Aberfan: Government and Disaster

On October 21, 1966, a mountainside coal tip collapsed in Aberfan, Wales, killing 116 children and 28 adults. The disaster is widely recognized as the definitive study of the event, and this revised second edition explains how and why it happened and why nobody was held responsible. The authors reveal how the National Coal Board, civil servants, and government ministers failed to protect the public interest, particularly the interests of the people of Aberfan. They also consider what has been learned or ignored from Aberfan, such as the understanding of psychological trauma and the law concerning "corporate manslaughter."

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 31 October 2019
\n Publisher: Welsh Academic Press
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On the 21st of October in 1966, a tragic incident occurred when a mountainside coal tip collapsed, resulting in the loss of 116 children and 28 adults. This devastating event engulfed homes and a portion of a school in the village of Aberfan, situated below. The impact of this tragedy has left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless individuals in Wales and beyond, forever etching itself into their memories.

Aberfan - Government & Disaster, widely regarded as the definitive account of the disaster, has undergone a revised and updated second edition. Through meticulous research of confidential public records, which were previously withheld under the UK Governments 30-year rule, the authors, Iain McLean and Martin Johnes, have shed light on the circumstances surrounding the disaster and the absence of any accountability for those responsible.

The authors reveal how the National Coal Board, civil servants, and government ministers, who were entrusted with safeguarding the public interest, particularly the well-being of the people of Aberfan, failed in their duty. They explore the underlying factors that led to this calamity, including the lack of proper regulations, oversight, and accountability mechanisms.

Furthermore, Aberfan - Government & Disaster delves into the lessons learned or overlooked from this tragedy. It examines the understanding of psychological trauma and its impact on individuals and communities. It also explores the legal implications surrounding corporate manslaughter, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and holding corporations accountable for their actions.

This revised and updated second edition of Aberfan - Government & Disaster, now solely focused on Aberfan, serves as a powerful testament to the ongoing importance of learning from history and ensuring public safety. It emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and proactive measures to prevent such disasters from occurring in the future.

The tragedy of Aberfan remains a haunting reminder of the human cost of industrialization and the urgent need for responsible governance and safety measures. It serves as a catalyst for reflection, dialogue, and action to prevent similar tragedies from repeating in the future.

\n Weight: 374g\n
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 14 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781860571336\n
Edition number: 2 Revised edition\n