BC Labour Board Decision – Inclusion of Paid-On-Call Fire Fighters in IAFF Local 5509

Statement from the BCPFFA on the BC Labour Board Decision – Inclusion of Paid-On-Call Fire Fighters in IAFF Local 5509

The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA) reports that on May 29, 2025, the BC Labour Relations Board ordered the addition of Paid-On-Call (POC) fire fighters to the bargaining unit of IAFF Local 5509, as outlined in the wording of its bargaining certificate.

The agreement, which was accepted by all parties involved, including the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the District of North Saanich, led to CUPE retracting its request to add paid on-call firefighters to its bargaining unit.

Whether POC fire fighters are ultimately included in a local’s bargaining unit will depend on the specific language in the association’s certificate. The BCPFFA respects and supports the autonomy of IAFF affiliate locals in making decisions that reflect the needs, priorities, and values of their membership.

“It’s an exciting opportunity to collaborate in creating a safe and equitable workplace for our members,” stated Spencer Barkley, president of IAFF Local 5509.

“The inclusion of these members into Local 5509 represents a step toward greater fairness, unity, and equitable representation for all fire service personnel, regardless of duty status in the communities they serve.” — BCPFFA Secretary-Treasurer Brian Catinus

“We commend the leadership of Local 5509 for their continued advocacy and commitment to building a stronger, more unified fire service. The BCPFFA remains dedicated to supporting all IAFF Affiliate Locals and their members across the province.” — BCPFFA President Todd Schierling

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For any inquiries on this certification with IAFF, contact the IAFF 6th District Vice President, Mike Carter. 

ABOUT NORTH SAANICH FIRE FIGHTERS’ ASSOCIATION

North Saanich Fire Fighters chartered (6 career firefighters) with the IAFF in August 2024 and become Local 5509. The addition in May 2025 of 26 paid-on-call members now forms a 32 member association.

43rd BCPFFA Convention

43rd BCPFFA Biennial Convention 2025

Vancouver, B.C. – The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters' Association (BCPFFA) successfully concluded its 43rd Biennial Convention in Vancouver, where over 175 delegates from 56 International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) affiliate locals convened to shape the future of the association. The event, held from June 2nd to June 5th, 2025, Sheraton Wall Centre, and saw the election of the executive board, and the passage of 19 resolutions concerning the governance of the BCPFFA and the recognition of key contributors.

Executive Board Elected

The convention saw the acclamation of both the President and the Secretary-Treasurer. The newly elected BCPFFA Executive Board is as follows:

  • President: Todd Schierling (Acclaimed)

  • Secretary-Treasurer: Brian Catinus (Acclaimed)

  • Executive Vice President, Kootenays: Lee DePellegrin (Re-elected)

  • Vice President, Vancouver L18 appointment Adrian Sherriff

  • Vice President, Lower Mainland North: Wade Perret (Port Moody, Local 2399) - Newly Elected

  • Vice President, Lower Mainland South: Mike McMillan (Re-elected)

  • Vice President, Northern Region: Mike Holliday (Local 1372) - Newly Elected

  • Vice President, Island: Andrew Zado (Re-elected)

  • Vice President, Fraser Valley: Saverio Lattanzio (Re-elected)

  • Vice President, Okanagan: Kris Krutop (Re-elected)

  • Trustee: Stewart Dumont L1668 - Re-elected

  • Trustee: Shane Poole L256 - Re-elected

  • Trustee: Curtis Gibbons L1399 - Re-elected

Resolutions and Key Issues

Delegates debated and voted on 19 resolutions that will guide the BCPFFA's actions over the next two years. While a detailed list of all resolutions has not been made public, the discussions centered on enhancing the governance of the association and addressing critical issues facing firefighters.

Key topics of discussion throughout the convention's educational sessions included:

  • Labour Relations;

  • Health, Safety and Mental Wellness;

  • Members Rights;

  • Government Affairs;

  • Governance and Finance

Recognition of Service

A number of individuals were honoured for their dedicated service and contributions to the BCPFFA and the broader firefighting community. The following members and advocates were granted special status:

Emeritus Recognition

  • Steve Farina - Vice President Emeritus Status

Honourary Recognition

  • Ray Boucher

  • Peter Hansen

  • Allan Black K.C.

  • Lois Budd

Peer Recognition

  • Peter Julian, former MP New Westminster, Burnaby for his advocacy for firefighters.

  • Doris Mah, for her work as a government advocate for firefighters.

  • Jeff Sim, (Local 1271) Pipe Major for Surrey Fire Fighters Pipe & Drum Band / BCPFFA Mass Band

  • Ryan Stewart (Local 1183), served as BCPFFA Trustee

  • Matt Crompton (Local 2848), served as North Regional Vice President

  • Steve Farina (Local 1782(, served as Lower Mainland Vice President

  • Kris Anderson (Local 323), for his role as the Fire Ground Survival Coordinator.

  • Paul Rushton (Local 323), for his contributions to the OHS Committee.

  • Ben Lewis (Local 1763), for his service on the OHS Worker's Advocacy Committee.

  • Graeme Currie, for his eight years of service on the Burn Fund Board of Directors.

The convention concluded with a renewed commitment from the BCPFFA to advocate for the health, safety, and well-being of its over 4,000 members across British Columbia.

 
 

BCPFFA Executive Board

 
 

  • Back Row (left to right): Stewart Dumont, Andrew Zado, Curtis Gibbons, Mike McMillan,, Saverio Lattanzio, Kris Krutop, Adrian Sherriff, Shane Poole, (and newly elected Wade Perret, Mike Holliday)

  • Front Row (left to right): Lee DePellegrin, Todd Schierling, Brian Catinus

Todd Schierling, President

Todd is a Local 1271 Surrey member who held the position of BCPFFA secretary-treasurer (2016-2023) and president 2023-2025 term.

BCPFFA President Todd Schierling expressed his gratitude for the unified support from the association's 56 affiliates. "I am honoured to work with a strong leadership team," Schierling stated. "With all 13 positions being acclaimed, it demonstrates the confidence our members have in our commitment to continuing to move the agenda forward."

The acclamation of the entire leadership team underscores a period of stability and shared vision for the BCPFFA as it continues to advocate for the health, safety, and well-being of professional firefighters across British Columbia and Yukon.

Brian Catinus, Secretary/Treasurer

Brian who served the 2023-2025 term as Secretary Treasurer was re-elected by acclamation for another term. Brian brings a strong leadership skill set to the board in areas of labour relations and government affairs.

Brian expressed his gratitude by stating, “I am honoured to work with this board, as well as our affiliates and committee members across this province to ensure our focus never waivers from making the fire service safer for our members and the communities they serve.”

 

NEW AFFILIATION
We are also pleased to welcome North Saanich Local 5509 to the BCPFFA membership as the association’s 56th local.

 

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Media Contact

President Todd Schierling

Office: 604.436.2053

Email: info@bcpffa.org

ABOUT THE BCPFFA

The BCPFFA is a service provider for its affiliates offering training and education in areas of provincial legislation, occupational health and safety, WorkSafe advocacy, financial assistance, bargaining, labour law, and advocacy for best practices in both public safety and fire fighter safety. 

The BCPFFA executive board is comprised of thirteen elected representatives; Two principal officers (President and Secretary-Treasurer), eight regional Vice Presidents and three Trustees. They represent 56 Locals of over 4700 professional men and women in fire fighting - suppression, training, fire prevention, dispatch, mechanical, emergency preparedness, and clerical support staff.

British Columbia Professional Firefighters Will Honour Their Fallen Colleagues at the Provincial Capital

British Columbia Professional Firefighters Will Honour Their Fallen Colleagues at the Provincial Capital

For Immediate Release

February 27, 2025

Victoria, BC – On Monday, March 3, 2025, the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA) will honour twenty-seven (27) of the province’s fallen fire fighters in a memorial parade and service. The Memorial Service will welcome the families of the fallen fire fighters and more than 500 professional fire fighters who will participate in the parade through downtown Victoria. The parade culminates in a ceremony on the south lawn of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.

