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Per Department Order #99 this morning, the Fire Commissioner ordered manning reductions beginning today at 0900 hours in 49 engines, from 5 Firefighters per tour to 4 Firefighters. In accordance with the 1996 Roster Staffing Agreement, the Commissioner has the discretion-not the obligation-to decrease staffing in 49 engines if annualized medical leave exceeds 7.5%. The Department is reporting that medical leave is now 7.53%. The Fire Commissioner is required to reduce manning only if medical leave exceeds 7.6%. However, the City decided to reduce manning, unnecessarily endangering civilian and Firefighter lives.
This issue has been a topic of discussion at the October and November Union Meetings, and a letter was mailed by the UFA to each member's residence in November explaining this issue. A special membership meeting will be held on December 17th at Terrace on the Park to address this important issue.
Notify the UFA of Unusual Incidents & Injuries!!!
Members are strongly encouraged to forward copies of job tickets with a detailed description to the UFA documenting any fires or emergencies where reduced manpower adversely affected operations. Also forward the Officer's Unusual Occurrence report. Information should include reports of injuries to Firefighters or civilians. Please include on the ticket any additional information that may be helpful. Fax to the UFA at 212-683-4359, Attn: Joseph Miccio, RecordingSecretary@UFANYC.org.
If the injuries are serious, also call the UFA immediately at 212-683-4832. Make sure you state that it is an emergency and that you need to speak with a Trustee or other Board Member.
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Cassidy
President
Joseph A. Miccio
Recording Secretary
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