President to mark workers memorial day
by Mehak Dugal
 
As part of the commemoration, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) is asking all of us to commemorate those who have died by placing a lighted candle in our windows.
As part of the commemoration, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) is asking all of us to commemorate those who have died by placing a lighted candle in our windows.

President Michael D Higgins is to take part in a virtual commemoration of workers who have lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, as part of a ‘workers memorial day’ event taking place next Tuesday (28th April).

 

Workers doing various essential tasks – including cleaners, postal workers, retail staff, nurses and a Dublin firefighter – will also take part in the event.

 

As part of the commemoration, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) is asking all of us to commemorate those who have died by placing a lighted candle in our windows. Unions and their members will also show support for workers in high-risk areas across social media platforms.

 

Trade unions across the globe commemorate international workers’ memorial day on 28th April each year. The day acknowledges workers who have lost their lives as a result of workplace accidents.

 

Fórsa official Dessie Robinson, who is also a part of the Irish organising committee for this year’s event, stressed the importance of the gesture in these difficult times.

 

“This is a day to commemorate and honour all the workers who have died in the workplace, and the many more who are victims of life-changing injuries at work. This epidemic has had devastating effects on our lives, our society and our economy,” he said.  

 

Dessie said the ceremony would also raise awareness to the importance of investing in good public health care, and strong health and safety measures for health workers and others who risk their health to protect ours.

 

“The current crisis has highlighted the importance of protecting the safety, health and welfare of all people, whether at home or in the workplace. ICTU has invited all employers, voluntary organisations, county councils, sporting organisations and community groups to support the social media campaign to mark this day,” he said.

 

Earlier this week Fórsa sent support to its members in St. Luke’s hospital in Kilkenny, where two staff members died after contracting Covid-19. Over 2,500 health workers have now contracted the virus. Over 25% of the total are health and social care professional grades represented by Fórsa.

 

Last year, 46 people were killed in workplace accidents in Ireland. Many more suffered life-changing injuries.

 

Check out the ICTU resource page HERE.

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