“The National Day of Mourning is a time to honour and remember those who have died or who have suffered from a serious injury or disease as a result of workplace accidents,“ said Minister Sherry. “It is also a call to action to prevent workplace accidents and to promote safe workplace practices.”

The Day of Mourning originated in Canada in 1984 and is observed in more than one hundred countries world-wide.

“Our hearts go out to the families, friends and colleagues who have lost a loved one to workplace tragedy,” said Workers Compensation Board Chair, Nancy Guptill. “As we come together to support one another on the Day of Mourning, we reaffirm our commitment to create a culture of workplace safety for all Islanders.”

All members of the public are invited to the Day of Mourning ceremony hosted by the Prince Edward Island Federation of Labour. The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 28 at Province House in Charlottetown.

Islanders may also mark the day by lowering workplace flags at half-mast, observing a moment of silence or wearing a Day of Mourning lapel sticker available from the Workers Compensation Board at 14 Weymouth Street in Charlottetown.