The former fire chief in Victoria is calling this a “sad day” in the town.

Twenty of the town’s 24 volunteer firefighters withdrew their services yesterday citing “disrespectful” treatment from the town council.

Former Fire Chief Justin Parsons says the fire department has a number of outstanding issues with the town which recently came to a head, and they’ve had enough.

“It’s time for, not only us, but firefighters in the province, across Canada, who are having major issues with their so-called supervisors, these small councils who don’t really understand what we do…to speak up for themselves.”

He says the issue can ultimately be chalked up to poor communication. He says they’ve been developing five and ten year plans to anticipate needs and address issues, but are getting very little in the way of response from council.

“Since 2018, this hasn’t been done,” says Parsons. “We’re taking the time as a firehall, as officers, to put together these five and ten year plans for the benefit of the community so we don’t end up with aging infrastructure and trucks that are not on the run.”

He says for now the Salmon Cove/Perry’s Cove and the Carbonear fire departments are able to provide fire services to the town of Victoria.

Parsons says they appreciate the support of residents.

VOCM News has reached out to Mayor Barry Dooley for response.