The growing portfolio makes the shortage of engineering competence just as critical as in previous years, with respect to the number of available engineering personnel and the competence and quality of work delivered.
 
In addition, increased international activity is expected to challenge our ability to utilise our expertise and allocate our resources in the most efficient way. As a result, there is a risk that engineering may be negatively affected, which in turn, may influence construction and completion progress.

High activity levels on the NCS will make strong demands on our ability to execute projects as sanctioned and in accordance with our HSE target of zero harm. To succeed, we must challenge established models, ensure continuous improvement and establish best practice on the basis of experience.

As regards physical deliveries of goods and services, we have only seen moderate price decreases while the oil price plunged during the second half of 2008. This remains a concern, and it means that our long-term investment plans are being revised. However, we anticipate a high activity level in 2009.