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Every year on the 28th April, we gather around the world to remember the thousands of workers who have lost their lives or their health as a result of their employment.  

Tackling COVID-19

Each year we stand in silence, our heads bowed in remembrance, yet we never imagined the impending sacrifice that so many of our neighbours would be asked to make: leaving their homes and families to undertake a day’s work, risking all to take on a microscopic entity that threatens the very fabric of society and has taken so many lives, affecting so many families.

This year’s International Workers' Memorial Day therefore has a poignancy like no other. The selfless actions to tackle the deadly coronavirus and the dedication, commitment and empathy being shown by so many across the social structures that hold our communities together, must give us even more reason to remember.

Debt of gratitude

We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to everyone working to provide a service during this terrible time.

Our health and care workers in the frontline in our hospitals and care homes deserve particular praise. But we cannot forget the workers providing valuable services such as our food producers, transport workers, shop workers, delivery drivers, postmen and women. Our council workers all ensuring vital aspects of our lives continue, and those who ensure that the rules are in place to protect us all are adhered to. 

Workers across the country and  the world are in this battle together and we thank you and pay tribute to you for all your valued contributions.

The motto of International Workers' Memorial Day exhorts us to “Remember the Dead, Fight for the Living”. That message has never been more apt. Please observe the minute’s silence being held at 11am today to remember those who paid the ultimate price in this fight.

Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn

Councillor Robert Bissett

Provost Billy Buchanan

Councillor Lynn Munro