Released on April 28, 2014
Today, Members of the Legislative Assembly honoured 35 people who died in 2013 as a result of workplace injuries with a moment of silence.April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning, a day to remember those who lost their lives due to workplace injuries or illnesses. In 2013, more than 37,000 workplace injuries were reported to the Workers’ Compensation Board.
“I offer my condolences to those who are dealing with the loss of a loved one as a result of a workplace injury or illness,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “Today is a day to honour the men and women who have lost their lives on the job and a reminder that workplace safety is the responsibility of everyone.”
“Our most sincere sympathy to the families and loved ones of the people we are remembering today on the Day of Mourning,” Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board Chairperson Gord Dobrowolsky said. “It is indeed a day to mourn these lives that were ended too soon. This is a day for all of us to recommit ourselves to Mission: Zero and to preventing needless suffering in the future.”
Throughout Canada, individuals and groups will mark the day in various ways, including vigils, lighting candles and wearing ribbons or armbands.
Flags will fly at half-mast at the Saskatchewan Legislature and on Parliament Hill, and the names of Canadians who lost their lives as a result of workplace injuries or illnesses will be inscribed in the national registry at the Canadian Labour Congress in Ottawa.
The Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, in partnership with the Workers’ Compensation Board, aims to prevent workplace illnesses and injuries through WorkSafe Saskatchewan. The partnership provides education and support to workers and employers in the province. To learn more about WorkSafe Saskatchewan, visit www.worksafesask.ca.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Jennifer Veri
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1331