Keith Pitt - Newcastle Herald comments

This content was behind a paywall so I wanted to share it here. Very encouraging comments from Keith Pitt

Keith Pitt says he will make a decision about PEP 11 in the near future - Newcastle Herald

Mr Pitt defended the regulation of offshore petroleum exploration and mining in Australia.

"The Government is committed to protecting the marine environment by ensuring sustainable practices by all marine users, now and into the future," he said."I appreciate the strong community interest in the issue but am concerned about some of the exaggerated claims being made by groups who are opposed to the permit.

"While the permit covers a wide area, gas exploration targets are around 30 kilometres offshore and any rig is unlikely to be visible from the coast. "Rigs will not be popping up off Sydney Harbour and surfers will not be dodging them trying to catch waves."

He said the offshore petroleum industry was a valuable source of jobs, wealth and energy security. "It acts responsibly and safely, while contributing to local communities and co-exiting with local industries like fisheries and tourism," he said

"The oil and gas developments offshore Victoria and Western Australia have been operating for over 50 years and have coexisted with, and continue to benefit, local communities, providing job and business opportunities."

source: https://www.newcastleherald.com.au/story/7124390/minister-promises-surfers-will-not-have-to-dodge-gas-rigs/?cs=7573

IMO I think this article clearly shows Keith Pitt's sentiment towards Pep 11. Thank goodness he is in the driving seat and not Barilaro. I think next week approval is highly likely - Barilaro has alot of attention on him and can't hold up the progress much longer.