Ottawa, Ontario, May 9, 2012 — Today, the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Canada’s Labour Minister, along with the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, extend their deepest sympathies and pay tribute to the 26 workers who lost their lives in the Westray coal mine explosion.
"Twenty years ago today, the people of Nova Scotia suffered a terrible, avoidable loss that has cast a shadow over my backyard to this day," said Minister MacKay. "Twenty-six lives were lost in the Westray explosion but thousands more have been affected. I empathize with all those who have suffered because of this disaster."
The Government of Canada is committed to promoting fair, safe and healthy workplaces across Canada. We work closely with employers and unions to raise awareness in preventing work-related accidents and diseases, to educate them and to keep them informed about workplace safety.
“In Canada, about 1 000 workers die every year from injuries and illnesses caused by work-related accidents,” said Minister Raitt. “It is important for us all to remember that every time someone is injured or killed in a workplace accident, families are traumatized and lives are broken. Our Government firmly believes that every worker should be able to return home safely at the end of a day of work.”
The Westray coal mine tragedy remains one ofCanada's deadliest workplace accidents. Out of this tragedy came the recognition that employers have a duty and can be held criminally negligent. Changes to the Criminal Code in 2004, make it possible to charge corporate owners and managers for their failures to protect employees. Today, as we remember those workers who have died, let us make a commitment to workplace safety.
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This news release is available in alternative formats on request.
For further information (media only):
Ashley Kelahear
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Raitt
819-953-5646
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills
Development Canada
819-994-5559
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