Historic $34 billion investment to go ahead in Lingiari

Monday, 13 February 2012

THE HON WARREN SNOWDON MP

Member for Lingiari

13 January 2012

The Member for Lingiari Warren Snowdon welcomed today's final investment decision on the $34 billion Ichthys project.

"Today's green light for the joint venture LNG (liquefied natural gas) project by Total and Inpex represents the most significant investment in the Territory's history," Mr Snowdon said.

"While financial uncertainty continues to hamper economies around the world, the Territory is at the cusp of an historic jobs boom."

"More than 3,000 people will be employed during construction and 700 during operation."

"This is an incredible opportunity for the people of Lingiari and shows the future is bright for the Territory."

"We will have high wage world-class jobs on offer in our backyard - that is a great employment and training opportunity for workers and young people across Lingiari."

"There will also be a huge run-off boost to local businesses - from
sub-contracting opportunities for locals through to increased trade for our local shops, restaurants and hotels."

"This is a terrific vote of confidence for Northern Australia."
 
Mr Snowdon paid tribute to Federal Resources Minister Martin Ferguson along with Northern Territory Chief Minister Paul Henderson for their hard work in helping secure the project.

"The Chief Minister has long fought to secure the project - despite early opposition to the proposed Middle Arm development from CLP leader Terry Mills. I commend Paul Henderson's dogged determination to see Inpex come to Darwin and bring with it key opportunities for Territorians."

"The Ichthys project also represents an opportunity for our Aboriginal young people to train and secure world class jobs right here in the Territory."

"Inpex and Total have committed to ensuring job opportunities are on offer for Aboriginal men and women and I'm pleased training is already under way through the Larrakia Trade Training Centre."

"Today's historic announcement will be Australia's second biggest resource project and will have an incredibly positive impact on the future development and prosperity of the Territory - this decision today will single-handedly transform Lingiari into a dynamic and booming economic hub."

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