Volunteer Firefighters in Petawawa Ratify
March 12, 2026
The Town of Petawawa Firefighters ratified a new three-year collective agreement on February 22, 2026.
With the ratified agreement, these members achieved a new ranked structure for officers’ rates of pay. This new structure provides a one-time increase, depending on classification, over the rate of firefighters as follows:
- Lieutenants – 5%;
- Captains – 10%;
- Assistant Deputy Chiefs in Equipment & Facilities, Fire Prevention Officers, and Training Officers – 15%.
Additionally, a firefighter required to perform the role of a Fire Inspector or Training Instructor will be paid the Lieutenant’s rate of pay.
The increases secured by the Union Negotiating Committee for Lieutenants, Captains, and Assistant Deputy Chiefs are a significant win for this round of bargaining, as is the new rate of pay for Lieutenants. Plus, a probationary firefighter beginning their employment with the Town and who already holds NFPA 1001 certification and a DZ license will start at the Firefighter-in-Training rate of pay.
Members benefit from an improved $300 bi-annual boot allowance, reimbursed every two years at any time during the eligible calendar year. Plus, in accordance with the Town’s policy, the daily meal allowance will improve for members attending Deputy Chief-approved training courses and conferences, and court appearances related to a firefighter’s duties. The Town will also supply an additional pair of uniform pants for the members.
Going forward, members will now be eligible to access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that is available for other Town of Petawawa employees.
Language improvements include new seniority provisions for employees who are transferred, promoted, or in acting positions with the Town. And firefighters will now receive 30 days’ notice for any meetings with the Town.
Union Negotiating Committee: Peter Moss, Tom Watts, and Union Representative Kim Hunter.
Catch up on all the negotiation highlights from across the province here.
Read more Negotiation Updates from the Local 175 HOPE Sector! What’s HOPE? It stands for Health, Office & Professional Employees.
Find more features of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members at work.
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