A young lifeguard lost her life at work during a violent storm last Friday.
Laurie-Ève Cormier, 21, was struck by a large tree branch as she evacuated small children from a public swimming pool in Boucherville, QC. A child, 6, and a woman, 40, were also hurt in the accident, according to media reports. Cormier was a member of CUPE 306.
“Our deepest heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Laurie-Ève,” said Paul Moist, national president of CUPE. “To lose someone so young is an awful tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by her death.”
Charles Fleury, national secretary-treasurer of CUPE, also offered condolences.
“I have a daughter of my own. This kind of tragedy is the greatest fear of any parent, and my thoughts are with them, her family, friends and coworkers. That she died while saving others is something she should be commended for,” said Fleury.
The Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (Quebec’s workplace health and safety commission) is investigating the incident. CUPE will monitor the investigation.