Quarry operators are to come under closer scrutiny from Government, Energy and Energy Industries Minister Conrad Enill said yesterday.

Steps have been taken to introduce guidelines in the industry where none existed, Enill said at the opening of a five-day Quarry Rehabilitation and Design Workshop at the auditorium of the University of Trinidad and Tobago's Point Lisas campus.

Enill said there was need for a better protection of the environment, prevention of larceny of State resources and ad hoc quarrying. He said the workshop would introduce modern and efficient equipment to upgrade the industry.

Quarry operators needed guidelines on how to protect the environment and prevent negative repercussions on the outskirts of quarries throughout the country, Enill told the participants. He said the industry was facing many challenges and that open discussions would help to provide guidelines to quarry operators.

Titled "Quarry, Rehabilitation and Design", the workshop is focusing on some of the principles applicable to quarries. It will also guide the industry in ensuring safe and efficient sites during extraction of material, restoration and use.

UTT president, Prof Ken Julien, called on stakeholders in the industry to join UTT to provide students with opportunities to work with relevant companies within the industry for practical experience.

UTT's bio-science two-year programme requires students to spend a semester in the industry.

Julien also stressed the need for quarry operators to be protective of the environment. He said co-operation between UTT and the industry would provide valuable knowledge in modern technology and would also give students practical experience.

Julien also spoke of a need to replant the area surrounding a quarry and suggested working with the agriculture ministry for best results.

President of the Quarrying Association of Trinidad and Tobago, Ramdeo Persad, also addressed the opening ceremony.