Every day, fire fighters work to protect the lives and property of citizens in their communities. In doing so, some pay the ultimate price. The Biennial BC Fallen Fighter Memorial Service is held to honour and remember those British Columbia professional fire fighters who have died in the line of duty.  

This biennial, in collaboration with the Speaker of the House and BC General Employees' Union (BCGEU), we are unveiling a plaque at the base of the monument, recognizing the Wildfire Fighters, “who have lost their lives battling wildfires. Their sacrifice shall never be forgotten.”

"This memorial is both a tribute and a call to action. As the President of the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Association, I urge everyone to recognize our duty to ensure every firefighter returns home safely after each shift. We need to enforce high safety standards, reduce exposure to toxic substances and trauma, improve mental health resources, emphasize early detection screening access, and strengthen training and education." - BCPFFA President, Todd Schierling

The memorial service starts at noon, with the Fire Fighters parade starting at 11:25 am from the Black Ball Ferry Line Terminal and ending at the south lawn of the BC Legislature building.  A map of the parade route and memorial location can be found here. More information can be found on the memorial webpage. The memorial will be live streamed on the following platforms: BCPFFA 2025 Memorial webpage, BCPFFA Facebook or bcpffa.net/live 

Memorial Program QR Code

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Media Contact

Jane Spitz

BCPFFA Communications Manager 

communications@bcpffa.org 

T: ‭(604) 916-8499‬


 

ABOUT THE BCPFFA

Established in 1929, the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA) is an affiliate of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).  The BCPFFA comprises 56 IAFF locals who represent over 4,700 professional men and women fire fighters, dispatchers, prevention officers and support members in BC, including the Yukon. 

ABOUT ROBERT E. HALL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

Robert was a fire fighter with the City of Vancouver and led a campaign as BCPFFA’s Secretary-Treasurer to have the BC Government recognize the health risks faced by fire fighters. On October 31, 2005, he led a group to Victoria's Legislature for the first reading of the Worker's Compensation Amendment Act. It recognized seven cancers as occupational diseases for fire fighters.

On August 27, 2007, Rob succumbed to Occupational Cancer. BC Fire Fighters will be forever grateful for his leadership and vision in working with the provincial government to recognize and improve fire fighters' health and safety.

Today, the Workers Compensation Act recognized eighteen occupational diseases as being casually related to the profession of fire fighting.

ABOUT THE BIENNIAL FALLEN FIRE FIGHTER MEMORIAL

The Biennial Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial is a solemn occasion where the British Columbia firefighting community, families, and the public come together to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This memorial serves as a tribute to their bravery and dedication, while also underscoring the inherent risks of the profession and the vital importance of continued efforts to enhance firefighter safety and well-being.

January is Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 14, 2025

January is Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month

BCPFFA Raises Awareness and Advocates for Fire Fighter Health Access

Vancouver, BC – January marks Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month, a vital initiative by the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA) to highlight the heightened cancer risks fire fighters face and promote strategies for prevention, early detection, and treatment.

Background

Throughout January, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and the Fire Fighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) will provide vital education and resources to reduce cancer risks, emphasizing: Minimizing exposure to carcinogens, including PFAS, through improved station designs and protocols; Adopting enhanced safety measures during fire operations; and Promoting healthier lifestyle choices to address personal risk factors, such as nutrition and stress management.

Fire fighters face a significantly higher risk of cancer due to occupational exposures than from fire-related injuries or other on-scene incidents. Among the hazardous substances contributing to this risk are per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," commonly found in fire-fighting foams and protective gear.  “It’s the hidden threat,” says President Schierling! “PFAS have been linked to numerous cancers and other health conditions, making their reduction and elimination a top priority for fire fighter safety.”

