London firefighters ink two-year contract with City Hall, but bargaining resumes soon

London firefighters (file)

The London Professional Firefighters Association Local 142 voted 97 per cent in favour of a two-year collective bargaining agreement that is retroactive to the expiration of their previous contract more than 18 months ago.

The new contract expires Dec. 31, 2026.

“My preference has been, in the past, longer-term agreements,” Mayor Josh Morgan acknowledged. “This is what was agreeable to get it a freely negotiated agreement. And both parties were comfortable with that. And looking forward to the next set of negotiations which will occur in the new year, likely.”

The deal will see first-class firefighters now earn $123,650, slightly above the average of market comparisons.

After their previous raise in 2024, first-class firefighters had been earning $109,802.

Morgan added, “I’m glad that the parties were able to come together on the terms. There’s one matter that will go to arbitration that we both agreed is the best place to decide that. But for all the other matters related to the collective agreement, it’s done.”

Both sides agreed to send one matter to arbitration, details specific to the provision of Line of Dudy death benefits for retirees.

In a statement posted to social media, the LPFFA writes, “Mayor Morgan’s support and leadership led to the parties getting back to the negotiating table, and ultimately to a ratified collective agreement.”

The LPFFA has 470 members.

Deemed an essential service under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, firefighters are forbidden from striking or participating in lockouts.