2
2.28
2.39
3.3
3.4
3.5
List of Plates
Plate 2.1
Plate 2.2
Plate 2.3
Plate 2.4
Plate 2.5
Plate 2.6
Aerial Photograph showing Human Settlements around
the Alutrint Site……………………………………………………….
Along jetty to ships hold and export………………………………..
Loaded railway tipping wagons on ramp to refinery stills………..
Digging asphalt in the Pitch Lake by hand using mattock……….
Aerial Photograph showing the Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve..
Aerial Photograph showing the Alutrint Site in Relation to
Other Land Use……………………………………………………...
III
2.5
2.7
2.7
2.9
2.11
2.17
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
1 .0 I n t r o d u c t i o n
Alutrint Ltd, a company formed by NEC and Sural, intends to site an aluminium
smelting plant, anode baking plant, rod mill and wire and cable plant on
approximately 100 ha of land located on Main Site North of Union Industrial
Estate, La Brea (Figure 1.1 and Figure 1.2) (NEC 2005). The output of the plant
is expected to be 125,000 metric tonnes per year of finished aluminium product
utilising pre baked anode technology. Primary input materials for this process
would be alumina and coke. The alumina would be shipped to the port facilities at
the LABIDCO Industrial Estate and conveyed over land to the plant site via an
enclosed hopper-conveyor belt system.
In addition, the alumina reduction process is a very high energy intensive process
and would require an input of approximately 210 megawatts of electricity and
approximately 115 cubic meters of potable water per day and a natural gas feed
for the firing of furnaces (NEC 2005).
Rapid Environmental Assessments (2003) Ltd (REAL) was contracted to conduct
the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for this particular project. In turn
REAL contracted Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development Ltd
(Foster Solutions) to conduct the Social Impact Assessment study (SIA) that will
form part of the EIA study.
This document provides a description of the socio-economic and human
environment of the study area. It also identifies likely impacts (positive and
negative) on the human and socio-economic environment during the following
phases of the project:
Pre-Construction
Construction
Operation
Decommissioning
1.1
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 1.1 – General Project Location
General Project Location
Source: TIDCO 2002
1. 2
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 1.2 – Layout of the Proposed Aluminium Complex on Main Site Union Industrial
Estate
Source: Alutrint 2005
1.3
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
This document also identifies recommendations and mitigatory measures to
minimise the identified negative impacts and maximise positive impacts. In
addition, the report also includes a management plan to mitigate against
significant socio-economic, cultural and environmental aspects of the proposed
development.
The content of this report is in accordance with the Terms of Reference provided
to Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development Ltd by REAL as well
as the Terms of Reference provided to Alutrint by the Environmental Management
Authority (Appendix I).
1.1
Objectives
For the purpose of this SIA the objectives were as follows:
Describe of socio-economic and human environments of the study area
Assess the impacting activities on the human environments
Provide recommendations for the mitigation of negative impacts and
enhancement of positive impacts
• Development of a management plan and monitoring plan
1.2
Methodology
The specific activities of the Environmental Impact Assessment were as follows:
Activity 1: Collection of data and information to describe the human and
socio economic resources that may be affected by the establishment
of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate, La Brea
Task 1: Review of all available information for the study area
Task 2: Identification of data gaps
1.4
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Activity 2: Collection of data and information to describe the proposed
operations
Task 1: Review of proposed operations
Task 2: Review of project development plan and engineering
drawings
Activity 3: Identification and assessment of likely impacts
Task 1: Identification and assessment of the likely impacts during
each of the project phases (e.g. pre-construction phase, construction
phase, operational phase and decommissioning phase).
Activity 4: Stakeholder participation
Task 1: Identification of stakeholder groups and key issues
Task 2: Organization and facilitation of flow of information between
Alutrint and identified stakeholders (interviews, meetings, public
consultations)
Task 3: Design and development of information materials
Task 4: Conflict Resolution
Appendix II Shows a list of Households and Community Groups interviewed
Activity 6: Development of Management Plan and Monitoring Plan
Task 1: Identification of mitigatory measures
Task 2: Identification of parameters to be monitored, frequency of
monitoring and reporting procedures
1.5
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2 .0 B a s e lin e
•
D e s c rip tio n
o f th e
S o c io E c o n o m ic
E n v iro n m e n t
This Section provides a baseline description of the human and socio-economic
components (human environment) of the study area as defined below (2.1
Location of Study Area). Specifically, of the characteristics of the human
environment that consist of people, their culture, lifestyle, livelihood and their
built environment.
2.1
Location of Study Area
The proposed project is being planned for the Union Industrial Estate located in
the South Western peninsula of Trinidad in an area between Vessigny and
Vance River known as Union. Union is approximately 7km North East of Point
Fortin (Figure 1.1 and Figure 2.1).
For this particular project, the study area is defined as a Wider Study Area and
an Immediate Study Area. The wider area is defined as the area that is
indirectly impacted by the proposed establishment of the Alutrint Aluminium
Complex. However, the immediate study area is defined as the area that is
immediately impacted by the proposed project activities.
The wider Social Impact Study Area is administratively located within the
municipality of Siparia (formerly in the County of St. Patrick) (Figure 2.2)
between 648000mE and 654000mE; 1127000mN and 1134000mN. It is also
located in the Electoral District of La Brea. It consists of the following
communities in clockwise manner La Brea, Point D’or, Chinese Village,
Rousillac, Sobo Village, Vance River, Vessigny and Brighton (Figure 2.3).
The immediate study area is defined to include Sobo Village, Vance River,
Vessigny and Union Village (Plate 2.1). Union Village is a small one street
village located on the border between Vance River and Vessigny from the
Southern Main Road to the coastline.
2.1
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.2
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
MAP NOT TO SCALE
Union Industrial Estate
La Brea
Point Fortin
Source: Central Statistical Office 2005
Figure 2.1: Map Showing the Location of the Study Area
2.3
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.2: Map Showing the Study Area
Topography Map of Alutrint Study Area
N
Alutrint Site
Union Village
Vessigny River Basin
Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve
Immediate Study Area
Wider Study Area
NOT TO SCALE
Figure&2.2:
Map showing
the Wider
Immediate
Study
Area
Source: Trinidad
Tobago
Government
1977.and
Land
& Surveys
Department,
Mapping and
Source: Lands and Survey (1980). Extracted from Trinidad Map (1:25 000), Sheet 62
2.4
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Population Distribution of Communities
within Alutrint SIA Study Area
N
Alutrint Site
Source: Trinidad & Tobago Government, Ministry of Planning &
Development, Central Statistical Office, Geographic Information
Section 2000 Population Census (September 2004)
NOT TO SCALE
Figure 2.3: Map Showing the location of the communities of the Wider and Immediate Study
area
2.5
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
N
O
R
T
H
Plate 2.1: Aerial Photograph showing Human Settlements around the Alutrint Site
2.6
Source: Petrotrin Trinmar Operations 2005
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
2.2
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Historical Development of La Brea District and Environs
Much of the early development of the La Brea district is linked firstly to the
development of agriculture and then to the development of the oil industry in
Trinidad. La Brea or “Tierra de Brea” is the Spanish word for pitch. However, the
early history of this area indicates that Amerindians inhabited the area. In fact,
the name La Brea is close to the name the Amerindians refer to this place by “Piche” (Anthony 1988)
During the 18th century, La Brea was part of a large agricultural district. There
were many sugar plantations, in 1797 there were some 20 sugar mills in La Brea.
Later, there were also coffee and cocoa estates and coffee mills. In addition,
some residents speak of cotton estates being present in the areas around
Rousillac (Community Group Interview 2005).
There was a seaport from which much of the produce of the region was exported.
By that time the village of La Brea had been established and its population
numbered 555 persons. The village is said to be situated exactly where the
present village has developed adjacent to the pitch lake. (Anthony 1988).
In 1595, Sir Walter Raleigh discovered the pitch lake and used its products to
stop leaks on his ships. However, it was not until the late 1800s early 1900s that
there were attempts to drill for oil culminating with commercial success by 1920s.
As the oil industry grew there were infrastructural developments in the area. A
pier was built at Point Boyer in 1893 and a cableway from the lake to the pier was
also constructed and was extended in 1935 (Plate 2.2 and 2.3) (Higgins 1996).
As industry activity grew and the need for accommodation grew for the increased
population of the area there were the development of a number of villages. The
development of the present residential part of Brighton probably started around
1910. Coon’s Town was built in 1912 on a site west of the pier but was almost
totally destroyed by fire in 1925 and was abandoned to be replaced by a village
built to the east of the lake called New Jersey from the association with the Barber
Company who had their head office in New Jersey (Higgins 1996). Many of the
villages that were developed within the La Brea district seem to be closely
associated with the companies in the area at the time.
2.7
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Source: Higgins 1996
Plate 2.2: Along jetty to ships hold and export
Source: Higgins 1996
Plate 2.3: Loaded railway tipping wagons on ramp to refinery stills
2.8
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Industrial activities during this period consisted of the extraction, processing and
export of pitch and its related products from the natural Pitch Lake (46 hectares;
Higgins 1996: p6) which is surrounded by the communities of La Brea, Sobo
Village, Vessigny and Brighton (Plate 2.4). These activities were conducted by
the Lake Asphalt Company Ltd. (formed in 1897; Higgins 1996: p16).
Additionally, oil wells were located intermittently in the communities and the
forests (Higgins 1996). The communities within this study area were among the
first to experience the exploration, production and exploration of oil in the early
1900s. A small oil refinery was built in Brighton in 1911 and the export of oil from
the Brighton Terminal and Jetty began in that year (Higgins 1996: p.92).
The development of the area resulted in workers coming to La Brea from all parts
of Trinidad and The Asphalt Company, now the Trinidad Lake Asphalt Company,
imported a number of workers from the smaller islands. The population of this
one-time tiny village of La Brea increased to over 2 616 by the census of 1921
(Anthony 1988). However, La Brea began to experience a decline after World
War II with administrative centres moving further south to Point Fortin. This
decline in commercial activity also meant a decline in the population.
2.9
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Source: Higgins 1996
Plate 2.4: Digging asphalt in the Pitch Lake by hand using mattock
2.10
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
2.3
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Land Use
The land within this study area is approximately 26Km2. The study area is mainly
used for oil production, pitch, forestry, agriculture, housing and recreational
activities.
In 1980, approximately 70% of the land in the study area was under forest
(secondary and tertiary) (Table 2.2). Communities, recreational, industrial and
port activities (Built Developments) accounted for 25 % of the land use.