Legislative Progress in Cancer Awareness and Coverage

In June 2023, federal Bill C-224 became law, establishing a national framework to prevent and address cancers linked to fire fighting. This legislation designates January as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in Canada, strengthening occupational cancer coverage.  This Act will help IAFF affiliates advance occupational cancer coverage at the provincial level to ensure fair and equitable compensation and support for fire fighters who contract the disease. In October 2024, the five-year plan was released, a $12.29 million investment from the Government of Canada aims to better detect, treat, and prevent fire fighter occupational cancer – the leading cause of line-of-duty death among IAFF members.

Additionally, in July 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified occupational exposure as a fire fighter as a Group 1 carcinogen —its highest risk designation. This reinforces the urgent need for comprehensive measures to protect fire fighters.

In British Columbia, the Workers Compensation Act recognizes 18 occupational cancers, including bladder, brain, breast, colorectal, esophageal, kidney, leukemia, lung, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, prostate, testicular, ureter, pancreatic, thyroid, penile, cervical, and ovarian cancers.  Despite this, BC ranks fourth nationally in recognized cancer coverage.

British Columbia ranks fourth in the country, with 18 types of cancer recognized under the BC Workers Compensation Act.

Advocacy for Expanded Coverage 

BCPFFA President Schierling expressed enthusiasm over the strong, united support from all sides of the house for expanding presumptive cancer coverage under the Workers Compensation Act to include "all cancer sites" and lower the cumulative employment period required for coverage eligibility. This critical update would align with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)'s comprehensive list of occupational cancer classifications, encompassing areas such as the digestive system, female reproductive system, respiratory system, skin, bones, and other systems of concern.

“We are not done”, Schierling says. The BCPFFA is also calling for action to address the growing number of cancer diagnoses among fire fighters, urging the provincial government to 1) Provide fire fighters early health screening access to annual medical and cancer screenings for early detection and intervention.  2) Support the Occupational Disease Planned Inspection Initiative to reduce workplace risks. 3) Eliminate PFAS exposure by advocating for the replacement of PFAS-containing materials in fire-fighting foams and gear with safer alternatives.

Advocacy for Fire Fighter Health Screening

“Prevention and early detection is key,” says President Schierling. “By taking these steps, we can protect fire fighters from unnecessary harm and prevent more names from being added to the Line of Duty Death list on the BC Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial.”

Schierling emphasizes, “Early detection not only saves lives but also reduces the economic impact on the health system and screening cost-effectiveness. Studies show that treating cancer in stages 1 to 2 is far less expensive than dealing with advanced stages 3 to 4, and it significantly improves firefighters’ chances of recovery. Regular screenings can make a crucial difference in both lives and costs.”

In relation to Worker Compensation clam benefits, detected early, a non-fatal occupational cancer claim costs approximately $35,000, compared to over $500,000 per fatal claim involving compensation for firefighters with families. (Source: WSIB Enterprise Information Warehouse, WSIB Information Management Catalogue, WSIB DataHub as of October 22, 2024).

A recent 2023 study from British Columbia highlights the rising costs of breast cancer screening and treatment. Costs for invasive cancer in BC (2023) averaged $39,263 (stage I), $76,446 (stage II), $97,668 (stage III) and 370,398, for stage IV, with costs reaching as high as $516,415.  Weighted by molecular subtype proportions, costs were $31,749 (stage I), $66,758 (stage II), $111,368 (stage III), and $289,598 (stage IV).

Stage IV and III costs were significantly higher than stage I and II. 

Cancer’s Impact on Fire Fighters

In Canada, from 2015 to 2024, 94% of line-of-duty deaths (550 out of 585) are attributed to occupational cancer.  In British Columbia, during the same period, 87% of these deaths (80 out of 92) are also due to occupational cancer. At the upcoming 2025 Biennial BC Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial, 88% of the names being recognized (23 out of 26) are a result of occupational cancer. 

“We are steadfast in our commitment to the health and safety of our members,” says President Schierling. “Swift diagnosis and treatment exercising early screening will save lives and reduce healthcare costs. We urge the government to mandate employer-led prevention programs, allow access to regular health screenings, and the phasing out of harmful substances like PFAS to safeguard the well-being of our fire fighters.”

