Martin Whitfield MSP has backed a Holyrood motion marking this year’s International Workers Memorial Day.

The motion commemorates International Workers Memorial Day, which takes place every year on 28th April. The day began in 1984 as a national day of mourning for workers who tragically did not return from their work.

The motion also highlights the work of Scottish Hazards, the health and safety champion for workers who are not yet unionised and their families. Specifically, it praises the work that has been undertaken to commemorate the day across all 32 local authority areas.

This year 19 memorial day ceremonies are taking place across Scotland. This includes one in Kilmarnock on Saturday 29th April at 10:45am at the Memorial Tree, Dean Country Park.

Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“I’m pleased to add my support to this motion marking International Workers Memorial Day. It’s really important to remember the workers who lose their lives in the workplace. We must also continue to learn from every tragic death to help ensure workplaces become safer in the future.

“I commend Scottish Hazards, the STUC and all the other organisations involved in commemorating the day. Also, I wish everyone participating in this year’s day every success with their local events.”

Details of all of this year’s IWMD events can be found at www.stuc.org.uk/campaigns-and-events/events/workers-memorial-day.