Statement of NOIA President Tom Fry On Anniversary of Lifting of the Executive Ban on OCS Drilling

For Immediate Release:                                                    Contact:  Nicolette Nye

Tuesday, July 14, 2009                                                                              (202) 347-6900          

Statement of NOIA President Tom Fry

On Anniversary of Lifting of the Executive Ban on OCS Drilling

WASHINGTON, DC - “As we mark the one year anniversary of the lifting of the Executive branch ban on oil and gas drilling on the majority of the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS), it is important to note there is still much work to be done,” said Tom Fry, President of the National Ocean Industries Association. 

“Although 18 years of poor public policy, spanning multiple administrations, was reversed a year ago, today a mere 13 percent of the OCS is available for leasing under the current 5-year leasing plan,” said Fry. 

“As the new administration considers the next 5-year leasing plan, the offshore energy industry supports and encourages an expanded approach, which includes new areas consistent with sound science and emerging technologies.” 

NOIA is the only national trade association representing all segments of the offshore industry with an interest in the exploration and production of both traditional and renewable energy resources on the nation’s outer continental shelf.  The NOIA membership comprises more than 300 companies engaged in business activities ranging from producing to drilling, engineering to marine and air transport, offshore construction to equipment manufacture and supply, telecommunications to finance and insurance. 

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