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WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY CONSULTATION LAUNCHED

The Government announced this week that they are looking at officially recognising Workers Memorial Day, to commemorate the thousands of people who have been killed, seriously injured or made ill through work. 
It would also provide an annual focal point for the importance of healthy and safe workplaces.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell has confirmed that a consultation will look at how the Day could be officially recognised in the UK.  He said:

“I would like to send my support to all those people around the world commemorating Workers Memorial Day. I want to look at how the UK could join the many other countries that officially recognise the day.

“The fact that some people go out to work and never return home to their families is a human tragedy.  Workers Memorial Day is a mark of respect to those killed and injured at work and to the bereaved.”

The Secretary of State is now launching a formal consultation which will run until the autumn.  He said: “We will seek the views of trade unions and other interested parties.  I know there is a huge amount of support for the Day and there are many ideas for consideration, including a lasting memorial to all those killed and harmed by work activity.”

Following its inception in Canada in 1984, Workers Memorial Day is already recognised as a national day in many countries around the world including Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Luxembourg, Peru, Portugal, Spain, Thailand, Taiwan and the USA.

Since the early 1990s The Day has become the focal point for an increasing number of commemorative events involving the bereaved, trade unionists, the TUC, Government bodies and Local Authorities among others.

Source: NDS



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