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Parsons concerned Hebron project excluded in Exxon Mobil's short-term plans March 8, 2007 Kelvin Parsons, Opposition Natural Resources Critic and MHA for the District Burgeo-Lapoile, says he is concerned by Exxon Mobil=s confirmation yesterday during an analyst meeting that the Hebron-Ben Nevis project is not being considered for development until after 2010, while analysts question whether the project will proceed at all over the next decade. In today=s Globe and Mail, Exxon Mobil is on record as stating that while the Hebron-Ben Nevis project is a potential project for their company, it does not fit into their short-term development plans for North America. AThe announcement by Exxon Mobil during yesterday=s analyst meeting does not bode well for continuing momentum in our offshore industry,@ said Mr. Parsons. ADelaying our offshore development by several years will certainly impact our skilled workers, as well as our service and supply companies. This sector was relying on the Hebron-Ben Nevis project to strengthen their opportunities in this province. AWith uncertainty surrounding the Hibernia South project, and an expected decline in global offshore exploration, our fears about our industry losing its momentum is being realized. It now appears we are stalled with our current three projects, with no immediate developments on the horizon. AThe time has come for government to refocus on the importance that our offshore industry plays in our provincial economy. It is evident that economic growth will continue to decline if no development project takes place. A delayed Hebron-Ben Nevis project will certainly hurt our economy, and I encourage all parties to return to the table as soon as possible to see if this impasse can be overcome and a beneficial deal reached for all involved.@
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