Firefighters Have Message For Mayor Nutter - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

There was a giant show of solidarity among firefighters at City Hall on Thursday.

Firefighters shouted "Shame on you Mayor Nutter" and "Binding is Binding" as thousands came out to show their support for International Association of Firefighters Local 22.

"All were asking for is a fair share, binding is binding, they're messing around with the law here", said Local 22 President Bill Gault.

The firefighters are protesting Mayor Michael Nutter's lack of action following a July 2 binding arbitration ruling, which upheld terms for local 22's new contract.

"It's getting old. These people deserve their money, their raises," said Gault.

The mayor has said publicly the contract is too costly. It gives firefighters three years of 3-percent raises and protects them from furloughs. It came after nearly two years of legal battles.

The mayor's office released a statement Thursday that said, "Mayor Nutter is a strong supporter of the selfless dedication and hard work of the citys uniformed civil servants, firefighters, police, and correction officers. Firefighters visiting from around the country have every right to exercise their right to assemble."

Firefighters in town for the annual International Firefighters Conference spoke up to support Local 22.

"Every jurisdiction around the country is going through what Bill is going through. It's going on in Baltimore and well walk wherever he wants us to go," said Rick Hoffman, a Baltimore firefighter.

"It's a shame. We're fighting this throughout the state and country, and we're marching to show support," said Brian Otto, a fireman from Lebanon, Pa.  

Nutter has until Aug. 2nd to respond by either accepting or appealing the ruling.