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UCATT plays an active part in the political sphere, working with a number of other trade unions, public bodies and political parties to improve the lot of everyone working in our industry. This page tells you about some of our current activity, as well as offering an archive of past stories.
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Thursday, 01 July 2010

Demonstration Exposes Canada’s Asbestos Shame

Construction union UCATT, asbestos support groups and other unions exposed Canada’s shameful asbestos record by holding a protest today (July 1st) outside of Canada House.

The protest was designed to coincide with the official celebrations to mark Canada Day (1st July).

Despite Britain finally banning the use of asbestos in 2000, the global asbestos trade remains strong. Before the ban in Britain, 60% of the asbestos used came from Canada. Much of the asbestos trade has now moved to the developing world. In recent years countries such as Angola, Argentina, India, Mexico, Nigeria and Thailand have all recorded increased use of asbestos products.

Workers in the developing world are at extreme risk of developing asbestos related diseases, as they are likely to be untrained and are not supplied with protective clothing.

Alan Ritchie, General Secretary of UCATT, said: “It is disgraceful that Canada continues to wilfully produce and export a deadly substance. It is essential that nationally and internationally unions and other sympathetic groups, increase the pressure on Canada to end this lethal trade once and for all.”

Britain along with Australia has the highest number of asbestos related deaths. Last year over 2,000 people died from the incurable lung cancer mesothelioma. Research has revealed that construction workers, especially carpenters are now at the greatest risk of developing asbestos related conditions and diseases.