Nova Scotia legislature flags at half-mast to mark National Day of Mourning

CITYnews halifax / By Mike Lacasse

A ceremony was held on Sunday outside the Nova Scotia legislature in Halifax to remember those who have died or were injured because of a workplace accident or work-related illness.

“Recognizing the National Day of Mourning is essential to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives or suffered injury or illness due to work-related incidents while also raising awareness about the importance of workplace safety and prevention measures for workers is essential on this day,” says Danny Cavanagh, President, Nova Scotia Federation of Labour.

Marked annually in Canada on April 28, the National Day of Mourning is dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives, suffered injury or illness on the job, or experienced a work-related tragedy.

It has been held every year since 1984 and is now observed in more than 100 countries.

Our flags are flying at half-mast to mark the Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace.#DayOfMourning #WorkersMourningDay pic.twitter.com/MFtnw5jSZT

— Nova Scotia Legislature (@NSLeg) April 28, 2024

According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), in 2022, there were 993 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada. Among these deaths were 33 young workers aged 15-24.

In 2023, 18 Nova Scotians died while at work, or because of work done in the past — that includes seven traumatic injuries and 11 deaths caused by chronic injuries.

The Parliament of Canada passed the Workers Mourning Day Act in 1991, making April 28 an official Day of Mourning.

With files from the Canadian Press.