Eric Joyce

Labour Party | Falkirk

Local MP welcomes Miners compensation payouts and urges those with claims still to make to submit them before the deadlines

Following the announcement yesterday from Energy Minister, Brain Wilson MP, that over £1billion has now been paid out under the miners' health compensation schemes, local MP, Eric Joyce has welcomed the latest figures detailing payouts made in Falkirk West.

Over 140 claims have been made for compensation from ex-miners or in some cases the miners' families. These claims relate to the miner suffering from either vibration white finger or respiratory disease or both as a result of their work.

Speaking during the announcement, Energy Minister, Brian Wilson MP said

‘I hope this landmark announcement today of £1 billion paid out in hard cash will demonstrate this Government's determination to meet this commitment and also the progress that has been made in recent months in processing these claims. I have set clear targets for the number of full and final offers to be made by the end of the year and I have every intention of maintaining the momentum that has now been established.

Key measures have been put in place to speed up payments being made. We are prioritising the oldest and sickest claimants, have opened a further 15 lung disease medical assessment centres throughout the former coalfield areas and have opened a fourth claims handling office.

Every valid claim will be met and there is no financial ceiling on the money available for compensation. We will meet our obligations to the full in every case, including those where, sadly, the miner has died and the claim passes to his widow or estate.'

Speaking today, Eric Joyce MP added;

‘Latest figures from June of this year reveal that over £320,000 has been paid out to ex-miners or their families in Falkirk West under the miners' health compensation schemes in the last couple of years.

I am aware that there are still a number of claims from my constituents waiting to be settled and aware that there were problems encountered by some in the initial stages of the schemes' operation. However, I am confident that these initial problems have been overcome and that all outstanding claims will be dealt with as efficiently and speedily as possible.

I want to urge any of my constituents who believe that they have a claim still to make to ensure that they contact the dedicated Government helpline and submit their claim before the cut off dates which are fast approaching.'