Orazietti marks National Day of Mourning

NEWS RELEASE

DAVID ORAZIETTI, MPP

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Orazietti marks National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job

SAULT STE. MARIE - Each year on the National Day of Mourning, we pay tribute to workers who have been killed, suffer disease or injury as a result of work.

What began through the efforts of Canada’s labour movement is now observed in more than 100 countries.

It is a day to keep in our hearts and minds the Ontarians whose lives have been forever changed by a workplace accident or death.

Canada’s Day of Mourning was established on April 28 because that was the date third reading took place for the first comprehensive Worker’s Compensation Act in Ontario in 1914.

The Day of Mourning was proclaimed by an Act of Parliament on February 1, 1991.

Traditionally, the day is marked by vigils, candle lighting, ceremonies, the unveiling of monuments, memorial services, and other special events, with an observance of silence at 11 a.m.

I’m proud that our government is committed to treating injured workers with fairness, dignity and respect.

While we are in a time of economic restraint, benefits for injured workers have long been a priority for this government.

We have increased injured workers’ benefits by nearly ten per cent since 2007.

In contrast, during the 12 years before our government took action, benefits increased by a mere 2.9 percent while inflation rose by 29 percent.

Increases to injured workers on partial disability benefits have helped more than 150,000 injured workers.

Improving workplace health and safety must be a community effort - employers, workers and parents all have a role to play.

Employers must provide safe workplaces with appropriate training and education.

Workers must follow safety procedures and report any safety hazards or concerns.

Parents need to talk to their sons and daughters about health and safety before they begin summer or part-time jobs.

The Day of Mourning is a stark yet important reminder that there is more to be done to improve workplace health and safety.

Working together, we can achieve our goal of healthier and safer workplaces in Ontario.

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