IADC Disappointed by Secretary Zinke’s Remarks Regarding Waters Offshore of Florida

Houston (10 January 2018) – International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) President Jason McFarland issued the following statement regarding Interior Secretary Zinke’s announcement that the 2019-2024 Outer Continental Shelf Oil & Gas Leasing Proposed Program will exclude waters offshore Florida:

“Just 6 days ago, this Administration released its draft proposed plan, which included 25 out of the 26 potential leasing areas on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) including the three leasing areas that include waters offshore of Florida. In his statement at that time, Secretary Zinke noted that, ‘Responsibly developing our energy resources on the Outer Continental Shelf in a safe and well-regulated way is important to our economy and energy security, and it provides billions of dollars to fund the conservation of our coastlines, public lands and parks.’”

“IADC hailed last week’s action because we believe that it’s important to assess all of the nation’s OCS resources, which belong to the American people, to determine their potential for energy development. Secretary Zinke’s remark to remove Florida from consideration for any new oil and gas platforms is undisciplined and arbitrary and stands in stark opposition to the deliberative and inclusive process envisioned by the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act, not to mention it represents an apparent about face by the Administration, particularly at this very early stage in the process. Regardless of ones viewpoint on whether or not any particular offshore area should ultimately be offered in a lease sale, the Secretary’s latest action should be viewed as contrary to the process. IADC and our industry colleagues look forward to submitting our own comments and views on the best way to responsibly develop the nation’s considerable resources.”

ABOUT IADC

Since 1940, the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) has exclusively represented the worldwide oil and gas drilling industry. IADC’s mission is to catalyze improved performance for the drilling industry by enhancing operational integrity and championing better regulation to facilitate safer, cleaner and more efficient drilling operations worldwide. For more information, visit the IADC website at www.iadc.org.