The dedication, professionalism and commitment demonstrated by UFU members in protecting the community of South Australia makes us all very proud.
Firefighters risk our lives to protect our community, however that unwavering commitment and exceptional service must not be allowed to be politically exploited by the Marshall government nor more corners cut on firefighting safety and resourcing. We are continually disappointed that we are forced to argue for the equipment, training and resources required for firefighters to do our job safely as we protect our community. The ends are no longer meeting and firefighting resourcing and safety must not be used as fodder for the smoke and mirrors of cynical political chicanery.
As the State election draws near, it is time to again raise our voices and let the Marshall government know that firefighters will not stay silent, nor will we tolerate political games and attacks on firefighters. Mr Marshall needs to hear that firefighters and the South Australian community demand resourcing for firefighting services to ensure firefighters are as safe as possible as we work diligently to protect our community.
Our claims for professional development of skills and training, updating and equipping our old stations, an asset management plan with ongoing funding to replace ageing appliances, ongoing funding to cover redundancy of our personal protective equipment including breathing apparatus, helmets and turnout gear, engineering resourcing, safety measures such as the extraction of diesel fumes from engine rooms, up-to-date IT equipment and much so more, have fallen on the deaf ears of the Marshall government.
It’s no surprise to us that SA is at the bottom of the Productivity Commission’s recent comparisons of state fire services and falling further behind every year, nor that the Marshall government refused to release the independent MFS Expenditure Review Report! Does the truth hurt?
It is critical and the time is now for firefighters and our supporters to raise our voices to seek public support as we confront the Marshall government on these important issues.
When: Thursday 24 February 2022 10:00 hours
Where: in front of the State Administration Centre, 200 Victoria Square, Adelaide.
If you would like to give support and help out in this campaign, please contact info@ufusa.com.au or speak to your local Shop Steward or State Councillor.
