ExxonMobil has called for a quick resolution to a dispute between the government and disgruntled landowners, following a protest at its $19 billion PNG LNG project over royalty disagreements. Media reports said the protesters had given the government a seven-day deadline to pay royalties to landowners or they would forcefully shutter the operation. Landowner groups could not immediately be reached for comment. ExxonMobil is the operator of the 6.9 million tonne per annum LNG project, partly located in the restive Highlands region. Its agreement with the government sets aside a 2% royalty for landowners, to be held in trust by the government until they have vetted the clans that claim to own the land. The clan-vetting process has not yet been completed. "Our facilities are continuing to operate," ExxonMobil said. "We respect the right of individuals to peacefully protest, but we also encourage continued dialogue between landowners and the government to resolve their outstanding issues promptly." A person familiar with the situation said production had not been affected and the protests had been peaceful. Personnel have been entering and leaving the plant while protesters gathered outside, the source told Reuters. The source said the PNG LNG landowners were working closely with the government to resolve the issues as quickly as possible. ExxonMobil is considering an expansion of its PNG LNG plant, which has been exporting gas for two years. ExxonMobil has a one-third stake in the project. The partners include Australia's Oil Search and Santos. Source: Upstream
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Papua New Guinea Breaking NewsPapua New Guinea daily News updates Let Your Voice be heard: Submit your news articles, commentaries, letters , Photos, Media Releases etc to us on this email: pngfacts@gmail.com
Mining & PetroleumTop Links |