Hon Deputy Speaker, the ANC welcomes the statements by the recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Anglo American, Ms Cynthia Carroll that all companies within that group will, with immediate effect, put the safety of miners before profits.
We support all companies that make the safety of their workers a fundamental part of their operations, and are thus heartened by the statement of the CEO of Anglo that effective management of safety will be a requirement for those management members who wish to make progress in that company.
The ANC recognises that this is the first time that a large mining conglomerate has directly linked its fortunes to the transformation of reality in our country, South Africa.
The mining industry, as we all know, is a particularly hazardous and gruelling industry and there have been many and notable instances where greater adherence to safety standards could have saved hundreds of lives. Fatal and other accidents continue to occur on the mines, despite the fact that the ANC has sought to improve conditions of employment through rigorous health and safety legislation and other measures. Thank you, hon Deputy Speaker.