Attention All OPFFA Locals:

On April 16, 2010 Globe and Mail Journalist Christie Blatchford wrote an article regarding the recent push for retrofitting retirement homes with mandatory sprinkler systems. She depicted the OPFFA and its position in a very unflattering light. Despite my initial confusion as to what she was trying to imply, I was far more disappointed in the fact that she went to great lengths to research the OPFFA’s website and previous editions of the Intrepid magazine to learn of our political leanings, yet, at no time did she ever make an attempt to contact me to learn the truth about our position on this matter.

I have attempted to set the record straight through a “Letter to the Editor” but as many of you know, those letters must be concise and you submit them at the mercy of the Editor to print them.

I have taken the liberty to attach Ms. Blatchford’s article, my Letter to the Editor, and our documented positions respecting sprinklers with this government. You will see that we have been consistent in our support of sprinklers, however, we are also cautionary that too much focus may be put in one area of fire protection.

Despite Ms Blatchford’s attempt to spin our past political decisions/endorsements as rationale to blur our position on a matter of public and fire fighter safety, I will not apologize for those positions. The OPFFA will continue to vigorously advocate for the safety of our members and that of the public, without hesitation, in the political arena, despite the party stripe of the government. This may include not taking the easy route - like simply siding with this sprinkler argument - but also ensuring that staffing and code enforcement have a place in this debate.

Should you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me.

Fraternally,

Fred LeBlanc,
President, OPFFA
fleblanc@opffa.org

 

	Globe and Mail Article (April 16, 2010)
	OPFFA Letter to the Globe and Mail Editor (April 18, 2010)
	OPFFA Letter to Minister Bartolucci (March 21, 2010)
	OPFFA Letter to Minister Bartolucci (October 19, 2009)
	OPFFA Letter to Minister Watson (April 30, 2008)