UN officials extend condolences following Turkish coal mine tragedy

United Nations officials have offered their condolences to the families affected by the coal mine explosion in the town of Soma in western Turkey that reportedly resulted in at least 245 deaths.

“I am immensely saddened at the deaths of so many miners in Turkey,” Guy Ryder, the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), said in a statement. “On behalf of the ILO, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. We are with them in their sorrow.

“Our thoughts are also with those who were injured and we trust they will be provided with all necessary assistance for their recovery. We also extend our support to those involved in the rescue operations,” he added.

Mr. Ryder noted that Tuesday’s tragedy is a reminder of “the paramount importance of occupational safety and health in the mining sector,” and that the ILO stands ready to provide continued support to ensure the safety of workers in line with international standards and to prevent future accidents.

Also, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will be sending a letter to the President of Turkey on the mining tragedy.

“He will offer condolences to the impacted families and the Government of Turkey,” UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric told reporters in New York.