Halifax firefighters call for new leadership, say department ignored reported abuse

The president of the Halifax firefighters union says it’s time for a complete leadership change at the municipal firefighting department.

Brendan Meagher, president of Halifax Professional Firefighters, says union members have lost faith in leadership after what he describes as an attitude of indifference.

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The union says senior management has ignored safety recommendations, delayed wildfire training, and has ignored reports of racist, misogynistic and homophobic behaviour.

Fire Chief Ken Stuebing announced his retirement last week, though it’s unclear if it is related to the calls from the union.

Bill Moore, Halifax commissioner of public safety, will lead a national search for a new fire chief, and says he is currently reviewing concerns from the union.

Meagher says the issue does not lie solely with the chief, and that it’s time for new leadership in several positions.