[Greens-Media] Too many Australian workers are dying: Greens

[Twomey, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

Too many Australian workers are dying: Greens

"Far too many workers in Australia die from workplace-related injuries
and diseases," said Greens industrial relations spokesperson Senator
Rachel Siewert today.

"More than 2000 Australians die from work-place related injuries or
disease each year. These statistics are alarming -- this is more than
the number who die on our roads." 

 "Today's International Day of Mourning is a day to remember colleagues,
friends and family who have died from work-place incidents, and to
reflect on how as a society we can work together to prevent such
deaths." 

"Instead of responding to these tragedies by strengthening occupational
health and safety laws, in the last 18 months the Howard government has
pushed through laws which weaken Australia's OHS standards and leave
workers vulnerable," said Senator Siewert.

"Mr Howard has significantly downgraded the national occupational and
safety and health authority, dramatically reduced the role of unions and
the powers of Comcare and health and safety representatives in
Commonwealth workplaces."

"On average, 50 deaths occur each year in unsafe workplaces on building
sites. This is almost a death a week, yet the legislation targeting the
building and construction industry reduces the ability of workers in
that industry to look after safety in their workplaces." 

"All workers have the right to return home after work in the same
condition that they left for work. We urge the federal government to
stop diminishing health and safety laws and start protecting Australian
workers." 

	           
For more information or comment call 
Chris Twomey on 0407 725 025

Email senator.siewert at aph.gov.au
http://www.rachelsiewert.org.au

RESCUE THE SENATE


Senator Rachel Siewert
Australian Greens Senator for Western Australia


Friday 27 April 2007