EWN reports that the mining companies facing a class action lawsuit to compensate miners afflicted with silicosis have provisionally set aside between $30 million and $100 million for a possible settlement.
They say the matter is being handled out of court. The companies involved include Sibanye Gold, Harmony Gold, African Rainbow Minerals, Anglo American SA, AngloGold Ashanti and Gold Fields. The mining companies involved, known as the industry working group, do not believe they are liable in respect of the claims brought, but have indicated they are committed to finding solutions to what they have called “a legacy issue” in the sector. Spokesperson for the working group, Allan Fine, commented that “neither the companies nor claimants believe it would be best to pursue this through the courts for the next 10 to 15 years.”
- Read this report by EWN
- Read too, Sibanye Gold sets aside R1.1bn for possible silicosis settlement, at EWN
- And also, Silicosis lawsuit: Mining companies hope to settle out of court, at EWN
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