Stormont Minister Nigel Dodds has published a consultation paper on the legal position surrounding pleural plaques.

Pleural plaques are small localised areas of fibrosis found within the pleura of the lung, caused by asbestos exposure.

The paper considers what is the most appropriate way of supporting people diagnosed with pleural plaques, following the House of Lords' decision in October 2007 that pleural plaques are not actionable or compensatable damage.

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Urging the Northern Ireland public to respond fully Mr Dodds said: "This consultation paper deals with an important ruling regarding the law of negligence. My Department is keen to engage with as many people as possible, with a view to gathering information on the issues and agreeing the way forward.

"We would therefore welcome submissions from anyone who has an interest in, or is affected by, pleural plaques."

The consultation will examine a number of issues, for example: improving understanding of pleural plaques; providing support and reassurance to those who have been diagnosed with the condition; and inviting views on changes to the law of negligence or the merits of offering no fault financial support to people diagnosed with pleural plaques.

The closing date for consultation is 13 January 2009 and views from members of the public and professional or voluntary organisations are welcome.

(PR/JM)