approval process for kingaroy's ucg flawed

I like the sound of this. ^_^

---

A CONTROVERSIAL gas project at Kingaroy which contaminated groundwater was given its environmental authority to operate on "inadequate conditions", according to an independent review of the process.

The Queensland Ombudsman Phil Clarke said the now defunct Cougar Energy's trial of underground coal gasification was given its approval on policies and procedures that failed to adequately provide guidance to officers.

The project was shut down by the former Government in September, 2010, when small levels of BTEX chemicals, known carcinogens, were found in the groundwater surrounding the project in June 2010.

In his report to Parliament, Mr Clarke said Government officers had difficulty accessing expert advice on which to base their decisions relating to Cougar's project.

"Projects involving novel or emerging technologies that have high or unknown risks warrant greater oversight and compliance monitoring," Mr Clarke said.
Digital Pass - $5 weekend papers

Cougar is currently suing the Government over the closure.

Source: http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/approval-process-for-kingaroys-toxic-ucg-plant-was-flawed-ombudsman-finds/story-fndo45r1-1226481605253