Continued Advocacy

In March, BCPFFA leaders will meet in Victoria during the Robert E. Hall Legislative Conference to lobby the provincial government for stronger protections and resources for fire fighters and their families. At the 7th Biennial BC Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Victoria this March, we will pay tribute to 26 of our fallen fire fighters. 

We are calling on the Provinicial Government to

1) Amend the Workers’ BC Compensation Act - Firefighters' Occupational Disease Regulation by expanding presumptive cancer coverage to,

➔ include all forms of cancer sites under section 140 (1) (b) of the act; and

➔ lower the employment period requirements for eligibility to two years under section 140 (2) (a) of the act.

2) Provide firefighters with early diagnostic testing such as annual exams, laboratory tests, and cancer screening as medically necessary for firefighters in British Columbia. This includes changes to the current Medical Services Plan (MSP) to cover the costs. These changes will address the BC Cancer Agency's High Risk Screening Requirements and provide additional best practice screening for fire fighters at the highest risk for cancer.

To safeguard firefighter health, we must focus on prevention through early detection.

Comprehensive health screening programs tailored to firefighters will improve survival rates, reduce the emotional toll on families, and lower the overall cost of treatment. By prioritizing early detection, we can ensure firefighters don't need to rely on presumptive legislation alone to secure the care they deserve.

The BCPFFA remains committed to reducing occupational cancer risks and ensuring the health and safety of every fire fighter in British Columbia.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Jane Spitz

Communications Manager

BC Professional Fire Fighters Association

e: communications@bcpffa.org 

c: ‭(604) 916-8499‬

 

RECENT NEWS STORIES

December 16, 2024

Dear Senators,

Re: Support for Bill C-321 – Amending the Criminal Code to Address Assaults Against Healthcare Professionals and First Responders

On behalf of the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), I am writing to express our strong support for Bill C-321 and to respectfully request that it be placed on the Senate agenda for a Third Reading vote on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. We further urge you and your colleagues to vote in favour of this critical piece of legislation.

Bill C-321 seeks to amend the Criminal Code by establishing assaults against healthcare professionals and first responders as an aggravating circumstance during sentencing. This bill is a necessary step toward protecting those who serve our communities, often at great personal risk, and ensuring that violence against these essential workers is met with appropriate legal consequences.

Healthcare professionals and first responders—including paramedics, nurses, doctors, police officers, and firefighters—are integral to public safety and well-being. Yet, these individuals are increasingly subjected to violence while performing their vital duties. Bill C-321 rightly recognizes the unique vulnerability of these workers and the physical and psychological toll such assaults inflict.

By designating these attacks as an aggravating factor during sentencing, Bill C-321:

  • Acknowledges the seriousness of violence against frontline workers, underscoring the profound impact on their well-being.

  • Provides stronger protections for healthcare professionals and first responders, ensuring the justice system reflects our collective responsibility to safeguard those who serve and protect us.

  • Deters future violence, making it clear that assaults on these professionals will result in stricter penalties.

As a society, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and caring for others. Bill C-321 is a significant step in achieving this goal. Its passage will demonstrate our nation’s commitment to valuing and protecting healthcare professionals and first responders.

We respectfully urge you to ensure Bill C-321 is placed on the Senate agenda for a Third Reading vote on Tuesday, December 17, and to vote in favor of this vital legislation.

Thank you for your leadership and attention to this critical issue. We look forward to your support in advancing this bill and the positive impact it will have on those who selflessly serve our communities.

Yours Truly,

Todd Schierling, President                 

PER BC PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS ASSOCIATION

 

BC Fire Leadership Summit and BCPFFA Education & Training Workshop is back!

 
 

BC FIRE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

This year’s (2024) theme was "Shifting Culture in the Fire Service, Building Healthy Relationships, and Advocating Together.” It highlighted the need for collaboration in the fire service. By fostering trust and unity, we aim to strengthen relationships and ensure the resilience and safety of our teams.

