Former chief poorly treated

I have been following the ongoing situation at Vernon Fire Rescue for the last few years, and with the latest developments, felt compelled to write.

According to your story, former fire chief Keith Green had been on a medical leave of absence from September 2016 until he was terminated in August 2018. 

My understanding is that this leave to deal with a PTSD/OSI workplace injury, and that a plan was in place for him to start a graduated return to work at the time he was unceremoniously let go. 

I am appalled at the total lack of respect shown to Chief Green in the handling of this situation. 

PTSD/OSI is medically recognized form of workplace injury widely accepted by experts throughout the world. There are several Canadian provinces that have included it within their presumptive disease wording. If an employee is diagnosed with either of these illnesses, it is presumed that it is a result of workplace exposure and thus falls under WorkSafe legislation, entitling that employee to benefits contained within the legislation. 

Almost every day in Canada, we hear of another active or retired first responder or military officer dying as a result of suicide. Most often, the cause of the victim's poor mental health is linked directly to his or her PTSD or OSI. In many of these cases, the victim feels abandoned by their employer – those who by duty to accommodate law are required to assist and support the employee while they get themselves healthy enough to return to work or enjoy their retirement.

The treatment of this long time, hard working employee appears to be a far cry from what good, respectful HR policy dictates. 

Time to stop talking the talk, and to walk the walk. Rescind the termination notice. Get Chief Green back in the fold with the help he needs to regain his mental health. Then start to repair the toxic environment that has been created at Vernon Fire Rescue Services. 

Rob Chalmers, Platoon Capt. (Ret), Kamloops Fire Rescue