Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 284: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to introduce a compensation scheme similar to one in place in the United States and United Kingdom for employees who are experiencing ill health as a result of working with asbestos who have no avenue to pursue their former employers or their insurers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18679/08]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The focus of occupational safety and health legislation concerning asbestos in the workplace is on the prevention of exposure. The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Exposure to Asbestos) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 386 of 2006), which is enforced by the Health and Safety Authority, places obligations on employers and employees to ensure that the risk of exposure to asbestos is eliminated or reduced to a minimum and that any remaining residual risk is adequately controlled in accordance with the legislation.

I understand that under the Occupational Injuries Scheme operated by the Department of Social and Family Affairs benefits may be payable in respect of insured workers affected by contact with asbestos.