Asbestos Victims are far from Forgotten

Date published: 29/04/2005

At least 5000 people in the UK and 100,000 people worldwide die each year of asbestos related disease, and Rochdale is no stranger to these deaths. Because of the number of unfortunate people that have previously had their lives taken, dozens of people attended a candlelit vigil outside Rochdale Town Hall this week to pay their respects, and to commemorate International Workers' Memorial Day.

Rochdale Election Candidates Paul Rowen and Lorna Fitzsimons both supported calls for a permanent memorial to all those who have suffered as a result of asbestos exposure.

Short poems and talks were given together with a minute's silence to remember all who have suffered from asbestos exposure. At least 5000 people in the UK and 100,000 people worldwide die each year of asbestos related disease.

Rochdale was a poignant setting for this year's Workers Memorial Day because until 1948, the town was home to the headquarters of the world's largest asbestos company- Turner & Newall (T&N). Decisions made from the Rochdale offices of T&N have affected the lives of hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.

Jason Addy, co-ordinator of Save Spodden Valley said, "The story of asbestos appears to be one of denial, aggressive tactics and avoidance of responsibility. This still seems true in 2005."

"In 1924, when indisputable medical evidence was presented to the asbestos company the directors replied with 'media spin' about what a wonderful company they were and how they received government praise.   Does this sound familiar in 2005?

In 1924, the asbestos company aggressively denied liability. They wrote: "We repudiate the term 'asbestos poisoning'. Asbestos is not poisonous and  no definition or knowledge of such a disease exists".

Jason added: “Could such 'weasel words' to avoid liability for potentially dangerous activity be used in 2005?”

As she became ill in late 1922, Nellie Kershaw pleaded her employer to allow a payment of sickness benefit. Jason states that the company never paid a penny. “Nellie Kershaw lies in an unmarked 'paupers' grave in Rochdale cemetery. She died aged 33- a mother to 2 children.” He said.

"On Workers Memorial Day 2005, we ask that a simple stone be placed in Rochdale's memorial garden to remember all the victims of asbestos disease.”