The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi is calling on the Government to honour the memories of the workers who lost their lives fifteen years ago today at the Pike River Mine by supporting a corporate manslaughter law.
“Corporations should not be above the law. If they are responsible for workplace deaths, they must be held criminally liable,” said NZCTU President Sandra Grey.
“We are today releasing a policy that calls on the Government to introduce a new crime of corporate manslaughter. This would hold corporations guilty for acts of culpable killing and give the public confidence that corporations and their managers will be held to account.
“Tragedies such as the Pike River Mine disaster demonstrate that corporations can and do kill workers. It is past time that our law is updated to ensure justice for victims.
“New Zealand has a terrible record. One worker dies every week on the job, and 17 more from work-related illnesses. Every single death is preventable.
“This law would mark a paradigm shift in how health and safety is recognised and enforced at every level. It would ensure that the most extreme breaches of health and safety obligations result in criminal liability.
“The work has already been done. All the Government needs to do is support Adrian Rurawhe’s Members Bill, the Crimes (Corporate Homicide) Amendment Bill.
“We acknowledge the incredible work of campaigners including Sonya Rockhouse and Anna Osborne who have fought tirelessly for justice. Government needs to listen to them,” said Grey.