A tribute to Bernie Banton

Today, Australia lost one of our greats.

Bernie Banton was everything that is good about our country.

When he was diagnosed with asbestos-related disease, aggressive peritoneal mesothelioma while working for Jamie Hardie Industries, rather than do nothing while James Hardie was not held accountable, he fought.

Bernie started working for James Hardie in 1968 after his brother, Ted got him a job. While working at the site, Bernie was involved in the production of various asbestos products including fibro (asbestos sheeting), pipes, telecommunication pits and other products.

In 1974, Bernie left his job while 137 other workers continued on. As of 2004, approximately 127 had died from asbestos exposure including his brother Ted. And now sadly Bernie is another statistic.

It took many years of work often sitting opposite an aggressive and large contingent of suited James Hardie lawyers determined not to pay out one cent to the many victims that have and will continue to be diagnosed because of their dreadful products.

Finally, James Hardie, under immense public and political pressure, gave in and paid compensation to Bernie and also established a $4 Billion compensation fund for those who will be diagnosed in the future.

Bernie is a hero to many of us in Australia. While he suffered from a disease slowly killing him, he continued to fight for others. He is a true battler, the kind of Australian we hold dear in our country.

Rest in Peace Bernie.

Bernie Banton was 61 years old.

Random Posts

Other