Cape Town — Tiger Brands has agreed to offer interim assistance to some of the victims who were impacted by the devastating listeriosis outbreak from that happened in 2017.
During an operational update on Wednesday, Tiger Brands announced it will pay the medical expenses for some of the victims from the devastating outbreak that was linked to processed meats and saw more than 200 people lose their lives, The Citizen reported.
Tiger Brands said its attorneys reached an agreement with the plaintiff’s attorneys, who were represented by Richard Spoor Inc., on relief to qualifying individuals who require urgent needs.
“This is despite liability in the class action suit not being determined yet. The company also did not disclose the amount that they will be paying the victims,” the update said.
Tiger Brands has offered to cover urgent medical bills for qualifying victims of South Africa’s 2017 listeriosis outbreak.
This comes amid ongoing litigation over damages, estimated at 1.5- to 2.5 -billion-rand. #KayaNews NPM pic.twitter.com/6ab3wQbH45
— Kaya News (@KayaNews) October 30, 2024
According to an agreement between the respective attorneys during pre-trial preparations for a class action, it involves the discovery of documents and records to get the matter ready for court.
In September 2024, Tiger Brands said it was committed to working diligently to bring the listeriosis class action to a close.
“The company has product liability insurance cover appropriate for a group of its size. Coverage is subject to the terms and limits of the policy.
According to EWN, more than 1 000 people were affected by Listeriosis and Tiger Brands is now looking for a swift resolution. The manufacturer’s lawyers said was working closely with the plaintiffs who need the support, namely medical treatment.
Attorney Richard Spoor said the proposed assistance is still in its early stages.
“What we have now is a proposal from them – I must stress, it’s only a proposal – to provide interim relief to people in desperate need.”
Tiger Brands also indicated it has adequate liability insurance coverage for all qualifying victims.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
