I'm starting to find the real information relating to the recent near mine disaster in Chile which, to a large extent, was turned into a positive public relations event for the Chilean mining industry and government. I will continue to find information that has been covered up by billionaire President Sebastián Piñera of Chile, corporate media, and mining interests.
While mining in Chile is generally dangerous, this mine in particular has a history of mining accidents that have killed and injured workers. In 2004, the miners union petitioned for the closure of the mine over its dismal safety record. The petition was driven by the death of miner Pedro Gonzalez from a rock fall. The union’s demand was denied by a Chilean appeals court. In 2007, before the closure of the mine, workers at the mine once again petitioned for its closure, following the death of three miners. Once again, the petition was denied by the courts.