Hon Jim Anderton

Member of Parliament for Wigram

24 November 2010 Media Statement

Pike River Tragedy Statement

Progressive leader and Wigram MP Jim Anderton has expressed his deep sorrow at hearing the news that the 29 trapped miners at the Pike River mine have died. A second blast earlier this afternoon shows that the concerns over safety which have been of significant concern to Supt. Gary Knowles were well justified.

“I am very saddened to hear the latest news reports on the fate of the 29 miners. My thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones at this difficult time. This event has been one of the darkest hours for the West Coast and its community.

“Mining is an iconic industry on the West Coast but it is now our serious responsibility as a NZ community to see that such a tragedy is prevented from happening again”.

ENDS