City and firefighters reach new contract

NEWS — The City of Kamloops and their firefighters, IAFF Local 913, have agreed to a new contract.

The previous agreement expired in December 2010. The new four-year agreement will take both parties to the end of 2014, and will provide for a 1.25 per cent increase effective Jan. 1, 2011; 1.25 per cent effective July 1, 2011; and 0.5 per cent effective Jan. 1, 2013.

The wage increases for 2012, 2013, and 2014 will be the average of the percentage increase agreed to by the majority of 15 Lower Mainland municipality IAFF Firefighter Agreements.

There were a number of operational efficiencies and improvements negotiated in the collective agreement that reduce contract costs.  The negotiations included no benefit enhancements, an increase in the number of flex firefighters allowing for greater flexibility in job responsibilities and an improved uniform replacement system.

The City of Kamloops and IAFF Local 913 were scheduled to proceed to arbitration in April to settle what would likely have been a one- or two-year term, which would have resulted in a contract would have remained two or more years in arrears.

Kamloops Fire Chief Dale McLean says,

“I am very pleased that we were able to reach a settlement with our firefighters,” said fire chief Dale McLean.

“This is a direct result of the positive working relationship established between labour and management. Everyone within Kamloops Fire Rescue has common goals and objectives in providing the best service possible.”

Kris Krutop, IAFF Local 913 president, stated, “We are encouraged by administration’s willingness to discuss our business objectively.” He said the two sides focused on a contract that provides for an efficient operation.