NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro says the federal government should reject plans to extend a permit allowing gas drilling in offshore waters from Manly to Newcastle.
The permit relates to a joint venture between Advent Energy and Bounty Oil and Gas. An application to extend the Petroleum Exploration Permit (PEP-11) by two years rests with the federal government.
“There is clearly a groundswell of opposition to PEP-11 and I’ve listened to those concerns. It confirms my own position to recommend that PEP-11 is not renewed,” Mr Barilaro said on Wednesday.
“Additionally I have received the backing of my colleagues to establish a working group to help guide future decision-making in relation to offshore exploration activities in NSW and Commonwealth waters.”
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