Notice to Auckland Local Members
We refer members to the Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators.
We refer members to the Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators.
It has been a long time coming but the NZPFU can finally announce a scholarship for research or a project that is relevant to the progression of women firefighters within the profession.
Last week the NZPFU provided the advice received from our lawyer regarding the options FENZ has put to 592 members who have been contributing to complying Kiwisaver schemes as well as other non-complying compulsory schemes such as Fire Super.
The Bargaining Process Agreement (BPA) is supposed to set out agreements on how the parties will conduct the bargaining but FENZ refused to agree to include a clause that would prevent the harm FENZ caused in the last round through their anti-NZPFU membership tactics of sending offers, their analysis of NZPFU claims and false information to all and sundry.
Hato Hone St John Ambulance Officers who are members of First Union and the Ambulance Association (NZAA) have given notice of an intention to withdraw their labour on the 20th and 24th August. The notice is for a four-hour strike from the 4am start of shift on the 20th August to be repeated on the 24th August.
FENZ acted swiftly upon the NZPFU notification yesterday that microphones had been enabled on the mobility tablets causing serious concern of possible unlawful surveillance and breaches of privacy.
The NZPFU has been informed by members that the microphones on mobility tablets have been activated. The NZPFU has not been provided with any prior warning of the activation of this function or any lawful purpose for doing so.
Members were notified on the 28th June that FENZ had self-reported to IRD its failure to pay the 3% compulsory contribution to employees who have complying Kiwisaver and other non-complying superannuation schemes such as FireSuper. The NZPFU were informed that 592 members were affected.
UTMOST RESPECT TO OUTGOING PRESIDENT IAN WRIGHT
As of today, 1 August 2024, new National President Joseph Stanley and Vice President Martin Campbell take up their new positions.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Whangarei Local Vice President, the following nomination has been received.
My time as President is coming to an end 31 July and it’s timely to reflect our successes of the past and our opportunities into the future.
Firstly, it has been an absolute honour to have been elected twice by you into the position of President and before that, Vice President. It
has been a pleasure to represent you all and advocate and strive for better working conditions, better engagement, and representation across
the organisation.
The NZPFU has provided all necessary information to FENZ for the reimbursement of the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance premiums paid directly to the NZPFU insurance account between 1 July 2023 and 3 June 2024 (when FENZ commenced direct payment to Protect). Members in the NZPFU Protect Income Protection scheme do not need to do anything further. We are waiting for FENZ to confirm when the reimbursement will be made to the bank account you receive your wages.
The NZPFU and FENZ were supposed to be bargaining today and yesterday but spent the time negotiating terms of a Bargaining Process
Agreement. The parties had met in mediation on Friday to try and settle the BPA and kept working on outstanding issues this week.
Last night at approximately 6pm the parties had worked through almost all issues. The Union recorded and read out to the parties the three
issues of work that was to be done by FENZ overnight for completion today which was agreed by everyone in the room. FENZ did not state they
had other issues to revisit.
Important updates for members on Code of Conduct, Kiwisaver deductions and overtime on public holidays remuneration, Bargaining and Annual General Meetings.
The NZPFU has instructed specialist legal support for advice on the Kiwisaver employer compulsory contributions issue.
Due to the resignation of the Whangarei Local Vice President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
The NZPFU will shortly be providing FENZ with the list of NZPFU members who signed up to the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance for the reimbursement of premiums.
On Tuesday FENZ Workplace Relations Manager Michael Stevenson informed the NZPFU that FENZ had self-reported to IRD its failure to pay the 3% compulsory contribution to employees who have Kiwisaver and other non-complying superannuation scheme such as FireSuper. FENZ had been paying the employer contribution into FireSuper but not the compulsory contribution to the Kiwi Saver Account. We were informed 592 NZPFU members were affected and for all affected staff about $8-$10 million was owing over four years.
Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday 23 August 2024.
Due to the recent resignation of the Taupo Local Secretary, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Northcom Representative – Auckland Local Committee, the following nomination has been received.
The NZPFU membership extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of NZPFU Past President Gordon Duncan who passed away this morning.
Gordon's funeral will be held 11am Thursday 6th June at Kapiti Coast Funeral Home, 9 Hinemoa Street, Paraparaumu.
At the close of the nomination period for the election of the National President and the National Vice President, I have received one nomination for each position.
The Wellington Local are pleased to announce members can now book Blood Screening and Health Checks by agreement with 2 providers. The local has been working very hard to find providers to undertake these comprehensive and potentially life-saving checks for our members.
We again refer members to the NZPFU National Notice issued on the 30th October 2023 which is repeated below.
We have since had questions about FENZ lawyer’s seeking support for FENZ cases being litigated.
Members cannot be compelled to be a witness for FENZ or to support a FENZ in any litigation, except in the unlikely event you
are summonsed. If members receive a summons or are informed they will be summonsed, members are advised to contact the NZPFU and we
will ensure you have the appropriate legal advice.
Without any discussion or consultation with the Union and the individuals concerned, FENZ has unilaterally decided to advertise VSO roles that FENZ characterises incumbent’s as secondees. There has been no discussion with the NZPFU as to the reason or purpose for the change, or the appointment process.
In reference to the Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators.
In reference to the Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators.
From 3 June 2024 FENZ will pay the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance premiums direct for NZPFU members whose substantive positions are covered by the collective employment agreement. Protect rep (Gary Robb) is coming over to ensure FENZ is ready for the changeover. We are taking this opportunity to hold 3 information sessions; these can be joined in person or via Teams.
This notice and form is for you!
As previously notified, from 3 June 2024 FENZ will pay the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance premiums direct for NZPFU members whose substantive positions are covered by the collective employment agreement.
The NZPFU has initiated bargaining in accordance with the requirements of the Employment Relations Act 2020. The current collective agreement expires 30 June 2024 but remains in force.
FENZ has agreed to pay the $50 a week premium for the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance direct to Protect on a bulk bulling arrangement from 3 June 2024.
The NZPFU is thrilled to be able to finally announce that from June 2024 FENZ will be paying the NZPFU Protect Income Protection Insurance premiums direct.
The ratio of nurses, midwives, health care assistants is at crisis levels.
The NZPFU urges members to support the NZNO.
Nominations are hereby called for a Northcom Union Member to be nominated and elected to the Auckland Local Committee, in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union. Only Northcom Union Members are eligible to stand and vote for this position and once a member is elected, Northcom members, in future elections, will only be able to vote for this position and not other Union Committee positions, although Northcom Members can stand and vote for President, Vice President and Secretary in the normal election cycle.
The NZPFU has been in discussions with FENZ management to ensure our members are supported and appropriately assisted through the upcoming Loafers Lodge Anniversary and the criminal trial. Below are the issues we have discussed. If there are other issues members are facing or individual circumstances they can also be accommodated on a case by case basis. We are confident that FENZ is focused on the wellbeing of our members and to ensure our members are appropriately released and supported through the criminal trial.
FENZ has finally agreed to update the list of positions able to access FireSuper membership to now include the CRR and RR Advisors/Senior Advisor positions.
Due to the recent resignation of the Rotorua Local President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
In reference to the Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators
Nominations are called for:
The position of Union President
The position of Union Vice President
FENZ has sent out emails to various NZPFU Members stating that Police have confirmed they will be summonsed as a witness for the arson and murder trial following the Loafers Lodge fire.
We are in tough economic times so Protect Income Protection Insurance is running a Bill Buster competition for all members of the Protect Insurance schemes.
The NZPFU is urging members who participated in the 2023 Whanaungatanga Wellness Survey to make sure they participate in the follow-up survey which closes at 11.59pm tonight.
Due to the recent resignation of the Rotorua Local President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
FENZ is in the process of changing its complaint process to replace the BCO (Behaviour and Conduct Office). This is separate to the code of conduct that the NZPFU is challenging and will keep members updated.
FENZ has confirmed that the PCA allowance will be paid on 26 June 2024.
Last Friday (15th March 2024) NZPFU Tauranga and Kawerau Local Secretaries and Presidents and I met with National Commander Russell Woods, District Manager Jeff Maunder and Workplace Relations Senior Advisor Mike Todd in Tauranga.
The second of the Movember-funded wellbeing survey is well underway and due to be closed on 2 April 2024.
The NZPFU urges all members who participated in the March 2023 survey to participate in the March 2024 survey.
The Auckland Local has been working on behalf of members since mid-January to resolve the issue of legitimate travel time payments declined while attending training courses throughout Tāmaki Makaurau and at the Auckland Regional Training Centre.
The second of the Movember-funded wellbeing survey opens today.
The NZPFU urges all members who participated in the March 2023 survey to participate in the March 2024 survey.
In reference to the National Notice to Members published on 28 January 2024 regarding Blood Screening Programme for NZPFU Members - Firefighters, Trainers and Fire Investigators.
The Auckland Local Committee would like to remind Officers and Firefighters of the challenging work environment for our Comcen staff.
The Union has arranged for a representative from Protect to visit several stations over four days.
We refer Members to the 12th February 2024 notice where we notified members it was not in their interests to respond to the new Code of Conduct.
Members are advised that during a 5th alarm response in Auckland a serious near miss occurred while deploying lengths of 90mm Fireflex stainless banded hose from the hose layer. Lengths of the hose failed with the coupling coming off under pressure leaving the hose flailing about.
On Thursday afternoon FENZ verbally informed the NZPFU that a new code of conduct would be distributed organisation wide today for feedback. The NZPFU immediately objected on the basis that the code of conduct sets out the standards on which disciplinary action including dismissal can be determined. The security of employment and income is one of the most basic and serious terms of employment for employees.
As members will be aware, there have been significant delays and challenges in getting the appropriate systems in place or updated to accurately reflect the changes resulted from the collective bargaining settled in December 2022.
The long-awaited information to access the blood screening programme for firefighters, trainers and fire investigators is here!
The long-awaited information to access the blood screening programme for firefighters, trainers and fire investigators is here!
The long-awaited information to access the blood screening programme for firefighters, trainers and fire investigators is here!
It’s been a while since my last blog, and deliberately so as everyone is suffering some form of fatigue, whether it be working, struggling with payroll issues and post negotiation fatigue, I know it took a lot out of us all. I know I’m feeling it as the year came to an end and the new year starts.
At this time of year our thoughts are with our members who selflessly leave their families and friends to celebrate the season while they work to protect and serve the community. It is a reality of the job that our members are rostered on public holidays and weekends. We acknowledge and appreciate the families and friends who accept that reality and adapt celebrations and traditions to fit in with rosters.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Hamilton Local Vice President, the following nomination has been received.
Following a trial taken in Auckland Central District, and in the interest of providing Firefighters with consistent and quality post fire management, both Counties Manukau and Waitemata Districts have undertaken to rollout Post Fire Management Capability in their Districts. This resource has been funded locally at the request of the Auckland Local.
Post the Loafers Lodge fire the NZPFU organised a lawyer to assist members to draft affidavits that could be provided for any internal or external inquiry into the matter. It was obvious there would be coroners hearings, likely criminal charges and various inquiries including a FENZ review. We wanted to ensure our members could collate their information as soon as practicable to the event into an affidavit that could be presented in any inquiry or legal forum. We also wanted to mitigate the harm caused when having to repeatedly recall in detail involvement in traumatic events such as the Loafers Lodge fire.
Nominations are hereby called for the following position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Hamilton Local President, the following nomination has been received.
The Northern Drivers’ Charitable Trust is offering a scholarships to assist union members or their families to assist with training or re-training in any trade, skill or tertiary study.
Various NZPFU members have been reporting receiving emails containing a “lawful directive” to participate in employment investigations. The implication of the email is that those that refuse to participate may be subject to disciplinary action themselves for failing to comply with the “directive”.
Nominations are hereby called for the following position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
The Auckland Local Committee would like to remind Officers and Firefighters of the challenging work environment for our Comcen staff.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Rotorua Local Vice President, the following nomination has been received.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Hamilton Local Secretary, the following nomination has been received.
Nominations are hereby called for the following position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
Nominations are hereby called for the following position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
The Report of the Whanaungatanga Wellbeing Survey is grim reading with nearly one in three career firefighters meeting the criteria for one or more mental ill health indicators and Communication Centre dispatchers reporting this highest rates of mental health issues when compared to other roles in the organisation. In addition to the exposures to trauma through emergency response, the survey found only 6.6% career firefighters felt supported by FENZ as an organisation.
Members have a range of issues from queries to known errors in their pay and back-pay. I met with relevant FENZ management late last week to get a picture of what was happening and timelines for resolution.
An important part of 2023 settlement of the collective agreement - the NZPFU initiated Psychological Support and Supervision Pilot – is now underway.
NZPFU members who work in regional training roles are being advised by FENZ of a review of the selection processes for the positions filled during the recent People Branch Reset.
Following the tragedy of the Loafers lodge fire, it has been established that one of the challenges facing our Risk Reduction Teams is the ability to identify high-risk buildings that are providing transient accommodation within our communities.
In the last notice that was sent out I updated you on the work of the Equipment Working Group.
Yesterday NZPFU members were emailed the links to the income protection insurance zoom meetings being held at 1300 and 1900 hours starting today and being held every day until and including Friday.
This notice is to inform you that the AGM for the Christchurch Local of the NZPFU, will be held on Thursday 10th August 2023 at Christchurch City Fire Station, starting at 0830. It would be appreciated if the on-duty City SSO could please co-ordinate any truck movements required.
The poll results for the elections of the Northern Branch President and Vice Presidents are below.
As a result of the Collective Agreement Bargaining for our CEA the NZPFU entered into three working groups with Fire and Emergency.
Wednesday 23rd of August Starting 8:30am
Venue: Mt Maunganui Fire Station
Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday 18 August 2023.
With only 6 days to go until the election for the Northern Branch President and Vice-President ends, it has been brought to my attention that some members have had problems finding their secure voting link.
NZPFU Members are already joining the Protect Income Protection scheme prior to membership meetings being held in Auckland and Wellington this week and Christchurch and Dunedin next week.
Nominations are hereby called from Union Members for Local Committee positions.
FENZ’S own investigation into the deaths of two Muriwai Volunteer firefighters exposes systemic failures by the organisation in planning, hazard identification, training and appropriate resourcing. The report was hot on the heels of a damning NZQA External Evaluation Review Report into FENZ-provided volunteer firefighter training.
In accordance with the settlement of the collective agreement the following payments will be made.
The NZPFU National Committee is pleased to announce the Income Protection Group scheme is now available for NZPFU members to join.
FENZ has confirmed that the PCA Allowance will be paid on 28 June 2023.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules Northern Branch members are informed that an election for the Northern Branch President and the Northern Branch Vice President elections will be held electronically.
The Employment Court has agreed with the NZPFU position that firefighters should be paid 1.5 times the overtime rate for the hours worked on overtime on a public holiday. FENZ has only been paying 1.5 times the ordinary hourly rate resulting in firefighters working overtime on public holidays only being paid the same as those working their usual hours and not on overtime.
Following the close of nominations for the election of the Northern Branch positions of Branch Secretary, Branch President and Branch Vice President, I had received one nomination for Branch Secretary Position, and two nominations for the Branch President and three nominations for the Vice President positions.
Following the close of nominations for the election of the Central Branch positions of Branch Secretary, Branch President and Branch Vice President, there is one nomination for each Branch Position.
Following the close of nominations for the election of the Southern Branch positions of Branch Secretary, Branch President and Branch Vice President, I had received one nomination for each position.
The NZPFU National Committee is thrilled to announce an enhanced income protection/life policy has been negotiated and will be available for members very shortly.
The NZPFU is hosting an event to celebrate 40 plus years of women career firefighters with special tributes to Anne Barry and Elizabeth England who were the first women career firefighters in New Zealand and the Commonwealth. Anne Barry battled for the right to transition from the communications call centre to career firefighting taking her case to the Human Rights Commission, the Equal Opportunities Commission and to Parliament before finally being accepted in 1981 on the career recruits course with Elizabeth England.
A Service of Remembrance for those that lost their lives or were impacted by the tragic Loafers Lodge fire will be held this Thursday.
Worksafe has issued FENZ with a notice requiring FENZ to review all Asbestos Management Plans (AMPs) to ensure they are implemented, monitored and effective. The Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) refers to ALL AMPs which means it applies to all FENZ owned/leased/occupied/used buildings across the country.
Nominations are called for the positions of President, Vice-President and Secretary for the Northern Branch.
Nominations are called for the positions of President, Vice-President and Secretary for the Central Branch.
Nominations are called for the positions of President, Vice-President and Secretary for the Southern Branch.
Following the close of the ballot for the election of Rotorua Local President (see attached for details), I hereby declare: BLAIR TROTMAN duly elected.
The tragic fire at Loafers Lodge last Monday will result in various internal and external inquiries including police investigations, criminal charges, coronial inquiries and FENZ operational reviews and investigations. NZPFU members want to ensure that the loved ones of the deceased get the answers they need. It is important that the full picture is presented to the various inquiries, and that information is accurate and provided in context.
It was with a heavy heart that many of us woke this morning to the news of the tragic hostel accommodation fire in Wellington. We send our deepest sympathy to the loved ones of the deceased, those injured and those that survived unscathed but have lost their home and friends. We understand there was a sense of community in the Loafers Lodge hotel in Newtown and the impact will be felt by many.
Whilst Auckland and Northland firefighters, both career and volunteer, are facing yet another 1 in 100 year flood this year, it is apparent that climate change is here to stay. We need to ensure we adapt and remain vigilant to ensure that safety remains paramount for both the public of New Zealand and us as rescuers.
More than 12 years after the tragic 22 February 2011 earthquake the 7th and last fire station re-build will be celebrated with the official opening of the Christchurch City Station.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Rotorua Local President, the following nominations have been received.
NZPFU members and representatives will be attending and speaking at Workers Memorial Day events around the country today.
The NZPFU is currently in discussions with two providers for income protection insurance for members. This process has taken far longer than
we envisaged and much of the delay stems from the impact of extreme weather events on insurance companies. The NZPFU National Committee is
committed to ensuring we have procured the most effective policy for members and is carefully considering either option. We expect to
be able to make an announcement shortly.
The NZPFU has commissioned independent specialist advice and testing as a result of the confirmed presence of asbestos during renovations at
Auckland City Station yesterday.
FENZ has confirmed the backpay for the NZPFU members covered by the collective employment agreement will be paid on 3 May 2023. At
the time of ratification it was indicated that the backpay would be paid in the first pay in May.
It is with great sadness that we inform members that NZPFU life member Jack Glassford (formally of the Gisborne Local) passed away after a short illness on Tuesday morning.
The type 3 acquisition project is entering stage 4 of the project which includes operational user evaluation of the appliances at selected fire stations. The trial will generate lots of interest. The suppliers are in competition and must have a level playing field. Any public comments could cause a supplier to take legal action resulting in considerable delay for the project.
Make Dental Care Free for All is an online petition calling on the Government to bring universal dental care into the public healthcare system to make it free for all.
Due to the recent resignation of the Rotorua Local President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
Overall there has been reasonable response to the Whanaungatanga Programme Wellbeing Survey but we would appreciate a greater participation rate to ensure the survey results are given the weight needed.
A very important piece of work requires your personal and our collective attention.
There are various inquiries established to look into the recent extreme weather events and the response by FENZ including FENZ reviews, Worksafe investigations and Coroners inquests.
The NZPFU has agreed to this week’s training commencing in Rotorua tomorrow (Tuesday 28 March 2023) on the following basis...
Members are urged to ensure they complete the Movember-funded Whanaungatanga Programme Wellbeing Survey before it closes on the 30th March 2023.
The NZPFU advises its members that it is NOT in their interests to attend the specialist water response force training commencing in Rotorua next Tuesday 28 March 2023.
Whanaungatanga Programme lead and career firefighter Josh Darby and AUT’s Professor Grant Schofield joined NZPFU National Secretary Wattie Watson to explain the need for and content of the survey, and the value a high response rate will mean for our members and possibly other first responders internationally.
The NZPFU supports the NZEI and PPTA industrial action calling on Government to address critical issues in the education section including lowering the teacher to child ratios, recognising the importance of quality teaching through more staff, better support and fair pay.
The Movember-funded Whanaungatanga Programme Wellbeing Survey will be sent to all professional career firefighters and comms centre dispatchers on Thursday 9 March 2023.
In a decision released in August 2022 the Employment Relations Authority determined that NZPFU members working overtime on a public holiday must be paid 1.5 times that overtime rate as that is the rate for the calculation of the relevant daily pay.
The past few weeks have been extraordinarily taxing on NZPFU members responding to relentless emergency calls and challenging events at home including loss of homes, personal belongings, massive clean-ups and the tragic loss of family members, friends and colleagues.
NZPFU members from around the country have been contacting the Union to offer support to members who have been responding through the recent natural disasters. We have been asked to ensure our members working and living in the devastation left by Cyclone Gabrielle to know they are being supported from afar and we are beginning to understand the incredible sacrifices they have made. Your comrades and colleagues have been watching in awe and sadness as the news of devastated communities was broadcast throughout the country. For those who cannot be with you in person – we are with you in spirit!
A devastated family and community are reeling with the death of the second volunteer firefighter caught in a landslide in Muriwai.
Yesterday afternoon the battle to locate a volunteer firefighter trapped under a landslide concluded with the recovery of his body at Muriwai.
For a decade FENZ (and its predecessor NZFS) has known the Tauranga Fire Station only has an 18% NBS earthquake rating with firefighters accommodated in the proximity of the most compromised structural wall. For years the NZPFU Local has been battling for progress and relocation while the station is strengthened to at least the required 67% NBS or demolished and built on a suitable site. There have been other investigations including a 2020 visual assessment of the cracks in the building but FENZ has yet to act on the various recommendations.
Today FENZ has released an amended People Re-set consultation document that does not address key issues the NZPFU has raised with FENZ.
The Prime Minister today announced his new cabinet which includes a new Minister of Internal Affairs the Hon Barbara Edmonds.
The Auckland Local has been working hard to support our members that have been significantly affected by the weekend’s unprecedented storm and may well be facing more damage as the weather event persists this week. We understand that the extent of the damage and the long-term implications will not be realised until all properties have been assessed.
Applications can now be made for the Dr Sir John Te Ahikaiata Turei Memorial Grant funded by FENZ.
Last nights unprecedented weather event caused widespread havoc across the region with Fire and Emergency career and volunteer crews, operational support and 111 emergency dispatchers working to exhaustion, with all available FENZ resources at times being mobilised to incidents right across the region.
NZPFU members worked tirelessly throughout the night responding to the unprecedented flooding within the Auckland Region. More than 2000 calls slammed the emergency call centre dispatchers. All fire crews were deployed preforming rescues from homes and vehicles hampered by the torrential rain and rising flood waters making some roads and motorways unpassable.
The NZPFU National Committee and relevant FENZ representatives met over two days this week to implement the new provisions and processes agreed in the new 2021-2024 FENZ NZPFU collective employment agreement.
Members are advised that it is not in your interest to participate in FENZ’s Understanding the Support Provided to our Volunteers survey.
It is with great sadness that we inform NZPFU members of the passing of NZPFU Life Member Terry Scott.
Happy New Year! The last 18 months have been a mammoth effort by your national and local representatives and the membership. We hope everyone had some time off (even if only in between rostered hours) or has some time-off planned in the very near future to relax and unwind.
NZPFU members, locals and national representatives can finally relax as the ratification of the collective agreement also resolves the industrial action.
The Auckland Local wishes all members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The Auckland Office will be closed from the afternoon of Friday 23 December 2022, reopening on Monday 9 January 2023.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The NZPFU has become aware of FENZ offering “free personality assessments” from one of their “Partners” who are reportedly “introducing new psychology tools to the market”. The invitation is actually to take place in research and be part of data collection.
Due to the vote to ratify the collective agreement all current and proposed industrial action, including the omnibus of bans, now ceases from 0800 today.
NZPFU members turned out in force across the country to vote to accept the proposed settlement of the 2021-2024 collective agreement as recommended by the Union’s National Committee.
In August we notified members that the Employment Relations Authority had determined that firefighters working overtime on a public holiday must be paid 1.5 times the overtime rate as the overtime rate is the relevant daily pay.
