Asbestos-related cancer compensation scheme approved in Guernsey

A compensation scheme for sufferers of asbestos-related cancer in Guernsey has been given the go-ahead by States members today (4 June).

Politicians unanimously agreed to set it up for people with mesothelioma - an asbestos-related cancer, for which there is no cure.

The initiative has been estimated to cost the States £100,000 a year and will now be rolled out in 2021.

A sursis motion to delay debate on the scheme, put forward by Deputy Gavin St Pier and Deputy Jane Stephens, lost by five votes to 33.

The Policy & Resources Committee has previously said it supports the principle but not the timing, as the full extent of the financial impact of coronavirus remains unknown.

• Compensation will be available for sufferers of asbestos-related cancer

• Up to £92,000 for sufferers of asbestos disease in Jersey

• Delay to cancer compensation scheme is 'unnecessary, destructive and cruel'

Deputy Matt Fallaize, who led the campaign, said moves to delay the scheme are "indefensible on every level".

Speaking in the States, Deputy Peter Ferbrache described it as "the worst and most insensitive sursis that has ever been brought and discredits anyone who votes for it".

In Jersey, the government voted to provide compensation for mesothelioma sufferers back in November 2018.