Law brings a resolution

The passing of legislation making Government departments liable brings resolution to West Coasters and others affected by the Cave Creek tragedy, West Coast-Tasman MP Damien O'Connor said today.

The passage of the Crown Organisations (Criminal Liability) Act removes exemption from prosecution for offences under the Building Act and the Health and Safety in Employment Act. Government departments can now be prosecuted in the same way as private companies.

Mr O'Connor said the exemption had caused some distress to the families and loved ones of the 14 people who died when a Conservation Department observation platform at Cave Creek collapsed.

"This law change will, I hope, resolve one of the last remaining issues for them, and it will ensure that potential future tragedies do not leave such unanswered questions."

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