BC Union to Hold Meeting with Premier Regarding Suspension of Victoria Firefighter
The Victoria firefighters union is scheduled to have a meeting with B.C. Premier David Eby regarding a member who was suspended for writing an open letter to the premier criticizing a city drug consumption site project.
Montgomery faced discipline after sending a letter to Premier Eby in mid-July, requesting the province to halt a proposed drug consumption site in the Victoria neighborhood where Montgomery and his children reside.
The city imposed a one-day suspension without pay on him, but has not confirmed if it was related to the letter.
In their statement, Local 730 of the International Association of Fire Fighters mentioned that they have initiated steps to challenge the discipline as outlined in their collective agreement with the city, demanding a complete rescission of the discipline along with reimbursement for all lost wages and benefits.
In his letter to the premier, Montgomery criticized plans for a homeless outreach center in Victoria’s North Park neighborhood as “outrageous” and “reckless,” pointing out that residents were not given the opportunity to voice their concerns.
“We, the residents, were not given a chance to hear why the City of Victoria believes relocating services for the drug-addicted and substance users into a residential neighborhood with children playing next door is a choice that keeps people safe and protects citizens from harm,” he wrote.
Union president Jeremy Wilson mentioned that the concerns outlined by Montgomery in his letter are part of a larger issue confronting the city.
“The members of this Local strive to be leaders in their community both at work and while at home in their own communities,” he stated in the media release. “When we became firefighters, we accepted a responsibility to be a pillar of safety, meaning that we not only respond when incidents occur, but we will also look out for those around us to avoid potential challenges or harm.”
Montgomery highlighted in his letter that firefighters in Victoria require a police escort when responding to emergency calls in the 900 block of Pandora Avenue, where a drug consumption site is currently situated. He mentioned an incident where a paramedic was assaulted in the area and first responders were overwhelmed by around 60 street residents.
A spokesperson for the City of Victoria informed The Epoch Times that the city cannot comment on the issue since it pertains to a private personnel matter.
Premier Weighs In
Premier Eby addressed Montgomery’s suspension during an unrelated Aug. 16 press conference, stating that the firefighter should not have been suspended if it was due to the letter, and he should be compensated and receive an apology.
Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto stated that she was unaware of the suspension until it was reported but criticized Premier Eby’s response.
“I am extremely disappointed that any provincial premier would feel it appropriate or necessary to make a comment on what is clearly an operational, personnel matter of a local government,” she told reporters on Aug. 16. “Particularly, as I believe he has said, since he is not in complete possession of the facts.”
Jennifer Cowan contributed to this report.
