WORKERS’ MEMORIAL DAY
Those attending the Workers’ Memorial Day event in Dublin join Dublin Castle gardeners for a moment’s reflection to remember those killed or injured in workplace accidents. Right: Arlene Foster speaking at the Long Gallery in Stormont Pictures:Tom Clancy, Kevin Cooper Photoline
‘One death is too many’ THE Northern Ireland Committee of Congress marked this year’s Workers’ Memorial Day by holding a special event under the theme ‘Remember the dead, fight for the living’ at Stormont. Trade unionists, politicians and relatives of those killed and injured at work gathered in the Long Gallery in Parliament buildings on April 29. NIC-ICTU chairperson John Corey said: “This is an opportunity to remember all those who have been killed or injured at or as a result of their work and continue to fight for improved workplace safety for the living.” He added that it was vital also to acknowledge trade union safety reps who worked “day and daily” to protect the health and well being of their fellow workers. Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment Arlene Foster, who also
spoke at the event, emphasised that “one death was simply one too many”. She added: “It is imperative that there continues to be effective cooperation between the regulators, employers and trade unions to ensure that collectively we achieve a healthier and safer workplace, not only for today's workforce but also for future working generations.” At another Congress event, in Dublin’s Chester Beatty Library, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin reminded those present that people were at the heart of a modern economy. He said: “Workers are not disposable goods. Their protection can never be subordinated to exclusively economic goals and profit. “Safe workplaces require norms that must be respected. But safe workplaces are more. Workers are never just employees. They are al-
Remembering: John Corey & Archbishop Diarmuid Martin
ways people and must enjoy the respect and protection that people deserve.” Congress general secretary had earlier called on the Irish government to give official recognition to Workers’ Memorial Day. In a statement he said: “It is time to make this a national day. The International Labour Organisation supports this and Workers’ Memorial Day is now officially recognised in 19 countries around the globe.
“Earlier this year, the UK joined that list of countries that officially recognise the day.” Mr Begg underlined how important it was that action to prevent deaths and injuries at work be prioritised. He said the resources of the Health & Safety Authority in the Republic must be “ring-fenced” as Ireland currently spends less on worker protection and has one of the lowest numbers of health and safety inspectors in the EU, with roughly five inspectors per 100,000. The EU average is 10 per 10,000. Meanwhile, the ITUC has flagged up the role unions play in making workplaces safer. Guy Ryder, general secretary of the global union confederation, said: “Unions are key for ensuring that safe and sustainable work is not a privilege for the few, but a right for every worker.”
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Trade Union
TV
June 2010
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