The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees has raised concerns about the state of Alberta’s wildland firefighting force, citing recruitment and retention issues. The union notes that many experienced firefighters are leaving Alberta for better-paying jobs in B.C. or with Parks Canada, where they receive more benefits and stability. The high turnover rate in Alberta has led to a lack of experienced firefighters, with only about 50% of seasonal workers returning each year. The union has launched a letter-writing campaign to urge the government to make changes to address these issues.
The province of Alberta has increased its recruitment efforts this year, hiring more than 850 seasonal wildland firefighters along with its full-time Alberta Wildfire staff. However, the union claims that the wages for wildland firefighters in Alberta are lower compared to other provinces and agencies, such as B.C. and Parks Canada, leading to difficulties in retaining experienced personnel. Alberta wildland firefighters do not receive benefits like health coverage or pensions, which are provided to firefighters in other regions, such as Ontario.
Another issue highlighted by the union is the limited contract length for seasonal wildland firefighters in Alberta. Despite the early start of wildfire season in the province, contracts for firefighters do not begin until May, leaving them with a shorter duration of employment. Additionally, firefighters essentially have to reapply for their positions every season, with no guarantee of being rehired. The lack of job security and shorter contract lengths make it difficult for firefighters to consider wildland firefighting as a long-term career.
Training is a crucial aspect for wildland firefighters, and Alberta offers 64 days of dedicated training and on-the-job coaching for its personnel. However, some firefighters feel that the province does not place enough emphasis on real-life fire experience when considering career advancement. Alberta Wildfire has been successful in extinguishing over 300 fires this year, but concerns remain about the retention of experienced personnel and the lack of job security for seasonal firefighters.
The union believes that improving employer relations and making employees feel respected and valued could help address the retention issues within the wildland firefighting force. Alberta Wildfire has been fortunate with weather conditions this season, allowing for training opportunities and gaining experience for new recruits. However, concerns remain about the future and the ability to retain experienced firefighters in the face of recruitment challenges. The union stresses the importance of retaining experienced personnel to ensure better firefighting outcomes and reduce the reliance on expensive aerial resources during fire incidents.
In conclusion, the Alberta wildland firefighting force is facing challenges regarding recruitment, retention, wages, contract lengths, and training. The high turnover rate and lack of retention of experienced firefighters are impacting the effectiveness of firefighting efforts in the province. The union continues to advocate for changes to address these issues and ensure the sustainability of the wildland firefighting force in Alberta.Efforts to improve employer relations and job security, as well as providing better wages and benefits, are seen as crucial steps in retaining experienced personnel and enhancing the overall effectiveness of wildfire response in the province.
