Communities Pay Tribute to Lost Miners

Nova Scotians will gather today, June 11, to recognize Miners' Memorial Day and pay tribute to miners who lost their lives on the job.

"There is a long mining tradition in many of our communities in Nova Scotia. Sadly, too many families have been touched by tragedy throughout our mining history," said Marilyn More, Minister of Labour and Workforce Development.

"Making life better for families in the province includes helping to keep all workplaces safe and incident free. Today we remember those we have lost and remind ourselves that workplace safety is a shared responsibility between employers, employees, and government."

Every year on June 11, the United Mineworkers of America organizes Miners' Memorial Day ceremonies throughout the province.

Formerly known as Davis Day, Miners' Memorial Day began in memory of miner Bill Davis, who was killed in New Waterford during the mining strike of 1925.

"Today marks the 85th year we have recognized this somber occasion," said Bob Burchell of the United Mineworkers of America. "It's a testament to the impact the loss of these coal miners had on their families and their communities. We must always remember the sacrifices they made to give their loved ones a better life."