There won’t be a wreath laying at Confederation Building this year to remember those who have passed due to a work-related illness; instead, the St. John’s and District Labour Council will hold a a virtual memorial.

The council says 26 Newfoundlanders and Labradorians lost their lives last year either because of a workplace incident or work-related illness. In Canada, the official figure from last year is 1,027.

Ashley Carew, labour council president, says many work-related deaths aren’t counted by Workers’ Compensation. To show solidarity with frontline workers and to remember fallen workers, the labour council will hold a virtual candlelight ceremony on the Day of Mourning tomorrow at noon.