Remembering West Lothian workers
West Lothian has marked International Workers Memorial Day with a service in Balbardie Park of Peace, Bathgate.
A service was held on Friday 26 April 2024 which included key notes speeches and the laying of floral tributes. The moving event also included a minute of silence, with the Flowers o' the Forest lament played by local piper Grant Walker from Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band.
A number of local trade unions and politicians took part in the event, organised by West Lothian Trade Union Council, along with representatives from West Lothian Council, nearby Balbardie Primary School and other groups.
Depute Leader of West Lothian Council Kirsteen Sullivan, who delivered the opening address at the service, said: "Workers Memorial Day serves as an important reminder for us all, to make sure that workplace safety remains a top priority. This year the theme focuses on exploring the impacts of climate change on occupational health and safety.
"Thankfully conditions for most have improved significantly in recent years, but it's vital we remember the lessons from the past and continue to learn from them."
International Workers' Memorial Day takes place every year to remember those who were killed or injured in the course of their work. Originating from Canada, the event is now widely marked around the world as a way to highlight the need for improved workplace safety.
The permanent memorial to workers sits in Balbardie Park of Peace near the Xcite Bathgate sports centre and includes the slogan of "Mourn the dead and fight for the living" associated with the day.
