Rhode Island firefighters picketed Tuesday night outside a private political fundraiser to demand better working conditions and a contract.
The demonstration by Pawtucket firefighters happened at an event for Mayor Donald Grebien, WPRI-TV reports. The temporary closing of a fire station for poor drainage, electrical issues and a leaking roof sparked the protest.
Pawtucket firefighters have been working without a contract since 2016, and they went to arbitration when they couldn't reach a deal with the city. In June, city officials will argue their side of the case, and there is no timeline for a resolution.
"We want to be able to come home every night after a shift and when you cut engine companies and cut staffing, that directly affects our safety, as well as the safety of the residents," Joseph Andriole, president of the Rhode Island State Association of Firefighters, told WPRI.
