The following is in response to the proposal made by the bereaved families, SHARPS (Supporters for the Health And Rights of People in the Semiconductor Industry) and Rep. Sim Sang Jeung who held a joint press conference on April 9, 2014 about former employees who died or are suffering from allegedly rare workplace-related diseases after working at Samsung Electronics.” Samsung statement regarding deaths and illnesses of its factory workers.

The PR officer of Samsung the Netherlands sent GoodElectronics the official Samsung statement regarding the deaths and illnesses of its factory workers.

Samsung’s growth has been possible because of our former and current employees’ dedication and hard work, and in the process there have been some who had to deal with such suffering. It is truly sad and heart-breaking for us. 

We could have been more diligent in addressing the hardship and sorrow of former employees and the families of the deceased. 

We feel regret that a solution for this delicate matter has not been found in a timely manner, and we would like to use this opportunity to express our sincerest apology to the affected people. 

We would like to assure you that we stand ready to resolve the issue with the concerned parties with utmost sincerity. 

We wholeheartedly accept the proposal and will make due compensation for former employees battling illness and the families of the deceased. In accordance to the proposal, all parties will discuss the set up of an impartial independent mediating group.  

If and when the independent mediator determines the criteria and eligibility for compensation, Samsung will fully comply with the guideline. 

We seek detailed suggestions from the family members, SHARPS, and Rep. Sim on how best to proceed with the proposed negotiations.  

We will also conduct a thorough examination on the safety and health conditions of our semiconductor facilities through an independent professional organization. Based on the findings, we will establish measures to prevent recurrences of health issues.  

Furthermore, we will withdraw our participation as a Party of Interest in the lawsuits filed by our employees and their families against Korea Workers’ Compensation & Welfare Service.  

With our acceptance of this proposal, we hope this issue can soon be resolved amicably and help relieve the pains of our concerned employees and their families.

According to the Dutch press officer, there’s no press release.