Libby Issues & Answers
From 1963 to 1990, Grace operated a vermiculite mine and processing mill in Libby,
Montana. The United States government has announced an indictment against Grace,
as well as several current and retired employees, related to these operations.
As a company and as individuals, we have never wavered from our belief that one serious
illness or lost life is one too many. That is why we have taken so seriously our
commitment to our Libby employees and the people of Libby.
In fact, Grace committed in 2000 to help St. John's Lutheran Hospital meet its capital
and operating needs through donations. To date, Grace has donated about $2.15 million,
and will continue this program.
We also created a Libby Medical Program to cover all costs of treating asbestos-related
conditions for people who live in Libby or who lived there when the mine was operating,
with no costs to plan members. Since the program opened in January of 2000, more
than 1,000 people have signed up.
Since the program was established, Grace has spent more than $10 million. Most of
that money has been spent on medical care and prescription drugs. Each year, Grace
hosts an annual members meeting - a daylong series of meetings where plan members
can discuss asbestos, smoking cessation, the importance of diet and exercise, and
other related health issues with doctors, nurses and other healthcare consultants
from around the country. And in 2004, Grace added free gym memberships at two area
health clubs for plan enrollees interested in losing weight.
Nonetheless, the government claims that Grace conspired to keep critical scientific
information pertaining to asbestos dangers at the Libby mine from the State of Montana
and the federal government. The government also claims that Grace knowingly endangered
individuals for decades – up through and including the present.
We categorically deny the charges in the indictment. Further, we are disappointed
by the government's actions. And though court rules prohibit us from commenting
on the merits of the indictment, we look forward to setting the record straight
in a court of law.
It remains Grace's policy to assure full compliance with all applicable laws and
we continue to be proud of the accomplishments of our worldwide compliance program.
The individuals who make up the global Grace team are the best in the world. They
care deeply about our customers, about their co-workers and about the communities
in which they live and raise their families.
The entire Grace team is supportive of the citizens of Libby. We hope that our continued
and dedicated support for their long-term health care, combined with their characteristic
strength and determination, will help them through these difficult times.
Mining and Mills Occupational Health Programs
Zonolite Attic Insulation Safety Facts
Libby Asbestos Timeline
Grace Offers Libby Medical Program
Statement from W. R. Grace & Co. Regarding Montana Indictment