Agriculture, mainly citrus and vegetable farming accounted for the remaining 5%.
Table 2.2: Land Use within Alutrint SIA Study Area (1980)
Land Use
Approximate Area (Km2 )
%
15
58
1.75
7
Swamp Forest
1.4
5
Agriculture (Citrus & vegetables)
1.4
5
Communities - block (Brighton, La
2.9
11
3.5
14
Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve
Plantation Forest (Teak and
Rubber)
Brea, Point D’or & Vance River)
Other communities - ribbon
Source: Calculated from Trinidad & Tobago Government 1977. Land & Surveys Department, Mapping
and Control Section (1980). Extracted from Trinidad Map (1:25 000), Sheet 62.
The Western part of the Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve is located to the South of
Sobo Village and the East of Vessigny and Vance River communities (Plate 2.5).
This is state forestland owned by the State and leased from Petrotrin's Holding
company, Palo Seco Agricultural Enterprises Limited (PSAEL) while the plantation
forest is found around the Vessigny - Union Village border and the La Brea Rousillac border. Swamp forest vegetation exists in the North of the study area
along the coastline.
2.11
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve
N
O
R
T
H
Vance River Community
Union Industrial Estate (Site A)
Source: Petrotrin Trinmar Operations 2005
Plate 2.5: Aerial Photograph (Looking east) showing the Morne L’Enfer Forest Reserve
2.12
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Industrial activities during this period consisted of the extraction, processing and
export of pitch and its related products from the natural Pitch Lake (46 hectares;
Higgins 1996: p6) which is surrounded by the communities of La Brea, Sobo
Village, Vessigny and Brighton. These activities were conducted by the Lake
Asphalt Company Ltd. (formed in 1897; Higgins 1996: p16).
Additionally, oil wells were located intermittently in the communities and the
forests. The communities within this study area were among the first to
experience the exploration, production and exploration of oil in the early 1900s. A
small oil refinery was built in Brighton in 1911 and the export of oil from the
Brighton Terminal and Jetty began in that year (Higgins 1996: p.92).
2.3.1 Roads
The Southern Main Road, which traverses the communities in the study area, is
the only first class road. It runs from San Fernando to the North, connecting
Rousillac Village to Chinese Village to Point D’or to La Brea to Brighton to
Vessigny to Union then to Vance River (Figure 2.4). The Southern Main Road,
then continues to the Borough of Point Fortin and then to the communities of
Cedros and Icacos at the Southwestern tip of Trinidad. This road has two lanes,
which facilitates two-way traffic. Between Point D’or and Brighton the effects of
the pitch veins in the area presents significant challenges to the maintenance of a
first class road surface.
Second class roads interconnect the block communities of Point D’or, La Brea
and Brighton and network within each community (Figure 2.5). The road network
within the community of Vance River is also second-class.
A series of third class roads provide access to oil facilities and lines throughout
the study area. These roads provide motorists with means to avoid or move
around areas of traffic jams and accidents on the main road network. Sobo Road
which connects to Boodoosingh Trace at the Rousillac – Chinese Village
boundary on the Southern Main Road has become a major alternative
thoroughfare to avoid the poor road conditions at Point D’or (Figure 2.5).
2.13
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
A road traffic survey was conducted in October 2003 at the junction at
Boodoosingh Trace to determine the traffic entering and exiting the area (IMA
2004). The results of this survey indicated that private cars accounted for more
than 50% of all traffic at all times, in both directions. More private cars headed
towards Point Fortin (west) in the morning than towards San Fernando.
The next largest group of road users were the people using public transport (taxis,
maxi-taxis and buses accounted for approximately 20% of the traffic (IMA 2004).
Commercial vehicles (light to medium vans) showed larger number heading
westwards in the morning peak. Similarly, Point Fortin seemed to exert a greater
pull with respect to trucks in the morning and evening peak periods (IMA 2004).
2.14
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminum Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.4 - Location of the Southern Main Road
Start of Southern Main Road
Southern Main Road
2.15
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.5: Map Showing the Road Network in the Study Area
Topography Map of Alutrint Study Area
N
2nd Class Roads
Boodoosingh Trace
Southern Main Road
Union Village
2nd Class Roads
NOT TO SCALE
Source: Trinidad & Tobago Government 1977. Land & Surveys Department, Mapping and
Source: Lands and Survey (1980). Extracted from Trinidad Map (1:25 000), Sheet 62
2.16
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.3.2 Beaches, Rivers and Dams
There are small beaches located along the coastline. The major beach in the
study area is Vessigny Beach (Plate 2.6). This beach was upgraded and beach
facilities constructed in 1986 (IMA 2004). This beach is frequented by persons
from across the island of Trinidad and is famous for beach parties on weekends
and public holidays (Community Group Meetings 2005).
The Vessigny River is the main river that traverses through the study area (Plate
2.4). The River flows from the Morne L’Enfer Forest and emerges at Vessigny
Beach. This river is of cultural value and in the past has been used for fishing
activities as well as an additional supply of water (Community Group Meetings
2005).
In 1980, there were 18 dams located within the entire study area (Figure 2.5), 9 in
the Vessigny area, 3 in the La Brea-Point D’or areas, 3 in Brighton, 2 in Sobo and
1 in Chinese Village (IMA 2004). These dams provided residents with back-up
water supply for their households when the potable water supply was inadequate
and within recent times as recreational sites for swimming and fishing
(Community Group Meetings 2005, Household Interviews 2005). All the dams
located within the now Union Industrial Estate were filled in and are no longer in
existence (Plate 2.1)
2.3.3 Public Buildings and other Institutions
Public facilities are mainly concentrated in La Brea community. These include a
Court House, Police Station, Post Office, Health Centre and Ministry of Works
sub-office. The only health centre is at La Brea. There are a number of churches
spread out in the study area. There are at least two churches at La Brea, Vance
River and Vessigny.
2.17
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
N
O
R
T
H
Vessigny River
Union Industrial Estate
Main Site North
Union Industrial Estate
Main Site South
Vessigny
River outfall
Vessigny
Beach
Guapo
Bay
Plate 2.6: Aerial Photograph showing the Alutrint Site in relation to other Land Use
2.18
Source: Petrotrin Trinmar Operations 2005
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
2.4
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Population Demographics
The population demographics for the wider and immediate study area are
described in terms of communities.
There are eight (8) communities within the immediate study area. These are:
Brighton, Point D’or, Chinese Village, La Brea, (which is also the primary urban
and industrial center of the area), Sobo Village, Vessigny, Union Village and
Vance River (Figure 2.3)
2.4.1 General Description
At the Local Government level, the communities of the immediate study area are
located within the Siparia Region (SR), which has administrative responsibility for
the Siparia Regional Corporation (SRC). The population of the SR in 2000 was
81, 917 (CSO, 2000) (Table 2.3). The nearest settlements to the proposed
Alutrint Aluminium Complex are Brighton, Point D’or, Chinese Village, Union
Village, La Brea, Sobo, Vessigny and Vance River.
Table 2.3: Population Data
Community
La Brea
Sobo
Vessigny
Vance River
Brighton
Chinese Village
Point D’or
Union Village
Total
Siparia Region
Distance from Site
3 km
0.4 km
1.2 km
0.4 km
2.8 km
4 km
3.2 km
0 km
-
Population
3080
1731
1107
1090
31
539
1456
149
9183
81917
Households
979
464
286
301
9
150
412
50
2651
22393
Businesses
104
42
24
22
3
20
35
0
250
2141
Source: CSO 2000 Population and Housing Census
2.19
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Age and Gender Distribution1
Approximately 70.7% of the population in the communities of the study area are
of working age (16 to 60 years). 30.2% of the population are infants and
teenagers and 10.6% are 60 years and older (CSO 2000).
There were no marked gender biases in the various communities. The number of
males and females almost equalled each other in a number of the communities
such as La Brea, Point D’or and Chinese Village, and where this was not the case
as with Sobo Village, Vessigny, Brighton, Vance River and Union Village, the
difference was minimal (Figure 2.6).
Figure 2.6: Bar Graph of the distribution of males and females in the study area
4640
4640
No. of persons
No. of persons
4620
4620
4600
4600
4580
4580
4560
4560
4540
4540
4520
4520
1
Male
Male
Female
Female
CSO defines gender as the male and female sex
2.20
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Ethnicity
The three major ethnic groups in Trinidad and Tobago are East Indians (40.3%),
Africans (39.5%) and a mixed population (18%). The residents of the communities
were predominantly of African descent, followed by East Indians and a
considerable mixed population. The other ethnicities represented were Chinese,
Syrian/Lebanese and White/Caucasian. However, these were negligible (Figure
2.7).
Fig. 2.7 Bar Graph of the major ethnic groups of the study area (Source?)
6000
5596
No. of persons
5000
4000
3000
2000
1338
1031
1000
0
African
Indian
Mixed
Ethnic groups
Religion
Many different religions are present in Trinidad and Tobago. The largest two are
the Roman Catholics (29.4%) and Hindus (23.8%); the Anglicans (10.9%),
Muslims (5.8%), and Presbyterians (3.4%) are among the smaller faiths.The
major religions by numbers of residents for the communities were found among
the various Christian denominations, in particular the Baptist, Roman Catholic and
Anglican faiths, followed by Hinduism (CSO 2000) (Figure 2.8).
2.21
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.8
Bar Graph of the major Religious groups of the study area
An
Agn
ligc
laicn
an
Ba
Bpa
tips
Pe
tis
Pne
t
ten
R
c
t
eoc
oRm
sot
oam
aslt
na
al
Cn
aCt
haot
hlioc
lic
S.
SD.
DA
.A
.
Je
Jhe
ohv
H
iHn
oav
dinu
ha
disu
h
mis
H
mS
iHn
dinu
aSt
.at
disu
.
mis
mO
tOh
ethr
Is
lIas
er
m
la
mA
SAJ
SAJ
Is
lIas
A
m
la
mO
tOh
ethr
er
No. of persons
No. of persons
1600
1600
1400
1400
1200
1200
1000
1000
800
800
600
600
400
400
200
200
0
0
Education
Education statistics indicated that in the Parish of St. Patrick, 16 285 children,
aged 4 to 15, were enrolled in Government and Assisted Primary Schools in
2000/2001. Of these, 51.4% were male and 48.6% were female. Approximately
72% of male pupils and 83% of female pupils advanced to secondary school in
2000/2001 (Ministry of Planning & Development 2003). Of these, 17% of the
male students and 17% of the female students completed secondary education
up to Form 5. A smaller number of these students went on to pursue Advanced
Level Education, with 9% of the male students and 20% of the female students
completing this stage (Ibid).
