Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff made the following statement today:
“Today, Canadians across the country remember workers who have been injured or killed on the job.
As we honour the men and women who have been tragically killed or injured in the workplace, we are also reminded of the very real risks that Canadians face every day as they work to support themselves and their families.
In Canada last year, 1,036 workers died on the job, and hundreds of thousands more were injured. Many of these deaths and injuries are preventable. We must work together to strengthen health and safety practices, and remain vigilant so that workers, new and old, receive the proper on-the-job training, use the right safety equipment, and work in safe workplaces with regular safety inspections.
On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, I offer my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, as well as their co-workers who have been affected by the loss of their colleagues. I also offer my support and best wishes for a speedy recovery to all those Canadians who have been injured while on the job.”
Liberal Labour Critic Maria Minna added:
“The National Day of Mourning stands as an important reminder to all workers and employers of the need for strong safety practices and stringent training guidelines.
Every day, an average of three workers die in accidents related to their work, and at least 12 Canadian workers die from an occupational disease. More must be done to ensure all Canadians have the proper training, supervision and security to ensure a safe workplace.
The Liberal Party stands firmly behind the Canada Labour Code and the enforcement of strong health and safety practices to protect the well-being of Canada’s workers.”
