MEDIA RELEASE
January 17, 2014
CSTC is calling for a fully independent review of the Babine Mill disaster (PDF Version)
Dakelh Territory, Prince George, B.C. – The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC) is disappointed to learn that no one will be accountable for the explosion in 2012 that killed Lake Babine First Nation member Carl Charlie and Stellat’en First Nation member Robert Luggi Jr. (Stellat’en is a member of the CSTC). The two victims were among many other workers who suffered injuries at the Babine Forest Products Sawmill accident that was deemed preventable by WorkSafe BC. On January 10, BC Crown Counsel released its Clear Statement that no charges will be approved against Babine Forest Products (BFP). After a two year investigation the families of those who lost loved ones, or were injured, while on the job, are left wondering if there will be any justice and assurances that such an accident will never happen again.
Tribal Chief Teegee stated, “Our thoughts are with the families who will continue to grieve. The Luggi and Charlie families have deep roots with the Carrier Sekani peoples.” He added, “The CSTC will continue to support the families in their time of need.” Robert Luggi Jr. was the husband of former Chief Maureen Luggi of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation, who also was a board member of the CSTC.
“The CSTC believe there needs’ to be an independent investigation into the Babine Forest Products mill explosion” said Chief Teegee. Teegee added, “For many of the families this decision from the Crown Counsel not to proceed is a miscarriage of justice and many of the families have to endure the pain of their loss once again to see no justice or accountability.” Teegee concluded, “There will be no closure until these families receive answers and justice for an accident that has changed so many lives.” While the Premier has asked her government to look into the incident further, it does not mean it will result in independent results.
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Media contacts: Tribal Chief Terry Teegee: Office (250) 562-6279. Cell: (250) 640-3256
Dakelh Territory, Prince George, B.C. – The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC) is disappointed to learn that no one will be accountable for the explosion in 2012 that killed Lake Babine First Nation member Carl Charlie and Stellat’en First Nation member Robert Luggi Jr. (Stellat’en is a member of the CSTC). The two victims were among many other workers who suffered injuries at the Babine Forest Products Sawmill accident that was deemed preventable by WorkSafe BC. On January 10, BC Crown Counsel released its Clear Statement that no charges will be approved against Babine Forest Products (BFP). After a two year investigation the families of those who lost loved ones, or were injured, while on the job, are left wondering if there will be any justice and assurances that such an accident will never happen again.