Statement
April 28, 2019 Gatineau, Quebec Employment and Social Development Canada
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, issued the following statement marking the National Day of Mourning:
"On the National Day of Mourning, we pay our respects and remember those workers who lost their lives, were injured or suffered illness either on the job or due to a work-related tragedy. We also honour the families and friends deeply affected by these preventable incidents.
On this day, we renew and strengthen our commitment to preventing further illnesses, injuries and deaths.
Workplace injuries can take many forms. Workplace harassment and violence, for example, can have profound negative effects not only for those who experience it, but also for their families, friends, colleagues and employers. That is why the Government took action with Bill C-65 to protect employees from harassment and violence in federally regulated workplaces. Last month, we announced funding to help a number of organizations create tools to prevent and address these unacceptable behaviours.
It will take more than legislation to eliminate workplace harassment and violence, but Bill C-65 is an essential part of a much-needed culture shift. It sends a strong message to Canadians that harassment or violence of any kind will not be tolerated in any federally regulated workplaces.
To improve the safety and well-being of workers, the government has recently modernized the Canada Labour Code. These amendments will provide new breaks, leaves and rest periods between shifts, and contribute to healthier, safer workplaces. The changes will also mean stronger monetary penalties for employers that don't comply with the code to keep workplaces fair, safe and healthy for all.
Today, as we lower Canadian flags across the country to honour our loved ones, I ask everyone to take a moment to reflect on the thousands of hard‑working Canadians affected by workplace accidents and to remember those we have lost. Every worker has the right to return home safe and sound at the end of each workday. Let us continue to make the health and safety of workers across this country not just our responsibility, but also our priority."
