Caerphilly’s Labour AM Jeff Cuthbert has expressed sympathy with the families of the 29 miners killed in the Pike River mining disaster in New Zealand.
Two British citizens were among those who died after a second explosion ripped through the mine where they were trapped. The first explosion is believed to have occurred on Friday.
New Zealand has now entered a period of national mourning.
Mr Cuthbert said: “As a former mining engineer myself, I know how dangerous some operations can be. We have come very far in terms of safety and technology over the years, but unfortunately devastating accidents still happen in what is a highly dangerous occupation.
“Wales has a long and proud history of mining, and that includes Caerphilly, the Aber Valley and the Rhymney Valley. However, on far too many occasions in the past we have had to mourn those who have died underground – the second Universal Colliery disaster in Senghenydd remains the worst to have ever happened in Britain in terms of lives lost.
“I’m sure the people of Caerphilly will join me in sending their deepest sympathies to the bereaved families of the New Zealand miners at this extremely difficult time.”
Mr Cuthbert has issued a written Statement of Opinion in the Welsh Assembly, calling on all AMs to do the same.