Statement from AWU regarding Mt Isa incident

Statement from AWU Queensland Secretary Stacey Schinnerl regarding two workers injured at the Mount Isa Mines Copper Smelter:

"We are very concerned by the incident at Glencore’s copper smelter in Mount Isa," said Ms Schinnerl.

"Our officials are in constant contact with our members, the company and the inspectorate as this investigation begins to take place.

"Every worker deserves to come home safe, and these two workers tragically have not.

"Tough questions need to be asked about how an incident like this has occurred.

"Out of respect for the workers involved, their families, workmates and their friends, we will not be making further comment until we receive reports from the inspectorate.

ENDS

Background:

 The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) is one of Queensland’s oldest and largest blue collar trade unions.

Hundreds of workers at Mount Isa Mines are members of the AWU, which includes the copper smelter where this incident has taken place.

Media Contact: Joey Kaiser (0401 098 484)