Final preparations are being made for the 2020 Provincial Seamen’s Memorial Service in Canso.
COVID-19 has led to the cancellation of many events, but the 44th annual service will go on.
Organizer Ray White tells The Hawk it’s a tribute to those who lost their lives at sea.
“We felt it was important to remember those people who were involved in the fishery (and) made a contribution to our community,” he says. “Unfortunately, each year we remember that contribution comes with a cost.”
White says it will be a scaled back event; COVID-19 precautions include fewer people on the honour guard, only two local churches participating for opening and closing prayers, and no songs or choirs.
He says they felt the service was important enough to go ahead, because it contains an important reminder.
“Although the sea can provide, it can be very demanding,” he says. “Sometimes that can result in tragedy.”
The service takes place at 2 p.m. Sunday.
White says wreaths placed on the memorial during the service will be taken to sea Aug. 16.