The drop out rate for St. Patrick was comparative to the rest of Trinidad &
Tobago. Twenty-two males (0.2%) and 11 females (0.1%) dropped out of primary
school, with the largest number of dropouts occurring in Standard 5 (Primary
School Return cited in Ministry of Planning & Development 2003). More males
dropped out than females, which is consistent with the rest for the country.
Primary school drop out was within the mid range for the rest of the country.
2.22
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
The level of dropouts was higher in secondary schools for this period. It was the
second highest dropout rate in the country for the period. Ninety-five males
(1.58%) and 41 females (0.62%) dropped out of secondary school. The majority
of these occurred in the area’s Junior Secondary Schools (Educational Statistical
Return 2000/2001 cited in Ministry of Planning & Development 2003).
The majority of residents (male and female), 6802 or 82%, have not passed any
examinations at the national level. Data was not available for female residents of
the study area for Secondary Level education. However, 921 male residents or
11% of the population have attained Secondary level education (O Levels and A
Levels). Very few, 28, have first degrees and this figure reduces to twelve for
those having higher degrees (Figure 2.9) (CSO 2000). This may therefore pose
implications for residents as far as concerns skilled and long-term labour at the
Alutrint Aluminium Complex.
Figure 2.9
Bar Graph of the qualifications attained by residents across the study
area
8000
8000
7000
7000
6802
6802
No. of persons
No. of persons
6000
6000
5000
5000
4000
4000
3000
3000
2000
2000
921
921
1000
1000
0
2.23
28
28
0
None
None
12
12
O and A Levels First Degrees Higher Degrees
O and A Levels First Degrees Higher Degrees
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Employment
Unemployment
A poverty assessment on Trinidad and Tobago conducted by Kairi Consultants
Ltd with data that relate to 1997/1998 found that the eastern and deep south and
south west of the country were poorer than the rest of the country. This is the
most recent study with comprehensive data for assessing poverty. The national
average was 24%, but much higher rates were found in the east and south of
Trinidad. The county of St. Patrick had a poverty level of 34.9%, which is
considerably higher than the percentage recorded at the national level (Kairi
2005).
53% of the population (4867 residents) in the study area was unemployed. Of this
unemployed population, 41 residents were seeking their first job, 476 were other
seekers, 2990 did not look for jobs, 896 were engaged in home duties, 31 were
disabled, 292 were old age pensioners, 67 were retired and 74 did not want work
(CSO 2000).
Occupations
In the county of St. Patrick, elementary occupations employ the majority of
persons in the area. These types of occupations require the performance of
mainly simple, routine tasks and low levels of formal training. Agriculture,
including farming and fishing has traditionally been the main source of
employment in the area. However, development of the crude oil industry has
resulted in increased employment in Technicians and Associated Professional
and Crafts and Related Works categories. Comparatively, few persons are
employed in administrative posts and as professionals (Ministry of Planning and
Development, 2000).
2.24
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Of all occupations listed for the communities of the study area, male residents
were primarily involved in craft, followed by elementary jobs and plant and
machinery operations. On the other end, there were very few professionals,
legislators or persons involved in agriculture. Female residents were more
geared towards the elementary type jobs, followed by service and sales and
clerical positions. There were only four women working in agriculture, and very
few professionals and women plant and machine operators (CSO, 2000) (Figure
2.10 & 2.11)
Figure 2.10 Bar Graph of the most common occupations amongst male residents
2.25
Technicians
Technicians
Service and
Service and
Sales
Sales
Plant and
Plant and
Machine
Machine
Operators
Operators
Elementary
Elementary
Craft and
Craft and
Related
Related
No. of persons
No. of persons
700
700
600
600
500
500
400
400
300
300
200
200
100
100
0
0
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.11 Bar Graph of the most common occupations among female residents
300
300
No. of persons
No. of persons
250
250
200
200
150
150
100
100
50
50
0
0
Elementary Service and
Elementary Service and
Sales
Sales
Clerical
Clerical
Technicians
Craft and
Technicians
Craft and
Related
Related
As far as occupation in the Industrial Sector, men were oriented towards
Construction, Petroleum and Gas, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Transport Storage
and Communication and Other Manufacturing. The most popular industries
among the women of the study area were Electricity and Water, Sanitary and
Similar, Social and Related, Finance and Wholesale and Retail Trade (CSO,
2000) (Figures 2.12 & 2.13).
2.26
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.12 Bar Graph of the top Industries among males of the various communities
Other
Other
Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Transport and
Transport and
Storage
Storage
Communication
Communication
Wholesale and
Wholesale and
Retail Trade
Retail Trade
Petroleum and
Petroleum and
Gas
Gas
Construction
Construction
No. of persons
No. of persons
400
400
350
350
300
300
250
250
200
200
150
150
100
100
50
50
0
0
Figure. 2.13 Bar Graph of the top Industries among females of the various communities
300
300
No. of persons
No. of persons
250
250
200
200
150
150
100
100
50
50
0
2.27
0
Electricity Sanitary and Social and
Finace
Wholesale
Electricity Sanitary and Social and
Finace
Wholesale
and Water
Similar
Related
Insurance
and Retail
and Water
Similar
Related
Insurance
and Retail
Real Estate
Trade
Real Estate
Trade
& Bus.
& Bus.
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Income
Women generally earn less than men. Women almost doubled the number of
men in the lowest income bracket of less than $500. As one goes higher up the
income ladder, there are fewer women than men. Men are three times the
number of women in the $13,000 and above income group. In the middle income
group of $5,000 - $10,000, the number of men tripled and in some instances were
almost five times the number of women in the same respective groups (CSO
2000).
Housing
Type of dwelling
The vast majority (81.2%) of dwellings were separate houses. 5.7% were
flats/apartments, 11% were double houses, 0.9% were either part of
commercial/industrial dwellings, 0.1% were other private dwellings and 0.7% were
group dwellings (CSO 2000, Household Interviews 2005).
Tenancy of Land
79.85% of land in the study area was owned by residents. 9.6% was rented
privately, 0.1% was rented by the Government, 0.07% was leased privately,
0.04% was leased by the Government, 8,7% of the land was rent free and 0.2%
was occupied by squatters. As far as concerns tenancy of dwellings, 26.8% of
dwellings were owned, 34.9% were rented privately, 12.4% was rented by the
Government, 8.3% was leased privately, 4.9% was leased by the Government,
2.6% were rent free, 6.8% were occupied by squatters (CSO 2000, Household
Interviews 2005).
.
2.28
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table 2.4: Table giving a general overview of the status of housing in the communities
LA
BREA
SOBO
VILLAGE
CHINESE
VILLAGE
VANCE RIVER
VESSIGNY
POINT
D’OR
BRIGHTON
Building Type
Residential
Residential/
Commercial
Residential/
Office
Community
Service
Brick/Concrete
Material of Outer
Walls
Wood/Concrete
Wood
Wood/
Galvanize
Owned
Tenancy of Dwellings
Rented Private
Rented Gov’t
Leased Private
Leased Gov’t
Rent Free
Squatted
LEGE
ND
2.29
High
500 and Over
Medium
200-400
Low
Below 200
None
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Building Type
96.9% of all buildings in the communities of the study area are residential. 2.5%
are either residential or commercial and 0.03% are either residential or office
buildings and community service buildings (CSO 2000, Household Interviews
2005). This indicates that the communities in the study area are mainly
residential.
Building Material
As far as concerns the type of material used for building, 43.8% of buildings were
constructed with brick/concrete, 36.8% had a combination of wood and concrete,
17.6% were made from wood and 1.5% were constructed using a combination of
wood and galvanize (Household Interviews 2005).
Age of Buildings
A mere 6.5% of buildings are less than ten years old, while 73.4% were
constructed ten years ago and beyond. The status is not known for 15.6% of
buildings and for 4.4% of buildings in the study area, the age was not stated
(Household Interviews 2005).
Number of Rooms
70% of dwellings had two and three bedrooms, 1.1% had no bedrooms and 4.4%
had five or more bedrooms. Dwellings generally had between three and four
rooms. A vast minority (2.1%) had eight or more rooms (Household Interviews
2005).
From the results of this survey and based on findings from the CSO Household
interviews, it can be concluded that residents are generally of middle to upper
income backgrounds. They can afford to have their own homes and land, in some
cases having over five bedrooms. Further evidence of this is seen in the fact that
many of the houses across the study area are generally well-kept, concrete
residential dwellings, which use quite modern construction technology.
2.30
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
There are quite a number of wooden houses in Sobo Village, but these are
quickly being replaced by concrete structures that are more durable and can
greatly withstand the effects of some natural disasters. Along the Southern Main
Road in La Brea, most of the houses are wooden-type residential dwellings.
Concrete is not the best option here, since, due to the geological structure of the
rocks, constant pulling of structures toward the ground surface takes place.
This is quite evident through the road that is constantly undergoing repairs and
which at times is quite rugged and near impassable for vehicular traffic.
2.4.2 La Brea
La Brea is the primary urban community in the study area. Its population is
evenly distributed between males and females. The residents were mainly of
African descent, followed by a small East Indian and a mixed population. The
religions present reflect those found in the other communities. The major
religions by numbers of residents for this community were Anglican (485), Baptist
(485), Pentecostal (186) and Roman Catholic (114). A mere 35 residents were
Hindu and 11 were Muslim (Figure 2.14) (CSO 2005).
Figure 2.14 Bar Graph of the Religion Distribution in the communities
No. of persons
No. of persons
600
600
500
500
400
400
La
LBa
rBe
So
rae
Sbo
a
ob
Vo i
Vllai
lglae
Va
ge
Vna
cne
cRe
iRv
eivr
er
Ve
Vse
ssi
gsni
gyn
y
Br
Bigr
higt
ohnt
on
Po
Pino
C
tinD
hCi
t 'Do
nhei
r'o
nse
r
es
Ve i
Vllai
lglae
ge
300
300
200
200
100
100
0
0
2.31
Anglican
Anglican
Baptist
Baptist
Pentecostal
Pentecostal
Roman Catholic
Roman Catholic
S.D.A.
S.D.A.
Jehovah
Jehovah
Hinduism Sat.
Hinduism Sat.
