diligence" when they assured investors that the Medical Research and Compensation Foundation (MRCF) was fully funded. February 2007: James Hardie shareholders, overwhelmingly approve a "compensation deal for asbestos victims worth $4 billion over the next 40 years". Meredith Hellicar, Chairwoman, resigns. August 2007: Oncologist Professor Stephen Clarke diagnoses Banton with peritoneal mesothelioma, which is usually fatal within six months. Bernie files a new suit of exemplary damages against a former James Hardie subsidiary now part of the new Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund. Judge John O'Meally (President of the Dust Diseases Tribunal) rules in favour of Banton, but the fund contests the judgement. November 2007: Gravely ill, Banton gives court evidence from his bed at Concord Repatriation General Hospital. James Hardie make an offer of settlement. Compensation for Banton's "terminal mesothelioma is from the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund, the trust he fought to set up in 2004". Banton dies at home (on 27 November) aged 61 surrounded by his family and close friends. September 2009: Journalist Matt Peacock releases his book Killer Company. May 2012: The High Court of Australia finds that seven directors of the James Hardie breached their duties by approving the company's release of a misleading statement to the stock exchange that the MRCF was fully funded. See also Asbestos and the law Australian Blue Asbestos Armley asbestos disaster References Bibliography External links James Hardie James Hardie, US NSW Dust Disease Tribunal World Asbestos Report Asbestos disasters Auto parts suppliers of Australia Building materials companies of Australia Manufacturing companies based in Dublin (city) Companies of the Netherlands Companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange Companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange Dual-listed companies 1888 establishments in Australia