Readers are speaking out on social media following coverage of former firefighters' allegations of harassment, discrimination and sexism at the Halifax Regional Fire Department.

"Sexual harassment and equal opportunity laws and policies had been in place across the country for — I don't know — 15, 20 years, especially in places like the public service, and municipalities," she commented.

"Things 'you didn't know were offensive' were just as offensive and wrong 20 years ago as they are now. Twenty years ago wasn't the 1950s, or the 1970s. That excuse ain't gonna fly."

"Time for the male firefighters who are not involved in any of this — I'm guessing the vast majority — need to stand up for their female colleagues and make their work place inclusive and respectful."

Others said the kinds of questions that female firefighters were asked in interviews about their relationship status and whether they can wear heavy gear were fair game.

"I got the same questions when I joined the Canadian Forces. It never made me worry for my safety. These people need to trust you with their lives, if they ask if you're married or why you're there, they are genuinely concerned you're there to find a date and not watch their back."

"Hey some of those questions are appropriate and probably asked of men as well, as not every man can carry a heavy pack or handle the stress of the job either."

"Someone slight of stature being asked if they can lift something heavy? The nerve! I mean, it's like if someone asked my scrawny, 130-pound self if I could do that! Oh wait, they probably would."

"I respect any woman that can hack it as a firefighter. That being said, though, being physically weaker than their male counterparts is a limiting factor when it comes to saving lives," he wrote.

"Not too many women can carry or drag a 100-kg human to safety in a rescue situation."