The UFFW said confidentiality is no longer an issue in the matter. As a result, they want video from the forward and rear-facing ambulance cameras released.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Bowman said he’s read a report on the matter but hasn’t seen the video in question. He said there’s a confidential hearing process underway to manage the issue, adding UFFW president Alex Forrest should respect processes relating to (his) collective bargaining agreement. Bowman brought the issue back to systemic racism, saying union leaders, including Forrest, have not acknowledged the existence of systemic racism. He has requested a meeting with WFPS unions to iron-out longstanding relationship problems.
“Some of the issues within the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service that relate to workplace culture are connected to issues of racism and allegations of racism,” he said. “So I really think it is incumbent upon everybody to redouble their efforts and try to work together.”