News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Francine Landry in recognition of the National Day of Mourning, Tuesday, April 28:

The National Day of Mourning was launched in 1984 by the Canadian Labour Congress, and was federally adopted as an observance in 1991. Since then, Canada has joined more than 100 countries in remembering workers who have lost their lives, developed occupational disease or been injured on the job.

To mark this day, events are being held in workplaces and communities throughout the province to raise awareness of the importance of workplace health and safety. We encourage New Brunswickers to observe a moment of silence, lower workplace flags to half-mast or attend a remembrance ceremony.

As minister responsible for WorkSafeNB, I am proud of our province’s commitment to protecting and educating our workers and employers. Our efforts have resulted in New Brunswick having one the lowest injury rates in Canada, and the world.

Sadly, even though our efforts to provide safe work environments are among the most progressive in the world, every year almost 10,000 workers are injured.

These accidents can be prevented. Observing the National Day of Mourning motivates us to remain vigilant in promoting safe working practices.

As we take a moment to reflect as a province and nation, I express my sympathy to the New Brunswick families, co-workers, businesses, and individuals who have been affected by workplace accidents.

The best way to honour these workers is through our commitment to make every workplace safe and healthy.