Question NW2748 to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
11 January 2022 - NW2748
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
(1). What process was followed before Shell was granted permission to conduct seismic surveys on the Wild Coast; (2). whether he has found that all applicable legislative requirements and processes were followed; if not, what steps did he take(a) before the blasting scheduled for 1 December 2021 and(b) after 1 December 2021? NW3263E
Reply:
(1). The permission to conduct the seismic survey is part of the exploration right that Shell and Impact Africa Oil hold for the Transkei Algoa in the Wild Coast. As part of the exploration right application an environment impact assessment was carried out in 2013 culminating in the approval of the Environmental Management Programme in 2014. An independent review of the Environmental Management Programme was carried out in 2020 with the audit report sent to the database of Interested and Affected (I&A) Parties in May 2020. No objections were received The Environment Management Programme permits the licensees to undertake exploration activities including the seismic survey.
(2). The 3D seismic survey is not blasting but rather it is compressed air that is released and generates sound output directed to the seabed. All applicable legislative requirements were followed in granting the Exploration Right including the Environmental Management Programme.