Asbestosis news
12/12/2007

Top singer-songwriter passes away

One of Ireland's most popular singer-songwriters has died as a result of asbestosis.

62-year-old Christie Hennessy, who shot to fame after penning hits such as Don't Forget Your Shovel and All The Lies That You Told Me, is believed to have contracted the asbestos-related cancer whilst working on building sites in London in his younger years.

The Tralee-born star released his first album in 1972 but had to wait twenty years until his triple platinum album The Rehearsal catapulted him to international prominence.

A statement on Christie's website, www.christiehennessey.com, said: "We just want you all to know how much that Christie appreciated your love and support over the years. He will be sadly missed by all."

It is not known if the singer's family plan to pursue a no win no fee compensation claim for asbestosis damages against the building firms Christie worked for when he was a young man.