Attleboro mayor wants proof firefighters contracted virus on-duty
FirefighterNation Staff
ATTLEBORO, Massachusetts – WJAR reported that another city firefighter was hospitalized after testing positive for COVID-19, according to Attleboro Firefighters Local 848 President Paul Jacques.
“Pneumonia, can’t breathe without oxygen, been prescribed several medications,” Jacques told WJAR about the firefighter’s condition.
A total of 14 firefighters and two dispatchers have tested positive for the virus since the start of the pandemic.
Jacques said a dispute has also erupted between himself and the city’s mayor over firefighters’ contract terms.
Specifically at issue is whether catching coronavirus can be considered an on-duty injury.
“We have no problem going into burning buildings. We have no problem responding to coronavirus,” Jacques said. “But we do that with the peace of mind that we have these contractually agreed, bargained benefits that will make sure that if we become injured or killed that ourselves or our families are taken care of.”
Jacques said his pleas to meet with Mayor Paul Heroux have gone ignored and grievances have now been filed at the local and state level.
