Nov 13 (Reuters) - BHP Billiton (L:BLT) Ltd BHP.AX :
* Update - incident at samarco BHP.AX
* Samarco has advised that, at this stage, there are nine fatalities
* Says minimising the environmental impact of this incident is also a priority
* Samarco employees have been put on paid leave and options are being considered by samarco for managing the workforce longer term
* Also advised that four people previously unaccounted for have been found and 19 people remain unaccounted for
* Says co and vale have pledged to support samarco in establishing an emergency fund for community support and rebuilding works
* Says samarco is continuing to monitor the impacted tailings facilities, including the germano dam.
* Says samarco and representatives of BHP Billiton and vale are meeting with lead insurers in Brazil this week
* Samarco operations were immediately stopped following the incident and samarco's operating licence has been suspended
* Samarco operations will remain suspended as authorities commence investigations and rectification work plans are developed
* Says samarco is continuing to monitor the impacted tailings facilities, including the germano dam
* Says samarco is working with relevant authorities to manage river water quality and ensure availability of potable water
* Local authorities have advised that through the emergency response, 637 people have been evacuated and temporary accommodation has been provided
* Source text for Eikon ID:nASX45n8kX
*