Solid Energy must prioritise Pike River re-entry

The Pike River re-entry appears to be have been mishandled by Solid Energy and the Minister for State Owned Enterprises should intervene, says the union representing New Zealand coal miners.

“All indications are that Pike River has been safe to re-enter for some time. The latest revelations suggest that the Board of Solid Energy hasn’t been focused on getting the job done,” says Ged O’Connell, assistant national secretary of the Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union.

“They have the financial resources and the capability ready to go, but nothing’s happening. They appear to be sitting on their hands and leaving the Pike River families wondering what’s going on.

“In the interests of the families and their community we urge the Minister to direct Solid Energy’s Board to make re-entry of the Pike River mine drift a top priority, or hand the job over to someone who wants to do it.”

ENDS

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