Melville, SK, December 23, 2017 – A Canadian National (CN) worker died following a workplace accident yesterday in Melville, Saskatchewan. The worker was a 26 year-old woman with approximately three years of experience. Her name is not being released.
“Instead of celebrating the holidays, the family of one our Teamster sisters will be in mourning,” said François Laporte, President of Teamsters Canada, the union representing workers at CN. “On behalf of Canada’s 125,000 Teamster members, I would like to express my sincerest condolences to her family, friends and co-workers.”
Teamsters have been advised that a Transportation Safety Board (TSB) investigation is ongoing. The union will cooperate fully with the TSB and monitor the investigation’s progress closely.
“While the loss of a fellow worker is always tragic, it seems even more so at this time of year when families and friends are foremost in our thoughts,” said Doug Finnson, President of Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC). “As we gather with our families and celebrate Christmas, let us all think of our sisters and brothers, and let us keep a place in our hearts for our deceased co-worker and her family.”
“We remind everyone to stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times while at work,” added Finnson.
Out of respect for the victim’s loved ones, and because of the ongoing investigation, the Teamsters Union will make no further comment at this time.
Teamsters represent close to 125,000 workers across Canada, including 12,000 workers in the rail industry. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, with which Teamsters Canada is affiliated, has 1.4 million members in North America.
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Media requests:
Christopher Monette
Director of Public Affairs, Teamsters Canada
Cell: 514-226-6002
[email protected]
