NSW:Ban NSW offshore gas drilling - Greens

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-2010
NSW:Ban NSW offshore gas drilling - Greens

New South Wales Greens Senate candidate LEE RHIANNON has called on the federal government
to reject an application for exploratory gas drilling off the state's coast .. saying
it will endanger the marine environment.

Perth-based Advent Energy is towing an oil rig from Victoria to the waters off Newcastle
.. to explore the Sydney basin's massive gas reserves.

Ms RHIANNON .. who's expected to win the final NSW senate spot when counting is completed
.. says protecting tourism and the natural marine environment should be the priority ..

not lining the pockets of mining companies.

The project has already provoked widespread local opposition.

Advent Energy doesn't yet have environmental approval for the drilling .. but says
it's confident of getting the all clear when it lodges its final application in coming
weeks.

AAP RTV ab/wjf/jkl

KEYWORD: GAS (SYDNEY)

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