National Day of Mourning

I rise today to recognize Sunday, April 28, as National Day of Mourning in Canada. This solemn occasion is set aside to pay tribute to workers who have been injured or have died as a result of industrial disease or workplace-related accidents.

At noon on Sunday, here at Confederation Building, I will join employers, employees and families of injured or deceased workers for a wreath-laying ceremony. In keeping with this occasion, flags on Confederation Hill will fly at half mast.

Statistics show, that in Canada, approximately four workers are killed every working day of the year. Thousands of others die each year from workplace-related illnesses, and thousands more are temporarily or permanently disabled.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the need to work with businesses, with labour associations and communities at large to foster an environment where we can reduce human, social and economic loss that often results from workplace accident, injury and death.

Striving for excellence in health and safety in our province�s workplaces is one of those extremely important areas where employers, employees, along with government, have to remain constantly focused.

A healthy workplace means healthy employees, and that�s good for everyone.

On this Day of Mourning, I ask all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to encourage your employers and fellow employees to strengthen their commitment and support of occupational health and safety in an effort to bring an end to work-related illness and injury.

2002 04 25                         2:00 p.m.