Back to SearchKitchener – The City of Kitchener and the Kitchener Professional Firefighters Association (KPFFA) have reached a freely negotiated three-year deal for the second contract in a row. The contract term covers Jan. 1, 2018 – Dec. 31, 2020 and sees monetary adjustments under the projected rates of inflation for that same period.
“I’m happy with the agreement that was reached. I would like to commend the leadership and dedication of both the fire department management team and the association for coming to the table with a commitment to reach a deal that is fair and that benefits us all,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “It sends a strong message that we are all working together to make this a great community for the people who live and work here.
“Our firefighters play an important role in our community, not only in the delivery of high quality emergency services, but also as partners in building a caring and supportive neighbourhoods,” said Michael May, deputy CAO for the City of Kitchener. “I’m so inspired by how actively involved and invested our fire department staff are in this community. Their passion extends far beyond educating residents on fire safety and prevention; they are truly committed to building strong and engaged citizens and foster a culture of giving back.”
Under the new contract, monetary adjustments come in below the rate of inflation at an average rate of 1.79 per cent over three years. A new classification, 5th class firefighter, has also been established which extends the training and experience period for new recruits from three years to four years before they are able to reach the 1st class firefighter rank and salary.
Building on the recognition that mental health and wellness continues to be a priority for Kitchener’s fire service, the new contract includes an increase in psychological health benefits, and the reconfirmation of a Joint Wellness Committee that will focus on creating and implementing a wellness program that will focus on medical surveillance, annual fitness testing and fitness/wellness education.
“There is broad recognition that the psychological effects of the dangerous, high-stress situations our firefighters face can be significant. Our staff is so committed to taking care of other people, I’m please this contract offers them increased health benefits support so that we can ensure they are also able to take care of themselves,” added May.
The Kitchener Fire Department (KFD) operates seven stations and delivers fire monitoring, prevention, public education, rescue, suppression, emergency medical services and community leadership to citizens in the city of Kitchener.
Wage Adjustments
Term:
- Jan. 1, 2018 to Dec. 31, 2020.
Wage adjustments:
- Effective January 1, 2018: 1.25%
- Effective January 1, 2019: 0.9%
- Effective July 1, 2019: 1.0%
- Effective January 1, 2020: 1.0%
- Effective July 1, 2020: 1.0%
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