The tragedy at Pike River Coal mine is being felt by the whole country and around the world.

 It is rare that New Zealand has an industrial mishap of this magnitude. The mining industry in New Zealand contributes much to the economy. And its close and supportive communities are a lesson to us all.

Soon there will be a Royal Commission and other investigations into how this tragedy happened. Let us hope the answers bring some solace to the families, peace to all who have been so deeply involved and accountability.

As Energy Minister Gerry Brownlee said “we’re very determined to find out what happened here and how it happened and why it happened.”-Doug Green