Saint John council has approved cutting 32 positions at City Hall, which is expected to save nearly $2 million annually.

Many of the positions will be eliminated by not filling vacancies and through pending retirements, according to a news release.

But six permanent employees received termination notices Thursday that are effective immediately.

In addition, 12 holiday relief firefighters will not be called back.

“The 2012 establishment has been reduced from 680 to 648,” the release states.

The inside workers workforce was reduced by 7.75 per cent, professional/management by 6.2 per cent and fire by 9.93 per cent.

City officials have declined further comment.

Earlier this month council passed the 2012 budget, which cut $9 million from city programs and services across the board.

The city's pension fund is facing a $190 million-deficit.