[Greens-Media] Baryulgil Asbestos Victims Deserve Justice

[Dominika Rajewski]

Media Release								19 August 2005


Baryulgil Asbestos Victims Deserve Justice

Indigenous people from the former asbestos-mining town of Baryulgil continue to die of asbestos-related illnesses while just compensation eludes them, said Greens MLC Ian Cohen today.

"The Indigenous community of Baryulgil must not be forgotten. James Hardie Industries keep raking in big profits. They have a moral obligation to adequately compensate communities" Mr Cohen said.

James Hardie Industries today announced an increase of more than 50 per cent in its US first-quarter profit.

Members of the Baryulgil community will be protesting today outside James Hardie's shareholder meeting in Sydney, demanding justice for those affected by the ravages of asbestos mining near their town. The asbestos mine operated from 1941 to 1979.

"Many residents and former residents of Baryulgil have died from unexplained illnesses. The younger generation, who were never involved in the mining of asbestos, suffer from pleural plaque, pulmonary diseases and various types of cancer. Asbestos tailings are still present in and around the town, including the school" said Mr Cohen. 

Mr Cohen urged the NSW Government not to forget the people of Baryulgil.

"There needs to be ongoing and comprehensive medical support for the community affected by asbestos. There have been numerous enquiries into the health and environment of the community, but little long term action" said Mr Cohen. 







Further Information: Ian Cohen, 9230 2603 or 0409 989 466


Dominika Rajewski
Policy & Legislation Adviser
Ian Cohen, MLC
NSW Parliament
e. dominika.rajewski at parliament.nsw.gov.au
ph. (02) 9230 2204
fax (02) 9230 2267