THE COLLIERY DISASTER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIII, Issue 19502, 4 December 1926, Page 10

THE COLLIERY DISASTER.

A very sad reminder of the dangers that beset workers in coalmines is given by the tragic disaster in the Dobson mine. Coal-hewing is not the only perilous occupation, nor has it failed to profit by the in ventiveness that in recent years has been devoted to safeguarding life in all industries, but it remains among those in which sudden accident may bring death to many. To the possibility of instantaneous death, mercifully swift, is added the risk that, suddenly and completely overwhelmed in the bowels of the earth, cut off from air and light and food, the miners may have to face a fate that menaces them slowly, extinguishing hope by painful degrees as it gradually yet surely advances. There is often a corres ponding tragedy of agony at the pitmouth, where the torture of fear for their loved ones is made excruciating for the victims' relatives by alternating hope of rescue. , These things give colliery disasters their peculiarly poignant appeal. to sympathy. Throughout the Dominion, and beyond it, there is felt to-day a very deep and sincere concern for those who have been suddenly bereaved by this: sorrowful event. There is a measure of consolation in the certainty tha.t, in this instance, the entombed men have been spared the pain of protracted suffering, and there is a place for quiet pride in the rescue parties' splendid efforts, daring beyond praise; but the prevailing emotion lis that of mingled grief and sympathy. To all whose lives have been shadowed by the untoward happening a heartfelt compassion will be everywhere extended.