Hinduism Other
Hinduism Other
Islam ASJA
Islam ASJA
Islam Other
Islam Other
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
As far as concerns education in the La Brea Community, information was solely
available for male residents. Of the 1451 male residents in La Brea, 979 or
67.5% had no qualifications at the national level. 83 males or 5.7% had school
leaving, 6 or 0.4% had CXC Basic qualifications, 203 or 14% had O Level
qualifications, 8 or 0.6% had A Level qualifications and 0.6% had either First or
Higher degrees (CSO 2005). Therefore, as one goes up the education ladder,
the number of residents attaining qualifications decreased considerably. This
could pose negative implications as far as concerns the employability/recruitment
of residents for skilled positions at the Alutrint Aluminium Complex.
Of all occupations listed, for the community of La Brea, male residents were
primarily involved in craft, followed by elementary jobs and plant and machinery
operations. On the other end, there were very few professionals, legislators or
persons involved in agriculture. This was the general trend for all the
communities. Female residents were more geared towards the elementary type
jobs, followed by service and sales and clerical positions. There were only four
women working in agriculture, and very few professionals and women plant and
machine operators (Figures 2.15 & 2.16). These trends were representative of the
other communities of the study area.
There were 1750 unemployed persons in La Brea. Of this figure, 1059 did not
look for work and 41 did not want work (CSO 2000).
2.32
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Figure 2.15 Bar Graph of the top occupations of male residents of the study area
250
250
No. of persons
No. of persons
200
200
Craft and Related
Craft and Related
150
150
Elementary
Elementary
100
100
Plant and Machine
Plant and Machine
Operators
Operators
Service and Sales
Service and Sales
50
50
0
La
LBa
So
rBe
Sbo
rae
ob
a
Vo i
Vllai
lglae
Va
Vna
ge
cne
cRe
iRv
eivr
er
Ve
Vse
ssi
gsni
gyn
y
Br
Bigr
higt
ohnt
Po
on
P
i
noti
C
hCi
nDt
nhei
'Do
nse
r'o
es
r
Ve i
Vllai
lglae
ge
0
Technicians
Technicians
Figure 2.16 Bar Graph of the top occupations of female residents in the study area
140
140
120
120
100
100
80
80
60
60
40
40
20
20
0
0
La
LBa
rBe
So
rae
Sbo
a
ob
Vo i
Vllai
lglae
Va
ge
Vna
cne
cRe
iRv
eivr
er
Ve
Vse
ssi
gsni
gyn
y
Br
Bigr
higt
ohnt
on
Po
Pino
C
t
i
nDt
hCi
nhei
'Do
nse
r'o
es
r
Ve i
Vllai
lglae
ge
No. of persons
No. of persons
Elementary
Elementary
Service and Sales
Service and Sales
Clerical
Clerical
Technicians
Technicians
Craft and Related
Craft and Related
2.33
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
As far as concerns Industry, men were oriented towards Construction, Petroleum
and Gas, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Other Mining and Quarrying and Other
Manufacturing. The most popular industries among the women of the study area
were Electricity and Water, Other Manufacturing, Social and Related, Finance and
Wholesale and Retail Trade (Figures 2.17 & 2.18) (CSO 2005).
Figure 2.17 Bar Graph of the involvement of male residents in industry in the study area
140
140
120
120
100
100
80
80
60
60
40
40
20
20
0
0
No. of persons
No. of persons
Construction
Construction
La
LBa
So
rBe
Sbo
rae
ob
a
Vo i
V
l
l
a
Va
i
Vna lglaeg
cne
e
cRe
iRv
eivr
Ve
er
Vse
ssi
gsni
gyn
Br
y
Bigr
higt
Po ohnto
Pino
n
C
hCi
tinD
nhei
t
'Do
nse
r'o
es
r
Ve i
Vllai
lglae
ge
Petroleum and Gas
Petroleum and Gas
Wholesale and Retail
Wholesale and Retail
Trade
Trade
Transport and Storage
Transport and Storage
Communication
Communication
Other Manufacturing
Other Manufacturing
Figure 2.18 Bar Graph of the involvement of female residents in industry in the study area
Electricity and Water
Electricity and Water
Sanitary and Similar
Sanitary and Similar
60
60
40
40
20
20
0
0
Social and Related
Social and Related
La
LBa
So
rBe
Sbo
rae
ob
a
Vo i
V
l
l
a
Va
i
Vna lglaeg
cne
e
cRe
iRv
eivr
Ve
er
Vse
ssi
gsni
gyn
Br
y
Bigr
higt
Po ohnto
Pino
n
C
hCi
tinD
nhei
t
'Do
nse
r'o
es
r
Ve i
Vllai
lglae
ge
No. of persons
No. of persons
120
120
100
100
80
80
2.34
Finace Insurance Real
Finace Insurance Real
Estate & Bus.
Estate & Bus.
Wholesale and Retail
Wholesale and Retail
Trade
Trade
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.4.3 Sobo Village
In this community, the ratio of males to females was almost or equal to 50%.
There were 814 males and 839 females. Just over half of the residents of Sobo
Village were of African descent, with a considerable East Indian and mixed
population. The majority of residents (446) were Baptists, followed by Roman
Catholics (327), Hindus (323) and Anglicans (117) (Figure 2.14).
Of the 814 male residents in Sobo Village, 560 or 68.8% had no qualifications.
4.8% had school leaving, 0.2% had Basic CXC qualifications, 14% had CXC O
Level qualifications and less than 1% had achieved higher education (CSO 2005).
Male residents were geared towards craft and related jobs, plant and machine
type jobs, service and sales, technical and elementary jobs. There were very few
professionals, legislators and those employed in clerical positions. Female
residents were more geared towards the elementary type jobs, followed by
service and sales, clerical, craft and related and legislative positions. There were
no professionals or women employed in agriculture (Fig. 2.15 & 2.16) (CSO
2000). 945 residents were unemployed in this community. Of this amount, 551
did not look for work and 9 residents did not want work.
As far as employment in the industrial sector, men were oriented towards
Construction, Petroleum and Gas, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Transport and
Communications and Other Manufacturing. The most popular industries among
the women of the study area were Electricity and Water, Social and Related,
Sanitary and Similar, Finance and Wholesale and Retail Trade (Figures 2.17 &
2.18).
2.35
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.4.4 Chinese Village
257 males and 259 females live in this community. Just over half of the residents
of Chinese Village were of African descent. This community had the largest East
Indian population (40%) and the smallest mixed population (5%). The three major
religions were Roman Catholic (136), Hindu (82) and Baptist (76) (Figure 2.14)
(CSO 2000).
51% of male residents (131) had no qualifications at the national level. 13.2% had
school leaving, 3.5% had Basic CXC qualifications, 17.5% had CXC O Level
qualifications and 2.8% had achieved higher education (CSO 2000).
Similar trends were observed for both occupations and industry as in the other
communities (Figures 2.15 & 2.16).
As far as concerns unemployment, 306 residents were unemployed. Of this
figure, 191 did not look for work and 2 did not want work (Figures 2.17 & 2.18)
(CSO 2000).
2.4.5 Brighton
There was no marked gender bias in the survey as a whole. In this community,
males (17) outnumbered females (14) by 10% (CSO 2000).
As in Chinese Village, just over half of the residents of Brighton were of African
descent. This community had a considerable East Indian population (22%) and a
considerable mixed population (26%). 15 Residents were Roman Catholics, 9
were Anglicans and 5 were Hindus (Figure 2.14) (CSO 2000).
This community had the smallest number of residents having no qualifications, 6
or 35.3%. Residents also had the highest percentage of CXC qualifications, 7 or
41.2% and higher education, 1 or 5.9% (CSO 2000).
2.36
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Of all male residents of this community, three were engaged in elementary type
jobs. There were two legislators, one professional, and one person each in
clerical, service and sales and plant and machine operations. There were three
female technicians and one professional (Figures 2.15 & 2.16). 12 residents were
unemployed and these did not look for work. There were no variations in so far
concerns involvement of males and female in industry (Figures 2.17 & 2.18).
2.4.6 Point D’or
Males almost equalled the number of females in this community - there were 693
males and 681 females. Approximately three quarters of the residents of this
community were of African descent. This community had a considerable East
Indian population (17%) and a small mixed population (11%). The major religions
by numbers of residents for this community were found among Roman Catholics
(360), Anglican (194), Baptists (161) and Hindus (111) (Figure 2.14) (CSO 2000).
Over 50% of the residents had no qualifications. 18.3% had CXC level
qualifications and 2.3% had reached higher education (CSO 2000)
Male residents were geared towards craft and related jobs, plant and machine
operations, elementary jobs, service and sales and technical jobs. The female
residents were employed in clerical, service and sales, elementary, technical and
craft and related jobs. (Fig. 2.15 & 2.16) (CSO 2000).
There were 885 unemployed persons in Point D’or. 558 residents did not look for
work and 3 did not want work (CSO 2000).
As far as concerns Industry, men were oriented towards Petroleum and Gas,
Construction, Transport Storage and Communication, Finance, Wholesale and
Retail Trade, Other Manufacturing and Public Administration. The most popular
industries among the women of the study area were Sanitary and Similar,
Electricity and Water, Social and Related, Personal and Household and Finance
(Figures 2.17 & 2.18).
2.37
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.4.7 Vance River
Females (530) slightly outnumbered males (497) in this community.
Approximately three quarters of the residents of this community were of African
descent. This community had a considerable East Indian population (17%) and a
small mixed population (11%) (CSO 2000).
Over 50% of the residents had no qualifications. 13.5% had CXC level
qualifications and 0.6% had reached higher education (CSO 2000).
As in the other communities, the male residents of Vance River were geared
towards craft and related jobs, plant and machine operations, elementary jobs,
service and sales and technical jobs. The female residents were employed in
clerical, service and sales, elementary, technical and craft and related jobs.
(Figure 2.15 & 2.16) (CSO 2000).
593 residents in Vance River were unemployed. Of this figure, 382 did not look
for work and 6 did not want work (CSO 2000).
As far as concerns Industry, similar trends were observed. Men were oriented
towards Petroleum and Gas, Construction, Transport Storage and
Communication, Finance, Wholesale and Retail Trade and Other Manufacturing.
The most popular industries among the women of the study area were Sanitary
and Similar, Electricity and Water, Social and Related, Wholesale and Retail
Trade and Construction (Figures 2.17 & 2.18)(CSO 2000).
2.4.8 Vessigny
As is seen in the other communities, there is no marked distinction between
males and females of this community. Females (333) outnumbered males (311)
by 4% (CSO 2000).
Over three quarters of the residents of this community were of African descent.
