2 December 2010

Collins Comments

Pike River Mine tragedy

On Friday, 19 November, a large underground explosion tore through the Pike River Mine, 46 kilometres north of Greymouth. Thirty-one men were in the mine, two men escaped and 29 did not emerge.

On Wednesday, 24 November, a second explosion confirmed everyone’s worst fears. The 29 men would never walk out again.

Having travelled to Greymouth in the days following the tragedy, I was deeply moved by the spirit of a community that has endured such loss.

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to the 29 families of those brave men – and to their many friends, workmates and their close-knit West Coast community.

After days spent waiting, of both preparing for the worst and hoping for the best, they have been delivered the saddest of news.

I sincerely sympathise with the children who have lost fathers, the parents who have lost sons, the wives who have lost their husbands and the siblings who have lost their brothers.

We can not begin to imagine the terrible sense of loss and heartache these families are experiencing.

I would like to personally acknowledge the Police and other emergency services that were involved with the mission to rescue the miners. Such a complex task requires a great deal of caution and skill– I am confident that NZ Police conducted an extremely professional and thoroughly detailed operation.

I trust the generous support of our nation and the goodwill of our fellow New Zealanders will continue to provide some comfort for all those grieving at this time.

ENDS

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