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Families Sue Over Insulation Scheme

The Government is under intensifying pressure over the failings over the home insulation program, with more families expected to take legal action in the days ahead.

A Senate inquiry which begins in Melbourne today will hear evidence about the deaths of four tradesmen who were working under the scheme.

The inquiry will also investigate reports of dozens of house fires in properties which were insulated under the troubled scheme, which was rolled out as part of last year’s $42 billion economic stimulus package.

Submissions on the committee’s website show senators will be told of unsafe and unscrupulous behaviour by installers.

There have been calls for Environment Minister Peter Garrett, who last week was forced to suspend the use of foil insulation, to resign.

Reuben Barnes, 16, died after being electrocuted while installing insulation in a home near Rockhampton in Queensland in November last year.

Melbourne barrister John Ribbands will pursue legal action against the Federal Government on behalf of Mr Barnes’ family.

“The relevant department has failed in their duties. The might of the Federal Government is just not an issue that I factor into the equation,” he said.

Queensland man Colin Brierley, who nearly died after being electrocuted by foil insulation, is also suing the Federal Government.

Tags: Barnes Family, Barrister, Brierley, Economic Stimulus Package, Environment Minister, Federal Government, Foil Insulation, Home Insulation, House Fires, Installing Insulation, Insulation Program, Mr Barnes, Peter Garrett, Queensland, Relevant Department, Reuben, rockhampton, Senate Inquiry, Senators, Tradesmen
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