FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 22, 2025
NAPE Shocked and Disappointed that Presumptive Cancer Care for Wildland Firefighters Excluded from Liberal Announcement
(St. John’s, NL) – The Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Public and Private Employees (NAPE), representing thousands of frontline workers across the province, says it is extremely disappointed that presumptive cancer care for wildland firefighters (Conservation Officers) was once again excluded from today’s announcement by Premier John Hogan and the Liberal Party.
“Today’s announcement contained some positive measures for wildfire preparedness and volunteer supports, but it completely failed the very people who put themselves in harm’s way during this summer’s unprecedented fires,” said NAPE President Jerry Earle. “It is nothing short of a disgrace that our firefighters – who faced the same dangers, breathed in the same toxic smoke, and answered the call to protect our communities – are still left without presumptive care protections.”
In August, NAPE wrote directly to Premier Hogan and Minister Lisa Dempster calling on government to act and extend presumptive care to wildland firefighters. That letter was never acknowledged.
“This is not the first time firefighters have been left behind,” said Earle. “They were excluded when presumptive care legislation was first introduced in 2016, and nearly a decade later they are still being denied the protections they deserve.”
“Not only did we receive no response from the Premier or the Minister, but now, during an election, we see them choose to ignore these workers once again,” continued Earle. “We had hoped that Premier Hogan would do the right thing before going to the polls. Instead, he chose partial measures, while firefighters are left without the protections they deserve.”
Presumptive care laws provide vital supports for firefighters who develop occupational illnesses linked to their work, including cancers and respiratory conditions. Most provinces already provide these protections, recognizing the proven risks firefighters face.
“Our firefighters deserve more than applause, honourariums, or medals. They deserve the same protections as others who put their lives on the line for us,” said Earle. ““Firefighters answered the call when our province needed them most; it is shameful that government refuses to answer theirs with the protections they deserve.”
Letter from NAPE to Minister Dempster for Presumptive Care for Wildland Firefighters
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