The Northern Ireland Assembly has taken steps this month to ensure that sufferers of pleural plaques will be compensated, by introducing The Damages (Asbestos-related Conditions) Bill.

Earlier this year the Government firmly rejected campaigners' calls for it to overturn the 2007 House of Lords' ruling in Johnson v NEI International Combustion Ltd, that compensation for pleural plaques would no longer be paid.

In contrast, the Scottish Parliament introduced legislation meaning that sufferers can be compensated and it seems that Ireland will follow their lead.

Although having pleural plaques does not cause a person to have symptoms, it is evidence that they have been exposed to asbestos. As a result of that exposure they will be at risk of developing a more serious asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis or pleural thickening.

Understandably, this causes those who have been diagnosed with pleural plaques a great deal of anxiety and distress.

It is disappointing that the Government has not done as the Irish Assembly is doing and followed Scotland's lead.

Tell us what you think

All documents should be read and used in accordance with the terms and conditions. This document is for your general information only and is not a detailed statement of the law. It is provided to you free of charge and should not be used as a substitute for specific legal advice. If you require specific legal advice please contact our helpline on 03700 86 86 86.