Natural Resources
January 19, 2007

Minister Pleased With Progress on LNG Proposal

A proposal to build a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) transshipment facility near Arnold�s Cove is progressing to a new stage and that�s good news for the province�s energy industry and rural Newfoundland and Labrador.

"We're happy to see this proposal has addressed some important environmental considerations,� said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister of Natural Resources. �We recognize the company needs to do more environmental work to get this proposal to the construction phase, but we are encouraged by today�s announcement.�

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, announced earlier today he has released the Newfoundland LNG Limited proposal from further environmental assessment subject to three conditions: the proponents must submit acceptable Employment Equity and Environmental Protection Plans as well as a Risk Assessment Study.

The federal government continues to evaluate the proposal under the federal environmental assessment process.

�The proposed LNG project recognizes the province�s unique strategic location and the technical know-how of our people,� said Minister Dunderdale. �It�s another testament to our history of successful petroleum projects in Newfoundland and Labrador, especially in this rural part of the province.�

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Media contact:
Corey Snook
Communications and Marketing Manager
709-729-5777, 728-2837
CoreySnook@gov.nl.ca

2007 01 19                                               4:00 p.m.