This morning Radio NZ reported on the NZPFU’s campaign for presumptive legislation to recognise firefighters’ occupational cancer. The report can be viewed above or heard via the link below:

Rimutaka Station Officer Erroll Tapiki and deceased Hasting firefighter Brett How’s widow Cherie Flintoff detailed their struggles getting recognition. Errol was never told he could claim ACC to meet his medical costs when he was treated for prostate cancer in 2014. Cherie battled ACC and is believed to have succeeded with the first acceptance of a firefighter’s lung cancer. Sadly that recognition came two years after Brett’s death. 

Winnipeg Firefighters Union President Alex Forrest spoke of his 20 years campaigning for firefighters’ occupational cancer to be recognised.

Alex will be meeting with MPs today and firefighters.

In unity,
Wattie Watson
National Secretary

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Christchurch Local Annual General Meeting

This notice is to inform you that the AGM for the Christchurch Local of the NZPFU, will be held on Thursday 10th August 2023 at Christchurch City Fire Station, starting at 0830. It would be appreciated if the on-duty City SSO could please co-ordinate any truck movements required.


Tauranga Local Branch A.G.M.

Wednesday 23rd of August Starting 8:30am
Venue: Mt Maunganui Fire Station


Annual General Meeting

Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday 18 August 2023.