The Albuquerque Journal
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Albuquerque Fire Chief James Breen received a “no confidence” vote from two thirds of city firefighters who cast a vote in the labor union action Thursday.
Of the roughly 600 firefighters who comprise the department, 340 voted, said union President Diego Arencón.
Sixty-four percent, or 218, voted no confidence in Breen, he said.
“The crisis in public safety leadership continues in Albuquerque,” Arencón said in a statement.
”... Despite this crisis, Albuquerque firefighters will continue to stand strong in protecting your life and property, committed to the public we serve and not the Mayor’s political agenda.”
Mayor Richard Berry issued a statement late Thursday night defending Breen.
“I have full faith and confidence in the great work being done by Chief Breen and the brave men and women of the Albuquerque Fire Department,” Berry said.
“It is unfortunate that the current union leadership has chosen to go after one of their own heroes, a 21-year veteran of the department.”
There have been a series of scuffles between the Berry administration and labor groups.
Among them, the city told union leaders they can no longer handle union business when they are on city-paid time.
The city also booted the police union out of its office space in the Downtown police headquarters.
Copyright 2011 Albuquerque Journal