MEDIA STATEMENT

The Pike River Families do not accept the decision of the Board of Solid Energy NOT to proceed with the re-entry to the Drift based on their British experts advice that the re-entry of the Drift is technically feasible and can be achieved within the required International Safety Standards.

However the Families are aware of the fact that the final decision to re-enter the Drift or not rested with the Solid Energy Board who have now spoken.

In light of that decision the Families have turned their minds to the future and what is now required with regard to the fact that Pike River is now their loved ones final resting place.

The Families consider the following requirements are imperative :

1 That no future mining take place in the Pike River area and the Mining Permit is accordingly surrendered to the Crown as a mark of respect to the men and the sanctity of the area.

2 That the area be accorded suitable reservation status to protect the integrity and sanctity of the area.

3 That Families be guaranteed unfettered access to the area in perpetuity.

4 That consideration be given to the office administration and related building infrastructure close to the Pike River Mine being utilised for an educational facility for Health & Safety or related educational purposes, given the sites international importance now in terms of Mining Engineering and Health & Safety teaching and to be transferred to a suitable entity to run and operate the facility.

5 That suitable Government funding be made available in order to achieve the above.

6 An independent legal expert, funded by the Government to undertake a review of the Police investigation into the Pike River mine disaster to assess whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a criminal prosecution.

7 That the Government reconsider the introduction of a Corporate Manslaughter provision within the criminal legislation.

End

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