Minute's silence held to mark International Workers Memorial Day

International workers took a poignant moment to remember those who have died either because of a work related accident, ill health or diseases as a result of work.

People gathered at the tunnel workers memorial on Liverpool waterfront today, April 28, to commemorate International Workers Memorial Day, which brings together workers and union representatives from all over the world. Banners, flags and wreaths were laid at the IWMD memorial plaque, followed by a musical performance from the Liverpool Socialist Singers.

A one-minute silence was held to remember all those killed in the course of their work, or whose lives had been lost as a result of poor working conditions.

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Former BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Roger Phillips presided over the service, which was followed by a IWMD meeting at the Racquet Club, on Chapel Street. Guest speakers included Clara Paillard of the Tipping Point Climate Justice campaign, Tommy Preston of the Greater Manchester Hazards centre, and ex-councillor Lesley Mahmood of the Save Liverpool Women's Hospital campaign.

Unite The Union said: "Changing weather patterns have notable impacts on the world of work, particularly affecting workers' safety and health. Examples of occupational risks exacerbated by climate change include heat stress, UV radiation, air pollution, major industrial accidents, extreme weather events and increased exposure to chemicals.

"Extreme weather and changing weather patterns affect job security, travel to and from work, and the general the health for workers including having a negative impact on workers' mental health. Work in extreme weather can cause fatigue and increases in workplace injuries and stress-related disease, higher UV exposures place workers at risk of chronic health problems, including skin cancer and eye damage."

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