We will find trapped workers, Lily Mine managements assures Parliament
The Chairpersons of the Portfolio Committees on Mineral Resources (Mr Sahlulele Luzipo) and Labour (Ms Lumka Yengeni) as well as Select Committee on Land and Mineral Resources (Mr Olifile Sefako) are encouraged by the level of commitment displayed by Lily Mine management to do all at their disposal to find the three trapped workers.
“We are satisfied that the management has committed to bringing the workers back to the surface, regardless of circumstances,” said Mr Luzipo. He pointed out though that time was of critical importance. The Chairpersons were delegated by Parliament to visit Lily Mine yesterday to establish the circumstances around the collapse and get progress report on the rescue mission. They met with the families of the trapped miners and conveyed messages of support and comfort. “We pledge our solidarity and support to the families during this difficult moment,” said Mr Luzipo.
The Chairpersons were informed that rescue operation was expected to resume following discussions with a team of external experts as it had to be suspended on Saturday (13 February 2016) following a third collapse. The Chairpersons expressed their appreciation regarding the swift response and the support by the Minister in the Department of Mineral Resources, Mr Mosebenzi Zwane, as well as the Premier of the province, Mr David Mabuza and the local Mayor, Ms Thulisile Khoza.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Justice Molafo
Tel: 021 403 8444
Cell: 081 424 7481
E-mail: jmolafo@parliament.gov.za
