NEWS RELEASE

Dateline: May 10, 2002

NEPA Requests Geotechnical Survey

The Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA) of the National Environment & Planning Agency (NEPA) has directed the Port Authority of Jamaica to conduct a geotechnical survey to determine the extent of the mud wave adjacent to reclamation area within Hunt's Bay and its effect on the environs and its potential to increase if further reclamation is effected.

Meanwhile, "there should be no further reclamation activities in Hunt's Bay until the NRCA otherwise determines" and the Notice served on the Port Authority is still in effect with respect to reclamation activities in Hunts Bay.

The NRCA is awaiting technical feedback on the potential impacts to the hydraulic characteristics of the Hunts Bay from the National Works Agency relating to a recent report submitted by the Port Authority. These decisions were taken at the monthly meeting of the NRCA Board held on May 8, 2002, when the issue of dredging and reclamation activities in Kingston Harbour was discussed.

The Port Authority's application for renewal of the expired licence was considered as a new application and the NRCA agreed to continuation of dredging activities not involving reclamation to Hunts Bay subject to the terms and conditions of two new licences.