NDP statement on the National Day of Mourning

NDP Labour critic Alexandre Boulerice (Rosemont – La Petite-Patrie) made the following statement on the National Day of Mourning:

"Every Canadian deserves a safe working environment.

"Today however, four Canadians will leave for work and never return home. Thousands more will suffer an on-the-job injury. Countless others are slowly being harmed through exposure to toxins and carcinogens. As stark as these numbers are, they don’t include undocumented workers whose injuries are not officially recognised and are not counted.

"On the National Day of Mourning, New Democrats join Canadians to remember the dead and renew our commitment to protect the living.

"Although today is a solemn day, there is also reason for hope. Each Canadian has the power to help establish safe working conditions; and prevent injuries and deaths. As legislators we can empower workers by partnering with other levels of government to create conditions that support workers when they raise the alert.

"New Democrats are committed to doing our part to improve workplace safety and help curb accidents and suffering. NDP MP Laurin Liu has introduced a private member’s bill to grant basic protections and safety provisions to unpaid interns in federally-regulated industries.

"Today, as we pause to remember those who lost their lives, let us reaffirm our commitment to protect the living."