Three people trapped in B.C.'s Red Chris mine, Premier David Eby says

Three miners have been trapped underground at British Columbia's Red Chris copper and gold mine.

B.C. Premier David Eby released the news at the end of the premiers' gathering in Ontario.

Eby said to the best of the government's knowledge the workers are uninjured and in a refuge area at the mine in B.C.'s northern Interior.

The premier said they are in contact with the mine's owner which is working with world-leading mining rescue experts.

"B.C. miners are the best in the world. Our rescue teams are exceptional, and they will be working overtime to bring these workers home safely to their families," he said.

He said two of the workers are from B.C. and another is from Ontario.

Eby said he had spoken to Ontario Premier Doug Ford about the situation and was keeping his government up to date.

"Obviously it's very concerning for the families, for the workers in the sector and British Columbians and Canadians and our thoughts are with the families and appreciation with the incredibly brave rescue teams that are working right now," he said.

Eby said that the accident happened overnight, but a spokesman for the premier later clarified that it occurred earlier Tuesday.