Day of Mourning Ceremonies Remember 32 Workers

Thirty-two Nova Scotians who died, and over 28,000 who were injured at the workplace last year were remembered today, April 28, during a ceremony at Province House to mark the National Day of Mourning.

Premier Darrell Dexter and Labour and Workforce Development Minister Marilyn More joined the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour as well as other individuals and organizations to mark the event. Similar ceremonies were held across the province.

"I extend my sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies to those who have lost a loved one at the workplace," said Premier Dexter. "The National Day of Mourning is a time to pay tribute to those workers and those that have been injured. It is also a time for reflection, and to remind ourselves that every workplace fatality and injury is preventable. We must remember that all of us, each and every Nova Scotian, have the power to prevent workplace deaths."

"While nothing can fill the void that is left for friends and family, our thoughts go out to those that have been affected by these tragedies," said Ms. More. "We will continue to work with our partners to help improve workplace safety, as well as educate employers and employees, to prevent incidents before they happen."

The total number of claims for on-the-job injuries was 28,089, a decrease of 11.5 per cent from 2008, according to the Workers' Compensation Board.

"Our thoughts, condolences and commitment go out to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives, or were injured, due to work," said Federation of Labour president Rick Clarke. "A decrease in the number of injuries is always a positive sign, however this number does not include the many others that died away from work due to unrecognized or undiagnosed occupational related diseases. More education and enforcement is a must."

The Day of Mourning was established in 1984 by the Canadian Labour Congress. The ceremony is recognized across Canada and in over 80 countries around the world.

For more information on occupational health and safety in Nova Scotia, see the department's website at www.gov.ns.ca/lwd/healthandsafety

For more information on Day of Mourning, visit www.dayofmourning.ns.ca.