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Newcastle Herald
Newcastle Herald
National
Matthew Kelly

Pat Conroy speaks against offshore gas exploration

Pat Conroy

Shortland MP Pat Conroy has joined federal MPs between Newcastle and Sydney who are opposed to offshore gas exploration.

Mr Conroy told parliament that a proposal by Advent Energy to extend a gas exploration licence for another five years from next February made no economic sense.

Advent Energy's proposal would likely employ less than 100 people, however it will jeopardise thousands of local jobs in tourism, recreational and commercial fishing," Mr Conroy said.

"If there was an accident, this would have a devastating environmental impact, including on the marine life in the area.

Petroleum Exploration Permit 11

"And while NSW does need to produce more gas in the short to medium term, there are already projects under development that will produce gas more cheaply and in less sensitive environments without endangering existing industries."

Federal Resources Minister Minister Keith Pitt and NSW Minister for Industry and Trade John Barilaro are responsible for determining whether to extend the licence or not.

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