SUDBURY - Glencore Canada Corporation faces two charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act following the Oct. 20, 2015 death of underground miner Richard Pigeau, the Ministry of Labour confirmed.
Richard Pigeau, 54, who was described as a “kind, caring, genuine, hardworking, fun loving, gentle soul” by those who loved him most, was killed at the 1,660-metre level of Glencore's Nickel Rim South Mine when he was struck by a piece of equipment.
In the wake of Pigeau's death, the Ministry of Labour investigated the incident. And now the ministry is accusing the mining company of not being as cooperative as it could have with the investigation.
Glencore is facing charges of hindering and/or obstructing, and/or interfering with an inspector in the execution of a warrant issued under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and of failing to furnish all necessary means in the person's power to facilitate a search, investigation, examination or inquiry by an inspector in the execution of a warrant.
Ministry of Labour spokesperson Janet Deline said the province laid the charges on June 22 following the execution of a warrant on April 18.
The ministry could lay more charges against Glencore before Oct. 20, 2016.
Representatives with the company are scheduled to make a first Ontario Court of Justice appearance at Tom Davies Square on Aug. 12.
If convicted the company can face a maximum fine of $500,000 per charge. The ministry cannot lay criminal charges through the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Anne-Marie MacInnis, president of Mine Mill Local 598/Unifor, which participated in a joint investigation with Glencore following Pigeau's death, said the company had not contacted the union about the details of the charges.
MacInnis said she could not comment on the charges themselves, but said the union will do all it can to ensure its members are safe and go home to their families after their shifts.
Sudbury.com contacted Glencore about the charges, but did not receive a response by deadline.
