Dan Dupuis, Tantramar’s new director of protective services at the Sackville Farmer’s Market

Tantramar’s new director of protective services says changes are coming to Sackville Fire & Rescue.

“We’re moving in a good direction,” Dan Dupuis told Warktimes today at the Sackville Farmers’ Market where the fire service had set up a display to promote fire safety.

“The future looks bright,” he says.

Although Dupuis could not comment on any specific changes in the department, Warktimes has learned from several other sources that Craig Bowser, his son Justin and firefighter Walter Allen are no longer on the Sackville fire department roster.

Acting Deputy Chief Wade Palmeter is now the department’s highest-ranking officer.

Those moves clear the way for the possible return of the 12 volunteer firefighters who turned in their pagers on January 5th.

After a meeting last night, the firefighters issued a statement expressing hope that the workplace turmoil is about to end.

“It shouldn’t have taken this long and it shouldn’t have come to this,” their statement said, “but the town has taken steps and things are finally moving in the right direction.”

The firefighters say they plan to meet with Dupuis on Tuesday to discuss returning to active duty, although they emphasize each will make his or her own decision based on their individual circumstances.

“We would like to thank Warktimes and the public for their continued support,” they said.

Dupuis, who oversees all three Tantramar fire departments as well as emergency management operations, bylaw enforcement and animal control, also says he’s hoping Sackville’s fire service is on the road to recovery.

“We’re in a good position right now for a positive outcome,” he says.

To read the town’s announcement about Dan Dupuis’ appointment and background, click here.