As you will be well aware by now, we have finally reached an agreed term of settlement in the negotiation for a new CEA. The NZPFU is recommending members accept it and ratify the settlement offer. The National Committee has completely wrung out the sponge for every possible drop of benefit to members, and it's now our turn to act.
Christmas cheer may have come a little earlier for NZPFU members with the NZPFU National Committee today releasing and recommending ratification of a proposed settlement with FENZ. After 18 gruelling months of negotiations and six months of industrial action including all NZPFU members walking off the job twice, the NZPFU members have just received the detail of the proposed settlement that the NZPFU recommends members’ accept.
Currently all formal documentation is on track to be finalised and signed off in time for these ratification meetings. The NZPFU National office will send out the information on the proposed settlement to all members prior to Thursday so all members have the information at the same time and before the ratification meetings.
The NZPFU National Committee is pleased to report that all formal documentation is on track to be finalised and signed off in time for ratification meetings to commence later this week.
The NZPFU National Committee was satisfied this afternoon that the necessary agreements had been reached to cancel the strike scheduled for Monday 5 December 2022. We appreciate the preparation Locals had made for the hour of action but are also pleased the strike will not be needed.
The NZPFU and FENZ have continued to meet this week in a bid to settle the collective agreement negotiations. Progress has been made with movement from both parties. But a remaining few key matters are yet to be agreed.
NZPFU and FENZ representatives met on Monday afternoon in a bid to iron out the remaining unresolved issues in the bargaining.
Yesterday, members were advised that today’s (Friday) strike was cancelled as FENZ had provided a revised position on outstanding matters that demonstrated movement but not all matters for inclusion in the collective agreement were resolved.
The NZPFU has called off tomorrow’s strike (Friday 25 November) after receiving a revised position from FENZ late this afternoon. The omnibus of bans continues unaffected.
While reflecting on what I wanted to write in this blog I was reminiscing on my experience on the ILDC.
The NZPFU national committee determined today to cancel Monday’s strike while Government considers increasing the necessary funding to settle the collective agreement negotiations. The parties are asking the Government to increase the proposal it made a couple of weeks ago.
The parties made further progress at bargaining today but there is still funding to be arranged.
The NZPFU and Fire and Emergency have held two days of negotiations this week which has included an exchange of proposals and consideration of different modelling options that incorporated a proposed funding injection by Government.
The NZPFU and FENZ have been negotiating over the past two days and significant progress has been made but settlement is yet to be reached.
The NZPFU and FENZ met today for bargaining and discussions are continuing.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Taupo Local Vice President, the following nomination has been received.
The NZPFU’s one-hour stoppage from 11am to 12 noon on Monday the 7th November 2022 has been withdrawn.
The Auckland Local Committee thanks it’s members for the mahi put in during this long process of industrial action.
The NZPFU has issued further strike notices with the first strike for 21 November 2022 to ensure the Union has the ability to take further action if necessary.
NZPFU members are advised to continue their duties and are not to stop work at 11am. The omnibus bans remain in place.
For the past three days the NZPFU National Committee, Local Officials and representatives of training, comms centre and part 4 members have been hosted by the Whangarei Local for the 34th Annual Conference.
Today the NZPFU and FENZ met for the first time since the release of the Graeme Colgan report. The parties discussed the application of the recommendations and principles.
Primary Health Care and Plunket nurses will be on strike tomorrow. Strike rallies will be held in more than two dozen locations around the country from 10am until 2pm on Thursday, 27 October 2022.
The NZPFU and FENZ will meet in mediation on the 7th November 2022 in an attempt to resolve the breaches of good faith bargaining and consultation.
As of 5.00pm today Graeme Colgan’s Report was able to be publicly released. Attached is a copy of the full report and the NZPFU analysis.
Today the NZPFU issued four notices of 1-hour stoppages with the first to be held on Friday 4 November 2022.
The NZPFU and FENZ received Graeme Colgan’s final Report with recommendations for the way forward in collective agreement negotiations this afternoon. The report was the result of a mediated facilitation process agreed with the Minister Jan Tinetti.
Members were notified yesterday that the facilitated mediation process is on track with the final report and recommendations due this afternoon. The final report will determine how and when it can be provided to members and publicised.
The facilitated mediation process is on track with Graeme Colgan intending to provide his final report and recommendations to FENZ and the NZPFU this Friday evening.
Last night Graeme Colgan provided his draft recommendations to the NZPFU and FENZ. The parties have until 5pm on Wednesday to provide a response with the intention of the Final Recommendations being provided this Friday evening.
Nominations for the following position are hereby called in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
Following the close of nominations for the election of Taupo Local Secretary, I had received one nomination.
Today the NZPFU filed an application in the Employment Relations Authority claiming FENZ has breached the obligations to bargain in good faith as a result of the recently released People Branch Reset proposal.
A dedicated ambulance officer passed away after a serious ambulance crash in the Waikato yesterday.
I declare FRASER JACKSON, SHAUN CROWLEY, ANDREW MCPHEE and DAVID MILHAM duly elected to the position of Wellington Local Committee Members.
NZPFU members have been buoyed with the solidarity shown by other unions and the public support during last month’s industrial action.
Please post this notice on union notice boards and make all members are aware that nominations are called, and the elections are overseen by the Returning Officer as set out below.
Yesterday the NZPFU were provided with a briefing on FENZ’s “People Branch Reset” which will be released to all and sundry on Wednesday.
Due to the recent resignation of the Taupo Local Secretary, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
Attached please find a flyer from Temoana Biddle of the Ministry of Social Development which we would appreciate each Officer in Charge on duty printing out and putting on your station notice board or similar place for members’ attention.
FENZ is challenging the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) determined that NZPFU members working overtime on a public holiday must be paid 1.5 times the overtime rate.
THE FOLLOWING IS THE ONLY PUBLIC STATEMENT THAT WILL BE MADE ON THE NZPFU FENZ BARGAINING DISPUTE UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2022.
The NZPFU has huge public support coming from all sectors of the community and beyond the shores of New Zealand.
Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Wednesday 31 August 2022.
Despite notice of weekly strike action, FENZ is still refusing mediation with the NZPFU.
This Saturday there were 22 gaps in firefighter coverage, as a result of Fire and Emergency failing to employ enough staff, resulting in 5 fire trucks unavailable for emergencies due to no staff, and many more dangerously short-staffed with less than four.
Late this afternoon FENZ filed an urgent application in the Employment Relations Authority for facilitation. We can’t tell you anything about that application because they did not have the courtesy to copy us in or send it to us. We will receive it from the ERA tomorrow.
Today the NZPFU gave notice of national one-hour strikes from 11am to noon on the 2nd and the 9th September 2022.
In preparation of the planned stoppages on the above dates, all members are to familiarise themselves with this notice.
NZPFU members will be taking the historic action of walking off the job for an hour from 11am on Friday. This will be a complete work stoppage by NZPFU members nationally. FENZ has publicly stated they have contingencies in place but have not disclosed the detail of those contingencies.
I don’t need to tell you that we are in the midst of a very difficult time in our careers. Life is so expensive and our wages are so low and the expectation of overtime is creating more pressure on our work and home lives.
In preparation for the planned stoppages on the above dates, all members are to familiarise themselves with this notice.
In preparation of the planned stoppage on the above date, all members are to familiarise themselves with this notice.
In preparation of the planned stoppages on the above dates, all members are to familiarise themselves with this notice.
At the conclusion of the triennial elections there were four vacant positions on the Wellington Local Committee. In accordance with a request from the Wellington Local, nominations were sought for the four remaining vacancies. As there are seven nominations for the four positions an election will be held.
The Employment Relations Authority has determined that firefighters working overtime on a public holiday must be paid 1.5 times the overtime rate as the overtime rate is the relevant daily pay.
I declare RICHARD SULLIVAN duly elected to the position of Timaru Local Vice President.
The NZPFU will continue to push for guaranteed staffing, proper processes for procuring and maintaining appliances and equipment and fair wages when the parties again meet in mediation this week.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rule B.15.11 the Taupo Local gives notice of the Taupo Local Annual General Meeting.
This afternoon the NZPFU issued the attached notices of escalated strike action.
Please be advised that the Rotorua Local will be holding its AGM on Monday 15th August @1630hrs in the Waiwherowhero room on Rotorua station.
The official term start day for the new NZPFU Auckland Local Committee is the 1st of August.
We refer Members to the previous election notices where the following were declared elected.
Members are advised that it is not in their interests to participate in FENZ’s Volunteer Support Function Review including the survey until further notice.
Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Wednesday 31 August 2022.
With the Wellington Local Secretary and President positions being declared, there is now the Wellington Vice-President and remaining Local Committee positions vacant.
Following the close of poll for the election of Rotorua Local Vice President, I hereby declare.
Following the close of poll for the election of 10 Auckland Local Committee Members, I hereby declare.
Please see attached the Returning Officer’s declarations for the Wellington Local Secretary and President positions.
Please see attached the Returning Officer’s declarations for the Christchurch Local President and Vice President elections, and the Timaru Local Secretary election.
The election for Auckland Local Committee members closes at 1700 hours next Tuesday (5 July).
There can now be absolutely no room for controversy or complacency with the World Health Organisation determining firefighting is Group 1A carcinogenic to humans – the highest rating for carcinogenic status.
As of 11.59pm on 7 July 2022 firefighters will no longer be covered by the Covid-19 mandatory vaccination Health Order.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Palmerston North members are informed that as of the closing date the following nominations had been received for the positions of Palmerston North Local President, Vice-President, Secretary and Committee members.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Masterton members are informed that as of the closing date the following nominations had been received for the positions of Masterton Local President, Vice-President, Secretary and Committee members.
Across New Zealand, FENZ is failing the community with failing trucks and equipment and dangerously low levels of career firefighters and 111 emergency call centre operators.
FENZ has confirmed that the PCA Allowance will be paid on 29 June 2022.
Instead of spending his energy getting around the mediation table to resolve the many critical issues, FENZ Deputy National Commander Brendan Nally has been sending out communications wide and far with thinly veiled threatening references to the code of conduct.
The mediation between the NZPFU and FENZ bombed last week with FENZ refusing to discuss any issue other than remuneration.
CEO Kerry Gregory via District Manager Maunder have requested all drivers of FENZ vehicles to supply their driver licence details to FENZ so that it can be “entered into the system”
Electronic voting kicks off at 0900 hours on 21 June for the triennial Local elections for the Locals where the Local Officials and Committee were not elected unopposed.
NZPFU members are taking lawful industrial action when not complying with the latest notice issued by FENZ as the NZPFU strike notice expressly includes non- compliance with any such policy or rule.
NZPFU members commence strike action at 0001 hours on Monday 13 June as they fight for fair and reasonable wages and safe systems of work.
It's now been revealed that the replacement aerial, moved from Auckland to Hamilton, cannot be fully crewed today because FENZ failed to hire enough firefighters.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Members are informed that an election for the Timaru Local Secretary and President positions shall be conducted by electronic voting.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Members are informed that an election for the Christchurch Local President and Vice President positions shall be conducted by electronic voting.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Members are informed that an election for the Wellington Local Secretary and President positions shall be conducted by electronic voting.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Rotorua members are informed that an election for the position of Rotorua Local Vice President will be held.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, Auckland members are informed that an election for the 10 positions of the Auckland Local Committee will be held.
Parnell firefighters watched their life saving aerial appliance leave Auckland for Hamilton today. The move comes after Hamilton's aerial went offline for servicing. Parnell firefighters have been left to crew a salvage truck. Just one heavy aerial remains to protect Auckland.
Tonight, Fire and Emergency NZ can roster only ONE Dispatcher for the entire South Island.
Redwood, Christchurch was left without their fire truck today after the truck's brakes failed. The 15 year old truck almost caught fire returning to station following a callout. The community was without a fire truck for 3 hours. A 24 year old vehicle has been commissioned to replace it.
Please see attached the Southern Branch Returning Officer’s declaration of nominees for the triennial Local Officials and Committee elections.
This workstation in Wellington should be staffed by a dispatcher. Instead it sits empty. FENZ never hired enough dispatchers.
Christchurch firefighters were at risk responding in this truck for an unknown period of time as the brake air supply lines had been compromised by an undetected break of the drive shaft brackets. Christchurch City is now without this appliance.
Please see attached the Northern Branch Returning Officer’s declaration of nominees for the triennial Local Officials and Committee elections.
Please see attached the Central Branch Returning Officer’s declaration of nominees for the triennial Local Officials and Committee elections.
REMOVE FLASH FLOOD 500 YELLOW 45 LENGTH HOSE FROM TRUCKS
The NZPFU has notified FENZ of yet another incident with Flash Flood 500 Yellow 45 length hose failing.
Learn how our career Firefighters and 111 Dispatchers are treated compared to their colleagues working at Fire HQ. National Secretary Wattie Watson appears on 1News Breakfast.
Christchurch City, Anzac, Hamilton City, Te Rapa, St Heliers, Otahuhu and Glen Eden stations are all dangerously short of crew today because FENZ failed to employ sufficient career Firefighters.
This is what can happen when fire trucks are offline due to FENZ failing to employ enough career firefighters.
Parnell & Mt Roskill appliances, Auckland City's HAZMAT Command Unit, Hamilton City's second fire truck, Gisborne's second fire truck - all pulled from service due to lack of Firefighters. Otara, Te Rapa and Hamilton aerial - all dangerously short of Firefighters.
Today the NZPFU issued notice of Strike action.
NZPFU Members turned out in droves across the country over the past three weeks with 99.3 percent of those that voted rejecting the FENZ offer.
NZPFU members vote overwhelming to reject FENZ's offer to settle the collective agreement and to take all proposed forms of strike action.
Just 4 Firefighters on duty today. Unable to crew second fire truck because FENZ failed to employ sufficient career Firefighters.
Fire Crisis map showing locations of station closures and appliances that FENZ failed to fully crew with sufficient career Firefighters over the last 7 days.
Today, Dunedin's front running truck Dunedin 211 is off the run due to a lack of available staff.
Fire and Emergency NZ may have forgotten you Nelson, but we haven't.
New Zealand career firefighting staffing continues to be at crisis levels with no fix in the immediate future likely.
Wellington City's busiest fire truck taken off the run after FENZ fails to employ sufficient career Firefighters.
Career Firefighter staffing levels throughout Auckland continue to be at crisis levels.
Further to NZPFU National Notice sent out on Wednesday 4 May, this is a reminder to all members that nominations have been called for the positions of Auckland Local President, Vice-President, Secretary and Committee members.
The crisis in FENZ. How the organisation has lost its way. The interview you don't want to miss.
Huge turnouts were seen at the Wellington and Masterton Local meetings last week.
After years of lobbying, and a recent battle to prevent unsafe crewing, the NZPFU is pleased to announce the Levin community will soon be protected with a professional career crew.
Further to NZPFU National Notice sent out on Monday (2 May), this is a reminder to all members of membership meetings being held in the Auckland Local to vote on the FENZ summary of offer and industrial action.
The Coroner will be conducting a broad inquiry into the shocking and tragic deaths of 51 people who died as a result of the terrorist attack at the Masjid an-Nur and the Linwood Islamic Centre by a lone shooter on 15 March 2019 in Christchurch.
The workhorses of the country's fire truck fleet are beset by a new range of mechanical faults.
The proverb you can’t make a silk purse out of a pig’s ear comes to mind when reading FENZ’s attempts to dress up its current offer to settle the bargaining as a position of value.
In accordance with the NZPFU Rules, nominations are hereby called for every Local for the positions of President, Secretary, Vice President and Committee members.
NZPFU members are urged to attend a membership meeting to participate in the ballots on industrial action and the FENZ summary of offer. The meetings kick off in Wellington and Masterton this Thursday. See below for the detailed list and please note the different venues.
Today the Deputy Public Service Commissioner Helene Quilter QSO announced an independent review of FENZ’s progress to address workplace culture and complaint handling practices. The Review is to independently assess the progress FENZ has made since the 2019 Shaw Report, what is working, and what needs to be improved or accelerated.
The Union’s group life compensation insurance has had a 3 yearly re-market whereby the broker, Mercer Marsh Benefits tests the market for the type of insurance we currently get.
The NZPFU had previously informed FENZ we wanted to work with FENZ to ensure members were provided with appropriate information to educate and raise awareness of Long Covid19 and its health implications.
NZPFU membership meetings have been organised across the country for members to vote on the FENZ Collective Agreement offer and industrial action.
Welcome to the downslope of the Omicron outbreak, hopefully this will be the beginning of the end as far as our Covid-19 panic goes.
The National Committee has met in person over the past two days to discuss in detail the FENZ offer to settle the collective agreement negotiations.
It’s been quite a while since my last blog. I’ve been off on Work Accident, a benefit of logging the original injury 3 years ago, gone through minor surgery to my knee and underwent a strenuous interview for SSO.
The Parliamentary Labour Union Caucus has written to the NZPFU to thank members who were impacted by the recent occupation of the Parliament precinct.
The NZPFU advises Health and Safety Reps and other members that FENZ has underhandedly attempted to push through risk assessments on firefighter roles so that FENZ can require the firefighters to be vaccinated should the Government lift the current vaccination mandate.
The National President Ian Wright, National Vice President Joseph Stanley and I met with DCE People Brendan Nally, DCE Finance and Business Operations Darryl Purdy and FENZ lead negotiator Chris Wells last week seeking to push FENZ to vastly improve its position.
The NZPFU has been pushing FENZ to review its vaccination policy in light of recent developments.
The election for the NZPFU Southern Branch Vice President closed on Friday evening. Congratulations to Aaron McKay who was duly elected to the position of Southern Branch Vice President.
NZPFU members in the South Island are reminded that the election for the Southern Branch Vice President position closes at 1700 hours this Friday (18 March 2022).
The Wellington region has been left with no coverage by large firetrucks this week after the latest breakdown.
The Public Service Commission has put public sector employers including FENZ on notice that they must review vaccination policies and to pause any processes that may lead to the termination of employees due to vaccination status.
As members will know, staffing levels throughout Tamaki Makaurau are at critically low levels with fire trucks often short staffed or unavailable for response and 111 Fire Communication Centres under-staffed. Until such time as a Vacancy Fulfilment Policy has been agreed upon with FENZ, our safe systems of work are completely reliant on the application of the Critical Worker Exemption Scheme.
Further to the ongoing series of notices on Fire and Emergency’s willingness to close down fire stations in a pandemic; fire trucks and fire stations throughout Auckland continue to close down, fire trucks continue to respond to emergencies with less than safe staffing or without trained Officers, and Fire Communication Centres are continually operating short staffed.
The NZPFU and FENZ agree that firefighters should never be used as part of Police operations or enforcement.
As notified in National Notice “Bargaining Update 21st February” a series of information meetings have been organised throughout the country to be held via Zoom.
A High Court decision released today has determined that the vaccination mandate affecting a select group of Police and Defence must be set aside.
Warnings from the Union about the state of the Fire and Emergency fleet around the lack of funding, strategic planning, inadequate servicing and repair, have unfortunately come to fruition.
Bay of Plenty Local reps and District management met yesterday to discuss the impact of Omicron on both staff safety, and Operational Capability concerns.
Members will be aware that Fire and Emergency continues to treat the safety of the New Zealand public with contempt, with the decision to relocate specialist heavy aerial resourcing from Auckland to Hamilton, leaving 1.72 million people with just the protection of ONE heavy aerial rescue truck.
Late last week FENZ provided an adjusted offer. FENZ has not provided all the information we requested and therefore we still do not have full disclosure from FENZ.
Please be advised that by closing date for nominations for the position of Southern Branch Vice-President, the following nominations were received.
The NZPFU continues to take every opportunity to represent Members’ interests in national and legal forums.
With the Government announcing the country is moving to Phase Two tonight, Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) and isolation exemptions for workers designated as critical workers will be introduced.
The dangerous saga of appliances failing at fires has occurred far too often in recent times with the most recent failure of an aerial appliance at a critical time during a structure fire in residential Kilbirnie.
On Tuesday afternoon FENZ provided a revised remuneration and financial offer.
Firefighters are refusing to work on a fire truck left stranded without power to its big ladder at a blaze that destroyed a Wellington house last week.
During a planned NZPFU NCOM and Locals meeting this afternoon we received a revised offer from FENZ for Firefighter and Officer pay scale.
FENZ has failed to provide their revised position on wage increases and matters they consider as “remuneration and financial responses”. The NZPFU deadline passed this afternoon.
There is confusion over the application of the Covid-19 vaccination mandate for firefighters. The amended Health Order has now been released.
Further to our notice of 9th January, career fire stations and fire trucks continue to face crisis levels of staffing, with several stations closed during the day due to a lack of career firefighters, with many more fire trucks responding to emergencies with below the minimum safe number of firefighters.
Members are advised it is not in your interest to register an expression of interest as an Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Technical Competency Framework (now named Paearu Mahi) working parties. If you have already done so we urge you to withdraw.
Nominations are called for the position of Vice-President for the Southern Branch.
Members will no doubt have heard that unfortunately the International Convention Centre fire caught fire once again.
Congratulations to Mark Leonard elected as Southern Branch Secretary and Rik Walsh elected as Central Branch Vice President.
I declare RIK WALSH duly elected to the position of Central Branch Vice President.
FENZ has organised a pilot ILDC course for February 2022 that does not require participants to have any qualifications, training or experience and intend to include both qualified professional career, non-qualified Group Managers and a Red Cross participant.
NZPFU Central Branch members are reminded the election for the Central Branch Vice President position closes this Thursday 13th January at 1700 hours.
Decades of neglect towards career firefighter staffing levels are hitting crisis point throughout Auckland Fire Stations this summer as career fire stations are closed and fire trucks respond to emergencies short staffed due to a shortage of staffing.
I hereby declare Mark Thomas Leonard elected NZPFU Southern Branch Secretary.
Members have been requesting information about the Covid-19 vaccination booster shots.
FENZ has distributed a Covid-19 risk assessment for “consultation” which is a sham.
The Auckland Local wishes all members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. A reminder that the Auckland Office will be closed from the afternoon of 23 December 2021, re-opening on 10 January 2022.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
T'is the season to be jolly – and t'is the time to appreciate NZPFU members and their elected union representatives!
By closing date for nomination for the position of Central Branch Vice-President, the following eligible nominations were received.
FENZ “instructions” that “all personnel who wish to attend a training event as a trainee, trainer, setter or facilitator must be double vaccinated and have their vaccine pass available for scanning” are unlawful and are being challenged by the NZPFU.
A Team Management Profile Questionnaire (TMP) is being distributed for some NZPFU members to complete.
Recently FireSuper Board Chair Denis Fitzmaurice engaged in a video discussion with NZPFU National Vice President Joseph Stanley and National Secretary Wattie Watson on options for FireSuper members when leaving FENZ.
Nominations are called for the position of Secretary for the Southern Branch.
The Covid-19 Response (Vaccinations) Legislation Bill was passed under urgency within 24 hours of the Bill being introduced into Parliament. Amid controversy and opposition the Bill easily passed with the support of Labour and Greens.
The Hawkes Bay Local hosted the 33rd NZPFU Annual Conference in Napier this week.
The continued lack of planning, procurement and management of aerial appliances continues to put our communities at risk. For most of this week, Hamilton and the greater Waikato area will be without the heavy aerial Snorkel and its relief as the snorkel will be undergoing its scheduled service and repair work which takes the appliance off the road for at least 3 days.
Continuing on with our series of video presentations, NZPFU National Secretary Wattie Watson and Vice President Joe Stanley are joined by FireSuper Board Chairman Denis Fitzmaurice.
NZPFU unvaccinated members affected by the mandatory vaccination order now have the choice of Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccinations. This week the Government announced those covered by a mandatory vaccination order and those that were advised not to have the Pfizer vaccine on medical grounds will be given priority.
All FENZ personnel covered by the mandatory health order must have at least the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccination before 29 November 2021 and second dose by 14 January 2022 to continue working in their roles.
FENZ has been granted a two-week extension to the implementation of the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Vaccinations) Amendment Order (No 3) 2021.
FENZ has determined it will pay up to two weeks’ paid special leave from the 16th November 2021 for declared unvaccinated workers covered by the mandatory health order. That paid special leave is on the condition the employee actively engages in consultation about any alternative duties and options during that period.
