The following is a message from Paul Boucher, president, Teamsters Canada Rail Conference.
Sisters,
Brothers,
Friends,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the loss of one of our own, Brother Mohammed Khan. He died this afternoon in a workplace accident at the CN rail yard in Rivière-des-Prairies, Montréal.
Brother Khan was 29 years old and had only joined our ranks in December. He had already established himself as a hard-working and well-liked railroader. His passing is a devastating blow to us all, and we extend our deepest condolences to his friends, family, and co-workers.
Today is the National Day Mourning, a day to remember workers who died in a workplace accident and to recommit ourselves to safety and prevention. It adds a layer of agony to this passing.
I urge rail workers across the country to remember Mohammed by making safety your highest priority. Please look out for one another, call out potentially dangerous situations, and refuse to perform unsafe work. Your union will support you.
I believe every accident to be preventable. Rest assured that we will closely monitor the upcoming investigation. We will also work with the company and government agencies over the coming months to help determine the exact circumstances of this tragedy.
Rest in power, Brother Khan. You will not be forgotten.
In solidarity,
Paul Boucher
President
Teamsters Canada Rail Conference
