The County of Grande Prairie and the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 5108 ratified a collective agreement, effective January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2023. 

“The County strives to offer fair pay and benefits that are competitive in our market while recognizing our obligation to taxpayers to manage costs in a prudent manner,” says Reeve Bob Marshall.  

“County Council has identified six strategic priorities, including Community Wellness and Safety. Given the challenging 2023 fire season, the ability to recruit and retain firefighters is key to improving the safety and security of our residents.” 

Highlights of the two-year contract include:  

  • A move from 10- and 14-hour shifts to 24-hour shifts on a three-year trial basis. The move to 24-hour shifts will come into effect as of May 2024. 
     
  • A 3.9 per cent wage increase for 2022 and a 3.6 per cent wage increase for 2023.  
     
  • Earlier this year, Council approved adding one full-time fire fighter at both the Dunes and Clairmont stations for a total of eight new full-time fire fighters, to help balance any gaps in part-time fire fighter availability. 

Council voted to approve the new agreement as presented during the Council meeting on October 31, 2023, and hosted an official agreement signing ceremony. 

 

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