The Local is well aware of the psychological and financial implications that this 11-week lock down has had on our members.
FENZ’s failure to employ the professional career firefighters necessary to maintain minimum staffing across New Zealand in peace time is a primary reason it cannot sustain even a small drop in firefighters during this Covid-19 crisis.
The Covid-19 vaccination debate has been toxic and harmful at work and in our personal lives. NZPFU National Secretary Wattie Watson talks to Clinical Pyschologist Catherine Gallagher about why we have developed and harboured such strong views in this crisis and what we need to think about if we want to keep our mates and partners.
Members will be well aware that Aerial appliances continue to be a problem right around the country. Local Areas are often being left without the vital specialist fire protection and rescue capabilities that these vehicles provide.
Members who have previously confidentially notified me as not vaccinated or unlikely to be vaccinated should have received an email last night. If you are not vaccinated and not intending to be vaccinated on or by the 15th November 2021, and want the NZPFU to advocate on your behalf then please follow these instructions.
Members have been seeking clarification on the process for declaration of vaccination status.
These are extraordinary and unprecedented times, challenging us in every way. While I know that people will be feeling the growing pressure and tension of Covid 19 and the recent vaccination mandate, I am completely confident that we will move through this.
With Auckland remaining at Level 3 in the Covid-19 lockdown, the Auckland Local has made the decision to conduct this year’s Annual General Meeting via zoom on Wednesday 3 November commencing at 10 a.m.
On Thursday the NZPFU notified members employed as firefighters and in the community resilience/risk reduction roles to expect to be notified that their work came within the scope of the Health Order requiring mandatory vaccinations.
Recently the NZPFU asked members to send in questions that they wanted an expert to answer regarding COVID-19 and vaccinations.
The determination of the work captured by the Mandatory Vaccination Order gazetted on Friday is well underway. Yesterday we met with FENZ and other representative agencies to discuss the scope and application of the Order.
The NZPFU is receiving reports from members appointed to the Community Risk & Recovery (CRR) and Risk Reduction (RR) and Advisor and Senior Advisor roles are being told to train and mentor those appointed in more senior positions above them.
UPDATE: AS A RESULT OF NZPFU INTERVENTION FENZ HAS NOW REMOVED THE OFFENDING QUESTIONAIRE FROM HOMEBASE THIS AFTERNOON. WE HAVE RETAINED THE BELOW INFORMATION ON THE QUESTIONAIRE SO THAT MEMBERS’ ARE FULLY AWARE OF ISSUES THAT NEED TO BE RESOLVED SHOULD THE MANDATORY ORDER APPLY TO MEMBERS’ WORK.
Keeping up with Covid-19 pandemic fashion has just got easier for NZPFU members with the arrival of our first shipment of NZPFU masks.
An amendment to the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Vaccinations) Order 2021 is expected to be Gazetted this Friday. The NZPFU understands the Order is still being finalised but the Government’s intention is to finalise the Order to be Gazetted this week.
With Auckland remaining at Level 3 in the Covid-19 lockdown, the Auckland Local has made the decision to conduct this year’s Annual General Meeting via zoom on Wednesday 3 November commencing at 10 a.m.
It is increasingly understood that the repeated exposure to trauma impacts on mental health and wellbeing, but the extent organisational structures and working environments contribute to that stress is not widely understood.
We have NZPFU members with views across the spectrum on the issue of the Covid-19 vaccination programme. Some have made their decision, some are still looking for answers. We have organised a Q and A session for those with questions to be answered.
We have still not received any confirmation from Government of the scope and impact of any pending mandatory vaccination orders. The NZPFU National Committee met this afternoon to discuss the issues that would arise if an applicable mandatory vaccination order was implemented, and the various scenarios our members would face.
This afternoon Minister Chris Hipkins announced a Cabinet decision to require teachers and most healthcare workers to be Covid-19 vaccinated. The Minister specifically referred to a range of roles in the health sector including paramedics but firefighters were not mentioned.
In 2020 the NZPFU and FENZ agreed to a Covid-19 voluntary vaccination roll-out plan that also protected the right of personnel to keep their vaccination-status confidential.
Due to the Auckland borders remaining in place we have decided to further postpone the NZPFU to commemorate 40 years of professional career women firefighters.
It has been brought to the Auckland Local’s attention that it has been discovered that the TFT 25mm Gforce hosereel nozzles are designed to a European specification, which is for low pressure nozzles, and have a maximum working pressure of 16 bar (1600 kPa) instead of the hose reel pressure version specified at 40 bar (4000 kPa).
The Government has announced proposed changes to ACC that will impact on firefighters’ occupational disease and cancer claims but does not go far enough.
I hereby declare: Bradley Kenneth Johnston, Elected Invercargill Local Vice President.
Members have reported some Managers are intending to apply the transfers and vacancies policy across the new larger districts. Managers cannot unilaterally impose this change. There are provisions in the NZPFU collective agreement that must be considered and applied.
This week, Tāmaki Makaurau will lose some of its most experienced and long serving Commanders through retirement.
Due to the impact of Covid-19 restrictions, the NZPFU hosted celebration to commemorate 40 years of career women firefighters will now be held on 12 October 2021.
The following letter of support has been received from the Central Branch of the NZPFU.
Trainers are advised it is not in their best interests to provide a FENZ online evaluation (survey) to trainees.
This last year has been one of uncertainty, with a generational change in the structure of the administration side of our organisation.
The lack of planning and procurement of aerial appliances continues to bite around the country. For the rest of this week Christchurch will be without a heavy aerial as it will be undergoing its scheduled annual certification which takes the appliance off the road for at least 3 days.
Nominations are hereby called from Union Members for Local Committee position as below.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Centre.
Today marks the 40th anniversary of the graduation of the first women career firefighters in the Commonwealth – Anne Barry and the late Liz England.
The NZPFU advises all members not to use the QSI masks and instead to only use the 3M masks issued.
As advised in Auckland Local Notice to Members 21-53 dated 2 August 2021, Fire and Emergency has recently asked for nominations for the 2021 Te Hiku Celebrating Success Awards.
Covid-19 restrictions can result in unexpected or new issues arising. Members can always seek union support and representation if there are personal circumstances that require assistance.
Last month FENZ released its proposed Technical Competency Framework with a deadline of 5pm on 19 September 2021 for feedback.
The Tauranga Local AGM will be held on Thursday 16th September @ 8.30am venue TBC.
Once again, due to years of neglect and mismanagement, Auckland’s high reach aerial fleet is down to just one.
Three days of bargaining were postponed due to the national lockdown. Bargaining will recommence this week through virtual meetings. It is not ideal but the best option to avoid lengthy delays.
It’s been a minute, firstly, I feel extremely privileged to have been re-elected as President for the NZPFU. It is an honour to be elected into my second term as president and I am looking forward to working with Joe Stanley on a number of pressing issues as well as building on the important foundation work we have already done over the last three years.
The NZPFU has confirmed with the National Commander that VSOs are not to be expected to pick up additional workloads when Tranche 2 stands up next month. Unreasonable workloads are a health and safety issue.
In April this year an investigation into complaints made by firefighters against management behaviour at one station ticked over its three year anniversary. By 30 April this year FENZ had spent $174,428.39 excluding GST on the investigation – more than $162,000 was paid to the investigator and $11,662 spent on staff travel and accommodation.
Recently the NZPFU became aware of a FENZ Subject Matter Expert role description which blatantly discriminated against union representatives.
Earlier this year the NZPFU walked away from the supposed “design” of a Technical Competency Framework (TCF) as it was fundamentally flawed as discussions were based around avoiding current rank and command requirements so that FENZ could appoint non-qualified or insufficiently experienced personnel to the ranks of Commander and Assistant Commander.
With NZ plunging back into Level 4 across the country from tonight, we will recommence our Covid-19 communications system commencing with a 1300hrs conference call tomorrow (Wednesday) 18 August.
The NZPFU’s challenge of FENZ’s interpretation of “relevant daily pay” for the purposes of calculating public holiday payments heads into mediation on Tuesday.
So much for being in one waka… doing the right thing… serving and supporting… being better together!
The NZPFU and FENZ have a three-day bargaining meeting scheduled for next week and it is at that meeting FENZ will respond to the NZPFU claims.
Further to our earlier Notice to Members ALC-21-52 regarding the NZPFU 2022 Diary, we have received advice from a number of our members requesting a copy of the diary.
Members have reported a survey circulating by a Massey University student seeking firefighters to participate. The survey and research is about the cumulative trauma and self-regulation of PTSI symptoms, depression and suicide by NZ firefighters.
The Taupo Local advise members their AGM will be held on station at 5pm on the 23rd of August.
FENZ intends to flick the switch on 27 September 2021 standing up the new Tranche 2 and 2B structure. But FENZ is yet to engage with the NZPFU on the practical implications of the changes.
Just as another wintry blast hits the country the NZPFU hoodies have arrived and are available to buy!
Congratulations to the NZPFU members who have been appointed to Group Manager positions! A list was released by the National Commander today.
The Union finds it incredibly frustrating that Fire and Emergency throws money at bucket hats, baseball caps and soft shell jackets whilst New Zealand’s largest most populous city faces a crisis with its heavy aerial fleet.
Members will be aware of the latest update from Fire and Emergency Management about the state of the aerial fleet in Auckland.
The ballot for the positions of National President and National Vice President closed at 1700 hours today. In the presence of the Northern Branch Returning Officer and Central Branch Returning Officer as requested scrutineers I received the results from the electronic voting system.
Every year Central Branch Secretary Rob Hutchison organises the printing and distribution of the NZPFU pocket diary. We are in the process of organising the 2022 diary.
The NZPFU National President and National Vice President elections close at 1700 this Thursday 29 July 2021.
The Holidays (Increasing Sick Leave) Amendment Act 2021 comes into effect tomorrow (24 July 2021) increasing the statutory minimum of 5 day’s sick leave to 10 days per year. Affected employees will get the additional 5 days when they reach their next leave entitlement date. Employees who already get 10 days or more sick leave are not affected by this legislative change.
This week, Auckland City 206 was removed from service due to a driveshaft issue. Parnell 255 has been away for repair for an extended period. This leaves Auckland with only one 24-year-old “heavy” aerial appliance.
FENZ has advertised Group Manager positions in Hawkes Bay and Taranaki claiming anyone who has previously applied “for a Group Manager position in any region” is ineligible to apply for these positions.
We have not just one – but two designs!
NZPFU Christchurch Local in conjunction with Christchurch Firefighters Social Club invite NZPFU members to be presented with a 10 year Christchurch earthquake anniversary coin. Social Club Members warmly welcomed to this event.
Members are reminded that the election for the positions of Union President and Union Vice President are currently underway and are being conducted electronically.
The NZPFU is deeply concerned that FENZ has appointed candidates to the Group Manager position that are not the best-suited applicant.
The NZPFU is encouraging members to come forward with suggestions of appropriate Board nominees of Directors for the NZ Firefighters’ Credit Union Board.
The failure of Tauranga 712’s engine on Tuesday has, once again, highlighted the mismanagement of our local FENZ operational fleet. This is to the detriment to the safety of both the Tauranga FENZ Career Professional, Volunteer staff and the public and industry to which we are tasked with protecting.
NZPFU National Vice president Joseph Stanley and National Secretary Wattie Watson were privileged to attend the launch of the Hiwa-i-te-Rangi Maori Outcomes Programme as part of Matariki celebrations this morning in Wellington.
Members may be aware that a live fire training facility is currently under construction at the Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Whenuapai. The facility is currently due for completion at the end of July.
Members are reminded that the NZPFU National Elections for President and Vice President will be held electronically with the ballot opening at 0900 on 1 July 2021 and will close at 1700 29 July 2021.
National Committee and FENZ meet for the first of many planned negotiation days.
We are still seeing occasions of pumps disengaging when the primer is operated. This is not acceptable.
The Covid-19 vaccination Hub system is failing firefighters as those that respond to MIQ facilities, airports and border facilities are not even being offered dates, let alone priority for Covid-19 vaccinations.
The NZPFU National Elections for President and Vice President will be held electronically with the ballot opening at 0900 on 1 July 2021 and will close at 1700 29 July 2021.
Today Jeffrey Shrimpton withdrew his nomination for the position of President.
NZPFU Honorary Life Member and former Kawerau Local Official John Sandison has been recognised for his services to the fire service and community in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours. John has been awarded the Queen’s Service Medal.
As you will have been told, our status as co-responders, categorises us as high risk medical workers who fall into the Category 2A. The Pfizer Covid-19 vaccination is available to you now.
Nominations for the NZPFU Union President and Union Vice President closed at 4pm today.
It has come to the Auckland Local’s attention that some Officers may not be transmitting K41 and K13 codes when it is appropriate and necessary to do so.
The NZPFU is still not satisfied that the offers of re-deployment of CRR Advisor and Senior Advisor Risk Reduction or Community Risk and Recovery Roles comply with the collective agreement, FENZ’s own policies or legislative requirements. We have notified of a dispute and reminded FENZ that we are now in bargaining and these matters are subject to bargaining.
Strength in unity and safety in numbers is not just a slogan – it is the reality. It is through the collective voice of unions that working conditions have evolved over generations, and national protections and standards (such as those in the Holidays Act, Health and Safety at Work Act, Employment Relations Act etc) enacted.
Friday afternoon FENZ sent out various offers of redeployment to FRMO and DPFRO members.
The NZPFU has been approached by some of our members who are also members of the New Zealand Firefighters Credit Union (FCU) who are concerned an amalgamation proposal with another credit union is being voted on without any information on other options.
The NZPFU has been getting complaints from members (trainees and trainers) that they are being required to travel to courses outside of their usual hours and are not being paid the correct rate for that travel time.
The NZPFU has given notice to initiate bargaining (attached).
FENZ has advertised firefighter positions in the Manawatu for candidates willing to work in any career position, watch or station.
FENZ has repeatedly claimed through the disestablishment of Area Managers and the establishment of District and Group Manager positions that only the suitably qualified and experienced will be appointed.
We're running a competition for all members to have a go at creating a design for new NZPFU winter sweatshirts.
Further to our National Notice to Members dated 22 February 2021 regarding the 10th Anniversary of the Christchurch Earthquake, we have now received the commemorative coins and are in the process of despatching them to all members.
Today, NZPFU’s lawyers filed an application challenging FENZ’s interpretation of “relevant daily pay” for the purposes of public holiday payments.
Our online merchandise store is full of new stock so you can now have a NZPFU beanie to keep you warm this winter!
The NZPFU strongly advises members that it is not in your interests to engage with FENZ’s Behaviour and Conduct Office (BCO) as key issues including procedural fairness and structure for receiving and handling complaints is yet to be determined, and practical and fair complaints processes are yet to be realised.
Today is International Workers' Memorial Day and in the words of Industrial Workers of the World co-founder Mother Jones (Mary Harris) we should “pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living”.
Today a Special Conference was held to consider Rule Changes to provide for union elections to be held by secure electronic means or by the traditional ballot box vote.
The offer of Southland DHB Covid-19 surplus vaccinations has been taken up by Invercargill professional career firefighters over the past two days.
The NZPFU National Secretary met with the National Commander today to discuss the 5 new VSO positions.
Today FENZ has announced 5 new Volunteer Support Officer positions will be advertised to be stood up as part of Tranche 2.
Members will be aware of the latest failure in Fire & Emergency fleet at a house fire in Grey Lynn.
The dire state of Fire & Emergency relief fleet was once again highlighted early yesterday morning at a house fire in Grey Lynn.
Members will remember that some time ago the Local raised several concerns with Fire & Emergency around the planning and staffing of the Prada and America’s Cup.
The NZPFU is expecting confirmation shortly that firefighters who respond to MIQs and undertake medical response will be included in the high-risk front line workers vaccination roll-out.
Candidates must be nominated and seconded by financial members of the union using the approved nomination form. Candidates may also submit a biography and photograph with their nomination which will be provided to members prior to any voting.
This newsletter serves to inform members of some of the work your Local officials have been involved with since our last newsletter in October 2020.
FENZ gas detectors are failing and FENZ is scrambling to distribute replacement detectors as an interim measure pending a process to agree to new personal gas detectors scheduled for later this year.
The NZPFU has withdrawn from the Technical Competency Framework (TCF) working group as FENZ has no intention to have tangible and transparent assessed pre-requisites and qualifications for the appointment to the ranks of Fire Commander and Assistant Fire Commander.
It is my view that a crisis of trust is upon us.
The NZPFU has sought expert advice from an engineering consultant on FENZ’s commissioned testing and analysis of the structural integrity of the Napier Fire Station and a geotechnical review of the land it sits on.
This morning the Court of Appeal handed down its decision on the NZPFU’s application for leave to appeal the Employment Court decision.
In response to Regional Manager Devlin’s latest Notice, the Auckland Local of the NZPFU wishes to provide the following statement to members.
The NZPFU has reached a new milestone with the employment of an Industrial Officer. We warmly welcome Jonathan Ring to the NZPFU team.
Today, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to pause to celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness and reflect about gender equality.
The NZPFU maintains its advice and actions to reduce the unnecessary contact and large number of crews from the previous bubble arrangement of Albany/West Harbour and Takapuna/Silverdale stations.
The NZPFU has been meeting with FENZ, and as part of the CTU delegation with relevant Government Ministers and the Director-General of Health, to discuss the issues for workers associated with the roll-out of a national vaccine programme. In both forums we have been pushing for the release of accurate and credible information on the type of vaccine, and the vaccination programme so that everyone including our members can make informed choices.
Due to the significantly increased transmissibility of the current virus in Auckland community Covid-19 cases, and FENZ failing to provide any reason for continuing to expose West Harbour, Albany, Silverdale and Takapuna career and volunteer firefighters to unnecessary levels of contacts, the NZPFU has had to act in the interests of its members health and safety.
The NZPFU is supporting research into the preparedness of firefighters at incidents involving chemical or biological toxins.
The NZPFU Covid-19 group including the National Committee of Management, Local representatives, Covid-19 SMEs and SSOs/Comms reps met by telephone conference to update on any issues arising with Auckland region in Level 3 and the rest of the country in Level 2 from 6am today.
Today is the 10th Anniversary of the 22 February 2011 Christchurch earthquake and we pause and remember the tragedy and destruction it left in its wake. It is also the time to recognise the fortitude of the Christchurch community that has seen the city emerge from the dust and destruction of hundreds of earthquakes suffered at the time and since.
This week the NZPFU notified FENZ that its current “technical competency framework” project was perilously close to repeating the fatal mistakes of the past, as it was not focused on required skills and assessed qualifications but around developing behavioural or team skills.
With the change in Auckland to COVID-19 Alert Level 3, Officers are reminded of the ability to use their command radios to talk directly with St John Ambulance staff when responded to Purple Events.
Members will remember our Notice last week advising of our grave concerns around FENZ’s planning around the America’s Cup sporting regatta.
Last night FENZ National Commander issued the attached national notice referencing the attached Level 3 protocols for Auckland and Level 2 protocols for the rest of New Zealand.
The NZPFU National Committee of Management met by telephone conference under urgency on Sunday evening to discuss any issues resulting from Auckland being under Level 3 and the rest of the country from Level 2 at midnight tonight.
The Local has written to the Regional Manager outlining our grave concerns that Fire Emergency is relinquishing its main functions under the Fire and Emergency Act in favour of secondary responsibilities and has not adequately prepared or planned for the 2021 Prada Cup and the 36th Americas Cup Sporting Event.
Last night FENZ National Commander Kerry Gregory sent the attached change in Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and Ministry of Health advice for Managed Isolation and Quarantine facilities.
On the 6th January 2021 the UFBA Board Chair publicly announced the reinstatement of the UFBA CE after abandoning the investigation into allegations including sexual assault. On the 14th January 2021 the NZPFU wrote to the FENZ Board asking whether the Board considered it appropriate to continue to fund the UFBA, and whether FENZ had any concerns about the continued operation and funding of the UFBA in these circumstances.
The NZPFU proudly encourages members to support and participate in the upcoming Rainbow Pride parades in Auckland and Wellington. This is an opportunity to get involved and publicly promote rainbow-inclusive workplaces.
Check your pay slips today as NZPFU members will receive their 2020 remuneration review pay increases from today and the backdated payment to 1 July 2020.
NZPFU National Secretary Wattie Watson, and the first woman board member of the UFBA, Judith Stanley, call for a Ministerial inquiry into the $4 million the UFBA receives every year.
The NZPFU has lifted its ban on participation in aerial appliance working groups and discussions as we now have appropriate representation on the FENZ aerial appliance project.
The NZPFU has written to the FENZ Board Chair and the Chief Executive questioning whether it is appropriate for FENZ to continue to fund the UFBA (United Fire Brigades’ Association), and whether there is appropriate monitoring of the use of the funding to provide support and advocacy services for all volunteer firefighters.
On Monday we notified our members not to participate in any discussions or project work regarding aerial appliances until we can confirm we have the appropriate NZPFU SMEs (subject matter experts) on the appropriate aerial appliance committees and working groups.
The NZPFU application for Leave to Appeal the Employment Court decision will be determined by two Court of Appeal Judges in March 2021.
The NZPFU advises its members not to participate in any discussions or project work regarding aerial appliances until we can confirm we have the appropriate NZPFU SMEs on the appropriate aerial appliance committees and working groups.
Occasionally, the Local will be advised of crews being responded to non-purple calls or inappropriate requests for assistance.
The Local has been advised that with the introduction of new hydraulic rescue equipment, a proposal has been made by FENZ, through Area Management, to remove the trolleys carrying the rescue gear from Auckland career staffed Rescue Tenders.
Members will be aware of a fire occurring in Papakura today that escalated to a third alarm level.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Tauranga Local Vice President, the following nomination has been received.
Members are advised that once again Auckland is faced with a reduced heavy aerial response and capabilities due to mechanical breakages of the current fleet, as per an operational instruction sent to some Officers in Area 4.
The NZPFU National Committee wishes all our members and their families a happy and safe Christmas and New Year.
The Local issued a Notice to Members ALC-20-41 on 11 November regarding applying for a dispensation to have dual Career and Volunteer Firefighter Membership of the Union.
The Auckland Local wishes all Members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. A reminder that the Auckland Office will be closed from Wednesday 23 December until Tuesday 5 January 2021.
Firefighters in Auckland Areas 3, 4 and 5 have been asked to collect names and addresses of all present at every fire and to report the details back to FireCom to be forwarded to rural personnel.
Today the media have wrongfully claimed that Auckland firefighters were used as part of a police operation to apprehend an alleged offender on Sunday night.
This week FENZ has required black watch trainers to interrupt their duties to staff a truck and respond. There have also been recent instances where FENZ has cross-crewed professional career firefighters and volunteer firefighters on a tanker or volunteer appliance (where there has not been any prior arrangement or agreement to do so).
FENZ has notified the NZPFU that they will be uploading and testing the new pay rates from mid-January for the new pay rates to be paid on 10 February (backdated to 1 July 2020).
Members are advised that following a major fire last week at Ponsonby Intermediate School, the presence of asbestos has been confirmed.
Today the NZPFU legal team is filing the application in the Court of Appeal for leave to appeal the Employment Court judgement.
This week the NZPFU National, Branch and Local representatives gathered in Wellington for the annual national conference. Over the past few conferences the NZPFU has invited observers from other sectors of our membership as this is the opportunity to listen and learn from each other. This year we were joined by members from the three communications centre, training (regional and NTC) and Black watch/FRMOs and all groups had an opportunity to report on key issues affecting their sector.
The Local notes, with sadness, the devastating fire that has occurred in one of Auckland’s historic buildings, the St Stephens Church located in Central Ponsonby.
No doubt it has been challenging times of late and I will admit to struggling to find something positive to share, hence the lengthy delay since my last blog. There are many challenges ahead of us and making our voice heard and influencing in this environment is daunting, but I have been encouraged by the quality and quantity of members who are continually stepping up across the organisation to ensure that the views of career fire fighters are not lost.
The NZPFU appliance representatives and subject matter experts met recently to workshop the NZPFU policy and submission in response to the FENZ aerial appliance strategy.
Due to the recent resignation of the Tauranga Local Vice President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
In accordance with Rule B 11.7, of the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC, I am declaring the results for the position of Palmerston North Local President as listed below.
