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WorkSafe defends $12.5m external legal bill for Whakaari trial

The safety regulator said it was one of the most complex legal cases in New Zealand history.

Whakaari/White Island.

Key points
  • What’s at stake: Safety regulator WorkSafe has spent $12.5 million on external fees over three year's relating to the Whakaari/White Island disaster.
  • Background: WorkSafe filed charges against 13 parties in 2020 following the Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, which killed 22 people. 
  • Main players: WorkSafe, Sid Wellik, Meredith Connell, Kristy McDonald KC, Public Service Association. 

Safety regulator WorkSafe has spent at least $12.5 million on external legal fees relating to the Whakaari trial, figures released under the Official Information Act reveal. 

Whakaari/White Island erupted in December 2019, killing 22 people and injuring 25 others who were on the Bay of Plenty island

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Nicholas Pointon Thu, 16 Nov 2023
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Key points
  • What’s at stake: Safety regulator WorkSafe has spent $12.5 million on external fees over three year's relating to the Whakaari/White Island disaster.
  • Background: WorkSafe filed charges against 13 parties in 2020 following the Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, which killed 22 people. 
  • Main players: WorkSafe, Sid Wellik, Meredith Connell, Kristy McDonald KC, Public Service Association. 
WorkSafe defends $12.5m external legal bill for Whakaari trial
Law,
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