The move comes after mounting criticism from environmental groups that the Government is "hell bent" on developing the Burrup, regardless of cultural or environmental concerns. Some critics have warned that emissions from the projects will damage world-renowned Aboriginal rock art and want the projects moved to the less environmentally sensitive Maitland industrial estate.
Touring the massive expansion of the Woodside LNG plant at the Burrup, the Premier said the Ministerial Group, which will be made up of the seven ministers with a direct portfolio interest in the area, would be set up to ensure that development of the gas processing projects proceeds smoothly and in accordance with enviromental standards.
In other WA news, the Gallop Government is looking at expanding the supply of natural gas energy to more regional centres. Energy Minister Eric Ripper said State Cabinet had endorsed a plan for expressions of interest to be called for the possible establishment of new gas distribution infrastructure to deliver reticulated gas to regional Western Australia.
Mr Ripper said Karratha, Port Hedland, Newman, Leonora, Kambalda and major South-West towns could benefit because they were close to major gas transmission pipelines. He said the Government wanted to encourage investment in regional infrastructure and greater consumer choice in energy supply.
"Western Australia is fortunate to have an abundance of natural gas and ready access to liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and liquid natural gas (LNG), which are cleaner energy sources than some alternatives," the Minister said.
"But unfortunately there are some parts of the State that do not have gas reticulation networks and therefore do not have the choice of connecting to gas.
"Currently, reticulated gas is only available in the Perth metropolitan area, extending north to Geraldton and south to Bunbury, as well as Albany, Kalgoorlie, Margaret River and Leinster.
"The introduction of major natural gas transmission pipelines in the Pilbara and Goldfields in recent years opens up new opportunities for extending the gas reticulation network."
Mr Ripper said the Office of Energy would seek the views of industry, local authorities and interest groups on commercial, technological and other issues that should be considered in the expansion of gas supply in regional areas.
"Depending on the feedback, the next stage would be to formally call for tenders for the supply of gas on either a Statewide or region by region basis," he said. "Reticulated gas supply opens up the prospect of new and expanded industries in regional areas, employment growth and a better standard of living."
