MONCTON, N.B. - The company that carried out shale gas exploration in New Brunswick has closed its office in the province.

In an emailed statement, SWN Resources says the move comes amid uncertainty about the timetable for developing the shale gas industry in the province.

There is a currently a moratorium on shale gas drilling put in place by the province's Liberal government.

SWN Resources says there is a reduced need for an office and future project developments will be overseen from its headquarters in Houston.

Company spokeswoman Christina Fowler says the office closure means the layoff of two employees.

Last week New Brunswick's Opposition Progressive Conservatives distributed a letter the energy company sent to the provincial government saying it was rededicating its resources to other jurisdictions as a result of the moratorium.

(The Canadian Press)