INTERNATIONAL WORKERS’ MEMORIAL DAY: TUESDAY 28TH APRIL 2020- MINUTE’S SILENCE AT 11.00 AM TO COMMEMORATE FIGHT AGAINST COVID – 19 PANDEMIC

Every year on April 28th, all around the world the trade union movement unites to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD).

We remember those who have lost their lives at work, or from work-related injury and diseases. We renew our efforts to organise collectively to prevent more deaths, injuries and disease as a result of work.

The Covid-19 pandemic affects every worker regardless of sector or locality. Tens of thousands of workers worldwide have died. More have fallen ill and key workers continue to go to work risking their lives. Many workers are still attending work ill-equipped and without necessary safety measures in place.

We could not have a starker reminder of the important role of trade union health and safety reps in saving and protecting workers’ lives, than the current crisis we are living through.

While we may not be able to attend the memorial events which usually take place on IWMD, there are many ways trade union members can take part in our collective day of remembrance and solidarity.

At 11am on Tuesday 28th April, please take part in a minute’s silence where it is safe to do so. I have already written to employers and authorities across the UK to allow all employees under their remit to do so and the initiative is supported by the government.

It will be a moment to pay tribute to the sacrifice made of so many workers during the pandemic, to remember those who have sadly lost their lives, and to thank and fight for the rights of all those who continue to do vital work at great risk.

Help spread the word about the minute’s silence by encouraging as many friends and colleagues to take part, whether in their workplace or at home. Social media links are here:

Facebook:

https://bit.ly/34Yml8h Twitter: https://bit.ly/2RYzVDu

TUC information on the day can be found here:

https://www.tuc.org.uk/international-workers-memorial-day-iwmd

Please make the contents of this Circular available to all members.

I will be emailing all members these details.

Yours sincerely

Mick Cash