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Minister Plays Down Reports Bore ‘Blow Out’ Related to Coal Seam Gas

Chinchilla Arrow EnergyThe Mines Minister is playing down reports that a ‘blow out’ at a water bore near Chinchilla is related to the increased coal seam gas (CSG) extraction activity in the area.

Last Thursday water and gas exploded from a bore on a Western Downs property which Arrow Energy holds exploration rights.

Speaking to the  ABC, Mines Minister Andrew Cripps, said CSG compliance officers were assessing the situation.

“On inspection, the bore [casing] was shaking and there was an audible sound of gas escaping from the bore,” he said.

“The bore is not emitting gas levels that are unsafe, so there’s no potential for ignition at this point in time.”

“I understand the landholder is satisfied that all parties are following the procedures set down.”

 Mr Cripps told the ABC that the bore has been in place since 1936 and had, over the years, been known for emitting gas.

In a statement, the company said it had been contacted by the Department of Natural Resources and Mines and was aware of the investigation.

“Arrow has no active operations in the area which might account for the described bore activity,” the statement said.

Mr Cripps said it was too early to determine if CSG activities on neighbouring properties are a contributing factor to the bore’s destabilisation.

“I will make sure, as the Government will, that once the investigation to determine the cause is finalised, the appropriate action is taken,” he said.

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