National Day of Mourning a Chance to Honour Workers Who Lost Their Lives

Released on April 28, 2015

The flags at Saskatchewan’s legislative building will fly at half-mast today in recognition of workers who have lost their lives to workplace injuries and illnesses.

The names of 39 Saskatchewan workers who died in 2014 will have their names read into the records in the Legislature, followed by a moment of silence.

April 28 marks the National Day of Mourning to commemorate workers who have been killed, injured or become ill as a result of their jobs.

“Even one life lost is one too many, and today our thoughts are with the families and loved ones left behind to mourn,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said.  “Today, and every day, we need to take care of one another.  We are all responsible for keeping workplaces safe and healthy so that we can put an end to these tragic losses.”

In 2014, the WCB accepted 35,836 injury claims.

"Today is a day to remember those who have lost their lives on the job and our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones," Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board Chairperson Gord Dobrowolsky said.  "One life lost to a workplace injury is a tragedy.  Today, we must re-affirm our mission to zero injuries, zero fatalities and zero suffering."

Throughout Saskatchewan and across Canada, individuals, groups and communities will mark the Day of Mourning by holding vigils, lighting candles, wearing armbands or observing a moment of silence.  In Ottawa, the flags on Parliament Hill will fly at half-mast and the names of Canadian workers who lost their lives will be inscribed into the national registry at the Canadian Labour Congress.

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.

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For more information, contact:

Jennnifer Veri
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1331
Email: jennifer.veri@gov.sk.ca

Carolyn Van der Veen
Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board
Regina
Phone: 306.787.4386
Email: cvanderveen@wcbsask.com