LNG developer focus to deliver in 2014

 By PATRICK TALU

EXXONMOBIL and its subsidiary Esso Highlands Ltd (EHL), operator of PNG LNG project say that the multi-billion-kina project remains on target to deliver PNG’s first LNG in 2014.

EHL public and government affairs manager Miles Shaw when asked for ExxonMobil’s official position on current Hides 4 LNG conditioning plant site shut down, relayed the assurance yesterday to its stakeholders.

 “The project is currently at an early stage of a four-year construction period, with activities under way in mobilisation and early site works.  

“A successful project will maximise economic benefits for the people of PNG, through jobs, investment and project revenues, as well as demonstrate that business investment is welcomed in PNG,” Shaw said.

He said the shutdown involved fewer than 200 of the 5,000 contractor employees engaged in the early stages of project execution.

Shaw said: “We encourage local community leaders and the government of PNG to take active measures to ensure safety, security and the mutual success of this project for the people of PNG.  

“We acknowledge and appreciate those steps already taken to achieve this objective such as increasing the presence of police that has improved law and order.”

He said the project’s security programme was designed to protect the well-being of the project, workforce and the surrounding community.  

“Partnerships with the community remain the underpinning foundation of the security strategy.

“We are working with local leaders and the government in order to allow a timely restart of activities.  

“The shutdown will continue until the safety and security of project personnel and the surrounding community can be assured,” Shaw said.