The official day of mourning will soon be upon us. On this day, we are reminded of the grim statistics of workers who have died or been injured in Canadian workplaces. Still many more have been discouraged or prevented from claiming compensation they were entitled to. We also remember the fact that these numbers are real people with real families.
This is not, however, purely a day of remembrance, it is also a day to call to action. It is a day to recognize changes that will create safe workplaces for our members and everyone in Canada.
Many injuries in the workplace are easy to recognize but, recently, mental health in the workplace, a less visible health and safety risk, has been an increasing concern. Legislation is changing in many areas to reflect this. There needs to be an ongoing demand to recognize mental health as much as we recognize other health issues. We need to address the stigmas that continue to hinder proper care and treatment.
Another issue we need to remain diligent on is asbestos safety and awareness. One of the basic rights for health and safety is the right to know. Everyone has the right to know where potential hazards are in their workplaces, including if asbestos is in their building and the condition of the asbestos. We encourage everyone to inquire about where these hazards may be in their own workplaces. If you need more information on asbestos related initiatives the PSAC is undertaking, please visit the Prairies website.
We encourage all PSAC members across the Prairie Region to attend local National Day of Mourning observances and bring neighbours, friends, and other members from their Locals. The events that have been confirmed are included on the following page. Please contact one of us or your PSAC regional office for information on events taking place in your area.
In Solidarity,
Your Prairie Region Council Health and Safety Committee:
Clint Wirth (Manitoba)
Nancy Johnson (Saskatchewan)
Alec Goertzen (Alberta)
Event Listing
Manitoba:
Safe Workers of Tomorrow Leaders’ Walk
Friday, April 26, 11:45 a.m.
March from Union Centre Entrance (275 Broadway) to Manitoba Legislature
MFL Candlelight Memorial Service
Sunday, April 28, 1:30 p.m.
Main Floor Gallery, Manitoba Hydro Place (360 Portage Ave.)
Saskatchewan:
Saskatoon & District Labour Council
Sunday, April 28, 2:00 p.m.
Francis Morrison Library, Corner of Fourth Ave. and 23rd street
Yorkton & District Labour Council
Sunday, April 28, 1:00 pm.
A-180 Broadway Street West.
Weyburn & District Labour Council
Sunday, April 28, 2:00 p.m.
T.C. Douglas Church - 10th Ave.
Memorial area behind church
Alberta:
Calgary & District Labour Council Workers Memorial
Sunday, April 28, 11:00 a.m.
Edward Place Park
9th Ave. & Macleod trail SE, SE corner of City Hall
Edmonton & District Labour Council Candlelight Ceremony
Sunday, April 28, 1:30 p.m.
Grant Notley Park
Refreshments to follow