Reporting obtained via a Parliamentary Question listed 57 environmental quarantine breaches on the island from September 2009 to April 2010. Five of these breaches have been listed as ‘critical’ with two more listed as ‘major.’
“This is a completely unacceptable result for Chevron and a devastating outcome for the wildlife of Barrow Island,” Mr Chapple said.
“The myth of environmental ‘best practice’ on the Gorgon project had been shattered by the reports.”
“Despite the Gorgon Project having been approved by the State Government in September 2009, the agreed three DEC environmental officer positions meant to monitor the project onsite have yet to be filled.”
“This means that the project is proceeding without the agreed environmental oversight. The breaches lie as much on the shoulders of the ineffectual Minister for the Environment as they do with Chevron.”
Mr. Chapple also said the “appalling negligence” shown by the State Government in relation to the appointment of the three Department of Environment and Conservation positions to monitor the project was a likely contributor to the large number of breaches.
- Media Contact: Robin Chapple on 0409 379 263 or 9486 8255
