Advocating for Safety and Sustainability
On March 23, 2026, the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) hosted its annual MLA Day at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton. Fire Chiefs from across Alberta gathered to engage directly with Ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), advocating on key issues impacting fire services, emergency response, and public safety across the province.
The day was highly productive, with strong participation from elected officials across party lines. Chiefs were able to bring forward frontline perspectives, reinforce key priorities, and strengthen relationships that are critical to advancing fire service issues within provincial decision-making.
Key Advocacy Topics
Volunteer Firefighter Tax Credit
AFCA is pushing for a provincial tax credit to aid in the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters, crucial for rural and remote areas.
Pension Reform
Discussions are underway to lower the pension eligibility factor and explore optional pension models for volunteer and paid-on-call firefighters.
Roadside Safety
Emphasizing the need for stronger enforcement of safety measures to protect responders and the public at emergency scenes.
FireSmart and Wildfire Mitigation
Advocating for a comprehensive and well-funded FireSmart program to mitigate wildfire risks across Alberta.
Purpose of MLA Day
MLA Day is designed to:
- Strengthen relationships between Fire Chiefs and elected officials
- Provide a unified voice on provincial fire service priorities
- Increase awareness of operational realities and risks faced by departments
- Advocate for policy, legislative, and funding improvements
- Ensure fire service perspectives are considered in government decision-making
Fire Chiefs participated in scheduled meetings throughout the morning and early afternoon, followed by attendance at the afternoon Question Period in the Legislature.
In addition to formal meetings, Chiefs engaged in informal conversations with MLAs and Ministers throughout the building, further strengthening connections and visibility of the fire service.
At each meeting, Chiefs provided one-page leave-behind documents, ensuring that key messages and recommendations were clearly communicated and could be referenced following discussions.
Key Themes and Observations
Several consistent themes emerged throughout MLA Day discussions:
1. Service Expectations vs. Financial Pressures
There is increasing concern regarding how to maintain high-quality emergency services while facing fiscal constraints. Chiefs emphasized that fire services are already operating efficiently, and further reductions or constraints may impact service delivery.
2. Importance of Local Perspective
MLAs value hearing directly from Fire Chiefs. Local examples and operational realities were highly effective in illustrating challenges and reinforcing advocacy messages.
3. Need for Continued Dialogue
There was strong receptiveness from elected officials, with recognition that many of these issues require ongoing discussion, particularly at the intersection of provincial policy and municipal responsibility.
Meetings with MLAs and Ministers
AFCA was pleased to meet with representatives from both government and opposition, reflecting strong engagement across the Legislature.
New Democratic Party (NDP)
- Lorne Dach
- Kyle Kasawski
- Rob Miyashiro
- David Shepherd
Local MLAs
- Chantelle De Jonge – Chestermere-Strathmore
- Jackie Lovely – Camrose
- Scott Cyr – Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul
- Shane Getson – Lac Ste. Anne-Parkland
- Adriana LaGrange – Red Deer-North
- Tany Yao – Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo
- Nolan Dyck – Grande Prairie
Government of Alberta – United Conservative Party (UCP)
Ministers
- Dan Williams – Municipal Affairs
- Todd Loewen – Forestry and Parks
- Nate Horner – President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance
- R.J. Sigurdson – Agriculture and Irrigation
Reflecting on MLA Day 2026
A Successful Engagement
MLA Day 2026 marked a significant milestone in our ongoing advocacy efforts, showcasing the power of direct engagement between Alberta’s fire service leaders and elected officials. The day’s events underscored the importance of collaboration and dialogue in advancing our shared priorities for safe and effective fire services across the province.
We are proud of the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by all participating Chiefs, whose contributions were pivotal in ensuring our messages resonated at the provincial level. As we move forward, we remain committed to building on this momentum, driving forward the initiatives that will enhance the sustainability and safety of fire services in Alberta.
0 Comments