Annual event honours workers killed and injured on the job

Last year in Saskatchewan alone, 31 people were killed as a result of a workplace injury or illness.

Friday morning a small group gathered outside City Hall to raise a flag and hold a moment of silence to remember everyone killed on the job.

Friday was the National Day of Mourning, held annually on April 28 to honour all those who have lost their lives, or suffered injury or illness on the job due to a word-related tragedy.

Of the 31 names read Friday morning, 12 were killed by mesothelioma – asbestos exposure, including Prince Albert’s John Jenkins.

For David Miller, president of the Prince Albert District Labour Council, that hits close to home.

“My dad died in my arms 24 years ago from mesothelioma,” he said. “it was just before Christmas, so it kind of hits you. I’ve been involved with occupational health and safety ever since.”

For more on this story, please see the April 29 print or e-edition of the Daily Herald.