Zwane denies receipt of summonses

MINERAL Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane last night declined to comment on reports that Sibanye Platinum had served summonses on him and three officials, saying he had not yet received the summonses. This followed reports yesterday that Sibanye Platinum had served the summonses‚ claiming R26.8 million. Last night the Department of Mineral Resources said Zwane had noted “with concern” media reports relating to mining companies Sibanye and AngloGold Ashanti, on health and safety in the mining sector. “It is unfortunate that both companies are choosing to repeatedly suggest, through their utterances in the media, that they are refusing to comply with the mining laws of the country. This is especially concerning, given the fact that the platinum and gold sectors were the biggest contributors to fatalities in 2016. Together, these two companies were responsible for the death of 19 mineworkers in 2016,” the department said. It said Section 54 of the Mine Health and Safety Act was intended to safeguard the lives of employees, and any company could in terms of Section 57 of the act appeal the department’s decision and reasons for issuing a Section 54 notice. “Profit-making and the health and safety of workers are not mutually exclusive and it is unacceptable that these companies are choosing to cheapen the lives of mine workers in this manner,” Zwane said. – Staff Reporter