Support lacking for mine death families, Duncan.

Author: Wendy Duncan
Published on: 27-November-2009

Families who suffer from loss due to mine fatalities are being let down by a lack of basic support services at a time when they most need it, according to Member for Mining and Pastoral Hon Wendy Duncan MLC.

“While the Government is taking steps to improve mine safety and inspections through its Bill passed in Parliament yesterday, I urge the Minister to give serious consideration to improving the ways in which families who suffer bereavement as a result of an accident in the mining industry are dealt with, “ Ms Duncan said.

“For several years I have communicated with a constituent who lost her husband at a mine in Norseman in 1991. Helen Fitzroy has actively lobbied for change and has been the first contact for many families who have dealt with the aftermath of a mine fatality."

“Currently a small brochure is given to families when they get that dreadful knock on the door by a police officer, however, the list of contacts in the document are tokenistic at best, in terms of adequate support required by families.”

Ms Duncan called for some of the funds raised under the new levy approved in Parliament yesterday to be put towards a structured organization that facilitates ongoing support for these families. It would provide a coordinated, informative and compassionate service that answers the questions of victims’ families in a timely manner and provides ongoing support and advice.