THE HUNTLY DISASTER.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 50, 2 March 1915, Page 2

THE HUNTLY DISASTER.

MINE MANAGER CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER. Pkb Press Association. Hamilton, March 1. In a charge to the Grand Jury at I the opening of the Supreme Court this morning, Judge Cooper traversed at length the manslaughter charge against Fletcher, mine manager at Huntly. After placing the broad features of the indictment before them, His Honor said the case was of great importance, and it was the duty of the jury to go carefully into the evidence to see if a prima facie case was made out. ihe case was of great importance to the general public. Miners and all underground workers were entitled to protection which science had proved could he given to minimise the danger attending such dangerous occupation. They were entitled to have it for their ow n protection, and to have the duties cast upon those in authority satisfactorily performed. There were indications in this case that those duties had not been satisfactorily performed, and the question was whether the mine manager was to be held responsible for the ensuing result. If a true bill were returned the accused would have the opportunity of showing the jury that they had been properly performed. The case was one that should be thoroughly investigated in the interest of mine managers, of miners, and the public generally. If a true bill were returned a. special jury would take the case to see that complete justice was done to all.