On May 9th 1992 an explosion ripped apart the Westray Coal Mine in Pictou County, Nova Scotia killing 26 miners. The Fifth Estate and the Journal co-produced this story about the tragedy. The mine was opened the year before despite misgivings that the geology of the area was unstable and prone to large volumes of methane gas. The Federal Government was reluctant help the private company starting the mine after numerous reports cited geological concerns. But after heavy lobbying the mine opened. From the beginning miners complained of safety issues, rock falls, high methane gas levels and large amounts of coal dust. The company’s output and quality of coal were disappointing. Inspectors visited the mine 49 times. Critics claim inspectors didn’t take the conditions seriously enough and that the company was negligent. Government officials say it’s not at fault. But the miners say even if the mine were to reopen they would never go back.Linden MacIntyre hosts.
I was asked to appear on this program but was encouraged to keep quiet and let justice take it’s course. It was a mistake. The government rather than doing the right thing covered their asses and ran for the hills. I have information which I will reveal for first time on May 15th that will show that mine officials lied at Inquiry which was set up to investigate the tragedy. I was 26 and scared when this happened. In time before internet I had to rely on others to tell my story. But not anymore…. Even now 22 years later the government is throwing up roadblocks in my investigation. I cannot even see my full statement to RCMP that I made on May 27th when I blew the whistle only one heavily redacted. Hard to believe but like I have said many times over the years the truth will set you free.