Firefighters’ union leaders have warned of a strike after angryly reacting to a 2% payment offer.
Firefighting Union (FBU) executives recommend rejecting the proposal, which states it is well below the inflation surge.
According to the FBU, between 2009 and 2021, firefighters’ real wages were reduced by 12%, or nearly £ 4,000.
“This is completely inadequate and will bring further reductions in real wages to firefighters in all roles in the midst of the cost of living crisis,” said FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack.
“This latest insulting proposal follows a 12-year reduction in real wages imposed by the government.”
“This proposal will offend firefighters, those engaged in emergency firefighting activities, and those who play a unified role in fire departments across the UK.”
“A bite that is insulted like this”
“It’s hard to be insulted like this, especially after contributing to public security during a pandemic.”
“Firefighters will inevitably start discussing reactions, including industrial behavior.”
“Fire unions and their members do not carelessly or consider or carry out industrial actions without guaranteeing that all efforts to resolve the issue have been exhausted.”
“To that end, we send letters to fire departments across the country to inform them of the anger and frustration that their proposals create.”
“Also, to meet the urgent needs of firefighters, respect the workforce, and make realistic proposals that may be accepted by firefighters, write a letter to the Fire Minister of Westminster and meet with additional funding. Ask for confirmation that you requested. “”
“Similarly, urgent additional funding to enable fire and rescue employers to make reasonable proposals to the ministers and / or government departments responsible for fire and rescue services in the United Kingdom, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland. I will send you a letter shortly to ask for. “
“Our members will now begin discussing this offer, and the Executive Council will soon be reconvened to discuss our next steps.”
“Consider all options, including strikes.”