The New South Wales Government has renewed exploration lincences for the Coal Seam Gas industry to renew operations in the Pilliga Forest.

The State Opposition has blasted the decision, saying that the move comes as the State Department of Trade and Investment has initiated court action against Santos for its breaches of the Petroleum Onshore Act in the Pilliga area relating to its CSG works.

Shadow Environment Minister, Luke Foley, lambasted the move, describing it environmental negligence in the face of ongoing court proceedings.

“The Santos licence was still renewed by Minister Hartcher, despite the NSW Resources and Energy website stating the continued tenure of a petroleum exploration licences is subject to compliance with agreed commitments and title conditions,” Mr Foley said.

“The fact we now have the Government initiating prosecutions against Santos, despite the Minister renewing these licences only last year, confirms the O’Farrell Government was never serious about protecting our land and water from Coal Seam Gas activity.