UPDATE: The Federal Government has ordered safety inspections of all homes fitted with metal insulation under its $3.7 billion rebate scheme.

Yesterday, the government banned use of the insulation, citing safety concerns in the wake of the fourth death associated with it, at Millaa Millaa last week. 

It comes as the mother of 22-year-old contractor Mitchell Sweeney told The Cairns Post of her anguish in the wake of her son's death last week.

• Mum tells of family's heartbreak

Environment Minister Peter Garrett said there would be electrical safety inspections for up to 37,000 homes that had been fitted with the insulation.

"(I) believe this is the right move to provide certainty for households," he said.

The checks - estimated to cost about $200 per home - are expected to cost the Government at least $7 million.

Earlier today, Kennedy MP Bob Katter demanded the Federal Government pay compensation to the families of workers who died installing roof insulation.

Mr Garrett said the Government would be writing to all homes that have had foil insulation installed under the HIP advising householders of the situation and their options. 

A hotline will be set up and available from 8am tomorrow to provide information to affected householders on 131 792.

• Katter demands insulation death compensation
• Read more at the Courier Mail

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