Oil Search Alaska spokeswoman Amy Burnett told Petroleum News that eight of the 100 employees the parent company announced were being laid off were attached to the Alaska business unit. None of them were members of the Alaska leadership team.
Due to the reduction in work programs and the uncertain oil price outlook, Oil Search Ltd. made the decision to reduce its headcount in Sydney and Anchorage.
Prior to the eight layoffs, Oil Search Alaska employees numbered 151 - 36 contractors and 115 employees.
"This has been a very difficult decision to make, particularly given current global circumstances. We have treated our team members with respect and will continue to offer them support through the hard times ahead," said Oil Search Managing Director Dr Keiran Wulff.
Oil Search's board and executive team have also agreed to take a 20% salary cut for the next six months.
This morning the company announced successful test results from this winter's North Slope exploration drilling at its Mitquq and Stirrup prospects (news bulletin subscribers see earlier bulletin).
- KAY CASHMAN
