Nova Scotians Remember Fallen Workers

Nova Scotians will remember those who died at work during National Day of Mourning ceremonies across the province on Sunday, April 28.

Premier Darrell Dexter will attend an event in Lunenburg at the Fishermen's Memorial Site to pay respects and reinforce a shared commitment to safety. Labour and Advanced Education Minister Frank Corbett will attend an event at the Royal Canadian Legion in Whitney Pier. Culture and Heritage Minister, Leonard Preyra will go to a ceremony at Province House.

"Every year we gather to honour those who have died or been injured at work, and our thoughts go out to those who have lost loved ones," said Premier Dexter. "Any death at work is one too many. Every Nova Scotian who goes to work should come home safely."

In 2012, 32 workers lost their lives at work or because of work-related injuries. In 2013, there have been 11 workplace fatalities to date, eight were from sudden injury or illness in the workplace, one was by a sudden injury or illness not related to the workplace, and two were chronic long-term illnesses or injuries, which may or may not be related to the workplace.

"Over the past decade, we have seen improvements in our workplace safety record, however there is still work to be done," said Mr. Corbett. "This government is committed to the safety of Nova Scotian workers. We all have an important role to play in keeping our workplaces safe."

Last month, the province and the Workers' Compensation Board launched a five-year workplace safety strategy that aims to make Nova Scotia the safest province in the country.

Of the 10 workplace deaths in 2013, seven were fishermen, including the five young men lost on the Miss Ally. The high number of fishing-related fatalities is a reminder of just how dangerous the industry can be. The province is working with the Workers' Compensation Board, Fisheries Safety Association and the Fisheries Sector Council to increase safety awareness in the industry.

"Our thoughts, condolences and commitment go out to the families and friends of the workers who have lost their lives, or were injured, due to work," said Federation of Labour president Rick Clarke. "A person's life should not be at risk when they are at work; nor should a worker's loved ones wonder if they will be returning home safely. Every workplace death or injury is preventable and we re-dedicate ourselves to ensuring that we see more education and enforcement."

The latest statistics from the Workers' Compensation Board show overall safety in the province is improving, with injury rates at an all-time low.

"We're making progress in moving from a province that knows about safety, to one that cares about safety," said Stuart MacLean, chief executive officer of the Workers' Compensation Board. "Working together, I believe we do have the power to become the safest place to work in Canada."

For more information on the Day of Mourning, visit http://dayofmourning.ns.ca .