Grosvenor Board of Inquiry welcome: CFMEU

CFMEU Mining and Energy

The Queensland Government’s announcement it will hold a Board of Inquiry into last week’s gas ignition at Grosvenor Mine is an opportunity for a thorough, wide-ranging and independent examination of the shocking events, the Miners’ Union said today.

“We welcome today’s announcement by Minister Lynham that a Board of Inquiry will be held and we will do everything we can to support the process,” said CFMEU Mining and Energy Queensland President Stephen Smyth.

“The opportunity we have is to make sure the inquiry takes a broad view to ensure that it also captures systemic issues in the coal industry that affect safety.

“This Board of Inquiry must lead to real changes that reassure the underground coal miners of Queensland that they will return home safe at the end of their shift.”

Mr Smyth said workers at Grosvenor mine were highly anxious about the staged re-entry to the mine this week and called on Anglo American and labour hire contractor One Key to make sure workers were supported emotionally and financially through the process.

“I’ve spoken to workers who are distressed about the prospect of returning underground. Others are wondering how long they’ll keep getting paid because they are labour hire, not permanent employees.

“At this difficult time, workers must be given all possible support.”

Stephen Smyth

/Public Release.