Australia-listed ADX Energy said it delayed the mobilization of the rig which was scheduled to spud the Sidi Dhaher-1 well within the Chorbane exploration permit in Tunisia.

ADX said the rig would be delayed while it worked with local authorities to ensure the safety of local residents near the well site and along the access road was provided during the rig move.

The company said the latest setback had nothing to do with security concerns following unrest in the North African country which had previously caused it to delay drilling the well in January.

“ADX would like to emphasize this short delay is not due to security concerns with respect to our operations, but rather the company’s concern for the safety of local rural inhabitants which prior to the revolution would have been provided, when necessary, by local police and government officials,” ADX said in a statement to the Australian Securities Exchange.

It added that while the delay was “frustrating”, it would not have any effect on the cost of the well.

While not giving a date, ADX said that it expected the appropriate safety measures would be provided by the local authorities in the “near future” which would allow it to begin drilling Sidi Dhaher-1.

ADX is operator of the Sidi Dhaer-1 well with a 40% stake along with Gulfsands Petroleum holding a 40% interest and Xstate Resources and Verus Investments holding 10% each.

(Source: upstreamonline)