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National | Labour Party

Labour proposes compensation to Pike River Mine

It was a tragedy that killed 29 miners at Pike River.

The courts say compensation should be paid by Pike River Coal to the families, but that's unlikely.

The company is in receivership and the Govt says it won't pay either.

MP Simon Bridges says, “We have to think as a Govt be careful how we spend taxpayers' money.”

Labour has agreed it will pay the $3.4mil in compensation if it becomes Govt.

The Māori Party say caution is needed regarding Labour's proposal.

Te Ururoa Flavell explains that, "If that door is opened, it could then be opened up to a raft of people with potential claims, including those in Christchurch.”

According to Mana and the Green Party, compensation should be paid.

Hone Harawira insists that rules need to be introduced that will see safety officers put into mines for the well-being of the workers.

A remembrance service will be held tomorrow on the West Coast for the 29 men, in honour of their third anniversary.