YOUNGSTOWN - The president of the Youngstown Fire Department's union has issued a statement in response to the resignation of Youngstown Fire Chief Barry Finley.

In the statement, Youngstown Professional Fire Fighters IAFF Local 312 President Christopher Weaver says while the union has had its fair share of disagreements with Finley, it remains focused on the core mission of providing the safest, most effective fire and EMS service possible for the city.

The statement goes on to address Finley's recent comments about the past eight years, saying there was "disrespect and turmoil" with the union.

"This is disheartening to the members, but a lot of these issues could have been better resolved with the cooperation of the Chief and the Administration in willing to sit down with the union and work towards a common ground, along with following proper procedure and labor laws," Weaver's statement reads.

Weaver goes on to say the union looks forward to working with the new incoming administration to enhance and move the fire department forward.

Finley announced his resignation on Tuesday, December 2, telling 21 News he "cannot lead because [the union] won't let him."

In the past, Finley had voiced complaints regarding firefighter call-offs, while the union had voiced complaints over alleged racially-charged language from Finley.

You can read much more about Finley's resignation in our related coverage below.

RELATED COVERAGE: