Statement from the Nova Scotia Federation of Labour on First Responders Day

Today, May 1st, is First Responders Day in Nova Scotia. This is a day to thank the people who are first on the scene during an emergency: our paramedics, firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical teams. These workers are there for us when things go wrong. Whether at a crash, a fire, a health emergency, or a natural disaster, first responders show up, ready to help. They put themselves at risk every day to protect the rest of us.

Many union members work long hours under stressful conditions and with limited resources, but they never stop doing their jobs with care and dedication. As a labour movement, we stand with first responders and thank you for showing up every day. We also recognize workers need safe staffing, proper equipment, fair wages, and strong mental health support. Far too often, first responders deal with trauma and burnout.

The Nova Scotia Federation of Labour is proud to stand in solidarity with our unions that fight for better conditions for first responders. Their work is essential to every community, and we need to ensure employers are committed to actions that keep them fully resourced to do their jobs.  

So today, we recognize first responders’ skill and dedication and commit to fighting for the protection and working conditions they need and deserve. They take care of us, and now it’s our turn to take care of them.