Employment Disputes – Fire and Emergency received calls for 18 incidents during today’s strike

Fire and Emergency New Zealand received calls for 18 incidents between 12pm and 1pm today, Friday 6 January, the tenth time the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) has taken strike action.

Of these, 10 incidents were in areas impacted by the strike,

The incidents related to two vegetation incidents, one of which was a controlled burnoff under supervision. The second was an out-of-control grass fire, which was brought under control within the strike hour.

There were five fire alarm activations, none of which were the result of a fire.

There was also one hazardous substance incident, one medical response incident, and one power plinth fire.

Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler thanked New Zealanders for their extra care during the strike hour.

“I want to thank our 11,800 volunteers across the country, especially those who were called to attend events in areas impacted by the strike.

“I would also like to thank our Operational Commanders and Communication Centre Managers, who contributed to the response.”

Megan Stiffler says continued strikes by the NZPFU and the threat to expand them to twice weekly, continues to unnecessarily put the public at risk.

“I once again ask the NZPFU to call off its planned strikes, especially given we are in facilitated bargaining with the union and are due to meet again next week to progress negotiations. 

 “We have previously sought to agree a process with NZPFU officials to respond to emergency events during strike periods where there is a risk to life or danger of escalation but were turned down.

“That approach is hugely disappointing.”