According to Reuters, ExxonMobil is looking for a quick solution to a royalty disagreement between the Government of Papua New Guinea and PNG LNG project landowners. This follows protests at the project site.
Reuters claims that an agreement with the government sets aside 2% royalty for landowners. This is then to be held by the government until the clans’ claims of land ownership have been ratified. Reportedly, this process has not been finalised.
Now, the protestors have reportedly given the Government seven days to pay royalties to landowners. If the Government fails to do so, the protestors claim that they will forcefully shut down the facility.
ExxonMobil reportedly said that its facilities are still currently operating, adding: “We respect the right of individuals to peacefully protest, but we also encourage continued dialogue between landowners and the government to resolve their outstanding issues promptly."
Edited from various sources by David Rowlands