A judge from UK April 2024 was fixed as the trial date against BHP The Fundo Dam collapse in 2015 resulted in an estimated compensation of around £10 billion (US$12 billion).
The eight-week trial is coming nearly nine years after a dam failure unleashed sewage that killed 19 people and polluted waterways in two Brazilian states.
“Given the scale and nature of the case, it is not surprising that there have been challenges, appeals and modifications to the claims,” Judge Finola O’Farrell said in a decision released Wednesday. “However, now is the time to avoid further delays and make substantial progress in resolving the dispute.”
Listed current and former executives of BHP LondonMore than 400,000 Brazilian claimants will face cross-examination over their roles in the disaster, according to Pogust Goodhead, a firm that is litigating on behalf of more than 400,000 Brazilian claimants. The firm estimates this is the largest group case in English civil court history.
BHP said in an emailed opinion that the hearing, scheduled for April 2024, will not discuss any compensation and that no decision has been made about BHP’s alleged liability or when to pay the plaintiffs.
“PHP completely denies the claims of the English plaintiffs, and we believe that this is unnecessary as it duplicates issues already covered by the existing and ongoing work of the Renova Foundation under the supervision of the Brazilian courts – or the subjects of the current legal proceedings. Brazil”, says the company.
BHP recently made a request ok Share liability if you lose a UK class action.
Vel was not mentioned in the case even though he managed the dam SamargoA joint venture between the two mining companies.
Vale said its legal advisers will carefully consider the details and submit its response in a timely and appropriate manner.
Henry Blackwell is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. His work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism.