But, as I viewed the news... oh, I was quite envious....
The tunnel workers were able to settle their case with the state. I had no part in covering the news, but it was an object of envy for me, covering another large lawsuit case.
Oh, when will mine be settled!? Who knows...
the tunnel workers were given relief... (photo by Jiji)
Oh, I want to see this soon with my case too!!
(article from Kyodo)
◆Tokyo tunnel workers, state settle lung disease lawsuit
TOKYO, June 20 KYODO
A group of former tunnel construction workers stricken by lung disease after working on state-ordered projects formally reached a settlement Wednesday with the state at the Tokyo High Court.
They are the first among around 970 people who have filed lawsuits throughout Japan to seek compensation and have settled by giving up their claim on compensation -- 3.3 million yen per person -- in exchange for the state pledging to step up measures for workers against pneumoconiosis.
A representative of the group met with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday and signed an agreement to settle the case. Settlements are expected later at other courts where similar lawsuits are pending.
Pneumoconiosis is an occupational disease usually contracted by prolonged exposure to dust, which hardens and eventually kills cells in the lungs. Some people develop the disease 10 years or more after initial exposure.
==Kyodo
