A former plasterer, who worked for Chester College, has received £45,000
after developing an asbestos related disease.
The provisional settlement for pleural thickening will allow Anthony Martin,
from Blacon, Cheshire, to re-open the claim at any point, as he now stands at
risk of developing the fatal cancer mesothelioma.
The 65-year-old grandfather, who struggles to breathe and walk, was
exposed to asbestos while working as a trained plasterer at Chester College,
now Chester University.
The UNISON member worked at the college for 36 years before he retired.
During this time, he helped a joiner insulate the college theatre roof, using
asbestos, but was not given any protection, or warned of the dangers to his
health.
Mr Martin said:
ÒThe compensation is a relief, but IÕd rather have my health back.
ÒThe most important thing for me is knowing that my wife and family will be
able to claim compensation if the worst does happen.
ÒI try not to let my disability affect my day-to-day life, but it does leave me
breathless.
ÒI know that there is a risk I could get cancer and I try to push that to the
back of my mind, I am trying to deal with it the best I can.Ó
UNISONÕs General Secretary, Dave Prentis, said:
ÒWe are pleased that Mr Martin has received some compensation to help him
and his family cope living with this disease.
ÒBut the money will never make up for his disability, or increased risk of
developing cancer.
ÒThe employers put his health and safety in serious jeopardy by exposing him
to asbestos with no protection.Ó
Steven Dickens, of Thompsons Solicitors, added:
ÒThe settlement enables Mr Martin to have the benefit of some compensation
now, while preserving his right to re-open the claim in the future.
ÒThis means that he will be compensated if he should sufferer serious
deterioration, due to progression of his pleural thickening, or other asbestos
related conditions, including mesothelioma and asbestos induced lung
cancer.Ó