Pretoria – Finding the "lamp room" container and the three mine workers trapped inside when it was buried about 80 metres under rock in a sinkhole during a cave-in at Vantage Goldfields' Lily Gold Mine at Barberton in Mpumalanga a year ago remains a priority, Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane said on Sunday.
Sunday marks exactly 12 months since the accident on February 5, 2016. Since that day, the department had worked tirelessly to ensure that the buried container which carried Yvonne Mnisi, Pretty Nkambule, and Solomon Nyerende was found and brought to the surface, Swane said in a statement.
Numerous problems, including a further deterioration in and collapse of the high-walls surrounding the area made rescue efforts impossible and the rescue operations had to be suspended in order not to risk more lives.
Seventy-six of the other employees were rescued before conditions worsened. An inter-ministerial committee of ministers – mineral resources, social development, and women – had been established to support the families and employees affected by the accident, he said.
The primary objective remained that of finding the container in order for the families of the three employees to get closure on this matter. “We understand fully the frustrations expressed by the families and the public at large on the amount of time it has taken to conclude this process, but we want to assure South Africa that no effort is being spared to ensure that this matter is resolved,” Zwane said.
The department had concluded the investigation into the accident and it had now been converted into an inquiry in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act, which would start in the next few days.
No mining could resume until the inquiry had been concluded. "Should it be found that there was any recklessness or negligence which resulted in this accident, the law will take its course. The department is also in talks with the National Prosecuting Authority to strengthen the ability to prosecute those who are negligent in their responsibilities.
"The health and safety of employees is critical for the long-term sustainability of the mining industry. We continue to urge all stakeholders in the mining industry to make this a priority. Employees’ lives should not be cheapened."
Vantage Goldfields and its business rescue practitioner remained liable for the payment of R200 000 each to the families of Mnisi, Nkambule, and Nyerende, and R50 000 each to the rescued employees. “We appeal for the co-operation of all involved as the inquiry commences and wish to once again assure the families, employees, and the public at large, that this matter will continue to receive the priority attention it deserves,” Zwane said.