The NZPFU and FENZ have agreed to the following pay increases as a result of the 2020 Remuneration Review.
FENZ Deputy CE Organisational Strategy & Capability Development Russell Wood has provided an update on the repair of the MAN Type 3 trucks waiting repairs for the cracks issues but was unable to provide any timeline or clear solution.
One of the ideas that came up during the Auckland Working Group was to change the shift start/finish times to 0700/1700 to reflect the actual times Auckland Firefighters’ work.
The NZPFU National Committee met by teleconference this afternoon to discuss the Employment Court decision which was issued last week. The NZPFU’s legal team had considered the decision and provided their opinion to the National Committee.
Membership survey reveals FRMOs feel highly undervalued and not supported and don't think the new structure will improve community safety.
The NZPFU Type 3 Project representatives have provided the following update.
Recently we asked members to pause any involvement in either of these trials until we were able to determine the safety of the proposed PPE and Uniform.
The attached Employment Court Decision rules against the NZPFU but this may not be the end of the matter.
There is an email out tonight from Kerry Gregory stating FENZ has won the Employment Court Case.
NZPFU subject matter experts are meeting today and tomorrow to develop the NZPFU’s response to FENZ’s aerial appliance strategy proposal and discussion document.
As members will know, First Union members of St Johns are scheduled to strike on Wednesday 25 November.
The NZPFU has notified FENZ that the South Island Spare Type 5 Aerial Appliance registration number FWM97 is unsafe and not fit for purpose.
In accordance with Rule B 11.9, of the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC, I am declaring the results for the position of Hawkes Bay Local President as listed below.
I hereby declare: Matthew Geoffrey Shearer, elected Nelson Local Secretary.
The Local recognises that there are situations where a Union member may decide to offer their time, experience, and qualifications to their local communities by joining a small urban or rural Volunteer Fire Brigade.
St John Ambulance FIRST union members have given notice of a 24 hour strike to be held on 25 November 2020. The notice of strike action comes after St John has continued to withhold their agreed shift pay, is proposing salary cuts to fully funded jobs, and wants to remove their rosters from the Collective Agreement.
Every year Central Branch Secretary Rob Hutchison organises the printing and distribution of the NZPFU pocket diary. We are in the process of organising the 2021 calendar.
In accordance with Rule B.10.5.1 of the “Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC”, nominations are called for the position of Palmerston North Local President due to a vacancy arising from the resignation of Palmerston North Local President Tim Scott.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Taupo Local Secretary, the following nomination has been received.
FENZ has recently released an aerial discussion document with a view to gathering feedback to help steer the FENZ aerial strategy for the future.
Following recent near miss events involving Type 3 appliances, all crews are reminded to thoroughly acceptance test all appliances when changing appliances at the service provider.
By closing date for nominations for the position of Hawkes Bay Local Branch President, the following nominations were received.
Due to the recent resignation of the Taupo Local Secretary, Sean McAvinue, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
As discussed at the AGM, the Local is to trial making semi regular contact via e-mails to members highlighting items of current concern or attention as it pertains to the Tauranga Local and in particular its committee.
The NZPFU FENZ collective agreement provides for a annual review of remuneration levels with increases to take effect from 1 July 2020.
Members will, no doubt, be aware that the Independent Review of the NZ International Convention Centre Fire was released yesterday.
In accordance with Rule B.10.5.1 of the “Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC”, nominations are called for the position of Hawkes Bay Local President due to a vacancy arising from the resignation of Hawkes Bay Local President Mike Manning.
In July the NZPFU pulled its support for the station “unified uniform” trial as firefighters had been told not to wear the station uniform at a live fire event.
The Council of Trade Unions has today released its official assessment and grading of the major political parties’ industrial relations policies, to assist working people in their voting choices.
A reminder to all members that (after numerous delays due to Covid-19), the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held this Monday 28 September.
The following message is forwarded on behalf of Steve.
I hereby declare name above elected Invercargill Local Committee President unopposed.
FENZ still needs your help in contacting former employees to ensure they receive outstanding Holiday pay that is owed.
The NZPFU is embracing the nation’s recognition of te reo Māori starting with the translation of our name.
Members are advised that due to the latest COVID-19 announcement from the Government, the Auckland Local has postponed our Annual General Meeting until Monday 28 September.
Dear Levin Brigade volunteers
A former career Recruit has been quoted in the media stating he experienced there was a culture of bullying and sexual harassment at the National Training Centre. That Recruit suffered burns to his hands during live-fire training on the course and he has made a series of claims of ill-treatment by the Trainers.
The safety information provided last week for the new flash hoods has been updated. The only change is point 3 which now correctly requests the consideration of NOT rolling the hoods over the collar.
FENZ’s own report states its current ability to respond to emergencies in Levin is “critically limited” yet refuses to appropriately resource the Levin Brigade to protect the community in its response area.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has this week released an issues paper on bullying and harassment (including sexual harassment) at work in New Zealand.
The Tauranga Local is becoming increasingly concerned with the safety and functionality of Tauranga Fire Station and the inconsistency of information regarding its replacement.
In his August 2020 blog the National President Ian Wright called out FENZ’s leadership for failing to properly investigate allegations by women volunteer firefighters of sexual assault and intimidation by other volunteer firefighters including Chiefs. His blog was prompted by harrowing interviews with volunteer firefighters on Radio New Zealand.
Yesterday the NZPFU publicly called out FENZ CEO Rhys Jones, National Commander Kerry Gregory who had decided with the support of the Senior
Leadership group and the Board to disrespect the Employment Court by steaming ahead with appointment processes at the heart of the NZPFU
case.
FENZ CEO Rhys Jones and National Commander Kerry Gregory with the backing of the Senior Leadership team and the Board have decided to continue with its Tranche2 and 2B appointment processes.
FENZ has released its decisions from the re-consultation document. Basically, FENZ is steaming ahead with its proposals despite the feedback.
The NZPFU has been pushing for new protective flash hoods to be trialled as current hoods have not been reviewed for more than a decade.
Wellington and Hutt Valley firefighters turned out in force today to hear the legal arguments in the Employment Court.
Members are strongly encouraged to come to the public hearing of NZPFU case contesting FENZ’s appointment process for the positions established under Tranche 2 and 2B in the Employment Court this Wednesday.
There appear to be rogue variations of the FENZ protocols for Alert Levels 2 and 3 being circulated by some FENZ Managers.
In accordance with the Rules nominations were called for the position of Local Committee Member due to a casual vacancy arising on the Wellington Local.
Today FENZ National Commander Kerry Gregory released the attached Notice with links to the Protocols for Alert Level 3 (Auckland) and Protocols for Alert Level 2 (rest of NZ). The information on the FENZ portal is current and will be kept up to date.
As of midday (Wednesday 12 August) Auckland will be under Covid-19 National Level 3 restrictions with the rest of country under Covid-19 National Level 2 restrictions.
Please see the recent Facebook post from the Union about FENZ’s proposal to staff Levin with only 2 career staff.
FENZ is currently failing the Levin community. FENZ is not providing the emergency response that meets its own requirements or the community’s needs. FENZ recognises it needs to act to protect the community but its intention to supplement the volunteer brigade with a two-person career crew will still not meet the community’s needs and it will breach health and safety requirements.
I very rarely sleep well, in fact I can’t remember the last time I slept through a night. Last night was no exception as I struggled to process the Radio interview on Radio NZ and the harrowing recounting of sexual assaults suffered by 3 Volunteer Women Firefighters at the hands of male Volunteer Firefighters in separate incidents, and the clumsy reply by our CEO.
The NZPFU is proud to sponsor the Hawkes Bay Hundy relay run for mental health.
The NZPFU case contesting FENZ’s appointment process for the positions established under Tranche 2 and 2B will be heard in the Employment Court this month.
Please be advised that the following procedure has been agreed to in consultation with the Local and Area Management.
Our district hose layer based at Mount Maunganui Station is a valuable resource for the Bay of Plenty/Coast Fire District. It was secured through collaboration with like minded stakeholders and the determination of various Officers and Firefighters to provide an invaluable operational asset to our community.
FENZ has written to NZPFU acknowledging the contributions our members and representatives made to the Covid-19 response to date. National Commander Kerry Gregory specifically recognises the work of Wellington Local Secretary Alan Collett, Medical Response SME Justin Murtha and Hawkes Bay Local Vice President Warwick Le Quesne for their work with the FENZ Service Delivery Coordination Centre.
In October 2019 the NZPFU issued a Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) under the Health and Safety at Work ACT 2015 to prevent the FENZ and St John Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) from extending co-response to other incidents to be determined by St John. Our concerns included the lack of requisite training and/or qualifications for the increased scope in responses, and the unnecessary risk of emotional and psychological trauma.
The Local notes with disappointment the outcome of the failed Auckland Working Group.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Whangarei Local President, the following nomination has been received.
Members are reminded that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, Local Annual General Meetings should, where possible, be scheduled for the month of August.
Members will be aware that for almost a year Auckland’s largest and newest Heavy Aerial Fire Truck has been away for repairs, meaning that the 25 year old Relief Turn Table Ladder (TTL) has had to be used as a front line response aerial in its place.
In 2018 FENZ and the NZPFU signed terms of settlement that included setting up a Taskforce to consider how to address FENZ’s inability to recruit and retain sufficient firefighters and the issues affecting all NZPFU members living and working in Auckland.
On 30 June and 1 July NZPFU and PSA representatives met with FENZ to discuss the Tranche 2 decisions and the “re-consultation” document and to commence negotiations for terms and conditions for the new proposed roles.
In accordance with the Rules nominations are called for the position of Local Committee Member due to a casual vacancy arising on the Wellington Local.
The AGM of the Tauranga Local Branch NZPFU will be held at Tauranga Fire Station, 9am on Friday 28th August 2020.
FENZ is rolling out an end-user trial of the unified station uniform but the firefighters involved in the trial have been told not to wear the station uniform in a live fire event!
Today we received a beautiful tribute to our members in appreciation of their care and response during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The NZPFU welcomes the announcement this afternoon that $50 million of the Government’s “shovel-ready” projects will fund the building and upgrading of fire stations. This funding is sorely needed. But already FENZ has failed to prioritise that funding to address community risk and firefighter safety.
The NZPFU cannot support the introduction of a code of conduct and behaviour when FENZ fails to live by its values.
You can now have a NZPFU beanie to keep you warm this winter!
We know that some former members are frustrated with the delays in being notified if they are owed payments, and if so when that payment will be made. We are passing on all those queries to the appropriate personnel at FENZ and following up on progress. They should be receiving their calculations, and be receiving any payment outstanding.
Interesting times are ahead for us all. In the past weeks, we have met with FENZ management around two significant outstanding issues; medical co response recognition and Auckland task force recommendations/solutions.
The NZPFU has a successful meeting with the UFBA and FENZ reaching agreement to involve psychologists in a working group to develop and monitor appropriate research into mental wellness.
NZPFU and PSA representatives have been meeting with Deputy Chief Executive Service Delivery Kerry Gregory and other FENZ representatives over the past two days to discuss the proposed Tranche 2B roles.
I hereby declare Robert Francis Hutchison elected Central Branch Secretary.
The NZPFU will be meeting with FENZ to discuss the scope and nature of proposed research into mental wellness.
Central Branch Members are reminded to ensure they have their electronic vote in for the election of Central Branch Secretary by 1800 Monday
29 June 2020.
The publicity of a possible Covid-19 case at the IBIS hotel in Rotorua has raised concerns for our trainers and trainees and other members at the National Training Centre.
This week NZPFU representatives and a specialist engineer met with FENZ representative’s to push for necessary investigations into the structure and safety of the Napier Fire Station be undertaken with urgency so that the necessary re-build and remediation work can begin.
As of the 16th of June, St John call takers are no longer officially questioning around Covid-19 symptoms or triggers.
Due to the recent resignation of the Whangarei Local President, nominations are hereby called for this position in accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
FENZ has now distributed their “re-consultation” documentation which impacts on the number and configuration of CFF and RR positions.
The Local continues to receive reports from members about the state of the emergency response fleet (Red Fleet) throughout Auckland, including Trucks not being able to respond to emergency incidents due to faults and break downs.
Today, the Office of the Controller and Auditor-General provided its report “Minister of Health: Management of personal protective equipment in response to Covid-19” to Parliament.
Electronic voting for the election of the Central Branch Secretary was launched yesterday (0800 Sunday 14 June) and will close at 1800 Monday 29 June 2020.
Electronic voting for the election of the Central Branch Secretary will be launched 0800 Sunday 14 June and will close at 1800 Monday 29 June 2020.
We have been receiving several inquiries from concerned members regarding the letters FENZ provided yesterday disestablishing FRMO roles and a notice of redundancy.
FRMOs will have received letters stating that their positions will be disestablished under Tranche 2B, that the letter constitutes a letter of redundancy and that new positions will be established and advertised next week.
New Zealand passed a significant milestone at midnight last night with the move to Level 1 essentially removing all restrictions other than border control.
The NZPFU and PSA have now engaged with FENZ and aware that members affected by the changes will be briefed this week prior to an announcement on Thursday.
By closing date for nominations for the positions of Central Branch President, Vice President and Secretary, the following nominations were received.
We understand FENZ intends to release its final decisions for Tranche 2and 2B next week.
In October 2019 the NZPFU notified FENZ that its intention to give preference to personnel who are not qualified or experience career firefighters for proposed District and Group Manager positions was in breach of the requirements to appoint the best-suited person to any vacancy, and a breach of FENZ’s primary duty of care to provide safe systems of work.
Members are advised that starting Wednesday 3rd June, Mel Johnson the Te Hiku Welfare Officer, will begin making station visits to meet the crews.
The annual Colmar Brunton Public Sector Reputation Index research has FENZ top of the list for the fifth consecutive year.
Members will know that effective Noon, Friday the 29th May, Government has changed the Level 2 COVID-19 restrictions with an increase in gatherings to 100 persons.
Well we made it back to level 2 without any Professional Career Firefighter infection which means stations remained open and operational.
Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment is the last line of defence and is necessary for the health and safety of firefighters.
With the transition to Level 2 and the elimination of station bubbles, the risk of exposure to members has been increased.
FENZ has confirmed that the 2020 PCA payment will be paid to all eligible NZPFU members in the 17 June pay.
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions youth network Stand Up is undertaking credible research into the economic impact of Covid-19 for New Zealand’s young workers.
As discussed with Locals on our regular Local and National Official telephone conferences, we need to remain vigilant to ensure PPE meeting the required standard for medical response under Covid-19 conditions.
As staff will know the Prime Minister has announced a move from tomorrow to COVID-19 Alert Level 2, and as a result, we will begin a controlled transition to “Business as Usual”.
The NZPFU has members in a range of roles across FENZ including some employed in non-operational fixed term positions, and there are secondments into various departments.
With the lowering of the covid-19 risk to Alert Level Two, and in consultation with Local Management, we are now in a position to relax some of the stringent conditions associated with our staff “bubbles”.
The current safe systems of work instigated for Covid-19 response remains critical to the safety of firefighters as New Zealand moves down in Level 2 Restrictions.
The following is a joint notice from the Local Executive and Area Management about expectations for Level 2.
Today every member should have received an email from either wellington@nzpfu.org.nz or Auckland@nzpfu.org.nz to confirm the correct email address for the Northern, Central and Southern Branch President, Vice-President and Secretary elections.
Today, May 4 is International Firefighters' Day and a time for us all to express our appreciation for the sacrifices firefighters make by putting their health and safety at risk to protect the community.
Some trainers have received a Performance and Development Guide and a Performance and Development Conversation template.
Nominations are called for the positions of President, Vice-President and Secretary for the Northern Branch.
On 1 May we celebrate as part of an international workers’ movement the better working conditions we have gained as well as reflect on the struggles of the past and present.
Nominations are called for the positions of President, Vice-President and Secretary for each of the Northern, Central and Southern Branches.
Today we remember all workers who have died through workplace accidents and illnesses, and we vow to keep pushing for safer workplaces and better compensation for those left behind.
English and Maori translation of the most well-known excerpt of Laurence Binyon’s “For the Fallen” poem.
Do not disclose any underlying medical condition without first seeking advice from NZPFU.
Today the NZPFU held a Special Conference by telephone conference due to the unprecedented restrictions of the Government imposed Covid-19 lockdown.
The cancelling of traditional ANZAC Day services are another sacrifice the services and community have to make this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic national lock-down.
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
This evening FENZ National Commander has issued a statement stating that the gowns distributed for medical response conform with standards for medical response under pandemic conditions.
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the tragic death of respected Invercargill Senior Firefighter Ben McLean.
As a Local Committee, we have been asked by the National Executive, to remind staff that we should, whenever possible, maintain a Business As Usual approach.
Following investigation by the NZPFU, it has been discovered that the medical gowns provided by FENZ for members to wear at medical calls, do not comply with any National or International Standard.
Following investigation by the NZPFU, it has been discovered that the medical gowns provided by FENZ for members to wear at Medical calls, do not comply with any National or International standard.
Staffing levels across the country are sufficient to maintain current response protocols. The planning for Response Allocation Models for the spectra of possible scenarios with this pandemic are well underway but currently there is no need and no agreement to implement any changes that impact on contractual rights, minimum staffing, or changes to leave groups etc.
Happy Easter to all NZPFU members and their families! We especially wish a relaxing day for those on shift staffing the call centres and Firefighters responding to medical calls, fires and other emergencies. We thank you and your loved ones for your sacrifices.
Do not disclose any underlying medical condition without first seeking advice from NZPFU.
Members and their families have been asking for more information about the Covid-19 risk for firefighters responding. Below is a general guide developed by our medical response subject matter expert Justin Murtha. This is just a guide. FENZ employees and volunteers are reminded that there is COVID-19 information available on the portal.
Members will now know we are working in locked down station bubbles as per the Operational Instruction recently agreed by the Local and FENZ Management.
It’s been quite a while since my last post, we have been extremely busy but here goes!
FENZ has prioritised flu vaccinations for operational personnel.
The Auckland Local would like to acknowledge the many challenges the current situation presents for our people and the likelihood that a number of you may be experiencing additional distress during this time.
The necessary precautions for the protection of our members while maintaining response are in place with planning well underway for the many variations or changes that may result with the every-changing landscape of COVID-19.
Members will find attached the correct process for donning and doffing PPE during COVID-19 incidents.
As Members should now be aware, we are now working in a very different environment, and one the most challenging that the Auckland Fire Brigade has had in it’s long history.
As New Zealand prepares to go into unprecedented shut down everyone’s lives will need to be adjusted.
The threat level for Covid-19 will increase to level 3 and 4 in 48 hrs. This will have an impact on those with children home from school. If you haven't already had discussions at home around this, now would be a great time. Please keep communication lines open with your managers if this will affect your ability to work.
We understand that seconded trainers are being notified that they will be sent back to their stations and substantive positions as a result of the postponement of training courses.
By the closing date for nominations for the positions of Taupo Local President and Local Secretary, the following nominations have been received.
Following questions from members on the availability of Flu shots for Operational Staff the following email has been received from Lisa Grant, Project Coordinator Safety, Health and Wellbeing Workstream, Integration Programme.
The current COVID-19 situation continues to change on a daily basis, with the Government and Fire Emergency updating their protocols and procedures as required.
Please see attached new operational instructions issued by FENZ National Commander Kerry Gregory.
This afternoon we held a meeting of the National Committee and all Local representatives by teleconference to keep them up to date with developments and to discuss any issues arising for those Locals. Key points discussed are as follows.
The Auckland Local understands we are in unprecedented times, with many members having questions and concerns.
For several months the Auckland Local have been pushing FENZ management to reinstate the response of aerial appliances to first alarm incidents in New Zealand’s largest metropolitan CDB.
FENZ has agreed to have union representatives at the National and Regional levels on working groups/committees determining necessary operations planning and response protocols. It is imperative that professional career firefighters are throughout the chain of discussions and decision-making including at SSO and SO level so that all practical implications are considered to ensure the most effective and pragmatic response protocols are implemented.
If you have family members at home that are frail, sick, immune system compromised or elderly, be very conscious of not taking anything home that would adversely affect them. Be that as it may we all have to ensure that our personal hygiene practices are on point. Contact with infected surfaces or coughs/ sneezing is the main point of spread. Virus may live for up to three days on hard surfaces. Frequent washing of your hands with soap and water is the most effective way of preventing transmission.
Today NZPFU Local, Branch and National representatives met by telephone conference to update re the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NZPFU has confirmed with FENZ that all staff who are required to self-isolate as a result of travel and/or Government instructions will be granted special leave. If the person self-isolating becomes ill during that period the leave changes to sick leave.
The NZPFU has raised a series of issues with FENZ on the management of staff during this international public health emergency.
The Auckland Taskforce and Governance Group met last Friday to move forward on the recommendations developed by the Taskforce Group and accepted by the Governance Group.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Auckland Local Committee Member, the following nominations have been received.
We have had reports that in some areas managers are attempting to act up firefighters into Officer positions which they are not qualified or assessed as competent to hold, and are doing regardless of the availability of suitably qualified personnel.
There is currently a public electronic petition circulating calling for the overhaul of ACC legislation to recognise mental health issues resulting from repeated and cumulative exposures to trauma.
Nominations close on 6 March 2020 and must be delivered to the Branch Office by midday on that date. No late nominations will be accepted.
Members who have not yet received their NZPFU t-shirt or was waiting for a different size please contact the union office as we have now more t-shirts in stock.
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union is calling ACC’s new assessment criteria for whether firefighters with work-related cancer claims are approved a “lucky dip.”
Today ACC and FENZ have announced a new tool to assess Firefighter cancer claims to determine if they are occupational cancer claims.
FENZ has recently announced its final decisions for the People Branch which includes the establishment of key national positions in safety, health and wellbeing, training and workforce capability.
Dry Hawkes Bay has suffered a season of plantation and vegetation fires while trying to maintain usual response and calls including regular structure fires and greater alarm events.
These can be difficult, confusing and for some scary times – where is the line drawn on acceptable and not acceptable language, gender descriptions, jokes, and humour?
Today Auckland Local Secretary Martin Campbell, Auckland Local President Sulu Devoe and National Secretary Wattie Watson today met with the Reviewers undertaking the operational review into the NZ International Convention Centre Fire at Sky City.
The NZPFU encourages members to participate and support the annual Wellington Pride Parade which will take place on Saturday 7 March 2020 6pm to 10pm.
Firefighters in Auckland Areas 3, 4 and 5 have been asked to collect names and addresses of all present at every fire and to report the details back to FireCom to be forwarded to rural personnel.
The NZPFU has received reports that Senior/Station Officers are getting pushback from management when insisting on decontamination processes.
Further to the safety alert withdrawing all Flashflood 500 hose from service, there have been other instances of other internal ferruled 70mm hose separating from the male coupling.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following position:
Every two years operational firefighters are required to undertake the Physical Competency Assessment (PCA) and 2020 is a PCA year.
Members will be aware of a recent request from Trevor Brown (National Operational Efficiency Manager) to gather information from officers and firefighters who attended the International Convention Centre.
From time to time, members may be requested to meet on an individual basis with Area Management for a range of issues including well-being conversations, return to work meetings, disciplinary meetings, performance meetings or informal meetings.
There have been three instances of near new Flashflood 500 x 70mm failure at the coupling under normal working pressure. The most recent was at a structure fire at Otahuhu. Fortunately no one was injured. Hose failure is a serious safety issue for crews on an incident ground when there is an immediate loss of water.
The NZPFU is facilitating “Operation Rest and Respite” for Australian firefighters and their families needing a much deserved break from the catastrophic bush fires in Australia.
First blog for the year! It’s been a big and busy year in the Union (hence the rather long blog!) I have been trying to paint a picture over the last 12, now 13 blogs about the types of hours and hard work many of our elected reps and SME’s are doing for all of us. And yes, it does take time, but that is what is needed at this critical time when we are influencing the future of firefighting and all that goes with that.
“National will amend ACFC legislation to clarify cover for firefighters through an evidence-based presumptive list of cancers which arise from being a firefighter” according to the Party’s recently released Health Discussion document.
