Casque de construction d'un employé

Canada’s unions: Negligent employers on notice with 3-year prison sentence

September 14, 2023

In a direct message to employers who fail to ensure the health and safety of workers, a supervisor has been handed a three-year prison sentence for his failure to follow the law. 

In June of this year, the Court of King’s Bench found Jason King of New Brunswick-based Springhill Construction guilty of criminal negligence – “wonton and reckless disregard” – that killed 18-year-old Michael Henderson. 

While in a four-foot-wide utility hole, a plug holding back water slid out – and the young worker was pinned to a wall as water rushed above his head, drowning him. 

“It is unconscionable how the supervisor failed in his duties,” says Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. “This young man had his whole life in front of him – his death was completely preventable and the lives of his family and those he loved will never be the same.” 

Bruske emphasizes that the fight for accountability isn’t over: “Springhill Construction must be held responsible for hiring such a supervisor in the first place. Nothing less than a strong prosecution and criminal negligence charge will suffice.” 

Canada’s unions reiterate the need for strong health and safety systems in every workplace. “Health and safety is job number one,” concludes Bruske. “Laws to protect workers must be enforced – to the fullest extent.” 

Never Again: Canada’s Unions Mark December 6 with Call to End Gender-Based Violence

December 6, 2023
Click to open the link

Canada’s unions welcome the federal government’s new advisory table giving a much-needed voice to workers

December 5, 2023
Click to open the link

To address the ongoing affordability crisis, Parliamentarians should support Bill C-56 and back unions to counterbalance corporate power

December 5, 2023
Click to open the link

Workers with disabilities must be included in Canada’s sustainable jobs plan

December 3, 2023
Click to open the link

Angelo Tocco – Winner of the 2023 Carol McGregor CLC Disability Rights Award

December 3, 2023
Click to open the link

Workers mobilize on the Hill to urge MPs to act as families continue to struggle

November 28, 2023
Click to open the link