I was moved by the work he did to bring James Hardie to task to compensate those who were affected by these deadly diseases.
The ACTU has set up a condolences book at: http://www.rightsatwork.com.au/campaign
I heard on the radio today what Kevin Rudd said about Bernie in his acceptance speech on Saturday night:
"Mate, you are not going to be forgotten in this place ... When so many were prepared to cast you to one side, Bernie Banton, you have been a beacon and clarion call for what is decent and necessary in life and I salute you."
I think it's outrageous that companies like James Hardie and CSR continued to expose workers to asbestos long after the health risks were known. It makes me angry and sad.
On top of that, James Hardie moved its assets overseas to try and cry poor, rather than compensating victims families.
Bernie had already lost a brother to mesothelioma. He has another brother with the disease who is also dying. This is the tragedy of this for working families - families worked in these factories. Fathers, sons and brothers were infected.
The only silver lining is that Bernie died at home, surrounded by his family. But he was only 61. His family deserved more.
Related links:
News of Bernie's passing - http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2
Obituary - http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2
Video of Kevin Rudd speaking about Bernie's passing - http://www.abc.net.au/news/video/2007/1