Learn more
 

Day 1 & 2 agenda featured,

Keynote: Erin Jones

We were honoured to have Erin Jones as our keynote speaker at this year’s BC Fire Leadership Summit, where she shared powerful insights on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Erin challenged leaders in the fire service to create safe spaces that empower everyone to show up, be brave, and be heard. Her message? Change starts here, with us—building a culture in our fire halls that reflects understanding, inclusivity, and hope for future generations.

Through her stories and life experiences, Erin illuminated what it means to rise above adversity and to lead with resilience. Her words are a powerful reminder of our responsibility to show young, aspiring fire fighters that they belong in this community.

The Shifting Culture of The Fire Service, moderated by Erin Jones

 

Panelists: President Katrina Davison - L18, Deputy Chief Shelley Morris - Surrey, Executive Registrar Joel Woznikoski - L1763, Fire Chief Mike Kaye - Saanich.

 

"Thank you, Erin, for your wisdom, authenticity, and the hope you've instilled in us. You've given us the courage to make a lasting difference in our communities." – Todd Schierling, President, BC Professional Fire Fighters Association

 

Keynote Trevor Sones: Building Healthy Labour Relationships

We were fortunate to have Trevor Sones as our keynote speaker on and panel moderator. Discussing how to build healthy labour relationships, and offering an interactive session with the audience on strategies to actively listen and communicate.

Trevor is a mediator and conflict resolution expert with over 15 years of experience, specializing in labour relations, collective bargaining, and grievance mediation. He’s facilitated over 2,000 mediations across public and private sectors and serves as an Adjunct Professor at UBC’s Sauder School of Business, where he teaches conflict management and negotiation. Trevor holds a Master’s in Dispute Resolution from the University of Victoria and advanced training in negotiation from Harvard Law School. His approach blends research-driven communication strategies with practical conflict resolution skills.

Moderated by Trevor Sones, President Shane Petrie, L2864, Fire Chief Erick Peterson - Abbotsford, Fire Chief Jason deRoy, Township of Langley President Jordan Sparrow, L4550 and Fire Chief Jason deRoy, Township of Langley

“Thank you Trevor for an interactive session and challenging our group on ways to collaborate and build trust in a labour-management environment.” — Todd Schierling, President, BC Professional Fire Fighters Association

 

Day 2: Health & Safety Symposium

Safety Session #1: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in The Workplace

  • Panel Host: Steve Farina

  • Victoria Fire Deputy Chief Steve Serbic

  • Nanaimo Local 905 President Chad Porter

  • WorkSafe BC Senior Manager Client Services in Special Care Services and Case Management Services Lisa Smith

Session #2: Work-Life Balance of a Fire Service Leader

  • Panel Host: Steve Farina (45 mins)

  • North Vancouver District Fire Chief Mike Danks

  • Dr. Duncan Shields

  • Arjuna George

Safety Session: Return on Investment (ROI) on Better Mental Health and Wellbeing for Western Canada Professional fire fighters - ' Call for Action’

  • Dr. Mahesh Nagarajan. Professor of Operation Research, UBC Sauder School of Business.

Safety Session #3: BC Fire Fighter Resiliency and Occupational Awareness Training

  • Panel Host: Steve Serbic

  • Dr. Duncan Shields

  • Matt Johnston

Safety Session #4: Cancer in the Fire Service

  • Neil McMillan - IAFF Director of Science and Research. Health and Safety Division and a Fire Fighter for the City of Ottawa

Safety Session #5: WorkSafe BC

  • Dr. Ashley Spetch - Chief Medical Health Officer

Lisa Smith - Senior Manager Client Services in Special Care Services and Case Management Services

Safety Session #6: Mental Health and Wellness Monitoring, Screening and Support - Best Practices

  • Panel Host: Steve Farina

  • Fort St. John Fire Chief Bob Norton

  • BCPFFA Northern Vice President Matt Crompton

  • Matt Johnston - First Responder Health

  • Jessica Bowie - Chief Human Resources Officer City of Fort St. John

Day 3 & 4 Union Workshops,

Western Educational

The BCPFFA delivers relevant material important to your Union Officers and Occupational Health & Safety advocates. The presenters and content will assist both new and current leaders of your association in being prepared in all aspects of labour representation and occupational health and safety.

