Among the men and women who have chosen not to work excessive overtime at the New Orleans Fire Department, union president Aaron Mischler says morale is at an all-time low.
“We’re being vilified for shining a light on a critical situation,” said Mischler.
That’s why these words from the city’s mayor, about utilizing other departments to fill in for absent firefighters during carnival strikes him to his core.
“So it seems to be a win-win, no overtime based on their choice and we’ve been able to meet the needs of the city based on special events and the requirements associated so we’re in a good place,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.
“I don't know on what planet taking away firefighters hard-earned vacations and making light of the fact that the city is less equipped for it is not enough firefighters,” said Mischler.