National Council wants to expand support for asbestos victims
The National Council has taken an important decision on financial support for asbestos victims. An amendment to the Accident Insurance Act is intended to secure the future of the Compensation Fund for Asbestos Victims Foundation. A powerful and forward-looking look at political developments in the field of social security.
On Thursday, the National Council passed an amendment to the Accident Insurance Act by 130 votes in favour and 64 against. This is intended to ensure financial support for asbestos victims from the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund. The decision was made against the will of a minority of the SVP.
Closing the gap in support
The amendment aims to secure the future of the Compensation Fund for Asbestos Victims Foundation. In future, Suva should be able to make contributions to support the foundation financially. However, these funds may only come from additional income from insurance against occupational accidents and illnesses so as not to affect premiums.
Compensation for asbestos victims
Asbestos, once popular for its practical and fireproof properties, was used for decades. The building material has been banned in Switzerland since 1989, but the illnesses caused by asbestos often only become apparent decades later. Every year, around 120 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma, a form of cancer of the pleura and peritoneum caused by asbestos fibres.
Financial security for those affected
The EFA Foundation is intended to compensate those asbestos victims who are not covered by compulsory accident insurance. Although these people receive benefits from health insurance and disability insurance, these often do not fully cover the costs. The foundation is based on voluntary contributions from the industry, but these have decreased in recent years.
Criticism from opponents
A minority of the SVP criticised the bill as “not fair to the polluter”. They feared that the amendment could lead to higher insurance contributions and demanded more contributions from the responsible companies. However, the minority was defeated in the Council, as all other parties supported the bill.
Outlook
The Suva Council will decide whether and how much money will be transferred to the EFA Foundation. The foundation will need additional funds totalling CHF 25 to 50 million by 2030. Next, the Council of States must decide on the bill.