Stop sweeping fibro under the carpet

It is interesting to note James Hardie products were used extensively in the Gosford shire and especially on the Peninsula, in the construction of dwellings.

The materials used in these dwelling construction, has been documented and recorded on council's files, so councils and the planning department are or should be aware of the precise location of each and every one of these buildings.

Therefore, when demolition or renovation consent is sought for the improvement of these buildings, strict guidelines, in accordance with the requirements of handling hazardous products, should be implemented.

If the abhorrent legacy of James Hardie products is to be cleansed from our society, there should be in place stricter checks and controls for the management of common old "fibro".

For example, every fibro cottage for sale should be in its warnings to the proposed purchaser, a clause stating known legal impediments eg flooding, subsidence, hazard waste control requirements etc.

What do we do about the tens of thousands of tons of asbestos waiting to be set free as air borne microscopic fibres within this shire?

What is the onus and responsibility under the Occupational Health and Safety Act to the innocent members of the general public, or the ratepayers of this council, if we do not put in place warnings?

If we do nothing, we may be culpable in the safe management of the problem along with James Hardie.

Simply put, get this product out of our tips and our environment for the sake of our children's children.

Let's stop sweeping these fibres and this product under the carpet.

Brian Smith, Umina