Statement from Minister Leitch on the National Day of Mourning

OTTAWA, April 28, 2015­ /CNW/ - The Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, issued the following statement today to mark the National Day of Mourning, held each year on April 28:

"Today, on the National Day of Mourning, we pay tribute to the many Canadians who have been killed, injured or suffered illness as a result of a work-related accident. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of these workers. My thoughts are also with those whose lives have been altered because of an incident at work.

Our Government is committed to protecting the health and safety of all Canadians and reducing workplace illnesses and injuries. Everyone deserves to return home safe and sound at the end of their day. We will continue to work closely with our partners—employers, employees, regulators and stakeholders—to make that happen.

Although there has been a decrease in fatalities from last year, one fatality is one too many.

Today, as we honour those who have lost their lives on the job, let us renew our commitment to doing everything in our power to protect Canadians from workplace hazards and prevent further accidents, illnesses and deaths."

Associated link

Labour Program, National Day of Mourning

SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada