SAINT JOHN — Each year, New Brunswickers recognize the National Day of Mourning on April 28th as a day to remember those who have died, as well as those who were injured or became ill on-the-job.
Last year, more than 10,000 New Brunswick workers were hurt on the job, seven of them fatally (one from an occupational disease). Another three died from previous years’ injuries or disease.
Each year on this day, the province renews its commitment to improve occupational health and safety in New Brunswick workplaces. Workplaces are encouraged to take time to recognize those affected by work-related illnesses, injuries and deaths by looking for ways to improve health and
safety in the workplace, observing moments of silence and wearing ribbons or pins.
WorkSafeNB president and CEO, Gerard Adams, called on New Brunswickers to show their support to the friends and families of those lost.
“The effect of these deaths is devastating not only for the surviving family members, but also their friends, co-workers, employers and the community. Let’s honour those workers injured and killed, and show our support to all affected,” Adams said. Because April 28 falls on a Sunday, WorkSafeNB suggests that on Friday, April 26 you wear a black ribbon or pin (available in many workplaces) or take part in a flag lowering ceremony at your workplace.
Representatives from organizations and municipalities across New Brunswick will recognize the Day of Mourning on April 28 and all are welcome to pay tribute at the event nearest you:
Bathurst – Day of Mourning Monument, Douglas Avenue, April 28, 11 a.m.
Fredericton – Fredericton Fallen Firefighters Memorial, April 28, 12 p.m.
Miramichi – Workers’ Monument, Newcastle, April 28, 6 p.m.
Moncton – Bore View Park Cenotaph, April 28, 12 p.m.
Restigouche – Atholville, walk departs from the AV Cell Mill and ends at the town hall, April 28, 1 p.m.
Saint John – Frank & Ella Hatheway Labour Exhibit Centre, Lily Lake, April 28, 12 p.m.
Individuals are encouraged to help make health and safety the most important part of their workplace’s culture.