RUSSELL PAYS TRIBUTE TO ELDON PERRY AND WORKERS INJURED OR KILLED ON THE JOB

OTTAWA, April 29, 2010 — Labrador M.P. Todd Russell today made the following statement in the House of Commons, paying tribute to the late Eldon Perry of Labrador City and others who have been killed or injured in the course of their employment.

April 28th marked the 25th anniversary National Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job.

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Mr. Todd Russell (Labrador, Lib.): Mr. Speaker, this week flags have been lowered, wreaths have been laid and we have stood in silence to remember those who have been injured or killed on the job.

    On March 19, Labrador lost Eldon Perry in a workplace accident at the Iron Ore Company of Canada in Labrador City. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a long-respected employee. His life was filled with giving and in offering a helping hand. He lived following the simple yet profound ideal of providing for the wellness of his family and community. His legacy is one of action and he has left an incredibly positive mark.

    Working in the north is not easy. It has its great rewards and challenges. Tragically, on the day of Mr. Perry's accident, he was rushed to a hospital without even the basics, such as a CT scan. Needing emergency help, he waited 10 long hours for an air ambulance. This is not good enough.

    My wish today, on behalf of all those who work in the north, is simple: good quality health care that treats all Canadians equally, regardless of where they live. Our workforce and their families are the backbone of our nation, and they have earned it.

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Todd Russell, MP

Labrador

(613) 996-4630