SNP councillors highlight importance of International Workers Memorial Day

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“The theme of this year’s International Workers Memorial Day is ‘health and safety is a fundamental right’ and it is one that should be at the core of every workplace”, said Councillor Kenny MacLaren (SNP – Paisley Northwest).

International Workers Memorial Day takes place every year on the 28th April.  The purpose of the day is two-fold, to remember those who have died, been injured, or made ill by their work and to ensure that this loss and suffering is used to reinvigorate all campaigns for healthier and safer work; for those still at work, their families, and their children who will become tomorrows’ workers.

Cllr Kenny MacLaren added;

“Strong health and safety policies and practice are key to a healthier and safer workplace and it’s good to see that this is the theme for this year’s International Worker’s Memorial Day.

“No one should go to work not knowing if they will return home, we need safer, healthier workplaces for all and the key to that are strong health and safety policies that are properly enacted in each and every workplace.”

Councillor John McNaughtan added:

“The risks faced by those working in the health and social care sectors has already been acknowledged during the Covid pandemic, but there are also others – those working in childcare, police services and refuse collection, in hostels and rescue centres, in gas, water and electricity, and in transport services among them – whose work and dedication often goes unacknowledged.

“In many cases, these workers know that, by simply doing their jobs, they are putting themselves at risk.  That is why strong health and safety policies are essential in all workplaces.

“Normally myself and other councillors would attend the event organised by trade unions outside Renfrewshire House but as we are holding a virtual council meeting that day I have requested that the Provost allows a minutes silence to give us time to reflect on International Workers Memorial Day.  I would ask everyone to please take the time to pay your respect to all the key workers who have lost their lives on Thursday 28th April.”