The consequences of petrochemical activity for regional development in Northern Norway

Conclusion

Considering the questions which were set forth in the introduction about creating new jobs in northern Norway in the years to come, strengthen the industry, and preserve the pattern of settlement, the main conclusions cover three points:

• 1. The direct impacts in the exploration period will create few new jobs and relatively insignificant economic activity in northern Norway. Compared to the demand of the region for new jobs, the oil activity in this phase will contribute to solving this problem to a very limited extent.

• 2. If landing of oil in northern Norway should result, it will not likely lead to a build-up of refinery and other petrochemical industry. The industry in the region will possibly become more diversified, but such a strategy for the build-up will also probably lead to a centralization of the pattern of settlement. The problems of the marginal areas will not be solved by this policy of regional development. The labor market's weak and exposed groups, such as women and unskilled youth, will probably not see their situation much improved.

• 3. If the main structure of the present pattern of settlement in northern Norway is to be preserved so that all those who wish to work will have the opportunity to do so, the decentralized jobs which already exist must be solidified. And new jobs must be created which can be adapted to the needs of the small communities. This is a difficult and great task, but the starting of exploration for petroleum and the perspective (possibilities) this represents constitute no useful strategy for trying to solve the regional problems of northern Norway.