27/10/2005.

The French Senate’s fact-finding inquiry into the extent and toll of asbestos contamination published its findings on Wednesday, 26 October, in a report entitled “France’s asbestos disaster”. The report slams “the quite incredible lack of concern by all those involved – especially the authorities and employers – about asbestos, when its hazards have long been known”. It emphasized the failings of public health institutions, singling out the “distinctly ambiguous role played by” the National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS). The report also condemns the “silence” of the occupational health service. It particularly criticised a permanent committee of government, business and scientific officials on the asbestos issue, calling it 'a 'model' of lobbying, communication and manipulation.The report estimates that it will cost 27-37 bln eur in the next 20 years to treat victims of what researchers see as an 'inescapable and irreversible' cancer epidemic.

Asbestos was banned in France in 1997, having killed over 35,000 people between 1965 and the mid-1990s. A further 100,000 deaths are expected by 2025.

• Le drame de l'amiante en France : comprendre, mieux réparer, en tirer des leçons pour l'avenir
  French Senate report, 26/10/2005.
• Le drame de l'amiante en France : comprendre, mieux réparer, en tirer des leçons pour l'avenir
  French Senate, report of hearings, 26/10/2005.