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Canada's firefighters showing true national spirit

'Far too often we take for granted the heroic manner in which they risk their lives to save others and protect our lands and homes and businesses.' - James Clancy.

James Clancy, national president of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)Ottawa (4 Sept. 2009) - The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) says firefighters across the country should be commended for their dedication and spirit of national co-operation in battling forest fires this summer in British Columbia.

The latest example involves firefighters from Manitoba who are once again joining counterparts in B.C. The province has been going through one of the worst forest fire seasons on record.

A crew of firefighters represented by the Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) left Winnipeg this week to assist for the third time in B.C. this summer.

The MGEU members flew out with another crew from Ontario, represented by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).

Ontario has sent hundreds of firefighters west this summer. Nova Scotia and Quebec have also contributed firefighters to the cause, and a number of others have come from as far away as Australia and New Zealand.

Most of the firefighters in B.C. are represented by another NUPGE Component, the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE).

"We owe a great debt of gratitude to the efforts of everyone engaged in fighting all of the terrible fires that have occurred this summer," says James Clancy.

"These dedicated professionals are setting an example of public service that everyone should recognize and appreciate. Far too often we take for granted the heroic manner in which they risk their lives to save others and protect our lands and homes and businesses," Clancy said.

"I commend all of these dedicated public employees, both those represented by Components from the National Union and those from other unions. They are working in extremely dangerous conditions, facing extreme pressure and public scrutiny and I am very proud of their extraordinary commitment and efforts."

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE