The results of a geochemical survey conducted by United Oil and Gas are expected within two to three months, says Minister of Energy Daryl Vaz.

He said that the survey was successfully completed on February 28, and the research vessel returned to Kingston Harbour.

Addressing last Wednesday’s (March 4) post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, the minister informed that 1,189-line kilometres of multibeam echo sounder data were collected to map the sea floor.

“Heat flow probe data was gathered to analyse temperature gradients. Most importantly, piston cores were taken from 42 locations across the Walton and Morant basins for direct testing of oil and gas presence. These cores have been offloaded and are enroute to a lab in the United States for detailed analysis. Results are expected within two to three months,” he said.

The survey lasted 34 days, with no reported safety incidents, no environmental accidents and no conflicts with fisherfolk.

Minister Vaz maintained that the survey is not simply a technical exercise.

“It is a meaningful step towards understanding the geological potential of offshore Jamaica. The data collected is state-of-the-art and it will inform evidence-based decision making about the country’s energy future,” he said.

Vaz reiterated the Government’s intention to maintain a responsible science-led approach in the exercise.

“Exploration does not mean exploitation without safeguards. It means gathering facts, analysing data and making informed decisions in the best interest of Jamaica,” he said.