Recruitment numbers are increasing and firefighters are reporting a more positive workplace atmosphere as Sackville Fire & Rescue begins its recovery following an independent workplace investigation, according to Tantramar’s director of protective services.
“All I can say is the numbers are up,” said Dan Dupuis. “We’ve got some good numbers. We’re still taking some in. It’s been very good and some very qualified firefighters that have been into fire service.”
On June 19, the Municipality of Tantramar announced it had taken administrative actions following an independent workplace investigation into allegations including workplace harassment, toxicity, favourtism and leadership concerns within Sackville Fire & Rescue.
The investigation began after 12 firefighters stepped away from their duties on Jan. 5 and returned municipal-issued equipment.
Dupuis said one of the municipality’s priorities now is creating a safe and positive work environment within the department.
“Recovery starts with . . . one of our priorities is to provide a positive and safe work environment,” he said. “And I believe we are well on our way to do that at the moment.”
Dupuis acknowledged the past several months have been difficult and said there is still work to do to rebuild relationships within the department.
“I think, like I said, it’s probably been a rough road for a little bit. It’s been a difficult time. We have work to do to repair this relationship,” he said.
Asked what rebuilding trust looks like, Dupuis said communication within the fire service has improved and firefighters appear more comfortable in the workplace.
“The firefighters feel safe coming in. There’s good communication, so information flows both ways,” he said. “They seem comfortable. They’re not walking on eggshells.”
The municipality’s June 19 release also said administration would work with firefighters who stepped away in January to develop a return-to-work plan for members interested in returning.
Dupuis said he hopes some of those firefighters will eventually come back. He also said retired firefighters have reached out and offered to help if needed while the department continues its recovery.
“I’ve even had reach-out from some of the former firefighters or retired firefighters that said, “you know what, if you need help, you could call on me to come back and help you out til we get this kind of sorted out,” he said.
