Following a judgment from the Supreme Court allowing asbestos victims to pursue the insurers of their employers who exposed them for compensation, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) has called for more support from the Government for sick and dying workers.

“Finally, after six years of farce, what had previously been clearly understood has been confirmed, that the insurer at the time the worker was exposed to asbestos should be pursued for compensation,” said Karl Tonks, APIL’s vice-president.

“Mesothelioma is a bitter reminder of our industrial past and it is time more support is given to these people who are suffering and dying as a consequence of simply going to work.

“Those affected by the Supreme Court’s judgment are at least fortunate enough to have found their former employers’ insurers, but hundreds of other victims find that their former employers’ insurance records are lost or have been destroyed, leaving them unable to pursue the compensation they need to help them through their last days.

“Sick and dying workers who are unable to make a claim are effectively subsidising the insurance companies who have already taken premiums but cannot be found. Victims have been waiting for nearly two years for action on this from the Government, after the previous administration agreed that an insurance fund of last resort should be established. Victims and their suffering families desperately need action before more people die waiting for compensation”.

If you know anyone affected by this and any industrial disease contact us at TM law for our expertise in bringing your personal injury claim before it is too late.