My husband was killed in an explosion
- Details
- Published on Friday, 21 February 2014 18:20
- Written by editor
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Premier Clark: Call an Independent Inquiry into tragic Babine Forest Products sawmill explosion. Our families deserve answers.
Sign Maureen's Petition
The night my husband was killed, the phone rang constantly with people telling me there had been an explosion at the Babine Forest Products (BFP) sawmill where he worked. Next came the visit from mill representatives saying he was missing. My three kids and I waited all night in the hospital emergency room hoping he'd show up.
My husband's surviving co-workers said it was a disaster waiting to happen. Men on the day shift smelled gas and reported it. The fans were not working, posing a fire hazard. It was so cold out that night, the water pipes were frozen. Management was allegedly aware of these issues yet the mill remained opened. A few hours into the night shift, my husband Robert F. Luggi Jr and cousin Carl Charlie were killed and 20 other workers suffered serious injuries when a fireball tore through the mill.
We need your help. It's been two years that our families have waited for answers and we are still seeking justice. The BC Criminal Justice Branch announced they will not pursue charges against Babine Forest Products, despite the fact that they have evidence showing charges could be laid and the explosion was preventable. Why? Because the investigation into the explosion done by Worksafe BC was conducted improperly and therefore the evidence can't be submitted.
I am in disbelief that my loved ones had to die in this way, that 20 others were injured, and now, because of a flawed investigation no one will be held responsible. Even worse, last week, BC Premier Clark told us she would not be reviewing the matter further. Please sign my petition demanding Premier Clark call an independent inquiry into the Worksafe BC's investigation, so that justice can be done and our families can have real answers.
How can workers in BC feel safe after two deaths and no accountability? Worksafe BC is a crown corporation controlled by the government, so it is crucial that Premier Clark call an independent inquiry so families can be assured of neutrality in the investigation.
BC NDP opposition leader Adrian Dix has already spoken out in favour of an independent inquiry and this week First Nations chiefs from across the province voiced their strong support as well. I believe that if tens of thousands of British Columbians speak out, Christy Clark will reverse her decision and our families will have justice.
Campaigning has helped me cope with Robert's death. I cannot accept Christy Clark's answer that because of Worksafe BC's mistakes no one will be held accountable. Please sign and share my petition and help me, my family, and my community finally have closure.
Thank you,
Maureen Luggi
Former Chief of the Wet'suwet'en First Nation
Sign Maureen's Petition
Mailing Address: 216 West 104th Street, Suite #130 · New York, NY 10025 · USA
