Waterloo’s Fire Fighters are receiving the same inflation-based pay increases voluntarily agreed to be Guelph firefighters, an arbitrator ruled in late July.
Ontario’s emergency services workers are not allowed to legally strike, meaning when municipalities and unions do not agree during contract talks, all outstanding issues go to arbitration.
Hamilton’s full-time firefighters have been working without a contract since December 31, 2012 and it is likely Hamilton’s contract talks will go to arbitration.
Of note in this ruling, fire prevention officers are granted a four-day, 40-hour work week.
Recent arbitration rulings are granting awards close to inflation.