The union representing Ontario’s forest fire pilots is calling for better wages for its members.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union says workers are leaving our province for better pay.
Ontario announced last year that it would be buying six new water bomber planes, bringing the total number to 15.
But the union said some waterbombers and MNR helicopters remain grounded because there are not enough pilots.
Members recently rejected an offer that the union says would have made them the second-lowest paid in Canada.
President JP Hornick said the work these members do requires specialized skills, training, and a deep commitment to public safety.
Hornick said by rejecting the offer, pilots are telling the Ford government that they refuse to settle for a deal that fails to recruit and retain the skilled workforce needed to keep Ontarians safe.
Union officials said the only way to address the recruitment and retention crisis is through higher wages.