Fire Emergency have for some time implemented a review of rostering processes that may identify potential duplicate allowances being generated in SMS and uploaded to Pse for payment.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the National President Ian Wright and the National Vice President Joseph Stanley, the National Council wishes our members a safe and cheery festive season.
NZPFU Southern Branch Secretary Jim Ryburn has been working with medical practitioners in Christchurch to develop an affordable medical assessment/screening relevant to the health risks associated with exposure to occupational hazards, including the increased risk of specific cancers.
The following information has been received from Fire and Emergency.
The NZPFU and FENZ representatives met in mediation today to discuss the NZPFU dispute contesting FENZ’s intention to preference unqualified and inexperienced personnel over professional career firefighters for proposed new positions.
There still seems to be misunderstanding around members rights when meeting with Management to discuss Return to Work Duties.
National Secretary Wattie Watson, National Vice President Joe Stanley and Northern Branch Vice President James Hall were privileged to be greeted by Australian Federal Greens MP Adam Bandt at Parliament House. Adam was a driving force behind achieving presumptive legislation for firefighters introducing the Federal Bill that was passed in 2011. A great friend of firefighters globally.
The NZPFU has fielded a series of complaints regarding the non-payment of allowances that are later found to be payable.
The 31st NZPFU Annual Conference is commencing in Invercargill today at 1pm.
Cracks in the steel support structures of the lockers have been discovered on two MAN type-3 fire trucks and FENZ is now instigating an inspection programme to check all 47 trucks.
Well a lot has happened since my last blog. Firstly, thanks to everyone who sent in their submissions on the proposals for the organisational structure and application of rank. An unprecedented level of engagement from our membership since the 90’s!
The NZPFU stands in solidarity with Unite to have the Sky City workplaces appropriately tested and decontaminated after the toxic Convention Centre fire and any workplace illnesses recognised.
An event is being hosted at Porirua Fire Station on Monday 11th November
The Tauranga Local encourages members and their partners to take up the below invite from Area Management and Fire and Emergency. We support any initiatives that help to better educate our members and their families on ways to keep themselves and the people around them happy and healthy.
A NZPFU survey of Auckland Local Members who responded to the 6th Alarm Convention Centre fire has highlighted significant staffing, resourcing and appliance issues hindered the response.
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters' Union, and members of the Auckland Local, would like to formally thank and acknowledge the hard work that was put in over the many days by Auckland Volunteer Operational Support at the recent International Convention Centre Fire.
We're going blue in the month formerly known as November to show our support for Movember. Movember stands for tackling prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.
Fire Ops 101 is again underway at NTC with Members of Parliament at NTC getting first hand experience the life of a Firefighter. In a lecture room for a safety briefing is the “before” photo.
The NZPFU has sought the assistance of the Employment Relations Authority in its dispute claiming the proposed organisational structure appointment process is in breach of the NZPFU collective agreement.
Recently there has been some confusion around entitlements for members when attending emergency incidents before or after your normal shifts.
The Local wishes to remind members that if you are certified unfit for full duties by your doctor, but are able to complete restricted duties (“Light Duties”), then you will be asked to come in and meet with the Personnel AAM and a Representative from FENZ’s Injury Management Unit. This will often be Rochelle Bull, and it is to discuss and complete a “Return to Work Plan”.
The Local wishes to advise members that a survey will shortly go out to all Auckland Firefighters and Comcen Staff asking questions centred around the recent International Convention Centre Fire.
On 17 October 2019 FENZ was issued with a Health and Safety Provisional Improvement Notice (PIN) requiring professional career Firefighters to be only responded to purple calls. The NZPFU had been informed that FENZ had agreed, endorsed and signed a new Memorandum of Understanding which enabled St John to deploy Firefighters to other calls where St John perceived the Firefighters could “add value”.
The Local wishes to thank all members for the collective effort displayed at the recent Sky City Convention Centre Fire.
"Firefighters will have to deal with this in years to come as the compounding affects of all the smoke and toxins that they're becoming exposed to in fires like this are giving them higher rates of cancer. This is no surprise to Firefighters that we get cancer more than anybody else."
About 1,000 submissions from NZPFU members were delivered to FENZ National Commander Kerry Gregory this afternoon.
The NZPFU would like to personally thank Howick Green Watch, Senior Firefighter/Vice-President Jeff Shrimpton and SFF Josh Darby for the courage to show the public of New Zealand the personal battles that career professional firefighters are currently facing.
At a recent Committee meeting the following portfolio positions were delegated:
Listed below please find contact details for members of the Auckland Local Committee and their allocated portfolios for your information and future reference.
Recently we have been advised of issues around members’ pay, travel claims and allowances.
The Union wants to hear from you with your contact details, including postal address for a courier.
Professional career Firefighters are currently responded to “purple” emergency medical response calls. Firefighters exposures to trauma cause harm even when trained and competent to assist at the incident. Being expected to respond without the requisite training and equipment puts Firefighters at unnecessary and increased risk.
Today the NZPFU notified FENZ of a dispute demonstrating FENZ’s organisational restructure proposal breaches the NZPFU agreement and FENZ’s duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and the Fire and Emergency Act 2017.
NZPFU has received hundreds of submissions and they keep coming in. And it’s not too late to get the remaining submissions in!
All Locals have been sent the free t-shirts for Members who have provided to the NZPFU their personal contact details (mobile and email).
Professional career firefighters put their health and lives on the line every time they respond.
Today Station Officers are receiving letters notifying them that under the restructure proposals they are “impacted” as their line management would change from reporting to Assistant Area Managers to Group Managers.
Members covered by Part 4 of the FENZ NZPFU collective agreement have overwhelming voted in support of the variation which includes a 5% salary increase.
Due to FENZ’s the two-day extension for responses to submissions, the NZPFU would appreciate all members’ submissions to be submitted to the NZPFU by COB Monday 14 October.
The NZPFU has been continuing to pursue safer hose testing practices as a result of the serious injury suffered by an Auckland firefighter earlier this year.
Yesterday we highlighted the disadvantage to professional career firefighters in the consultation process on the proposal which will allow for non-qualified, untrained and inexperienced personnel to have preference for roles that are currently professional career firefighting roles. Our notice to members detailed the significant disadvantage of rostered leave which had some professional career firefighters having as little as two day shifts and three night shifts during the consultation period to access the FENZ documentation and supplementary information and respond while still maintaining their response to the community.
The NZPFU has been seeking an extension of consultation timeframes for professional career firefighters since the consultation proposal was released.
To those members who attended the special meeting at Tauranga Fire Station on Friday 4th. Thank You.
The Hamilton Local expresses its deepest sympathies at the sudden death of former National Commander Mike Hall.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and what better way to show our support for the thousands of women each year who are diagnosed with breast cancer, than by going PINK!
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) is saddened to advise members of the sudden and tragic death of Mike Hall, ex Chief Executive/National Commander of the New Zealand Fire Service.
A discussion group will be formed shortly that will have representatives from the Local and Management.
Members have turned out en mass to get the real story from the NZPFU National Council and Committee Representatives as well as insights from our subject matter experts on FENZ's proposed restructure.
The Tauranga Local is becoming increasingly concerned with the reliability and performance of our operational vehicle fleet. As well as following normal reporting processes we are asking members to please record in writing, instances where vehicles have failed or not been fit for purpose. If operations were adversely affected, strategies and tactics changed, public/personnel or property put at risk, service delivery impacted or excessive time lost we want to know.
The NZPFU has been holding membership meetings around the country to inform members of the attacks on your safe systems of work through the FENZ “proposals for our organisational structure and approach to rank” which was released last Wednesday. The proposal will enable FENZ to appoint non-qualified, inexperienced and untrained civilians into positions currently known as Assistant Area Managers and Area Managers/Commanders and are proposed to be named Group Managers and District Managers. Your health and safety and the response to the community is under attack when a proposal enables FENZ to have non-qualified, untrained and inexperienced personnel manage career firefighters and stations, and are able to take command at an incident.
I really feel moved to tell you all that we really appreciate the great work you are all doing to keep, not only the Public and their property safe, but yourselves and your crews safe as well.
The Local wishes to show it’s appreciation to those who were able to attend one of the meetings on Monday.
The NZPFU National Executive and Tauranga / Kawerau Locals have called an urgent general meeting with members to discuss the recent organisational structure proposals and what it means for members. This is a chance to get a better understanding of the consultation proposals that will impact our roles in the future from our NZPFU National Exec as well as getting guidance on the process to provide feedback. This meeting is open to all NZPFU members.
The NZPFU National Executive and Tauranga / Kawerau Locals have called an urgent general meeting with members to discuss the recent organisational structure proposals and what it means for members. This is a chance to get a better understanding of the consultation proposals that will impact our roles in the future from our NZPFU National Exec as well as getting guidance on the process to provide feedback. This meeting is open to all NZPFU members.
The NZPFU National Executive and the Hamilton local have called an urgent general meeting to discuss the organisational structure proposals and what it means for members.
National Committee met under urgency yesterday at our National Office, our Lawyers were in attendance as were FECA reps to discuss a plan of attack to protect the profession of Firefighting and the safe systems of response for the safety of the community.
As members should be aware FENZ has recently released the document “Building Fire and Emergency New Zealand – proposals for our organisational structure and approach to rank”
The ratification process for the proposal to vary Part 4 of the FENZ and NZPFU Agreement for Uniformed and Communications Centre Employees commenced today.
Today at midday FENZ released its proposed organisational restructure which plans to decimate the current rank and role structures in order to put non-career firefighters at the helm of operations. If this proposal goes ahead it will herald an era of the disestablishment of a professional career fire and emergency service resulting in dire consequences for your health and safety and the safety of the public.
Members have been previously advised that the 9 October pay will include the 2% pay increase, and that the backpay (1 July 2019-9 October 2019) will be paid on 23 October 2019.
Members will be aware that there is currently a new transfer process under trial throughout Areas 3, 4 and 5.
A last minute decision to go for a walk on Moturiki Island, led to Adrian Hopcroft saving a girl from falling off the blowhole.
As Local Secretary of the Auckland Local, I certify that the following Remits and Life Honorary Membership nominations were successfully passed at our current AGM for consideration at the November 2019 NZPFU Annual Conference.
FENZ has notified the NZPFU of the process for distributing the pending consultation document detailing the Tranche 2 and Tranche 2B proposals.
The NZPFU Council have been touring the country attending AGMs briefing members on the attacks on the professionalism of firefighting.
NZPFU National President Ian Wright and National Secretary Wattie Watson have taken every opportunity to see IAFF health and safety initiatives and programmes while in the USA for the IAFF Redmond’s Health and Safety conference.
As Members are aware the NZPFU has notified of a dispute on proposed changes to rank and command structures, and gave notice to FENZ that their intended consultation processes would be in breach of the NZPFU collective agreement.
Members are reminded of the importance of calling for an aerial appliance to respond early in an incident if one has not already been dispatched by Firecom.
Members are advised of the option of using the K-10 radio message to advise Firecom and on-call executives of a crew’s attendance at a traumatic incident or event. This will place the appliance out of commission, allowing the crew to return to station to recommission and debrief an event, or seek additional help as required, without the appliance having to be responded to another incident.
Members are reminded that cooking fires are not automatically false alarms but, in fact, structure fires with no structural damage, for the purpose of incident reporting.
FENZ commanders are united with the NZPFU in our bid to protect critical rank and command structures.
The NZPFU is deeply concerned that the health and safety of firefighters and the protection of the community will be put at risk with FENZ’s restructure. Today we notified FENZ of a dispute requiring the resolution of rank and command issues before any move to consult on a restructure.
All NZPFU members covered by the Uniformed and Communications Centre Employees Collective Agreement will receive a 2% pay increase backdated to 1 July 2019 as a result of the annual review of market wage rates. All allowances will also be increased by 2%.
I hereby declare Samuel White elected Nelson Local Vice-President.
Subsequent to a number of discussions between NZPFU trainer and training reps, Norm Gilroy, Greg Lee and James Hall and NTC Management, some members of the Training Leadership Team and NTC staff, FENZ have agreed to relax the original instructions of allowing trainers who stay for a continual 8 weeks before they have the opportunity of utilising accommodation with self-catering OR hotel accommodation down to 8 weeks per year, not 8 continual weeks as currently being used. Self-catering accommodation is also quite a bit more expensive than the costs offered by the hotels, but FENZ’s focus is not on money, but more about staff welfare and comfort.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union INC, I am obliged to inform you that in accordance with Rule B 11.7, I declare Peter Jack Harwood duly elected, unopposed for the position of Central Branch Vice President.
In numerous communications over the past 6 months the NZPFU have declared that rank, role and command is not negotiable as it protects the health and safety of firefighters and the community. The protection of the professionalism of firefighting is not parochial, it is the protection of safe systems of work ensuring the appropriately trained, qualified and experienced personnel are deployed for response, and manage the systems in preparation of response. It is not “divisive” to respect and recognise the qualifications, experience and skills of professional firefighters. It is critical for the core functions of FENZ to be achieved safely.
The energy and commitment to be part of a dynamic union structure representing the interests of our members was evident in the recent Local elections.
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare the candidates ranked 1 to 10 elected to the Auckland Local Committee as of 1 August 2019.
This past few weeks has many of us thinking about SFF Patrick (Sarj) Sarjeant from Hamilton. My thoughts are with the crews and families from across Hamilton Fire brigade.
FENZ was warned by NZPFU representatives three years ago after a serious aerial appliance failure that an aerial appliance maintenance replacement programme was overdue and procurement processes had to commence. Three years later there is a crisis in Auckland where the region that was serviced with 5 heavy aerial (ladder) appliances now only has two. Every metropolitan city in New Zealand is affected by a faulty aerial appliance.
The PSA has approached FENZ and the NZPFU as a “comparator” for a pay equity claim.
Members are advised that due to maintenance issues identified by a structural engineer, the hose towers at West Harbour and Glen Eden Stations are closed effective immediately.
Recent appointments are a clear indication that FENZ is on the path of civilianisation of operational management roles.
J Rated tyres continue to be found on operational appliances in Auckland. J rated tyres have a 100kph speed limit. Due to our axle loading the suppliers have assured us we can safely use them at 110kph for short periods, however the Auckland Local Committee view dated 18th Dec 2018 is that “Until such time as a National Standard is agreed upon, the Auckland Local Committee’s stance is that J-Rates tyres should not be fitted to operational vehicles (any already on should be identified)”.
FENZ has confirmed completion of the work to calculate the holiday remediation payments for remaining 76 firefighters for their annual holidays taken between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2017. The holiday remediation payments will be included in their Wednesday 17 July pay.
Members are reminded that recent changes to Area 4 Pre-determined Attendances have removed aerial appliances from ALL first alarm STRU’s. This means that an aerial must be specifically called for on top of any first alarm attendance.
Officers are strongly encouraged to request additional resources to respond to reports of a structure fire. This will ensure that adequate resources are quickly available on the fire-ground for a safe and efficient fire attack.
Some conferences ago it was agreed that the next Wellington Local election would be conducted electronically as a trial. The Wellington Local was elected without need of an election and therefore we have not been able to trial electronic voting.
The NZPFU membership extends its heartfelt condolences and support to the family of firefighter SFF Patrick “Sarj” Sarjeant who tragically passed away this week.
It is with great sadness that the Hamilton Fire Brigade announce the passing of Senior Firefighter, Patrick 'Sarj' Sarjeant.
Results of ballot as per the attached Ballot Declaration Form.
The Colmar Brunton “most trusted public sector organisation” survey has FENZ in the top spot for trust, social responsibility and fairness. It was also placed at the top in 2018.
In accordance with Rule B 11.9, of the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC, I am declaring the results for the position of Hawkes Bay Local Secretary as listed below:
Members will be aware that the yearly pay assessment and adjustment as required in the CEA was supposed to have been completed and effective from today's date.
NZPFU Member and Committee Member Brent Single was honoured at a function in Hawkes Bay this week. Brent has retired this month after 50 years-service as a firefighter and union stalwart.
The Southern Branch executive and Local Branch Secretaries have elected Richard Hurst-Long to the position of Southern Branch Returning Officer.
Tuesday 9 July will mark 25 years since Firefighter Jim Hughes from Birkenhead Station was tragically killed on-duty on Auckland’s Northern Motorway.
With the retirement of Central Branch Vice President Brent Single, nominations are now being called for the position of Central Branch Vice President.
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
On Thursday the NZPFU advised members not to recommence hose testing. FENZ had issued a notice lifting the ban of host testing despite the pending investigation into a serious injury with amended hose testing procedures.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Fire Fighters Union INC.
A firefighter in Auckland was seriously injured a few weeks ago while undertaking pressure hose testing. As FENZ placed a ban on high pressure testing and the Auckland Local issued a notice stating all hose testing using a host testing rig should be immediately suspended pending the outcome of the Level 2 investigation.
One of my most disliked phrases, and we’ve all used it, as a descriptor of ourselves and others in this job is “just a firefighter”. Maybe it’s our humble kiwi nature, maybe it’s a tall poppy thing, but we are not “just” firefighters. We are Career Professional Firefighters and we need to start thinking of ourselves as that. We should be proud to be a Professional Firefighter, we are after all, the most trusted workers in the country. And in an organisation with over 12000 operational personnel it is our professionalism that sets us apart, the entry tests - both physical and mental, the initial interview process, but also the ongoing training and development - the courses, the exams, the assessments, which are continuous and must be maintained, this is a point of difference to our volunteer colleagues.
Congratulations to SFF Hayden Smith from Green Watch in Dunedin for his NZPFU t-shirt design competition winning design!
FENZ has confirmed they have completed the work to calculate the holiday remediation payments for around 202 firefighters for their annual holidays taken between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2017. This group covers firefighters who either had a period of leave without pay or were seconded into a Black Watch position during the remediation period. The holiday remediation payments will be included in with the Wednesday 19 June pay.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union INC, I am obligated to inform you that in accordance with Rule B 11.7, I declare the nominations listed below elected unopposed for the Gisborne Local.
The group undertaking the review into the Tasman fires have asked for a list of Union members who were deployed to the Tasman Fires and would like to be interviewed about their experiences.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union INC.
The title says it all really – service delivery leadership team (SDLT) – the word operational seems to be increasingly banished in the organisation.
Part of the tasking for the Auckland Working Group has been to identify issues that are affecting the ability of our Firefighters to transfer throughout the wider Auckland area.
The protection of the professionalism of firefighting has been firmly placed on the agenda with the first meeting of the NZPFU and FECA held in Christchurch on Thursday 30 May 2019...
By the closing date for nominations for positions in the Auckland Local, the following nominations had been received.
By the closing date for nominations for positions in the Rotorua Local, the following nominations had been received.
On 6-9 May 2019 members of the Auckland Local Committee were fortunate enough to represent our Local at a Special Conference held in Auckland. During this Conference we discussed a few key issues and listened to some guest speakers. Here is a summary of what we covered.
The following correspondence is forwarded for members’ information following the event at Parliament last week in the drive for the introduction of presumptive legislation and recognition of occupational cancers to firefighters.
This week a firefighter was seriously injured requiring hospitalisation after an accident using a Hose Testing Rig.
Great first meeting with National Secretary Wattie Watson, National President Ian Wright and the FECA Committee, discussing professionalism of career firefighting, safety and well-being, and joint Unified Service Delivery concerns and opportunities.
NZPFU supports the teachers bid for recognition of the critical role they play in the future of our children - the future of NZ.
Today the NZPFU, Auckland Local and Sulu Devoe and John Waldow resolved all outstanding matters in a full and final confidential settlement which included the following agreed statement which is the only statement to be made in this matter:
In order to better represent NZPFU members who are full time regional trainers we need to collate a database.
CREDIT: Sharon Murdoch / Sunday Star Times
NZPFU Member and firefighter Josh Darby has produced the attached comprehensive analysis of research into firefighters’ mental health and wellbeing. Our Comms Centre members are also subject to trauma and need similar mental health and wellbeing assistance.
Firefighters are reportedly dying in record numbers.
Following concerns from staff regarding carcinogens, asbestos exposure and lack of control measures at the present time, the need for our members to be decontaminated post incident and the need to maintain a clean cab and personnel hygiene under our Health and Safety Policy, Area 4 has developed an interim guideline to enhance the SOP G7-1 Post Fire Decontamination in consultation with AM Mackereth.
International expert/firefighter/lawyer and Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest made the most of every opportunity while here in NZ to push for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters occupational cancers.
Firefighters drove their engines to Parliament's doors today, wanting laws to acknowledge the high rates of cancer among them... Full story here.
Internal Affairs Minister Tracey Martin told firefighters on the steps of Parliament today that she has written to ACC Minister Iain Lees-Galloway voicing her support for an amendment to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer and that it needs to be put on the legislative agenda.
Firefighters are pushing for a dozen or more cancers to be recognised as linked to their occupation, so they don't have to battle ACC for compensation. Firefighters and firetrucks are expected on the forecourt of parliament at twelve-thirty today to remind politicans they are still not automatically covered for occupational cancers.
With the incredible assistance of international expert/firefighter/lawyer and Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest we are well on the way to achieving cross-party support for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancers.
The Auckland Local is aware that several individual complaints from members were made directly to the National Council during lasts years dispute with the National Committee.
Back on the campaign trail with Alex Forrest meeting with politicians today in Parliament.
Firefighters should be compensated by ACC for cancers linked to the job, industry experts say.
The NZPFU has two representatives involved in the design groups for Tranche 2 (Wellington Local Secretary Alan Collett) and Tranche 2B (Hamilton Local Secretary) of the new FENZ structure.
International expert/firefighter/lawyer and Winnipeg Firefighters’ Union President Alex Forrest has generously made time for a second trip to push for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer.
The NZPFU supported the 2019 Firefighters Golf Tournament which was a great success with 130 participants participating at the Levin Golf Course last month.
Auckland members are strongly encouraged to participate in the second survey released by the Auckland Taskforce.
National Secretary Wattie Watson and National Vice President Joseph Stanley met with Internal Affairs Minister Tracey Martin at Parliament today to discuss firefighters’ occupational cancer and mental wellness.
The NZPFU conference being held in Auckland this week recognised longstanding Union Committee Member and stalwart Brent (Dorks) Single today.
On International Firefighters’ Day we remember and recognise all firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice in serving their community. It is a day for the global firefighting community to reflect on the devastating outcomes for some firefighters and their families as a result of selflessly putting their lives on the line to protect lives and property. We pay our respects to the firefighters who died in the line of duty – as a result of an accident or injury but also as a result of occupational illness.
The NZPFU was part of a global alliance call for a worldwide ban on the use of any PFAS firefighting foams in Geneva this week.
The NZPFU now has a charter between the National Union, Branches and Locals which establishes a framework for communication and professional behaviour within the Union to promote transparency and fairness in the interaction between all facets of the Union.
Members have been asking how they go about applying for positions in this years Local elections.
Getting back into the swing of things again after spending 2 weeks at NTC for the SSO TAPS course. I have to say, the facilities at NTC are amazing. Was great watching the new Recruits and SO practical exams over the 2 weeks. Great to see the high standards being maintained, not only by the instructors but the candidates also. Having only been on one National Training course since 2003 (ish) at White Island Brisbane, I was reminded of how valuable it is to mix with peers from across the country. Just like any fire station, it’s the crew that makes it. We certainly had an excellent crew from Dunedin through to Auckland. More than a few war stories were shared, plenty of laughs, even some singing and a lot of self-reflection in the mornings, for various reasons! A shout out to the instructors, the external leadership and brain people and the course mentors and of course the ever-valuable support staff that make everything happen. It is also good to know that the Union is very involved in the development and testing of this course.
The Auckland Local Committee wishes to thank the members that attended the meetings at Avondale and Papatoetoe Stations to meet with our National Council members of Wattie Watson, Ian Wright and Joe Stanley.
For the past 18 months the NZPFU has participated in a range of FENZ-facilitated committees and working groups charged with the health, safety and wellbeing of our members . There has been some great work done and some of the proposed outcomes will provide long overdue support needed for our members who are exposed to a cocktail of carcinogens and repeated trauma each and every shift.
The Auckland Local Committee is pleased to announce that the NZPFU National Council of Secretary Wattie Watson, President Ian Wright and Vice-President Joe Stanley will be flying up to Auckland on Monday 29th April to do some Station visits and meet with the Auckland Local Committee.
