Hurrah! At last the Damages (Scotland) Bill has been passed and people who have suffered the tragic death of a loved one will no longer have to endure such long and distressing court cases.

The Damages (Scotland) Bill, was the bill of Labour MSP Bill Butler. 

The aim of the Bill is to provide a fair level of compensation in cases of wrongful death without the need for lengthy court cases. The last thing someone who has tragically lost a loved one wants is to endure the stresses and strains of a long drawn out court case. The Bill will speed up the legal process in dealing with wrongful death cases and should ensure a fair level of compensation for all.

Victims’ campaigners warmly welcomed the passing of the Bill.

Joe O’Neill, Treasurer of Clydebank Asbestos Group said: “Protracted legal proceedings have placed unnecessary strain on families and I am pleased that these changes ensure that justice can now be accessed as quickly as possible.”

Annette Smith, of Clydeside Action on Asbestos said: “We have backed these proposals from the outset and this act will be of very real benefit to hundreds of people each year.” Between 1st January 2009 and 20th April 2010, 210 people with mesothelioma and 58 people with asbestos-related lung cancer sought assistance from ‘Clydeside Action on Asbestos.’

Thompsons very own Frank Maguire, who helped draft the new Act was delighted that MSPs passed this important piece of legislation. Frank Maguire sees the passing of the Bill as a positive step forward for victims and their families.