Highlighting a 21-year-old on National Day of Mourning

Ceremonies were held on Monday to mark the National Day of Mourning, honouring workers who have died or been injured in workplace-related incidents.

Nova Scotia’s labour minister Nolan Young was on hand for an event outside Province House this morning, alongside officials from the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour and the provincial Workers’ Compensation Board.

“Every workplace death is preventable. Today, we come together to honour those who didn’t make it home from work and to recommit to making every workplace safer,” Young said. “We encourage all Nova Scotians to take this opportunity to remember, reflect and take action to prevent future fatalities.”

This year’s day of mourning is highlighting the story of Jamie Lapierre. The 21-year-old died in 2000 while working in the hold of a Port Hawkesbury barge during a maintenance shift.

According to those who knew him, Lapierre filled a room when he walked into it. He “roared” around Halifax in a yellow Mustang and lived a charming life.

“Known for his magnetic personality, Jamie was adored by his parents and siblings and, as the baby of the family, often charmed his way out of whatever playful trouble he found himself in,” a press release reads.

He was “easy-going” and “kind-hearted.”

That February day, Lapierre was working in the confined space. Later it was revealed that his death was caused by the amount of rust in the hold, leading to a lack of oxygen.

“For the Lapierre family, the pain of the loss is made worse knowing that his death could have been prevented,” a media release reads.

According to the province, 20 Nova Scotians died at work or because of their work in 2024, including seven acute traumatic injuries and 13 chronic injury fatalities.