Initially FENZ did not include the NZPFU on the Organisational Design of Tranche 2 Group on the basis our members would not be directly affected by the outcomes and that we would be invited to be involved in the testing of the draft design and consulted on any resulting proposal..
This week we continued meeting with Members of Parliament seeking support for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer. We met with National, Labour and New Zealand First MPs this week as we continue our education campaign.
The NZPFU welcomes the change of heart from FENZ with FENZ reported to have agreed to provide free blood testing to determine PFAS levels in firefighters.
On behalf of our Comms Centre members the NZPFU has sought to have their classification changed from “communicators” to “Fire and Emergency Dispatcher”.
Last week we continued the campaign for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer with more visits to Members of Parliament.
Recently there has been some confusion around the entitlements when working at stations that are not your usual station.
A second pilot for this course is to be held in June.
Today (1 April 2019) the Domestic Violence - Victim Protections Act 2018 comes into effect providing employees with support at work.
President Ian Wright is at NTC for 2 weeks from 1st April so will be slow in responding. Vice President Joe Stanley and Secretary Wattie Watson are still available and should be the first to call please.
A brand new, secure online forum and private members blog has been developed and has launched today. Members across the country have long been asking for this facility to be made available.
Firefighters are calling upon the Government to compensate their cancer treatments.
Members will no doubt have heard that this past Saturday we had three appliances K0 and one appliance riding short crewed.
Alex Forrest has taken every opportunity to educate firefighters and the media across the country and today, his last day in NZ, was no exception.
Members who are currently covered by the Union’s Compensation Insurance are advised that the recent remarket with the insurers occurred. This happens every 3 years and a number of significant changes have occurred.
Te Atatu MP Alfred Ngaro has put his support behind the campaign for presumptive legislation for occupational cancer.
Today Alex Forrest continued taking the message of the need for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer to members.
Hastings man Brett "Gonzo" How put out fires for more than 30 years. It was all he ever wanted to do.
Alex Forrest’s commitment to achieving presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer is seeing him travel the length of NZ.
Invercargill Labour List MP Dr Liz Craig met with Alex Forrest, NZPFU Southland Branch President Graeme (Norm) Gilroy and National Secretary Wattie Watson today.
Congratulations James Hall who has been elected as Northern Branch Vice President. James has been active on the Auckland Local including acting President last year.
Christchurch Labour MP Poto Williams understandably has much to do in supporting her community at this time.
It may be Sunday but Alex Forrest keeps working for New Zealand’s professional firefighters.
We started to take the campaign for presumptive legislation to recognise occupational cancer on the road. National President Ian Wright joined us for the road trip and first stop was Masterton Fire Station for firefighters to hear about Alex’s experiences and the support firefighters can give to the campaign through sharing NZPFU posts through social media as well as posts from MPs that support the campaign.
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
Copy of correspondence from Terry Bird, regarding the Auckland Taskforce Survey:
Day three of the campaign trail included Alex Forrest briefing members of the Labour Government.
In between meetings with the National Committee and MPs, Alex used any spare time for station visits to talk to firefighters about the campaign and the preventative measures and programmes. We can never fully protect firefighters but we can minimise the exposures. Bagging and tagging contaminated PPE, showering as soon as possible to remove the spot and toxins, clean hoods and regularly cleaning helmets and helmet skirts are just a few of the measures firefighters take to minimise the impact of the absorption of toxins.
Alex Forrest, NZPFU President Ian Wright and National Secretary met with Minister Iain Lees-Galloway today and ACC advisors. Despite the many challenges for the Government this week, the Minister set aside almost an hour to hear about Alex’s international experience in presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters occupational cancer. This is the second meeting for the NZPFU with the Minister.
This morning Radio NZ reported on the NZPFU’s campaign for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer. The report can be viewed above or heard via the link below:
The messages of support from our international brothers and sisters has continued with a personal message from Fire Brigades Union National Secretary Matt Wrack.
IAFF Canadian Trustee and Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest briefed the NZPFU National Committee today on the science and basis for presumptive legislation recognising occupational cancer.
Members will be aware that Canadian firefighter, lawyer and international expert on presumptive legislation, Alex Forrest is currently in the country to talk to politicians, media and firefighters.
The NZPFU has received messages of support from our global alliance of firefighting unions.
Members who were around in the 1990’s will remember Tom Goddard – Chief Judge of the Employment Court.
International expert/lawyer/firefighter and Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest hit the campaign trail running today with an interview with Radio New Zealand.
As the shock sets in and the magnitude of yesterday’s horrific events begin to be comprehended, there will be many needing support and care. There will be many directly and indirectly affected across the country.
FENZ are notifying all stations that they will no longer be in lock down - effective immediately.
Due to the situation in Christchurch, FENZ is making some precautionary changes to emergency response procedures.
#BalanceforBetterYesterday marked the 108th anniversary of International Women’s Day and the Hashtag above is one way we can recognise the women in our lives, whether at home or at work, those who have led by example in spearheading women into what is a great job, with great camaraderie and as we all know and understand, form our 2nd families.
How does a mystery getaway for two sound to you? Leave the kids at home, or dog, and enjoy a well-deserved break.
Today we celebrate the women in our lives – those that nurtured us, support us, our siblings and are amongst our family and friends.
The NZPFU has been strongly advocating for FENZ to shift its PFAS project to the safety and wellbeing of firefighters. PFAS is a group of human-made per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances manufactured and in use in a range of industries including firefighting foams. These include PFOS and PFOA.
All Auckland members covered by the NZPFU CEA will be sent a link to access the Auckland Taskforce Survey later today via their FENZ email address.
Members have been voicing their increasing concerns on the possible encroachment of non-career firefighters into key operational management roles.
We are thrilled to confirm that international expert/firefighter/lawyer and Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest will be here next month to kick off the NZPFU campaign for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer.
FENZ has taken action to address the serious risk of CO exposure on the Nelson fire grounds.
The NZPFU has informed FENZ that monitoring for Carbon Monoxide (CO) levels and individual testing for firefighters are required in Nelson after three incidents of volunteer firefighters experiencing dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Tauranga Local Vice President, the following nominations have been received.
Members are advised that an interim national deployment policy has been agreed to. This has been based on the Christchurch negotiated policy.
Well work has well and truly started to ramp up here! There’s a few things I would like to cover off on this blog.
We have been advised by NHQ who have been advised by BNZ that there may be an issue in the pay run tonight.
The five Auckland NZPFU Representatives on the Auckland Working Group are currently visiting stations in Areas 3, 4 and 5 (including Comms and R1TC) to inform members of an upcoming electronic survey due for release in a few weeks.
Members attention is brought to the notice below from FENZ payroll whereby the texting of pay information to members will cease from early February. Members will still be able to access their pay information via Home Base.
The NZPFU was notified by members that as Regional Trainers they were being required to attend a Professional Development Live Fire Burn course (PTDP01812) that would include Rural participants, including some that may not be qualified BA wearers.
Today FENZ notified the NZPFU that the first holiday remediation payments to rostered employees that were scheduled to commence on 13 February 2019 have been delayed a month.
NZPFU members have reported that for some firefighters the newly issued wildfire jackets are ill-fitting with short sleeves that do not fully cover the arm.
The Auckland Working Group has advised the Local Committee that there will soon be a survey going out to all of those in the Auckland area covered by the CEA.
The Report of the Independent Review of Workplaces Practices commissioned by FENZ was publicly released today. The Review lead by Judge Coral Shaw has made 33 recommendations to “reshape” the organisation to adopt a zero tolerance approach to the issue of bullying and harassment.
FENZ have advised the NZPFU that the Independent Review of Workplace Practices lead by Judge Coral Shaw is to be released tomorrow following a media conference.
2018 was a fast paced and busy year with large amounts of change within both FENZ and the Union.It has become apparent that change is now the new norm, it is certainly the climate we will be working in for the next 2-3 years and as such we must adapt accordingly.Our role as a Union in this change is to mitigate risk and maximise opportunities that benefit Career Fire fighters, the organisation and the public as a whole.
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Northern Branch Vice President, the following nominations have been received.
Tis’ the season, or so the saying goes. However, whilst most workers are enjoying some well earnt time off over the Christmas break, Career firefighters, our members are leaving their families and loved ones at home and turning up to work to protect the community and enjoy the company of their second family.
The NZPFU is continuing to work with Regional and Property management to look at options to improve the current plans without delaying the project or the timeframes for members to move into the temporary Lichfield Station in Christchurch.
On Wednesday 19 December, the Fire and Emergency and NZPFU Auckland task force held their first meeting since their establishment in November.
Taking all available steps to reduce firefighters’ exposures to carcinogens is fundamental and this week level 2 PPE was removed from the engine bay at Christchurch City Station.
Please be advised that:
Congratulations to Joe Stanley who has been elected Vice President of the Union. We welcome Joe to the team and look forward to working with him to further the interests of the members.
The Fire Service have had the Project running for some months now. Black Watch workers (who are the most affected) have been remediated.
44 days in, the emails have grown exponentially as have the phone calls and the sleep has decreased! It is most certainly a busy but productive time!
It is with sadness that we advise the sudden passing of John Woolley, Senior Station Officer at Hamilton Fire Station.
The Auckland Local Committee is aware of the upcoming retirement of Area Manager Denis O’Donoghue in early January 2019.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, we are pleased to announce the following vacancies have been filled in the Taupo Local.
The Auckland Local Committee advises that the Special Meeting called for Thursday 6 December at 10.30am is cancelled.
The Auckland Local Committee understands from Regional Manager Kerry Gregory that FENZ will be withdrawing from next year’s Pride Parade to be held in Auckland.
The Auckland Local has received communication from John and Sulu that they are undertaking Court proceedings and they no longer wish us to engage or entertain any offer from the National Committee about their expulsions.
The Auckland Local Committee hereby calls a Special Meeting of all Auckland members to be held at Avondale Fire Station, Thursday 6 December at 10.30am.
The Auckland Local Committee met yesterday with Sulu and John to discuss the proposal from the National Committee. This proposal was an outcome of Friday’s meeting that the Local had in Wellington with the National Committee.
Members are currently the target of an international scam involving the purchase of iTunes vouchers.
Most members would have seen the news of the appointment of Wattie Watson as your new Secretary – this is really good news for the Union and its members.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following position:
The Union and some of our members have been approached by management regarding having PRFO’s and DPRFO’s on response to fill IMT positions or respond alongside/as well as, on the fireground where Career urban Firefighters are operating or undertaking on call duties in Urban areas.
The Auckland Local Committee is determined to win the reinstatement of SSO Devoe and SFF Waldow, seeing them returned to their elected positions.
The National Committee are extremely proud and excited to announce Joanne (Wattie) Watson as our new Secretary.
Members are advised that Mike Powell has only just written to the National Returning Officer that he wishes to withdraw from the election.
Members will be aware that some St Johns Ambulance officers are taking industrial action by not attending non-emergency commercial events as a way of impacting St John’s income.
It’s been a couple of very busy weeks, both personally and Union wise. I am extremely pleased to have a meeting date agreed and set with the Auckland Local for the 23rd November here in Wellington. The National Committee and I are looking forward to constructive and robust discussions around the present, and most importantly, the future of the Auckland Local and the Union overall.
Please refer to the Notice of 12 October.
National Vice Presidential Ballots will shortly be distributed to all Stations throughout Areas Three, Four and Five.
Some of you may be aware that Jeff Shrimpton (Northern Branch President and Auckland Local Committee member) recently had an accident and banged his head. As a result of this he underwent a CT scan.
The Auckland Local Committee would like to invite members who have an interest in representing us on the Auckland Working Group working party.
On Thursday 25 October 2018 Auckland Local Committee members – James Hall, Martin Campbell & Boyd Raines along with National Officials, Ian Wright & Derek Best met with Senior FENZ Representatives – Brendan Nally, Chris Wells, Richard Dagger & Brett Warwick regarding the formation of a Working Group to look at Auckland Recruit and Retention issues.
There has been a great deal of kneejerk misinformation regarding the supply and use of J Rated tyres.
My name is Ian Wright and I am privileged to be writing this first blog as the newly elected President of the NZPFU, a Union I have been a proud member of for 31 years.
By now, members will be aware of the actions taken by the National Committee against Sulu Devoe and John Waldow.
The Union is advised that the last date for payment of the increase in wages and the back pay is planned for 21 November 2018.
Attached is the Returning Officers declaration of the Ballot to appoint the new National President of the NZPFU.
Last week a meeting of the National Committee was convened. The focus of this meeting was to provide leadership and direction to our members after a period of unprecedented disruption.
Members will be aware that Fire Hazard Assessment is a new requirement under the FENZ Act 2017.
Attached is the Returning Officers declaration of the Ballot to Ratify the CA.
A number of members have been asking when do the very many benefits/improvements arising out of the Terms of Settlement for a renewed CA actually happen.
Attached please find an updated Auckland Local Committee contact list for the benefit of members.
Ballot voting papers and boxes have now been sent out to all the Assistant Returning Officers in Auckland, by courier, to enable members to vote for the National President.
Members will be aware of a Detective Sergeant Salter being employed by FENZ as an Area Manager’s Assistant (AMA) in Area 3.
Nominations closed on 28 August 2018 for the following positions:
Following the recent election for additional Auckland Local Committee members, six nominations were received.
Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control, the closing date for this Ballot has to be extended.
Today – 10 September – is World Suicide Prevention Day.
The purpose of this notice is to make members in the Auckland Local aware of the meeting timetable for ratification meetings.
The Local writes to remind members that, upon joining the Union, an agreement was made wherein the Union is your workplace representative on all matters pertaining to your employment. This includes any secondments or temporary appointments to positions outside the terms of the Collective Agreement.
Members will have started to have local consultation meetings with their leaders, below we have written up points of interest and or concern to the Union and our members. Under each section, we have given our guidance and our thoughts on what it means and where we think the future state should be.
Members have been advised of the nominations received for the President and Vice President positions, and the reasons for the delay in commencing these Elections (4 July 2018).
The purpose of this notice is to make members within the Branch aware of the meeting timetable for ratification meetings.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday 28 August 2018.
Members will know that the rules were changed in 2017 in relation to the National Secretary’s position.
Further to NTM 26 July 2018 and the Union’s concerns regarding the process of the Bullying and Harassment review.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
Attached are the Terms of Settlement arising out of Bargaining. The Terms will be put to members for Ratification shortly.
Members may be surprised to hear that some 7.5 years after the Christchurch Earthquake Firefighters in Christchurch are still operating out of so called ‘temporary’ accommodation.
Members will be aware of this Review Team set up to look into bulling and harassment in the Fire Service and the Fire Service Culture.
The following nominations have been received for the position of President
The Auckland Local writes to members with regards to the appliance fleet. The Local has heard from members that some defects, as written in Appliance Defect Books, are not being repaired. That is, members are being called to uplift an appliance from workshops following servicing and not all noted defects have been corrected. This is quite bizarre, as the purpose of sending a vehicle for servicing is so that it can be serviced and maintained, including fixing things that are wrong with it.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
Bargaining commenced on 31 May & 1 June for the establishment of a new Collective Agreement between NZPFU and FENZ, with both parties pleased at the progress made to date across a broad range of issues. The parties meet again on Friday 8 June to spend time focussed on Comcens, with the following Friday 15 June set down to resume the balance of the bargaining.
Further to national notice dated 26 April 2018.
The Union has initiated Bargaining with the Chief Executive and Bargaining is scheduled to commence on 31 May and 1 June.
On the 7th and 8th May the NZPFU gathered a group of Senior Operational and Union leaders. The purpose of the meeting was for developing an NZPFU position on Command and Control that represents our members best interests and those of the organisation as a whole. We would like to acknowledge the members below and FENZ for their contribution to make this happen. Those members were:
By the closing date for nominations for the position of Whangarei Local President, the following nomination has been received.
Tomorrow – 4 May – is International Firefighters Day.The Fire Service, in consultation with the Union have invited members of Parliament to visit their Local Fire Station to meet with members.
The Incident and Leadership development programme (ILDP) is a new Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) course (formerly Tactical Command).
By the closing date for nominations for positions in the Taupo Local, the following nominations have been received.
The Fire and Emergency New Zealand Board has asked for recommendations from the organisation by June 2018, on a suitable approach to health standard assessments and associated support processes for operational personnel, as set out under the requirements of Sections 31 to 35 of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand legislation.
The Union believes it is not as easy to attract competent Firefighters as:
Waitemata staff will be aware of their Area Management calling for applications for a short term secondment from SSO qualified SO’s.
Further to the calling for nominations for the position of Northern Branch President, three nominations have been received.
Further to the calling for nominations for the vacant Auckland Local President position, two nominations have been received.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following position:
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
Nominations are called for:
Nomination are called for:
A very successful and productive Annual Conference was held 28-30 November 2017.
Please find attached correspondence between the Union and the Chief Executive which outlines the Chief Executives response to carious concerns put formally to the Chief Executive.
The Local has received a large amount of feedback from members expressing their displeasure and concern with the attendance of Glen Menzies at greater alarm events.
Shortly the Northern Branch Returning Officer will be calling for nominations for the election of the Northern Branch President.
Shortly the Northern Branch Returning Officer will be calling for nominations for the election of the Auckland Local President.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The Auckland Local has been dealing with a number of matters that can be seen as intimidating members by Area Management throughout Auckland in relation to matters associated with employment conditions, entitlements, sick leave, work accident and non-work accident management.
Further to the Notice issued on 21 December 2017 from Karl Patterson, Centre Manager, Southern Fire Communications and subsequently forwarded to other Comcentres throughout New Zealand.
The Union Office and the office in Auckland will be closed from 22 December 2017 to 15 January 2018.
Below is provided the notice put out by the Chief Executive. You will note that the Union was consulted over this and supports its intentions.
A successful Conference was held 28-30 November in Akaroa with Delegates from all Locals present – as well as four guests from the UFU of Australia.
Attached is a notice from the Employer regarding Women in FENZ.
The Employer has agreed to fund research which will explore the wellbeing of members, particularly in relation to medical calls.
It has been brought to the attention of the Union that some members who have qualified as Grade 1 Drivers are being denied the relevant pay rise that accompanies this achievement. The excuse provided by Management is that there is a disconnect between National Training and Area Management in terms of paperwork and notifications to Payroll.
The Local writes to members in response to an article appearing in today’s New Zealand Herald pertaining to bullying allegations against one of our members.
The Union writes to update members on the state of the Fraser-MAN fleet which has been “blacked” since mid-January of this year.
The Union has been in contact with the internal communication department of FENZ in relation to a survey they wish to undertake of members and others.
Today is Mesothelioma Awareness Day, something all fire service personnel should be familiar with.
Please find below a request from John Guilaran, a PhD student at Massey University:
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 25 September 2017.
An inaugural meeting was held on the 8th August. The NZPFU was represented by Ian Wright (National Vice President) Mike Powell and Graeme “Norm” Gilroy (NZPFU reps for training) also in attendance were:
In line with the Conference Resolution to establish the rate of the calculation of Union Fees to “0.75% of the weekly wage of a Senior Firefighter (Grade 1) with 10 years’ experience.”
The Union has strongly represented its unhappiness about the inability of FENZ to actually pay the 1 July wage increase on the due date – Thus requiring back pay.
Attached is a biography for Brent Single – Candidate for Vice President Central Branch.
Some of you have questions about what the ‘health standards for operational personnel’ mentioned in the new legislation might mean for you.
Further to yesterday's notice, our technical issues with phone and internet services at the Wellington Union Office have been resolved. Our normal contact arrangements resume.
We are currently experiencing technical issues with both phone and internet services at the Wellington Union Office.
As returning Officer I have been advised by Joe Stanley that he wishes to withdraw his nomination for the positions of President & Secretary.
The following article is reproduced with an acknowledgement to and the permission of the Gisborne Herald for member’s information.
As many of you will have noticed, you’re having to log on multiple times to access applications on the intranet. I know this is very frustrating and we are disappointed that you are having this experience.
Further to the previous newsletter the employer has now advised that the new rates will be paid on 13 September and the back pay will be paid on that pay day as well.
The union and Fire and Emergency New Zealand would like to draw members’ attention to Notices of Authorisation.
The Union has agreed with the Employer the remuneration changes to apply from 1 July 2017.
President
By the closing date for nominations for positions of Northern Branch Officials, the following nominations had been received.
Attached are the signed copies of both of the documents.
Attached is a copy of the letter all existing employees of the Fire Service have recently or will shortly receive regarding their transfer into FENZ.
Below are two pieces of information relating to FENZ:
Nominations Received:
The Union has been asked by the FENZ Project to remove this notice.
The Union has been advised by the UFU of Australia that the above seminars are shortly to be run – Including one in Wellington.
The Union is aware that many members are expressing concerns about the lack of information, particularly as it relates to Day 1.
Attached are the PCA Payments for 2017.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
The Fire Service has provided the Terms of Reference for this Review - See attached.
The Fire Service is seeking expressions of interest for at least three seconded Assistant Area Manager positions within Region 1 (Areas 3, 4 and 5). These secondments would appear to be for up to a period of two years.
Late last week the Union was approached and asked if we were prepared to release up to 5 MAN Appliances to attend the sudden catastrophe in Edgecumbe.
Selected members – selected by FENZ – have been communicated with regarding becoming a FENZ Change Support Person.
One of the reductions in conditions of employment introduced in the Fire and Emergency N.Z. legislation was the removal of the provision to provide Gratuities to Firefighters.
The Northern Branch would like to recognise the huge amount of work done by the Comm Centres, especially Northern Comms, during the recent weather events in the Region (see the figures).
The Union requested copies of Commission minutes when they (presumably discussed) and made the stupid decision to appoint a Civilian Chief Executive.
Members will be aware that a text alert detailing the Union’s concerns regarding this matter with respect to Area Notice RI-WAI-032/2017 Waitemata Area was distributed on 2 March 2017.
The Union remains supportive of the underlying rationale behind the formation of Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
There was more discussion at Conference 2016 regarding the application and interpretation of the Law in regards to Driving hours and the Fire Service approved variation and how it should be applied.
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, representing all career front line firefighters can reveal that Christchurch Fire Service Crews (career firefighters) were stood down and told to return to Stations while the catastrophic Christchurch fires continued to burn – said Derek Best, Secretary of the Union.
As a result of concerns expressed regards the safety of the MAN Appliance Cab and that the Cab did not meet the appropriate European Standard (ECE R29) the Union commissioned advice from a qualified Engineer. This advice is reproduced below. You will see that the conclusion that the Cab does comply with ECE R29 and in fact provides a greater level of protection than a Cab built from steel.
This project continues, with fixes having been put in place to correct the safety issues rightly raised by Locals.
Just before Christmas, the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Bill was reported back from the Select Committee.
The Local has been made aware that there may be an effort by Fire Service Management to direct members into manning blacked Fraser-MAN appliances.
The following was received from Christchurch and the Southern Branch.
The Union is disappointed, but not surprised to learn of Paul Baxter’s resignation. It seems obvious to the Union that the Commission’s announcement of the new Management structure, where Operations is relegated to the background, was the last straw and Paul had no alternative but to accept the considerably lesser position of running a State Fire Service in Australia.
The Local writes to inform members of the decision to “black” the Fraser-MAN Appliances in the Auckland Fleet.
Over some considerable time, the Fire Service has developed a new Absence Management Policy.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year.
To say that the recently announced FENZ Leadership Structure is bad news for both Operational Firefighters and the Community is an understatement – it is an absolute tragedy. Make no mistake – this is not a merger; it is a takeover - with Rural taking over the Urban Service and the Urban Service being even more weakened by the total domination by Civilians.
President of the Auckland Local, Mike McEnaney delivers messages of support on behalf of NZPFU Members.
It has come to the attention of the Northern Branch Executive that some regions do not intend to have any Volunteer Support Officers on call over the Christmas/New Year period.
The Union is advised that the Fire Service intends bringing the pay forward by 4 days due to Bank closures.
Clause 2.7.1(c) of the current Collective Employment Agreement between the NZFS and the NZPFU describes how public holidays falling within periods of leave will be dealt with for rostered shift staff.
