AFL-CIO rips company that owns site of deadly mine blast

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AFL-CIO rips company that owns site of deadly mine blast
By Jordan Fabian - 04/06/10 05:09 PM ET


One of the largest labor groups in the country Tuesday tore into the company that owns the West Virginia mine where an explosion killed 25 workers.

AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka issued a stinging statement just one day after the explosion, pinning the blame on Massey Energy Comapny, which owns the Upper Big Branch Mine, site of the worst mining disaster in over 20 years.

"This incident isn’t just a matter of happenstance, but rather the inevitable result of a profit-driven system and reckless corporate conduct," Trumka said. "Many mining companies have given too little attention to safety over the years and too much to the bottom line."

The AFL-CIO has long sparred with Massey, which does not use union workers. The United Mine Workers of America falls under the AFL-CIO's umbrella.

Investigators from congressional committees, as well as the federal government, have been dispatched to the mine, which will likely bring up questions about the adequacy of the country's mining laws.

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http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/90843-afl-cio-rips-company-that-owns-site-of-deadly-mine-blast