The logo of the Grey Bruce Labour Council.
Today, April 28th is the annual Day of Mourning, supported by the Grey Bruce Labour Council with its affiliates, communities and corporate partners.
In a release, Council Secretary Amy Stephen says “Before the vast number of COVID-19 tragedies in workplaces, it was not uncommon to see annual Ontario workplace deaths quoted between fifty and one hundred.
This is only part of the story and often equates to situations such as falls from heights with immediate and tragic outcomes.
Not are the hundreds of deaths each year as a result of disease associated with exposure to chemicals and carcinogens in the workplace.
Now, add the scores of deaths connected to COVID-19, and stopping to observe and remember those lost to workplace carnage and death in Ontario and around the world is absolutely required.
Council VP for Grey, Chris Stephen says “The global pandemic has not stopped falls, electrocutions, burns, illness like occupational cancer, workplace violence and needless exposure to hazardous chemicals.”
Council VP for Bruce, Dave Trumble, says that workplace horror stories we have come to know before COVID-19 are reason enough to stop and commit to what every Day of Mourning demands of us.
The Labour Council is asking everyone just to take a moment and reflect on the lives lost on the job.
Day of Mourning flags will be flying in several communities for the day including Owen Sound, Kincardine, Chesley and Brockton.