With an array of social opportunities to network and collaborate, our team will be ready to host the Western Educational once again soon in the City of Victoria, BC.

LEARN MORE

  • Information Technology Security and Union Policy

  • Investigation, Discipline and Discharge

  • Key case Law

  • Local Union Accountability for Secretary-Treasurers

  • Local Union Governance

  • Medical Privacy

  • Pension Administration for Your Local

  • Local Union Governance

  • WE Consulting Benefits Workshop

  • WFI Development and Implementation

  • Bargaining: Basic to Advanced Level

  • BC Pension Administration for Your Local

  • Charitable Foundation Development and Growth

  • Contract Language - Back to the Basics

  • Digital Communications and Branding

  • Fire Department Master Plan Development

  • Government Affairs

  • Grievance Handling and Right Arbitration 101

  • Human Relations

  • IAFF Residential Construction and Size-Up

 
 

MP Peter Julian Introduces Motion to Phase Out Harmful Chemicals in Firefighting Gear & Suppression Foam

MEDIA ADVISORY
For Immediate Release

November 12, 2024

MP Peter Julian Introduces Motion to Phase Out Harmful Chemicals in Firefighting Gear

BURNABY – Last Friday, Peter Julian, Member of Parliament for New Westminster-Burnaby, introduced Motion M-169 in the House of Commons. The motion calls for the phase-out of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighters' protective gear and fire suppression foam, responding to growing concerns over the significant health risks these chemicals pose, including their links to cancer.

 
 
 

L323, L256, L1782, L1525 Cancer Survivor, BCPFFA and MP Peter Julian

“This motion is about protecting first responders by eliminating their exposure to dangerous chemicals in firefighting equipment and foam,” said MP Julian. “Firefighters work tirelessly to protect our communities, and it’s critical that their gear doesn’t put them at risk. This motion is a direct response to one of the fastest-growing petitions in Parliament, driven by firefighter leaders across British Columbia, including BCPFFA President Todd Schierling, Burnaby L323 President Doug Petti, New Westminster L256 President Shane Poole, and Coquitlam L1782 President Steve Piccolo. Since launching just four months ago, more than 5,000 Canadians have signed the petition calling for the phase-out of PFAS. Parliament now can support safer, healthier working conditions for firefighters. All workers deserve safe conditions—firefighters are no exception. Several countries have already restricted PFAS, and it’s time for Canada to follow suit. Our firefighters deserve gear free from toxic chemicals. Let’s protect those who risk their lives for us,” Julian stated.

"As a firefighter and cancer survivor, I know too well the dangers of PFAS exposure. MP Julian’s Motion M-169 is a vital step in removing these toxic chemicals from our gear, so future firefighters won’t face the same health battles. This isn’t just policy; it’s about protecting lives." - Athena Calogeros, Cancer Survivor and Firefighter, West Vancouver Local 1525

Todd Schierling, President of the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters' Association (BCPFFA), commented, “Firefighters deserve protection not just from the fires they fight, but also from the gear they wear. This motion moves us closer to eliminating PFAS from our equipment, helping safeguard the health of every firefighter on the front lines.”

Doug Petti, President of Burnaby Local 323, emphasized, “This motion is crucial for the safety of our members. By removing PFAS from firefighting gear, we can significantly reduce long-term health risks that are entirely preventable. It’s a vital step forward.”

Shane Poole, President of New Westminster Local 256, added, “For years, firefighters have unknowingly been exposed to harmful chemicals while doing their jobs. It’s time to prioritize their safety and ensure the gear meant to protect them doesn’t endanger their health.”

Steve Piccolo, President of Coquitlam Local 1782, concluded, “Our firefighters deserve the best protection we can provide, which means ensuring their gear and tools are free from toxic chemicals. Passing this motion is a critical step toward reducing cancer rates among these heroes and safeguarding the health of both current and future generations.”

Media Contact:

Doris Mah 

Phone: 604-353-3107 

Email:peter.julian.c1d@parl.gc.ca

October 31, 2024

MP Peter Julian and several MP’s over nine sessions tabled a PFAS petition in the House of Commons. View the playlist below

July 2024: The BCPFFA, alongside with IAFF 323 Burnaby, 256 New Westminster, 1782 Coquitlam and the IAFF Canadian Office have been working with NDP MP Peter Julian (New Westminster-Burnaby) on an online petition that would call on the federal government to ban Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from turnout gear and fire suppression foam.

Removing PFAS from turnout gear and firefighting foams is one of our key legislative issues. To highlight this issue and elicit an official response from the federal government, MP Julian has offered to sponsor a petition outlining our ask.

With just 25 signatures for a paper petition or 500 signatures for an e-petition, the sponsoring MP has the opportunity to table the petition and speak on the issue in the House of Commons. 

We encourage you to support the effort by participating via the following options:

  • Online Petition: [En e-Petition] [Fr e-Petition] is now CLOSED.

  • Paper Petition: The paper petition is ideal for gathering signatures at local events like upcoming Canada Day celebrations and BBQs.. Once you have collected 25 signatures or more, Mail the original copy to MP Peter Julian's office (postage-free): Suite 203, Wellington Building House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6

 
 
 
 
 

PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

Initiated by President Todd Schierling, BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association

Sponsored by MP Peter Julian

A CALL TO BAN PFAS (PER – AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES

We, the undersigned Citizens of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons

WHEREAS, Health Canada’s State of PFAS Report and Risk Management Report have called for the reduction and prohibition of all forms of PFAS (Per – and Polyfluoroalkyl substances) due to their severe environmental and human health impacts, including effects on the immune and nervous systems, liver, kidney, thyroid, as well as development and reproductive systems, and can cause significant danger to the environment or to human life or health;

WHEREAS, it’s well known and documented that fire fighters contract cancer and other diseases at higher rates than the general public due to the toxic exposures they experience in the course of their duties. As a result, firefighting practices emphasize proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage, decontamination protocols and other measures designed to minimize exposure to carcinogens present in combusted materials.

WHEREAS, it has now been determined that for many decades, fire fighters have been regularly exposed to dangerous chemicals from the very things they use to carry out their duties: the coats and pants that make up their firefighting protective gear contain high concentrations of toxic chemicals called PFAS for the primary purpose of repelling water and oil. Fire fighters are also exposed to PFAS in aqueous film forming foams (AFFF) that are used as extinguishing agents at some airports and military facilities across Canada.

THEREFORE, your petitioners call on the Government of Canada, to

(a)  amend the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 to prohibit the manufacture, use, sale, offer for sale or import of PFAS (per –

and polyfluoroalkyl substances);

(b)   amend the Canada Labour Code to provide that an employer who employs firefighters must ensure that they are provided with personal protective equipment and fire suppression foam that do not contain any detectable levels of PFAS (per – and polyfluoroalkyl substances);

(c)   amend the definition of firefighter in the Subsection 125 (1) of the Canada Labour Code as follows:

1. “firefighter” means a person regularly employed in, or appointed to, a fire department, fire marshal’s office, private fire contractor, seasonal private or public fire service, or band council, and assigned to undertake fire protection services for an employer; also, “pompier”

-Including those who carry out fire suppression duties, whether or not those duties include the performance of other emergency services; or

-Including those who carry out investigation duties respecting the cause, origin or circumstances of a fire;

(d)   work with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous and community-based organizations to put into place a timeline and cost- sharing model to phase out firefighters’ personal protective equipment and fire suppression foam that contain any detectable levels of PFAS.

*Definition of PFAS will conform to the U.S. House of Representatives (HR 5987 – The PFAS Definition Improvement Act) in November 2021 to amend Section 8(a)(7) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (15 U.S.C. 2607(a)(7)) inserted the phrase “that contains at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom,” after “perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substance”. This definition and other definitions have been used by both different regulatory authorizations and other organizations across various international jurisdictions.