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Thompsons Solicitors
Right to Pleural Plaques Compensation Restored in Northern Ireland
5th April 2011
The Northern Ireland Assembly has made the welcome decision to restore the right to compensation for people in Northern Ireland diagnosed with the asbestos-related condition, pleural plaques.
Asbestos Related Condition
Pleural plaques is one of several conditions that can be caused by exposure to asbestos. Those with the condition have areas of scarring on the lining of the lungs, signifying that they have been permanently damaged by asbestos. Many victims were exposed to asbestos at work, without protection, at a time when employers were well aware of the dangers.
Although it is rare for the condition to cause any symptoms, anyone diagnosed with pleural plaques is at an increased risk of developing more serious illnesses such as mesothelioma, a fatal form of lung cancer. This can cause a great deal of anxiety and uncertainty.
Right to Compensation
In previous years pleural plaques sufferers could claim compensation if the exposure to asbestos was caused by the negligence of someone else, such as an employer. In 2007 however the House of Lords ended the right to compensation for pleural plaques, which came as a blow to thousands of people living with the condition.
The right to compensation in Scotland has already been restored by the Scottish Parliament and the Northern Ireland Assembly has now passed The Damages (Asbestos Related Conditions) Bill NI. Unfortunately pleural plaques sufferers in England and Wales are presently unable to claim compensation, except for a limited number of people who are entitled to apply to a government scheme before 1 August 2011 if they had brought, but not resolved, a legal claim prior to the House of Lords decision in 2007.
Industrial Disease Advice
If you are suffering from an asbestos-related illness, or any other industrial disease, our lawyers can provide you with expert assistance.
Contact The Legal Line on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online, for cost-free, confidential advice on your potential claim.
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