Released on April 28, 2017
On April 28 individuals, groups and communities across Canada will honour fallen workers by holding vigils, lighting candles, wearing armbands or observing a moment of silence.The National Day of Mourning is a day to remember workers killed or injured on the job. In 2016, 31 people died in Saskatchewan from a workplace-related injury or illness. Nearly 30,000 workplace injuries were reported to the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB).
“My deepest condolences to the family and friends who have been impacted by the loss of a loved one,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “Every loss of life is a tragedy, and workplace deaths are especially impactful because they are unexpected and avoidable.”
“April 28 is a somber day as we pause to remember those who lost their lives tragically and too soon because of workplace injuries and illnesses,” Workers' Compensation Board Chairperson Gord Dobrowolsky said. “Our hearts and sincere sympathy go out to the 31 families who lost loved ones last year.”
Flags will fly at half-mast at the Saskatchewan Legislature and on Parliament Hill, and vigils will be held in communities throughout the province.WorkSafe Saskatchewan is an injury prevention and workplace safety partnership between the WCB and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety.
Visit www.worksafesask.ca to learn more about preventing workplace injuries and fatalities.
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For more information, contact:
Amanda Fedorchuk
Labour Relations and Workplace Safety
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0279
Email: amanda.fedorchuk@gov.sk.ca