Victoria Firefighter Association Local 730 president Jeremy Wilson and firefighter Josh Montgomery met with Premier David Eby to discuss Montgomery's suspension after penning a letter to the premier regarding his concerns about a new harm reduction centre in the city.
Montogomery was suspended for one day without pay after writing the letter, which was published in a number of media outlets, including Victoria News, speaking as "a dedicated first responder and a deeply concerned citizen."
The suspension garnered controversy; politicians and media personalities accused the City of Victoria and Eby of having a hand in the suspension. The allegations are, however, unfounded.
The union says at the meeting, which was on Aug. 23, Eby said that he will take the time to review the issues raised in the letter, and he "expressed empathy for Montgomery's safety concerns and the lack of public consultation" regarding the centre, which is set to open on Dowler Place.
A news release from the union states that Wilson provided the steps that have been taken to dispute Montgomery's discipline, and Eby "offered his full support" for the union's position.
Eby, Wilson and Montgomery will have a follow-up meeting to discuss Montgomery's safety concerns, and the union will be meeting with the city in September.