Members – not only in directly affected localities – have been faced with and have undertaken a very challenging work environment over the last few days in the response to the Earthquake and subsequent flooding etc.
Please refer to previous newsletters.
The Northern Branch has been made aware of concerns raised by the Christchurch Local in regard to a planned USAR exercise to be held from 1-4 November 2016.
Due to conditions agreed to in the USAR Schedule of Conditions R7 SCa and the NZPFU Collective Agreement Not being applied to this exercise the Christchurch Local instructs:
The Union writes to members with regards to a planned USAR Exercise being held Nov 1st- 4th.
The Local has been approached by members that have been contacted by Area management with regards to attending a meeting on the 18th of October with AM Pat Fitzell of New Plymouth. Fitzell is a member of the Appliance Project Recovery team that is attempting to address the multitude of failings with the disastrous Fraser-MAN appliances that the Fire Service has now willingly saddled itself.
The Firefighters’ Scholarship is established for career Firefighters and Officers up to SSO rank, and Comcen staff.
Members have continued to express their on-going frustrations with the Fraser-MAN pumping and pump-rescue appliances. At the recent Auckland Local Annual General Meeting, members directed the Secretary to publish a rebuttal to the propaganda originating from Fleet Management at NHQ. What follows below is correct to the best of the Local’s knowledge.
At the recent Auckland Local Annual General Meeting members expressed their frustration and anger at the poor level of service they have received when a request has been made for support following Critical Incident exposure.
The Local has been made aware of a number of instances where members have attempted to address faults and failures with the terminally flawed Fraser-MAN appliances. This is not a recommended solution by either Management or the Union. The instruction to members contained in Northern Branch Notice NB 16-44 is still valid. SSO Chris Lind is still logging faults and failures and needs to be informed of any further incidents with Fraser-MAN appliances.
Aaron Waterreus is about to commence a survey of those who attended NTC to undertake the 5 day Incident Command Training.
Attached is an Area vacancy for the position of Fire Risk Manager for the Auckland City Fire Area for a period of two months.
Attached is a copy of the Union Submission on the Bill.
Because the FENZ Director and workstream leads have absolutely no knowledge of the Fire Service, its operational functions, the culture – basically how the Fire Service operates.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 26 September 2016.
The following information, put out by the Fire service, is provided for you information. Greg Lee (National Committee member) has been involved with the CIPSS team to further develop this support service.
To recognise and address the serious concerns with the MAN appliances, the Union has appointed the President to work in conjunction with Locals, Members, and the National Fleet Manager, to resolve issues raised.
The Union (Peter Nicolle and Derek Best) have meet with the Minister (Peter Dunne) and D.I.A Officials; the Director of the Transition office (David Strong) and various Transition Office staff, the Chief Executive/National Commander and representatives of the U.F.B.A to discuss and obtain further information on both the Bill and Transition to FENZ.
The Fire Service are working on ensuring the continued sustainability with regards to the provision of specialist fire investigation skills and capabilities into the future.
Following a meeting with Paul Turner where the Union was presented with outstanding leave totals and sick leave figures from Comcentres, Paul undertook to instruct Comcentre Managers not to obstruct or deny members' leave.
On Tuesday 2 August the Union blacked the above appliance. Given the long list of faults and failures of this appliance, the Union was forced to take this action.
The following message from Denis Fitzmaurice is repeated for your information.
As previously advised the Union (Derek Best and the Union Lawyer Peter Cranney) met with the Fire Service in mediation on the matter of IFE Payments. The application lodged in the Employment Relations Authority has been referred to mediation.
A major work for the Union over the next few weeks will be a detailed consideration of this Bill and leading to the development of a submission from the Union to the Select Committee.
Clause 2.6.2.2 of the Collective agreement requires the Union and the Fire Service to review Market Data (provided by Hay Group) and discuss and agree the remuneration rates to apply from 1 July 2016. The following is the outcome.
By the closing date for nominations for positions in the Taupo Local, no nominations had been received.
Triennial Elections See attached notices for nominations and declarations.
Massey University student Dick Thornton-Grimes has approached the NZPFU providing information on some independent and anonymous research survey he is conducting for those stations that have an appliance equipped with an Impact Pro gas detector as part of his degree studies.
The Local writes to inform members that a situation has arisen, due to over-hiring of staff, where some watches at some stations may be rostered with an Officer and four Firefighters. In the event of this occurring, the Union advises that the following is to apply.
Further to the information in the last Newsletter.
The Union has agreed to a schedule developed by the Fire Service and Draeger for the replacement of all BA set hoses. At the same time as the hoses are replaced Drager will change the settings on all DSU’s as also agreed by both parties.
Today the Minister announced more details on the Review.
Northern Branch In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the Triennial Election of Local Officials.
The Northern Branch of the NZPFU advises Auckland Local members that we will be holding ratification meetings in Auckland on Thursday 19 April and Friday 20 April to enable as many members (on and off duty) to attend and have their vote.
The Dispute has been lodged with the Employment Relations Authority. The Union is expecting to be referred in the first instance to mediation.
The Boyd family would like to thank all at the Union for their support and kind messages for Pam after her untimely passing.
Available for download is an agreed notice regarding the treating of how people were paid for Statutory Holidays over Christmas/ New Year and Waitangi day.
Members will be aware that this is a year when the PCA’s are due.
Members should and will remember the devastating and tragic events 5 years ago in Christchurch – lives lost, property destroyed, major trauma and heroic actions by many, including our members, not only in Christchurch but from around the country.
We recognise that the earthquakes of the 14th were a major event and understand that for some Christchurch fire fighters and their families this is a difficult time. The NZPFU is your organisation that exists to provide information and support to its members over a variety of fields one of which is welfare support. To access this info/support in the first instance please contact Jim Ryburn, Welfare Officer on (03) 372-8617 or (021) 654-184.
Many of you will know that Pam has been ill for some time, Pam worked for over 25 years for the Union as the Office Manager and many of you will have had dealings with her.
The Union office will be closed from and on 24th December 2015 until 6th January 2016.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Attached in the first of several updates (probably monthly) on the upcoming health and safety legislation. These updates are issued out of the work of the Health and Safety Reform Project. The Union is represented on this Projects Steering Group.
As some members may be aware the Fire Service has recently stopped processing the IFE “Qualification Bonus” payment to workers who achieved the qualification from the IFE through Recognised Prior Learning (RPL), under section 2.6.17 of the CEA.
Following high-level discussions between the Union and Fire Service management on the dispute surrounding the Senior Station Officer application process, the Local is satisfied that the issue is progressing to the point where Notice to Members 15-24 can be withdrawn.
A number of members are aware of the debacle created by AM Cocker and then supported by Regional Management in regard to the highly flawed selection process for short-listing candidates for promotion to recently advertised Senior Station Officer positions in Areas 4 and 5. The Union has now placed this matter into dispute.
The Workplace Carcinogen Exposure Programme (WCEP) was established to reduce frontline staff exposure to carcinogens and other harmful substances in the workplace. This is a joint initiative involving the New Zealand Fire Service, NZPFU and the UFBA. WCEP has made several accomplishments the last few months. The WCEP project team is now starting a series of pilots to test new respiratory protective equipment (RPE), processes, and procedures prior to final approval, procurement, and implementation.
As advised at Ratification meetings arising out of the C.A bargaining, the Fire Service agreed to review the maximum amounts reimbursed for eye checks and spectacles.
The Union can advise that the new Pay Rates and the Back-pay arising out of the Collective Agreement Ratification will be paid on 19th August 2015.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday 4 August 2015.
Herewith Declaration of the Ratification Ballot.
The purpose of this notice is to make members within the Branch aware of the meeting timetable for ratification meetings.
After a number of days of bargaining and extensive work on bench-marking for Part 3 and 4, the Union and the Fire Service are now in a position to refer a Proposed Settlement for your consideration.
The Union has been involved with the new BA reference guide and the new E Learning package outlined below and supports its implementation.
Attached is the Schedule of P.C.A. Payments to be made.
Available for download is the Fire Service Review Document for your information.
Following on the calling of Nominations for the Union's National President, Vice President and Secretary, the following were recieved by the closing date.
This year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours acknowledges the endeavour and achievements of Jim Ryburn with the Award of Member of the NZ. Order of Merit.
NZPFU and NZFS have met for a further two days on Monday 25 & Tuesday 26 May 2015.
NZPFU and NZFS bargaining teams met again for a further full days bargaining on Friday 15 May 2015.
NZPFU and NZFS have met for two days on Thursday 7 and Friday 8 May 2015. Both parties feel that the negotiations have started constructively.
The Firefighters’ Scholarship is established for firefighters and comcen staff and provides the opportunity to study domestically and overseas, research world’s best practice or undertake a project that will benefit the Fire Service.
Members will be aware of the recent rumours regarding watch transfers at Taupo Station. A number of issues have been raised with Central Lakes and Region 2 management regarding these watch changes, including:
The Fire Service has published the following National Notice and link to a more detailed briefing paper.
The Local brings to members’ attention the situation where a duty watch may be over MSM with an additional Firefighter.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The relationship between the N.Z.P.F.U. and the U.F.U. of Australia was further strengthened with a highly successful Combined Conference in Auckland in the first week of December. Approximately 80 Delegates from throughout New Zealand and Australia met over 3 days to share knowledge and information and to continue to build on the foundation of the Global Alliance.
Clause 2.7.1(c) of the current Collective Employment Agreement between the NZFS and the NZPFU describes how public holidays falling within periods of leave will be dealt with for rostered shift staff.
Members should refer to the National Safety Notice 062/2014 issued on 16 October, and also refer to the Auckland Level 2 Investigation Report on 14 July 2014 regarding medium pressure hose kinking and air supply interruption.
In 2011 NZFS rolled out its first Career Board Programme. A lot has happened since then. We listened to suggestions shared by those involved in the first Career Board, and used their ideas to strengthen our 2013 Career Board Programme for Executive Officers and Officers.
Available for download with this Newsletter is a Summary Result of the Survey carried out earlier in the year and relating to the C.A. Ratification which included the outcomes of a Job Sizing exercise.
This notice is to inform members within the Waitemata Fire Area that a formal Dispute has been lodged with the Fire Service under Clause 2.8.2.1 of the Collective Agreement.
The Local has been made aware that training for Fire Safety is about to be delivered in the Waitemata Fire Area. The trainer for this is a former member of the Union who stabbed his colleagues in the back in order to assist the employer with the failed reforms of the 90’s.
Triennial Election of Northern Branch Vice President Following the calling of nominations for the position of Northern Branch Vice President, I hereby declare John William Waldow elected to the position, effective immediately.
It has come to the attention of the Taupo Local that Kinloch Fire Brigade is now being used more often as backup for Taupo Station as either standby crew or as backup to Taupo crews when responding to an incident.
The Auckland Local has had a number of complaints and questions from members regarding Assistant Area Manager Woon’s email regarding District Relievers for ACFA.
It has been over a year now since the roll out of the new Drager BA sets and while the Fire Service has admitted that this roll out did not go very well and was inadequate, the follow up issues arising out of the roll out seems to be just as inadequate.
The Fire Service has set up a comprehensive programme of work to focus on reducing firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens and other harmful substances in the workplace. The programme is a joint initiative involving the NZPFU and the UFBA.
On Thursday 14th August Derek Best and I had the privilege of attending the reception held in for the Recipients of the Bravery Awards.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday 20 August 2014.
Following on from our recent triennial elections for the Northern Branch Executive, nominations are hereby called for the following position that was not filled at that time:
The Local has written to Region 1 Manager Brian Butt informing him of the following regarding our position surrounding a 5th man being assigned to a particular shift period.
Do you have a great idea for improving some aspect of the New Zealand Fire Service that aligns with current organisational strategy and Vision 2020? If so, check out the Firefighters’ Scholarship.
The Union has been advised that a small number of members (19), have apparently been over-paid - some for up to around 6 -7 months. These are persons who were in the groups that were intended to be grand-fathered as a consequence of the pay changes last year.
By the closing date for nominations for positions of Northern Branch Officials, the following nominations had been received.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
The attached chart details the P.C.A. Payment.
The Collective Agreement (CA) agreed between the Fire Service and the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union in 2013 prescribes a review of market rates in May of each year that the agreement remains in force.
Subsequent to agreement between the Union and Fire Service, the following will apply:
The Employment Relations Authority held the Investigation Meeting regarding this dispute in Wellington on 15 April.
This notice provides an update on the joint work taking place between NZFS management, the NZPFU and the UFBA to resolve the current situation with BA set medium pressure hoses.
As members will recall, the existing Collective Agreement expires 30 June 2015. However, during the course of the Agreement, a number of Working Parties are to be established to look at:
Last week the NZPFU and the UFU of Australia National Committees met for a 2 day meeting.
Following numerous complaints from members in Area 3, the Union has written to Area Manager O’Donoghue demanding that the PRT qualifications, which were arbitrarily removed from affected members’ OSM profile, be reinstated. The Union also expects that members be allowed to maintain their PRT qualification through suitable training.
Members will know that over recent months there has been a significant increase in Medical Responses/Assists and a consequent increase in problems being experienced with those calls.
The Local is receiving a number of concerns from members regarding the Medical co-response which was sprung on members at the last moment before the recent holiday period.
Following the 4th Alarm fire at C C Interiors, Hannigan Drive, St. John’s, the Local draws members’ attention to NTM Ref: ALC-13-80 dated 23 December 2013 (copy attached).
The Union has been advised that management is conducting a review of Fire Net.
Members may have read various publications, including our own notices, surrounding the proposed MOU with the St John Ambulance.
Following the release of the highly flawed and inappropriate Operations Review and Level 2 Serious Harm Investigation into the LaHood Fire, the Auckland Local issues the following instruction to members:
Further to the number of Newsletters concerning the minor maintenance of B.A.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Members are advised that the Union is undertaking the first of what is proposed to be several on-line Surveys using Survey Monkey.
Updates have been made to our Compensation Insurance information. Please see the new attachments available for download.
The Local has received anecdotal evidence that there are faults with the new Dräger PSS 5000 B.A. Sets and the associated Merlin Boards.
Further to yesterday’s Newsletter No. 20 – herewith are the actual examples (name and identifying information removed) with the explanation of the various Back Pay line items.
Given the complicated makeup of the Back Pay, it has been agreed that a detailed explanation will be produced.
The appeal for funds to provide support and assistance for Troy and his family is still open but will close on Friday 1 November 2013. This provides you a last opportunity to demonstrate in a practical way your support for Troy and his family.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 4 November 2013.
The Local calls for Remits from members for the Annual General Meeting. We are exploring times and venues and expect to announce a location and date for the meeting next week. FF Position Advertised After meeting with Auckland Regional Management, the Local received an assurance that vacancies would be advertised as they occurred. This has now happened with a position at Titirangi Yellow Watch, and the Local encourages any member who wishes to move from a coloured watch position, to apply for this vacancy.
The Union met with the Fire Service on Friday 4 October in formal mediation in an attempt to further progress this matter. Present for the Union were Brad MacLeod and Stefan Talaic (both affected members from Auckland), Arie McPhee (affected member from Wellington), Peter Nicolle, Derek best and the Union’s lawyer Peter Cranney. Unfortunately attending for the Fire Service was only Chris Wells (Manager H.R. Services & employment Relations) – in effect Janine Hearn’s Deputy.
Troy Mahupuku The appeal for funds to provide support and assistance to Troy is still open, but will be closed shortly. So this is close to your last opportunity to, in a practical way, demonstrate your support to Troy and his family. Members are therefore encouraged to donate.
B.A. Maintenance Further to Newsletter No. 12 – 14 August 2013
The Union has had a number of queries from members regarding the above Survey (sent out yesterday).
Following confirmation of the ratification of the new Collective Agreement, we have had discussions with the NZFS on when members can expect implementation of the changes, and payment of relevant back pay.
Members of the N.Z.F.S. Associated Agencies have received enquiries from people asking where they could deposit money to help S.F.F. Troy Mahupuku who received burns to his arms and back – approximately 30% of his body, at a factory fire in Petone on 23rd August 2013.
The Union has been approached by several concerned members with regard to the voluntary servicing of B.A. equipment, including the testing of Level 4 Gas Suits.
1. The Union’s National Committee has resolved to “Recommend the Settlement to Members for Ratification”.
This is to inform members of the Auckland Local of the dates and locations of meetings for ratifying the proposed CEA.
Following a meeting of the Firefighter Pay Working Party, including both NZFS and NZPFU representatives, some significant changes have been agreed to the original proposals discussed at the recent information meetings. These changes have been made in response to feedback from the information meetings, and address the two key concerns that have been raised.
Breathing Apparatus There seems to be a number of concerns relating to the testing and minor repairs of all Breathing Apparatus equipment including Gas Suits that were once tested in Fire Service B.A. departments by certified technicians.
Attached is all the information that will be made available at the scheduled Information Meetings of Members.
The information produced regarding the Pay Review relates to Operational Officers & Firefighters (Part 2). The Pay Review exercise did not apply to Part 3 and Part 4 Workers.
A very informative and successful Seminar on Managing Firefighter Exposure was held on 27th June in Wellington. The Seminar, which focused on exposure to substances that are cancer causing was jointly hosted by the Union and the Fire Service.
By the closing date for nominations for positions in the Auckland Local, the following nominations had been received.
Meetings to provide information on the new pay structure for Operational Firefighters and Officers will commence shortly (see attached schedule).
The Union met today with Area 4 Management to discuss concerns raised by the Union with regard to training delivery for the new Level IV Gas Suits.
Q.F.F. PROGRESSION The Union met with H.R. management last week to discuss the dispute raised with the Fire Service regarding Q.F.F. progression.
The Union has written to Area 4 Manager Gregory seeking a meeting to discuss this issue.
The Union has been approached by Management with regard to having staff undertake the testing of the new Level IV Gas Suits.
Some time ago, management determined that, on the supply of new vehicles for FSOs and VSOs, the vehicles would not be equipped with LMR. However, on 23 April, management advised this decision had been reversed and that LMR would now continue to be provided for FSOs and VSOs.
The Union has requested that the Fire Service remove from service immediately the manifolds fitted to the Drager twin pack cylinder sets. On advice received from Drager, the manifolds that have been fitted to these sets were not supplied by them.
The Auckland Local has been made aware that the employer has made erroneous appointments under Section 66 of the Fire Service Act 1975. The usual practice in Auckland with regards to Section 66 has been to advertise for suitable personnel and then make an appointment to cover a temporary vacancy for a Deputy Chief Fire Officer/ Assisstant Area Manager position. Section 66 has never applied to a normal vacany for a Station Officer or Senior Station Officer position. Nor can the Union support the covering of a rank which exists within the Collective Agreement where that temporary absence has been created from a member being appointed to an Acting AAM position. The employer has, to date, a sound and robust promotion procedure with which any vacancy arising can be filled. If a member is appointed to be an Acting AAM, the resulting temporary absence can be covered under the existing call-back policies within the CEA. The Union advises that no member shall accept a Section 66 appointment arising out of a normal vacancy for a rank which is covered under the current Collective Agreement. The Union advises that any member on a Section 66 appointment and currently filling an absence arising out of Section 66 notify their Area Manager that they can no longer undertake this role and return to their normal position within their Brigade.
The Auckland Local has been approached by Auckland Area Management and informed that there will be a trial of the new BA Seats. These are to be fitted into Balmoral 611. The Local fully supports this trial and encourages members to provide feedback on the suitability of these seats. If any member wishes to provide feedback, they can contact either one of the BA Instructors who has delivered the recent training on the PSS5000 sets, or a member of the Local Committee.
Further to Newsletter – 21 December 2012.
The Joint Pay Review Working Party will recommence its work later this week. An update on the work will be provided to members as soon as possible after the meeting.
There are a number of problems relating to the roll out of the new Draeger PSS5000 BA sets that the project, in conjunction with the NZPFU, is working hard to resolve. This joint statement sets out the position of the project and the NZPFU.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. The Northern Branch Office will be closed from Friday 21 December 2012 until Monday 7 January 2013.
Further to Newsletters No. 27 – 25 July 2012, No. 31 – 15 August, No. 34 – 2 October, No. 35 – 10 October and No. 37 – 21 November –
Clause 2.7.1(c) of the current Collective Employment Agreement between the NZFS and the NZPFU describes how public holidays falling within periods of leave will be dealt with for rostered shift staff. This clause states that "If a public holiday falls or public holidays fall within the extended leave period (i.e. the 14 days) the leave will be extended by the number of public holidays in the same manner as applies to sickness, namely an additional leave day is added to the first duty day shift immediately following the extended leave period."
Further to Newsletter No. 32 – 3 September 2012; No. 34 – 2 October and No. 35 – 18 October.
The National Committee, through the Southern Branch, would like to offer its full support to members who are impacted by the Coronial Inquiry into the collapse of the CTV Building in Christchurch.
Further to newsletters No. 32 - 3 September 2012 and No. 34 - 2 October
Further to Newsletter No. 27 – 25 July 2012 and No. 31 – 15 August 2012. The Working Party has met on a number of occasions and Hay Group has been retained as consultants to the Working Party. Detailed discussions have been held with Hay Group to establish what the parties will need to do and to clarify and detail information they require. A smaller sub-group of the Working Party will establish and finalize detailed Job Descriptions for SFF and S.O. ranks shortly. As well, Hay Group is currently obtaining information from various employers for comparative purposes. It is expected that by mid October, Hay Group will be in a position to report to the Working Party.
The Union understands that the Fire Service has been instructed by government to directly address the matter of absenteeism.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday 26 September 2012.
The Union has received several calls from concerned members with regard to the above.
The Fire service has made it clear that they have adopted a “Total Care” approach to the maintenance of the new B.A. and they have contracted to Drager accordingly.
Further to Newsletter No. 27 - 25 July 2012. This Working Party met further on 13 August 2012. Good progress was made including selecting the (subject to finalizing of details), preferred contractor to assist with the necessary bench-marking exercise.
For a long time now (going back to the 90s), the Union has been an advocate for a review of he Fire Service Funding Mechanism and the legislative mandate to recognize the reality of the expected operations/function that Firefighters carry out on a day to day basis.
The following nominations were received for the position of Union Vice President:
There has been a deal of speculation, rumour, and conspiracy theories circulating regarding the large number of Invalid Votes recorded in the recent Presidential Ballot.
The Union and the Fire Service Working Party have met twice to advance the work to develop a revised remuneration structure for Firefighters & Officers.
The Union has been involved in the discussions around, and the development of this Survey. It is important that members respond accurately to this Survey so as to ensure, if necessary, changes can be made to OSM based on objective data.
Attached for your information are the updated Govt. Expectations for Pay & Employment Conditions in the State Sector.
The Union is aware that a number of members have received letters from Area Management expressing concern at levels and patterns of absences/use of sick leave. Quite simply, these letters are nothing more or less than a crude attempt at bullying and harassment.
There have been a number of discussions with Fire Service Managers regarding the Physical Competency Assessment and the accompanying payment of the allowance.
Further to previous notices, herewith Biographies for members' information, recieved from candidates for the position of National President:
Members will be aware that some changes have been made to the insurance scheme.
Further to NTM 12 ‐30, 12 June 2012.
As the attached WHO) Press Release notes:
The Union is aware of an over-deduction issue pertaining to the $100,000 compensation insurance cover.
This notice is to inform members of the hazard of moving and working around the Hazardous Material Pods on 2018 and 3318.
Members will by now be aware that the Fire Service has purchased new BA sets for all of the country. They have decided, against the wishes of the Union and their members, to also utilise the supplier, Drager, for all testing, servicing and repairing of these sets.
Welcome to the third Wellington Newsletter. My apologies for not getting one out before now. Time goes quick when you get to my age!
The Local has written to Regional Manager Butt regarding Privacy Act breaches and bullying and harassment issues arising out of ‘friendly chats’ AM Cocker has been having with members.
At the closing date for nominations for positions on the Union Council, the following had been received:
In response to questions from members, the Union provides the following information:
Attached is the result of the Ratification Ballot.
Members may now be aware of the removal of the ballot box from the Auckland office of the NZPFU.
The Northern Branch of the NZPFU advises Auckland Local members that a ballot box has been made available at the Auckland Office at Unit 7 44 William Pickering Drive Albany.
