The City of Fernie and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2827 have reached a new collective agreement.

The three-year agreement, which is retroactive to January 1, 2024, will be in effect until December 31, 2026. The agreement provides 4.5%, five per cent and 4.5% annual wage increases, with an additional one per cent adjustment in 2026, aligning with recently ratified agreements involving the IAFF in Canada and BC.

It also provides improved benefits for employees including expanded paramedical, medical, and mental health benefits, while providing flexibility in responding to alarm calls within city limits, and reducing structural overtime.

“Council thanks both teams at the table. We are pleased to have reached an agreement that provides stability for employees and operational flexibility for the city, while supporting the continued delivery of services to our community,” said Mayor Nic Milligan.

“We’re pleased to come to this agreement with the City of Fernie. It recognizes the professionalism and dedication our firefighters bring to the community every day, and improves the support we need for our members,” said Bruce Nelson, President of IAFF Local 2827.

“I want to thank our bargaining team and the city for a respectful process that will continue to allow us to provide a high quality, reliable service for the residents of Fernie,”

IAFF Local 2827 represents eight career firefighters who provide year-round emergency services to the City of Fernie.

The retroactive pay will be funded through the city’s Financial Stability Operating Reserve.

e-KNOW file photo

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