Rumours circulating among Gujarat NRE Coking Coal workers yesterday that underground mining operations at Russell Vale and Wongawilli had been withdrawn were quickly quashed by company representatives and union officials.
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Workers contacted the Mercury yesterday to say they had heard only skeleton staff were being allowed underground amid safety concerns, however CFMEU south-western district vice-president Bob Timbs said the union was satisfied both Gujarat mines were safe for work.
He said an industry inspector had been inspecting both mines on a weekly basis.
"There's certainly no safety concerns that have been brought to the attention of the union," Mr Timbs said.
He also said all insurance and accident rescue services relating to underground coalminers were covered by legislation.
Meantime, after several technical difficulties over the transfer of funds from the Industry Long Services Leave Corporation, Mr Timbs confirmed all hardship payments of about $1200 had now been made to CFMEU members, with payments to remaining staff to follow.
