The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Service NL:

Minister Acknowledges National Day of Mourning

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to acknowledge April 28, this Sunday, as Canada’s National Day of Mourning. This solemn occasion commemorates workers who have been killed, injured or who have suffered illness due to workplace-related hazards and incidents.

Mr. Speaker, all across Canada, families, friends and coworkers of those seriously affected or lost in a work-related incident will be coming together in support of those still with us, and to remember those who sadly are not.

In 2012, six workers lost their lives in our province in workplace incidents, and 20 succumbed to occupational disease. Although any workplace death or injury is too many, we are seeing encouraging improvements.

Just last week, the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission reported the number of workplace injuries resulting in lost-time compensation claims has declined to the lowest level ever recorded in our province. Additionally, the total number of lost-time workplace injuries in 2012 was 3,742, the lowest number reported in 50 years.

Mr. Speaker, we also recognize the impact occupational disease has on the lives of workers. An example of this is the completion of the registry of information about former employees and contractual workers of the Baie Verte asbestos mine. This registry, the first of its kind in Canada, will be a valuable tool to assist in the adjudication of asbestos-related claims arising from Baie Verte Mines.

The Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission works closely with the Occupational Health and Safety Branch of Service NL to enhance safety in all types of workplaces throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Last year, 1,081 potential workplace injuries and deaths were prevented through Occupational Health and Safety enforcement intervention. Furthermore, over 15,300 unsafe work practices were rectified and corrected. By working together, employees, employers and government can build an even stronger safety culture that will reduce workplace injuries and deaths.

Mr. Speaker, I will be participating in a wreath-laying ceremony this Sunday to remember those who have been killed while working. On the National Day of Mourning, our thoughts will be with those who have been affected by workplace injury and death. This day is an important reminder for all of us to be ever vigilant so we can all go home safe at the end of the work day.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

2013 04 25                             1:55 p.m.