The chairman of mining giant Rio Tinto will step down within the next year, claiming responsibility for the destruction of the 46,000-year-old Juukan Gorge caves in Western Australia last year.
In a statement from the company, Simon Thompson apologised for the destruction of two sacred sites, blown up in the course of mine expansion.
“As chairman, I am ultimately accountable for the failings that led to this tragic event,” read the statement.
“The tragic events at Juukan Gorge are a source of personal sadness and deep regret, as well as being a clear breach of our values as a company.