Mr BAYLEY – Minister, we understand the EPA has a significant decision to make about Marinus Link over the next 10 days or so. There’s a board meeting and board decision. We also understand that the EPA has not received the level of cooperation from Marinus that would be expected ‑ that information has been withheld. Are you aware of these concerns by the EPA and some of its officers?
Mr DUIGAN – I’m aware of obviously a number of things that Marinus Link needs to provide to continue to keep the project moving. There are governance protocols that have been outlined by the secretary. There is an escalation path so to the point that you’re raising now and the specifics of that of which I’m vaguely aware, but that hasn’t entered the escalation protocol. I would be happy for the secretary to speak to it.
Mr LIMKIN – My understanding is the EPA has requested additional information and Marinus Link is actively working to provide that information. It has been providing that information to the EPA and will continue to provide information to the EPA should it request more information.
Mr BAYLEY – Have they made a commitment to provide that information prior to when the EPA needs to make its decision?
Mr LIMKIN – My understanding is that EPA and Marinus continue to work actively together, and I would hope that they would do that, and I have nothing to be alarmist about at this stage, Mr Bayley.
Mr BAYLEY – Minister, can you confirm that in 2020 Marinus undertook seismic surveys without seeking EPA approval?
Mr DUIGAN – That’s one we might have to look into. Unless there’s anybody in the room, that might know.
Mr BAYLEY – Can you take that on notice?
Mr DUIGAN – Happy to take that on notice, yes.
Mr BAYLEY – When it comes to the outstanding issues, you confirmed it’s not on an escalation program, but you’re aware that there are issues that are still being worked through and that there’s information that hasn’t been provided yet and EPA is not in a position to make a decision.
Mr DUIGAN – Again, I would say that the issue of which you speak hasn’t been escalated.
Mr BAYLEY – What is the escalation pathway?
CHAIR – That’s another question.
