Supplied by Algoma-Manitoulin MPP Michael Mantha…
“New Democrats are encouraged that the government is accepting the recommendations of the Mining Health and Safety Review. We, alongside the United Steelworkers and Mining Inquiry Needs Everyone’s Support (MINES), have been front and center calling for major changes in how mines in Ontario are regulated and made safe.

Changes that will improve safety in the mines are welcome, but there were 11 deaths since 2007 – another 7 last year alone, toughened rules that may prevent injuries and deaths in the future are badly needed and long overdue.

We hope that the government continues to listen and learn from workers, unions representing them, and health and safety experts. We expect implementation of these recommendations to happen accurately and without further delay. Miners and their families have a right to expect that they will come home safe at the end of their shift and we hope implementation of these recommendations will prevent further tragedies in our mines.”