I wish to clarify my statement made to CKPG-TV and printed in the Prince George Citizen on April 16 regarding the need for a public inquiry into the Babine and Lakeland mill explosions. The statement by itself does not accurately reflect my position.
My intent was to express my concern that action needs to be taken now on many fronts and not just on the public inquiry, because if the government delays a public inquiry and only succumbs to public pressure after many years, or does not have one. It would negatively affect all families and not bring closure to all those affected. Action needs to be taken, such as having a dust audit of all operations to ensure workers' safety, while we continue the push for a comprehensive public inquiry.
Our inion has been very clear in demanding that the government conduct a public inquiry. It has been my personal view, and that of our inion and membership that a public inquiry is the only way to bring closure for families. Further, it is a mechanism that will provide a much clearer picture of what led to the disasters, what could have been done to avoid the tragic events, provide insight on what went wrong during the failed investigations by WorkSafeBC, provide clearer reasons why Crown did not pursue charges, and hopefully allow for implementation of recommendations that may ensure nothing like this happens again.
My continued commitment and of our union in lobbying the government for a public inquiry for both disasters has and will continue to be unwavering.
Frank Everitt
President, USW Local 1-424
