Asbestos compensation set to rise

Hundreds of terminally ill Northern Ireland cancer patients who contracted asbestos-related diseases at work will be able to claim full compensation under new legislation.

Employers who exposed their workers to the deadly substance will face full liability for compensating victims of lung disease mesothelioma under the Compensation Act.

This move follows a lobbying campaign and lengthy legal wrangle by sufferers. Introduction of legislation by the Department of Constitutional Affairs followed Prime Minister Tony Blair's intervention. He pledged to overturn last May's Law Lords ruling that damages should be limited in cases where several employers are involved.

An estimated 80-100 victims die from asbestos-related illnesses in Northern Ireland every year.

Head of Asbestos and Industrial Diseases at Irwin Mitchell, Adrian Budgen said,

We welcome all changes in the legislation that mean mesothelioma sufferers receive the justice they deserve and no longer have to fight to receive compensation for their illness.

Do you have claim? If you or someone you know has been effected by asbestos, our solicitors can help with your claim for compensation. Visit our asbestos compensation section.