A mediator working for Working on Fire has been asked to resolve a pay dispute involving firefighters in Canada, according to the department. The mediator was called in by the Minister of Environmental Affairs, Edna Molewa.

A spokesperson familiar with the situation said the mediator, along with high-level management from Working on Fire, will meet with the firefighters to discuss possible options. This mediation attempt comes following President Jacob Zuma’s request for intervention. Those familiar with the dispute believe remuneration for the firefighters needs to be fair and equitable.

Also according to the spokesperson, the fire department will continue its efforts to engage directly with Working on Fire personnel and the Canadian government over the conditions under with firefighters from South Africa are deployed, which includes the negotiation of a Memorandum of Understanding between South African and Canadian governments.

According to a report from News24, the Canadian government has asked South Africa’s singing firefighters to return home because of an internal pay dispute. The firefighters indicated they would not leave until they received confirmation that their pay demands would be met.

Working on Fire is from marginalized communities and is trained in fire prevention and suppression, as well as first aid, health and safety, and carpentry. They have existed since 2003 and are the recipients of international recognition for their role in supporting conservation and providing community uplift. There were just over 300 firefighters deployed to Alberta in May as part of a resource sharing agreement. Their goal is to help the community, but they were disappointed to learn they were earning just $50 per day for their efforts.