This community had a small East Indian population (7%) and mixed population
which was twice as large as the East Indian population (14%).
2.38
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Residents were mainly Roman Catholics (200), followed Baptists (160), and
Anglicans (36) (Figure 2.14) (CSO 2000).
There were similar findings in this community as with the others of the study area.
Over 50% of the residents had no qualifications. 16.4% had CXC level
qualifications and 2.6% had reached higher education (CSO 2000).
As with the other communities, male residents were geared towards craft and
related jobs, plant and machine operations, elementary jobs, service and sales
and technical jobs. The female residents were employed in clerical, service and
sales, elementary, technical and craft and related jobs (Figures 2.15 & 2.16)
(CSO 2000).
370 residents were unemployed in this community. 237 did not look for work and
13 did not want work.
As far as concerns Industry, men were oriented towards Petroleum and Gas,
Construction, Transport Storage and Communication, Finance, Wholesale and
Retail Trade and Other Manufacturing. The most popular industries among the
women of the study area were Sanitary and Similar, Electricity and Water, Social
and Related, Wholesale and Retail Trade and Finance and Insurance (Figures
2.17 & 2.18) (CSO 2000).
2.5
Economic Activity
In this section, the economic activities of the immediate study area will be
identified. These activities will be identified per community since each community
within the immediate study area is considered as a separate unit with it’s own
unique characteristics. The data was collected from conducting drive thru’s the
individual communities as well as conducting interview with households as well as
community groups. Table 2.5 provides a summary of economic activities per
community.
2.39
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table 2.5: Economic Activities for each community in the Immediate Study
Economic Activities
Sobo
Vessigny
Union
Vance River
Village
Village
Village
Community
Sale of preserved fruits and seasoning
1
0
1
0
Car Wash
1
0
0
0
Plant Sales
1
0
1
0
Barber Shop
1
0
0
5
Woodwork Shop
1
0
0
0
Grocery
3
0
0
0
Catering
1
4
0
0
Fridge Repair
1
0
0
0
Auto Accessories Shop
1
0
2
1
Small Shops/Parlours
2
5
3
3
Garment Sewing
0
7
1
0
Sale of Fruits
0
>5
0
0
Contracting
0
1
5
0
Party Promoters
0
3
0
0
Rentals
0
1
0
1
Sale of Ice Cream
0
1
0
0
Restaurants
0
1
0
0
Bars
0
3
0
1
Sale of Livestock
0
0
3
0
Quarries
0
0
0
1
2.5.1 Sobo Village
The various economic activities in the Sobo Village community were developed to
serve the community. However, due to the heavy traffic that passes through the
village the businesses also now serve those that travel to and from Point Fortin.
The economic activities that exist in Sobo range from Auto Body Repair to the
sale of preserved fruits (Table 2.3). The sale of preserved fruits not only serves
the local community but some of the items that are sold are shipped to family
members who reside abroad (Community Interviews 2005). It must be noted that
all of these business are operated from villagers’ homes.
2.40
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.5.2 Vessigny Village
Most of businesses in the Vessigny Community are operated from the villagers’
homes just as in the other communities. The Vessigny community is unique from
the other communities in the survey area because of its well-known beach. One
of the economic activities that exist in the community is the promotion of parties
on the beach by a community member (Table 2.3). The bars in the village benefit
from the high sales acquired during these large beach parties. For some, their
business has brought them accomplishments. For example the Ice Cream
vendor who usually sells ice cream on Vessigny Beach won a top prize in Ice
Cream Making (Community Interviews 2005).
2.5.3 Union Village
The few businesses that exist in Union Village were established to serve only the
community however there are some businesses in the Union Village Community
that not only now provide a service outside of Union but also provide gainful
employment for some villagers. Within the community, eight different types of
economic activities exist ranging from auto body repairs to selling of homemade
seasoning (Community Interviews 2005) (Table 2.3).
2.5.4 Vance River Community
Economic activity in the Vance River Community is much more developed than
the other communities in the immediate study area. The reason to this could be
due to the Oil Sand Quarry located on the outskirts of the village and the
hardware and automobile repair centres. The Stollmeyer’s Quarry is usually
visited by over 40 to 60 trucks a day transporting oil sand to various destinations
around the country.
2.41
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
The village is presently seeing resurgence in activities contributed by the opening
of the Bar that has live entertainment on a Friday night. This activity is usually
supported by over one hundred people coming from the North and South of the
village. It also captures those individuals travelling to and from Point Fortin.
Some of the other economic activities in the Vance River Community are listed in
Table 2.3 (Community Interviews 2005).
2.6
Recreational Activities and Facilities
2.6.1 La Brea
The La Brea Village has a standard size football field located opposite the La
Brea Community Centre. This football field is used on a daily basis, mainly on
evenings by the community. The La Brea football field is also one of the venues
used for the La Brea Football League football competition.
The La Brea Community Centre is used for various activities including training
courses and other community activities. At present the Community Centre is
undergoing some minor renovations.
2.6.2 Sobo Village
Sobo Village has a standard size football field that is used on a daily basis by the
community. Located next to the football field is a fenced basketball court, which
is also used on a daily basis. These two facilities are equipped with lights to
facilitate night activities. The Sobo football field is also used as one of the venues
for the La Brea Football League football competition and is also used by the
community to host their annual Sports and Family day (Community Interviews
2005).
2.42
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
The basketball court is also used as a venue for large parties promoted by
members of the community. The recreational activities that exist in the Sobo
community have been an influential factor in the development of national sporting
heroes from the village such as national footballer Anthony Roget.
2.6.3 Vessigny Village
The only recreational facility located in the Vessigny Village Community is the
play field at the old Vessigny Government Secondary School. The community
uses this facility to host their annual Sports and Family Day activities.
The Vessigny Dam was used as a venue for the annual fishing and swimming
competitions that were part of the Sports and Family Day activities. With the
draining of the dam this activity is no longer possible.
The Vessigny Village community also participates in cricket competitions and their
cricket team won the 2004 Cricket Competition of the Village Olympic for St.
Patrick. The team utilizes the cricket pitch located on the playgrounds at the old
Vessigny Government School (Community Interviews 2005).
The other recreational activities that exist in the community are linked to the
Vessigny Beach. The Vessigny Beach is one of the best beaches that exist on the
South Western Peninsula. The beach facilities are used to host numerous beach
parties and excursions that usually occur during the August holidays and on
public holidays (Household Interviews 2005),
Unlike the Sobo Village and the Vance River Village Communities, Vessigny
Village and Union Village communities do not have a community centre. Most of
the village’s indoor activities are held at the old Vessigny Government School.
However, this facility has been marked for demolition. Some of the recreational
activities that are held at the old Vessigny School are Ball Room Dancing, Folk
Performance and the village All Fours Competitions participated by the
neighbouring Sobo and Union Village communities (Community Interviews 2005).
2.43
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
2.6.4 Union Village
The Union Village community ground is used for football and cricket activities.
The community hosts cricket and football fete matches with teams from around
the country. The community has been able to form a cricket team that
participates in the Jaggernauth’s Cricket League cricket competition. The village
sports are also held on the ground.
The Union Village Community also has access to a beach located within the
village. Members of the Union Village Community also engage in hunting as a
recreational activity (Community Interviews 2005).
Vessigny and Union Village are the only two villages in the survey area, which do
not have a Basket Ball Court. The Vessigny villagers access the make shift
basketball court located at a villager’s home at Square Deal Corner.
2.6.5 Vance River Community
The Vance River community has a recreational ground. The community and
members of the public use the recreational ground as a venue for football
matches in the various football leagues in the Point Fortin and La Brea environs.
The Vance River community also uses the recreational facilities to host their
annual Family and Sports Days and Football fete matches. On a daily basis, the
ground is used by the community for routine afternoon football matches
(Community Interviews 2005).
National Football heroes such as John Avery and Quentin John are originally
from the Vance River community and the availability of a football ground in Vance
River has been an important factor in the development of skills in the game.
The Vance River Community Centre is the location where most indoor
recreational activities are kept such Ballroom Dance classes, Aerobics classes
and the Long Life Learning classes where small appliance repair, sewing and
food preparation are taught.
2.44
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
2.7
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Infrastructure and Social Services
2.7.1 Education
Within this study area a survey was conducted to identify the number of
educational institutions that exist in the area. The Vance River Government
Secondary School and the Vessigny Government Secondary School are the only
schools within the study area. The Vessigny Government School is a seven year
secondary school and is the only seven year school that exists between Point
Fortin and San Fernando.
In terms of schools most of the students in the communities attend school either
in Vance River or Vessigny and in addition have access to schools in San
Fernando or Point Fortin.
2.7.2
Health Care
Though geographical located outside of the boundary of the Point Fortin Borough
many villagers in the immediate study area still rely upon the services available
within the borough for their health care services. Such public services include the
health care institutions, police and fire services.
Most residents have the option of visiting the nearest health care centers located
north and south of the village. The health care facility located north of Union
Village is the La Brea Health Centre. At this facility community members can
receive the following health service; Dressings, Venepuncture, Ante Natal, Dental,
MO’s sessions, Family Planning, Post Natal, Child health, medical and social
work, Chronic disease treatment and counselling. The La Brea Health Centre
also provides out-patient care service such as home and school visits (Interviews
with Health Care Facilities 2005).
2.45
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
South of Union Village community members can access the health care service at
the Guapo Health Centre. The Guapo Health Centre offers Health Office
Sessions, C.M.O, Ante Natal Clinic, Child Health and Family Planning Clinic and
dressings changing. Out-patient services are also available with home and school
visits. A Public Health Inspector is also assigned to the facility to address matters
of public health with members of the community (Interview with Guapo Health
Facility 2005).
A third health centre is available to community members in Point Fortin. The Point
Fortin Health Centre provides Ante Natal services, dressings changes, Family
Planning, Venpuncture, Post Natal Clinic, Chronic disease clinic, Child health
clinic. The center also has a Medical Officer, Pharmacist, Medical Social Welfare
Officer, Nutritionist and provides out-patient services such as home visits,
collection of Birth and Death information and Surveillance.
The three health facilities mentioned above act as tertiary health services. The
Point Fortin Hospital is equipped to handle severe medical cases, including
accident and emergency cases. Obstetric and Gynaecology Survey is also
conducted at the facility. The hospital is equipped with forty-nine (49) beds and is
staffed by two hundred and fifty (250) personnel. Outpatient services are also
available at the facility. Under the medical in-patient services, x-ray,
physiotherapy, dispensary, medical laboratory and blood banking are accessible.
The Point Fortin Area Hospital is also equipped with one ambulance with the sole
purpose of transferring patients from the Area Hospital to the San Fernando
General Hospital.
In 2004, the Point Fortin Hospital provided both in-patient and out-patient
treatment to one hundred thirty two (132) residents of Union Village. In January
(16) were treated, February (14), March (8), April (20), May (8), June (17), July
(5), August (12), September (15), October (8), Nov (7), December (2) (Interview
with Point Fortin Hospital 2005).
The San Fernando General Hospital is the major public health care intuition
located in the South Western Peninsula with a total of 40 Paediatric beds in the
In-patient Unit and a 22-bed Orthopaedic Ward dedicated to the care of females.
2.46
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
The hospital is equipped with over three hundred beds (>300) and is staffed by
one thousand (1000) personnel. The San Fernando General Hospital also
provides Psychiatric treatment for a total of 22 patients, 11 Theatre Surgical
Suites, Ultrasound and Urological and Accident and Emergency services. The
hospital is also equipped to handle 3rd degree burns.
San Fernando General Hospital also provides Emergency Response Ambulance
service with over 100 Medical Technicians equipped with 10 modern fully outfitted
Ambulances. Access to a helipad is also available at the San Fernando General
Hospital.
There are five privately owned advanced health care facilities/ nursing homes in
the City of San Fernando, members of the public who have the finances can
access the services offered by theses facilities.
2.7.3
Police Services
The study area is serviced by two Police Stations, the Guapo Police Station
located to the South and the La Brea Police Station located to the North of the
study area. Two constables and a sergeant man the Guapo Police Station. The
estimated response time to emergency calls within the study area range from 10
to 20 minutes. However the station has one response vehicle.
The La Brea Police Station has a police force of twelve police officers, two
constables, two corporals and one sergeant on duty on a daily basis. The
estimated response time from the La Brea Police Station to the study area is 5 to
12 minutes.
These two Police Stations are provided with additional manpower from the Point
Fortin Police Station that is manned by 20 officers on a daily basis.
2.47
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
2.7.4
Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Fire Services
The Point Fortin Fire Station is the closest response facility to the study area. Eight
fire officers man the Point Fortin Fire Station on a daily. The officers are equipped
with one 1500 gallon fire tender and an ambulance. Due to the availability of the
Petrotrin Water Treatment Plant in Techier the Point Fortin Fire Services can
access water whenever water from reliable sources such as the fire hydrants is
unavailable. The estimated response time for the study area is 15 to 20 minutes
(Interview with Point Fortin Fire Services 2005).
2.48
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
4 .0 I m p a c t s a n d M i t i g a t o r y M e a s u r e s
This section describes the likely socio-economic effects of the proposed
establishment of an Aluminium complex on the adjacent living (including human)
environments. Recommendations are suggested to minimise negative effects
and enhance positive effects. Where possible, the levels of impact identified are
expressed in quantitative terms, detailing the effects of these impacts, the
magnitude and duration of effects.
This section is structured so as to identify impacts to the communities and provide
mitigation measures at the following stages in the lifecycle of the development of
the area. These include:
•
Pre-establishment of Union Estate
•
Establishment of Union Estate
•
Pre Construction of Alutrint’s Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
•
Construction of Alutrint’s Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
•
Operation of Alutrint’s Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
• Decommissioning of Alutrint’s Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
4.1
Impact Assessment Methodology
The methodology used to assign significance to the potential impacts of this
project was developed using a combination of:
Foster Solutions staff experience
Scientific analysis of data and information collected for the study area, using the basic
principles of natural population dynamics (Smith 1992) and socio-economics (Leistriz
1985)
The primary socio-economic variable considered in the methodology was Quality
of Life, which included psychological well-being, economic descriptors such as
level of employment, income, standard of living and housing, and political
descriptors such as public services, equality and government responsiveness.
4. 1
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
A severe or significant impact (+ or – 3) affects:
Environmental quality to a level of potential human health concerns or biological
harm in the short term.
A commercial activity or resource such that the change in revenue is sustained
over a number of years.
An amenity use over a number of years.
A moderate impact (+ or – 2) affects:
Environmental quality to a level that causes an important change in conditions
constantly or for long periods.
A commercial activity or resource for a short time and to a limited extent.
An amenity use over a number of weeks.
A minor impact (+ or – 1) affects:
A specific group of individuals in a population at one trophic level within a
generation timescale.
Environmental quality that is able to be monitored and noticed
Causes a minor or nuisance change to commercial activity or resource.
An amenity use for a few days.
A negligible impact (+ or – 0) affects:
A biological component in a similar way to natural variation.
Environmental quality in a manner that is difficult to detect.
Other activities and resources that may be noticed but will have no influence upon
present activities or future actions.
An amenity use by being noticeable but not intrusive or detrimental.
4. 2
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
No impact ( ) relates to the absence of any interaction.
A negative impact (-) relates to any decrease in habitat diversity or productivity,
loss of service or increase cost to users of the area.
A positive impact (+) relates to any increase in habitat diversity or productivity
within acceptable levels or a beneficial service or cost reduction effect to users of
the area.
The sections that follow assess the resultant impacts associated with key
activities identified for each phase of the project (Construction and Operational
Phases) and are based on the available information.
4.2
Pre- Project Community Issues
Pre-project community issues include issues the communities within the study
area have had for long standing periods before the establishment of the Union
Estate in the area. By determining the community issues at this stage, one can
establish a baseline of the issues before the establishment of the Union Industrial
Estate into the area and before the construction and operation of Alutrint’s
Aluminium Complex in the area. Note that these are associated with the activities
of the UIE landlord and are not due to any activity on Alutrint’s part.
These issues include:
4. 3
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
1. Unemployment Issues
Historically, due to the Oil Industry in the study area, there was a surplus in
employment in the area. However, with the reduction of the oil-related activities
and the downscaling of the La Brea Port, many people were laid off and
alternative employment was sought outside of the study area. Economic activity
was significantly reduced and therefore unemployment became an issue. In
addition, the Administrative Centre for the communities was shifted from La Brea
to Point Fortin and facilities in La Brea were downscaled and in some instances
decommissioned (Higgins 1996; pp 92).
Magnitude: Major (-3)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• Meaningful and rewarding economic activity must be returned to the study
area and in particular, the ward of La Brea. Future employment generated
must be rewarding to the residents of the study area. This is being achieved
by the revitalization of industrial activity in the area.
2. Inadequate Supply of Potable Water
Historically, the study area has always had an inadequate water supply. This
resulted in many of the communities using the dams found in the study area.
These dams were established by Texaco and used for the purpose of cooling
water in the asphalt plant. The residents in the study area also used these dams
to supplement their water supply and for watering of animals and gardens and for
recreational activities such as fishing, family days etc.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
4. 4
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• The function that the dams played, and in particular the recreational
functions, should be replaced. Consultation with communities will identify
possible replacements that could be generated within the study area. This
measure is to be implemented by the landlord of the UIE in collaboration
with the tenants of the UIE.
• Adequate potable water supplies need to be introduced to meet the heavy
water demand of the UIE while meeting the pipe borne potable water
demand of the population of the ward of La Brea. This measure is to be
implemented by the landlord of the UIE in collaboration with WASA.
3. Lack of Institutional Facilities
Historically, the study area had adequate institutional facilities (personal
communication with community groups). This was related to the fact that the area
at the time was the centre of the Oil Industry in Trinidad and many of these
institutional facilities were either established or financed by many of the oil
companies in the study area.
However, with the reduction of the oil related activities and the downscaling of the
La Brea Port many people were laid off and alternative employment was sought
outside of the study area. In addition, the Administrative Centre was shifted from
La Brea to Point Fortin and many of the institutional facilities were downscaled
and even decommissioned (Higgins 1996).
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
4. 5
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
• The state should seek to rationalize its provision of institutional facilities
such as Schools, Health Centres, Police Stations, Fire Stations and
Recreational Facilities to the residents of La Brea and surrounding
communities.
• Where these facilities exist, the state should maintain and upgrade them to
meet the needs of the residents of the study area. Future industrial and
commercial development plans for the study area should be taken into
consideration in this process.
• Alutrint will support the state in the maintenance and upgrade of health care
facilities in the area.
4. Unskilled Labour Force
In the past, Oil Companies operating in the study area took on the responsibility
for financing as well as establishing educational facilities and skills for the people
in the community. These companies built in social responsibilities as part of their
overall business strategy. Once these companies closed down or were bought
over by local companies, many of these responsibilities were shed and the costs
were terminated. Like many of the local private companies in Trinidad, these
local private sector companies did not see the need for developing communities.
Magnitude: Minor (-1)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• Alutrint will seek to upgrade educational facilities such as schools,
vocational centres and other training centres to the residents of La Brea and
surrounding communities, thereby creating a workforce for its construction
and operational phases.
4. 6
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
• Where these facilities exist Alutrint will assist the state in maintaining and
upgrading them. Future plans for the study area should be taken into
consideration in this process.
5. Use of Illegal Drugs
Use of drugs is a national issue in Trinidad and Tobago that has been increasing
as an illegal informal economic activity over time. In the study area, there is a
perceived high drug use especially in people that are unemployed and unskilled.
The impacts (petty crimes, violent crimes and increased levels of prostitution,
reduction in parental duties and increased insecurity and fear among community
residents) of this drug use have been negatively affecting the communities.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• There needs to be an acknowledgment that a drug problem exists. The
problem needs to be identified and defined and the route cause of the issue
has to be determined.
• During the household surveys, community interviews and Public
Consultations the following recommendations were made:
- Training of individuals coming out of school (Technical and academic)
-
4. 7
On the job training- The requirement that participants must be drug free should be
waived and should rather insist on a willingness to participate in a drug rehab
programme and maintain the drug free status over time
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
4.3
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Issues from the Development of Union Estate
1. Relocation of Residents
The establishment of the Union Industrial Estate for the establishment of an
industrial plant has resulted in the relocation of communities within the study area.
To date the communities that have been identified for relocation include:
• Union Village
• Residents in Square Deal, Vessigny
• Residents along some areas in Sobo
Household surveys, community group consultations as well as public
consultations held in La Brea have identified this as a major issue.
PSAEL has the responsibility of relocating these residents (lands belong to
PSAEL) upon the advice of the NEC. Following negotiations with Union Village,
the community has agreed to relocate to an area in Cochraine. To date, this area
has been cleared and seems to be in the process of being prepared for this
relocation. The households in Union Village have also agreed to a relocation
allowance.
