TWENTY-FOUR former miners are seeking compensation from Anglo-American after contracting silicosis, an incurable and fatal lung disease.
TWENTY-FOUR former miners are seeking compensation from Anglo-American after contracting silicosis, an incurable and fatal lung disease.
In court papers, the 24 men allege that they contracted silicosis while employed by Anglo-American.
The case is the first of its kind in South Africa. UK law firm Leigh Day & Co is consulting for the Legal Resources Centre, which is representing the plaintiffs.
"The case has two objectives. First, to compensate miners who contracted silicosis, and secondly, to help ex-miners whose health continues to be at risk from TB," Leigh Day & Co lawyer Richard Meeran said.
The defendant is the former Anglo head office in SA. Anglo-American South Africa is now owned by Anglo American PLC in London.
Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust that is found in sand and rocks.
It has taken years for the case to be heard. Many silicosis victims have died.
"Some who were with us when we initiated this litigation are no longer alive," said Zonesele Blom, struggling to breathe.
"Perhaps my final hour is approaching. Waiting for the case causes more pain." Health-e News
'Will I live to see justice?'
TWENTY-FOUR former miners are seeking compensation from Anglo-American after contracting silicosis, an incurable and fatal lung disease.
TWENTY-FOUR former miners are seeking compensation from Anglo-American after contracting silicosis, an incurable and fatal lung disease.
In court papers, the 24 men allege that they contracted silicosis while employed by Anglo-American.
The case is the first of its kind in South Africa. UK law firm Leigh Day & Co is consulting for the Legal Resources Centre, which is representing the plaintiffs.
"The case has two objectives. First, to compensate miners who contracted silicosis, and secondly, to help ex-miners whose health continues to be at risk from TB," Leigh Day & Co lawyer Richard Meeran said.
The defendant is the former Anglo head office in SA. Anglo-American South Africa is now owned by Anglo American PLC in London.
Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust that is found in sand and rocks.
It has taken years for the case to be heard. Many silicosis victims have died.
"Some who were with us when we initiated this litigation are no longer alive," said Zonesele Blom, struggling to breathe.
"Perhaps my final hour is approaching. Waiting for the case causes more pain." Health-e News
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