27 Mar 2023

High Court to release judgment for families of Pike River disaster

From Midday Report, 12:11 pm on 27 March 2023

The Pike River families are expected to be allowed access to documents showing why health and safety charges against former chief executive Peter Whittall were dropped, and a compensation payment was instead made.

RNZ has seen the Wellington High Court judgment - now the families are trying to clarify when exactly the full file will be released - that includes documents, audio, and transcripts.

The court judgment says it's important there's transparency, and not false speculation and misunderstanding.

Former ombudsman Leo Donnelly - who's been informally assisting the families - spoke to Max Towle.