Twenty-two workers have instructed a solicitor to issue legal proceedings against the ESB over its alleged failure to warn them of the dangers of exposure to asbestos in a power station.
Mr Noel Sheridan, solicitor, said that it was clear from information provided by a number of his clients that many workers at Rhode power station, Co Offaly, were likely to have been exposed to asbestos over many years. One employee, Mr Henry Gallagher, a fitter, was given leave by the High Court yesterday to serve notice on the ESB of his intention to seek an injunction next week. This would direct the company to provide him with adequate or suitable protective clothing and other personal protective equipment. After hearing submissions, Mr Justice O'Neill said the man's problem was clearly urgent and he would permit the injunction application to be moved on Monday. The ESB was not represented.