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Gold Fields findings out today

Vusi Ndlovu

Vusi Ndlovu

Mining giant Gold Fields is expected to present its findings today on the mine's safety after the closure of three of their shafts last week.

The mine shut down operations after the death of nine workers on International Workers Day, last Thursday.

The Department of Minerals and Energy Affairs, National Union of Mineworkers (Num) and mine authorities held a joint media briefing on Friday to announce the suspension of operations at South Deep, Kloof and Driefontein - all in Randfontein on Gauteng's West Rand.

The workers died when they plunged 58metres into a shaft after the cable on their conveyance snapped.

Department chief operator of mines Thabo Gazi said yesterday they were expecting mine authorities to present the report and they would then take a decision on whether the mine would resume operations.

"Tomorrow (Monday) the mine will come back with the report and present it to us - especially the mine inspectorate who are regulators of health and safety standards on the mines".

Gazi challenged Num to come forward with evidence after the union alleged that the mine ordered workers back underground on Saturday.

Attempts to get comment from Gold Fields proved fruitless last night.

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