Message to OH&S Officers and Investigators from President MacLean

Dear members,

Occupational Health and Safety Officers with the Provincial government are entrusted with the very difficult task of investigating workplace fatalities. They must balance compassion for grieving families with a high degree of skill and professionalism that ensures those families and the public discover the truth. That truth is so important, as you well know, because it helps us all avoid future tragedies for other families.

Recently, one of our Officers faced public criticism for their investigation into a tragic workplace death. I want you to know that yesterday I spoke with the Officer and later with Deputy Minister Duff Montgomery. The Deputy assures me the Department supports the Officer and he has contacted her to share that support. I advised the Deputy that the Officer has an excellent reputation as an outstanding OH&S Investigator. Mr. Montgomery assured me that he was well aware of that.

Our hearts go out to the family who suffered the tragic loss of someone who by all accounts was a very special and talented young man. We can only imagine the pain they must be enduring. The most comfort that can be provided to this young man’s family is to find the truth. I want you to know that NSGEU is here to support the Officers and Inspectors who have worked and are continuing to work to do just that.

If you have any questions please contact one of the following NSGEU Employee Relations Officers: Paul Cormier, pcormier@nsgeu.ca or Dustin Rioux drioux@nsgeu.ca, or myself at jmaclean@nsgeu.ca.

Thank you again for the work you are doing to keep Nova Scotians safe.

In solidarity,

Jason MacLean,

President, NSGEU