The Workers Compensation Board (WCB) encourages all Islanders to pay their respects on April 28, the National Day of Mourning, by remembering workers who have died, were injured or became ill from their job.
“The Day of Mourning is a solemn day of remembrance, not only for workers who lost their lives to work-related injury or illness, but to show support to their families, friends and communities,” said Jim MacPhee, WCB Chair. “On April 28, we also take time to renew our collective commitment to protecting workers by preventing further work-related injuries and illness from happening, and making sure PEI’s workplaces are safe.”
Sadly, in 2022, three Islanders lost their lives due to workplace incident or illness. This includes all compensable and non-compensable work-related injuries or illness that resulted in the passing of a worker, as reported to the WCB.
“On this day our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives on the job. We remember them and mourn their loss, “said Carl Pursey, President of the PEI Federation of Labour. “We must continue to work together for the living to prevent workplace accidents – now more than ever.”
The Day of Mourning was first recognized in Canada in 1984. It is traditionally marked in many ways including public ceremonies, wearing black and yellow ribbons or lapel stickers, lighting candles, observing a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m., and sharing stories about how workplace tragedies have touched people’s lives.
The PEI Federation of Labour is organizing a memorial event which will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 28, at St. Paul’s Church Hall, 101 Prince Street.
The Workers Compensation Board partners with employers and workers in building safe and healthy workplaces and support recovery, if an injury occurs, through the administration of the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Urgent workplace health and safety matters can be reported anytime by calling our 24/7 emergency line at 902-628-7513.
Media Contact:
WCB Communications
902-894-0362 or news@wcb.pe.ca
More info: wcb.pe.ca