Last year, we lost a colleague, friend and brother, with the passing of Brother Howard Willems, a former CFIA food inspector and PSAC activist.
Howard was diagnosed with mesothelioma, an asbestos related cancer of the lungs, and dedicated the final years of his life to advocating for asbestos awareness and protection. Though Howard is gone, the fight continues.
This week, Howard’s Law (Bill 604) will reach a critical vote in the Saskatchewan Legislative Assembly.This Bill would make it mandatory for all Saskatchewan government or government regulated buildings that contain asbestos be included on an electronic registry accessible to the public.
Please take a minute to sign the petition and tell the Saskatchewan government that we have a right to know if asbestos is present in our schools, hospitals, daycares and other public facilities.
Every PSAC member in this region has a role in the fight to pass Howard’s Law. If the Bill passes in Saskatchewan, it will pave the way for similar protection in Manitoba, Alberta and across Canada.
With your help, we can ensure that Howard’s death wasn’t for nothing and protect other families and communities from asbestos exposure and its harmful effects.
Visit the Saskatchewan Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (SADAO) for more information on Howard’s Law.