Touchstone Exploration progresses toward Trinidad and Tobago exploration permit

(WO) — Touchstone Exploration Inc. is preparing for the Trinidad and Tobago Environmental Management Authority to make a final decision on a Certificate of Environmental Clearance for its oil and gas exploration project by September 15.

Touchstone said the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) confirmed the company submitted all necessary documentation regarding the Cascadura Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The Cascadura EIA supports the company's application for a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) to conduct development operations within the Cascadura area of the Ortoire block.

"We are excited that the EMA has accepted our EIA documentation and will process our CEC application in the near future,” said Paul Baay, President and CEO. “I would like to thank our team for their perseverance and diligence in submitting a complete response thereby ensuring no further delays. We look forward to updating our stakeholders in due course."

The EMA confirmed that all the necessary activities for commercial production at Cascadura pursuant to Touchstone's application have been deemed applicable to the proposed Cascadura project, including exploration for crude oil and natural gas; establishment of infrastructure for pipeline systems; and establishment of infrastructure for storage of petroleum or liquid petroleum gas or their derivatives.

Touchstone submitted the remaining EIA documentation on Aug. 3, and the EMA responded on Aug. 5, stating that the submitted information was reviewed and was deemed to be adequate to determine the outcome of the Company's CEC application. Pursuant to statutory CEC rules, the EMA confirmed that a final CEC determination will be made by Sept. 15.

Touchstone has an 80% operating working interest in the Ortoire block, with Heritage Petroleum Company Limited holding the remaining 20% working interest.