International Workers’ Memorial Day Marked at OIC

A private ceremony in the Council Chamber yesterday marked International Workers Memorial Day.

Every year on April 28, all around the world the trade union movement unites to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day, in an effort to remember those who have lost their lives at work, or from work-related injury and diseases.

In the evening St Magnus Cathedral was emblazoned in purple to mark the end the day.

The afternoon events saw short readings from Reverend Fraser McNaughton, Council Convener Harvey Johnston, from Interim Chief Executive John Mundell and from Kay McKerrell representing the UNISON union.

John Mundell said: "International Workers' Memorial Day is an important reminder each year of the amazing dedication shown by ordinary men and women. Employers and those in power must always take their duty of care seriously and meet it in full - and we certainly strive to do that at Orkney Islands Council across all our services.

“It’s a sad fact that every year across the world more people are killed at work than in wars. As a Council, we are proud to work alongside our trade union representatives to form a powerful collective force for good in the workplace.

Kay McKerrell, Mark Vincent and Sheona Macgregor - collectively speaking on behalf of the Unison, GMB and Unite unions - said: “Every year, on April 28, International Workers Memorial Day is commemorated to pay homage to workers around the world who have been injured, disabled or lost their lives while doing their job.

“The main reason this day is, and has been, marked since 1989 is to raise public awareness of the danger some ordinary workers face daily - just by turning up at work.

“The recognised Trade Unions, who work alongside the Corporate Leadership Team, wish to thank all those who came together at short notice to mark the day and make a commitment for a more permanent memorial where the day can be marked by future generations of workers in Orkney.”