Labor Calls For Free Hunter Asbestos Testing To Be Extended

BY HOLLIE HUGHES

With only five days left to register, the state opposition is calling on the New South Wales government to extend the deadline Hunter residents have to sign-up for free home asbestos testing.

The scheme was rolled out earlier this month in response to the discovery of the dangerous loose-fill product at a home in Glendale.

Residents of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Maitland and Port Stephens who live in homes built prior to 1980 are eligible to register for the free test currently closing on July 31.

Swansea MP Yasmin Catley says the registration time frame must be extended to enable as many Hunter home owners to register as possible.

"The main goal here is to find out whether there are any more homes in the Hunter with loose-filled asbestos," she said.

"Hunter residents were only made aware of the potential presence of this dangerous product a few weeks ago and since then we have had the July school holidays where many residents have gone away."

Additionally, Ms Catley fears there are more homes within the Hunter which may be contaminated with the deadly substance.

"We are talking about people's lives here, there could be many more homes throughout New South Wales which have Mr Fluffy products in them."

"People need to the have the confidence that there own home is safe."

For more information on the program or to register for the free test, residents should visit the New South Wales Fair Trading or The City of Newcastle Council websites.

 

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