Residents in Square Deal Corner (Vessigny) who must relocate have been
identified. However, based on discussions with these residents, there seems to
be some degree of confusion within the community regarding who has to relocate.
In addition, discussions held with NEC and PSAEL indicate that more houses may
need to be relocated from Square Deal Corner. Residents from this area are not
satisfied with the relocation process that has been implemented by PSAEL and
NEC. The housing being offered to residents is not satisfactory and does not
meet their requirements. In addition, the compensation offered is also not
adequate (Public Consultation, Community interviews 2005)
4. 8
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Relocation for residents in Sobo has not been finalized. Residents are confused
and angry about the process or lack thereof (Public Consultation, Community
interviews 2005).
Magnitude: Major (-3)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• A proper relocation plan has to be established for relocation of the
communities by the UIE landlord. The relocation plan must be planned in
conjunction with the affected communities in order to ensure complete buyin and satisfaction of the communities.
• Alutrint will work closely with the UIE landlord to ensure that a satisfactory
relocation plan is implemented.
2.
Destruction of Flora and Fauna
The establishment of the Union Industrial Estate resulted in complete destruction
of Flora and Fauna of the area. This resulted not only in the depletion and killing
of animals and plants, but also psychological stress to the residents in the
communities. These communities are still severely impacted by the process
adopted for the development of the Union Industrial Estate.
Communities should have been consulted prior to the clearing of the land to
derive from them the best approach for clearing the area. During interviews with
community groups from the study area, many residents provided adequate means
to clear the area without the destruction and killing of animals and plants that took
place.
Magnitude: Major (-3)
4. 9
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Mitigation Measures:
• A therapist needs to be brought into the communities to consult with the
residents who have been severely impacted by the activities in the Union
Industrial Estate. This activity was attempted by the PSAEL with limited
success at Union Village and needs to be continued for all of the boundary
villages around the UIE.
• Alutrint will support all initiatives of this type undertaken by PSAEL and/or
NEC and/or LABIDCO.
3. Destruction of Dams
The study area contained seven dams that were destroyed during the
development of the Union Industrial Estate. These dams were utilised by
residents within the communities for various uses such as:
• Additional freshwater supply
• Recreational activities such as fishing and swimming
The destruction of these dams has resulted in many residents losing a valuable
asset.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• The opportunities provided by the dams in the study area must be replaced.
To do this, the residents in the communities must be consulted to determine a
suitable replacement for the dams.
4. 10
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
4. Lack of Institutional Facilities
Historically, the study area had adequate institutional facilities (personal
communication with community groups). Communities and households of the
study area hope that, with the development of the Union Industrial Estate, there
will be an improvement and an increase in the institutional facilities in the study
area.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• The state should seek to rationalize its provision of institutional facilities such
as schools, health centres, police stations, fire stations and recreational
facilities to the residents of La Brea and surrounding communities.
• Where these facilities exist, the state should maintain and upgrade to meet
the needs of the residents of the study area. Future plans for the study area
should be taken into consideration in this process.
4. 11
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
5. Traffic
The construction and development of Union Industrial Estate has resulted in an
increase in traffic in the study area and in particular truck traffic. Residents and
community groups identified this as a negative impact. They also indicated that
the increase in truck traffic has resulted in the deterioration of roads in the study
area that in turn led to an increased risk particularly for pedestrians while using
the roads, since many areas do not have pavements and sidewalks.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2)
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• Contractors hired to conduct work on the Union Industrial estate should be
responsible for ensuring the safety of trucks on the roads. In addition, these
contractors should also be responsible for fixing the roads to their original
state.
• Truck traffic is not going to be reduced in the near future. In fact, road traffic
will increase with further development in the industrial estate. The state
should therefore take the responsibility for ensuring that facilities such as
pavements and walkways are established to minimize the risk to
pedestrians and other users of the roadways
4.4
Issues arising from the proposed establishment of the
Alutrint Aluminium Complex
Certain impacts and mitigatory measures are associated with all phases of the
project. These include the following:
4. 12
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
1.
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Generation of Employment
Persons will be employed in various roles during the pre-construction,
construction and operational phases of this project. It is expected that the preconstruction, construction and operational phases will employ 800 direct jobs.
The majority of the construction workers will be brought in as part of the team
from China. These individuals will play a key role in constructing the complex.
There has been a commitment that the Chinese people will train the local labor
force to operate the plant and ensure that technology transfer takes place before
their eventual withdrawal from the project.
These phases are expected to generate an increase in employment as well as
provide profitable economic business to the local contractors and businesses in
the area and within Trinidad on the whole. It is estimated that this project will
provide the opportunity for over 1800 indirect jobs.
Magnitude: Minor (+1) for the Pre Construction and Construction Phase
and Moderate (+2) for the Operational Phase.
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• The unemployment rates in the surrounding communities are significantly
high. Inadequate relevant skills for the type of work offered have been
identified as a major contributing factor by the communities and residents.
Alutrint has made a commitment to undertake training programs to increase
the skills level in the communities.
• In addition, Alutrint should design and implement a community training
programme to include training of persons who can assist in the construction
phase of this project. This would result in persons from the region having
the required skills to compete for employment on future projects.
4. 13
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
• Alutrint will encourage contractors through its contracts to hire a minimum
number of personnel from the wider socioeconomic region.
2. Economic Diversification
Overall, the establishment of Alutrint Aluminium Complex will contribute positively
to the Government’s strategy for economic diversification. On a macro economic
level, the establishment of this plant is expected to contribute positively to
Government’s revenue and GDP.
Increases in government revenue would then in turn impact positively on the
overall national economy, through government’s re-investment into social,
economic and infrastructure projects and programmes.
Magnitude: Minor (+1) to Moderate (+2) and long term
Proposed Mitigation Measures:
• None required
3. Reduced aesthetic appeal
The establishment of the Aluntrint Aluminium Complex in the Union Industrial
Estate will result in a further reduction in aesthetic appeal especially during the
construction phase of the project. This will impact on the residents of the study
area, people utilizing the roadways within the study area as well as people
utilizing areas such as Vessigny Beach.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2) and temporary during the construction phase
Negligible (0) to Minor (-1) during the operational phase
4. 14
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• Once construction activities have been completed, the area surrounding the
plant should be landscaped to enhance the aesthetics of the study area.
Alutrint has committed to undertaking this task by planting trees, grasses
and other bushes within the plant and along an area that has been
designated as a “Green Zone”.
4.4.1 Pre-Construction Phase
The pre-construction phase is defined as the phase that starts with
conceptualisation of the project to the mobilization of equipment to the site.
The specific impacts related to this phase of the project include:
1.
Increase in traffic:
During the pre-construction phase, equipment will be mobilized to the site in
preparation for construction activities. This will result in an increase in traffic
along the already congested roads. In addition, community groups and
households stated that the quality of the roads is deteriorating due the large
number of trucks utilizing the roads. This has resulted in an increased occurrence
of accidents and an increased risk to people walking along the roadways.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2) and temporary
Proposed Mitigatory Recommendations:
• Alutrint will encourage contractors and their employees to comply with all
traffic laws and regulations related to the operation of their vehicles and the
nature of the activities.
4. 15
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
• Alutrint will encourage their contractors to conduct their business in ‘good
faith’ using best practices through awareness building and/or incentives to
facilitate effective project flow.
• Trucks and other heavy vehicles should avoid passing through communities
where possible. If this is not possible, trucks should utilize the roads during
periods of light traffic.
• Alutrint will implement a monitoring program to ensure compliance with
traffic management measures.
2.
Air related impacts:
Air-related impacts from activities during the pre construction phase would be
minimal except for the emissions from the large equipment, which are generally
negligible when compared to other factors (IADC, IAPH 1997). It is therefore
expected that air related impacts would be minimal to communities and users of
the study area.
Magnitude: Minor (-1)
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
None Required
3.
Relocation of Communities
The area designated for the Aluminium Complex within the Union Industrial Estate
has resulted in the possible relocation of some residents in Square Deal Corner
as well as possibly Sobo should Alutrint require further land to adequately place
the plant. The relocation of these residents is the responsibility of PSAEL (lands
belong to PSAEL) on the advice of NEC. At the moment, Alutrint is in the process
of attempting to relocate the plant within the present land space.
4. 16
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Magnitude: Major (-3)
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• Where possible, Alutrint should try to minimize the amount of residents
being relocated. However, if residents must be relocated, Alutrint should
adopt an approach which would ensure that all affected stakeholders are
satisfied. This includes first and foremost the residents.
4.4.2 Construction Phase
The construction phase will take place over an approximate 2 year period. The
main labour force will consist of Chinese construction workers who have given the
commitment that the Alutrint Aluminum Complex will be constructed over this
period of time. The construction phase will include the construction of the
following:
• Smelter & Anode Plant
• Rod Mill
• Wire and Cable Plant
• Administrative Facilities
• Temporary Construction Camp for ex-patriate workers.
The impacts from the construction of these facilities include:
1.
Increase in traffic:
An increase in the number of vehicles transporting equipment, fill, aggregate and
personnel will be flowing into and out of the area. This may increase traffic
congestion on a road that is already congested. In addition, community groups
and households stated that the quality of the roads is deteriorating due the large
number of trucks utilizing the roads. This has resulted in an increased occurrence
4. 17
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
of accidents and an increased risk to people walking along the roadways.
Magnitude: Moderate (-2) and temporary
Proposed Mitigatory Recommendations:
• Alutrint will encourage contractors and their employees to comply with all
traffic laws and regulations related to the operation of their vehicles and the
nature of the activities.
• Alutrint will encourage their contractors to conduct their business in ‘good
faith’ using best practices through awareness building and/or incentives to
facilitate effective project flow.
• Trucks and other heavy vehicles should avoid passing through communities
where possible. If this is not possible trucks should utilize the roads during
periods of light traffic.
• Alutrint will implement a monitoring program to ensure compliance with
traffic management measures
Air related impacts:
2.
Air related impacts from construction activities would include those generated
from large pieces of equipment. This will also include dust that will result during
the construction activities. Dust will be an impact especially during the dry season
and has the possibility of impacting communities downwind of the construction
site.
Magnitude: Minor (-1) and temporary
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• None Required
4. 18
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
3.
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Security lighting disrupting communities
The construction phase is expected to last 24 months, on a 24-hour basis. As
such, light will be used to illuminate the construction site to enable workers to
work during the nighttime. This will further be implemented as a security measure.
