May 6, 2013 – Two communities in Canada, Thetford Mines and Asbestos, were recently shocked when the federal government pulled the plug on funds they were set to receive to restart their town’s asbestos industries. This is encouraging news for the mesothelioma community as it is one of several encouraging steps the Canadian government has taken or is set to take to put an end to its deadly asbestos industry.
For years, Canada has been among the leading producers of asbestos around the world. Despite the known health hazards of the toxic material and the efforts of advocates for its ban, the Canadian asbestos industry has continued to export the material to countries where workers are uneducated, untrained and unprotected from asbestos exposure. Despite criticism, the Canadian government was providing financial assistance to the Chrysotile Institute to help this organization support and advertise the use of asbestos. Interestingly, however, notwithstanding Canada’s outward stubborn disregard for scientific proof of the dangers of asbestos, Canadians rarely use the substance within their own country. In fact, they have gone to great efforts to remove the hazardous material from buildings throughout the country, including schools and factories, and even their Parliament buildings.
Moreover, in 2012, Premier Jean Charest issued a financial promise of a $58 million dollar loan to rebuild and revitalize the asbestos industry. The recent election and change of political power in the country, however, has also changed the fate of that pledge very quickly. Newly elected Premier of Quebec, Pauline Marois, has accepted the scientific findings indicating the dangers and health hazards associated with asbestos and has acknowledged the criticism that Canada has been experiencing for exporting thousands of tons of the dangerous material to developing countries such as Indonesia and India. As a result, she has revoked the loan commitment. In addition, Canada has agreed to stop resisting the inclusion of chrysotile asbestos in the Rotterdam Convention’s list of toxic substances. A United Nations Treaty, the Rotterdam Convention requires that exporters of listed hazardous materials utilize proper labeling, provide directions on safe handling, and inform purchasers of any known restrictions or bans.
Several weeks ago, the final federal budget was revealed and the funds that were to support the asbestos industry have been redirected to aid in recovery of the asbestos towns through non-asbestos-related endeavors. The Canadian government’s Economic Action Plan 2013 proposes $50 million over seven years to help the towns make a new start, diversify their economy and create new jobs after decades of relying on the asbestos industry to stay afloat.
New Jersey Asbestos Lawyers at Shein Law: Dedicated Professionals Helping Victims Suffering from Asbestos-Related Illnesses
If you or someone you love is suffering from the devastating effects of asbestos exposure and have developed mesothelioma, lung cancer or any other asbestos-related disease, we encourage you to call the New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Shein Law. We have extensive experience in representing victims and their families in pursuit of justice. Our compassionate legal team of asbestos lawyers will support you through the complex and difficult litigation process. With offices in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we represent clients throughout both states. For a thorough review of your case, call us today at 1-877-SheinLaw (1-877-743-4652) to schedule a free consultation at a location convenient to you and your family or contact us online.