Last Friday, Peter Julian, Member of Parliament for New Westminster-Burnaby, introduced Motion M-169 in the House of Commons.
The motion calls for the phase-out of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighters' protective gear and fire suppression foam, responding to growing concerns over the significant health risks these chemicals pose, including their links to cancer.
“This motion is about protecting first responders by eliminating their exposure to dangerous chemicals in firefighting equipment and foam,” said MP Julian. “Firefighters work tirelessly to protect our communities, and it’s critical that their gear doesn’t put them at risk. This motion is a direct response to one of the fastest-growing petitions in Parliament, driven by firefighter leaders across British Columbia, including BCPFFA President Todd Schierling, Burnaby L323 President Doug Petti, New Westminster L256 President Shane Poole, and Coquitlam L1782 President Steve Piccolo. Since launching just four months ago, more than 5,000 Canadians have signed the petition calling for the phase-out of PFAS. Parliament now can support safer, healthier working conditions for firefighters. All workers deserve safe conditions—firefighters are no exception. Several countries have already restricted PFAS, and it’s time for Canada to follow suit. Our firefighters deserve gear free from toxic chemicals. Let’s protect those who risk their lives for us,” Julian stated.
"As a firefighter and cancer survivor, I know too well the dangers of PFAS exposure. MP Julian’s Motion M-169 is a vital step in removing these toxic chemicals from our gear, so future firefighters won’t face the same health battles. This isn’t just policy; it’s about protecting lives." - Athena Calogeros, Cancer Survivor and Firefighter, West Vancouver Local 1525
Todd Schierling, President of the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters' Association (BCPFFA), commented, “Firefighters deserve protection not just from the fires they fight, but also from the gear they wear. This motion moves us closer to eliminating PFAS from our equipment, helping safeguard the health of every firefighter on the front lines.”
Doug Petti, President of Burnaby Local 323, emphasized, “This motion is crucial for the safety of our members. By removing PFAS from firefighting gear, we can significantly reduce long-term health risks that are entirely preventable. It’s a vital step forward.”
Shane Poole, President of New Westminster Local 256, added, “For years, firefighters have unknowingly been exposed to harmful chemicals while doing their jobs. It’s time to prioritize their safety and ensure the gear meant to protect them doesn’t endanger their health.”
Steve Piccolo, President of Coquitlam Local 1782, concluded, “Our firefighters deserve the best protection we can provide, which means ensuring their gear and tools are free from toxic chemicals. Passing this motion is a critical step toward reducing cancer rates among these heroes and safeguarding the health of both current and future generations.”
Media Contact:
Doris Mah
Phone: 604-353-3107
Email: [email protected]
M-169 Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances 44th Parliament, 1st Session - Members of Parliament - House of Commons of Canada
Petition e-5052 - Petitions
MP Peter Julian (New Westminster–Burnaby), MLA Raj Chouhan (Burnaby–New Westminster), and MLA Jennifer Whiteside (New Westminster–Coquitlam) are inviting the media to attend a special Flag Day rally on Saturday, February 15, 2025, to emphasize the importance of national unity in the face of ongoing tariff threats from the Trump administration.
Flag Day Rally Details:
Media Contact:
Doris Mah, Office of MP Peter Julian
Phone: 604-353-3107
Email: [email protected]
Dear Neighbours,
I hope you and your family are doing well.
It’s an honour to serve as your Member of Parliament in New Westminster – Burnaby, one of the most culturally diverse communities in Canada.
On Monday, New Democrats announced the implementation of the NDP’s national dental care program, which will save millions of families across Canada around $1,300 a year. In my riding of New Westminster – Burnaby, over 26,000 seniors, people living with a disability, and families struggling to pay the bills will no longer have to choose between a visit to the dentist or keep a roof over their head.
