January 13 2025
As a new year begins, we are once again witness to the devastation caused by wildfires, which are now blazing even in the middle of winter. In North America, Los Angeles, California is grappling with record-breaking fires. These catastrophic events remind us of the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires driven by the effects of climate change. We mourn the loss of life, and our thoughts are with those impacted. We hope for the safety of all those affected by these disasters, especially the courageous and skilled workers who battle to contain the fires.
Among these frontline workers are Canadian wildland firefighters who have joined their American colleagues to lend their knowledge and expertise in this critical moment. NUPGE continues to call on governments to treat wildland firefighters equitably, by properly recognizing their tireless efforts, skills and the immense risks they take – all of which are currently undervalued. In Canada, this means accurately classifying them as firefighters and extending them the protections and benefits they rightfully deserve.
NUPGE urges all governments to also take meaningful action to address the climate crisis that fuels these fires.
Steps in the right direction
Before the 2024 holiday season, two significant developments offered hope for progress in recognizing and supporting wildland firefighters.
Workshop with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and other High-ranking Government Officials
On December 5, 2024, NUPGE took part in a workshop with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) as well as other government ministries, to discuss proposed amendments to the National Occupation Classification (NOC). The workshop brought together 14 wildland firefighters from six provinces, along with NUPGE President Bert Blundon and NUPGE staff.
The event also drew dozens of high-ranking officials from ESDC, Statistics Canada, and Revenue Canada. During the workshop, wildland firefighters shared powerful testimony and insight about their experiences, skills, risks, and needs. Their accounts resonated strongly with government officials, who praised their contributions. The officials heard compelling information and evidence for urgently amending the NOC to reflect Canadian wildland firefighters’ role and work more accurately.
Expanded Pension Eligibility for Wildland Firefighters
Two weeks later, on December 18, 2024, the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat announced an expansion of early retirement eligibility under the public service pension plan. The Federal Economic Update detailed changes allowing public servants in six critical frontline safety and security roles, including wildland firefighters, to retire early without pension reductions.
In her statement, the Hon. Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport, confirmed that these changes would specifically include “firefighters confronting wildfires,” covering those employed by federal and territorial governments.
Under the proposed amendments to the Public Service Superannuation Act, eligible federal and territorial wildland firefighters will be able to retire after 25 years of service without penalty. This recognition of their demanding and high-risk work is long overdue and marks a significant step forward.
Looking ahead
These are positive developments, ensuring all wildland firefighters receive the respect, recognition and tangible supports they deserve must be a priority. NUPGE continues to demand that governments build on these steps to take broader action — ending the unfair treatment of wildland firefighters and addressing the systemic drivers of the climate crisis.