Aberdeen City Council to mark poignant International Workers Memorial Day

09 April 2020

Aberdeen City Council will pay a moving tribute to workers across the world later this month will help mark International Workers' Memorial Day (IWMD) in an event that has taken on an extra significance this year.

The worldwide awareness day falls on Tuesday April 28 and was introduced as a day of remembrance for those who have lost their life at work or suffered work related injury or illness.

The slogan for the day is Remember the Dead; Fight for the Living. This will take on an added poignancy this year because of the workers in Aberdeen and globally who are working tirelessly to maintain services during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

Council co Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “This special day always has great significance and sadly, given the awful pandemic which is gripping the world and costing so many lives, it has taken on added importance.

“We have all seen the news coverage 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.

“Aberdeen City Council staff and other workers across the city 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”

Current lockdown restrictions mean that gatherings and ceremonies cannot take place this year to mark the occasion as would normally be the case.

The Council and partners, however, will ensure that the occasion is still marked. The Town House Union flag will be lowered to half-mast and the Marischal Square atrium and leopard statue Poised will be lit up purple; the internationally designated colour for IWMD.

Aberdeen City Council workers will also be asked to observe a minute’s silence at 11am on 28 April.