NEW ORLEANS — Public sector labor disputes inevitably come down to which side wins the public’s support. Mayor Cantrell and New Orleans firefighters need to remember that.
Cantrell and firefighters are fighting about overtime, pensions and promotions. Many firefighters refuse to work voluntary overtime, even during Mardi Gras. In response, the city has canceled firefighters’ vacations until after Mardi Gras.
The mayor is rightly concerned about the impact of firefighters’ demands on the city budget. But she should remember that most folks see firefighters as heroes. You won’t see the mayor rushing into a burning building.
At the same time, firefighters should remember when a police strike triggered the cancellation of Mardi Gras parades in 1979. The police union never recovered.
The lesson for all concerned: Don’t mess with Mardi Gras.
RELATED: Firefighters say they aren't working voluntary overtime to draw attention to pay, staffing issues
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