Tuesday, February 14

Santos gas drilling needs closer scrutiny

Nearly four years ago, Santos came to the Liverpool Plains promising, among many things, that it was an extremely professional operator.
It sought to distance itself from the alleged cowboy gas companies operating in Queensland and NSW.
Santos was adamant that it followed “best practice” at all times.
Alas, the recent much-publicised exposure of the leaks, spills and contamination in the Pilliga State Forest exposes Santos as being just as bad, if not worse, than the companies from which it seeks to distance itself.
There has been little mention in the media that Santos, up until last year, held a 20 per cent shareholding in Eastern Star Gas (ESG) and a 35 per cent equity interest in various exploration permits operated by ESG, making Santos one of the largest shareholders in ESG.
There was a long-term perception held by the ESG board and shareholders that Santos would eventually buy out ESG, consolidating both companies.


Rosemary Nankivell

AFR

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