It is vital that members attend their Ratification Meetings to have your vote – a high turnout will ensure that whichever way members vote, the vote has credibility.
This is to inform members that the Auckland Local Committee met last Wednesday 11 April to discuss the proposed settlement of the Collective Agreement.
Further to Newsletter No. 15 – 4 April 2012. Attached are the various new wordings in the Proposed Collective Agreement:
The Union Committee met on Monday 2 April and then with Fire Service negotiators on 3 April 2012.
Further to Newsletter No. 13 – 23 March 2012.
The Committee has resolved to withdraw all Strike Action at 0800 hours on Monday 26 March 2012.
The Union, (Steve Warner, Peter Hallett, Peter Nicolle, Jim Ryburn, Denis Fitzmaurice, Boyd Raines, Derek Best and the unions lawyer Peter Cranney,) met with the Fire Service (Janine Hearn, Brett Warwick, Brendon Nally, Chris Wells and their lawyer Geoff Davenport) in mediation on Friday 23rd March regarding managements purporting to cancel what they have titled "discretionary leave".
The Auckland Local is aware of the confusion that has been created by Management with their inability to manage the Rosters as well and as competently as our Union members have done, so in an effort to simplify it for Region Management, we are recommending the following procedure.
The Auckland Local is aware of the confusion that has been created by Management with their inability to manage the Rosters as well and as competently as our Union members have done, so in an effort to simplify it for Region Management, we are recommending the following procedure.
The Northern Branch is aware of the confusion that has been created by Management with their inability to manage the Rosters as well and as competently as our Union members have done, so in an effort to simplify it for Region Management, we are recommending the following procedure.Person rings O.I.C.
Further to Newsletter No. 11 – 13 March 2012, the Union and Fire Service management have been directed to mediation on Friday 23rd March 2012 in regard to the Union’s application challenging Fire Service management’s National Notice purporting to cancel what it labels “Discretionary Leave”.
The Auckland Local is aware of the confusion that has been created by Management with their inability to manage the Rosters as well and as competently as our Union members have done, so in an effort to simplify it for Region Management, we are recommending the following procedure.
The Union has filed in the Employment Relations Authority, a challenge to the Fire Service management’s National Notice purporting to cancel what it labels “Discretionary Leave”.
Firefighters are set to join forces with other embattled workers as the protest movement escalates.
The Union has seen this National Notice – 005/2012 and its earlier draft (which was apparently circulated in Auckland).
As members are aware SFF Willy Clark is starting at Rotorua Station on 15th March 2012.
Because of concerns at particularly, recent actions by Executive Officers in undertaking work currently banned as a result of our present Strike Action, the Union has written to the Executive Officers Society on this matter ‐ 6 March 2012
Further to Newsletter No. 6 – 6 March 2012.
Further to Newsletter No. 5 – 14 February 2012.
Rehabilitation/Alternative/Light Duties Further to Newsletter No. 4 – 7 February 2012.
Further to NTM No. 3 – 3 February 2012.
With this Notice is a link to correspondence received by the Union from Janine Hearn, Director of Human Resources. Also a reply sent by Derek Best, Secretary of the Union.
Further to previous Newsletters and included various correspondence between the parties – further mediation/negotiations have been confirmed for 9 February 2012.
Further to Newsletter to Members - 12 January 2012, attached is self explanatory correspondence between the Union and Fire Service Management.
Attached is self explanatory correspondence between the Union and Fire Service Management.
The Union, represented by Steve Warner, Peter Hallett, Derek Best, Boyd Raines, Mike Powell, Peter
Further to Newsletter Number 50 ‐ 23rd December 2011 the Union and the Employer have set down a meeting for the 5th January 2012, to discuss the offer that was detailed in that notice.
Further to Newsletter No. 47 – 14 December 2011.
The NZPFU is aware that many Areas/Stations are or will be overstaffed/over establishment.
Welcome to the second Wellington Newsletter, right on Christmas time and another busy year for your Local with the Rugby World Cup,quite a few staff changes, and of course the ongoing industrial action.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
Some members will be aware of the various rumours circulating as to what the employer may attempt on or after 1 January 2012 when the Collective Agreement formally expires. These rumours appear to be the work of one or two disaffected Area Managers/CFOs.
The Union (Steve Warner, Peter Hallett, Peter Nicolle, Ian Wright, Jim Ryburn, Denis Fitzmaurice, Boyd Raines and Derek Best) ‐ Mike Powell being unable to attend, met with the employer’s Bargaining Team (Janine Hearn, Brian Butt, Brett Warwick, Kerry Gregory, Larry Cocker and Brendan Nally) with the assistance of Mediator Mike Feely on 13 December. The significant issues discussed involved the question of the increase for Wages and Allowances, and the employer’s claim for Alternative/Flexible Rostering System.
Firefighters throughout Auckland will support locked out Ports of Auckland workers on their picket line today.
The Court of Appeal has overturned a decision of the Employment Court which delayed the start of strike action by N.Z.P.F.U. members in July 2011.
True to form, the Auckland Fire Region Manager, Brian Butt, has threatened members in Auckland with disciplinary action and/or legal action for following the Bans imposed in the present Strike Action.
Further to Newsletter No. 43 – 18 November
Further to Newsletter 9 November 2011.
The Union has, as of the date of producing this Newsletter, received no objection to the proposal as in the last Paragraph of the Unions letter to Mike Hall of 3 November 2011.
Further to the last Industrial Update and Newsletter No. 41 – 27 October 2011.
The Northern Branch has become aware that the Fire Service has sent out notification for alternative holidays which are generated when working a public holiday and when staff work time banking.
The union is aware of the letters received by our members regarding the employers proposed changes to black watch establishments.
The Union met with Fire Service representatives today (19 October) in mediation with the assistance of Labour Dept. Mediator – Mike Feely.
The Union has filed a new Notice of Strike Action to take effect from 0800 hours 26 October 2011.
Members will be aware that there are two new Strike Notices under notice at this time. They are both due to come into force on the 5th October 2011 at 08:00 hours. The ramifications for members are listed below.
Members will have seen a copy of the new notice of industrial action to take effect from 5 October (Newsletter to Members No 37 – Industrial Action). One significant change is the action that Comcentre members will take in regards to “a ban on processing fire systems inoperative event notifications.”
Members will have seen a copy of the new notice of industrial action to take effect from 5 October (Newsletter to Members No 37 – Industrial Action). One significant change is the action that Comcentre members will take in regards to “a ban on processing fire systems inoperative event notifications.”
Welcome to the first Wellington Local Newsletter, this document is not intended to replace Local Notices, but has been brought about by the need for the committee to be able to get general information to its members, with a more general interest feel to it.
Notice of additional Industrial Action has been given to the employer.
Following the postponement of the 2011 AGM please be advised of the following new dates
Prior to the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union taking industrial action, there has been little or no involvement in any planning for operational staff, or any staff members for that matter, to have any involvement in the Rugby World Cup (RWC).
It is time to remember our fallen comrades and firefighters that died in the terror attacks on 9/11 in New York, along with other emergency workers and all occupants of the twin towers.
The parties met last week using the assistance of a Mediator from the Labour Department.
Members will by now be aware of the postponement of the Auckland Local AGM. This decision was taken so as to not place on‐duty members in the difficult position of deciding whether to remain on Station or leave work for two hours, as per their rights under the Collective Agreement and the Employment Relations Act 2000, in order to attend the meeting.
Members are advised that the AGM called for Monday 29 August 2011 is now POSTPONED.
At the request of the Mediator appointed by the Chief Executive of the Labour Department, the Union will meet with the Fire Service negotiators next week.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 29 August 2011. Meeting details:
The Auckland Local AGM is set down for the 29th of August 2011.
Members may be aware that on Thursday 4 August the Union issued Hazard Notices to the Fire Service in Auckland in relation to the Hazmat Pods and componentry carried by 2018 and 3318.
As noted in NTM No. 33 – 2 August, one of the employer’s retaliation measures is to effectively cancel all Rehabilitation/Alternative/Light Duties arrangements. This measure, attacking the most vulnerable (many of these injured in the line of duty), should be condemned by any right thinking person.
The Union has obtained the “Guidelines” to managers as to how Fire Service management intends to attack Firefighters during the period of industrial action.
The Union and the fire service met in mediation today in Wellington. There was no agreement reached.
The Fire Service has made a new offer to USAR members. This should have been received by USAR members on or about 23 July from Mr Paul McGill in the form of an email.
The Union is advised that these Boards have once again appeared on some Stations. This matter was addressed between the Union and the Fire Service in 2009.
Dear Members,
Negotiations continued with mediation on the 21st July as was directed by the courts. The employer although adamant in its claim to the employment court on the 11th July, that they could not resume negotiation at that time because it was imperative that they assembled their full bargaining team, attended with two of their team absent.
Negotiations at mediation concluded today at midday with no further movement by the employer on their offer.
Today FRM Butt has ordered the removal of Papatoetoe 348 from Region 1 and sent it South to Wellington.
Further to the letter from the President of the Union yesterday, there have been comments on the CEO Mike Hall’s Notice on FireNet. The proposal in Mike Hall’s Notice has some inaccuracies, and at best is misleading.
Dear Members,
Members are advised that the Employment Court Judge delivered his verdict to the Union this afternoon. The Judge has ordered that the Union and the Employer must return to mediation before notice of strike action is given to the employer.
The Legal Action is based on what is the correct interpretation of Clause 10 (b) of the Bargaining Process Agreement.
The Employment Court today heard the Unions application for a declaration that the industrial action is lawful and that the bargaining process agreement has been complied with.
Please note the following corrections to yesterday’s Newsletter No. 26:
The Union attended mediation on Thursday 30 June and was represented by the Union’s Council, Steve Warner, Peter Hallett, Derek Best and Peter Nicholle.
As advised in Newsletter No. 24 – 21 June 2011, the Union and the Fire Service attended mediation today, Thursday 23 June.
The Union issued Strike Notices on 16 June 2011 for strikes to commence on 1 July 2011.
Members may have seen the E-mail from Mike Hall alleging that the Union has breached the bargaining Process Agreement. The Union Emphatically denies that allegation.
Herewith are the Notices of Industrial Action served on the Fire Service.
The action to be taken for the most part is intended to effectively be a repeat of the action that was being taken when the previous action finished.
The result of the Ratification Ballot is:
At the closing date for receipt of Nominations for the Central Branch positions, three nominations were received (one for each position).
The Union has today written to Area Manager Kerry Gregory setting out our position over appointments in the South Auckland area (letter attached).
Breach Of Protocol - Union Files In Employment Relations Authority The Union has issued proceedings in the Employment Relations Authority against the employer seeking remedies relating to a direct communication about the collective bargaining issued by the Chief Executive to all staff (including volunteers and non‐members) on FireNet on 2 May 2011.
Auckland Local members are encouraged to attend the Ratification Meetings being held in Auckland this week.
The following is the Schedule of Meetings for Auckland Local, at which the F.S. proposal will be fully explained by National Committee Members for your consideration.
The answers are very simple and quite transparent:
The Headline should read “Fire Service Lose in the Court of Appeal”
Fire Service Harassment/Bullying of Union Officials – Fire Service Lose In Supreme Court Further to NTM No. 32 – 17 December 2010.
Members are aware of the previous Notice regarding the negotiations for the renewal of the CEA. This was the notice that was put out with the full copy of the employer’s final offer to settle.
The Union notes that the Fire Service has published their settlement proposal from the CEA Negotiations on Firenet. Once again they show their arrogance by publishing information to our members without first notifying the Union’s bargaining team of their intent.
This is to advise that Dane O’Brien has resigned from the position of Secretary of the Rotorua Local, effective immediately.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
The response in Christchurch now has evolved into the recovery phase yet firefighters from outside of this Local continue to provide much needed support in operational roles. So at this point on behalf of the Christchurch Local, I wish to express our gratitude to you all, for the messages of support, for coming here to work side by side with us, for being mates!
The response in Christchurch now has evolved into the recovery phase yet firefighters from outside of this Local continue to provide much needed support in operational roles. So at this point on behalf of the Christchurch Local, I wish to express our gratitude to you all, for the messages of support, for coming here to work side by side with us, for being mates!
In accordance with Rule A13 of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions that have become available:
Members will be aware that for those non USAR personnel deployed to Christchurch, a claim relating to overtime is required. Members and their respective Rosters Officers need to be aware that each claim needs to be done on a day to day basis comparing the roster they worked in Christchurch to their normal one. Anything outside of the normal roster can be claimed as overtime.
The Union and the Fire Service met again on 4 April 2011.
The extra hour as a result of the change to Daylight Saving needs to be manually claimed.
Newsletter No. 30 – 30 November 2010 advised members of a Ban on CFBT training until various issues of concern had been addressed and satisfactorily resolved.
Further to Newsletter No. 31 – 15 December 2010.
Further to Newsletter No. 8 – 14 March 2011.
As this dispute finally winds its way to a successful conclusion, members who still have not repaid the alleged overpayments are strongly urged to resist pressure to do so.
It is with regret that the Auckland Local has received the resignation of Kevin (Mau) Barbara from the position of Committee Member.
It is with regret that the Auckland Local has received the resignations of William Pike from the position of Vice President and Shane McGrail from the position of Committee Member, effective immediately.
Further to the NTM dated 01/03/11 a meeting was held today with Local management and Welfare officials, to enable the Union to be briefed on developments to date.
This is a Newsletter from the Christchurch Local for its members, but it has relevance/interest for all.
‐ Approximately 40‐45% of members’ houses have been severely affected – damage ranges from moderate to total destruction.
Mike Balmer and Denis Fitzmaurice met with the Safety and Welfare Team tasked with looking after members and their families during this tragic and traumatic time for Christchurch. Those members encompass Firefighters and their Families, USAR members and Families and Firefighters from around the country.
Auckland Members will, no doubt, wish to express their shock and sympathy to all Christchurch Firefighters and their families, following events in Christchurch in the past week.
The Northern Branch of the NZPFU wishes to pass on to all Christchurch members and their families, our sympathy, concern and support following the tragic and devastating earthquake in their Region.
Members will be aware of the tragic and catastrophic event yesterday (and ongoing) in Christchurch.
Auckland Members will be aware that the Union placed a restriction on submitting applications for these two vacancies.
The Employment Relations Authority decision on this matter was reported in NTM No. 1 – 20 January 2011.
The Union is aware of the National Notice 6/2011 put out on 31 January by Mike Hall. The Union was advised in advance of the content of the Notice.
The Auckland Local has been undertaking activities related to the effect on members, primarily from Avondale, who may be transferred as a result of the proposed opening of Te Atatu Station.
On Friday 21 January the Auckland Local, working in conjunction with the Northern Branch, to act on the concerns of a number of members, attended mediation with regards to several issues with the Fire Service.
On 30 January at 10am, Sandra Moran, Partner in the Wellington Law Firm of Oakley Moran died peacefully at her family home in Wellington.
The Union advises members that the following has been discussed with the Executive of the National, Northern Branch and Auckland Local and is endorsed by all.
Members may have seen a whole of country e‐mail from Janine Hearn dated Monday 24th January 2011. This email refers to the current negotiations between the Union and the NZFS. While our Notice to Members dated 21st January did state that the negotiations had broken down, we did say that further information would be supplied this week.
The Union and Fire Service representatives met again on 20 January 2011 (for a fifth day of negotiations).
The Union has been provided with a copy of a letter sent by the Director of Human Resources, Janine Hearn, to members in relation to the overpayment dispute of the officership allowance.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The Union Head Office will be closed from midday today until January 11th 2011.
This year, Christmas Day and New Yearfs Day fall on a Saturday and Boxing Day and the day after New Yearfs Day fall on a Sunday. These days are prescribed as Public Holidays.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
There have been numerous concerns conveyed to the Union Committee regarding the introduction and operation of many aspects of the HazMat Decontamination Corridor.
A number of concerns have been identified by Locals over the introduction of the Hazmat/Command Units.
The Union has put a proposition to the Fire Service that would enable the Ban to be lifted.
Ban – C.F.B.T. – Heat Source After receiving a report from the Dunedin Local and subsequent discussions, Conference 2010 resolved:
The Union met with the Regional Management Team on Wednesday 20 October to further discuss the proposed deployment of the allocated Hazmat/Command vehicles for the Auckland Region.
The Union and Members express their sympathy and support for the two injured Firefighters – Sam Julian and Graham Hill, injured last week in Taranaki.
Further News from our Global Alliance Partners Further to information as in NTM No. 25 – 8 October, below is a Press Release from the F.B.U. of the UK.
The Fire service has advised the Union of the intention to offer this survey for middle and senior managers – it will also be offered to Station Officers and Senior Station Officers on a voluntary basis.
The following Newsletter from the FBU of the U.K.
Further to Newsletter No. 23 of 27 September 2010.
The Dunedin Local advises of three further S.S.Os who have received disciplinary action for acting as Health & Safety Champions regarding the Diesel Fumes issue:
Three Further Fire Service Health & Safety Champions Further to the advice in Newsletter No.21 of 27 August 2010.
I just wanted to pass on to all members how awesome your continuing response has been towards this disaster.
Members will be aware of the significant earthquake in Canterbury over the weekend, and the commitment of Auckland Firefighters to the area.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 6 September 2010.
The Union has filed with Mike Hall, Personal Grievances on behalf of S.S.Os who have received warnings for acting to protect their and their crews’ Health and Safety from the dangers of Diesel Fumes. The S.S.Os are:
This round of Local Officials elections has seen a number of long‐standing officials not standing for re‐election.
Members are advised that the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 6 September 2010.
The Auckland Local wishes to advise members that the Annual General Meeting is scheduled for later this month. We will advise the date and location of the meeting shortly, but please start thinking about remits to go to the National Conference, especially regarding the upcoming contract negotiations and any other matters you wish to have considered.
A previous Newsletter advised the Union had sought information regarding the secondment of Larry Cocker to the position of H.R. Projects Manager.
Results of Ballot Auckland Local Vice President As per the attached Ballot Declaration Form, I hereby declare:
Some misunderstanding has arisen about Newsletter No. 16 – 29 June 2010.
Members will be aware by now of the Fire Service’s proposal to commence “Home Fire Safety Checks”.
The Auckland Local Committee have for some considerable time now been in discussions with the Auckland management of the Fire Service regarding the staffing of new stations at Te Atatu. More recently these discussions have included the staffing at Otara and the deployment of the new Hazmat/Command appliances. These meetings have also included the attendance of the Union Council at various times.
Available on the NZPFU website is a Radio Live transcript of an interview with Asst. National Commander Bill Butzbach regarding “Reduced Responses to Sprinklered Buildings” and the unequivocal guarantee from him that such a policy will not adversely affect the New Zealand public.
Members will be aware that the Fire Service has recently, in several locations, accused members of refusing to carry out instructions. This was in relation to the parking of appliances outside of Fire Stations due the Fire Service’s reluctance to put exhaust extraction systems into some Fire Stations throughout New Zealand.
Some members will be aware that FRM Butt has completely disregarded the discussions which have been held with the Auckland Local over the placement of staff at Te Atatu, and more recently, Otara Stations.
"Internal Affairs Minister Nathan Guy has told the New Zealand Fire Service Commission to get extractor systems into all Stations and do it quickly”.
The Union refers to the common Notices put out last week by Regional Managers.
Members will, by now, have seen Newsletter to Members # 11 dated 30 April 2010.
After considerable discussion over the past 18 months regarding issues surrounding predominantly Black Watch members in the Bay-Waikato Fire Region and their incorrect payment of wages and allowances, i.e. Part 2 versus Part 4 of the CEA as detailed in Northern Branch Notice 23rd February 2010, the Northern Branch advises that we have reached a position with Fire Service Management which allows the Northern Branch to remove our action of requesting operational staff to decline undertaking activities, i.e. BA revalidations, that would have been done by VSO's outside of their normal hours of work.
In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, nominations are hereby called for the following positions:
As a consequence of Tuesday’s stop work meeting, members claimed they were not aware of Notice to Members Ref. ALC-09-96 dated 15 July 2009.
Further to Newsletter No. 10 – 16 April.
Following a General Meeting of the Auckland Local today, the Committee advises that the make up of the Local Committee for the upcoming Triennial Elections will be as follows:
Attached is a self‐explanatory letter from the Union to Mike Hall which seeks the information that he presumably based his decision to cut responses to Sprinklered Buildings.
Members are advised that a General Meeting of the Auckland Local will be held on Tuesday 27 April at 1000 hours.
The Union is advised that this breakdown will be provided to members within the next couple of weeks. Initially, the Fire Service had intended to provide this by electronic means, but for whatever reason, this has not proved possible.
After a number of meetings and extensive discussions, the Union and the Fire Service have reached agreement over O.S.M.
The Northern Branch (particularly in Bay-Waikato) has been made aware of concerns Black Watch staff (VSO's) have, over the ongoing training of Volunteers i.e. BA revalidations etc.
The Fire Service has advised the Union that all Regions now return to the status quo position regarding minimum payments for call-outs for Black Watch workers. It became apparent by the end of last week that the only Regions continuing to resist this position were Transalpine and Auckland.
Black Watch Workers – Minimum 3 Hour Payment For Call-Outs Further to yesterday’s Newsletter No. 5, there have been further discussions between the Union and Fire Service management.
Arising out of a dispute in the Southern Region and concerning on-call roster arrangements for Fire Safety Officers, Southern Region management decided that Part 4 (Black Watch workers) were not entitled to a minimum 3 hour payment for any call-outs.
A Dispute has recently arisen in the Southern Region relating to two unilateral decisions by management (at some level), to overturn longstanding and agreed arrangements.
Newsletter No. 2 - 26 January 2010 details the Union’s concerns about the Fire Service’s unacceptable delay in paying new wage rates and allowances.
The Union formally advised the Fire Service of the ratification of the Collective Agreement on 23 December 2009, and the Collective Agreement, with the necessary changes was signed by both parties on 19 January 2010.
Members may have noticed that the Fire Service had programmed the SMS to pay only normal daily overtime rates for the two watches called back on overtime on 28 December and 4 January, they being Green and Red Watch respectively.
The Union has been advised formally today of the dates the Fire Service is working to for the above payments. The dates are:
The President of the Auckland Firefighters Union, Jeff McCulloch said today "The Fire Service is engaging in scaremongering about the costs of attendance at false alarms, they are just paving the way for their plans to reduce the response to central city buildings which have fire protection systems."
Herewith is the Returning Officer’s Declaration of the Ballot.
The Executive and Committee of the Auckland Local wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
On behalf of the Executive of the Northern Branch, we wish all members and their families a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The Northern Branch wishes to advise members that due to ill health, Ron Kyle has resigned from the position of Northern Branch Returning Officer.
Further Notice of Strike Action has been filed to take effect from 0800 hours 19 December – 0800 hours 26 December 2009.
As instructed by the National Committee of the NZPFU, the Auckland Local advises members that we will be holding Ratification Meetings for members on Tuesday 15 December and Wednesday 16 December as follows:
Collective Agreement - Proposed Settlement
Further Notice of Strike Action has been filed to take effect from 0800 hours 12 December – 0800 hours 19 December 2009.
The Auckland Local has received information that FRM Butt has sponsored an “Operations debrief” on the fire at 1 O’Rorke Rd. Penrose on 26 November 2009.
Further Notice of Strike Action has been filed to take effect from 0800 hours 5 December – 0800 hours 12 December 2009.
Members will be aware of the various inquiries into the events at a tragic fatal fire in Rangiora on 20th September 2009. The Union has referred to this in NTM No.40.
Strike Action Further Notice of Strike Action has been filed to take effect from 0800 hours 28 November – 0800 hours 5 December 2009.
This is a reminder to operational crews not to participate in training, whether as a participant or as a trainer, regardless of receiving payment or not.
The Professional Firefighters Union is demanding answers of the Fire Service as to why only eight firemen initially turned up at yesterday’s major blaze at a Mt Wellington warehouse.
Strike Action Further Notice of Strike Action has been filed to take effect from 0800 hours 14 November – 0800 hours 21 November 2009. The Strike Notice is as detailed in Newsletter No. 35 – 24 September 2009.
The Union has been advised the following from the Fire Service Pay Office: