Mercury Energy Not Aware of Medical Dependence

MEDIA RELEASE
Wednesday May 30, 2007

Mercury Energy Not Aware of Medical Dependence

Mercury Energy says it was not aware that its actions in disconnecting a Mangere customer could have potentially life-threatening consequences.

The Company’s preliminary investigation into the disconnection of the Mangere household, at which Mrs Folole Muliaga later died, suggests there was no indication given that disconnection would result in medical danger.

“We are deeply sympathetic to the family and acknowledge the tragedy that has occurred. However we were simply unaware that loss of electricity to the household was putting a vulnerable customer at risk,” Mercury Energy’s General Manager, James Moulder says.

“Our operating procedures ensure that if we know a serious health issue could arise from disconnection, we will not disconnect the customer. Even if we are not told in advance, our contractors who carry out disconnections will tell us if they are made aware of circumstances which could put a customer at risk.

“Throughout the 6-7 week process of disconnecting the home, and on the day in question, we were not alerted that there was a person resident dependent on a medical device reliant on electricity,” he says.

Mr Moulder says that the company regrets the tragic circumstances surrounding the death, but believes on the facts it has, that the correct practices have been followed.

The disconnection in question was one of a number carried out that day by a contractor, he says.

“Our interview with the contractor indicates there was a discussion with Mrs Muliaga, who simply discussed possible bill payment and reconnection timeframes, but did not alert the contractor to her medical situation.”

Mr Moulder says the company is still working through a thorough investigation, which will help to ensure all facts surrounding the event are confirmed.

The Company also acknowledges that there will be a coroner’s inquiry that will establish the cause of the death, and that the police are involved in the process. The Company will be cooperating in full with them.

“Throughout all of this, we are mindful that our first thoughts should remain with the Muliaga family to whom we have offered our sincere condolences,” he says.

ENDS

© Scoop Media