WARRINGTON stood together to join others around the world to remember all those who have died doing their jobs this International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) today, Tuesday 28 April.
The poignant day, made all the more important in the midst of the many heroic workers tackling the effects of coronavirus, is being championed locally by the council and its trade union colleagues in Unison.
As part of IWMD, people were encouraged to join a one minute silence at 11am.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Russ Bowden said: “This day of commemoration has never been more significant. Coronavirus has presented the council and other key workers with real challenges, but we’re collectively doing everything we can to support Warrington, particularly our most vulnerable.
“There are millions of people across the UK who, by simply doing their jobs, are putting themselves at risk. It’s important we take stock and acknowledge the incredible, selfless efforts from council workers, those working in the health sector and all other key workers – some of who in the UK have sadly lost their lives.”
The council’s Chief Executive, Prof. Steven Broomhead, added: “I am very thankful for the committed workforce we have in Warrington who are all doing their very best in the face of this extraordinary challenge.
“The work that our heroic NHS and front line care workers are doing should be acknowledged and celebrated. There are also a number of other roles – those working in our schools, our refuse collection service and colleagues in transport services, for example – who are also on the front line and doing an outstanding job. IWMD is a time for us all to reflect and honour the selfless contributions of all of our colleagues playing their part during these challenging times.”
Warrington’s UNISON branch secretary, Jason Horan, explained: “The campaign for a minute’s silence was launched by UNISON, the Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives, which collectively represent more than a million NHS and public service workers.
“Joining the minute silence would be the ultimate tribute to remember workers who have lost their lives and put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and ensure vital services continue to run.”
Meanwhile Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, David Keane joined Chief Constable Darren Martland in paying tribute to workers across the world to help mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD).
The slogan for the worldwide awareness day is ‘Remember the Dead; Fight for the Living’.
PCC David Keane said: “It is right and proper that we remember all those who have lost their lives at work, but this year this special day has great significance given the awful pandemic which is gripping the world and costing so many lives.
“We have seen first-hand and coverage on the news showing the tremendous courage and dedication of workers across the world, who are making so many sacrifices to maintain critical services and minimise loss of life of others.
“Cheshire Police officers and staff and many other workers across the county are playing an integral part in this international effort and we, along with our trade union partners, are extremely proud to pay a special tribute this year to their selfless endeavours.”
Chief Constable Darren Martland added: “Current lockdown restrictions mean that gatherings and ceremonies cannot take place this year to mark the occasion as would normally be the case.
The Constabulary, however, will ensure that the occasion is still marked and police officers and staff will also be observing a minute’s silence at 11am.”
Firefighters, health workers and local residents also stood together at 11am to observe a minutes silence for all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while trying to help others.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the minute’s silence to remember all of the key workers who have sadly lost their lives #IWMD20 #NeverForgotten @WarringtonMayor @CllrRussBowden pic.twitter.com/Y7YAS6Z6kx
— Warrington Borough Council (@WarringtonBC) April 28, 2020
