Vantage Goldfields SA Believes Failings ‘Not the Major Issue’ in Lily Mine Tragedy

Mike McChesney, CEO of Vantage Goldfields South Africa, expressed the belief that their shortcomings in the Lily Mine tragedy were not the primary issue.

EWN reports that the Lily Mine incident in February 2016 resulted in the tragic deaths of three mine employees as the crown pillar collapsed, leading to the cave-in of the ground, a container office, and the workers inside.

An inquest into the disaster determined that illegal mining activities within the crown pillar had hollowed and weakened the structure, ultimately causing the collapse.

The inquiry also revealed the failure of the Department of Mineral Resources and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to effectively address the issue of illegal mining, which contributed to the fatal outcome.

Furthermore, it pointed out the failure of the mine’s owners or management to conduct a necessary assessment to identify the potential hazard posed by the crown pillar and assess the associated risks.

Also read: Over 250 Pieces of Illegal Mining Equipment Obliterated

However, Mike McChesney made remarks after addressing the findings. He emphasised, “Well, I think the findings are that there was a failure to complete a risk analysis, but, quite frankly, we had a very professional and experienced team, and we don’t think that’s the major issue here. The major issue is that the cause of the accident has been determined to be caused by illegal mining.”

McChesney commended the judgment delivered by Magistrate Annemarie van der Merwe. He pointed out the challenges of owning a gold mine in the country. The challenges also extend to exposing certain state institutions’ “ineptitude” in dealing with illegal mining.

He stated, “She’s made a whole lot of recommendations as to what should be done, and we certainly support those recommendations. We’ll work with the authorities.”

Also read:

South Africa Vows to Halt Illegal Mining and Illegal Immigration

Picture: X / sandton24_com

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