FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Two award recipients were recognized and celebrated with the Safety First in Cape Breton Awards at the 2025 Safety First in Cape Breton Symposium, held Wednesday, May 14, at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre, co-hosted by the Cape Breton Partnership, the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, WCB Nova Scotia, and Nova Scotia Power.

“Congratulations to the two winners, who exemplify what it means to go above and beyond in workplace health and safety,” said Blaise MacNeil, Safety Advisor with the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, and Co-Chair of the Safety First in Cape Breton Network.

The awards recognize individuals, businesses and committees that champion a strong culture of occupational health and safety across Unama’ki – Cape Breton. Recipients are selected for demonstrating innovation, continuous improvement and leadership in making workplaces safer. The 2025 Symposium also featured a number of activities focused on advancing workplace safety with insightful panel discussions and interactive sessions, including a mock investigation and Safety Jeopardy facilitated by local safety professional Calum MacPhee.

The 2025 Safety First in Cape Breton Awards, sponsored by Protocase, have been presented to:

• The Town of Port Hawkesbury (for the Outstanding Health and Safety Committee Category)
• James Buick, physiotherapy/occupational therapy aide, Harbourstone Enhanced Care, Shannex (for the Young Advocate Award Category)

Peter Murray, Senior Director of Safety with Nova Scotia Power, was on hand to present the awards to the winners.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition for our Occupational Health and Safety Committee,” said Jason MacMillan, Water Resources Development Project Manager at Landrie Lake Water Utility with the Town of Port Hawkesbury. “This award is a testament to our team’s dedication and collaboration in fostering a safe, healthy workplace. It reflects our commitment to protecting employees and continuously improving our safety practices.”

Reflecting on the significance of receiving the Young Advocate Award, James Buick said: “This award makes me feel that my hard work is appreciated and my efforts to create a safe and healthy environment have not gone unnoticed. Prioritizing safety ensures not only high-quality care for our residents but also a welcoming environment that feels like home.”

The Safety First in Cape Breton Awards are presented annually at the Safety First in Cape Breton Symposium and span six potential categories. The Safety First in Cape Breton Symposium is the only event of its kind in Unama’ki–Cape Breton. It aims to make the Island the safest place to work and do business, with a focus on physical, psychosocial and mental health in the workplace.

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Media Contact:
Carly Appleton, Communications Coordinator
Cape Breton Partnership
Carly@capebretonpartnership.com
(902) 562-0122

About the Cape Breton Partnership
The Cape Breton Partnership is Unama’ki – Cape Breton’s private sector-led economic development organization that supports companies and entrepreneurs by promoting our island as a great place to live, work, and invest; growing a culture that values and celebrates creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship; and connecting entrepreneurs and companies to the resources.