In a poignant display of solidarity and demand for accountability, trade unionists and relatives of Amara Dioumassy, a Malian worker who tragically lost his life on a construction site for the Paris Olympic Games, gathered to demand recognition and justice. This solemn tribute occurred on the eve of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, underscoring the urgency and gravity of the situation.
Approximately a hundred trade unionists and grieving family members, some visibly moved to tears, congregated on Saturday afternoon despite the relentless rain, at the very site where the tragic incident occurred, echoing their collective plea for “recognition and justice for Amara.”
Amara Dioumassy, a 51-year-old team leader, met his untimely demise on June 16, 2023, at the construction site of the Austerlitz basin. This project aimed to enhance the quality of the Seine river water for the upcoming Paris Olympics. However, tragedy struck as Dioumassy was struck by a construction truck that was reversing without a warning alarm—an incident that his colleagues attribute to serious safety breaches on the site.
Lyes Chouaï, a CGT union leader from SADE, a subsidiary of Veolia involved in the project, expressed dismay over what he perceives as the overlooking of Diomassy’s death. He highlighted glaring safety deficiencies, emphasizing the absence of ground markings indicating the direction of vehicle movement—a critical oversight that potentially contributed to the fatal accident.
Amidst preparations for the imminent inauguration of the Austerlitz basin, the somber gathering of the unionists and relatives served as a poignant reminder of the human cost associated with large-scale construction projects. Union organizers aimed to draw attention to Dioumassy’s tragic fate amidst the backdrop of the upcoming Paris Olympics, an event set to captivate the global audience.
The ceremony coincided with the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges and risks faced by workers worldwide. France, grappling with alarming workplace accident statistics, records an average of two fatalities per day—a stark reminder of the pressing need for stringent safety measures and accountability.
The grief and anguish expressed by Dioumassy’s family members further underscored the profound impact of his loss. Despite assurances from authorities regarding ongoing judicial investigations to determine liability, concerns persist regarding the welfare and support extended to Dioumassy’s bereaved family, with allegations of neglect and hardship surfacing.
As the investigation into Amara Dioumassy’s tragic death continues, the broader conversation surrounding workplace safety and accountability resonates deeply, serving as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks faced by workers and the imperative to prioritize their well-being.