The IAFF is welcoming Sidney, BC Local 5282 to the union. Sidney is a fast-growing seaside town of 15,000 located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
For nearly 100 years, the town has been served by a volunteer fire department. The department began hiring full-time fire fighters about six years ago to better accommodate the increasing population.
“The career members decided it was time to organize so they we will have a voice as decisions are made about the future of the department and our wages and benefits,” says Local 5282 President Darrin Blinko. “We have already received great advice and assistance from our fellow 6th District members.”
Joining President Blinko on the executive board is Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Mackenzie.