All charges against the three parties charged by the Department over the Pike River tragedy have been adjourned until 27 March 2012 in order that initial discovery may be completed.

No pleas were entered today. No parties charged were present, but each was represented by Legal Counsel

Those facing charges are Peter Whittall, former CEO of Pike River Coal Ltd (in receivership); Pike River Coal Ltd (in receivership); and Valley Longwall International Drilling Pty.