CFA deputy steps up as chief after Warrington’s resignation
CFA chief Steve Warrington, who resigned last week rather than open the door to union control, has been replaced.
CFA chief Steve Warrington, who quit rather than opening the door to union control, has been replaced by his deputy Garry Cook.
In a memo to staff this morning, CFA chairman Greg Smith said the board had appointed Mr Cook as the CFA’s Acting Chief Officer.
The CFA board rushed through the appointment in time for Mr Cook to sign a controversial secondment agreement, which Mr Warrington refused to sign last week in the lead-up to his resignation.
The agreement forces the CFA to employ 229 UFU-vetted commanders and assistant chief officers from the newly formed Fire Rescue Victoria service.
The CFA chief will not even be able to select the best staff for the job, with the Andrews Government legislation stating: “the chief officer of the CFA must agree to a particular officer or employee being made available” by FRV.
FRV seconded staff will also have to meet registration standards set by a committee of four, including two UFU members, an academic and a ministerial appointee.
It is not known whether Mr Cook is willing to sign the secondment agreement, but Mr Smith’s memo stated that “following lengthy discussions, we have reached an interim agreement which maintains the status quo (for now) in relation to seconded staff from FRV.
“Discussions on outstanding issues relating to the secondment arrangement are continuing.
“We know there has been uncertainty but we will move forward with purpose, focused on our future and our mission.”
Mr Smith said Garry Cook was well known to volunteers in his role as the CFA’s acting executive director for people and culture.
“Garry has been a part of CFA since joining his local brigade as a volunteer at the age of 16 and his long history with our organisation includes previous roles as Assistant Chief Officer North East,” Mr Smith said.
“He has previously been a regional director with Ambulance Victoria and was integral in the development of the Integrated Fire Management Planning framework for Victoria.
“Today, we welcome the establishment of Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), as a new partner in delivering fire and emergency services to Victorians.
“We will continue to work collaboratively with FRV, as we have with MFB, to protect lives and property.”
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