A week after a deadly ship fire broke out at Port Newark, union officials representing the city’s firefighters allege that Mayor Ras Baraka’s administration has for years failed to adequately invest in the Newark Fire Division. The allegations include failure to properly staff the division, keep firefighting equipment in working order and properly maintain firehouses.
Baraka and city officials vehemently contest those complaints and pledge to hold a press conference next week to discuss the concerns raised.
“I find accusations of intentional understaffing and insufficient training of our public safety personnel very hurtful, and a personal affront to everything my administration and I stand for. I find the timing very questionable,” Baraka said in a statement. “I welcome all dialog that will clear up groundless misperceptions and advance the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day for the city they love.”
The funeral services for the two firefighters killed responding to the ship fire began on Wednesday with the viewing of firefighter Augusto Acabou, whose funeral will be held at the Cathedral Basilica in Newark on Thursday. The funeral of firefighter Wayne Brooks Jr. will be held at the basilica on Friday.
