Pike families compensated under Labour

Labour Leader David Cunliffe today committed the Labour Government to paying the court-ordered compensation to the Pike River families and seeking reimbursement from company shareholders and directors.

“Labour will ensure the Pike River miners’ families receive their rightful court-ordered compensation,” said David Cunliffe.

“It is shameful that neither the Crown, nor Crown entities ACC and NZ Super Fund, have upheld their moral obligation to contribute.

“The financial well-being of the Pike River families is uppermost in our minds. Paying the court-ordered compensation is the decent and right thing to do.

“Despite John Key’s promises to stand side by side with the families of the 29 miners, they have been left in the lurch by Mr Key, Pike River Coal Ltd, its shareholders and parent companies and directors.

“The court has awarded $3.4 million in compensation from Pike River Coal Ltd. Its shareholders refused to pay it and the Government has said the only way to get the money is to sue the Crown.

“The families deserve much better than that. Mr Key needs to be a leader, not a lawyer. He has lost his moral compass.

“Today is the third anniversary of that tragic day and the families are yet to receive their court-awarded compensation.

“As Prime Minister my Government would pay the families the full compensation they have been awarded. My Government would work with Pike River Coal shareholders and government entities ACC and NZ Super Fund, to require them to fulfil their moral duty,” said David Cunliffe.
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