Lighting of the construction site will impact on the nearby communities,
particularly Vessigny and Sobo. This may result in a disruption of sleeping
patterns until communities become acclimatized to the new lighting.
Magnitude: Minor (-1) to Moderate (-2) depending on the distance of the
communities from the construction site.
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• Alutrint will utilize lighting only as necessary
• Low-pressure sodium vapour lamps that emit light with a wavelength of 590
nm should be used. This wavelength does not disorient fauna or
communities, as would regular full spectrum lighting.
• Wherever practicable, trees and other plants will be planted along the
perimeter of the construction site prior to construction. The trees and plants
will act as a barrier and minimize the impact of lighting to the communities
nearby
• As part of the monitoring plan, Alutrint will determine the impact of lighting
on the communities over time.
4. 19
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
4.4.3 Operational Phase
The operational phase is estimated to be over a period of approximately 40 years.
It is proposed that the Alutrint Aluminium Complex will operate 24 hours a day
365 day a year except for minimal shut down periods to conduct maintenance
work. During this phase the following impacts are expected:
1.
Possible increases in property values:
The real estate value of the study area may increase with the increase in
economic activities in the study area. The operation of the Alutrint Aluminium
Complex as well as the operation of other industrial plants in the Union Industrial
Estate will result in a change in land use to more service-type industries.
Magnitude: Minor (+1)
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
None Required
2.
Security lighting disrupting communities
The Aluminium Complex will operate 24 hours a day 365 days a year
Lights used to illuminate the site will continue to impact on the communities of the
study area. It is expected however that the communities would have adapted to
the increase in lighting over the period of time taken to construct the plant (2
years). The impact to the communities is therefore expected to be minimal.
Magnitude: Minor (-1)
4. 20
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• Low-pressure sodium vapour lamps that emit light with a wavelength of 590
nm should be used. This wavelength does not disorient fauna or
communities as would regular full spectrum lighting.
• Trees and other plants will be planted along the perimeter of the site prior to
plant start up. The trees and plants will act as a barrier and minimize the
impact of lighting (and air emissions) to the communities nearby.
• As part of the monitoring plan, Alutrint will determine the impact of lighting
on the communities over time and implement further mitigatory measures
where necessary
3.
Air related impacts:
Air related impacts from operational activities would include HF, FC’s , PAH’s,
NOx, SO2, CO, CO2, and particulate matter. Alutrint has made a commitment that
the plant will be designed and constructed to include a Gas Treatment Centre that
will treat all gases coming from the plant as well as a Baghouse system with
electrostatic precipitators for dust and particulate matter. Both systems will also
have backup systems.
It is therefore expected that Alutrint will meet all environmental and health and
safety standards with regard to air pollutants. However, during upset conditions
or during maintenance operations, the level of some of these gases may
increase.
Magnitude: Minor (-1)
4. 21
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Proposed Mitigatory Measures:
• Alutrint will establish a community-right-to-know system that will serve the
purpose of providing relevant and timely information to the neighbouring
communities during periods of plant upset or non-routine operations.
• Alutrint has made a commitment to conduct random Medical Monitoring for
its employees and the neighbouring communities prior to plant start up and
over the routine operations period of the plant. Alutrint will establish a
baseline and then conduct periodic monitoring to determine its impact on
the communities.
4.4.4 Decommissioning
A decommissioning plan will be established prior to decommissioning of the plant.
In addition, as part of the CEC Rules (2001), a CEC application will be submitted
prior to decommissioning. The EMA will then decide if an EIA will have to be
conducted.
4. 22
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
1.
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
3. 0 S takehol der Com m ents & Concerns
This section provides an overview of stakeholders’ concerns, issues, problems,
expectations and experiences.
As part of the data collection process household surveys were conducted (Appendix
II) over a period of approximately three weeks. In addition community group
meetings were conducted. Table 3.1 shows the groups that were interviewed and
the dates.
Table 3.1: Community Groups Interviewed
Community Group
Sobo Village Council
Community
Sobo
Date
28 September 2005
Rousillac Sports and Cultural Roussillac
Group
18th September 2005
Roussillac United
Roussillac
18th September 2005
La Brea Welfare Community
La Brea
28th September 2005
South West Development Agency
La Brea
4th October 2005
Union Village Council
Union Village
6th October 2005
Vessigny Village Council
Vessigny Village
9th October 2005
In addition, other stakeholders such as regulatory authorities and agencies were
also interviewed to obtain their comments/concerns on the proposed project. Table
3.2 shows the agencies that were interviewed and the dates.
3.1
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table 3.2: Agencies and Regulatory Agencies Interviewed
Agency
Ministry of
Environment
Public
Date
Utilities
and 26th September 2005
Siparia Fire Station
8th September 2005
Forestry Division
20th September 2005
SWMCOL
28th September 2005
EMA
8th September 2005
Fisheries Division
29th August 2005
Ministry of Health
4th September 2005
IMA
24th August 2005
Public Consultations were also conducted as part of the consultation process. This
also served to meet the requirements of the Environmental Management Authority
(EMA). Two public consultations were conducted in the La Brea Community
Centre. These consultations took place on the 9th and 14th November 2005. A list
of the attendants can be seen in Appendix III. The presentations and minutes from
all meetings can be seen in Appendix IV.
The list (Table 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5) was compiled from the series public consultations
with communities in the study area and meetings held with key organizations.
These items, which are not exhaustive, have been used as a guide in identifying
potential impacts of the project and for discerning suitable mitigatory measures.
3.2
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Table 3.3
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table Summarizing Comments/Concern from Community Groups
Key:
A = Sobo Village Council; B = South West Development Agency; C = La Brea Welfare Council; D = Roussilac Sports and Cultural
Club; E = Rousiilac United; F = Union Village Council; G = Vessigny Village Council
Frequency
Observed
Concerns
Unemployment is, and has been, a long existing problem in the
communities
Stakeholders Affected
4 A, B, C, F
Traffic has increased drastically, especially during periods of rush hour
Concerns about the increase in truck traffic and the deterioration of
the roads
4 A, D, E, G
Water problems has been a long existing problem in the communities
2 A, F
There is a lack of adequate Health Care facilities in the communities
5 A, C, D, F, G
Most individuals in the community are unskilled
3 A, B, C
Individuals in the communities use illegal drugs
There is a lack of recreational facilities in the communities
1 A
4 A, C, F, G
Would Jobs be generated?
4 A, D, C, G
Would education programmes and scholarships be provided?
5 A, B, C, F, G
Concerns about dust affecting communities
3 A, F, G
Concerns about noise affecting communities
4 A, D, F, G
Concerns about air emissions affecting communities
4 A, D, F, G
Concerns about the destruction of the flora and fauna
2 B, D
Concerns about the destruction of dams in the area
Lack of communication about the skills development programme for
the communities
6 A, B, C, D, F, G
Concerns about the high cost of transportation
1 C
Concerns about relocation of communities
1 F
Proximity of plants to the communities
2 C, G
Concerns about the lack of Cultural Development in Communities
Concerns about the lack of communication with developers developing
the area
1 B
3.3
4 A, D, E, G
1 C
6 A, C, D, E, F, G
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Table 3.4
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table Summarizing Comments/Concern from Households
Key:
A = Union Village; B = Vessigny Village; C = Vance River;
Frequency
Observed
Concerns
Unemployment is, and has been, a long existing problem in the
communities
Traffic has increased drastically, especially during periods of
rush hour
Concerns about the increase in truck traffic and the deterioration
of the roads
Water problems has been a long existing problem in the
communities
There is a lack of adequate Health Care facilities in the
communities
Stakeholders Affected
3 A, B, C
2 B, C
2 B, C
1 C
2 A, C
Most individuals in the community are unskilled
3 A, B, C
There is a lack of recreational facilities in the communities
2 A, B
Would Jobs be generated?
3 A, B, C
Concerns about dust affecting communities
3 A, B, C
Concerns about noise affecting communities
3 A, B, C
Concerns about air emissions affecting communities
3 A, B, C
Concerns about the destruction of the flora and fauna
3 A, B, C
Concerns about the destruction of dams in the area
3 A, B, C
Concerns about relocation of communities
3 A, B, C
Proximity of plants to the communities
Concerns about the lack of communication with developers
developing the area
3 A, B, C
3.4
2 A, C
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
Table 3.5
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
Table Summarizing Comments/Concern from other Stakeholders
Key:
A = Ministry of Public Utilities and the Environment; B = Siparia Fire Station; C = SWMCOL, D= Fisheries Division, E= EMA,
F= Ministry of Health, G= IMA, H=Forestry Division
Frequency
Observed
Concerns
Stakeholders Affected
Air pollution is a concern
5 A, B, C, E, F
Concerns about the lack of information on the technology being
used in this plant
2 A, H
Concerns about the disposal of hazardous waste
Concerns about Emergency Response and the impact on the
communities nearby
4 A, B, C, E
Would jobs be generated for the communities in the study area
Concerns about the cumulative impacts of industries proposed
for the Union Industrial Estate
Concerns about the proposed facility releasing effluent into the
Marine Environment
1 C
Concerns about what standards were used in designing the plant
Concerns about landing sites being affected by the presence of
the plant
3 D, F, H
Concerns about the destruction of Vessigny Beach
Concerns about the fishermen being included in the overall
Emergency Response Plan
Concerns about housing the influx of Chinese Construction
workers
2 D, G
Lack of adequate Health Facilities and other Institutions
2 F, G
Concerns over Green house gas emissions
6 A, C, E, F, G, H
3.5
5 A, B, C, E, F
3 C, F, G
1 D,
1 D
1 D
1 G,
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development
SIA
The Establishment of an Aluminium Complex in Union Estate
5.0 References
Higgins. G.E. 1995. A History of Trinidad Oil. Published by Trinidad Express
Newspaper Ltd. pp498
Institute of Marine Affairs. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment for the
Establishment of Union Estate, La Brea. Document prepared for NEC.
Kairi Consultants. 1998. Poverty Report for Trinidad and Tobago.
Ministry of Planning & Development Central Statistical Office, April 2002.
Ministry of Planning and Development Central Statistical Office. 1997-2000. Household
Budget Survey Volume 2. Port of Spain 2002
The Ministry of Planning and Development. Central Statistical Office. 2000. Populations
and Housing Census. Community Register. Port of Spain 2002.
The Ministry of Planning and Development. Central Statistical Office. 2000. Housing
and Population Census. Port of Spain 2002
Petrotrin Trinmar Operations 2005. Overhead Aerial Photographs 2005.
5.1
Foster Solutions for Sustainable Ecosystem Development