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October 18th, 2018

NDP Calls for Complete Ban of Asbestos in Canada (Again)

OTTAWA – Today, NDP Housing Critic Sheri Benson (Saskatoon West) raised major concerns surrounding new regulations announced by the Liberal government on asbestos. While the Liberals pledged to ban the deadly substance, their announcement today represents a watered down version of what was originally proposed and allows many exemptions.

“The Prime Minister must keep his promise and implement a comprehensive and complete ban on asbestos immediately,” said Benson. “Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of occupational death in Canada. We cannot stand idly by while Canadian workers and their families continue to be exposed in their workplaces.”

The new regulations include new exemptions to allow the military, nuclear facilities and chlor-alkali plants to continue using the hazardous substance for several years. Experts have warned that allowing such exemptions from the ban will increase risk of cancer and other lung diseases.

“New Democrats understand that asbestos exposure threatens the health and safety of Canadian workers. That is why I introduced Bill C-321, which would completely ban asbestos and all products containing asbestos in Canada,” stressed Benson. “It is hard to understand why the government would move forward with half measures when lives are at risk.”