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IAFF Convention 2024: New resolutions and union solidarity focus in Boston

August 28, 2024

Second day of IAFF Convention focuses on labor movement unity

As reported by the IAFF, the second day of the 57th IAFF Convention in Boston featured a speech by Thomas J. Flynn, General Vice President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC).

Flynn emphasized the significance of union solidarity and the shared goals of the IAFF and UBC in fighting for workers’ rights.

He highlighted his connection to Boston and the shared values of loyalty, faith, family, and freedom that guide their work.

Flynn also discussed his journey within the labor movement, starting with his involvement in Carpenters Local Union 67 in Dorchester, Massachusetts, and leading to his current roles, including as chair of the North Atlantic States Carpenters Benefits Funds.

He praised the strong bond between the IAFF and UBC, underscoring their commitment to fair wages, job safety, and benefits.

Adoption of resolutions at IAFF convention

The second day of the IAFF’s 57th Convention concluded with the adoption of several resolutions.

These included amendments to the IAFF Constitution and By-Laws, the establishment of new committees, and procedural changes aimed at improving governance and member representation.

Notable resolutions include the inclusion of new territories in IAFF districts, the formation of a Sergeant-at-Arms Committee, and the implementation of stricter oversight on financial operations within the organization.

Delegates also approved resolutions to enhance the safety and well-being of IAFF members.

This includes increasing funds for cancer research, establishing new health and safety committees, and improving benefits for retired members and their dependents.

These resolutions reflect the IAFF’s ongoing commitment to addressing the needs and challenges faced by its members.

Focus on firefighter safety and research funding

Several resolutions passed at the IAFF convention were focused on firefighter safety and advancing research initiatives.

For instance, the IAFF’s Cancer Research Committee has been directed to allocate funding specifically for studying cancer risks among firefighters’ children.

Additionally, the establishment of an Emergency Operations Technology Committee aims to address the impact of emerging technologies on firefighter and emergency medical worker safety.

The convention also approved resolutions to enhance the IAFF’s involvement in wildland urban interface issues, increase support for firefighters participating in research, and create a program to assist IAFF members in need of organ transplants.

These initiatives are designed to improve the safety, health, and overall well-being of IAFF members.

Changes in IAFF governance and administrative procedures

The IAFF convention also brought forward several resolutions aimed at refining the organization’s governance and administrative procedures.

Resolutions were adopted to simplify the convention site selection process, enhance the financial oversight of state and provincial associations, and ensure clearer communication in the process of filing charges against officers or members.

Additionally, the IAFF has moved to officially disband the Ladies Auxiliary and update the Constitution and By-Laws to extend benefits to dependents of principal officers under specific conditions.

IAFF convention 2024: New resolutions and union solidarity focus in Boston: Summary

The 57th IAFF Convention in Boston featured a keynote speech by UBC General Vice President Thomas J. Flynn, who emphasized the shared values and goals of the IAFF and UBC in promoting worker solidarity.

Delegates adopted a series of resolutions aimed at improving governance, enhancing member safety, and increasing research funding.

Key resolutions included amendments to the IAFF Constitution, the establishment of new committees, and increased funding for cancer research and firefighter safety initiatives.

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