VICTORIA - Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour Shirley Bond has released the following statement today on the national Day of Mourning:

"Today, in British Columbia we pause to recognize the national Day of Mourning. I join with British Columbians and citizens across the country, as we honour those whose lives were tragically cut short or changed forever by injury at the workplace.

“Worker safety is paramount to our government and we must never forget the tragedy of even one life lost at a workplace. Our government expects employers and workers across the province to continue to be vigilant and to ensure that our workplaces are safe.

“We can make a difference in our workplaces - if we all work together.

"We have made improvements in safety in the workplace throughout British Columbia, but all of us agree that one life lost, one serious injury, is simply one too many.

“Today we also want to recognize and support the families, colleagues and communities whose lives have been changed forever. To the families, we want you to know we honour your loved ones. We are deeply sorry for your loss.

"We remember and recognize those who lost their lives at the workplace or who were injured because they are our friends, our mothers, fathers, wives, husbands, daughters and sons - those who we will always hold near and dear to our hearts.

"That is why on this day of remembrance we recommit ourselves to be vigilant and to work tirelessly to create a culture of safety that makes workplace tragedies a thing of the past.” 

Media Contacts:

Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799