News Releases RSS FeedDistrict Reaches First Collective Agreement with Firefighters
April 9, 2008 / 4:00 PM
The District of Maple Ridge and its Firefighters' Union, IAFF Local 4449 which represents 28 career members, have completed their first collective agreement. Local 4449 ratified the deal on March 14 while Council approved the Agreement on April 7. The term of the new agreement runs from July 1, 2005 (retroactive) to a date tied to other regional fire settlements.
"The District is pleased that we have reached our first ever agreement with our firefighters," said Mayor Gordy Robson. "I understand both parties worked hard and that proceedings were cordial. I congratulate all those involved with negotiations and who helped to reach this landmark deal."
The Agreement will bring Maple Ridge firefighters on par with their regional counterparts in terms of general wages and benefits. Maple Ridge fire department will retain its paid-on-call firefighter complement which continues to answer many of the emergency calls throughout the District. There are future plans to hire additional career fire personnel as the Department continues the implementation of its Master Plan.