Labour recommits to Pike River families

An incoming Labour-led government will do everything possible to recover the bodies of the Pike River Miners and return them to their families, says Labour Leader David Cunliffe.

“This tragedy and its aftermath has left the families of the 29 men in limbo and everything that can be done must be done to retrieve their bodies.

“Labour supports the work done by Solid Energy and the government, but it does not go far enough.

“While there may be significant safety issues in progressing the operation, Labour would hold an independent review of the plan to see what more could be done.

“The National-led government made promises to the West Coast community in respect of this tragedy. A Labour-led government would do everything in its power to honour those commitments.

“Further, we will work closely alongside the families and their experts to ensure they have full information and are part of the recovery process.

“Labour would also ensure all the recommendations of the Pike River Royal Commission are fully implemented.

“If there is one thing we can do to honour the men who died at Pike River 29 it is to prevent a tragedy like this ever happening again in this country.

“A Labour government I lead will ensure that this happens,’’ said David Cunliffe.

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