Workers Memorial Day

From Frances Mason
Harlow Trades Council

TODAY more than ever we hear of workers losing their lives to Covid-19. Every year members of unions throughout the world unite on International Memorial Workers Day (#IWMD20), 28th April 2020. With the current pandemic we have hit unusual times; ‘previous deaths are usually mystery ailments or in tragic ‘accidents’. They die because an employer decided their safety just wasn’t that important a priority’ (TUC).

Sadly, we are becoming more aware of frontline workers dying. Doctors, nurses, midwife, key workers from the bus driver, to the prison officer, to the care worker to name a few. Our Government officials have too been victim to this deadly virus during the course of their day to day work. A lot of these workers are not equipped with PPE to the do the task in hand under pandemic conditions, this is why Trade Union Health & Safety Officers have such a vital role to play in looking after worker’s safety.

Harlow Trades Council normally request the Civic Centre hang their flags at half-mast on this day to remember workers who have died through their work; with the current crisis this may not be possible; it is therefore important that we all remember those that have lost their lives through their employment.

Whilst Robert Halfon MP is calling for a Remembrance Day for ‘Corona Heroes’, there is no need. The International Worker Memorial Day is recognised across the world and with our Government, we just need to remember to value the role workers across all sectors and the need for workers to be protected in the workplace.